Class 8 English Unit 2: Reading II: Changing the World & Writing II: Email Writing
Reading II: Changing the World: Edward de Bono
About the Poet
Edward de Bono (1933–2021) was a Maltese physician, psychologist, and pioneering thinker best known for his work on creative thinking and problem-solving. He coined the term "lateral thinking" and developed influential methods like the Six Thinking Hats and Parallel Thinking to improve decision-making and innovation.
Summary of the Poem
The poem titled 'Changing the World' is composed by Edward de Bono, a physician and psychologist. This poem is divided into four stanzas.
This poem remarks on a person’s lifelong journey to create change. As a young man, they aimed to change the world but found it too hard. They shifted focus to their nation, then their town, and finally their family—each effort failing. In old age, they realize the only thing they could truly change was themselves. The poem ends with a powerful insight: if they had started by changing themselves earlier, their actions might have inspired their family, community, and nation, ultimately creating a ripple effect to change the world.
The message is clear: lasting change begins within. By improving ourselves, we indirectly influence others, creating broader transformation over time. Though often linked to Edward de Bono, this version differs from his shorter four-line poem. Both share the theme of personal responsibility as the key to global change.
Quiz of Lesson: Click Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neCNquHwR40
Vocabulary
· change /tʃeɪndʒ/, verb – to make or become different.
· suddenly /ˈsʌd(ə)nli/, adverb – quickly and without warning.
· realize /ˈrɪəlaɪz/, verb – to become aware of something.
· focus /ˈfəʊkəs/, verb – to concentrate attention or effort.
· impacts /ˈɪmpækts/, noun – strong effects or influences.
· indeed /ɪnˈdiːd/, adverb – used to emphasize or confirm something.
A. Complete the sentences using the words given below.
change / suddenly / realize / focus / impacts / indeed
a. Great people always realize their mistakes.
b. The meal was very delicious indeed.
c. Excessive use of electronic devices has negative impacts on our mental health.
d. Thank you for your offer, but I cannot change my mind.
e. Our exam is approaching, but I cannot focus on my studies.
B. Answer these questions. (Answers only)
a. I think the poet wants to change himself to make a good impact on his family, town, nation, and the world.
b. The poet feels sorry because he realizes that he couldn’t change the world at first. If he had changed himself earlier, he could have made a bigger difference in the world.
c. When the poet grew old, he realised that he could change himself but not the world.
d. If the poet had changed himself, he could have made an impact on his family, town, nation, and the world.
e. Changing the world is tough. The poet's realization indicates that creating significant change is difficult and requires personal growth and transformation.
Teacher's Guide English 8, 2024)
C. How can we change ourselves and the society?
To change ourselves and society, we should start by focusing ourselves cultivating self-awareness, kindness, and continuous growth. Small, consistent actions like mindful listening, ethical choices, or learning new skills create personal transformation. As we improve, we inspire family, friends, and communities through example rather than force. Collective efforts, such as volunteering, mentoring, or sustainable living, amplify this impact. The poem’s wisdom reminds us that lasting societal change begins with individual change; when enough people evolve, their combined influence reshapes towns, nations, and eventually the world. True progress starts within and radiates outward.
Writing II: Email Writing
Parts of Email
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May 5, 2023 From: amritalamsal@gmail.com To: kabirjha@gmail.com CC/BCC:
Subject: Permission to Use the Hall
Dear Mr. Jha, Thank you for your email. I am delighted to hear about the cultural program you and your team have planned and are preparing to showcase on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of our school. I am pleased to inform you that you may use the hall to rehearse the cultural items during the lunch break. I appreciate you and your fellow participants’ efforts. Please ensure that the practice of the cultural items will not disturb the nearby classes, as the Second Term Exam is approaching. I am glad to see your enthusiasm and dedication towards making this program a grand success. I wish you and your team all the best. Please feel free to inform me if you need any assistance.
With the best regards, (Amrita Lamsal) Headteacher |
(Teacher's Guide English 8, 2024)
How to Compose Email: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSHQ-oi3pDc
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