English Composition and Compulsory Language Paper (Bengali / Hindi / Urdu / Sanskrit)
English Composition and the compulsory language paper test expression, comprehension and grammatical control in the candidate’s chosen language. The paper usually includes an essay, a precis, comprehension questions, grammar exercises and translation or letter writing.
Essay and precis
A good essay has a clear introduction, organised body paragraphs and a conclusion. Each paragraph should make one point and support it. A precis must be about one-third of the original length, in your own words, retaining the central idea and omitting examples, repetition and dialogue. Do not add opinion.
Grammar and translation
Expect subject-verb agreement, tense, articles, prepositions, direct and indirect speech, active and passive voice, idioms and sentence correction. In Bengali, Hindi, Urdu or Sanskrit, script accuracy, sandhi or samasa, idiomatic usage and register matter. Translation should preserve meaning rather than word order.
Worked example
A passage of 300 words argues that delayed justice erodes public confidence and suggests procedural reform. The precis should state the central claim, the main reasons and the proposed direction in about 100 words. Examples and rhetorical questions are omitted. The wording must be new.
Traps
Do not copy sentences from the passage into the precis. Do not exceed the word limit. Do not write a general essay unrelated to the topic. Do not ignore grammar in the language paper; small errors carry marks. Do not translate idiom literally.