The English section of the NDA & CDS 2 2024 exams is designed to assess a candidate’s proficiency in understanding and using the language effectively. Among the various topics covered, the Cloze Test and Comprehension are two critical areas that demand a thorough understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills.
Cloze Test
The Cloze Test requires candidates to fill in the blanks within a passage with the most appropriate words. This section evaluates not just vocabulary but also the understanding of the context in which words are used. The ability to choose the correct word depends on:
- Grammar Knowledge: Understanding parts of speech, verb forms, and sentence structure is essential. Candidates must be able to discern which type of word (noun, verb, adjective, etc.) fits logically into the blank.
- Vocabulary: A rich vocabulary enables candidates to select words that fit not just syntactically but also semantically. Familiarity with synonyms, antonyms, and contextual usage of words is crucial.
- Contextual Understanding: The ability to grasp the overall theme or message of the passage helps in choosing words that maintain the coherence and meaning of the text.
Directions: In these questions, in the following passages some of the words have been left out. Read the passages carefully and choose the correct out of four alternatives.
“Between the year 1946 and the year 1955, I did not file any income tax returns.” With that (1)…… statement, Ramesh embarked on an account of his encounter with the Income Tax Department. “I originally owed Rs. 20,000 in unpaid taxes. With (2)……. and (3)…….. the 20,000 became 60,000. The Income Tax Department then went into action, and I learned first hand, just how much power the Tax Department wields. Royalties and trust funds can be (4)…….. automobiles may be (5)…….. and auctioned off. Nothing belongs to the (6)….. until the case is settled.”
Q1) (a) devious (b) blunt (c) tactful (d) pretentious
Ans. (b)
Q2) (a) interest (b) taxes (c) principal (d) returns
Ans. (a)
Q3) (a) sanctions (b) refunds (c) feet (d) fines
Ans. (d)
Q4) (a) closed (b) detached (c) attached (d) impounded
Ans. (c)
Q5) (a) smashed (b) seized (c) dismantled (d) frozen
Ans. (b)
Q6) (a) purchaser (b) victim (c) investor (d) offender
Ans. (d)
Comprehension
The Comprehension section tests a candidate’s ability to read, understand, and interpret a given passage. This section is vital as it assesses:
- Reading Skills: Candidates must be able to read quickly and efficiently, extracting the main ideas, themes, and details from the passage.
- Comprehension: Beyond just reading, candidates need to understand the underlying meaning, tone, and intent of the author. This may involve interpreting figurative language, identifying the author’s purpose, or drawing inferences.
- Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze the passage and answer questions that may require evaluating arguments, comparing ideas, or predicting outcomes is key to scoring well in this section.
Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions given below them.
Two years later, in November 1895, he signed his final will. He left the bulk of his fortune, amounting to about £1,75,000 to a trust fund administered by Swedish and Norwegian trustees. The annual interest shall be awarded as prizes to those persons who during the previous year have rendered the greatest services to mankind. The interest shall be divided into five equal parts– now amounting to about £8,000 each– one of which shall be awarded to the person who has made the most important discovery or invention in the realm of physics, one to the person who has made the most important chemical discovery or improvement, one to the person who has made the most important physiological or medical discovery, one to the person who has produced the most outstanding work of literature, idealistic in character, and one to the person who has done the best work for the brotherhood of nations, the abolition or reduction of standing armies, as well as for the formation or popularization of peace congress.
Q) The said prize is awarded
(a)once in 5 years
(b)every year
(c)once in 4 years
(d)once in 2 years
Ans. (b)
Q) Which is the prize that is referred to in the passage?
(a)Nobel Prize
(b)Magsaysay Award
(c)Pulitzer Prize
(d)Booker Prize
Ans. (a)
Q) The number of prizes in the field of science are
(a)Four
(b)One
(c)Three
(d)Five
Ans. (c)
Q) Total annual prize money amounts to
(a)£8,000
(b)£1,750,000
(c)£350,000
(d)£40,000
Ans. (d)
Q) Prize is awarded for outstanding work in
(a)Chemistry
(b)Literature
(c)Physics
(d)All the above
Ans. (d)
For more questions, check out NDA-CDS 2 2024 Exam English Live – Revision – Class 6
Strategies for Success
To excel in the Cloze Test and Comprehension sections, candidates should focus on the following strategies:
- Regular Reading: Reading newspapers, magazines, and books enhances vocabulary and improves reading speed and comprehension.
- Practice with Purpose: Regularly practicing Cloze Tests and reading comprehension passages helps in understanding question patterns and time management.
- Grammar and Vocabulary Review: A solid understanding of grammar rules and an extensive vocabulary are indispensable tools. Regular revision and usage in practice exercises can significantly improve performance.
- Mock Tests: Taking mock tests under timed conditions helps in building speed and accuracy, crucial for competitive exams like NDA and CDS.
Conclusion
The Cloze Test and Comprehension sections are integral parts of the English paper in the NDA & CDS 2 2024 exams. Success in these sections depends on a combination of strong grammar knowledge, extensive vocabulary, and advanced reading skills. With consistent practice and strategic preparation, candidates can enhance their abilities to tackle these sections effectively and score well in the exams.
