SPOTLIGHT ON READING

Rudyard Kipling is the renowned

author of The Jungle Book, a popular
collection of short stories for children.
But before he became known as a great
storyteller, he was a successful poet first.
Through his powerful observation, he
was able to meaningfully portray the
people in his time in his works. This
earned him the 1907 Nobel Prize in
Literature.
In literature, particularly in poetry
different devices are used not
only to enhance form but to
highlight meaning one device is
Antithesis
Antithesis is a literary device in
which contrasting words, phrases,
clauses, or sentences are
juxtaposed to emphasize a point.

ALL ABOUT THE POEM:

The poem is written in the form of advice
from a father to his son, emphasizing the
qualities and virtues necessary for
personal development and success. Each
stanza presents a different scenario or
situation, followed by the corresponding
ideal response or attitude.
Overall, the poem explores themes such
as patience, perseverance, self-control,
humility, and the ability to maintain
composure in the face of adversity. It
encourages the reader to embrace
challenges, take responsibility for their
actions, and develop a strong moral
character. The poem suggests that by
embodying these qualities, one can
become a well-rounded and honorable
individual.
"If" has been widely celebrated and
quoted for its timeless wisdom and
guidance, resonating with people across
generations. It continues to be regarded
as a classic piece of literature that
inspires readers to strive for personal
growth and moral excellence.
 ENGLISH QUARTER 1 LESSON 2: PERMANENT MARK
SPOTLIGHT ON READING
Valsa George is originally from Kerala,
India. Together with her husband and
children, lived in Nigeria and moved to
the USA. Despite their contrast travel
due to her husband’s work. Valsa
continued to teach her children about her
roots and cultural heritage including
Malayalam, their narrative language.
She wanted to make sure that her
children never forgot their heritage
despite being raised in a western society
that is very much different from theirs.
THE POEM:
After years of aimless wanderings
Leaving behind the cities of midnight
revels
And the fevered journey in metro rails,
I am back at the land of my people.
Wherever I went,
Under which ever roof I slept,
I had carried my land,
As a jewel in a casket
And ensured it rested safe
Ever under my pillow
As I moved with aliens
Unable to merge with their cultural
mores,
I saw my land glimmer in darkness
Like a dew drop on a moon blanched leaf
When I sweated in the blistering sands
A patch of green landscape, like an oasis
Wafted me in a cool embrace
Then dreams poured in like star light
And I wandered in the meadows of my
youthful love
My heart struggling to forget old
longings And memories lashing upon me
like tidal waves
Pursued by that inalienable shadow
Suddenly being born in flesh and blood
I hastened to the streets of my youth
With hopes galore and plans vivid
But alas! There is none to recognize me
Oh! I am a stranger here
An unwelcome stranger among total
strangers
Now I wonder which is truly my land?
The one left behind or the one just landed
in?
Oscillating between these two worlds,
My fractured identity looms large
With worms of memories wriggling in
my flesh
And a myth suddenly dying in my brain
Tone and mood are literary elements
that allow the readers to feel what the
author wants them to feel.
Tone refers to the attitude of the
author towards his or her work, the
characters in it, the audience. It
reflects his and her feelings which can
be objective, solemn, playful, ironic,
critical, sarcastic, philosophical,
reverent, and so on.
Mood, on the other hand is the
dominant emotion or atmosphere felt
as one reads the text. The author plays
with word creativity, through the use
of images and word associations, to
indirectly elicit this emotion. The
mood can be romantic, frightening,
mysterious, melancholic, sentimental,
and so on.
MODALS To express I might attend
Modals are helping verb combined with possibility tomorrow’s event
(Outcome is
other verbs to indicate mood or tense. unlikely or less
Modals are better understood by learning certain)
their functions. Among their functions
are to express possibility, to show ability,
to express necessity, or to give or to ask To express past Dante might have
possibility (might + gone to the
permission. Some example of modals are
have) induction program
can, could, may, and might.

CAN: To express events If Haner listened to

that could have her father, she
To express Mr. Rogan can win happened but did might have
possibility and the race tomorrow not graduated with
ability honors.

To express informal Can you bring me

request or order my bag, please?

To ask permission Can I go to the film

and to give festival?
permission
-Yes, you can

COULD:

To express past Dario could outrun

possibility and me before in a 100-
ability meter-dash

To express Could you help us

formal/polite with our
request reservation, please?

May:

To express We may visit Japan

possibility in our Asian trip
(Outcome is likely)

To formally ask May I have a word

permission and to with you?
give permission
-Yes, you may
MIGHT:
 ENGLISH QUARTER 1 LESSON 3: REDEFINING ORIENTATIONS
SPOTLIGHT ON READING: She uses the metaphor of the "Angel in
the House," a Victorian ideal of the
Virginia Woolf was born in Lonon in perfect woman who was expected to be
1882, at a time when women were devoted to her family and put others'
heavily stereotyped and allowed very needs before her own. According to
limited rights. She was educated at home Woolf, this ideal had a detrimental
through her father’s abundant library impact on women's creativity and
because formal and higher education was freedom, as they were not encouraged to
allowed only to males. She joined the have independent thoughts and
Bloomsbury Group, organized by her aspirations beyond the domestic sphere.
brother and Cambridge friends and
Woolf also delves into the challenges she
engaged in intellectual conversation that
faced as a writer, highlighting the
covered literature, economics, and
internalized barriers she had to overcome
theories in sexuality. Woolf bloomed
to become successful. She discusses the
with this group that treated her equally.
critical voice in her head that
Through her superb style in writing that
represented society's judgment and
gave us Mrs. Dalloway, To the
restrictions on women's creative
lighthouse, Orlando, and A Room od
expression. Overcoming this internalized
One’s own, among other writings, she
criticism was necessary for her to claim
rose as one of the most important
her rightful place as a professional
modernists in the literary world
writer.
PROFESSIONS FOR WOMEN: The core message of "Professions for
Women" is one of empowerment and
"Professions for Women" is an essay
liberation for women. Woolf urges
written by Virginia Woolf, a prominent
women to break free from the shackles of
British writer, and feminist. She
societal expectations and to fight for the
delivered the speech to the Women's
right to pursue their passions and
Service League in 1931. In the essay,
professional ambitions. She encourages
Woolf reflects on the challenges and
them to challenge the "Angel in the
limitations faced by women in pursuing
House" and the self-doubt that holds
professional careers during her time.
them back, emphasizing the importance
The main focus of the speech is on the of being true to oneself and one's
societal expectations and the obstacles creativity.
that women faced while trying to
Overall, the speech is a powerful call to
establish themselves in professional
action for women to assert their
fields. Woolf discusses how these
identity, reclaim their voices, and pave
expectations often forced women to
the way for future generations to break
conform to traditional gender roles and
down gender barriers in the
suppress their ambitions and talents.
 Diction is the author’s choice of yours
words or his or her expressive
vocabulary. It can be formal,
To express logical Two hundred pesos
informal, colloquial, poetic, plain,
deduction or ought to be enough
abstract, concrete, etc. The author’s
assumptions for a day
choice depends on the subject,
purpose, or audience of his or her
written work.
SHALL:
Likewise, diction influences the tone
of the piece because the choice of
To express future I shall attend the
words also reveals the emotion of the
actions seminar this Friday
author
professional world. It remains an
influential piece in feminist literature and To offer Shall we begin by
continues to resonate with women suggestions reviewing our
seeking equality and recognition in their previous meeting?
respective professions.

SHOULD:
MODALS
To give advice You should come
Other examples of modals are must, to school early and
ought, shall, and should. ready

MUST: To express I should finish

obligation cleaning the house
To express The King must before 10 a.m.
necessity serve honestly to
win the trust of the
people To express Mark should be in
expectation Japan by now

To express The dog looks

possibility/certainty weak. It must be
hungry

To give strong You must take

advice or a strong your vitamins
recommendation regularly

To express You must not

prohibition disrespect the king

OUGHT:

To give advice You ought to

return what is not
Breaking Barriers: Redefining
Success for Women in a
Patriarchal Society
In a patriarchal society, women face
numerous challenges and preconceived
notions about their capabilities. To be
considered successful in such an
environment, a woman must not only
excel in her chosen field but also defy
societal norms and expectations. Success
for women in a patriarchal society goes
beyond individual achievements; it
becomes a triumph for gender equality
and a testament to women's resilience.
Firstly, education and skill development
are crucial factors in defying gender
stereotypes and achieving success. By
acquiring knowledge and expertise,
women can prove their worth and
competence in traditionally male-
dominated professions. As they break
barriers in fields like science,
technology, and leadership roles, they
become powerful symbols of progress.
Secondly, confidence and determination
are essential traits for a successful
woman in a patriarchal society. Despite
facing systemic bias and discrimination,
they must persevere, believing in their
abilities and refusing to be undermined.
Confidence allows women to advocate
for themselves, voice their opinions, and
push for the recognition they deserve.
Thirdly, forming a strong support
network is vital. Surrounding oneself
with like-minded individuals, both men
and women, who believe in gender
equality can provide encouragement and
motivation. Solidarity fosters resilience
and empowers women to stand firm in
the face of adversity.
Furthermore, embracing one's authentic
self is a critical aspect of success.
Women should be free to express their
femininity or reject traditional gender
roles without judgment. By challenging
stereotypes and societal expectations,
women can redefine success on their
terms.
Ultimately, to be considered successful
in a patriarchal society, women must be
trailblazers. By pushing boundaries,
shattering glass ceilings, and advocating
for gender equality, they pave the way
for future generations of women to thrive
in all spheres of life.
In conclusion, success for women in a
patriarchal society requires
determination, education, confidence,
and a supportive community. It
necessitates challenging the status quo,
smashing stereotypes, and asserting
oneself in the face of adversity. True
success lies not just in personal
accomplishments, but in creating a more
inclusive and equitable society for all.
When women rise above the limitations
imposed by a patriarchal system, they
embody the spirit of progress, becoming
beacons of hope for a more equal world.
 ENGLISH QUARTER 1 LESSON 4: WHAT EXPLORATIONS BRING
SPOTLIGHT ON READING:
Jules Verne was a French novelist, poet,
and playwright. His adventure novels,
which include Around The World in
Eighty Days, Journey to the Center of
the Earth, and Twenty Thousand
Leagues Under the Sea, were considered
revolutionary because of the time of their
publication, the journey depicted in these
novels were not yet possible.
The novel “From Erath to the Moon”
was published in 1865, more than a
hundred years before the first actual trip
to the moon.
FROM THE EARTH TO THE
MOON:
"From the Earth to the Moon" is a novel
written by the famous French author
Jules Verne, first published in 1865. It is
a classic work of science fiction and
adventure literature that captures the
imaginations of readers with its tale of
space exploration and lunar travel.
Plot Summary:
The novel begins in post-Civil War
Baltimore, where the members of the
"Baltimore Gun Club," a group of
artillery enthusiasts, are feeling
despondent now that the war is over and
there are no military challenges for them.
One of the club members, Impey
Barbicane, proposes an ambitious and
audacious project to send a projectile to
the moon. The project aims to launch a
hollow cannon from a massive artillery
piece called the "Columbiad," large
enough for a manned capsule to be sent
to the moon.
With the help of other enthusiastic club
members, including the Frenchman
Michel Ardan and the cold, practical
Captain Nicholl, the preparations for the
mission begin. Michel Ardan, a French
adventurer and a dreamer, joins the
mission to become the first person to
travel to the moon.
The story details the technical challenges
and preparations involved in the lunar
mission, as well as the public and
political excitement and skepticism
surrounding the project. The mission
encounters various obstacles, but
eventually, the day of the launch arrives.
The cannon is fired, and the projectile,
carrying Ardan, sets off on its journey to
the moon.
The story then shifts to describe the
experiences of Ardan inside the
projectile during the journey. As they
approach the moon, they encounter some
difficulties, including lack of air and
communication, but they manage to
survive. The travelers also experience
weightlessness, which Verne describes in
an imaginative way, considering it was
written long before space exploration
became a reality.
Finally, the projectile crash-lands on the
moon's surface. Ardan explores the lunar
landscape, describing the moon's
environment and features in vivid detail.
Eventually, the trio makes their way back
to Earth using a different method
involving a giant shell.
Themes and Significance:
"From the Earth to the Moon" is not only
an adventure story but also explores
themes such as human ingenuity, the
pursuit of knowledge and exploration,
and the power of human determination.
Verne's work was remarkable for its
time, as space travel was still purely
speculative in the mid-19th century. His
portrayal of space travel and the moon's
surface, although now known to be
inaccurate, was groundbreaking for the
era and inspired future generations of
scientists and science fiction writers.
The novel also reflects the optimism and
fascination that surrounded technological
progress during the 19th century,
particularly in the age of industrialization
and scientific advancements. It celebrates
the spirit of adventure and the human
desire to explore the unknown, pushing
the boundaries of what was previously
considered impossible.
The excerpts that you have read are
told in the third-person point of
view. Point of view refers to the
manner in which a story is narrated or
presented from an outsider’s
perspective, or one who is not
involved in the story. The readers
learn about the story through this
person’s point of view.
There are two variations of this point
of view: The third-person limited
point of view, the narrator can only
relate events and describe the
characters and the setting. In the
third-person omniscient point of
view the narrator could relate events,
describe the characters and the
setting, and express the thoughts and
feelings of the characters. The
omniscient point of view knows
everything
MODALS
Will and Would are also modals. Study
their specific functions below
WILL:

To express future We will have a

Overall, "From the Earth to the Moon"
action victory parade
remains a timeless classic in science tomorrow
fiction literature, and its influence can
still be seen in modern space
exploration stories and endeavors. It has To express a Will you please
inspired numerous adaptations, including request or demand stop asking
(Less polite than questions?
films, TV shows, and other literary would)
works, making it an enduring testament
to Jules Verne's storytelling prowess and
imaginative vision. To express a I will never play
promise DotA again

To express instant I have no umbrella,

decision so I will stay here
until the rain stops

To express The weather will be

prediction fine tomorrow
WOULD:

Past tense of will Mother told me she

would be here
today

To express a Would you mind

request (More helping me with
polite than will) this

To express a If I were Janine, I

condition would immediately
forgive my parents

To express habits in When I was young,

the past I would always
play until 6 pm
Silent Symphony: The Unspoken
World of a Girl Estranged from
Words
Words are always the foundation in the
world. They are the most essential thing
for communication and connection of
every person in the world. Words are so
powerful they are like the secret weapons
each human being has. As they say
words are an integral part of our lives,
but for some, it remains elusive, as if
trapped in an enigmatic labyrinth. In our
society, using majestic and incredible
words can be a measurement of
intelligence. Speaking a certain language
can have a big measurement of an
individual’s intelligence. People admire a
person who is best in words, I mean who
doesn’t? It’s like all the words love you
and you have a deep connection with
them. I always admire people who can
express their feelings and opinions
through letters and words. How can’t I be
one of them?
I remember when I was a kid, I always
drew objects and people to make a story
from it. I like fairies, princes, and
princesses. I’m full of imaginations to
the point I always want to get my paper
and pencil to write a story. As I look at
the blank paper, I just realize that I can’t.
I can’t express my imaginations through
words. Yes, I know the flow of the story
I make in my head but for some reason, I
don’t know any words to give it some
colors and sparkles. So, I drop my pencil
and get the dictionary to read it. Even a
single word can’t get in my head.
I always read stories, books, magazines,
news, and other types of documents. But
somehow, I still don’t have a connection
with words. Maybe they hate me. As I
grew up, it was so challenging to form
meaningful relationships and often
grappled with a profound sense of
loneliness. I just settled for one or two
friends since unlike the others, I can’t
express my feelings and thoughts with
them. It’s like being left out with my
peers. I feel embarrassed when I say a
word without knowing the real meaning
behind it, and sometimes I hurt people.
During our conversations with my
friends, whenever I’m having a mental
breakdown, they comfort me using words
“You can do it, Thea. I believe in you”.
They always say these words to me when
I’m feeling down. On the other hand, I
don’t know how to comfort them when
they are in their lowest time since I’m
having trouble giving them positive
advice to make them feel better. Why
don't words make a connection with me
like they do to my friends?
There’s this time when the teacher gave
us an assignment where we needed to
draw our comfort place. At that time, I
draw my bedroom, it’s my safe place
since if the four corners of my room can
talk, they surely know every struggle I
have. My room knows how many times I
cried when I’m having trouble putting
my words. I get ready for my
presentation, I practice, practice, and
practice some more. As I stand in front
of the class, all the words I practice
before the presentation goes away. I
stutter, and think of some words to
explain my drawing but I just stare at my
drawing and to our teacher who looks
disappointed. Who wouldn’t? I’m a ninth
grader and I still can’t put the right words
to explain my drawing. After the
embarrassing moment, I sat down at my
seat and cried. Why do words hate me
that much?
After that, every time our teacher asked
as to write an essay, I go straight at
Goggle or ChatGPT for them to make me
an incredible essay. That’s the moment
where words slowly getting to my head.
I’m finally having a little bit connection
with them. Maybe the reason why words
always run away from me is because I
don’t try my best to have a connection
with them.

I read a lot of essays to gain more

knowledge about words and other certain
topics. I learned so many issues that our
world currently faces like corruption,
inequality, and climate change. As the
girl matures, she may discover hidden
talents or extraordinary strengths that
have blossomed due to her distinct way
of perceiving the world. I also realized
that words aren't the only way to express
ourselves, we can express it by art, music
and even in a single symphony. Maybe,
words want to be friends with me.

As time passes by, in a world that thrives

on words, the girl's journey through a life
with limited linguistic connection
presents a poignant tale of resilience,
adaptation, and the indomitable human
spirit. Despite her challenges, she finds
beauty in her unique expression,
enriching her life and the lives of those
who take the time to understand her. I
admit I barely know how to make a
connection with words but I know to
myself that I will do my best to make the
words love me as much as I love them.

Reinstating Curfew for Teenagers:

A Responsible Step for a Brighter
Future
In recent years, the topic of imposing
curfews for teenagers has sparked
debates and discussions across the
nation. As society continues to evolve, it
becomes essential to revisit certain
measures that can contribute to the responsibilities with extracurricular
overall well-being of our youth. activities.
Reinstating curfews for teenagers is a
responsible step that can bring about Responsible Decision-Making:
numerous benefits, ensuring their safety, Adolescence is a period of learning and
health, and successful future. By growth, where teenagers begin to
providing structure and guidance during develop a sense of responsibility and
their formative years, we can empower autonomy. A curfew teaches them that
teenagers to make better choices and freedom comes with responsibilities,
become responsible citizens. helping them cultivate self-discipline and
good decision-making skills. This, in
turn, prepares them for the
Safety First: Teenagers are at a stage of
responsibilities they will face as adults.
life where they are naturally inclined to
explore and push boundaries. While this
Strong Family Bonds: Reinstating
curiosity is important for growth, it must
curfews encourages teenagers to spend
be balanced with safety considerations.
more time with their families during the
Curfews help to keep teenagers away
evening hours. Family interactions are
from potential dangers that arise during
essential for emotional well-being,
late hours, such as criminal activities,
communication, and the development of
accidents, and exposure to harmful
strong support systems. Shared meals,
influences. By reinstating curfews, we
conversations, and quality time can foster
send a clear message that their safety is a
a sense of belonging and security that
top priority.
positively impacts teenagers' mental
health.
Health and Well-being: Sleep is a vital
component of a teenager's physical and
Community Engagement: Curfews
mental development. Numerous studies
provide opportunities for teenagers to
have shown that teenagers require an
participate in community activities and
adequate amount of sleep to perform well
events that occur during daytime hours.
academically, emotionally, and
Engaging in positive community
physically. Enforcing curfews
experiences can expand their horizons,
encourages healthier sleep patterns by
build empathy, and instill a sense of civic
preventing late-night distractions like
responsibility, contributing to their
electronic devices and social media,
personal growth and social development.
allowing teenagers to wake up refreshed
and ready to seize the day.
In conclusion, the reinstatement of
curfews for teenagers represents a
Academic Success: A consistent routine
thoughtful and responsible approach to
is integral to academic success.
ensuring their safety, health, and
Reinstating curfews would provide
successful development. By creating a
teenagers with a structured environment,
secure environment, fostering healthy
helping them establish a routine that
habits, and encouraging responsible
includes designated study times and a set
decision-making, curfews can play a
bedtime. This structure fosters better
pivotal role in shaping the next
time management skills, improved focus,
generation of responsible citizens. As a
and the ability to balance academic
society, we owe it to our teenagers to
provide them with the guidance and
structure they need to thrive. Reinstating
curfews is a step towards a brighter
future for both individuals and the
communities they belong to.
 ENGLISH QUARTER 1 LESSON 1: LINEAR AND NON-LINEAR TEXT
Linear text
It refers to a form of written or printed
communication that is presented in a
sequential and chronological order,
typically following a straight line from
beginning to end. In linear text, the
content is organized in a structured
manner, with each piece of information
or idea presented one after the other,
without branching paths or nonlinear
interactions.
Books, articles, essays, and traditional
letters are examples of linear text, as they
are meant to be read in a specific order to
fully understand the author's intended
message. Linear text contrasts with
nonlinear or hypertext, where readers can
navigate through the content in a non-
sequential manner by following
hyperlinks or making choices that lead to
different sections or pages.
In the digital age, the concept of linear
text has expanded to include various
forms of online content, such as blog
posts, news articles, and other written
pieces that are presented in a structured
and sequential format.
Nonlinear Text
Nonlinear text refers to a form of written
or digital communication in which the
content is not presented in a strictly
sequential or chronological order.
Instead, nonlinear texts allow readers to
navigate and interact with the content in
a more flexible and non-sequential
manner. This can be achieved through
features like hyperlinks, interactive
elements, branching paths, and
multimedia components.
Nonlinear texts often provide readers
with the ability to choose their own paths
through the content, allowing them to
explore different sections, topics, or
perspectives based on their interests or
needs. This interactive and dynamic
approach to presenting information can
enhance engagement and offer a more
personalized reading experience.
Examples of nonlinear texts include:
1. Hypertext: A digital document that
contains links to other sections of the
same document or to external sources.
Readers can choose to follow these links
to access related information or alternate
viewpoints
2. Choose Your Own Adventure
Stories: These are books or digital
narratives that present readers with
choices at various points in the story,
leading to different outcomes and
storylines based on the reader's decisions.
3. Interactive Websites: Websites that
include interactive elements, such as
quizzes, simulations, and clickable
diagrams, allowing users to explore
content in a nonlinear way.
4. Video Games: Many video games
feature nonlinear storytelling, where
players' choices and actions influence the
progression of the narrative.
5. Social Media Feeds: Platforms like
Twitter and Facebook present content in
a nonlinear manner, where users can
scroll through posts and choose which
ones to engage with.
Nonlinear texts are often associated with
digital media and technology, as they
take advantage of the interactive
capabilities that digital platforms
provide. They offer readers and users
more agency in how they engage with
and consume information.
Linear and nonlinear texts differ in how
they present and organize information, as
well as how readers or users interact with
the content. Here are the key differences
between the two:
Difference Between Linear and
Nonlinear Text
Linear Text:
Sequential Organization: Linear texts
are presented in a strict, chronological
order from beginning to end. Each piece
of information or idea is presented one
after the other without branching paths or
deviations.
Limited Interactivity: Readers have
limited control over the order in which
they consume the content. They follow
the predetermined sequence set by the
author.
Traditional Format: Linear texts are
often found in traditional formats such as
books, articles, essays, and letters.
Author-Driven Experience: The author
dictates the flow and structure of the
content, and readers follow the intended
path.
Focus on Coherence: Linear texts
prioritize maintaining a coherent
narrative or argument by presenting
information in a logical order.
Nonlinear Text:
Flexible Organization: Nonlinear texts
do not follow a strict chronological
order. They allow for branching paths,
links, and alternative routes through the
content.
High Interactivity: Readers or users
have greater control over how they
navigate and engage with the content.
They can choose the order in which they
access information.
Digital and Interactive Formats:
Nonlinear texts are often found in digital
formats, such as hypertexts, interactive
websites, multimedia presentations, and
video games.
User-Driven Experience: Users have
the ability to explore content based on
their preferences, interests, or needs,
resulting in a more personalized
experience.
Emphasis on Exploration: Nonlinear
texts encourage exploration and
discovery as users can follow links, make
choices, and interact with various
elements.
In summary, linear texts present
information in a fixed, sequential order
and are typically found in traditional
print media, while nonlinear texts offer a
more interactive and flexible experience,
often using digital platforms to allow
users to explore content in a non-
sequential manner. The choice between
linear and nonlinear presentation depends
on the goals of the author or creator and
the type of engagement they want to
foster with their audience.