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)

Multiple Assessments are a part of CBSE Class 10 Internal Assessment for 5 marks. Assessment Topics Literature MCQs Reading Comprehension Integrated Grammar Q1 Literature MCQs ( Mijbil-the Otter) Solve the following ten Multiple-Choice Questions based on the lesson "Mijbil the Otter": 1. What prompted Gavin Maxwell to keep an otter as a pet instead of a dog? a. His friend's suggestion b. An experiment for his journey to Iraq c. The Consulate-General's recommendation d. A sudden desire for a unique pet 2. In which region did Gavin Maxwell procure Mijbil the otter? a. The Amazon rainforest b. The Tigris marshes c. The Australian Outback d. The Arctic tundra 3. Why did Maxwell wait in Basra for five days? a. To explore the local culture b. To meet a friend c. To collect his mail from Europe d. To buy supplies for his journey 4. What is the scientific name of Mijbil's species? a. Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli b. Canis lupus familiaris c. Felis catus d. Ursus arctos 5. What was Mijbil's initial behavior on the first day Maxwell met him? a. Friendly b. Aloof and indifferent c. Hostile d. Playful 6. How did Mijbil react to being in the water during his first bath? a. Fearful b. Indifferent c. Joyful and playful d. Annoyed 7. Why did Maxwell have to repair the box before Mijbil's flight? a. To add more padding b. To fix the lock c. To remove sharp edges d. To make it larger 8. What game did Mijbil invent involving a ping-pong ball? a. Soccer b. Juggling c. Bowling d. Basketball 9. Why did the air hostess suggest having Mijbil on Maxwell's knee during the flight? a. To keep him calm b. To follow airline rules c. To avoid using the box d. To entertain the passengers 10. What is one of the themes explored in "Mijbil the Otter"? a. Space exploration b. Environmental conservation c. The value of a pet and treatment of wild animals d. Historical events in Iraq Reading Comprehension Q2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. Better Phone Network Not To Come At Cost Of infrastructure. By Atul Mathur TOI, Nov 15, 2023 New Delhi: The Delhi government has laid down guidelines for telecom service and infrastructure providers to mitigate the problems faced by people when underground optical fibres are laid or overhead wire networks are installed to ensure that infrastructure is restored in a time-bound way after work is over. The Delhi Right of Way (RoW) Policy for Underground Infrastructure and Over-ground Telecommunications Infrastructure, 2023, was notified by the urban development department on November 1. Officials said the policy will ensure that any work by telecom companies is completed within a given timeframe and any damage to a road or a facility is repaired by them in a time-bound manner. This, officials said, will ensure that the city’s roads, often found dug up with no barricades around and which compromise the safety of the motorists and pedestrians, do not remain in the same condition for too long. It will also do away with the possibility of having a web of wires on electricity poles, as the companies laying the overhead lines will have to enter into an agreement with power distribution companies or discoms. The new policy has also ensured a single-window system for companies to seek permission from the government and agencies concerned to carry out the work. It has emphasized that the applicants do not undertake any work without the necessary approval from the road-owning and other related civic agencies. While the central government’s department of telecommunications had formulated rules for the telecom companies in 2016 — these were subsequently amended — to take necessary approvals from authorities in respective states and Union territories for over-ground and underground telecom infrastructure, the Delhi government has paved the way for it with its own policy. “The Delhi government has framed the policy to bring uniformity and clarity and to simplify the process of giving permission for installing telecom infrastructure and repair work or shifting from time to time,” an official said. According to the policy, the responsibility to restore any damage done to a public facility will lie with the company executing the work and any laxity will attract a penalty. The telecom companies will have to take completion certificates within a stipulated time after completing the laying and repairing of cables and maintenance work. “The government will now insist that the telecom companies execute the work during off-peak or night hours so that minimum inconvenience is caused to the public. But it may not be possible all the time and such conditions will be enforced on a case-to-case basis,” an official said. While there will be a single-window system for telecom companies to seek approvals, the government will have to ensure the permission is granted after conducting joint inspection of the site within 30 days. Before starting work, the telecom companies will have to inform the district magistrate of the area and all local bodies. The government has appointed the urban development department for overall coordination for the implementation of the policy. The principal secretary of the department will be the nodal officer. Officials said that to find a solution to poor connectivity inside offices, shopping malls, hospitals, multistoried buildings and educational institutions, the policy also promotes the installation of in-building solutions and emphasizes that required permissions are obtained from the building owners and a consent in the form of a no-objection certificate is taken from the administrative authority concerned. Q1. What is the primary purpose of the Delhi Right of Way (RoW) Policy for Underground Infrastructure and Over-ground Telecommunications Infrastructure, 2023? A. To increase the number of overhead wires. B. To provide a single-window system for telecom companies. C. To delay the restoration of damaged public facilities. D. To allow telecom companies to work without necessary approvals. Q2. The Delhi government aims to ensure that infrastructure is restored in a __________ way after the completion of telecom work. Q3. Justify whether the reasoning supports the assertion. Assertion: The single-window system in the new policy simplifies the process for telecom companies. Reasoning: The policy emphasizes that applicants should not undertake any work without necessary approval from road-owning and other related civic agencies. Q4. According to the passage, what responsibility do telecom companies have regarding the damage to public facilities during their work? A. No responsibility. B. Responsibility to restore the damage. C. Responsibility to ignore the damage. D. Responsibility to blame the government. Q5. Provide reasons why the new policy insists that telecom companies execute work during off-peak or night hours. Q6. What is the role of the urban development department in the implementation of the policy? A. To lay underground optical fibers. B. Overall coordination for the implementation. C. To provide no-objection certificates. D. To repair damaged public facilities. Q7. According to the policy, the telecom companies will have to inform the _________________ before starting work. Q8. Justify why the passage mentions that there may be conditions enforced on a case-to-case basis regarding executing work during off-peak or night hours. Q9. What is the consequence of any laxity by telecom companies in restoring damage to public facilities, according to the policy? A. A reward. B. A penalty. C. A celebration. D. A promotion. Q10. Explain why the installation of in-building solutions is promoted by the policy and what requirements need to be fulfilled for this? Integrated Grammar Q3. Complete the following tasks as directed. (A) Two friends, Aarav and Ananya, are discussing their upcoming trip. How would Aarav report Ananya's dialogue? Aarav: "I have already booked the hotel for our trip tomorrow." Ananya: "Are you sure? Don't forget to confirm the reservation." Anaya asked me ......................... (B) Fill in the blanks with the correct option. The coach shouted,"................... the ball!" Later, he ................... onto the ball in order to dictate the game's pace. (a) pass; commanded them to hold (b) passed; command them to held (c) passes; commands them to hold (d) passing; commanded them to held (C) Read the given dialogue carefully. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence. Sanya exclaims, "Look! My keys are in the refrigerator. I will have absentmindedly put them here while putting away the groceries." (D) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket. In the depths of the enchanted forest, where time ................... (stand) still and mythical creatures roamed freely, a young adventurer embarked on a quest. (E) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the sentence below. Shazia stared at the mountain range before her. From a distance ..................., (this/that/these/those) towering peaks seemed to touch the sky, creating a breathtaking sight. (F) Report Sana's instructions to Manisha. Sana said, "First, you heat the sugar and water in a saucepan." Manisha: Sana said that ................... and water in a saucepan. (a) we first heat the sugar (b) Manisha, heat the sugar (c) first, you heat the sugar (d) I should first heat the sugar (G) Pick up the word that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the given line, from a survey. Everyone are expected to submit their feedback to our customer service representative at the event. (H) Fill in the blank with the correct option. When one gazes at the sky, the glimmer of stars ........................... the vastness above. (a) fill (b) fills (c) to fill (d) is filling (I) Identify the error and supply the correction for the following statement. The national team could adhere to a strict code of conduct, refraining from cheating and unethical behaviour, or else they will be disqualified. (J) Fill in the blank with the correct option. Dad: "Ramya, I heard your school made some changes recently. What is going on?" Ramya: "Yes, dad. (I) The school administration ......................... a revised attendance policy to ensure academic success." (a) will implement (b) is implementing (c) has implemented (d) was implementing

Lesson Architecture Poet Introduction Summary Poem Explanation NCERT Solution CBQs Poet Introduction Carl Sandburg (1878-1967) was a celebrated American poet, writer, and biographer known for his contributions to American literature and his deep exploration of American culture and history. His literary career was marked by numerous achievements and a commitment to depicting the lives of everyday people. Born in Galesburg, Illinois, Sandburg's early life was filled with hardships, but he possessed a strong desire for learning and writing. He worked in various jobs, including as a milkman and a soldier, before becoming a journalist. His journalistic background deeply influenced his writing style, characterized by its accessibility and realism. Sandburg gained prominence with his collection of poems titled "Chicago Poems" (1916), which celebrated the spirit and vigor of the city. His poetry often focused on the working class, depicting their struggles and aspirations. He received his first Pulitzer Prize for the biography "Abraham Lincoln: The War Years" (1939), a monumental work that explored the life of the 16th U.S. President and won him the Pulitzer Prize for History. Throughout his career, Sandburg's contributions to American literature were immense. He was awarded three Pulitzer Prizes, not only for his biography but also for his poetry, including "Complete Poems" (1950). His poems, such as those in "Fog" and "Chicago," remain well-loved for their vivid language and evocative imagery. Carl Sandburg's legacy extends beyond his writing. His poetry captures the essence of American life and the resilience of its people. He played a crucial role in preserving and celebrating American history and culture through his words, making him a towering figure in the literary world and a chronicler of the American experience. Summary At first glance, this poem may seem like a basic description of fog, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Let's break it down step by step. The title, "Fog," hints at what the poem is all about. It's talking about that misty, hazy stuff that sometimes covers everything. Fog isn't just weather; it's something that makes things hard to see and understand. It's like a mystery, making the world look different and causing us to wonder about what's out there. In this poem, the fog is given a special treatment. It's described as having "little cat feet." This makes the fog seem alive, like a sneaky cat moving quietly and gracefully. Cats are known for being quiet and sly. The comparison of fog to a cat suggests that it quietly sneaks in and changes things, just like fog can suddenly appear and make the world look different. The poem says the fog "sits looking over harbour and city on silent haunches." It's like the fog is sitting down and watching everything, especially the busy harbour and city. The fog seems to have wisdom or knowledge about life. Even though the city and harbor change all the time, the fog remains constant. It's like it's been around forever, watching history go by. The poem ends by saying the fog "moves on." This is a reminder that the fog, like life, doesn't stay in one place. It comes and goes, just like our experiences in life. Everything changes. In a nutshell, "Fog" is a simple-looking poem with deep meanings. It uses the fog as a symbol for the mysteries and changes in life. The poem suggests that we should appreciate the beauty of each moment because, just like the fog, those moments will pass. It's a short but powerful reflection on how life is always changing, and we should pay attention to the world around us. Poem Explanation: The fog comes on little cat feet It sits looking over harbour and city on silent haunches and then moves on. Glossary cat feet The reference to "cat feet" in the poem suggests that the fog arrives quietly and stealthily, like a cat moving without making any noise, adding to the poem's atmosphere of subtlety. Harbour A place where ships can be docked, loaded, and unloaded; a sheltered body of water. Haunches The back legs or hindquarters of an animal. Silent haunches In the poem, the phrase "silent haunches" means that the fog sits or rests quietly and observantly, much like how an animal like a cat might sit still, watching without making any noise. It implies that the fog has a quiet and unobtrusive presence, as if it is waiting or observing without drawing attention to itself. then moves on The reference to "then moves on" in the poem indicates that the fog, like a passing visitor, doesn't stay in one place for long. It signifies the transient and temporary nature of the fog. Just as it arrives silently and envelops the landscape, it eventually departs, continuing its journey. This phrase can also be seen as a metaphor for the impermanence of moments and experiences in life. It reminds us that nothing remains the same, and change is a constant part of existence. Literary Devices Personification The poem personifies fog by attributing human-like qualities to it. For example, Fog is described as having "little cat feet," which gives it human-like characteristics, such as the ability to move and sit. Metaphor The metaphor in the poem is "little cat feet." This comparison between fog and a cat creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. It suggests that fog moves quietly and stealthily, just like a cat. Alliteration Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds in close proximity. In this poem, the repeated "c" sound in "cat" and "comes" and the repeated "s" sound in "silent" and "sits" create an alliterative effect, adding a musical quality to the poem. Imagery The poem uses descriptive language to create mental images. For example, "over harbour and city" conjures an image of fog covering these areas. This imagery helps the reader visualize the scene. Symbolism The fog in the poem can be seen as a symbol for mystery, change, and the impermanence of life. It obscures the familiar, much like life's uncertainties can obscure the path ahead. Enjambment The poem uses enjambment, where a sentence or phrase runs from one line to the next without a pause or break. For instance, "over harbour and city / on silent haunches" continues the thought from one line to the next, creating a sense of flow and connection. NCERT Solution ( Page 115) I. Thinking About the Poem (i) What does Sandburg think the fog is like? Ans: Sandburg thinks the fog is like a quiet and stealthy cat with "little cat feet." He uses this comparison to describe how the fog approaches silently and subtly, much like a cat's movements. (ii) How does the fog come? The fog comes quietly and softly, like a cat with small, gentle steps. It doesn't make any noise; it just appears slowly and gently. (iii) What does ‘it’ in the third line refer to? In the third line of the poem, "it" refers to the fog. The line, "It sits looking," means that the fog is sitting and observing. (iv) Does the poet actually say that the fog is like a cat? Find three things that tell us that the fog is like a cat. Ans: The poet doesn't explicitly say the fog is like a cat, but he suggests it by describing the fog's arrival "on little cat feet," its quiet sitting, and its subtle movement. 2. Find metaphors for the following words and complete the table below. Also try to say how they are alike. The first is done for you. CBQs ( Competency Based Questions) Q1. What similarities does the poet identify between a cat and fog that make the comparison meaningful? Ans: The poet sees similarities between a cat and fog in their silent, stealthy movements. This comparison enhances the sense of quiet, gradual arrival that fog often exhibits, mirroring the subtlety of a cat's movements. Q2. Why do you think the poet portrays the fog as a living creature? The poet portrays the fog as a living creature to add depth and mystery to this natural phenomenon. By attributing cat-like qualities to the fog, the poet personifies it, making it more relatable and engaging for readers. This personification enhances the sensory and emotional impact of the poem, making the fog feel more like a silent, watchful presence. It also underscores the idea that the natural world, including weather elements like fog, can have a life and character of its own, even though it's not truly alive. This approach helps the poet convey the message of the poem effectively, drawing attention to the transient and mysterious nature of life and the ever-changing world around us. Q3. What image does 'It sits looking over harbour' create in your mind? Ans: The image created by the phrase "it sits looking over harbour" is one of quiet and watchful observation. It conjures the idea of the fog, like a silent, contemplative observer, enveloping the harbour and city with a sense of calm and mystery. This image evokes a feeling of the fog as a patient, contemplative presence, overseeing the activities of the harbour and city from above, adding a touch of enigmatic beauty to the scene. Q4. How does the poet personify the fog in the poem? The poet personifies the fog in the poem by attributing human-like qualities to it. The key instance is when the poet describes the fog as having "little cat feet." This comparison between fog and a cat gives the fog characteristics of quiet, stealthy movement, much like a cat's graceful and unobtrusive steps. This personification makes the fog feel alive and adds depth to its portrayal in the poem. Q5. What is the significance of the fog "sitting over harbour and city" in the poem? The significance of the fog "sitting over harbour and city" lies in its role as a silent observer of human activity and its representation of transience. The fog's presence suggests that it is like a watchful sentinel, quietly observing life. This can be seen in the lines, "It sits looking / over harbour and city on silent haunches." This image symbolizes the impermanence of life amidst the ever-changing city and harbor. Q6. What does the phrase "and then moves on" in the poem suggest? The phrase "and then moves on" in the poem suggests the transient and impermanent nature of both the fog and life. It implies that the fog, like life's experiences, is fleeting. Just as the fog arrives silently and envelops the surroundings, it eventually departs, continuing its journey. This phrase serves as a reminder of the impermanence of moments and the ever-changing nature of life. Q7.How does the poem use metaphor to describe the fog? Ans: The poem uses the metaphor of the fog having "little cat feet" to describe its nature. This metaphor compares the fog to a cat, suggesting that the fog moves quietly and stealthily, much like a cat's graceful and silent movements. The specific example from the poem is the first line: "The fog comes on little cat feet." This metaphor enhances the poem's imagery and creates a vivid mental picture of how the fog arrives, silently and subtly. Q8. Why does the poet employ personification and metaphors in the poem? The poet employs personification and metaphors in the poem to make the fog more relatable and engaging to the reader. By attributing human-like qualities to the fog and comparing it to a cat, the poet creates a more vivid and relatable image of the fog's quiet and subtle arrival. These literary devices enhance the emotional and sensory impact of the poem, making the natural phenomenon of fog feel more alive and mysterious. Additionally, these devices serve to convey deeper themes about the impermanence of life and the ever-changing natural world, using the fog as a symbol for those ideas. Recommended Reading Mijbil-the Otter: Easy Translation | CBQs | NCERT Solution | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com)

CBQs | NCERT Solution | Mijbil-the Otter | Lesson Architecture Theme Summary Text Translation NCERT Solution Competency Based Questions Theme: The Value of a Pet: The story revolves around the author's deep emotional connection with his pet otter, Mijbil. What begins as an experiment turns into a profound bond between the author and the otter. It highlights the strong and symbiotic relationship that can develop between a pet and its owner, showcasing the author's commitment to Mijbil's well-being and happiness. Treatment of Wild Animals : The text raises questions about the ethical treatment of wild animals as pets. Maxwell's decision to keep an otter, a wild animal, as a pet, leads to situations where he must confine or restrain the otter, such as putting it on a leash or in a small box. This raises ethical concerns about whether it's fair to subject a wild animal to such treatment for the sake of human companionship. The incident where Mijbil injures himself in the box highlights the challenges and potential cruelty involved in keeping wild animals as pets. These themes underscore the complex and sometimes problematic aspects of human-animal relationships, particularly when wild animals are involved. The story provides insights into the emotional connection between humans and their pets while also prompting readers to consider the ethical treatment of animals in captivity. Summary "Mijbil the Otter" by Gavin Maxwell is a memoir recounting the author's decision to keep an otter as a pet during his journey to Southern Iraq in 1956. Initially, the idea is treated as an "experiment" to observe how the otter adapts to a new environment. Maxwell's friend, with whom he travels to Iraq, suggests acquiring an otter from the Tigris marshes, a region where otters are native and often tamed by the Arabs. After a delay in receiving his mail from Europe, Maxwell finally receives a surprise delivery of a squirming sack containing an otter, arranged by his friend. Maxwell names the otter Mijbil. From the very beginning, Maxwell is captivated by Mijbil's charm, and their bond deepens. Maxwell describes Mijbil as a small, mud-covered "medievally-conceived dragon." Over time, he cleans the otter and discovers an enduring love for this captivating creature. Notably, Maxwell's otter is later identified as a new, previously unknown breed and is named "Latrogale perspicillata maxwelli" by the London Zoological Society. Mijbil quickly adapts to life as a pet, walking without a leash and responding to his name. He displays a playful nature, juggling marbles with his paws and enjoying water immensely, splashing around in the bathtub. Maxwell faces challenges when trying to take Mijbil back to London. They encounter difficulties with airlines and must place Mijbil in a small box for the flight. During the flight, Mijbil escapes the box, creating chaos onboard. Eventually, Mijbil is safely returned to Maxwell. In London, Maxwell and Mijbil spend time together, with Mijbil engaging in playful activities. The sight of Mijbil confuses many Londoners, who struggle to identify him as an otter due to his uniqueness. One worker even thinks Mijbil is not an earthly being. The text explores themes of the value of a pet, highlighting the deep emotional connection between the author and his otter, and raises questions about the treatment of wild animals as pets, as the otter's confinement and transport raise ethical concerns. Maxwell's story showcases the complexity of human-animal relationships, emphasizing the joy and challenges of keeping a wild animal as a beloved companion. Translation of the Original Text in Easy English Part I Text ( Para 1 | Page 104) EARLY in the New Year of 1956 I travelled to Southern Iraq. By then it had crossed my mind that I should like to keep an otter instead of a dog, and that Camusfearna, ringed by water a stone’s throw from its door, would be an eminently suitable spot for this experiment. Translation In the beginning of the year 1956, I went to Southern Iraq. At that time, I had a thought that I wanted to have an otter as a pet instead of a dog. I believed that Camusfearna, surrounded by water very close to its entrance, would be a perfect place for this idea to come true. Text ( Para 2 | Page 104) When I casually mentioned this to a friend, he as casually replied that I had better get one in the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often tamed by the Arabs. We were going to Basra to the Consulate-General to collect and answer our mail from Europe. At the Consulate-General we found that my friend’s mail had arrived but that mine had not. Translation When I mentioned this idea to a friend, he casually suggested that I should find an otter in the Tigris marshes because they were as common as mosquitoes there, and the local Arabs often tamed them. We were headed to Basra to visit the Consulate-General to pick up and respond to our mail from Europe. However, upon our arrival at the Consulate-General, we discovered that my friend's mail had arrived, but mine had not. Text ( Para 3 | Page 104) I cabled to England, and when, three days later, nothing had happened, I tried to telephone. The call had to be booked twenty-four hours in advance. On the first day the line was out of order; on the second the exchange was closed for a religious holiday. On the third day there was another breakdown. My friend left, and I arranged to meet him in a week’s time. Five days later, my mail arrived. Translation I sent a cable to England, but when three days passed with no response, I attempted to make a telephone call. However, I had to book the call 24 hours in advance. Unfortunately, on the first day, the phone line was not working, and on the second day, the telephone exchange was closed for a religious holiday. On the third day, there was yet another problem with the telephone system. Frustrated, my friend decided to leave, and we planned to meet again in a week. Finally, after five days, my mail arrived. Text ( Para 4 | Page 104) I carried it to my bedroom to read, and there, squatting on the floor, were two Arabs; beside them lay a sack that squirmed from time to time. They handed me a note from my friend: “Here is your otter...” Translation I took the mail to my bedroom to read it, and to my surprise, I found two Arabs sitting on the floor. Next to them was a sack that seemed to be moving. They gave me a note from my friend that said, "Here is your otter..." Part II Text ( Para 1| Page 104) With the opening of that sack began a phase of my life that has not yet ended, and may, for all I know, not end before I do. It is, in effect, a thraldom to otters, an otter fixation, that I have since found to be shared by most other people, who have ever owned one. Translation Opening that sack marked the beginning of a chapter in my life that is still ongoing, and it might continue until the end of my days. In essence, it's an obsession with otters, a fascination that I've come to realize is shared by most other people who have ever had an otter as a pet. Text ( Para 2 | Page 104-105) The creature that emerged from this sack on to the spacious tiled floor of the Consulate bedroom resembled most of all a very small, medievallyconceived, dragon. From the head to the tip of tail he was coated with symmetrical pointed scales of mud armour, between whose tips was visible a soft velvet fur like that of a chocolate-brown mole. He shook himself, and I half expected a cloud of dust, but in fact it was not for another month that I managed to remove the last of the mud and see the otter, as it were, in his true colours. Translation The animal that came out of the sack and onto the big, tiled floor in the Consulate bedroom looked like a tiny dragon that you might read about in old stories. From its head to the end of its tail, it had a pattern of pointed scales covered in mud, and in between those scales, there was a soft, velvety fur that resembled the fur of a chocolate-brown mole. It shook itself, and I thought there would be a cloud of dust, but it took me about a month to clean off all the mud and finally see the otter in its true colors. Text ( Para 3 | Page 105) Mijbil, as I called the otter, was, in fact, of a race previously unknown to science, and was at length christened by zoologists Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, or Maxwell’s otter. For the first twentyfour hours Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible. The second night Mijbil came on to my bed in the small hours and remained asleep in the crook of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning, and during the day he began to lose his apathy and take a keen, much too keen, interest in his surroundings. I made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water, plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub underwater, and making enough slosh and splash for a hippo. This, I was to learn, is a characteristic of otters; every drop of water must be, so to speak, extended and spread about the place; a bowl must at once be overturned, or, if it will not be overturned, be sat in and sploshed in until it overflows. Water must be kept on the move and made to do things; when static it is wasted and provoking. Translation Mijbil, the name I gave to the otter, turned out to be a previously unknown species to scientists, and zoologists later named it Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, or Maxwell's otter. In the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil didn't show much friendliness or hostility; he was rather distant and indifferent. He chose to sleep on the floor as far away from my bed as possible. However, on the second night, he hopped onto my bed in the early morning and slept in the curve of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning. During the day, he began to lose his indifference and became very curious about his surroundings. I made a belt for him and took him on a leash to the bathroom. There, he went wild with joy in the water for about half an hour. He was diving and rolling in the water, swimming up and down the length of the bathtub underwater, and making a lot of splashing. This behavior, I later found out, is typical of otters. They seem to enjoy spreading water everywhere; they must tip over a bowl or sit in it and splash around until it overflows. Water should always be in motion, and when it's still, it seems like a waste and quite frustrating. Text ( Para 4 | Page 106) Two days later, Mijbil escaped from my bedroom as I entered it, and I turned to see his tail disappearing round the bend of the corridor that led to the bathroom. By the time I got there he was up on the end of the bathtub and fumbling at the chromium taps with his paws. I watched, amazed; in less than a minute he had turned the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water, and after a moment or two achieved the full flow. (He had been lucky to turn the tap the right way; on later occasions he would sometimes screw it up still tighter, chittering with irritation and disappointment at the tap’s failure to cooperate.) Translation Two days later, as I entered my bedroom, Mijbil managed to escape and darted away. I saw his tail disappearing around the corner of the corridor that led to the bathroom. When I reached the bathroom, I found him perched at the end of the bathtub, trying to work the chrome taps with his paws. I was utterly amazed. In less than a minute, he had managed to turn the tap enough to produce a small stream of water, and after a brief moment, he had it running at full flow. He was fortunate to turn the tap the right way that time, but in later attempts, he would sometimes tighten it even more, making frustrated noises when the tap didn't cooperate as he wanted. Text ( Para 5 | Page 106) Very soon Mij would follow me without a lead and come to me when I called his name. He spent most of his time in play. He spent hours shuffling a rubber ball round the room like a four-footed soccer player using all four feet to dribble the ball, and he could also throw it, with a powerful flick of the neck, to a surprising height and distance. But the real play of an otter is when he lies on his back and juggles with small objects between his paws. Marbles were Mij’s favourite toys for this pastime: he would lie on his back rolling two or more of them up and down his wide, flat belly without ever dropping one to the floor. Translation Before long, Mijbil didn't need a leash to follow me, and he would come to me when I called his name. He spent most of his time playing. He loved shuffling a rubber ball around the room, just like a soccer player, using all four of his feet to dribble it. He could also throw it high and far with a quick flick of his neck. However, an otter's real game is when they lie on their back and juggle small objects between their paws. Mijbil's favorite toys for this pastime were marbles. He would lie on his back, rolling two or more marbles up and down his wide, flat belly without dropping a single one to the floor. Part III Text ( Para 1| Page 107) The days passed peacefully at Basra, but I dreaded the prospect of transporting Mij to England, and to Camusfearna. The British airline to London would not fly animals, so I booked a flight to Paris on another airline, and from there to London. The airline insisted that Mij should be packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square, to be carried on the floor at my feet. I had a box made, and an hour before we started, I put Mij into the box so that he would become accustomed to it, and left for a hurried meal. Translation The days in Basra were calm, but I was worried about the idea of taking Mijbil to England and Camusfearna. The British airline didn't allow animals on their flights, so I booked a flight to Paris on a different airline and then another one to London from there. However, this airline required Mijbil to be placed in a box that couldn't be larger than eighteen inches square, and it had to be kept on the floor near my feet. So, I had a box made for him, and about an hour before our departure, I placed Mijbil inside the box to help him get used to it. Then, I quickly left for a meal. Text ( Para 2 | Page 107) When I returned, there was an appalling spectacle. There was complete silence from the box, but from its airholes and chinks around the lid, blood had trickled and dried. I whipped off the lock and tore open the lid, and Mij, exhausted and bloodspattered, whimpered and caught at my leg. He had torn the lining of the box to shreds; when I removed the last of it so that there were no cutting edges left, it was just ten minutes until the time of the flight, and the airport was five miles distant. I put the miserable Mij back into the box, holding down the lid with my hand. Translation As I returned , there was a scary sight. There was complete silenct from the box. Blood trickled and dried from the airholes and chinks around the lid of the box. I quickly removed the lock and opened the lid of the box. Inside, I found Mijbil exhausted and covered in blood, whimpering and reaching out for my leg. Mijbil had shredded the lining of the box to pieces. I removed the last of it so that there were no sharp edges left. At this point, we had only ten minutes left until the flight, and the airport was five miles away. I placed the distressed Mijbil back into the box, keeping the lid down with my hand. Text ( Para 3 | Page 107) I sat in the back of the car with the box beside me as the driver tore through the streets of Basra like a ricochetting bullet. The aircraft was waiting to take off; I was rushed through to it by infuriated officials. Luckily, the seat booked for me was at the extreme front. I covered the floor around my feet with newspapers, rang for the air hostess, and gave her a parcel of fish (for Mij) to keep in a cool place. I took her into my confidence about the events of the last half hour. I have retained the most profound admiration for that air hostess; she was the very queen of her kind. She suggested that I might prefer to have my pet on my knee, and I could have kissed her hand in the depth of my gratitude. But, not knowing otters, I was quite unprepared for what followed. Translation I sat in the back of the car with the box next to me as the driver sped through the streets of Basra like a ricocheting bullet. The aircraft was ready to take off, and I was rushed to it by very angry officials. Fortunately, my seat was at the very front of the plane. I covered the floor area around my feet with newspapers, called for the air hostess, and handed her a package of fish (for Mijbil) to keep in a cool place. I confided in her about the events of the last half hour. I held the utmost respect for that air hostess; she was the best of her kind. She suggested that I might want to have my pet on my lap, and I was so grateful that I felt like kissing her hand. However, not being familiar with otters, I was completely unprepared for what was about to happen. Text ( Para 4 | Page 108) Mij was out of the box in a flash. He disappeared at high speed down the aircraft. There were squawks and shrieks, and a woman stood up on her seat screaming out, “A rat! A rat!” I caught sight of Mij’s tail disappearing beneath the legs of a portly whiteturbaned Indian. Diving for it, I missed, but found my face covered in curry. “Perhaps,” said the air hostess with the most charming smile, “it would be better if you resumed your seat, and I will find the animal and bring it to you.” Translation Mijbil quickly escaped from the box. He shot out in a blur, darting down the length of the aircraft. There were loud cries and screams, and a woman on her seat yelled, "A rat! A rat!" I saw Mijbil's tail disappearing under the legs of a rotund Indian gentleman wearing a white turban. I made an attempt to catch him but missed, and instead, I ended up with my face covered in curry. The air hostess, with a delightful smile, said, "Perhaps it would be better if you returned to your seat, and I will locate the animal and bring it to you." Text ( Para 5 | Page 108) I returned to my seat. I was craning my neck trying to follow the hunt when suddenly I heard from my feet a distressed chitter of recognition and welcome, and Mij bounded on to my knee and began to nuzzle my face and my neck. Translation I went back to my seat and was straining to see what was happening as the search for Mijbil continued. Then, unexpectedly, I heard a worried, chittering sound of recognition and delight coming from my feet. Mijbil jumped onto my lap, nuzzling my face and neck to greet me. Part IV Text ( Para 1| Page 109) Mij and I remained in London for nearly a month. He would play for hours with a selection of toys, ping-pong balls, marbles, rubber fruit, and a terrapin shell that I had brought back from his native marshes. With the ping-pong ball he invented a game of his own which could keep him engrossed for up to half an hour at a time. A suitcase that I had taken to Iraq had become damaged on the journey home, so that the lid, when closed, remained at a slope from one end to the other. Mij discovered that if he placed the ball on the high end it would run down the length of the suitcase. He would dash around to the other end to ambush its arrival, hide from it, crouching, to spring up and take it by surprise, grab it and trot off with it to the high end once more. Translation Mijbil and I spent nearly a month in London. He loved playing with various toys, including ping-pong balls, marbles, rubber fruit, and even a terrapin shell I had brought from his homeland, the marshes. He had a unique game he invented with the ping-pong ball that could keep him entertained for up to half an hour. I had a suitcase that got damaged during my journey home from Iraq, so the lid of the suitcase remained sloped from one end to the other when closed. Mijbil figured out that if he placed the ball on the higher end, it would roll down the length of the suitcase. He would quickly dash to the other end to surprise the ball when it reached there, hide, crouching and ready to spring up and catch it by surprise. Then, he would grab it and carry it back to the higher end to start the game again. Text ( Para 2| Page 109) Outside the house I exercised him on a lead, precisely as if he had been a dog. Mij quickly developed certain compulsive habits on these walks in the London streets, like the rituals of children who on their way to and from school must place their feet squarely on the centre of each paving block; must touch every seventh upright of the iron railings, or pass to the outside of every second lamp post. Opposite to my flat was a single-storied primary school, along whose frontage ran a low wall some two feet high. On his way home, but never on his way out, Mij would tug me to this wall, jump on to it, and gallop the full length of its thirty yards, to the hopeless distraction both of pupils and of staff within. Translation I used to take Mijbil outside on a leash, just like you would with a dog. During our walks in the streets of London, Mijbil developed some interesting habits. It was similar to the way children have rituals on their way to and from school, like making sure to step in the middle of each paving block or touching every seventh part of the iron railings or passing on the outside of every second lamp post. Opposite to my flat was a single-story primary school with a low wall about two feet high along the front. On our way back home, but not when we were going out, Mijbil would pull me towards this wall. He would then jump onto it and run the full length of about thirty yards. This often caused quite a commotion among the students and the school staff, to their great distraction. Text ( Para 3| Page 110) It is not, I suppose, in any way strange that the average Londoner should not recognise an otter, but the variety of guesses as to what kind of animal this might be came as a surprise to me. Otters belong to a comparatively small group of animals called Mustellines, shared by the badger, mongoose, weasel, stoat, mink and others. I faced a continuous barrage of conjectural questions that sprayed all the Mustellines but the otter; more random guesses hit on ‘a baby seal’ and ‘a squirrel.’ ‘Is that a walrus, mister?’ reduced me to giggles, and outside a dog show I heard ‘a hippo’. A beaver, a bear cub, a leopard — one, apparently, that had changed its spots — and a ‘brontosaur’; Mij was anything but an otter. Translation It might not be unusual for the average Londoner to not recognize an otter, but I was surprised by the wide range of guesses people had about what kind of animal Mijbil might be. Otters are part of a relatively small group of animals called Mustellines, which includes creatures like the badger, mongoose, weasel, stoat, mink, and others. I constantly faced a barrage of questions from people who were guessing all the Mustellines except the otter. Some random guesses included "a baby seal" and "a squirrel." There were even humorous suggestions like "a walrus, mister?" that made me laugh, and someone outside a dog show thought Mijbil was "a hippo." People suggested a beaver, a bear cub, a leopard that had somehow changed its spots, and even a "brontosaur." Mijbil was clearly a mystery to most, anything but an otter. Text ( Para 4| Page 110) But the question for which I awarded the highest score came from a labourer digging a hole in the street. I was still far from him when he laid down his tool, put his hands on his hips, and began to stare. As I drew nearer I saw his expression of surprise and affront, as though he would have me know that he was not one upon whom to play jokes. I came abreast of him; he spat, glared, and then growled out, “Here, Mister — what is that supposed to be?” Translation However, the most noteworthy question came from a laborer who was digging a hole in the street. I was still some distance away when he stopped working, placed his hands on his hips, and began to stare at me. As I got closer, I could see the look of astonishment and offense on his face, as if he wanted me to understand that he was not someone to be fooled with. I walked past him, and he spat, glared at me, and then grumbled, "Hey, Mister, what in the world is that supposed to be?" NCERT Solution Oral Comprehension Check ( Page 106) 1. What ‘experiment’ did Maxwell think Camusfearna would be suitable for? Ans: Maxwell thought that Camusfearna would be suitable for an "experiment" involving keeping an otter as a pet instead of a dog. He wanted to observe how the otter would adapt to living in a new environment close to water. 2. Why does he go to Basra? How long does he wait there, and why? Ans: Gavin Maxwell goes to Basra to collect and respond to his mail from Europe. He waits in Basra for about five days because there was a delay in receiving his mail, and he wanted to wait for it to arrive before proceeding with his journey. During this time, he stays behind in Basra while his friend departs. 3. How does he get the otter? Does he like it? Pick out the words that tell you this. Ans: Gavin Maxwell gets the otter when two Arabs unexpectedly bring it to him in a sack. He describes his initial reaction to the otter as being "enthralled" and mentions that he discovered it was an enduring love. The words "enthralled" and "enduring love" convey his liking for the otter. 4. Why was the otter named ‘Maxwell’s otter’? The otter was named "Maxwell's otter" because it was of a previously unknown species to science, and zoologists subsequently christened it as Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli. This name includes "maxwelli" in honor of Gavin Maxwell, who was the one who had the otter as a pet and brought it to the attention of zoologists. 5. Tick the right answer. In the beginning, the otter was • aloof and indifferent • friendly • hostile In the beginning, the otter was aloof and indifferent. 6. What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What did it do two days after that? When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, the otter went wild with joy in the water. It splashed around in the bathtub, rolled in the water, and created a lot of splashes. Two days later, Mijbil managed to escape to the bathroom and attempted to operate the taps. He successfully turned the tap to produce a trickle of water and then achieved the full flow of water. However, Maxwell notes that Mijbil was lucky to turn the tap the right way on that occasion, as he would sometimes turn it in the wrong direction, causing frustration and disappointment. Oral Comprehension Check (Page 108-109) 1. How was Mij to be transported to England? Mijbil was to be transported to England by air. However, the British airline to London did not allow animals, so Gavin Maxwell had to book a flight to Paris on another airline, and from there to London. The airline insisted that Mijbil be placed in a box not more than eighteen inches square, which would be kept on the floor at Maxwell's feet during the flight. 2. What did Mij do to the box? Mijbil, the otter, managed to tear the lining of the box to shreds, causing damage to it. This happened while he was inside the box, and he became blood-spattered and exhausted in the process. Maxwell had to make adjustments to the box to ensure there were no sharp edges left, and then he placed Mijbil back into the box before their flight. 3. Why did Maxwell put the otter back in the box? How do you think he felt when he did this? Maxwell put the otter, Mijbil, back in the box because they were about to take a flight, and the airline required the otter to be transported in the box, not more than eighteen inches square, and kept on the floor at Maxwell's feet. This was a necessary condition set by the airline for allowing the otter to travel. Given his deep affection for Mijbil, it's likely that Maxwell felt a sense of responsibility and concern for the otter's safety during the upcoming flight. He had to comply with the airline's rules, even though it may have been distressing to put Mijbil back into the box after the earlier incident where the otter had torn the lining and injured himself. 4. Why does Maxwell say the airhostess was “the very queen of her kind”? Ans: Maxwell refers to the air hostess as "the very queen of her kind" because she displayed exceptional understanding, kindness, and empathy during a challenging and unexpected situation. When Mijbil, the otter, escaped from the box and caused a commotion on the plane, the air hostess not only remained calm but also suggested that Maxwell could have his pet on his knee, which was a thoughtful and accommodating gesture. Maxwell was likely deeply appreciative of her understanding and assistance during this chaotic moment, which is why he referred to her in such a complimentary manner. 5. What happened when the box was opened? When the box was opened, Mijbil, the otter, quickly shot out of it. He escaped from the box and darted down the length of the aircraft. This sudden and unexpected action caused a commotion among the passengers, with squawks and shrieks. Mijbil's escape startled the passengers on the plane, and one woman even screamed, thinking he was a rat. It led to some chaos and confusion before Mijbil was eventually reunited with Maxwell. Oral Comprehension Check (Page 110) 1. What game had Mij invented? Mij, the otter, had invented a game involving a ping-pong ball. The game consisted of placing the ping-pong ball on a suitcase with a damaged lid. When the ball was set on the high end of the sloped lid, it would roll down the length of the suitcase. Mijbil would then rush to the other end of the suitcase to ambush the ball's arrival, hide from it while crouching, and then spring up to take the ball by surprise. He would grab the ball and carry it back to the high end of the suitcase to start the game again. This game kept him engrossed for up to half an hour at a time. 2. What are ‘compulsive habits’? What does Maxwell say are the compulsive habits of (i) school children (ii) Mij? Ans: "Compulsive habits" are repetitive behaviours or rituals that a person or animal feels compelled to perform, often without a specific reason. These habits can be driven by a sense of need or a desire for order and can become ingrained in one's routine. In the text, Maxwell describes the compulsive habits of both school children and Mijbil: (i) School Children: Maxwell compares the compulsive habits of school children to the rituals they perform on their way to and from school. For example, he mentions that children may have habits like placing their feet squarely on the center of each paving block or touching every seventh upright of iron railings. These are repetitive actions that some children feel compelled to do as part of their routine. (ii) Mijbil (Mij): Mijbil developed his own compulsive habits during walks in the London streets. Maxwell notes that he had specific rituals, such as tugging Maxwell toward a low wall outside a primary school. Mijbil would jump onto the wall and gallop the full length of it on his way back home, but he would not do this on his way out. This behavior, akin to the habits of school children, was Mijbil's version of compulsive behaviour. 3. What group of animals do otters belong to? Otters belong to a group of animals known as "Mustellines." This group includes various species like the badger, mongoose, weasel, stoat, mink, and others. Mustellines are characterized by their shared family and physical traits, and otters are a part of this family. 4. What guesses did the Londoners make about what Mij was? Ans: The Londoners made a variety of guesses about what Mijbil, the otter, might be. Some of the guesses included: 1. A baby seal 2. A squirrel 3. A walrus 4. A hippo 5. A beaver 6. A bear cub 7. A leopard (one that had changed its spots) 8. A "brontosaur" These guesses reflect the confusion and lack of familiarity with otters among the Londoners, as otters are not commonly seen in urban areas. Thinking About the Text ( P. 110) 1. What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly and fun-loving animal who needs love? Ans: Mijbil's actions in the text demonstrate that he is an intelligent, friendly, and fun-loving animal who needs love: 1. Intelligence: Mijbil's ability to operate the taps in the bathroom, even if it took a few tries, indicates his intelligence. He quickly figured out how to turn the tap to get water, showing problem-solving skills. 2. Friendly: Mijbil initially appeared aloof and indifferent but quickly became friendly. He slept on Maxwell's bed, nuzzled him, and showed signs of affection. He recognized Maxwell and greeted him warmly after their separation on the airplane. 3. Fun-loving: Mijbil's love for playing with various objects, such as ping-pong balls, marbles, and rubber fruit, reveals his fun-loving nature. He invented his own game with the ping-pong ball, displaying a playful and creative personality. 4. Need for love: Mijbil's attachment to Maxwell and his excitement upon reuniting with him on the airplane underscore his need for love and companionship. He sought comfort and affection from his owner. These actions collectively portray Mijbil as an intelligent, friendly, and playful otter that thrives on companionship and love. 2. What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text? From this text, we learn several things about otters: 1. Physical Characteristics: Otters are described as having a "soft velvet fur" and symmetrical pointed scales of mud armor on their bodies. 2. Love for Water: Otters have a strong affinity for water. They enjoy playing in it, splashing around, and can be quite enthusiastic about it. 3. Intelligence: Otters, as illustrated by Mijbil, can be intelligent and capable of learning how to operate certain mechanisms, such as taps. 4. Playful Nature: Otters are inherently playful animals. They enjoy playing with objects like balls and marbles, and they have a penchant for creating their own games. 5. Attachment to Humans: The text suggests that otters can form strong attachments to humans. Mijbil quickly developed a close bond with Gavin Maxwell and displayed affectionate behavior. 6. Curiosity: Otters, like Mijbil, can be curious about their surroundings and are eager to explore new environments. 7. Compulsive Habits: Otters, as demonstrated by Mijbil's behavior, may develop certain compulsive habits or rituals during their daily routines. These details provide insights into the characteristics and behavior of otters as observed through the specific example of Mijbil, the otter featured in the text. 3. Why is Mij’s species now known to the world as Maxwell’s otter? Ans: Mijbil's species is known to the world as "Maxwell's otter" because it was a previously unknown species to science. Zoologists later identified this distinct species, and in recognition of Gavin Maxwell, who had Mijbil as a pet and brought attention to this unique otter, they named it after him. The scientific name for this species is Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, with "maxwelli" added to acknowledge Maxwell's role in the otter's discovery and identification. Competency Based Questions (CBQs) Q1. No animal likes to be confined. They remain healthy, strong and active only in their natural habitat. Explain the statement with reference to the Otter as described in the story. Q2. Why do you think Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly for the first twenty-four hours after he was brought home? Q3. How can you say that Mijbil loved to be in water which was its natural habitat? Explain with reference to the story. Q4. Mijbil caused a sensation in London. Expound with reference to the chapter “Mijbil the Otter”. Q5. What was the greatest obstacle faced by the narrator in transporting Mijbil to Camusfearna? Q6. Mijbil is an active animal who shows many emotions. Explain with instances from the text. Long Answer-type Questions/6 Marks Q1. From your reading of the story 'Mijbil-the Otter' describe how the writer portrays the otter and its relationship with humans. Q2. Without the assistance of the airhostess, the narrator could not have transported Mijbil from Basra to London safely. Comment. Q3. Peculiar behaviours are a characteristic of Otters. Discuss with respect to “Mijbil the Otter”. Q4. Discuss the commitment the author has shown for keeping his pet- Mijbil in his house. English Project Q. What all do you have to do to keep the animal with you at home? (You can refer to the dos and don’ts given on page no. 102 of the textbook First Flight.) Make a project report keeping in mind the efforts the author made to keep Mijbil as his pet. 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