15.6 Writing and Speaking

Writing

1. A biographical sketch

Write a short biographical sketch (100–120 words) of Bibha Chowdhuri, covering her early difficulties, her research, and her achievements. Use the past tense and arrange events in order.

2. A speech

Write a short speech (120–150 words) for a school event on “Women in Science,” using Bibha Chowdhuri as your main example. Begin with a greeting and end with a call to encourage girls in science.

3. A paragraph

In about 100 words, explain why Bibha Chowdhuri is called “the beam of light that lit the path for women in Indian science.”

4. A profile of a scientist

Research and write a short profile (100 words) of another scientist you admire (Indian or otherwise), explaining their work and why it matters.

Writing tip A biographical sketch should follow a clear order: early life and struggles → education and work → major achievements → legacy. Use the passive voice for honours (“she was awarded…”, “she was selected…”) to sound formal and factual.

Speaking

Discuss

  1. Why is it important to remember and celebrate scientists whose work was overlooked?
  2. What can schools and families do to encourage more girls to take up science?

Present

Give a one-minute spoken tribute to Bibha Chowdhuri, as if introducing her at an award ceremony. Mention who she was, what she did, and why she inspires us.

Speaking tip When you speak about someone you admire, name specific achievements (“she studied cosmic rays under a Nobel laureate”) rather than vague praise. Facts make admiration believable and powerful.