English Communication—II Solved Question Paper 2025 [Gauhati University FYUGP BCom 2nd Semester]

This post provides the Gauhati University BCom 2nd Semester English Communication—II (ABILITY ENHANCEMENT COURSE) Solved Question Paper 2025. It follows the FYUGP pattern and is useful for Gauhati University BCom 2nd Semester students who are studying (AEC) English Communication—II as part of their course.

2025

ABILITY ENHANCEMENT COURSE

Paper Code : AEC0200404
( English Communication—II )

Full Marks : 60
Time : 2½ hours

The figures in the margin indicate full marks
for the questions

1. Answer the following as directed : 1×8=8

(a) A ______ sends a message to a receiver. (Fill up the blank)
Answer: A sender sends a message to a receiver.

(b) What does ‘encoding’ mean in communication?
Answer: Encoding in communication means the process of converting ideas, thoughts, or information into a message using words, symbols, gestures, or other forms so that it can be understood by the receiver.

In other words, it is the process by which the sender organizes and expresses his or her ideas in a form that can be communicated to others.

(c) Gesture is a kind of non-verbal communication. (Write True or False)
Answer: True

(d) What is upward communication?
Answer: Upward communication refers to the flow of information from lower levels of an organization to higher levels.

It occurs when employees communicate with their supervisors or managers to provide feedback, suggestions, complaints, or reports. Upward communication helps management understand the problems and opinions of employees.

(e) Effective communication involves listening skill. (Write True or False)
Answer: True

(f) What is Science Fiction?
Answer: Science fiction is a genre of literature that deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts related to science and technology.

It often includes themes such as space travel, time travel, advanced technology, robots, artificial intelligence, and life on other planets.

(g) Why is listening important in communication?
Answer: Listening is important in communication because it helps the receiver understand the message clearly and accurately.

Good listening improves understanding, reduces misunderstandings, builds trust between people, and makes communication more effective. It also shows respect and attention to the speaker.

(h) Write the full form of PPT.
Answer: The full form of PPT is PowerPoint Presentation.

It is a digital presentation created using Microsoft PowerPoint software, which allows users to present information using slides containing text, images, charts, and multimedia.

2. Answer any six of the following : 2×6=12

(a) What is feedback in communication? Give an example.
Answer: Feedback in communication refers to the response or reaction given by the receiver after receiving and understanding the message sent by the sender. It helps the sender know whether the message has been understood correctly or not.

Feedback is an important part of the communication process because it completes the cycle of communication and helps improve understanding between the sender and the receiver.

Example: When a teacher explains a topic in class and students ask questions or give answers, their responses act as feedback to the teacher.

(b) State two differences between formal and informal communication. Use examples, if necessary.
Answer:

i) Nature of communication: Formal communication follows official channels and rules within an organization, whereas informal communication does not follow any official structure and happens casually among people.

ii) Example: Formal communication includes official letters, reports, memos, or meetings in an office. Informal communication includes friendly conversations among colleagues during lunch breaks or personal discussions.

(c) What is the importance of pronunciation in communication?
Answer: Pronunciation plays an important role in communication because it helps the listener understand the spoken message clearly. Correct pronunciation makes speech clear, accurate, and effective.

Good pronunciation reduces confusion and misunderstanding and helps the speaker express ideas confidently. It also improves the overall quality of communication and makes the speaker appear more professional and educated.

(d) What is empathy? What role does it play in communication?
Answer: Empathy means the ability to understand and share the feelings and emotions of another person.

In communication, empathy helps people understand each other's thoughts, emotions, and perspectives. It creates trust and mutual respect between individuals. When a person communicates with empathy, the message becomes more meaningful and effective, and it strengthens relationships.

(e) State two differences between a Memo and a Circular.
Answer:

i) Purpose: A memo (memorandum) is used for internal communication within an organization, usually between employees or departments. A circular is used to convey information to a large number of people at the same time.

ii) Scope: A memo is generally sent to a specific person or department, whereas a circular is distributed widely to many people or groups to inform them about a particular matter.

(f) How did the bus conductor react when the author informs him about forgetting his wallet? What effect did it have on the author?
Answer: When the author informed the bus conductor that he had forgotten his wallet, the conductor reacted kindly and allowed him to travel without paying the fare at that moment. He showed understanding and trust toward the author.

This kind gesture had a deep effect on the author. It made him feel grateful and touched by the conductor’s generosity and kindness. The incident reminded the author that small acts of kindness can have a strong impact on people.

(g) What are the ‘little courtesies’ through which we can create a civil society?
Answer: Little courtesies are small acts of politeness and kindness that help maintain harmony and respect in society.

i) Saying please, thank you, and sorry when necessary.
ii) Showing respect to elders and helping others in need.
iii) Being polite and considerate in daily interactions.
iv) Listening patiently when others are speaking.

These small acts of courtesy help build mutual respect and create a more civilized and harmonious society.

(h) Write shortly on the importance of vocabulary.
Answer: Vocabulary refers to the collection of words that a person knows and uses in communication. A strong vocabulary helps a person express ideas, thoughts, and feelings clearly and effectively.

Good vocabulary improves speaking, writing, reading, and comprehension skills. It also increases confidence and helps in better understanding of language in academic, professional, and social situations.

(i) Mention two points that one should take care of in a group discussion.
Answer:

i) Participants should listen carefully to others and respect their opinions.

ii) They should express their ideas clearly and confidently without interrupting other speakers.

(j) Choose the correct words from the options given below :

________ and ________ are key aspects of a successful oral presentation.

(i) Dress
(ii) Loudness of voice
(iii) Fluency
(iv) Speed

Answer: Loudness of voice and Fluency are key aspects of a successful oral presentation.

3. Answer any four of the following : 5×4=20

(a) Write briefly on four important components of communication.
Answer: Communication is a process through which information, ideas, thoughts, and feelings are exchanged between individuals. For communication to be effective, several components are involved. Four important components of communication are the sender, message, channel, and receiver.

i) Sender: The sender is the person who initiates the communication process. The sender creates the message and decides how it should be communicated to the receiver. The sender must clearly organize ideas and encode them into words, symbols, or gestures so that the receiver can understand them properly. The effectiveness of communication largely depends on the clarity and intention of the sender.

ii) Message: The message is the information, idea, or feeling that the sender wants to communicate to the receiver. It may be expressed through spoken words, written text, symbols, signs, or gestures. A clear and well-structured message helps the receiver understand the intended meaning easily.

iii) Channel or Medium: The channel is the method or medium through which the message is transmitted from the sender to the receiver. It may include spoken conversation, telephone calls, emails, letters, presentations, or social media. Choosing an appropriate channel is very important because it affects the speed, clarity, and effectiveness of communication.

iv) Receiver: The receiver is the person who receives and interprets the message sent by the sender. The receiver must decode the message and understand its meaning. The success of communication depends on how accurately the receiver understands the message.

Thus, these components work together to make communication effective and meaningful.

(b) Discuss briefly the significance of feedback in communication.
Answer: Feedback is an essential element of the communication process. It refers to the response or reaction given by the receiver after receiving and understanding the message. Feedback helps the sender know whether the message has been understood correctly.

The significance of feedback in communication can be explained as follows:

i) Ensures understanding: Feedback helps the sender know whether the receiver has understood the message correctly. If there is any misunderstanding, the sender can clarify the message.

ii) Completes the communication process: Communication is considered complete only when the receiver responds to the message. Feedback closes the communication loop and confirms that the message has been received and interpreted.

iii) Improves effectiveness of communication: Through feedback, the sender can modify or improve the message if necessary. It helps in making communication clearer and more effective.

iv) Encourages interaction: Feedback promotes two-way communication and interaction between the sender and the receiver. It creates a better understanding and strengthens relationships.

v) Helps in decision making: In organizations, feedback from employees or customers helps management understand opinions, problems, and suggestions, which improves decision-making.

Therefore, feedback plays a vital role in making communication meaningful, effective, and successful.

(c) Why do one needs to be culturally sensitive in communication? Write briefly.
Answer: Cultural sensitivity in communication means being aware of and respecting the cultural differences of people while communicating with them. Different cultures have different values, beliefs, languages, customs, and communication styles. Being culturally sensitive helps people communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Cultural sensitivity is important for several reasons. First, it helps avoid misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise due to cultural differences. Words, gestures, or behaviors that are acceptable in one culture may be inappropriate in another. Understanding cultural differences helps people communicate respectfully.

Second, culturally sensitive communication promotes mutual respect and understanding among individuals. When people show respect for other cultures, it builds trust and positive relationships.

Third, it is important in today’s globalized world where people from different cultural backgrounds interact in workplaces, educational institutions, and social environments.

Finally, cultural sensitivity improves cooperation and harmony in society. It encourages people to appreciate diversity and work together effectively.

Thus, cultural sensitivity is an important aspect of effective communication in a diverse and interconnected world.

(d) Imagine that you are facing a personal interview for your admission in a professional course of copy editor. Write five questions of your interviewer and your responses to those five questions.
Answer:

i) Interviewer: Why do you want to become a copy editor?
Response: I want to become a copy editor because I enjoy working with language and improving written content. Copy editing allows me to correct grammatical errors, improve clarity, and make texts more readable and professional.

ii) Interviewer: What qualities are important for a copy editor?
Response: A good copy editor should have strong knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Attention to detail, patience, and good reading skills are also important qualities.

iii) Interviewer: How do you handle mistakes in a document?
Response: I carefully read the document and identify errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Then I correct them while ensuring that the meaning and style of the text remain clear and consistent.

iv) Interviewer: Are you comfortable working under deadlines?
Response: Yes, I understand that editing often requires meeting deadlines. I try to manage my time properly so that I can complete my work accurately and on time.

v) Interviewer: How do you improve your language skills?
Response: I improve my language skills by reading books, articles, and newspapers regularly. I also practice writing and learn new vocabulary to enhance my understanding of language.

(e) Write a short note on how science fiction can impact the reader’s creative and critical thinking.
Answer: Science fiction is a genre of literature that deals with imaginative ideas based on science and technology. It often presents futuristic concepts such as space travel, artificial intelligence, time travel, and life on other planets.

Science fiction can greatly influence the reader’s creative thinking. It encourages readers to imagine possibilities beyond the present reality. By presenting new worlds, technologies, and scientific ideas, science fiction inspires readers to think creatively and explore new concepts.

It also develops critical thinking. Many science fiction stories raise questions about the impact of technology on society, ethical issues, and the future of humanity. Readers are encouraged to analyze these ideas and think about possible consequences.

In this way, science fiction not only entertains readers but also stimulates their imagination and intellectual curiosity.

(f) What is close reading? Write a short note on the importance of close reading.
Answer: Close reading is a careful and detailed analysis of a text in order to understand its deeper meaning, structure, language, and literary techniques. It involves paying attention to words, phrases, tone, style, and the overall message of the text.

Close reading is important because it helps readers understand the text more accurately and deeply. It allows readers to notice important details that may not be visible during casual reading.

It also improves critical thinking and analytical skills. By examining the language and structure of the text, readers can interpret the author’s ideas and intentions more clearly.

Furthermore, close reading enhances comprehension and helps students develop better reading and writing skills. Therefore, it is an important method used in literature and academic studies.

(g) Write a paragraph of at least ten sentences on ‘Global Climate Change’.
Answer: Global climate change refers to the long-term change in the average weather patterns of the Earth. It is mainly caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial pollution. These activities increase the amount of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. As a result, the temperature of the Earth is rising, which is known as global warming. Climate change leads to serious environmental problems such as melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme weather conditions. Many regions of the world are experiencing more frequent floods, droughts, and heat waves. Climate change also affects agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity. Many species of plants and animals are at risk of extinction due to changing environmental conditions. It also threatens human health and food security in many parts of the world. To reduce climate change, people need to adopt sustainable practices such as using renewable energy, reducing pollution, planting more trees, and conserving natural resources. Governments and individuals must work together to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future for the next generations.

(h) Write a short note on ‘Agendas and Minutes’.
Answer: Agendas and minutes are important documents used in meetings and official discussions.

An agenda is a list of topics or items that are planned to be discussed in a meeting. It is prepared before the meeting and distributed to the participants so that they know what issues will be discussed. An agenda helps in organizing the meeting and ensures that all important matters are discussed systematically.

Minutes are the written record of what happened during the meeting. They include important details such as the date and time of the meeting, the names of participants, the topics discussed, the decisions taken, and the actions to be followed.

Agendas and minutes are important because they help maintain proper documentation, improve efficiency in meetings, and provide a reference for future discussions and decisions.

4. Answer any two of the following : 10×2=20

(a) What is communication? Write a comprehensive note on various types of communication.
Answer: Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, thoughts, feelings, or messages between two or more people in order to create mutual understanding. It is an essential part of human interaction and plays a very important role in personal life, education, business, and society. Communication involves a sender, a message, a channel or medium, a receiver, and feedback. Effective communication ensures that the message sent by the sender is properly understood by the receiver.

Communication can be classified into different types based on the method, direction, and form of communication.

i) Verbal Communication: Verbal communication refers to communication that takes place through spoken or written words. It is one of the most common forms of communication. In verbal communication, people use language to convey their ideas and information. It can be divided into two forms: oral communication and written communication. Oral communication includes face-to-face conversations, telephone conversations, meetings, speeches, and presentations. Written communication includes letters, emails, reports, notices, and messages. Verbal communication helps people express their thoughts clearly and directly.

ii) Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal communication refers to the transmission of messages without using spoken or written words. It includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, posture, and tone of voice. Non-verbal communication often supports or complements verbal communication. For example, a smile may show friendliness, while crossed arms may indicate discomfort or disagreement. Non-verbal communication plays an important role in expressing emotions and attitudes.

iii) Formal Communication: Formal communication takes place through official channels within an organization. It follows a structured system and official procedures. It is usually used in workplaces, institutions, and organizations to transmit official information. Examples of formal communication include official letters, reports, notices, circulars, and meetings. Formal communication helps maintain discipline, clarity, and proper record-keeping in organizations.

iv) Informal Communication: Informal communication occurs in a casual or unofficial manner among people. It does not follow any fixed rules or official channels. It usually takes place among friends, colleagues, or family members. Informal communication often occurs through casual conversations, social interactions, and personal discussions. Although informal communication is not official, it helps build relationships and promotes friendly interaction.

v) Upward Communication: Upward communication refers to the flow of information from lower levels of an organization to higher levels. Employees communicate with their supervisors or managers to provide feedback, suggestions, complaints, or reports. This type of communication helps management understand the needs and opinions of employees.

vi) Downward Communication: Downward communication refers to the flow of information from higher levels of an organization to lower levels. Managers or supervisors communicate instructions, policies, decisions, and guidelines to employees. This type of communication ensures that employees understand their duties and responsibilities.

vii) Horizontal Communication: Horizontal communication occurs between people at the same level in an organization. It usually takes place among colleagues or departments that work together. This type of communication helps in coordination, teamwork, and sharing information among employees.

In conclusion, communication is an essential process that connects people and helps in the exchange of ideas and information. Different types of communication play important roles in ensuring effective interaction in personal, social, and professional environments.

(b) What are the different barriers of communication? Why do you think we need to be aware of them?
Answer: Communication barriers are obstacles or difficulties that prevent the clear transmission and understanding of messages between the sender and the receiver. These barriers can lead to misunderstandings, confusion, and ineffective communication. Understanding these barriers is important because it helps individuals improve the quality of communication.

Different barriers of communication are discussed below.

i) Physical Barriers: Physical barriers refer to environmental factors that obstruct communication. These may include noise, distance, poor lighting, faulty equipment, or physical separation between people. For example, loud noise in a workplace may make it difficult for employees to hear instructions clearly.

ii) Language Barriers: Language barriers occur when the sender and the receiver do not share the same language or when complex words and technical terms are used. Differences in language, vocabulary, and pronunciation may create confusion and misunderstanding.

iii) Psychological Barriers: Psychological barriers arise from emotional and mental conditions such as stress, fear, anger, prejudice, or lack of confidence. When a person is emotionally disturbed or biased, it may affect the ability to understand or express messages properly.

iv) Cultural Barriers: Cultural barriers occur when people from different cultural backgrounds communicate with each other. Differences in beliefs, customs, values, and social behavior may lead to misunderstanding. Certain gestures or expressions that are acceptable in one culture may be inappropriate in another.

v) Organizational Barriers: Organizational barriers occur within institutions or workplaces due to rigid rules, hierarchical structures, or lack of proper communication channels. Poor management practices and lack of transparency can also hinder communication.

vi) Perceptual Barriers: Perceptual barriers arise due to differences in perception and interpretation. Different people may interpret the same message differently based on their experiences, attitudes, and personal beliefs.

It is important to be aware of communication barriers because they affect the clarity and effectiveness of communication. Awareness of these barriers helps individuals avoid misunderstandings and improve interaction with others. By recognizing these obstacles, people can adopt better communication strategies such as using clear language, listening carefully, respecting cultural differences, and maintaining a positive attitude.

Therefore, understanding communication barriers is essential for achieving effective communication in personal life, education, and professional environments.

(c) You are Reema/Rajib. Write a report as a staff reporter on a free health checkup and blood donation camp organized by the NCC unit of your college.

Answer: Free Health Check-up and Blood Donation Camp Organized by NCC Unit
By Rajib, Staff Reporter

A free health check-up and blood donation camp was successfully organized by the NCC unit of our college on 15th September 2026 in the college auditorium. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the District Health Department and the Red Cross Society with the aim of promoting health awareness and encouraging voluntary blood donation among students and the local community.

The camp began at 10:00 a.m. with an inaugural speech by the Principal of the college, who appreciated the initiative taken by the NCC cadets. Several doctors and medical staff from the district hospital participated in the programme and provided free medical check-ups to students, teachers, and local residents. The medical team checked blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and general health conditions of the participants.

The blood donation drive received an enthusiastic response from students and members of the public. More than fifty volunteers donated blood during the camp. The NCC cadets actively helped in organizing the event and guiding the participants.

The doctors also delivered a short awareness talk on the importance of regular health check-ups and the benefits of blood donation. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the NCC officer, who expressed gratitude to the doctors, volunteers, and participants for making the event successful. The camp proved to be a meaningful initiative in promoting health awareness and social responsibility among students.

(d) Based on your close reading of the text, analyse the key issue discussed in:

(i) A. G. Gardiner’s On Saying Please

Answer: A. G. Gardiner’s essay On Saying Please focuses on the importance of politeness and courtesy in everyday human interactions. The central issue discussed in the essay is that good manners and small acts of kindness are essential for maintaining harmony and civility in society. Gardiner argues that while laws can control people’s actions, they cannot force individuals to behave politely or respectfully toward others.

The essay begins with an incident involving a bus conductor who was taken to court for allegedly pushing a passenger off the bus. The passenger had forgotten his wallet and was unable to pay the fare. When the conductor asked him to leave the bus, the passenger refused and behaved rudely. The incident turned into a conflict and eventually led to legal action. Gardiner uses this example to highlight that the problem was not merely about legal rights but about the absence of courtesy and understanding between individuals.

Gardiner explains that society cannot function smoothly if people only depend on rules and laws. There must also be mutual respect, kindness, and consideration in everyday behaviour. Words such as “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” may seem small, but they have great power to make social interactions pleasant and friendly.

The author also emphasizes that politeness costs nothing but brings great benefits. A simple act of courtesy can reduce tension, avoid conflicts, and make others feel respected. On the other hand, rude behaviour creates unnecessary misunderstandings and unpleasant situations.

Gardiner further explains that politeness acts like a “social lubricant” that helps the machinery of society run smoothly. Just as machines need oil to function properly, human relationships need courtesy and kindness to maintain harmony.

Thus, the key issue discussed in On Saying Please is the importance of politeness and consideration in everyday life. Gardiner concludes that a civilized society depends not only on laws but also on the practice of simple courtesies and respectful behaviour among individuals.

(ii) Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery

Answer: Shirley Jackson’s short story The Lottery discusses the dangers of blindly following traditions and the cruelty that can exist within ordinary societies. The central issue in the story is how people sometimes continue harmful customs simply because they have been practiced for a long time, without questioning their meaning or morality.

The story describes a small village where the residents gather every year to conduct a lottery. At first, the event appears to be a normal community gathering, where people talk casually and children play. However, as the story progresses, the reader gradually discovers the shocking truth that the “winner” of the lottery is actually chosen to be stoned to death by the villagers.

Jackson uses this disturbing event to criticize the blind acceptance of tradition. The villagers continue the lottery every year even though they no longer remember its original purpose. Some rituals associated with the lottery have already been forgotten, yet the most violent part of the tradition remains unchanged.

The story also reveals how ordinary people can become cruel when they follow social customs without questioning them. Even close family members participate in the act of violence. When Tessie Hutchinson becomes the selected victim, she protests that the lottery is unfair, but the villagers ignore her pleas and carry out the ritual.

Another important issue highlighted in the story is the danger of conformity. People in the village follow the majority and do not challenge the tradition because they fear going against the community. This shows how social pressure can prevent individuals from questioning unjust practices.

Through The Lottery, Shirley Jackson warns readers about the dangers of blindly following traditions and accepting violence as normal. The story encourages people to think critically about social customs and to question practices that may be harmful or unjust.

Thus, the key issue in The Lottery is the destructive power of unexamined traditions and the need for individuals to think independently and challenge harmful social practices.

(e) Write the key aspects of either public speaking or PPT.

Answer: Key Aspects of Public Speaking

Public speaking refers to the process of delivering a speech or presentation before an audience in order to inform, persuade, or entertain them. Effective public speaking requires careful preparation and certain important skills to communicate ideas clearly and confidently. The key aspects of public speaking are discussed below.

i) Preparation and Planning: Preparation is one of the most important aspects of public speaking. A speaker should clearly understand the topic and gather relevant information before delivering the speech. Proper planning helps the speaker organize ideas in a logical order so that the audience can easily understand the message.

ii) Knowledge of the Audience: A good speaker should understand the audience’s background, interests, and level of knowledge about the topic. Knowing the audience helps the speaker choose appropriate language, examples, and explanations. This makes the speech more effective and engaging.

iii) Clear Structure of the Speech: An effective speech should have a clear structure, including an introduction, a main body, and a conclusion. The introduction should attract the audience’s attention, the main body should present the key points clearly, and the conclusion should summarize the important ideas.

iv) Voice and Pronunciation: The speaker’s voice plays a very important role in public speaking. The voice should be clear, loud enough, and well-modulated so that the audience can hear and understand the message easily. Correct pronunciation and appropriate speed of speech are also essential.

v) Body Language and Gestures: Non-verbal communication such as eye contact, facial expressions, posture, and gestures helps make the speech more effective. Positive body language increases the speaker’s confidence and keeps the audience interested.

vi) Use of Examples and Illustrations: Using examples, stories, or illustrations makes the speech more interesting and easier to understand. It helps the audience relate the ideas to real-life situations.

vii) Confidence and Interaction: Confidence is an important quality of a good public speaker. A confident speaker can maintain the attention of the audience and deliver the message effectively. Interaction with the audience, such as asking questions or responding to their reactions, also makes the speech more engaging.

In conclusion, effective public speaking requires preparation, clear expression, confidence, and the ability to connect with the audience. These aspects help the speaker deliver a successful and impactful speech.

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