About this previous year paper
This question paper assesses students’ understanding and practical knowledge of communication skills, listening & speaking skills, mental health, presentation techniques, and professional writing.
The paper is structured into three sections (A, B, C) to test comprehension, application, analysis, and real-world communication abilities.
SECTION A — Short Answer Questions (2 × 7 = 14 Marks)
This section contains seven compulsory short questions aimed at evaluating the student’s basic knowledge of soft skills and communication.
Key Concepts Tested:
1. Vocabulary Development
Antonyms, synonyms
Prefix/suffix usage
Word differentiation (heir vs. hare)
2. Communication Fundamentals
Difference between hearing and listening
Skimming vs. scanning reading techniques
3. Non-verbal Communication
Concept of body language and its role
4. Mental Health
Meaning and basic understanding in workplace context
This section checks language basics, conceptual clarity, and short definitions.
SECTION B — Descriptive Questions (7 × choose any 3 = 21 Marks)
Students must attempt any three questions, each requiring detailed explanation.
Topics include:
1. Grammar & Subject–Verb Agreement
Students select correct verb forms in various sentence patterns to demonstrate grammar mastery.
2. Good Listener Traits
Key qualities such as empathy, patience, open-mindedness, attention, and feedback skills.
3. Paragraph Construction Techniques
Methods like:
Chronological
Cause & effect
Comparison & contrast
Problem & solution
Descriptive and narrative styles
4. Oral Communication Benefits
Importance in workplace success:
Clarity of ideas
Productivity
Relationship building
Reduced misunderstandings
5. Relationship Between Listening & Responding
How active listening enhances meaningful responses and improves communication flow.
This section tests students’ ability to articulate soft-skill concepts clearly and effectively.
SECTION C — Long Answer Questions (7 marks each)
Each block contains two questions. Students must attempt one question from each block.
Question 3 — Sentence Transformation / Word Formation
3(a)
Transform given sentences into simple, compound, or complex forms.
This evaluates:
Grammar command
Sentence structure knowledge
Ability to rewrite meaningfully
3(b)
Evaluation of word formation methods such as:
Prefixes, suffixes
Compounding
Conversion
Clipping
Blending
Coinage
Focus: advanced vocabulary development & language structure.
Question 4 — Listening & Speaking Skills
4(a)
Exploration of:
Two modes of listening (active/passive)
Five types of listening (critical, appreciative, selective, empathetic, comprehensive)
4(b)
Justification of content sequencing in speaking:
Introduction → Body → Conclusion
Logical flow
Audience engagement
Coherence and clarity
This section emphasizes effective communication delivery.
Question 5 — Professional Writing Skills
5(a)
Drafting a notice and agenda for an annual company meeting.
Skills tested:
Formal writing
Professional formatting
Clarity & precision
5(b)
Preparing a recommendation letter for internship:
Structure
Tone
Professional endorsement
This section builds corporate communication competence.
Question 6 — Public Speaking & Presentation Skills
6(a)
Justification that confidence, clarity, and fluency make speeches effective.
Covers:
Delivery techniques
Vocal modulation
Audience connection
6(b)
Presentation strategies:
Use of visuals
Engagement techniques
Structuring content
Rehearsal methods
Focus: real-world communication performance.
Question 7 — Leadership & Workplace Stress Management
7(a)
Explanation of the idea that a leader shapes consensus through qualities such as:
Vision
Integrity
Communication
Influence
7(b)
Evaluation of 4 A’s of workplace stress management:
Avoid
Alter
Adapt
Accept
Focus: personal development, emotional intelligence, and professional ethics.
Overall Purpose of the Question Paper
This paper aims to develop:
Strong communication skills
Listening, speaking, and reading proficiency
Professional writing capability
Leadership and interpersonal skills
Mental well-being awareness
Ability to work effectively in a workplace environment
The exam ensures that engineering students build the soft skills essential for career success, team interaction, and professional growth.