Wild animals have no place in the 21st century, and the protection is a waste of resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

I disagree with the notion that wild animals are redundant in the current century and therefore we need not waste our precious resources in protecting them. I believe that the conservation of these species should be our top priority as they are our most precious resources. In the following paragraphs I shall put forth my arguments to support my views.

The most important reason for saving wild animals is that they are part of our ecosystem. Every species of wildlife plays a role to maintain the balance of life on Earth. Thus, the loss of any species can threaten the survival of all life, including human beings. Let us consider species to be like a brick in the foundation of a building. We can probably lose one or two or a dozen bricks and still have a standing house. But by the time we have lost 20 per cent of species, we are going to destabilize the entire structure. That's the way ecosystems work.

Secondly, wild animals provide many valuable substances such as medicine and fur. The horn of the rhinoceros has medicinal value and the fur of the mink is very valuable. The recreational viewing of animals at zoos is also a source of revenue.  Thus, the financial value of wild species is important to the economies of many nations.

Finally, wild animals have aesthetic appeal. They are beautiful creatures of nature and are a part of our bio-diversity. Their beautiful and mysterious life has enchanted mankind since the dawn of evolution. Scientists have been awed by observing their behavior. Such study has helped scientists understand how the human body functions and why people behave as they do. Scientists have also gained medical knowledge by studying the effect of many drugs on these animals.

In conclusion, the protection of wild animals in the 21st century is by no means a waste of resources. In fact it should be the most important global priority today. I pen down by a quotation – “Scientists know we must protect species because they are working parts of our life-support system”.
( General Training essay)

Some people believe that tourists should accept social and environmental responsibility while others believe that tourists should not accept any responsibility at all. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is irrefutable that tourism industry has become the backbone of many economies of the world. No wonder all countries are opening their doors to tourists. The negative social and environmental impacts of tourism have led many to suggest that tourists should accept responsibility for this. I definitely agree with this notion. Eco-tourism, sustainable-tourism, responsible-tourism, modern-tourism or whatever name you may like to give it, is the need of the hour. In the following paragraphs, I intend to put forth my arguments to support my view.

The most important reason why tourists should be responsible is that many tourist destinations are endangered now because of the litter and pollution spread by the tourists. For example, the Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, which is a popular tourist spot, once got so badly damaged by the wrappers and plastic bottles which tourists threw that no boating could be done there and it smelled so bad that people stopped going there. It took months to get it cleaned up and restore tourism there. The local people and the governments cannot handle such situation effectively unless the tourists themselves lend a hand by being careful.

Secondly, there is over-consumption of resources by tourists such as of water and fuel and this is incompatible with sustainable development. Tourist demand for resources such as water and food may also compete with the needs of local people and may lead to injustice with the locals. For example, in Shimla, a popular hill station, tourists stay in five star accommodations and take two showers a day where as the people outside are short of drinking water. To add to it many tourism activities such as skiing, boating, motorised water-sports, and trekking represent a stress to fragile ecosystems. Who will welcome the tourists to those places if tourists don’t accept responsibility? Instead of five star accommodations, they could live with the locals and be satisfied with one shower a day.

Finally, if tourists do not respect the local people’s culture and environment, then the natives would be hostile towards them and the whole purpose of tourism would be lost. For example, in our religious places, it is customary to cover our head and take off our shoes. If tourists don’t do so they would not be welcome by our people there. So, the onus is on the tourist to know beforehand the norms of the place and fortunately nowadays, everything is available on the net or one can get all information from the tour operators.

Responsible tourism is everyone's responsibility. The well being of the destination is not only the responsibility of the tourism sector - it is also the responsibility of the tourist. That is why it has rightly been said that – ‘ A good tourist is one who leaves behind nothing, but footprints; and takes away nothing, but photographs.
14th Oct IELTS Essay - India

The speeding up of life in many areas such as travel and communication has negative effects on society at all levels—individual, national and global. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The acceleration of the tempo of life in travel and communication has led to globalization. This has undoubtedly affected the society at all levels – personal, national and international. However, I believe that not all the effects are negative. There are many positive effects also at all levels. Therefore, I partially agree with the given statement. In the following paragraphs, I intend to highlight the positive and negative effects of globalization.

At the individual level, to begin with, globalisation can create opportunities for employment. However, at the same time this could lead to unemployment and exploitation. We see that multinational companies employ many people in the developing countries, but it is also true that the package they are providing here is much less than what they have to pay in their own countries. Salaries are low and working conditions are often poor. What is more, Companies move to countries where labour is cheap. This creates redundancies, or job losses. Secondly, globalisation can give people a lot of choices. This is largely positive at the individual level.

At the national level, it could reduce poverty in the developing world. It encourages investment in less developed countries. The negative effect is that national identities are getting lost. We eat the same food, watch the same TV programmes, listen to the same music and wear the same clothes. People have also started speaking one language, English, in many parts of the world. In fact, English has become the lingua franca today.

At the global level, business is becoming increasingly international. A global economy means free trade between countries. This can strengthen political relationships. However, global trade also creates excessive waste and pollution.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, as every garden has weeds, similarly the fast pace of life due to faster means of travel and the IT revolution also has its pros and cons. I believe that the advantages are more than the disadvantages.

The only way to improve the safety on our own road is to have stricter punishment for driving offenders. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The burgeoning car ownership in all parts of the world has brought the issue of road safety into limelight. The annual incidence of car accidents is nearly three times as high as the corresponding figure a decade ago. Many people are alarmed by this trend and opine that imposing stiffer punishment on the perpetrators is the only effective way to curb this disturbing phenomenon. However, I believe that this is just one way but not the only way to improve road safety. In the following paragraphs, I shall put forth my arguments to support my view.

Undoubtedly, more severe penalty does carry certain advantages in halting the driving offenses on the roads. First and foremost, it would be the most cost-effective way to deter the driving offenders. Heavy fines, long community service or even jail terms would naturally have some apprehension in the minds of those violating the traffic law. Government would not need to upgrade traffic surveillance cameras or augment traffic police force. Further, the effect of this hard-line approach would be immediate. Once the related law is passed, we would surely witness a substantial decline in driving offenses overnight.

The government could implement many ways to improve road safety. One effective way could be to encourage people to use public transport. This could be done very effectively by improving the comfort of public transport, decreasing the fares and increasing the frequency of public transport. Secondly, people could be made aware about the detrimental effects of private transport. Furthermore, road systems could be improved and traffic lights should be always in order. Finally the government could pass laws such as ‘one car per family’ to decrease the private vehicles.

At the individual level also many steps could be taken. People should realize that their safety depends on others safety. If they drive rashly, they are also bound to be injured. They should not drink and drive and always abide by the traffic laws. As the root cause of traffic accidents is too much congestion on the roads, it would be better if people avoid private transport as far as possible. Car-pooling is another effective step that people can take at their level. For example, if five people of the same block go to the same office then they could go on one car per day. It would be a win-win approach for all.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, having strict punishment would be one good way to improve road safety but many other steps could be taken at the government and individual level for this.

History tells that people have often thought about creating an ideal society, but most of the times fail in making this happen. What is your opinion about an ideal society? How can we create an ideal society?

If we look at history, it is clear that since time immemorial, people have always wanted to create an ideal society but have been unsuccessful. In the following essay, I intend to discuss what makes an ideal society and how we can create one.

An ideal society is a society where needs of the people regardless of their race, religion or wealth would be met. Many great thinkers, such as Plato, Thomas More and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have offered their opinions on this to the public over the years. However, these dreams failed because different people have different ideals about a perfect society. To make it happen, either the ideals of all the people have to be fulfilled, or all the people would have to have the same ones.

Imagine a society with no crime, no terrorism, no warfare, no conflicts of cultures, no racism, no gender discrimination, no poisoned tongues, no killing, no lying, no stealing, no adultery and no excuses. Such a society can never exist. It would be wrong even to think of one. A perfect society needs some kind of social inequality, or as I call it, a distinction in ability. Those in the higher strata of society would be there because of their superior abilities and have greater responsibilities and, therefore, a higher social standing. An ideal society should have some struggle. If you had no struggle in life would you be happy? No, because that takes all the fun and enjoyment out of the difficulty, the losing, the failures, and the overcoming, the victory, the success.

There are many ways in which we can make an ideal society. First of all, there must be democracy and a strong government which has the ability to rule over the country. It should try to make the citizens life better by making better social and financial conditions to live. There should be no corruption in the government. Finally, I believe, one of the most necessary things of ideal society is freedom. No people and no society are happy and ideal when they are not free. However, we must remember that – ‘One’s freedom ends there where other’s starts’. If we will feel free and do not disturb others freedom we will have ideal society. An ideal society would allow complete freedom to everybody and complete individuality.

To sum up, I pen down saying that, a perfect society is difficult to attain as everyone has different concepts of an ideal society. However, if we all respect our freedom and in doing so know our limitations, so that others can enjoy their freedom then it can be called an ideal society.
(9th October AC - IELTS essay in India)

You are about to start social meetings in a particular area where people from different nationalities can take part. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper requesting him to publish information about this:- - What activities you have planned - When the first meeting takes place and where

Dear Sir,

I am Mohit Sharma, the president of the local Rotract Club. Our club is organising seminars in which delegates from different nationalities will be taking part. We would be very thankful if you would give adequate space about our activities in the columns of your esteemed daily so that we get the maximum participation and support of local people.

We shall be touching various social issues in our meetings. Besides the cultural exchange, which shall automatically be there, we shall be touching issues like environmental pollution, drug trafficking, child abuse, female foeticide and so on. We have also planned a career counselling camp which shall run for a whole week.

The first meeting is on 10th June 2011; the venue is Club Cabana and the theme is ‘Global Culture versus Traditional Culture’. We would look forward to your presence in this meeting.

All the club members are working whole heartedly for these meetings. It is a matter of great pride for a small town like ours to organise such world class events. Through the power of your pen, you can help us in spreading a word about our activities.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Yours faithfully,
Mohit Sharma.

The cost of air flights has reduced sharply nowadays. Do you think it is a positive or a negative development, give your reasons.(General Training)

In today's world, we are now in a position to enjoy cheaper air flights than in the past. However, there is an argument whether this is a positive or a negative development. It is advantageous in terms of freedom and the opportunities to learn from other countries. It is detrimental in terms of the pollution it creates. So, it is both, a positive as well as a negative development

Cheap air flight can be beneficial in many ways. One of them is the opportunities to go overseas. Earlier, only the affluent could afford it, but now it is within the pocket of the ordinary man. Some of the discounted tickets are fairly cheap and flying abroad is no longer a dream for many. Moreover, small businesses have prospered because of the ease of travel because of these flights.

In addition to this, cheap air flight enables intercultural exchanges between countries. The advent of cheap air fare makes it possible for people the world over to travel regularly, regardless of the purpose of the trip. Therefore, people have the opportunities to learn from different cultures and have a better understanding of countries they used to be unfamiliar with. This, in turn, enhances cultural communications between countries.

On the other hand, it is generally known that aeroplanes consume a vast amount of oil and the gas emission generated by an airplane is enormous. Therefore, the environmental impacts would only get worse in the long run. Besides, cheap air tickets at times are extremely disturbing in terms of certain conditions that go along with them. One problem is that the date and time cannot be changed once purchased. As a result, many people find it inconvenient if they are to reschedule due to emergency.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, cheap air fares have both pros and cons. I am convinced that giving people the freedom to travel is essential, but at the same time people should be made aware of avoiding un-necessary travel.

Children who grow up in families which are short of money are better prepared with the problems of adult life than children who are brought up by wealthy parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Role of family atmosphere in a child’s development is a cause of concern. However, I disagree with the notion that children of poor families are better equipped in dealing with the challenges of adult life than those of rich families. No doubt, adversity is a good teacher of life, but rich parents can also prepare their children to face the problems of adult life by good education and good nurturing.

A child of poor family has more situations to solve a problem or make a decision as both parents are working to make both ends meet and children have to look after themselves. They realise the value of money as they have to live with the barest minimum and as a result they find it less difficult later on in life when they face financial challenges. In contrast, the children of wealthy families are born with a silver spoon in their mouth. They are completely ignorant of the value of money as everything is provided for them in their youth and expect the same situation in adulthood.

On the other hand, children of rich families study in the best schools and get the best higher education. They can learn problem solving in such academic institutes. What is more, a wealthy child may be well trained by a parent who himself has a lot of knowledge of money. Such parents themselves know money management better and can pass on those skills to their children.

Life experiences also play a role. Children can have innate ability to face problems of life. They may have personality traits such as being optimistic, outgoing, confident and open-minded. Due to these abilities they can solve problems in a better way.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, a poor child may learn to get along without wealth and a wealthy child may be well trained by a parent to face hurdles of life by effective education. Therefore, I disagree that the economic situation of the family has a role in problem solving skills.

Advertising encourages consumers to buy in quantity rather than promoting quality. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Whether it is on TV, radio or hoardings at the side of the road, advertisements have become a part of our lives. Advertising is a powerful and persuasive medium. I agree with the former half of the given statement that adverts encourage people to buy in quantity. However, I disagree that adverts do not promote quality. I shall put forth my arguments to support my views in the following paragraphs.

On the one hand, advertisements make us pile up things in the home which we may never ever use. For example, we get lured by the one-on-one scheme that companies promote just to sell their old stock in bulk. For example, recently, I bought three pairs of jeans of Levis brand because there was a two-on-one offer. What I did not realise then was that the designs were outdated and defective. Now those jeans are just occupying space in my almirah.

Because of advertisements, sometimes we buy what tempts us without the insight of what we need actually. Impressive images, videos, or captions are bound to leave an imprint on us. For example, media is flooded with the advertisements of beauty products and they all claim to make you fair in a few days. Women, and these days, even men are crazy about these things and buy these things even without consulting their dermatologist.

On the other hand, advertisements are very crucial ¬given the fast pace of life today. The advertisements open our eyes to all the latest facilities and trends and with that give us the chance and opportunity of choosing from the wide range of products available for we have little time to make discoveries about what is required. Advertising links producers and consumers by providing relevant information of the latest products and services. Thanks to advertising, we know that there are so many nice things available. Moreover, an overwhelming majority of consumers are sensible enough to consider their options before they decide on a particular item.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that adverts promote quantity but they tell us about quality too. The onus lies on us to look into our real needs and not be swayed by adverts.

In many countries, good schools and medical facilities are available only in cities. Some people think new teachers and doctors should work in rural areas for a few years, but others think everyone should be free to choose where they work. Discuss and give your own opinion.

As a big gap is there between the urban and rural areas, some people opine that teachers and doctors who are fresh out of college should work in villages for a few years. However, others believe that the choice of where to work should be left on the teachers and doctors. In this essay I shall discuss the merits and demerits of both approaches and finally give my opinion.

There are many advantages of having teachers and doctors work in rural areas. Firstly, the people in the villages will have access to medical care and education which they are deprived of normally. Secondly, it would be good for the teachers and doctors who are fresh from university to translate their theoretical knowledge into practice. In urban areas there already so many experienced teachers and doctors. Therefore, people would naturally not opt for fresh ones. In a rural setting, they would gain a lot of confidence very early on in their career. Finally, a few of these doctors and teachers may choose to live permanently in those villages to serve humanity.

On the other hand, this compulsory policy may have some negative effects. To begin with, we belong to a democratic country and everyone has a right to work where one pleases. Such enforcement may result in working passively and there will be no motivation. So the rural residents may not get appropriate treatment and service. Secondly, fewer and fewer students would choose such majors and careers and so in the long run there would be shortage of such professionals.

In my opinion, it would be better to have such a rule. It would be a win-win situation for both, rural people and the professionals. It would also help to bridge the gap between the cities and the countryside. The government can, however, make fresh teachers and doctors want to work in the rural areas by offering higher salaries and other incentives.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, sending doctors and teachers to rural areas would be an ideal situation but the government should offer some financial and non-financial schemes.

Some people think the increasing business and cultural contact between countries brings many positive effects. Others say it causes the loss of national identities. Discuss on both sides and give your opinion.

Globalisation has resulted in more business and cultural contacts among different nations. This also means that in many ways people around the world are becoming more and more similar. This situation has both pros and cons which I shall discuss in the following paragraphs.

There are many benefits of globalisation. To begin with there are more jobs because of globalisation. Multinational companies have opened in many parts of the world providing jobs to thousands of people. Secondly, there is more efficient trade between different countries around the globe thereby improving the economies of developing countries. People have more opportunities to travel and therefore have awareness of other cultures. What is more, today people have more choices of products because of globalisation.

There are also many reasons why people say that national identities are being lost. We eat the same food, watch the same TV programmes, listen to the same music and wear the same clothes. People have also started speaking one language, English, in many parts of the world. In fact, English has become the lingua franca today.

However, I feel that this is a very narrow definition of national identities and nations are as different as they were ever in the past. Cultural identity is based on far more than just the films we watch or the clothes we wear. For example, take my own culture of India and compare it to the west. We may wear any clothes, but we never take the names of elders and call them with respect. In the west, it is quite OK to call anyone by name. In fact, they appreciate it more. I believe that after knowing about other cultures, we learn to respect our culture even more. So, some very deep rooted national identities will always be there.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that there are more advantages of increasing trade and cultural contact among nations. Whatever similarities we see today are only on the surface. Total loss of national identities can never take place.

Follow up of ‘a good law’

1. Do you think that being a policeman is an easy job in your country?
No, I don’t think so. A policeman’s job is a very demanding job. Policemen need to be physically and mentally strong. They always have to be on their toes. They have to protect peace, life and property. They endanger their life everyday when they deal with crooks.

2. Do you think men and women make equally good police officers?
Nowadays, anybody can be trained to do any type of job. We have examples of very good women IPS officers like Kiran Bedi but personally I feel that it is a man’s job. A policeman’s job is a very demanding job. Policemen need to be physically and mentally strong. They always have to be on their toes. They have to protect peace, life and property. They endanger their life everyday when they deal with crooks. So, I think that men are better suited for this job.

3. In general, is policeman’s job easy?
No, I don’t think so. A policeman’s job is a very demanding job. Policemen need to be physically and mentally strong. They always have to be on their toes. They have to protect peace, life and property. They endanger their life everyday when they deal with crooks.

4. Do you think it is a good idea for the police to carry guns around?
Yes, definitely. The police have to deal with criminals who may be armed. If police are not armed then nobody will be afraid of them.

5. What do you think are the responsibilities of a good lawyer?
The first and foremost responsibility is to provide justice. He should not side with the wrong elements of society. He should study each case properly and not use unethical means to defend any client.

6. Do you think men and women make equally good lawyers?
Yes, definitely. Nowadays, anybody can be trained to do any type of job. Women who have a law degree can be equally good lawyers. This job is also very demanding and I believe that women lawyers also need to be rough and tough.

Follow up questions of ‘a relaxing day’

1. Do you think sleep is the best way to relax?
Yes, I do think so. Sleep relaxes both the body and the mind. It revitalises us. We recharge our batteries for the next few hours. For some time we forget all our worries and tensions. So, I feel it is the best way to relax.

2. Do you think that sleep is important?
Yes, I do think so. Sleep relaxes both the body and the mind. It revitalises us. We recharge our batteries for the next few hours. For some time we forget all our worries and tensions. So, I feel it is very important. However, I also feel that it should be of limited hours. Oversleeping is also very bad.

3. What do you think of the sleeping patterns of people of all ages?
Sleeping patterns vary with age. Children generally sleep more than adults. Those who do a lot of physical work also need more sleep. The elderly sleep for only 4-5 hours a day and it is enough for them because they have very little physical exertion.

4. Where do you usually go on vacation?
I usually go to different places on vacation. I like visiting new places every time. Once I went to Shimla with my family. Once I went to Delhi and Agra with my friends.

5. Do you think paid leave is necessary?
Yes, definitely. A paid leave is very necessary. A paid leave combines vacation, sick leave and casual leave into a single group of days for employee paid time off. The concept is good. This enables workers to create a balance between work and leisure. These days when a person looks for a job,the number of paid leaves is considered as an added benefit.

6. How many hours of paid leave should one get in a month?
I think it should be 15-20 hours a month.

7. What are the advantages of a paid leave?
There are many advantages of a paid leave. This enables workers to create a balance between work and leisure. These days when a person looks for a job, the number of paid leaves is considered as an added benefit. For example, maternity leave of six months is a paid leave in government jobs. These benefits make people want to do such jobs.

Follow up questions on Friends

1. How do people make new friends?
People make friends in many ways. It depends on age and gender. Children make friends in schools and colleges. They also make friends in the neighbourhood by playing together. Women make friends by joining kitty parties and men make friends at work or by joining social clubs.

2. What do you think makes people have a long friendship?
Mutual understanding makes people have a long friendship. If people can tolerate each other’s short comings and be simple and straight forward, then friendships can be for a long time.

3. Does it make things easier in a friendship if you have similar interests?
Yes, definitely. With similar interests friends can spend time together and not get bored. They will also have similar topics for discussion. In a lasting friendship it is very essential that your likes and dislikes are similar.
4. How do people make friends now?
Now a days, people make friends through internet by joining social networking sites like face book, twitter and orkut.

5. Do you think we meet new people differently now than in the past?
Yes, definitely. Nowadays, we meet new people through internet by joining social networking sites like face book, twitter and orkut.
Earlier, people had lots of free time and they made friends by meeting personally.

6. What do you think, what type of personality do people of the young generation admire?
Young generation admires people who are rich and famous. They admire young politicians like Rahul Gandhi and Sachin Pilot. They also admire famous sports personalities. They admire reality show winners.

7. Do you think admiration varies according to age?
Yes, surely. Young people admire celebrities. Elderly admire good politicians and religious preachers.

8. What do you think, how important is education in one’s life?
Education is very important in one’s life. It is the base of one’s life. Education makes you confident and able to get good jobs. We also learn moral values and tolerance of other religions and cultures. An educated person rarely goes towards crime and violence.

9. Do you think today, education is in demand more than it was in the past?
Yes, I do think so. Competition is very tough these days and we belong to a global village. If we lack in education we are like frogs in a well. Education makes us broad minded and we can get a job anywhere in this world.

The detailed description about crime will affect the people and cause many social problems. Some people say that the media should be strictly controlled. Do you agree or disagree?

Nowadays, we are surrounded by a variety of media like the Internet, newspaper and TV, which are very informative, and in doing so give a detailed description of crime. This causes many problems in society and therefore some people opine that there should be censorship of media. I feel that the media should be very judicious in selecting what to report and how much to report. So, I agree with the statement. In this essay, I intend to support my views with my arguments.

As I see it, the news outlets should pay more attention to the affairs themselves, rather than the details of the crimes. To start with, the details of crimes make a misleading statement to the children and adolescents who are curious about the process of committing crimes, and are likely to copy the criminal actions blindly. Moreover, the excessive violence and pornographic contents can also raise the adults' criminal tendencies. In the other words, detailed crime news can generate individuals' potential desire to commit a crime, thus induce many social problems. So, there should be some control on the media.

Moreover, the detailed report of a crime does not show enough respects to the victims and their family. For example, if any murder or robbery has taken place in someone’s house then if it is shown in detail on TV, the whole privacy of those people is lost. Another very strong argument in favour of censorship of media is that sometimes this detailed description can help the criminals also. For instance, when terrorists attacked Hotel Taj in Mumbai, the media reported details of the commandos’ position on TV. This was also viewed by the terrorists hiding in the hotel. They changed their positions accordingly. Had there been some regulating authority the terrorists could have been caught much earlier.

However, the opponents claim that we have a right to know every detail and so media should report every detail. I still feel that it would lead to more problems. I think the media has an obligation to show the right direction to the public. It should report news in a balanced manner rather than high-lighting the details of the crime.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that although it is the duty of the media to keep us informed, the details of crime should not be shown and for that censorship of the media is a must.

Follow up of celebrations

1. How do you learn about celebrations that are related to your culture?
We learn about celebrations from our parents and grandparents. We also learn about them by attending family functions. We also learn through media by watching daily soaps. We also learn through school and college functions.

2. What do you think are common celebrations all over the world?
There are many celebrations which are celebrated all over the world. Such as – New year celebration, Christmas celebration, Valentine Day celebration, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and so on.

3. Do you think we should follow our culture and traditions and why?
Yes, definitely, we should follow our culture and tradition because it keeps us in touch with our roots. We can pass on our rich culture to our coming generation if only we know about it. I believe that every culture has some good points which need to be preserved.

4. How do you react to spending a lot of money on celebrations?
I think it is sheer wastage of money. For example, burning crackers as a tradition on Diwali is OK but spending exorbitant amount of money on crackers is bad. Similarly giving gifts is OK on occasions but buying very expensive gifts just to show-off is bad.

5. How do you think celebrations in the past and at present are different?
In earlier times, people had a lot of time. They took days and weeks to prepare for any function. Nowadays, celebrations have shrunk. They have become instant like the cup of instant coffee. Earlier, marriage celebrations lasted at least a week. All relatives gathered in the house of the bride or groom and there used to be too much fun and frolic. Now, we book marriage palaces and even the bride and the groom’s family just go to attend the wedding.

6. Are people celebrating in the same ways?
No, definitely not. Everything undergoes change with time. Celebrations too have changed. In earlier times, people had a lot of time. They took days and weeks to prepare for any function. Nowadays, celebrations have shrunk. They have become instant like the cup of instant coffee. Earlier, marriage celebrations lasted at least a week. All relatives gathered in the house of the bride or groom and there used to be too much fun and frolic. Now, we book marriage palaces and even the bride and the groom’s family just go to attend the wedding.

Some scientists believe that studying the behaviour of 3-year-old children can tell which children would grow up to be criminals. To what extent in your opinion is crime a product of human nature or is it possible to stop children from growing up to be criminals?

Some scientists are of the opinion that hereditary characteristics are responsible for the person’s temperament and hence future career. I disagree with this notion. I believe that genes do play a role but the primary determinant is nurture – education and bringing up. It is definitely possible to mould a child into any direction by proper bringing-up.

If we adopt the mindset that if parents are criminals so will the children be then we are limiting or even damaging the individual’s basic right to achieve his very best. Children can rise above the gene pool and rise to great heights. Even if a child is born to criminal parents but brought up away from that environment and provided quality education, he will not be a criminal.

The debate on nature versus nurture has been raging for ages and no clear cut answer has come forward. A child prodigy can be born to ordinary parents and many intelligent parents can have ordinary children. A talented person can go unnoticed in the absence of right environment and upbringing and an ordinary person can reach great heights with proper training. So, interplay between hereditary and environmental factors must be there.

It has been seen that children born to intelligent parents also are intelligent and successful. But it is also possible that such parents provide an environment which nurtures the development of their children. When we see some programmes such as ‘India’s Got Talent’ and ‘Little Champs’, we notice some extremely gifted children who are born with talent and also some who have achieved great heights with great perseverance and proper coaching.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that both nature and nurture play a part in determining the character of a person. It can also be concluded that both are inextricably linked with each other. But nurture weighs over nature and it is definitely possible to prevent children from growing up to be criminals.

There will be a traditional celebration in your country and you want to invite your friend from an English-speaking country. Write him/her a letter and - invite your friend, - explain what happens at the party, - describe the tradition and why it’s important in your country, - say why it is important for your friend to be there.

Dear Elaine,
Hope this letter finds you in radiant health and the best of spirits. I am writing this letter to invite you to celebrate our traditional festival Deepawali with us this year. While we were studying together last year, you promised to visit me and believe me, this is the best time of the year to come to India.

Deepawali is our national festival. It falls in the month of October or November. It literally means rows of lights. It is celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. This is one festival which all Indians celebrate. A month before Deepawali, we whitewash our homes and buy new clothes to wear on that day. On the day of Deepawali we worship Goddess Laxmi, the symbol of wealth and also burn crackers. There is lots of fun and frolic.

Ever since I finished my course at Leeds University and came back home, I have talked so much about you to my parents that they are all very eager to see you. Moreover, it will help you in the project you are doing on ‘Globalisation and Tradition’. You will see that we Indians have not forgotten our traditional celebrations even if we have become a part of the global village which is influenced by the western culture.

We would be honoured to have you as our guest for your entire stay here. You are welcome to bring your parents along if they can spare the time. I assure you we will make it a memorable holiday for you.

Hoping to see you soon!

Yours lovingly,
Kiran

Far too little has been done to prevent animals and plants from dying out, although people have been aware of this problem for a long time. Why do people do so little about it? Give your suggestions on how to solve this problem.

It is irrefutable that people know about the endangered animal and plant species but don’t take enough efforts to save them. In the following paragraphs I shall discuss the reasons why people are so indifferent towards this problem and suggest some ways forward.

There are many reasons why people are doing so little about it. Firstly, people nowadays are very busy coping with the pace of the 24/7 society that this global village is offering. They are running mad in the rat race of material comforts and working hard to achieve them. They have become victims of this consumerist society and as a consequence, have become workaholics. They don’t have time to care about animals and plants. They don’t even know that their luxuries are at the cost of animal and plant life.

Furthermore, they are unaware about the consequences of the extinction of animal and plant species. For instance, they don’t know that if the ecological chain is disturbed, it has an impact on them only in the long run. For example, there are many bat species that are becoming extinct. Such bats help keep the insect population in control. If these bats die then the insects will increase a lot and destroy our crops. So, we will have nothing to eat. In addition, many animals, like rodents, help in the dispersal of plant seeds and in the pollination of plants. Some of these plants are important for medical research and the development of medicines.

The solutions need to be implemented on a war footing. There should be increased awareness about consequences of this phenomenon. Secondly, with funding, biologists and naturalists can use their years of knowledge to help in the breeding of various animal species. Furthermore, since people are often responsible for habitat destruction, it is only right that they use some resources to help preserve whatever important wildlife habitats are left. Trees should not be cut for housing and furniture. Instead, high rise buildings should be made and aluminium doors and windows should be used.

To put it in a nutshell, I pen down saying that, people should be made aware of the consequences of animal and plant extinction and active steps should be taken to preserve these species.

Follow up questions related to school, subject, teachers

1. For children these days, do you think it is easier to make friends in a smaller school or a larger school?
I think it is easier to make friends in a small school because there are less number of students and you can easily interact with them and find someone your type.
OR
I think it is easier to make friends in a big school because there are many students and you can easily interact with them and find someone your type.
OR
I think size of the school does not matter in ability to make friends.

2. In your opinion, what are the benefits of studying in a larger school?
There are many benefits of studying in a larger school. In a larger school you have many facilities like larger playgrounds and better labs and libraries. There are also better extra-curricular activities.

3. Do you think social education is important in schools? What are the advantages?
I think social education is very important in schools. As it is, children today are being cut off from society and community because they have burden of studies and even their recreational activities are done alone. Their parents also don’t have time to give them any social education. In nuclear families no one is there to teach them such values. So, I think schools should take the onus of imparting social education.

4. How do you think schools can help pupils in developing their social skills?
Schools can help in many ways. First of all teachers can act as role models and teach children basic manners and ethics. Then, schools can have compulsory community service as part of high school curriculum. There can be extra-curricular activities which impart social values.

5. What difference is there in moving from a large to a small school?
There are many differences in moving from a bigger to a smaller school. On the one hand, the student may find he has come to a smaller place with lesser facilities such as playgrounds and labs. But on the other hand he may get personal attention as there are lesser number of students in a small school.

6. What qualifications should a teacher have?
A teacher should have the qualifications needed for the subject he has to teach. For example, a science teacher should be a graduate in science subjects. Apart from that a B.Ed. degree is mandatory for all teachers in my country.

7. Why teachers give so many assignments to pupils?
Teachers give assignments to students so that they learn by doing things. In this way it creates interest in the subject also. Students also develop their writing skills. They learn how to gather material for the assignment. It also helps in internal assessment of students.

8. What are the qualities necessary to become a good teacher?
A good teacher should have many qualities. He should have good communication skills. If a teacher doesn’t have good communication skills, how will he teach. Secondly, a good teacher should have depth of knowledge. Because, if a teacher doesn’t have depth of knowledge, what will he teach. Then, a teacher should be impartial and should not favour any student. A teacher should be able to come down to the level of the student and teach him accordingly. A teacher should know where to be strict and where to be lenient.

9. Why do some people like to be a teacher and what are the effects of being a teacher on those people?
Some people like to become teachers because it is a noble profession. They have a passion for teaching. Some like to be teachers because they want to remain in touch with academics. Moreover, nowadays teachers are getting handsome pay packages. It is a fixed hours job. So it suits women because they have to look after their families also. They remain happy because they are doing what they like to do and it gives them job-satisfaction.

10. Is it easy for a young person these days to become a teacher?
Yes, it is very easy for young persons these days to become teachers because there are so many schools and colleges which require teachers. There are so many institutes providing B.Ed. courses. Moreover teaching is a highly lucrative profession. Teachers are earning very high pay packages.

11. Is it a good job for young people?
Yes, definitely. Teaching is a highly lucrative profession. Teachers are earning very high pay packages.

12. What is the difference in teaching young people and elderly?
When a teacher has to teach young children, the content is decided by the teacher. So the education is teacher oriented. Moreover, young children can be easily handled by the teacher.
When a teacher has to teach the elderly, then the students decide the content. So, the education is student centred. The elderly have many other sources to learn, like the internet. So they only want their doubts clarified by the teacher. To teach the elderly, depth of knowledge is required by the teacher.

13. What do you prefer – studying in a small class or a larger class.
I prefer to study in a small class because in a small class I can get more attention of the teacher.

14. Do young children need strict rules to cope with homework?
Yes, definitely. If teachers are not strict with homework then children will become careless. As it is, they have so many distractions at home like TV and video games. So if teachers are not strict they will not do their homework.

15. What is the difference in teacher taught relation today and in earlier days?
Nowadays the teacher taught relation is very strained. There are mainly two reasons for this. The first is that, earlier teaching was teacher-oriented. Teacher was the only source of knowledge. Now students have so many other sources like the internet and libraries. Secondly, the ugly claws of commercialism have crept into the field of education. Education has become a business and the student is the customer.

16. Do you think teaching is a tough job?
Yes, definitely, teaching is a tough job. You need very good communication skills and depth of knowledge. As it is, students have so many sources of learning like libraries and the internet, so, a teacher has to be really really very good to be able to teach well.

17. What are the characteristics of a good learner?
He should be very attentive in the class. He should be diligent. He should be regular in his homework and other assignments. He should have the guts to approach the teacher if he doesn’t understand anything.

18. What is the best thing you remember about your teacher?
The best thing I remember about my teacher is his warm smile. That made him very approachable.

19. Do you think there is any age limitation in studies?
No, I don’t think there is any age limitation in studies. A person can study at any age. A few days ago I was watching the news when I saw that a grandmother and granddaughter passed their graduation together.

20. Would you choose teaching as a profession?
Yes, definitely, I would choose teaching as a profession. It is a highly lucrative profession nowadays and there is no dearth of jobs in this profession.

21. What do you think of people not being into teaching nowadays?
Well, maybe they don’t have the aptitude for teaching. Maybe, they have better paid jobs elsewhere. Maybe they don’t have good communication skills. Maybe they don’t have the mandatory B.Ed. degree.

22. What can a government do to encourage people to take up teaching?
What actions should governments take to help a graduate student become a teacher?
Governments can provide good salary to teachers. Government can provide good facilities to teachers. Governments can give incentives in the form of free education to their children, free transport facilities, free health facilities and free meals in school hours. Governments can award good teachers. Governments can give good pension for teachers. Governments can provide free higher education to those students who would take up teaching job later on.

23. Can a good teacher remain good even if her students are bad in class?
Well, yes a good teacher can remain good at all times. It is his capability to convert bad students to good students.

24. How do teachers contribute to society?
Well, teachers are nation builders. They can contribute a lot to society. They can teach moral values and turn students into good professionals and citizens.

25. How do teachers motivate students to learn?
Teachers can do so in many ways. They can give them incentives in the form of prizes and also give them group assignments which make learning fun.
They can use innovative methods of teaching by using AV aids (audiovisual aids)

26. Who do you think children nowadays should follow - their parents or their teachers?
Children should follow both. They need guidance from both parents and teachers. If parents are illiterate, then of course teachers play a better role.

27. Do you think nowadays there is less value in a teacher’s job?
Well, no, and yes.
No, because teaching is a highly lucrative profession these days
and
Yes, because nowadays the teacher taught relation is very strained. There are mainly two reasons for this. The first is that, earlier teaching was teacher-oriented. Teacher was the only source of knowledge. Now students have so many other sources like the internet and libraries. Secondly, the ugly claws of commercialism have crept into the field of education. Education has become a business and the student is the customer.