Class 12 English

Exercise

Working with words 

A. Find  words from the text and solve the puzzle. Clues are given below. 

Across
1. the custom having more than one wife at the same time = Polygamy
5. to find acceptable way of dealing with opposing ideas, needs etc. = Solution
6. the process at which towns, streets, etc. are built where there was once countryside = Urbanization
7. the process in which somebody learns to behave in an acceptable way in their society =  Socialization

DOWN 
1. ruled or controlled by men =  Patriarchal
2. the act of taking over a position = Domination
3. done in a way without caring if people are shocked = Blatant
4. single-parent = Lone Parent

B. Find the meanings of the following family-related words and use them in your own sentences. 

1. Nuclear family: A nuclear family refers to a family unit consisting of parents and their children, living together in the same household. It typically includes a mother, father, and their biological or adopted children.
Sentence: In many modern societies, the nuclear family is the most common family structure.

2. Monogamy: Monogamy is the practice of being married or committed to only one partner at a time. It involves having a single spouse or partner throughout one’s lifetime.
Sentence: Jane and John decided to embrace monogamy and remain faithful to each other in their marriage.

3. Sibling-in-law: A sibling-in-law is a person who is related to an individual by marriage but is not their biological sibling. This includes brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Sentence: My sister-in-law, Mary, is visiting us this weekend with her husband, my brother.

4. Milk kinship: Milk kinship, also known as milk-sibling relationship, is a traditional practice in some cultures where two individuals are considered siblings because they were breastfed by the same woman.
Sentence: In some cultures, milk kinship is believed to create a strong bond between individuals who were breastfed by the same mother.

5. Matrilineal: Matrilineal refers to a social system or descent pattern in which family lineage, inheritance, and kinship are traced through the mother’s side of the family.
Sentence: The community follows a matrilineal system, where property and titles are passed down through the female line.

6. Nepotism: Nepotism is the practice of favoring one’s relatives or family members, especially in matters of employment or giving preferential treatment.
Sentence: The company faced criticism for its hiring practices, which seemed to be based on nepotism rather than merit.

7. Maternity: Maternity refers to the state or period of being a mother, particularly during and after pregnancy.
Sentence: The company provides excellent maternity leave benefits to support new mothers during this crucial time.

C. The following words are from the above text. Each word has two parts. 

polygamy, unmarried, nontraditional, dissolution, inequitable 
Polygamy: The practice of having multiple spouses or partners simultaneously.
Prefix: Poly- (meaning “many” or “multiple”)
Unmarried: Not married; single.
Prefix: Un- (meaning “not” or “lack of”)
Nontraditional: Not following the usual or conventional customs or practices.
Prefix: Non- (meaning “not” or “opposite of”)
Dissolution: The act or process of breaking apart or dissolving.
Prefix: Dis- (meaning “apart” or “away”)
Inequitable: Not fair or just; showing partiality or bias.
Prefix: In- (meaning “not” or “lack of”)

Make at least five words using the prefixes given. Consult a dictionary to learn how they change the meaning of root words. 

1. Polyglot: A person who speaks or understands multiple languages.
Prefix: Poly- (meaning “many” or “multiple”)
Root word: Glot (language)

2. Unhappy: Not happy; feeling sad or displeased.
Prefix: Un- (meaning “not” or “lack of”)
Root word: Happy

3. Nonfiction: Writing or literature that presents factual information and real events.
Prefix: Non- (meaning “not” or “opposite of”)
Root word: Fiction

4. Disapprove: To have a negative opinion or judgment about something.
Prefix: Dis- (meaning “apart” or “away”)
Root word: Approve

5. Inconsistent: Not staying the same; lacking uniformity or coherence.
Prefix: In- (meaning “not” or “lack of”)
Root word: Consistent

Comprehension 

 A. The headings of the first five paragraphs of the above text are given below. Write paragraph number next to them. 

a. Patriarchal family  = 3rd Paragraph
b. Functions of the family = 2nd Paragraph
c. Modern model of family = 5th Paragraph
d. Effects of industrialization on family structure = 4th paragraph
e. Defining family = 1st paragraph

Answer the following questions. 

 a. What type of family is thought to be the oldest form of the family? 
= Nuclear family is considered to be the oldest form of the family.
b. How does a family provide security to its members? 
= A family provides security to its members by offering physical and emotional protection. Strong families support each other in facing external challenges, boosting the confidence of their members.
c. What were the features of medieval European families? 
= Medieval European families were typically male-dominated and extended in structure.
d. What caused the dissolution of extended families in the West? 
= The dissolution of extended families in the West was caused by industrialization and urbanization. These factors led to the migration of unmarried youths to cities for work, resulting in the breakdown of many extended families.
e. What change occurred in gender role in the modern family that emerged after the Industrial Revolution? 
= After the Industrial Revolution, gender roles in the modern family changed significantly. Women became domesticated while men worked in other sectors. Family responsibilities shifted from being exclusively male or female to shared responsibilities. The rise in divorce rates also led to an increase in one-parent families.
f. What is family law? 
= Family law deals with legal issues related to family relationships, such as adoption and divorce. Family law attorneys handle various matters concerning children and other relevant family legal matters.
g. How is modern marriage defined? 
= Modern marriage is defined as a partnership where both husband and wife share responsibilities. It allows for individual choices and does not confine couples to predetermined roles. Modern marriages emphasize equality between partners and involve women in decision-making for the family.
h. What do special family courts try to do? 
= Special family courts aim to address legal issues arising from family relationships. These courts handle matters such as matrimonial issues, spousal property, child custody, guardianship, and maintenance.
I. What does the legislation on child labor and child abuse declare? 
= Legislation on child labor and child abuse prohibits employing children below the age of fourteen years in factories, mines, or hazardous employments. It emphasizes child welfare, free education, and healthcare.
j. What is common among most legal systems regarding property? 
= Most legal systems allow departed family members to distribute property through wills or legacies. However, if the provisions in the will appear unjust or unfair, surviving spouses or children can challenge them. In the absence of a will, laws recognize family claims to determine property distribution.

Critical thinking 

 a. What changes have started to occur in Nepali families in recent days? What impacts will they bring on the society? Discuss. 

= In today’s families in Nepal, patriarchy still exists, but there are some positive changes happening. Women are becoming more independent and not limited to traditional household roles. Gender equality and equal rights are slowly improving in Nepal. Family members are understanding and supporting each other better, sharing ideas and responsibilities.

In the past, marriages were arranged, and social traditions were strictly followed. However, nowadays, young people in Nepali society have more freedom to decide their futures, especially in universities and colleges, where friend groups play a significant role. Unfortunately, divorce rates are increasing because parents are less involved in these decisions, and young people sometimes make mistakes in choosing partners.

Modern families in Nepal are more development-oriented and value equal rights for both men and women. Joint family living is becoming less common, and nuclear families are preferred for the freedom they provide. However, the rise of nuclear families has led to a sense of selfishness, and divorce rates have increased due to misunderstandings.

Nuclear families offer benefits like independence and close relationships between parents and children. Women have more control over their lives and time to take care of their children. However, there are downsides too, such as lack of immediate support in emergencies, children growing up without the influence of extended family, and women having to juggle multiple responsibilities.

b. We see many elderly people in the elderly homes these days in Nepal. Some of them are abandoned while others live there willingly. Do you think Nepali people are deviating from their traditional culture? Give reasons.

= In today’s society, many people have become focused on earning money and pursuing material possessions, which has led to a loss of connection with their inner selves. In the past, elders were highly respected and cherished within larger family structures, but now, with the prevalence of nuclear families and the emphasis on individual happiness, this dynamic has shifted. Western culture and materialistic views have played a role in shaping these changes.

In Nepali society, besides the influence of greed, reasons like pursuing education and industrialization have contributed to the neglect of elderly family members. People are busy with their work and jobs, leaving little time to care for their aging parents. As a result, parents may even choose not to live with their children out of fear of being neglected. While Nepali people may not be completely abandoning their traditional culture, the modern lifestyle with busy schedules and the desire for smaller families has affected the well-being of older individuals in society.

Writing

a. Write an essay on The Importance of Family.

Family is a group consisting of parents and their children living together as a unit. It is a precious gift from God that provides love, support, and shared values. Each family member cares for and supports one another, sharing both joys and sorrows in life. Families play a crucial role in a child’s development, as they rely on their parents and relatives for protection, care, and education from an early age. Families instill values and create a sense of identity in their members, fostering a strong foundation for their moral code and personal growth.

Family members come to each other’s aid in times of insecurity or danger, creating a sense of self and lifelong values. Spending time with family teaches important qualities like love, gratitude, and open communication. Maintaining family traditions strengthens the bond between family members, creating lasting memories and a sense of belonging. Overall, family is God’s greatest gift to us, teaching us how to relate to others, feel safe, rely on each other, and take responsibility for one another. It is a powerful and meaningful aspect of our lives.

Furthermore, family plays a vital role in shaping an individual’s social and emotional well-being. The love and support received from family members create a sense of security and belonging, which positively impacts mental health. Knowing that there are people who care deeply for you, and with whom you can share your joys and sorrows, fosters emotional resilience and reduces feelings of loneliness.

b. Some individuals believe that living in a nuclear family is preferable. Others believe that living with extended relatives is preferable. What are your thoughts? Write an essay comparing and contrasting the benefits and drawbacks of each.

The concept of an ideal family varies from person to person, with some preferring the intimacy of a nuclear family, while others value the warmth and support of extended relatives in a joint family. Both family structures have their benefits and drawbacks, and the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and cultural values. In this essay, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear families and joint families, allowing us to understand the unique aspects of each.

A nuclear family consists of parents and their children living together as a separate unit. This setup offers several advantages. Firstly, each family member has the freedom and space to express themselves and develop their individuality. In a nuclear family, there is usually more privacy, allowing for better personal growth and independence.

Nuclear families often promote equality among family members, where ideas and views are respected and appreciated. The decision-making process is typically smoother and more straightforward due to fewer conflicting opinions. Moreover, with fewer people living under one roof, domestic chores and responsibilities are more easily managed, leading to a reduced workload for everyone.

However, nuclear families also come with certain drawbacks. Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when raising small children without the assistance of extended family members. The lack of a larger support system can sometimes lead to feelings of being lost or isolated, especially during challenging times.

In a joint family, multiple generations, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, live together as one unit. Joint families have their unique advantages, especially for children. Growing up in a joint family environment can be a joyful experience, with cousins becoming playmates and elders providing love and moral guidance. Children learn important values and cultural traditions from older family members, fostering a strong sense of identity and heritage.

The presence of multiple family members offers a built-in support system, as help and advice are readily available when needed. The workload is often shared among family members, making household tasks more manageable and less burdensome.

However, joint families also have their challenges. With more people under one roof, conflicts and diverse viewpoints are common, leading to occasional disagreements. Privacy can be limited, and young couples may find it challenging to have alone time or personal space. Moreover, the vast amount of unwelcome advice from well-meaning relatives may lead to feelings of being overwhelmed or restricted.

Financial management can also be a point of contention in joint families. Differing incomes may cause disparities in financial contributions, leading to potential imbalances and disputes.

Choosing between a nuclear family and a joint family depends on various factors, including personal preferences, cultural norms, and individual circumstances. Nuclear families offer independence, privacy, and a smoother decision-making process, but may lack the extensive support system present in joint families. On the other hand, joint families provide a sense of community, shared responsibilities, and cultural preservation, but may encounter challenges related to privacy and conflicting viewpoints.

Ultimately, both family structures have their merits, and the ideal family is one that fosters love, respect, understanding, and mutual support, regardless of its specific composition. By valuing and cherishing family bonds, we create a foundation for happiness, growth, and well-being in our lives.

Grammar 

Modal verbs 

A. Study the given sentences carefully.

a. Please read this letter for me. I can’t see without my glasses. 
b. After working for a couple of years in China, I can speak Chinese now. 
c. When he was 40, he could earn six digit salary. 
d. After six hours’ climbing, we were able to reach the summit. 
e. Yesterday, I lost my keys. I looked for them everywhere but I couldn’t find. 

Simple logical trick-

Use should – when there are 80% chances or a strong recommendation.
Use might – when there are 50% chances or a possibility.
Use would – for conditional statements or hypothetical situations.
Use must – for present and future reference to express obligation, give orders, and give advice.
Use could – when there is an option or to express ability in the past.

B. Choose the best answer to complete the sentences. 

 a. ‘How much was your parking ticket?’ ‘Fifty rupees.’ ‘Oh well, it could have  been worse.’ 
i. could have   ii. must have   iii. should have 

b. It might have got lost in the post. These things happen sometimes. 
i. can’t have   ii. might have    iii. must have 

c. ‘Sorry I’m late. I got delayed at work.’ ‘You could have called. I was really worried about you.’ 
i. must have   ii. could have    iii. would have 

d. ‘I don’t think he meant to be rude.’ ‘He must have said sorry.’ 
i. must have   ii. might have    iii. would have 

e. ‘Whose signature is this?’ ‘I don’t know. It could be Manoj’s. That looks a bit like an M.’ 
i. must     ii. could     iii. should 

f. I had it when I left the office so I must have lost it on the way to home. 
i. mustn’t have   ii. must have   iii. should have 

g. You might think it’s funny, but I think it’s pathetic. 
i. might   ii. should    iii. could 

C. Complete the following sentences with appropriate endings. Use correct modal verbs.
She could be a doctor; however,…………….…………… .
She could be a doctor; however, she preferred to be an advocate.

a. At the end of the course, students must submit their assignments.
b. If you want to earn a lot of money, you should work hard and smart.
c. You were not in your house yesterday. You might have been with your friends for a movie.
d. I’m quite busy tomorrow. I couldn’t join you for a morning walk.
e. When you were a small kid, you might have been notorious.
f. My car is broken. I might buy a new one.
g. I’ve got fast-speed internet at home. I should not misuse it for unnecessary things.
h. Even though she didn’t study well, she might have passed the exam.
i. There are plenty of newspapers in the library. You can pick one if you want.
j. What do you think you were doing, playing in the road? You could get hurt in an accident.
k. I have no time. I can’t waste more time anymore.
l. You don’t look well. You might be delirious.