The Country Mouse & The City Mouse

Reading II: The Country Mouse & The City Mouse

A. Match the following words with their correct meanings.

Answer:

a. snug: warm, comfortable and protected, especially from the cold

b. unmolested: not disturbed or attacked by anything

c. stray: lost; wandering away from the usual place

d. frown: a facial expression indicating disapproval or displeasure

e. horrid: frightening

f. reluctant: unwilling and hesitant

g. custard: a sweet yellow sauce made from milk, sugar, eggs, and flour

h. trifle: a cold dessert of sponge cake and fruit

i. regale: entertain or amuse somebody with a talk

j. endure: to deal with something painful or unpleasant

B. Write whether the following statements are true or false.

Answer:

a. The country mouse was happy with the way she was living. Ans: True

b. The country mouse enjoyed the grand meal every day. Ans: True

c. The town mouse was unhappy with the food he was served. Ans: True

d. The town mouse invited the country mouse for a dinner in the town. Ans: True

e. In the town, the country mouse was served delicious food. Ans: True

f. There was no peace for the mice in the town. Ans: True

C. Answer these questions.

Answer:

a. How did the country mouse live? Ans: The country mouse lived happily.

b. Why did the town mouse go to the country? Ans: The town mouse went to the country to pay a short visit.

c. Was the country mouse happy to get an invitation to visit the town? Why? Ans: Yes, she was. She wanted to go there to have better food.

d. What happened while the mice were having dinner? Ans: While the mice were having dinner, cats, dogs and a maid interrupted them, and they had to run for safety.

e. What did the country mouse request her friend for? Ans: The country mouse requested her friend to take her safely back to the country again.

D. Do you live in a town or the country? What are the advantages and disadvantages of living there?

Answer:

Town: Living in a town can have both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include: accessibility (good transport links, easier access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment); a strong sense of community; well-developed infrastructure (roads, public transport, schools, hospitals); and convenience. Disadvantages include: higher cost of living; crowds and noise; limited green space; pollution (air and noise); and sometimes higher crime rates.

Village: Living in a village can also have both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include: a peaceful environment; lower cost of living; a strong sense of community; and access to nature. Disadvantages include: limited job opportunities; limited amenities; limited healthcare and educational opportunities; and possible isolation.

In conclusion, the decision to live in a town or a village will depend on an individual's preferences and needs. It is important to consider both the pros and cons before making a decision.

Grammar II

A. Complete the following sentences using the correct connectives given below.

(because, because of, although, however, despite/in spite of, but) Answer:

a. Although it was summer, the days were rather cold.

b. A piece of stone struck the workman's head. However, he was not hurt.

c. I like popcorn but I don't like pizza.

d. In spite of her age, she is still working very hard.

e. Although Ram is a skilful worker, he can't read and write very well.

f. Because petrol had become so expensive, Ram sold his car and bought a motorcycle.

g. I took a taxi because it was raining.

h. All flights were cancelled because of the fog.

i. Despite feeling unwell, she went to school.

j. Ram felt cold although she was wearing a winter coat.

Writing II

The villages of Nepal that are untouched by modernity are the treasure of true natural beauty. Describe a village using the following information: located in a district; gateway to a sacred temple; enriched with gorgeous landscape, agricultural land, traditional houses, mountain views, humble villagers, dense forest; settlements; stone-paved path; villagers carrying woods, children grazing domestic animals; weather: morning slightly chilly, daytime warm.

Answer:

A small village located in a district of eastern Nepal is situated at an elevation of around 1500 metres above sea level and is surrounded by beautiful Himalayan mountains. It is primarily a farming village, with most residents engaged in agriculture. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green forests, terraced farms, and scenic mountain views. The main crops grown include rice, maize, wheat, and millet, and many farmers also keep livestock such as cows, goats, and chickens. The weather is cool in the morning and warm during the daytime.

The people of the village are known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. The village has several ancient temples and shrines. It is a gateway to a sacred temple and is enriched with gorgeous landscape, agricultural land, traditional houses, mountain views, humble villagers, and dense forest. Walking the stone-paved path uphill, you will come across villagers carrying wood from the forest and children grazing domestic animals.

Despite its remote location, the village has access to basic amenities such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare services. It is connected to the outside world by a small airstrip. The village is also a popular trekking destination. Overall, it is a picturesque village that offers a glimpse into traditional Nepali life and culture, and is a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and rural living.