Direct and Indirect Speech/Narration

Rules on Narration

April 9, 2024April 9, 2024 Abdullah

Narration: It is the use of a written or spoken commentary to convey a story to an audience.

Classification: Narration is of two types like Direct Narration and Indirect Narration

1. Direct Speech or Direct Narration: It is the original speech of the speaker without any change in it. It is always written within inverted commas.

2. Indirect Speech or Indirect Narration: It is the transformed speech by someone else who is telling it mixing his/her self-expression within it.

Narration	Direct Speech Example: She said to me, “I want the best now.”
	Indirect Speech Example: She told me that she wanted the best then.

Direct Speech or Direct Narration has two parts.

Direct Speech	Reporting verb (it is not enclosed in quotation marks)
	Reported speech (it is enclosed in quotation marks)

Changing narration at a glance

1. Reporting verb

2. Comma and inverted comma

3. Person

4. Verb

5. Adverb

Change of reporting verb

Sentence	Reporting verb	Comma & inverted comma
1. Assertive (Sub+verb)	no need to change	that
2. Interrogative (?)	asked/inquired	if/whether/ wh
3. Imperative (starts with verb/let)	told/ordered/advised/requested/forbade/begged/commandedproposed/suggested	tothat
4. Optative (begins with May)	wished/prayed (Allah)	that
5. Exclamatory (!)	exclaimed with joy/sorrow/wonder/fear/surprise	that

Change of Persons

Reported speech	Reporting verb
1st person (I, my, me, mine, myself, we, our, us, ours, ourselves)	followed by the Speaker
2nd person (you, your, you, yours, yourself, yourselves)	followed by the Listener
3rd person (rest of all)	No change

Change of Verb

Direct speech	Indirect speech
verb1(am/is/are/do/does/have/has/can/may/will/shall)	verb 2 (was/were/did/had/could/might/would)
verb 2(was/were/had)	had + verb 3
must	must/had to
to+verb1/verb1+ing/verb3/might/could/would/should/had to/ought to/used to/ had better/would rather	unchanged

Change of adverbs

Direct speech	Indirect speech	Direct speech	Indirect speech
Now	Then	This	That
Today	That day	These	Those
To night	That night	Hence	Thence
Tomorrow	The next/following day	Hither	Thither
Yesterday	The previous day	Thus	So
Here	There	So	That is why
Come	Go	Ago	Before
Last night/week/year month	The previous night/week/year/month	Next day/week/year/month	The following day/ week/year/month
The day after tomorrow	In two days time	The day before yesterday	Two days before

Exercises on Narration

Assertive Sentence

If reporting verb is present/future tense, tense of reported speech will be unchanged.

He says to me, “I am your teacher.” He says, “I am a student.” Kalam says, “I did not go because I was ill.” He will say, “I shall do the work tomorrow.” I say, “He will pass the examination.” He says to you, “I live here in Chittagong.” My father will say to me, “We are going there tomorrow.” Ali has said to me, “I was ill.” He says to Rahul, “You were mere a boy when I saw you last.” He says, “I have been working since sunrise.” Shama has said to me, “I want to go to college now.” He has said to Harry Potter, “I didn’t understand your cruelty when you show your magic.” They will say to me, “We shall help you for your lacking.” We say Salma, “You went to your house yesterday.” Sumon has said to me, ‘I am busy now.’ We have said to her, ‘You have done well in the Examination.’ The lady has said to Rashed, `You are a very good boy’. She says, ‘Every mother loves her child’. My friend says to me, ‘You are a good and sincere boy’.

Generally 5 changes in a Direct speech.

He said, ’I go to college daily.’ She said, ’My brother will come here tomorrow.’ The man said, ’I do not take tea.’ Father said, ’I do not like student-politics.’ The boy said, ’I learn my lessons regularly.’ Samia said to her mother, “I want the best now.” I said to the girl, “You are right to command them.” The old man said to the girl, “I know you and your brother.” He said to me, “I like Messi as a best player and you.” Nargis said to mother, “I shall go to bed now.” Rejaul said, “I ate my meals.” Sapna said, “I saw Munia near college.” My father said, “We are going there tomorrow.” You said to me, “You do not do your duty.” He said, “I shall go home.” The teacher said to the students, “You were making a noise in the class.” He said to me, “I did the work yesterday.” He said, “That’s a good idea.” He said, “The train reached at nine.” Sakil said to me, “I am drawing a picture for you.” The girl said, “I know the answer of this question.” Nabi said to me, “You are not sincere and therefore I do not trust you.” I said to him, “I am sick.” Mother said to me, “You will go to school.” Rony said to him, “I shall go to Chittagong tomorrow.” He said to me, “You study sincerely and may stand first in the examination.” He said to you, “I live here in Chittagong.” My father said to me, “We are going there tomorrow.” Ali said to me, “I was ill.” He said to Rahul, “You were mere a boy when I saw you last.” He said, “I have been working since sunrise.” Shama said to me, “I want to go to college now.” You said to me, “You do not do your duty.” Abir said to Anwar, “I have passed the examination.” The boy said to me, “You have passed the exam.” My friend said to me, “I have already finished my work.” Shakira said to me, “I went to you home when you are not here.” They said, “We bought the books together yesterday.” He said his mother, “I want a big ship in my 17th birthday from you or my father.” Reza said, “I had a cow and its colour was white.”

Universal truth: Something that is unanimously believed no matter what location, perspective, etc you are in. If reported speech is universal truth/habitual fact/constant fact/geographical fact/quotations, use only that instead of comma.

The teacher said, “The moon shines at night.” The teacher said, “All men are equal in the eye of law.” The teacher said, “Time and tide wait for none.” The teacher said to the students, “The more you read, the more you learn.” He said, “Honesty is the best policy.” We said, “Man is mortal.” We said, “Islam is the perfect code of life and Mohammed (Sm.) is his messenger.” She said, “Mohammed (Sm.) was born in Macca in 570 AD.” The teacher said to Raju, “Misfortunes never come alone.” He said to me, “Allah is one.” The teacher said, “The sun rises in the east.” Father said, “The earth is round.” The teacher said, `Sultan Mahmud is a freedom fighter.’ Mother always said, `Freedom fighters are the heroic sons of the soil’. I said, `Man is mortal.’ Mother said to me, `Honesty is the best policy.’ The teacher said, `Cox’s Bazar sea beach is one of the seven wonders in the world.’ He said to the boys, `Where there is a will there is a way’. I said to the boy, `Slow and steady wins the race’.More examples on Universal truth: The sun rises in the East and Sets in the West. What comes up must come down. Water takes the shape of its container. Animals need food, water and sleep. The earth turns 360º every day. The oceans move in circular currents. Antartica is covered with ice. Wind blows across the land. Wind comes from differences in air pressure. The South Pole has strong winds. Rain gives water to life. Rain falls in the winter. Plants grow in soil. People depend on earth’s resources. Time passes quickly. Daylight Savings time begins in spring. People exercise for good health. Plants give us oxygen. The moon orbits the earth. The oceans are deep and cold. The land moves on plates. Earthquakes occur often.

may=might, can=could

But might, could, would, should, ought to, used to……..only tense will be unchanged

He said to me, “I can do the work.” The boy said, “I can swim.” He said to Liza, “We may go to your house.” I said to him, “I cannot attend the meeting.” He said to me, “You may stand first in the examination.” Shama said to me, “I can go to college now.” He said to you, “You can’t be serious. He said to you, “I can run a mile in 8 minutes. a. The man said, `I can do this.’ Mother said to me, `You should love your motherland’. My friend said to me, `I can help you.’She said to me, “I could attend class yesterday.” He said to me, “I could do the work.” He said to me, “I would do the work yesterday.” He said, “The train might reach at nine.” You said to me, “You could do your duty.” Abir said to Anwar, “I might pass the examination.” The boy said to me, “You should leave the place.” My friend said to me, “I would finish my work.” Shanu said to me, “I could go to your home.” He said to you, “He should be here by now. He said to you, “I could swim quite well when I was younger. He said to you, “You mustn’t blame yourself for this.” He said to you, “You might have discussed it with me first.” He said to you, “She had to take her brother along with her.” He said to you, “We ought to be going.”

must=had to must (obedience) = only must will be unchanged

must সাধারনত “had to” তে রুপান্তরিত হয়। কিন্তু চিরকালিন বাধবাধকতা বুঝালে must-এর কোন পরিবর্তন হয় না।

Mother said to me, `You must prepare your home works’. The teacher said to the boys, `You must utilize your time’. The master said to the labour, `You must complete the work today’. The police said to the thief, `You must speak the truth’. Father said to his son, `You must build up your career’. He said to me, “I must say my prayers.”Robin said, “Man must die sooner or later.”He said to her, “You must obey your seniors.” The teacher said to Pamela, “You must listen to what your parents say.” Robin said, “Man must submit to destiny.” Fayed said to me, “I must need to pass the exam.” He said, “I must go home.” He said to you, “I must live here in Chittagong.” He said to me, “I must do the work.” He said to you, “I must help you in danger.” He said to you, “You must make so much noise.” He said to me, “You must stop.” He said to me, “He must be very tired.” He said to me, “You must not smoke in the hospital. ‘’ He said to me, “You must clean your plate.’’

Interrogative Sentence

Starts with auxiliary verb

Father said to his son, ‘Did you not complete the work yesterday?’ I said to the little boy, ‘Have you ever been to Cox’s Bazar?’ He said to me, “Are you going?” He said to me,” Are you ill?” He said to me, “Do you know my friend?” Father said to his son, “Are you interested in Mathematics?” My mother said to me, “Isn’t poverty a curse?” Haron said to me, “Do you know me?” The teacher said to me, “Have you learnt your lesson today?’ You said to Rakib, “Have you seen the man who came to visit yesterday?” She said to Shohel, “ Will you listen to such a fool?” I said to him, “Will you go to college today?” I said to the Headmaster, “Will you grant me a full free studentship?” I said to her, “Will you go to the college tomorrow?” The policeman said to me, “Did you see the accident?” He said to me, “Did you go to college yesterday?” Liza said to me, “Will you visit my home tomorrow?” We said to the boy, “Have you eaten rice for lunch?” Sara said to Dana, “Will you take me with your sympathy?” The teacher said to us, “Will you summit this assignment?” Rashid said to us, “Am I unable to solve your problem?” The teacher said to the students, “Do I beat you for your indulgence?” She said to us, “Shall I not inform my feelings?” The man said to me, “Are you passing the river by swimming?” He said to Ron, “Can you bring to mind your magic verse?” Raima said to Aritra, “Can you conquer my heart?” Mother said to me, “Can you draw a picture of a tree?” They said to Siam, “Can you tell us what’s your name?” The teacher said to students, “Can anyone give the correct answer of this question?” Kamal said to Swastika, “Can you lend me your books for three days?” Shefali said to Bina, “Can I take your pen?” You said to me, “Would you help me, please?” The teacher said to the students, ‘Have you learnt your lessons today?’ Mother said to me, ‘Did you go to college yesterday?’ The man said to the girl, ‘Will you buy new dress tomorrow?’ He said to me, “Are you happy?” The boy said to me, “Will you come with me?” He said to me, “Are you human?” I said to him, “Will you go to school tomorrow?” Hasan said to her, “Are you ill?” The man said to me, “Do you know who I am?” We said to her, “Are you conscious?” Father said to me, “Did you do the work? He said to me, “Will you return the book to me?” He said to me, “Have you done your duty?” He said to me, “Haven’t you finished your work?”

Starts with W/h question

He said to me, “Where are you going?” Ruma said to her mother, “Why will you take my pen?” The man said to me, ‘Where do you live? Taufiq said to Rahul, “Why do you always think about the bad side of things?” The man said to the stranger, “What is your name and why did you come here?” The old man said to his sons,“Why do you quarrel always?” The man said to me, “Who are you?” She said to them, “Why are you making a noise?” He said to me, “What are you doing?” Sakib said to Roman, “Where have you come from?” She said to him, “Why have you come here?” Rubel said to his mother, “What did you see when you were in the states?” He said to me, “Where did you go yesterday?” My mother said to me, “Why did you not go to college yesterday?” Salim said to Salam, “Why did you write those letters?”They said to us, “When will you return home?” He said to me, “When will the next letter come?” The passenger said to the porter, “When will the train arrive?” She said to me, “What’s your mother’s name and where have you come from?” They said to my mother, “Where did I go in 3.45 pm yesterday?” They said to me, “How much wealth do you need?” Anika said to them, “Why did they destroy their garden?” The astrologer said to the king, “How much long do you live?” He said to me, “Which book do you want?” I said to the pretty girl, “Which book have you lost that you are searching?” a. The teacher said to the student, ‘Why have you not learnt your lesson?’ Rahim said to his friend, ‘Which book do you want?’ Mother said to her daughter, ‘Where did you go yesterday?’ The master said to the porter, ‘Why have you not completed the work?’ Father said to me, “When did you go there?” Mrs Salam said to Anwar, “Why have you been running?” He said to them, “Why do you look so sad?” Father said to me, “Why don’t you read carefully?” The old man said to his sons, “Why are you so sad?” He said to me, “Why did you go there?” Hasan said to me, “How are you?” He said to me, “Where are you coming from?”

Optative Sentence

Structure: Sub + wished/prayed + that + sub + might + verb1 + ext

Teacher said to him, “May you come round soon.” The president said, “May Bangladesh live long.” The dervish said to me, “May you shine in life.” The woman said to his son, “May you be happy.” Mother said to me, “May you live long.” Father said to his son, “May you pass the exam.” He said to me, “May Allah help you.” Mother said to me, “May Allah bless you.” They said, “Long live our president.” Munia said to Maria, “May you get A+. He said to me,” May Allah bless you.” He said to me, “May you live long.” He said to me,” May you be safe and protected from danger. ” He said to me,” May you be happy and peaceful. ” He said to me,” May you be healthy and strong. ” He said to me,” May you have ease and well-being. ” He said to me,” May all be healthy. ” He said to me,” May all be happy. ” He said to me,” May Allah be kind. ” He said to me,”May the best win. ” a. His mother said, ‘May God bless you.’Seema said to me, “May God bless you with children.” The son said, “Good night, mother.” She said to her neighbour, “May you come round soon.” I said to her, “May you be happy in life.” The Prime Minister said, “Long live our democracy.” She said, “May you succeed in the examination.” Mother said to me, “May you shine in life.”

Imperative sentence

অনুরোধ বোঝালে– requested	আদেশ বোঝালে– ordered/ commanded	উপদেশ বোঝালে– advised
নিষেধ বোঝালে– forbade	ক্ষমা বোঝালে– begged	কিছু না বুঝালে– told

Structure: Sub + (ordered/advised/requested/forbade/proposed/commanded) + obj + to + v1+ ext

He said to me, “Don’t talk.” He said to me, “Please help me.” The teacher said to me, “Always speak the truth.“ The commander/ general/ captain said to the soldier, “Fire on.” Shakira said to me, “Dance with me.” He said, “Do the sums.” He said to Liza, “Don’t show your naughty face.” I said, “Shot the bird silently.” We said, “Dig the soil.” The teacher said to Raju, “Don’t tell a lie for next time.” Bina said, “Leave the place at once.” She said to her teacher, “Complete the lesson.” We said to him, “Keep your mind in relax mood.” My brother said to me, “Go to college or you will be punished.” The teacher said to Toma, “Write an essay on punctuality.” The teacher said to the students, “Stop writing.” Arif said to me, “Lend me your cars.” The captain said to the soldiers, “March forward.” He said to me, “Please give me some money.” The students said to the Principal, “Please grant me leave of absence.” He said to his friends, “Please wait for me till I return.” “Please listen to me,‘ said he. Father said to me, “Take care of your health.” Father said to the son, “Don’t quarrel with anybody.” Mother said to me, “Don’t run in the sun.” The teacher said to the student, “Do not tell a lie.” Mrs. Salam said, “Don’t forget about that.” Mother said to her son, “Do not waste your time.” The teacher said, “Always speak the truth.” He said to me, ‘Please, give me a glass of water.” Mother said to me, ‘Always speak the truth.’ Mr. Kamal said to the boy, ‘Do the sum now’. I said to her, ‘Please, lend me your pen.’ The man said to the porter, ‘Follow me.’ Rini said to Ruby, ‘Do not lament for the past.’ The teacher said to the boy, ‘Do not do as you wish.’ Father said to his son, ‘Don’t smoke any longer.’ Mina said to Dina, ‘Please do not give him your pen.’ Mother said to his child, ‘Do not go there in future.’ Father said to his son, “Go to school now.” Father said to me, “Do the work at once.” I said to him, “Please tell me.” The teacher said to the students, Read attentively.” The mother said to her son, “Call in a doctor.”

If imperative sentence starts with let

Changes	Let us/ let’s	Let us/ let’s	Let me/him/her/them
1. Said to	proposed to	suggested	told
2. Comma	that we should/that they should	x	that
3. Person	x	x	Follow the normal rules
4. Verb	verb1	verb1 + ing + ext	might + verb1
5. Adverb	Follow the normal rules

They said to us, “Let us decide the matter.” He said to me, “Let us do it.” The chairman said, “Let us settle the dispute.” Tuna said to Ria, “Let us go out for a walk.” “Let us wait here,” she said. She said to me, ‘Let us make fun’. He said to me, “Let us go out for a walk.” He said to me, “Let us help the poor”. The teacher said to Amina, “Let us read this book.” She said to his teacher, “Let us complete the lesson.” He said, ‘Let’s take him to the doctor.’ He said,” Let’s eat something. ” He said,” Let us be happy.” She said, “Let’s go to the restaurant.” He said, “Let’s wait a few minutes and then try again later.” He said, “Let’s not blame him till we hear the facts.” “Let’s bake a cake,” said Jessica. “Let’s not,” said Tim. The student said, “Let’s show our teacher that we respect him.” Students said to the teacher, ‘Let us arrange for a study tour.’ He said to me, ‘Let us go out for a long drive.’ They said to us, ‘Let us decide the matter.’ Sumon said to me, ‘Let us open a bank account’. The man said to me, ‘Let us minimize the matter.’ Anwar told Kashem, “Let’s go and see.” The visitors said to us, “let’s have a walk by the river side.” Rahim said to me, “Let us go to arrange a picnic.” They said to us, “Let us discuss the matter ourselves.” The boy said to me, “Let us have a visit to Ram Sagar.” He said to me, “Let’s finish reading the last part of this book.” The six blind said, “Let us go and find out?” The chairman said, “Let us settle the dispute.” They said to him, “Let us play football today.” He said to me, “Let us go there.” Rimi said to Shila, “Let’s go for a walk in the open field.” The teacher said to the student, “Let us discuss about gardening.” Kamal said to his friends, “Let us inform it to our class teacher.” The teacher said to the student, “Let’s try to solve the problem.” Luna said to her friend, “Let us have a picnic on Sunday.” Tamal said to me, “Let us settle the matter now.” They said to us, “Let us go out for a walk.” The captain said, “Let us show respect to the freedom fighters.”The beggar said to her, “Let me have a meal.” The prisoner said, “Let me see my mother.” Father said, “Let him read attentively.” The old man said, “Let me have some milk.” The boy said to me, “Let them play cricket.” Samia said to her mother “Let me drink a glass of water.” I said to the girls, “Let me tell some words with you and about your family.” They said, “Let her go to join the match.” He said, ‘Let me go.’ Let my children clear up their rooms,” he said. She said, “Let them take the camera.”Let them come,” said Tom. “Let him buy this toy,” he said. She said to me, ‘Let me make fun’. He said to me, “Let her go out for a walk.” He said to me, “let him help the poor.” The teacher said to Amina, “Let them read this book.” She said to his teacher, “Let me complete the lesson.” Roni said to me “Let him say whatever he likes.” She said, “Let him do it again.” The prisoner said to the judge, “Let me see my mother.” The beggar said to me, “Let me have some food as I have been starving since morning.” Bina said to the boy, “Let fish go into the water.” Kamal said to me, “Let me Let him say whatever he likes.” The old man said, “Let me have some milk.” Fatima said to me “Let me have a cup of tea.” Mother says, “Let the girl go.” The boys said, “Let me fly a kite in the sky.” The old man said to them, “Let me have a little rest.” The court said to the police, “Let people live in peace.” The beggar said to me, “Let me have a meal.” The beggar said to me, “Let me have a cup of rice.” Kamal said to Mrs. Ali, “Mother, Let me have a cup of tea.” You said to me, “Let me come in.” He said to me, “Let me go as early as possible.” The chairman said, “Let him try to solve the problem.” Kamal said to Jamal, “Let me say it again.”

Exclamatory Sentence

!sub + verb Sub + verb! Sub + verb (to/for….)!a. আনন্দ বুঝালে– exclaimed with joy/delight c. বিস্ময় বোঝাতে– exclaimed with wonder/surpriseb. দুঃখ বোঝালে– exclaimed with sorrow/grief d. শপথ বোঝাতে– swearing by Allah

a. Escape the object of reporting verbb. Omit what/how/alas/hurrahc. Add adverb like very, so, great (if sentence starts with what/how)d. Use very/so before adjective on the other hand use great before a noun

He said to me, “What a nice garden it is!” He said to Harun, “What a magic you show!” They said to Moon, “What an exciting game you play!” I said to Dana, “What a clever girl you are!” I said to you, “What a brave man you are!” I said to him, “What a nice fellow your father is!” I said to her, “What a nice girl you are!” “What an honest man he is!” said Tanvir. The boy said, “What a terrible storm it is!” I said to him, “What a nice gift I have got for you!” Liza said, “What a miserable life the poor of Bangladesh lead!” They said, “How a nice song we sing!” She said to Ram,” What a tall boy you are!”Raju said, “What a fantastic story it is!” The boy said, “What a beautiful sight!” He said, “What a cheering report! He said, “What a pity!” He said to her, “What a cold day!” He said, “How odd!”You said to me, “How nice your handwriting is!” They said, “How sweet the mango is!” I said to you, “How obliged are you to me!” The teacher said to him, “How funny you are!” The man said to the boy, “How silly you are!” She said, “How sweetly the bird sings!” Sara said to Dona, “How sweet baby you have!” The traveler said, “How wicked the boys are!” Dulal said to him, “How intelligent you are!” The candidate said, “How difficult the problem is!” The girl said, “How beautiful the rainbow is!”The boy said, “Hurrah! My father has come.” He said, “Hurrah! I have gained it. ” He said to me, “Bravo! You have done very well.” Ruma said, “Hurrah! We beat our against party.” Rashid said, “Yeah! We can hunt the birds.” I said to her, “Alas! He is dead. He said, “Alas! I am undone.” Rima said, “Alas! She has lost her mother.”The students said,” Alas! We fail again.”Kamal said,” Hurrah! I have won the scholarship.” The boy said, “Hurrah! We have won the match.” Ria said, “Alas! I have lost my diamond bangle.” The emperor said, “Alas! Our foes are too strong!” She said, “Oh! I lost my mobile.” Waziha said to Afra, “Congratulations!”

Exceptional

Direct: He said, “Had I the wings of a bird!”

Indirect: He wished that he had the wings of a bird.

Convert from Indirect to Direct speech

Hasan said that he had lived many years in Dhaka. She told me that she had been ill. Rahim said that he had written a letter. I told him that I had bought a book for him. Rasu said that he had not he had not done the work the previous day. He told me that he had gone to his village the previous day. The man said that he had finished the work. He said that he had seen her the previous day. He said that he had been absent the previous day. The students said that their team had won the game. Imran told me that he had been ill. The students said that they had been reading books. He says that her father bought a big house. She told me that she had gone to market and bought some books. He told me that he had been eating rice. Salma told me that she had seen me long ago. He told me that he had met him the night before. He told me that he had gone there. Shila told Nila that he had taken part in the function the previous day. She told her mother that she had dreamt a bad dream the previous day. He told me that he had caught a big fish the previous day. My father told me that he had bought the book the previous day. He told me that he had gone to New Market. Rashed said that he had eaten his meal. The teacher said that he would teach him English. He said that the train had reached at nine. The young lady said that she was the maid servant of Rupnagar. You told me that you had called me. He said that after his arrival you had had to go home. He said that he needn’t wait. He said that he had to help the distress people. You told me that you could not go to my place. My father told me that they were going there the following day. Zakir has said that he is well prepared to take the examination. He said that he had written a story. Shakila told me that he had been making a research to solve the problem. The old man told the girl that he knew her and her father. The teacher told me that I was wrong. Hasan told me that he had gone to school the previous day. My mother often says that he was happy. He said that he had been working since sunrise. He said that he had eaten meal. They told me that I had done well. Sarifa told her father that she was preparing her lesson. He told me that he had not seen the boy going. He said that he should die. The teacher told me that I was wrong. Salma says that she did not go to school. He told me that he would never do it. I told him that I had brought a book for him. He said that he went to market the previous day. We told them that we knew them. Sifat told me that he was drawing a picture for me. She told me that I could help her. Zahid told me that he had been awarded with first prize. Alam said that he wanted to write a letter. He said that he was ready to go. He said that he would do it. The teacher advised the students that they should prepare their lesson.The teacher said to the students that two and Two make four. The teacher said to the student that the more he(Student) read, the more he (S) learn. The teacher said that honesty is the best Policy. Father said that slow and steady wins the race. The teacher said that the earth moves round the sun. The teacher said that Knowledge is power. The teacher advised the student to cut their coat according to their cloth. The teacher said to us that all that glitters is not gold. The teacher said that necessity is the mother of invention. John Keats said that truth is beauty, beauty is truth. He said to me that a little learning is a dangerous thing. The teacher said that the sun rises in the east. The Prophet (Sm) said that Allah is one. The teacher said that the thing of beauty is joy forever. The teacher said to the students that a friend is need is a friend indeed. The teacher said that all men are equal in the eye of law. Father said that time and tide waits for none.Arif asked me if I wanted his help. Premul asked his sister if she would go to school. Rahman has asked Milton if he (Milton) had seen that movie. We asked her if she was conscious. He asked me if I would return the book to him. I asked them if they had any problem. The receptionist asked the tourist if he wanted a single or double room. I asked him if he had come there the previous day. Mr Ahmed asked the students if they knew that gardening was a very hard work. He asked me if I had written the paragraph. I asked her if she would appear at the JSC Examination. The boy asked his friend if he had done the sum. I asked her if she would go to school the next day. A hawker asked me if I wanted any newspaper. He asked his friend if he liked to read novels. He asked me if I had been reading a book. Father asked me if I had done the work. Mother asked me if I heard her. I asked the man if he knew anybody there. Raju asked me if I had taken his pen. He asked me if I had not finished the work. My father asked me if I had gone to school the previous day. The police man asked me if I saw the accident. Najma asked him if he had taken her pen. Runa asked Sumi if she would meet her the next day. The old man asked the maid if she could give him some food. The teacher asked the students if anyone could give the correct answer of that question. Ruma asked Lima if she had ever been to Cox’s Bazer. Raju asked me if I was his friend. I asked her if she would not appear at the final examination. He asked me if I was reading his book. The manager asked the man if he would tell him the process of opening a bank account. Badhan asked Balam if he had gone there in time. Anwar asked his sister if she would go to school. Amin asked Hasan if he was going to his house that day. The teacher asked if I had done home work. He asked me if I was eating banana. He asked me if I knew his friend. He asked if I was reading any book. He asked me if I had eaten rice. He asked me if I did not do my duty. He asked me if I knew him. He asked me if I had finished the work or not. The teacher asked the students if they had learnt their lesson. Mother asked her daughter if she had taken the book. He asked me if I would return the book to him. Mother asked Nasim if she would give her a drink. I asked the man if he knew anybody there. Mother asked me if I was going to school then. He asked me if I had been ill. The boy asked me if poverty was not a curse. I asked Mahmud if he liked to read Poetry. I asked him if he knew me. Rahim asked me if I liked it. Jamal asked Sumon if he had finished reading the book. I asked Ria how she had been. I asked him if he was playing in the rain. Sheuly asked her father if he would buy her a new dress. Raqib asked me if I would lend him a book for that day. I asked the headmaster if he would grant me a full free studentship. She asked me if I had heard the news of the accident. He asked me if I would go to school that day. Anwar asked Mrs Salam if they would go and help her. Mr Ahmed asked the students if they wanted to use that piece of land. Salma asked Mrs Green if she would like some tea. Father asked me if I had finished my homework. Runa asked Sumi if she would meet him the next day. Mr Ant asked his wife if she could help Mr Grasshopper. The boy asked the teacher respectfully if he might go in. Anwar asked Kashem if he had ever been to Dhaka. I asked her if she had done the work. The teacher asked the students if they didn’t understand what he discussed in class. The teacher asked Ratan if he had done his English lesson that day. The boy asked me if I could show him the way. Father asked him if he was serious with his studies. The old man asked me if I knew the way to the hospital. He asked me if I was well. They asked us if we would help them. My friend asked me if we were not going to the zoo the next day. We asked them if they had seen the man going. You asked me why I had gone. He asked her who she was. They asked him what his name was. Mrs salam asked Anwar why he had been running. Soma asked her teacher which book they would follow. He asked the stranger who he was and what he wanted. Tareq asked Rafiq why he had gone to school the previous day. The teacher asked the boys why they were making a noise. I asked the salesman what the price of that shirt was. He asked me where I had gone the previous day. I asked her when she would go home. Ruby asked her mother what she had seen when she had been in the states. He asked me why I had not gone there. The old man asked the girl what her name was. Ali asked what I was looking for there. Father asked me whom I was looking to. The old man asked me how long I had been staying there. Rina asked me what I was doing. Karim asked me why I had called him. He asked the girl what her name was. Mother asked me when I would return. He asked me which book I wanted. He asked his father what he was doing. He asked me when the next letter would go. He asked me which book I wanted. Mousumi asked the boy who he was. Mother asked her daughter what she would do the next day. I asked him what he would do after his examination. The old man asked his sons why they always quarreled. Rakib asked Raja how he (R) was that day. Anwar asked Mrs Amin what kind of stories Aesop told. He asked me which book I wanted. Father asked how I had done the work. He asked the boy what his father’s name was. He asked the woman where she lived in. The old man asked his sons why they always quarreled. A stranger asked him what his name was. He asked Robin where he was going then. He asked his father what he was doing. You asked me why I always kept bad company. The passenger asked the porter when the train would arrive. I asked him what he was doing then. He asked me where I am going from. Mother asked the boy what was the time to go to school. They asked me how they could overcome the crisis. He asked them what he had wanted from them. Father asked the son why he had not gone to school the previous day. The man asked me what class I read in and which book I wanted. He asked me which book I wanted to buy. I asked him what he would do after the examination. He asked me when I would go home. He asked me where I lived. They asked me when we would return home. I asked Ria how she had been. He asked me why I had not gone there. Rana asked Rina how she had passed the river. He asked me which book I wanted. Mr Ahmed asked the students what they knew about gardening. Sumi asked Badhan who is his favourite teacher was. The teacher asked me where I had been so long. Karim asked his sister what she was doing there. My father asked me what I was doing then. You asked me why I always kept bad company. The teacher asked me how I had done it. He asked me why I had struck him. Father asked me why I didn’t read carefully. She asked father where he had gone the previous evening. He asked you which book you wanted. The man asked the driver why he drove recklessly. The lady asked her husband how he had arranged it. I asked Rahim what he would do after his exam. He asked me where I lived. He asked me where I had gone the previous day. He asked me what the time was by my watch. He asked me what my name was. Liza asked Lima how she was. He asked them why they looked so sad. The teacher asked the student why he had not gone to school the previous day. Tareq asked Rafiq what he thought. He asked me why I was reading the book. Nipa asked Dina where she was going then. I asked her where she had been going the previous day. He asked me what I wanted. I asked him how long it would take him to complete the assignment. He asked her why she had gone there. My Mother asked me why I had not gone to school the previous day. He asked a co –passenger when the next train would come. The sons asked the father how they would find it. Father asked the son why he was making late.Father advised me not to waste my time. The teacher advised me not to elaborate my answers unnecessarily. Father advised me not to run in the sun. Father ordered me to go to school then. He ordered the boys not to make a noise there. The teacher advised the students not to tell a lie. Father ordered his son to go to school then. Father ordered me to do work at once. The piper requested the mayor to give him promised money. The teacher advised the students to be attentive and listen to his lecture. Father advised his son to learn to be honest from his boyhood. The man advised me to obey his parents. I requested him not to be silly. Father advised his son not to quarrel. My brother told me to go to school then or I would be punished. Mother advised me to respect my teachers. Father advised me not to tell a lie. The teacher ordered the student to leave the room and not to return again that day. The teacher advised the students to pen through the sentence. Mother advised me to always speak the truth. The teacher ordered Rahman to stand up on the beach. He ordered me to run after the thief and catch him. The captain ordered the soldiers to march on. The teacher advised the students to learn their lessons. The Manager ordered the strikers to resume your work. Manik asked Nasima to leave the home at once. Father advised me not to go there. Teacher ordered the boy not to mix with the bad boys. Mother advised me not to be lazy. Father forbade his son to quarrel with anybody. The teacher advised me not to elaborate my answers unnecessarily. He requested me to give him my pen. He requested me not to tell him that. The students requested the teacher to explain the passage. He requested me to give him a glass of water. He requested me to help him. He requested his friends to wait for him till he returned. The boy requested the teacher to excuse him. The student requested the Principal to grant him leave of absence. Safiq requested me not to talk with him. Father forbade me to go there. Teacher forbade the boy to mix with the bad boys. Teacher advised him not to waste his time. Mother advised her daughter to always speak the truth. Father advised me not to go there. The teacher advised the students to learn their lesson regularly. The teacher advised the students to take care of their health. I requested him to tell him the way of hospital. Father ordered his son to go to school then. The old man advised the boy not to waste their time. The teacher advised the person spoken to read attentively. The passer-by addressed me as brother and requested me to kindly help him. The mother told her son to call in a doctor. Ruplal’s mother told him to accept his responsibility. Father advised me not to look down upon the poor. The tourist requested the receptionist to give him a vacant room. The doctor advised the patient not to take tea for some days. Dolon told Lucky to stop excessive eating. The boy requested the teacher to lend him his book. Addressing me as her child my mother advised me to be polite to the elders. The officer ordered to the worker to leave the room at once. He requested his friends to wait for him till he returned. Father advised his son not to quarrel. My father advised me to obey my teachers. Father ordered me to go to bed at once. Father forbade me/told me not to go there. Mother forbade the children to go the river. Nipa entreated Dipa to give her her story book. He advised me to learn my lesson regularly. He told me to give him a book. He requested me to excuse him. I requested my teacher to help me in doing the sum. The teacher advised the students not to leave anything for the next day. Silvia told Shila not to speak so loudly. The teacher told the student to go out of the classroom. Father told his son to follow what his teacher said. Sharmin requested Salma to have a cup of tea. Rafia asked her to come the next day. Farzana advised Sadia to see a doctor. The doctor advised me not to work hard. The girl told me not to worry for her.They proposed to me that we should decide the matter themselves. Anwar proposed to Kashem that they should go and see. The visitors proposed to us that we should have a walk by the riverside. Rahim proposed to me that we should go to arrange a picnic. They proposed to us that we should discuss the matter ourselves. The teacher proposed to the student that they should discuss about gardening. Kamal proposed to his friends that we should inform it to our class teacher. The teacher proposed to the student that they should try to solve the problem. Luna proposed to her friends that they should have a picnic on Sunday. Tamal proposed to me that we should settle the matter then. They proposed to us that we should go out for a walk. The captain proposed that they should show respect to the freedom fighters. He proposed to me that we should finish reading the last part of that book. The boy proposed to me that we should have a visit to Ram Sagar. The six blind men proposed that they should go and find out. The chairman proposed that they should settle the dispute. They proposed to him that they should play football that day. He proposed to me that we should go there. Rimi proposed to Shila that they should go for a walk in the open field.The beggar told that he might be allowed to have a meal. The beggar told that he might be allowed to have a cup of rice. Kamal told his mother, Mrs. Ali that he might be allowed to come in. The beggar requested me to let him have a meal. He told me that he might go as early as possible. The chairman ordered to let him try to solve the problem. Kamal requested Jamal to let him say it again. Rony requested me to let him say whatever he liked. She told/wished that he might be allowed to do it again. The prisoner requested the judge to let him see his mother. The beggar requested me to let him have some food as he had been starving since morning. Bina requested the boy to let the fish go into the water. Kamal requested me that he might say whatever he liked. The old man requested to let him have some milk. Fatima told me that she might have a cup of tea. Mother says that the girl may go/may be allowed to go. The boys wanted to fly a kite in the sky. The old man requested them that he should be allowed to have a little rest. The court told the police that the people should be allowed to live in peace.

Narration exercises for HSC

April 9, 2024May 16, 2024 Abdullah

“Will you buy my hair?” asked Della. “I buy hair,” said Madam. “Take your hat off and let us have a sight at the looks of it. Twenty dollars,” said Madam. “Give it to me quick,” said Della. Answer: Della asked Madam if she would buy her hair. Madam replied that she bought hair. Then Madam told her to take her hat off and suggested that they should have a sight at the looks of it. Madam proposed/wished to give twenty dollars. Della requested her (Madam) to give it to her quickly.
Suddenly a voice called out, ‘Good morning, gentlemen. Where are you going and what are you doing here?’ ‘Oh, nowhere and nothing.’ ‘But you look so pensive, why?’ ‘Yes, you are right. We are looking for something,’ replied the six blind men. ‘Who are you, sir?’
‘Follow my example,’ she said when we shook hands, ‘and never eat more than one thing for luncheon.’ ‘I’ll do better than that,’ I retorted, ‘I’ll eat nothing for dinner tonight.’ ‘Humorist!’ she cried gaily, jumping into a cab. Answer: As we shook hands she advised me to follow her example and not to eat more than one thing for luncheon. I retorted that I would do better than that. I also added that I would eat nothing at dinner that night. Then jumping into a cab she cried gaily and said that I was a humorist.
‘You have cut off your hair?’ asked Jim. ‘Cut it off and sold it,’ said Della. ‘Don’t you like me just as well anyhow? I’m me, without my hair, ain’t I?’
“Excuse me. I want to know about reference books of the library,” said the student. “In one part of the library, you can go to read books but you can’t take them out of the building,” said the librarian. “What do you call that section of the library?” said the student. “Closed Reserve. However, you’ll find some useful books there and you’ll need them for the exam,” said the librarian.
“Whose picture is it?” I asked. “A little girl’s of course,” said Grandmother. “Can’t you tell?” “Yes, but did you know the girl?” I asked. “Yes, I knew her,” said Granny, “but she was a very wicked girl and I should not tell you about her.”
“I suppose we are in the danger,” said Miss Mebbin. “Nonsense,” said Mrs. Packletide. “It is a very old tiger. It could not spring up here even if it wanted to.” “If it’s an old tiger, I think you ought to get it cheaper. A thousand taka is a lot of money.”
One day Hazrat Omar (R) became shocked to see the sufferings of a woman and said, “Where do you live?” The woman said, “I live in a poor hut south end to the town. I am hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?” Hazrat Omar (R) said, “Go back home. I am coming with food and money for you.” The woman looked at him with gratitude and said, “Thank you.”
“Hello Marium! You look very hot and tired,” said Nafisa. “I was stuck in the traffic jam for one hour,” said Marium. “Sit down. What would you like to drink?” said Nafisa. “I’d love really chilled mineral water or something like that,” said Marium.
The stranger said to the boy, “Will you tell me the way to the nearest hotel?” “Yes, I will. Do you want a residential one in which you can spend the night?” the boy said. “I do not want to stay here. But I only want a meal,” the stranger replied. The boy said,”Follow me.”
“O King!” she cried. “Please do not kill me. I did not know that you were the king. I am very sorry.” The king said, “Do not be sad. You are a good woman. I won’t kill you.”
“Have you done your homework?” The mother said to the daughter. “No, I have forgotten,” said the daughter. “That is very bad. You must be more careful about your homework. By doing so, you can’t expect to do well in your studies,” said the mother.
“Oh, my Lord, please do not kill the child,” said the woman. “Let her have him.” The king said, “Now everything is clear to me.” Pointing to the woman, he said to the servant, “Give her the child. She is the mother of the child.”
“Have you ever been to the Taj Mahal in Agra?” “No, I’ve never gone there.” Bakul said to Arup, “If you visited the wonder, you could gain practical knowledge. It is both an interesting and important place.” “How nice the place is!” said Arup referring to Sorwar.
One day Hazrat Omar (R) became shocked to see the sufferings of a woman and said, “Where do you live?” The woman said, “I live in a poor but south end to this town. I’m hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?” Hazrat Omar (R) said, “Go back home. I’m coming with food and money for you.”
The teacher said to the boy, “Why did you make a noise in the class? You are not attentive to your lessons”. “Sorry, Sir,” said the boy. “I was asking for a pen to my friend”. The teacher said, “Be attentive and listen to me carefully.”
The beggar said, “Will you give me some food? I have been without food for two days.” The housewife said, “Why don’t you work? You can earn your own food.” “Oh my God”, said the beggar. “I am disabled. I can’t work.”
She said, “What is your name?” “Roger,” answered the boy. “Then, Roger, you go to that sink and wash your face,” said the woman. “Are you going to take me to jail?” asked the boy, bending over the sink. “All I wanted a pair of blue shoes.” “You didn’t have to snatch my purse to get some shoes,” said Mrs. Washington Jones. “You could have asked me.”
The young man said, “I can’t stay any longer. The king had sent me to do a very important work.” “Friend, tell me what your important work is. I can also help you,” the man requested.
“What is your opt occupation?” asked the king. “I do not work at all”, said the stranger, “I wander about God’s kingdom and wherever. He places me, there I remain for the day”. Seeing the stranger’s trust in God, the king felt kindly towards him and said, “Will you come and live in my palace?” The stranger asked, “What I shall do there!” “You’ll water my trees and flower and in exchange you will get food and clothing,” said the king.
The preacher said to his followers, “Have faith in God and do the right. May God shower his blessings on you! Do you know that I can manage the pampered and spoilt children well? “
The interviewer said to the candidate, “I offer you two options for giving your reply. You can choose either three easy questions or one very difficult question. Will you like to avail the offer? If yes, which option do you want to use? “
‘Excuse me, I want to know about reference books of the library,’ said the student. ‘In one part of the library you can go to read books but you can’t take them out of the building’ said the librarian. ‘What do you call that section of the library?’ said the student. ‘Closed Reserve,’ said the librarian.
‘You look a little bit like my mother,’ he said ‘especially in the dark by the fire.’ ‘But you were only four Jerry, when you came here. You have remembered how she looked all these years?’ ‘My mother lives in Mannville,’ he said.

Answer: Jerry told the listener that she looked a little bit like his mother especially in the dark by the fire. With disappointment, she told that he had been only four when he had gone there. Being surprised, she asked if he had remembered how she had looked all those years. He said that his mother lived in Mannville.

“Great king of the genies,” called the monster. “I will never disobey you.” Hearing those words, the fisherman became very brave and said, “Tell me why you were locked up in the vase?” The giant angrily looked at the fisherman and said, “Speak to me politely or I shall kill you.” “Why should you kill me?” asked the fisherman.

Answer: The monster called the great king of the genies and said that he would never again disobey him (G). Hearing those words, the fishermen became brave and told the monster to tell him (f) why he (M) had been locked up in the vase. Then the giant angrily looked at him and told the fishermen to speak to him (M) more politely, otherwise he (M) would kill him (F). The fisherman asked why he would kill him.

“My sons, listen to me. A great treasure lies hidden in the land. I am going to leave it to you.” “How’ll we find it?” said the sons. “You must dig the land for it,” said the old man.

Answer: The old man told his sons to listen to him that a great treasure lied hidden in the land. He added that he was going to leave that to them. The sons wanted to know how they would find it. The old man replied that they must dig the land for it.

“Have you killed the rates?” said the Mayor. “Yes, I have, said the piper. “Give me the promised money.” “How funny!” said the Mayor, ‘We cannot give you so much money. Take only fifty.’

Answer: The Mayor asked the piper if he (p) had killed the rates. The Piper replied in the affirmative that he had. Then he (P) told the Mayor to give him (P) the promised money. The Mayor exclaimed in wonder that it was very funny. He added that they could not give him (P) so much money and told him to take only fifty.

“How are you today?” I said to Sumon. “I am very nervous for the coming exam,” Sumon replied. “Haven’t you taken enough preparation for this?” I said to him again. “Yes, I have but I am in a fix. Let me read now,” said Sumon.

Answer: I asked Sumon how he (S) was that day. Sumon replied that he(S) was very nervous for the coming examination. I again asked him if he (S) had not taken enough preparation for that. Sumon again replied in the affirmative that he had but he was in a fix and requested that he might read then.

‘Have you seen your mother, Jerry?’ ‘I see her every summer. She sends for me.’ I wanted to cry out. ‘Why are you not with her? How can she let you go away again?’ He said, ‘She comes up here from Mannville whenever she can. She does not have a job now.’

Answer: I asked Jerry if he had seen his mother. Jerry replied that he saw her every summer and added that she sent for him. I had wanted to cry out and asked why he was you not with her and also asked how she could let him go away again. He said that she went up there from Manville whenever she could and added that she did not have a job then.

“Jim darling,” cried Della. “Don’t look at me this way. I had my hair cut off and sold it because I could not have lived through Christmas without giving you a present. I just had to do it, say Merry Christmas, Jim and let’s be happy.”

Answer: Addressing Jim as darling Della cried and forbade him to look at her that way. Then she said that she had her hair cut off and sold that because she could not have lived through Christmas without giving him a present. She also said that she just had to do that and told Jim to say Merry Christmas and proposed that they should be happy.

“Where are you going?” said the merchant. “I was coming to see you.” “What do you want?” “To earn my bread by the labor of my hands.” “Do you really work?” said the merchant. “Yes, if you have any”. Then follow me and carry a box from a shop to my house.” “I do not see how I can do that,” said the youth.

Answer: The Merchant asked the youth where he(y) was going. The youth replied that he (y) had been coming to see him (m). Again the merchant asked him (y) what he wanted. The youth said that he(y) wanted to earn his (y) bread by the labour of his (y) hands. The merchant again asked the boy if he (Y) really wanted to work. The youth replied in the affirmative that if he (M) had any. Then the merchantordered the youth to follow him (M) and to carry a box from a ship to his (m) house. The youth said that he (Y) did not see how he (Y) could do that.

“I’ll pay for it.” he said. “I broke it. I brought the axe down careless.” “But no one hits accurately every time. Jerry, Moreover, the fault was in the wood of the handle. I”ll see the man whom I have bought it from,” I told him.

Answer: He said that he would pay for it. He further said that he had broken it and had brought the axe down careless. I told him that no one hit accurately every time and added that the fault had been in the wood of the handle. I again told him that I would see the man from whom I had bought it.

32.“May I come in sir?” A boy standing at the door said to him. Then without waiting for his reply the boy entered the room and said, “Sir, I have come from Palaspur with a letter from Mr. Ajit Bose? How is he?” He said smiling. “He is not well. He has been suffering from a serious illness for two years.” The boy said “How sad it is! May God cure him?” he said.

Answer: A boy standing at the door, addressing him as sir asked him if he(B) might come in. Then without waiting for his (S) reply the boy entered the room andrespectfully said that he (B) had come from Palashpur with a letter from Mr. Ajit Bose. He asked smiling if he had really come from Ajit Bose. He again asked how he was. The boy replied that he was not well and added that he had been suffering from a serious illness for two years. He(S) exclaimed with grief that it was very sad and prayed that God might cure him.

“You have lost my new bag today. Why have you gone outside leaving it then?” asked the Master. “I went outside for drinking a glass of water, sir,” said the Servant. “But you could go after my coming. You could wait for someone else. Now pay for the bag.” “Yes, I am guilty for my carelessness but now I have no money,” replied the servant.
The daughter said to her father, “Please, come back home soon.” “Perhaps you have forgot that today is my birthday.” Father said, “No, I have not forgot at all.” “Today I am not going to office.’ The daughter said, “Where are you going?” Father said, “I’m going to buy a gift and a birthday cake to celebrate’ your birthday ceremony.” Jumping into a delight the daughter said, ‘Then I shall invite my most bosom friends.” Father said, “Of course, you will do it.”

Ans: The daughter requested her father to kindly go back home soon and said that perhaps he had forgot that that day was her birthday. Father replied in the negative and said that he had not forgot at all and further added that that day he was not going to office. The daughter asked where he was going. Father replied that he was going to buy a gift and birthday cake to celebrate her birthday ceremony. Jumping into a delight, the daughter said that then she would invite her most bosom friends. Father said that she would do it certainly (of course)

A cricket player said, “Cricket is now the most interesting game.” “Though it needs long time, a kind of uncertainty makes it more thrilling.” I said to him. ‘Every game has a kind of uncertainty, not only cricket.” “Moreover it’s a very complicated game.” ‘Very few people of the world can understand it.” The cricket player said, ‘You are right in some respects but for that I cannot say that cricket is bored.’

Ans: A cricket player said that cricket is now the most interesting game and further said that though it needs long time, a kind of uncertainty cricket and makes added it more that moreover thrilling. it’s I told a very him complicated that every game has a kind of uncertainty, not only further added that very few people of the world can understand it. The cricket player replied that I was right in some respects but for that I could not say that cricket is bored.

“Where do you like to go, sir?” asked the ticket seller: ‘Cox’s Bazar,’ replied the stranger. “How many tickets do you need?” “I will buy five tickets.” “Take these tickets. They will cost three thousand taka,” said the ticket seller.
A cat hearing that a hen was laid up sick in her nest, paid her a visit of condolence and said, “How are you, my dear? What can I do for you? Only tell me. Is there anything in the world that I can bring for you?” “Thank you,” said the hen. “Do you be good enough to leave me, and I have no fear but I shall soon be well.”
“Have you learnt your lessons?” father said to Arman. “No, I’ve forgotten,” said he. “That’s very bad. You must be more careful about your preparation for the examination. By doing so, you can make a good result,” said his father. “Thank you very much for your timely advice.”
“Why are you loitering here and there now? Are you in trouble?” said the school teacher. “I am loitering because I have none to take care of me,” said the boy. The school teacher said, “Do you feel hungry?” “Yes, I am very hungry now,” said the boy.
“Whose picture is it?” I asked. “A little girl’s of course,” said Grandmother. “Can’t you tell?” “Yes, but did you know the girl?” “Yes, I knew her,” said Granny, “But she was a very wicked girl and I shouldn’t tell you about her.”
“Why did you stop me? I don’t do anything wrong, did I?” asked Riyad. “You were driving too fast,” said the traffic sergeant, giving him a glare, “Now! Show me your driving license.”
Returning home, my mother said to me, “Your progress in studies is very slow. You always move about with a group of your friends. Aren’t you idling away your time with them? Can’t you be more serious?” “I am sorry and I will amend myself,” I replied.
“My sons,” said he. “A great treasure lies hidden in the estate. I am about to leave you.” “Where is it hidden?” said the sons. “I am about to tell you,” said the old man. “But you must dig the land for it.”
“How much do you want?” said the Mayor. “A thousand guilders,” said the pied piper. “All right,” said the Mayor. “We’ll pay you a thousand guilders. When will you set to work?” “Now,” said the pied piper.
“Have you saved something for the future?” said the richman. “No,’ said the cobbler. “I am happy with the present and think little about tomorrow.” “No, that would not do,” said the richman. “I like to see you above want. Have this money and keep it.”
The witness told the international crimes tribunal that he had suddenly heard a gunshot and gone towards the door. He added that he had seen many Al-Badr men and the members of the Pakistani army on his house premises. The judge asked him if he had recognized some of the Al-Badr men. The witness answered that he could recognize one Hamid in his village who had brought the members of the Pakistani army to the village.
“Why are you crying? Do you have any problem?” asked the passer-by. “I am crying because I have none to look after me,” said the street child. “Are you hungry?”
“Please give me your English grammar book,” said Fahim. “I cannot give it,” said Arman, “I have to take it with me in the class.” “I shall return the book before the class starts,” said Fahim. “Take it,” said Arman. “Thanks,” said Fahim.
He said to me, “I am very sorry to trouble you, but I shall be much obliged if you kindly lend me your dictionary.” “I shall be very glad to be of service to you, and you are welcome to any of my books that you think of use to you,” said I.
“Where do you come from?” I asked him. “From San Carlos,” he said, and smiled. “I was taking care of animals,” “Oh,” I said, not quite understanding. “Yes,” he said, “I stayed, you see, taking care of animals. I was the last one to leave the town of San.
“Have you cut your nails short?” the teacher said to Maruf. “No, I’ve forgotten, Sir,” said Maruf. “That’s very bad. You must be more careful about neatness and cleanliness. By doing so, you can prevent diarrhoea and some other diseases too,” said the teacher.
One day Hazrat Omar (R) became shocked to see the sufferings of a woman and said, “Where do you live?” The woman said, “I live in a poor hut south end to this town. I’m hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?” Hazrat Omar (R) said, “Go back home. I’m coming with food and money for you.”
‘Why are your children crying, my daughter?” said the Caliph. “They have been starving,” said the woman. “Have you none else in the world?” “My husband died some months ago. He left them neither money nor any property. So, they are in great distress. They have to starve sometimes.” “Oh! Let me see, how I can help you,” said the Caliph.
“Do you know Bangladesh Open University offers an English self-learning course?” Sejan said to Shawan. “Yes, I have heard it from my father who works as a tutor of the course. It is a six-month course known as CELP,” said Shawan
“She likes white gloves,” he said. “Do you think I can get them for a dollar?” “I think so,” I said. “Do you know her size?” He said, “I think her hands are bigger than yours.
The writer said to Jerry, “Your roller-skates look very nice. Who has bought them for you”? “My mother.” “Is she alive?” “Yes, she lives in Mannville.”
“Where did you go during the tiffin period? I was looking for you as I had an important matter to discuss with you,” Mili said to Kayes. “I went to meet the Headmaster.” “Anything serious?” “No, he just wanted to meet me as a part of a programme of sitting with top students.”
“How much do you want?” said the Mayor. “A thousand guilders,” said the pied piper. “All right,” said the Mayor, “We’ll pay you a thousand guilders. When will you set to work?” “Now,” said the pied piper.
“Mahi, dear husband,” she said, “Don’t look me that way. I had sold my watch because I could not have lived through this Eid without giving you a present. I will buy another watch again — you won’t mind, will you? I just had to it. Say ‘Eid Mubarak ! Mahi’, and let’s be happy. You don’t know what a nice — what a beautiful, nice gift I have got for you.”
“Good morning, Habib. How are you?” said Nabil. “How much preparation have you taken for the coming Test Exam?” “A great preparation,” replied he. “I can stand first.” “Wah, what a lucky boy!” said Nabil, “But my preparation is not very nice.” “Don’t get nervous, rather go on trying,” advised Habib.
Hearing the answer I became speechless. My brother said to me, “You have broken the mobile not I.” I told him, “Did you see me to tell a lie any time?” He became silent. “No, but I was not there you know.” “Then why didn’t tell mother this?” Two drops of tears rolled on his checks. He said, “Please, don’t mind, sister. Actually for my result, I’m quite upset.”
Overhearing their whispers, the Caliph said to the dervishes, “Are you not of this house then?” “No,” they replied, “We have never been in this place before.” “Perhaps that man there knows the answer,” said the Caliph, pointing to the porter.
“Have you saved something for the future?” said the rich man. “No,” said the cobbler. “I am happy with the present and think little about tomorrow.” “No, that will not do,” said the rich man. “I like to see you above want. Have this money and keep it.”
“Be a good sport, Tessie,” Mrs. Delacroix called and Tessie said, “All of us took the same chance.” “Shut up, Tessie” Bill Hutchinson said. “Well, everyone, that was done pretty fast.” Mr. Summer said, “And now we’ve got to be hurrying a little more to get done in time.”
“Where do you like to go, sir?” said the ticket officer to the passenger. “I want to go to Chattogram,” said the passenger. “How many tickets do you need?” “I need five tickets.” “Here are the tickets. They will cost one thousand taka.”
Rakhi said with much excitement to her friends, “What are your plans for this weekend?” Neela said, “I don’t know.” Lovely offered, “How about going to a movie? “That sounds like a good idea. Maybe we should go out to eat beforehand,” Rakhi suggested. Lovely said, “It is fine with me. Where do you want to meet?” Neela said, “Let’s meet at Pizza House. I have not gone there for a long time.”
“Why are you crying? Do you have any problem?” asked the passer-by. “I am crying because I have none to look after me,” said the street child. “Are you hungry?” “Yes, I am,” said the boy.
“Do you know Bangladesh Open University offers an English self-learning course?” Sejan said to Shawan. “Yes, I have heard it from my father who works as a tutor of the course. It is a six-month course known as CELP,” said Shawan.
“Sir,” he said, “May I ask you a question?” “Of course.” “I was absent from your class yesterday and could not understand the lesson.” “OK, if you are free after this class, meet me in the teachers’ room. I will help you.” “Thank you sir,” “You’re welcome, my son.”
“Are you still hungry?” I asked faintly. “Oh, no. I’m not hungry. You see, I don’t eat luncheon. I have a cup of coffee in the morning and then dinner, but I never eat more than one thing for luncheon. I was speaking for you.” “Oh, I see!”
“What is the matter with you? You have been absent from college since Monday,” the class teacher said with an angry voice. “I went to my village home to see my ailing grandfather. He was in a critical condition, so we hurried home. I didn’t have enough time to report to college. I’m really sorry for that,” said Abrar.
“I never drink anything for luncheon,” she said.“Neither do I,” I answered promptly.“Except white wine,” she proceeded as though I had not spoken. “These French white wines are so light. They are wonderful for the digestion.”
“Whose picture is it?” I asked.“A little girl’s, of course,” said Grandmother. “Can’t you tell?” “Yes, but do you know the girl?” “Yes, I knew her,” said Granny, “but she was a very wicked girl and I shouldn’t tell you about her.”

Transform from indirect to direct speech

As we shook our hands, she told me to follow her example. Then she forbade me to eat more than one thing for luncheon. I replied that I would do better thing than that. I added that I would eat nothing for dinner that night. Jumping into the cab, she called me a humorist.
She asked Alfred what he wanted Alfred answered that he only wanted to go in. He added that he was very tired. He requested that he might be allowed to go inside and afterwards he would go away.
The old man told his sons to listen to him. Then he proceeded that a great treasure lay hidden in the land. He added that he was going to leave it to them. The sons wanted to know how they would find it. The old man replied that they had to dig the land for it.
My father looked at me angrily and wanted to know where I had been so long and why I was wasting time. After a moment he asked me if I would not appear at the final exam. I replied that I had gone to my friend’s house to borrow an essential book but he had not been at home and so I had to wait for him.
I asked grandmother whose picture it was. Grandmother replied that of course it was a girl’s picture. I then asked her if she had known the girl. She replied in the affirmative and commented that she had been a wicked girl. She refused to tell any further about the girl. But she said that she would tell me about the photograph.
Riya wished Himu good morning and asked how much preparation. She had taken for the test examination. She replied that she had taken a great preparation and added that she had to get GPA-5. Riya exclaimed with surprise that she was a very lucky girl but said that her preparation was not so good.
Then one day, the fruitseller told the grocer that he (fruitseller) was going to the town to do some shopping and so he (fruitseller) requested him (grocer) to send his (grocer) son with him (fruitseller) to carry his things. He added that they would come back the next day. The next day the grocer asked the fruitseller where his son was. The fruitseller replied that a crow had carried his (grocer) son away. The grocer called him a liar and shouting angrily asked him (fruitseller) how a crow could carry away such a big boy. The fruitseller replied that the crow could carry the boy just in the same way as mice could eat away the balance and weights.

The stranger asked the boy if he would tell him the way to the nearest hotel. The boy replied in the affirmative and said that he would. The boy asked him if he wanted a residential one in which he could spend the night. The stranger replied that he did not want to stay there, but he only wanted a meal. The boy told the stranger to follow him.
The Grocer asked the fruit seller where his son was. The fruit seller replied that a crow had carried his son away. The grocer called the fruit seller a liar and asked him how a crow could carry away such a big boy. The fruit seller told the grocer that the crow carried his son away just the same way as mice could eat away the balance and weights.
Aman exclaimed with grief to Ruma saying that he had made a terrible mistake. Ruma commented that that was not surprising as he was always making mistakes. Then she asked him what he had done. Aman replied that he had forgotten to pay his exam fee. He added that the previous day had been the last date.
Ali requested Karim to give him his English Grammar Book. Karim replied that he could not give it. He added that he had to take it with him in the class. Ali told him that he would return the book before starting his class. Then Karim told him to take it. For this Ali thanked Karim.
The mother asked her son if he would go to college that day.The son addressing as mother replied in the negative that their classes were suspended. Then the mother ordered her son to go to the market and bring some vegetables. The son told his mother that he might be ready and told her to give him some money.
Sakib respectfully told his English teacher that he wanted to improve his English. He then asked him how he could do that. He further asked if he could help him. The teacher told him not to worry and he would help him. Sakib respectfully thanked him. The teacher advised him to give emphasis on all the four skills of language namely listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Tareq told a woman that he had missed his plan. He then asked her what he should do then. The woman advised him to go to the desk marked ‘Enquiry’ The man in the Enquiry said that flight TW226 had left but his ticket was for flight BA 179.
The teacher became angry with the student and asked why he had again disturbed the class in that way. He added that he had told him before that when he was speaking he should be silent. Then he ordered the student to leave the room and not to return again that day.
My friend asked me why I was sitting alone there and told me that he had been looking for me. He further proposed that we should go for a walk in the open field. I told him to leave me alone.
The Mayor asked the piper if he had killed the rates. The Piper replied in the affirmative that he had. Then he told the Mayor to give him the promised money. The Mayor exclaimed in wonder that it was very funny. He added that they could not give him so much money and told him to take only fifty.
The old man told his sons to listen to him and added that a great treasure lay hidden in the land. He further added that he was going to leave that to them. The sons asked the old man how they would find that. The old man told his sons that they had to dig the land for that.
The students told the headmaster that they would like to go on an excursion and also asked him if they could have his permission. The headmaster replied in the affirmative and said that they could arrange it after the examination was over. He also added that they should choose a historical place for that. The students respectfully thanked him.
Addressing me as sir, the passer-by stopped me and asked me if I could tell him the way to the nearest inn. I replied in the affirmative and said that I could. And I told him to go straight about 80 yards and turn left. I added that he would find it. Then he thanked me.
The teacher asked the boy if he thought that honesty is the best policy. The boy respectfully replied in the affirmative and said that he thought so. Then the teacher advised him to learn to be honest from his boyhood. The boy respectfully thanked him. The teacher prayed that Allah might grant him a long life.
The man asked the manager respectfully if he might go in. The manager replied in the affirmative and told him to go in. He then asked the man what he wanted. The man told the manager that he wanted to open a bank account in his bank. He also asked him if he could tell him how he could open a savings account.
Rifa asked me if/whether I had finished reading the book she had given me the previous day. I replied in the affirmative that I had finished reading the book. I exclaimed with joy that it was a very interesting book. I wished that I would borrow the book earlier. Then she asked me if/whether I would return her the book that day.
Ahnaf asked Maruf if/whether he had ever been to Cox’s Bazar. Maruf replied in the negative that he had never been to Cox’s Bazar. He added that he desired for visiting the place. Ahnaf said that he had an opportunity to visit the sea-beach the previous year. Maruf proposed that they should go there that week.
I asked the old man what he was doing. The old man replied that he was watching the boys swimming in the pond. He exclaimed with joy that they were very happy. He prayed that Allah might bless them. I told him that I might sit by him and enjoy the scene/I requested him to let me sit by him and enjoy the scene.
Addressing them as friends, the shrewd king asked if they were hungry. He added that he would be their leader and take them to the granaries where the selfish rich stored the golden grains.
The boy said to the teacher respectfully that he would be much obliged if he kindly lent him the book that he had praised highly in the classroom the previous day. The teacher said to the boy that he was very glad to know that he was eager to read that book. The teacher added that he was welcome to any of his books that he liked.
The woman addressed her the king as her lord and told him (king) not to kill him (child). Then the king ordered his servant to let her (the woman) have him (child). Again the king said that everything was clear to him (king) then. Pointing to the woman, he again told his servant to give her the child. The king said that she was the mother of the baby
The teacher asked his student if he had heard the name of Aesop. He (S) respectfully replied in the negative and asked him (T) who he was. The teacher advised him to read the lesson attentively and then he would be able to know about him. The teacher exclaimed that his fables are very interesting and instructive.
Jim asked Della if she had cut off her hair. She replied that she had cut off her hair and sold it. Then she asked him if he didn’t like her just as well anyhow. She added that she was her without her hair. To get confirmation she further asked him if she was not so.
The traveler asked the peasant if he could tell him the way to the nearest Inn. The peasant replied that he could. The peasant asked the stranger if he wanted one in which he could spend the night. The Stranger replied that he did not wish to say there but only wanted a meal.
The noble man respectfully asked Sheikh Saddi why he was putting up the food in his pocket and why he did not eat. Sheikh Saddi replied that he was doing the right thing and added that his dress deserved those rich dishes. The noble man told him that he did not understand what he meant to say. He further told that he was sorry.
Della asked Madame if she (M) would buy her (D) hair. Madame replied that she (M) bought hair. Then she (M) told her (D) to take her (D) hat off and let them have a sight at the looks of the hair. After that Madame said that she (M) would give her (D) twenty dollars for her (D) hair. Della agreed and requested her (M) to give the money to her quickly.
He told me that he had gone there the previous day from his village. I asked him why he had gone. He replied that his mother had sent him to me with that letter. I again asked him how his mother was. I told him that I had not seen her for a long time. I added that I hopped, she was quiet well.
Once I asked a little girl what her mother’s name was. She replied that she knew her mother’s name but she would not tell me that. She also said that she did not tell her mother’s name to anybody whom she did not know. I exclaimed with wonder that she was a very clever girl.
The receptionist addressing the man as sir asked him if he (R) could help him (M). The man replied in the affirmative and said that he wanted to meet the Managing Director of the company. The receptionist asked if he (M) had an appointment. He replied in the affirmative and said that he (M) had.
I asked the boy if he would go to my house the following day. I added that we could discuss terms and conditions then. He replied that he would be very happy to meet me at my house. He thanked me very much.
The stranger asked the boy if he would tell him the way to the nearest hotel. The boy replied in the affirmative and said that he would. The boy asked him if he wanted a residential one in which he could spend the night. The stranger replied that he did not want to stay there, but he only wanted a meal. The boy told the stranger to follow him.
The Merchant asked the youth where he (y) was going. The youth replied that he (y) had been coming to see him (m). Again the merchant asked him (y) what he wanted. The youth said that he (y) wanted to earn his (y) bread by the labour of his (y) hands. The merchant again asked the boy if he (y) really wanted to work. The youth replied in the affirmative that if he (m) had any. Then the merchant ordered the youth to follow him (m) and to carry a box from a ship to his (m) house. The youth said that he (y) did not see how he (y) could do that.
A Hawker asked Susmita if she (S) would buy any paper. He (H) also said that he (H) had all types of newspapers and magazines. Again he requested her (S) to take one from him (H). Susmita replied that she (S) bought books but then she (S) needed a weekly. She also asked him (H) if he (H) didn’t have any weekly magazine.
A boy standing at the door, addressing him as sir asked him if he (B) might come in. Then without waiting for his (S) reply the boy entered the room and respectfully said that he (B) had come from Palashpur with a letter from Mr. Ajit Bose. He asked smiling if he had really come from Ajit Bose. He again asked how he was. The boy replied that he was not well and added that he had been suffering from a serious illness for two years. He (S) exclaimed with grief that it was very sad and prayed that God might cure him.
He said to me that he had come to Dhaka that morning. He also said that he had sent a telegram before starting from home. He then asked me if I had received that in time. I replied in the negative and told that I had not received that.
Sakib respectfully told his English teacher that he wanted to improve his English. He (s) then asked him how he could do that. He (s) further asked if he could help him. The teacher told him not to worry and he would help him. Sakib respectfully thanked him. The teacher advised him to give emphasis on all the four skills of language namely listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Nahiyan told a woman that he had missed his plan. He then asked her what he should do then. The woman advised him to go to the desk marked ‘Enquiry’ The man in the Enquiry said that flight TW226 had left but his ticket was for flight BA 179.
I asked Sumon how he (S) was that day. Sumon replied that he(S) was very nervous for the coming examination. I again asked him if he (S) had not taken enough preparation for that. Sumon again replied in the affirmative that he had but he was in a fix and requested that he might read then
My father advised me not to mix with bad boys. Then he told me that I should read attentively as my examination was knocking at the door. I did not agree with him and said that I did not keep with any bad company. I had just asked him if he knew the date of examination.
I asked the boy if he would go to my house the next day. Then I told him that we could discuss terms and conditions then. He replied that he would be very happy to meet me at my house. He also thanked me very much. He added that he would try his best to meet me.
Sohel wished good morning to Rupa. Then he asked her how much preparation she had taken for the H.S.C examination. She replied that she had taken a great preparation and added that she had to get GPA -5. Sohel exclaimed with joy that she was a very lucky girl. On the other hand, /Being dissatisfaction, he said that his preparation was not so good.
Lipi asked Mina where she (m) had gone the previous day. Mina replied that she (m) had gone to Chittagong to see her (m) Mother. Mina added that she (mo) had been suffering from high blood pressure. Lipi again asked Mina if she (mo) was sound then. Mina replied in the negative.
The teacher asked Ratan if he had done his English lesson that day. Ratan replied that he had done it but he had not understood some grammatical points. The teacher again asked him where the problem was. He suggested that they should try again.
Rafiq said that she had got GPA-5 in the SSC Examination. I congratulated him. I asked him what he intended to do then. He replied that he wanted to study Physics, Chemistry and Higher Mathematics’ of HSC at home. He added that he would try to get admission in BUET after his HSC exam.
The teacher asked Shima if she could tell him what he was teaching. Shima replied in the negative that she could not follow. The teacher then told that she could not follow because she was not attentive.
The teacher asked Rita why she was talking in the class and added that she should behave herself. Ratna respectfully said that she was sorry. The teacher advised her to be attentive and listen to his lecture and also wished that Allah might bless her.
I asked my brother if he had offered his prayer that day. He replied in the negative and said that he had forgotten. I said that was bad. I also said that we had to pray every day. He said that he was sorry and added that he would say it in time. I wished that Allah might bless him.
Father asked Jack if he knew why he was sent to school for playing with friends. Father replied in the negative and told him that he was sent to learn to read and write. Father asserted that he (Jack) would read and write.

Narration Exercises for JSC and SSC

April 9, 2024April 9, 2024 Abdullah

1. Father said to Rina, “Do you know why I have sent you to school?” The daughter said, “Yes, I know. I have been sent to school to learn to read and write. ” “Right,” father said.

Ans: Father asked Rina if she (R) knew why he(F) had sent her to school. The daughter replied in the affirmative and said that she knew it. She also added that she had been sent to school to learn to read and write. Father told Rina it was right.

2. “Why don’t you attend the classes?” the teacher said to the boy. “You cannot expect good results unless you attend classes as I tell you.” “I am sorry, sir. I have offended you,” said the boy. “Thank you,” said the teacher.

Ans : The teacher asked the boy why he didn’t attend the classes. He (T) also said that he (B) could not expect good results unless he (B) attended classes as he (T) told him (B). The boy respectfully said that he (B) was sorry and added that he (B) had offended him (T). The teacher thanked the boy.
3. The man said to the boy, “Are you going to sit for JSC Examination this year?” “Yes,” said the boy. The man said, “How is your preparation?” “I have a good preparation,” replied the boy.

Ans: The man asked the boy if he (Boy) was going to sit for JSC Examination that year. The boy replied in the affirmative. The man asked the boy again how his (boy) preparation was. The boy replied that he (boy) had a good preparation.

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Answer: The teacher asked the student if he had prepared his lesson that day. The student replied in the negative. The teacher asked him the cause/why. The student replied that he(s) had been suffering from headache the previous day. He also added that he(s) would go his work the following day.

26. The teacher said to the girl, “Do you know that honesty is the best policy?” The girl said, “Yes, Sir, I think so.” Then learn to be honest from your childhood,” said the teacher. Thank you,” said the girl. “May Allah help you,” said the teacher.

Answer: The teacher asked the girl if he thought that honesty is the best policy. The girl respectfully replied in the affirmative that she thought so. Then the teacher advised her to learn to be honest from her childhood. The girl respectfully thanked him. The teacher wished that Allah might bless her.

27. “Have you ever been to Cox’s Bazar?” asked Shabab. “No, I have never,” replied Labib. “But I desire for visiting this place.” “I had an opportunity to visit the sea-beach last year,” said Shabab. “Let us go there this week,” said Labib.

Answer: Shabab asked Labib if he had ever been to Cox’s Bazar. Labib replied in the negative and said that he had never been there and added that he desired for visiting that place. Shabab told him that he (s) had had an opportunity to visit the sea beach the previous year. Labib proposed to him that they should go there that week.

28. The girl said to the teacher, “Sir, I shall be grateful if you kindly lend me the book you praised highly in the classroom yesterday.” The teacher said, “I have become really happy to know that you are eager to read this book. You are welcome to any of my books that you like.” “Thank you, Sir,” said the girl. “You are welcome,” said the teacher.

Answer: The teacher told the teacher politely that she would be grateful if he kindly lent her the book he had praised highly in the classroom the previous day. The teacher told that he had become really happy to know that she (g) was eager to read the book. The teacher added that she was welcome to any of his books that she liked. The girl thanked him respectfully. The teacher further said that she was welcome.

29. The new teacher entered the classroom and said, “Can you tell me what I should do now?” “No Sir.”, one of the students said. The teacher smiled and said, “Try to guess.” “You should introduce yourself to us.” another student said. “Thank you.” said the teacher. “You’re really brilliant.”

Answer: The new teacher entered the classroom and asked the students if they could tell him what he should do then. One of the students replied respectfully in the negative. The teacher smiled and told them to try to guess. Another student said that he should introduce himself to them. The teacher thanked him and said that he was really brilliant.

30.“Ratan, have you done your English lesson today?” asked the teacher. “Yes, Sir, I did it. But I haven’t understood some grammatical points.” replied Ratan. “Where is the problem?” said the teacher. “Let us try again.”

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Answer: The teacher asked Ratan if he had done his English lesson that day. Ratan replied respectfully in the affirmative and said that he had done it but he had not understood some grammatical points. The teacher again asked him where the problem was. He suggested that they should try again.

31. Hazrat Omar (R) said to the woman, ‘Where do you live?’ The woman said, ‘I live in a poor hut, south end to this town. I am hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?’ Hazrat Omar (R) said, ‘Go home. I am coming with food and money.’

Answer: Hazrat Omar (R) asked the woman where she lived. The woman replied that she lived in a poor hut south end to that town. She added that she was hungry but there was no food in her house. Then she asked Hazrat Omar (R) if he would give her something to eat. In response, Hazrat Omar (R) told her to go home and also said that he was going with food and money.

32. Omar(R) said to the woman, “Where do you live?” The woman said, “I live in a poor hut south end to this town. I am hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?” Hazrat Omar(R) said, “Go home. I am coming with food and money.”

Answer: Omar (R) asked the woman where she lived. The woman replied that she lived in a poor hut south end to this town. She added that she was hungry but there was no food in her house. She also asked him if he would give her something to eat. Hazrat Omar (R) told her to go home and added that he was coming with food and money.

33. “Ratan, have you done your English lesson today?” asked the teacher. “Yes, Sir, I did it. But I haven’t understood some grammatical points.” replied Ratan. “Where is the problem?” said the teacher. “Let us try again.”

Answer: The teacher asked Ratan if he had done his English lesson that day. Ratan replied that he had done it but he had not understood some grammatical points. The teacher again asked him where the problem was. He suggested that they should try again.

34. The teacher said to the boy, “Why do you make a noise in the class? You are not attentive to your lessons.” “Sorry Sir” said the boy. “I was asking for a pen to my friend.” “Be attentive and listen to what I say.”

Answer: The teacher asked the boy why he (B) made a noise in the class. He added that he (B) was not attentive to his (B) lessons. The boy apologized to the teacher respectfully. He added that he (B) had been asking for a pen to his (B) friend. Then the teacher advised him (B) to be attentive and to listen to what he (T) said.

35. The fruit seller said, “Which fruits do you want to buy? I have apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir.” The customer said, “What fruits of our country do you have?” The seller said, “I have coconut, guava, and Jackfruit.” The customer said, “Give one kg of Guava as it will be substitute of Australian Apples.”

Answer: The fruit seller asked the customer which fruit he (c) wanted to buy. He added that he (s) had the apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir. The customer asked him what fruits of their country he had. The fruit seller replied that he had coconut, guava and jackfruit. Then the customer told him (s) to give one kg of guava as it would be the substitute of Australian apples.

36. “Why are putting up the food in your pocket, Sir? Why don’t you eat?” asked the noble man. “I am doing the right thing. My dress deserves these rich dishes,” replied Sheikh Saddi. “I don’t understand what do you mean to say,” said the noble man. “And I’m sorry.”

Answer: The noble man respectfully asked Sheikh Saddi why he was putting up the food in his pocket./Addressing Sheikh Saddi as sir the noble man asked why he(S) was putting the foods in his(S) pocket. He again asked why he did not eat. Sheikh Saddi replied that he was doing the right thing .He added that his(S) dress deserved those rich dishes. The noble man said that he was sorry. He added that he (N) did not understand what he(S) meant to say.

37. “Why you are putting up the food in your pocket, Sir?” asked the noble man. “I am doing the right thing.My dress deserves the rich dishes,” replied Sheikh Saadi. “Please tell me clearly what you mean to say?” said the noble man.

Answer: The noble man asked Sheikh saadi respectfully why he (S) was putting up the food in his (S) pocket. Sheikh saadi replied that he was doing the right thing and he added that his dress deserved the rich dishes. The noble man requested Sheikh saadi to tell him clearly what he (S) meant to say.

38. “I have got G.P.A. 5 in the S.S.C. Examination,” said Kamal. “Congratulations.” “What do you intend to do now?” asked Hasan.“I want to study in a reputed college. I will try to get myself admitted into Dhaka College, Said Kamal.

Answer: Kamal said that he had got GPA- 5 in the SSC examination. Hasan congratulated Kamal. He asked him (K) what he (K) intend to do then. Kamal replied that he (K) wanted to study in a reputed college and he (K) added that he would try to get himself admitted into Dhaka college.

39.The old man said, “Can you give me some food? I have been starving for two days.” The maid said, “Why do you beg? Can’t you work?” “No, I am unable to work.”said the old man.

Answer: The old man asked the maid if she could give him some food. He added that he had been starving for two days. The maid asked him why he begged. She again asked him if could not work. Replying negatively the old man said that he was unable to work.

40. “Have you ever been to Cox’s Bazer?” asked Hasan. “No, I have never gone there, “replied Kamal. “But I long for visiting the place.” “I had an opportunity to visit the sea beach last year,” said Hasan. “How charming the scenery is!”

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Answer: Hasan asked Kamal if he had ever been to cox’s Bazer. Kamal replied that he had never gone there but he longed for visiting the place. Hasan added that he had an opportunity to visit the sea beach the previous year. He exclaimed with joy that the scenery was very charming.

41. “I came to Bogra this afternoon. I sent you a massage before starting from home,” Roka said. “Did you receive it in time?” she asked. “No, I did not receive,” I replied.

Answer: Roka told me that she had gone to Bogra that afternoon. She added that she had sent me a message before starting from home. She asked me if I had received it in time. I replied in the negative that I had not received it.

42. The man said to the manager “May I come in, Sir?” “Yes,” come in.“What do you want?”said the manager “I want to open a bank account in your bank ,”said the man .”Can you tell me the process of opening a savings account?”

Answer: The man respectfully asked the manager if he might go in. The manager replied in the affirmative and told him to go in. He also asked him what he wanted. The man replied him (MR) that he wanted to open a bank account. At last he asked him (MR) if he could tell him the process of opening a saving account.

43.The traveller said, “Can you tell me the way to the nearest inn?” Yes “said the peasant.” Do you want one in which you can spend the night?” “No,” replied the traveller.” I only want a meal.”

Answer: The traveller asked the peasant if he(P) could tell him(T) the way to the nearest inn. The peasant replied in the affirmative and asked him if he (T) wanted one in which he (T) could spend the night. The traveller replied in the negative that he only wanted a meal.

44. I said to the passer- by,“What are you seeing now?” “I am seeing the people running here and there” he said. “How happy they are! May God help them. Let me enjoy this.”I said.

Answer: I asked the passer-by what he was seeing then. He said that he was seeing the people running here and there. I exclaimed with joy that they were very happy. Further I wished that God might help them. Then I told that I might be allowed to enjoy that.

45. “Why did you not go to school yesterday?” said the mother to the girl. “I was ill, mum,” the girl replied. “How are you today?” the mother asked again.” “Well,” said the girl, “Don’t worry for me.”

Answer: The mother asked the girl why she (girl) had not gone to school the previous day. The girl lovingly replied that she (girl) had been ill. / (Addressing her (M) as mum she (G) replied that she (G) had been ill.) The mother again asked her (G) how she (G) was that day. The girl replied that she was well. She (G) also said her not to worry for her.

46. “Have you ever been to Cox’s Bazar?”asked Shabab“No, I have never gone there, replied Labib. “But I desire for visiting the place” “I had an opportunity to visit the sea beach last year “said Shabab” “Let us go there this week.”

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Answer: Shabab asked Labib if he ever been to Cox’s Bazer. Labib replied in the negative that he (L) had never gone there. But he added that he desired for visiting the place. Shabab said that he had an opportunity to visit sea beach the previous year. He proposed that they should go there that week.

47. I said to old man, “What are you doing?” “I am watching the boys swimming in the pond,” he said. “How happy they are! May Allah bless them.” “Let me sit by you and enjoy the scene.” I said.

Answer: I asked the old man what he was doing. He replied that he was watching the boys swimming in the pond. He also exclaimed that they were very happy. He again prayed that Allah might bless them. I requested the old man to let me sit by him and enjoy the scene.

48. “My sons listen to me. A great treasure lies hidden in the land. I am going to leave it to you.” “How’ll we find it?” said the sons. “You must dig the land for it” said the old man.

Answer: The old man told his sons to listen to him and added that a great treasure lay hidden in the land. He further added that he was going to leave it to them. The sons asked him how they would find it. The old man replied that they had to dig the land for it.

49. Have you completed your assignment?” said Rumana. “No, I haven’t completed yet, “replied Farah. “But you must submit it timely,” said Rumana. “I worked on it for several hours yesterday,” replied Farah.

Answer: Rumana asked Farah if she (F) had completed her (F) assignment. Farah replied in the negative and said that she had not completed yet. Being dissatisfaction, Rumana told her (F) that she (F) must submit it timely. Farah replied that she had worked on it several hours the previous day.

50. The old man said, “Can you give me some food? I have been starving for three days.” The maid said, “Why do you beg? Can’t you work?” “No, I’m unable to work.” The old man replied.

Answer: The old man asked the maid if she could give him some food. He added that he had been starving for three days. The maid asked him why he begged. She further asked him if he couldn’t work. The old man replied in the negative that he was unable to work.

51. My sister said to me, “Why are you reading this hour? Don’t you think that it is a time of prayer? Let us go out for a walk after saying prayer.” “Yes, I agree with you,” said I.

Answer: My sister asked me why I was reading that hour. She again asked if I did not think that it was time of prayer. She proposed to me that we should go out for a walk after saying prayer. I replied in the affirmative and said that I agreed with her.

52. “What are you doing now, Jack?” I said. “I am watching an interesting programme on television.” “Aren’t you wasting your time?” I said. “No, I don’t think so,” he said.

Answer: I asked Jack what he was doing then. Jack replied that he was watching an interesting programme on television. I again asked him (J) if he was not wasting his (J) time. He again replied in the negative that he did not think so.

53.The class teacher of class X said to the students, “Do you like to go for study tour?” “Yes’ said all the students. Then he said, “Take permission of your parents.” One of the students said, “Let us go to Cox’s Bazar ” The most experienced age-old teacher said, “May your journey be safe and sound.”

Answer: The class teacher of class X asked the students if they liked to go for study tour. All the students replied in the affirmative. Then he (T) advised to take permission of their parents. One of the students proposed that they should go to Cox’s Bazar. The most experienced age-old teacher wished that their journey might be safe and sound.

54. The old man said, “Can you give me some food? I have been starving for three days.” The maid said, “Why do you beg? Can’t you work?” “No, I’m unable to work.” The old man replied.

55. “Where do you like to go, Sir? said the ticket officer to the passenger. “I want to go to Chittagong,” said the passenger. “How many tickets do you need?” “I need five tickets.” “Here are the tickets. They will cost one thousand taka,” said the ticket officer.

Answer: The passenger respectfully asked the ticket officer where he (P) liked to go. The passenger replied that he (P) wanted to go to Chittagong. The ticket officer further asked the passenger how many tickets he (P) needed. He then replied that he (p) needed five tickets. Finally the ticket officer said that there were the tickets and they would cost one thousand taka.

56. “Zaman said to me, “Have you finished reading the book I gave you yesterday?” “Yes, I have finished reading the book,’ I replied. “What an interesting book it is! I wish I would borrow the book earlier.’ I said. “Will you return the book to me today? he said.

Answer: Zaman asked me if I had finished reading the book he had given me the previous day. I replied in the affirmative and added that I had finished reading the book. I exclaimed with delight that it was a very interesting book. Further I wished that I might borrow the book earlier. He asked me if I would return the book to him that day.

57. “What’s your programme after the examination?” asked Salam. Kamal said, I’ve not yet decided. Can you suggest any? “Let us go on a picnic.” Said Salam. “What an excellent idea! I shall certainly join with you.” said Kamal.

Answer: Salam asked Kamal what his programme was after the examination. Kamal replied that he had not yet decided. Then Kamal asked him (S) if he could suggest any. Salam proposed that they should go on a picnic. Kamal exclaimed with joy that it was an excellent idea. He said that he would certainly join with him.

58. A fruit seller said, “Which fruit do you want to buy? I have apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir.” The customer said, “What fruits of our country do you have?” The fruit selller said, “I have coconut, guava and jackfruit.” The customer said, “Give one kg of guava as it will be the substitution of Australian apples.”

Answer: A fruit seller asked the customer which fruit he wanted to buy. Then he said that he (S) had apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kasmir. The customer asked the fruit seller what fruits of their country he (S) had. The fruit seller replied that he (S) had coconut, guava and jackfruit. The customer requested him (S) to give one kg of guava as it would be the substitute of Australian apples.

59. “What is the time by your watch?” he said. “It is half past nine,” I said. He said, “I want to go to the college. Would you accompany me, please?” “No, I am sorry,” replied I.

Answer: Answer: He asked me what the time was by my watch. I replied that it was half past nine. Then he added that he wanted to go to the college. He also asked me if I would accompany him kindly. I replied in the negative and said that I was sorry.

60. The passer-by stopped me and said, “Sir, can you tell me the way to the nearest inn?” “Yes, I can,” I said. “Go straight about 100 yards and then turn left. You will find it.” “Thank you, Sir,” he said.

Answer: The passer by stopped me and asked respectfully if I could tell him the way to the nearest inn. I replied in the affirmative and said that I could. I instructed/told him to go straight about 100 yards and turn left. I also told him that then he would find it. The man then thanked me respectfully.

61. “We would like to go an excursion. Can we have your permission? Sir?” said the students. “Yes, you can arrange it after the examination is over. And you should choose a historical place for that” replied the Headmaster. “Thank you, Sir.”

Answer: The students said that they would like to go on an excursion. They asked the Headmaster with respectfully if they could have his permission. The Headmaster replied in the affirmative and said that they could arrange that after the examination was over. He also said that they should choose a historical place for that. The students thanked the Headmaster.

62. Rashed said to karim. “How are you?” I went to your hostel yesterday, but did not find you. Where did you go?” “I went to the station.” said Karim. “I had to receive my maternal uncle there.”

Answer: Rashed asked Karim how he was. Rashed added that he had gone to the hostel the previous day but had not found him. Rashed again asked Karim where he had gone. Karim replied that he had gone to the station because he had to receive his maternal uncle there.

63. “Great king of the genies,” called the monster. “I will never again disobey you.” Hearing those words, the fisherman became very brave and said, “Tell me why you were locked up in the vase?” The giant looked at the fisherman and said, “Speak to me politely or I shall kill you.” “Why should you kill me?” asked the fisherman.

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Answer: The monster called the great king of the genies and said that he would never again disobey him (G). Hearing those words, the fishermen became brave and asked the monster to tell him (f) why he (M) had been locked up in the vase. Then the giant angrily looked at him and told the fishermen to speak to him (M) more politely, otherwise he (M) would kill him (F).The fisherman asked the monster why he (M) would kill him (F).

64. Once I asked a sweet little girl, “What is your mother’s name?” She replied cleverly. “I know my mother’s name but I won’t tell you that.” I said. “What a clever girl you are!” “I don’t tell my mother’s name to anybody whom I don’t know.” She spoke with an air of confidence.

Answer: Once I asked a sweet little girl what her mother’s name was. She replied cleverly that she knew her mother’s name but she would not tell me that. I exclaimed with wonder that she was a very clever girl. With an air of confidence, she spoke that she didn’t tell her mother’s name to anybody whom she didn’t know.

65. “Did people use stamps in those days” asked Rafiq. “Yes, answered Mr Jamil, “The first stamps were used in 1840.” “Are they easy to get now?” asked Rafiq. “They are very difficult to get,” his uncle replied.

Answer: Rafiq asked Mr Jamil if people had used stamps in those days. Mr Jamil replied in the affirmative and said that the first stamp had been used in 1840.Rafiq asked if they were easy to get then. His uncle replied that they were very difficult to get.

66. “My sons, listen to me. A great treasure lies hidden in the land. I am going to leave it to you.” “How’ll we find it?” said the sons. “You must dig the land for it” said the old man.

67. “Have you killed the rates?” said the Mayor. “Yes, I have said the piper. “Give me the promised money.” “How funny!” said the Mayor, we cannot give you so much money. Take only fifty.

Answer: The Mayor asked the piper if he (p) had killed the rates. The Piper replied in the affirmative and said that he had. Then he (P) told the Mayor to give him (P) the promised money. The Mayor exclaimed in wonder that it was very funny. He added that they could not give him (P) so much money and told him to take only fifty.

68. Father said to his son, “Why are you making late? Go to school now.” “No, I am not going to school today. I feel dizzy, ” said his son.

Answer: Father asked his son why he (S) was making late. He told him to go to school then. His son replied in the negative and told that he was not going to school that day. He added that he (S) felt dizzy.

69. “Nasreen, have you done your English lesson today?” asked the teacher.” Yes” Sir, I have done it. But I haven’t understood some grammatical points.” replied Nasreen. “Where is the problem?” said the teacher. “Let us try again.”

Answer: The teacher asked Nasreen if she had done her English lesson that day. Replying respectfully in the positive Nasreen said that she had done it. But she added that she had not understood some grammatical points. The teacher asked her where the problem was. He proposed that they should try again.

70. “What is the time by your watch?” he said. “It is half past nine,” I said. He said, “I want to go to the college. Would you accompany me please?” “No, I am sorry,” replied I.

Answer: He asked me what the time was by my watch. I replied that it was half past nine. He said that he wanted to go to college and asked me politely if I would accompany him. I replied in the negative and said that I was sorry.

71. Can I have a look at your paper for a moment?, said the man next to me. “I just want to see the cricket results.” “I haven’t quite finished with it,” I said. “Could you wait a moment?”

Answer: The man next to me asked me if he could have a look at my paper for a moment and said that he just wanted to see the cricket result. I replied that I hadn’t quite finished with it and asked him if he could wait a moment. He replied that he couldn’t wait long since he was getting off at the next shop.

72. “Konica, have you done your English lesson today?” asked the teacher. “Yes, sir,” she replied. “But I have not understood one grammatical point.” The teacher assured her saying, “Come to my room, I will help you understand the point.” “Thank you, sir,” she smilingly said.

Answer: The teacher asked Konica if she had done her English lesson that day. She replied in the affirmative respectfully / politely. She also told that she had not understood one grammatical point. The teacher assured her to come to his room and he added that he would help her to understand the point. Then she smilingly and respectfully thanked him.

73. “Good morning, students,” said the new English teacher. “How are you?” “We are fine, sir. What about you?” “I am fine too. Please sit down. Have you prepared your lesson?” asked the teacher. “Sorry, sir. We were a little bit busy with our practical class,” they said.

Answer: The new English teacher wished the students good morning and asked them how they were. They replied respectfully that they were fine and asked him the same. The teacher replied that he was fine too and requested them to sit down. Then he asked them if they had prepared their lesson. They (students) begged pardon and told him that they had been a little bit busy with their practical class.
74. “How shall I treat you?” Alexander asked Purus. “You must treat me in the same way as one king treat another,” replied Purus boldly.

Answer: Alexander asked Purus how he should treat him. Purus boldly replied that he (Alexander) had to treat him (Purus) in the same way as one king treated another.

75. “Have you said your prayer today?” I said to my brother. “No, I have forgotten, “he said. “ That’s bad.” I said, “We must pray to God every day.”

Answer: I asked my brother if he had said his prayer that day. He replied in the negative and said that he had forgotten. I told him that it was bad. I added that we must pray to God every day.

76. “Give me a grains of corn. I am dying of hunger, “said the Grasshopper. “What did you do in the summer? Didn’t you store up any corn?” asked the Ant. “No, I was too busy.”

Answer: The Grasshopper requested the Ant to give him a few grains of corn. He (G) also said that he was dying of hunger. Being shocked the Ant asked him what he (G) had done in the summer. He (A) asked him again if he (G) hadn’t stored up any corn. He (G) replied in the negative and said that he had been too busy.

77. “Porter, you may go,” said the mistress of the house laughing. “You have gained your freedom.” “By Allah,” he replied, I will not leave this house until I have heard the stories of my companions.”

Answer: The mistress of the house told the porter laughing that he might go and added that he had gained his freedom. Swearing by Allah, he replied that he would not leave that house until he had heard the stories of his companions.

78. “Why you are putting up the food in your pocket, Sir?” asked the noble man. “I am doing the right thing. My dress deserves the rich dishes,” replied Sheikh Saadi. “Please tell me clearly what you mean to say?” said the noble man

Answer: The noble man asked Sheikh saadi respectfully why he (S) was putting up the food in his (S) pocket. Sheikh saadi replied that he was doing the right thing and he added that his dressdeserved the rich dishes. The noble man requested Sheikh saadi to tell him clearly what he (S) meant to say.

79. “Have you ever been to Cox’s Bazar?”asked Shabab. “No, I have never gone there,” replied Labib. “But I desire for visiting the place.” “I had an opportunity to visit the sea beach last year,” said Shabab. “Let us go there this week.”

Answer: Shabab asked Labib if he ever been to Cox’s Bazer. Labib replied in the negative that he(L) had never gone there. But he added that he desired for visiting the place. Shabab said that he hadan opportunity to visit sea beach the previous year. He proposed that they should go there that week.

80. “I came to Bogra this afternoon. I sent you a massage before starting from home” Roka said” Did you receive it in time? she asked “No, I did not receive” I replied

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81. The man said to the manager “May I come in, Sir?” “Yes, come in. “What do you want?” said the manager. “I want to open a bank account in your bank,” said the man. “Can you tell me the process of opening a savings account?”

Answer: The man respectfully the manager if he might go in. The manager replied in the affirmative and told him to go in. He also asked him what he wanted. The man replied him (MR) that he wanted to open a bank account. At last he asked him (MR) if he could tell him the process of opening a saving account.

82. The traveller said, “Can you tell me the way to the nearest inn?” Yes “said the peasant.” Do you want one in which you can spend the night?” “No,” replied the traveller.” I only want a meal.”

Answer: The traveller asked the peasant if he (P) could tell him (T) the way to the nearest inn. The peasant replied in the affirmative and asked him if he (T) wanted one in which he (T) could spend the night. The traveller replied in the negative that he only wanted a meal.

83. I said the passer- by, “What are you seeing now?” “I am seeing the people running here and there” he said. “How happy they are! May God help them. Let me enjoy this.”I said

84. The teacher said to the Student, “Have you prepared your lesson today?’’“No, Sir,’’ replied the student. The teacher said, “Why?’’ “I was suffering from headache. I shall do my work tomorrow,’’ replied the student.

Answer: The teacher asked the student if he had prepared his lesson that day. He (S) respectfully replied that he had not. The teacher again asked why he had not prepared his lesson. The student replied that he had been suffering from headache the previous day. He (S) added that he would do his work the next day.

85. I said to old man, “What are you doing?” “I am watching the boys swimming in the pond,” he said. “How happy they are! May Allah bless them.” “Let me sit by you and enjoy the scene.” I said.

86. “My sons listen to me. A great treasure lies hidden in the land. I am going to leave it to you.” “How’ll we find it?” said the sons. “You must dig the land for it” said the old man

Answer: The old man told his sons to listen to him and added that a great treasure lay hidden in the land. He further added that he was going to leave it to them. The sons asked him how they wouldfind it. The old man replied that they had to dig the land for it.

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87. “Have you completed your assignment?” said Rumana. “No, I haven’t completed yet,” replied Farah. “But you must submit it timely,” said Rumana. “I worked on it for several hours yesterday,” replied Farah.

Direct and Indirect Speeches/Narration

April 9, 2024April 9, 2024 Abdullah

Narration: It is the use of a written or spoken commentary to convey a story to an audience.

Classification: Narration is of two types like Direct Narration and Indirect Narration

1. Direct Speech or Direct Narration: It is the original speech of the speaker without any change in it. It is always written within inverted commas.

2. Indirect Speech or Indirect Narration: It is the transformed speech by someone else who is telling it mixing his/her self-expression within it.

Narration	Direct Speech Example: She said to me, “I want the best now.”
	Indirect Speech Example: She told me that she wanted the best then.

Direct Speech or Direct Narration has two parts.

Direct Speech	Reporting verb (it is not enclosed in quotation marks)
	Reported speech (it is enclosed in quotation marks)

Changing narration at a glance

1. Reporting verb

2. Comma and inverted comma

3. Person

4. Verb

5. Adverb

Change of reporting verb

Sentence	Reporting verb	Comma & inverted comma
1. Assertive (Sub+verb)	no need to change	that
2. Interrogative (?)	asked/inquired	if/whether/ wh
3. Imperative (starts with verb/let)	told/ordered/advised/requested/forbade/begged/commandedproposed/suggested	tothat
4. Optative (begins with May)	wished/prayed (Allah)	that
5. Exclamatory (!)	exclaimed with joy/sorrow/wonder/fear/surprise	that

Change of Persons

Reported speech	Reporting verb
1st person (I, my, me, mine, myself, we, our, us, ours, ourselves)	followed by the Speaker
2nd person (you, your, you, yours, yourself, yourselves)	followed by the Listener
3rd person (rest of all)	No change

Change of Verb

Direct speech	Indirect speech
verb1(am/is/are/do/does/have/has/can/may/will/shall)	verb 2 (was/were/did/had/could/might/would)
verb 2(was/were/had)	had + verb 3
must	must/had to
to+verb1/verb1+ing/verb3/might/could/would/should/had to/ought to/used to/ had better/would rather	unchanged

Change of adverbs

Direct speech	Indirect speech	Direct speech	Indirect speech
Now	Then	This	That
Today	That day	These	Those
To night	That night	Hence	Thence
Tomorrow	The next/following day	Hither	Thither
Yesterday	The previous day	Thus	So
Here	There	So	That is why
Come	Go	Ago	Before
Last night/week/year month	The previous night/week/year/month	Next day/week/year/month	The following day/ week/year/month
The day after tomorrow	In two days time	The day before yesterday	Two days before

Exercises on Narration

Assertive Sentence

If reporting verb is present/future tense, tense of reported speech will be unchanged.

Generally 5 changes in a Direct speech.

may=might, can=could

But might, could, would, should, ought to, used to……..only tense will be unchanged

must=had to must (obedience) = only must will be unchanged

Interrogative Sentence

Starts with auxiliary verb

Starts with W/h question

Optative Sentence

Structure: Sub + wished/prayed + that + sub + might + verb1 + ext

Imperative sentence

অনুরোধ বোঝালে– requested	আদেশ বোঝালে– ordered/ commanded	উপদেশ বোঝালে– advised
নিষেধ বোঝালে– forbade	ক্ষমা বোঝালে– begged	কিছু না বুঝালে– told

Structure: Sub + (ordered/advised/requested/forbade/proposed/commanded) + obj + to + v1+ ext

If imperative sentence starts with let

Changes	Let us/ let’s	Let us/ let’s	Let me/him/her/them
1. Said to	proposed to	suggested	told
2. Comma	that we should/that they should	x	that
3. Person	x	x	Follow the normal rules
4. Verb	verb1	verb1 + ing + ext	might + verb1
5. Adverb	Follow the normal rules

Exclamatory Sentence

Exceptional

Direct: He said, “Had I the wings of a bird!”

Indirect: He wished that he had the wings of a bird.

Convert from Indirect to Direct speech

Category: Direct and Indirect Speech/Narration

Rules on Narration

Narration exercises for HSC

Narration Exercises for JSC and SSC

Direct and Indirect Speeches/Narration

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