5.

LEARNING SKILLS
THREE QUESTIONS -BY LEO TOLSTOY
Write the meaning of the following words and phrases:
Proclaimed: Announced officially or publicly.
Draw up: Create or formulate a plan, document, or list.
Hermit: A person who lives in solitude, often for religious or spiritual reasons.
Renowned: Widely known and esteemed, famous.
Cell: In various contexts, it could refer to a small room or compartment, a biological cell, or a basic
unit of a structure.
Dismounted: Got off or down from a horse, bicycle, or other mode of transportation.
Frail: Weak and delicate, easily broken or damaged.
Recommenced: Started again or resumed.
Feebly: In a weak or faint manner.
Ceased: Stopped or came to an end.
Revived: Brought back to life, consciousness, or strength.
Crouched: Bent down with the body close to the ground, especially by bending the knees.
Threshold: The point or level at which something begins or changes.
Ambush: A surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position.
Repented: Felt remorse or regret for one's wrongdoing and resolved to change one's behavior.
PREFIXES
Using negative prefixes make appropriate words:
able → unable
approve → disapprove
connect → disconnect
establish → destabilize
legal → illegal
patient → impatient
rational → irrational
secure → insecure
satisfied → dissatisfied
trust → distrust
cover → uncover
order → disorder
respect → disrespect
visible → invisible
correct → incorrect
regular → irregular
honest → dishonest
literate → illiterate
manage → mismanage
function → dysfunction
use → misuse
happy → unhappy
depend → independent
responsible → irresponsible
fair → unfair
symmetrical → asymmetrical
conform → nonconform
linear → nonlinear
conventional → unconventional
cooperate → counteract
obey → disobey
appear → disappear
regular → irregular
moral → immoral
understand → misunderstand
stated → understated
charge → discharge
approve → disapprove
agree → disagree
Write opposites of the following words using suitable suffixes:
Certain → Uncertain
Important → Unimportant
Action → Inaction
Proper → Improper
Skilled → Unskilled
Agreed → Disagreed
Common → Uncommon
Learn → Unlearn
Attentive → Inattentive
Correctly → Incorrectly
Wise → Unwise
Equally → Unequally
Known → Unknown
Religious → Irreligious
Quiet → Unquiet
Done → Undone
Faithful → Unfaithful
Easy → Uneasy
Continue → Discontinue
Recognise → Unrecognise
Thinking about soft skills
Answer the following Questions keeping in mind Learning skills
1.Why is it important to update one's knowledge and skills?
Ans: Updating one's knowledge and skills is crucial for several reasons:
Professional Growth: In many professions, staying updated is essential for career advancement.
New technologies, methodologies, and industry trends continually emerge, and individuals who
adapt and learn stay competitive in the job market.
Adaptability: The world is constantly changing, and new challenges arise. Updating skills ensures
individuals can adapt to evolving situations, making them more resilient in the face of change.
Increased Effectiveness: Continuous learning enhances one's ability to perform tasks more
efficiently and effectively. Acquiring new knowledge can lead to improved problem-solving skills
and innovation.
Personal Development: Learning is not only about professional growth but also personal
development. It fosters a sense of curiosity, open-mindedness, and a broader understanding of the
world.
Future Relevance: As technology advances, certain skills become obsolete, and new ones become
essential. Updating skills ensures relevance in a rapidly evolving world.
2.What are the different sources you can use to acquire knowledge?
Ans:Formal Education: Schools, colleges, and universities provide structured learning
environments with curriculum-based education.
Online Courses and Tutorials: Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and Khan Academy offer a wide
range of courses on various subjects, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace.
Books and Literature: Reading books, articles, and research papers provides in-depth knowledge
on specific topics.
Workshops and Seminars: Attending events, conferences, and workshops allows individuals to
learn from experts, share experiences, and network.
Mentorship: Learning from experienced mentors can provide valuable insights and guidance.
Practical Experience: Hands-on experience through internships, projects, and real-world
application of knowledge is a powerful learning source.
Networking: Interacting with peers, professionals, and experts in a given field can expose
individuals to diverse perspectives and knowledge.
3.What motivates some people to study and learn even when there is no apparent need to do so?
Intrinsic Motivation: Some individuals have an inherent desire for personal growth and intellectual
stimulation. They are motivated by the joy of learning itself.
Passion: When people are passionate about a subject or field, they are naturally motivated to
explore and deepen their understanding, irrespective of external demands.
Curiosity: Curiosity is a powerful motivator. Those who are naturally curious tend to seek
knowledge for the sake of understanding and discovering new things.
Future Opportunities: Individuals may recognize that learning new skills can open doors to
unforeseen opportunities, making the investment in learning worthwhile.
Self-Improvement: Continuous learning is often seen as a means of self-improvement. Some
individuals are driven by the desire to become better versions of themselves.
Personal Goals: Individuals may have personal goals or aspirations that require acquiring new
knowledge or skills, even if there is no immediate external demand.
Learning skills from the story
In the story ` The three questions ‘ by Leo Tolstoy , the king wants the answers to three questions
so that he can rule his country effectively. The desire to learn is so great that even though he is a
king he is willing to do manual work for hermit. Analyse the story in context with the learning
skills. Explain the various elements of learning skills displayed by the king and various aspects of
Learning skills required for making ones life successful.

In "The Three Questions" by Leo Tolstoy, the king seeks answers to three fundamental questions
to rule wisely. The story highlights essential elements of learning skills and sheds light on aspects
crucial for a successful life.
The king's eagerness to learn displays a growth mindset, a fundamental learning skill. Despite his
royal status, he humbly engages in manual work for the hermit, emphasizing a willingness to
acquire knowledge from various sources, irrespective of societal norms. This reflects adaptability
and open-mindedness—traits crucial for lifelong learning.
Furthermore, the king's recognition of the need for wisdom in governance showcases a practical
application of learning. The story suggests that effective leadership requires continuous learning
and the ability to adapt knowledge to real-world situations.
The hermit's wisdom teaches the king about the importance of focusing on the present moment.
This mindfulness aspect is a key element of learning skills, emphasizing the significance of being
fully engaged and attentive in the learning process.
The story also highlights the role of curiosity and asking questions as essential components of
learning. The king's quest for answers demonstrates intellectual curiosity and a desire to
understand deeper truths, showcasing the importance of inquiry-based learning.
Additionally, the emphasis on the interconnectedness of all beings and the idea that "the most
necessary time is now" underscores the importance of prioritizing learning in the present. This
aligns with the concept of lifelong learning, emphasizing that the pursuit of knowledge is a
continual and ongoing process.
In summary, "The Three Questions" encapsulates learning skills such as a growth mindset,
adaptability, open-mindedness, practical application, mindfulness, curiosity, and the value of
inquiry-based learning. The story suggests that incorporating these elements into one's life is
essential for personal and professional success. The king's journey exemplifies how a commitment
to learning can lead to wisdom, effective leadership, and a fulfilling life.
Explain the meaning of the following proverbs:
a.He who is afraid of asking is ashamed of learning: This proverb emphasizes the importance
of overcoming one's fear or hesitation to ask questions. It suggests that a person who is afraid to
seek knowledge or clarification is likely hindered by pride or embarrassment, hindering the
learning process.
b.The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials: This proverb
conveys the idea that challenges and difficulties, analogous to friction on a gem, are necessary for
personal growth and perfection. It suggests that facing trials and overcoming obstacles are essential
for refining and improving oneself.
c.Only after learning, do you know what you do not know: This proverb highlights the concept
of awareness and realization that comes with education. It suggests that true understanding
involves recognizing the gaps in one's knowledge, and this awareness often arises only after
engaging in the process of learning.
d.You are never too old to learn: This proverb emphasizes the idea that learning is a lifelong
process. It suggests that age should not be a barrier to acquiring new knowledge or skills,
encouraging individuals to remain open-minded and curious throughout their lives.
e.Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere: This proverb conveys the
enduring value of education. It suggests that the knowledge and skills acquired through learning
become a valuable and lasting asset that stays with a person, proving beneficial in various
situations and circumstances.
f.Keep the old, but learn the new: This proverb encourages a balanced approach to learning. It
advises the retention of traditional wisdom and experiences while remaining open to acquiring
new knowledge and adapting to change for personal and professional development.
g.You will not grow at all if you think you know it all: This proverb underscores the importance
of humility in the learning process. It suggests that being closed-minded or overly confident in
one's knowledge inhibits personal growth. True development comes from acknowledging one's
limitations and embracing the opportunity to learn from others.
h.If you study to remember, you forget; but if you study to understand, you will remember:
This proverb emphasizes the significance of comprehension in the learning process. It suggests
that mere memorization without understanding is temporary, while a deeper understanding leads
to lasting retention of knowledge.
i.If the child is not learning the way you are teaching, then you must teach in the way the
child learns: This proverb emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse learning styles. It
suggests that effective teaching involves adapting to the individual needs and preferences of the
learner, ensuring a more successful and engaging educational experience.
j.Live and learn: The proverb "Live and learn" means that throughout life, one gains wisdom and
understanding through various experiences and situations. It suggests that every moment, whether
positive or negative, offers an opportunity to learn and grow. The idea is to embrace life's lessons
and continually seek knowledge from the diverse experiences encountered during one's journey.
Soft skills in the workplace
Answer the following questions keeping learning skills in mind:
1.You have been working in a company for many years and your employees are satisfied with
your work. Suddenly one day you are asked to upgrade your skills . What will you do to improve
your skills?
Ans- Improving Skills in the Workplace: If asked to upgrade skills after many years of working, I
would initiate the following steps:
Identify Areas of Improvement: Assess current industry trends and identify skills in demand.
Seek Training Programs: Enroll in relevant workshops, seminars, or online courses.
Networking: Connect with colleagues and professionals for insights and mentorship.
On-the-Job Learning: Apply new skills directly to tasks in the workplace.

2.What are the difference ways by which you can acquire recognized degrees and diplomas?
Ans. Th different ways by which one can acquiring recognized degrees and diplomas are:
Formal Education: Enroll in universities or colleges offering degree programs.
Online Education: Utilize reputable online platforms for accredited courses.
Professional Certifications: Pursue certifications relevant to the industry.
Part-Time Studies: Attend evening classes or weekend programs at educational institutions.

3.What are the informal ways of learning by which you can develop your abilities and empower
yourself?
Ans: The informal ways of learning by which one can develop abilities and empower oneself are:
Reading and Research: Stay informed through books, articles, and online resources.
Networking and Mentoring: Learn from experienced colleagues and mentors.
Skill-sharing Platforms: Participate in online communities for knowledge exchange.
Project-Based Learning: Engage in real-world projects to develop practical skills.

4.What opportunities are given to employees to improve their skills and abilities ? Give specific
examples.
Ans: Opportunities for Employee Skill Improvement are :
In-House Training Programs: Companies conduct workshops and training sessions.
Professional Development Courses: Support employees attending relevant courses.
Conferences and Seminars: Sponsorship for employees to attend industry events.
Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn skills from different departments.
Mentorship Programs: Pairing experienced employees with those seeking development.
Examples:
a.A tech company might offer coding bootcamps for employees to enhance programming skills.
b. Healthcare organizations might provide sponsored courses for staff to upgrade medical
certifications.
c.Regular in-house workshops on leadership skills for managerial staff.
d.Encouraging participation in industry conferences, where employees can learn about the latest
trends and technologies