English Communication 2024 Solved Question Paper [Gauhati University 2nd Semester NEP FYUGP]

Gauhati University 2nd Semester English Communication Solved Paper 2024

1 (Sem-2) AEC

2024

ABILITY ENHANCEMENT COURSE

Paper Code: AEC0200102

(English Communication)

Full Marks: 30

Time: 1½ hours

The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions

1. Answer the following as directed:1×5=5

1. The sender sends the message to the external receiver through______.

Answer: a channel.

2. What does 'decoding' communication mean?

Answer: 'Decoding' communication means the process of interpreting or making sense of the message received.

3. Writing a letter is a kind of non-verbal communication. (Write True or False)

Answer: False. Writing a letter is a form of verbal communication.

4. Letter to the editor of a newspaper is a/an formal/informal communication. (Choose the correct option)

Answer: formal communication.

5. What is 'feedback' in communication?

Answer: 'Feedback' in communication refers to the response or reaction of the receiver to the message sent by the sender, which helps the sender understand if the message was understood or acted upon.

2. Answer any five of the following as directed: 2×5=10

(a) Mention two instances of non-verbal communication.
Answer:

1. Facial expressions

2. Body language (gestures, posture)

(b) Name two modern forms of communication.
Answer:

1. Email

2. Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)

(c) In what kind of situations are the formal and informal communications used?
Answer:

1. Formal communication is used in official settings, such as workplaces, organizations, and legal matters.

2. Informal communication is used in casual or personal settings, such as conversations with friends or family.

(d) To be an effective speaker,______voice and _______of pronunciation are______essential. (Fill in the blanks)
Answer: clear voice and clarity of pronunciation are essential.

(e) Do you think listening is important for effective communication? Why?
Answer: Yes, listening is important for effective communication because it helps understand the message being conveyed, allows for appropriate feedback, and ensures that the conversation is meaningful.

(f) _______ is sent to a specific group of people whereas_______ may be meant for the general public.
(i) Notice, memo
(ii) Circular, memo
(iii) Circular, notice
Answer: (iii) Circular, notice

(g) Oral communication ensures______and______.
(i) fluency, speed
(ii) adequate attention, immediate response
(iii) speed, attention
Answer: (ii) adequate attention, immediate response

(h) Why does one need to be culturally sensitive in communication?
Answer: Being culturally sensitive in communication is important to avoid misunderstandings, ensure respect for different cultures, and maintain effective relationships in diverse environments.

(i) Mention two ways of expressing respect in communication.
Answer:

1. Using polite language and tone

2. Actively listening and giving full attention to the speaker

(j) What role does empathy play in effective communication?
Answer: Empathy helps in understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which improves connection, fosters trust, and ensures that the communication is more meaningful and considerate.

3. Answer any three from the following questions: 5×3=15

(a) What is communication? Discuss its importance in our day-to-day life.

Answer: Communication is the process of exchanging information, thoughts, ideas, or feelings between individuals or groups through speaking, writing, or using other mediums. It can be verbal or non-verbal. Communication plays a vital role in our day-to-day life as it helps in forming relationships, conveying emotions, sharing knowledge, and coordinating tasks. It is essential for social interaction, solving problems, and making decisions in both personal and professional settings. Effective communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that people can work together harmoniously.

(b) Write a note on the different types of formal and informal communications.

Answer:

1. Formal Communication: This type of communication follows official channels within an organization or institution. It is typically structured and involves messages that are documented. Some types of formal communication include:

1. Upward Communication: Information flows from subordinates to superiors (e.g., progress reports, feedback).

2. Downward Communication: Information flows from superiors to subordinates (e.g., instructions, policies).

3. Horizontal Communication: Information flows between peers or colleagues of the same level (e.g., coordination between departments).

4. Diagonal Communication: Information flows across different levels and departments (e.g., coordination between a manager and a different department).

2. Informal Communication: This type of communication is casual and does not follow a structured or official channel. It is often spontaneous and can occur in personal or professional settings. Some types of informal communication include:

1. Grapevine Communication: Unofficial, informal exchange of information, often by word of mouth.

2. Social Communication: Casual conversations and exchanges between colleagues or friends.

3. Rumor or Gossip: Unverified or unofficial information passed among people in an informal manner.

(c) Discuss the role of thinking and planning in effective communication.

Answer:
Thinking and planning play a crucial role in ensuring effective communication. Before communicating a message, it is important to:

1. Think: Formulate the message logically and clearly. This involves organizing thoughts, choosing the right words, and considering the listener’s perspective.

2. Plan: Proper planning helps determine the medium of communication (e.g., oral, written, non-verbal), the tone, and the timing. It ensures that the message is clear, concise, and appropriate for the audience. By thinking through the message and planning the delivery, the communicator can avoid confusion, ensure that the message is received as intended, and increase the chances of the message being acted upon.

(d) Critically examine the barriers of communication.

Answer:
Barriers to communication can hinder the effective exchange of information. These barriers can be classified into several types:

1. Physical Barriers: Environmental factors such as noise, distance, or technical issues that make communication difficult.

2. Language Barriers: Differences in language, vocabulary, or jargon that can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations.

3. Emotional Barriers: Emotions like anger, anxiety, or fear can interfere with a person’s ability to listen and understand the message being conveyed.

4. Cultural Barriers: Differences in cultural values, norms, or customs may cause miscommunication if the communicator is not sensitive to the audience's cultural background.

5. Perceptual Barriers: Prejudices, stereotypes, or biases held by either the sender or the receiver can distort the message and prevent effective communication.

6. Non-verbal Barriers: Inconsistencies between verbal and non-verbal messages (such as body language, gestures, or facial expressions) can cause confusion.

Effective communication requires awareness of these barriers and steps to minimize or overcome them, such as using clear language, being an active listener, and ensuring a suitable environment for communication.

(e) How has technology affected the human communication system? Prepare a note citing appropriate examples.

Answer:
Technology has profoundly impacted human communication in various ways:

1. Speed and Accessibility: Modern communication tools such as smartphones, emails, and instant messaging apps have made it possible to communicate instantly across the globe. For instance, email enables businesses to exchange information quickly and efficiently, while apps like WhatsApp and Zoom facilitate real-time conversations.

2. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram allow people to connect, share ideas, and express opinions with a global audience. These platforms have revolutionized social interactions, enabling communication beyond geographical boundaries.

3. Collaboration Tools: Tools like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Slack have transformed workplace communication by providing platforms for virtual meetings, project management, and team collaboration, making it easier for remote teams to work together.

4. Information Sharing: The internet has made vast amounts of information accessible at our fingertips, transforming the way we seek and share knowledge. Websites, blogs, and forums have become common methods of sharing expertise and opinions. However, technology also brings challenges, such as information overload, privacy concerns, and reduced face-to-face interactions, which can lead to misunderstandings or a lack of personal connection.

(f) What are the advantages of oral communication?

Answer:
Oral communication offers several advantages:

1. Immediate Feedback: In oral communication, the receiver can immediately respond, ask questions, or seek clarification, leading to a more interactive and effective exchange of ideas.

2. Personal Connection: Oral communication, such as face-to-face conversations or phone calls, allows for non-verbal cues like tone, body language, and facial expressions, which help convey emotions and intent more clearly.

3. Speed: Oral communication is often faster than written communication. For example, in a meeting, participants can discuss matters and resolve issues quickly.

4. Flexibility: Oral communication can be adapted based on the conversation. The speaker can modify the message based on the receiver’s reactions, allowing for greater flexibility in the exchange of ideas.

5. Less Formality: Oral communication is often less formal, making it easier to engage in casual conversations and build rapport, whether in a professional or personal setting.

While oral communication is efficient, it can sometimes lack the permanence of written communication, which is why it is important to choose the right method depending on the context.

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