QUESTION BANK X ENGLISH

QUESTION BANK X ENGLISH

CLASS – X

MINIMUM LEVEL OF LEARNING (MLL) CONTENT

BOOK: FIRST FLIGHT

Chapter 1. A LETTER TO GOD

Q1. Why was Lencho angry when he counted the money?

Ans. Lencho became angry when he counted the money that God had sent him. He believed that the post office employees have stolen the rest of the amount because God could never make a mistake. Also, God would never deny Lencho what he had requested.

Q2. Why was the family really not upset?

Ans. Though Lencho’s family was facing ruin, yet they were not really upset. It was because

having immense faith in God, they were confident that God would help them.

Q3. What did the postmaster find when he opened the letter?

Ans. When the postmaster read the letter he found that very funny but also he got serious about the matter later. He thought to help him. So he discussed that matter with other employees in the post office and asked them to donate a little bit of money from their salary. Everyone agreed to the postmaster and donated some money from their salary. He put the money in an envelope addressed to Lencho.

Q4. What did Lencho write in his first letter to God? How did he place it in the mail?

Ans. In the first letter, Lencho wrote, “God, if you don’t help me, my family and I will go hungry this year. I need a hundred pesos in order to sow my field again and to live until the crop comes, because the hailstorm….” He wrote ‘To God’ on the envelope, put the letter inside and went to town.

Q5. There are two kinds of conflicts in the story: between humans and nature; and between humans themselves. How are these conflicts illustrated?

Ans. The story "A Letter to God" depicts two types of conflicts; one between man and nature and the other among men themselves. In the beginning of the story, the farmer hopes for a rain shower for the benefit of his corn field. On actually receiving rain, he becomes overjoyed and starts thinking about all the profit that would come in. Not much later, his joy is turned into sorrow when the wind becomes strong leading to a hailstorm. This depicts the disagreement between man and nature wherein humans want the nature to act according to their aspirations. The second divergence arises when Lencho starts doubting the honesty of the post-office employees who actually helped him with the money anonymously. This is the conflict among men themselves, wherein, we are ready to trust in the idea of God's existence but we are not ready to trust each other.

Chapter 2. Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Q1. What are the ideals which Mandela set for the future of South Africa in his swearing- in ceremony?

Ans. Mandela emphasized to liberate all the people from poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discriminations in his swearing-in ceremony.

Q2. What happened after Anglo-Boer war?

Ans. After Anglo-Boer war, the white people of South Africa erected a system of racial

discrimination against the black people of their own land.

Q3. What freedom meant to Mandela in childhood?

 

Ans. During childhood the meaning of freedom for Mandela was quite limited he considered it to be free to run in the fields, to swim in the clear stream, free to roast mealies and ride the board backs of slow moving bulls.

Q4. What did Mandela realise about his brothers and sisters?

Ans. Mandela realised that his brothers and sisters were not free in their own country due to their colour. The freedom of everyone in his society was curtailed. He joined the African National Congress and fought for the freedom.

Q5. Describe the value of freedom for the human beings and how it is important for the growth of civilisation and humanism as described in the lesson ‘Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’.

Ans. Everybody whether human or other creatures want to live free as freedom is natural to all living beings. The value of freedom is better known to that human being who has not tasted it till he gets it. A person who is chained with the limits and not allowed to perform his duties freely, values freedom more than anyone else. For instance the value of freedom is known better to Mandela who remained behind the bars most of his life. Think about a bird or animal which is caged as they have the habit of living with full freedom but in the cage they are not free and their conditions are very pitiable. Similarly, life becomes a hell if we are deprived of freedom. There is no growth of civilisation as it grows only when one has freedom. Similarly, humanism grows in the atmosphere of freedom.

Chapter 3. TWO STORIES ABOUT FLYING

Q1. Why did the young seagull not go with the rest of his family?

Ans. The young seagull did not go with the rest of his family because his confidence was very poor and he was afraid to fly. The young seagull also felt that his wings would never support him.

Q2. How did seagull’s parents try to make him fly?

Ans. Seagull’s parents tried many activities to make him fly. They screamed, scolded and

threatened to let him starve on the ledge unless he flew away. Thus, his parent’s efforts gave him success.

Q3. How did the writer get out of the storm in the night to land safely?

Ans. The writer was flying his old Dakota aeroplane when he saw the black clouds. He was lost in the storm. Suddenly, he saw a black aeroplane by his side, which had no lights, on its wings. The pilot instructed the writer to follow as he had lost the way. He obeyed him like a child. He was very happy to follow him. After some time, the pilot of another plane started to land. The writer followed him blindly through the storm and came out of the clouds. He saw the lights of the runway and landed safely.

Q4. “The sight of the food maddened him.” What this statement suggests? What made the young seagull to finally fly?

Ans- The young seagull was very hungry and it was this hunger that ultimately made it fly. Not being able to control its hunger, it dived at the food which was in its mother’s beak and his hunger overpowered his fear of the sea. The natural reaction of its body was only to fly.

Q5. “They were beckoning to him, calling shrilly.” Why do you think the seagull’s father and mother threaten him and cajole him to fly?

Ans- The young seagull was afraid to fly and take its first flight. Even after seeing its brothers and sisters flying, and its parents helping them, it could not gather the courage to fly. This was the reason its father and mother were calling to it shrilly and scolding it.

Q6. Why was the writer happy when he decided to fly in the night?

 

Ans. The writer was very happy when he decided to fly that night because he was going home to his family to enjoy his holiday. When he started, everything seemed to be perfect. The sky was clear, no clouds could be seen and the stars were shining. It all made it an easy task for the writer to fly that night over the sleeping countryside of Paris. His assumption of everything being in first place made him happy.

Q7. Fear and lack of confidence stop one from learning new things. Do you agree? How did these two traits of the young seagull make him coward? How did he overcome these short comings?

Ans. Yes, it is true that fear and lack of confidence stop one from learning new things as in the

story, the young seagull lacked the value of courage and confidence in his character. He was too scared of flying. His family tried hard to make him fly but he refused to do so because of his fear of sinking in the seawater. They even scolded and threatened him for his cowardice. They tried to tempt him with food but he was not willing to learn flying. Once he dived, his fear disappeared and he enjoyed his first flight. It is a fact that unless we try for something and overcome our fear, we can’t learn anything. Confidence and motivation are two most important traits that make any learning possible. These two traits are shown and presented nicely in this story through a real story.

Chapter 4. THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

Q1. How did Anne Frank regard her diary and what name did she give to it?

Ans. Anne regarded her diary as her long awaited friend in her imagination. She didn’t want to jot down facts in this diary, but she wanted the diary to be her friend and she named her diary ‘Kitty’.

Q2. Why does Anne want to keep a diary? Why does she feel she can trust a diary more than the people?

Ans. She wanted to keep a diary because she felt that people change and can’t be trusted but paper doesn’t change. Moreover, it patiently documents one’s experiences. And she would keep it confidential.

Q3. The classmates of Anne Frank were shaking with fear and nervousness. Why?

Ans. The classmates of Anne Frank were shaking with fear and nervousness because it was time to move to the next class. The students did not know how to be kept back and who would be promoted.

Q4. What does Anne write in her first essay?

Ans. Anne wrote that talking is a student’s trait. She would not keep talking under control because her mother talked a lot. She had inherited that trait from her mother. And she would do her best to keep it under control.

Q5. ‘Paper has more patience than people’. Elucidate.

Ans. According to Anne Frank, people are not always interested in listening to what you are telling them. They get bored and lose patience, but it is not so with paper. You can go on writing whatever you like, and as long as you like.

Q6. Why Anne needed to give a brief sketch about her family? Does she treat ‘Kitty’ as an insider or an outsider?

Ans- Anne provided a brief sketch of her life otherwise no one had understood her story. She

treated Kitty as an insider as it was her best friend.

Q7. Anne says teachers are most unpredictable. Is Mr. Keesing unpredictable? How?

Ans- Anne felt that the teachers were the most unpredictable. Mr. Keesing can be considered

unpredictable because he seemed to be annoyed with the constant talking habit of Anne but gave her only an essay to write as punishment.

 

Chapter 5. The Hundred Dresses – I

Q1. Where did Wanda live?

Ans. Wanda lived in Boggins Heights.

Q2. What kind of a place do you think it is?

Ans. It was that part of the city or town where poor people lived. The place was filled with mud which is where Wanda got the dirt on her shoes from.

Q3. How is Wanda seen as different by the other girls? How do they treat her?

Ans. Other girls saw Wanda as poor and vulnerable. She had a strange name, did not make friends and remained quiet. She sat in the corner with the rough and noisy boys. She came to school alone and also went home alone. Wanda always wore the same dress and came from a place full of mud on the roads. The other girls treated her badly and belittled her. They made fun of Wanda.

Q4. Why didn’t Maddie ask Peggie to stop teasing Wanda? What was she afraid of?

Ans. Maddie did not ask Peggy to stop teasing Wanda because as she too was poor, she feared that she could be the next target for the girls. As Maddie wore hands down clothes given by Peggy, she was afraid that if they did not tease Wanda, then probably, they would start teasing her.

Q5. What does Miss Mason think of Wanda’s drawings? What do the children think of them? How do you know?

Ans. Miss Mason thought of Wanda’s drawings to be wonderful. She even said that judges liked it so much and thought any one of them to be worthy of winning. The children too, were awestruck at the sight of such beautiful paintings. It is evident from the fact that the boys, who had no interest in dresses, were whistling and Peggy who thought of herself to be the best artist, accepted that Wanda’s drawings were amazing.

Chapter 6. The Hundred Dresses - II

Q1. Why does Wanda's house remind Maddie of Wanda's blue dress?

Ans. Wanda’s house looks shabby but clean. It reminded Maddie of Wanda's blue dress because it was also very shabby and faded, but clean.

Q2. Why did Meddie and Peggy go to Wanda Petronski's home?

Ans. Maddie and Peggy wanted to go to Wanda Petronski home at Boggins Heights to apologies to her for teasing her. They wanted to tell her that she had won the drawing competition and that she was smart and a hundred drawings of dresses were beautiful.

Q3. What important decision did Maddie make?

Ans. The important decision that Maddie made was that she would never stand by and say nothing again. If she ever heard anybody picking on someone because they were funny -looking or because they had strange names, she would speak up. She did not even mind losing Peggy's friendship over it. She knew she could not make things right with Wanda. However, she decided that in the future, she would never make anybody else unhappy again.

Q4. Why did Jan Petronski write a letter to the teacher? Give two reasons.

Ans. Jan Petronski wrote a letter to Miss Mason, Wanda's teacher, to inform her that Wanda and Jack would not come to school anymore as they had shifted to a big city. He also made an indirect complaint. He wrote that no one would make fun of Wanda's name and call her 'Pollack' because there would be many funny names and foreigners like her in a big city.

Q5. 'Though Peggy and Maddie made fun of Wanda, she gifted them her special drawings.'In the light of this statement,write a character sketch of Wanda Petronski.

 

Ans. Wanda Petronski was a Polish girl at an American school. Her name sounded unfamiliar to other students who made fun of her name. They also teased her by asking her about her hundred dresses which she claimed she had but wore the same faded blue dress every day. She never felt embarrassed or cried. She was cool-headed and tolerant. When others thought she was lying about having a hundred dresses, she knew that she was truthful as she did have a hundred dresses but onlythe drawings and not the real ones. And she proved that she was right when she submitted them forthe contest. Wanda had gifted two of her special drawings- a green dress with red ash to Peggy and a blue dress with colourful trimming to Maddie with their faces on the respective drawings. This showed that she liked them in spite of their teasing her. Gifting those drawings to them was also her way making them realise their mistake. She was a big- hearted, understanding, forgiving, talented and intelligent girl.

Chapter 7. GLIMPSES OF INDIA

(Part I – A BAKER FROM GOA)

Q1. Even today any person with a jackfruit-like physical appearance is easily compared to a baker. Explain.

Ans: Bread-making is a prosperous business in Goa. The physique of the baker, i.e., his plump andround body is testimony to that. Therefore, anyone who was fat and plump just like a jackfruit was easily compared to a baker.

Q2. Is bread an important part of Goan life? How do you know this?

Ans: Yes, bread is an important part of Goan life even today. This we can definitely say because bread is not only a part of their daily life but also of important occasions like Christmas, festivals, weddings and engagements. These occasions are incomplete without a special preparation for eachevent, made from bread.

Q3. Baking was considered essential in a traditional Goan village. What reasons does the writer give to support his point?

Ans: No festival in Goa is complete without bakery products—be it marriages, engagements or any other ceremony. Traditional sweet bread, known as ‘bol’ is to be given with marriage gifts. At Christmas ‘bolinhas’ and cakes are a must.

Q4. How did the children get along with the baker?

Or Why would the children run to meet the baker as soon as he arrived?

Ans: The children were attracted to the sweet fragrance of the bread loaves. They liked to eat the bread-bangles or the special sweet breads meant for them. Moreover, they treated the baker as their friend, companion and guide. So they would run to meet him.

Q5. How was baking a profitable profession?

Ans: Baking was really a profitable profession as the bread was important part of the food of the Goan people. The bakers earned well and kept servants. They were plump. Their families looked happy and prosperous. They never starved.

Q6. Describe the childhood memories of the author’s time in Goa and his fondness for breads and cakes?

OR

The author shares a lot of information about the bakers in his home town when he was young. He appears to be a very observant child. Should children have such keen observation powers?

Value Points:

• Leading role of baker in society.

• Use of different breads and cakes in function and festivals.

 

• Baker greeted by children, not washing mouth, eating bread bangles.

• Musical entry.

• Prosperous family of baker.

• Dress of baker/pader.

Q7. Should we learn from the history that has passed on to us from generations? Give reasons with reference to the lesson ‘Baker from Goan’.

Value points:

• History is the mirror to relive the past

• Provides a path – ancestors laid for us

• Reflects the strength and valour our people had

• Makes us better human beings

• Traditional goan village – reflection of portugese

• Acquired knowledge of baking from traditions in family

• Leavened , oven baked bread – a gift of the portugese ‘Culture’ of a place is developed as an

outcome of the traditions followed by the people, the conventions they adhere to, the religion they follow, their ethic and morals and the philosophy of life that guides them. The author is nostalgic about his childhood days and has strong cultural ties with Goa.

PART II - COORG

Q1. Describe Coorg in about 40-50 words.

Ans: Coorg is a place blessed by nature. It is surrounded by beautiful hills of Brahmagiri. It is

covered with the evergreen rainforests and receives heavy rainfall. Many animals and birds live in these forests. It is famous for its coffee.

Q2. Write two characteristics of the people of Coorg.

Ans: The people of Coorg are fiercely independent and brave. Coorgi houses have a tradition of hospitality. The Coorg Regiment is the most decorated in the Indian army. They feel proud in sharing the courageous tales of their sons and fathers.

Q3. What is the story or theory about the Kodavu people’s descent?

Ans: The two theories regarding the descent of Kodavu people are: • Kodavus are of Greek origin. A part of Alexander’s army settled here and married among the locals. Their descendants are called Kodavu. • Kodavus are of Arab origin. They wear the same traditional dress Kuppia i.e., a long, black coat with an embroidered waist-belt, as the Kuffia of the Arabs and the Kurds.

Q4. What does the author refer to as ‘bonus’? Why?

Ans: One climbs the Brahmagiri hills to get a panoramic view of the entire landscape of Coorg. But when he walks a little more, he is pleased to find the Nisargadhama. Above all, the largest Tibetan settlement at Bylakuppe is a surprising bonus. The author calls it a bonus as it is the least expected here.

Q5. Why are the visitors attracted to coorg?

Ans: The nature in its purest form, the evergreen forests, the hills and river Kaveri, the various adventure sports, the bio-diversity and India’s largest Tibetan settlement are among some of the attractions of Coorg.

Q6. ‘Coorg’ seems to share a lot of historical perspectives. Is knowing such kind of historical knowledge important for us?

Value points:

• Corgi – descendents of either Greeks or Arabs

• A legend says, Alexander’s army moved to south and settled here

• Arab origin as they dress like them

 

• First general of Indian Army was a coorg

• Knowing culture is important

• Become aware the culture has always welcomed people from other cultures

• Message of being tolerant when world is torn with war.

Q7. Describe the physical and geographical features of coorg.

Value Points:

• Piece of heaven drifted from the kingdom of god

• Land of rolling hills

• Inhabited by the proud men of martial race, beautiful women, coffe and wild elephants

• Coorg, smallest district of Karnataka

• Home to evergreen forest, spices and coffee plantation

• Lies between Mysore and coastal town of Mangalore

• Rainforest, cover more than 30% of this district

• Ideal season for tourists – September to march

• River Kaveri obtains its water from hills and rainforests of coorg

• Brahmagiri hills provide a panoramic view of the entire landscape

PART III- TEA FROM ASSAM

Q1.-What excited Rajvir?Why did Pranjol not share his excitement?

Ans.-The sight of the vast sea of lush green tea bushes coupled with tall sturdy trees excited Rajvir.

Pranjol did not share Rajvir’s excitement as he was born in Assam where the same sight is comman

for him.

Q2.-How does Rajvir describe the tea garden at Dhekiabari?

Ans.-The tea garden at Dhekiabari filled Rajvir’s heart with happiness and delight because its

beautiful sight.On both sides of the road were acre of tea bushes, all neatly pruned to the same

height.

Q3.-How are the pluckers different from the other farm labourers?

Ans.-The tea-pluckers are busy during the sprouting period from May to July, whereas the farm-laborers are busy throughout the year. Again, the tea – pluckers wear plastic aprons, with bamboo baskets on their backs.

Q4.- Describe the magnificent views of the tea estate with reference to the lesson, ‘Tea from Assam’.

Ans.-The tea bushes were spread like a sea against the backdrop of densely wooded hills. Amidst the orderly rows of tea, bushes were doll-like figures plucking tea leaves.

Q5.-What happened to the Chinese emperor in “Tea from Assam” who always boiled water before drinking it?

Ans.- A Chinese emperor had the habit of drinking boiled water. One day a twig fell into the pot in which water was being boiled. It gave a delicious flavour to the water. It is said that those were tea leaves.

Q6.- ‘ Rajvir had done work hard regarding tea and its history’ It seems after going through this chapter. Do you support Pranjol’s father’s statement that he gave about Rajvir’s knowledge in this regard?

Value points:

• had never visited a tea estate ever before in his life

• visits to Dhekiabari Tea Estate was at the invitation of his classmate Pranjol

• showed his knowledge by narrating every aspect of tea, its origin and history

• narrated many legends about tea

• impressed and surprised Pranjol’s father about his deep knowledge of tealeaves.

 

Q7.-What are the various legends about the origin of tea?

Value points:-

• No one really knows who discovered tea.

• There are two legends about the origin of tea

• Two ancient stories are famous regarding discovery of tea.

• Some people say that it’s discovered by Chinese. Some say it is discovered due to Bodhidharma.

Chapter 8-Madam Rides the Bus

Q1.What was the favourite pastime of Valli?

Ans. Valliammi or Valli was eight years old. Her favourite pastime was standing in the front

doorway of her house. From there, she watched what was happening in the street outside. For her, standing at the front door was an enjoyable as any of the games other children played.

Q2. What was the tiny wish that crept into Valli's head?

Ans. The sight of the bus was the most fascinating thing for Valli. Day after Day she watched the bus. A tiny wish crept into her head. She wanted to ride on that bus, at least, once. This wish became so strong that it grew into an overwhelming desire.

Q3. How did Valli board the bus? Why did she say, 'I can get on by myself.'?

Ans. When Valli sighted the bus she shouted 'stop the bus’! She raised her tiny hand

commandingly. The bus slowed down and finally stopped. She told the conductor that she wanted to go to the town and she tried to handover the money. The conductor seeing that she was just a child, stretched out his hand to help her up. Valli replied that she could get on by herself and didn't need any help.

Q4.Did Valli 'S bus ride remains a secret for her mother and aunt?

Ans. When Valli entered her house, she found her mother awake and talking to one of her aunts. Her aunt was a real chatterbox. She asked where she had been so far. Valli's mother spoke casually. She did not expect a reply. Both these ladies could know nothing about Valli's pleasure ride on the bus.

Q5. Give a character sketch of Valli in your own words.

Ans. Valli emerges as a very clever, sensitive, self-respecting and fun loving girl. She was just eight years old. She was very curious about things. She was a good observer of things. Her favourite pastime was standing in the front door way of her house. She used to watch from there what was happening in the street outside. There was no playmate of her own-age in the neighbourhood.

Standing at the door was as enjoyable for her as any of the games children played. Valli was

mature, clever and practical beyond her years. Saving sixty paise was not an easy job for a girl of her age. She thriftly saved every coin that came in her way. She was determined to resist any

temptation that came in her way. She sacrificed buying peppermint; toys, ballons and having a joy ride on a Merry go around saving her money. Valli was full of excitement and enthusiasm. She enjoyed the landscape looking outside the window. The sight of a young cow running towards the bus at full speed, enthused her. Valli enjoyed the fun of the frightened animal coming in front of the bus and laughed till tears came to her eyes. Valli was very sensitive girl. She was shocked to see the same cow lying on the road side smeared with blood. Her horrible and frightening looks dampened her enthusiasm. Valli did not like being called a 'madam 'or a' child '.She dared the conductor to mind his own business. She was a self-respecting girl. She did not accept a free cold drink offered by the bus conductor. She was a great planner and planned things after knowing all necessary details about them.

 

Chapter 9-The Sermon at Benares

Q1. Describe the thought of Gautam Buddha while he encountered with the different stages.

Ans- Gautam Buddha became upset and worried while encountering the different stages of life as a sickman, an aged man, a funeral and a monk begging for alms. He understood the sufferings of the world and decided to leave the worldly delights.

Q2 . Why do the wise not grieve?

Ans. The wise men do not grieve because they accept the truth that death is common to all.

Q3. Mention the incident which prompted Prince Siddhartha to become a beggar?

Ans-Once Prince Siddhartha had gone for hunting where he came across a sick man, an aged man, a monk asking for alms and also witnessed a funeral procession. Unable to understand those sufferings, he became a beggar and went in search of spiritual knowledge.

Q4. How did Buddha teach Kisa Gotami the truth of life?

Ans- Kisa Gotami was searching everywhere for someone who could revive her dead child. But

nobody can do such a miracle. Finally, a person sends her to Buddha because he was sure that

Buddha would help the poor woman to come to terms with her lost and grief. Buddha told Kisa

Gotami to bring mustard seeds from a house where no one has ever died. Kisa Gotami goes in

search of such a house but couldn't find it. The poor lady realised the important lesson which

Buddha wanted to teach her. Death comes to every family. Human life is filled with suffering and each person must overcome them. Real wisdom is to accept the inevitable and continue the journey of life.

The story of Kisa Gotami speaks of mortal human beings who must face suffering and death. It is a lesson on the necessity of overcoming personal tragedies and moving on in life.

Q5.Describe the main teachings of the Buddha as highlighted in 'The Sermon at Benares.

Ans. Before the age of twenty -five, Siddharth Gautam was carefully shielded from the sufferings of the world. When he saw a sick man, an aged man and a funeral procession for the first time, he was moved and shocked at the sights. He gave up his royal luxuries and went out in search of the permanent solution of all those sufferings and sorrows. After a long meditation, he got the enlightenment. At that time, he became known as the Buddha or the Awakened one. He gave his first sermon at Benares. Through Kisa Gotami, the Buddha wanted to tell the world that death is the ultimate truth. All mortals are destined to die sooner or later. There is no family in the world where no one has lost a child, husband, parent or friend. Lamenting for a son or a parent is like showing selfishness in grief. No lamentation or grieving can bring a dead man back to life. This world is afflicted with death and decay. He who has overcome all sorrow will become free from sorrow. He will be the blessed one.

Chapter 10. The Proposal

Q1. (a) Why did Lomov visit Chubukov’s house?

i. To propose to Natalya

ii. To borrow money from Chubukov

iii. To argue with Natalya

iv. To argue with Chubukov

(b). The play, ‘The Proposal’ is about ................................

(i) The tendency of wealthy families to seek ties with other wealthy families.

(ii) The tendency of wealthy men to find a match based on love and mutual understanding.

(iii) The tendency of parents to hook rich men as prospective grooms for their daughters.

 

(iv) None of the above.

Q2. What was the topic of dispute between Lomov and Natalya the second time?

Ans: The topic of dispute second time between Lomov and Natalya was Dogs namely Guess and Squeezer. Natalya contended that her dog Squeezer was a better dog than Lomov’s dog. Lomov argued that it was vice-versa.

Q3: How did Natalya react when she came to know that Lomov had come to propose her?

What does her reaction reveal about her character?

Ans. When she comes to know that Lomov has come to propose her, she falls into a chair and starts wailing. She starts saying, “Bring him back, bring him back, I’m dying, fetch him”. She also accuses her father that he drove Lomov out. She becomes hysterical. Natalaya’s reaction shows that she is impulsive. She is a 25 year old woman but does not act with maturity. She argues endlessly with Lomov and annoys him but as soon as she comes to know that he had come with the intent of proposing to her, she changes her stand completely and becomes impatient about calling Lomov back.

Q4. How can we have a cordial relationship with our friends, neighbours and relatives? Answer giving reference of the play.

Ans. In this play we see two main characters Natalya and Lomov who start quarrelling over small issues. Initially, the argument is about the ownership of Oxen Meadows. Then it shifts to their dogs.

The argument slowly develops into fights and they lose their temper. This shows that how fights, anger and using bad language can easily affect a relationship. If we want to avoid problems in our life, we should build happy and healthy relationships with people who are around us.

Q5: The principle ‘forgive and forget’, helps a lot in maintaining cordial relations with our neighbours. Do you think Anton Chekov conveys this message in the play ‘The Proposal’?

Ans: Yes it is true that the principle of ‘forgive and forget’ helps a lot in -maintaining cordial

relationship with one’s neighbours. This message is also conveyed through this play by Anton

Chekhov. At the very outset we find the neighbours in the play, Lomov, Natalya and Chubukov

arguing over trivial issues. They are impulsive, judgmental and extremely impatient. They have disagreement over almost every issue around them. This difference of opinions slowly turns into heated arguments and into fights leaving no scope for cordiality. However, when Natalya comes to know that Lomov has come to propose her then she immediately leaves the topic of argument (Oxen Meadows) behind. She asks for forgiveness from Lomov and requests him to come to the point. Hence it is important to ‘forgive and forget’ if one wants to have cordial relationship with others. The play ends with the two agreeing to marry each other.

 

POETRY SECTION

Dust of Snow

Q1. How does the poet react to the crow and the hemlock tree?

Ans. The crow and the hemlock tree are considered inauspicious in the west. They are generally taken as bad omen. But the poet did not take them in a negative way. They saved his day. His negative outlook changed into a positive one.

Q2.What changed the poet's mood?

Ans. The poet was upset. He was going somewhere on a snowy morning. As he stood under a

hemlock tree, a crow on the hemlock tree shook down the dust of snow on the poet. The falling dust of snow on the poet changed his mood.

Q3.What is the Central Idea of Poem, The Dust of Snow?

Ans. The poem Dust of Snow by Robert Frost is a small and simple poem, but with a deeper

meaning. It expresses the significance of small things in changing one’s attitude. The poem explains that the little things in life can make huge changes in our future. It also reflects that hard times in the life will lead to the happier times if we can persist with it.

Q4. How does Frost present nature in the poem?

Ans. Generally, poets take the birds and trees which are known for their beauty and good qualities, like birds, trees, etc. But, here Frost has taken a totally different approach. He chose a crow, which is not often used in poems. The crow is black in colour with a very harsh voice and is believed to be a bad omen. The crow brings very depressing and sorrowful pictures to our mind.

Q5. Simple moments prove to be very significant in life. A simple moment saves the rest of the day of the poet from being wasted. Explain on the basis of the poem, ‘Dust of Snow’.

Ans: Dust of Snow is a beautiful poem written by Robert Frost. This poem conveys that even a

simple moment has a large significance. The poet mentions a crow and a hemlock tree in this poem.

The crow is a bird which signifies the depressive and sorrowful mood and hemlock tree is a

poisonous tree. Both these signify that the poet was not in a good mood and so he describes the dark, depressive and bitter side of nature to present his similar mood.

However a crow sitting on the Hemlock tree shakes the dust of snow on the poet and his mood

suddenly changes. Thus a simple moment proves to be significant. The poet is saved from further negativity and despondence. A part of his day is saved from being ruined. The change is brought about by a simple moment. Moreover the poem presents the simple idea that even the company of nature can enliven us. Lastly we must not feel low as there is enough in life to cheer us up and to move on with life.

Fire and Ice

Q1. What do ‘fire’ and ‘ice’ stand for?

Ans. In the poem ‘fire’ stands for desire whereas ‘ice’ stands for hatred.

Q2.What are the two popular views in the society regarding the destruction of the world?

Ans. Some believe that the world will end in fire and others believe that it will end in ice.

Q3. Which two ideas about how the world will end have been mentioned in the poem? Which

idea does the poet support more?

Ans. The two ideas mentioned are that the world will end in fire or in ice. Though the poet thinks both are great for destruction, yet he seems to favour the idea of the destruction of the world in a fire a little more than in ice.

Q4. What do you think would be enough to destroy the world? Can Fire and Ice contribute to it?

 

Ans. Our desires and hatred would be enough to destroy the world. According to the poet, `fire’ represents ‘desire’ and `ice’ represents `hatred’. Desires like fire spread rapidly and engulf one’s whole life. Similarly, ‘hatred’ fills life with poison.

Q5. The poem ‘Fire and Ice’, carried with it very deep thematic ideas. Elaborate on these darkest traits of humanity.

Ans. ‘Fire’ symbolizes desire and ‘Ice’ symbolizes hatred. Desire is a kind of intense love or want that focuses people on getting and possessing and acquiring. Our society is full of people who spend their lives working to get a bigger and better TV, a more stylish car or a more extravagant house. This kind of desire can lead people to destruction in the form of bankruptcy or even broken relationships. Frost’s poem speaks on the issue of greed corrupting people and even society. The power of hate, which is symbolized by ice, is just as great as desire. While desire consumes quickly, hate produces shy yet restrained devastation. For instance, hate is the root cause of racism and war.

It can linger in people’s mind for lifetimes. Moreover, it consumes the hater even more than the person being hated. It thus, ruins lives.

A TIGER IN THE ZOO

Q1. How does the tiger feel in the zoo?

Ans: The poet describes the feelings of the tiger in the zoo. He keeps on moving from one comer to another. He is not happy. He expresses his silent anger.

Q2.What would the tiger do in a forest?

Ans: In the forest, the tiger can enjoy complete freedom. He would walk around freely without any fear. He would terrorize the villagers by growling. He would show his teeth and claws.

Q3.What does the poet want to convey through this poem?

Ans: In this poem, the poet is trying to contrast a tiger in the zoo with the tiger in its real natural habitat. In order to show the contradiction the poet shifts the scene from the jungle to the zoo. The poet wants to show the difference between the two environments. The poet wants to convey that like human beings, animals also like freedom. They do not want to be caged; they cannot live a miserable life. If their habitat is destroyed by human beings, these animals cannot survive.

Q4.How does the tiger act in the cage?

Ans: The tiger is in the cage. He is powerless and helpless. He longs for freedom. His velvet pads do not make any noise. He is in the silent anger roaring and ignoring the visitors. Caged life has changed his personality completely.

Q5. “Freedom is a birth right. It is the most beautiful gift of god. It is valuable for all human

beings as well as for creatures,” Discuss with reference to the poem “A Tiger in the Zoo”.

Ans: Freedom is the most beautiful gift of god. Freedom is a birthright, without freedom all is in vain. Since the man has come on his earth, he tries to enslave the weaker sections for his own selfishness. If a bird lives in a golden cage, it cannot become happy. It loves to fly freely in an open sky. In the same way, if a man lives in a prison and gets everything, he cannot feel happiness. But if a man lives freely, he will be happy even in poor conditions. In this poem, we find the descriptions of two tigers; one is in a cage and second in an open field/forest. There is a great contrast between their behaviours.

THE BALL POEM

Q1. How did the ball fall in the water?

Ans: The boy was playing with his ball near the harbour. The ball bounced down the street and then unfortunately it fell in the water. It was lost forever.

 

Q2. When do people learn to stand up loss?

Ans: Everyone must learn to stand up loss some day. But most of the people take too long to stand up loss. They can't forget their loss in a day and continue to grieve over it for many days.

Q3.What was the behaviour of the boy after losing the ball?

Ans: After losing the ball, the boy was shocked with grief. He stood rigid. He trembled and stared at the harbour where his ball went. He was lost in the memories of his early childhood when he used to play with that ball.

Q4. Why does the poet say he won't ' intrude on him'? What does he say about the boy’s loss at this point?

Ans: The poet says that he won't 'intrude' on the boy. It is because the boy has now understood the loss of the ball. He is in a shock. He is trying to understand what it is all about. The poet says that the boy now senses his first responsibility. It is towards the world of materialism.

Q5. Why is it important for everyone to experience loss and stand up after all?

Ans: This material world is full of gain and loss. Almost everything that we gain is subject to loss. Everyone has to face a situation of loss one time or the other. Experiencing loss is a great lesson of life as it introduces us to a real life situation. It teaches us to be strong even in loss. It teaches us to bear loss without losing heart. Life is not all about gaining things and being happy about them. Like gain, loss is also a part of life and we have to learn that in spite of all loss, life goes on.

AMANDA

Q1. Why is Amanda not looking at the speaker?

Ans: Amanda is lost in her thoughts and is paying no attention to instructions being given to her. That is why she is not looking at the speaker.

Q2.What does “silence is golden mean”?

Ans: It is a poetic device “metaphor”. By making silence golden the poet is estimating the worth of silence. For Amanda seeks peak and calmness which is absent in her reality.

Q3. Why is Amanda scolded for having chocolate?

Ans: Amanda is getting scolded for having chocolates as previously it had caused her acne.

Amanda’s mother is particular about such things. She is made conscious about her physical

appearance. It is sad that she is made to worry about natural experiences.

Q4. Is Amanda at fault at all?

Ans: Amanda is not at fault at all. It is too harsh for her to understand the concept of acne and not eating chocolate. Love of parents is missing from Amanda’s life. It is pity that we look towards Amanda. So she wishes to be orphan. She wants to be free from the overpowering environment around her.

Q5. What is the central theme of the poem “Amanda”?

Ans: The poem “Amanda” by Robin Klein highlights the importance of upbringing of a child. It

points out that upbringing doesn’t involve making a child responsible and fit for society only. It is important to note that upbringing involves understanding from both the sides. One can’t just force a child to be civilized and good mannered. Love and proper care is required in nurturing a child. In order to get rid of her parents she wants to be orphan. Love and care should always be a part of this.

 

Animals

Q1- Do you think that humans kneel to other humans who lived thousands of years ago? Discuss this in groups.

Ans- Yes, humans used to kneel in front of other humans who lived thousands of years ago. There used to be religious sermons and ceremonies in the ancestor’s memory and they were worshipped by kneeling in front o them.

Q2- The word ‘turn’ in the first line, “I think I could turn and live with animals…” What is the poet turning from?

Ans- The poet is turning away from other humans who are more complicated and false than

animals.

Q3- What are the three things that humans do and animals don’t.

Ans- The three things are:

o Humans work and sweat to make a living and then whine about it while animals don’t.

o Humans are awake at night and cry for wrongdoings but animals sleep peacefully.

o Humans discuss their duties to God and sick others while animals don’t.

Q4. What makes the poet sick?

Ans. The fact, that humans commit all kinds of sins and still discuss their duty to God, makes the poet sick. This shows the hypocrisy of humans, who on one hand do wrong and on the other pray to God.

Q5. Differentiate between humans and animals in terms of desire.

Ans. Animals are very different from humans as they have no desire to own things. They are happy without an unending greed while humans become maniacs in their greed for possessing valuables.

Q6. What does the poet mean by, “Not one is respectable or unhappy over the whole earth”?

Ans. The poet means that animals do not pray to God or to ancestors and all of them are equal; hence no one is more respectable than the other. The good values of animals and the lack of social conventions make them happy.

The Tale of Custard the Dragon

Q1- In the poem, why did Belinda tickle the dragon?

Ans- Belinda tickles the dragon because Custard, the Dragon was very scared. It cried for a safe cage.

Q2- Why Custard, the dragon cries for a nice safe cage? Why is the dragon called “cowardly dragon”?

Ans- Custard was crying for a safe and nice cage because it was a coward. The dragon is called a ‘cowardly dragon’ because everybody else in the house was brave.

Q3- Name the characters in this poem and list them with their pet names.

Ans- The characters in the poem are a little black kitten, Belinda, a little grey mouse, a little pet dragon, a little yellow dog and a pirate. Their pet names are:

Kitten- Ink

Mouse- Blink

Dog- Mustard

Dragon- Custard

 

Q4. How did everyone react after Custard ate the pirate?

Ans. Belinda embraced Custard because he had saved everyone by killing the pirate. Mustard

licked him to show his affection while Ink and Blink started dancing around Custard out of

happiness.

Q5. How did the other three pet boast of their bravery?

Ans. After Mustard, Ink and Blink fled on seeing the pirate, it was Custard, who fought him and killed him. The other pets soon made excuses for their cowardice and said that they would have been twice and thrice as brave as Custard.

Q6. Did Custard accept his cowardice and their bravery?

Ans. Yes, Custard seemed like a really humble animal as even after killing the pirate he accepted that he is a coward and everyone else is braver than he.

 

BOOK: FOOTPRINTS WITHOUT FEET

Chapter 1. A Triumph of Surgery

Q1- Why Mrs. Pumphrey is worried about Tricki?

Ans- Mrs. Pumphrey was worried because Tricki would not eat anything and was even refusing its favourite dishes. It was just lying around on the rug and panting.

Q2- Why Mrs. Pumphrey thought that the dog’s recovery is “a triumph of surgery”?

Ans- Mrs. Pumphrey thought that the dog’s recovery was actually “a triumph of surgery” because just in two weeks Tricki had recovered completely. Tricki was transformed into a hard-muscled animal.

Q3- Do you think Tricki was happy to go home?

Ans- Yes, Tricki was happy to go home. It jumped right from the narrator’s arms and went to Mrs. Pumphrey.

Q4. In the end of the lesson Mrs. Pumphery says “This is a triumph of surgery.” Why?

Ans. Mrs. Pumphrey’s dog, Tricki had fallen ill and had to be admitted for treatment to Dr.

Herriot’s hospital. Dr. Harriot gave him a lot of water and exercise which helped Tricki to recover.

When Mrs. Pumphrey went to collect him, Tricki jumped into her lap and started licking her face. On seeing him fully recovered, Mrs. Pumphrey called it a triumph in surgery.

Q5. How can you say that Mrs. Pumphrey was a rich lady?

Ans. Mrs. Pumphrey was a rich lady who had a small dog, named Tricki. She had pampered the dog by providing him things like a raincoat for wet days, a whole wardrobe, full of tweed coats.

There were separate bowls like breakfast bowl, lunch bowl, supper bowl etc. or his different meals. She had a lot of servants and maids to take care of him and to serve Tricki s favourite cushions, toys and rubber rings. Besides, she owned a chauffeur driven long, black car. All these things suggest that she was a rich lady.

Q6. Distinguish between Mrs. Pumphrey’s method and Mr. Herriot’s method in looking after the dog. Whose method could be regarded the better of the two and why?

Ans. Mrs. Pumphrey loved Tricki, her pet dog, very much. When she found that Tricki was no

more active and energetic, she tried to give more nutrients in his food to make him more energetic like malt, cod-liver oil and a bowl of Horlicks, an extra diet of cream cakes & chocolates. But she was not giving him exercises. In fact, Tricki was not suffering from any disease. Mr. Harriot found out the main cause of his ailment, i.e., his greed for over-eating. Mr. Harriot gave him a controlled diet, recovered him from lethargy caused by overeating and excessive fat. So, Mr. Harriot’s method could be regarded better of two as he understood the cause and remedy of the disease. He was able to treat the dog by being strict with him regarding diet and physical activities.

Q7. Was Tricki also to be blamed in more ways than one? How?

Ans. Tricki was Mrs. Pumphrey’s favourite dog. No doubt, she loved him very much and so,

pampered him. But then it was Tricki’s fault also. He was a greedy dog who wanted to eat anything and everything which was served to him. He had never refused to eat food and used to have meal at any hour of the day or night. He had become a glutton. He changed his system very easily according to the luxuries he got. Apart from all that, he never believed in going for exercises or

walk. He rather tried ‘to please his mistress by eating all the time be it sweets or eggs. So, he was also to be blamed for his present condition.

Q8. Why was Tricki happy in the doctor’s house?

Ans. In the doctor’s house, Tricki was placed in a warm box next to the other dogs. He was given only water and no food. On the second day, he met the other dogs but showed no interest. By the fourth day he ran towards his food and joined the other dogs in their friendly, energetic struggles. He discovered the joys of being squashed and being an accepted member of the gang. He fought for his share at meals and hunted rats at night.

Chapter 2. The Thief’s Story

Q1. In which queer way did Anil make a living?

Ans: Anil wrote for magazines so he made money by fits and starts. It was his habit that he would borrow for one week and then returns the next. He kept wondering about his next cheque but as soon as it is arrived he would go out and celebrate.

Q2. Why was it difficult for Hari Singh to rob Anil?

Ans: It was difficult for Hari Singh to rob Anil because he was the most trusted person he had

never met in his life. Hari Singh thought that it was easy to rob a greedy man as he can afford to be robbed but it was difficult to rob a careless men like Anil he doesn't even notice that he has been

robbed and it takes all the pleasure out of the work.

Q3. What are the different reactions of people when they are robbed?

Ans: Hari Singh was an experienced thief. He had made a study of men's faces when they had lost their goods. According to him the greedy man showed fear. The rich man showed anger. The poor man showed acceptance of their fate but he knew that when Anil would discover the theft his face would show only at touch of sadness not for the loss of money but for the loss of trust.

Q4. How did Hari Singh know that Anil had forgiven him?

Ans. It seems Anil knew about theft but neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything. He gave him fifty rupees and told him that now he would be paid regularly. He informed him that he would teach him to write sentences. It shows that Anil had forgiven him.

Q5. Why did the thief smile without any effect towards the end of the story?

Ans. The thief smiled at Anil towards the end of the story in his most appealing way. But unlike as on previous occasions, this smile was natural and from the innermost comer of his heart. Being spontaneous, the smile was “without any effect”.

Chapter 3. The Midnight Visitor (deleted)

Chapter 4. A Question of Trust (deleted)

Chapter 5. Footprints without Feet

Q1. Why does Mrs.Hall find the scientist eccentric?

Ans. Mrs.Hall found the scientist eccentric because he had uncommon appearance. He didn’t want to talk her in spite of being friendly nature to him.

Q2. What did Griffin do inside the store?

Ans. Griffin broke open the boxes and wrappers and dressed himself in warm cloths. He ate and drank to his heart’s content. In the end, he laid down on the pile of quilts to sleep.

Q3. Why was Miss Hall prepared to excuse his eccentric behavior?

Ans: Miss Hall was prepared to excuse his strange habits and irritable temper as she was satisfied that his guest was an eccentric scientist and the real fact was that he had paid her in advance.

Q4. Why were the two boys surprised to see the imprints of a pair of bare feet?

Ans: The two boys were surprised to see the fresh muddy imprints of a pair of bare feet on the steps of a house in the middle of London, descending the steps and progressing down the street .It was surprising to see, at last the muddy impressions became fainter and fainter and disappeared altogether.

 

Q5. Why does Mrs Hall find the scientist eccentric?

Ans: Mrs Hall finds the scientist eccentric .First of all, the arrival of a stranger at the Inn in winter was an unusual event and that too he booked two rooms .Everybody was talking about strange appearance .She tried her best to be friendly with him but Griffin had no desire to talk .He told them that he has come to Iping for solitude and do not wish to be disturbed in his work. In addition to this an accident has affected his face.

Chapter 6. The making of a Scientist

Q1. What does Ebright learn when he does not win anything at a science fair?

Ans: When Richard Ebright exhibited slides of frog tissues at a fair and does not win anything at the science fair. He learnt that science is not just about display. It is about projects and experiments.He began to conduct experiments from that very day onwards.

Q2. Mention any two contributions of Richard Ebright to the world of science?

Ans: Richard Ebright carried out experiments to prove that hormone produced by the gold spots of Pupa is responsible for the growth of formation of butterfly’s Wings. Secondly he also discussed how a cell could read the blueprints of its DNA that controls heredity.

Q3. What are the main qualities that go into the making of a scientist?

Ans: The main qualities that go into the making of a scientist are first rate mind ,curiosity to learn and do new things and will to win for the right reasons .Consistency is also highly appreciated and equally important.

Q4. How did the book ‘The Travels of Monarch X’ became a turning point in Richard Ebright’s life? Why did he lose interest in tagging butterflies?

Ans: The book ‘The Travels of Monarch X’ became a turning point in his life when his mother

bought the book and Doctor Urquhart had invited readers to help him studying the Migration of Monarch butterfly at the end of the book. Richard Ebright lost interest in tagging butterflies because it was a tedious work that did not provide much feedback to him.

Q5. Dr Urquhart contributed significantly to Ebright’s growth as a scientist. Explain.

Ans. Richard had become bored with collecting butterflies. His mother got him a book on the

migration of butterflies. Richard came in contact with Dr Urquhart through the book. Dr Urquhart directed him to study the migration pattern of butterflies.

When he did not win any prize in the science fair in seventh grade, he again wrote to Dr Urquhart to guide him. The scientist gave him many suggestions for new experiments. Richard performed these experiments throughout his high school and won many prizes. Later, he worked on why bright spots are found on a monarch pupa, motivated by Dr Urquhart. It led to the discovery of a new hormone.

The discovery of this new hormone further led to an important theory. The theory was about how cells read their DNA. In this way Dr Urquhart proved to be his true mentor.

Chapter 7. THE NECKLACE

Q1. Why did Mathilda not want to see her rich friends?

Ans: Her friends were rich and full of money power but she was married to a simple clerk, had

inferiority complex. Mathilda did not want to see her rich friends because she suffered from

inferiority complex. She was married to a simple clerk; whereas her friends were rich and full of money power.

Q2.What was Loisel’s reaction to his wife’s desire for a new dress?

 

Ans: The Loisel’s had been invited to a party at the minister’s residence. When Matilda told her husband that she wanted a new dress to wear, first of all he asked her to wear whatever she

possessed. When she got angry and refused to go to the party at all, he finally agreed to let her buy a new one.

Q3. Do you think M. Loisel had an enjoyable evening at the ball? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans: I think M. Loisel didn’t enjoy much at the ball. In fact, he was not much interested in such parties. He had come there for the sake of his wife’s happiness. So when his wife was dancing with enthusiasm, intoxicated with pleasure, he waited for her (but without disturbing her) half asleep in one of the little salons since midnight.

Q4. How did the Loisel react when they realised that the necklace had been lost?

Ans: As soon as they realised that the necklace had been lost their short-lived happiness

degenerated into shock of the worst nightmare. Matilda uttered a cry. Loisel, already half

undressed, arose in dismay and went immediately on foot in search of necklace.

Q5. Why could Mrs. Forestier not recognize her friend Matilda at the end of the story?

Ans: Matilda had to work very hard to lead her life. She had become a strong, hard woman, the crude woman of the household. In fact she had started looking old. One Sunday evening, when she was taking a walk in the Champs Elysees, she met Mrs. Forestier who still looked young and pretty. As Matilda had started looking old and haggard, she couldn’t be recognized by her.

Chapter 8. The Hack Driver

Q1- Why the lawyer is sent to New Mullion? What does he think about the place?

Ans- The lawyer was sent to New Mullion in order to serve the summons on Oliver Lutkins. He was needed as a witness in a law case. The lawyer had expected the place to be a sweet and simple country village.

Q2- “I agreed that it was pretty disrespectful treatment. We did, however, search the house.

Since it was only one storey high, Bill went round it, peering in at all the windows. We examined the barn and stable.”

a. Who does ‘I’ refer to?

Ans- Sinclair Lewis

b. What was Bill’s profession?

Ans- Hack Driver

c. The disrespectful treatment faced by the speaker was…

Ans- Oliver’s mother shouted at them and threatened them with an iron.

d.The phrase ‘peering in at all windows’ here means…

Ans- It means looking inside and trying to find something

Q3- Why do you think Lutkins’ neighbours were anxious to meet the lawyer?

A3-Lutkins took the lawyer all across the town in search of Lutkins himself. He was able to fool a lawyer with his cooked up stories about Lutkins and other villagers. All this must have become the talk of the town as how a man could fool the other man in his own search. Everyone had seen this happening. So, Lutkins’ neighbours were keen to see him as they missed seeing him that day.

 

 

Q4-After his first day’s experience with the hack driver the lawyer thinks of returning to New

Mullion to practise law. Do you think he would have reconsidered this idea after his second

visit?

Ans- Yes, he may have reconsidered his idea of practicing law at New Mullions. He had taken this decision because he was impressed by the noble and friendly nature of Bill. He found that the villagers were nice, innocent and kind. They were far better than the city people who were not so simple and humble. But on the second visit when he realized that Lutkins had fooled him, he would rethink over his idea and would decide not to settle in New Mullion.

Q5- Do you think the lawyer was gullible? How could he have avoided being taken for a ride?

Ans- Yes, the lawyer was very gullible as he was taken away with whatever he was told by the hack driver. He never thought of cross checking it. The lawyer could have checked everything himself by going to the people himself but he let Bill to do this. He was so impressed by Bill’s friendliness and cheerfulness that he never cross checked with what he was told by the Bill and made it easy for the hack driver to fool him.

Chapter 9. Bholi

Q1.Why did the other children make fun of Bholi ?

Ans: Some part of Bholi’s brain had got damaged when she fell from a cot at the age of ten months. This made her a little backward and simpleton. She learnt to speak a little late and stammered a lot. Thus, the children made fun of her and mimicked her.

Q2.Why was Ramlal worried about Bholi and not about his other children?

Ans: Ramlal was more worried about Bholi because she was the weakest child in their family while her brothers and sisters were healthy. He was worried about her ugly looks because of the pock-marks all over her body and also because of her stammering. He was worried that no one would come forward to marry Bholi because of her being weak and ugly.

Q3.Why did Bholi react when her father caught her by the hand to take her to school?

Ans: Bholi, the weakest child of the family, was suffering from physical disability and mental

infirmity, because of which she didn’t want to go to school.

Q4.How did her fear disappear after she had gone to school?

Ans: Her teacher proved a gem to her who always provided all possible help and assistance to her and turned her into a bold and confident girl. The teacher always encouraged her and asked her to come to school daily.

Q5.Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber at last?

Ans: Bholi refused to marry Bishamber because he was greedy and mean. She refused to allow him to garland her and told him that he was a contemptible person.

Chapter 10. The Book that Saved the Earth (deleted)

Short Answer Questions

1.    What did Lencho hope for?

Ans. Lencho hoped for rains as the only thing his field of ripe corn needed was a shower.

 2.    Why did Lencho say that the raindrops were like 'new coins'?

Ans. Lencho's crops were ready for harvest. As raindrops would have helped in getting a better harvest, resulting in more prosperity, so Lencho compared them with 'new coins.

 3.    How did rain change? What happened to Lencho's fields?

Ans. The rain was pouring down. But suddenly, a strong wind began to blow and very large hailstones began to fall along with the rain. All the crops in Lencho's fields destroyed.

 4.    What were Lencho's feelings when the hail stopped?

Ans. After the hail stopped, Lencho's soul was filled with sadness. He could see a bleak future for himself and his family. He was worried about the lack of food in the coming year.

 5.    Who or what did Lencho have faith in? What did he do?

Ans. Lencho had complete faith in God. He believed that God's eyes see everything, even what is deep in one's conscience. So, he wrote a letter to God saying that he needed hundred pesos to sow his field again. 

6.    What made him angry?

Ans. When he finished counting the money, he found only seventy pesos. But he had demanded a hundred pesos. He was confident that God could neither make a mistake nor deny him what he had requested for. Therefore, he concluded that the post office employees must have taken the remaining thirty pesos.

 7.    Why does the postmaster send money to Lencho? Why does he sign the letter 'God'?

Ans. Postmaster was moved by Lencho's complete faith in God. So, he decided to send money to Lencho. Moreover, the postmaster did not want to shake Lencho's faith in God. So, he signed the letter 'God'. It was a good ploy to convey a message that God had himself written the letter.

 8.    Did Lencho try to find out who had sent the money to him? Why/Why not?

Ans. No, Lencho did not try to find out who had sent the money to him. This was because he had great confidence in God and never suspected that it could be someone else other than God who would send him the money. His faith in God was so strong that he believed that God had sent him the money.

Case Study Based Questions:

1.    There are two kinds of conflicts in the story: between humans and nature, and between humans themselves. How are these conflicts illustrated?

Ans. The first conflict between humans and nature is aptly depicted by the destruction of Lencho's crops by the hailstorm. As the crops fail, Lencho started feeling sad and gloomy. This appropriately projects the conflict between humans and nature,

The second conflict depicted in the story is between humans themselves. As a noble soul, the postmaster, along with the help of the other post office employees, sent Lencho the money that they could manage to collect. Though they were not related to Lencho or knew him personally, they acted kindly and selflessly. Even though they did a good deed, Lencho blamed them for taking away some amount of money. This shows that man does not trust his fellow humans, thereby, giving rise to the conflict between humans themselves.

 

2.    The postmaster represents such people who still believe in helping others. Mention those values of the postmaster which you would like to emulate in yourself.

Ans. The postmaster was a kind, generous, helpful, amiable and God-fearing man. He received a letter from Lencho which was written to God asking for hundred pesos, so that he could sow his fields again. The postman felt sympathetic towards Lencho. He decided to help Lencho. He gave up a part of his salary and asked all other employees to help. Even his friends were made to contribute for a cause of charity and he managed to collect seventy pesos. He sent the money to Lencho along with a reply. He did so in order to preserve the man's faith in God. This shows the postmaster was a nice mana heart.

3.    "If you don't help me, my family and I will go hungry this year." Lencho had faith God but he didn't manage to solve the problem by himself. Did he lack the courage to resolve his matter by himself? What values did he lack?

 

Ans. Lencho was a hardworking farmer. He was completely dependent upon the crops of his fields. His annual crop was completely destroyed due to heavy rains and hailstorm. In the entire village, there was no one to help him during the time of financial crisis. He had firm belief in God and hence wrote a letter requesting Him to send hundred pesos, so that he could sow his fields again till the next crop. This act did not prove that he lacked the courage to resolve his problem, but shows that he did not have any option left for himself. He had a firm belief in God. He was an ox of a man but lacked money to stand again.