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Para-jumble Sentences
Question 34: The four sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, 4) given below, when properly sequenced would yield a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper sequence of the order of the sentences and key in the sequence of the four numbers as your answer.
1. People with dyslexia have difficulty with print-reading, and people with autism spectrum disorder have difficulty with mind-reading.
2. An example of a lost cognitive instinct is mind-reading: our capacity to think of ourselves and others as having beliefs, desires, thoughts and feelings.
3. Mind-reading looks increasingly like literacy, a skill we know for sure is not in our genes, since scripts have been around for only 5,000-6,000 years.
4. Print-reading, like mind-reading varies across cultures, depends heavily on certain parts of the brain, and is subject to developmental disorders.
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: 2341
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit:
Among the four sentences, 1 and 4 talk about dyslexia and autism; and 2 and 3 discuss mind-reading only.
Sentence-1 basically points out the difference between dyslexia and autism. But logically, before stating the difference between two things, it is important to explain what each of those things are.
Sentence-2 introduces the topic of mind-reading, and gives it a definition. So, it makes for a good opening line.
Sentence-3 carries forward the topic of mind-reading, and the second half of the sentence talks about “scripts” which would lead to print-reading.
Sentence-4 introduces the topic of print-reading, but also states “like mind-reading”. This implies that mind-reading should be discussed first. Also, in the second half, it introduces the topic of developmental disorders.
Now, let us tie these sentences logically – First we talk about mind-reading, then scripts, then print-reading/developmental disorders, and finally the difference between the two discussed disorders.
Hence, the correct sequence is 2341.
Word-1: Dyslexia
Context:
"People with dyslexia have difficulty with print-reading, and people with autism spectrum disorder have difficulty with mind-reading." - Educational Psychology Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a person’s ability to read, spell, write, and sometimes speak. Even though individuals with dyslexia typically have normal intelligence, they struggle with language processing, particularly reading fluently and decoding words. It’s not caused by a lack of education or motivation but rather by differences in how the brain processes written and spoken language.
Meaning: A learning disorder marked by difficulty in reading (Noun)
Pronunciation: dis-LEK-see-uh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek "dys-" meaning "bad or difficult" and "lexis" meaning "speech or word"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Dyslexia is commonly misunderstood as a visual problem, but it’s primarily about processing language. Teaching methods and early intervention can greatly improve learning outcomes. The key is recognizing signs early and adapting strategies accordingly.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: reading disorder, learning disability, language-based disorder
Antonyms: fluency, literacy, comprehension
Usage Examples:
- Many children with dyslexia can thrive with the right support and teaching strategies.
- Her dyslexia made it hard to keep up with her classmates in reading assignments.
- The school developed a special program to help students with dyslexia improve their literacy skills.
- He was diagnosed with dyslexia in elementary school but went on to become a successful author.
Cultural Reference:
"Famous individuals like Albert Einstein and Agatha Christie are believed to have had dyslexia, proving that learning differences do not limit greatness." - Learning Disabilities Association
Think About It:
How might our education system be redesigned to better accommodate students with dyslexia?
Quick Activity:
Try reading a sentence written with letters reversed or jumbled—how does it affect your understanding? Reflect on how this might feel for someone with dyslexia.
Memory Tip:
Break "dyslexia" into "dys" (difficult) + "lexia" (reading/words) = difficulty with words. Think: “DYSrupts LEXIcal ability.”
Real-World Application:
Understanding dyslexia is vital for educators, parents, and employers to foster inclusive learning and working environments where individuals with dyslexia can thrive with proper tools and support.
Word-2: Mind-Reading
Context:
"An example of a lost cognitive instinct is mind-reading: our capacity to think of ourselves and others as having beliefs, desires, thoughts and feelings." - Cognitive Science Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
Mind-reading, in psychology and cognitive science, refers to the ability to infer what others are thinking or feeling based on their behavior, expressions, or tone—essentially, the capacity to attribute mental states to oneself and others. It does not imply supernatural powers, but rather the natural, everyday human skill of understanding others’ perspectives, also known as “theory of mind.” This capacity is essential for empathy, communication, and social interactions.
Meaning: The ability to understand what someone else is thinking or feeling (Noun)
Pronunciation: MYND-ree-ding
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From “mind” (Old English *gemynd*, meaning memory or thought) and “reading,” metaphorically implying decoding someone’s thoughts
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Mind-reading isn't about magic—it’s a core social skill that develops in early childhood. The inability to ‘read minds’ is often seen in developmental conditions like autism. Training in emotional intelligence and body language awareness can enhance this skill.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: empathy, perspective-taking, emotional insight, theory of mind
Antonyms: misinterpretation, social blindness, detachment
Usage Examples:
- Children typically begin to develop mind-reading abilities by the age of four or five.
- Therapists often rely on subtle mind-reading skills to understand what a client might be feeling but not saying.
- In high-stakes negotiations, mind-reading can give one party a strategic advantage.
- Some people with autism struggle with mind-reading, making social interactions more challenging.
Cultural Reference:
"Mind-reading is the most essential skill of a good actor." – Meryl Streep, reflecting on emotional intelligence in performance
Think About It:
If we could perfectly read minds, how would it impact human relationships and privacy?
Quick Activity:
Watch a short video clip on mute and try to infer what each character is thinking or feeling—then compare with the actual dialogue. How close were you?
Memory Tip:
Picture someone holding a comic book over someone’s head, trying to “read” their thoughts—mind + reading = understanding unspoken thoughts.
Real-World Application:
Mind-reading is crucial in professions like teaching, counseling, marketing, and diplomacy—where understanding others’ unspoken thoughts can shape decisions and relationships.
Word-3: Cognitive
Context:
"An example of a lost cognitive instinct is mind-reading: our capacity to think of ourselves and others as having beliefs, desires, thoughts and feelings." - Cognitive Science Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
The term "cognitive" relates to mental processes involved in gaining knowledge and understanding. These processes include thinking, knowing, remembering, judging, and problem-solving. Essentially, anything that involves conscious intellectual activity falls under the umbrella of cognition. It’s a core term in psychology, neuroscience, and education because it touches on how people perceive and process the world around them.
Meaning: Related to the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding (Adjective)
Pronunciation: KOG-ni-tiv
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *cognitio*, meaning “knowledge” or “recognition,” derived from *cognoscere* — to know or become acquainted with
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Cognitive is one of the key vocabulary words in psychology and neuroscience. It often appears in terms like "cognitive development," "cognitive load," and "cognitive behavior therapy." It's essential for students and professionals in these domains to have a clear understanding of this term.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: mental, intellectual, rational, cerebral
Antonyms: emotional, instinctive, automatic
Usage Examples:
- Regular mental exercises can help maintain cognitive function as we age.
- The study focused on the cognitive development of children between ages 3 and 5.
- Distractions can impair our cognitive performance during tasks requiring focus.
- Cognitive science bridges psychology, artificial intelligence, and neuroscience.
Cultural Reference:
"Cognitive dissonance is what happens when the mind holds two conflicting beliefs—it’s a tension that demands resolution." – Leon Festinger, psychologist and theorist
Think About It:
How might digital media consumption affect our cognitive abilities like attention span and memory?
Quick Activity:
List three daily activities that require cognitive effort (e.g., planning a schedule, solving a puzzle). Reflect on how your mind engages in each task.
Memory Tip:
Think: *Cognitive* = *Cog* like in “gear” or “thinking machine.” If your brain has gears, you’re using your cognitive powers!
Real-World Application:
Cognitive skills are crucial in areas like education, problem-solving in the workplace, designing user-friendly tech, and treating psychological disorders with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Word-4: Literacy
Context:
"Mind-reading looks increasingly like literacy, a skill we know for sure is not in our genes, since scripts have been around for only 5,000–6,000 years." - Cognitive Science Article
Explanatory Paragraph:
Literacy refers to the ability to read and write, but its scope goes far beyond just decoding words on a page. In modern usage, it also includes the capacity to understand, interpret, and critically engage with written texts and symbolic communication. Being literate enables individuals to participate meaningfully in society, access knowledge, and express themselves clearly. Today, the term is often extended metaphorically, such as in “digital literacy” or “emotional literacy,” to imply fluency in specific domains.
Meaning: The ability to read and write, or to have knowledge in a particular subject (Noun)
Pronunciation: LIT-uh-ruh-see
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *littera* meaning “letter” + *-cy* indicating a state or condition
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Literacy is not limited to traditional reading and writing. In education today, we talk about multiple literacies—media literacy, financial literacy, cultural literacy, and more. This broader understanding helps us navigate modern life effectively.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: reading ability, education, learning, knowledge
Antonyms: illiteracy, ignorance, unawareness
Usage Examples:
- Efforts to improve literacy rates have transformed communities around the world.
- Digital literacy is essential in today’s technology-driven workplaces.
- She developed a strong interest in financial literacy after attending a budgeting workshop.
- Literacy empowers people to express their ideas and claim their rights.
Cultural Reference:
"Once you learn to read, you will be forever free." – Frederick Douglass, American abolitionist and writer
Think About It:
How might expanding our understanding of literacy beyond reading and writing reshape education for the future?
Quick Activity:
List three kinds of literacies (besides traditional reading and writing) that are important in the 21st century. Describe why each is relevant to daily life.
Memory Tip:
Think: *Literacy* is linked to *letters*—the ability to work with letters = read and write!
Real-World Application:
Literacy is foundational to education, civic engagement, and economic opportunity. From reading signs and forms to analyzing news and managing money, literacy impacts every part of modern life.
Word-5: Developmental
Context:
"Print-reading, like mind-reading, varies across cultures, depends heavily on certain parts of the brain, and is subject to developmental disorders." - Neuroscience and Education Study
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "developmental" refers to anything related to growth and progress over time, particularly in the context of human physical, cognitive, emotional, or social development. In psychology and medicine, it is often used to describe disorders, stages, or milestones that occur during the developmental phases of life, especially childhood. A developmental disorder, for instance, might affect how a person learns, behaves, or interacts with others as they grow.
Meaning: Relating to the process of growth and change over time, especially during childhood (Adjective)
Pronunciation: deh-vel-up-MEN-tuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From “development” (growth or progress) + suffix “-al” meaning pertaining to
Prashant Sir's Notes:
We frequently encounter “developmental” in educational psychology and neuroscience. It refers to age-specific changes or delays that can influence learning, behavior, or communication. Understanding these issues is key for early intervention and effective support strategies.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: growth-related, maturational, formative, evolving
Antonyms: static, stagnant, fixed, regressive
Usage Examples:
- The teacher created a program tailored to the developmental needs of preschoolers.
- Early detection of developmental delays can significantly improve a child’s outcomes.
- Speech therapy is often used to address developmental language disorders.
- He’s studying the developmental stages of childhood in his psychology class.
Cultural Reference:
"The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 turn out." – Bill Gates Sr., on the importance of developmental foundations
Think About It:
Why is early childhood often seen as the most critical period in developmental psychology?
Quick Activity:
Research one common developmental disorder (like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia) and write down three key traits or symptoms associated with it.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Developmental” is about *developing*—growing and changing over time, like how a photo develops slowly or how a child matures.
Real-World Application:
Understanding developmental patterns helps teachers, doctors, and parents support children’s growth effectively and respond early to learning or behavioral challenges.
