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Being able to show your understanding of a text is a key skill in English.
To demonstrate that you understand something, you need to find evidence to support this.
These two skills are called comprehension and retrieval and can be used in both fiction and non-fiction texts.
In this activity, you will be working with the non-fiction text below to develop your skills in comprehension and retrieval.
Have a read and then get ready to answer some questions!
Today, I stand before you to express my unwavering support for the incredible act of volunteering. Volunteering is not just an action - it is a profound commitment to making our world a better place. It's a testament to the incredible power of individuals to affect change, create impact, and foster a sense of community like no other.
Volunteering is the embodiment of compassion and selflessness. When we volunteer, we choose to dedicate our time, skills, and energy to the service of others - often strangers - with no expectation of personal gain. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, volunteering brings us together, reminding us of our shared humanity.
At the personal level, volunteering can be a transformative experience. It offers an opportunity to step outside our comfort zones, learn new skills, and grow as individuals. It empowers us to become more empathetic, understanding, and appreciative of the diverse tapestry of human experiences.
On a societal level, volunteering is the backbone of many essential services and organisations. Volunteers play a crucial role in addressing pressing issues, from poverty and homelessness to environmental conservation and education. They are the hands, the hearts, and the souls of countless initiatives and causes. Without volunteers, many of the vital services that improve lives and communities simply would not exist.
Furthermore, volunteering bridges the gaps in society and fosters social cohesion. It brings people from all walks of life together, breaking down barriers and building bonds. Volunteers not only work towards a common goal but also learn from one another, appreciating the rich diversity that our world offers.
Volunteering also has a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. It has been scientifically proven that giving back, helping others, and engaging in acts of kindness can boost our own happiness and reduce stress. Volunteering has the incredible power to lift our spirits, provide a sense of purpose, and combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
In today's fast-paced, often self-centred world, volunteering provides us with the opportunity to step away from the pressures of our daily lives and put our energies into making a positive change. It reminds us that we are not just passive observers of the world's problems but active participants in their solutions.
So, I urge you all to consider the immense benefits of volunteering and to make it an integral part of your lives. By doing so, you can create a ripple effect of positive change that reaches far beyond your immediate actions. Whether you choose to support a local food bank, tutor a student in need, clean up a park, or assist in disaster relief efforts, your efforts will have an immeasurable impact.
Volunteering is not just an act of service - it is an act of love, compassion, and hope. It is the embodiment of our shared responsibility to make this world a better place for all. Let us embrace the power of volunteering, unite as a global community, and work together to build a brighter and more compassionate future.
Thank you for your dedication, your selflessness, and your unwavering support of volunteering. Together, we can make the world a better place - one volunteer at a time.
