Creative Writing Winner: Dev Aggrawal’s Essay – Why Confidence is the Most Important Language Skill?
WHY CONFIDENCE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT LANGUAGE SKILL is the title of the essay, written by Dev Aggrawal, which came third in our Gateway writing competition. Confidence is a crucial element to any successes we are aiming for, including and especially learning English. At the Gateway Center, we find it so disappointing when people miss out on opportunities just because they lack English speaking confidence. So we teach classes that give people confidence so that they can get the recognition that they deserve. Dev makes great points right through his essay, establishing and proving why confidence boosts our language learning. Enjoy reading… WHY CONFIDENCE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT LANGUAGE SKILL As an individual, one will find many people around him/her saying that it is very important to build confidence to survive in this rapidly evolving world. Confidence refers to a belief in oneself about one’s ability and skills to do any task, leading to a sense of assurance and self-reliance. In general, it is the feeling of being sure of yourself, not in an arrogant manner, but realistically. Now let’s discuss why confidence is the most important language skill. First, confidence reduces the fear of making mistakes. Making mistakes is normal human behavior but we should not get disheartened but keep trying again and again. Even millionaires, billionaires and rich celebrities make mistakes. As one has rightly said “Mistakes are proof that you are trying”. A confident learner won’t stop but will keep learning to grow. Secondly, confidence improves fluency. Fluency is not about learning tough words or mastering a language. Instead it is about speaking smoothly and naturally, without long pauses or hesitation. As the phrase goes “Speak as if you cannot fail”. That’s fluency. A confident speaker would know how to speak so that his words have an impact even if he/she is not very good at speaking, whereas a speaker with a lack of confidence will have self-doubts which will disrupt his fluency. Thirdly, confidence encourages active participation which helps in learning faster, which in turn adds further value to our participation. In a class, while learning something new, a confident person will raise their hand and ask or answer questions without hesitation. This helps the person to understand the topic faster. It’ll also help the people around him too, who may be hesitant to ask questions of their own or give answers to the teacher’s questions. A confident person would not think twice about participating in an event or competition if it adds value to his life, whereas a hesitant person may doubt his decision several times or may try to join a group to feel secure in participating in any event. The most important reason why we should have confidence in ourselves is that it helps to prepare for unfamiliar situations. Life is very unpredictable. It may throw any kind of challenge at us and sometimes we have no option of escape. Therefore, one should be confident in dealing with unforeseen situations. Confidence helps to maintain composure so that one can think how to deal with the situation. It prevents the stressing of our bodies to a great extent so that our brain can run efficiently. An example is if one is in a foreign land and needs to communicate to find the location where he/she needs to reach. In this situation, a confident person would not lose hope or stress out but would try to find ways to communicate with people around. However, a person with low confidence may shatter and start crying, unless he/she is helped by some kind soul. Professional success and career advancement also requires confidence and good body language which indicates a healthy mindset. Confidence helps individuals convey their ideas, negotiate and build strong relationships with people around them. Confident communicators can showcase their skills and achievements with conviction and authority, but those with low confidence, may be under lots of pressure and fumble. Also, confident professionals are more likely to seize opportunities, handle criticism constructively, and navigate workplace challenges with composure. It enhances decision-making skills and fosters trust among colleagues and superiors. Ultimately, confidence fuels ambition, resilience, and continuous growth, making it a crucial factor in achieving long term career goals. A final point about why confidence is the most important language skill is that it helps in personal growth and empowerment. Confidence enables individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and opinions without fear of judgment. It strengthens communication skills and nurtures leadership qualities. Empowered individuals with confidence inspire others, creating a positive cycle of growth and motivation. Confidence in language can boost self-esteem and self-worth leading to a more positive and empowered self-image. As the saying goes ‘Self-belief is the first step to success’. In conclusion, confidence is the foundation upon which all language skills thrive. Without confidence and self-belief, it becomes very difficult to survive in this competitive world. Confidence allows individuals to speak freely and engage actively in communications, which accelerates learning and fluency. It also fosters clarity, assertiveness and connection with others. Confidence makes individuals bold and teaches them how to be independent and be decisive of all our actions. At each step in life, one can meet unfamiliar conditions, disloyal friends, people who try to push you and sometimes even lack of family support. To deal with all this needs a lot of courage, strength and confidence. Therefore, it is very important to build and have confidence because it is truly the most important language skill and will remain the most important forever. [This essay has undergone minor corrections before publishing as this blog post.] Congratulations, Dev, on securing 3rd place in this writing competition! Your effort and creativity truly stood out.
Creative Writing Winner: Shruti Singhdeo’s poem – When the World Silences You, Life Teaches You to Feel.
One of the most important mantras for a full and fulfilling life is “Life long learning.” As important as formal education is, if we stop learning at the end of class 12, graduation or post-graduation we will miss out on so much more than we have actually gained. In this post we are celebrating the 2nd place winner in our writing competition. Shruti Singhdeo wrote a poem titled When the World Silences You, Life Teaches You to Feel. In it she explores with simplicity, elegance, daring and boldness, one of the key lessons life outside the classroom teaches us: vulnerability and humility. (A lesson not taught in school, When the World Told Me to Be Strong) The road of life is long, And if you ever feel tired — It’s okay to just say so. Because life teaches us something That no classroom ever does — That vulnerability isn’t weakness; It’s the beginning of healing. And when there’s no one around, Come back to me. I won’t tell you, “You’re strong.” Instead, I’ll let you show your weakness. I’ll let your tears fall freely — Without trying to hold them back. Because sometimes, the most important lessons come not from words, but from silence, from sitting beside someone who simply lets you be. When the world tells you, “You’re so beautiful,” I’ll say — “Even if you’re not, so what? You’re a kind soul. Don’t let your beauty define you, Let your ability, your heart, be your identity.” That’s what life teaches us — to value character over appearance, kindness over charm, truth over perfection. And listen — I’ll stand beside you When you break, When you fall apart, When you stumble… Because sometimes, Not being brave Is a kind of bravery too. These are the quiet lessons Life whispers between the chaos — Lessons no school ever dared to teach. If you are human, you will experience weakness. But if you develop the trait of vulnerability, you will learn how to reach out to others in your weakness. Shruti Singhdeo tells us how important this is. Congratulations Shruti, on a beautiful and well written poem.
Creative Writing Winner: Srishti Bhattacharya’s poem – Unattainable (An ode to knowledge).
How important is it for us to know… to grow in knowledge? What happens in a society and culture when knowledge gets supplanted by power? Recently, we, The Gateway Center, have organized the Creative Writing Competition. In this post we are celebrating the 1st place winner of our writing competition with Srishti Bhattacharya’s poem, Unattainable (An ode to knowledge). It is an emotive and evocative exploration of both the beauty and importance of knowledge, and what happens when knowledge is compromised. Unattainable (An ode to knowledge) She, the expansive blue of the tumbling cloth, where cowrie shells bounce to the endless sky. She, the moistened soil of illusions hid the desert sucks with, into its bosom dry. She, the daughter-in-law of endless heights, that the sun and stars bow before in awe. She, the turn of the unbalanced globe, that hold it in the embrace of forces beyond The love of her, nectar and poison concocted, the sweet melody guiding the ages of man. She, the mistress to the builders of civilizations, and still only wife to constructors of sand. Dressed then in peasants’ garb, earth-scented, unadorned, Now she’s an empress with gods coming at her gates. Here she languishes in the wordsmith’s bending quill, There she’s reborn beneath the artist’s cautious gaze. Humanity stands warned, her treacherous tales now told, though her seductive scent still sleeps on the air. Kings and generals have drawn their swords, though foolish saints still stand to dare. And then the prince – the youngest of the lo, in the royal court, with horse and armour, rises to battle the loin of his production, and slays with his sword the anguished father. You, merciless thirst, parching man and child, adulteress virgin, what is it you seek? You, destroyer and creator of universes and its children, now amused at that unfortunate, for whom you would weep. You stand at the guillotine of fallen Faustus, smiling at the lust your touch had evoked. Just as it was in your excessive love, Chaste Eve betrayed her sinless abode Trickster, disguiser, confounding and condoning, creating Eden in hell’s fiery circle. As the stealthy wind go steal a kiss or retreat with the waves back into your ocean. By Srishti Bhattacharya, 1st place winner ( Gateway’s Creative writing competition). So, Srishti Bhattacharya, a big congratulations to you from us all at the Gateway Center for your excellent contribution. A well-deserved first prize!
IELTS General Training or Academic – which one should you choose?
IELTS General Training or Academic – which one should you choose? If you are planning to take the IELTS exam, the first thing you need to decide is which version of the IELTS exam you should take – the Academic version or the General Training version. Both are IELTS tests, but they serve different purposes. Here we will explain to you about these tests, how they are different, and help you decide which version of the IELTS exam is right for your goals – whether you want to study abroad, shift to another country, or work in an English-speaking environment. What is IELTS? IELTS ( International English Language Testing System ) is one of the most popular English tests in the world. More than 10,000 organizations, including universities, governments, and employers, accept IELTS scores to validate the English level of their applicants. There are two types of IELTS tests – IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic. Both tests have four sections – listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The listening and speaking sections are the same in both versions of the exam, but the reading and writing sections are different. What is IELTS Academic? IELTS Academic is mainly for the people who want to: Study at a college or university abroad. Get a student visa. Apply for professional jobs like doctors, nurses, or teachers. This test is to check that you are ready to study or work in an English-speaking environment. The reading section has longer and more complicated passages, often taken from textbooks or journals. In writing, you have to analyze charts or graphs and also write an argumentative academic-style essay. So, if you want to study abroad or to work in a professional field, IELTS Academic is the right choice for you. What is IELTS General Training? IELTS General Training is usually for people who want to: Shift to countries like Canada, Australia, or the UK. Apply for Permanent Residency (PR). Work in non-academic jobs or join training programs. This version of the test focuses on everyday English, like reading newspapers, writing letters, or speaking in social and work situations. The reading section includes notices or short articles. In writing, you’ll need to write a letter about an everyday sort of situation and then write an argumentative essay on a given topic. So, if you are planning to move to an English-speaking country or work there in a general job, the IELTS General Training is usually the better choice. Key Differences between IELTS Academic and General Training :- In the Academic test, you are going to read more difficult and formal texts. The writing part will ask you to describe data (like graphs or charts) and to write an academic essay. In the General Training test, the reading texts are going to be shorter and easier, and the writing task will include topics like letter writing. The second writing task is also an essay, but it’s on a general topic. The listening and speaking sections are the same in both tests. For listening, you have to listen to the recordings and answer questions. For speaking, you will have a face-to-face conversation with the examiner. Which one is easier? Many people find the IELTS General training slightly easier than the Academic. This is mostly because in General training, the texts are shorter and simpler, and the writing tasks are more about daily situations. However, both tests are still serious exams. What score do you need? The IELTS Exam uses a scoring system from 1 to 9 (called band scores). Most universities ask for an overall band score of 6.5 or 7 in the academic version. If you are applying for immigration, a bit lower will usually also work, depending on the country and visa type. It’s important to check the score you need for your study program, visa application, or job. Can you change the test type later? Yes, you can change your test from Academic to General Training or from General Training to Academic if you contact the test center before your test date. Try to choose the correct version at the time of booking, but if you can, request a change to your test type. So, which test should you choose? If your goal is to study at a university abroad, then choose IELTS Academic. If you want to shift to a country like Canada or Australia for immigration, then choose IELTS General training. If you need professional registration (like to work as a doctor, nurse), then it may require IELTS Academic. If you are still confused, you can check the website of the university, immigration service, or company you are applying to. OR You can contact us – THE GATEWAY CENTER. If you are still confused or have doubts, then you can contact us. Our expert team can guide you. We even provide mock tests and coaching for both versions (IELTS Academic and General training). You can connect with us offline at our Haridwar or Dehradun campus or online too. Get in Touch You can contact us via mail at enquiry@gatewaycenter.in or give us call at : +91 7818813912.
Prepare for IELTS at Home – The Ultimate Guide
Prepare for IELTS at Home – The Ultimate Guide The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam is easily one of the most recognized and accepted English exams globally. Whether you want to study, work, or migrate abroad, achieving success in IELTS can set you on the path to a world of opportunity. Getting ready for the IELTS can be daunting particularly if you’re going to be studying from back home. The great news is that with the right approach, focused determination, and appropriate resources, it is entirely possible to study for the IELTS from home with success. Here’s a quick how-to to walk you through getting started. 1. Understanding the IELTS Test Format. Even before you start your preparation, it’s important that you understand the IELTS exam pattern. The test measures language proficiency across four components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Listening and Speaking sections is a practice test format and familiarize you with the kind of questions that will be featured in each section. Understanding what to expect will help you better prepare and make the most of your time to get ready. 2. Develop a reasonable study plan This is what happens if you don’t try to be consistent when preparing for the IELTS. Begin by creating a attainable study plan, ensuring that you give time to each section. For instance, after you know your baseline score pick a few hours a day to focus on just the listening and reading sections since they tend to be easier areas to practice on and boost your score. For the writing and speaking sections specifically, practice with study materials or have someone else help you, such as a tutor. Plan for time off to recharge and prevent fatigue, and follow your schedule as closely as you can. 3. Find quality test preparation & study aids. Access to high-quality study materials is key to successful IELTS test preparation. There are all kinds of IELTS preparation resources online – from official IELTS study guides, to free study websites, to IELTS apps for your phone. Begin with authentic IELTS resources like Cambridge IELTS books or IELTS official practice tests to familiarize yourself with what the questions will look like. Furthermore, sites like IELTS Liz, Band 9 IELTS and British Council site provide valuable advice and practice tasks. Remember to listen to podcasts in English, watch TV shows or read the newspaper to continue language learning on your own. 4. Develop good time management skills. Effective time management is essential in IELTS, as each part includes a specific time limit. To illustrate, in the TOEFL iBT Listening section, there are 40 questions to answer and 30 minutes to do it. Likewise, the Reading section has you answer 40 questions in 60 minutes. In order to closely mimic exam conditions at home, practice answering questions with a timer and a stop watch type format. In addition to getting you used to the time pressure, this will help you identify tricks to address especially tough questions faster. 5. Double down where you’re lacking the most to strengthen your weaknesses. In short, we all have various primary and secondary proficiencies to juggle in their own languages. While you practice, figure out which parts you’re the worst at and work to make those areas stronger. For instance, if the Speaking section is the hardest for you, try recording yourself responding to typical IELTS Speaking questions, and then play the recordings back to spot where you can improve. For the writing section, practice writing full-length essays on a variety of topics and pay attention to your grammar and structure. To keep the momentum and motivation going through the progress, regular self-assessment should be a part of your routine. 6. Get feedback on your practice tests and tap into the knowledge of more experienced folks. So as your exam date comes closer, you definitely want to focus on practice tests to track your progress and get used to the test environment. Build confidence by taking full-length practice tests with realistic timing to create the most accurate testing experience. This will allow you to plan your time wisely, leading to less test-day anxiety. Once you finish these practice tests, go over your answers and seek advice from teachers, or online IELTS communities. Constructive criticism in return will help you find what you need in order to learn and grow and focus your efforts on improving the most and sharpening your plans the furthest. Conclusion Getting IELTS test ready from home is totally achievable with the proper planning and support. By knowing what the exam will look like, creating a study plan, collecting the materials you need, and practicing regularly, you will greatly increase your chances of earning a top score. Keep your eyes on the real prize by brushing up on your deficient skills, consistently working with the test material, and taking practice tests to reduce anxiety and boost confidence. Through practice and determination, you’ll find yourself primed to excel on theIELTS test and ready to begin your journey toward achieving your dreams.