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+2 English NOTE - THE 3LS OF EMPOWERMENT

Unit - 1
Flights of Freedom

Think and discuss:

 Have you ever thought about the various roles taken
by women in their homes and outside?

Yes, women play a variety of roles both inside and outside their homes, especially in Indian
society. Here are some points to consider:

1. Homemaker: In Indian culture, women are traditionally responsible for taking care of the
household and ensuring that the family's needs are met. This includes cooking, cleaning,
and caring for children and elderly family members.

2. Working professional: Many women in India work outside the home, pursuing careers in
various fields such as medicine, law, engineering, and education. Women have made
significant strides in the workforce, and many hold high-level positions in government
and business.

3. Entrepreneur: Women in India are increasingly starting their own businesses, from small-
scale ventures like selling homemade goods to larger companies in fields such as tech and
finance.

4. Caregiver: Women are often the primary caregivers for family members who are ill or
disabled, providing emotional and physical support to those in need.

5. Community leader: Women in India are also taking on leadership roles in their
communities, advocating for social change and working to improve the lives of others
through activism and volunteerism.

6. Role model: Women are inspiring younger generations to pursue their dreams and break
through gender barriers. Many women have become role models for others, inspiring
girls to aspire to careers that were once considered off-limits.

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7. Political leader: Women have been making strides in the political arena as well, with more
and more women running for office and being elected to positions of power at the local,
state, and national levels.

8. Educator: Women are also making a significant contribution to education in India, both
as teachers and as students. Women are pursuing higher education in increasing
numbers, and many are working as educators themselves, shaping the minds of future
generations.

These are just a few of the many roles that women play in Indian society. Women have made
significant progress in recent years, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that women
are able to live their lives to the fullest and achieve their full potential.

What are the challenges faced by women today?

Women face various challenges in today's world, especially in Indian society. Here are some of
the key challenges faced by women:

1. Gender-based violence: Women face physical, emotional, and sexual violence both at
home and outside. Domestic violence is prevalent in many households, and women face
harassment and assault in public spaces.

2. Unequal opportunities: Women face unequal opportunities in education, employment,

and political representation. Women are often not given the same opportunities as men,
which limits their potential and growth.

3. Patriarchal attitudes: Indian society is still predominantly patriarchal, and women are
expected to adhere to traditional gender roles. They are often expected to prioritize
family responsibilities over personal growth and ambitions.

4. Discrimination in the workplace: Women face discrimination in the workplace in terms

of pay, promotions, and opportunities. Many women are not given the same
opportunities as men and are often paid less for the same work.

5. Limited access to healthcare: Women often have limited access to healthcare facilities,
especially in rural areas. This leads to inadequate health outcomes for women, including
high maternal mortality rates.

6. Child marriage and dowry: Child marriage is still prevalent in many parts of India, which
deprives young girls of their childhood and education. Dowry is another issue that
women face, where they are expected to bring a substantial amount of money and gifts
to their in-laws at the time of marriage.

7. Limited political representation: Women have limited political representation in India.

Although women make up almost half of the population, they are significantly
underrepresented in political offices.

These challenges limit the potential of women and hinder their growth and progress. It is
essential to address these challenges and create a society that provides equal opportunities and a
safe environment for women to thrive.
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Are women equipped to meet those challenges?

Yes, women are equipped to meet the challenges they face today in Indian society. Here are
some points to consider:
1. Education: Education is the foundation upon which any change is built. Women who are
educated have better chances of achieving their goals, whether it be in their personal or
professional lives.
2. Awareness: Women need to be aware of their rights and entitlements. This will help
them to make informed decisions and demand their rights when necessary.
3. Support from family and society: Women need support from their families and society to
overcome the challenges they face. This includes emotional support, financial support,
and support to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
4. Empowerment: Women need to be empowered to take control of their lives. This means
giving them access to resources, skills, and opportunities that will help them achieve their
goals.
5. Financial independence: Women need to be financially independent. This will give them
the freedom to make their own decisions, and not be dependent on others for their
livelihood.
6. Leadership: Women need to be given opportunities to assume leadership roles. This will
help them to develop their skills and abilities, and make a positive impact on society.
Overall, women are capable of meeting the challenges they face today, but they need the support
and empowerment to do so.

THE 3LS OF EMPOWERMENT ( Christine Lagarde )

Lesson analysis
In her speech, Christine Lagarde, the former Finance Minister of France and the first woman to
head the International Monetary Fund (IMF), emphasizes the role of women in the economy
and the need to empower them. She argues that women's potential is often blocked, leading to
significant costs for countries that deny women equal opportunities. She suggests that opening
the door to women's learning, labour, and leadership can help empower women and improve
their economic participation.
Lagarde begins by highlighting the challenges that the 21st century poses and the need for new
ways of thinking. She argues that the economic role of women is crucial, but they remain
blocked from contributing their true potential. In some countries, per capita income lags
significantly because women are denied equal opportunity. Despite representing half the world's
population, women contribute far less than 50 per cent of economic activity. Therefore,
concerted efforts are needed to open the door to opportunity with what Lagarde calls the "3 Ls"
of women's empowerment: learning, labour, and leadership.
The first "L" is learning, and Lagarde argues that education is the foundation upon which any
change is built. Learning helps women to help themselves and break the shackles of exclusion. In
the developing world, education is essential, and as African adage goes, "If you educate a boy,
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you train a man. If you educate a girl, you train a village." This adage highlights the importance
of education in empowering women and promoting their economic participation.The second "L"
is labour, and Lagarde argues that it is crucial for women to flourish and achieve their true
potential. However, women too often tend to get stuck in low-paying, low-status, and low-
security jobs. Globally, women earn only three-quarters as much as men - even with the same
level of education and in the same occupation. Lagarde suggests that equal pay for equal work
should be one of the most basic norms. Eliminating gender gaps in economic participation can
bring an increase in per capita income. Policies that encourage education, health care, and greater
access to credit will help women achieve greater economic independence.

Finally, the third "L" is leadership that enables women to rise and fulfill their innate abilities and
talents. Lagarde argues that when women lead, they tend to do as good a job as others, if not a
better job. Women are more likely to make decisions based on consensus-building, inclusion,
compassion, and with a focus on long-term sustainability. However, women sometimes lack the
confidence to match their competence, and they need to change that mindset and reset the
narrative in their favour. Women must be ready to "dare the difference" - to take risks and step
outside their comfort zones. Nonetheless, even those with the drive to succeed continue to face
barriers.
In conclusion, Lagarde emphasizes that it is time to create a world where all women can meet
their potential without impediment or prejudice, and the world will reap the benefits. By
implementing the three Ls - learning, labour, and leadership - we can create a world where
women are liberated and able to contribute their true potential. The 3 Ls offer a roadmap for
women's empowerment, and by following it, we can achieve a more equitable and prosperous
world.

1 . A webinar is conducted by the English Club of your school on the topic '21st century
Indian women and the challenges they face in the society'. As a member of the club you
are asked to make a speech on the topic. Prepare the speech.(8)
Respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends.. Good morning to all...
I am here to say a few words on the topic "21st century Indian Women and the challenges they
face in the society"
As we all know, the Indian society has come a long way in terms of women empowerment.
However, there are still many challenges that women face in the 21st century. Women are
constantly struggling to balance their professional and personal lives. They have to deal with
gender discrimination, unequal pay, and harassment at workplaces. Moreover, they also have to
juggle with the societal pressure of marriage and family responsibilities.

One of the biggest challenges faced by Indian women is the lack of access to education and
employment opportunities. Due to societal norms, many women are still deprived of basic
education and are forced to drop out of schools. This restricts their chances of pursuing their

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dream careers and contributing to society. The lack of adequate maternity leave and childcare
facilities also adds to the struggles of working mothers.

Another major challenge is the issue of women's safety. Women are still facing various forms of
violence and harassment in their daily lives. This has a huge impact on their physical and mental
health, and restricts their mobility and freedom. The need for strict laws and efficient law
enforcement to ensure women's safety has become more crucial than ever.

Despite all these challenges, I firmly believe that women are equipped to face them head-on.
With education, awareness, and support from society, women can break free from the shackles
of gender discrimination and become agents of change. It is our responsibility to create an
inclusive society where women are treated with respect and equality. Only then can we truly
achieve gender equality and a brighter future for all.
Thank you.

2. Christine Lagarde emphasizes the importance of Learning Labour and Leadership in

women empowerment. Draft an essay on the topic ' Educated women to progress and
prosperity', based on your reading of the speech 'The Three Ls of Empowerment. (6?)

In her speech "The Three Ls of Empowerment," Christine Lagarde emphasizes that the three
key factors for empowering women are Learning, Labour, and Leadership. Education plays a
vital role in women's progress and prosperity. Education gives women the knowledge and skills
they need to participate fully in the workforce, to become leaders in their fields, and to achieve
financial independence. When women have access to education, they can break the shackles of
exclusion and contribute to their families, communities, and the economy.

Furthermore, Labour is an essential factor in empowering women. It facilitates women to

flourish and achieve their true potential. Women need to be given equal opportunities in the
workplace and should not be stuck in low-paying, low-status, and low-security jobs. Policies
should encourage education and healthcare, and laws should be enacted to prevent
discrimination against women in property and inheritance laws.

Leadership is the third essential factor in empowering women. Women should be given
leadership positions to fulfill their innate abilities and talents. Research has shown that women
tend to make decisions based on consensus-building, inclusion, compassion, and with a focus on
long-term sustainability. It is essential to change the narrative around women's confidence levels
and to encourage women to take risks and step outside their comfort zones.

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In conclusion, educated women play a vital role in the progress and prosperity of society.
Empowering women with education, labour opportunities, and leadership positions can bring a
significant increase in per capita income and contribute to the overall development of the
society.

3. What are the problems faced by women in work place ?

Women have been facing various challenges and obstacles in the workplace for a long time.
Despite advancements in gender equality, women still encounter problems in their careers. Some
of the most common issues faced by women in the workplace include:

1. Gender discrimination: Women are often discriminated against in the workplace based
on their gender, which leads to unequal treatment and opportunities.

2. Unequal pay: Women still earn less than men for doing the same job, despite the fact that
they may have similar education, experience, and skills.

3. Lack of advancement opportunities: Women are often overlooked for promotions and
leadership positions, and their voices may not be heard as often as men's.

4. Sexual harassment: Women are frequently subjected to sexual harassment in the

workplace, which can create a hostile work environment and lead to mental health issues.

5. Lack of work-life balance: Women may struggle to balance their work and personal
responsibilities, especially when it comes to caregiving duties.

6. Stereotyping: Women may be stereotyped based on their gender, which can limit their
career opportunities and lead to bias.

It is important to address these issues and create a workplace culture that values and supports
women's career growth and success.

4 . Why does Christine Lagarde say that women must be ready to "dare the difference "?
In her speech titled "The Three Ls of Empowerment," Christine Lagarde emphasizes the
importance of women being willing to "dare the difference." According to Lagarde, women must

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be willing to take risks and step out of their comfort zones to achieve success and
empowerment.

Lagarde notes that women are often socialized to be risk-averse and cautious, which can hold
them back from pursuing their goals and ambitions. She argues that women must overcome this
societal conditioning and be willing to take bold actions, such as pursuing leadership roles,
starting businesses, or advocating for themselves in the workplace.

By daring to be different and taking risks, women can break through the barriers that hold them
back and achieve greater success and empowerment. Lagarde believes that this mindset is
essential for women to thrive in the 21st century, where new challenges and opportunities are
constantly emerging.

Overall, Lagarde's message is clear: women must be willing to challenge themselves and take
risks if they want to achieve their full potential and make a difference in the world.

5 . "We need to empower women in India because even now they face numerous
discriminations and challenges". Draft a blog expressing your views on this statement in
the light of the speech by Christine Lagarde
India has made significant progress in terms of women's empowerment in recent years, yet
women still face various forms of discrimination and challenges. The speech by Christine
Lagarde on the Three Ls of Empowerment highlights the importance of education, labor force
participation, and leadership in women's empowerment. However, despite progress in education
and labor force participation, women in India still face discrimination in the workplace and
limited opportunities for leadership positions.

Women in India face challenges in accessing education due to social norms and economic
barriers. Additionally, women face discrimination in the workplace and are often paid less than
their male counterparts for the same work. The lack of representation in leadership positions
further limits their progress towards empowerment.

To address these issues, we need to take a multi-faceted approach to empower women. It is

essential to provide equal access to education and encourage women's participation in the
workforce. We must also promote gender diversity in leadership positions and provide support
and mentorship to women who aspire to leadership roles.

In conclusion, while India has made progress in empowering women, there is still a long way to
go. It is crucial to recognize the challenges women face and work towards creating a more
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inclusive society that supports women's education, labor force participation, and leadership
opportunities. Only then can we truly achieve progress and prosperity for all.

6 . Your class is organizing a debate on the topic "Providing Education to women

empowers a society" . Write four points either supporting or opposing statement.

Supporting points:

1. Education provides women with knowledge, skills, and confidence to actively participate
in social, economic, and political spheres, thus empowering them and their communities.
2. Educated women are better equipped to make informed decisions regarding their health,
family planning, and overall well-being, leading to better health outcomes for themselves
and their families.
3. Educating women can break the cycle of poverty and lead to economic growth as
women enter the workforce and contribute to the country's GDP.
4. Providing education to women can help in reducing gender-based violence and
discrimination by making women more aware of their rights and encouraging them to
demand equal treatment.

Opposing points:

1. Providing education to women can be expensive and may divert resources from other
important sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, and defense.
2. Educated women may prioritize their careers over their families, leading to a decline in
traditional family values and social structures.
3. Educating women may challenge the existing power structures and lead to resistance
from conservative groups, which can create social and political unrest.
4. Educating women may not lead to immediate results and may require long-term
investments, which may not be feasible for developing countries with limited resources.

7 . Prepare a write-up on the topic "The role of women in modern society"

Women have played a significant role in modern society and have made significant strides in
various fields. Women have proven themselves to be just as competent and capable as men in all
aspects of life. In the modern era, women have broken down traditional gender roles and have
become leaders in fields such as science, technology, business, politics, and education.

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The role of women in modern society is not just limited to contributing to the economy or being
a caregiver. Women have also been at the forefront of promoting social change and standing up
for their rights. They have been instrumental in promoting equality, challenging gender
stereotypes, and advocating for better healthcare, education, and political representation.

Moreover, women have been playing a crucial role in maintaining social and cultural values in
society. They have been the backbone of the family and the nurturers of the next generation.
Women have been instrumental in creating a safe and secure environment for their families and
have been successful in imparting values such as compassion, empathy, and inclusivity to the
future generation.

However, despite the significant progress made, women continue to face challenges such as
gender discrimination, unequal pay, limited access to education, and lack of representation in
leadership roles. It is essential for society to recognize the significant contribution that women
have made and continue to make, and work towards creating an environment that empowers
women to achieve their full potential.

In conclusion, the role of women in modern society is multifaceted, and women have shown that
they are capable of excelling in all fields of life. Women are not just contributors to the economy
or caregivers, but also agents of change and transformation in society. Empowering women and
recognizing their contributions is crucial for creating a more equitable and just society.

8. A panel discussion is being organized in your school on the topic" Women, family,
society and nation".Prepare the script to present your views on the topic.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Today we are here to discuss the topic "Women, family,
society, and nation". In my opinion, women play a vital role in all these areas.

Firstly, women are the backbone of the family. They are the ones who provide unconditional
love and care to their families. They ensure the overall development of their children and instill
values that shape their character. Women also take care of the elderly in the family and provide
support to their spouses.

Secondly, women contribute significantly to society. They hold important positions in various
fields and make a significant contribution to the economy. Women are now breaking the
traditional stereotypes and excelling in all fields. They have proved that they are equally capable
of doing everything that men can do.
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Thirdly, women play a critical role in nation-building. They are the ones who raise the future
citizens of the country. Women's education and empowerment are essential for the development
of the nation. When women are educated, they can participate in the decision-making process
and bring about positive changes in the society.

In conclusion, women play a crucial role in the family, society, and nation. We need to recognize
their contributions and empower them to become agents of change. It is time to break the
gender stereotypes and provide equal opportunities to women. Let us work together to build a
society where women are valued and respected for their contributions. Thank you.

9 . "It's time to create a world where all women can meet their potential without
impediment or prejudice and the world will reap the benefits. "Based on your reading of
Christine Lagarde's speech , write an essay on how women can realize their true
potential (8) December 2019
In her speech, Christine Lagarde emphasized the importance of empowering women to realize
their full potential. Women have the potential to achieve great things, but many face
impediments and prejudices that prevent them from reaching their goals. To realize their true
potential, women need to focus on a few key areas.

Firstly, education is key. Women must have access to education and be encouraged to pursue
their interests and talents. This will equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to
succeed in their chosen fields.

Secondly, women must have access to equal opportunities. This includes access to jobs,
promotions, and leadership positions. When women are given the same opportunities as men,
they can demonstrate their talents and contribute fully to their communities.

Thirdly, women need support from their families and communities. They need the freedom to
pursue their dreams without being held back by societal expectations or cultural traditions.

Fourthly, women must learn to be confident and assertive. They should not be afraid to speak up
and take on leadership roles. By being confident, they can demonstrate their abilities and inspire
others to follow in their footsteps.

Finally, women must be encouraged to take risks and embrace new challenges. This will enable
them to learn and grow, and ultimately, to achieve their full potential.

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In conclusion, women have enormous potential that can only be realized when they are given the
tools, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. When women succeed, everyone
benefits. By empowering women, we can create a world where everyone can achieve their
dreams, without impediment or prejudice.
10 . "No country can ever truly flourish if it represses the potential of its women and
deprives itself of the contribution of half of its citizens ." In the light of your
understanding of the ideas expressed by Christine Lagarde, prepare an editorial on the
role played by women on the progress of the nation (8) Say/imp 2019
Title: Unleashing the Power of Women: A Catalyst for National Progress

In her thought-provoking speech, Christine Lagarde emphasized the indispensable role of

women in the progress of a nation. She aptly stated, "No country can ever truly flourish if it
represses the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contribution of half of its
citizens." This statement holds immense truth and highlights the significance of women's
empowerment in driving national development.

Women play a multifaceted role in shaping the destiny of a nation. Their contributions are
pivotal in various spheres, be it education, economy, healthcare, politics, or social reform. When
women are empowered, their unique perspectives and skills bring fresh ideas, creativity, and
resilience to the table.

The progress of a nation depends on the collective efforts of all its citizens. By repressing the
potential of women, we deny ourselves their invaluable contribution. It is essential to provide
equal opportunities, access to education, and a supportive environment that nurtures their talents
and aspirations.

When women are empowered, they become agents of change, catalysts for innovation, and
drivers of economic growth. They strengthen the workforce, enhance productivity, and bring
diversity to decision-making processes. Moreover, empowered women act as role models,
inspiring future generations and breaking down gender barriers.

To unlock the true potential of women, it is imperative for societies to challenge gender norms,
eliminate discriminatory practices, and ensure gender equality in all spheres. Governments,
institutions, and communities must work collectively to create an enabling environment that
promotes women's rights, education, and economic empowerment.

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In conclusion, the progress of a nation is intrinsically tied to the empowerment of its women. By
harnessing their potential, a nation can unleash a powerful force that drives social, economic, and
political advancements. It is high time we recognize the pivotal role played by women in national
progress and work tirelessly towards building an inclusive society that fosters their growth and
contribution. Only then can we truly thrive as a nation and achieve sustainable development for
all.
11 . A discussion was held in your class on the topic 'Domestic Violence' , If we are to
fight discrimination and injustice against women, we must start from home., for if a
woman cannot be safe in her own house, then she cannot be expected to feel safe
anywhere. Write four points supporting this opinion . March 2021
1. Home is considered to be a safe haven for everyone, but for many women, it is where
they face physical and emotional abuse. If women are not safe in their own homes, it
becomes impossible for them to feel secure anywhere else.

2. Domestic violence affects not only the physical and mental health of women but also
their economic and social well-being. It deprives them of the right to live a dignified life
and makes them financially and socially dependent on their abusers.

3. Studies have shown that children who grow up witnessing domestic violence are more
likely to suffer from emotional and psychological issues, and may even become
perpetrators or victims of violence themselves.

4. It is essential to break the cycle of violence and discrimination against women by creating
awareness, providing education, and empowering women to speak up and seek help. This
can be done through effective laws and policies, counseling and rehabilitation centers,
and community support. Only then can we ensure that women are safe and protected,
not only in their homes but also in society.

Prepared By hssMozhi Team

Supervised By Reshma Prabhakaran , HSST English , Govt HSS , Bharathannoor , Tvm

FOR +2 Malayalam Note 👉 CLICK HERE

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