1. Read the following text.

The Experience of Learning a New Language

1. Learning a new language can feel like an exhilarating yet sometimes daunting journey. For

many, the initial stages bring excitement, especially when it comes to grasping the basics. Picking

up common phrases, greetings, and simple questions feels like unlocking a whole new world.

However, as one moves beyond the introductory level, the complexity can become overwhelming.

Encountering intricate grammar rules, exceptions, and nuanced expressions can feel like hitting

a wall, leaving learners frustrated and questioning their abilities. These moments of confusion are

often accompanied by a sense of discouragement, especially when it feels like progress has

stalled.

2. Despite these challenges, there are break through moments that keep learners motivated. For

instance, understanding a conversation between native speakers, or successfully ordering food

in a foreign country without hesitation, can feel like monumental achievements. These small

victories act as fuel, driving the learner to keep going, even when the process becomes tough.

3.Then, there are moments of deeper connection with the language, where learners realize they

are not just memorizing vocabulary or grammar but truly engaging with a different culture.

Language is more than a tool for communication; it's a gateway to understanding the world from

a new perspective. Literature, music, and idiomatic expressions offer insights into the soul of a

culture, creating emotional connections that make the learning process richer and more fulfilling.

4. Of course, there are moments of sheer bewilderment, where a phrase or expression seems to

defy all logic. This might involve encountering idioms or colloquial phrases that, when translated

literally, make no sense. These linguistic quirks can leave learners scratching their heads,

wondering if they will ever fully grasp the nuances of the language. However, these moments

often spark curiosity, pushing the learner to dig deeper, ask questions, and embrace the unknown.

5.Ultimately, learning a new language is a blend of highs and lows, much like navigating any new

skill. It demands patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace mistakes. While it may seem

difficult at times, the sense of accomplishment that comes with fluency-or even just

conversational ability-makes all the effort worthwhile. Beyond the practical benefits, learning a

language opens doors to new friendships, cross-cultural understanding, and personal growth.

Just like any great challenge, the rewards are as much about the journey as they are about the

destination.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage: 10

i) Which of the following statements best captures the author's perspective on learning a new

language?                                                                                                                    1

A) The author believes that learning a new language is a straightforward process that does not

require much effort.

B) The author feels that the challenges of language learning are often outweighed by the rewards

and personal growth it brings.

C) The author suggests that language learning is primarily about memorizing vocabulary and

grammar.

D) The author is critical of language learning, claiming it leads to frustration without any

meaningful benefits.

ii) What is the tone of the writer in paragraph (2)? Rationalize your response in about 40 words. 2

iii) Complete the sentence appropriately:

The author's use of descriptive language in paragraph (3), such as "emotional connections" and

"rich and fulfilling," helps the reader understand _______________________.                 1

iv) The passage explores varying experiences while learning a new language. From the sets (a)-

(e) below, identify two sets of antonyms:                                                                      1

A. excitement - enchantment

B. confusion - clarity

C. frustration - satisfaction

D. progress - stagnation

E. engagement – detachment

v) Complete the sentence appropriately:                                                                     1

The author's tone shifts to a more positive and encouraging one in paragraph 2 when describing

the small successes in language learning because __________________.

vi) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, how learning a new language can be like exploring a new city.                                                                2

vii) What is the message conveyed by Alex's experience in the following case?       1

Alex struggles to grasp complex grammar rules in a new language but feels exhilarated when he

successfully holds a conversation with a native speaker.

A. Mastery of a language comes only with inherent skill.

B. Language learning is an easy and straightforward process.

C. Overcoming difficulties in learning can lead to rewarding experiences.

D. Language proficiency is solely dependent on memorization.

viii) State whether the following lines display an example of a simple/ advanced / rhetorical/

poetic language.                                                                                                           1

"Mother's Day cards commonly feature elaborate floral motifs adorning their covers, reflecting the

celebratory spirit of the occasion.