Set A
SOUTHEAST UNIVERSITY
Department of English
Midterm Examination
Semester: Fall 2023
Program: Bangla, BBA, CSE, Economics, EEE, English, Textile
Course Title: Basic English Skills
Course Code: ENG101
Time: 01:30 hours Full Marks: 25
[THE FIGURES ON THE RIGHT INDICATE MARKS FOR EACH QUESTION.]
1. Read the passage and answer the following questions: 1×5=5
Reading is a fundamental skill that plays a vital role in our lives. It’s not just about deciphering words on a
page but about the doors it opens, the knowledge it imparts, and the worlds it allows us to explore. Reading
is an essential tool for learning, expanding our horizons, and fostering imagination. When we read, we
acquire knowledge. Whether it’s reading textbooks, newspapers, or online articles, we gain information that
helps us understand the world. Books, in particular, are a treasure trove of knowledge. They contain the
wisdom of generations, the discoveries of great minds, and the stories of diverse cultures. Reading books
can educate us on history, science, literature, and countless other subjects. It’s like having a mentor, guiding
us through the complexities of life.
Reading also broadens our horizons. It exposes us to different viewpoints, perspectives, and experiences.
When we read about characters from various backgrounds or explore far-off lands through the pages of a
novel, we step into their shoes and see the world from a different angle. This broadening of perspective
fosters empathy and understanding, making us more tolerant and open-minded individuals.
Furthermore, reading fuels our imagination. Whether it’s a fantasy novel, a science fiction story, or a
compelling mystery, books transport us to other worlds and challenge us to envision the unimaginable. Our
minds become the canvas, and words paint the pictures. It’s a magical experience that ignites creativity and
inspiration.
Moreover, reading is a skill that transcends academic boundaries. It’s not just about scoring well on tests;
it’s about developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively. A person
who reads regularly is likely to have a broader vocabulary, better writing skills, and an improved ability to
express their thoughts and ideas.
In our modern digital age, reading has taken on new forms. E-books and audiobooks have made it more
accessible and convenient. With just a few clicks or taps, we can access a vast library of literature. However,
there’s something timeless and intimate about holding a physical book, flipping its pages, and smelling the
scent of paper and ink.
In conclusion, reading is not just a hobby; it’s a cornerstone of education, personal growth, and cultural
enrichment. It empowers us with knowledge, broadens our perspectives, ignites our imagination, and equips
us with essential skills. Whether we’re reading for pleasure, information, or self-improvement, reading is a
journey that enriches our lives and shapes us into more informed, empathetic, and creative individuals.
Page 1 of 2
Set A
a) Write the main idea of the passage in your own words. 1
b) How does reading broaden our horizons and foster empathy? 1
c) What role does reading play in developing critical thinking and communication skills? 1
d) Write the meaning of the given words: 0.5×2=1
i) fantasy ii) complexities
e) Write antonyms of the given words: 0.5×2=1
i) vital ii) open-minded
2. Complete the passage with the verbs in parentheses by using the appropriate tense. 0.5×10=5
Since my childhood, I have always been bullied for being overweight. However, I (a) ____ (decide) to put
an end to this. For the last three months, I (b) ____ (work) on self-improvement. I usually (c) ____ (start)
my morning with a yoga session. However, currently, I (d) ____ (fill) my mornings with meditation instead.
I (e) ____ (practise) meditation since last month. I (f) ____ (try) to meditate for about thirty minutes each
day. While meditating, I (g) ____ (focus) on positive thoughts and affirmations that help boost my self-
esteem. In the evening, I love to read self-help books. I (h) ____ (collect) some of these books from the
nearest bookshop. However, I (i) ____ (buy) a manga from an online bookstore recently and had a lot of fun
reading it. Now, I (j) ____ (plan) to buy a few more.
3. Fill in the blanks with a/an/the. Use ‘×’ if no article is required. 0.25×10=2.5
According to (a) ____ International Conservation Organisation, ‘World Wild Fund,’ in (b) ____ last 25
years, (c) ____ world has lost one-third of its natural wealth. (d) ____ earth’s forests, wetlands, seas, and
coasts are in (e) ____ worst state today. Moreover, forests are being burned indiscriminately, resulting in (f)
____ increase in carbon dioxide. There is also (g) ____ rise in the water level as a consequence of global
warming. It is anticipated that (h) ____ new century will face (i) _____ overwhelming environmental (j)
____ catastrophe.
4. Make WH-questions for each of the following answers. Each question should be formed based on
the underlined words. 0.5×5=2.5
a) Istiaq has been waiting here for two hours.
b) Hamid has gone to Mohammadpur to meet his grandparents.
c) Reza regularly practices recitation in their attic.
d) We should often visit the library to enrich our knowledge.
e) Farhad is quietly leaving the classroom to join his friends outside.
5. Suppose you are a university student, and you want to join your university’s Social Welfare Club.
Now, write a dialogue between you and the General Secretary of the club. Write at least 10
sentences. 5
6. A role model can guide us with their talent, hard work, sincerity and style. Write a descriptive
paragraph about ‘Your Role Model’ in no more than 150 words. The paragraph should include a
topic sentence, supporting ideas, transitional words and a concluding sentence. 5
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