IGNOU BEGS-186 December 2024 Previous Year Question Paper

Q1.Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below it : Social media has become an integral part of modern life, offering numerous benefits as well as drawbacks. On the positive side, social media platforms provide a powerful means of communication and connectivity, allowing individuals to stay connected with friends and family regardless of geographical distance. Social media also serves as a platform for sharing information, ideas, and experiences , facilitating global conversations and fostering cultural exchange. [ 2 ] BEGS–186 Moreover, social media has revolutionized the way businesses interact with customers, enabling target ted advertising, customer feedback, and brand promotion. It has also empowered individuals and marginalized communities to amplify their voices, raise awareness about social issues, and mobilize support for causes they care about. However, social media also has its downsides. One of the most significant drawbacks is the potential for addict ion and excessive use, leading to decreased productivity, mental health issues, and social isolation. Additionally, the spread of misinformation, fake news, and online scams on social media platforms can undermine trust and create confusion among users. Furthermore, social media platforms have been criticized for their role in spreading hate speech, cyberbullying, and online harassment, posing significant risks to vulnerable groups, especially children and adolescents. Privacy [ 3 ] BEGS–186 concerns also loom large, as s ocial media companies often collect and monetize user data without adequate consent or transparency. Despite these challenges, social media remains an integral part of modern society, with its benefits and drawbacks intertwined. To harness the potential of social media for positive outcomes, it is essential to promote digital literacy, responsible use, and ethical practices among users. Additionally, policymakers and regulators must work towards establishing clear guidelines and regulations to address the v arious issues associated with social media platforms. Questions :

(a) What are some advantages of social media ? 2

(b) How has social media impacted business communication ? 2

(c) What are some negative consequences of excessive social media use ? 2 [ 4 ] BEGS–186

(d) Discuss the role of social media in spreading misinformation. 2

(e) How can individuals promote responsible use of social media ? 2

(f) Pick out words from the passage which mean the same as the following : 6 Interaction, Linkage, Enhance, D anger, Utility, Accountability

(g) What do you learn from the above passage ? Elaborate your views on it.

Q2.Write short notes on any two of the followin g giving examples of each : 2×10=20

(i) Significance of non-verbal communication

(ii) A good business report

(iii) Role and importance of feedback

(iv) Usefulness of Small Talk in Business

Q3.(a) Complete the following blank spaces with the correct tense of the verbs given in brackets : 15 In a quaint lit tle town by the rolling hills, where the sun (shin e) brightly and [ 5 ] BEGS–186 the br eeze (whisper) sweetly, t wo friends (walk) hand in hand, sharing tales of old, a s they (stroll) down the cobblestone path, memories (flood) their minds. The birds (sing) melodies, the flowers (bl oom) in hues of gold, t heir laughter (echo) in the valley, joy (fill) their hearts, t hey (stop) by the riverbank, watching the water (flow) gently, t heir dreams (dance) in the ripples, their aspirations (soar) high. Wi th each step they (take), the world seems brighter, their friendship (grow) stronger.

(b) Complete the following sentences with comparative or superlative form of adjective in brackets : 5

(i) Which animal is (fast) in the jungle ?

(ii) Identify the (interesting) book you have ever read. [ 6 ] BEGS–186

(iii) Among all the planets, Mars is (far) from the Sun.

(iv) What is (expensive) item in the store ?

(v) She is (talented) student in the class.

Q4.You have been selected for the Indian Footbal l Team. Write a note to your friend about this achievement in about 250 words : 20

(i) Describe the complex selection process.

(ii) Outline your aspirations and struggle.

(iii) Discuss your equation with team members.

(iv) Talk about your experience of travel ling to different countries.

Q5.Write a dialogue between two young friends discussing the various ways of strengthening the roots of Indian democracy.