Chapter 4: Verbal Ability – Building a Strong Vocabulary
📖 PSTET English Language - Paper I & II
🎯 Chapter Overview
Welcome to Chapter 4! Verbal ability is a crucial component of the PSTET English paper, with 3-4 questions per passage dedicated to vocabulary . These questions test your understanding of words, their meanings, and how they function in context. A strong vocabulary not only helps you score well but also enhances your reading comprehension and teaching effectiveness.
In this comprehensive chapter, you will learn:
✅ How to master synonyms and antonyms using context clues
✅ Essential one-word substitutions for common phrases
✅ The power of prefixes and suffixes in word formation
✅ Memory techniques to retain new words permanently
✅ Practice exercises with detailed explanations
💡 Teacher's Note: As an educator, your vocabulary directly impacts your students' language development. The words you use, explain, and model become part of your students' linguistic world. Mastering vocabulary isn't just about passing an exam—it's about becoming a more effective teacher!
📊 4.1 Synonyms and Antonyms: How to Determine Meaning from Context
🔑 What Are Synonyms and Antonyms?
| Term | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Synonym | Words with similar meanings | Happy → Joyful, Glad, Delighted |
| Antonym | Words with opposite meanings | Happy → Sad, Miserable, Unhappy |
In PSTET, synonym and antonym questions are always context-based. You must understand how the word is used in the passage before selecting the correct answer.
🧩 Why Context Matters
A word can have multiple meanings depending on how it's used:
| Word | Meaning in Context 1 | Meaning in Context 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Light | "The room was filled with light." (brightness) | "She carried a light bag." (not heavy) |
| Run | "He can run fast." (move quickly) | "She runs a school." (manages) |
| Bright | "The sun is bright." (shining) | "She is a bright student." (intelligent) |
⚠️ Warning: Never answer synonym/antonym questions based solely on your dictionary knowledge. Always check how the word is USED in the passage!
🚀 The SCAN Method for Synonyms and Antonyms
| Step | Action | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| S | See the Word | Locate the word in the passage and note the line number |
| C | Check Context | Read the sentence before and after carefully |
| A | Analyze Function | Is it a noun, verb, adjective? What role does it play? |
| N | Note the Meaning | Based on context, what does it mean here? |
📝 Practice Passage: Synonyms and Antonyms in Context
Read this passage and answer the synonym/antonym questions:
(1) The implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 represents a paradigm shift in Indian education. For decades, our system emphasized rote memorization and high-stakes examinations. Students were obliged to memorize facts without understanding, leading to superficial learning.
(2) NEP 2020, however, champions a holistic approach. It recognizes that education must develop not just cognitive abilities but also social, emotional, and ethical dimensions. The policy mandates foundational literacy and numeracy as urgent priorities, recognizing that without these basics, all future learning is compromised.
(3) Some critics argue that the policy's vision is too ambitious and that implementation will face formidable challenges. They point to inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and the massive scale of the Indian education system. These concerns are not without merit.
(4) Yet, the potential benefits outweigh the challenges. If implemented thoughtfully, NEP 2020 could transform Indian education, creating learners who don't just remember facts but understand concepts, think critically, and apply knowledge creatively.
📌 Synonym Questions Practice
Q1. In paragraph 1, the word "paradigm" most nearly means:
a) Small change
b) Model or pattern
c) Problem
d) Failure
Answer: b) Model or pattern
Explanation: A "paradigm shift" means a fundamental change in the basic model or way of thinking. Context clue: "shift in Indian education" suggests a major change in the existing pattern.
Q2. In paragraph 1, the word "obliged" most nearly means:
a) Allowed
b) Encouraged
c) Required or forced
d) Helped
Answer: c) Required or forced
Explanation: Students were "obliged to memorize facts without understanding" suggests they had no choice—it was mandatory. Context: "rote memorization and high-stakes examinations" created pressure to memorize.
Q3. In paragraph 2, the word "holistic" most nearly means:
a) Considering the whole, not just parts
b) Academic only
c) Religious
d) Simple
Answer: a) Considering the whole, not just parts
Explanation: The context explains: "not just cognitive abilities but also social, emotional, and ethical dimensions." This means looking at the complete person, not just one aspect.
Q4. In paragraph 3, the word "ambitious" most nearly means:
a) Easy to achieve
b) Simple and straightforward
c) Bold and far-reaching
d) Unimportant
Answer: c) Bold and far-reaching
Explanation: Critics call the vision "too ambitious," suggesting it aims to achieve a lot. The word "formidable challenges" in the same sentence reinforces that it's a big, bold undertaking.
Q5. In paragraph 3, the word "formidable" most nearly means:
a) Easy to overcome
b) Small and insignificant
c) Difficult and challenging
d) Helpful
Answer: c) Difficult and challenging
Explanation: "Formidable challenges" are ones that inspire fear or respect because they're so difficult. The list that follows—inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, massive scale—confirms these are serious difficulties.
Q6. In paragraph 4, the word "potential" most nearly means:
a) Guaranteed
b) Possible but not yet realized
c) Impossible
d) Past
Answer: b) Possible but not yet realized
Explanation: "Potential benefits" are benefits that could happen but haven't yet. Context: "If implemented thoughtfully" shows the benefits depend on implementation.
Q7. In paragraph 4, the word "transform" most nearly means:
a) Keep the same
b) Change completely
c) Destroy
d) Ignore
Answer: b) Change completely
Explanation: The prefix "trans-" means across or through. To transform is to change form completely. The description of creating learners who understand concepts, think critically, and apply knowledge shows a complete change from rote learning.
📌 Antonym Questions Practice
Q8. Which word is the antonym of "superficial" as used in paragraph 1?
a) Shallow
b) Deep
c) Surface-level
d) External
Answer: b) Deep
Explanation: "Superficial learning" means learning that is only on the surface, not deep. The antonym would be "deep" or "thorough" understanding.
Q9. Which word is the antonym of "mandates" as used in paragraph 2?
a) Requires
b) Prohibits
c) Commands
d) Allows optionally
Answer: d) Allows optionally
Explanation: "Mandates" means requires or commands. The opposite would be allowing choice—"optional" or "voluntary."
Q10. Which word is the antonym of "formidable" as used in paragraph 3?
a) Difficult
b) Easy
c) Challenging
d) Daunting
Answer: b) Easy
Explanation: "Formidable" means difficult and challenging. Its antonym is "easy" or "simple."
📊 Common Synonym-Antonym Pairs for PSTET
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
|---|---|---|
| Happy | Joyful, Elated, Content | Sad, Miserable, Depressed |
| Big | Large, Huge, Enormous | Small, Tiny, Minute |
| Important | Significant, Crucial, Vital | Trivial, Unimportant, Minor |
| Difficult | Hard, Challenging, Arduous | Easy, Simple, Effortless |
| Clear | Obvious, Evident, Apparent | Unclear, Vague, Ambiguous |
| Show | Display, Demonstrate, Exhibit | Hide, Conceal, Cover |
| Increase | Grow, Expand, Enhance | Decrease, Reduce, Diminish |
| Strong | Powerful, Sturdy, Robust | Weak, Fragile, Feeble |
| Rich | Wealthy, Affluent, Prosperous | Poor, Impoverished, Needy |
| Fast | Quick, Rapid, Swift | Slow, Sluggish, Leisurely |
🎯 Context Clues for Synonyms and Antonyms
| Clue Type | Signal Words | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Synonym Clue | "and," "also," "similarly," "like" | "He was elated, and his joy was evident to everyone." |
| Antonym Clue | "but," "however," "unlike," "instead" | "Unlike his timid brother, he was bold and confident." |
| Definition Clue | "is," "means," "refers to" | "Altruism, or selfless concern for others, is rare." |
| Example Clue | "such as," "for example," "including" | "Nocturnal animals, such as owls and bats, sleep during the day." |
📚 4.2 One-Word Substitutions: Building a Strong Lexical Resource
🔑 What Are One-Word Substitutions?
One-word substitutions are single words that replace longer phrases or sentences. They test your vocabulary depth and your ability to express complex ideas concisely.
💡 Teacher's Note: One-word substitutions are incredibly useful in teaching. They help you explain concepts efficiently and help students express themselves precisely.
📋 Why One-Word Substitutions Matter in PSTET
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary Depth | Tests whether you know precise words for common concepts |
| Reading Comprehension | Helps you understand passages that use these words |
| Writing Skills | Essential for precise, concise expression |
| Teaching Effectiveness | Helps you explain concepts clearly to students |
📊 Essential One-Word Substitutions by Category
👥 People and Professions
| Phrase | One Word |
|---|---|
| One who looks at the bright side of things | Optimist |
| One who looks at the dark side of things | Pessimist |
| One who knows everything | Omniscient |
| One who is all-powerful | Omnipotent |
| One who is present everywhere | Omnipresent |
| One who loves books | Bibliophile |
| One who hates mankind | Misanthrope |
| One who loves mankind | Philanthropist |
| One who speaks many languages | Polyglot |
| One who walks in sleep | Somnambulist |
| One who talks in sleep | Somniloquist |
| One who writes about his/her own life | Autobiographer |
| One who writes about someone's life | Biographer |
| One who collects stamps | Philatelist |
| One who collects coins | Numismatist |
| One who is new to a profession | Novice |
| One who is very old | Centenarian (100 years) |
| One who is unable to pay debts | Insolvent |
| One who is unable to read or write | Illiterate |
| One who is unable to see | Blind |
| One who is unable to hear | Deaf |
| One who is unable to speak | Mute |
🏛️ Government and Systems
| Phrase | One Word |
|---|---|
| Government by one person | Autocracy |
| Government by few people | Oligarchy |
| Government by the people | Democracy |
| Government by the rich | Plutocracy |
| Government by the nobility | Aristocracy |
| Government by officials | Bureaucracy |
| Government by religious leaders | Theocracy |
| Absence of government | Anarchy |
| Rule by father | Patriarchy |
| Rule by mother | Matriarchy |
❤️ Feelings and Attitudes
| Phrase | One Word |
|---|---|
| Lack of interest | Apathy |
| Hatred of women | Misogyny |
| Hatred of men | Misandry |
| Hatred of marriage | Misogamy |
| Love of wisdom | Philosophy |
| Love of one's country | Patriotism |
| Excessive love for oneself | Narcissism |
| Cruel and oppressive rule | Tyranny |
| Willing to take risks | Audacious |
| Not caring about danger | Reckless |
📖 Language and Communication
| Phrase | One Word |
|---|---|
| A word having the same meaning | Synonym |
| A word having the opposite meaning | Antonym |
| A word that sounds the same but has different meanings | Homophone (e.g., here/hear) |
| A word spelled the same but with different meanings | Homograph (e.g., lead metal/lead guide) |
| A figure of speech comparing two things | Metaphor |
| A figure of speech using 'like' or 'as' | Simile |
| A statement that contradicts itself | Paradox |
| A short story with a moral | Fable |
| A long, narrative poem | Epic |
| A speech made without preparation | Extempore |
🌍 Miscellaneous Important Words
| Phrase | One Word |
|---|---|
| That which cannot be read | Illegible |
| That which cannot be heard | Inaudible |
| That which cannot be believed | Incredible |
| That which cannot be defeated | Invincible |
| That which cannot be corrected | Incorrigible |
| That which cannot be seen | Invisible |
| That which cannot be touched | Intangible |
| That which cannot be understood | Incomprehensible |
| That which lasts forever | Eternal / Perpetual |
| That which happens every year | Annual |
| That which happens every two years | Biennial |
| That which happens every month | Monthly |
| That which happens every week | Weekly |
| That which can be eaten | Edible |
| That which can be drunk | Potable |
| That which can be carried | Portable |
| That which can be heard | Audible |
| That which can be seen | Visible |
🚀 Memory Techniques for One-Word Substitutions
Technique 1: Root Word Analysis
| Root | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| -cide | Killing | Homicide (killing humans), Suicide (self-killing), Patricide (killing father), Infanticide (killing infants) |
| -logue/-logy | Speech/Study | Dialogue (speech between two), Monologue (speech by one), Biology (study of life), Psychology (study of mind) |
| -phile | Love | Bibliophile (book lover), Anglophile (lover of England), Philanthropist (lover of humanity) |
| -phobe | Fear | Claustrophobe (fear of enclosed spaces), Hydrophobe (fear of water), Xenophobe (fear of strangers) |
| -cracy | Rule/Rule by | Democracy (people rule), Autocracy (self-rule), Bureaucracy (officials rule) |
| -archy | Rule/Ruler | Monarchy (one ruler), Hierarchy (ranked rulers), Anarchy (no ruler) |
Technique 2: Word Association
| Word | Association | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Omniscient | "Omni" = all, "scient" = knowing → All-knowing | One who knows everything |
| Omnipotent | "Omni" = all, "potent" = powerful → All-powerful | One who has unlimited power |
| Omnipresent | "Omni" = all, "present" = here → Present everywhere | One who is everywhere |
| Benevolent | "Bene" = good, "volent" = wishing → Good-wishing | Kind and helpful |
| Malevolent | "Male" = bad, "volent" = wishing → Bad-wishing | Wishing harm on others |
Technique 3: Categorization
Group related words together for easier recall:
| Category | Related Words |
|---|---|
| Killing (-cide) | Homicide, Suicide, Genocide, Patricide, Matricide, Fratricide, Infanticide |
| Rule (-cracy) | Democracy, Autocracy, Bureaucracy, Plutocracy, Theocracy, Aristocracy |
| Fear (-phobia) | Claustrophobia, Acrophobia (heights), Hydrophobia (water), Xenophobia (strangers) |
| Love (-phile) | Bibliophile, Anglophile, Philanthropist, Philosopher |
| All (Omni-) | Omniscient, Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omnivorous (eats everything) |
📝 Practice Questions: One-Word Substitutions
Q1. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "One who looks at the bright side of things"
a) Pessimist
b) Optimist
c) Realist
d) Idealist
Answer: b) Optimist
Q2. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "Government by the people"
a) Autocracy
b) Oligarchy
c) Democracy
d) Plutocracy
Answer: c) Democracy
Q3. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "That which cannot be read"
a) Inaudible
b) Illegible
c) Invisible
d) Incredible
Answer: b) Illegible
Q4. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "One who loves books"
a) Bibliophile
b) Bibliographer
c) Bibliophobe
d) Bibliomaniac
Answer: a) Bibliophile
Q5. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "A speech made without preparation"
a) Lecture
b) Extempore
c) Dialogue
d) Monologue
Answer: b) Extempore
Q6. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "One who is unable to pay debts"
a) Bankrupt
b) Insolvent
c) Poor
d) Needy
Answer: b) Insolvent
(Note: While "bankrupt" is similar, "insolvent" specifically means unable to pay debts)
Q7. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "Killing of one's father"
a) Patricide
b) Matricide
c) Fratricide
d) Genocide
Answer: a) Patricide
Q8. Choose the correct one-word substitution for: "That which lasts forever"
a) Temporary
b) Eternal
c) Annual
d) Periodic
Answer: b) Eternal
📊 Common One-Word Substitutions in Teaching Context
| Phrase | One Word | Usage in Teaching |
|---|---|---|
| A child with special talents | Prodigy | "The music prodigy performed beautifully." |
| A person who cannot be corrected | Incorrigible | "The incorrigible student kept disrupting class." |
| A person who knows many languages | Polyglot | "As a polyglot, she could communicate with all students." |
| Learning throughout life | Lifelong learning | "Teachers model lifelong learning for students." |
| Education after school | Higher education | "Preparing students for higher education is a goal." |
| Teaching one student alone | Individual instruction | "Some students benefit from individual instruction." |
🔤 4.3 Word Formation: Understanding Prefixes and Suffixes
🔑 What Are Prefixes and Suffixes?
| Term | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Prefix | Letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning | Un + happy = Unhappy (not happy) |
| Suffix | Letters added to the end of a word to change its meaning or part of speech | Happy + ness = Happiness (noun) |
| Root Word | The basic part of a word that carries core meaning | Happy is the root |
💡 Teacher's Note: Teaching students about prefixes and suffixes is one of the most effective ways to build vocabulary. Once students know common affixes, they can decode thousands of new words independently!
📊 Why Word Formation Matters in PSTET
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary Expansion | One root + multiple affixes = many words |
| Decoding Unknown Words | Break words into parts to guess meaning |
| Spelling Improvement | Understanding word parts helps spelling |
| Grammar Understanding | Suffixes often indicate parts of speech |
| Synonym/Antonym Questions | Prefixes often create antonyms (un-, in-, dis-) |
📚 Common Prefixes for PSTET
🔴 Negative Prefixes (Creating Opposites)
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| un- | not | Unhappy, Unkind, Unfair, Unusual |
| in- | not | Incomplete, Invisible, Inaccurate |
| im- | not (before m, p) | Impossible, Immature, Impatient |
| il- | not (before l) | Illegal, Illogical, Illegible |
| ir- | not (before r) | Irregular, Irrelevant, Irresponsible |
| dis- | not, away | Dislike, Disagree, Disappear |
| non- | not | Nonsense, Nonstop, Nonviolent |
| mis- | wrongly | Misunderstand, Misbehave, Mistake |
| anti- | against | Antisocial, Antibiotic, Antifreeze |
| counter- | against | Counteract, Counterfeit, Counterproductive |
🔵 Prefixes of Size and Degree
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| super- | above, beyond | Supermarket, Superhero, Supernatural |
| sub- | under, below | Submarine, Subway, Substandard |
| hyper- | excessive, over | Hyperactive, Hyperthermia, Hyperbole |
| hypo- | under, below | Hypodermic, Hypothermia, Hypothesis |
| ultra- | beyond, extremely | Ultraviolet, Ultrasonic, Ultra-modern |
| micro- | small | Microscope, Microorganism, Microwave |
| macro- | large | Macroeconomic, Macroscopic, Macrobiotic |
| mini- | small | Minibus, Miniskirt, Miniature |
| maxi- | large | Maximum, Maximize |
🟢 Prefixes of Time and Space
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| pre- | before | Preheat, Preview, Prehistoric |
| post- | after | Postpone, Postwar, Postgraduate |
| ante- | before | Antecedent, Antenatal, Anteroom |
| fore- | before, front | Forecast, Forehead, Foresee |
| inter- | between | International, Interact, Interrupt |
| intra- | within | Intranet, Intramural, Intravenous |
| trans- | across | Transport, Translate, Transplant |
| ex- | out, former | Exit, Export, Ex-teacher |
| im-/in- | in, into | Import, Immigrate, Include |
| re- | again, back | Rewrite, Return, Reconsider |
🟠 Number Prefixes
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| uni- | one | Unicycle, Unicorn, Universe |
| bi- | two | Bicycle, Bilingual, Biennial |
| tri- | three | Triangle, Tricycle, Tripod |
| quad- | four | Quadrilateral, Quadruple, Quadrant |
| pent- | five | Pentagon, Pentathlon, Pentagram |
| hex- | six | Hexagon, Hexameter |
| sept- | seven | September (7th month in Roman calendar) |
| oct- | eight | October (8th month), Octopus |
| dec- | ten | Decade, Decimal, Decathlon |
| cent- | hundred | Century, Centipede, Percent |
| mill- | thousand | Millennium, Millimeter, Milligram |
🟣 Common Prefixes Summary Table
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| co- | together | Cooperate, Coordinate, Coexist |
| de- | down, away | Decrease, Deforest, Devalue |
| en-/em- | cause to | Enlarge, Empower, Encourage |
| over- | too much | Overload, Overeat, Overreact |
| under- | too little | Underestimate, Underpaid, Underdeveloped |
| semi- | half | Semicircle, Semifinal, Semiannual |
| mono- | one | Monotone, Monopoly, Monologue |
| multi- | many | Multilingual, Multiple, Multicolor |
| bio- | life | Biology, Biography, Antibiotic |
| geo- | earth | Geography, Geology, Geometry |
| tele- | far | Telephone, Television, Telescope |
| auto- | self | Automatic, Autobiography, Autopilot |
📚 Common Suffixes for PSTET
🔴 Noun-Forming Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| -er/-or | one who | Teacher, Actor, Driver |
| -ist | one who | Artist, Scientist, Pianist |
| -ian | one who | Musician, Librarian, Physician |
| -tion/-sion | state/action | Education, Decision, Celebration |
| -ment | state/result | Development, Enjoyment, Government |
| -ness | state/quality | Happiness, Kindness, Darkness |
| -ity/-ty | state/quality | Activity, Certainty, Creativity |
| -ship | state/condition | Friendship, Leadership, Citizenship |
| -dom | state/condition | Freedom, Kingdom, Wisdom |
| -hood | state/period | Childhood, Motherhood, Neighborhood |
| -age | result/collection | Storage, Package, Percentage |
| -ance/-ence | state/action | Performance, Importance, Difference |
🔵 Adjective-Forming Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| -ful | full of | Beautiful, Joyful, Helpful |
| -less | without | Careless, Hopeless, Homeless |
| -ous/-ious | full of | Dangerous, Curious, Serious |
| -ive | having quality | Creative, Active, Expensive |
| -able/-ible | capable of | Comfortable, Visible, Flexible |
| -ic | relating to | Artistic, Scientific, Historic |
| -ical | relating to | Practical, Musical, Political |
| -al | relating to | Natural, Cultural, Educational |
| -y | having quality | Rainy, Sunny, Messy |
| -ish | somewhat like | Childish, Selfish, Yellowish |
| -like | similar to | Childlike, Lifelike, Businesslike |
| -ent/-ant | having quality | Different, Important, Brilliant |
🟢 Verb-Forming Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| -ize/-ise | to make | Modernize, Organize, Realize |
| -ify/-fy | to make | Simplify, Beautify, Classify |
| -en | to make | Widen, Strengthen, Darken |
| -ate | to make | Activate, Educate, Celebrate |
🟠 Adverb-Forming Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| -ly | in the manner of | Quickly, Happily, Carefully |
| -ward | direction | Forward, Backward, Homeward |
| -wise | in relation to | Otherwise, Clockwise, Likewise |
🚀 The BUILD Method for Word Formation
| Step | Action | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| B | Break it down | Separate the word into prefix + root + suffix |
| U | Understand each part | What does each part mean? |
| I | Integrate meanings | Combine the meanings logically |
| L | Look at context | Check if your meaning fits the passage |
| D | Determine the answer | Choose the option that matches |
📝 Practice Passage: Word Formation in Context
Read this passage and answer the word formation questions:
(1) The concept of multilingualism in Indian classrooms is not merely a pedagogical choice but a cultural reality. Children often arrive at school speaking one language at home while encountering a different instructional language in the classroom.
(2) Some educators view this as a disadvantage, believing that linguistic diversity complicates teaching. However, research suggests that bilingual children develop certain cognitive advantages, including flexibility in thinking and greater metalinguistic awareness.
(3) Effective teachers find ways to make linguistic diversity an asset rather than a barrier. They create inclusive classrooms where all languages are valued, and they help students make connections between languages. This approach makes learning more meaningful and accessible.
(4) The National Education Policy 2020 recognizes this reality and encourages multilingual pedagogy. It recommends that children's home languages be used as resources for learning, a practice that research shows strengthens both cognitive development and academic achievement.
📌 Word Formation Questions Practice
Q1. The word "multilingualism" in paragraph 1 is formed by:
a) multi- (many) + lingual (language) + -ism (state of)
b) multi- (one) + lingual (language) + -ism (state of)
c) multi- (many) + lingual (language) + -ist (one who)
d) multi- (many) + lingu (tongue) + -ism
Answer: a) multi- (many) + lingual (language) + -ism (state of)
Explanation: "Multi-" means many, "lingual" relates to language, "-ism" indicates a state or condition. So multilingualism = the state of using many languages.
Q2. The word "instructional" in paragraph 1 is formed by:
a) instruct (teach) + -ion (noun) + -al (adjective)
b) instruct (teach) + -al (adjective)
c) instruct (teach) + -ive (adjective)
d) instruction (noun) + -al (adjective)
Answer: b) instruct (teach) + -al (adjective)
Explanation: "Instructional" is an adjective formed by adding "-al" to the verb "instruct." It means "relating to teaching."
Q3. The word "disadvantage" in paragraph 2 contains which prefix?
a) dis- (not, away)
b) un- (not)
c) in- (not)
d) mis- (wrongly)
Answer: a) dis- (not, away)
Explanation: "Dis-" + "advantage" = not an advantage, a drawback or problem.
Q4. The word "bilingual" in paragraph 2 means:
a) Speaking one language
b) Speaking two languages
c) Speaking many languages
d) Speaking no languages
Answer: b) Speaking two languages
Explanation: "Bi-" means two, "lingual" means language. Bilingual = using two languages.
Q5. The word "flexibility" in paragraph 2 is formed by:
a) flex (bend) + -ible (capable of) + -ity (state)
b) flex (bend) + -able (capable of) + -ity (state)
c) flex (bend) + -ive (quality) + -ty (state)
d) flex (bend) + -ity (state)
Answer: a) flex (bend) + -ible (capable of) + -ity (state)
Explanation: "Flex" means bend, "-ible" means capable of, "-ity" makes it a noun. Flexibility = the quality of being able to bend or adapt.
Q6. The word "metalinguistic" in paragraph 2 contains the prefix:
a) meta- (beyond, about)
b) multi- (many)
c) micro- (small)
d) mono- (one)
Answer: a) meta- (beyond, about)
Explanation: "Meta-" means beyond or about. Metalinguistic awareness means thinking about language itself, beyond just using it.
Q7. The word "inclusive" in paragraph 3 means:
a) Excluding some people
b) Including everyone
c) Making people feel left out
d) Separating different groups
Answer: b) Including everyone
Explanation: "In-" means in, "-clusive" from "include." Inclusive classrooms welcome and include all students.
Q8. The word "meaningful" in paragraph 3 is formed by:
a) mean + -ing + -ful
b) meaning + -ful
c) mean + -ful
d) meaning + -less
Answer: b) meaning + -ful
Explanation: "Meaning" (noun) + "-ful" (full of) = meaningful (full of meaning).
Q9. The word "accessible" in paragraph 3 contains the suffix:
a) -able (capable of)
b) -ible (capable of)
c) -ive (having quality)
d) -al (relating to)
Answer: b) -ible (capable of)
Explanation: "Access" + "-ible" = capable of being accessed or reached.
Q10. The word "strengthens" in paragraph 4 is formed by:
a) strong + -en (verb) + -s (third person)
b) strength + -en (verb) + -s
c) strong + -ness (noun) + -s
d) strength + -ly (adverb)
Answer: b) strength + -en (verb) + -s
Explanation: "Strength" (noun) + "-en" (makes a verb) + "-s" (third person singular) = strengthens (makes stronger).
📊 Word Formation: From Root to Many Words
See how one root can generate many words:
| Root | Meaning | Derived Words |
|---|---|---|
| Act | to do | Action, Activity, Actor, Actress, Active, Activate, React, Transact, Counteract |
| Educ | to lead out | Education, Educator, Educational, Educated, Uneducated, Educative |
| Form | shape | Form, Formal, Inform, Information, Reform, Transform, Uniform, Formula |
| Press | to press | Press, Pressure, Compress, Depress, Express, Impression, Oppress, Suppress |
| Port | to carry | Port, Portable, Porter, Export, Import, Transport, Report, Support |
| Spec | to look | Spec, Spectacle, Spectator, Inspect, Respect, Suspect, Perspective |
| Struct | to build | Structure, Construct, Instruct, Destroy (de- + struct), Infrastructure |
| Vid/Vis | to see | Video, Vision, Visible, Invisible, Television, Evidence, Provide |
📝 Chapter Summary: Quick Reference Guide
📊 Verbal Ability at a Glance
| Topic | Key Points | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Synonyms | Words with similar meanings; always context-dependent | SCAN: See word, Check context, Analyze function, Note meaning |
| Antonyms | Words with opposite meanings; context is crucial | Use antonym clues (but, however, unlike) in the passage |
| One-Word Substitutions | Single words for longer phrases | Group by category, learn roots, use associations |
| Prefixes | Letters added to beginning | Learn common prefixes; they change meaning |
| Suffixes | Letters added to end | Learn common suffixes; they change part of speech |
| Word Formation | Building words from roots + affixes | BUILD: Break down, Understand parts, Integrate, Look at context, Determine answer |
📚 Practice Corner: Mixed Verbal Ability Questions
🔰 Section A: Synonyms (Context-Based)
Read this sentence and choose the correct synonym:
"The teacher's explanation was so lucid that even the youngest students understood."
a) Confusing
b) Clear
c) Long
d) Boring
Answer: b) Clear
"The students showed remarkable improvement in just one month."
a) Ordinary
b) Small
c) Extraordinary
d) Slow
Answer: c) Extraordinary
"She was reluctant to speak in front of the class."
a) Eager
b) Willing
c) Unwilling
d) Happy
Answer: c) Unwilling
🔰 Section B: Antonyms (Context-Based)
"The instructions were ambiguous, causing confusion among students."
a) Clear
b) Vague
c) Confusing
d) Unclear
Answer: a) Clear
"He was generous with his time, always helping struggling students."
a) Kind
b) Selfish
c) Giving
d) Helpful
Answer: b) Selfish
"The ancient building had stood for over five hundred years."
a) Old
b) Historic
c) Modern
d) Traditional
Answer: c) Modern
🔰 Section C: One-Word Substitutions
One who is all-powerful:
a) Omniscient
b) Omnipotent
c) Omnipresent
d) Omnivorous
Answer: b) Omnipotent
A speech by one person:
a) Dialogue
b) Monologue
c) Prologue
d) Epilogue
Answer: b) Monologue
That which cannot be corrected:
a) Invisible
b) Incorrigible
c) Incredible
d) Inaudible
Answer: b) Incorrigible
Government by the rich:
a) Democracy
b) Plutocracy
c) Autocracy
d) Bureaucracy
Answer: b) Plutocracy
🔰 Section D: Prefixes and Suffixes
The word "international" contains the prefix:
a) inter- (between)
b) intra- (within)
c) intro- (into)
d) enter- (between)
Answer: a) inter- (between)
The word "childhood" contains the suffix:
a) -hood (state/period)
b) -ness (quality)
c) -dom (state)
d) -ship (condition)
Answer: a) -hood (state/period)
Adding which suffix to "care" creates a word meaning "without care"?
a) -ful
b) -less
c) -ness
d) -ly
Answer: b) -less
The prefix "pre-" in "preview" means:
a) After
b) Before
c) During
d) Again
Answer: b) Before
The word "reusable" contains:
a) Prefix re- + use + suffix -able
b) Prefix un- + use + suffix -able
c) Prefix re- + usable
d) reuse + suffix -able
Answer: a) Prefix re- + use + suffix -able
📌 Answer Key
1-b, 2-c, 3-c, 4-a, 5-b, 6-c, 7-b, 8-b, 9-b, 10-b, 11-a, 12-a, 13-b, 14-b, 15-a
🌟 Final Words of Encouragement
Dear future teacher,
Vocabulary is not built in a day. It grows slowly, like a garden, with regular attention and care. The strategies in this chapter give you the tools to understand new words, but the real growth happens through consistent practice.
Your Vocabulary Building Action Plan:
| Daily | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Learn 5 new words | Review all words learned | Categorize words by theme |
| Note prefixes/suffixes | Practice with passages | Create your own sentences |
| Use words in conversation | Quiz yourself | Teach someone else |
Remember these key principles:
Context is king—always check how a word is used
Roots are your friends—they unlock thousands of words
Prefixes and suffixes—learn them and multiply your vocabulary
Practice consistently—little and often beats cramming
Your mantra for success:
"Every new word I learn opens a new door to understanding. I don't just memorize words—I master them in context."
Keep building your vocabulary, and you'll not only clear PSTET but become the kind of teacher who can explain anything to anyone using just the right words!
📖 Preview of Chapter 5
In Chapter 5, we'll dive into Grammar in Context—mastering parts of speech, tenses, subject-verb agreement, sentence structure, and transformation of sentences. You'll learn how grammar questions are asked in PSTET and how to answer them correctly every time!
