Unit One
A Glimpse of Our Culture
A Glimpse of Our Culture
Textual Dictionary
The words below are taken from this chapter, and their meanings are given in clear English.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| oral (OR-uhl) | spoken rather than written | spoken (spoken), verbal (spoken) | written (recorded in writing), printed (published in print) | People’s music is passed down through oral tradition. বাংলা অনুবাদ: People’s music is passed down through oral tradition. |
| evolved (ee-VOLVD) | changed gradually over time | developed (grew), changed (became different), progressed (advanced) | stayed (remained), stopped (ended) | Over time, this music has evolved closely with people’s lives. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Over time, this music has evolved closely with people’s lives. |
| indigenous (in-DIJ-uh-nuhs) | belonging originally to a particular place | native (belonging to a place), original (first), local (from the area) | foreign (from another country), imported (brought from elsewhere) | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. |
| embroidered (em-BROY-dərd) | decorated with patterns sewn with thread | stitched (sewn), decorated (made beautiful), ornamented (adorned) | plain (without decoration), undecorated (not ornamented) | Nakshi kantha is a kind of embroidered quilt. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Nakshi kantha is a kind of embroidered quilt. |
| commercially (kuh-MUR-shuh-lee) | for buying and selling | businesswise (in business), professionally (as a business), publicly (for the market) | privately (not publicly), personally (for family use) | Now Nakshi kantha is produced commercially. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Now Nakshi kantha is produced commercially. |
| displaced (dis-PLAYST) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated (moved), removed (taken away), uprooted (forced to leave) | settled (living in a place), established (firmly placed) | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. বাংলা অনুবাদ: The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. |
| cuisine (kwi-ZEEN) | a style of cooking and food | food (things eaten), cooking (preparing food), fare (food served) | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. |
| molasses (muh-LAS-iz) | a thick, dark syrup used in food | syrup (thick sweet liquid), sweetener (something that makes food sweet) | — | Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, molasses and sometimes milk. বাংলা অনুবাদ: Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, molasses and sometimes milk. |
Total words: 8
1. How to Use This Sheet
Study steps
- Read the chapter carefully before using the dictionary.
- Cover the meaning column and test yourself on each word.
- Say each word aloud and practise its pronunciation.
- Use the example sentences as models for your own writing.
- Review the synonyms and antonyms to understand each word more clearly.
- Return to the chapter and check how each word is used in context.
Textual Dictionary
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| oral (/ˈɔːrəl/) | spoken rather than written | spoken; verbal | written; printed | People’s music is passed down through oral tradition. |
| evolved (/ɪˈvɒlvd/) | changed gradually over time | developed; changed; progressed | stayed; stopped | Over time, this music has evolved closely with people’s lives. |
| indigenous (/ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/) | belonging originally to a particular place | native; original; local | foreign; imported | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. |
| embroidered (/ɪmˈbrɔɪdəd/) | decorated with patterns sewn with thread | stitched; decorated; ornamented | plain; undecorated | Nakshi kantha is a kind of embroidered quilt. |
| commercially (/kəˈmɜːʃəli/) | for buying and selling | businesswise; professionally; publicly | privately; personally | Now Nakshi kantha is produced commercially. |
| displaced (/dɪsˈpleɪst/) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated; removed; uprooted | settled; established | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. |
| cuisine (/kwɪˈziːn/) | a style of cooking and food | food; cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. |
| molasses (/məˈlæsɪz/) | a thick, dark syrup used in food | syrup; sweetener | — | Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, molasses and sometimes milk. |
Total words: 8
2. Key Words - Main Table (1-15)
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| music (মিউজিক) | sounds arranged for singing or instruments | song (গান); melody (সুর); tune (সুর) | silence (নীরবতা) | People’s music is also known as folk music. Folk music is also called people’s music. |
| oral (অরাল) | spoken rather than written | spoken (মৌখিক); verbal (কথ্য) | written (লিখিত); printed (মুদ্রিত) | Folk music is passed down orally for generations. The tradition continues through spoken communication. |
| tradition (ট্র্যাডিশন) | a custom or practice passed from one generation to another | custom (প্রথা); heritage (ঐতিহ্য); practice (চর্চা) | innovation (নতুনত্ব); novelty (নতুন রীতি) | People’s music continues through oral tradition. The custom is preserved by the community. |
| self-expression (সেল্ফ-এক্সপ্রেশন) | the communication of one’s own thoughts and feelings | expression (প্রকাশ); communication (যোগাযোগ); creativity (সৃজনশীলতা) | silence (নীরবতা); concealment (গোপন রাখা) | The songs embody the self-expression of the people. The songs communicate the people’s feelings. |
| instruments (ইনস্ট্রুমেন্টস) | objects used to produce musical sounds | tools (যন্ত্র); devices (উপকরণ); apparatus (সরঞ্জাম) | — | Folk instruments are crafted from materials found in the surroundings. The instruments are made from local materials. |
| migration (মাইগ্রেশন) | the movement of people from one place to another | movement (স্থানান্তর); relocation (পুনর্বাসন); migration (অভিবাসন) | staying (থেকে যাওয়া); settlement (বসতি স্থাপন) | Migration to cities can affect traditional music. Moving to cities may change musical traditions. |
| tunes (টিউনস) | sequences of musical notes | melodies (সুর); airs (সুর); songs (গান) | noise (কোলাহল); discord (বেসুর) | Traditional tunes are slowly fading. Old melodies are becoming less common. |
| lyrics (লিরিক্স) | the words of a song | words (কথা); verses (পদ); text (পাঠ) | instrumental music (কথাবিহীন সঙ্গীত) | Folk music consists of tunes, lyrics, and knowledge. The song includes meaningful words. |
| knowledge (নলেজ) | information and understanding about something | understanding (বোঝাপড়া); learning (শিক্ষা); awareness (সচেতনতা) | ignorance (অজ্ঞতা); unawareness (অসচেতনতা) | Folk music passes knowledge down through generations. The music carries important understanding. |
| generations (জেনারেশনস) | groups of people born around the same period in a family or society | ages (প্রজন্ম); descendants (বংশধরগণ); groups (দলসমূহ) | — | The songs have been passed down for generations. Many age groups have shared the songs. |
| evolved (ইভলভড) | changed gradually over time | developed (বিকশিত হয়েছে); changed (পরিবর্তিত হয়েছে); progressed (অগ্রসর হয়েছে) | stayed (একই থেকেছে); stopped (থেমে গেছে) | This music has evolved closely with people’s lives. The music has gradually changed with society. |
| agriculture (অ্যাগ্রিকালচার) | the practice of growing crops and raising food resources | farming (কৃষিকাজ); cultivation (চাষাবাদ); husbandry (পালন-পদ্ধতি) | — | Bangladeshi folk music reflects agriculture. The songs show the importance of farming. |
| ecology (ইকোলজি) | the relationship between living things and their environment | environment (পরিবেশ); natural system (প্রাকৃতিক ব্যবস্থা); ecosystem (বাস্তুতন্ত্র) | — | Our ecology is reflected in folk songs. The songs are connected to the natural environment. |
| seasons (সিজনস) | the four or other regular periods of the year | periods (সময়কাল); times of year (বছরের সময়); cycles (চক্র) | — | The seasons are reflected in these songs. The songs express changes during the year. |
| rituals (রিচুয়ালস) | customary actions performed as part of a ceremony or tradition | ceremonies (অনুষ্ঠান); customs (প্রথা); observances (আচার পালন) | — | Agriculture, food, ecology, seasons, and rituals are reflected in folk songs. Traditional ceremonies appear in the songs. |
Total words: 15
3. Key Words - Main Table (16-30)
Study each word through its Bengali meaning, related words, opposite words, and contextual example.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| quilt (কুইল্ট) | জোড়া কাপড়ের তৈরি লেপ বা কাঁথা (a padded or embroidered cover) | cover (ঢাকার আবরণ); bedspread (বিছানার চাদর) | — | The embroidered quilt tells a story through its careful stitching. নকশিকাঁথাটি তার নিখুঁত সেলাইয়ের মাধ্যমে একটি গল্প বলে। |
| artistic (আর্টিস্টিক) | শৈল্পিক; শিল্পসম্মত (related to art or showing creative skill) | creative (সৃজনশীল); imaginative (কল্পনাপ্রবণ); aesthetic (নান্দনিক) | uncreative (সৃজনশীলতাহীন); plain (সাদামাটা) | The artistic pattern makes the kantha attractive to visitors. শৈল্পিক নকশাটি কাঁথাটিকে দর্শনার্থীদের কাছে আকর্ষণীয় করে তোলে। |
| pattern (প্যাটার্ন) | নকশা বা বিন্যাস (an artistic design or repeated arrangement) | design (নকশা); motif (নকশার নকশা); arrangement (বিন্যাস) | disorder (অগোছালো অবস্থা); randomness (এলোমেলোতা) | Colourful patterns are embroidered on many Nakshi kanthas. অনেক নকশিকাঁথায় রঙিন নকশা সেলাই করা হয়। |
| indigenous (ইনডিজিনাস) | কোনো নির্দিষ্ট স্থানের আদিবাসী বা স্থানীয় (originally belonging to a particular place) | native (স্থানীয়); local (নিজ এলাকার); original (আদি) | foreign (বিদেশি); imported (আমদানিকৃত) | Indigenous communities have distinct lifestyles and belief systems. আদিবাসী সম্প্রদায়গুলোর স্বতন্ত্র জীবনধারা ও বিশ্বাসব্যবস্থা রয়েছে। |
| practised (প্র্যাকটিসড) | চর্চা করা হয়েছে (done or followed over a period of time) | followed (অনুসরণ করা); continued (চালিয়ে যাওয়া); performed (সম্পাদন করা) | abandoned (পরিত্যক্ত); neglected (অবহেলিত) | The craft has been practised in rural Bengal for centuries. গ্রামীণ বাংলায় শতাব্দীর পর শতাব্দী ধরে এই শিল্পের চর্চা হয়ে আসছে। |
| rural (রুরাল) | গ্রামীণ (related to the countryside) | country (গ্রামাঞ্চলীয়); agricultural (কৃষিভিত্তিক); village-based (গ্রামভিত্তিক) | urban (শহুরে); metropolitan (মহানগরীয়) | Many traditional crafts began in rural Bengal. অনেক ঐতিহ্যবাহী শিল্পের শুরু গ্রামীণ বাংলায় হয়েছিল। |
| commercially (কমার্শিয়ালি) | বাণিজ্যিকভাবে; কেনাবেচার উদ্দেশ্যে (for business or trade) | professionally (পেশাগতভাবে); businesswise (ব্যবসায়িকভাবে); publicly (সবার জন্য) | privately (ব্যক্তিগতভাবে); personally (নিজস্বভাবে) | Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially in Bangladesh. বাংলাদেশে এখন নকশিকাঁথা বাণিজ্যিকভাবে তৈরি হয়। |
| demand (ডিমান্ড) | চাহিদা (the desire or need for a product) | need (প্রয়োজন); desire (ইচ্ছা); request (অনুরোধ) | supply (সরবরাহ); surplus (উদ্বৃত্ত) | The colourful designs have increased the demand for Nakshi kantha. রঙিন নকশাগুলো নকশিকাঁথার চাহিদা বাড়িয়েছে। |
| ethnic (এথনিক) | জাতিগত বা কোনো জনগোষ্ঠীর সঙ্গে সম্পর্কিত (related to a particular cultural group) | cultural (সাংস্কৃতিক); tribal (উপজাতীয়); communal (সম্প্রদায়ভিত্তিক) | non-ethnic (জাতিগত নয় এমন); universal (সর্বজনীন) | Folk songs may be expressed in the diverse languages of ethnic communities. লোকগান জাতিগত সম্প্রদায়গুলোর বিভিন্ন ভাষায় প্রকাশিত হতে পারে। |
| distinct (ডিস্টিংক্ট) | স্বতন্ত্র; আলাদা (clearly different) | different (ভিন্ন); separate (পৃথক); unique (অনন্য) | similar (সদৃশ); common (সাধারণ) | The groups speak at least 35 distinct languages. এই গোষ্ঠীগুলো অন্তত ৩৫টি স্বতন্ত্র ভাষায় কথা বলে। |
| endangered (এনডেঞ্জার্ড) | বিলুপ্তির ঝুঁকিতে থাকা (at risk of disappearing) | threatened (হুমকির মুখে); vulnerable (অরক্ষিত); imperilled (বিপন্ন) | safe (নিরাপদ); protected (সুরক্ষিত); secure (নিশ্চিত) | Many Indigenous languages are endangered today. বর্তমানে অনেক আদিবাসী ভাষা বিলুপ্তির ঝুঁকিতে রয়েছে। |
| oppression (অপ্রেশন) | নিপীড়ন; অত্যাচার (cruel or unfair control) | persecution (নির্যাতন); tyranny (স্বৈরাচার); injustice (অন্যায়) | freedom (স্বাধীনতা); justice (ন্যায়বিচার); liberty (মুক্তি) | Sidhu and Kanu resisted oppression during British colonial rule. ব্রিটিশ ঔপনিবেশিক শাসনের সময় সিধু ও কানু নিপীড়নের বিরুদ্ধে প্রতিরোধ করেছিলেন। |
| uprising (আপব্রাইজিং) | বিদ্রোহ বা গণঅভ্যুত্থান (an organised act of resistance) | rebellion (বিদ্রোহ); revolt (বিপ্লব); resistance (প্রতিরোধ) | submission (আত্মসমর্পণ); obedience (আনুগত্য) | The leaders directed uprisings against colonial oppression. নেতারা ঔপনিবেশিক নিপীড়নের বিরুদ্ধে বিদ্রোহ পরিচালনা করেছিলেন। |
| displaced (ডিসপ্লেইস্ট) | বাসস্থান থেকে জোর করে সরিয়ে দেওয়া (forced to leave a home or place) | relocated (অন্যত্র সরানো); removed (সরিয়ে দেওয়া); uprooted (শিকড়চ্যুত করা) | settled (স্থায়ীভাবে বসবাসকারী); established (প্রতিষ্ঠিত) | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. কাপ্তাই বাঁধ পার্বত্য চট্টগ্রামে হাজার হাজার মানুষকে বাস্তুচ্যুত করেছিল। |
| cuisine (কুইজিন) | কোনো দেশের বা অঞ্চলের রান্না ও খাদ্যধারা (a style of cooking and food) | food (খাদ্য); cooking (রান্না); fare (পরিবেশিত খাবার) | — | Bangladeshi cuisine includes rice, vegetables, fish, meat, snacks, and sweets. বাংলাদেশি খাদ্যধারায় ভাত, শাকসবজি, মাছ, মাংস, নাশতা ও মিষ্টি রয়েছে। |
Total words: 15
▣ Key Points
- A quilt is a cloth cover that may carry embroidered designs and stories.
- An artistic pattern is a creative design made to produce beauty or meaning.
- Nakshi kantha is an indigenous traditional craft associated with Bangladesh and West Bengal.
- The craft of making Nakshi kantha has been practised in rural Bengal for centuries.
- Commercially produced kanthas are available in expensive handicraft shops in cities.
- The demand for Nakshi kantha is connected with its colourful patterns and designs.
- Indigenous groups have distinct lifestyles, economic practices, belief systems, and languages.
- Many Indigenous languages are endangered because of social pressure and the dominance of Bangla.
- Oppression means unfair or cruel control, while an uprising is organised resistance against it.
- The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people and submerged homes and farmlands.
- Cuisine means the characteristic style of cooking and food found in a place.
4. Subject Terms and Definitions
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| folk music (ফোক মিউজিক) | Traditional music passed down among people. | people’s music; traditional music | — | People’s music, also known as folk music, consists of tunes, lyrics, and knowledge passed down orally for generations. |
| oral tradition (ওরাল ট্র্যাডিশন) | The practice of passing knowledge or culture by speaking. | spoken tradition; verbal tradition | written record; printed tradition | Folk music is passed down through an oral tradition. |
| self-expression (সেল্ফ-এক্সপ্রেশন) | The communication of one’s own thoughts and feelings. | expression; communication; creativity | silence; concealment | The songs embody the self-expression of the people. |
| migration (মাইগ্রেশন) | The movement of people from one place to another. | movement; relocation; resettlement | staying; remaining | As people migrate to cities, traditional tunes are slowly fading. |
| instruments (ইনস্ট্রুমেন্টস) | Objects used to produce musical sounds. | tools; devices; musical objects | — | Folk instruments are crafted from materials found in the surroundings. |
| quilt (কুইল্ট) | A cloth cover made from layers of fabric. | coverlet; bedcover | — | Nakshi kantha is a kind of embroidered quilt. |
| artistic pattern (আর্টিস্টিক প্যাটার্ন) | A creative design made to produce beauty or meaning. | design; motif; decoration | plainness; blankness | The name naksha means artistic pattern. |
| indigenous (ইনডিজিনাস) | Originally belonging to a particular place. | native; local; original | foreign; imported | Nakshi kantha is said to be indigenous to Bangladesh and West Bengal in India. |
| language death (ল্যাঙ্গুয়েজ ডেথ) | The disappearance of a language. | language loss; language extinction | language preservation; language survival | The decline of Indigenous languages is a global issue known as language death. |
| cuisine (কুইজিন) | The characteristic style of cooking and food of a place. | food; cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied with the use of many spices. |
| platter (প্ল্যাটার) | A dish or serving of food containing several items. | dish; serving; meal | — | Panta ilish is a traditional platter of panta bhat. |
| molasses (মোলাসিজ) | A thick, dark syrup used in food. | syrup; sweetener | — | Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, molasses, and sometimes milk. |
▣Key Points
- Folk music includes tunes, lyrics, and knowledge passed down orally for generations.
- Folk music reflects agriculture, food, ecology, seasons, and rituals.
- Self-expression means communicating people’s own thoughts and feelings.
- Folk instruments are made from materials found in the surroundings, such as animal skin, bamboo, and calabash.
- Migration to cities and changes in villages can cause traditional tunes to fade.
- Nakshi kantha is an embroidered quilt associated with Bangladesh and West Bengal.
- The Bangla word naksha means an artistic pattern.
- Traditional kanthas are made with old or new cloth and thread for family use.
- Many Indigenous groups have distinct lifestyles, economic practices, belief systems, and languages.
- Language death refers to the disappearance of a language.
- Bangladeshi cuisine includes rice, vegetables, curry, lentil soups, fish, meat, snacks, and sweets.
- Pitha can be made from rice flour, sugar, syrup, molasses, and sometimes milk.
5. Words in Context
Read the passage first and notice how the bold words connect ideas about music, craft, communities, and food. Then use the table to review their meanings and related words.
People’s music has evolved with the lives of communities. Through oral tradition, songs carry knowledge and self-expression from one generation to another. Folk instruments are made from materials found in the surroundings, while migration to cities may cause traditional tunes to fade. A quilt such as Nakshi kantha displays an artistic pattern. Bangladesh is also home to many indigenous groups, and its varied cuisine includes rice, fish, sweets, and pitha.
When you meet a new word in a passage, first use the surrounding sentence to guess its meaning. Next, compare your guess with the Bengali meaning, synonyms, and antonyms in the table.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| evolved (ইভলভড) | সময়ের সঙ্গে ধীরে ধীরে পরিবর্তিত হয়েছে (changed gradually over time) | developed (বিকশিত হয়েছে); changed (পরিবর্তিত হয়েছে); progressed (অগ্রসর হয়েছে) | stayed (একই থেকেছে); stopped (থেমে গেছে) | Folk music has evolved with the way people live. লোকসংগীত মানুষের জীবনযাপনের সঙ্গে পরিবর্তিত হয়েছে। |
| oral (অরাল) | লিখিত নয়, মুখে বলা (spoken rather than written) | spoken (মৌখিক); verbal (কথ্য) | written (লিখিত); printed (মুদ্রিত) | The song remains part of an oral tradition. গানটি একটি মৌখিক ঐতিহ্যের অংশ হয়ে আছে। |
| self-expression (সেল্ফ-এক্সপ্রেশন) | নিজের চিন্তা ও অনুভূতির প্রকাশ (communication of one’s thoughts and feelings) | expression (প্রকাশ); communication (যোগাযোগ); creativity (সৃজনশীলতা) | silence (নীরবতা); concealment (গোপন রাখা) | The songs show the self-expression of the people. গানগুলো মানুষের আত্মপ্রকাশ তুলে ধরে। |
| instruments (ইনস্ট্রুমেন্টস) | সুর তৈরি করার জন্য ব্যবহৃত বস্তু (objects used to produce musical sounds) | tools (যন্ত্র); devices (উপকরণ); apparatus (সরঞ্জাম) | — | The folk instruments are made from bamboo and animal skin. লোকবাদ্যযন্ত্র বাঁশ ও পশুর চামড়া দিয়ে তৈরি। |
| migration (মাইগ্রেশন) | এক স্থান থেকে অন্য স্থানে মানুষের চলাচল (movement of people from one place to another) | movement (স্থানান্তর); relocation (স্থানবদল); resettlement (পুনর্বাসন) | staying (থেকে যাওয়া); remaining (থেকে থাকা) | Migration to cities can change village traditions. শহরে অভিবাসন গ্রামের ঐতিহ্য পরিবর্তন করতে পারে। |
| quilt (কুইল্ট) | স্তরে স্তরে কাপড় দিয়ে তৈরি আবরণ (cloth cover made from layers of fabric) | coverlet (আবরণ); bedcover (বিছানার চাদর) | — | The embroidered quilt is a traditional craft. নকশিকাঁথা একটি ঐতিহ্যবাহী কারুশিল্প। |
| artistic pattern (আর্টিস্টিক প্যাটার্ন) | সৌন্দর্য বা অর্থ প্রকাশকারী সৃজনশীল নকশা (creative design made to produce beauty or meaning) | design (নকশা); motif (নকশার উপাদান); decoration (সজ্জা) | plainness (সরলতা); blankness (ফাঁকা অবস্থা) | The colourful artistic pattern makes the kantha attractive. রঙিন শৈল্পিক নকশা কাঁথাটিকে আকর্ষণীয় করে তোলে। |
| indigenous (ইনডিজিনাস) | কোনো নির্দিষ্ট স্থানের আদি অধিবাসী বা স্থানীয় (originally belonging to a particular place) | native (স্থানীয়); local (আঞ্চলিক); original (আদি) | foreign (বিদেশি); imported (আমদানি করা) | Indigenous groups have distinct languages and cultures. আদিবাসী গোষ্ঠীগুলোর স্বতন্ত্র ভাষা ও সংস্কৃতি রয়েছে। |
| cuisine (কুইজিন) | কোনো স্থানের রান্না ও খাবারের ধরন (a style of cooking and food) | food (খাবার); cooking (রান্না); fare (পরিবেশিত খাবার) | — | Bangladeshi cuisine uses many spices. বাংলাদেশি রান্নায় অনেক মসলা ব্যবহার করা হয়। |
Total words: 9
6. Exercise 1 - Match the Meaning
Match each English word with its correct meaning. The meanings are intentionally shuffled.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Shuffled Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ecology (ee-KOL-uh-jee) | A. A sweet, thick syrup used in food | environmental science; natural relations | — | Bangladeshi folk music reflects ecology. It shows the relationship between people and their environment. |
| rituals (RIT-choo-uhlz) | B. The movement of people from one place to another | ceremonies; observances; customs | — | The songs reflect the rituals of the people. The songs show the people's ceremonies and customs. |
| calabash (KAL-uh-bash) | C. A style of cooking and food | gourd; bottle gourd | — | Calabash is a common material for folk instruments. Folk instruments may be made from calabash. |
| lyrics (LIK-riks) | D. A cloth cover made from layers of fabric | words; verses; text | instrumental music | Folk music consists of tunes and lyrics. It contains melodies and the words of songs. |
| migration (my-GRAY-shun) | E. A dish or tray used for serving food | movement; relocation; resettlement | staying; remaining | Migration to cities can affect traditional music. Moving to cities may change musical traditions. |
| quilt (kwilt) | F. The study of living things and their environment | coverlet; bedcover | — | Nakshi kantha is an embroidered quilt. It is a decorated cloth cover. |
| indigenous (in-DIJ-uh-nus) | G. Words of a song | native; local; original | foreign; imported | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. These groups originally belong to the region. |
| cuisine (kwih-ZEEN) | H. A gourd-like object used as a material for an instrument | food; cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. Its food includes many different dishes. |
| platter (PLAT-er) | I. Belonging originally to a particular place | serving dish; tray; plate | — | Panta ilish is a traditional platter. It is served as a traditional food arrangement. |
| molasses (muh-LAS-iz) | J. Customary religious or cultural practices | syrup; sweetener | — | Pitha may be made with molasses. Molasses can make the traditional food sweet. |
Answer Key
ecology — F; rituals — J; calabash — H; lyrics — G; migration — B; quilt — D; indigenous — I; cuisine — C; platter — E; molasses — A
Total words: 10
7. Exercise 2 - Fill in the Blanks
Complete each sentence with a suitable word from the word bank.
Word Bank
quilt | rituals | orally | molasses | indigenous | ecology | migration | calabash | agriculture | evolved
Fill in the blanks
1. People’s music is passed down ________ for generations.
2. Over time, this music has ________ closely with the way people live.
3. Bangladesh’s ________, food, ecology, seasons, and rituals are reflected in folk songs.
4. Our food and music are closely connected to ________ and the natural environment.
5. Agriculture, food, seasons, and ________ are reflected in folk songs.
6. Folk instruments may be made from ________, bamboo, and animal skin.
7. ________ to cities can cause traditional tunes to fade.
8. Nakshi kantha is an embroidered ________.
9. Bangladesh is home to more than 54 ________ groups.
10. Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, ________, and sometimes milk.
Answer Key
1. orally 2. evolved 3. agriculture 4. ecology 5. rituals 6. calabash 7. migration 8. quilt 9. indigenous 10. molasses
Worked Example Series
Ex. People’s music is passed down ________ for generations.
Sol: The sentence describes spoken transmission.
Blank = orally
Ans. orally
Blank = orally
Ans. orally
Ex. Nakshi kantha is an embroidered ________.
Sol: Nakshi kantha is described as a cloth cover made with embroidery.
Blank = quilt
Ans. quilt
Blank = quilt
Ans. quilt
Ex. Folk instruments may be made from ________, bamboo, and animal skin.
Sol: The chapter names common materials for folk instruments.
Blank = calabash
Ans. calabash
Blank = calabash
Ans. calabash
Ex. Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, ________, and sometimes milk.
Sol: The sentence lists ingredients used to make pitha.
Blank = molasses
Ans. molasses
Blank = molasses
Ans. molasses
Total items: 10
8. Exercise 3 - Synonyms and Antonyms
Instruction: Study the table and complete the worked examples below. The Bengali-script pronunciations and Bengali meanings are not included here because this sheet follows the language of the source text.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| self-expression (self-ik-SPRESH-un) | the communication of one's own thoughts and feelings | expression (communication); communication (sharing ideas); creativity (creative expression) | silence (absence of speech); concealment (hiding) | The songs embody the self-expression of the people. The songs show the people's own thoughts and feelings. |
| instruments (IN-struh-ments) | objects used to produce musical sounds | tools (objects used for a purpose); devices (useful objects); apparatus (equipment) | — | The instruments used for folk music are crafted from materials found in the surroundings. Folk instruments are made from local materials. |
| migration (my-GRAY-shun) | the movement of people from one place to another | movement (going from one place to another); relocation (moving to a new place); transfer (moving) | staying (remaining); settlement (living in one place) | Migration to cities can cause traditional tunes to fade. Moving to cities may weaken old musical traditions. |
| ecology (ee-KOL-uh-jee) | the relationship between living things and their environment | environment (natural surroundings); nature (the natural world); ecosystem (living things and their surroundings) | — | Our ecology is reflected in the songs of the people. Folk songs show the connection with the natural environment. |
| rituals (RIT-choo-uhlz) | customary religious or cultural practices | customs (traditional practices); ceremonies (formal practices); traditions (practices passed down) | innovation (new practice); novelty (newness) | Agriculture, food, ecology, seasons, and rituals are reflected in these songs. Traditional practices appear in the folk songs. |
| commercially (kuh-MUR-shuh-lee) | for buying and selling | businesswise (in business); professionally (as a business); publicly (for the market) | privately (not publicly); personally (for family use) | Now Nakshi kantha is produced commercially. The quilts are now made for sale. |
| indigenous (in-DIJ-uh-nuhs) | belonging originally to a particular place | native (belonging to a place); original (first); local (from the area) | foreign (from another country); imported (brought from elsewhere) | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. These groups originally belong to the region. |
| displaced (dis-PLAYST) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated (moved); removed (taken away); uprooted (forced to leave) | settled (living in a place); established (firmly placed) | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. The dam forced many people to leave their homes. |
| cuisine (kwih-ZEEN) | a style of cooking and food | food (things eaten); cooking (preparing food); fare (food served) | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. Bangladeshi food includes many different dishes. |
| demand (di-MAND) | a strong need or desire for something | need (requirement); desire (strong wish); request (a call for something) | supply (amount available); refusal (rejection) | The quilts are now in great demand because of their colourful patterns and designs. Many people strongly want these colourful quilts. |
Total words: 10
Worked Example Series
Ex. Find a synonym of migration.
Sol:
Target word = migration
Meaning in the lesson = movement of people
Matching synonym = relocation
Ans. relocation
Sol:
Target word = migration
Meaning in the lesson = movement of people
Matching synonym = relocation
Ans. relocation
Ex. Find an antonym of indigenous.
Sol:
Target word = indigenous
Meaning in the lesson = belonging originally to a place
Opposite idea = coming from another country
Matching antonym = foreign
Ans. foreign
Sol:
Target word = indigenous
Meaning in the lesson = belonging originally to a place
Opposite idea = coming from another country
Matching antonym = foreign
Ans. foreign
Ex. Find a synonym of commercially.
Sol:
Target word = commercially
Meaning in the lesson = for buying and selling
Matching synonym = professionally
Ans. professionally
Sol:
Target word = commercially
Meaning in the lesson = for buying and selling
Matching synonym = professionally
Ans. professionally
Ex. Find an antonym of displaced.
Sol:
Target word = displaced
Meaning in the lesson = forced to leave a place
Opposite idea = living firmly in a place
Matching antonym = settled
Ans. settled
Sol:
Target word = displaced
Meaning in the lesson = forced to leave a place
Opposite idea = living firmly in a place
Matching antonym = settled
Ans. settled
Ex. Find a synonym of cuisine.
Sol:
Target word = cuisine
Meaning in the lesson = a style of cooking and food
Matching synonym = cooking
Ans. cooking
Sol:
Target word = cuisine
Meaning in the lesson = a style of cooking and food
Matching synonym = cooking
Ans. cooking
9. Exercise 4 - Make Sentences
Use each word in a meaningful sentence related to the chapter.
Instructions
Read the word, understand its meaning, and write one complete sentence. Use the model sentences in the answer section for guidance.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ecology (ee-KOL-uh-jee) | the relationship between living things and their environment | environment; nature; ecosystem | — | The ecology of Bangladesh is reflected in the songs of the people. |
| rituals (RIT-choo-uhlz) | customary religious or cultural practices | customs; ceremonies; traditions | innovation; novelty | Seasonal rituals are reflected in many folk songs. |
| commercially (kuh-MUR-shuh-lee) | for buying and selling | businesswise; professionally; publicly | privately; personally | Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially. |
| indigenous (in-DIJ-uh-nuhs) | belonging originally to a particular place | native; original; local | foreign; imported | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. |
| displaced (dis-PLAYST) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated; removed; uprooted | settled; established | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people in the hill tracts. |
| cuisine (kwih-ZEEN) | a style of cooking and food | food; cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. |
| demand (di-MAND) | a strong need or desire for something | need; desire; request | supply; refusal | Nakshi kanthas are in great demand because of their colourful designs. |
| migration (my-GRAY-shuhn) | the movement of people from one place to another | movement; relocation; transfer | staying; settlement | Migration to cities can affect traditional music. |
Total words: 8
Worked Example Series
Ex. Make a sentence with ecology.
Sol:
Target word = ecology
Chapter context = the natural environment
Model sentence = The ecology of Bangladesh is reflected in the songs of the people.
Ans. The ecology of Bangladesh is reflected in the songs of the people.
Ex. Make a sentence with rituals.
Sol:
Target word = rituals
Chapter context = cultural practices
Model sentence = Seasonal rituals are reflected in many folk songs.
Ans. Seasonal rituals are reflected in many folk songs.
Ex. Make a sentence with commercially.
Sol:
Target word = commercially
Chapter context = production for sale
Model sentence = Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially.
Ans. Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially.
Ex. Make a sentence with indigenous.
Sol:
Target word = indigenous
Chapter context = groups belonging originally to Bangladesh
Model sentence = Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups.
Ans. Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups.
Ex. Make a sentence with cuisine.
Sol:
Target word = cuisine
Chapter context = Bangladeshi cooking and food
Model sentence = Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied.
Ans. Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied.
10. Vocabulary MCQ (1-10)
Textual Vocabulary
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| oral (/ˈɔːrəl/) | spoken rather than written | spoken; verbal | written; printed | Folk music is passed down orally for generations. |
| evolved (/ɪˈvɒlvd/) | changed gradually over time | developed; progressed | stayed; stopped | This music has evolved closely with people’s lives. |
| indigenous (/ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/) | belonging originally to a particular place | native; local | foreign; imported | Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups. |
| embroidered (/ɪmˈbrɔɪdəd/) | decorated with patterns sewn with thread | stitched; ornamented | plain; undecorated | Nakshi kantha is an embroidered quilt. |
| commercially (/kəˈmɜːʃəli/) | for buying and selling | businesswise; professionally | privately; personally | Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially. |
| displaced (/dɪsˈpleɪst/) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated; uprooted | settled; established | The Kaptai Dam displaced thousands of people. |
| cuisine (/kwɪˈziːn/) | a style of cooking and food | cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and varied. |
| molasses (/məˈlæsɪz/) | a thick, dark syrup used in food | syrup; sweetener | — | Pitha may be made with sugar, syrup, molasses and sometimes milk. |
| migration (/maɪˈɡreɪʃən/) | movement from one place to another | movement; relocation | staying; settlement | Migration to cities can affect traditional music. |
| demand (/dɪˈmɑːnd/) | a strong need or desire for something | need; desire | supply; refusal | Nakshi kanthas are in great demand because of their colourful designs. |
Practice Questions
Meanings in Context
1. Which word means “spoken rather than written”?
A. oral
B. printed
C. embroidered
D. commercial
Sol: [A] Oral describes communication that is spoken.
2. What does indigenous mean in the lesson?
A. brought from another country
B. belonging originally to a place
C. made for sale
D. forced to move
Sol: [B] Indigenous groups belong originally to the place where they live.
Synonyms and Antonyms
3. Which word is closest in meaning to evolved?
A. stopped
B. remained
C. developed
D. disappeared
Sol: [C] To evolve is to develop or change gradually.
4. Which word is an antonym of embroidered?
A. stitched
B. decorated
C. ornamented
D. plain
Sol: [D] Plain means without decoration.
Usage and Grammar
5. Choose the best word: “Nakshi kantha is now produced ______.”
A. indigenous
B. commercially
C. displaced
D. oral
Sol: [B] Commercially means for buying and selling.
6. Which sentence uses displaced correctly?
A. The dam displaced thousands of people.
B. The dam displaced a sweet dish.
C. The dam displaced a colourful pattern.
D. The dam displaced a spoken song.
Sol: [A] Displaced means forced people to leave their homes or place.
Chapter-Based Application
7. Which item is described as a thick, dark syrup used in food?
A. cuisine
B. molasses
C. migration
D. demand
Sol: [B] Molasses is listed as a thick, dark syrup used in food.
8. Which word best completes the sentence: “Bangladeshi ______ includes rice, vegetables, fish, meat, snacks and sweets.”
A. cuisine
B. tradition
C. migration
D. embroidery
Sol: [A] Cuisine means a style of cooking and food.
9. What may happen to traditional tunes as people move from villages to cities?
A. They may slowly fade.
B. They become written recipes.
C. They turn into quilts.
D. They become fish dishes.
Sol: [A] The chapter says traditional tunes are slowly fading as people migrate and villages change.
10. Why are Nakshi kanthas in great demand?
A. They contain fish.
B. They have colourful patterns and designs.
C. They are made only in cities.
D. They are used as musical instruments.
Sol: [B] Their colourful embroidered patterns and designs make them highly desired.
11. Quick Revision List
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| oral (অরাল) | spoken rather than written | spoken; verbal | written; printed | The story continued through oral tradition. The story was shared by speaking rather than writing. |
| evolved (ইভলভড) | changed gradually over time | developed; changed; progressed | stayed; stopped | Folk music evolved with changing lifestyles. Folk music gradually changed as lifestyles changed. |
| indigenous (ইনডিজিনাস) | belonging originally to a particular place | native; original; local | foreign; imported | Indigenous groups have distinct lifestyles and languages. The groups are native to the place and have their own ways of life. |
| embroidered (এমব্রয়ডার্ড) | decorated with patterns sewn with thread | stitched; decorated; ornamented | plain; undecorated | The colourful quilt has an embroidered design. The design was made by sewing thread into the cloth. |
| commercially (কমার্শিয়ালি) | for buying and selling | businesswise; professionally; publicly | privately; personally | Nakshi kantha is produced commercially in cities. It is made for sale in the market. |
| displaced (ডিসপ্লেইস্ট) | forced to leave a home or place | relocated; removed; uprooted | settled; established | The dam displaced people from their homes. The people were forced to leave their homes. |
| cuisine (কুইজিন) | a style of cooking and food | food; cooking; fare | — | Bangladeshi cuisine uses many spices. Bangladeshi cooking includes a rich variety of foods. |
| molasses (ম্যালাসিজ) | a thick, dark syrup used in food | syrup; sweetener | — | Molasses can be used when preparing pitha. It is a thick, dark syrup used as a food ingredient. |
◆ Key Points
▪ People’s music is also known as folk music.
▪ Folk music includes tunes, lyrics, and knowledge passed down orally for generations.
▪ Bangladeshi folk music reflects agriculture, food, ecology, seasons, and rituals.
▪ Folk instruments are made from materials such as animal skin, bamboo, and calabash.
▪ Traditional tunes may slowly fade when people migrate to cities and villages change.
▪ Nakshi kantha is an embroidered quilt and a traditional craft.
▪ The Bangla word “naksha” means an artistic pattern.
▪ Traditional kanthas are made with old or new cloth and thread.
▪ Nakshi kantha is now produced commercially and is in great demand for its colourful patterns and designs.
▪ Bangladesh is home to more than 54 Indigenous groups speaking at least 35 distinct languages.
▪ Bangladeshi cuisine includes rice, vegetables, curry, lentil soups, fish, meat, snacks, and sweets.
12. Practice Bank
Vocabulary Practice
Complete the table. Write the Bengali meaning, two or three English synonyms and antonyms where possible, and one suitable sentence from the chapter context.
| Word (Pronunciation) | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| staple (/ˈsteɪpəl/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| appetizing (/ˈæpɪtaɪzɪŋ/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| cultivated (/ˈkʌltɪveɪtɪd/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| platter (/ˈplætər/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| soaked (/soʊkt/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| endangered (/ɪnˈdeɪndʒərd/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| dominance (/ˈdɒmɪnəns/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| extinction (/ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| oppression (/əˈpreʃən/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| uprising (/ˈʌpraɪzɪŋ/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| legacy (/ˈleɡəsi/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
| marginalization (/ˌmɑːrdʒɪnəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/) | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
Hints: Think about rice as a main food; food that stimulates appetite; fish raised in ponds; a large serving dish; rice kept under water; languages at risk; powerful influence; disappearance; unfair control; organized resistance; inherited contribution; and being pushed to the edge of society.