Using language to think and reason  (Page 2/3)

6 On the other hand, the use of black and white can also be impressive. A black-and-white marble floor is stunning, a black and white outfit can be absolutely dazzling and black and white photography can be very striking and extremely suitable for the subject – holding our attention in much the same way as colour photography.

7 And then of course we come to figurative language. If we only used facts which had to be accepted at face value, life would be colourless. Figures of speech allow us to exercise our minds and to create pictures in our minds. We find figurative images in writing colourful and realize that writing is really enhanced, sharpened and outlined, by the use of imagery.

8 The rainbow is the most fascinating of all. It reminds us of our colourful world, which we tend to take for granted. Perhaps we need to take stock and to SEE colour properly for the first time from now onwards!

2. What does ‘Our Colourful World’ mean to you?
3. What is one way of interpreting the title, according to paragraph 2?

Give your answer as a statement, in a simple sentence, without using figures of speech.

1. What, in your own words, is the main point of paragraph 3?
2. What, in your own words, are the two main points made in paragraph 4?
3. Besides being colourful, having vivid costumes and original music, describe four other qualities that make the Cape Carnival such a success – use adjectives of the words supplied in paragraph 5.

The dancing and singing are

1. What contrast is made in paragraph 6?

_____________ vs______________

1. Mention two ways that the mind is affected by imagery, according to paragraph 7?
2. The writer feels we should do something now, having read this article. What is it?

Activity 4:

To discuss environmental and ethical issues and to question and infer to solve problems and develop thinking about environmental issues

[lo 3.9, 5.1.7]

“If mankind goes on the way it is, without regard for our colourful world, there might be no world to speak of soon.” YOU decide how serious the problem is and in your group decide what you can do to help.

1. In England, the following are some of the Acts that have been enacted:

1970 Department of the Environment created

1974 Control of Pollution Act

1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act

Select three Acts that have been enacted in South Africa to protect the environment.

2. Give a definition of ‘global warming’.

3. Mention some of the effects of global warming.

4. What is ‘El Niño’?

5. How do pesticides affect the environment?

6. What is meant by genetically-modified foods?

7. What would be the consequences of water shortages on mankind in the long-term? Explain your opinion.

8. Why should we look after endangered species with particular care, in your view.

9. How does man’s greed affect the environment? Summarise your view.

10. What can one person do to help? Number your ideas.

11. What do the following terms mean?

1. biodiversity
2. deforestation
3. rain forests
4. desertification
5. earth summit
6. fossil fuels
7. greenhouse effect

Assessment