University of Basrah M.

A Program

College of Education for Human Sciences Time Allowed: Three Hours Department

of English Date: 18 of May., 2022

Entrance Exam 2022-2023

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Instructions to the Candidates:
1. Use black/blue ball point pen only for (i) filling in your personal information
(ii) answering the exam questions.
2. Do not reveal your identity in any manner in any part inside the answer book.
3. No additional answer book will be given.
4. At the end of the examination return the question paper and the answer book to the
invigilator.
5. Attempt ALL questions.
6. Maximum Marks: 100. (40 Marks for Part I and 60 Marks for Part II)
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PART I
1) 1- What does the term 'tone languages' mean? (3 Marks)
Tone languages are languages in which the pitch or tone of a word can change its meaning. In these
languages, the pitch or tone is used to distinguish between words that would otherwise be pronounced
identically.

2- "The main focus on teaching the grammatical system, vocabulary items and the heavy
recourse to translation were the most attacked methodological assumptions that made the ELT
opponents to launch their scathing criticism against the adoption of the Grammar- Translation
Method." Discuss this statement first, then do as required by the following:

The statement suggests that the Grammar-Translation Method (GTM) in English Language
Teaching (ELT) has been criticized for its focus on teaching grammar rules, vocabulary through
translation, and lack of emphasis on communicative skills. The opponents of GTM argue that
this approach does not effectively develop students' ability to use English in real-life situations.
They believe that language learning should be more communicative and interactive, where
students can practice using the language in meaningful contexts.

(A.) Show the major role of both: the teacher and the learner in the above-mentioned method.
In the Grammar-Translation Method (GTM), the teacher plays a central role as the
primary source of knowledge and authority in the classroom. The teacher's main
responsibility is to provide explicit instruction on grammar rules, vocabulary, and
translation techniques. The teacher also assigns translation exercises and tests to
assess students' understanding and mastery of the material.
 On the other hand, the learner's role in GTM is passive and receptive. The learner is
expected to listen to the teacher's lectures, memorize grammar rules and vocabulary,
and complete translation exercises. There is little emphasis on developing the learner's
communicative skills or ability to use the language in real-life situations. The learner is
expected to acquire the language through rote memorization and repetition.
(B.) Which language plays a dominant role in this method?
In the Grammar-Translation Method (GTM), the target language (in this case, English)
is not the dominant language. Instead, the dominant language is the learner's native
language, which is used as the medium of instruction and translation. The teacher
explains the grammar rules and vocabulary in the learner's native language, and the
learner translates English texts into their native language. This approach emphasizes the
importance of translation as a means of learning and understanding the target language.
(C.) Mention Five fundamental principles proposed by it.
The Grammar-Translation Method (GTM) proposes the following five fundamental
principles:

1. Focus on grammar rules: The primary focus of GTM is to teach grammar rules and
sentence structure. This is done through explicit instruction, memorization, and
translation exercises.

2. Translation: Translation is considered a key component of language learning in

GTM. Learners are expected to translate English texts into their native language to
help them understand the grammar and vocabulary.

3. Vocabulary: Vocabulary acquisition is also emphasized in GTM. Learners are

expected to memorize lists of words and their meanings, often through translation
exercises.

4. Reading and writing: GTM places a strong emphasis on reading and writing skills.
Learners are expected to read and translate texts in English, and to write sentences
and paragraphs using correct grammar and vocabulary.

5. Literary texts: GTM often uses literary texts as a means of teaching grammar and
vocabulary. Learners are expected to read and analyze literary texts in English, and to
translate them into their native language.
(D.) State ONLY the techniques of its application.
The Grammar-Translation Method (GTM) typically involves the following techniques of
application:

1. Translation exercises: Learners are given English texts to translate into their native language,
and vice versa.
2. Memorization: Learners are expected to memorize grammar rules, vocabulary, and lists of
words and their meanings.
3. Grammar instruction: The teacher provides explicit instruction on grammar rules and sentence
structure.
4. Reading and writing: Learners are expected to read and write in English, often using literary
texts as a means of instruction.
5. Repetition: Learners are expected to practice using the language through repetition of
grammar rules and vocabulary.
6. Teacher-centered instruction: The teacher is the primary source of knowledge and authority
in the classroom, and learners are expected to listen and take notes during lectures.
(E.) Do you think that teachers of English must stick to this method rigidly and never stop using
it in their classroom teaching? If Yes or No, give your rational reasons. (4 Marks)
No, I do not think that teachers of English must stick to the Grammar-Translation Method (GTM)
rigidly and never stop using it in their classroom teaching. While GTM has its advantages, such as
helping learners develop a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary, it also has its limitations.

For instance, GTM does not emphasize the development of communicative skills or the ability to use
the language in real-life situations. It also does not encourage learners to think critically or creatively,
as learners are expected to memorize and repeat grammar rules and vocabulary.

Therefore, it is important for teachers to be flexible and adapt their teaching methods to the needs and
abilities of their learners. Teachers should consider using a variety of teaching methods and
approaches, such as communicative language teaching, task-based language teaching, and content-
based language teaching, to help learners develop a range of language skills and abilities.

3- Mention four main characteristics of Romantic poetry and show, with reference to a few
poems, how the Romantic poets reflect these characteristics. (4 Marks)
1. Emphasis on emotion and imagination:
- In William Wordsworth's "The Solitary Reaper," the poet is moved to tears by the beauty of the
reaper's song, reflecting the Romantic emphasis on emotion.
- In Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Kubla Khan," the poet uses vivid and imaginative language to describe
a mystical and supernatural vision, reflecting the Romantic emphasis on imagination.

2. Focus on nature:
- In Thomas Gray's "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard," the poet reflects on the beauty of nature
and the lives of ordinary people who are buried in the churchyard.
- In William Blake's "The Tyger," the poet uses natural imagery to describe the power and beauty of
the tiger.

3. Interest in the supernatural and mystical:

- In Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Kubla Khan," the poet describes a vision of a palace and gardens that
are both supernatural and mystical.
- In John Keats' "Ode to a Nightingale," the poet reflects on the supernatural power of the nightingale's
song.

4. Celebration of individualism:
- In William Wordsworth's "The Solitary Reaper," the poet celebrates the individual experience of the
reaper's song.
- In John Keats' "Ode to a Grecian Urn," the poet celebrates the individual beauty and uniqueness of
the urn.
4- What arguments would you advance for considering the implication of the reader in Hard
Times? Discuss this view in relation to the final paragraph of the text and to the idea that the
grasp of the novel depends on the reader's experience of the text. (150 words) ( 3 Marks)
In Charles Dickens' novel "Hard Times," the implication of the reader is crucial to understanding and
interpreting the text. The novel presents a critique of industrialization and utilitarianism, and the
reader's experience of the text is essential to grasping the novel's themes and messages.

The final paragraph of the novel emphasizes the importance of the reader's experience, as it suggests
that the novel is not complete without the reader's interpretation and understanding. The paragraph
states, "Here was Louisa on the night of the same day, watching the fire as in days of yore, though with
a gentler and a humbler face. How different from the hard and unfeeling face she had shown in the first
part of the novel!" This suggests that the reader's experience of the novel has the power to transform
the characters and their experiences.
Furthermore, the novel's critique of utilitarianism and industrialization requires the reader to engage
critically with the text and to reflect on their own experiences and values. The reader's interpretation
of the novel is therefore essential to understanding its themes and messages.
In conclusion, the reader's implication in "Hard Times" is crucial to understanding and interpreting the
novel's themes and messages. The final paragraph of the text emphasizes the importance of the reader's
experience, and the novel's critique of utilitarianism and industrialization requires the reader to engage
critically with the text.

5- To what extent can you describe the theme of love in Wuthering Heights. (150 words).
(3 Marks)
Love is a central theme in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. The novel explores the destructive power
of love and how it can lead to obsession, revenge, and tragedy. The love between Catherine and
Heathcliff is passionate and intense, but it ultimately leads to their downfall. Catherine's decision to
marry Edgar Linton instead of Heathcliff is driven by social and economic factors, rather than her true
feelings. This decision sets off a chain of events that leads to Heathcliff's revenge and the destruction
of both families. The novel also explores the destructive nature of unrequited love, as seen in
Heathcliff's obsession with Catherine and Isabella's infatuation with him. Overall, the theme of love in
Wuthering Heights is complex and multifaceted, showing how love can both elevate and destroy
individuals.

6- Most of the time, our understanding of language depends on our experience. Comment
(6 Marks)
It is true that our understanding of language is largely shaped by our experiences. Our experiences help
us to develop a vocabulary, syntax, and grammar that allow us to communicate effectively with others.
For example, a child growing up in a bilingual household will have a different understanding of
language than a child who only speaks one language. Similarly, a person who has traveled extensively
and been exposed to different cultures and languages will have a broader understanding of language
than someone who has not. Our experiences also shape our ability to interpret language, including the
tone, context, and cultural references that are used. This is why it is important to be aware of our own
biases and assumptions when communicating with others, especially those from different backgrounds.
By acknowledging and respecting our differences, we can improve our understanding of language and
build stronger relationships with others.
7- Discuss animal imagery in "The Love Song of J Alfred Prufrock" and comment on their thematic
significance. (6 Marks)
Animal imagery is used throughout T.S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J Alfred Prufrock" to
convey the speaker's feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and anxiety. The use of animal imagery
is significant because it highlights the speaker's sense of alienation from the natural world and
his own body. For example, the image of a "patient etherized upon a table" suggests a sense of
paralysis and detachment from the physical world. The repeated references to "the mermaids"
and "sea-girls" suggest a desire for escape and a longing for a world beyond the mundane.

Additionally, the use of animal imagery serves to emphasize the speaker's feelings of
inadequacy and emasculation. The image of a "pair of ragged claws" suggests a sense of
powerlessness and vulnerability, while the repeated references to "the bald spot in the middle
of my hair" suggest a fear of aging and loss of virility.
Overall, the animal imagery in "The Love Song of J Alfred Prufrock" serves to reinforce the
themes of isolation, inadequacy, and anxiety that are central to the poem. It highlights the
speaker's sense of detachment from the natural world and his own body, as well as his feelings
of powerlessness and vulnerability.
8- In Golding's "Lord of the Flies", the diseased and fallen nature of human beings is
pervasive to the themes of fear and power. Comment (3 Marks)
In "Lord of the Flies" by Golding, the themes of fear and power are closely tied to the idea of
the inherent evil in human nature. The novel suggests that when humans are left to their own
devices, they will inevitably succumb to their primal instincts and engage in violent and
destructive behavior. The fear of the unknown and the desire for power over others are both
manifestations of this underlying darkness within humanity. Ultimately, the novel serves as a
warning about the dangers of unchecked human nature and the need for societal structures to
keep it in check.

9- In Orwell's Animal Farm, Old Major said "All men are enemies. All animals are comrades".
In view of such belief, answer the following questions:
A- How according to Old Major, comradeship among animals can be achieved?
B- How is this saying contributive to the feeding of the idea of rebellion in animals? (3 Marks)

According to Old Major in "Animal Farm," comradeship among animals can be achieved by
recognizing their shared oppression at the hands of human beings and working together to
overthrow their oppressors. Old Major believed that animals must unite and work towards a
common goal in order to achieve their freedom and create a society where all animals are equal.

This saying is contributive to the idea of rebellion in animals because it emphasizes the idea
that animals are united in their struggle against human oppression. By framing humans as the
common enemy and animals as comrades, Old Major is able to inspire a sense of solidarity and
purpose among the animals. This, in turn, fuels the idea of rebellion and encourages the animals
to work together towards their shared goal of freedom and equality.

10- Write a brief account of the following. Provide examples wherever necessary.
A Cognate Direct Object, Notional Concord, Scope of Negation, Block Language,
Backshift in Indirect Speech (5 Marks)
1. Cognate Direct Object: A cognate direct object is a noun that has the same root as the verb
it is paired with. For example, in the sentence "She sang a sweet song," the noun "song" is a
cognate direct object because it shares the same root as the verb "sang."
2. Notional Concord: Notional concord is an agreement between the subject and verb of a
sentence based on the meaning or concept of the sentence, rather than strict grammatical
rules. For example, in the sentence "The group of students is going on a field trip," "group" is
singular, but "students" is plural. However, the verb "is going" agrees with the notional
concept of the sentence, which is that the group is acting as a single unit.
3. Scope of Negation: The scope of negation refers to the extent to which a negation (such as
"not" or "never") affects the meaning of a sentence. For example, in the sentence "I have
never been to Paris," the scope of negation is limited to the verb "been." The sentence does
not negate the fact that the speaker has been to other places.
4. Block Language: Block language is a type of language that is designed to be easy to learn
and use. It often involves the use of simple words and phrases, as well as a limited set of
grammatical structures. An example of block language is Esperanto, which was created in the
late 19th century as a universal language.
5. Backshift in Indirect Speech: Backshift in indirect speech refers to the change in verb tense
that occurs when reporting something that was said in the past. For example, if someone said
"I am going to the store," and you are reporting it later, you would say "He said he was going
to the store." The verb "am" changes to "was" to reflect the past tense of the original
statement.
 PART II
10. Write the number of the item and the letter of the correct choice: ( 7.5 Marks)
1. The initial consonant in the word 'put' is
a. Fortis
b. lenis
c. geminated
d. long

2. The second element of the affricate phonemes should be

a, a lateral
b. a nasal
c. an approximant
d. a fricative

3. The last consonant in the word 'next' is called----

a. pre-final
b. final
c. post-finall
d. post-final2

4. The primary cardinal vowels are in number.

a. 7
b. 8
c. 9
d. 10

5. The number of the English syllabic consonants is

a. 3
b. 4
c. 5
d. 6

11. Write TRUE or FALSE against each one of the following statements. ( 7.5 Marks)
1. The spoken language is superior to literary language in the Grammar-Translation Method.
2.Chomsky thought that language learning is habit -formation rather than rule-formation.
3.In the Way Method, any help offered to students should be given in a competitive manner,
not in a cooperative manner.
4.In the Community Language Learning, supporters think that the superior knowledge and
the power of the teacher can be threating..
5.In Suggestopedia Method, vocabulary is deemphasized whereas grammar is dealt with it
explicitly, but minimally.

1. TRUE 2. FALSE 3. FALSE 4. TRUE 5. FALSE

12. Choose the correct answer: (7.5 Marks)

1. The girl in William Wordsworth's "The Solitary Reaper" represents

a. beauty and solitude

b. true love
c. sadness

2. The paradise in Coleridge's "Kubla Khan" represents

a. love
b. solitude
c. imagination

3. The wind in Shelley's "Ode to the West Wind" is

a. magical
b. a stimulating power
c. a symbol of beauty

4. In his poem, "She Walks in Beauty," Byron is infatuated in the lady's

a. external beauty
b. internal beauty
c. internal and external beauty

5. William Blake's "The Sick Rose" is a poem about

a. passionate love
b. true love
c. oppressive love

13. Write the number of the item and the letter of the correct choice: (7.5 Marks)
1- Dickens frequently uses synecdoche

A- that he uses a whole to represent the part, an example of this is that Dickens uses working
class to refer to Stephen Blackpool.

B- that he uses a part to represent the whole, an example of this is that Dickens uses Stephen
Blackpool class to refer to class working.

C- A+B

2- 'Coketown' is a fictitious town evokes

A- the author's feeling.
B- the monotonous life of the poor.
C-readers' feeling
3- There are.... generations in Wuthering Heights.
A-three B-four C-five
4- Heathcliff and Catherine become apart because they are...
A- stupid. B- unequal economically. C- proud and selfish.

5- Hindley drops Hareton over the banister. Who catches him?

A-Catherine B- Nelly C-Heathcliff

14. Choose the correct option: (7.5 Marks)

1. Which of the following is an exclamatory sentence?
a. How did you quickly eat!
b. How quickly did you eat!
c. How quickly you eat!
d. How you eat quickly!

2. The noun clause in (Can you believe that giraffes have four stomachs?) functions as:
a. Subject Complement
b. Direct Object
c. Subject
d. Adjectival Complement

3. Because a subordinate clause depends on the rest of the sentence to express a complete
thought, it is called a……..
a. Prepositional clause
b. Dependent clause
c. Verbal clause
d. Superordinate clause

4. Which sentence is correct?

a. The attendance award went to whoever had perfect attendance all year
b. The attendance award went to whomever had perfect attendance all year
c. Both a and b
d. Neither a nor b

5. (Will she give the employees a raise?) The pattern of this sentence is
a. SVA
b. SV Oi Od
c. SV Od
d. SV Cs
15. Choose the most suitable answer: (7.5 Marks)

1-few adults seem to have native-like --------- in using a foreign language.

a-pronunciation b-grammar c-vocabulary d- understanding
2-Students who achieve high scores in an L2 in------may find themselves lost in real life
situations.
a-The grammar-translation method
b-the direct method
c-the audio-lingual method
d- the communicative approach

3-The best time to learn a foreign language is------

a-childhood
b-primary school
c-secondary school
d-college

4-At what stage children start to learn about plurals?

a-One-word
b-two-word
c-telegraphic
d-none

5-The first level of child language is----

a-Cooing
b-babbling
c-one-word
d-listening

16. Pick the most suitable choice: (7.5 Marks)

1. The pessimism about the resulted in the apocalyptic elements in modern poetry.
a. literature
b. past
c. future
d. nature
2. The lines The salmon-falls, the mackerel-crowded seas/ Fish, flesh, or fowl, commend all
summer long" from "Sailing to Byzantium" indicate all but………….
a. increase
b. reproduction
c. talent
d. abundance

3. The…….. with which Auden wraps "The Unknown Citizen" summarise its main themes.
a. reports
b. metaphors
c. questions.
d. recommendations
 4. In " At Grass", Philip Larkin revisits the imperial British past and-……. -its glories.
a. races
b. condemns
c. praises
d. criticises
5. -……….." is a poem that revives a romantic tradition reminiscent of the major Romantic poets.
a. Fem Hill.
b. The Thought Fox.
c. Sailing to Byzantium.(Not sure)
d. The Love Song
17. Respond to the following questions on "Lord of the Flies" and "Animal Farm":
(7.5 Marks)
1. From what perspective is the narrative of Lord of the Flies related?
(a) First person.
(b) Third person.
(c) Second person.
2. What physical ailment does Piggy say he suffers from in Chapter 1: "The Sound of the
Shell"?
(a) Partial deafness.
(b) Asthma.
(c) Tuberculosis.
(d) Epilepsy
3. What kind of store does Piggy say his auntie used to run in Chapter 1: "The Sound of the
Shell"?
(a) A candy store.
(b) A florist shop.
(c) A shoe store.
(d) A women's clothing store.
4. In Chapter 3: "Huts on the Beach," the narrator states, "The silence of the forest was more
oppressive than" what?

(a) "The heat."

(b) "The isolation."
(c) "The danger."
(d) "The permanence."
5. How do the animals feel about Old Major in Animal Farm?
A. The animals make fun of Major
B. The animals ignore Major.
C. The animals respect Major.

Entrance Exam Committee