GGEP12-Quiz 1 (Unit 1-2)

Vocabulary: Matching

Match the words with correct definitions.

Vocabulary: Gap-filling

Fill in the blanks with correct words.

propose, incentive, constraints, disposal, division, modify, clarify, framework, implemented, grant, submitted, profile

Fill in the blanks with nouns of each words given.

Grammar: Conditionals

Fill in the blanks with correct types of conditionals.

Grammar: Passive Voices

Make passive sentences out of the clues.

Grammar: Noun Clauses

Correct the error in noun clause in the sentence. Rewrite the sentences.

Grammar: Noun Clauses

Combine the two sentences by using a noun clause.

Personal Space

 Section I

Personal space is an imaginary bubble around us in which we feel safe and secure and where we feel that our privacy isn’t being violated. Everyone has their own particular amount of space that they feel comfortable with. People who are city-dwellers and are used to the hustle and bustle of city life may need less space to feel comfortable than, let’s say, someone living in the countryside. Regardless of this, most of us feel uncomfortable when we are out of our comfort zone and feel anxious, irritated, or even claustrophobic when others encroach on our private space.

Section II

Imagine being in an elevator and someone is standing so close to you that you can feel them breathing down your neck. You would possibly feel alarmed or at least uncomfortable. This invasion of our personal space and the uneasiness it causes may be nature’s way of keeping us safe from possible harm. Humans have what are known as amygdalae, which are small almond-shaped groups of nuclei situated deep within the brain. The amygdalae process reactions to the infringement of personal space, which are activated when people find that others are physically too close to them instead of being at a distance.

Section III

However, very often it’s almost impossible to maintain one’s own personal space and keep others at bay. What happens to this feeling of unease when we are, for example, at a soccer game or a rock concert and in close proximity to others? In these situations we’re probably having so much fun and enjoying the events so much, that we overlook these feelings in exchange for the pleasure we derive from them.

Section IV

Other factors may also arise that alleviate our need for personal space, such as intimate situations. Accepting hugs and kisses from family members or loved ones means welcoming these people to step into our private space. We feel comfortable standing much closer to them than we do with strangers. This is probably due to the fact that in these situations we trust them and feel less vulnerable around them. We also realize that these people wouldn’t abuse our space.

Section V

Cultural factors are also involved in needing our own space. People who are raised in Britain or America are often not particularly demonstrative in their affections to others and prefer to keep them at a polite distance. People from Mediterranean countries, on the other hand, embrace one another all the time and are renowned for hugging and kissing especially when they meet. Mediterranean people may take offense when Brits or Americans seem distant and view them as being standoffish and cold.

Section VI

So, apart from the scientific or cultural aspects of personal space, what can we do regarding creating our own personal space where we feel comfortable and relaxed? Well, for a start we can attempt to find our own personal sanctuary within our home where we can relax. You don’t need a whole room to do this – it could just be space in the shed, garage, or tree house, if you’re lucky enough to have one. Find somewhere that you can spend quality time maybe reading, or simply listening to music to relax. Create your own personal space where you can escape from the pressures of life, if only just for a while.