Class Nine English

1 Travel and Holidays

Poon Hill Yoga Trek in Nepal

The Poon Hill Yoga Trek provides a wonderful opportunity to witness the beauty of the Annapurna Range and the hidden treasures of Nepali culture. This programme will help you integrate the principles of Yoga into your daily life with magnificent views of snow-capped Himalayas and glaciers. The main benefit of joining this programme is that it supports and encourages a deep personal transformation process. This adventure journey passes through many tourist hotspots and icy waterfalls which are very pleasant sights. Introducing Hatha Yoga and meditation alongside a trekking experience allows ample benefits for physical and mental health. The combination of Yoga and the Poon Hill Trek creates a more fulfilling physical exercise while strengthening and opening the mind for greater relaxation and awareness, all within the attractive natural environment.

 

This programme is open for all experience levels and is a unique chance for those interested in the strengthening of the body, mind and soul. This may be the short Yoga holiday you have always wished for providing an opportunity for you to explore Nepali lifestyle and the secrets to happiness of the Nepali people.

 

Main Highlights

Visitors will be astonished by adorable landscapes and the enchanting environment. Gazing at stunning views of the Himalayas and savouring delicious Nepali meals is really incredible. They will be attracted by different Nepali cultures, the diverse flora and fauna, numerous perennial rivers and suspension bridges, and spectacular sunrise and sunset views over high Himalayas will certainly encourage everyone to self-transform with Yoga and meditation.

 

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

We will welcome you at the airport and provide a transfer to the centre. We will also discuss the programme. Finally, we will be staying overnight at the centre.

Day 02: Transfer to Pokhara

The first activity is to drive to Pokhara in the morning. A standard micro bus or a tourist bus will take about 4-5 hours. This bus ride passes along through the hilly winding road alongside the Trishuli River having great views of the river, forests and terraced fields. We will stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 03: Pokhara – Tikhedhunga

We wake up early in the morning and have tea before Yoga. We practice Yoga for an hour. Then, it is time for breakfast. After breakfast, we drive to Nayapul. We start our trek towards Tikhedhunga. On the trek, we pass through several towns. We will reach Tikhedhunga and we will be staying there overnight.

Day 04: Tikhedhunga – Banthanti

After tea, Yoga and breakfast in the morning; we start our trek towards Banthanti. On the way, we cross a stream over a suspension bridge. We will be trekking to a Magar village which is called Ulleri. Above the village where the trail climbs gently through the cultivated fields, rhododendron and oak forests, we will stop at Nangethanti for lunch and a short rest. After lunch we will start walking towards Banthanti through the beautiful forest. Finally, we do evening Yoga, have some relaxation and sleep in Banthanti.

Day 05: Banthanti – Ghorepani

As soon as we wake up in the morning, we will have tea and then join the Yoga class. After breakfast, we will start our hike towards Ghorepani, exploring the local culture, landscapes and mountains. After we engage in Yoga there will be some entertainment, we will then take dinner, and stay overnight in Ghorepani.

Day 06: Ghorepani – Poon Hill

We will wake up early in the morning and go for one hour hike to Poon Hill where we can enjoy panoramic mountain views and a beautiful sunrise. Then, we will trek down to Ghorepani and have breakfast. From there we begin our trek to Tadapani, which translated means far water supply in this village from long distance. The trail climbs along ridges and through pine and rhododendron forests to Deurali. Then, it descends to reach Banthanti; we reach Tadapani, and take part in Yoga in the evening. We will be accommodated overnight in a tourist lodge.

Day 07: Tadapani – Ghandruk – Pokhara

We will wake up in the morning and practise Yoga. After Yoga, we will have breakfast. Then, our trek continues towards Ghandruk. After walking for around four hours, we reach Ghandruk, a Gurung village which is the most interesting ethnic village in Nepal, famous for its Gorkha soldiers. It has excellent close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre Himalayas. After lunch, we drive back to Pokhara via Nayapul. We will stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 08: Departure

We will leave for the next destination in the morning after breakfast.

 

A. Match the words in column A with their meanings in column B.

Column                      A Column B

a. magnificent                         i. charming

b. glaciers                    ii. surprised; amazed

c. hotspot                    iii. plants and animals

d. astonished               iv. throughout the entire year

e. enchanting               v. rivers of ice

f. flora and fauna        vi. extremely attractive and impressive

g. perennial                  vii. a place of significant activity

Answer:

a. magnificent    =          vi. extremely attractive and impressive

b. glaciers          =          v. rivers of ice

c. hotspot          =          vii. a place of significant activity

d. astonished      =          ii. surprised; amazed

e. enchanting     =          i. charming

f. flora and fauna=         iii. plants and animals

g. perennial       =          iv. throughout the entire year

 

B. Circle the correct answer.

a. What are the visitors expected to achieve the most in this package holiday?

i. enjoyment of panoramic views of mountain and landscapes

ii. plenty of physical activity in the lap of nature

iii. self-transformation with Yoga in serene hill stations

 

b. What will the visitors do on the first day of their tour?

i. go to Pokhara

ii. discuss the programme

iii. practise Yoga for an hour

 

c. Where will they stay on the fourth day?

i. at Tikhedhunga

ii. at Banthanti

iii. at Ghorepani

 

d. What is the destination of the visitors on the sixth day?

i. Ghorepani

ii. Tadapani

iii. Deurali

 

e. Which place will the tourists visit last as a part of the package?

i. Ghandruk

ii. Nayapul

iii. Pokhara

 

C. Answer the following questions.

a. List any two advantages of the Yoga trek in the Nepali hilly region.

= i) Integration of Yoga principles into daily life.

ii) Physical and mental health benefits through Hatha Yoga and meditation.

 

b. Who can take part in this Yoga trek programme?

= This programme is open for all experience levels, so anyone interested in strengthening their body, mind, and soul can participate

 

c. What would you enjoy the most in Ghandruk if you were one of the

visitors? Why?

= If I were one of the visitors, I would enjoy the close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre Himalayas in Ghandruk. The breathtaking mountain vistas would provide a sense of awe and beauty, creating a memorable experience

 

d. How many days do the visitors do Yoga during the programme?

= The visitors do Yoga every day during the programme.

 

e. How is the Yoga hour mainly managed every day on this holiday trek?

= The Yoga hour is mainly managed by starting the day with a morning Yoga session after waking up. Participants have tea before the Yoga session and then have breakfast. This routine allows them to begin their trek with physical and mental well-being.

 

Speaking:

B. What will your plans be in the following situations? Share with your friends.

a. You want to go swimming this Saturday.

Friend A: I intend to go swimming this Saturday.

Friend B: I'm planning to go swimming this Saturday.

 

b. You and your friends are going to play football tomorrow evening.

Friend A: We're going to play football tomorrow evening.

Friend B: I'm thinking of joining you guys to play football tomorrow evening.

 

c. Your parents are planning to go to Darjeeling next week.

Friend A: My parents are planning to go to Darjeeling next week.

Friend B: I'm doing a small trek in the nearby hills next week.

 

d. Your friend has invited you to a birthday party tonight.

Friend A: My friend has invited me to a birthday party tonight.

Friend B: I'll go to the birthday party tonight as well.

e. You are invited to attend the wedding ceremony of one of your friend's sister.

Friend A: I'm invited to attend the wedding ceremony of one of my friend's sister.

Friend B: I'm planning to attend the wedding ceremony as well.

 

C. Talk about your plans in pairs. Use the structures from the box.

a. After SEE

Person A: I intend to study history after SEE.

Person B: I'm planning to study mathematics after SEE.

 

b. After earning a lot of money

Person A: I'm thinking of opening a supermarket after earning a lot of money.

Person B: I'm planning to go on a world tour after earning a lot of money.

 

c. For a party

Person A: I'll go to the party by bus.

Person B: I'm going on my cycle to the party.

 

d. To improve vocabulary

Person A: I'm thinking of buying a Nepali dictionary to improve my vocabulary.

Person B: I intend to buy an English dictionary to improve my vocabulary.

 

e. After completing a Bachelor's degree

Person A: I'm planning to go abroad after completing my Bachelor's degree.

Person B: I intend to start my own business after completing my Bachelor's degree.

            Grammar I

A. Study the following sentences.

a. A: Did you call your mother?

B: Oops, I’ve forgotten! I’ll do it right now.

b. I can't decide what to wear tonight. I think I'll wear my pink saree.

c. The bus will arrive here soon.

d. They have bought a lot of chocolates. They are going to have a party.

e. The sky is overcast. It is going to rain.

f. I'm meeting Jane at 8 o'clock on Saturday.

g. A: We're having a party next Saturday. Would you like to come?

B: I'd love to, but I'm quite busy that day.

h. I’m visiting my grandparents next week.

i. Are you doing anything interesting this weekend?

 

B. Choose the correct answer to complete the following sentences.

a. It's really hot here. …….a window.

i. I’ll open                   ii. I’m opening

 

b. I don't have a bank account. ............ an account in Nepal Bank Ltd.

i. I’ll open                    ii. I’m going to open

 

c. A: Would you take tea or coffee?

B: ……… a coffee, please.

i. I’ll have                   ii. I’m going to have

 

d. I've decided that ……… to the class teacher about my family situation.

i. I’ll speak                  ii. I’m going to talk

 

e. Next week, we .............. on lake Rara.

i. will boat                   ii. will be boating

 

f. I would love to go out with you tomorrow but ……… dinner with Dolma.

i. I’ll have                   ii. I’m having  

 

g. I can't come to class next Monday .……… a tooth taken out.

i. I’ll have                    ii. I’m having

 

 

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

Whose woods these are I think I know

His house is in the village though;

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods fill up with snow.

 

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year.

 

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound’s the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake.

 

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep.

                                                                        -Robert Frost

A. Find the words from the text that match the following meanings.

a. an area of trees, smaller than a forest

= woods

b. strange or unusual

= queer

c. the main house on a farm, usually where the farmer lives

= farmhouse

d. a set of leather and metal pieces that is put around the body of a horse

= harness

e. movement of the air

= wind

f. covered in something very soft

= downy

 

B. Choose the correct answer.

a. Why does the speaker stop while on the journey?

i. to watch the woods filled up with snow

ii. to find food for his or her horse

iii. to say hello to the owner of the woods

iv. to go skating on a frozen lake.

 

b. What is the setting of the poem?

i. the woods on a bright, snowy afternoon

ii. a village on a dark, snowy evening

iii. a frozen lake on a bright, snowy afternoon

iv. the woods on a dark, snowy evening

 

c. Which one of the following statements is true?

i. The woods are far away from the village.

ii. The woods are near some houses.

iii. The owner of the woods and speaker are friends.

iv. The speaker of the poem does not like the owner of the woods.

 

d. How did the horse respond when the speaker stopped there?

i. stood calm

ii. did nothing

iii. shook its harness

iv. asked the speaker a question

 

e. What does 'miles to go before I sleep' mean?

i. The speaker feels tired and sleepy.

ii. The speaker has lots of desires to fulfill.

iii. The speaker has lots of responsibilities to fulfill.

iv. The speaker has a long distance to travel.

C. Fill in the gaps with appropriate words from the box to complete the summary of the poem.

 [ promises, traveller, journey, death, the woods, destination]

The poet compares human life with a………. The speaker of the poem is a………... He has to reach his ………before taking a rest. However, he is distracted by the momentary pleasure in

the form of……... His companion, the horse, reminds him of his ………….in life. The speaker realizes that he has to fulfill many responsibilities before his…………...

 

The poet compares human life with a journey. The speaker of the poem is a traveller. He has to reach his destination before taking a rest. However, he is distracted by the momentary pleasure in the form of the woods. His companion, the horse, reminds him of his promises in life. The speaker realizes that he has to fulfill many responsibilities before his death.

Grammar

A. Use the correct form of the verbs given in the brackets to complete the sentences.

a. As per the schedule, the train ……….......… (leave) at 3 o'clock.

b. Look, that aeroplane is looking shaky! It …..............…… (crash).

c. My daughter says she ….........… (be) a doctor when she is older.

d. Tomorrow ……..........……… (be) a sunny day, according to the weather forecast.

e. A: What ….......…… (do) tomorrow evening?

B: Nothing special. I think I ………....…… (stay) at home.

f. It’s very stuffy here. Don't worry, I ….................… (open) the windows for you.

g. Ann is driving. There is very little petrol left in the tank. The nearest petrol station is a long way from here. She …… (run) out of petrol.

h. There is a hole in the bottom of the boat. It is filling up with water quickly. It……………(sink).

Answer:

a. As per the schedule, the train leaves at 3 o'clock.

b. Look, that airplane is looking shaky! It is going to crash.

c. My daughter says she wants to be a doctor when she is older.

d. Tomorrow will be a sunny day, according to the weather forecast.

e. A: What are you doing tomorrow evening?

B: Nothing special. I think I will stay at home.

f. It’s very stuffy here. Don't worry, I will open the windows for you.

g. Ann is driving. There is very little petrol left in the tank. The nearest petrol station is a long way from here. She will run out of petrol.

h. There is a hole in the bottom of the boat. It is filling up with water quickly. It is sinking.

 

2 Health and Hygiene

The Acceleration behind Telehealth Services

(In this interview, Chun-Kai Chang , the Business Development Manager of Telehealth at Advantech, talks to News-Medical about the acceleration behind telehealth services.)

 

Reporter : To begin, can you give us a brief introduction into telehealth and what it involves?

Chang : Telehealth is a method of providing medical care remotely, usually through video chat. Telehealth makes it possible to connect patients and clinicians from any location. It provides access to a wide range of care, including primary care consultations, psychotherapy, physical therapy, and even emergency services. It allows primary care clinicians and specialists to further their reach for treating patients wherever there is an internet connection. The benefits of telehealth for healthcare providers and patients is that these services can be faster, safer, more effective, and less expensive in the long run, especially during a time like the COVID-19 pandemic, where telehealth has allowed access to medical care without going to hospitals to protect patients and hospital staff from being exposed to the infection.

 

Reporter : What are some of the main drivers behind the acceleration and momentum of telehealth services?

Chang : There are two major drivers for this fast-growing market. The first and most recent driver for telehealth has been the global COVID-19 pandemic. Strong social distancing and minimal physical contact precautions have pushed the shift to telehealth and remote consultations as it aids in infection protection. These precautions and increased hospital bed shortages have forced medical facilities to incorporate more telehealth technologies to keep up with demand and maintain care continuity for patients at home. The second driver is the shortage of medical professionals when demand is increasing every year due to an aging population and more and more patients with chronic and non-communicable diseases. For people living in rural areas, their medical demands are underserved due to insufficient resources and long distances to drive into cities for care. Telehealth is one of the promising ways to tackle the challenge of doctor shortages and expand specialists and doctors' reach to patients.

 

Reporter : In terms of this acceleration and momentum of telehealth services, we are currently seeing, what are some items we can expect to see in the future?

Chang : Telehealth will not replace face to face care services, but we will incorporate it into healthcare facilities' infrastructure. Patients will be selecting providers based on their accessibility to telehealth services. With more access to doctors, increasing patients using preventative care services and follow-up care due to convenience will start to emerge. These can lead to fewer readmissions and patient complications. We will also see more use for early screening of patient triage in the field before they arrive at hospitals.

 

Reporter : When it comes to remote patient monitoring for clinicians, what impact does telehealth have on this?

Chang : Remote patient monitoring could be one of the applications of telehealth. Remote patient monitoring usually involves continuously collecting patient's health data through wearable devices, such as vital signs and blood sugars. The patient's data is then transmitted in real-time, monitored, and reviewed by medical providers.In this way, medical providers could acquire a whole picture of a patient's health condition and give a more precise diagnosis.

 

Reporter : How has telehealth shaped the way clinicians work with each other?

Chang : Clinician-to-clinician telehealth services have enabled medical professionals to collaborate virtually with specialists in other locations to deliver treatment and care to patients jointly. This service can range from remote surgical mentoring to Tele-ICU and Tele-ER (like a stroke), in which on-site staff work together with a remote physician/specialist team to assess patient's condition. Telehealth solutions relieve the pressure of staffing gaps seen in critical departments such as an emergency room and ICU.

 

Reporter : What would you say are some of the biggest challenges clinicians currently face with telehealth?

Chang : Many hospitals are still facing the lack of infrastructure to implement telehealth successfully, insufficient hardware, and the right technology for each specialty. Some hospitals struggle with reliable networking infrastructures like broadband, 4G, or Wi-Fi. This could limit the connectivity within facilities and provide remote care to rural areas or mobile clinics. Having

the right technology and tools, and place will be crucial to successful telehealth programs.    Even

though this new technology is quickly being integrated, there is a learning curve to using telehealth versus traditional healthcare operations. Users face obstacles such as learning to use different tools, online scheduling for virtual visits, triage procedures, and billing policies. To overcome these challenges, telehealth should be encouraged as a regular service and included in health insurance. There would be more motives for healthcare providers to invest in infrastructures and information system integration and deploy telehealth technology.

 

A. The meanings of some of the words from the interview are given

below. Find the words and fill in the crossword puzzle.

Across

1. psychological treatment of people using dialogue              = PSYCHOTHERAPY

2. process of sorting patients                                                              = TRIAGE

3. to prepare and arrange                                                                    = ARRANGE

4. special department of a hospital for intensive care of patients       = ICU

Down

5. to include as a part                                                                          = INCORPORATE                 

6. identification of nature and cause of a disease                               = DIAGNOSIS

7. not having sufficient service                                                           = UNDERSERVED

8. epidemic over a wide geographical area                                         = PANDEMIC

B. Read the interview again and write whether the following statements are True or False.

a. Internet service is necessary to use telehealth services.      TRUE

b. While providing telehealth services, health professionals are at high risks of being infected due to the exposure to patients.           FALSE

c. Telehealth service can be the best alternative to a face to face service       TRUE

d. The problem with the lack of medical staff will be solved to a great extent with telehealth technology. TRUE

e. The success of telehealth programmes depends on the infrastructure and the best use of IT tools.          TRUE

 

C. Answer the following questions.

a. What is telehealth service?

= Telehealth service is a method of providing medical care remotely, usually through video chat.

b. What are the advantages of using telehealth programmes?

= The advantages of using telehealth programs include faster, safer, and more effective medical care, lower costs, and increased accessibility to healthcare services.

c. Why, according to Dr. Chang, is the telehealth service growing rapidly?

= According to Dr. Chang, the telehealth service is growing rapidly due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing demand for healthcare services.

d. How is the telehealth programme important during a pandemic?

= During a pandemic, telehealth programs are important as they allow access to medical care without the need to visit hospitals, reducing the risk of infection for both patients and healthcare staff.

e. Why are the patients in remote areas not getting adequate health services?

= Patients in remote areas may not be receiving adequate healthcare services due to insufficient resources and long distances to travel for medical care.

f. Mention the top three challenges of telehealth services.

= The top three challenges of telehealth services are the lack of infrastructure, limited Connectivity in certain areas, and the learning curve for healthcare professionals to adapt to telehealth technology.

 

Grammar I

B. Choose the correct answer.

a. I need help, doctor. My baby doesn't sleep well. What ............. ?

i. had I better do                     ii. should I do                        iii. I should do

b. The aeroplane only allows two pieces of luggage. You ...............pack too much or you will have to take it out at the airport!

i. had better not                     ii. better not                             iii. had not better

c. A: I think that the grade my teacher gave me on my test is wrong.

B: Really? You .................... to her after class today.

i. should to talk                       ii. ought to talk                       iii. ought talk

d. It's raining and I don't want to get my dress wet. I..............an umbrella.

i. had better not take               ii. had better to take                iii. had better take

e. Dinesh loves chocolate, but he ....................too much or he will put on weight.

i. shouldn't eat                       ii. should eat not                     iii. should eat

f. My mother isn't feeling well, so I told her that she ............. to the doctor.

i. ought go                               ii. ought to go                                     iii. ought

g. A: It's so hot.                      B: You ...............your jacket!

i. should take off                    ii. should put on                      iii. should to take off

h. I'm going to visit your country. Where ............. if I want to go

shopping?

i. should I go                            ii. I should go                            iii. ought to I go       

 

 

 

 

Health is Wealth

Once upon a time, there lived a benevolent and kind-hearted king. But, the people weren’t happy with him because he was very lazy and would not do anything other than eating and sleeping.

 

He spent days, weeks and months in his bed either eating something or sleeping. The king became a couch potato and the people started to worry about him.One day, the king realized that he couldn’t move his body, not even his foot. He became very large and his obesity became a matter of fun, calling him ‘bulky king’.

 

The king invited expert doctors from various parts of his country and offered them generous rewards to make him fit. Unfortunately, none could help him gain his health and fitness back. The king spent an enormous amount of money but everything went in vain.

 

One fine morning, a holy man visited the country. He heard about the ill health of the king, and informed the minister at the palace that he could easily cure the king. Hearing these promising words, the minister became very happy. He requested the king to meet the holy man to get rid of his problem.

 

The holy man resided at a distant place. Since the king could not move his body, he asked the minister to bring the holy man to the palace, but the holy man refused. He said that the king had to go to him, in order to get cured. After strenuous efforts, the king met the holy man at the latter’s residence. The holy man complimented the king saying that he was a good ruler, and said that he would soon regain his health. He asked the king to come for treatment the next day. He also told the king would be treated only if he came on foot to the holy man’s residence.

 

The king was unable to walk even a few steps on the road, but aided by his followers, he reached the holy man’s place. Unfortunately, the holy man was not available there and his devotee requested the king to come and meet him the next day for treatment. This was repeated for two weeks and the king never met the holy man, and never had any treatment.

 

Gradually, the king realized that he felt a lot lighter, lost a considerable amount of weight and felt more active than before. He realized the reason why the holy man asked him to reach his place by walking. Very soon, the king regained his health, and the people were very happy in his kingdom.

 

A. Learn these words and complete the sentences with them.

            [ benevolent, couch potato, obesity, devotee, strenuous]

a. ………….. can increase the risk of heart disease because obese people are likely to suffer from heart problems.

b. My father is kind, helpful and generous. He has a…………….. attitude.

c. Take rest for a week. Avoid tasks which require ………. physical activity.

d. I like God Shiva. I'm actually a ………………… of him.

e. My younger sister is a great ………… She can watch TV 24 hours a day.

a. Obesity can increase the risk of heart disease because obese people are likely to suffer from heart problems.

b. My father is kind, helpful, and generous. He has a benevolent attitude.

c. Take rest for a week. Avoid tasks which require strenuous physical activity.

d. I like God Shiva. I'm actually a devotee of him.

e. My younger sister is a great couch potato. She can watch TV 24 hours a day.

 

 

B. Answer the following questions.

a. Why did people not like the king though he was kind?

= People did not like the king because he was lazy and would not do anything other than eating and sleeping.

b. Why were the specialists called to the palace and offered huge prizes?

= The specialists were called to the palace and offered huge prizes to help the king regain his health and fitness.

c. Why did the minister become so happy?

= The minister became happy because a holy man visited the country and claimed that he could cure the king's illness.

d. Why did the holyman tell the king to come to his place on foot for treatment?

= The holy man told the king to come to his place on foot for treatment to make the king realize the importance of physical activity and effort.

e. Why did the holyman disappear after the first meeting with the king?

= The holy man disappeared after the first meeting with the king to make the king realize the value of effort and self-motivation.

f. How did the king recover his health?

= The king recovered his health by making the effort to reach the holy man's place on foot, which resulted in him losing weight and becoming more active

g. What lesson did you learn from the story?

= The lesson from the story is that good health requires effort, and relying on others or seeking quick solutions may not always lead to the desired results. Physical activity and self-motivation are essential for maintaining health and well-being. 

 

Grammar II

A. Study these sentences.

a. The king would be treated only if he came on foot to the holy man’s residence.

b. If Sarita had an android mobile phone, she would join the virtual classroom.

c. If the king had lived an active life, his health would not have worsened.

d. Had she studied hard, she would have secured the best result.

e. If we had listened to the radio, we would have heard the news.

f. It would not surprise me if he knew the answer.

 

B. Complete the following sentences with the correct form of the verbs

given in the brackets.

a. I had seen Tshering a few minutes ago. If you had come round earlier, you ……(see) him too.

b. I wish I were a bird. If I were a bird, I ….. (fly) round the world.

c. Provided that you……(be) twenty, you could play the match.

d. George was happy that he came to Nepal. If he hadn’t, he ….(not see) Mt. Everest.

e. What would you do if you …(win) the lottery of Rs. 1,00,000?

f. Seema missed the bus to go home. If she ….(come) in time, she would have caught the bus.

g. She would lose weight if she ….. (not eat) a lot of sweets.

h. They might have helped you if you ….(ask) them.

i. If he …(drive) more carefully, he might not have had that accident.

j. If everyone ….(turn) off unwanted lights, we could save a lot of electricity.

Answer:

a. I had seen Tshering a few minutes ago. If you had come round earlier, you would have seen him too.

b. I wish I were a bird. If I were a bird, I would fly round the world.

c. Provided that you were twenty, you could play the match.

d. George was happy that he came to Nepal. If he hadn't, he would not have seen Mt. Everest.

e. What would you do if you won the lottery of Rs. 1,00,000?

f. Seema missed the bus to go home. If she had come in time, she would have caught the bus.

g. She would lose weight if she didn't eat a lot of sweets.

h. They might have helped you if you had asked them.

i. If he had driven more carefully, he might not have had that accident.

j. If everyone turned off unwanted lights, we could save a lot of electricity

 

C. Complete each sentence in a suitable way.

a. If you had studied well, ……………..

b. If you asked me, ……….

c. If we had gone to the cinema, ………….

d. If you spoke English, ………….

e. If they listened to me, ………………

f. ………………….. if I had your address.

g. ………………….. I would have taken part in the contest.

h. ………………….. we would walk to the museum.

i. ………………. if there were not many sharks there.

j. ………………. if she had taken the right bus.

 

a. If you had studied well, you would have passed the exam.

b. If you asked me, I would help you.

c. If we had gone to the cinema, we would have watched a movie.

d. If you spoke English, we could communicate better.

e. If they listened to me, they would understand the situation.

f. I would have sent you a letter if I had your address.

g. If I had known, I would have taken part in the contest.

h. If the weather was nice, we would walk to the museum.

i. It would be safer if there were not many sharks there.

j. She would have arrived on time if she had taken the right bus.

 

 

Unit 3 Family, Market and Public Places

Thomas and Jerry

Once upon a time in a village, there was an old man named Jerry. He hadn’t seen his son who lived in the city for a few years and wanted to meet him. He started his journey and came to the city where his son used to work and stay. He approached the place where he used to get letters from a long time ago. When he knocked on the door he was excited and smiled with joy to meet his son. Unfortunately, someone else opened the door. Jerry asked, “I suppose Thomas should be staying in this place.” The person said, “No! He has left and moved to a different location.” Jerry was disappointed and just pondered how he was going to meet his son.

 

He started to walk down the street and the neighbours asked Jerry, “Are you looking for Thomas?” Jerry responded by nodding his head. The neighbours gave Thomas’s office address to Jerry. Jerry thanked them and started towards the path which would lead to his son. Finally, Jerry

arrived at the office and asked at the reception counter, “Could you please tell me Thomas’s location, in this office?” The receptionist asked, “May I know how you are related to him?” Jerry responded politely by saying,“I’m his father.” The receptionist asked Jerry to wait for a moment then rang Thomas and conveyed the message. Thomas was stunned and told the receptionist to send his father to the cabin immediately.

 

Jerry entered the cabin. As soon as he saw Thomas, his eyes were filled with tears. Thomas was happy to see his father. They talked for a while and Jerry asked Thomas, “Son! Mom dearly wants to see you. Will you go home with me?”

 

Thomas responded, “I’m afraid, I can’t go home, father. I am very busy working for my success and it’s hard to take leave to visit as my hands are full with lots of stressful work.” Jerry gave a simple smile and said, “Okay! You may do your work. I’ll be going back to our village this evening.” Thomas asked, “Would you stay for a few days with me, please?” Jerry responded after a moment of silence, “Son, you are busy with your tasks. I don’t want to make you uncomfortable or become a burden for you,” he continued, “I hope if I ever had a chance to meet you again, I would be happy.” Then, he departed.

 

After a few weeks, Thomas wondered why his father came alone after a long time, he felt bad for treating his father in a weird manner. He felt guilty so took leave for a few days and went to his village to meet his parents. When he went to the place where he was born and grew up, he saw that his parents were not there. He was shocked and asked the neighbours, “What happened here? My parents have to be here. Where are they now?” The neighbours gave the address of the place where his parents were staying.

 

Thomas scurried to the place and noticed that it was like a graveyard. His eyes were filled with tears and started to walk slowly towards the place. His father noticed Thomas in the distance and waved his hand to draw his attention. Thomas saw his father; started to run and hugged him as soon as they met.

 

Jerry asked, “How are you?” and continued, “What a surprise to see you here. I didn’t expect that you would be coming to this place.” Thomas felt ashamed and kept his head down. Jerry said, “Why are you feeling bad? Has anything wrong happened?” Thomas responded, “No father” he continued, “It’s just I never knew that I would be seeing you in this position in our village.”

 

Jerry smiled and said, “I had taken a loan when you moved to the city for your college to pay for your education, then again when you wanted a new car. But due to a loss in farming, I couldn’t pay the loan back. I thought of approaching you for help, but you were very busy and bustled with your work. I didn’t want to burden you with our problem and remained silent. I had to let our home to go repay the loan.”

 

Thomas whispered, “You could’ve told me. I’m not an outsider.” Jerry turned around and said, “You were very busy and stressed with your work which made me remain quiet. All we wanted was your happiness."

 

Thomas started to cry and hugged his father again. He apologised to his father and asked him to forgive him for his mistake. Jerry radiated and said, “No need for that. I’m content with what I have now. All I want is that you spare some time for us, we love you very much and at this old age it’s hard to travel to see you often.”

 

A. The words in red in the story correspond to the meanings below. Find the words and write them.

a. a load, typically a heavy one                                   = burden

b. came near                                                                approached

c. so shocked that one is temporarily unable to react = stunned

d. left, especially in order to start a journey               = departed

e. a burial ground                                                        = graveyard

f. very strange; bizarre                                                = weird

g. satisfied                                                                   = content

h. shined with energy or happiness                             = radiated

i. moved or ran somewhere suddenly or rapidly         = scurried

30 English 9

B. Read the story again and decide whether the following statements are true or false.

a. Jerry did not use to get letters from his son.                                   = False

b. The neighbours helped Jerry find the way to meet his son.            = True

c. Thomas was eager to meet his father in his office.                         = False

d. Thomas asked his father to stay with him for a week.                   = True

e. Thomas felt bad to see his father in his workplace.                        = False

f. The story tries to show that parents’ happiness is tied up with their children’s success and happiness.                                                                                        = True

C. Answer the following questions.

a. Why did Jerry go to the city?

= Jerry went to the city to meet his son whom he hadn't seen in a few years

b. What did the father want from his son?

= The father wanted his son, Thomas, to come home with him and visit his mother.

c. Did the father come back to the village happily? Why?

= The father came back to the village disappointed because his son, Thomas, couldn't accompany him and he had to sell their home to repay a loan. 

d. What made Thomas decide to visit his father?

= Thomas felt guilty for not spending time with his father and realized the importance of family. He decided to take leave from work and visit his parents in the village.  

e. Why did Jerry take the loan?

= Jerry took the loan to pay for Thomas' education and later for a new car.

f. Why did Jerry return home without telling his son about the loan?

= Jerry didn't want to burden his busy and stressed son with their financial problems, so he remained silent about the loan

g. What lesson do you learn from this story?        

= The story highlights the importance of family, communication, and making time for loved ones. It reminds us that parents' happiness is tied to their children's well-being and that open and caring relationships are essential.

 

Grammar I

A. Study the following examples about making requests and offers along with their responses.

a. ‘Can I help you?’ ‘Yes, sure.’

b. ‘Would you like some help?’ ‘Yes, of course.’

c. ‘Would you like to come for lunch this weekend?’ ‘Oh, I’d love to, thank you.’

d. ‘Can you help me with this desk for a moment?’ ‘Yes, sure. Where do you want to put it?'

e. ‘Could you say congratulations to your brother on my behalf?

 

B. Complete the following conversations using can, could and would.

a. A: …… I get you something to drink?

B: Yes, please. A glass of lemonade for me.

b. A:…….. you tell me where the nearest community school is, please?

B: I’m sorry, I’m not from around here.

c. A: ................ you like me to answer the phone?

B. Yes, please, that ...... be lovely.

d. A: I’ve finished my homework. …….. I play now?

B: OK. You may.

e. A: ….. I come round to your house sometime later?

B: Well, actually, my dad’s not feeling well. Maybe another time.

f. A: ……. you mind passing me that register, please?

B: Yes, of course. Here you go.

g. A: …….. you like me to talk to the head teacher?

B: Oh. Yes please! …… you?

h. A: ......... you lend me Rs. 200, please?

B: I suppose so, but I need it back before next month.

i. A: ……you mind if I used your pen, madam?

B: Not at all, go ahead.

Answer:

a. A: Can I get you something to drink?

B: Yes, please. A glass of lemonade for me.

b. A: Could you tell me where the nearest community school is, please?

B: I'm sorry, I'm not from around here.

c. A: Would you like me to answer the phone?

B: Yes, please, that would be lovely.

d. A: I've finished my homework. Can I play now?

B: Okay. You may.

e. A: Could I come round to your house sometime later? B: Well, actually, my dad's not feeling well. May be another time.

f. A: Would you mind passing me that register, please?

B: Yes, of course. Here you go.

g. A: Can you like me to talk to the head teacher?

B: Oh. Yes, please! Would you?

h. A: Would you lend me Rs. 200, please?

B: I suppose so, but I need it back before next month     

Dance

The first time I went to a disco I was very young and shy. However, I decided to go. Do you remember the Star Disco in Thamel? It was a lovely place….. always full of beautiful girls. Of course, most of them are grandmothers now!

 

When I went to the disco, I was much too shy to ask anyone for a dance. So I sat down and thought I'd watch for a while. You know, see how the other lads did it. There was a lovely girl in a blue dress. A man walked up to her and said, "Excuse me. May I have the pleasure of the next dance?" She looked up at him and said "Eh? What did you say?" So he said, "I wonder if you would be kind enough to dance with me?.....er….if you don’t mind?” “No, thank you very much."

 

A few minutes later, this other chap arrived. He gave her this big smile and said, "Would you be so kind as to have the next dance with me?" “Pardon?” she said. "Would you mind having the next dance with me?" he said, a bit nervously this time, "No thanks."

 

Then, this third fellow came over. He was very good-looking, you know, black teeth, white hair- sorry, I mean white teeth, black hair! He said, ever so politely, "Can I...I mean...could I... no, might I have the next dance with you?" "Sorry", she said, "My feet are aching."

By now, I was terrified. I mean, she'd said 'no' to all of them! Then this fourth character thought he'd try. "Would you like to dance?" She looked straight at him. "No."

 

Well, I decided to go home. I was wearing an old jacket and trousers, and nobody would say that I was good-looking! Just as I was walking past her, she smiled. "Er... dance?" I asked. "Thank you very much," she replied. And that was that! It's our twentieth wedding anniversary next week.

A. Find words from the story which are similar in meaning to the words given below.

a. man                          = chap             fellow              lad                  

b. came                        = arrived         

c. clothes                     = dress             jacket and trouser

B. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given and complete the sentences

a. The storyteller is probably…

i. a comedian                          ii. a musician                           iii. an actor

b. When he arrived at the disco, he first…..

i. saw his grandmother            ii. saw some guys dancing      iii. saw a beautiful girl

c. Now his age may be about…

i. 20 years                                ii. 30 years                               iii. 40 years    

d. The lovely girl….

i. didn’t dance at all                ii. became nervous                   iii. danced at last

e. The story can be best described as…

i. humorous                             ii. serious                                iii. sad 

Grammar II

A. Match the sentence halves to make full sentences.

a. I'd                                        i. a good dentist?

b. Would it be                        ii. a table for six?

c. Would you be able to          iii. possible to invite my cousin?

d. Could you recommend       iv. you like me to call a taxi?

e. Can I book a                        v. get me a ticket for the concert?

f. Would                                  vi. like to rent an apartment.

Answer:

a. I'd like to invite my cousin.

b. Would it be possible to get me a ticket for the concert?

c. Would you be able to recommend a good dentist?

d. Could you get me a table for six?

e. Can I book a taxi?

f. Would you like to rent an apartment? 

B. Complete the sentences below in any way you like to make

requests or offers.

a. Would you like me to help you with your luggage?

b. Can I offer you a cup of coffee?

c. Could you please pass me the salt?

d. Would it be possible to borrow your car for the weekend?

e. Would you mind closing the window?

f. Could you possibly lend me some money?

g. Would you like to join me for dinner?

Unit 4           Life and Death

Death is a Fiction

 

Did you ever see somebody who actually died and came back? No. There may be a near death experience. Near is not good enough. Near water is not as good enough as water, isn’t it? So, some people have nearly died, that is not good enough. So you have not experienced it, you have not seen it, nor have you had a first-hand information from anybody. So from where did you get this idea that there is something called as death? Death is a fiction created by ignorant people. Death is the creation of people who live their lives in total unawareness. There is only life, life and life alone, moving from one dimension to another, another dimension to another. See, what you call as life right now, the process of life; you can also refer to it as death. You can say “I am living right now” or you can say “I am dying right now.” Actually, from the day you are born you are slowly dying. One day the process will be complete. Right now it is on the way. You may be thinking you are going to many places, but as far as your body is concerned, without a moment’s distraction, it is going straight to the grave, nowhere else. Isn’t it so?

 

So, is death okay or not okay? Even these kinds of questions which are coming up are silly, because whether you say it is okay or not okay, anyway you will die. Every moment you are playing between life and death and life and death – actually it is so. This inhalation, exhalation... You inhaled, life happened. You exhaled and did not inhale again, death happened, isn’t it?

See, every moment in Yoga we say inhalation is life, exhalation is death. You exhale, and if you do not take in the next inhalation it dislodges you from the body. So fragile, isn’t it so? Something so fragile is the basis of your existence here. Death is walking with you every step. It is so close all the time.

There is nothing wrong with death; it has to happen. Only because there is death, there is life. You need to understand that the moment you are born, you have a death sentence upon you. When, where, and how is the only question, but you are on death row. Your death is confirmed, isn’t it? We do not know whether you will get educated or not; we do not know whether you will get married or not; we do not know whether you will know joy or not; we do not know whether you will know misery or not; but we know one day you will die. That one thing is guaranteed. This whole fear of death has come simply because you have no idea what it is. You have formed ideas about everything, just about everything. But it does not matter what ideas you have formed about life, when you are confronted with the moment of death, you really do not know anything.

That is one space of life which has remained uncorrupted by the human mind. Everything else we have corrupted, isn’t it? Whatever was supposed to be sacred, all these things are hugely corrupted by the human mind.

Human minds have corrupted love, relationships, God, Divinity – everything they have corrupted and twisted out whichever way they want. Death is one thing that they are still clueless about–though a lot of people would like to talk authoritatively about it. They know they are going to go

to heaven; they are dead sure about it. If they are so sure, I don’t see what they are waiting for. They are doing everything not to go to heaven. Why? If you are so sure you are going to a wonderful place, a better place than this, and then you must hurry up. But because you are not sure, you talk. You are not 100% sure where you will go, what will happen to you. Just to solace yourself, just to be able to psychologically handle life, you create all these things. But essentially, the very idea of death has come to you because people have been talking about it without knowing about it. Otherwise, if your societies did not speak about it, you would just know the way you are right now, your present existence, is not permanent. That you would know, but you would not have any other ideas about it. Even now you do not have any idea about it; you imagine that you have.

                           -Sadhguru (excerpt from Life and Death in one breath)

A. Find the words from the text that have the following meanings.

a. a thing that is imagined: fiction

b. a way of looking at something: perspective

c. to force somebody to leave: dislodge

d. faced somebody so that you could not avoid: confronted

e. to make somebody feel better: solace

B. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

a. Death is a fiction created by human beings.

b. Ultimately, we are moving straight to the grave.

c. According to the speaker, death is confirmed. It is sure to happen.

d. Human beings have corrupted everything and they have twisted it whichever way they want.

C. Answer the following questions.

a. According to the speaker, there is only life. How?

According to the speaker, there is only life because life is a continuous process, moving from one dimension to another.

b. According to the speaker, what is life?

According to the speaker, life is the process of existence, which includes both inhalation (life) and exhalation (death).

c. Why is there nothing wrong with death?

There is nothing wrong with death because it is a natural part of life. Without death, there would be no life.

d. Why do we fear death?

We fear death because we do not fully understand it and because it represents the unknown. The fear of death arises from the uncertainty of what happens after death and the attachment to life.

e. Why do people have an idea of death?

People have an idea of death because it has been talked about and discussed, even though their understanding of it may be limited or based on beliefs and assumptions.

D. What is your view about death? Write a short paragraph

Death is a natural and inevitable part of life. It is the end of our physical existence, but what happens after death remains unknown. While death may evoke fear and uncertainty, it is important to accept its inevitability and focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life. Death reminds us of the impermanence of life and can serve as a motivation to make the most of the time we have. It is a reminder to cherish our loved ones, pursue our passions, and contribute positively to the world. While death may be a difficult concept to comprehend, it is essential to approach it with acceptance and a sense of peace.     


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