POSTER WRITING

Posters are placards displayed in a public place announcing or advertising something. Posters are notices, advertisements, and invitations—all in one.

PURPOSE OF POSTERS
The purpose of designing a poster is either to create social awareness about issues related to current problems and needs, or to advertise or even to extend public invitations and display notices.

DRAFTING POSTERS

• Posters should be colourful, attractive and tempting.
• They must be drafted carefully to attract the attention of the readers, excite their imagination and influence their minds.
• Posters are read from a distance. Do not give many details in a poster. Highlight only important issue/issues.

MAIN FEATURES OF A POSTER

1. Layout

• Visually attractive/Eye Catching
• Title-suggestive/catchy
• Use slogan, jingle or short verse
• Sketch or simple drawings
• Letters of different size and shape
• Proportionate spacing, etc

2. Contents

• The theme or subject of the poster
• Description or details associated with the theme
• Essential details like time, date, venue (for an event)
• Name(s) of issuing authority/organisation, etc

3. Expression

• Phrases, slogans, persuasive language
• Creativity in terms of content and design
• Overall organisation and sequencing of the matter
• Observe word limit (usually 50)

Example 1
You are the Director of National Agriculture Organization, Jaipur. You have to make the people all over Rajasthan state aware of the necessity of conserving water and also how to do it. Design a suitable poster to be inserted in the newspapers as well as being put up at prominent places in the towns of Rajasthan.

SAVE WATER, SAVE LIFE Rajasthan Needs You! WATER IS PRECIOUS, CONSERVE IT NOW! WHY SAVE WATER? HOW CAN YOU HELP? ·       Rajasthan faces severe water scarcity! ·       Water is essential for life, agriculture, and the future of our state. ·       Conserving water today ensures a better tomorrow for our children and farmers. ·     Fix Leaks ·     Use Buckets, Not Hoses ·     Rainwater Harvesting ·     Limit Use ·     Recycle Water ACT NOW! Every drop counts. Your small steps today will make a huge difference for Rajasthan’s future! National Agriculture Organisation, Jaipur For more information, visit: www.nao-rajasthan.gov

Example 2

Design an attractive poster for an anti-smoking campaign being held in your school on the occasion of World No-Tobacco Day.

Do not Smoke! Save Yourself and Others   Smoking saps your strength, stamina and energy and Brings ruin and death   EVERY CIGARETTE CUTS YOUR LIFE BY 5 MINUTES   Do you want to save your precious life? SAY NO TODAY TO CIGARETTES

Issued By: Ministry of Health, Govt. of India, New Delhi

Example 3

You are Rahul Singh studying in class XII of Saraswati Public School, Hapur. You want to contest the election for the President of Student’s Council of your school. Design a poster to appeal to students to vote for you.

Let Your Voice be Heard! Get Out And VOTE for RAHUL SINGH Only Who Deserves Your Vote & Support As PRESIDENT (Student’s Council) As we all know that he is a True Friend                        Fine Orator Good Sportsman              Intelligent Supportive                         Resourceful   And above all a good worker for student’s welfare.

Example 4

You are the Publicity Manager of ABC TV Channel. Your channel is organizing a ‘Talent Hunt Show’ of college students to be telecast on your channel. Design a suitable poster giving necessary details.

ABC TV Channel Presents: ✨ Talent Hunt Show 2024 ✨   Calling All College Students! Showcase your talents and shine on national television!   🎤 Singing | 💃 Dancing | 🎭 Acting | 🎨 Art & More   Auditions Open Now! Audition Dates: From 25th September to 10th October 2024   📍 Audition Venues:   Delhi: MN Studio, Preet Vihar Mumbai: XYZ Stadium, Bandra Bhopal: MR Palace, MG Road Kolkata: City Hall, Park Street Final Show Telecast Grand Finale on ABC TV Channel! 25th October 2024 Prizes & Fame Await! Cash Prizes Televised Performance Special Recognition     Hurry! Limited Spots Available! How to Register: ·     Visit our website: www.abctalent.com ·     Contact: +91-9876543210 Follow us on social media: 📸 Instagram: @abctvchannel 👍 Facebook: @abctalenthunt   Let Your Talent Shine! ABC TV – Where Stars Are Born!

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. You are the Principal of an English medium primary school. Design a catchy poster to instill discipline in the children which can be put up in the classrooms.
2. Design a poster for promoting the need for joining the Defense Services.
3. Repeated floods in various flood-prone areas in India have resulted in unprecedented damage and destruction to both life and property. Educating people on the precautions to be taken is the need of the hour. Prepare a poster for creating this awareness.
4. Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, is organizing a science exhibition in your school. Make an attractive poster announcing the event and inviting the public to visit it.
5. Public taps are always faulty, and a lot of water is wasted. Design a poster in not more than 50 words to make people aware of the need for saving water. You are Swati/ Sunny.
6. As an educationist, you have noticed that the present generation has lost the habit of reading. Design a poster in not more than 50 words highlighting the importance of reading and the value of books.
7. Write out a poster to announce the sale of old sports goods. Imagine yourself as the sports secretary.

Reading Passage 13

Improving Attention and Effective Study Techniques

In today’s fast-paced world, distractions are all around us, making it increasingly difficult to focus on our studies. Attention plays a crucial role in how well we learn, and improving our ability to concentrate is essential for academic success. Attention is a cognitive process that allows us to concentrate on specific tasks while filtering out irrelevant information. It comes in two forms: selective attention, which enables us to focus on one thing despite distractions, and sustained attention, which helps us maintain that focus over time. Both types are vital for effective studying, and fortunately, there are strategies that can help improve them.

One of the most effective ways to enhance attention is by eliminating distractions. Since the brain is wired to respond to external stimuli, creating a quiet and clutter-free environment can greatly reduce interruptions. It is helpful to turn off unnecessary notifications, close irrelevant tabs on your computer, and use apps that block distracting websites. This allows the mind to focus entirely on the task at hand. Additionally, practicing mindfulness can significantly improve attention. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment, focusing on your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Engaging in daily mindfulness exercises or short meditation sessions can reduce mind-wandering and train the brain to maintain focus.

A proven time-management method called the Pomodoro Technique can also enhance concentration. This technique breaks study sessions into short, focused intervals—typically 25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four cycles, you can take a longer break. These regular pauses help prevent mental fatigue, allowing the brain to stay fresh and maintain focus over time. Another important strategy for improving attention is active learning, which involves engaging with the material in an interactive way. Summarizing, asking questions, or teaching the material to someone else keeps the brain engaged, making it easier to focus and remember information. Passive activities like highlighting or simply reading through notes are far less effective compared to actively working with the content.

Regular physical exercise is another key factor in maintaining focus. Exercise improves blood flow to the brain and enhances cognitive function, including attention. Incorporating daily physical activities such as walking, running, or yoga can sharpen your focus and improve mental clarity. Similarly, getting adequate sleep is critical for sustaining attention. Sleep deprivation reduces cognitive function, making it harder to concentrate. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to ensure that your brain is well-rested and capable of optimal performance during study sessions. Nutrition also plays a role in attention. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can boost brain function. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and seeds, are particularly beneficial for cognitive health. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and difficulties concentrating.

In addition to these attention-enhancing strategies, there are well-established study techniques that can help improve learning efficiency. One such technique is spaced repetition, which involves reviewing material at increasing intervals over time. This method has been shown to enhance long-term retention of information and is far more effective than cramming all at once. The SQ3R method, which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review, is another valuable tool for improving understanding and retention of textbook material. Interleaving, or alternating between different subjects or types of problems during study sessions, has also been proven to enhance problem-solving abilities and promote deeper learning.

By minimizing distractions, practicing mindfulness, using the Pomodoro technique, and staying physically active, you can improve your ability to concentrate while studying. Techniques like spaced repetition, the SQ3R method, and interleaving can further enhance learning and retention, ensuring you make the most out of your study time. With these strategies in place, you can improve your focus, boost your academic performance, and achieve long-term success.

Based on the above passage, answer the following questions:

1. What is the primary factor affecting attention during studying according to the passage? 1

A) Lack of exercise

B) Poor nutrition

C) Distractions in the environment

D) Insufficient time management

2. Which study technique is mentioned as helping to prevent mental fatigue?                          1

A) Spaced repetition

B) Pomodoro Technique

C) Interleaving

D) SQ3R method

3. What role does mindfulness play in improving attention?                                                    1

A) It enhances physical stamina for studying.

B) It helps in recalling previously learned information.

C) It increases the amount of study material covered.

D) It helps reduce mind-wandering and trains focus.

4. Which cognitive function is most affected by lack of sleep, as discussed in the passage?     1

A) Attention and concentration

B) Memory retention

C) Decision-making

D) Problem-solving skills

5. Which statement best describes active learning according to the passage?                    1

A) Reading notes passively

B) Highlighting key points in a textbook

C) Teaching the content to someone else

D) Skimming through material quickly

6. What does the Pomodoro Technique consist of?                                                             1

7. Which nutrients are important for improving brain function?                                         1

8. What cognitive process allows us to filter out irrelevant information while studying?1

9. What is the role of mindfulness in improving focus during study sessions?     2

10. Explain how spaced repetition improves long-term retention of information.   2

On the Face of It (CBL)

By Susan Hill

Notable Features of the Play

• The play is structured as a continuous dialogue between two characters. The uninterrupted dialogue sequence enhances the realism of their interaction. No narrator scanty stage directions NOT to influence the interpretation.

• The language is simple and direct, which makes the characters’ emotions and thoughts accessible.

• Conversational language: incomplete sentences, interruptions, and colloquial expressions, contractions and fragmented sentences ("Tin doesn’t hurt, boy!" "When it came off, did it?").

• Mr. Lamb uses more philosophical and reflective language, (“It doesn’t signify.”). Derry’s simpler vocabulary.

• Key themes: Identity, Perception, & Acceptance

• Dramatic Devices: Monologues, Symbolism, & Irony

• The use of ellipses (…) in the dialogue indicates pauses, trailing off of thoughts, and unspoken emotions. Derry’s: Hesitation, Inner Conflict, Emotional Pain

DIALOGUE ANALYSIS

Read the Extract

1. DERRY: I won’t ever look different. When I’m as old as you, I’ll look the same. I’ll still only have half a face.

1. MR LAMB: So you will. But the world won’t. The world’s got a whole face, and the world’s there to be looked at.

2. DERRY: Do you think this is the world? This old garden?

2. MR LAMB: When I’m here. Not the only one. But the world, as much as anywhere.

3. DERRY: Does your leg hurt you?

3. MR LAMB: Tin doesn’t hurt, boy!

4. DERRY: When it came off, did it?

4. MR LAMB: Certainly.

5. DERRY: And now? I mean, where the tin stops, at the top?

5. MR LAMB: Now and then. In wet weather. It doesn’t signify.

Analyse the dialogues of Derry in the above extract. Fill in the blank cells.

Dialogue	Character Traits / Tone	Mental Condition
1		Derry is struggling with self-acceptance and is fixated on his appearance. He feels hopeless about his future.
2	Curious, skeptical
3		Derry shows empathy and is trying to connect with Mr. Lamb by understanding his pain.
4	Curious, empathetic
5		Derry continues to show concern, indicating his growing interest in Mr. Lamb's experiences and feelings.

Analyse the dialogues of Mr. Lamb in the above extract. Fill in the blank cells.

Dialogue	Character Traits / Tone	Mental Condition
1		Mr. Lamb tries to broaden Derry's perspective, encouraging him to look beyond his physical appearance.
2	Content, philosophical, reflective
3		Mr. Lamb uses humor to address Derry's concern, indicating his practical approach to life.
4	Honest, straightforward
5		Mr. Lamb tries to broaden Derry's perspective, encouraging him to look beyond his physical appearance.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Explain how Mr. Lamb’s garden acts as a metaphor for his outlook on life. How does he use the garden to convey his thoughts to Derry?

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s garden, filled with diverse plants and flowers, symbolizes his acceptance of life’s differences and imperfections. He uses the garden to show Derry that beauty and value exist in all forms, and that one should embrace life with its variety, just as he nurtures his garden.

2. Imagine Derry’s life a few years after meeting Mr. Lamb. How might his interaction with Mr. Lamb influence his future relationships and self-perception?

Answer: Derry’s interaction with Mr. Lamb would likely lead him to develop more confidence and self-acceptance. He might begin to engage more openly with others, valuing relationships over superficial judgments. His future relationships would be shaped by the empathy and understanding he learned from Mr. Lamb.

3. Describe how Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of life could be applied by individuals to overcome personal challenges in today’s world.

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of embracing life’s imperfections can help individuals today to accept their flaws and focus on the positive aspects of life. By shifting their perspective, people can overcome challenges such as low self-esteem, social isolation, and fear of judgment, leading to a more fulfilling life.

4. Critically evaluate the impact of Derry’s mother on his self-esteem. Do you think her protective nature helps or hinders Derry?

Answer: Derry’s mother, though protective, unintentionally reinforces his insecurities by focusing on his disfigurement. Her overprotectiveness hinders his growth by keeping him isolated, preventing him from interacting with others and developing the self-confidence he needs to face the world.

5. Analyze the contrast between Derry’s perception of himself and Mr. Lamb’s perception of Derry. How does this contrast drive the narrative?

Answer: Derry sees himself as ugly and worthless due to his scarred face, whereas Mr. Lamb sees him as a whole person with potential. This contrast drives the narrative by highlighting the transformative impact of Mr. Lamb’s positive outlook on Derry, leading to Derry’s gradual change in self-perception.

6. What can be inferred about Mr. Lamb’s past from his attitude towards life and his interactions with Derry? Support your answer with examples from the text.

Answer: It can be inferred that Mr. Lamb has faced his own share of hardships, likely related to his disability, yet he has chosen to live a life of acceptance and optimism. His cheerful demeanor and welcoming nature suggest that he has learned to find joy in life despite his struggles, as seen in his interactions with Derry.

7. Interpret the significance of Mr. Lamb’s statement, “It’s all relative,” in the context of his conversation with Derry. How does this philosophy apply to the events of the chapter?

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s statement, “It’s all relative,” signifies that one’s perception of reality depends on one’s attitude. This philosophy applies to the events of the chapter as it encourages Derry to see his disfigurement not as a defining feature but as one aspect of his life, urging him to focus on what he can do rather than what he lacks.

8. How does the ending of the play reflect the central themes of loneliness and acceptance? Discuss the significance of Mr. Lamb’s fate in the narrative.

Answer: The ending reflects loneliness as Derry returns to find Mr. Lamb dead, symbolizing the ultimate isolation that both characters feared. Mr. Lamb’s death highlights the transient nature of life and the importance of acceptance and human connection, as he had tried to impart to Derry.

9. If you were to write the play in narrative form which point of view, would you choose? Give reason for your choice?

Answer: Narrator's Point of View: The story is told from a third-person omniscient perspective, giving insight into the thoughts and feelings of both Derry and Mr. Lamb. This allows the reader to understand the depth of their conversation and the impact it has on each of them. Through this narrative, the story captures the essence of the play while providing a more detailed exploration of the characters’ inner lives.

Long Answer Type Questions

1. Discuss how the themes of "On the Face of It" can be applied to address issues of discrimination and social isolation in contemporary society. How can the lessons from Mr. Lamb and Derry's interaction be used to promote inclusivity and acceptance in schools and communities? Relate these concepts to your own experiences or observations in life and current global events.

Answer: The themes of "On the Face of It" highlight the harmful effects of discrimination and social isolation, as seen through Derry’s experiences with his disfigurement. In contemporary society, these themes can be applied to combat biases based on appearance, disability, or other differences. Mr. Lamb’s approach of looking beyond the surface and seeing the person as a whole is a lesson that can promote inclusivity and acceptance in schools and communities. By fostering environments where diversity is celebrated and individuals are valued for their unique qualities, society can reduce the stigma associated with being different.

Personally, I have observed how inclusive practices, such as involving everyone in group activities regardless of their abilities, can help break down barriers and build a sense of belonging. On a global scale, movements advocating for the rights of marginalized groups reflect the importance of Mr. Lamb’s message of acceptance. These efforts contribute to a more compassionate world where people are judged by their character rather than their outward appearance.

2. Evaluate the transformation in Derry’s character from the beginning to the end of the play. How does his interaction with Mr. Lamb challenge his preconceived notions about himself and others? Create a brief analysis of how this change can serve as a model for self-acceptance and resilience in the face of adversity. Relate this to a real-world situation where someone overcame a similar struggle.
Answer: At the beginning of the play, Derry is a bitter and withdrawn boy, defined by his scarred face and the judgment he feels from others. His interaction with Mr. Lamb challenges these preconceived notions by showing him that his worth is not determined by his appearance. Mr. Lamb’s acceptance and wisdom encourage Derry to see himself differently, leading to a significant transformation in his character. By the end of the play, Derry begins to embrace life with a new perspective, understanding that he is more than his physical appearance.

This change in Derry serves as a powerful model for self-acceptance and resilience. It demonstrates that with the right guidance and support, individuals can overcome their internalized negativity and build a positive self-image. A real-world example is that of individuals who have survived severe injuries or illnesses and have gone on to live fulfilling lives, despite initial fears of social rejection. Their stories of resilience and self-acceptance are testament to the power of inner strength, much like Derry’s journey in the play.

Mother's Day (CBL)

by J.B. Priestley

Adjectives to describe each main character of the play:

Character	Adjectives
Mrs. Pearson	Submissive, Self-sacrificing, Kind, Passive, Transformative
Mrs. Fitzgerald	Strong-willed, Assertive, Persuasive, Independent, Bold
George Pearson	Dominant, Indifferent, Traditional, Dismissive, Authoritative
Doris Pearson	Spoiled, Self-centered, Dependent, Superficial
Cyril Pearson	Careless, Selfish, Lazy, Unappreciative, Irresponsible

 

Analysis of Dialogues

Character	Dialogue	Tone	Character Trait	Intention
Mrs. Pearson	"I’ll put the kettle on myself. Don’t bother."	Resigned	Submissive, Dutiful	To avoid confrontation and continue her usual role.
Mrs. Fitzgerald	"You ought to let them wait on you for a change."	Assertive	Confident, Independent	To encourage Mrs. Pearson to stand up for herself.
George Pearson	"What’s the matter with you? Have you gone mad?"	Shocked	Authoritative, Controlling	To express disbelief and reassert his authority.
Doris Pearson	"Mother, what’s the matter with you?"	Confused	Dependent, Self-centered	To understand the sudden change in her mother’s behavior.
Cyril Pearson	"It’s not fair. I always do my share of the work."	Defensive	Irresponsible, Justifying	To defend his lack of effort and avoid responsibility.

 

Short Answer Type Questions

1.     What is the central conflict in the play "Mother's Day" by J.B. Priestley?

Answer: The central conflict in "Mother's Day" revolves around Mrs. Pearson, a mother who is taken for granted by her family, and how she, with the help of Mrs. Fitzgerald, asserts her importance in the family, leading to a reversal of roles and attitudes within the household.

2.     What lesson does "Mother’s Day" teach about family relationships?

Answer: "Mother’s Day" teaches that mutual respect, appreciation, and open communication are essential for healthy family relationships. It shows that taking any family member, especially mothers, for granted can lead to dissatisfaction and resentment, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing each other's contributions.

3.     How does the transformation of Mrs. Pearson influence the behavior of her family members?

Answer: Mrs. Pearson's transformation, with the help of Mrs. Fitzgerald, forces her family to recognize their disrespectful and dismissive behavior. The sudden change in her demeanor and assertiveness shocks them, leading to a change in their attitudes as they begin to appreciate and respect her more.

4.    Analyze the role of Mrs. Fitzgerald in the play. How does she contribute to the resolution of the conflict?

Answer: Mrs. Fitzgerald plays a crucial role as the catalyst for change in the play. Her bold personality and the exchange of identities with Mrs. Pearson bring about the necessary confrontation that forces the family to realize their shortcomings, leading to the resolution of the conflict.

5.   How does Doris’s reaction to Mrs. Pearson’s newfound assertiveness reveal her character’s dependency on her mother?

Answer: Doris's shock and dismay at Mrs. Pearson's assertiveness reveal her deep-seated dependency on her mother. Her reliance on Mrs. Pearson for comfort and care becomes evident when her mother’s sudden change disrupts the family’s routine, highlighting the extent to which she takes her mother for granted.

6.     How does the final scene of the play bring closure to the family’s conflicts?

Answer: The final scene of the play brings closure to the family’s conflicts by showing the family’s acceptance of Mrs. Pearson’s assertiveness. The family members’ willingness to listen and make amends reflects their recognition of her value, restoring balance and harmony within the household.

7.   Discuss the transformation of George Pearson’s character throughout the play. How does his attitude change by the end?

Answer: George Pearson’s character transforms from being domineering and dismissive to being more understanding and respectful of his wife. Initially indifferent to her needs, George's attitude changes as he realizes the importance of valuing Mrs. Pearson’s contributions, leading to a more considerate relationship.

8.    Imagine you are a member of Mrs. Pearson’s family. Write a short note apologizing to her and promising to change your behavior.

Answer:

Dear Mum,

I realize now how much you do for us and how little we have shown our appreciation. I am truly sorry for taking you for granted. From now on, I promise to help more around the house and treat you with the respect and love you deserve.

Yours lovingly,

Doris

Long Answer Type Questions

1.     How can the message of the play "Mother's Day" by J.B. Priestley be applied to modern-day family dynamics? Discuss how the play’s exploration of respect and appreciation within the family can be related to your own experiences or observed changes in society.

Answer: The play "Mother’s Day" emphasizes the significance of respect and appreciation within the family, particularly towards mothers who often handle most household responsibilities. In modern-day family dynamics, where roles are increasingly shared between parents, the need for mutual respect is paramount. This play’s message is a reminder that every family member's efforts should be recognized to maintain harmony.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I have observed that families that openly communicate and share responsibilities tend to have stronger bonds. The shift from traditional to more flexible gender roles has led to healthier relationships. The play resonates with these changes, urging us to ensure that no one is taken for granted. Regular expressions of gratitude and acknowledgment can prevent misunderstandings and build a more supportive family environment, aligning with contemporary values of equality and respect.

2.  Analyze the character of Mrs. Pearson in "Mother's Day." How does her transformation challenge traditional gender roles, and what message does this send to contemporary audiences about family dynamics and gender equality?

Answer: Mrs. Pearson’s character in "Mother’s Day" undergoes a significant transformation that challenges traditional gender roles. Initially portrayed as a submissive and self-sacrificing mother, Mrs. Pearson is the embodiment of the stereotypical homemaker, expected to cater to her family’s needs without question. This traditional role confines her to a position of unrecognized labor and emotional support.

However, with Mrs. Fitzgerald’s intervention, Mrs. Pearson transforms into a confident and assertive individual who demands respect and recognition. This change not only disrupts the family’s established dynamics but also challenges the notion that a mother’s primary role is to serve. By asserting her worth, Mrs. Pearson redefines her role within the family, advocating for gender equality and mutual respect.

For contemporary audiences, this transformation sends a powerful message about the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all family members, regardless of gender. It encourages a more balanced approach to family dynamics, where traditional roles are questioned, and equality is embraced.