MODULE III

SKILLS FOR COMMUNICATION

UNIT II

FORMAL AND INFORMAL COMMUNICATION

1. Difference between formal and informal communication?

FORMAL COMMUNICATION
i) It is an exchange of systematic and well- conceived ideas.
ii) It takes place mostly in a business setup or organization.
iii) It is a product driven
iv) This is related to goals/plan of action/implemented activities
v) This is the application of acquired skills
vi) It helps in coordination and achievement of desired goals.

INFORMAL COMMUNICATION

i) Deals with light hearted sharing

ii) It takes place in a social setup
iii) It is process driven
iv) This is emotionally related to the participants in the process
v) It requires practice to hone the skills of communication
vi) It is important for human existence.

UNIT III

BARRIERS TO COMMUNICATION

A communication barrier comes in the way of receiving and understanding

messages that one sends to another to convey his ideas, thoughts, or any other kind
of information. These various barriers of communication block or interfere with
the message that someone is trying to send. Sometimes the sender does not use to
the right language and the receiver does not understand the things as he can’t
decode the message properly. A simple spelling mistake, or a wrong punctuation,
can be a barrier.

Classification of Barriers

Barriers can be of five kinds,

A) Intrapersonal Barriers

B) Interpersonal Barriers

C) Organizational Barriers

D) Verbal Barriers

E) Non – Verbal Barriers

A) Intrapersonal Barriers

Intrapersonal barriers are obstacles within the self that stop us from
sending and receiving information effectively.

Wrong Assumptions

A wrong assumption is a prejudice. It is an opinion held by a person

without any valid reason. It becomes a barrier in communication. Prejudices are
based on ignorance or lack of information. Communication is culture specific.
Ignorance of the cultural symbols can lead to cross cultural conflicts.

Varied Perceptions

Each person has a certain image of himself. This is their perception of

themselves, their self – image. Self image is the result of heredity, environment,
and experiences. Self image is unique to every person as it is different from others.

Self image often becomes a barrier because we tend to accept communication

compatible with our self image. We reject others.

Different Backgrounds

This refers to rank or position which could be economic, social or

professional. In any organization there is a hierarchy which creates differences.
When a person becomes too conscious of his status, high or low, it brings a barrier.
A top senior executive may not be willing to open his mind to his juniors and may
not give them the required information.

B) Interpersonal Barriers

Interpersonal barriers occur due to inappropriate transaction of words

between two or more people.

Attitudes and Opinions

At times our reactions to people are not balanced or objective. Sometimes we

like a person so much that we fail to see any shortcomings in him. Sometimes the
other thing happens – we dislike a person so much we fail to see anything good in
him. In both cases we fail to understand the person. Halo effect is the positive first
impression that makes us treat a person favourably. Horn effect is the negative first
impression that makes us treat him less favourably.

Emotional Outbursts

This can be in the sender’s or the receiver’s mind. In either case it acts as a
barrier. Emotions can be positive like happiness and joy, or negative like fear,
anger, or mistrust. Both kinds of emotions can be a barrier.

Cultural Variations

People of different cultures may communicate differently. In conservative

societies like Africa or in Arab countries greeting the opposite gender by shaking
hands or hugging is bad manners or even a crime. But in the western world it is
natural to shake hands with members of the opposite sex.

Noise (Physical or Environmental)

Noise made by things like traffic, loud music, trains, planes or crowds affect
communication. The physical distance between the people communicating can also
create problems. Mechanical problems in the instruments we use for
communication can also affect it. Physiological defects like stammering, hearing
defects, mumbling etc. can also be the noise creating a barrier.
C) Organizational Barriers

Organizational barriers are present within the organizational policy, rules,

structure and facilities etc.

Wrong choice of the medium

A wrong medium can be a barrier to communication if the sender uses the

wrong channel for the transmission of the message which is improper for the
audience. For example, if an expert uses a power point presentation for the
uneducated factory workers, they will be unable to understand it.

Fear of Superiors

There is a possibility for the communication between the people in higher

positions and the lower positions will be formal. Much formality is barrier to
communication. A lower level employee might be reluctant to send a message to
his superior because of fear.

Information Overload

This refers to excessive transmission of information. Sometimes more

information that the receiver can process is transmitted to him. Such overload is a
barrier.

D) Verbal Barriers

Verbal communication is oral communication with words that you or others

speak out loud.

Lack of proper planning

Some people speak and write without planning and preparation. They fail to
communicate their message. This results in miscommunication.

Selection of the wrong variety of Language

Language, being the most important tool of communication, should be used

suitably. It should suit the context and situation. Many words we use have different
meanings. So sometimes there can be misunderstanding in the selection of words.
Wrongly Decoded or Badly Encoded Messages

There should be clarity, correct choice of words and punctuation. Wrong

words and punctuations can create problems. Badly or wrongly decoded messages
may lead to hilarious situations for the people involved.

Semantic Gap

Ambiguous sentences can create a barrier in communication.

Difference in Perception of a Message

Sometimes the receiver interprets things in a different way other than the
sender has intended.

Variation in Language

Language has regional varieties (dialects) and individual varieties (idiolects).

Some words are culture specific.

E) Non – Verbal Barriers

Non- Verbal communication uses body language, facial expressions, tone and
pauses in speech as the medium of communication.

Avoiding Eye Contact

1) Lack of eye contact can be a barrier. Sometimes a nervous speaker speaks

to the floor and the Power Point user speaks to the screen. We often see
some speaker reading their written speeches without even looking at the
audience.
2) We see some speakers keeping their hands or thumbs always in their
pockets as if they are scared of the audience.
3) Continuous awkward gestures indicate problems in the smooth flow of
communication.

UNIT IV

PREPARATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING

 Minutes are the written record of meetings. They describe the events of
the meeting, starting with the names of those who attended it. The issues
considered, discussion on them, and the decisions described, are usually given in a
summary form. A formal meeting has three stages:

Agenda (This is the list of matters to be discussed. It

includes the priority list of topics for discussion.)

Meeting (This refers to the procedure of the meeting held.

A standard committee will have rules regarding

the frequency and duration of meeting and the

quorum required. There will be a Chair to the

meeting.)

Minutes (It is usually the secretary who prepares the

minutes. He reads out the previous minutes to

be approved. All formal meetings are

conducted by a chair person.)

What are the following measures and schemes for arranging and conducting
the meeting?

The scheme for arranging and conducting the meeting will be like this,

i) Notice sent to everyone concerned with the agenda.

ii) To begin the meeting on time, welcome the participants and make the
opening remarks.

iii) Conveying the apologies of those who can’t attend the meeting.

iv) Ensure that all the members have received the last minutes.

v) Stating the purpose of the meeting.

 vi) To encourage a fair and open discussion. Make sure that the focus is not
shifted.

vii) Ensuring that all the members present get a chance to express their views.

Concluding the meeting by summarizing the solutions reached, the decisions

taken, suggesting a plan of action. Asking if there is any other business that the
participants want to discuss, setting the date for the next meeting and making
closing remarks.

QUESTIONS (A SAMPLE MINUTES)

1) Prepare minutes of the meeting of the Panchayat Library Committee in

which you are the secretary. The main purpose is to convene a Reading
Day Programme (June 19) and to purchase books in Malayalam and
English.

Minutes of the Meeting of the Meloor Panchayat Library Committee held on

20. 09. 2022 at 11a.m in the New Conference Room of the Panchayat.

Members Present:

1) Mrs. Sharada Kapoor, Chairman

2) Mr. Aryan Nair, Member

3) Mr. George Matthew, Member

4) Mrs. Litta George, Secretary

Members Absent:

1) Mrs. Leela Joseph , Member

2) Mr. Gopinath, Member

Apologies were received from Mrs. Leela Joseph and Mr. Gopinath.

At the outset, the Chairman welcomed all the members. Then the
secretary read out the minutes of the last meeting and it was approved.
 There were only two items on the agenda and they were conveying a
Reading Day Programme on the 19June 2023 as 19 June is the reading day
all over the world.

The second item was the Purchase books in Malayalam and English.
The library does not have the latest books in Malayalam and English and
people are demanding them. An amount of Rs. 50,000 was earmarked for the
purchase of the latest books. Opinions of the members will be sought on the
kind of books we should buy.

The meeting ended with the Vote of Thanks by one of our members
Mr. George Matthew.

Sd/- (signature with name and date)

Mrs. Litta George.

AGENDA (EXAMPLE)

You are the secretary of the Film Society in your town. You plan to
organize a Film Festival named Kaleidoscope so as to exhibit films of
great Indian film makers. A meeting has been conveyed by the society
executive committee. Prepare an agenda of meeting.

FILM SOCIETY OF CALICUT

23, TRINITY COMPLEX, PALARIVOTTAM

Email- [email protected]

Mob: 8547028854

22 December 2022

AGENDA FOR THE MEETING

1) Welcome speech by the Chairman

2) Presentation of the Minutes of the Last Meeting for approval

3) Deciding on the venue of the Film Festival

 4) Inaugural Function of the Festival

5) Chief Guest and VIPs to be invited.

6) Is entry to the Festival free for the public?

7) How long it should be: Should it be for a week?

8) Who are the directors whose films should be shown?

9) Which of their films are to be included?

10) Concluding Function

Sd/-

Secretary

UNIT V

WRITING OF MEMOS

Memo is the short form of memorandum. It comes from the Latin

word “memorare” which later became “memorandus” which means to
provide information. It is used for internal and intra- departmental
communication. It provides information to others. Memos are usually used
for communication within an organization or among branches of the same
company. They route information, acknowledge receipt of goods or data,
inform recipients on various matters and initiate some action. Memos are
brief notes to be put on record.

EXAMPLES

QUESTIONS

1. Prepare a memo as a manager of a company to be circulated among

staff for preparing the documents for the upcoming ISO Audit decided
next month.
 G & J INFOTECH

Thrissur Road, Irinjalakuda

29 September 2022

From: The Manager To: All the Staff Members

SUBJECT: ISO AUDIT ON 23 OCTOBER 2022

As you are aware, the ISO Audit is scheduled for the 23 October,
2022. The Audit Party will demand all documents related to our company –
our staff, their salaries and allowances, Provident Fund Payments, Employee
Insurance, the Project we have executed and the payment received and our
expenses. So make sure that you keep all the documents in your possession
up-to-date.

After a week I will meet each of you with the updated documents.
Failure on the part of any employee of the Company will be viewed
seriously.

Sd/-

Jennifer George.

3) Prepare a memo as Manager of a bank to complete the pending work

before the annual financial year closing the next week.

SOUTH INDIAN BANK

Christ Nagar Branch, Irinjalakuda

24 March 2022

From: Branch Manager To: All Staff members

FINANCIAL YEAR CLOSING

You are well aware that the Financial Year Closing is only a week
away. I know that in many departments there is lot of pending work. I also
know that we are having a shortage of staff. But no excuse will be accepted
by the headquarters for not completing our records in time. So, even if you
 have to spend some extra time, make sure that all the pending work is
completed in good time. Try to avoid last minute rush which can bring
problems. Your whole- hearted cooperation is expected.

Sd/-

Rahul Nambiar

UNIT VI

EMAILS

Email means electronic mail. We create texts and send them over a
network of computers. Even learners feel they are good at sending emails and their
messages are easily understood by the recipients.

Questions

1) Prepare an email to inform the class tutor that you are not keeping well
and hence you will not be able to attend the class for the next three days.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Sub: Leave for 3 days

Dear Sir,

I am suffering from fever and severe cough. I consulted a doctor and

he gave some antibiotics and asked me to take rest completely for three
days. I will not be therefore able to attend the class for four days.

Thank you.

2) Prepare an email to the editor of poetry journal published online.

Request him/her that you would lie to send two of your poems to be
included in the next issue.
From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Sub: Publish poems in the next issue of your Poetry Journal.

Dear Sir,

I write poems and often they are published in the local newspapers and
magazines. I want to send two of my new poems to your Poetry Journal. I would
like to know if you can include them in your next issue.

I know that you encourage new poets by publishing their poems in your
Journal. Please send me a reply at your earliest convenience.

Thank you

3) Prepare an email to the Manager of the Bank where you have an

account. You want to get the monthly statement of transactions via
email. Request him/her to do so.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Dear Sir,

My account Number is 0000 461 7869321. I want to have monthly

statements of transactions via e mail. Please do the needful so that I can get
the statements in time.

Thank you

Delvin

Informal Email Writing Format

Topic- An email expressing your appreciation

To : [email protected]
Subject: Congratulations!

Dear Friend,

My heartfelt congratulations to you. I was glad to see your name on the

merit list. All your hard work was definitely not in vain. I bet everyone at home is
so proud of you.

You have truly made the family proud, and I am happy that you would get to take
up the course in architecture that you were dreaming of. I am waiting to meet you
in person to convey all my love and appreciation.

Convey my regards to my uncle, aunt, and grandpa.

Regards,

Dhanya

Topic- Email on seeking information regarding course details

To : [email protected]

Subject: Regarding Course Details

Dear Sir,

I have passed the B.Sc. degree examination with Electronics as the main
subject. I intend to have a course in Computer Science and would like to know the
details of the courses taught at your institution. Could you please send me a copy
of your brochure?

Yours faithfully,
Dhivya.

Topic- Email on introducing a new employee to your team

To : [email protected]

Subject: Meet the New Customer Service Representative

Dear Team,

I am pleased to introduce you Mr. Pradeep, who is starting today as our

Customer Service Representative. She will be providing technical support and
assistance to our users and making sure they enjoy the best experience with our
products.

Feel free to greet Pradeep in person and congratulate her on the new role!

Best regards,

Arun Kumar

Manager, Technologies Ltd.

Sample 3: Email Writing for Students

Topic- Email to inform your classmates regarding the intra-college quiz

competition.
To: [email protected]

Cc:[email protected]

Bcc:[email protected]( include 12 ids)

Subject: Intra-college Quiz Competition.

Hello Everyone! This is to notify you all that an intra-college quiz

competition is going to be conducted in our college on Jan 25 from 11:00 am in
Auditorium – 01. Everyone is therefore invited to take part in the competition so
that our department can win.

For further inquiries, feel free to contact me.

Thanks,

Sangeetha, BSc

Class representative

UNIT VII

LETTER WRITING

Sample Informal Letter – Letter to a Friend in Reply to Her about Planning a

Trip Together
16/65, Martins Castle
DB Road
Hyderabad 500023
20/05/2020
Dearest Caro,
I was happy to see your letter, and I loved your idea. I have been wanting
to go on a trip with you for a long time, and I think both of us can finally make
time to plan and make it happen.
I have a list of places that I thought would be fun to visit. I also do have a
list of things I would like to do on our trip. I am too scared of heights, and I know
you are too, but I have always wanted to try out bungee jumping with you. Let me
know what you think about it. We can also find affordable and beautiful places to
stay, and I am sure we can chart it all out. I cannot wait to go on this adventure
with you. I know it is a secret to be kept since it is going to be just us, and that
makes it all the more exciting. I know for sure that it is going to be worth it too.
I will make sure that I meet you next weekend and make plans for the
trip. It would definitely be difficult to get our parents to allow us on this trip, but
let’s try hard and make this work. See you soon.
Love,
Rose
FORMAL LETTER

LETTER OF APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF ENGLISH TEACHER

Kavin

3, Old Gate
Nagpur 440003
20th April, 2018
To
The Principal
Taurina High School
Mumbai 500043
Dear Sir,
Subject: Application for the post of English Teacher
 I am applying for the position of English Teacher in your organization with
reference to the advertisement on The Indian Express dated 18/04/2018. I have
great interest in this position and would highly appreciate it if you could consider
my application.
I have completed my Post Graduation in English and have experience of
working as a High School English Teacher for two years. In my teaching
experience, I have come across various challenging situations with kids and
parents, and I have learnt to handle all of them well. I have enjoyed connecting
with the children and being a part of their growth and development as considerate
and intelligent individuals.
I have attached my resume and experience certificate for your kind perusal
and hope to hear from you in this regard.
Yours faithfully,
Sean Alexander

LETTER TO THE PUBLISHER ORERING BOOKS FOR THE STORE

Javed
Read More Book Store
24, Crosby Lane
Bangalore 600045
20th August, 2019
To
The Manager
Zack Publishing House
Mumbai 400012

Dear Sir,
 Subject: Requirement of new books for the store

I have received the books that you sent last week. The books are in
perfect condition, and they were delivered on time. Owing to the great service
rendered, I would like to order more books that would be a great addition to the
wide range of books available at my store
I shall be grateful if you could send me copies of these books as mentioned
by VPP as early as possible to the address given.
Thank you in advance.
Yours faithfully,
JAVED
Manager, Read More Book Store

LETTER TO THE EDITOR ABOUT A ROAD THAT NEEDS REPAIR

Ganesh
25, SS Street
Cheran Nagar
Coimbatore 641023
8th September, 2019
To
The Editor
The Hindu
Coimbatore

Sir,
Subject: Repair of the road in Cheran Nagar
 I would like to bring to your notice that the people in and around
Cheran Nagar have been facing difficulties in travelling back and forth because of
the bad condition of the roads there. We have appealed to the Municipality, but
there has not been any response on the issue so far.
As our appeals to their office have had no effect, we believe that
perhaps a mention in the media would be of great help. Since the beginning of the
last month, the roads in Cheran Nagar have been almost impassable. The surface is
badly broken up by the heavy rains, and on a dark night, it is positively dangerous
for vehicles to pass that way. Moreover, there are heaps of road metal on both sides
of the road, which leave very little room in the middle. The residents of the area
have been inconvenienced in this way for weeks.
The situation is becoming worse. There have been multiple accidents
happening due to this condition. I request you to highlight the seriousness of the
matter in your newspaper so that the road may be properly repaired without further
delay.
Thanking You
Yours sincerely,
GANESH
President

UNIT VIII

CURRICULUM VITAE

QUESTIONS

1. What is a CV?

CV is the shot form for Curriculum Vitae. CV is also called Resume and
Bio-data, although some people point some minor differences among them. The
fact is Americans call the CV “Resume”. It is the most important document to be
produced before a selection committee as part of document.

2. What are the good attributes of a good CV?

 The good attributes of a good CV contains, Name, Address for
Communication, Age and Date of Birth, Details of Education, Experience,
Personal Information and References.

3. Difference between Functional CV and Chronological CV?

The difference is in the format. In the chronological CV, the details are
arranged in this order: Heading, Objective, Education, Experience, Skills and
References. In functional CV, the arrangement is: Heading, Career Summary,
Major Accomplishments, Work History, Education and Personal Profile.
Functional CV is for those who have already started a career. Chronological CV is
used when your education and experience suit the objectives started in the job
advertisement, fresh graduates can use it.

1. Imagine you are drafting CV after graduation. What are the things

You would like to include in it?

I would include: Career Objective, Name, Address for Communication,

Age and Date of Birth, Education, Personal Information and References.

2. Prepare a job application letter on the following facts. Applications are

invited for the post of software engineer. The candidate should be an
MCA or MSc in computer science. Apply within 15 days to HRD
Manager, Hi- Tech Pvt Ltd. Hyderabad, pin 500181.

Anandhu C K
XV/25 North Street,
Irinjalakuda- 680125,
Kerala,
8 December 2022.

To
The HRD Manager,
Hi- Tech Pvt Ltd,
Hyderabad,
 Pin 500081.

Dear Sir,
Application for the post of a Software Engineer.

This has reference to your advertisement in “The Indian Express”

dated 5 December 2022 calling applications for a Software Engineers. I
passed my MSc in computer Applications from Christ College, Irinjalakuda,
affiliated to Calicut University, in 2020, with 75% marks.
I have more than 2 years of experience as a Software E ngineer in
the “Sahara Electronics”, Thiruvananthapuram. I assure you to complete
satisfaction if I am given a chance to work under you. My detailed CV is
enclosed herewith.
Thanking you, and hoping to hear from you soon.

Yours faithfully,
Anandhu C K
Encl : 2

3. Prepare a job application letter based on the following facts.

Applications are invited for Plus Two teachers in Physics. The
candidate should be an MSc with B. Ed. Apply within 15 days to the
Principal, Delta School, Ernakulam, Pin 682016

Sheena Paul
XV/41, Kottakkunnu,
Malappuram676305,
Kerala,
12 December 2022

To
The Principal,
Delta School,
Ernakulam,
 682016

Dear Sir,
Application for the post of a teacher in Physics.

This has reference to your advertisement in the “malayala

Manorama” dated 9 December 2022, inviting applications for the post of
Teachers in Physics in your prestigious school.
I passed my MSc in Physics from Vimala College, Thrissur,
affiliated to Calicut University, in 2018 with 79% marks. I got my B. Ed in
2020 with 76% marks from Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam. I taught
Physics for 2 years in the KKTM College, Kodungallur.
I have a passion for teaching and I assure you of full satisfaction if
I am given a chance to work in your school. I am enclosing my CV along
with this application. I shall be glad if you call me for an interview on any
day and place of your choice.
Thanking you and hoping to hear from you soon.

Yours faithfully,
Sheena Paul.
Encl:2

4. A reputed daily in Malappuram has invited applications for the post of

Journalist Trainee. Prepare a short CV for the same. The advertisement
has specified the following: Age below 25, graduate with a flair for
writing in Malayalam and English, publications in the media,
preference for Journalism Diploma holders.

CV OF JOHN KENNEDY

JOHN KENNEDY

254, Chalakudy, Vellamchira,

Thrissur, Kerala
Pin :680135
 Mobile : 7654321965

Email ID : [email protected]

Career Objective: To work in a place where I can use my educational

qualifications and talents for bringing prosperity not only to myself but to all
around and thus make a mark in life.

1.Educational Qualification :i) B.A. English with 76% marks from

Students’ p.g. Centre, Irinjalakuda.

Affiliated to Calicut University, 2020

ii) +2 with 80% marks from St. Mary’s

HSS, Irinjalakuda, 2017.

iii) SSLC with 78% from St. Mary’s HSS,

Irinjalakuda, 2016

iv) Diploma in Journalism in 2021 with

81% marks from Nirmala College,

Chalakudy, affiliated to Calicut

University.

2. Experience : Worked for 1 year as the local

Correspondent of “ Malayala Manora”

In Chalakudy, from 2021-2022

4. Publications : a) An article on “ The Need for Communal

Harmony” in the “Horizon”

b) A short story in “ Children’s Weekly”

5. Personal Information

Fathers Name : Ebenezar Kennedy

Sex : male

Age : 23

Date of Birth : 1 December 1999

Marital Status : Single

Nationality : Indian

Aadhaar No : 23462323547895

Language known : Malayalam, English, Hindi

Hobbies : Reading books, listening music etc

Extra- curricular activities : Active Blood Donor

College Badminton Champion.

I declare that the above details are true to the best of my knowledge and
belief.

John Kennedy

26 December 2022

UNIT IX

PROPOSALS AND STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Statement of purpose (SOP) refers to an essay or an extensive write up

that states your purpose of applying to a particular course or university. The word
“purpose” normally means “ what you want to do”. SOP runs in paragraph format
that are associated with essay writing. It should have about 5 or 6 paragraphs of
about 150 to 200 words.
A good statement of purpose will usually have the following structure:

1. Your past
2. Your proposed course of study
3. Your future career.

A SAMPLE SOP FOR MASTER’S IN INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING

The field of Engineering has always appealed to my intellect and

creativity. I was fascinated by the multiple disciplines which are interlinked and
which together pave way for potential innovations. Gradually discovering my
keenness for the field of Mechanical Engineering, I commenced my journey in the
stream. I need to gain an extensive knowledge of the field. I thus wish to pursue
my Master’s in Industrial Engineering from your esteemed University.

Being an inquisitive and observant person by nature, I was always

curious about the mechanism or the evolution of a product. I am grateful for having
made the choice as it has provided me with a very strong foundation for learning
and helped me in becoming a multi-skilled professional.

In addition to the theory and practical courses, I also completed a

number of live projects which allowed me to apply the knowledge learned so far to
resolve real world issues. Another thing is that my internship at FACT was a
milestone in my academic session so far and I would like to mention it here. I
worked on a project titled “ Solving Defects.” I learned about the various processes
that takes place in an industry along with the essential policies that are pivotal in
the working of a company.

Though keen on my academics, I took time for other activities that

helped me to grow as a person. In addition to this I am involved in NGO, Rhythm
of life, which involves reaching out to underprivileged children and facilities
learning in the outdoors.

With a master’s program from a reputed university, I will be able to

realize my professional goals of working with an industrial unit and contribute
effectively to improving the processes and techniques used therein. I believe that I
will be able to add significant value to the master’s program. I thus look forward
eagerly to being a member of your intellectual academic community.
 UNIT X

FILM REVIEW

Name of the Film: SITA RAMAM

Director: Hanu Raghavapudi

Producer : C. Aswani Dutt

Release Date : 5 August 2022

Prominent stars of the Film (Star Cast): Dulquer Salmaan, Mrunal Thakur,

Rashmika Madonna, Prakash Raj & ensemble (group)

Music Director: Vishal Chandrasekhar

Language: Malayalam

Sita Ramam is a love story lived and doomed. The storytelling

makes it poetic and the actors add the charm. The beauty is all around. It is flawed
but good and you must not ignore the efforts gone into making this ambitious
story. An orphaned soldier’s life changes after he receives a letter from a girl
named Sita. He meets her and love blossoms between them. When he returns to her
camp in Kashmir, he sends a letter to Sita that will not reach her.
 A young Pakistani woman Afreen (Rashmika) is forced to deliver
a letter to Sita (Mrunal) in India by her dead grandfather because he is in debt of
the writer Ram (Dulquer). Lesser does Afreen know that she is setting out to
explore a love story and also see a transformation in herself. Sita Ramam, a
musical saga that blends love and tragedy with its tune so well that you kind of
ignores the flaws. But I can’t.

Story by Hanu Raghavapudi, Sita Ramam in a way is packed like

the amazing Mahanati. A youngster is forced to get into a story to reach a goal and
they discover not just the tragedy but themselves. But that is not where you cancel
the Dulquer starrer for, because the content inside is entirely different. Divided into
two time zones, the 1960s and the 80s, the film constantly keeps juggling between
the two. While the present seems to be a bit shaky, it is the flashback where all the
power lies.

Shaping it like a fairy tale, Hanu sets his story in the immaculate
whites of the snow, and the lush greens of the forest and between this are his Star
crossed lovers who were never meant to be together. There is a mystery for
everyone to solve and that’s how Raghavapudi keeps us invested. There is an
orphan who has no one, and a queen who is lonely even with a family. They come
together to become one and that is a very beautiful thought. The emotion of Sita
Ramam stays at the right place at every moment.

But there are also moments that kind of question logic. The sudden
unity in the Kashmir valley without questioning, or how does no one in her state
not know that the woman roaming around without a cover is their princess and
why don’t they tell this to Ram?

Sita Ramam is flawed but good and you must not ignore the efforts
gone into making this ambitious story. If this is a stepping stone, I want to see
what’s next this team gets on to.

Name of the Film: HRIDAYAM

Director: Vineeth Sreenivasan
Music Director: Hesham Abdul Wahab
Producer: Visakh Subramaniam
Release date: 21 January 2022
Cast and crew : Pranav Mohanlal, Kalyani Priyadarshan and Darshana
rajendran and group.
Language : Malayalam

Hridayam tries to give a realistic, coming-of-age depiction of a

Malayali's campus life in Chennai. Arun and Darshana are first-year engineering
students and they fall in love soon after their college begins. And just as how things
work generally in teenage, the road ahead isn't too easy for them. Life offers many
twists and turns that they least expect.

At a time in which college students hardly get to experience their campus

or form friendships, Hridayam offers its version of a fun campus life, and a chance for
those who miss it, to reminisce about their youthful days.
 Arun (Pranav Mohanlal) and Darshana ( Darshana Rajendran) fall in love
soon after they join college in the first year. They are crazy about each other, but not
too wise to avoid the general pitfalls of campus romance. The friendship, love and
connections go through various transformative phases, as the narrative progresses.
The movie also goes on to show how Arun enters the next phase of life and handles
its evolution into various stages.
The movie has an interesting emotional core, brought out by
performances of Pranav, Darshana and others, which makes gentle tugs at the viewers'
heartstrings. Pranav, who dominates through both the halves of the film, has definitely
evolved as a stronger performer with Hridayam. There are many hearty songs in the
film and they are all well-placed.

The trajectory that Arun's life takes, from campus romance and
discovery of the ideal career, to that of a family man, is sometimes a bit too
convenient. While life places new challenges before him, one can’t sense much of an
evolution within him, though there are a few dialogues that try to paint a changed
man's picture. Kalyani’s character, too, could have been developed with a little more
depth, considering that she entered the protagonist’s life after he experienced one
episode of the typical meet-cute romance.

This is the sort of movie one would take home with a smile on the face,
silly campus memories and may be, a song on the lips, if you don’t care much about
character evolutions.

Name of the Film : HOME

Director: Rojin Thomas

Producer : Vijay Babu

Music director : Rahul Subramanian.

Language : Malayalam

Release date : 19 August 2021

Cast and crew : Indrans, Sreenath Bhasi, Naslan.K.Gafoor, Manju Pillai and
group.

Storyline: A humble but technologically-challenged old man tries constantly to

keep up the closeness with his two sons, who are hooked to social media like other
millennials

Rojin Thomho had a promising directorial debut with Philips and the
Monkey Pen, and had a forgettable second film, seems to have recaptured some of
magic of his debut in Home . More than a part of that magic is owing to the
presence of Indrans, who has delivered a nuanced, heartfelt performance. From
the scenes depicting his struggles with the smartphone — portraying effectively
and entire generation’s struggles with technology which came late into their lives
to the ones of him hiding his feelings from the eyes of his family, Indrans makes
Oliver relatable and endearing. Even without the ‘extraordinary’ back story.
Oliver is made extraordinary by Indrans’ portrayal of the ordinary man

The mood is kept light all through, with even the emotional scenes
getting that treatment, with Oliver’s friend Suryan (Johny Antony) and younger
son Charles (Naslan.K.Gafoor) injecting some dose of humour. Where the film
falters a little is in trying to say too many things, from mental health to
smartphone addiction, which contributes to the runtime of 160 minutes. Some
more work at the editing table would have made it a much better film than it is
currently.

Not to forget the fact that the script says the same things about the
nature of Oliver and his son’s relationship in different ways, though it works at
times in capturing the ever-changing shades of that relationship. The script also
treats the relationship between Antony and his girlfriend Priya, which is toxic both
ways, as somewhat normal.
 Despite the avoidable flab, Home is a relatable, light-hearted tale that
stands on the strength of its performance.

BOOK REVIEW

Title : IF I NEVER FOREVER ENDEAVOUR

Author : Holly Meade

Edition : Illustrated

Publisher : Candlewick Press , 2011

ISBN : 0763640719, 9780763640712

.Length : 32 pages.

Genre : Juvenile Fiction.

This book was about a bird who didn't yet know how to fly. The bird
has to decide if it will try to fly, but it was not sure if it wants to. The bird thought,
"If I never forever endeavor" then I won't ever learn. On one wing, he worries he
might fail and on the other wing he thinks of how he may succeed. He worries that
if he tries, he may get lost in the world. That makes him want to stay in his nest
where he's safe.

I think this book would help other children to learn that trying new
things can be scary, but sometimes when we try, we can find things that make us
happy too. And this book will help others know that mistakes are okay and part of
learning.

My favorite part is that the bird tried and learned that she could fly. I
also liked that I read this book because it gave me a chance to talk to mom about
making mistakes and how I don't like making them. Then I learned they are good
and part of learning.

Boys and girls who are 3 to 8 years old would like this book because it
teaches about trying a new thing and how it's important to get past being scared so
you can learn new things.
Title : FLESH AND BLOOD SO CHEAP

Author : Albert Marrin

Publisher : Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2011

ISBN : 037464537875, 8753800643755

Pages : 192

Genre : Non- fiction

I liked this book. People who are interested in national disasters

and US history as well as immigration will most probably be interested in reading
this book.

Readers can gain knowledge of what it was like to work in New

York City in the early 1900s. One of the things that was especially interesting was
that there were no safety laws at work. Also, there was a big contrast between the
rich and the poor. Some people may not like this book because it is very
depressing, but it is an important event in history to remember.

This book was very well written. It has black and white photos along
with descriptions of the photos. These photos give us a better idea of what people's
lives were like. This book is suitable for 9-20 year olds.

Title : I CAPTURE THE CASTLE

Author : Dodie Smith

Language : English

Genre : Novel

Publisher : William Heinemann (UK)

 Dodie Smith's novel “I Capture the Castle” is a journey through the
mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle her daily life. Seventeen-year-
old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and she decides to
work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those
around her.

Cassandra lives in a fourteenth-century English castle with an

interesting cast of characters: her beautiful older sister, Rose; her rather unsociable
author father and his second wife, artist-model Topaz; Stephen, the garden boy; a
cat and a bull terrier; and sometimes her brother Thomas when he is home from
school. One fateful day they make the acquaintance of the Cotton family, including
the two sons, and a web of tangled relationships ensues. While I definitely
recommend this book to other readers, I would recommend it to older teenagers,
mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that
younger teens could also read it, but most of the characters are adults or on the
verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not
only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Cassandra's
sometimes subtle humor.

Over the course of the novel, Cassandra undergoes a definite

transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the
course of several months. I love that I could see into her mindset and read exactly
what she wasfeeling when she thought out situations. Her thoughts flowed well and
moved the book along very quickly.

Cassandra's narrative voice is wonderful. She is serious at times, but

also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as
though I'm reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes I forget that I am reading
a story and not a real-life account. Her emotions and the dialogue are so genuine,
and they are spot-on for a seventeen-year-old girl in her situation.

Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers,

those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading
amazing classic books. Dodie Smith is an exceptional writer, and I Capture the
Castle is a book that will never become obsolete.

UNIT XI

CASE STUDIES
 Case studies is basically an instructional tool for preparing students to
face challenges in real situations later on in their career. Case here means
simply “problem”. It is like telling a story. The teacher reports a case, a
complex situation to the students and a discussion will ensue based on the
problem. The problem will be analyzed, broken down into parts and then
those elements are reconstructed for a better understanding The emphasis is
to be given to discussion, team work, critical thinking and effective
reporting.

Guidelines

1. It should appear authentic and realistic.

2. Using an efficient and basic case structure.
3. It should be appropriate for discussion. It should pose complex issues.
4. It should have sufficient background information.

Steps

1. Read the case carefully.

2. . Analyse the content.
3. Do a SWOT analysis.
4. Identify the problems
5. Recommended solutions.

UNIT XII

GROUP DISCUSSION

Group Discussion (GD) is an important part in the procedure for the selection
of candidates. It helps to study the psychological aspects of the candidates for a
particular post.

TOPICS FOR GROUP DISCUSSION ( EXAMPLE)

1. English must remain the official language of India.

 In Favour

a) English is world language spoken for 500 million people. It is used in

more than 100 countries.

b) India is a multi- lingual country. If you make any language as the only
official language, other language speakers are going to object it.

c) India got freedom because of the English language.

d) It is the language of international travel and communication.

e) Some of the very best literature if found in English.

f) Millions of Indians work abroad. Without English they can’t manage.

Points Against

a)It is the language of the oppressor and so we must not use it.

b) English will make us follow Western customs and styles.

c)Why should we study a foreign language when ewe have our own
languages?

d) English spelling and pronunciation are hard to master as English is not a

phonetic language.

e) Spending a lot of time to master a foreign language is a waste of time.

UNIT XIII

PRESENTATION SKILLS

Presentation is a speech that is given in a formal set up- business, technical,

professional or scientific environment. Something is presented to the audience for
their attention. An effective presentation brings about a change in the audience.
They become more informed or gain a better understanding of a particular subject.
A good presentation is a communication between the speaker and audience.
PRESENTATION FORMATS

1. Provide information.
2. Teaching skill.
3. Reporting progress.
4. Selling a product, service or strategy
5. Obtaining a decision.
6. Solving a problem.

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE PRESENTATION

1. Start preparing early

2. Don’t wait for the last minutes.
3. Be clear about your purpose.
4. Use an effective introduction.
5. Be clear and simple.
6. Use body language effectively.
7. Use visual aids
8. Compose for the ears.
9. Use simple words.
10.Make an effective conclusion.

DO’S AND DON’TS IN PRESENTATION

DO’S

1. A lot of background research.

2. Be organized- Take time in preparing well
3. Focus on the question set
4. Get material from different sources.
5. Practice your presentation.
6. Use note cards
7. Speak clearly
DON’TS

1. Don’t put off your research and preparation until the last minute.
2. Don’t despend on just one source for information.
3. Don’t make things up
4. Don’t have false hopes that things will end up fine somehow.
5. Don’t worry too much
6. Don’t mumble
7. Don’t read from a script
8. Don’t rush by speaking fast