(SEM I) THEORY EXAMINATION 2023-24 SOFT SKILLS

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.