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"Unleashing Success: Mastering Board Exams with Insights from 2022 to 2023! 👇 Click on the Lesson Hyperlinks for Answer Key 👇 A Letter to God Two Stories About Flying Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Glimpses of India The Sermons at Benares Madam Rides the Bus The Proposal The Tale of Custard the Dragon The Making of a Scientist Bholi The Necklace 2023 A Letter to God   Who read the letter sent by Lencho? What did he do then? What did Lencho hope for and why ? In what way would writing a letter to God help Lencho tide over his crisis ? The Postmaster had mixed emotions while opening the letter. Comment. Why did the night after the rains turn sorrowful for Lencho? What are the raindrops compared to and why? Answer Key (LTG) 1. The postman, who was also an employee at the post office, read the letter sent by Lencho. He then showed the letter to the postmaster, and both of them found amusement in the letter. The postmaster, however, decided to answer the letter to maintain Lencho's faith in God. 2. Lencho hoped for help from God because his crops had been destroyed by a hailstorm. He needed financial assistance to sow his field again and sustain his family until the new crop could be harvested. 3. Writing a letter to God was Lencho's way of seeking divine intervention and expressing his desperation. He believed that God, who sees everything, would understand his situation and provide the financial help he needed. In a symbolic sense, the act of writing the letter allowed Lencho to externalize his plea and find solace in the hope that divine help would come. 4. The postmaster had mixed emotions because, while he found amusement in the letter, he also admired Lencho's unwavering faith. He recognized the genuine belief Lencho had in God's ability to help him. This admiration led the postmaster to decide to answer the letter and attempt to provide some assistance, despite the practical challenges. 5. The night after the rains turned sorrowful for Lencho because the hailstorm had destroyed his entire cornfield. The crops, which were essential for his family's livelihood, were ruined. The realization of the significant loss and the impact on their sustenance made the night a sorrowful one for Lencho and his family. 6. The raindrops were compared to coins by Lencho. He expressed this metaphorically, stating that the big raindrops were like ten-cent coins, and the smaller ones were like five-cent coins. This comparison reflects Lencho's positive anticipation of the rain benefiting his crops, as if the drops were valuable currency from the sky, bringing prosperity to his fields. Two Stories About Flying 'I'll take the risk''. What is the risk? Why does the narrator take the risk? Describe the young seagull's first flight. Family played a vital role in the first flight of the young seagull. Give examples to substantiate the above statement. Motivation plays an important role in taking risks in life and in succeeding. Do you agree ? Discuss with reference to the pilot of the old Dakota and the young seagull. Answer Key Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Mandela said, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love. Discuss. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin or his background or his religion. Do you agree? Elaborate on the basis of the chapter ' Nelson Mandela- Long Walk to Freedom'.  (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) Answer Key (NM) Q1. Nelson Mandela's statement, "People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love," reflects his profound belief in the malleability of human attitudes. In the context of the chapter "Long Walk to Freedom," Mandela emphasizes the transformative power of education and exposure. He suggests that hatred is not inherent; rather, it is acquired through learning. This perspective underscores the importance of dismantling prejudiced ideologies through education and fostering understanding among diverse communities. Mandela's own journey from being oppressed under apartheid to advocating reconciliation and forgiveness exemplifies this principle. The idea is a call to break the cycle of hatred through enlightenment, education, and a shared commitment to building a just and inclusive society. Q2. Mandela's assertion, "No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion," aligns with his personal experiences and the broader narrative in "Long Walk to Freedom." The chapter chronicles the impact of apartheid on South Africa, highlighting how a system of racial domination was imposed on the nation. Mandela describes his idyllic childhood, emphasizing that freedom and unity were natural until external influences disrupted this harmony. The narrative suggests that societal prejudices, including racial discrimination, are learned behaviors shaped by oppressive systems. Mandela's life journey, from his realization of lost freedoms to his activism for universal rights, underscores the notion that hatred is acquired and can be overcome through education, empathy, and a collective commitment to equality. Glimpses of India 2023 Where is Coorg located? Write any two characteristics of the people of Coorg? What did Pranjol and Rajvir do during the journey? Why? What is the Indian legend about the discovery of tea? Valour and hospitality are inherent in the people of Coorg. Explain. 'A Baker from Goa' is a nostalgic saga of childhood memories. Comment. Who are paders and why are they friends of children? Why did s excitement at seeing the tea gardens ? How is the Goan baker still an important part of the life of a Goan village? How did the baker become synonymous with celebrations and occasions in Goa? What does the writer recall about his childhood in Goa? 2022 9. What attracts visitors to Coorg ? (Glimpses of India) 10. Why is Coorg called the land of the rolling hills? Answer Key The Sermons at Benares What does the Buddha say about the world? 40-50 Words/ 3 Marks) Through the story of Kisa Gotami, what did the Buddha try to preach to the common man? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) Kisa Gotami went from door to door when her son died. What was the result? What does Kisa Gotami ask for when she goes from house to house after she speaks with Buddha ? Does she get it ? Why ? Why not ? What did Siddhartha Gautama come across by chance when he was about twenty-five years old ? As ripe fruits are in danger of falling early, so mortals when born are always in danger of death'. With this statement of the Buddha find out the moral values that Kisa Gotami learnt after the death of her child. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) Why did Kisa Gotami meet the Buddha? How did Buddha change her life? What did Kisa Gotami do after the death of her only son ? Grief is often seen as a measure of love. Justify your response to Buddha s sermon 'These sights so moved him that he at once went out into the world to seek enlightenment.'' What were the sights that moved him? 2022 9. How , according to Buddha, can one obtain peace of mind ? (The Sermon at Benares ) Answer Key Madam Rides the Bus Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus?  (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) The people and surroundings are a great book to learn from. Valli in the lesson ' Madam Rides the Bus' learns a lot from others. Mention the traits of her character which help her to learn from people and her surroundings.  (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) How did Valli gather the details of the bus journey? What stopped Valli from going to the stall to have a drink ? What do we learn about Valli from this ? Valli was an extra-ordinary girl who had self-confidence and courage to realize her ambition by planning and drawing on her spirit of adventure. Discuss in reference to the chapter ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) 2022 6. Valli was a mature girl and ahead of her age. Justify the statement with evidence from the text. (Madam Rides the Bus) 7. Valli was sensitive, but at the same time she was fearless and quite determined. Explain with reference to the text. Answer Key The Proposal 2023 Forgiveness is the foundation of a cordial relationship. Do you agree ? How is this message conveyed in the play ' The Proposal'? How did Chubukov react when Lomov asked for the hand of his daughter in marriage? Russian society emerges as an important character in the play. Support your answer giving instances. 2022 3. Write a brief character-sketch of Lomov. 4. What was the objective of Lomov's visit to Chubukov's house? Answer Key Q. Natalya and her father Chubukov 'turn around' when Lomov puts his proposal in the open. As a reader briefly describe what you think of Natalaya and Chubukov from the play "The Proposal". Ans: In "The Proposal," Natalya and her father Chubukov are initially portrayed as hot-tempered and argumentative characters. Natalya, though sought after by Lomov for marriage, is quick to engage in a heated dispute over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. Her fiery nature is evident as she vehemently defends her position. Chubukov, her father, mirrors this temperament, displaying a similar inclination towards confrontation and disagreement. However, the dynamics abruptly shift when Lomov reveals his true intention – a marriage proposal rather than a debate over land. This unexpected revelation prompts a sudden change in Natalya and Chubukov's demeanor. Their quick turnaround from anger to acceptance showcases a humorous and ironic aspect of their characters. It suggests that their contentious nature is perhaps more rooted in the trivialities of daily life rather than deep-seated animosity. The comedic element arises from the exaggerated reactions of Natalya and Chubukov, adding a layer of satire to their personalities in Anton Chekhov's play. The Tale of Custard The Dragon 2023 Q1. How does the poem ‘The Tale of Custard The Dragon’ differ from the traditional ballad? Q2. What did custard look like? Q3. How did the other pets celebrate Custard getting rid of the pirate? Q4. Describe how custard the dragon fights with the pirate. 2022 Q5. How did Custard prove 'the Cowardly dragon' tag to be untrue? Answer Key Amanda Q1. What impression do you form about Amanda in the poem? Q2. Why does Amanda wish to be a mermaid? Q3. Amanda is alone, but not lonely in the world she envisions. Give instances from the poem to justify. Answer 1. The impression of Amanda in the poem is that of a young person who is being constantly nagged and corrected by someone, presumably an authority figure, likely a parent or guardian. Amanda is given a list of instructions and admonishments throughout the poem, suggesting a sense of control and expectation imposed upon her. Despite being given instructions, Amanda seems to escape into her imagination, creating vivid and parallel worlds where she can experience freedom and tranquility. Answer 2 Amanda wishes to be a mermaid as it provides her with an imaginative escape from the constraints and expectations imposed upon her in the real world. The lines "There is a languid, emerald sea, where the sole inhabitant is me—a mermaid, drifting blissfully" suggest that in her mermaid fantasy, Amanda finds solace and freedom, away from the demands and restrictions of her everyday life. Ans 3 In the poem, Amanda's imaginative worlds provide instances where she is alone but not lonely. For example: In the mermaid world, she describes herself as the sole inhabitant of the emerald sea, drifting blissfully. This solitude is not depicted as a lonely experience but rather as a peaceful and content one. As an orphan roaming the street, she patterns soft dust with her hushed, bare feet. The silence is golden, and the freedom is sweet, indicating a sense of comfort in her state of being alone. When she envisions herself as Rapunzel in a tower, she describes life as tranquil and rare, suggesting that she finds fulfillment and peace in her solitary existence. These instances highlight Amanda's ability to find solace and contentment in her imaginative worlds, even when she is physically alone. 2022 Q3. Don't bite your nails, Amanda ! Don't hunch your shoulders, Amanda What does this reflect about Amanda's mother and Amanda. Q4. Amanda was blamed for a number of things. Mention any two. The Thief's Story Why does Anil not hand over Hari Singh to the police? How does Hari Singh justify to himself his stealing Anil's money? Trust and compassion can reform a person. Justify this statement in the light of the lesson 'The Thief's Story.' What does the thief say about the different reactions of the people when they are robbed ? Why did Hari Singh smile in his most appealing way towards the end of the story? Answer Key The Making of a Scientist 2023 What opinion did Mr. Weiherer, Ebright’s Social Science teacher have about him ?   How did Ebright's mother help him to become a scientist? Why did Richard Ebright raise a flock of butterflies? What lesson did Ebright learn when he did not win anything at a science fair?   A parent should try to be a companion to a child. Explain with reference to Richard s mother. (The Making of a Scientist) 2022 6. What are the essential qualities for becoming a scientist, according to Ebright (The Making of a Scientist) Answer Key (MOAS) Ans: 1. Mr. Weiherer, Ebright's Social Science teacher, had a positive opinion about him. He described Ebright as someone who gave extra effort, was competitive in a good sense, and wanted to be the best for the right reasons. 2. Ebright's mother played a crucial role in his development as a scientist. She encouraged his curiosity, took him on trips, provided him with educational tools, and engaged in activities with him. She was a constant companion and support, especially after his father's death. 3. Richard Ebright raised a flock of butterflies to facilitate his study of their migration patterns. Initially tagging individual butterflies proved tedious, so he opted to raise them from eggs in his basement, allowing for a more comprehensive study of their life cycle and migration. 4. When Richard Ebright didn't win anything at a science fair in the seventh grade, he realized the importance of conducting real experiments rather than presenting a neat display. This experience motivated him to strive for more meaningful scientific research. 5. Richard Ebright's mother was a companion to him, especially after his father's death. They spent evenings together, engaging in various activities and fostering a love for learning. This companionship and support likely contributed significantly to his success in science. 6. According to Ebright, essential qualities for becoming a scientist include a first-rate mind, curiosity, and a competitive spirit driven by the desire to do the best job for the right reasons. These qualities, combined with scientific curiosity, contribute to success in the field of science. The Midnight Visitor How did Ausable get rid of Max without using a weapon? Describe Max as a secret agent.  What does the phrase 'honour among thieves' mean? Why does Horace get angry at this phrase? A Triumph of Surgery What was Mr. Herriot’s strict advice ? Did Mrs. Pumphrey agree to his advice ? Why was Mr. Herriot Shocked at Tricki's appearance? How did Mrs. Pumphrey treat Tricki? What excuses did Mrs. Pumphrey make about Mr. Herriot’s advice ? Answer Key Bholi Education is always a great asset in the life of a woman. How did Bholi, an educated girl, face the challenge posed by Bishamber’s greed?  (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) /2-4-1 Bholi was believed to be a dumb cow. What turned her into a fearless, bold and confident girl? Education is considered the most important tool for empowering women in the society. It plays an important role in social and cultural development. Prove the above statements in the light of the of the story 'Bholi'.  (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) Destiny had been cruel to Bholi yet she made a place for herself in a conservative society. Discuss. The credit of Bholi's transformation to Sulekha goes to her teacher. Elaborate with instances from the text in 120 words. 2022 5. Imagine you are Bholi and you have been invited to give a speech on the importance of girl education. Write a speech on 'Girl Education and Empowerment.  6. After reading the story ' Bholi' you find her to be 'a role model' for village girls. Discuss Answer Key The Necklace 2023 Those who are satisfied with what they have are happy in life. Those who aspire more than what they can afford ruin their life. Matilda was one such person. If she were content with her life, she would have led a happy life. Elaborate on the basis of the chapter ‘The Necklace.’ (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)  Mme Loisel's disposition invites her doom. Elucidate with reference to the text. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) Contentment in one's life is very important to lead a peaceful life. We should be happy with what we have and should not crave for what we do not have. Matilda suffered in life because she was not content in her life. Her desires led to her disaster. What do you learn from her mistake in life? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)  Matilda's over-ambitiousness was the cause of her destruction. Justify. Matilda was very proud of her beauty and charm and this led to her downfall. Elaborate. 6. How did the necklace change the life of Loisel ?  2022 6. Matilda realized that one little act of negligence can lead to total ruin. What do you learn from this and how would you move on in life? (The Necklace) Answer Key (2-5-1)/ 2-6-1 From the Diary of Anne Frank Let me put this more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year old girl is completely alone in this world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a sixteen years old sister, and there are almost thirty people I can call friends. I have a family, loving aunts and a good house. No, on the surface I seem to have everything, except my one true friend. All I think about when I am with friends is having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything, but ordinary everyday things. (i) On the surface, it appears that Anne the thirteen-year-old girl _____. (ii) How can we infer that the speaker felt alone in the world ? (a) She had a family of many people. (b) She had loving parents. (c) She had thirty friends. (d) She craves for a true friend. (iii) Anne and her friends talked about _____. (a) their problematic parents (b) their financial problems (c) common everyday things (d) the commuting problems (iv) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text: alone : friends : : nothing : v) Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the idiom ‘bring myself ’ from the extract (a) to do something willingly (b) to do something unwillingly (c) a charitable act (d) an involuntary act Footprints Without Feet Mrs. Hall almost fell down the stairs in hysterics. She was convinced that the room was haunted by spirits and that the stranger had somehow caused these to enter into her furniture. (i) Mrs. Hall tripped because ______ (a) the floor was oily. (b) she was standing on a chair. (c) she was in a state of panic. (d) the door was slammed. (ii) Mrs. Hall suspected everything in the room was put under a spell of witchcraft by ______. (iii) Fill in the blank with one word only : Mrs. Hall was afraid that spirits had entered _______. (iv) According to the extract, the feeling of Mrs. Hall can be best described as (1) stunned (2) happy (3) awestruck (4) nervous (5) outraged (6) agitated Select the correct option: (a) (2) and (4) (b) (3) and (6) (c) (5) and (6) (d) (1) and (6) (v) ‘Spirits’ in the above lines means the same as (a) ghosts (b) conscience (c) ego (d) attitude For Anne Gregory The poet in the poem ' For Anne Gregory' conveys beauty as temporary. Explain with reference to the poem. What is the colour of the woman's hair? Why will she change colour of her hair? How To Tell Wild Animals Though to distinguish beasts of prey A novice might nonplus, The crocodiles you always may Tell from the Hyena thus : Hyenas come with merry smiles; But if they weep they’re crocodiles. 1. Select the appropriate option to complete the sentence, according to the extract Crocodiles can be identified by their _______. (a) tears (b) attitude (c) smiles (d) attacks 2. State whether the following statement is True or False : Hyenas are famous for weeping. 3. ‘Novice’ in line 2 means the same as : (a) learner (b) beast (c) tender foot (d) beginner 4. In this extract the poet has presented two different behavioural traits of animals. They are ______. 5. The poet uses ‘A novice might nonplus” instead of the novice might get confused. How does this usage impact the poem ? (a) adds an incorrect option. (b) it is associated with beasts. (c) it rhymes and adds humour. (d) it simplifies the meaning. A Tiger in the Zoo He stalks in his vivid stripes The few steps of his cage, On pads of velvet quiet, In his quiet rage He should be lurking in shadow Sliding through long grass Near the water hole Where plump deer pass. (i) Complete the sentence appropriately. The vivid stripes refer to the ______. (ii) Which word from the extract is the opposite of ‘loud’ ? (iii) The use of the phrase ‘pads of velvet’ means (a) neck (b) tail (c) skin (d) paws (iv) State whether the following statement is True or False (v) The confinement of the cramped space of the cage has restricted the tiger’s steps. (v) The tiger was lurking in shadow _________ (a) to catch its prey (b) as the cage was dark (c) as the velvet was quiet (d) as he was in a rage Q2. State any three disadvantages that the tiger faces inside a cage. Q3. How would the tiger behave in the forest?

Recap the Most Important Questions from the Whole Syllabus. Flamingo Prose The Last Lesson Q1. What did Franz notice that was unusual about the school that day? Ans: Unlike other days in the school there was no bustle, no lessons repeated in unison. He could see his classmates being aready seated in their places. Mr. Hamel addressed Franz softly and asked him to go to his place very quickly. Mr. Hamel was dressed in his beautiful green coat, his frilled shirt and little black cap, which he normally wore on inspection days. The backbenches of the classroom were occupied by the village elders who looked very grave on that day. Q2. The people in this story suddenly realize how precious their language is to them. What show you this? Why does this happen? Ans: It shows the eruption of patriotic fervor among the people. The imposition of German language on the people of Alsace and Lorraine further strengthened their love for French. They felt that their freedom of expression in their motherland has been held in hostage by the Germans. This happens because people come together during time of identity crisis and try their utmost best to rescue their motherland and mother tongue from the aggressor. Their love for the country and their fellow countrymen suddenly get revamped during such emergency. Q3. Faranz thinks, ‘Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?’ What could this mean? Ans: This sentence could possibly mean that whatsoever hard the imperial power tries to impose their culture on the French, the French would hold fast to their language and remain loyal to it. As they cannot tame a pigeon to sing in German, so it would be very hard for them to embed the German language in the lives of the people of Alsace and Lorraine. Q4. How did M. Hamel say farewell to his students and the people of the town? Ans: M. Halmel bade farewell in a solemn and grave manner. He declared in the class that as the Province of Alsace and Lorraine passed off into the hands of Germans, it was their last French lesson on that day. From the next day onwards, Germany would be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. He requested the class to treasure French in their heart as language is the key to the prison of imperial power. Long Questions 120 words | 5 Marks Q5. What impact did the Franco-Prussian War have on the school in the village of Alsace, France? Substantiate with reference to the text. Ans: 1. Loss of Autonomy and Cultural Suppression The Franco-Prussian War had a profound impact on the school in the village of Alsace, leading to the loss of autonomy and cultural suppression. The mention of Prussian soldiers drilling in the open field near the school indicates the occupation of Alsace by the Prussians. This occupation resulted in the imposition of German as the sole language of instruction in schools, as mentioned in M. Hamel's announcement during the last French lesson. 2. Drastic Change in Language Instruction Policies The text explicitly states that the order from Berlin dictated that only German would be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. This drastic change in language instruction policies reflected the Prussians' attempt to erode the French cultural and linguistic identity of the region. The impact on the school was immediate, as M. Hamel declared the last French lesson, signifying the end of an era of French language education in Alsace. 3. Emotional Response and Realization The announcement of the change in language policy evoked strong emotions among the residents, students, and even M. Hamel himself. The realization of the impending loss of their language and cultural heritage became apparent during M. Hamel's last lesson. The text portrays the shock and sorrow felt by the community members, emphasizing the significance of language in shaping their identity and connecting them to their French heritage. 4. Symbolism in M. Hamel's Attire M. Hamel's choice to wear formal clothes, including a beautiful green coat and an embroidered black silk cap, on the day of the last lesson serves as a symbolic representation of the gravity of the situation. His attire, typically reserved for special occasions, underscores the solemnity and the end of an era in the school's history. It symbolizes the loss of French cultural symbols and traditions in the face of external forces. 5. Collective Regret and Acknowledgment of Mistakes M. Hamel, in his final address, acknowledges the collective regret and mistakes made by both the students and their parents. He highlights the procrastination and lack of commitment to learning, suggesting that these personal shortcomings contributed to the vulnerability of the community when faced with cultural assimilation. This acknowledgment adds a human dimension to the impact of the Franco-Prussian War on the school, emphasizing the role of individual choices in shaping the destiny of the community. In conclusion, the Franco-Prussian War brought about a significant transformation in the school in Alsace, France, marked by the loss of linguistic autonomy, cultural suppression, and a poignant realization of the importance of language in preserving identity. Q6. Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going. Justify this statement with reference to how Hamel demonstrated his last lesson in the story. 1. Cultural Identity Through Language In M. Hamel's last lesson, language is portrayed as a crucial element of cultural identity. The French language serves as a road map, indicating the origin and direction of the people in Alsace. Hamel emphasizes the beauty, clarity, and logic of the French language, asserting its significance in preserving the cultural heritage of the region. 2. Resistance Against Cultural Assimilation Hamel's last lesson becomes a symbolic act of resistance against cultural assimilation. By teaching the final lesson in French despite the Prussian mandate, he defiantly upholds the cultural road map of Alsace. The proclamation "Vive La France!" written on the blackboard signifies a commitment to the cultural journey rooted in the French language, resisting the imposition of German. 3. Preservation of Cultural Memory Through his passionate teaching, Hamel attempts to engrain the French language in the memories of the students. He underscores the importance of holding onto their language as a key to preserving their cultural memory. The lesson becomes a poignant reminder of the cultural road map that is being threatened by external forces. In conclusion, M. Hamel's last lesson exemplifies how language acts as a road map, shaping cultural identity, resisting assimilation, and preserving the collective memory of a community. 2. Lost Spring Q7. Rag picking has accomplished itself as a skill and form of art in Seemapuri. What factors are responsible for abject poverty among the slum dwellers? Ans: Abject poverty in Seemapuri's slums, as portrayed in "Lost Spring," is fueled by several factors. Rampant unemployment, lack of educational opportunities, and the absence of basic amenities contribute to the dire living conditions. The exploitation of children in rag-picking, rather than attending school, further perpetuates the cycle of poverty. Q8. Saheb’s full name, Saheb-e-Alam, means ‘lord of the universe’. Explain the irony involved in the statement. Ans: The irony in Saheb's full name, Saheb-e-Alam, meaning 'lord of the universe,' lies in the stark contrast between the grandeur and expansiveness suggested by the title and the harsh, impoverished reality of Saheb's life. While his name implies a position of cosmic significance and authority, Saheb's daily existence revolves around scrounging for gold in garbage dumps, reflecting the irony of his lofty name in the face of his marginalized, impoverished circumstances. Q9. Why do you think the author uses a hyperbole when he says that in Firozabad, families make ‘bangles for all the women in the land? Ans: The use of hyperbole in the statement "families make 'bangles for all the women in the land" in Firozabad serves to emphasize the pervasive and extensive nature of the bangle-making industry in the town. It exaggerates the scale of production, suggesting that the majority, if not all, women in the land wear bangles originating from Firozabad. This hyperbolic expression aims to emphasize the town's centrality in the bangle trade, portraying it as a dominant force in supplying this traditional ornament across a wide geographical area. Q10. ‘She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her eyes.’ Mention the health hazards in working in badly lit and poorly ventilated furnaces. The phrase "She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her eyes" reflects the health hazards of working in poorly lit and poorly ventilated glass furnaces. It symbolizes the adverse effects on vision, respiratory health, and overall well-being, portraying the physical and emotional toll of the hazardous working conditions in Firozabad. Q11.  Write two instances to prove that the young men echo the lament of their elders in Firozabad. 1. The young men in Firozabad express a shared lament when they mention the cyclical challenges of poverty, apathy, greed, and injustice that have trapped their fathers and forefathers. This echoes the generational struggle and the perception that little has changed over time. 2. The resistance to organizing into a cooperative reflects the young men's belief that even if they unite, they would face legal consequences, police brutality, and imprisonment, similar to the experiences of their fathers. This showcases a shared resignation and acceptance of their predicament in Firozabad. Long Questions 120 words | 5 Marks Q12. Poverty is not just lack of money; it is not having the capability to realise one’s full potential as a human being. (Amartya Sen). Justify the statement in the light of realising Saheb's & Mukesh's potentials in life. Ans: Saheb and Mukesh's stories reveal that poverty goes beyond financial constraints, hindering the fulfillment of their true potential. Lack of Economic Resources: Saheb, a ragpicker in Seemapuri, and Mukesh, a child laborer in Firozabad, exemplify Amartya Sen's perspective on poverty. Both face economic deprivation, lacking the resources to fulfill basic needs, hindering the realization of their potential. Limited Educational Opportunities: Saheb's inability to attend school due to the absence of educational facilities in his neighborhood constrains his learning and growth. Similarly, Mukesh's engagement in hazardous labor prevents him from accessing formal education, limiting his intellectual development. Constrained Aspirations: The dreams of Saheb to attend a school if one is built and Mukesh aspiring to be a motor mechanic reflect their constrained aspirations. Limited exposure and opportunities curtail their ability to envision and pursue broader life goals. Impact on Human Development: Amartya Sen's notion extends beyond financial constraints to encompass the inhibition of human capabilities. Saheb and Mukesh, constrained by their circumstances, struggle to realize their full potential as human beings, embodying the multidimensional aspect of poverty. Q13. Explain the societal problem in which the bangle makers of Firozabad are caught in Anees Jung’s ‘Lost Spring’. Anees Jung's 'Lost Spring' delves into the poignant societal problem plaguing the bangle makers of Firozabad. Trapped in a cycle of poverty, they grapple with discrimination, exploitation, and an absence of opportunities. Generational Entrapment: The bangle makers of Firozabad find themselves ensnared in a perpetual cycle of poverty, passed down through generations. Despite their artistic skill, the lack of alternative opportunities and education traps them in a vocation that offers meager returns. Caste-Based Struggles: Born into a caste associated with bangle making, the community faces societal discrimination. Limited by their hereditary occupation, they struggle to break free from the predetermined destiny dictated by societal norms. Exploitation and Lack of Initiative: Exploited by middlemen, police, and corrupt officials, the bangle makers lack the initiative to organize themselves into cooperatives. The absence of leadership leaves them vulnerable to systemic injustices, reinforcing the cycle of poverty and despair. Inherent Injustice: Despite their intricate craftsmanship, the bangle makers remain trapped in destitution, highlighting the inherent injustice ingrained in the social and economic fabric. Anees Jung's narrative highlights the complex web of societal problems that bind the lives of these artisans in 'Lost Spring.' Deep Water Q14. “My introduction to the Y.M.CA. swimming pool revived unpleasant memories and stirred childish fears.” Describe the author's nightmarish experience. The author's nightmarish experience at the YMCA swimming pool began when a larger boy, seemingly friendly, abruptly tossed him into the deep end. The sudden plunge triggered panic as he struggled underwater. Recalling a childhood incident at a California beach where powerful waves overwhelmed him, the author felt a resurgence of terror. The struggle for breath, disorientation, and fear of drowning left an indelible mark, stirring deep-seated childhood fears and making the YMCA pool a haunting reminder of the nightmarish ordeal. Q15.  Describe both the physical and emotional impacts that the misadventure at the YMCA pool had on the narrator. Physical Impact: The misadventure at the YMCA pool had immediate physical consequences for the narrator. When thrown into the deep end, he experienced a moment of panic, swallowing water upon impact. As he sank to the pool's bottom, the lack of air and the struggle to reach the surface resulted in a desperate fight for breath. The physical exertion, coupled with the fear, left him weak, trembling, and vomiting after being rescued. Emotional Impact: The emotional impact of the misadventure was profound and long-lasting. The incident revived childhood fears associated with water, particularly from a previous traumatic experience at a California beach. The narrator's initial aversion to the water, stemming from his early years, was intensified. The terror and helplessness he felt during the incident imprinted a lasting fear of water, affecting his emotional well-being for days, leading to a haunting fear and avoidance of water-related activities. Q16. Getting rid of fear is an extremely difficult task. Elucidate with reference to the chapter “Deep Water”. In the chapter "Deep Water" by William Douglas, the author vividly describes his intense fear of water, which originated from a traumatic experience in a swimming pool during his childhood. The narrative illustrates the enduring and challenging nature of overcoming fear. 1. Childhood Trauma: The author's fear of water was deeply rooted in a childhood incident where he was thrown into a swimming pool and struggled to stay afloat. This traumatic experience left a lasting imprint on his psyche, making it extremely difficult for him to confront and overcome his fear. 2. Persistence of Fear: Despite attempts to overcome his fear, the author finds that it persists over the years. The haunting memories of the near-drowning incident continued to affect him, even as he engaged with various water-related activities such as fishing and canoeing. The fear became a significant handicap, impacting his enjoyment of these activities. 3. Attempted Solutions: The author tries various methods to conquer his fear, including hiring a swimming instructor and practicing extensively in a controlled environment. However, the fear remains deeply ingrained, resurfacing each time he faces the prospect of being in the water alone. 4. Gradual Progress: The process of overcoming fear is depicted as gradual and challenging. The swimming instructor breaks down the learning process into smaller steps, addressing each fear-inducing aspect individually. It takes months of consistent effort before the author begins to see progress in controlling his panic reactions. 5. Final Triumph: The author's ultimate triumph over his fear comes after a series of deliberate and progressively challenging experiences. From swimming in a pool to crossing a lake and eventually swimming in a glacier-fed lake, each achievement contributes to his growing confidence. The final test involves confronting the fear head-on in a natural setting, symbolizing the complete conquering of his deep-seated terror. In summary, the chapter "Deep Water" underscores the arduous and lengthy process of overcoming fear, particularly when it is rooted in a traumatic experience. The author's journey reflects the persistence required to gradually dismantle the layers of fear and regain a sense of freedom. Q17. Roosevelt said, ‘All we have to fear is fear itself.’ Discuss the role of the swimming instructor & the narrator's subsequent efforts in conquering his fear of water. Introduction: Roosevelt's famous quote, "All we have to fear is fear itself," becomes a poignant backdrop for the narrative in "Deep Water" by William Douglas. The protagonist, haunted by a childhood near-drowning incident, grapples with an overwhelming fear of water. The subsequent involvement of a swimming instructor becomes a crucial element in his journey towards conquering this deep-seated fear. Role of the Swimming Instructor: The swimming instructor plays a pivotal role in the narrator's quest to overcome his fear. By breaking down the learning process into manageable steps, the instructor addresses each fear-inducing aspect individually. The use of a safety belt and controlled exercises gradually desensitizes the narrator to the panic that water induces. The instructor's patient guidance and systematic approach provide the necessary framework for the narrator's gradual progress. Subsequent Efforts of the Narrator: The narrator's efforts extend beyond the structured lessons, involving consistent practice and exposure to water in various settings. From controlled pool environments to open lakes and even a glacier-fed lake, each experience contributes to his growing confidence. The narrator's determination to confront and challenge his fear head-on becomes a testament to Roosevelt's idea that fear, when faced directly, loses its power. Conclusion: Through the collaboration with a skilled instructor and his own persistent efforts, the narrator successfully dismantles the layers of fear associated with water. The journey illustrates that, indeed, the primary obstacle was the fear itself, and by actively engaging with it, the narrator emerges triumphant over his once-crippling phobia. The Rattrap Q18. How does the peddler’s conception of the world as a rattrap breed in his mind? Ans: The peddler's conception of the world as a rattrap develops in his mind through a series of reflections and observations, as described in the story. His realization stems from his own experiences as a struggling peddler, facing hardships and deprivation in his vagabond life. As he plods along the road, left to his own meditations, the monotony and challenges of his existence lead him to a particular line of thought. While thinking about his rattraps, the peddler is struck by the idea that the entire world, with its lands, seas, cities, and villages, serves as a colossal rattrap. Q19. How was the identity of the peddler brought to light? The rattrap seller's mistaken identity as Captain von Stahle was exposed in the ironmaster's house. Despite the peddler being groomed and dressed in the ironmaster's clothes, the ironmaster's scrutiny revealed the true nature of the peddler's identity. The ironmaster realized the discrepancy between the peddler's appearance and the expected features of his old regimental comrade, Nils Olof. Q20. How did the peddler pay his gratitude to ironmaster & his daughter? The peddler expressed his gratitude to the ironmaster and his daughter by leaving a small package as a Christmas present. The package contained a rattrap and three ten-kronor notes. In a letter, he explained that the rattrap was a Christmas present from a rat (himself) who had been raised to captain, and he wished them well. Long Questions ( 120 Words | 5 Marks ) Q21. Despite his philosophical insights, the vagabond fails to resist temptations. What would you attribute this to? Explain with reference to any instance from the text. The Vagabond's Philosophical Insights The vagabond's philosophical insights, portraying the world as a rattrap, demonstrate a profound contemplation on the challenges of existence. This perspective reflects a keen awareness of life's traps and the temptations that individuals encounter in their journeys. The Temptation and the Vulnerability However, despite his philosophical depth, the vagabond's vulnerability becomes evident in a specific instance from the text. When generously welcomed into the cottage by a crofter and provided with hospitality, the allure of immediate gain proves overpowering. The vagabond succumbs to the temptation of stealing a money pouch hanging by the window. Struggle for Survival vs. Philosophical Reflections This moment highlights the inherent struggle between survival instincts and philosophical reflections. While the vagabond holds insightful perspectives on the world, the pressing reality of his destitute condition takes precedence. The immediate need for thirty kronor outweighs the broader philosophical musings about the world being a rattrap. Complexities of Human Behaviour This instance serves as a poignant illustration of the complexities of human behaviour. It emphasizes that individuals, despite holding profound insights, may succumb to immediate temptations when faced with the harsh realities of their circumstances. The vagabond's actions highlight the constant interplay between higher-level ideals and the pragmatic demands of survival in the intricate tapestry of human experience. Q22. How did the concept of 'bait' illustrated through the character peddler in the story? Explain with the help of instances given in the story. Ans: The concept of 'bait' is vividly illustrated through the character of the peddler in the story, portraying the enticements and traps that the world presents to individuals. The term 'bait' symbolizes alluring offers and temptations that lead individuals into unforeseen circumstances. 1. Rattraps as Bait: The peddler himself creates rattraps, using them as a metaphor for the larger world. These rattraps, designed to catch rats with cheese and pork, symbolize the enticements that the world offers to people. 2. The Old Man's Hospitality: The old man's generosity and hospitality serve as bait for the peddler. Welcomed into the cottage, the peddler is tempted by the warmth, supper, and the prospect of a comfortable night. 3. The Money Pouch as Temptation: The money pouch hanging by the window becomes a bait for the peddler. Despite his philosophical insights, he succumbs to the temptation, illustrating how immediate gains can overshadow higher principles. 4. The World as a Rattrap: The overarching theme of the world as a rattrap reinforces the idea that everything offered by the world, be it joys or riches, serves as bait to lure individuals into unforeseen traps. The peddler's experiences exemplify how individuals, like rats enticed by the promise of reward, can find themselves ensnared in life's intricate rattraps. Q23. Both the crofter & Edla Wilmanson were kind towards the peddler. But the peddler's attitude towards the both was a mismatch. Why do you think Edla was more persuasive than the crofter in the transformation of the peddler? Make a comparative answer with instances from the text. Introduction: In the narrative, the peddler encounters kindness from both the crofter and Edla Willmansson, yet his response to each differs significantly. While the crofter's generosity provides temporary relief, it is Edla's compassion that leads to a transformative impact on the peddler. Crofter's Kindness: A Temporary Respite The crofter at Ramsjo Ironworks extends kindness to the peddler by providing shelter, supper, and even sharing the earnings from his remarkable cow. However, the peddler's interaction with the crofter seems to be more transactional. Despite the crofter's generosity, the peddler doesn't form a personal connection or express deep gratitude. The crofter's kindness offers a temporary respite, but it doesn't deeply impact the peddler's perspective on life. Edla Willmansson's Persuasion: A Genuine Connection Edla Willmansson, on the other hand, goes beyond mere generosity. Her approach is marked by genuine compassion and an attempt to understand the peddler's predicament. Edla sees beyond his ragged exterior, addressing him as "Captain" and expressing sympathy for his hardships. Her kindness is not just material; she persuades him to accept her family's hospitality during Christmas. Edla's sincere efforts at human connection and her genuine concern for the peddler contribute significantly to his transformation. Comparative Analysis: Edla's Impactful Approach While both the crofter and Edla show kindness, Edla's approach is more persuasive in transforming the peddler. Her genuine empathy and efforts to connect with him on a personal level go beyond material assistance. Edla's persuasion is rooted in understanding the peddler's emotional needs, offering him not just physical comfort but a sense of belonging and compassion. This stark contrast in approach makes Edla's impact more profound, contributing to the peddler's unexpected transformation from a mere vagabond to someone capable of reciprocating kindness with a thoughtful Christmas present. Indigo Q24. How did Gandhiji tell the court that he was involved in ' a conflict of duties'? Ans: In the Champaran court, Gandhi explained that he was involved in a "conflict of duties" as he pleaded guilty. He clarified that, on one hand, he did not want to set a bad example as a lawbreaker, respecting lawful authority. On the other hand, he felt a duty to render "humanitarian and national service" for which he had come to Champaran. Gandhi emphasized that his disobedience was not due to a lack of respect for lawful authority but stemmed from obedience to what he referred to as the "higher law of our being" – the voice of conscience. This expression encapsulated Gandhi's philosophy of Satyagraha, where individuals prioritize their moral convictions over obedience to laws they consider unjust or oppressive. Q25. What were the terms of the indigo contract between the British landlords and the Indian farmers? Ans: The indigo contract in Champaran mandated sharecroppers to cultivate 15% of their land with indigo, surrendering the entire harvest as rent. The agreement became more complicated when synthetic indigo was introduced, leading to landlords seeking compensation for releasing sharecroppers from the arrangement. Q26. 'The battle of Champaran is won.' When and why did Gandhi utter these words? Ans: Gandhi uttered the words "The battle of Champaran is won" when lawyers, including Rajendra Prasad and others, agreed to court arrest and join him in jail. This occurred after Gandhi's disobedience, the spontaneous peasant demonstration, and the summons to court, forcing the authorities to confront the collective strength of nonviolent resistance. Q27. What made the Lieutenant Governor drop the case against Gandhi? The Lieutenant Governor dropped the case against Gandhi in Champaran due to the overwhelming support from the local population and the formidable presence of thousands of peasants demonstrating outside the courthouse. Faced with this mass mobilization and potential unrest, the authorities found themselves powerless without Gandhi's cooperation, leading to the decision to drop the case. Long Question | 120 words | 5 Marks Q28. Gandhi not only alleviated the economic conditions of the Champaran people but also their social and cultural background. Justify. Ans: Educational Reforms: Gandhi's commitment to social transformation in Champaran extended to addressing educational gaps. He appealed for teachers, leading to the establishment of primary schools, aiming to uplift the community's educational standards. Health and Hygiene Initiatives: Recognizing the poor health conditions, Gandhi took steps to improve healthcare. A volunteered doctor provided medical assistance, and basic medicines were distributed. Efforts to enhance personal cleanliness and community sanitation were also emphasized. Empowering Women: Gandhi's concern for women's conditions in Champaran manifested in instructions to address clothing issues. This initiative aimed at empowering women and improving their living conditions, contributing to broader societal upliftment. Self-Reliance and Holistic Transformation: Gandhi's emphasis on self-reliance went beyond economic aspects, fostering a holistic societal transformation. His vision integrated education, health, and empowerment initiatives, aiming to break social and cultural backwardness and create an inclusive and empowered community. Conclusion : The Champaran episode exemplifies Gandhi's multifaceted approach, not only addressing economic injustices but also laying the foundation for comprehensive social development. His initiatives formed an integral part of India's journey towards independence. Q29. How did Civil disobedience triumph for the first time in India? The triumph of civil disobedience in Champaran marked a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence. Gandhi's principled stand and united peasant support showcased the power of nonviolent resistance. 1. Gandhi's Defiance and Court Summons: Responding to indigo sharecroppers' grievances, Gandhi refused to leave Champaran, defying British orders. Summons to court followed, marking an act of civil disobedience against unjust authority. 2. Spontaneous Peasant Support: News of Gandhi's summons spread rapidly among peasants. Thousands demonstrated outside the courthouse, showcasing massive and spontaneous support for Gandhi. 3. Authorities Powerless without Cooperation: - Faced with united peasant strength, British authorities were powerless. - Officials requested trial delay, acknowledging potential unrest without Gandhi's cooperation. 4. Case Dropped - Triumph of Civil Disobedience: - Influenced by the situation and support for Gandhi, the Lieutenant-Governor dropped the case. - First modern instance of civil disobedience's triumph in India, signaling the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance. 5. Impact and Symbolism: - Champaran episode symbolized civil disobedience's power against British rule. - Inspired confidence in peaceful mobilization to challenge colonial authority. Conclusion: - Champaran's success laid the foundation for Gandhi's Satyagraha philosophy, influencing future movements in India's struggle for independence.

NCERT Solution NCERT Official Audio Lecture on The Third Level by Jack Finney BIOGRAPHY Jack Finney’s first novel, ‘5 Against the House’, was published in 1954. It was made into a movie the following year. Finney's greatest success came with his science fiction novel Time and Again (1970). It involves time travel to the past, a theme he had experimented with previously in short stories. In 1987, Finney was given the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement at the World Fantasy Convention. He lived in Mill Valley, California, and died of pneumonia and emphysema in Greenbrae, California, at the age of 84. THEME The lesson explores the science fiction genre of ‘time travel’. The author interweaves fantasy with reality in his projection of time travel. It is a story that weaves together a psychological journey into the past and present. The lesson highlights the harsh realities of War. War has irreversible consequences thus leaving people in a state of insecurity. Charley, the protagonist, wishes to be transported to the third level, the world of Galesburg, Illinois, 1894. The story also deals with theme of escapism as a psychological refuge from the grim realities of the present day world. It is also about modern day problems and how common man tends to escape reality by various means. Paraphrase in Easy English Page 1 ( Para 1) THE presidents of the New York Central and the New York, New Haven and Hartford railroads will swear on a stack of timetables that there are only two. But I say there are three, because I’ve been on the third level of the Grand Central Station. Yes, I’ve taken the obvious step: I talked to a psychiatrist friend of mine, among others. I told him about the third level at Grand Central Station, and he said it was a wakingdream wish fulfillment. He said I was unhappy. That made my wife kind of mad, but he explained that he meant the modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and all the rest of it, and that I just want to escape. Well, who doesn’t? Everybody I know wants to escape, but they don’t wander down into any third level at Grand Central Station. Paraphrase in Easy English The presidents of the New York Central and New York, New Haven, and Hartford railroads will say that there are only two levels in Grand Central Station. But I believe there is a third level because I have been there myself. I spoke to a psychiatrist friend of mine about it, and he said that it is just a dream-like experience where my wishes come true. He also mentioned that I am unhappy, which made my wife a bit angry. However, he explained that he meant the modern world is filled with insecurity, fear, war, and worries, and I simply want to escape from it all. Well, who doesn't? Almost everyone I know wants to escape, but they don't go wandering into the third level at Grand Central Station. Glossary swear on a stack of timetables: In the context of the story "The Third Level," the phrase "swear on a stack of timetables" is a figure of speech used to emphasize the certainty and conviction of the presidents of the New York Central and New York, New Haven, and Hartford railroads in their assertion that there are only two levels in Grand Central Station. It suggests that they are absolutely certain about their statement, to the point of making a strong oath, as if they were swearing on a stack of important documents. Grand Central Station: Grand Central Station, also known as Grand Central Terminal, is a major transportation hub located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It is one of the most iconic and historic train stations in the United States. Grand Central Station serves as a terminal for commuter trains and intercity trains, primarily operated by the Metro-North Railroad. In the context of the story "The Third Level," Grand Central Station refers to the real-life transportation hub located in New York City. The protagonist of the story, Charley, discovers a mysterious third level within Grand Central Station that is not officially recognized by the authorities. Page 1&2 (Para 2) But that’s the reason, he said, and my friends all agreed. Everything points to it, they claimed. My stamp collecting, for example; that’s a ‘temporary refuge from reality.’ Well, maybe, but my grandfather didn’t need any refuge from reality; things were pretty nice and peaceful in his day, from all I hear, and he started my collection. It’s a nice collection too, blocks of four of practically every U.S. issue, first-day covers, and so on. President Roosevelt collected stamps too, you know. Paraphrase in Easy English According to the protagonist's psychiatrist friend and his friends, the reason why the protagonist believes in the existence of the third level is because he wants to escape from the challenges of reality. He believes that everything in his life, including his stamp collecting hobby, is a way for him to temporarily escape from the difficulties of the modern world. The protagonist, however, disagrees with this explanation. He mentions that his grandfather, who lived in a different time, didn't need to escape from reality because things were peaceful during his grandfather's era. He takes pride in his collection, which includes blocks of four of almost every U.S. stamp issue, as well as first-day covers. To support his argument, the protagonist mentions that even President Roosevelt, a respected figure, collected stamps as well. Glossary: temporary refuge from reality.’ the phrase "temporary refuge from reality" refers to engaging in activities or hobbies that provide a temporary escape or diversion from the challenges, stresses, and uncertainties of everyday life. blocks of four of practically every U.S. issue The phrase "blocks of four of practically every U.S. issue" refers to the protagonist's stamp collection. It means that the protagonist has collected sets of four stamps together for almost every stamp issue released in the United States. Do you Know? Stamp collectors often seek to obtain complete sets of stamps, which may include different denominations, designs, or themes. These sets are typically organized in various formats, such as blocks, which are groups of four stamps arranged in a square or rectangular shape. first-day covers "first-day covers" are special envelopes that have a stamp attached to them and are stamped by the post office on the very first day that stamp is released. Stamp collectors like to collect these envelopes because they are considered special and unique. They represent the first use of a new stamp, and they have a special postmark that shows the date of the stamp's release. Page 2 (Para 1) Anyway, here’s what happened at Grand Central. One night last summer I worked late at the office. I was in a hurry to get uptown to my apartment so I decided to take the subway from Grand Central because it’s faster than the bus. Paraphrase in Easy English One night last summer, he worked late at the office. He was in a hurry to get uptown to his apartment, so he decided to take the subway from Grand Central because it's faster than the bus. Page 2 (Para 2) Now, I don’t know why this should have happened to me. I’m just an ordinary guy named Charley, thirty-one years old, and I was wearing a tan gabardine suit and a straw hat with a fancy band; I passed a dozen men who looked just like me. And I wasn’t trying to escape from anything; I just wanted to get home to Louisa, my wife. Paraphrase in Easy English In simple terms, the protagonist, a regular guy named Charley who was thirty-one years old, experienced something unexpected. He was dressed like many other men he saw, wearing a tan suit and a straw hat with a nice band. He wasn't trying to run away from anything or anyone; he just wanted to go back home to his wife, Louisa. Despite being an ordinary person, something out of the ordinary occurred in his life. Page 2 (Para 3) I turned into Grand Central from Vanderbilt Avenue, and went down the steps to the first level, where you take trains like the Twentieth Century. Then I walked down another flight to the second level, where the suburban trains leave from, ducked into an arched doorway heading for the subway — and got lost. That’s easy to do. I’ve been in and out of Grand Central hundreds of times, but I’m always bumping into new doorways and stairs and corridors. Once I got into a tunnel about a mile long and came out in the lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel. Another time I came up in an office building on Forty-sixth Street, three blocks away. Paraphrase in Easy English I went into Grand Central from Vanderbilt Avenue and went down the stairs to the first level where trains like the Twentieth Century go. Then I went down more stairs to the second level where suburban trains leave from. I went through an arched doorway to get to the subway but ended up getting lost. It's easy to get lost in Grand Central because there are many different doorways, stairs, and corridors. Even though I've been there many times, I always discover new paths. Once, I ended up in a long tunnel and came out in the lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel. Another time, I ended up in an office building on Forty-sixth Street, three blocks away. Page 2-3 (Para 1) Sometimes I think Grand Central is growing like a tree, pushing out new corridors and staircases like roots. There’s probably a long tunnel that nobody knows about feeling its way under the city right now, on its way to Times Square, and maybe another to Central Park. And maybe — because for so many people through the years Grand Central has been an exit, a way of escape — maybe that’s how the tunnel I got into... But I never told my psychiatrist friend about that idea Paraphrase in Easy English Sometimes I imagine that Grand Central is growing like a tree. It feels like it's extending new corridors and staircases, similar to how roots spread out. I think there might be a long tunnel under the city, unknown to anyone, making its way to Times Square. Maybe there's another tunnel leading to Central Park too. And perhaps, because Grand Central has been an escape route for many people over the years, that's how I ended up in the tunnel by accident. But I never shared this idea with my psychiatrist friend. Page 3 (Para 2) The corridor I was in began angling left and slanting downward and I thought that was wrong, but I kept on walking. All I could hear was the empty sound of my own footsteps and I didn’t pass a soul. Then I heard that sort of hollow roar ahead that means open space and people talking. The tunnel turned sharp left; I went down a short flight of stairs and came out on the third level at Grand Central Station. For just a moment I thought I was back on the second level, but I saw the room was smaller, there were fewer ticket windows and train gates, and the information booth in the centre was wood and oldlooking. And the man in the booth wore a green eyeshade and long black sleeve protectors. The lights were dim and sort of flickering. Then I saw why; they were open-flame gaslights. Paraphrase in Easy English The corridor I was walking in started to curve left and slope downward, which made me think it might be the wrong way. But I continued walking anyway. The only sound I could hear was the echo of my own footsteps, and I didn't encounter a single person. Then, I heard a distant noise and voices, as if there was an open space up ahead with people talking. The tunnel abruptly turned left, and I went down a short set of stairs and found myself on the third level of Grand Central Station. For a moment, I thought I had returned to the second level, but I noticed that the room was smaller and there were fewer ticket windows and train gates. I noticed a man sitting in the booth. He was wearing a green visor that covered his eyes and long black sleeves that protected his arms. The lighting in the area was not very bright, and the lights seemed to flicker. Then I realized the reason behind this—those lights were actually open-flame gaslights, which created a dim and slightly flickering glow in the surroundings. Page 4 (Para 1) There were brass spittoons on the floor, and across the station a glint of light caught my eye; a man was pulling a gold watch from his vest pocket. He snapped open the cover, glanced at his watch and frowned. He wore a derby hat, a black four-button suit with tiny lapels, and he had a big, black, handlebar mustache. Then I looked around and saw that everyone in the station was dressed like eighteen-ninety-something; I never saw so many beards, sideburns and fancy mustaches in my life. A woman walked in through the train gate; she wore a dress with leg-of mutton sleeves and skirts to the top of her high-buttoned shoes. Back of her, out on the tracks, I caught a glimpse of a locomotive, a very small Currier & Ives locomotive with a funnel-shaped stack. And then I knew. Paraphrase in Easy English As I looked around, I noticed brass spittoons on the floor. Suddenly, a glimmer of light caught my attention. I saw a man across the station taking out a gold pocket watch from his vest. He opened the cover, checked the time, and seemed displeased. He was wearing a derby hat, a black suit with small lapels, and had a large, black mustache styled like a handlebar. Then I observed that everyone in the station was dressed in a fashion reminiscent of the 1890s. I had never seen so many beards, sideburns, and fancy mustaches in one place before. A woman entered through the train gate wearing a dress with puffy sleeves and a skirt that reached the top of her buttoned shoes. In the distance, on the tracks, I caught a glimpse of a locomotive. It was a small Currier & Ives locomotive with a funnel-shaped smokestack. That's when I realized something significant. Glossary: derby hat: A derby hat, also known as a bowler hat, is a type of round, stiff-brimmed hat. It is typically made of felt and has a rounded crown. Derby hats were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and were commonly worn by men as a fashionable accessory. They were often associated with formal or business attire and were a common sight in the fashion of the 1890s. tiny lapels Tiny lapels refer to the narrow or small-sized lapels on a suit jacket or coat. Do You Know? Lapels are the folded flaps of fabric on the front of a jacket that are attached to the collar. They can vary in width and style depending on fashion trends and personal preferences. In the context of the story, it suggests that the man's suit had lapels that were narrower or smaller in size compared to the typical or more traditional lapel styles. This detail helps paint a picture of the fashion style of the 1890s, which often featured more understated or slim lapels. handlebar mustache A handlebar mustache is a style of facial hair where the mustache is grown out and styled to curl upward at the ends, resembling the handlebars of a bicycle. The ends of the mustache are typically twisted or shaped using wax or other grooming products to maintain the distinctive shape. Do you Know? The handlebar mustache style was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it is often associated with a more formal or refined appearance. In the context of the story, it indicates that the man had a large mustache styled in this distinctive way, contributing to the overall fashion and aesthetics of the 1890s era. sideburns In the context of the story, the mention of sideburns suggests that many people in the station were sporting facial hair that extended down the sides of their faces, which was a common style during the 1890s. leg-of mutton sleeves In the context of the story, "leg-of-mutton sleeves" refers to a specific style of sleeves worn by a woman entering the train gate. These sleeves are described as being puffy and voluminous at the upper arm, tapering down to a fitted cuff at the wrist. The mention of leg-of-mutton sleeves helps to convey the fashion of the time period, indicating that the woman's dress was designed with this particular style of sleeves commonly seen in the 1890s. Do you Know? Leg-of-mutton sleeves, also known as gigot sleeves, are a style of sleeves that were popular during the late 19th century, particularly in the 1890s. They are characterized by their large, puffy shape at the upper arm, tapering down to a fitted or narrower cuff at the wrist. The sleeves resemble the shape of a leg of mutton, hence the name. Currier & Ives locomotive A Currier & Ives locomotive refers to a type of steam locomotive that was commonly depicted in the artwork and prints created by the Currier & Ives publishing firm during the 19th century. Do you Know? Currier & Ives was known for producing popular lithographs and prints that showcased various scenes of American life, including landscapes, cityscapes, and transportation. The term "Currier & Ives locomotive" in the context of the story suggests that the protagonist caught a glimpse of a small locomotive on the tracks that resembled the ones often depicted in Currier & Ives prints. These locomotives typically had a distinctive appearance with a funnel-shaped smokestack and other characteristic features associated with steam locomotives of the time. By mentioning a Currier & Ives locomotive, the story evokes a sense of nostalgia and reinforces the setting of the late 19th century. It helps to create a vivid image of the locomotive and contributes to the overall ambiance and historical context of the scene. funnel-shaped stack In the context of the story, "funnel-shaped stack" refers to the design of the smokestack or chimney on the locomotive that the protagonist catches a glimpse of on the tracks. The term suggests that the smokestack had a shape similar to a funnel, wider at the base and tapering towards the top. The mention of the funnel-shaped stack helps to paint a visual image of the locomotive and its distinctive appearance. It indicates that the locomotive belonged to an older design, characteristic of steam locomotives from the past, such as those seen in the late 19th century. The detail adds to the overall atmosphere and setting of the story, reinforcing the idea that the protagonist has somehow entered a different time period. Page 4 (Para 2) To make sure, I walked over to a newsboy and glanced at the stack of papers at his feet. It was The World; and The World hasn’t been published for years. The lead story said something about President Cleveland. I’ve found that front page since, in the Public Library files, and it was printed June 11, 1894. Paraphrase in Easy English To confirm what was happening, I approached a young boy selling newspapers and looked at the pile of papers by his feet. The newspaper I saw was called The World, but I knew that The World hadn't been published for many years in the present time. On the front page of the newspaper, there was a story related to President Cleveland. Later, I went to the Public Library and searched through their files. I found the exact front page of the newspaper I had seen, and it was dated June 11, 1894. This experience was unusual because it showed that somehow I had traveled back in time. The fact that I found the same newspaper front page in the library's archives served as proof that I had indeed gone back to the year 1894. It added to the mystery and intrigue of my situation. Page 4 (Para 3) I turned toward the ticket windows knowing that here — on the third level at Grand Central — I could buy tickets that would take Louisa and me anywhere in the United States we wanted to go. In the year 1894. And I wanted two tickets to Galesburg, Illinois. Paraphrase in Easy English I walked over to the ticket windows on the third level of Grand Central Station, knowing that from there I could purchase tickets for me and my wife, Louisa, to travel anywhere we wanted in the United States. But there was a catch - we could only travel to places in the year 1894. I specifically asked for two tickets to Galesburg, Illinois, a specific destination I had in mind for our journey. Page 4 (Para 4) Have you ever been there? It’s a wonderful town still, with big old frame houses, huge lawns, and tremendous trees whose branches meet overhead and roof the streets. And in 1894, summer evenings were twice as long, and people sat out on their lawns, the men smoking cigars and talking quietly, the women waving palm-leaf fans, with the fire-flies all around, in a peaceful world. To be back there with the First World War still twenty years off, and World War II over forty years in the future... I wanted two tickets for that. Paraphrase in Easy English Have you ever been to Galesburg? it's a wonderful town. It still has big old houses made of wood, large lawns, and huge trees that create a roof-like canopy over the streets. In 1894, the town had longer summer evenings, and people would spend time sitting outside on their lawns. Men would smoke cigars and have quiet conversations, while women would use palm-leaf fans to keep cool. Fireflies would illuminate the surroundings, creating a peaceful atmosphere. I wanted two tickets to go back to that time, where the First World War was still two decades away and World War II was more than forty years in the future. I longed to experience that serene world again. Page 5 (Para 1) The clerk figured the fare — he glanced at my fancy hatband, but he figured the fare — and I had enough for two coach tickets, one way. But when I counted out the money and looked up, the clerk was staring at me. He nodded at the bills. ‘‘That ain’t money, mister,’’ he said, ‘‘and if you’re trying to skin me, you won’t get very far,’’ and he glanced at the cash drawer beside him. Of course the money was old-style bills, half again as big as the money we use nowadays, and different-looking. I turned away and got out fast. There’s nothing nice about jail, even in 1894. Paraphrase in Easy English The ticket clerk calculated the cost of the tickets. He glanced at my fancy hatband, but he still figured out the fare. I had enough money to buy two coach tickets for a one-way trip. However, when I counted the money and looked up, the clerk stared at me. He pointed out that the bills I had weren't the current money and accused me of trying to cheat him. He looked at the cash drawer next to him, perhaps considering calling the authorities. The money I had was from an older time, with bills that were bigger and had a different appearance than what we use today. I quickly left the scene because I didn't want to end up in jail, even in the year 1894. Page 5 ( Para 2) And that was that. I left the same way I came, I suppose. Next day, during lunch hour, I drew three hundred dollars out of the bank, nearly all we had, and bought old-style currency (that really worried my psychiatrist friend). You can buy old money at almost any coin dealer’s, but you have to pay a premium. My three hundred dollars bought less than two hundred in old-style bills, but I didn’t care; eggs were thirteen cents a dozen in 1894. Paraphrase in Easy English And that was the end of it. I left Grand Central Station the same way I had entered, I think. The following day, during my lunch break, I withdrew three hundred dollars from the bank, which was almost all the money we had. I used that money to purchase old-style currency, and this made my psychiatrist friend concerned. You can buy old money from various coin dealers, but it comes at a higher price. With my three hundred dollars, I could only get less than two hundred dollars' worth of old-style bills, but I didn't mind. In the year 1894, a dozen eggs cost only thirteen cents. Page 5 ( Para 3) But I’ve never again found the corridor that leads to the third level at Grand Central Station, although I’ve tried often enough. Paraphrase in Easy English But since that time, I have been unable to find the corridor that leads to the third level at Grand Central Station, no matter how hard I have tried. Despite my efforts, I haven't been able to locate the same pathway that took me there before. Page 5 (Para 4) Louisa was pretty worried when I told her all this, and didn’t want me to look for the third level any more, and after a while I stopped; I went back to my stamps. But now we’re both looking, every weekend, because now we have proof that the third level is still there. My friend Sam Weiner disappeared! Nobody knew where, but I sort of suspected because Sam’s a city boy, and I used to tell him about Galesburg — I went to school there — and he always said he liked the sound of the place. And that’s where he is, all right. In 1894. Paraphrase in Easy English Louisa was very concerned when I shared all this with her. She didn't want me to continue searching for the third level at Grand Central Station, and eventually, I stopped my efforts. I returned to focusing on my stamp collecting hobby. However, now both Louisa and I are searching for it again every weekend because we have proof that the third level still exists. Our friend Sam Weiner has disappeared, and no one knows where he went. But I have a hunch because Sam always expressed interest in Galesburg when I told him about it. I had attended school there, and he liked the idea of the place. And that's where he ended up, in 1894. Page 5-6 (Para 5) Because one night, fussing with my stamp collection, I found — Well, do you know what a first-day cover is? When a new stamp is issued, stamp collectors buy some and use them to mail envelopes to themselves on the very first day of sale; and the postmark proves the date. The envelope is called a first-day cover. They’re never opened; you just put blank paper in the envelope. Paraphrase in Easy English One night, while I was busy organizing my stamp collection, something surprising happened. I came across a special type of envelope called a "first-day cover." Do you know what that is? When a new stamp is released, collectors buy some and use them to mail envelopes to themselves on the very first day the stamp is available. The postmark on the envelope proves the date it was sent. These envelopes are called first-day covers. They are never opened; instead, blank paper is placed inside the envelope. Page 6 (Para 1) That night, among my oldest first-day covers, I found one that shouldn’t have been there. But there it was. It was there because someone had mailed it to my grandfather at his home in Galesburg; that’s what the address on the envelope said. And it had been there since July 18, 1894 — the postmark showed that — yet I didn’t remember it at all. The stamp was a six-cent, dull brown, with a picture of President Garfield. Naturally, when the envelope came to Granddad in the mail, it went right into his collection and stayed there — till I took it out and opened it. Paraphrase in Easy english That night, while going through my collection of oldest first-day covers, I discovered one that seemed out of place. It shouldn't have been there, but it was. The envelope had been mailed to my grandfather at his home in Galesburg, as stated on the address. Surprisingly, it had been in his possession since July 18, 1894, as shown by the postmark. Strangely, I had no recollection of it. The stamp on the envelope was a six-cent, dull brown one featuring President Garfield. Naturally, when the envelope arrived in the mail, my grandfather added it to his collection and kept it there until I eventually took it out and opened it. Page 6 (Para 2) 941 Willard Street Galesburg, Illinois July 18, 1894 Charley I got to wishing that you were right. Then I got to believing you were right. And, Charley, it’s true; I found the third level! I’ve been here two weeks, and right now, down the street at the Daly’s, someone is playing a piano, and they’re all out on the front porch singing ‘Seeing Nelly Home.’ And I’m invited over for lemonade. Come on back, Charley and Louisa. Keep looking till you find the third level! It’s worth it, believe me! Paraphrase in Easy english The note inside the envelope wasn't blank. It had a message written on it: 941 Willard Street Galesburg, Illinois July 18, 1894 Charley, I started to hope that you were correct. Then I started to believe that you were right. And, Charley, it's true; I discovered the third level! I have been here for two weeks now, and at this very moment, someone is playing the piano down the street at the Daly's house, and everyone is gathered on the front porch, singing the song "Seeing Nelly Home." They have invited me over for some lemonade. Charley and Louisa, come back! Keep searching until you find the third level! It's truly worth it, believe me! The note is from someone in Galesburg, dated July 18, 1894, who is confirming that they have indeed found the elusive third level. They express their excitement and joy about the experiences they are having in the past and invite Charley and Louisa to join them. They encourage them to continue their search for the third level, assuring them that it's worth it. Page 6 (Para 2) The note is signed Sam. At the stamp and coin store I go to, I found out that Sam bought eight hundred dollars’ worth of old-style currency. That ought to set him up in a nice little hay, feed and grain business; he always said that’s what he really wished he could do, and he certainly can’t go back to his old business. Not in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894. His old business? Why, Sam was my psychiatrist. Paraphrase in Easy English The note is signed by someone named Sam. I found out at the stamp and coin store that Sam had purchased eight hundred dollars' worth of old-style money. With that amount, he could start a small business selling hay, feed, and grain, which he had always expressed a desire to do. It seems that Sam cannot return to his previous profession. It's interesting to note that Sam was actually my psychiatrist. STORY SEQUENCE The story begins with the mention of a third level at the Grand Central Station , which in reality has only two levels. Charley informs the entire experience to his psychiatrist friend, Sam. Charley thought he experienced time travel and had reached somewhere in 1890s. His friend, Sam informs him that he has experienced hallucination. According to Sam, in order to avoid the burden of modern life, Charlie experiences the third level of the Grand Central Station. Sam informs Charley that his stamp collection is also an effort from his end to escape into the past. His grandfather also collected stamp but in olden days, they had not experienced consequences of war and there was peace, harmony and security. Charley then explains how he chose to take the Subway to his apartment instead of the usual bus after a late night shift. He did this in order to save time. He describes himself as an ordinary man of 31 dressed in a tan gabardine suit and a straw hat with a fancy band.. Charley comes to the part of the incident where he entered the Grand Central from Vanderbilt Avenue and took the stairs to the first level where one boarded trains like the Twentieth Century. Then he went down another floor to reach the second level from where the suburban trains leave. From there he entered an arched doorway and got lost. Once he entered the wrong lobby and reached Roosevelt Hotel and another time in an office building which was three blocks away. But this time he reaches the third lievel. He wondered that Grand Central was expanding at a very fast rate because Grand Central is a place of exit for innumerable people. The unusual corridor he had entered into began angling left and slanting downward However, he kept on walking. There was no one except him and the voice of his feet echoed. He finally heard the sound of people talking from a distance, then he took a left and walked down the stairs again only to reach the third level of the Grand Central. He noticed, the room was smaller, there were fewer ticket windows and train gates, and the information booth in the centre was wood and old looking. The man in the booth was also different and the station was dim-lit for there were open-flame gaslights. As the clerk calculated the fare, Charley just had enough for one sided journey. Just as he took out money, the clerk informed that this is not the acceptable legal tender. He ran out because he didn’t want to go to jail. The next day during lunch he exchanged his 300 dollar for old style 200 dollars only. The loss does not trouble him as he thinks that in Galesburg everything will be cheaper. But unfortunately he could never find the corridor leading to the third level again despite hard efforts. His wife Louisa was pretty worried when she got to know about it all. And advised him not to look for third level any further. One night Charley came across a first-day cover. It is an envelope (with a stamp on it) that stamp collectors mail to themselves on the first day of its sale to mark the date. The envelopes are blank inside and are not meant to be opened. While searching for stamps, Charlie accidentally discovers a letter, which bears a postmark on a faded six-cent stamp with a picture of president Garfield. The envelope was sent on July 18, 1894 to Charley’s grandfather. The letter reads that Sam had reached the third level and had been there for two weeks. He asks Charley and Louis to never stop searching for the third level and come back. Recapitulation The story revolves around a 31 year old man named Charley, who experienced something weird. One day after work coming from he reached the third level of the Grand Central station (which does not actually exist). He shares his experience with his psychiatrist friend Sam who thought he experienced time travel and had reached somewhere in the eighteen-nineties. He went looking for the third level but failed to find it. It worried his wife. Charley thus resorts to his stamp collection in order to distract himself when suddenly one day he finds a letter from his friend Sam who had gone missing recently. He encourages Charley and Louisa to never stop looking for it. Conclusion This story brings us to the conclusion that people find it difficult to adjust with unpleasant things of everyday life. Like any common man, Charlie too appreciates the ‘pleasures of everyday life.’ He wants to go back to past because 1894 was much more peaceful , secure and quiet than the contemporary world. The insecurities and anxiety that come with war, terror and stress of modern day had occupied the common men like Charlie so much so that he wants a temporary relief from the pungent realities of life. NCERT Solution: Read and Find Out ( Page 1 & 5) 1. What does the third level refer to ? Ans: The third level refers to the medium of escape from the present into the past. It is a psychological adventure for Charley for whom it is an escape from the current day worries, anxieties and tensions. 2. Would Charley ever go back to the ticket-counter on the third level to buy tickets to Galesburg for himself and his wife? Ans: Third Level is a psychological adventure for Charley only. In reality it does not exist. His friend Sam refers to it as 'a waking -dream wish fulfilment only. Therefore, there is no possibility for Charley to ever go back to the ticket -counter on the third level to buy tickets for himself and his wife. Reading with Insight ( Page 7/Vistas) CBE Questions with Answers 1. Do you think that the third level was a medium of escape for Charley? Why? Ans: For Charley the third level was a medium of escape . -a waking -dream wish fulfilment only. He could discover that the modern world was replete with insecurity, fear, war and stress. Therefore, he became nostalgic and travelled psychologically to the past in Galesburg of 1894. 2. What do you infer from Sam's letter to Charley? Ans: Sam was influenced by Charley's insistence on the existence of third level at Grand Central Station. Like Charley he too became stressed from modern day anxiety, fear and tension . Therefore, he escaped into his imaginary world of third level. Sam's letter proves the fact that he was influenced by the Charley's ideas about the third level. The details of Galesburg and the year 1894 , which Sam furnished in his letter, goes on to prove that Sam himself liked the place and endorsed the fact that the third level does exist. 3. 'The modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and stress.' What are the ways in which we attempt to overcome them? Ans: The modern world is replete with workplace pressure, societal pressure and other inescapable burdens of existence. We cannot just bypass them as they are the inevitable truth of life. As we cannot avoid them, we should learn to live with them. Insecurity, fear, war, worry and stress have become embedded into the society owing to pursuit of matter and greed for astronomical attainment in life by the society at large. Therefore, every human being has to pass through this inevitable fact of life. They need to come to terms with every crisis - disaster, war, death and so on. They should remain preoccupied with their respective works, do their woks sincerely with utmost devotion and loyalty and leave the rest to the hands of the circumstances. We must understand that what cannot be cured must be endured. 4. Do you see an intersection of time and space in the story? The story is an example of intersection of time and space. It can be divided into modern world and the world of the 1890s. Firstly, two levels of Grand Central Station highlights the present time where as the third level belongs to the world of Galesburg, Illinois of 1890s. Moreover, the architecture of two levels of Grand Central is different from that of the third level. Secondly, the reference of the writer of 21st century through the mention of New York Central , New York, New Haven , Hartford and of olden time with the reference of Galesburg, Illinois of 1890s clearly presents an intersection of time and space. His visit to the third level of Grand Central and the description of the place indicates the world of the nineteenth century. Thirdly, Charley and his his wife Louisa belong to the modern time, yet he rushes to get two tickets to visit Galesburg of 1894 points to intersection of time and space. Fourthly, the reference of letter that was mailed to Charley's grandfather on July 18, 1894 also hints at intersection of time and space as both Charley and Sam belong to the modern world. 5. Apparent illogicality sometimes turns out to be a futuristic projection. Discuss. After reading the story we get to know that Charley was interested in travelling to Galesburg with his wife Louisa. However, he couldn’t locate the third level again. The first time round, he found the third level by accident. When he reached the ticket-counter, he realised that the currency he had with him was not useful as it belonged to a different period. He went back to convert his three hundred dollars into the “old-style currency” that could enable him to buy two tickets to Galesburg. However, when he returned to the Grand Central, he could not find the corridor leading to the third level. His psychological journey is an instance of illogicality. We can conclude that our minds tend to go back to the past , which is an escape route to get rid of unpleasant reality around. But there may be an indication of some futuristic projecton like the catastrophe theory given in ' The Adventure' by Jayant Narlikar. 6. Philately helps keep the past alive. Discuss other ways in which this is done. What do you think of the human tendency to constantly move between the past, the present and the future? Ans: Philately refers to the collection and study of postage stamps. Stamp collecting certainly makes us nostalgic and gives way to the past world as it has pictures of the people or things of the past. We love to ruminate over the facts and figures of the past when the pictures on the stamps make us feel curious to do research on things that interest us. For instance, the narrator’s seeing the stamps and first-day covers brings to life the past of his grandfather. The other ways in which we can keep the past alive include letter, photographs, historical monuments, paintings and so on. Human beings by nature love to switch between the past, present and future. Past, present and future are interconnected. What we are today is due to our action in the past, and what we shall be tomorrow is due to our action today. So every course of action is related to the past, present and the future. Existential worries act like a catalyst, which compel human mind to move between the past, the present and the future. ‘ The Third Level’ is a study of the human mind caught in this cycle of time. 7. You have rad ‘Adventure’ by Jayant Narlikar in Hornbill Class XI. Compare the interweaving of fantasy and reality in the two chapters. Adventure by Jayant Narlikar supports the catastrophe theory with the help of Professor Gaitonde. He went through the book on the Battle of Panipat and went to the Azad Maidan. The catastrophic influence affected his mind and he read something else in the book later. Similarly in ‘The Third Level’ Charley’s psychiatrist friend Sam diagnoses him as a product of ‘a waking-dream wish fulfilment.’ It is due to Charley’s escap from the modern world of insecurity , fear, war, worry etc When Charley tells his experience of third level to Sam, it strikes his mind that one can visit Galesburg from the third level. Therefore, with the help of catastrophic theory he started thinking of Galesburg and psychologically went there. Charley may have also visited to Galesburg through stamp seeing. Sam’s letter and Charley’s previous visit to Galesburg goes on to prove that there is an interweaving of fantasy and fact into these two stories. Extra Questions Q1. What does the narrator think of Grand Central? What does it symbolize? Ans :The narrator thinks that Grand Central is growing like a tree. It pushes out new corridors and staircases like roots. There are long tunnels under the city on their ways to Times Square and to Central Park. The Grand Central symbolizes the labyrinth that this world is with its intricate and tangled pathways. It has always been an exit, a way to escape. Q2. What strange things did the narrator see when he reached the third level of Grand Central? Ans :Charley noticed a difference in the way things looked at the third level of the Grand Central Station. It was smaller, with fewer ticket counters and had an old look of the 1890s with wooden booths, dim open-flame gaslights, brass spittoons and an old-style locomotive with a funnel shaped stack. Even the people’s attire was old fashioned and men had funny handle-bar mustaches and sideburns. The whole setting was in contrast to the modern times. Q3. How did the narrator come to know that he was actually at the third level of Grand Central? Ans :The narrator walked over to a news boy. He glanced at the stack of newspapers. It was The World and The World had not been published for years. The lead story was about President Cleveland. Later on, he confirmed from the public library files that the newspaper was dated 11th June 1894. Q4. How does the narrator’s psychiatrist friend react to the narrator’s statement that the third level exists? Ans :The narrator’s psychiatrist friend, Sam Weiner, says it is ‘a waking-dream-wish fulfilment’. He says that the narrator is unhappy and the modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war and worry. So, he wants to escape and has created an imaginary third level. Q 5. How did Louisa react when the narrator told his wish to go to the third level to buy tickets? Ans :When the narrator told Louisa about his wish she got pretty worried. She was a loving and a caring wife. She got alarmed at Charley’s claim of having been to the third level. His exchanging the currency was a cause of concern. She thought the third level to be a product of Charley’s imagination and asked him to stop looking for it. However, after some time they both started looking for the third level. Q6. What happened to the narrator’s psychiatrist friend Sam Weiner? Ans : One day the narrator’s psychiatrist friend Sam Weiner disappeared. He always said that he liked Galesburg very much and its sound. From this I deduce that even Sam was affected by the stress of modern living and sought temporary refuge by travelling through time. Q7. Why was Charley sure that his psychiatrist friend had gone back to the year 1894 in Galesburg? Ans :Charley’s psychiatrist friend Sam had disappeared. One night going through his first-day covers, Charley found one dated 1894 and with his Grandfather’s address on it. He opened and found inside a letter from Sam addressed to him. He invited him to the third level saying that it was worth it. Q8. What is the first-day cover? Describe the first-day cover envelope that the narrator found among his collection. Ans : At that time when a new stamp is issued, stamp collectors buy some of them and use them in order to mail envelopes to themselves and the postmark proves the date. That envelope is called the firstday cover. The first-day cover envelope was dated July 18, 1894. It was addressed to his grandfather in Galesburg. It carried a letter from Sam addressed to Charley. The stamp was a six-cent, dull brown, with a picture of President Garfield. Q9. What did the narrator find about Sam Weiner when he went to the stamp and coin store? Ans :When the narrator went to the stamp and coin store he came to know that Sam had bought eight hundred dollars worth of old currency. That ought to set him up in a nice little hay, feed and grain business. He always wanted to do that. He didn’t want to go back to his old business. Not in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894, Charley felt that the services of a psychiatrist would not be needed in Galesburg of 1894, his friend would be jobless there. CBE-Based Questions: Q1. What would have Sam done in Galesburg for his living? Why? [CBSE 2020] Ans: Given the time period in which Sam finds himself in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894, it's likely that he would have pursued a livelihood that aligns with the prevalent economic activities and opportunities of that era. One plausible option for Sam's living could be: Establishing a Business: Sam might have used a portion of the old-style currency he purchased to start a business, considering that he always wished he could own a hay, feed, and grain business. The agricultural nature of Galesburg and the surrounding areas during that time would have provided ample opportunities for such enterprises. Sam's familiarity with city life and his desire for a more straightforward lifestyle could have led him to embrace the agricultural sector as a means of earning a living. Q2.What would you describe as your “waking dream wish fulfilment”? Explain. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] "Waking-dream wish fulfillment," as explained by Sam, refers to the phenomenon of experiencing a dreamlike scenario that fulfills one's deepest desires or wishes while being awake. In the context of the story, the Third Level at Grand Central Station serves as a manifestation of this concept. Q3. What genre does ‘The Third Level’ belong to? "The Third Level" by Jack Finney belongs to the science fiction and fantasy genre. The story explores the concept of time travel and the existence of a mysterious third level at Grand Central Station that allows characters to escape to the past. Q4. Why do you think Charley withdrew nearly all the money he had from the bank to buy old-style currency? [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans: Charley withdrew nearly all the money he had from the bank to buy old-style currency because he needed it to make purchases on the Third Level at Grand Central Station. When he initially tried to buy tickets with modern currency, the clerk rejected it, considering it counterfeit. To avoid suspicion and ensure a successful transaction, Charley exchanged his modern money for old-style bills, matching the currency used in the year 1894 on the Third Level. This decision was driven by Charley's determination to explore the mysterious Third Level and his understanding that the currency of the time was necessary for any transactions in that unique temporal space. Q5. How would you evaluate Sam’s character? Elucidate any two qualities, and substantiate with evidence from the text. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans: 1. Curiosity and Adventurous Spirit: Sam's character displays a strong sense of curiosity and an adventurous spirit. He actively explores the mysterious Third Level, embracing the idea of time travel and the opportunity to experience life in a different era. The evidence for this quality is found in Sam's letter, where he expresses his excitement about finding the Third Level: "I got to wishing that you were right. Then I got to believing you were right. And, Charley, it’s true; I found the third level!" 2. Willingness to Embrace Change: Sam exhibits a willingness to embrace change by choosing to stay in the past once he discovers the Third Level. Instead of being apprehensive about the unfamiliar environment of 1894, Sam fully immerses himself in the experience, even enjoying social interactions with people from that time. The evidence lies in his letter, describing the atmosphere in Galesburg, "someone is playing a piano, and they’re all out on the front porch singing ‘Seeing Nelly Home.’ And I’m invited over for lemonade." Sam's character is marked by a combination of curiosity and adaptability, making him open to unconventional experiences and willing to explore the unknown. Q6. At the beginning of the story, Sam is sceptical of Charley’s discovery of the third level. By the end of the story, the reader is told that he found the third level and travelled back in time. How would Sam diagnose himself? [CBSE Question Bank 2021] If Sam were to diagnose himself, considering his initial skepticism and eventual embrace of the Third Level and time travel, he might attribute his transformation to a shift in perspective or a reevaluation of his beliefs. Sam could diagnose himself with a change in mindset or a newfound openness to unconventional possibilities. This transformation could be described as a realization of the potential for extraordinary experiences beyond the constraints of conventional thinking, possibly aligning with concepts of personal growth and a broadening of one's worldview. However, as the story doesn't explicitly delve into Sam's self-diagnosis or psychological analysis, this interpretation remains speculative. Q7. Imagine that you come across Louisa’s diary. What might you find in it about the third level? Compose at least one diary entry based on any of the events from the story, ‘The Third Level’. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans: Diary Entry - Louisa's Perspective: July 25, 2024 Today has been an extraordinary day, and I feel compelled to document it in my diary. Charley has been persistent in his search for the elusive Third Level at Grand Central Station, and I couldn't help but share his skepticism initially. However, something remarkable happened. Charley returned home with an old-fashioned envelope in his hands, and inside was a letter from Sam. Yes, our dear Sam, the one who doubted the existence of the Third Level. In disbelief, I read Sam's words recounting his journey back in time to 1894. His descriptions of Galesburg, Illinois, and the simplicity of life there were vivid, almost enchanting. I find myself torn between skepticism and a yearning to believe. Could Charley's discovery be true? Sam's letter seems genuine, and the presence of a first-day cover mailed to my grandfather in 1894 adds a layer of credibility. Charley's excitement is infectious, and now, we embark on a joint quest every weekend to find this mysterious Third Level. Is it a waking-dream wish fulfillment, as Sam initially thought? Or could there be a portal to another time right under our noses? Time will tell, and I can't help but feel a mix of apprehension and exhilaration as we continue this intriguing journey. Louisa Q8. Imagine that you have found the third level. Would you take this opportunity to travel to the past or let it go? Why/why not? If yes, where would you go from the Grand Central? Ans: The choice to travel to the past or let the opportunity go would likely depend on individual preferences, attachments, and motivations. Some might be drawn to the allure of a simpler time, free from the complexities of the modern world. Others might choose to remain in the present, valuing the advancements and opportunities that come with contemporary living. If one were to decide to travel to the past from the Grand Central Third Level, the destination would be a deeply personal choice. It could be a place with sentimental value, a historical period of interest, or simply a desire to experience a different era. Galesburg, Illinois, as mentioned in the story, might be a popular choice due to its idyllic portrayal in the narrative. The decision would hinge on individual aspirations, nostalgia, and the desire for a particular time and place. Recommended Reading Tiger King|English|NCERT Solution|Class12 (en glishwithadifference.com) Journey To the End of the Earth |CBE Questions | NCERT Solution | Text Translation | Concept Videos (englishwithadifference.com) The Enemy I English Core I Class 12 (englishwithadifference.com)

Quick Revision of Poems & Explore literary devices in Flamingo Poems. 👇 For Quick Access Click on the Lessons 👇 My Mother At Sixty Six Keeping Quiet A Thing of Beauty A Roadside Stand Aunt Jennifer's Tigers My Mother At Sixty Six Summary of the poem: The speaker is driving with her mother from their family home to Cochin. The mother is described as dozing with an open mouth, looking ashen like a corpse. The speaker realizes the painful truth that her mother is as old as she appears. Despite the initial realization, the speaker chooses to push away the thought and focuses on the surroundings. The speaker observes Young Trees, merry children spilling out of their homes, and the airport scene. After the security check, the speaker looks at her mother again and notices her pale and wan appearance. This triggers a familiar childhood fear in the speaker. The poem ends with the speaker smiling and saying, "See you soon, Amma." Theme: The theme of aging and the inevitable passage of time is prominent in the poem. The speaker grapples with the realization of her mother's aging and mortality. Message: The poem conveys a poignant message about the bittersweet emotions associated with aging parents. It explores the conflict between the reality of aging and the desire to avoid confronting the inevitable. Literary Devices used in the poem with examples: 1. Imagery: - Example: "doze, open mouthed, her face ashen like that of a corpse" - This vivid imagery conveys the physical condition of the mother and sets a somber tone. 2. Simile: - Example: "pale as a late winter’s moon" - The comparison of the mother's pallor to a late winter's moon adds a layer of desolation and emphasizes her frailty. 'her face ashen like that of a corpse" - This simile compares the mother's pale face to the color of a corpse, emphasizing the lifelessness and frailty. 3. Symbolism/Personification - Example: "Young Trees sprinting" - The young trees could symbolize the passage of time and the growth and vitality of youth in contrast to the aging mother. The word 'sprinting' also indicates that trees have been personified here. 4. Irony: - Example: 'all I did was smile and smile and smile......' The speaker smiles repeatedly in the end despite the underlying sadness, creating an ironic contrast between the outward expression and the inner emotional turmoil. 5. Alliteration: - Example: "see you soon, Amma" - The repetition of the "s" sound in "see" and "soon" creates a soft and soothing effect, contrasting with the emotional weight of the poem. 6. Enjambment: - Example: "doze, open mouthed, her face / ashen like that / of a corpse" - The enjambment in these lines creates a flowing and continuous rhythm, emphasizing the mother's appearance. These literary devices contribute to the emotional depth and richness of the poem, enhancing the reader's experience and understanding of the themes explored. For NCERT | CBE Short Questions Pls Click the following Link. My Mother at Sixty Six |Stanza-wise Explanation | CBQs | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com) Keeping Quiet Quick Revision Stanza 1: Counting to twelve is proposed as an action. A call for collective silence and stillness is emphasized. The suggestion is to refrain from speaking in any language and reduce physical movements. Stanza 2: Envisions a unique, exotic moment on Earth. Desires a break from haste, engines, and constant activity. Describes the potential beauty in a sudden, collective stillness. Stanza 3: Imagines fishermen and the man gathering salt in a state of non-harm and contemplation. Contrasts the potential stillness with the typical harshness of their activities. Highlights the transformative power of the suggested moment. Stanza 4: Addresses those who engage in destructive actions like preparing "green wars" with gas and fire. Envisions a change in behaviour - putting on clean clothes and walking with brothers in the shade. Advocates for a temporary pause in activities that lead to harm. Stanza 5: Clarifies that the proposed action should not be misunderstood as total inactivity. Emphasizes that life is the essence and the focus should be on living. Rejects the idea of aligning with death and underscores the importance of vitality Stanza 6: Criticizes the single-minded pursuit of keeping lives constantly in motion. Suggests that embracing a moment of doing nothing can lead to a profound silence. Raises the possibility of interrupting the sadness caused by not understanding ourselves. Stanza 7: Considers the Earth as a potential teacher. Draws parallels between moments when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive. Reiterates the act of counting to twelve as the poem's conclusion. Theme: The theme revolves around stillness, reflection, and the potential for positive change in the world through a moment of quiet contemplation. Message of the Poem: The poem encourages a temporary halt to human activities, particularly destructive ones, to foster understanding, peace, and a connection with life. It suggests that embracing silence can lead to a deeper appreciation for existence and a shift away from destructive behaviours. Literary Devices: Imagery: Descriptions like "Fishermen in the cold sea," and "man gathering salt" paint vivid pictures, enhancing the reader's visualization. Metaphor: "Prepare green wars" serves as a metaphor for environmental destruction, contrasting with the idea of walking in the shade doing nothing. Irony: The mention of those who "prepare green wars" putting on "clean clothes" is ironic, highlighting the contrast between destructive actions and the appearance of innocence. Repetition: The repetition of the phrase 'Those who prepare green wars, wars with gas, wars with fire..' Symbolism: The act of counting to twelve represents a structured, measured pause, emphasizing the significance of this moment. Alliteration: This is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity. Examples: "we will" and "we would" - repetition of the 'w' sound. "sudden strangeness" - repetition of the 's' sound. "his hurt hands" - repetition of the 'h' sound. "wars with" and "clean clothes" - repetition of the 'w' and 'c' sounds. "we were, so single-minded" - repetition of the 's' sound. Anaphora: Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or lines. Examples: "Let’s" is repeated at the beginning of two consecutive lines, emphasizing the imperative nature of the poet's suggestion to not speak and to stop for one second. Assonance: Assonance involves the repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words. Examples "victory with no survivors" - repetition of the 'o' sound. ''clean clothes" - repetition of the 'e' sound. "Now we will count to twelve" - repetition of the 'o' sound. Enjambment: Enjambment occurs when a sentence or phrase runs over from one line to the next without a pause. Example : "and for once could do nothing, perhaps a huge silence" - the idea flows seamlessly from one line to the next, contributing to the fluidity and continuous rhythm of the poem. For CBE -Based Questions & NCERT Solution along with Detailed Explanation of the poem Keeping Quiet, Text Explanation , NCERT Solution, CBQs (englishwithadifference.com) A Thing of Beauty Quick Revision Stanza 1: - A thing of beauty brings eternal joy. - Its beauty increases and never fades away. - It provides a peaceful shelter and induces sweet dreams, health, and tranquility. Stanza 2: - Despite challenges and dark times, people create a flowery band every morning to stay connected to the earth. - Beauty has the power to lift the spirits and dispel darkness from our souls. - Nature, including the sun, moon, trees, and daffodils, holds such beauty. Stanza 3: - Various elements of nature, like clear rills and musk-rose blooms, offer refreshing shelter against the heat. - The grandeur of imagined destinies for the mighty dead and the beauty in tales form an endless source of inspiration. 2) Message: The poem "A Thing of Beauty" by John Keats emphasizes the enduring power of beauty to bring joy and inspiration to life. Despite the challenges and darkness in the world, the poem suggests that beauty, whether found in nature or in human creations, has the ability to uplift and sustain the human spirit. The imagery of nature, the creation of a "flowery band," and the idea of beauty dispelling darkness convey a message of hope and the transcendent nature of aesthetic experiences. Literary Devices 1. Alliteration: - The use of consonant sounds at the beginning of two closely positioned words or in successive words. Examples 'Noble nature,' and the 's' in 'Some shape.' 'Sprouting Shady' 'Simple sheep,' and 'Cooling covert.' 2. Anaphora: - The repetition of the same word in two consecutive lines,' Example: Of noble natures' 'Of all the unhealthy.' 3. Antithesis: - The juxtaposition of opposing words, Example : 'Old and young.' 4. Metaphor: - The metaphorical use of 'Immortal drinks' to convey that beautiful natural objects endure like an everlasting beverage. - Describing the act of creating a 'flowery band' as a metaphor for the binding influence of beautiful things in our lives. - Comparing the calmness of a 'bower Quiet' to the soothing effect of beautiful things. 5. Inversion: - The reversal of the typical word order, as demonstrated in the phrase 'Are we wreathing a flowery band.' 6. Imagery: Evoking imagery with phrases like 'Bushes full of musk roses' creating vivid mental pictures. Depicting God's benevolence with the image of 'Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.' Utilizing imagery to describe trees offering shade ('Sprouting shady boon'), the growth of daffodils ('Daffodils with the green world they live in'), and pristine river streams ('Clear rills'). Creating a sensory effect by stringing together beautiful things in 'A flowery band to bind us.' For NCERT/CBE-Based Questions of the Poem , visit the following URL A Thing of Beauty , CBE & NCERT Questions , Poem Explanation | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com) A Roadside Stand Literary Devices TRANSFERRED EPITHET: Examples : The poet has used "polished traffic" to refer to the rich city dwellers. The poet has used "selfish cars" to describe the city-dwellers as selfish. PERSONIFICATION: A roadside stand that too pathetically pled Sadness is personified with the phrase "sadness that lurks near the open window there." METAPHOR: Trusting Sorrow OXYMORON & ALLITERATION: ‘Greedy good-doers’ ‘beneficent beasts’ of prey Assonance: 1. The prominent sound of the vowel 'o' in - "But for some of the money, the cash, whose flow supports." 2. Prominent sound of the vowel 'i' in - "The flower of cities from sinking and withering faint." 3. Prominent sound of the vowel 'i' - "And give us the life of the moving-pictures promise." Alliteration: - The repetition of the letter 'p' in "pathetically pled." - Repetition of the letter 'G' in "greedy good," 'B' in "beneficent beasts," and 'B' in "be bought." Transferred Epithet: The poet has used "polished traffic" to refer to the rich city dwellers. The poet has used "selfish cars" to describe the city-dwellers as selfish. Repetition: 1. The word "wrong" has been repeated in the sentence ' Of signs that with N turned wrong and S turned wrong 2. The word "sleep" has been repeated in the sentence ' And by teaching them how to sleep they sleep all day' 3. The words "country" has been repeated as in the sentence 'No, in country money, the country scale of gain' For Detailed Explanation of the poem , NCERT solution & CBE-Based Questions , Visit the following link A Roadside Stand | English Core | Class 12 (englishwithadifference.com) Aunt Jennifer's Tigers Literary Devices Imagery: The poet has given a visual description of the tiger - "Bright topaz denizens of a world of green." Imagery is used again in the lines, "The tigers in the panel that she made / Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid. Metaphor: The poet has used a metaphor to show the vibrant yellow colour of the tigers - "The poet has used bright topaz to show the vibrant yellow colour of the tigers." Alliteration: The repetition of the letter 'c' in "chivalric certainty." Alliteration is used again with the repetition of the letter 'f' in "fluttering fingers." The repetition of the letter 'p' in "prancing proud." Consonance: Prominent sound of consonant 's' in " Aunt Jennifer's tigers prance across a screen." Assonance: Prominent sound of the vowel 'e' in "They do not fear the men beneath the tree." Assonance is used again with the prominent sound of the vowel 'i' in "Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie." Prominent sound of the vowel 'O' in "go on prancing, proud and unafraid." Anaphora: - It is the repetition of a word at the start of two or more consecutive lines Example: "They do not fear the men beneath the tree; They pace in sleek chivalric certainty." Personification: - The poet has personified the ring by using the word "sit" for it. Hyperbole: The poet has employed hyperbole by exaggerating about the ring's massive weight. Example: The massive weight of Uncles wedding band Paradox: A paradox is present in the line: "Here, someone whose fingers are fluttering is creating something that requires certainty." Another paradox is highlighted with the contrast between Aunt Jennifer's fear and weakness and her tigers' fearlessness and pride. In the context of the poem, a paradox is also evident in the idea that a woman who was tortured and mastered by her husband has created something free. Transferred Epithet: The poet used "terrified hands" to show that Aunt Jennifer was terrified even after her death. Example: When Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie Contrast: There is a contrast between Aunt Jennifer and her tigers, emphasizing Aunt Jennifer's weakness and fear compared to the fearless and proud nature of her tigers. For Detailed Explanation of the Poem, NCERT & CBE-based Questions, click the following link Aunt Jennifer's Tigers | CBE Questions | NCERT Solution | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com)

Competency-Based English Integrated Grammar Topics Covered: Reported Speech Editing Errors Sequential Exercise Gap Filling Q1.Choose the correct option to complete the suitable reply on behalf of the son. (a) I shall be careful in future. (b) I should be careful in future. (c) I would be careful in future. (d) I could be careful in future. Q2. Complete the dialogue of the leader with a suitable sentence. Leader : Please vote for me in this election. I have been working in this area for last twenty years. Voter : You have been working here for so many years but you have not done anything for the development of the area. Leader : If you will give me your valuable vote, I promise (c) ________ Voter : I have not decided yet to vote. Q3. Edit the following paragraph by identifying errors against the underlined sections: We can balance the summer heat by consuming food items (a) who have cooling effect in our body. (b) You will take care of our nutrition in peak summer. (c) There is many food items which calm the agni on the body. (d) The natural sugar found in fruits are cooling as well as healthy. Q4. What could be a suitable word for the following blanks in the paragraph? Venice (a) (is/was/were) the most beautiful city in Italy. It was founded over 1500 years ago (b) (by/in/from) the early settlers here. It is different from (c) (a/an/the) other city in the world. It is built (d) (in/on/over) water. (e) (All/some/few) cars are banned here. Boats are the (f) (only/few/little) method of transportation here. Q5. Choose the order in which the following jumbled words/phrases should come in sentences. (a) These car are safe and fuel efficient (b) Driverless cars will be available in the next five years. (c) It sounds like a dream come true. (d) These cars will have voice command system. (i) abcd (ii) bacd (iii) dabc (iv) badc Q6. Identify the part of the underlined sentences which contains errors. The third phase of (a) metro in Nagpur had begun. It shall be completed in 2023 . In this phase, the (b) metro will cover almost the whole city. There will be diversion on several roads due to construction there. (c) Diversion on the road causes traffic jams in many areas. This difficult (d) phase will be a boon in future for the citizen. Q7. Identify the sequence in which the following gaps can be filled to form a meaningful paragraph. Jaipur is known as the `Gulabi Nagari’ because (i) __________. It is a very popular tourist destination (ii) __________. Jaipur can be approached easily (iii) __________. (a) by train or bus (b) as it has many historical buildings (c) the people have painted the buildings in pink colour (a) cba (ii) abc (iii) bca (iv) acb Q8. Identify the sequence in which the following jumbled words can be written in meaningful sentences. (iii) Every T.V channel wants to telecast a reality show. (i) Life has become difficult in metro cities. (iv) It increases their T.V rating in prime time. (ii) Reality shows have become popular on T.V. (a) (iii/i/iv/ii) (b) (i/ii/iii/iv) (c) (ii/iv/i/iii) (d) (i/iii/iv/ii) Q9. Which of the following reported speech is written in past continuous tense? (a) The daughter told her mother that their school was arranging a trip to Goa in summer vacation. (b) The mother asked her what were the dates of the trip. (c) The daughter replied that the trip would be between May 10 to 20 (d) The mother further told OK to the daughter. Q10. Draft a suitable question in direct speech from the following answer. A student replied to a question from the teacher : No, sir. I come from quite a far-off place. Q11.Read the conversation below and answer the question given below. Parinity : I am planning to buy a new car Priyanka : ______________________? Parinity : I want to buy the latest model of any popular company Priyanka : It is a good decision Which question did Priyanka ask Parinity? Q12. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete an online update. The climate control comment by an activist ___on social media yesterday. A. blow up B. blew up C. is blown D. will be blown Q13. Read the conversation between a doctor and his patient. Complete the sentence by reporting the patient’s reply correctly. Doctor: Do you feel down from time-to-time Mr. Gopalan? Patient: Yes, I do not stay in a good mood. The doctor, while trying to figure out his patient’s ailment, asked about his well-being, to which, the patient affirmed _________________ Q14. Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given line, from an educational website. He ______ be very tired. He's been working all day long. (a) should (b) will (c) must (d) can Q15. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for thefollowing line, from a news report: The Uttarakhand government said on the instructions of chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, five resorts in Dhanachuli area of ​​Nainital district has been sealed. Q16. Complete the given write-up on global warming by filling in the blank with the correct option: If current rates of warming _________, the "Hothouse Earth" scenario, which assumes that most of the planet will become uninhabitable, may become a reality. (a) continues (b) continue (c) will continue (d) continued Q17. Identify the error in the given sentence, from a school magazine report and supply the correction. Obesity is a serious health hazard, which is a result to lifestyle disorder. It is astonishing to see obesity not just among men and women, but also among the school going children. Use the given format for your response. Q18. Read the newspaper statement on ADHD and supply a missing word. A student with attention deficit disorder (ADHD or ADD) might not seem to listening or paying attention to class material. Use the given format for your response. Q19. Complete the following excerpt from an inter-house music competition with the correct option as given below. The students of Don Bosco Primary School, Matunga, indeed know how to fly. On 25th July, 2022, the Singing Competition was held for the students of Stds III and IV. They did take us to a world _______ music was the language. (a) when (b) where (c) how (d) whom Q20. Identify the error from a website article on reading habit and write your correction in the format given below. In response to character education stated in Indonesian Curriculum 2013, to build characters for students of early ages is significant. This can be built through establishing reading habits and build character education to young learners living in urban and suburban areas simultaneously. Q21.Find an error from the following statement which appeared in a newspaper report and write your response in the given format. Procrastination is not a result of laziness or poor time management. Scientific studies suggests that procrastination is due to poor mood management. Q22.Find an error from the following statement which appeared in a newspaper report and write your response in the given format. Time management helps you make time to acquire new skills. We often forget that anything in life takes time. That’s why the first step towards get better at something is learning how to make time for it. Answer Key Q1-Q22 Q1.(a) I shall be careful in future. Q2. I promise to work for the development. Q3. (a) which have cooling effect in our body. (b) You will take care of your nutrition in peak summer. (c) There are many food items . (d) The natural sugar found in fruits is Q4. (a) is (b) by (c) the (d) over (e) all Q5. (iv) badc Q6. (a) metro in Nagpur has begun. Q7. (ii) abc Q8. (b) (i/ii/iii/iv) Q9. (a) The daughter told her mother that their school was arranging a trip to Goa in summer vacation. Q10. 'Do you come from a nearby place?' Q11.Which car do you want to buy? Q12. B. blew up Q13. that he did not stay in a good mood. Q14. (c) must Q15. (d) have-has Q16. (b) (b) continue Q17. to- of Q18. to be listening Q19. (b) where Q20. build-building Q21.suggests__suggest Q22. get__ getting Thanks for visiting our site. Visit Again. 👩🏻‍🤝‍🧑🏼👨‍👦‍👦. We're updating grammar questions on an everyday basis.

#cbse, #cbseboardexam2024, #class10, #competencybasedgrammar Solve the following questions on Reported Speech based on instructions given against each question. Q1. What did Sara ask Shabnam? Sara: Can you explain why you are interested in this specific field? Shabnam: Certainly! I can clarify that my passion for this field has grown over the years. Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue. Sara asked Shabnam _________________________________ in that specific field. A. if she could explain why she was interested B. to explain her interest C. why her interest had grown D. if she was interested in explaining Q2. Report Shabnam's response in reported speech. Sara: "How did you learn about this internship opportunity?" Shabnam: "I learned about it through an online career portal." Q3. Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the dialogue between Alex and his colleague, Emma, discussing a recent project presentation. Emma: "Why did you decide to incorporate those particular graphs into the presentation?" Alex: "I believed they would visually illustrate the data trends more effectively." Emma asked Alex _________________________________ into the presentation. A. why did he decide to incorporate those particular graphs B. about deciding to incorporate those particular graphs C. why he had decided to incorporate those particular graphs D. if he decided to incorporate those particular graphs Q4. Report the employee's response in reported speech. Manager: "Can you please explain why the project deadline was not met?" Employee: "I encountered unexpected challenges that required additional time for resolution." Q5. Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the following dialogue. Teacher: "Why did you choose this topic for your research project?" Student: "I find the subject fascinating, and there's a gap in the existing research that I want to address." The teacher inquired why the student _________________________________ for the research project. A. had chosen that topic B. chose this topic C. is choosing this topic D. chooses that topic Q6. Report the dialogue between a vendor and his customer, by completing the sentence: (CBSE Sample Paper 2023-2024) Vendor: It is nice to see you, Sir! Customer: Yes, indeed! Unlike last month, I have been away for quite some time this month. The vendor greeted his customer respectfully and mentioned that he was pleased to see him. The customer answered in the affirmative and explained that ______________________ Q7. Report Neha's question following her discussion with Abhilash regarding the preparation for the upcoming dance performance. ''Did you manage to secure the venue for the event?'' Q8. Lisa and James talked about their upcoming travel plans. Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the following dialogue. Lisa: "Have you decided on the destination for our vacation?" James: "Yes, I've been considering a tropical beach resort." Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue. Lisa asked James if he _________________________________ for their vacation. A. had decided on the destination. B. was deciding the destination. C. decided the destination. D. would decide the destination. Q9. Report Jenny's response in reported speech. Sam: "Did you inform the team about the change in the meeting schedule?" Jenny: "Yes, I sent out an email to everyone this morning." Q10. Report Emily's response in reported speech following her discussion with George about a new book release. George: "Have you read the latest novel by your favorite author?" Emily: "Yes, I finished it last night, and it's absolutely fantastic!" Answer Key A. if she could explain why she was interested. Shabnam responded that she had learned about it through an online career portal. C. why he had decided to incorporate those particular graphs. 4. The Employee responded that he had encountered unexpected challenges that required. additional time for resolution. 5. A. had chosen that topic 6. unlike the previous month, he had been away for quite some time that month. 7. Neha asked Abhilash if he had managed to secure the venue for the event. 8. A. had decided on the destination. 9. Jenny responded in the affirmative and further said that she had sent out an email to everyone that morning. 10. Emily replied in the affirmative and said that she had finished it the previous night and that it was absolutely fantastic. Recommended Reading 25 Important Competency-Board English Grammar Questions | Class X (englishwithadifference.com) English Competency-Based Questions | Class X (englishwithadifference.com)

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Lesson Architecture Theme Lesson-At-A-Glance NCERT Solution Competency-Based Questions (CBQs) Theme: This lesson gives us a picturesque description of the journey to the Mount Kailash. The writer undertakes the thrilling, but challenging uphill journey on to the Tibetan Himalayas to participate in the ritual called 'Kora'. This silk road was the trade route between China, Tibet, India and extended up to Afghanistan. The lesson focusses on the journey through the mesmerizing mountainous terrain up to a place called Darchen from where he would trek up to the mountain. Lesson-At-A-Glance: The narrator was on his way to Mount Kailash to take part in the Kora. He left a place called Ravu with another person, Daniel and his driver cum guide, Tsetan, who knew the route very well. Tsetan took the short cut from Ravu that could lead them directly towards Mount Kailash through the high mountain passes. As they started their onward journey, they could see gazelles, herds of wild ass and nomads with their flocks. Nomads are called 'drokba' in the local language. The huge Tibetan mastiffs often chased the car like a running bullet, barking furiously. Sometimes they chased the car till the car went beyond their area of dominance. They entered a valley where the river was wide and clogged with ice. Snow capped mountains appeared in view. The road gradually moved away from the icy river, but the first hurdle came on the way. There was snow on the track. Tsetan and Daniel threw dirt on the track enabling the car to move slowly over it. Tsetan maneuvered a second obstacle of snow and regained height to where snow had not drifted. They stopped for lunch at 2 pm. By late afternoon they reached the small town of Hor on the main east-west highway which was the old trade route from Lhasa to Kashmir. From Hor Daniel parted by taking a truck ride to Lhasa. Hor was a grim, miserable place which was located on the shore of the famous Lake Mansarowar, Tibet's most respected and holy stretch of water. It is the source of four sacred Indian rivers. Hor was a dry and dirty place with almost no vegetation. There were rocks, dust and lot of refuse strewn around. They were delayed in Hor as Tsetan had to fix two punctures. They reached a guest house at Darchen at around half past ten at night. The author spent a horrible night in hunger and tiredness. He caught a cold and had great difficulty in breathing. He stayed awake for the whole duration of night. The next morning Tsetan took him to a Tibetan doctor whose medicines helped him to recover from the cold and breathing difficulty. Tsetan then left the author there and returned to Lhasa. Darchen was a small town dirty with heaps of rubble and refuse. There were a few general stores selling Chinese cigarettes and basic provisions. Darchen felt relaxed and unhurried and the author felt disappointed as it meant that pilgrims had not yet arrived for the 'Kora'. He realized that he had come too early for the pilgrimage. Moreover, after the departure of Tsetan, he could not get any company who could speak English. One afternoon while sitting in a cafe, he met a Tibetan academician named Norbu who had been writing several academic papers on the Kailash Kora. The became friends and decided to take the pilgrimage together. They agreed on hiring some yaks to carry the luggage. Easy Translation of the Original Text Para 1 | Page 74 A FLAWLESS half-moon floated in a perfect blue sky on the morning we said our goodbyes. Extended banks of cloud like long French loaves glowed pink as the sun emerged to splash the distant mountain tops with a rose-tinted blush. Now that we were leaving Ravu, Lhamo said she wanted to give me a farewell present. One evening I’d told her through Daniel that I was heading towards Mount Kailash to complete the kora, and she’d said that I ought to get some warmer clothes. After ducking back into her tent, she emerged carrying one of the long-sleeved sheepskin coats that all the men wore. Tsetan sized me up as we clambered into his car. “Ah, yes,” he declared, “drokba, sir.” Translation: On the morning of our departure from Ravu, the sky was flawless, displaying a perfect half-moon in a beautiful blue expanse. Long clouds resembling French loaves glowed pink, illuminated by the emerging sun, casting a rosy hue on distant mountain tops. Lhamo, aware of my journey to Mount Kailash, decided to gift me a farewell present. Earlier, I had mentioned to her through Daniel that I was embarking on the kora around Mount Kailash. Concerned about the cold, she reappeared from her tent with a long-sleeved sheepskin coat, similar to those worn by local men. Word Power 1. **Flawless:** Without any imperfections or defects. - *Usage:* The diamond was flawless, with no visible blemishes or inclusions. 2. **Half-moon:** The shape of the moon when it is illuminated less than half, but more than a crescent. - *Usage:* The night sky revealed a beautiful half-moon, casting a gentle glow over the landscape. 3. **Extended:** Stretched out over a distance or period of time. - *Usage:* The road trip was extended due to unexpected detours and scenic stops along the way. 4. **French loaves:** Long, slender, or baguette-shaped bread, typically associated with French baking. - *Usage:* The bakery displayed a variety of French loaves, each with a unique crust and flavor. 5. **Emerged:** Came into view or existence. - *Usage:* As the sun rose, the picturesque landscape emerged, revealing its beauty to the onlookers. 6. **Splash:** To cause a liquid to scatter in drops or particles. - *Usage:* The waves crashed against the rocks, creating a splash of seawater in the air. 7. **Rose-tinted:** Having a pink or rosy color. - *Usage:* The sunset cast a rose-tinted glow across the horizon, painting the sky in warm hues. 8. **Kora:** A pilgrimage or circumambulation, especially around a sacred place. - *Usage:* Many devotees undertake the kora around Mount Kailash as a spiritual journey. 9. **Ducking back:** Quickly moving back or withdrawing from a place. - *Usage:* Startled by the sudden noise, the rabbit quickly ducked back into its burrow. 10. **Clambered:** Climbed with effort or clumsily. - *Usage:* The hikers clambered up the steep hill, using tree roots for support. 11. **Sized up:** Assessed or evaluated someone or something. - *Usage:* The chef sized up the ingredients before deciding on the perfect recipe for the evening. 12. **Drokba:** Para 2 | Page 74 We took a short cut to get off the Changtang. Tsetan knew a route that would take us south-west, almost directly towards Mount Kailash. It involved crossing several fairly high mountain passes, he said. “But no problem, sir”, he assured us, “if there is no snow.” What was the likelihood of that I asked. “Not knowing, sir, until we get there.” Translation: "We decided to take a shorter route to leave the Changtang. Tsetan knew a path that would lead us in a south-west direction, almost straight to Mount Kailash. He mentioned that it required crossing some quite high mountain passes. 'But no problem, sir,' he assured us, 'as long as there's no snow.' I inquired about the likelihood of snow. 'Can't say for sure, sir, until we reach there.'" Word Power 1. **Short cut:** A quicker or more direct route. - *Usage:* Taking a short cut through the forest saved us a lot of time. 2. **Changtang:** A high plateau in Tibet. - *Usage:* The Changtang is known for its vast landscapes and nomadic communities. 3. **South-west:** The direction midway between south and west. - *Usage:* We headed south-west, following the compass to reach our destination. 4. **Fairly:** To a moderate extent; somewhat. - *Usage:* The hike involved crossing fairly challenging terrain, requiring endurance. 5. **Mountain passes:** Gaps or openings in a mountain range allowing passage. - *Usage:* Climbers must navigate mountain passes carefully to reach the summit. 6. **Likelihood:** The chance or probability of something happening. - *Usage:* The meteorologist assessed the likelihood of rain based on the cloud formations. 7. **Assured:** Made certain or confident. - *Usage:* The guide assured us that the trail was safe for hiking. 8. **No problem:** An expression indicating ease or lack of difficulty. - *Usage:* When asked about the task, she replied, "No problem at all, I can handle it." 9. **Inquiry:** Seeking information through questioning. - *Usage:* The detective conducted a thorough inquiry to solve the mystery. 10. **Likelihood:** The probability or chance of an event occurring. - *Usage:* Assessing the likelihood of success, the team carefully planned their strategy. 11. **Can't say for sure:** Expressing uncertainty or inability to provide a definite answer. - *Usage:* When asked about the weather, the forecaster admitted, "Can't say for sure, it's unpredictable." 12. **Reach there:** Arrive at the intended destination. - *Usage:* We'll know more about the road conditions once we reach there. Para 3 | Page 74-75 From the gently rolling hills of Ravu, the short cut took us across vast open plains with nothing in them except a few gazelles that would look up from nibbling the arid pastures and frown before bounding away into the void. Further on, where the plains became more stony than grassy, a great herd of wild ass came into view. Tsetan told us we were approaching them long before they appeared. “Kyang,” he said, pointing towards a far-off pall of dust. When we drew near, I could see the herd galloping en masse, wheeling and turning in tight formation as if they were practising manoeuvres on some predetermined course. Plumes of dust billowed into the crisp, clean air. Translation: "From the gently rolling hills of Ravu, the short cut took us across vast open plains, devoid of much except a few gazelles. These gazelles, engrossed in nibbling the arid pastures, would glance up and frown before swiftly bounding away into the emptiness. As we progressed, the grassy plains turned more stony than grassy, revealing a large herd of wild ass. Tsetan, our guide, anticipated their presence long before they came into view. 'Kyang,' he said, pointing towards a distant cloud of dust. Upon nearing, I witnessed the herd galloping together, executing tight formations as if rehearsing maneuvers on a predetermined course. Plumes of dust rose into the crisp, clean air." Word Power 1. **Gently rolling hills:** Hills with a smooth, gradual slope. - *Usage:* The landscape was adorned with gently rolling hills that stretched as far as the eye could see. 2. **Short cut:** A quicker or more direct route. - *Usage:* Tsetan suggested a short cut through the plains to reach our destination faster. 3. **Vast open plains:** Expansive, flat areas of land. - *Usage:* The safari took us across vast open plains where wildlife roamed freely. 4. **Devoid:** Completely lacking or empty. - *Usage:* The room was devoid of any furniture, giving it a minimalist appearance. 5. **Gazelles:** Small to medium-sized antelopes with slender bodies and curved horns. - *Usage:* The savannah is home to various wildlife, including graceful gazelles. 6. **Nibbling:** Eating in small bites or nibbles. - *Usage:* The rabbits were nibbling on the fresh, green grass in the meadow. 7. **Arid pastures:** Dry and barren grasslands. - *Usage:* The arid pastures made it challenging for the animals to find sufficient food. 8. **Frown:** A facial expression indicating displeasure or worry. - *Usage:* The gazelles would frown momentarily before darting away from any perceived threat. 9. **Bounding away:** Moving away quickly by leaping or jumping. - *Usage:* Startled by the noise, the deer began bounding away through the forest. 10. **Stony:** Covered with or characterized by stones. - *Usage:* The stony terrain made hiking more challenging but offered breathtaking views. 11. **Grassy:** Covered with or having an abundance of grass. - *Usage:* The grassy meadows were perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. 12. **Wild ass:** A type of wild, undomesticated donkey. - *Usage:* The safari allowed us to observe a herd of wild ass in their natural habitat. 13. **Approaching:** Coming nearer or getting closer. - *Usage:* The guide warned us that we were approaching a potentially dangerous area. 14. **Far-off:** At a considerable distance. - *Usage:* The far-off mountains looked majestic in the morning sunlight. 15. **Pall of dust:** A large cloud or covering of dust. - *Usage:* The construction site created a pall of dust that could be seen from a distance. 16. **Gallop:** A fast running movement of a horse or other quadruped. - *Usage:* The horses broke into a gallop as they raced across the open field. 17. **En masse:** In a group or all together. - *Usage:* The birds took flight en masse, creating a mesmerizing pattern in the sky. 18. **Wheeling and turning:** Moving in circular or spinning motions. - *Usage:* The flock of birds was wheeling and turning in the sky, creating a breathtaking display. 19. **Tight formation:** A close and orderly arrangement of objects or individuals. - *Usage:* The geese flew in a tight formation, creating a synchronized and graceful spectacle. 20. **Practising manoeuvres:** Rehearsing specific movements or actions. - *Usage:* The military aircraft were practicing manoeuvres in preparation for an upcoming airshow. 21. **Predetermined course:** A set or decided path chosen in advance. - *Usage:* The athletes followed a predetermined course during the race. 22. **Plumes of dust:** Columns or clouds of dust rising into the air. - *Usage:* The off-road vehicles kicked up plumes of dust as they sped through the desert. 23. **Billowed:** Swelled or surged outwards. - *Usage:* The sails billowed in the wind as the ship sailed across the open sea. 24. **Crisp, clean air:** Fresh and clear quality of the air. - *Usage:* After the rain, the crisp, clean air in the mountains was invigorating. Para 2| Page 75 As hills started to push up once more from the rocky wilderness, we passed solitary drokbas tending their flocks. Sometimes men, sometimes women, these well-wrapped figures would pause and stare at our car, occasionally waving as we passed. When the track took us close to their animals, the sheep would take evasive action, veering away from the speeding vehicle. Translation: "As hills started to rise again from the rocky wilderness, we encountered solitary drokbas overseeing their flocks. Whether men or women, these well-wrapped figures would occasionally pause to stare at our car, sometimes offering a wave as we drove by. When the track brought us near their animals, the sheep would swiftly take evasive action, veering away from the swiftly moving vehicle." Word Power 1. **Push up:** Rise or ascend. - *Usage:* The flowers push up from the soil in the spring, signaling the arrival of warmer weather. 2. **Rocky wilderness:** A barren and rugged area with rocks and little vegetation. - *Usage:* The explorers navigated through the rocky wilderness, searching for signs of ancient civilizations. 3. **Solitary drokbas:** Individuals belonging to the Drokpa community who live in solitude. - *Usage:* The solitary drokbas were content with their isolated lifestyle in the remote mountains. 4. **Tending their flocks:** Caring for and managing a group of domesticated animals. - *Usage:* The shepherd spent the day tending his flock, ensuring the well-being of each sheep. 5. **Well-wrapped figures:** Individuals dressed warmly and covered in layers of clothing. - *Usage:* In the chilly winter, people transform into well-wrapped figures, protecting themselves from the cold. 6. **Pause:** Stop briefly. - *Usage:* The hiker decided to pause and enjoy the scenic view from the mountaintop. 7. **Stare:** Look fixedly at something with one's eyes wide open. - *Usage:* The curious child would often stare at the animals in the zoo, fascinated by their behavior. 8. **Occasionally:** At times or now and then. - *Usage:* The old clock would occasionally chime, marking the passing hours in the silent room. 9. **Wave:** Greet someone by moving one's hand back and forth. - *Usage:* The friendly neighbor would always wave to us whenever we passed by. 10. **Pass by:** Move past or go by. - *Usage:* As we pass by the bakery, the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air. 11. **Track:** A rough path or road. - *Usage:* The hikers followed the track through the forest, guided by the markers on the trees. 12. **Close to:** Near or in proximity to. - *Usage:* The store is located close to the city center for easy access. 13. **Animals:** Domesticated creatures such as sheep, cattle, or goats. - *Usage:* The farmer took pride in caring for his animals and ensuring their health. 14. **Evasive action:** Swift and strategic movements to avoid something. - *Usage:* The skilled driver took evasive action to avoid a collision with the oncoming vehicle. 15. **Veering away:** Changing direction or swerving to the side. - *Usage:* The cyclist had to veer away from the pothole to avoid a bumpy ride. 16. **Speeding vehicle:** A vehicle moving at a high speed. - *Usage:* The speeding vehicle zoomed past, leaving a trail of dust in its wake. Para 3| Page 75 We passed nomads’ dark tents pitched in splendid isolation, usually with a huge black dog, a Tibetan mastiff, standing guard. These beasts would cock their great big heads when they became aware of our approach and fix us in their sights. As we continued to draw closer, they would explode into action, speeding directly towards us, like a bullet from a gun and nearly as fast. Translation: "We drove past the dark tents of nomads, set up in magnificent solitude, often accompanied by a massive black dog, a Tibetan mastiff, serving as a vigilant guardian. These formidable creatures would raise their large heads upon sensing our presence and focus on us intently. As we approached, they would suddenly burst into motion, racing straight toward us like a bullet from a gun, nearly as swift." Word Power 1. **Nomads:** People who move from place to place without a permanent home. - *Usage:* The nomads traveled across the vast desert in search of grazing lands for their herds. 2. **Pitched:** Set up or placed in a particular location. - *Usage:* The campers pitched their tents by the river for a night under the stars. 3. **Splendid isolation:** Impressive seclusion or being set apart in a grand manner. - *Usage:* The mountain retreat offered splendid isolation, providing peace and tranquility. 4. **Huge:** Extremely large in size. - *Usage:* The elephant had huge ears that helped it regulate body temperature. 5. **Black dog:** Refers to a Tibetan mastiff, a large breed of dog with a distinctive black coat. - *Usage:* The nomad's black dog, a Tibetan mastiff, was known for its strength and loyalty. 6. **Tibetan mastiff:** A breed of large, powerful dog originally bred to guard livestock. - *Usage:* The Tibetan mastiff is prized for its protective nature and majestic appearance. 7. **Standing guard:** Being alert and watchful to protect against potential threats. - *Usage:* The security guard was standing guard at the entrance, ensuring only authorized individuals entered. 8. **Cock their heads:** Tilt or raise their heads in a curious or alert manner. - *Usage:* The puppy would cock its head when hearing a new sound, showing curiosity. 9. **Aware of:** Conscious or cognizant of something. - *Usage:* The cat became aware of the approaching footsteps and perked up its ears. 10. **Approach:** Move closer to or come near. - *Usage:* The ship began to approach the harbor as the crew prepared for docking. 11. **Fix us in their sights:** Focus their attention or gaze on us. - *Usage:* The eagle fixed its prey in its sights before swooping down for the catch. 12. **Explode into action:** Quickly and energetically engage in activity. - *Usage:* The athlete would explode into action as soon as the race began, showcasing remarkable speed. 13. **Speeding directly:** Moving rapidly and in a straight line. - *Usage:* The sports car was speeding directly towards the finish line, leaving competitors behind. 14. **Like a bullet from a gun:** Extremely fast and direct, resembling the speed of a fired bullet. - *Usage:* The sprinter raced down the track like a bullet from a gun, breaking records in the process. 15. **Nearly as fast:** Almost as swift or quick. - *Usage:* The cheetah can run nearly as fast as a speeding car, making it the fastest land animal. Para 4| Page 75-76 These shaggy monsters, blacker than the darkest night, usually wore bright red collars and barked furiously with massive jaws. They were completely fearless of our vehicle, shooting straight into our path, causing Tsetan to brake and swerve. The dog would make chase for a hundred metres or so before easing off, having seen us off the property. It wasn’t difficult to understand why ferocious Tibetan mastiffs became popular in China’s imperial courts as hunting dogs, brought along the Silk Road in ancient times as tribute from Tibet. Translation: "These shaggy monsters, darker than the darkest night, often adorned with bright red collars, would bark ferociously, displaying massive jaws. They showed absolute fearlessness towards our vehicle, charging directly into our path, prompting Tsetan to brake and swerve. The dogs would pursue us for about a hundred meters before relenting, ensuring we left their territory. It became clear why these formidable Tibetan mastiffs gained popularity in China's imperial courts as hunting dogs. They were brought along the Silk Road in ancient times, presented as tributes from Tibet." Word Power 1. **Shaggy monsters:** Refers to Tibetan mastiffs, large and hairy dog breeds. - *Usage:* The shaggy monsters roamed freely in the highlands, guarding the nomads' herds. 2. **Darker than the darkest night:** Extremely black or having a pitch-black color. - *Usage:* The night sky in the countryside was darker than the darkest night, perfect for stargazing. 3. **Adorned with:** Decorated or embellished with a particular feature. - *Usage:* The Christmas tree was adorned with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights. 4. **Bright red collars:** Collars of a vivid or intense red color. - *Usage:* The dogs in the park wore bright red collars, making them easily visible to their owners. 5. **Barked furiously:** Barked loudly and aggressively. - *Usage:* The small dog barked furiously at the approaching stranger, guarding its owner's property. 6. **Massive jaws:** Extremely large or powerful jaws. - *Usage:* The lioness had massive jaws, capable of delivering a powerful bite to catch its prey. 7. **Fearless of:** Showing a lack of fear or intimidation in the face of a potential threat. - *Usage:* The fearless explorer ventured into the dense forest, ready to encounter unknown wildlife. 8. **Vehicle:** Refers to the car or mode of transportation. - *Usage:* The family loaded their belongings into the vehicle and set off on a road trip. 9. **Shooting straight into our path:** Quickly moving directly toward our direction. - *Usage:* The cyclist, unaware of the approaching car, shot straight into its path, causing a close call. 10. **Brake and swerve:** Apply the brakes and make a sudden change in direction. - *Usage:* The driver had to brake and swerve to avoid colliding with the unexpected obstacle on the road. 11. **Make chase:** Pursue or follow in a determined manner. - *Usage:* The police made chase after the speeding suspect, attempting to bring the vehicle to a stop. 12. **A hundred metres or so:** Approximately one hundred meters. - *Usage:* The hiking trail led through the forest for a hundred meters or so before opening up to a scenic viewpoint. 13. **Easing off:** Gradually reducing speed or intensity. - *Usage:* After the competition, the athlete started easing off, allowing the body to recover from the exertion. 14. **Seen us off the property:** Ensured that we left the territory or premises. - *Usage:* The security guard saw off the intruders, making sure they left the restricted area. 15. **Ferocious Tibetan mastiffs:** Fierce and aggressive Tibetan mastiff dogs. - *Usage:* The ferocious Tibetan mastiffs were known for their protective nature, guarding the nomads' homes. 16. **Imperial courts:** The royal or official courts of emperors and rulers. - *Usage:* The emperor held court in the grand halls of the imperial palace, surrounded by advisors and dignitaries. 17. **Hunting dogs:** Dogs trained and used for hunting purposes. - *Usage:* The hunting dogs accompanied the hunters, assisting in tracking and retrieving game. 18. **Brought along the Silk Road:** Transported or carried along the ancient trade route known as the Silk Road. - *Usage:* Merchants brought exotic spices and goods from the East, traveling along the Silk Road. 19. **Ancient times:** Refers to a period in the distant past. - *Usage:* The ancient times are often romanticized, with tales of knights and dragons capturing our imagination. 20. **Tribute from Tibet:** Offerings or gifts presented as a sign of respect or allegiance from the region of Tibet. - *Usage:* The emissaries brought tribute from Tibet to the emperor, showcasing the wealth and culture of the region. Para 1| Page 76 By now we could see snow-capped mountains gathering on the horizon. We entered a valley where the river was wide and mostly clogged with ice, brilliant white and glinting in the sunshine. The trail hugged its bank, twisting with the meanders as we gradually gained height and the valley sides closed in. Translation: "By now, we could see snow-capped mountains forming on the horizon. As we ventured into a valley, the river stretched wide, mostly obstructed by ice, gleaming brilliantly white in the sunshine. The trail followed closely along its bank, winding with the meanders as we steadily ascended, and the valley sides drew nearer." **Word Meanings:** 1. **Snow-capped mountains:** Mountains with their peaks covered in snow. - *Usage:* The trekking group marveled at the breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains in the distance. 2. **Gathering on the horizon:** Becoming visible or forming in the distant horizon. - *Usage:* As the sun set, the stars began gathering on the horizon, creating a mesmerizing night sky. 3. **Entered a valley:** Moved into a low area of land between hills or mountains. - *Usage:* The explorers entered a picturesque valley, surrounded by lush greenery and flowing streams. 4. **River was wide:** The river had a considerable width or breadth. - *Usage:* The river was wide enough to accommodate various water activities, attracting tourists from all around. 5. **Mostly clogged with ice:** Predominantly blocked or obstructed by ice. - *Usage:* During the harsh winter, the river became mostly clogged with ice, creating a stunning icy landscape. 6. Brilliant white: Extremely bright and shining with a white color. - *Usage:* The snow-covered field looked brilliant white under the moonlight, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. 7. Glinting in the sunshine: Reflecting or sparkling in the sunlight. Usage: The lake's surface was glinting in the sunshine, creating a dazzling display of light. 8. Trail hugged its bank: The path closely followed along the edge or side of the riverbank. Usage: The hiking trail hugged the bank of the river, providing scenic views of the flowing water. 9. Twisting with the meanders: Turning or winding along the curves and bends of the river. - *Usage:* The road through the canyon was twisting with the meanders of the river, offering breathtaking vistas. 10. Gradually gained height: Slowly increased in elevation or climbed upwards. - *Usage:* The climbers gradually gained height as they ascended the mountain, reaching new vantage points. 11. Valley sides closed in: The slopes or sides of the valley came closer together. - *Usage:* As we hiked further, the valley sides closed in, creating a more intimate and enclosed environment. Para 2| Page 76 The turns became sharper and the ride bumpier, Tsetan now in third gear as we continued to climb. The track moved away from the icy river, labouring through steeper slopes that sported big rocks daubed with patches of bright orange lichen. Beneath the rocks, hunks of snow clung on in the near - permanent shade. I felt the pressure building up in my ears, held my nose, snorted and cleared them. We struggled round another tight bend and Tsetan stopped. He had opened his door and jumped out of his seat before I realised what was going on. “Snow,” said Daniel as he too exited the vehicle, letting in a breath of cold air as he did so. Translation: "The turns became sharper, and the ride bumpier as Tsetan shifted to third gear, navigating through steeper slopes. The trail veered away from the icy river, maneuvering through rocky terrain adorned with patches of bright orange lichen. Snow clung beneath the rocks, persisting in the near-permanent shade. I felt the pressure in my ears and cleared them by holding my nose and snorting. As we approached another tight bend, Tsetan suddenly stopped. He swiftly opened his door and leaped out, catching me off guard. 'Snow,' Daniel exclaimed as he also exited the vehicle, allowing a chilly breath of cold air to rush in." Word Power: 1. **Sharp turns:** Abrupt or sudden changes in direction. - *Usage:* The roller coaster took sharp turns, thrilling the riders with unexpected twists and loops. 2. **Bumpy ride:** A journey characterized by uneven or rough surfaces. - *Usage:* The dirt road provided a bumpy ride, making the passengers bounce in their seats. 3. **Shifted to third gear:** Changed to the third gear of the vehicle for driving. - *Usage:* The experienced driver smoothly shifted to third gear, optimizing speed on the highway. 4. **Navigating through slopes:** Steering or progressing through elevated surfaces. - *Usage:* The mountain bikers were skillfully navigating through the slopes, enjoying the challenge of the terrain. 5. **Veered away:** Turned or moved away from a particular direction. - *Usage:* The hikers veered away from the dense forest and followed a trail leading to an open meadow. 6. **Adorned with lichen:** Decorated or covered with patches of bright orange lichen. - *Usage:* The ancient tree trunks were adorned with lichen, adding a vibrant touch to the forest landscape. 7. **Persisting in the shade:** Continuing to exist or endure in an area with little sunlight. - *Usage:* Moss and ferns persisted in the shade of the dense forest, thriving in the cool, shadowed environment. 8. **Pressure building up in ears:** Sensation of increasing pressure in the ears, often experienced during changes in altitude. - *Usage:* During the airplane's descent, passengers may feel pressure building up in their ears. 9. **Cleared them:** Relieved or equalized the pressure in the ears. - *Usage:* Swallowing or yawning helps clear the ears and alleviate discomfort during changes in elevation. 10. **Struggled round a bend:** Moved with difficulty around a curved or twisted section of the trail. - *Usage:* The cyclists struggled round the steep bend, pushing their bikes uphill. 11. **Exited the vehicle:** Stepped out or left the vehicle. - *Usage:* The passengers exited the bus and stepped onto the platform as they reached their destination. 12. **Breath of cold air:** A rush of chilly or cold air. - *Usage:* Opening the window brought a refreshing breath of cold air into the stuffy room. 13. **Rushed in:** Entered quickly or forcefully. - *Usage:* The strong wind rushed in as soon as we opened the door, signaling the arrival of a storm. Para 3 | Page 76 A swathe of the white stuff lay across the track in front of us, stretching for maybe fifteen metres before it petered out and the dirt trail reappeared. The snow continued on either side of us, smoothing the abrupt bank on the upslope side. The bank was too steep for our vehicle to scale, so there was no way round the snow patch. I joined Daniel as Tsetan stepped on to the encrusted snow and began to slither and slide forward, stamping his foot from time to time to ascertain how sturdy it was. I looked at my wristwatch. We were at 5,210 metres above sea level. Translation: "A blanket of white snow covered the track ahead, extending for approximately fifteen meters before fading away, revealing the dirt trail. The snow persisted on both sides, smoothing the abrupt slope on the uphill side. The incline was too steep for our vehicle to climb, leaving no alternative route around the snowy patch. Joining Daniel, I observed as Tsetan stepped onto the icy snow, sliding and slithering forward. He intermittently stamped his foot to gauge its sturdiness. Glancing at my wristwatch, I noted that we were at an elevation of 5,210 meters above sea level." Word Power 1. **Swathe of white stuff:** A broad or extensive area covered with white snow. - *Usage:* The mountain range was a swathe of white stuff, creating a picturesque winter landscape. 2. **Petered out:** Gradually diminished or faded away. - *Usage:* The trail petered out as it reached the meadow, making navigation challenging for hikers. 3. **Dirt trail:** A path or track composed of soil or earth. - *Usage:* The dirt trail wound through the forest, offering a serene and natural hiking experience. 4. **Continued on either side:** Extended or persisted on both left and right directions. - *Usage:* The river continued on either side of the bridge, showcasing the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. 5. **Smoothing the abrupt bank:** Making the steep slope appear more even or gentle. - *Usage:* The landscaper worked on smoothing the abrupt bank, creating a more visually appealing garden. 6. **Upslope side:** The side of a slope facing uphill or ascending terrain. - *Usage:* The mountain climbers faced challenges on the upslope side, where the ascent was steeper. 7. **Vehicle to scale:** The ability of the vehicle to climb or ascend a slope. - *Usage:* The off-road vehicle was equipped with features that allowed it to scale steep terrains effortlessly. 8. **No way round:** No alternative or bypass available. - *Usage:* Due to the road closure, there was no way round the construction site, requiring drivers to find alternative routes. 9. **Encrusted snow:** Snow that has formed a hard or icy crust on the surface. - *Usage:* The skiers found it challenging to glide over the encrusted snow, as it was less powdery and more compact. 10. **Slither and slide forward:** Move smoothly and with a sliding motion on the icy surface. - *Usage:* The children enjoyed the winter fun as they slithered and slid forward on the frozen pond. 11. **Stamping his foot:** Pressing the foot forcefully on the snow or ground. - *Usage:* The hiker stamped his foot to create a firm footing in the snow, ensuring stability on the slippery surface. 12. **Ascertaining how sturdy it was:** Checking or confirming the strength and stability of the snow. - *Usage:* Before venturing onto the frozen lake, the ice fisherman used an auger to ascertain how sturdy the ice was. 13. **Wristwatch:** A small timekeeping device worn on the wrist. - *Usage:* I glanced at my wristwatch to check the time before heading to the meeting. 14. **Elevation above sea level:** The height of a location measured from sea level. - *Usage:* The mountain's elevation above sea level was a significant factor in determining its climate and ecosystem. Para 4 | Page 76 The snow didn’t look too deep to me, but the danger wasn’t its depth, Daniel said, so much as its icy top layer. “If we slip off, the car could turn over,” he suggested, as we saw Tsetan grab handfuls of dirt and fling them across the frozen surface. We both pitched in and, when the snow was spread with soil, Daniel and I stayed out of the vehicle to lighten Tsetan’s load. He backed up and drove towards the dirty snow, eased the car on to its icy surface and slowly drove its length without apparent difficulty. Translation "The snow didn't appear excessively deep, but Daniel pointed out that the real risk was the icy layer on top. Concerned about the potential of the car turning over if we slipped off, Tsetan took preventive measures. He grabbed handfuls of dirt and scattered them across the frozen surface. Joining him, Daniel and I assisted in spreading soil on the snow. To reduce the vehicle's load, Daniel and I remained outside as Tsetan backed up and carefully maneuvered onto the icy surface. Remarkably, the car traversed the length of the icy patch without any evident difficulty." **Word Meanings:** 1. **Depth:** The distance from the top surface to the bottom of something. - *Usage:* The depth of the swimming pool was marked on the side to ensure swimmers' safety. 2. **Icy top layer:** A frozen and slippery surface on the top of the snow. - *Usage:* The icy top layer of the pond made it challenging for skaters to maintain their balance. 3. **Turn over:** Flip or rotate upside down. - *Usage:* The car skidded on the icy road and threatened to turn over, but the driver skillfully regained control. 4. **Pitched in:** Contributed or joined in to help with a task. - *Usage:* Everyone pitched in to clean up the community park after the event. 5. **Spread with soil:** Disperse or scatter soil over a surface. - *Usage:* Gardeners spread mulch with soil to enrich the ground and promote plant growth. 6. **Stayed out of the vehicle:** Remained outside the car. - *Usage:* As the car was being repaired, passengers stayed out of the vehicle and waited by the roadside. 7. **Lighten Tsetan's load:** Reduce the weight or burden that Tsetan had to carry. - *Usage:* The team members offered to help with the workload to lighten Tsetan's load during the busy period. 8. **Backed up:** Moved the vehicle backward. - *Usage:* The driver carefully backed up the car to find a better parking spot. 9. **Drove towards the dirty snow:** Directed the vehicle toward the snow covered with soil. - *Usage:* The snowplow driver drove towards the dirty snow, clearing the road for safe passage. 10. **Eased the car onto its icy surface:** Gradually and carefully guided the car onto the frozen and slippery surface. - *Usage:* The experienced driver eased the car onto its icy surface, ensuring a smooth transition without skidding. 11. **Traversed the length:** Successfully moved across the entire distance. - *Usage:* The hikers traversed the length of the trail, enjoying breathtaking views along the way. 12. **Without apparent difficulty:** Seemingly without any visible challenges or issues. - *Usage:* The experienced climber scaled the mountain without apparent difficulty, showcasing his skill and expertise. Para 5 | Page 76 Ten minutes later, we stopped at another blockage. “Not good, sir,” Tsetan announced as he jumped out again to survey the scene. This time he decided to try and drive round the snow. The slope was steep and studded with major rocks, but somehow Tsetan negotiated them, his four-wheel drive vehicle lurching from one obstacle to the next. In so doing he cut off one of the hairpin bends, regaining the trail further up where the snow had not drifted. Translation "Ten minutes later, we encountered another obstacle. Tsetan, expressing his concern with 'Not good, sir,' exited the vehicle once more to assess the situation. This time, he opted to navigate around the snow blockade. The slope was challenging, adorned with substantial rocks, but skillfully, Tsetan maneuvered his four-wheel-drive vehicle from one obstacle to the next. In the process, he circumvented one of the hairpin bends, rejoining the trail at a higher point where the snow had not accumulated." Word Meanings: 1. **Blockage:** Something that blocks or obstructs the way. - *Usage:* The fallen tree created a blockage on the road, causing traffic to come to a halt. 2. **Not good:** Indicating a problem or unfavorable situation. - *Usage:* The mechanic inspected the engine and shook his head, saying, "Not good, we need to replace a crucial part." 3. **Survey the scene:** Examine and assess the situation. - *Usage:* The detective arrived at the crime scene to survey the area and gather evidence. 4. **Drive round:** Maneuver around or avoid. - *Usage:* To avoid the construction zone, drivers had to find a way to drive round the road closure. 5. **Steep:** Having a sharp incline or slope. - *Usage:* The mountain trail became steep, requiring hikers to use trekking poles for support. 6. **Studded with major rocks:** Adorned or filled with significant-sized rocks. - *Usage:* The hiking trail was studded with major rocks, making it challenging for the climbers. 7. **Negotiated them:** Successfully navigated or managed to traverse the obstacles. - *Usage:* The experienced pilot skillfully negotiated the turbulent weather conditions during the flight. 8. **Lurching:** Moving abruptly or unsteadily. - *Usage:* The boat began lurching as it encountered rough waves in the stormy sea. 9. **Hairpin bends:** Sharp and tight turns in a road resembling the shape of a hairpin. - *Usage:* The mountain road had numerous hairpin bends, requiring drivers to navigate carefully. 10. **Regaining the trail:** Getting back on the intended path or route. - *Usage:* After taking a detour, the hikers focused on regaining the trail to reach their destination. 11. **Further up:** At a higher point or location. - *Usage:* The mountain climbers continued trekking further up, reaching the summit with breathtaking views. 12. **Drifted:** Accumulated or piled up due to wind or other forces. - *Usage:* The snow had drifted along the road, creating challenging conditions for drivers. Para 1 | Page 77 I checked my watch again as we continued to climb in the bright sunshine. We crept past 5,400 metres and my head began to throb horribly. I took gulps from my water bottle, which is supposed to help a rapid ascent. Translation "I glanced at my watch once more as we continued our ascent in the radiant sunshine. Surpassing the 5,400-meter mark, my head started throbbing intensely. Attempting to alleviate the discomfort of rapid ascent, I took large gulps from my water bottle." Word Power 1. **Glanced:** Took a quick or brief look. - *Usage:* She glanced at the clock and realized she was running late for the meeting. 2. **Ascent:** The act of climbing or moving upward. - *Usage:* The steep ascent to the mountaintop required proper gear and careful navigation. 3. **Surpassing:** Exceeding or going beyond. - *Usage:* The athlete aimed at surpassing the previous record in the upcoming race. 4. **Throbbing:** Pulsating or beating with pain. - *Usage:* The throbbing in her temples indicated the onset of a headache. 5. **Alleviate:** Relieve or reduce the intensity of. - *Usage:* A hot compress can help alleviate muscle soreness after a strenuous workout. 6. **Discomfort:** A state of unease or physical distress. - *Usage:* The uncomfortable chair caused considerable discomfort during the long meeting. 7. **Rapid ascent:** Quickly climbing to higher altitudes. - *Usage:* Mountaineers need to acclimatize to avoid health issues during rapid ascent to high elevations. Para 2 | Page 77 We finally reached the top of the pass at 5,515 metres. It was marked by a large cairn of rocks festooned with white silk scarves and ragged prayer flags. We all took a turn round the cairn, in a clockwise direction as is the tradition, and Tsetan checked the tyres on his vehicle. He stopped at the petrol tank and partially unscrewed the top, which emitted a loud hiss. The lower atmospheric pressure was allowing the fuel to expand. It sounded dangerous to me. “Maybe, sir,” Tsetan laughed “but no smoking.” Translation "At last, we reached the summit of the pass at 5,515 meters. A prominent cairn, adorned with white silk scarves and tattered prayer flags, marked the spot. Following tradition, we each circled the cairn clockwise. Tsetan, our driver, inspected the vehicle's tires. He approached the petrol tank, loosening the cap, resulting in a loud hiss. The lower atmospheric pressure caused the fuel to expand, a potentially risky situation. Tsetan chuckled, saying, 'Maybe, sir, but no smoking.'" Word Power 1. **Summit:** The highest point or peak. - *Usage:* Climbers celebrate reaching the summit of Mount Everest with a sense of accomplishment. 2. **Cairn:** A mound of stones built as a memorial or landmark. - *Usage:* Hikers often create a cairn to mark a trail or commemorate a significant location. 3. **Festooned:** Adorned or decorated with hanging items. - *Usage:* The room was festooned with colorful banners for the festive occasion. 4. **Prayer Flags:** Flags with sacred symbols, often used in Tibetan Buddhism. - *Usage:* Prayer flags are believed to bring blessings and positive energy when hung in the wind. 5. **Clockwise:** In the direction that the hands of a clock move. - *Usage:* The dancers moved in a clockwise direction around the ceremonial fire. 6. **Partially Unscrewed:** Loosened or opened only partially. - *Usage:* She partially unscrewed the jar lid to release pressure before fully opening it. 7. **Atmospheric Pressure:** The pressure exerted by the Earth's atmosphere. - *Usage:* Changes in atmospheric pressure can affect weather patterns and human comfort. 8. **Potentially Risky:** Involving a possibility of danger or harm. - *Usage:* Engaging in extreme sports comes with a potentially risky outcome. 9. **Chuckled:** Laughed quietly or to oneself. - *Usage:* The comedian's witty remark made the audience chuckle with amusement. Para 3 | Page 77 My headache soon cleared as we careered down the other side of the pass. It was two o’clock by the time we stopped for lunch. We ate hot noodles inside a long canvas tent, part of a workcamp erected beside a dry salt lake. The plateau is pockmarked with salt flats and brackish lakes, vestiges of the Tethys Ocean which bordered Tibet before the great continental collision that lifted it skyward. This one was a hive of activity, men with pickaxes and shovels trudging back and forth in their long sheepskin coats and salt-encrusted boots. All wore sunglasses against the glare as a steady stream of blue trucks emerged from the blindingly white lake laden with piles of salt. Translation "My headache quickly disappeared as we descended the opposite side of the pass. It was two o'clock when we paused for lunch. Inside a lengthy canvas tent, part of a work camp near a dry salt lake, we enjoyed hot noodles. The plateau features numerous salt flats and brackish lakes, remnants of the Tethys Ocean that once bordered Tibet. This lake, in particular, buzzed with activity. Men, clad in long sheepskin coats and boots encrusted with salt, toiled with pickaxes and shovels. Shielded by sunglasses against the intense glare, they shuttled back and forth as blue trucks, loaded with salt, continuously emerged from the brilliantly white lake." Word Power: 1. **Cleared:** Disappeared or became free from. - *Usage:* With proper rest, her fatigue cleared, and she felt energized. 2. **Careered Down:** Moved swiftly or uncontrollably downhill. - *Usage:* The cyclists careered down the steep slope, enjoying the thrill of the descent. 3. **Pockmarked:** Marked or scarred with small pits or indentations. - *Usage:* The old building was pockmarked with bullet holes from a past conflict. 4. **Vestiges:** Traces or remnants of something that no longer exists. - *Usage:* The ancient ruins are the vestiges of a once-thriving civilization. 5. **Continental Collision:** The convergence of tectonic plates resulting in the collision of continental landmasses. - *Usage:* The Himalayas formed due to the continental collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. 6. **Skyward:** Toward the sky or upward direction. - *Usage:* The rocket soared skyward, leaving a trail of exhaust in its wake. 7. **Hive of Activity:** A place where many busy and energetic actions are taking place. - *Usage:* The marketplace was a hive of activity with vendors selling goods and customers bustling around. 8. **Encrusted:** Covered or coated with a hard layer or substance. - *Usage:* The ship's hull was encrusted with barnacles after years in the salty sea. 9. **Blindingly White:** Extremely bright or dazzling white. - *Usage:* The snow-covered landscape was blindingly white under the noonday sun. 10. **Laden:** Heavily loaded or burdened. - *Usage:* The delivery truck was laden with packages for the holiday season. Para 4 | Page 77 By late afternoon we had reached the small town of Hor, back on the main east-west highway that followed the old trade route from Lhasa to Kashmir. Daniel, who was returning to Lhasa, found a ride in a truck so Tsetan and I bade him farewell outside a tyre-repair shop. We had suffered two punctures in quick succession on the drive down from the salt lake and Tsetan was eager to have them fixed since they left him with no spares. Besides, the second tyre he’d changed had been replaced by one that was as smooth as my bald head. Translation "In the late afternoon, we arrived at the small town of Hor, situated along the main east-west highway that traces the ancient trade route from Lhasa to Kashmir. Daniel, heading back to Lhasa, secured a ride in a truck. Tsetan and I bid him farewell outside a tire repair shop. Our descent from the salt lake had resulted in two rapid punctures, and Tsetan was keen to have them repaired as he had no spare tires left. Moreover, the replacement for the second tire change was as smooth as my bald head." Word Power 1. **Bade:** Said goodbye or parted ways. - *Usage:* With a heavy heart, she bade farewell to her childhood home. 2. **Tyre-Repair Shop:** A place where tires are fixed or replaced. - *Usage:* The driver stopped at the tire-repair shop to fix the flat tire. 3. **Punctures:** Holes or piercings, especially in a tire. - *Usage:* The cyclist had to stop and repair the puncture in his bike tire. 4. **Spares:** Additional items kept in reserve as replacements. - *Usage:* It's wise to carry spares, such as extra batteries, when going on a long hike. 5. **Smooth:** Having an even surface; free from irregularities. - *Usage:* The polished marble floor was smooth to the touch. 6. **Bald Head:** A head without hair, typically due to hair loss. - *Usage:* He decided to embrace his bald head and no longer felt the need for hairpieces. Para 5 | Page 77-78 Hor was a grim, miserable place. There was no vegetation whatsoever, just dust and rocks, liberally scattered with years of accumulated refuse, which was unfortunate given that the town sat on the shore of Lake Manasarovar, Tibet’s most venerated stretch of water. Ancient Hindu and Buddhist cosmology pinpoints Manasarovar as the source of four great Indian rivers: the Indus, the Ganges, the Sutlej and the Brahmaputra. Actually only the Sutlej flows from the lake, but the headwaters of the others all rise nearby on the flanks of Mount Kailash. We were within striking distance of the great mountain and I was eager to forge ahead. Translation "Hor presented a desolate and dreary scene. Devoid of any vegetation, the landscape consisted solely of dust and rocks, generously scattered with years of accumulated waste. This was unfortunate, considering the town's location on the shores of Lake Manasarovar, Tibet's most revered body of water. According to ancient Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, Manasarovar is identified as the origin of four significant Indian rivers: the Indus, the Ganges, the Sutlej, and the Brahmaputra. In reality, only the Sutlej flows from the lake, but the headwaters of the others all originate nearby, on the slopes of Mount Kailash. We were close to the magnificent mountain, and my anticipation to proceed ahead was high." Word Power 1. **Grim:** Depressingly bleak or gloomy. - *Usage:* The abandoned factory presented a grim picture of industrial decline. 2. **Miserable:** Wretchedly unhappy or uncomfortable. - *Usage:* The travelers found themselves in a miserable situation when the storm hit. 3. **Vegetation:** Plants considered collectively, especially those found in a particular area or habitat. - *Usage:* The dense vegetation in the rainforest provides a home for numerous species. 4. **Refuse:** Waste or garbage. - *Usage:* Citizens are encouraged to dispose of their refuse in designated bins. 5. **Venerated:** Regarded with great respect or reverence. - *Usage:* The ancient temple is venerated by pilgrims from around the world. 6. **Cosmology:** The science or theory of the universe as an ordered system. - *Usage:* Ancient cultures often developed elaborate cosmologies to explain the workings of the cosmos. 7. **Flanks:** The sides or edges of something. - *Usage:* The mountain goat skillfully navigated the steep flanks of the cliff. 8. **Forge Ahead:** To move forward with determination. - *Usage:* Despite facing challenges, the team decided to forge ahead with their project. Para 1 | Page 78 But I had to wait. Tsetan told me to go and drink some tea in Hor’s only cafe which, like all the other buildings in town, was constructed from badly painted concrete and had three broken windows. The good view of the lake through one of them helped to compensate for the draught. Translation "But patience was required. Tsetan instructed me to have some tea at Hor's sole cafe, a structure like the rest in town—made of poorly painted concrete and boasting three broken windows. The view of the lake, visible through one of these windows, served as a partial compensation for the draft." Word Power 1. **Compensate:** To make up for, offset, or balance the effect of something. - *Usage:* The stunning scenery compensated for the challenging hike. 2. **Draught:** A current of cool air in a room or other confined space. - *Usage:* Closing the windows reduced the draught in the chilly room. Para 2-3 | Page 78 I was served by a Chinese youth in military uniform who spread the grease around on my table with a filthy rag before bringing me a glass and a thermos of tea. Half an hour later, Tsetan relieved me from my solitary confinement and we drove past a lot more rocks and rubbish westwards out of town towards Mount Kailash. Translation "I was attended to by a Chinese youth in military attire who wiped my table with a dirty cloth before providing a glass and a thermos of tea. Thirty minutes later, Tsetan rescued me from my isolated state, and we continued westward out of town, passing numerous rocks and debris on our way to Mount Kailash." Word Power 1. **Confinement:** The state of being confined or restricted. - *Usage:* The animal felt anxious in the confinement of the small cage. 2. **Attire:** Clothing, especially when worn for a particular occasion or purpose; a costume. - *Usage:* The formal attire for the event was a black-tie suit. Para 4 | Page 78 My experience in Hor came as a stark contrast to accounts I’d read of earlier travellers’ first encounters with Lake Manasarovar. Ekai Kawaguchi, a Japanese monk who had arrived there in 1900, was so moved by the sanctity of the lake that he burst into tears. A couple of years later, the hallowed waters had a similar effect on Sven Hedin, a Swede who wasn’t prone to sentimental outbursts. Translation "My time in Hor presented a sharp difference from the stories I had read about the initial meetings of earlier travelers with Lake Manasarovar. In 1900, Ekai Kawaguchi, a Japanese monk, was so deeply moved by the holiness of the lake that he wept. A few years later, Sven Hedin, a Swede known for his lack of sentimental displays, was similarly affected by the revered waters." Word Power 1. **Sanctity:** The state or quality of being holy, sacred, or saintly. - *Usage:* The monks preserved the sanctity of the temple through regular rituals. 2. **Holiness:** The quality or state of being holy. - *Usage:* Pilgrims visit the holy site seeking spiritual blessings and holiness. Para 5 | Page 78 It was dark by the time we finally left again and after 10.30 p.m. we drew up outside a guest house in Darchen for what turned out to be another troubled night. Kicking around in the open-air rubbish dump that passed for the town of Hor had set off my cold once more, though if truth be told it had never quite disappeared with my herbal tea. One of my nostrils was blocked again and as I lay down to sleep, I wasn’t convinced that the other would provide me with sufficient oxygen. My watch told me I was at 4,760 metres. It wasn’t much higher than Ravu, and there I’d been gasping for oxygen several times every night. I’d grown accustomed to these nocturnal disturbances by now, but they still scared me. Translation "It was nighttime when we left and, after 10:30 p.m., we arrived at a guest house in Darchen, marking another troubled night. Roaming in the open-air garbage dump that passed for the town of Hor had reignited my cold, which, truthfully, had never fully disappeared despite my herbal tea. One nostril was blocked again, and as I settled in for sleep, I doubted the other would provide enough oxygen. My watch indicated an altitude of 4,760 meters. While not significantly higher than Ravu, where I had struggled for oxygen at night, these nocturnal disruptions had become familiar but still unnerved me." **Word Meanings:** 1. **Nocturnal:** Relating to or occurring during the night. - *Usage:* Nocturnal animals, like owls, are adapted to hunt and be active during the night. Para 6 | Page 78 Tired and hungry, I started breathing through my mouth. After a while, I switched to single-nostril power which seemed to be admitting enough oxygen but, just as I was drifting off, I woke up abruptly. Something was wrong. My chest felt strangely heavy and I sat up, a movement that cleared my nasal passages almost instantly and relieved the feeling in my chest. Curious, I thought. Translation "Exhausted and hungry, I began breathing through my mouth. After a while, I shifted to single-nostril breathing, which appeared to provide sufficient oxygen. However, as I was on the verge of falling asleep, I suddenly woke up. Something felt off. My chest felt unusually heavy, and when I sat up, the movement quickly cleared my nasal passages, easing the discomfort in my chest. I found it curious." Word Power: 1. **Curious:** Strange or unusual; arousing interest or attention. - *Usage:* The peculiar behavior of the animals in the forest was indeed curious and attracted the researchers' attention. Para 1 | Page 79 I lay back down and tried again. Same result. I was on the point of disappearing into the land of nod when something told me not to. It must have been those emergency electrical impulses again, but this was not the same as on previous occasions. This time, I wasn’t gasping for breath, I was simply not allowed to go to sleep. Translation "I lay back down and attempted to sleep again, experiencing the same outcome. Just as I was about to drift off, an instinct warned me not to. It seemed like those emergency electrical signals once more, though this instance was different from previous occurrences. This time, it wasn't about struggling for breath; I was merely prohibited from falling asleep." Word Power: 1. **Nod:** A brief and involuntary inclination or dropping of the head. - *Usage:* After a long day's work, he couldn't resist the occasional nod during the boring meeting. Para 2 | Page 79 Sitting up once more immediately made me feel better. I could breathe freely and my chest felt fine. But as soon as I lay down, my sinuses filled and my chest was odd. I tried propping myself upright against the wall, but now I couldn’t manage to relax enough to drop off. I couldn’t put my finger on the reason, but I was afraid to go to sleep. A little voice inside me was saying that if I did I might never wake up again. So I stayed awake all night. Translation "Sitting up once more immediately made me feel better. I could breathe freely, and my chest felt fine. But as soon as I lay down, my sinuses filled, and my chest felt odd. I tried propping myself upright against the wall, but now I couldn't manage to relax enough to drop off. I couldn't put my finger on the reason, but I was afraid to go to sleep. A little voice inside me was saying that if I did, I might never wake up again. So, I stayed awake all night." Word Power: 1. **Sinuses:** Air-filled cavities in the bones of the face connected with the nasal cavity. - *Usage:* His persistent cold affected his sinuses, causing discomfort and headaches. Para 3 | Page 79 Tsetan took me to the Darchen medical college the following morning. The medical college at Darchen was new and looked like a monastery from the outside with a very solid door that led into a large courtyard. We found the consulting room which was dark and cold and occupied by a Tibetan doctor who wore none of the paraphernalia that I’d been expecting. No white coat, he looked like any other Tibetan with a thick pullover and a woolly hat. When I explained my sleepless symptoms and my sudden aversion to lying down, he shot me a few questions while feeling the veins in my wrist. Translation "Tsetan took me to the Darchen medical college the following morning. The medical college at Darchen was new and looked like a monastery from the outside with a very solid door that led into a large courtyard. We found the consulting room, which was dark and cold and occupied by a Tibetan doctor who wore none of the paraphernalia that I'd been expecting. No white coat, he looked like any other Tibetan with a thick pullover and a woolly hat. When I explained my sleepless symptoms and my sudden aversion to lying down, he shot me a few questions while feeling the veins in my wrist." Word Power 1. **Paraphernalia:** Miscellaneous articles, especially the equipment needed for a particular activity. - *Usage:* The photographer packed all his paraphernalia, including lenses and tripods, for the outdoor shoot. Para 4-5 | Page 79 “It’s a cold,” he said finally through Tsetan. “A cold and the effects of altitude. I’ll give you something for it.” I asked him if he thought I’d recover enough to be able to do the kora. “Oh yes,” he said, “you’ll be fine.” Translation "It's a cold," he said finally through Tsetan. "A cold and the effects of altitude. I'll give you something for it." I asked him if he thought I'd recover enough to be able to do the kora. "Oh yes," he said, "you'll be fine." Word Power 1. **Kora:** A pilgrimage circuit around a sacred site, typically Mount Kailash in Tibet. Para 6 | Page 79 I walked out of the medical college clutching a brown envelope stuffed with fifteen screws of paper. I had a five-day course of Tibetan medicine which I started right away. I opened an after breakfast package and found it contained a brown powder that I had to take with hot water. It tasted just like cinnamon. The contents of the lunchtime and bedtime packages were less obviously identifiable. Both contained small, spherical brown pellets. They looked suspiciously like sheep dung, but of course I took them. That night, after my first full day’s course, I slept very soundly. Like a log, not a dead man. Translation I left the medical college holding a brown envelope filled with fifteen rolls of paper. I began a five-day Tibetan medicine course immediately. In the morning, I opened a package and discovered brown powder to be taken with hot water. It tasted like cinnamon. The contents of the lunch and bedtime packages were less recognizable. Both had small, round brown pellets that resembled sheep dung, but I took them. That night, after completing the first day of the course, I slept deeply, similar to a log, not like a dead person. Word Power 1. **Screws of paper:** Rolled or folded sheets of paper. 2. **Cinnamon:** A spice with a warm, sweet flavor obtained from the inner bark of a tree. 3. **Spherical:** Shaped like a sphere or ball. 4. **Pellets:** Small, rounded masses or balls. 5. **Sheep dung:** Excrement of sheep, feces. Para 1 | Page 80 Once he saw that I was going to live Tsetan left me, to return to Lhasa. As a Buddhist, he told me, he knew that it didn’t really matter if I passed away, but he thought it would be bad for business. Translation: After realizing I would survive, Tsetan departed, heading back to Lhasa. As a Buddhist, he explained that, from a spiritual perspective, it wouldn't truly matter if I died. However, he added that it might adversely affect his business. Para 2 | Page 80 Darchen didn’t look so horrible after a good night’s sleep. It was still dusty, partially derelict and punctuated by heaps of rubble and refuse, but the sun shone brilliantly in a clear blue sky and the outlook across the plain to the south gave me a vision of the Himalayas, commanded by a huge, snow-capped mountain, Gurla Mandhata, with just a wisp of cloud suspended over its summit. Translation: Darchen appeared less unpleasant after a restful night. Although it remained dusty, partly in ruins, and marked by piles of debris and waste, the sun illuminated the surroundings with a clear blue sky. The southern view revealed a sight of the Himalayas, dominated by the massive, snow-covered Gurla Mandhata mountain, crowned with a delicate wisp of cloud over its summit. Word Power 1. **Derelict:** In a very poor condition due to neglect or disuse. 2. **Punctuated:** Interrupted or marked at intervals. 3. **Heaps:** Large piles or quantities. 4. **Rubble:** Broken pieces of buildings or other structures. 5. **Outlook:** A view or prospect. Para 3 | Page 80 The town had a couple of rudimentary general stores selling Chinese cigarettes, soap and other basic provisions, as well as the usual strings of prayer flags. In front of one, men gathered in the afternoon for a game of pool, the battered table looking supremely incongruous in the open air, while nearby women washed their long hair in the icy water of a narrow brook that babbled down past my guest house. Darchen felt relaxed and unhurried but, for me, it came with a significant drawback. There were no pilgrims. Translation: Darchen featured a few basic general stores offering Chinese cigarettes, soap, and essential supplies, along with typical strings of prayer flags. In front of one store, men gathered in the afternoon to play pool, with the weathered table appearing oddly out of place outdoors. Nearby, women washed their long hair in the chilly water of a narrow brook flowing past my guest house. Darchen exuded a laid-back and unhurried atmosphere, but it had a notable downside for me—there were no pilgrims. Word Power 1. **Rudimentary:** Basic or undeveloped. 2. **Provisions:** Necessary supplies or food. 3. **Incongruous:** Not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings. 4. **Babbled:** Made the continuous murmuring sound of flowing water. 5. **Drawback:** A disadvantage or unfavorable aspect. Para 4 | Page 80 I’d been told that at the height of the pilgrimage season, the town was bustling with visitors. Many brought their own accommodation, enlarging the settlement round its edges as they set up their tents which spilled down on to the plain. I’d timed my arrival for the beginning of the season, but it seemed I was too early. Translation: I had heard that during the peak pilgrimage season, the town bustled with visitors. Many brought their own accommodation, expanding the settlement around its periphery as they pitched tents that sprawled onto the plain. I had planned my arrival for the start of the season, but it appeared I was too early. Word Power 1. **Bustling:** Full of energetic and lively activity. 2. **Accommodation:** Lodging or a place to stay. 3. **Enlarging:** Increasing or expanding. 4. **Sprawled:** Spread out in an untidy or irregular way. Para 5 | Page 80 One afternoon I sat pondering my options over a glass of tea in Darchen’s only cafe. After a little consideration, I concluded they were severely limited. Clearly I hadn’t made much progress with my self-help programme on positive thinking. Translation: One afternoon, I sat contemplating my options while sipping a glass of tea in Darchen's only cafe. After some reflection, I realized that my choices were quite restricted. It seemed that my self-help program on positive thinking hadn't yielded much progress. Word Power 1. **Pondering:** Thinking carefully or deeply about something. 2. **Severely:** To a great extent or degree. 3. **Contemplating:** Thinking deeply or carefully about. 4. **Restricted:** Limited or confined. Para 6 | Page 80 In my defence, it hadn’t been easy with all my sleeping difficulties, but however I looked at it, I could only wait. The pilgrimage trail was well-trodden, but I didn’t fancy doing it alone. The kora was seasonal because parts of the route were liable to blockage by snow. I had no idea whether or not the snow had cleared, but I wasn’t encouraged by the chunks of dirty ice that still clung to the banks of Darchen’s brook. Since Tsetan had left, I hadn’t come across anyone in Darchen with enough English to answer even this most basic question. Translation: In my defense, it hadn't been easy with all my sleeping difficulties. However, no matter how I considered it, my options were limited. The pilgrimage trail was well-trodden, but I wasn't keen on doing it alone. The kora was seasonal, and I had no idea if the snow had cleared. The dirty ice chunks along Darchen's brook didn't encourage me. Since Tsetan left, I hadn't found anyone in Darchen with enough English to answer even this basic question. Word Power 1. Defence: Justification or explanation of one's actions. 2. Encouraged: Inspired with confidence or hope. 3. Chunks: Large pieces or portions. 4. Brook: A small stream. Para 7 | Page 80-81 Until, that is, I met Norbu. The cafe was small, dark and cavernous, with a long metal stove that ran down the middle. The walls and ceiling were wreathed in sheets of multi-coloured plastic, of the striped variety— broad blue, red and white—that is made into stout, voluminous shopping bags sold all over China, and in many other countries of Asia as well as Europe. As such, plastic must rate as one of China’s most successful exports along the Silk Road today. Translation : I didn't meet anyone interesting until I met Norbu. The cafe was small, dark, and like a cave, with a long metal stove running down the center. The walls and ceiling were covered in sheets of colorful plastic, like the striped kind – big blue, red, and white stripes – that are used to make strong, big shopping bags sold all over China, and in many other countries of Asia and Europe too. So, plastic must be one of China's most successful exports along the Silk Road today. Para 1-3 | Page 81 The cafe had a single window beside which I’d taken up position so that I could see the pages of my notebook. I’d also brought a novel with me to help pass the time. Norbu saw my book when he came in and asked with a gesture if he could sit opposite me at my rickety table. “You English?” he enquired, after he’d ordered tea. I told him I was, and we struck up a conversation. I didn’t think he was from those parts because he was wearing a windcheater and metal-rimmed spectacles of a Western style. He was Tibetan, he told me, but worked in Beijing at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, in the Institute of Ethnic Literature. I assumed he was on some sort of fieldwork. Translation : The cafe had only one window, and I sat next to it so I could see the pages of my notebook. I also brought a novel with me to help pass the time. Norbu saw my book when he came in and asked with a hand gesture if he could sit across from me at my wobbly table. "You English?" he asked after ordering tea. I told him I was, and we started talking. I didn't think he was from that area because he was wearing a windbreaker and Western-style metal-rimmed glasses. He told me he was Tibetan, but he worked in Beijing at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, in the Institute of Ethnic Literature. I thought he was on some kind of field trip. Para 4-5 | Page 81 “Yes and no,” he said. “I have come to do the kora.” My heart jumped. Norbu had been writing academic papers about the Kailash kora and its importance in various works of Buddhist literature for many years, he told me, but he had never actually done it himself. When the time came for me to tell him what brought me to Darchen, his eyes lit up. “We could be a team,” he said excitedly. “Two academics who have escaped from the library.” Perhaps my positive-thinking strategy was working after all. Translation : "I'm half here to do the kora and half not," he said. Norbu explained that he had been writing academic papers about the Kailash kora and its significance in various Buddhist writings for many years, but he had never actually done it himself. When I told him the reason for my visit to Darchen, his eyes lit up. "We could work together!" he exclaimed enthusiastically. "Two scholars who have escaped the library." Perhaps my strategy of positive thinking was finally paying off. Para 6 | Page 81 My initial relief at meeting Norbu, who was also staying in the guest house, was tempered by the realisation that he was almost as ill-equipped as I was for the pilgrimage. He kept telling me how fat he was and how hard it was going to be. “Very high up,” he kept reminding me, “so tiresome to walk.” He wasn’t really a practising Buddhist, it transpired, but he had enthusiasm and he was, of course, Tibetan. Translation : I was initially relieved to meet Norbu, who was also staying at the guest house, but I soon realized that he was almost as unprepared for the pilgrimage as I was. He kept lamenting about his weight and how difficult the journey would be. "Very high up," he would repeatedly say, "it's so tiring to walk." It turned out that he wasn't a devout Buddhist, but he was enthusiastic and, of course, Tibetan. Para 7 | Page 81 Although I’d originally envisaged making the trek in the company of devout believers, on reflection I decided that perhaps Norbu would turn out to be the ideal companion. He suggested we hire some yaks to carry our luggage, which I interpreted as a good sign, and he had no intention of prostrating himself all round the mountain. “Not possible,” he cried, collapsing across the table in hysterical laughter. It wasn’t his style, and anyway his tummy was too big. Translation : Initially, I had imagined making the pilgrimage with dedicated believers, but upon further thought, I realized that Norbu might be the perfect companion. He proposed hiring yaks to carry our luggage, which I took as a positive indication, and he had no desire to prostrate himself around the entire mountain. "Not possible!" he exclaimed, collapsing across the table in fits of laughter. It wasn't his style, and besides, his tummy was too big. NCERT Solution Understanding the Text Give reasons for the following statements. 1. The article has been titled ‘Silk Road.’ Ans: The route is called 'Silk Road' as it was the ancient trade route for commodities like silk, horses, dry fruits etc from China via Kahsmir up to Afghanistan. It has been so named as silk was an important commodity that was traded. 2. Tibetan mastiffs were popular in China’s imperial courts. Ans: Tibetan mastiffs were huge black dogs standing guard at the nomad's tents. These ferocious monsters would shoot towards anyone who passed by their territory. They were very popular in China's imperial courts as they were very skilled in hunting . They were brought along the Silk Road in ancient times from Tiber to China. 3. The author’s experience at Hor was in stark contrast to earlier accounts of the place. Hor was a dull and miserable place with rocks and dust and no vegetation anywhere. It was situated on the shore of Lake Mansarowar. There were heaps of filthy garbage lying scattered all around. It was rocky and dusty and without any vegetation. Thsus the author's experience at Hor was in stark contrast to earlier accounts of the place by a Japanese monk and a Swede. 4. The author was disappointed with Darchen. The first night at Darchen was horrible for the author. One of his nostrils was blocked. His chest felt very heavy and he could not lie down to sleep. The place felt relaxed and unhurried which actually disappointed the author because it meant that pilgrims had not yet arrived for the 'Kora'. 5. The author thought that his positive thinking strategy worked well after all. On reaching Darchen, the poet became highly disappointed owing to his sudden illness and his loneliness after the departure of Tsetan. Moreover, he concluded that he reached Darchen quite early for Kora as no pilgrims had arrived there yet. Then he met Norbu and felt happy as eventually met an academician who also came to do 'Kora' . The author started thinking positively and it gave him some delight and a new enthusiasm. II Briefly Comment on : 1. The purpose of the author's journey to Mount Kailash. The author planned his journey to Mt. Kailash to complete a religious ritual called 'Kora'. According to Hindu and Buddhist tradition, the Kora around Mt. Kailash is one of the most sacred religious rituals. The author, an Englishman, went there to have a first hand experience. 2. The author's physical condition at Darchen. On the very first night the author arrived at Darchen his health got worse. One of his nostrils got blocked and his chest felt very heavy. As a result, he could not sleep. He had a feeling that he might never wake up if he slept. so he kept awake all night. 3. The author's meeting with Norbu. The author met Norbu at Darchen where he was feeling very lonely after the departure of Tsetan for Lhasa. It was then that he met Norbu at a café. Norbu was a Tibetan academician who came for the same purpose of doing 'Korba'. So his company gave warmth and both decided to make the pilgrimage together. Following Norbu's suggestion, the author agreed to hire some yaks for carrying their luggage for the onward journey. 4. Tsetan's support to the author during the journey. Tsetan had sound knowledge of the local routes for navigating through the harsh mountainous terrain. With his workable knowledge of English, Tsetan could share some information to the author on their uphill journey together. At Darchen he took the author to a doctor when the latter's condition got worse following severe cold. Thus Tsetan provided constant support to the author till his departure for Lhasa. 5. As a Buddhist, he told me , he knew that it really didn't really matter if I passed away, but he thought it would be bad for business. Tsetan made this statement from the perspective of a Buddhist. According to Buddhism, life is replete with sorrow and death brings nirvana or liberation of the soul. Therefore, Tsetan thought that sacrificing one's life in a pilgrimage would be a blessing. However, it would be bad for his business as his credibility as a tourist driver would be at stake if he did not carry out his duty to ensure safety for his fellow passengers. CBQs will be uploaded shortly. Keep Visiting the Website

Lesson Architecture Theme Story-At-A-Glance NCERT Solutions Extra Questions Translation of the Original Text Theme: The story highlights the specific bent of mind required to become a scientist. An intelligent mind, and an innate curiosity coupled with insatiable passion and tenacity to explore and excel are a-must ingredient to develop scientific temperament. ‘The Making of a Scientist’ is the story of Richard Ebright, a Scientist in the field of molecular biology and biochemistry, whose childhood attachment for butterflies opened up an altogether new world of science for him. Story-At-A-Glance Richard Ebright’s hobby of Collecting Butterflies Beginning in kindergarten, Ebright collected butterflies with the same determination that has marked all his activities. He also collected rocks, fossils, and coins. He became an eager astronomer, too, sometimes star-gazing all night. His Mother’s Encouragement He had a driving curiosity along with a bright mind. He also had a mother who encouraged his interest in learning. She took him on trips, bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials, and other equipment and helped him in many other ways. She got him a book ‘the Travels of Monarch X, a book about the migration of monarch butterflies. Thus his mother was instrumental in germinating the seeds of curiosity and experiments in his mind. His Interest in Monarch butterflies Following the instructions in the book ‘The Travels of Monarch X’, which his mother gave him, he started to tag butterflies and even began to raise a flock of them, to study butterfly migration. By the time he was in the second grade, Ebright had collected all twenty five species of butterflies found around his hometown. His interest in collecting butterflies would have been over had he not read that book, which his mother presented to him. The book which highlighted how monarch butterflies migrate to Central America, opened the world of science to the eager young collector. At the end of the book, readers were invited to help study butterfly migrations. They were asked to tag butterflies for research by Dr Frederick A. Urquhart of the University of Toronto, Canada. Ebright’s mother wrote to Dr Urquhart, and soon Ebright was attaching light adhesive tags to the wings of monarchs. Anyone who found a tagged butterfly was asked to send the tag to Dr Urquhart. So the next step for Ebright was to raise a flock of butterflies. He would catch a female monarch, take her eggs, and raise them in his basement through their life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly. Then he would tag the butterflies’ wings and let them go. For several years his basement was home to thousands of monarchs in different stages of development. His Approach towards conducting Experiments In the seventh grade he got a hint of what real science is when he entered a county science fair — and lost. His entry was slides of frog tissues, which he showed under a microscope. He realised the winners had tried to do real experiments, not simply make a neat display of projects. He started making experiments with monarch butterflies. With a stack of suggestions for experiments which came from Dr Urquhart, Ebright started his experiment works. Those experiments kept Ebright busy all through high school and led to prize projects in county and international science fairs. His Achievements For his eighth grade project, Ebright tried to find the cause of a viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars every few years. Ebright thought the disease might be carried by a beetle. He tried raising caterpillars in the presence of beetles. Although he did not get any result out of this experiment, but he ended up winning in country science fairs. For his science fair project the following year, he tested the theory that viceroy butterflies copy monarchs. The theory was that viceroys look like monarchs because monarchs don’t taste good to birds. Viceroys,on the other hand, do taste good to birds. So the more they look like monarchs, the less likely they are to become a bird’s dinner. Ebright’s project was to see whether, in fact, birds would eat monarchs. He found that a starling would not eat ordinary bird food. It would eat all the monarchs it could get. This project was placed first in the zoology division and third overall in the county science fair. Ebright developed His theory on the life of Cells: In the second year at high school, Ebright tried to discover the reason behind the twelve tiny gold spots on the monarch pupa, and in the process discovered an unknown insect hormone. Ebright and another science student showed that the spots were producing a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s full development. This project won Ebright first place in the country fair and entry into the International Science and Engineering Fair, where he won the third place for Zoology. He also got a chance to work at the entomology laboratory of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research during the summer. As a high school junior, Richard Ebright continued his advanced experiments on the monarch pupa. When the caterpillar is full grown and stops eating, it becomes a pupa. Anyway, that year Ebright’s project won first place at the International Science Fair and gave him another chance to work in the army laboratory during the summer. In his senior year he went a step further. What he did was he grew cells from a monarch’s wing in a culture and showed that the cells would divide and develop into normal butterfly wing scales only if they were fed the hormone from the gold spots. That project won first place for zoology at the International Fair. A year-and-a-half later, during his junior year, Ebright got the idea for his new theory about cell life. It came while he was looking at X-ray photos of the chemical structure of a hormone. The photos gave him the answer to one of biology’s puzzles: how the cell can ‘read’ the blueprint of its DNA. DNA is the substance in the nucleus of a cell that controls heredity. It determines the form and function of the cell. Thus DNA is the blueprint for life. Ebright and his college room-mate, James R. Wong, worked all that night drawing pictures and constructing plastic models of molecules to show how it could happen. Together they later wrote the paper that explained the theory. If the theory proves correct, it will be a big step towards understanding the processes of life. It might also lead to new ideas for preventing some types of cancer and other diseases. His high school research into the purpose of the spots on a monarch pupa eventually led him to his theory about cell life. His Interest in Other Subjects: Besides having interest in Science, Ebright also became a champion debater and public speaker and a good canoeist and all-around outdoors-person. He is also an expert photographer, particularly of nature and scientific exhibits. In high school, Ebright acknowledged his social science teacher who opened up his mind to new ideas. According to Mr. Weiherer, Ebright was competitive and wanted to win because he wanted to do the best he could. He wanted to win for the right reasons. It is one of the ingredients in the making of a scientist. Recapitulation: Richard Ebright collected butterflies and also collected rocks, fossils and coins. He became an eager astronomer too. His mother encouraged his interest in learning. She took him on trips, bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials, and other equipments and helped him in many other ways. As a student he earned top grades in school. IN the second grad Ebright collected al twenty five species of butterflies found around his hometown. His collection of butterflies would have ended if his mother did not get him a children’s book called ‘The Travels of Monarch X.’ The book told how monarch butterflies migrate to Central America, opened the world of Science to the eager young collector. In the seventh grade he got a hint of what real science is when he entered a county science fair and lost. In Eight grade project, Ebright tried to find the causes of a viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars every few years. He tried raising caterpillars in the presence of beetles. He tried raising caterpillars in the presence of beetles. Ebright’s project was to see whether birds would eat monarchs. This project was placed first in the zoology division and third in the county Science fair. In his second year in high school, Richard Ebright began the research that led to his discovery of an unknown insect hormone. Thus this experiment led to his discovery of the new theory on the life of cells. DNA is the substance in the nucleus of a cell that controls heredity. It determines the form and function of the cell. Thus DNA is the blue print of life. Besides having Besides having interest in Science, Ebright also became a champion debater and public speaker and a good canoeist and all-around outdoors-person. He is also an expert photographer, particularly of nature and scientific exhibits. That’s all about the narration of the story of Richard Ebright. Please go through the text in detail and be inspired and develop the curiosity and undying passion for research and experiments. NCERT Solution Read and Find Out ( Page 32) 1.How did a book become a turning point in Richard Ebright’s life? Ans: Ebright’s mother got him a children’s book called ‘The Travels of Monarch X.” The book which described how monarch butterflies migrate to Central America, opened the world of science to the young and curious Ebright and became a turning point in his life. 2.How did his mother help him? Ans: Ebright’s mother was instrumental in creating interest in science for him. She took him on trips, bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials, and other equipment to help him learn. Read and find Out ( Page 34) 1. What lesson does Ebright learn when he does not win anything at a Science fair? Ans: Ebright realized that in order to be a winner at a Science fair he had to do real experiments and not simply make a neat display of projects. 2. What experiments and projects does he then undertake? Ans: Ebright undertakes the following experiments on realizing that in a Science fair he needs to do a variety of experiments in order to be a winner. a) When he was in eight grade, he tried to find the cause of a viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars every few years. b) The following year his science fair project was testing the theory that viceroy butterflies copy monarchs. Ebright’s project was to see whether, in fact, birds would eat monarchs. c) In his second year in high school, Richard Ebright began the research that led to the discovery of an unknown insect hormone. It also led to his new theory on the life of cells. d) As a high school junior Richard Ebrihgt continued his advanced experiments on the monarch Pupa. 3. What are the qualities that go into the making of a scientist? Ans: The qualities that are of utmost importance for being a scientist are a first-rate mind, curiosity and the will to win for the right reasons. A scientist must not be interested in winning for winning’s sake or winning to get a prize. He must win because he wants to do the best job he can. EXTRA QUESTIONS 1.Why did Ebright raise a flock of monarch butterflies in his basement? Ans: According to Ebright, if one chased butterflies one by one, not many could be caught. So he decided to raise a flock of monarch butterflies in his basement. He would take the eggs of a female monarch, and raise them through their life cycle-from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly. Then he would tag the butterflies’ wings and let them go. For several years his basement was home to thousands of monarchs in different stages of development. 2. What led Ebright to discover an unknown insect hormone? Ans: Ebright was curious to know the purpose of the twelve tiny gold spots on a monarch pupa. Everyone assumed that the spots were just ornamental , but Dr. Urquhart was not convinced. Ebright and another excellent science student first had to build a device that showed that the spots were producing a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s full development. This project won Ebright first place in the county fair and entry into the International Science and Engineering Fair. 3. What opinion did Richard A Weiherer, Ebright’s social studies teacher, have of him? Ans: According to Richard A. Weiherer, Ebright was always interested to put in some extra effort at whatever he laid his hands on. He would study three to four hours together at night researching for his debate, besides doing his other research with butterflies. He was competitive, but not interested in winning for winning’s sake. He wanted to win because he wanted to do his best. 4. Why was the publication of Ebright’s work in the journal significant? Ans: At the age of twenty-two Ebright excited the scientific world with a new theory on how cells work. Richard H. Ebright and his college room-mate explained the theory in an article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. The publication of Ebright’s work was significant because it was the first time ever that this important scientific journal had published the work of college students. 5. What other things were Ebright good at besides being a brilliant student? Ans: Besides being good at academics, Ebright was a champion debater and public speaker and a good canoeist and all-around outdoors-person. He was also an expert photographer, particularly of nature and scientific exhibits. He tried to find the cause of a viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars periodically, and also study whether birds would eat monarchs. These experiments led him to wonder about the purpose of the spots on a monarch pupa. Translation of the Original Text Page 32 | Para 1 AT the age of twenty-two, a former ‘scout of the year’ excited the scientific world with a new theory on how cells work. Richard H. Ebright and his college room-mate explained the theory in an article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Translation When he was twenty-two years old, a person who had once been recognized as the 'scout of the year' surprised the scientific community with a new idea about how cells function. Richard H. Ebright and his friend from college shared this theory in an article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Bonus Info "Scout of the year" Scouting is a movement that aims to develop the character and skills of young people through various activities and community service. The title "Scout of the year" suggests that the individual was acknowledged as the most outstanding or accomplished scout, possibly for his leadership, dedication, or notable accomplishments within the scouting organization. Page 32 | Para 2 It was the first time this important scientific journal had ever published the work of college students. In sports, that would be like making the big leagues at the age of fifteen and hitting a home run your first time at bat*. For Richard Ebright, it was the first in a long string of achievements in science and other fields. And it all started with butterflies. Translation For the first time, a very important science journal published the work of college students. This is a big deal, like playing in the major leagues in sports when you're only fifteen and hitting a home run the first time you bat. This marked the beginning of many accomplishments in science and other areas for Richard Ebright. And it all began with butterflies. Page 32 | Para 3 An only child, Ebright grew up north of Reading, Pennsylvania. “There wasn’t much I could do there,” he said. “I certainly couldn’t play football or baseball with a team of one. But there was one thing I could do — collect things.” Translation: Richard Ebright is the only child in his family, and he grew up north of Reading, Pennsylvania. He mentioned, "There wasn't a lot I could do there. I couldn't play football or baseball because you need a team for that. But there was one thing I could do — collect things." Glossary: I certainly couldn’t play football or baseball with a team of one. Richard Ebright, couldn't engage in activities like football or baseball because these sports typically require a team of players to play together. In other words, playing these sports alone or with just one person wouldn't be feasible or enjoyable because they are team sports that involve cooperation and competition between two groups of players. Ebright is expressing a limitation in participating in certain team sports due to the absence of a team to play with. Page 32 | Para 4 So, he did and did he ever! Beginning in kindergarten, Ebright collected butterflies with the same determination that has marked all his activities. He also collected rocks, fossils, and coins. He became an eager astronomer, too, sometimes star-gazing all night. Translation: So, he did, and he did it really well! Richard Ebright started collecting butterflies when he was in kindergarten, and he kept doing it with a lot of dedication. He didn't stop there; he also collected rocks, fossils, and coins. He was also interested in astronomy and would often spend entire nights looking at the stars. Page 33 | Para 1 From the first he had a driving curiosity along with a bright mind. He also had a mother who encouraged his interest in learning. She took him on trips, bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials, and other equipment and helped him in many other ways. Translation: From the beginning, he had a strong curiosity and a clever mind. His mother played a big role in supporting his love for learning. She took him on trips, got him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials, and other tools, and she helped him in many other ways. Page 33 | Para 2 “I was his only companion until he started school,” his mother said. “After that I would bring home friends for him. But at night we just did things together. Richie was my whole life after his father died when Richie was in third grade.” Translation: "I was his only companion until he started school," his mother said. "After that, I would bring home friends for him. But at night, we just did things together. Richie was my whole life after his father died when Richie was in the third grade." Page 33 | Para 3 She and her son spent almost every evening at the dining room table. “If he didn’t have things to do, I found work for him — not physical work, but learning things,” his mother said. “He liked it. He wanted to learn.” Translation: She and her son spent almost every evening at the dining room table. "If he didn't have things to do, I found work for him — not physical work, but learning things," his mother said. "He liked it. He wanted to learn." Page 33 | Para 4 And learn he did. He earned top grades in school. “On everyday things he was just like every other kid,” his mother said. By the time he was in the second grade, Ebright had collected all twenty five species of butterflies found around his hometown. Translation: And learn he did. He earned top grades in school. "On everyday things, he was just like every other kid," his mother said. By the time he was in the second grade, Ebright had collected all twenty-five species of butterflies found around his hometown. Page 33 | Para 5 “That probably would have been the end of my butterfly collecting,” he said. “But then my mother got me a children’s book called The Travels of Monarch X.” That book, which told how monarch butterflies migrate to Central America, opened the world of science to the eager young collector. Translation: "That might have been the end of my butterfly collecting," he said. "But then my mother got me a children's book called 'The Travels of Monarch X.'" That book, which explained how monarch butterflies migrate to Central America, opened the world of science to the eager young collector. Page 34 | Para 1 At the end of the book, readers were invited to help study butterfly migrations. They were asked to tag butterflies for research by Dr Frederick A. Urquhart of the University of Toronto, Canada. Ebright’s mother wrote to Dr Urquhart, and soon Ebright was attaching light adhesive tags to the wings of monarchs. Anyone who found a tagged butterfly was asked to send the tag to Dr Urquhart. Translation: At the end of the book, readers were asked to help study butterfly migrations. They were invited to tag butterflies for research by Dr. Frederick A. Urquhart of the University of Toronto, Canada. Ebright's mother wrote to Dr. Urquhart, and soon Ebright was attaching light adhesive tags to the wings of monarch butterflies. If anyone found a tagged butterfly, they were asked to send the tag to Dr. Urquhart. Page 34 | Para 2 The butterfly collecting season around Reading lasts six weeks in late summer. (See graph below.) If you’re going to chase them one by one, you won’t catch very many. So the next step for Ebright was to raise a flock of butterflies. He would catch a female monarch, take her eggs, and raise them in his basement through their life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly. Then he would tag the butterflies’ wings and let them go. For several years his basement was home to thousands of monarchs in different stages of development. Translation: The season for collecting butterflies around Reading only lasts for six weeks in late summer. If you try to catch them one by one, you won't catch many. So, the next step for Ebright was to raise a group of butterflies. He would catch a female monarch, take her eggs, and raise them in his basement through their life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly. After that, he would tag the butterflies' wings and release them. For several years, his basement was home to thousands of monarchs in different stages of development. Page 34 | Para 3 “Eventually I began to lose interest in tagging butterflies. It’s tedious and there’s not much feedback,” Ebright said. “In all the time I did it,” he laughed, “only two butterflies I had tagged were recaptured — and they were not more than seventy-five miles from where I lived.” Translation: "Richard Ebright expressed that over time, he lost interest in tagging butterflies because it became monotonous, and there wasn't much information gained. He humorously mentioned that out of all the tagged butterflies, only two were found, relatively close to his home. Page 35 | Para 1 Then in the seventh grade he got a hint of what real science is when he entered a county science fair — and lost. “It was really a sad feeling to sit there and not get anything while everybody else had won something,” Ebright said. His entry was slides of frog tissues, which he showed under a microscope. He realised the winners had tried to do real experiments, not simply make a neat display. Translation: In the seventh grade, he got a taste of what real science is like when he participated in a county science fair — and didn't win. "It was a really sad feeling to sit there and not get anything while everybody else had won something," Ebright said. His entry was slides of frog tissues, which he showed under a microscope. He realized that the winners had attempted to conduct real experiments, not just create a neat display. Page 35 | Para 2 Already the competitive spirit that drives Richard Ebright was appearing. “I knew that for the next year’s fair I would have to do a real experiment,” he said. “The subject I knew most about was the insect work I’d been doing in the past several years.” Translation: The competitive spirit that drives Richard Ebright was already emerging. "I knew that for the next year's fair, I would have to do a real experiment," he said. "The subject I knew most about was the insect work I'd been doing in the past several years." Page 35 | Para 3 So he wrote to Dr Urquhart for ideas, and back came a stack of suggestions for experiments. Those kept Ebright busy all through high school and led to prize projects in county and international science fairs. Translation: So he wrote to Dr. Urquhart for ideas, and a stack of suggestions for experiments came back. Those suggestions kept Ebright busy throughout high school and resulted in prize-winning projects in county and international science fairs. Page 35 | Para 4 For his eighth grade project, Ebright tried to find the cause of a viral disease that kills nearly all monarch caterpillars every few years. Ebright thought the disease might be carried by a beetle. He tried raising caterpillars in the presence of beetles. “I didn’t get any real results,” he said. “But I went ahead and showed that I had tried the experiment. This time I won.” Translation: For his eighth-grade project, Ebright attempted to identify the cause of a viral disease that kills almost all monarch caterpillars every few years. He suspected that the disease might be carried by a beetle. Ebright tried raising caterpillars in the presence of beetles. "I didn't get any real results," he said. "But I went ahead and showed that I had tried the experiment. This time I won." Page 35 | Para 5 The next year his science fair project was testing the theory that viceroy butterflies copy monarchs. The theory was that viceroys look like monarchs because monarchs don’t taste good to birds. Viceroys, on the other hand, do taste good to birds. So the more they look like monarchs, the less likely they are to become a bird’s dinner. Translation: The following year, his science fair project involved testing the theory that viceroy butterflies imitate monarchs. The theory suggested that viceroys resemble monarchs because monarchs are unappetizing to birds. In contrast, viceroys are tasty to birds. Therefore, by looking more like monarchs, viceroys decrease the likelihood of becoming a bird's meal. Bonus Info: Do you Know the differences between Monarch and Viceroy butterflies? 1. Colouration - Monarch butterflies typically have a bright orange colour with black veins and white spots along the edges of their wings. - Viceroy butterflies also have orange wings but with a darker border, and they have a distinctive black line across the hindwing. 2. Size: - Monarchs are generally larger than Viceroys. Monarch wingspans can range from 3.5 to 4 inches. - Viceroys are slightly smaller, with wingspans ranging from 2.75 to 3.25 inches. 3. Pattern - Monarchs have a different wing pattern, with a more consistent orange color and a bold black border with white spots. - Viceroys have a black line that runs horizontally across their hindwings, creating a distinctive V-shaped pattern. This pattern helps in distinguishing them from Monarchs. Page 35 | Para 6 Ebright’s project was to see whether, in fact, birds would eat monarchs. He found that a starling would not eat ordinary bird food. It would eat all the monarchs it could get. (Ebright said later research by other people showed that viceroys probably do copy the monarch.) This project was placed first in the zoology division and third overall in the county science fair. Translation: Ebright's project aimed to determine whether birds would eat monarch butterflies. He discovered that a starling, which would not consume regular bird food, would eat as many monarch butterflies as it could get. (Ebright mentioned that later research by others indicated that viceroys likely do imitate monarchs.) This project earned the first-place position in the zoology division and third place overall in the county science fair. Page 36 | Para 1-5 In his second year in high school, Richard Ebright began the research that led to his discovery of an unknown insect hormone. indirectly, it also led to his new theory on the life of cells. The question he tried to answer was simple: What is the purpose of the twelve tiny gold spots on a monarch pupa? “ Everyone assumed the spots were just ornamental,” Ebright said. “But Dr Urquhart didn’t believe it.” To find the answer, Ebright and another excellent science student first had to build a device that showed that the spots were producing a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s full development. This project won Ebright first place in the county fair and entry into the International Science and Engineering Fair. There he won third place for zoology. He also got a chance to work during the summer at the entomology laboratory of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. Translation: In his second year of high school, Richard Ebright started researching and made a discovery about an unknown insect hormone. This research indirectly led to his new theory about the life of cells. He had a simple question to answer: What is the purpose of the twelve tiny gold spots on a monarch pupa? "Everyone thought the spots were just for looks," Ebright said. "But Dr. Urquhart didn't believe it." To find the answer, Ebright and another excellent science student had to build a device. This device showed that the spots were producing a hormone necessary for the butterfly's full development. This project earned Ebright first place in the county fair and a spot in the International Science and Engineering Fair. There, he won third place for zoology. He also had the opportunity to work during the summer at the entomology laboratory of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. Page 36 | Para 6-7 As a high school junior, Richard Ebright continued his advanced experiments on the monarch pupa. That year his project won first place at the International Science Fair and gave him another chance to work in the army laboratory during the summer. In his senior year, he went a step further. He grew cells from a monarch’s wing in a culture and showed that the cells would divide and develop into normal butterfly wing scales only if they were fed the hormone from the gold spots. That project won first place for zoology at the International Fair. He spent the summer after graduation doing further work at the army laboratory and at the laboratory of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Translation: As a high school junior, Richard Ebright continued his advanced experiments on the monarch pupa. That year, his project won first place at the International Science Fair and gave him another chance to work in the army laboratory during the summer. In his senior year, he took it a step further. He grew cells from a monarch's wing in a culture and demonstrated that the cells would divide and develop into normal butterfly wing scales only if they were given the hormone from the gold spots. This project earned him first place for zoology at the International Fair. He spent the summer after graduation doing additional work at the army laboratory and at the laboratory of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Bonus Info: Do You know the terms "monarch pupa" and "gold spots"? 1. Monarch Pupa: The monarch pupa refers to the pupal stage in the life cycle of a monarch butterfly. After the caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis, it forms a chrysalis or pupa. Inside the pupa, the caterpillar undergoes further transformation, eventually emerging as an adult butterfly. 2. Gold Spots: The gold spots mentioned in the context of Richard Ebright's research likely refer to specific markings or spots on the surface of the monarch pupa that have a golden or yellowish color. In the narrative, these spots were of interest because Ebright suspected that they might play a role in producing a hormone essential for the butterfly's development. These spots were initially thought to be merely ornamental, but Ebright's research suggested otherwise. The gold spots were a key focus in his investigation into the monarch pupa's biology and the production of a significant hormone. Page 36 | Para 8-9 The following summer, after his freshman year at Harvard University, Ebright went back to the laboratory of the Department of Agriculture and did more work on the hormone from the gold spots. Using the laboratory’s sophisticated instruments, he was able to identify the hormone’s chemical structure. A year-and-a-half later, during his junior year, Ebright got the idea for his new theory about cell life. It came while he was looking at X-ray photos of the chemical structure of a hormone. Translation: The next summer, after finishing his first year at Harvard University, Ebright returned to the Department of Agriculture's laboratory. He continued researching the hormone from the gold spots. With the help of advanced instruments in the laboratory, he could figure out the chemical structure of the hormone. About a year and a half later, during his junior year, Ebright developed the idea for his new theory about cell life. This idea struck him while he was examining X-ray photos of the chemical structure of a hormone. Page 36 | Para 10 When he saw those photos, Ebright didn’t shout, ‘Eureka!’ or even, ‘I’ve got it!’ But he believed that, along with his findings about insect hormones, the photos gave him the answer to one of biology’s puzzles: how the cell can ‘read’ the blueprint of its DNA. DNA is the substance in the nucleus of a cell that controls heredity. It determines the form and function of the cell. Thus DNA is the blueprint for life. Translation: When he looked at those pictures, Ebright didn't shout, "Eureka!" or even say, "I've got it!" But he thought that, together with his discoveries about insect hormones, the pictures provided him with the solution to a puzzle in biology: how a cell can 'read' the instructions in its DNA. DNA is the stuff in the center of a cell that manages heredity. It decides how the cell looks and works. So, DNA is like the plan for life. Page 37 | Para 1 Ebright and his college room-mate, James R. Wong, worked all that night drawing pictures and constructing plastic models of molecules to show how it could happen. Together they later wrote the paper that explained the theory. Translation: Ebright and his college roommate, James R. Wong, spent the entire night drawing pictures and creating plastic models of molecules to illustrate how it could happen. Later, they collaborated to write a paper that explained the theory. Page 37 | Para 2 Surprising no one who knew him, Richard Ebright graduated from Harvard with highest honours, second in his class of 1,510. Ebright went on to become a graduate student researcher at Harvard Medical School. There he began doing experiments to test his theory. Translation: Not surprising to those who knew him, Richard Ebright graduated from Harvard with the highest honors, ranking second in his class of 1,510 students. After that, he became a graduate student researcher at Harvard Medical School. It was there that he started conducting experiments to test his theory. Page 37 | Para 3 If the theory proves correct, it will be a big step towards understanding the processes of life. It might also lead to new ideas for preventing some types of cancer and other diseases. All of this is possible because of Ebright’s scientific curiosity. His high school research into the purpose of the spots on a monarch pupa eventually led him to his theory about cell life. Translation: If the theory turns out to be correct, it will be a significant advancement in understanding the processes of life. This discovery might also spark new ideas for preventing certain types of cancer and other diseases. All of these possibilities stem from Ebright's scientific curiosity. His research in high school, exploring the purpose of the spots on a monarch pupa, eventually led him to develop his theory about cell life. Glossary: If the theory proves correct, it will be a big step towards understanding the processes of life. The theory referred to in the statement is the one developed by Richard Ebright about cell life. Understanding the processes of life at the cellular level is crucial in biology and has wide-ranging implications for various fields, including medicine. If Ebright's theory holds true, it could have significant implications for our understanding of cellular functions, interactions, and possibly open up new avenues for medical research. In essence, Ebright's scientific curiosity, starting from his high school research on the purpose of spots on a monarch pupa, has led him to develop a theory that could have profound implications for our understanding of the intricacies of cellular life and potentially influence advancements in medical science. Page 37 | Para 4 Richard Ebright has been interested in science since he first began collecting butterflies — but not so deeply that he hasn’t time for other interests. Ebright also became a champion debater and public speaker and a good canoeist and all-around outdoors-person. He is also an expert photographer, particularly of nature and scientific exhibits. Translation: Richard Ebright has liked science since he started collecting butterflies, but he's not only into science. He's also really good at debating and public speaking, and he's skilled at canoeing and outdoor activities in general. Additionally, he's an expert photographer, especially when it comes to capturing nature and scientific exhibits. Page 37 | Para 5 In high school Richard Ebright was a straight-A student. Because learning was easy, he turned a lot of his energy towards the Debating and Model United Nations clubs. He also found someone to admire — Richard A. Weiherer, his social studies teacher and adviser to both clubs. “Mr Weiherer was the perfect person for me then. He opened my mind to new ideas,” Ebright said. Translation: In high school, Richard Ebright consistently got straight A's because learning came easily to him. He directed a significant portion of his energy toward participating in the Debating and Model United Nations clubs. During this time, he found a person to look up to — Richard A. Weiherer, who was his social studies teacher and the adviser to both clubs. Ebright stated, "Mr. Weiherer was the perfect person for me then. He opened my mind to new ideas." Page 37 | Para 6 “Richard would always give that extra effort,” Mr Weiherer said. “What pleased me was, here was this person who put in three or four hours at night doing debate research besides doing all his research with butterflies and his other interests. Translation: "Richard would always give that extra effort," Mr. Weiherer said. "What pleased me was, here was this person who put in three or four hours at night doing debate research besides doing all his research with butterflies and his other interests." Page 37 | Para 7 “Richard was competitive,” Mr Weiherer continued, “but not in a bad sense.” He explained, “Richard wasn’t interested in winning for winning’s sake or winning to get a prize. Rather, he was winning because he wanted to do the best job he could. For the right reasons, he wants to be the best.” Translation: "Richard was competitive," Mr. Weiherer continued, "but not in a bad way." He explained, "Richard wasn't interested in winning just for the sake of winning or to get a prize. Instead, he was winning because he wanted to do the best job he could. For the right reasons, he wants to be the best." Page 37 | Para 8 And that is one of the ingredients in the making of a scientist. Start with a first-rate mind, add curiosity, and mix in the will to win for the right reasons. Ebright has these qualities. From the time the book, The Travels of Monarch X, opened the world of science to him, Richard Ebright has never lost his scientific curiosity. Translation: And that is one of the elements in creating a scientist. Begin with an excellent mind, include curiosity, and combine it with the determination to succeed for the right reasons. Ebright possesses these qualities. Since the book "The Travels of Monarch X" introduced him to the world of science, Richard Ebright has never lost his scientific curiosity. Glossary: Start with a first-rate mind, add curiosity, and mix in the will to win for the right reasons: The line emphasizes the key attributes in shaping a scientist: beginning with a strong intellect, incorporating curiosity, and blending in the determination to succeed for ethical reasons. To become a scientist, you need a smart mind, curiosity about things, and a desire to succeed for good reasons. It's like mixing these qualities together. Richard Ebright has all these qualities and has kept his curiosity about science since he read "The Travels of Monarch X." Recommended Reading Important Questions for Board Exam, Term II

Lesson Architecture Introduction Summary MCQs on CBQs Competency-Based Questions Long Questions Introduction: 'Going Places' mainly focuses on a school-going young girl Sophie's imaginary flights to the unknown world outside. It may be an urge to progress. But it dwells more on the psychological working of a girl's desire, wish, aspirations and or to love and to be loved. The tussle given in the chapter is between earthly pulls and pressures and the imaginative flights of an adolescent mind. The yearning of Sophie to see Danny Casey is really heart-moving. Her persistent effort to explain to herself how she can be believed in by others borders on her dreams and disillusionments born out of her fantasizing. All this is beautifully couched in a language that is simple, interesting and colloquial. Summary of the Story Page 77 (Summary) There is a conversation between Sophie and Jansie. Sophie is expressing her ambition to open a boutique someday, despite Jansie's skepticism about the financial challenges involved. Sophie remains confident and determined, envisioning herself as a manager initially and eventually creating a shop that stands out in the city. Jansie, however, appears more practical and perhaps resigned to the likelihood that both of them are destined for work at the biscuit factory, which may be a less glamorous prospect compared to Sophie's aspirations. The exchange reflects the contrast between Sophie's dreams and Jansie's realistic outlook, highlighting the challenges of pursuing one's ambitions, especially when faced with financial constraints. Page 78 (Line 1-15 | Summary) As Sophie and Jansie approach Sophie's street, Jansie advises Sophie to be more practical about her plans for opening a boutique. She mentions that shop work doesn't pay well, and Sophie's father wouldn't approve. Sophie playfully suggests becoming an actress for the money, with the boutique as a side venture since actresses don't work full time. Jansie, however, expresses skepticism and points out that if Sophie ever comes into money, she should use it to buy a decent house for both of them. Sophie then enters her house, leaving Jansie outside in the rain. The conversation reveals Sophie's ambitious dreams, considering careers like acting or fashion design alongside her boutique idea. Jansie, on the other hand, emphasizes the need for a practical approach and suggests using any potential money for a better living situation. Sophie's father is described as busy eating shepherd's pie, with a face marked by grime and sweat from the day's activities. Page 78 (Line 16-27 | Summary) In this part of the story, little Derek comments on Sophie's dreams, saying she thinks money grows on trees. Their mother sighs in response. Sophie observes her mother's worn-out appearance, with a stooped back, while she works in the kitchen. The contrast between the delicate bow on her apron and her crooked back strikes Sophie. The evening has darkened the windows, and the small, crowded room is filled with steam from the stove. Sophie's father is described as a heavy-breathing man in his vest at the table, and there's dirty laundry piled up in the corner. The atmosphere is heavy, and Sophie feels a tightness in her throat, prompting her to go look for her brother Geoff. This passage paints a vivid picture of the family's modest and challenging living conditions. Page 78 (Line 28-39 | Summary) In the next room, Sophie finds her brother Geoff kneeling on the floor, working on a part of his motorcycle. He's three years out of school and currently an apprentice mechanic, commuting to the far side of the city for work every day. Sophie senses that he's almost grown up, and there are aspects of his life that he keeps private. Despite living under the same roof, she feels there are areas of his life about which she knows nothing, and he rarely shares information voluntarily. Geoff is reserved and doesn't speak much; Sophie has to work to get him to talk. His silence makes her feel as if he's in a world she knows nothing about, and she is somewhat envious of that mysterious aspect of his life. Page 79 (Line 1-24 | Summary) The passage describes Sophie's longing to explore the unknown parts of the city and the surrounding countryside that her brother Geoff frequents. These places hold a special fascination for her simply because they are unfamiliar and out of her reach. Sophie imagines that there might be exotic and interesting people in Geoff's life whom he never talks about. She wishes to be part of that world and desires a deeper connection with her brother. Despite her father's disapproval and Geoff never expressing his opinion, she knows he considers her too young to accompany him. However, Sophie is eager and impatient to explore the vast world beyond, feeling a sense of belonging there. She envisions herself riding with Geoff, dressed in new, shining black leathers, while she wears a yellow dress with a flowing cape. In her imagination, the world welcomes them with applause as they embark on their journey. Page 79 (Line 25-39 | Summary) Geoff is focused on a mechanical component, appearing as though he's coaxing it to reveal something. Sophie interrupts his concentration to share that she met someone named Danny Casey in the arcade. Geoff is surprised and questions the truth of her statement, seemingly skeptical about her encounter with Danny Casey. Sophie assures him it's true but admits she hasn't told their dad yet, feeling a bit chastened because normally, Geoff is the first person she shares her secrets with. Geoff remains unconvinced and expresses doubt, prompting Sophie to recount the moment. She explains that she was looking at clothes in Royce's window when Danny Casey unexpectedly appeared beside her. The passage highlights the siblings' dynamic and Geoff's initial disbelief in Sophie's story about meeting Danny Casey. Page 80 (Line 1-38 | Summary) Sophie shares with her brother Geoff that she met someone named Danny Casey in the arcade. Geoff, curious about the details, asks her to describe what Danny looks like. Sophie mentions his green, gentle eyes and notes that he's not as tall as one might expect. She briefly considers mentioning something about his teeth but decides against it. Their father enters the scene, having washed up and smelling of soap. He nonchalantly turns on the television, tosses one of little Derek's shoes onto the sofa, and sits down. Geoff then informs their father about Sophie's encounter with Danny Casey. Sophie squirms in her seat, and their father, with a disdainful expression, seems doubtful. Geoff insists that it's true and brings up their father's past acquaintance with someone who knew Tom Finney, a legendary footballer. The conversation shifts to discussing Danny Casey's potential in football, with their father expressing cautious optimism. Geoff is confident in Casey's abilities, emphasizing that he's with the best team in the country. Sophie adds an interesting twist to the discussion by revealing that Danny Casey mentioned he's planning to buy a shop. Their father reacts with disbelief, questioning where Sophie heard this information. Sophie asserts that Danny Casey told her directly. However, their father remains skeptical, muttering something inaudible and turning in his chair. Geoff confirms Sophie's story, explaining the details of the encounter in the arcade. The passage captures the family dynamics, the skepticism of the father, and the mix of enthusiasm and disbelief regarding Sophie's news about meeting Danny Casey. Page 81 (Line 1-4 | Summary) Sophie's father responds aggressively to her revelation about meeting Danny Casey and hearing about his plans to buy a shop. He warns her that she might get into trouble by talking too much. Sophie, however, seeks support from her brother Geoff, asking him if he believes her. Geoff, while acknowledging that he would like to believe her, admits that he doesn't. This exchange further highlights the skepticism within the family regarding Sophie's encounter with Danny Casey and his plans for the future. Page 81 (Line 5-38 | Summary) In Sophie's brother Geoff's room, the amber glow from a table lamp illuminates the wall, showcasing a large poster of United's first-team squad and colored photographs underneath, including three featuring the young Irish player, Casey. Sophie, sitting with Geoff, implores him to promise not to tell anyone about her encounter with Danny Casey. Geoff, skeptical, suggests there's nothing to tell unless it's true. Sophie, concerned about their father's reaction, insists that it is true and asks for Geoff's promise. Geoff remains doubtful, pointing out that Casey likely has many admirers. Sophie, however, claims that Casey told her he's not involved with other girls and describes him as quiet. Geoff teases her, expressing disbelief that someone would share such personal information. Sophie recounts the meeting, explaining that she approached Casey, recognized him from TV interviews due to his accent, and initiated a conversation about the clothes in Royce's window. She notes that Casey seemed lonely, especially considering the distance from the west of Ireland. Sophie concludes the story by mentioning that Casey invited her to meet him again. The passage provides insight into Sophie's encounter with Casey, revealing her perspective and the details of their conversation in Geoff's room. Page 82 (Line 1-10 | Summary) In this continuation of the conversation, Sophie tells Geoff that Danny Casey promised to give her an autograph next week. Geoff remains skeptical, expressing doubt that Casey would actually show up. Sophie, eager for Geoff to believe her, asks if he does now. Geoff, seemingly uninterested in the topic, retrieves his jacket and puts it on. Sophie wishes he would pay more attention to his appearance and care more about clothes. Despite this, she finds him tall with a strong, handsome face. Geoff, still not fully convinced, responds by saying that it's the unlikeliest thing he's ever heard. The passage highlights the tension between Sophie's excitement about her encounter with Danny Casey and Geoff's skepticism, emphasizing the contrast in their perspectives on the situation. Page 82 (Line 11-19 | Summary) On Saturday, the family continued their weekly tradition of attending a Manchester United football match. Sophie, her father, and little Derek positioned themselves close to the goal, while Geoff, as usual, joined his friends higher up in the stands. The match resulted in a two-nil victory for United, with Casey scoring the second goal. Casey's play demonstrated a combination of innocence and Irish genius, skillfully maneuvering around two defenders near the penalty area and defeating the hesitant goalkeeper from a dozen yards. Sophie's father passionately shouted for Casey to pass during the play. After witnessing Casey's success, Sophie felt a sense of pride. Meanwhile, Geoff, who had a different perspective from his position higher up in the stands, was ecstatic after the victory. The passage captures the family's shared enthusiasm for football and the joy they experience when watching their favorite team, particularly Casey's notable performance during the match. Page 82 (Line 20-38 | Summary) On the bus, someone expresses a wish that Danny Casey were English. Meanwhile, little Derek tells his mother that Ireland will win the World Cup, and Sophie's father goes to the pub to celebrate. The following week, Jansie casually asks Sophie about meeting Danny Casey, having heard about it from Geoff who shared the news with Frank. Sophie, caught off guard, tries to downplay it, but Jansie senses that Sophie might be covering something up. Pressed further, Sophie reluctantly admits that she did meet Danny Casey. Jansie, surprised, exclaims in disbelief. Sophie, frustrated by Geoff's betrayal of their secret, glares at the ground. The passage reveals Sophie's frustration at her brother Geoff for sharing their special secret about meeting Danny Casey with others, particularly with Jansie. Sophie had intended it to be something unique and confidential between her and Geoff, not meant for public discussion. The situation adds a layer of tension to the relationships among the characters. Page 83 (Line 1-23 | Summary) Sophie expresses her frustration with Geoff for not keeping their encounter with Danny Casey a secret, worried that the whole neighborhood will find out. Jansie, reassuring Sophie, promises to keep the secret, affirming her ability to do so. Sophie emphasizes the need for secrecy, fearing that her dad would be upset if he were to find out. Jansie, however, is surprised, thinking Sophie's dad would be thrilled. Sophie realizes that Jansie doesn't know about the date aspect of the meeting, which Geoff hadn't shared. Relieved that at least that part is still a secret, Sophie feels reassured that some things might still be sacred. She downplays the encounter as a small thing, mentioning asking for an autograph but not having paper or a pen. Sophie is unsure about how much Geoff has disclosed. Jansie expresses a wish to have been there, seemingly excited about the idea. Sophie explains that her dad would not want to believe it, given his usual demeanor. She expresses concern about people coming to their house and asking about Danny Casey, fearing her dad's reaction and her mom's response to any potential family conflict. In a hushed tone, Jansie assures Sophie that she can be trusted to keep the secret. The passage highlights the complexity of Sophie's feelings about the situation, her worries about family reactions, and the dynamics of trust and secrecy within their friendship. Page 83 (Line 24-37 | Summary) In the darkness of the night, Sophie walks alongside the canal, following a sheltered path illuminated only by the lights from the wharf across the water. The constant noise of the city is muffled and distant in this place. It's a location she frequented during her childhood, and there's a wooden bench beneath a solitary elm where lovers sometimes meet. As she sits on the bench, waiting, Sophie reflects on the perfection of this place for a clandestine meeting, shielded from prying eyes by the shadows and the water. She is confident that he, presumably Danny Casey, would approve of this discreet location. During the wait, Sophie envisions his arrival. She gazes along the canal, imagining him emerging from the shadows, anticipating the excitement that would follow their meeting. However, after a while of waiting, she begins to consider the possibility of him not showing up. The passage captures the anticipation, imagination, and a touch of uncertainty as Sophie waits in the secluded spot for the meeting that she had envisioned. Page 84 (Line 1-11 | Summary) In the quiet solitude of waiting for Danny by the canal, Sophie reflects on her thoughts. She acknowledges the growing sense of doubt within her as she wishes for Danny to arrive. The passage reveals her internal struggle, feeling the weight of skepticism from others, especially from her brother Geoff, who had expressed disbelief in her encounter with Danny Casey. Sophie grapples with the fear of Danny not showing up and the potential challenges of convincing others of the truth. Despite knowing the reality of her connection with Danny, she contemplates the difficulty of proving it to those who doubt her. The passage captures the inner turmoil and frustration Sophie experiences, torn between her private truth and the external skepticism she faces from those around her. Page 84 (Line 12-23 | Summary) As Sophie continues to wait for Danny by the canal, she measures the changes happening within her. Resignation settles in slowly, a process rather than a sudden realization. In her introspection, Sophie acknowledges that sadness has taken hold of her. The burden of this sadness feels heavy as she sits there, waiting and coming to terms with the likelihood that Danny will not come. She envisions the future, foreseeing the challenges of living with this burden. She anticipates the doubt that others, especially Geoff, will cast upon her, remembering how they had doubted her before. Despite the potential skepticism from those around her, Sophie resolves to hold her head high, clinging to the memory of how it truly was with Danny. The passage captures the melancholy and resignation that Sophie feels in the face of disappointment, contemplating the difficult emotions she expects to encounter on her journey home and the potential disbelief from those who doubted her in the first place. Page 84 (Line 24-39 | Page 85 (Line 1-5) | Summary) As Sophie climbs the crumbling steps to the street, she's relieved to see her father's bicycle propped against the pub wall, indicating he won't be home when she arrives. In her imagination, she revisits the moment she first approached Danny Casey in the arcade. She pictures him outside Royce's, approaching him with the words, "Excuse me, but aren't you Danny Casey?" In her mental replay, Danny turns, reddening slightly, and confirms his identity. Sophie expresses admiration, mentioning that she and her family watch him every week and think he's great. She continues to envision the scene, asking Danny for an autograph. Sophie describes his features—his eyes are on the same level as hers, his nose freckled and turning slightly upward. When he smiles, he does so shyly, revealing teeth with gaps between. His green eyes seem gentle, almost afraid, resembling a gazelle's. The passage beautifully captures Sophie's admiration and the subtle interactions between her and Danny, emphasizing the charm and shyness of the football player. Page 85 (Line 6-22 | Summary) In this continuation of the imaginary encounter with Danny Casey, Sophie and Danny both realize they don't have a pen for the autograph. Sophie expresses that her brothers will be disappointed, suggesting a sense of shared regret. After Danny mentions not having a pen, Sophie waits alone in the arcade for a long while, standing in the same spot where he stood. She recalls the soft, melodious voice and the shimmer of his green eyes. Despite the disappointment of not getting an autograph, the memory of the encounter remains vivid in Sophie's mind. The passage then shifts to a scene from the recent Saturday match, where Sophie vividly recalls Danny Casey's performance. She sees him gracefully maneuvering past defenders, senses the anticipation in the crowd as he hovers over the ball, and hears the explosive cheers when he successfully scores a goal. The description captures the admiration and awe Sophie feels for the football prodigy, emphasizing the lasting impact of her imagined meeting with Danny Casey. MCQ Extract Questions: ( CBQs) “She thinks money grows on trees, don’t she, Dad?’ said little Derek, hanging on the back of his father’s chair. Their mother sighed. Sophie watched her back stooped over the sink and wondered at the incongruity of the delicate bow which fastened her apron strings. The delicate-seeming bow and the crooked back. The evening had already blacked in the windows and the small room was steamy from the stove and cluttered with the heavy-breathing man in his vest at the table and the dirty washing piled up in the corner. Sophie felt a tightening in her throat. She went to look for her brother Geoff. Q1. Choose the correct option about Sophie’s parents based on the extract given above. a) Sophie’s parents’ marriage was an example of harmony and affection. b) Sophie’s relationship with her parents was warm and friendly. c) Sophie’s mother was subdued while her father was detached. d) Sophie and her brother didn’t like to stay with their parents. Ans: (c) c) Sophie’s mother was subdued while her father was detached. Q2. Choose the option that supports the contention coming through Derek’s dialogue, “She thinks money grows on trees, don’t she, Dad?”. a) Derek thought his sister to be unreasonable at times. b) Derek had no faith in Sophie’s abilities to open a boutique. c) Derek thought of his sister as someone who was not realistic. d) Derek was not at all happy about Sophie’s habit of day dreaming. Ans: c) Derek thought of his sister as someone who was not realistic. Q3. It could be inferred that Sophie’s mother was fatigued and burdened. Choose the option listing the elements that form the basis of this inference. a) her sigh b) her delicate bow c) her apron’s strings d) her crooked back a) 1, 2 b) 3, 4 c) 2, 3 d) 1, 4 Ans: d) 1, 4 Q4. “Sophie felt a tightening in her throat.” Pick the option that lists Sophie’s feelings in this context. 1) anxious 2) annoyed 3) uneasy 4) terrified (a) Options 1 & 3 b) Options 2 & 3 c) Options 1 & 4 d) Options 2 & 4 Ans: (a) Options 1 & 3 Q2. On Saturday they made their weekly pilgrimage to watch United. Sophie and her father and little Derek went down near the goal — Geoff, as always, went with his mates higher up. United won two-nil and Casey drove in the second goal, a blend of innocence and Irish genius, going round the two big defenders on the edge of the penalty area, with her father screaming for him to pass, and beating the hesitant goalkeeper from a dozen yards. Sophie glowed with pride. Afterwards Geoff was ecstatic. (i) Their visit to the match was like a ‘weekly pilgrimage’ refers to a) strong bond as a family. b) love for a fixed routine. c) similar feelings of devotion. d) excitement for the match. Ans: c) similar feelings of devotion. (ii) Based on the following statements, choose the correct option. Assertion: “Geoff, as always, went with his mates higher up.” Reason 1: Geoff was not very close to his family and lived in his own world. Reason 2: Geoff was rude and indifferent towards everyone around him and didn’t care about anyone at all. a) Reason 1 and Reason 2 both can be inferred from the assertion. b) Reason 1 can be inferred but Reason 2 cannot be inferred from the assertion. c) Reason 1 cannot be inferred but Reason 2 can be inferred. d) Reason 1 and Reason 2 both cannot be inferred. Ans: b) Reason 1 can be inferred but Reason 2 cannot be inferred from the assertion. (iii) ‘Sophie glowed with pride.’ Her pride is the result of a) belonging to a region where everyone thought of Danny as a hero. b) watching her father cheer and support Danny. c) The information she gathered from her brother, about Danny. d) being an avid fan and her sense of closeness with Danny. Ans: d) being an avid fan and her sense of closeness with Danny. (iv) Choose the option listing the situation in which one would be ‘ecstatic’. a) Scenario 1 b) Scenario 2 c) Scenario 3 d) Scenario 4 Ans: b) Scenario 2 Competency Based Questions ( CBQs) Q1. The story is written in a manner that it makes it difficult to point out clearly if Sophie met Danny Casey or not. Suggest possible reasons for such writing. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans. The author probably wanted the reader to guess whether it was realistic on the part of Sophie to meet Danny Casey given the socio-economic background she hailed from . Another reason could be the author wanted to leave the reader with a sense of suspense like in a mystery story. Q2. Sophie is caught between the world she lives in and the world she wants to live in. Elucidate. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans. Sophie belongs to a low-midle class family. She lives in a small room which tells its own story of grim porverty. She therefore creates a world of her own fantasy where she fancies to own a boutique and also meet an iconic football player like Danny Casey. Q3. Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her meeting with Danny Casey? [CBSE 2020, 12, 11] Ans. Sophie didn’t want Jansie to know about her meeting with Danny Casey because she was telling a story that was just for Geoff. Besides, she feared that Jansie would spread the secret across the whole neghbourhood. It would embarrass her greatly and she would have to bear with public humiliation. Q4. What was the only occasion in which Sophie got to see Danny Casey in person? [CBSE 2014, 11] The only occasion in which Sophie saw Danny Casey in person was when on that Saturday, she went with her father and brothers to watch the football match in which Casey’s football team 'United' played. Q5. How did Sophie’s father react when Geoff told him about Sophie’s meeting with Danny Casey? [CBSE 2011] Ans. Sophie’s father termed it as another of her 'wild stories' when Geoff told him that Sophie had met Danny Casey. He didn’t believe her for a minute. He turned down the possibility of Sphie's meeting Danny Casey outrightly. He futher added that she was going to talk herself into a trouble in future. Long Question-Answer Q1. How does Sophie include her brother Geoff in her fantasy of her future? Ans: Geoff symbolizes the romanticized world of Sophie. She is given to romanticizing about her life. Every thing and every aspect of Geoff's life suits Sophie's temperament. And she reveals herself in that with a great interest. She suspects that, may be like her, he, too, has 'areas of his life' about which Sophie does know nothing but would do her best to know. These hold a great interest for her as does her own personal romanticized world. She is jealous of his silence' because she feels that he may be having secret things like her. These have for her 'a special fascination simply because they were unknown to her and remained out of her reach'. Geoff represents for her that exotic world which is always glamorous for her. That's why, she wishes to be admitted more deeply into Geoff's 'affections' that 'someday he might take her with him'. Sophie feels 'at home' into that vast world outside her! She sees herself riding behind him and listening to the sound of applause as the world rises to greet him. Geoff is the key to all this romanticized or fantasized world of Sophie. Q2. How does Sophie describe her meeting with Danny Casey? How is it received by Geoff and her father? There is an indication in the chapter that Sophie has a very soft corner for Danny Casey and she once meets him too. She tells Geoff that she met Danny. This at once arouses Geoff's curiosity. She was looking at the clothes in Royce's window when someone came and stood beside him. She looked round and saw it was Danny. He had green and gentle eyes and wasn't so tall. Then their father came after washing. Geoff told him that Sophie had met Danny Casey. This made Sophie wriggle as she knew her father won't receive the news delightfully. Her father had an expression of disdain on his face. When Sophie told that he was going to buy a shop her father grimaced. He muttered something and called her story wild one. When Geoff told him that she met him in the arcade, her father commented that soon she would land in trouble. Geoff also, commented that he didn't believe that, though he evinced a keen interest in knowing about it more. When Sophie narrated her meeting Danny and asking for an autograph for little Derek, Geoff told her that it was 'the unlikeliest thing I ever heard'. Q3. Contrast Sophie’s real world with her fantasies. [CBSE 2009] Ans. Sophie lived in a two contrasting worlds- ONe is her low-middle class struggling world and the other is the world of her own fantasy. In her grim world she went to school and walked back from school with Jansie. When she entered home, she felt suffocated in her cramped home and saw her hardworking father eating Shepherd’s pie. She wanted to only talk to her brother Geoff. The second world is the one she loved living in. It’s the world of her fantasy. In this world, she dreamt of becoming a boutique owner like Mary Quant or an actress because there was real money in that or even a fashion designer. In her fantasy world she planned to become a manager as soon as she joined the biscuit factory. Also in this fantasy world, she met the famous football player Danny Cassey. Thus, we can see that the writer has projected through Sophie the tendency of teenagers to dream big and live in a world of fantasy which is divorced from reality.

Choose the best word from the given options to complete the following passage : Q1. Q2. Q3. Q4. Q5. Q6. Q7. Q8. Q9. Q10.

Choose the best word from the given options to complete the following passages: Q1. Answer Key (a) (iv) by (b) (ii) to (c) (i) them (d) (ii) an (e) (iii) a (f) (ii) to Q2. Answer Key a) (ii) is (b) (iii) by (c) (i) any (d) (iv) on (e) (iii) all (f) (iv) the Q3. Answer Key (a) (ii) of (b) (iv) will (c) (ii) this (d) (i) many (e) (iii) may (f) (iv) a Q4. Answer Key (a) (iii) has (b) (ii) by (c) (ii) are (d) (i) in (e) (ii) do not (f) (i) should Q5. Answer Key (a) (iv) Any (b) (iii) Him (c) (i) Became (d) (ii) On (e) (i) And (f) (iv) Unfortunate Q6. Answer Key (a) (iv) One (b) (ii) Have (C) (i) Of (d) (iii) Makes (e) (iv) Wastage (f) (ii) Scarcity Q7. Answer Key (a) (ii) is (b) (iii) was (c) (iv) created (d) (i) had given (e) (iii) used (f) (ii) situated ​ Q8. Answer Key a) (iii) a (b) (ii) is (c) (ii) of (d) (i) and (e) (ii) should (f) (iv) where Q9. Answer Key a) (ii) have (b) (i) in (c) (ii) and (d) (ii) too (e) (ii) a (f) (iv) who Q10 Answer Key (a) (iii) as (b) (iv) of (c) (iv) and (d) (ii) many (e) (i) is (f) (i) comes Questions for Practice Download the Answer Key from below Additional Gap Filling Worksheet Given Below. Click to Access. Gap Filling Exercise 2 | CBSE Grammar (englishwithadifference.com)