# Expect the Unexpected - Grade 10 English Notes
## Unit 14: Travel & Adventure - Complete Chapter with All Exercises - NEB Curriculum

## 🎯 Chapter Overview
What happens when **travelers** **abandon** **rigid itineraries** and **embrace spontaneity** in one of the **world's most culturally rich** and **naturally diverse** **destinations**? How can **openness to unexpected experiences** **transform** a **simple tourist visit** into a **profound journey** of **cultural discovery** and **personal growth**? "Expect the Unexpected" **presents** a **compelling travel narrative** that **explores** **Nepal's three iconic destinations** - **Kathmandu**, **Pokhara**, and **Chitwan** - through the **lens** of a **flexible**, **curious traveler** who **discovers** that the **best adventures** **often lie** **beyond** **planned schedules**.

This **engaging travel account** **demonstrates** how **embracing uncertainty** and **remaining open** to **local culture**, **spontaneous encounters**, and **unexpected diversions** can **lead** to **richer**, **more authentic** **travel experiences**. Through **vivid descriptions** of **Nepal's urban energy**, **natural splendor**, and **wildlife encounters**, the **narrative** **illustrates** how **travel** **becomes** **transformative** when **approached** with **curiosity**, **respect**, and **willingness** to **step outside** **comfort zones**.

The **chapter** **serves** as both a **practical guide** to **Nepal's attractions** and a **philosophical exploration** of **travel as education**, **cultural exchange**, and **personal development**. **Students** **learn** to **appreciate** how **geographic literacy**, **cultural sensitivity**, and **adaptability** **enhance** both **travel experiences** and **life skills** **applicable** **far beyond** **tourism**.

**Skills Focus:** Travel narrative analysis, descriptive writing, question tag formation, cultural appreciation, flexibility mindset development  

## 📚 Learning Objectives
After studying this chapter, you will be able to:
- Analyze travel narratives and extract cultural, geographical, and personal insights from descriptive writing
- Use advanced travel and adventure vocabulary appropriately in discussions and written compositions
- Understand how flexibility and openness enhance travel experiences and personal growth opportunities
- Master question tag formation and usage in conversational English for confirmation and clarification
- Write engaging travelogues that combine personal experience with informative cultural and geographical details
- Evaluate the importance of cultural sensitivity, respect, and adaptability in international travel contexts
- Discuss how travel experiences can broaden perspectives, challenge assumptions, and promote global understanding
- Express informed opinions about sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and responsible travel practices

## 📖 Complete Text Analysis: A Journey Through Nepal's Wonders

### Kathmandu: The Pulsating Heart of Nepal

#### Urban Grandeur and Valley Setting
The **writer's** **first impression** of **Kathmandu** **centers** on the **dramatic contrast** between **urban sprawl** and **natural setting** - a **massive city** **nestled** **within** a **green valley** **surrounded** by **enormous mountains**. This **geographic positioning** **creates** a **unique urban environment** where **ancient culture** **thrives** **against** a **backdrop** of **towering Himalayan peaks**.

**Geographic Significance:**
**Kathmandu Valley**, **situated** at **1,400 meters elevation**, **sits** at the **crossroads** of **ancient trade routes** **connecting** **India** and **Tibet**. The **valley's** **fertile soil**, **moderate climate**, and **strategic location** **made** it the **natural center** for **Nepal's** **political**, **economic**, and **cultural development** over **centuries**.

**Urban Scale and Density:**
The **"massive size"** **referenced** by the **writer** **reflects** **Kathmandu's** **rapid urbanization** from a **traditional city** of **200,000 people** in the **1970s** to today's **metropolitan area** **housing** over **2.5 million residents**. This **growth** **creates** the **bustling energy** and **cultural diversity** that **captivates** **visitors**.

#### Street Art Renaissance: A Riot of Colors
The **writer's** **fascination** with **Kathmandu's** **street murals** **reflects** a **broader** **urban art movement** that has **transformed** **Nepal's capital** into an **open-air gallery**. **These murals**, **stretching** "**more than a mile**" **along** **street walls**, **represent** **Nepal's** **emerging** **contemporary culture** **alongside** **traditional heritage**.

**Cultural Significance of Street Art:**
- **Democratic expression**: **Street art** **provides** **platforms** for **artists** **from diverse backgrounds** to **share** **perspectives**
- **Social commentary**: **Many murals** **address** **social issues**, **environmental concerns**, and **political themes**
- **Tourism appeal**: **Colorful street art** **attracts** **visitors** and **creates** **Instagram-worthy locations**
- **Cultural fusion**: **Traditional symbols** **blend** with **contemporary artistic styles**

**Artistic Themes and Symbols:**
The **murals** **depicting** "**symbols, people, animals, and creative images**" **often incorporate** **Hindu** and **Buddhist iconography**, **Himalayan wildlife**, **ethnic portraits**, and **abstract designs** that **reflect** **Nepal's** **multicultural identity** and **artistic heritage**.

#### Thamel: Nepal's International Hub
**Thamel's** **description** as offering **"fantastic nightlife"** with **"restaurants"** and **"shops"** **positions** it as **Nepal's** **primary** **tourist district** - a **vibrant** **international enclave** **within** **traditional Kathmandu**.

**Thamel Characteristics:**
- **International cuisine**: **Restaurants** **serving** **global** **food** **alongside** **traditional** **Nepali dishes**
- **Shopping diversity**: **Handicraft stores**, **trekking gear shops**, **souvenir outlets**, and **bookstores**
- **Accommodation range**: **Budget hostels** to **luxury hotels** **catering** to **diverse travelers**
- **Nightlife options**: **Bars**, **live music venues**, and **cultural performance spaces**
- **Travel services**: **Trekking agencies**, **tour operators**, and **transportation booking offices**

### World Heritage Sites: Living History

#### Patan Durbar Square: Architectural Marvel
**Patan Durbar Square**, **mentioned** as one of **two** **World Heritage Monuments**, **represents** the **pinnacle** of **Newari architecture** and **urban planning**. **Built** between the **14th-18th centuries**, this **complex** **showcases** **intricate woodwork**, **stone carvings**, and **metalwork** that **demonstrate** **Nepal's** **sophisticated** **craftsmanship traditions**.

**Architectural Features:**
- **Palace complexes**: **Multiple courtyards** **connected** by **ornate gateways**
- **Temple variety**: **Pagoda-style**, **shikhara**, and **other** **architectural forms**
- **Artistic details**: **Elaborate window frames**, **door carvings**, and **decorative elements**
- **Museum collections**: **Art**, **artifacts**, and **cultural exhibits**

**Cultural Significance:**
**Patan**, **also known** as **Lalitpur** (**City of Beauty**), **served** as the **capital** of one of **three** **medieval kingdoms** in **Kathmandu Valley**. The **Durbar Square** **remains** **active** with **religious ceremonies**, **festivals**, and **daily worship** **alongside** **tourism**.

#### Pashupatinath Temple: Sacred River of Life and Death
The **writer's** **encounter** with **Pashupatinath Temple** **provides** **profound insights** into **Nepali attitudes** toward **death** and **spirituality**. The **observation** that **Nepalis** **perceive death** as **"an everyday experience"** **reflects** **Hindu philosophical concepts** about **life cycles** and **spiritual continuity**.

**Religious and Cultural Context:**
**Pashupatinath**, **dedicated** to **Lord Shiva**, **serves** as **Nepal's** **most important** **Hindu temple** and one of **four** **major** **Shiva temples** in the **Indian subcontinent**. The **temple complex** **spans** **both sides** of the **sacred Bagmati River**, where **cremations** **occur** **continuously**.

**Death Rituals and Ceremonies:**
- **Outdoor cremation**: **Bodies** **burned** on **funeral pyres** **along** **riverbanks**
- **Family participation**: **Relatives** **perform** **specific rituals** **including** **head shaving** for **male family members**
- **Spiritual offerings**: **Flowers**, **incense**, and **food offerings** **made** to **deceased**
- **Mourning practices**: **13-day** **mourning period** with **specific** **dietary** and **behavioral restrictions**

**Sacred Geography:**
The **Bagmati River**, **considered** **sacred** like the **Ganges**, **carries** **cremation ashes** **downstream** toward **India**. **Hindu belief** **holds** that **cremation** **along** **sacred rivers** **helps** **souls** **achieve** **moksha** (**liberation** from **rebirth cycles**).

#### Sadhus: Living Holy Men
The **writer's** **excitement** about **photographing** **"genuine sadhus"** **highlights** **encounters** with **these** **religious ascetics** who **renounce** **worldly possessions** to **pursue** **spiritual enlightenment**.

**Sadhu Lifestyle and Appearance:**
- **Distinctive clothing**: **Saffron**, **orange**, or **ochre robes** **symbolizing** **renunciation**
- **Physical markers**: **Ashes** (**vibhuti**) **applied** to **forehead** and **body**
- **Hair practices**: **Long**, **unkempt hair** (**jata**) **representing** **rejection** of **vanity**
- **Spiritual symbols**: **Rudraksha beads**, **prayer malas**, **religious markings**

**Spiritual Significance:**
**Sadhus** **represent** **living** **embodiments** of **Hindu** **renunciation** **ideals**, **having** **abandoned** **family**, **career**, and **material possessions** to **focus** on **meditation**, **prayer**, and **spiritual development**. **Many** **spend** **years** in **Himalayan caves** or **pilgrimage sites** **before** **visiting** **major temples**.

### Chitwan National Park: Wildlife Paradise in the Terai

#### Biodiversity and Conservation Success
**Chitwan National Park**, **Nepal's** **first national park** **established** in **1973**, **represents** one of **Asia's** **premier** **wildlife conservation** **success stories**. The **park's** **932 square kilometers** **protect** **critical habitat** for **endangered species** while **providing** **sustainable tourism** **opportunities**.

**Wildlife Diversity:**
**The writer's** **mention** of **"single-horned rhinos, deer, wild boars, monkeys, and countless beautiful birds"** **represents** only a **fraction** of **Chitwan's** **biodiversity**:

**Mammals** (**68 species**):
- **Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros**: **Population** **recovered** from **near extinction** to **over 600 individuals**
- **Bengal Tigers**: **Approximately 120-150 individuals** in **sustainable population**
- **Asian Elephants**: **Wild herds** plus **domestic elephants** **used** for **tourism**
- **Sloth Bears**: **Nocturnal omnivores** **inhabiting** **forest areas**
- **Leopards**: **Elusive predators** **rarely seen** but **ecologically important**

**Birds** (**544 species**):
- **Resident species**: **Peacocks**, **hornbills**, **kingfishers**, **eagles**
- **Migratory species**: **Seasonal visitors** from **India** and **Tibet**
- **Waterfowl**: **Ducks**, **herons**, **storks** in **riverine habitats**
- **Raptors**: **Various eagles**, **hawks**, and **vultures**

#### Adventure Activities and Eco-Tourism
The **park's** **offerings** - **"Jeep safari, canoeing, jungle walking, cycling around the village, boating"** - **represent** **diverse approaches** to **wildlife viewing** and **cultural interaction** that **accommodate** **different** **fitness levels** and **interests**.

**Safari Options:**
- **Jeep Safari**: **4-wheel drive vehicles** **access** **interior roads** for **wildlife viewing**
- **Elephant Safari**: **Traditional method** **providing** **elevated perspective** and **closer wildlife approach**
- **Walking Safari**: **Guided hikes** **with** **naturalists** for **detailed** **ecosystem exploration**
- **Canoe Safari**: **Dugout canoes** on **Rapti River** for **crocodile** and **bird watching**

**Community Integration:**
**The recommendation** for **"physically active travelers"** **reflects** **Chitwan's** **emphasis** on **participatory** **eco-tourism** that **benefits** **local** **Tharu communities** through **employment** and **cultural sharing**.

#### Tharu Culture and Indigenous Heritage
**The Tharu people**, **indigenous** to the **Terai region**, **maintain** **unique cultural traditions** **adapted** to **wetland environments**. **Their** **traditional** **stick dances**, **mentioned** in **tourism descriptions**, **represent** **centuries-old** **artistic expressions**.

**Tharu Cultural Elements:**
- **Architecture**: **Traditional houses** **raised** on **stilts** for **flood protection**
- **Agriculture**: **Sustainable farming** **practices** in **flood-prone areas**
- **Art forms**: **Wall paintings**, **sculptures**, and **performance traditions**
- **Festivals**: **Seasonal celebrations** **connected** to **agricultural cycles**

### Pokhara: Nepal's Natural Paradise

#### Geographic Setting and Lake System
**Pokhara's** **appeal** **lies** in its **unique geographic position** at **827 meters elevation** in the **Pokhara Valley**, **offering** **close-up views** of **8,000-meter peaks** while **maintaining** **subtropical climate** and **pristine lakes**.

**Lake System:**
- **Phewa Lake**: **Nepal's** **second-largest lake** **offering** **boating** and **mountain reflections**
- **Begnas Lake**: **Quieter alternative** with **fishing** and **peaceful surroundings**
- **Rupa Lake**: **Connected** to **Begnas** during **monsoon season**

#### Adventure Sports Capital
**Pokhara's** **designation** as **"one of the world's best paragliding venues"** **reflects** its **ideal conditions**: **thermal updrafts** from **valley heating**, **stable weather patterns**, and **safe landing areas** **combined** with **spectacular mountain views**.

**Adventure Activities:**
- **Paragliding**: **Tandem flights** from **Sarangkot** **offering** **Himalayan panoramas**
- **Ultralight flights**: **Motorized aircraft** for **extended mountain viewing**
- **Bungee jumping**: **Extreme sports** **over** **mountain gorges**
- **Zip-lining**: **High-speed cables** **across** **valleys**
- **White-water rafting**: **River adventures** on **nearby waterways**

#### Trekking Gateway
**Pokhara** **serves** as the **starting point** for **Annapurna region** **treks**, including the **famous** **Annapurna Circuit** and **Annapurna Base Camp** **trails** that **attract** **thousands** of **international trekkers** **annually**.

**Popular Trekking Routes:**
- **Annapurna Base Camp** (**ABC**): **7-12 day trek** to **4,130 meters**
- **Poon Hill**: **3-5 day trek** **famous** for **sunrise views**
- **Annapurna Circuit**: **12-21 day** **complete circuit** **around** **Annapurna massif**
- **Mardi Himal**: **Newer route** **offering** **quieter** **mountain experience**

#### Cultural Attractions and Temples
Beyond **natural beauty**, **Pokhara** **offers** **significant cultural sites**:

**World Peace Pagoda**: **Buddhist monument** **built** by **Japanese monks** **offering** **panoramic valley views**
**Tal Barahi Temple**: **Hindu temple** on **island** in **Phewa Lake** **dedicated** to **goddess Durga**
**Bindhyabasini Temple**: **Important Hindu shrine** **popular** with **local worshippers**

#### Sarangkot: Sunrise Sanctuary
**Sarangkot's** **reputation** as the **"best place to watch the breathtaking sunrise across the Annapurna Himalaya"** **makes** it **Pokhara's** **most popular** **early morning destination**.

**Sunrise Experience:**
- **Pre-dawn departure**: **4:30-5:00 AM start** to **reach viewpoint** **before sunrise**
- **Mountain panorama**: **Views** of **Dhaulagiri** (**8,167m**), **Annapurna I** (**8,091m**), **Machapuchare** (**6,993m**)
- **Color transformation**: **Snow peaks** **change** from **blue** to **pink** to **golden** as **sun rises**
- **Photography opportunities**: **Professional** and **amateur photographers** **capture** **Himalayan magnificence**

## 📝 Advanced Vocabulary Development

### Travel and Adventure Terminology
| Word | Pronunciation | Definition | Travel Context |
|------|---------------|------------|----------------|
| **Nestled** | /ˈnesəld/ | Settled comfortably within surrounding environment | Kathmandu nestled among hills creates intimate urban feeling |
| **Riot** | /ˈraɪət/ | Wild profusion; unrestrained display | Street art creates riot of colors transforming urban landscapes |
| **Murals** | /ˈmjʊrəlz/ | Large paintings or artworks on walls | Kathmandu murals stretch for miles depicting cultural symbols |
| **Grisly** | /ˈɡrɪzli/ | Causing horror or disgust; gruesome | Grisly encounters might deter squeamish travelers |
| **Privilege** | /ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/ | Special right or advantage; honor | Visiting Nepal represents privilege of cultural exchange |
| **Vestige** | /ˈvestɪdʒ/ | Trace or remnant of something disappearing | Ancient traditions show no vestige of decline in Nepal |
| **Hoax** | /hoʊks/ | Deliberately fabricated falsehood | Media hoaxes unfairly discourage Nepal tourism |
| **Colonized** | /ˈkɒlənaɪzd/ | Controlled by foreign power | Nepal never colonized, maintaining cultural authenticity |

### Cultural and Religious Vocabulary
| Term | Definition | Application in Nepal Travel |
|------|------------|---------------------------|
| **Durbar Square** | Palace complex and courtyard area | Historic centers of former kingdoms showcasing architecture |
| **Sadhus** | Hindu religious ascetics | Colorfully dressed holy men encountered at temples |
| **Cremation** | Ritual burning of deceased bodies | Hindu death ceremonies observed along sacred rivers |
| **Heritage** | Cultural legacy passed down generations | UNESCO World Heritage Sites preserving Nepal's history |
| **Pilgrimage** | Religious journey to sacred places | Temples attract pilgrims from across South Asia |
| **Pagoda** | Multi-story temple with curved roofs | Distinctive architectural style found throughout Nepal |
| **Monastery** | Religious community residence | Buddhist monasteries providing spiritual retreat |

### Adventure and Nature Terms
- **Safari**: Organized expedition to observe wildlife in natural habitat
- **Canoeing**: Paddle-powered boat travel through waterways
- **Paragliding**: Unpowered aircraft using wind currents for flight
- **Trekking**: Multi-day hiking through mountain terrain
- **Rapids**: Fast-flowing sections of rivers with turbulent water
- **Thermal**: Rising column of warm air used by aircraft and birds
- **Altitude**: Height above sea level affecting climate and difficulty
- **Biodiversity**: Variety of plant and animal species in ecosystem

### Geographic and Topographic Language
- **Valley**: Low area between hills or mountains
- **Elevation**: Height above sea level
- **Plateau**: Elevated flat area of land
- **Gorge**: Narrow valley with steep rocky walls
- **Ridge**: Long narrow hilltop or mountain range
- **Confluence**: Point where rivers or streams meet
- **Watershed**: Area draining into common water body
- **Terrain**: Physical characteristics of land surface

## 📋 Exercise Solutions (Enhanced and Rewritten)

### A. Text-Based Vocabulary Completion (Enhanced Cultural Context)

| Sentence | Enhanced Context and Cultural Significance |
|----------|-------------------------------------------|
| **The village nestled comfortably among the hills** | **Demonstrates** how **Nepali settlements** **integrate harmoniously** with **mountain topography**, **creating** **sustainable communities** **adapted** to **challenging terrain** |
| **The garden was a riot of colour** | **Reflects** **Nepal's** **vibrant** **artistic tradition** where **bright colors** **symbolize** **celebration**, **spirituality**, and **cultural identity** in **festivals** and **daily life** |
| **Sophie liked cooking, gardening, and painting murals** | **Represents** **diverse creative activities** **available** to **visitors** **engaging** with **local culture** through **food**, **agriculture**, and **artistic expression** |
| **Prita screamed when she saw the grisly spider** | **Illustrates** **natural encounters** that **challenge** **urban travelers** **unused** to **wildlife** and **insects** **common** in **Nepal's** **tropical** and **mountainous regions** |
| **This is our privilege to study in such a resourceful school** | **Emphasizes** **gratitude** and **appreciation** **essential** for **respectful cultural exchange** and **meaningful travel experiences** |
| **He showed no vestige of regret for his crime** | **Demonstrates** **complete absence** **similar** to how **traditional practices** **maintain** **strength** **without** **decline** in **authentic cultural settings** |
| **We have been victims of a computer virus hoax** | **Parallels** **media misinformation** that **unfairly discourages** **tourism** to **safe destinations** like **Nepal** through **exaggerated** **negative reporting** |
| **We were never colonized by any foreign country** | **Highlights** **Nepal's unique** **historical independence** **preserving** **authentic culture** **unlike** **neighboring regions** **affected** by **colonial influence** |

### B. Activity Location Matrix (Enhanced Tourism Analysis)

**Enhanced Activity-Location Analysis:**

| Activity | Location | Detailed Description and Cultural Context |
|----------|----------|------------------------------------------|
| **Cycle around village** | **Chitwan** | **Community-based tourism** **allowing** **interaction** with **Tharu villages**, **agricultural areas**, and **buffer zones** **around** **national park** **boundaries** |
| **Visit Durbar squares** | **Kathmandu** | **Three UNESCO** **World Heritage Durbar Squares** (**Kathmandu**, **Patan**, **Bhaktapur**) **showcasing** **medieval architecture** and **living culture** |
| **Go paragliding** | **Pokhara** | **World-class paragliding** **from** **Sarangkot** **offering** **Himalayan views** and **thermal conditions** **ideal** for **both** **beginners** and **experts** |
| **Hang out with locals at night** | **Kathmandu** | **Thamel district** **nightlife** **providing** **international** **and** **local** **interaction** in **restaurants**, **bars**, and **cultural venues** |
| **Meet sadhus and photograph them** | **Kathmandu** | **Pashupatinath Temple** **complex** **where** **genuine** **Hindu ascetics** **practice** **devotion** and **welcome** **respectful** **cultural exchange** |
| **Walk uphill for Himalayan views** | **Pokhara** | **World Peace Pagoda** **trek** **offering** **panoramic** **Annapurna range** **views** **combined** with **Buddhist** **spiritual** **experience** |
| **Watch sunrise** | **Pokhara** | **Sarangkot viewpoint** **providing** **spectacular** **dawn** **illumination** of **snow-capped peaks** **creating** **unforgettable** **photographic** **opportunities** |

### C. Comprehensive Reading Questions (Enhanced Cultural Analysis)

**a. Three things that amazed the writer in Kathmandu:**  
**Enhanced Answer:** The **writer** **experienced** **three distinct** **cultural shocks** that **demonstrate** **Kathmandu's** **unique character**: **First**, the **massive urban scale** **nestled** **within** a **green valley** **surrounded** by **enormous mountains** **creates** an **unprecedented** **geographic setting** where **major city life** **thrives** **against** **Himalayan backdrop**. **Second**, the **extensive** **street art** **movement** **manifesting** as a **"riot of colors"** **through** **murals** **stretching** **over** a **mile** **represents** **contemporary** **cultural expression** **flourishing** **alongside** **ancient traditions**. **Third**, **Thamel's** **vibrant nightlife** **offering** **"fantastic"** **international** **atmosphere** **demonstrates** **Nepal's** **successful** **integration** of **global** **tourism** **culture** **while** **maintaining** **local identity**.

**b. What indicates street art is rising in Kathmandu?**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **Street art's** **prominence** in **Kathmandu** **is evidenced** **by** **extensive** **mural networks** **covering** **"more than a mile"** of **street walls** **throughout** the **city**. **These artworks** **feature** **diverse imagery** including **"symbols, people, animals, and creative images"** that **blend** **traditional** **Nepali iconography** with **contemporary** **artistic styles**. The **scale** and **visibility** of **these murals** **indicates** **both** **official tolerance** and **popular support** for **street art** as **legitimate** **cultural expression**. **Additionally**, **international visitors'** **fascination** with **these artworks** **suggests** **street art** **has become** a **recognized** **tourism attraction**, **encouraging** **further** **artistic development** and **community engagement**.

**c. Name two World Heritage Monuments in Kathmandu:**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **Patan Durbar Square** and **Pashupatinath Temple** **represent** **two** of **Kathmandu Valley's** **seven UNESCO** **World Heritage Sites**, each **embodying** **distinct aspects** of **Nepali civilization**. **Patan Durbar Square**, **located** in **Lalitpur** (**City of Beauty**), **showcases** **medieval** **Newari architecture** through **palace complexes**, **temples**, and **courtyards** **demonstrating** **sophisticated** **urban planning** and **artistic achievement**. **Pashupatinath Temple**, **Nepal's** **most sacred** **Hindu site**, **represents** **living religious tradition** where **continuous worship**, **festivals**, and **death ceremonies** **maintain** **spiritual practices** **dating back** **over** **1,500 years** **along** the **sacred Bagmati River**.

**d. How do Nepalis perceive death, according to the writer?**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **According** to the **writer's observations**, **Nepalis** **perceive death** as **"an everyday experience"** **integrated** **naturally** into **life's continuum** rather than as a **fearful** or **hidden** **reality**. This **philosophical approach** **manifests** in the **"calm atmosphere"** **surrounding** **outdoor cremations** at **Pashupatinath Temple**, where **families** **conduct** **death rituals** **openly** **along** the **river**. **The** **"unique offerings and shaving rituals for male relatives"** **demonstrate** **structured**, **meaningful** **responses** to **death** that **honor** **deceased** **while** **supporting** **surviving family members**. **This** **acceptance** **reflects** **Hindu beliefs** about **death** as **spiritual transition** rather than **final ending**, **creating** **community support** **systems** and **religious frameworks** that **normalize** **grief** and **celebrate** **life** **cycles**.

**e. Two special things about Pashupatinath Temple:**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **First**, the **temple** **provides** **opportunities** to **encounter** **"genuine sadhus dressed in colorful yellow and orange robes with ashes, long hair, and beard"** - **authentic** **Hindu ascetics** who **embody** **religious devotion** through **renunciation** of **worldly possessions** and **dedication** to **spiritual practice**. **These sadhus** **represent** **living connections** to **ancient** **Hindu traditions** and **offer** **visitors** **insights** into **religious philosophy** and **ascetic lifestyle**. **Second**, the **temple** **uniquely permits** **photography** with **these sadhus**, **allowing** **respectful** **cultural documentation** and **personal** **interaction** that **bridges** **tourist curiosity** with **religious authenticity**. **This photographic** **opportunity** **creates** **meaningful** **cultural exchange** while **supporting** **sadhus** through **small donations** **often** **accompanying** **photo sessions**.

**f. What does Chitwan National Park offer visitors?**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **Chitwan National Park** **provides** **comprehensive** **wildlife** and **cultural experiences** through **diverse activity options** **accommodating** **various** **interests** and **fitness levels**. **Wildlife viewing** **opportunities** **include** **"jeep safari, jungle walking, and boating"** **for** **observing** **"single-horned rhinos, deer, wild boars, monkeys, and countless beautiful birds"** in **natural habitats**. **Adventure activities** **like** **"canoeing"** **on** **Rapti River** **provide** **close** **encounters** with **crocodiles** and **aquatic** **ecosystems**. **Cultural experiences** **include** **"cycling around the village"** **enabling** **interaction** with **indigenous** **Tharu communities** and **observation** of **traditional** **lifestyle** **adapted** to **Terai** **wetland** **environments**. **The park** **also** **offers** **elephant encounters**, **bird watching**, **nature walks**, and **evening** **cultural performances** **showcasing** **local** **traditions**.

**g. Who is recommended to visit Chitwan?**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **The writer** **specifically recommends** **Chitwan National Park** for **"physically active travelers"** who **can** **fully participate** in **adventure activities** and **wildlife encounters** **requiring** **physical engagement**. **This recommendation** **reflects** **Chitwan's** **emphasis** on **participatory** **eco-tourism** **involving** **walking**, **cycling**, **canoeing**, and **extended** **outdoor activities** **rather than** **passive** **observation**. **Active travelers** **benefit** **most** from **jungle walking**, **wildlife tracking**, **bird watching** **expeditions**, and **cultural** **village** **interactions** that **require** **mobility** and **endurance**. **Additionally**, **physically** **capable** **visitors** **can** **better** **appreciate** **conservation** **education** **programs** and **participate** in **community-based** **tourism** **initiatives** that **support** **local** **economic development**.

**h. Two things visitors can do in Pokhara & Sarangkot's significance:**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **Pokhara** **offers** **two** **primary** **activity categories**: **First**, **trekking** **opportunities** **accessing** the **Annapurna region** **including** **famous routes** like **Annapurna Base Camp**, **Poon Hill**, and **Annapurna Circuit** that **attract** **international trekkers** **seeking** **Himalayan** **mountain experiences**. **Second**, **paragliding** **from** **elevated** **launch points** **provides** **aerial** **perspectives** of **lake** and **mountain** **scenery** that **established** **Pokhara** as **"one of the world's best paragliding venues."** **Sarangkot** **gains** **particular significance** as the **"best place to watch the breathtaking sunrise across the Annapurna Himalaya"** where **pre-dawn** **journeys** **reward** **visitors** with **spectacular** **views** of **8,000-meter peaks** **transforming** from **blue shadows** to **golden** **illumination** as **sunrise** **progresses**.

**i. Writer's feelings about leaving Nepal:**  
**Enhanced Answer:** **The writer** **experienced** **profound** **emotional attachment** to **Nepal** **evidenced** by **stating** they **"would love to revisit in a heartbeat"** if **possible**, **indicating** **deep** **personal connection** **formed** **during** the **visit**. **The writer's** **defensive stance** **against** **"media hoaxes"** **suggests** **frustration** with **negative stereotypes** that **discourage** **potential visitors** from **experiencing** **Nepal's** **authentic** **beauty** and **cultural richness**. **Reference** to **"other Western visitors they encountered"** **who** **would** **"agree with them"** **implies** **shared** **positive experiences** among **international travelers** **contradicting** **media negativity**. **Overall**, the **writer** **demonstrates** **transformation** from **curious tourist** to **passionate advocate** for **Nepal tourism**, **suggesting** the **travel experience** **exceeded** **expectations** and **created** **lasting** **positive impressions**.

### D. Personal Travel Choice Analysis (Enhanced Destination Evaluation)

**Enhanced Personal Response: Choosing Pokhara**

**If given** the **opportunity** to **visit** one **destination** **mentioned** in the **text**, I **would choose** **Pokhara** for **multiple compelling reasons** that **combine** **natural beauty**, **adventure opportunities**, **cultural significance**, and **personal development** **potential**.

**Natural Beauty and Setting:**
**Pokhara's** **unique** **geographic position** **offers** **unparalleled** **access** to **Himalayan** **mountain views** **while** **maintaining** **comfortable** **elevation** and **climate**. The **combination** of **pristine lakes** (**Phewa**, **Begnas**, **Rupa**) with **snow-capped** **8,000-meter peaks** **creates** **spectacular** **photographic** **opportunities** and **peaceful** **environments** for **contemplation** and **relaxation**.

**Adventure Activity Variety:**
**Pokhara's** **reputation** as a **world-class** **adventure destination** **appeals** to my **interest** in **trying** **new experiences**. **Paragliding** **opportunities** **would** **provide** **aerial perspectives** **impossible** to **achieve** **elsewhere**, while **trekking** **access** to **Annapurna region** **offers** **multi-day** **mountain adventures** **suitable** for **various** **skill levels**.

**Cultural and Spiritual Dimensions:**
**The** **World Peace Pagoda** **represents** **meaningful** **spiritual** **architecture** **promoting** **international** **harmony** and **understanding**. **Local temples** and **cultural sites** **provide** **opportunities** for **respectful** **cultural learning** **and** **interaction** with **Buddhist** and **Hindu** **traditions**.

**Sunrise Experience at Sarangkot:**
**The writer's** **emphasis** on **Sarangkot's** **"breathtaking sunrise"** **creates** **compelling** **motivation** for **this** **once-in-a-lifetime** **experience**. **Witnessing** **Himalayan peaks** **transform** **colors** **during** **sunrise** **represents** **natural beauty** **at** **its** **most** **dramatic** and **would** **create** **unforgettable** **memories**.

**Personal Growth Opportunities:**
**Pokhara's** **combination** of **challenge** (**trekking**, **adventure sports**) and **tranquility** (**lakes**, **temples**) **offers** **ideal** **conditions** for **personal reflection**, **confidence building**, and **cultural awareness** **development** that **extend** **beyond** **mere tourism**.

**Practical Considerations:**
**The** **laid-back atmosphere** **mentioned** by the **writer** **suggests** **manageable** **pace** and **stress-free** **environment** **ideal** for **first-time** **visitors** to **Nepal**. **Tourist infrastructure** **supporting** **international** **adventure tourism** **ensures** **safety** and **accessibility** **while** **maintaining** **authentic** **cultural experiences**.

## 🎯 Grammar Focus: Mastering Question Tags

### Understanding Question Tags in Conversational English
**Question tags** **serve** **crucial** **communicative functions** in **English conversation**, **allowing** **speakers** to **seek confirmation**, **express** **assumptions**, **show** **politeness**, and **maintain** **conversational flow**. **In travel contexts**, **question tags** **help** **travelers** **navigate** **cultural interactions**, **confirm** **information**, and **engage** **respectfully** with **local communities**.

### Formation Rules and Patterns

#### Basic Question Tag Structure
**Question tags** **follow** **specific patterns** **based** on the **main statement's** **verb tense**, **auxiliary verbs**, and **positive/negative** **construction**:

**Positive Statement** → **Negative Tag**
**Negative Statement** → **Positive Tag**

#### Present Tense Patterns
| Statement Type | Example | Question Tag | Complete Sentence |
|----------------|---------|--------------|-------------------|
| **Simple Present** | You travel frequently | don't you? | You travel frequently, **don't you?** |
| **Present Continuous** | She is visiting Nepal | isn't she? | She is visiting Nepal, **isn't she?** |
| **Present Perfect** | They have arrived | haven't they? | They have arrived, **haven't they?** |

#### Past Tense Patterns
| Statement Type | Example | Question Tag | Complete Sentence |
|----------------|---------|--------------|-------------------|
| **Simple Past** | You visited Kathmandu | didn't you? | You visited Kathmandu, **didn't you?** |
| **Past Continuous** | It was raining | wasn't it? | It was raining, **wasn't it?** |
| **Past Perfect** | You had met before | hadn't you? | You had met before, **hadn't you?** |

### A. Question Tag Formation (Enhanced Travel Context)

**Enhanced Question Tag Analysis:**

| Original Statement | Question Tag | Grammar Rule | Travel Application |
|-------------------|--------------|--------------|-------------------|
| **They don't need to come this evening** | **do they?** | **Negative statement** + **positive tag** | **Travelers** **don't need** **visas**, **do they?** |
| **James is working on that** | **isn't he?** | **Present continuous** + **negative contraction** | **Guide** **is explaining** **temple history**, **isn't he?** |
| **Punam's parents have been retired** | **haven't they?** | **Present perfect** + **negative tag** | **Tourists** **have visited** **Durbar Square**, **haven't they?** |
| **It was raining that day** | **wasn't it?** | **Past continuous** + **negative tag** | **Weather** **was perfect** **for trekking**, **wasn't it?** |
| **You hadn't met me before** | **had you?** | **Negative past perfect** + **positive tag** | **You** **hadn't been** **to Nepal** **before**, **had you?** |
| **He never came again** | **did he?** | **"Never"** = **negative** + **positive tag** | **Flight** **never arrived** **on time**, **did it?** |
| **She can rarely come these days** | **can she?** | **"Rarely"** = **negative meaning** + **positive tag** | **Weather** **can rarely** **be predicted**, **can it?** |
| **You hardly ever came late** | **did you?** | **"Hardly ever"** = **negative** + **positive tag** | **Buses** **hardly ever** **leave** **on schedule**, **do they?** |
| **I barely know you** | **do I?** | **"Barely"** = **negative meaning** + **positive tag** | **We** **barely** **have** **enough time**, **do we?** |
| **You would scarcely expect her to know** | **would you?** | **"Scarcely"** = **negative** + **positive tag** | **Tourist** **would scarcely** **expect** **such hospitality**, **would they?** |
| **Nothing will happen** | **will it?** | **"Nothing"** = **negative** + **positive tag** | **Nothing** **can go wrong** **with** **careful planning**, **will it?** |
| **I am right** | **aren't I?** | **Special case**: **"am"** **becomes** **"aren't"** | **This** **is** **the right** **trail**, **isn't it?** |
| **You have to go** | **don't you?** | **"Have to"** = **obligation** + **"don't"** | **We** **have to** **book** **accommodations**, **don't we?** |
| **I have been answering** | **haven't I?** | **Present perfect continuous** + **negative** | **Guide** **has been** **explaining** **well**, **hasn't he?** |
| **Nothing came in the post** | **did it?** | **"Nothing"** = **negative subject** + **positive** | **Nothing** **went wrong** **during** **the trip**, **did it?** |

### B. Advanced Question Tag Practice (Enhanced Conversational Context)

**Enhanced Question Tag Completion:**

| Incomplete Sentence | Completed Question Tag | Contextual Analysis | Travel Conversation Example |
|-------------------|----------------------|-------------------|---------------------------|
| **This work, does it?** | **This won't work, will it?** | **Negative prediction** + **positive confirmation** | **This route** **won't work** **in monsoon**, **will it?** |
| **Well, I couldn't help it, could I?** | **I couldn't help it, could I?** | **Negative past ability** + **positive tag** | **I couldn't** **avoid** **the delayed flight**, **could I?** |
| **But you don't really love her, do you?** | **You don't really love her, do you?** | **Negative present** + **positive confirmation** | **You** **don't really** **enjoy** **crowds**, **do you?** |
| **We'd never have known, would we?** | **We'd never have known, would we?** | **"Never"** = **negative** + **positive tag** | **We'd** **never** **have found** **this place** **alone**, **would we?** |
| **The weather's bad, isn't it?** | **The weather's bad, isn't it?** | **Positive contraction** + **negative tag** | **Mountain weather's** **unpredictable**, **isn't it?** |
| **You won't be late, will you?** | **You won't be late, will you?** | **Negative future** + **positive tag** | **Flight** **won't be** **delayed**, **will it?** |
| **Nobody knows, do they?** | **Nobody knows, do they?** | **"Nobody"** = **negative** + **"they"** **for** **indefinite** | **Nobody** **speaks** **English** **here**, **do they?** |
| **You have a bath daily, don't you?** | **You have a bath daily, don't you?** | **Present habit** + **negative tag** | **Hotels** **have** **hot water**, **don't they?** |
| **You couldn't help me, could you?** | **You couldn't help me, could you?** | **Polite request** **with** **negative** **assumption** | **You** **couldn't** **recommend** **a restaurant**, **could you?** |
| **Shut up, will you?** | **Shut up, will you?** | **Imperative** + **"will you"** **for** **emphasis** | **Please** **be quiet**, **will you?** |
| **She's been working hard, hasn't she?** | **She's been working hard, hasn't she?** | **Present perfect continuous** + **negative** | **Guide's** **been** **very helpful**, **hasn't she?** |
| **He's admitted to hospital, wasn't he?** | **He was admitted to hospital, wasn't he?** | **Past passive** + **negative tag** | **Patient** **was** **treated** **well**, **wasn't he?** |
| **You can make it, can't you?** | **You can make it, can't you?** | **Present ability** + **negative confidence** | **We** **can** **reach** **base camp**, **can't we?** |
| **Don't forget, will you?** | **Don't forget, will you?** | **Negative imperative** + **"will you"** | **Don't** **leave** **anything**, **will you?** |
| **Let's have some fun, shall we?** | **Let's have some fun, shall we?** | **"Let's"** + **"shall we"** **for** **suggestions** | **Let's** **try** **local food**, **shall we?** |
| **Your phone didn't break, did it?** | **Your phone didn't break down, did it?** | **Negative past** + **positive confirmation** | **Camera** **didn't** **get** **damaged**, **did it?** |

### Special Cases and Irregular Patterns

#### Imperatives and Suggestions
- **Positive imperatives**: **"Help me, will you?"**
- **Negative imperatives**: **"Don't be late, will you?"**
- **"Let's" suggestions**: **"Let's go, shall we?"**

#### Indefinite Subjects
- **"Someone"** **becomes** **"they"**: **"Someone called, didn't they?"**
- **"Nobody"** **treated** **as** **negative**: **"Nobody came, did they?"**
- **"Nothing"** **requires** **positive tag**: **"Nothing happened, did it?"**

#### Modal Verbs and Complex Structures
- **"Used to"**: **"You used to travel, didn't you?"**
- **"Would rather"**: **"You'd rather stay, wouldn't you?"**
- **"Had better"**: **"We'd better leave, hadn't we?"**

### Question Tag Functions in Travel Communication

#### Seeking Confirmation
**"The train arrives at 3 PM, doesn't it?"** - **Confirming** **travel schedules**

#### Expressing Politeness
**"You wouldn't mind helping, would you?"** - **Polite requests** **for assistance**

#### Small Talk and Rapport
**"Beautiful day for sightseeing, isn't it?"** - **Building** **social connections**

#### Checking Understanding
**"You've been to Nepal before, haven't you?"** - **Confirming** **experience levels**

## ✍️ Writing Practice: Comprehensive Travelogue Composition

### Enhanced Model Travelogue: Journey Through Nepal's Heart

**DISCOVERING NEPAL: A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY THROUGH CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND NATURAL SPLENDOR**

**Introduction: The Call of the Himalayas**

**Last October**, **driven** by **insatiable curiosity** about **South Asian culture** and **Himalayan landscapes**, I **embarked** on a **three-week journey** through **Nepal** that **would** **fundamentally** **change** my **understanding** of **travel**, **community**, and **personal resilience**. **Accompanied** by my **university friend** **Sarah**, a **fellow anthropology student**, we **planned** this **adventure** **meticulously** through **months** of **research**, **language preparation**, and **cultural study**.

**Our primary purpose** **involved** **academic research** for **senior thesis projects** **focusing** on **cultural preservation** in **rapidly modernizing societies**, but we **also** **sought** **personal adventure** and **spiritual exploration** that **Nepal's** **diverse landscapes** and **philosophical traditions** **promised** to **provide**.

**Planning and Preparation: Embracing Flexibility Within Structure**

**Unlike** **typical tourist itineraries**, we **designed** a **flexible framework** that **balanced** **must-see destinations** with **spontaneous discovery** **opportunities**. **We booked** **flights** to **Kathmandu** and **reserved** **accommodations** for **first three nights** only, **leaving** **remaining weeks** **open** for **unexpected opportunities** and **local recommendations**.

**Preparation included**: **Nepali language** **basic phrases**, **cultural etiquette** **research**, **trekking gear** **acquisition**, **health precautions** (**altitude medication**, **vaccinations**), **travel insurance**, and **emergency** **contact protocols**. **Most importantly**, we **cultivated** **mental preparation** for **cultural differences**, **physical challenges**, and **communication barriers**.

**Kathmandu: Urban Energy and Ancient Wisdom**

**Arriving** in **Kathmandu's** **Tribhuvan International Airport** at **sunset**, we **immediately** **encountered** the **sensory overwhelming** **characteristic** of **South Asian cities**: **vibrant colors**, **complex aromas**, **constant sound**, and **incredible** **human energy**. **The taxi ride** through **narrow streets** **lined** with **motorcycles**, **vendors**, and **colorful buildings** **introduced** us to **urban density** **unlike** **anything** we'd **experienced**.

**Our guesthouse** in **Thamel** **provided** **perfect** **base** for **exploration** - **clean**, **affordable**, **centrally located**, and **staffed** by **incredibly** **welcoming** **people** **eager** to **share** **local knowledge**. **The proprietor**, **Pemba**, **became** our **cultural mentor**, **explaining** **religious customs**, **recommending** **authentic restaurants**, and **arranging** **knowledgeable guides** for **heritage site** **visits**.

**Heritage Site Exploration:**
**Pashupatinath Temple** **provided** our **most profound** **cultural encounter**. **Witnessing** **cremation ceremonies** **along** the **Bagmati River** **challenged** our **Western assumptions** about **death** and **grieving**. **The** **calm acceptance** **surrounding** **these rituals**, **families** **supporting** **each other** through **loss**, and **sadhus** **offering** **spiritual comfort** **demonstrated** **death** as **natural transition** rather than **fearful ending**.

**At** **Boudhanath Stupa**, we **joined** **evening prayer** **circumambulation** with **Tibetan refugees** and **local Buddhists**. **The** **rhythmic chanting**, **spinning prayer wheels**, and **shared devotion** **created** **powerful** **sense** of **universal spirituality** **transcending** **language** and **cultural boundaries**.

**Patan Durbar Square** **showcased** **incredible** **artistic achievement** through **wood carvings**, **stone sculptures**, and **metalwork** **demonstrating** **centuries** of **craftsmanship** **tradition**. **Despite** **earthquake damage**, **restoration efforts** **revealed** **community commitment** to **preserving** **cultural heritage** for **future generations**.

**Street Art and Contemporary Culture:**
**Wandering** through **Kathmandu's** **neighborhoods**, we **discovered** **extensive** **mural networks** **blending** **traditional symbols** with **contemporary** **social commentary**. **These artworks** **addressed** **environmental concerns**, **political issues**, and **cultural pride** while **creating** **vibrant** **visual** **experiences** **for** **residents** and **visitors**.

**Food Exploration:**
**Kathmandu's** **culinary scene** **exceeded** **expectations** through **incredible diversity**: **traditional** **dal bhat** (**lentils** and **rice**), **momos** (**dumplings**), **Newari cuisine** (**unique** to **Kathmandu Valley**), and **international fusion** **reflecting** **tourist influence**. **Each meal** **became** **cultural education** **involving** **spice identification**, **cooking technique** **discussion**, and **social customs** **surrounding** **food sharing**.

**Pokhara: Natural Beauty and Adventure Awakening**

**The** **six-hour bus journey** from **Kathmandu** to **Pokhara** **revealed** **Nepal's** **geographic diversity** as we **descended** from **valley** **urbanization** through **terraced agricultural** **hillsides** to **subtropical** **lake country**. **Mountain views** **gradually** **emerged** through **clouds**, **building anticipation** for **Himalayan encounters**.

**Phewa Lake** **provided** **immediate** **tranquility** **after** **Kathmandu's** **intensity**. **Our lakeside** **accommodation** **offered** **sunrise** **mountain views** **from** **private balconies**, **creating** **perfect** **environments** for **reflection** and **planning** **daily adventures**.

**Sarangkot Sunrise Experience:**
**Our** **pre-dawn journey** to **Sarangkot** **required** **4:30 AM departure** and **challenging** **uphill hike** in **complete darkness**. **However**, **witnessing** **Himalayan peaks** **transform** from **black silhouettes** to **pink-tinged giants** to **golden magnificence** **represented** one of **nature's** **most spectacular** **performances**. **Machapuchare** (**Fishtail Mountain**), **Annapurna South**, and **Hiunchuli** **dominated** the **skyline** while **valley mists** **slowly** **revealed** **Pokhara's** **lakes** and **settlements** **below**.

**Adventure Activities:**
**Paragliding** from **Sarangkot** **provided** **aerial perspectives** **impossible** to **achieve** **otherwise**. **Thermal updrafts** **carried** us **over** **Phewa Lake** while **instructor** **maneuvered** for **optimal** **photography** **angles** of **mountain reflections** and **valley settlements**. **The** **20-minute flight** **created** **profound** **sense** of **freedom** and **connection** to **landscape**.

**World Peace Pagoda** **hike** **offered** **cultural** **and **physical** **challenge** **combining** **Buddhist** **architecture** with **panoramic** **viewpoints**. **The** **white stupa**, **built** by **Japanese monks** to **promote** **international harmony**, **provided** **peaceful** **meditation** **space** and **360-degree** **valley views** **including** **Phewa Lake** and **surrounding mountains**.

**Cultural Connections:**
**Evening** **interactions** with **local families** **revealed** **Pokhara's** **role** as **cultural bridge** between **mountain** **and **lowland** **communities**. **Many residents** **combine** **traditional** **agriculture** with **tourism services**, **creating** **innovative** **economic strategies** that **preserve** **cultural values** while **engaging** **global** **markets**.

**Chitwan National Park: Wildlife Conservation and Community Partnership**

**Our** **journey** to **Chitwan** **involved** **scenic** **drive** through **changing** **landscapes** as we **descended** to **Terai** **plains** - **Nepal's** **southern** **flatlands** **bordering** **India**. **The** **dramatic** **transition** from **mountain** **valleys** to **subtropical** **forests** **demonstrated** **Nepal's** **incredible** **biodiversity** **within** **relatively small** **geographic area**.

**Accommodation** in **Sauraha** **village** **provided** **immediate** **immersion** in **Tharu culture** - **indigenous people** **traditionally** **adapted** to **wetland environments**. **Our homestay** **family** **shared** **traditional** **architecture** (**houses** **elevated** on **stilts**), **seasonal** **festivals**, **agricultural** **practices**, and **handicraft** **traditions** that **demonstrate** **sustainable** **living** **adapted** to **flood-prone** **environments**.

**Wildlife Encounters:**
**Jeep safari** through **Chitwan National Park** **revealed** **incredible** **biodiversity** **success** **stories**. **Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros** **populations**, **recovered** from **near-extinction** to **over 600 individuals**, **grazed** **peacefully** in **grasslands** **while** **spotted deer**, **wild boar**, and **langur monkeys** **demonstrated** **healthy** **ecosystem** **balance**.

**Canoe safari** along **Rapti River** **provided** **close** **encounters** with **gharial crocodiles** - **critically endangered** **species** **successfully** **breeding** in **park waters**. **Bird diversity** **exceeded** **expectations** with **over 500 species** **including** **kingfishers**, **hornbills**, **peacocks**, and **various
