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NCERT Official Video on Rain on the Roof Rain on the Roof Theme: This poem highlights the poet’s recollection of his mother when he was a child. Every patter of raindrops on the roof reminds him how his mother used to put her children to sleep in the backdrop of a rainy day. When the poet is alone in his cottage and resting at night, the sound of the refrain on the roof brings memories of the past. Poem-At-A-Glance: The poet describes how blissful he considers himself on hearing the sound of raindrops as he lied in his bed at night. He experiences blissful moment to press his head against the pillow in his cottage-chamber bed while listening to the patter of the soft rain overhead. The poet recollects the pleasant memories of his childhood days when his mother would watch over her children and make them fall asleep. The recollection is so lively that poet feels her loving gaze on him even now as he hears the pattering raindrops falling on the roof of his house. Stanza 1 When the humid shadows hover Over all the starry spheres And the melancholy darkness Gently weeps in rainy tears, What a bliss to press the pillow Of a cottage-chamber bed And lie listening to the patter Of the soft rain overhead! Vocabulary: 1. humid shadows: heavy dark clouds that bring rain. 2. hover: move 3. starry spheres: stars at night. 4. melancholy darkness: the entire sky becomes overcast with clouds and it seems like the sky is sad. 5. rainy tears: When the clouds in the sky give way to rainfall, it seems the sky is crying. 6. cottage-chamber bed: bed in his cottage. 7. Patter: soft sound made by the raindrops on the roof. Analysis: The poet means to say that when heavy dark clouds in the sky bring rainfall on earth, it appears like a tear falling from the sky, which wipe out the sad darkness of the night. The poet further says that the rainfall with a pattering sound on the roof brings immense pleasure in his mind and he love to duck his head into the pillow of his cottage bed and enjoy the heavenly pleasure that the rain brings along with it. Stanza 2 Every tinkle on the shingles Has an echo in the heart; And a thousand dreamy fancies Into busy being start, And a thousand recollections Weave their air-threads into woof, As I listen to the patter Of the rain upon the roof. Vocabulary: 1. tinkle: clinking sounds. 2. shingles: rectangular wooden tiles used on roofs. 3. a thousand dreamy fancies: many thoughts that come to the poet’s mind. 4. busy-being: thoughts occupying the mind of the poet. 5. thousand recollections: memories of the past surface in the mind of the poet. 6. weave their air-threads into woof: thousand memories make a beautiful pattern in the minds of the poet. Analysis: The poet says that every clinking sound made on the shingles has a feeling of ecstasy in his heart. A thousand dream-like thoughts keep flooding back into his mind , which keep him occupied till he falls asleep. With a dreamy-like picture in his mind come a thousand recollection of the past, which get embedded with one another and weave a fanciful picture in his mind. Thus the poet goes into the state of untold happiness and blissful state of mind whenever the raindrops patter on the roof of his house. Stanza 3 Now in memory comes my mother As she used in years agone To regard the darling dreamers Ere she left them till the dawn O! I feel her fond look on me As I list to this refrain Which is played upon the shingles By the patter of the rain. Vocabulary: 1. darling dreamers: siblings of the poet. 2. Ere she left them till the dawn: the poet’s mother used to put her children to sleep till early morning. 3. refrain: Here the patter of raindrops on the roof. It brings the memory alive in the mind of the poet. Analysis: The memory of his mother comes flooding back in his mind with sound of the pattering of raindrops on the roof. In the past, she used to cast a caring glance at her children while putting them asleep at night in the background of the sound of raindrops on the roof of their house. NCERT SOLUTION: Thinking about the poet 1.1. What do the following phrases mean to you? Discuss in class. (i) ‘humid shadows’ ‘Humid shadows’ refer to the heavy dark clouds that bring rain. ii) ‘Starry spheres ‘Starry spheres refers to the sky studded with stars. iii) What a bliss The phrase means that the poet undergoes blissful experience when he hears the pattering sound of raindrops on the roof of his house. iv) a thousand dreamy fancies into busy being start This expression means that as the poet listens to the sound of pattering raindrops, thousand dreams keep surfacing in his mind and keep him occupied. v) a thousand recollections weave their air-threads into woof. This expression refers to the fact that with the background of rainy night a host of memories of the past with his mother lulling her children to sleep come flooding back in his mind and form a dreamy picture in his mind. 2. What does the poet like to do when it rains? Ans: The poet like to lie in his bed with head burrowed into the pillow and listen to the sound of pattering sound of the rain drops. 3. What is the single major memory that comes to the poet? Who are the ‘darling dreamer’ he refers to ? Ans: The single major memory is that of her mother casting a caring glance at her children while putting them to sleep. ‘darling dreamers’ refer to the poet and his siblings who were together lulled to sleep by the poet’s mother. 3. Is the poet now a child? Is his mother still alive? Ans: No, the poet is grown-up now. We can understand this fact from his nostalgic moment of the past. His mother may not be alive now. We can guess the fact from his fond recollection of his mother and how she used to cast a loving glance at all of them and put them to sleep makes us thinks that his mother may not be alive. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Lesson Architecture: Biography Theme Critical Commentary Line-wise Explanation Recapitulation NCERT Solution NCERT Official Video on the poem 'Wind' Biography Subramanya Bharathi (December 11, 1882 - September 11, 1921) was a Tamil poet from Tamil Nadu, India, an independence fighter and iconoclastic reformer. Known as Mahakavi Bharathi , he is celebrated as one of India's greatest poets. His compositions helped rally the masses to support the Indian independence movement in South India. Bharathi was a pioneer in introducing a new style of Tamil poetry and created a prose-poetic style known as the puthukkavithai (modern poems). https://www.poemhunter.com/subramania-bharati/biography/ THEME This poem describes the destructive power of the wind. The wind is the symbol of difficulties or obstacles that humans have to face for their survival. The weak people give up, but stronger people come out of bad phase of life. The poem highlights the fact that we should be physically strong and mentally tough to survive the hardships of life. We must make friendship with the destructive forces of the wind with our strength and determination. Critical Commentary: "Wind" is a poignant and evocative poem written by the celebrated Tamil poet Subramania Bharati. The poem, originally written in Tamil and translated into English, explores the power and symbolism of the wind, as well as its impact on various aspects of life. One notable aspect of the poem is the vivid imagery employed by the poet. Bharati skillfully uses descriptive language to portray the actions of the wind, such as breaking doors, scattering papers, tearing book pages, and bringing rain. This imagery creates a sense of chaos and unpredictability, illustrating the force and turbulence associated with the wind. The poet personifies the wind throughout the poem, treating it as a divine entity or a deity with its own intentions and actions. By addressing the wind directly, Bharati establishes a sense of dialogue and interaction, emphasizing the relationship between humans and the natural world. Thematically, "Wind" explores the cyclical nature of life and change. The poet draws parallels between the wind and the various phases of existence, such as the transition from winter to spring. The wind becomes a symbol of transformation, representing the inevitability of change and the renewal it brings. The poem also touches upon the theme of resilience and the human spirit. While acknowledging the destructive power of the wind, Bharati presents a contrasting perspective. The poet invites the wind to attack, preparing to face it head-on. This demonstrates the courage to confront challenges and the determination to overcome adversity. Additionally, the poem reflects the poet's emotional response to the wind. There is a mixture of anger and humor in the poet's tone, revealing a complex and multifaceted attitude towards the wind's actions. This emotional range adds depth to the poem, showcasing the poet's nuanced understanding of the natural world and its impact on human existence. In conclusion, "Wind" by Subramania Bharati is a compelling poem that explores the power and symbolism of the wind, its transformative nature, and its relationship with human life. Through vivid imagery, personification, and themes of resilience, the poem offers a thought-provoking reflection on the forces of nature and the human experience. LINE-Wise Explanation (Lines 1-4) Wind, come softly. Don’t break the shutters of the windows. Don’t scatter the papers. Don’t throw down the books on the shelf Vocabulary: shutters: a pair of wooden or metal window covers. Scatter: to throw or drop things in different directions Key Points • The Poet makes an appeal to the wind. He asks the wind not to break down the shutters of the windows. • He also asks the wind not to scatter the papers in his room, or to throw down the books from his bookshelves. (Lines 5-7) There, look what you did– you threw them all down. You tore the pages of the books. You brought rain again. Vocabulary: threw : The wind has thrown everything down. tore the pages: The poet accuses the wind of tearing the pages of his books. Key Points: • The poet tells the wind that it is he who is responsible for throwing all the books down from the bookshelves with his force. • The poet also accuses the wind of tearing pages out of those books as well. (Lines 8-12) You’re very clever at poking fun at weaklings. Frail crumbling houses, crumbling doors, crumbling rafters, crumbling wood, crumbling bodies, crumbling lives, crumbling hearts – the wind god winnows and crushes them all Vocabulary: poking fun at weaklings: The wind makes fun at weak people. Crumbling: to break or break something into very small pieces. rafter: one of the sloping pieces of wood that support the roof of a building. wind god winnows: The wind God blowing over someone’s life and leaving a trail of disasters behind. Key Points • In these lines, the tone of the poet has once again undergone a change. While it is still accusatory, it has also become gentle to some extent. • The poet tells the wind that he makes mischief whenever he comes face to face with anyone who is too meek and mild to protest against his actions. • The wind can tear down the doors, the rafters, or entire wooden houses altogether. • The poet is talking about the wind blowing over someone’s life and leaving a trail of disasters behind. • The troubles we face in life come as suddenly as the wind, and also leave suddenly. Lines 13-15: He won’t do what you tell him. So, come, let’s build strong homes, Let’s join the doors firmly. Vocabulary: join the doors firmly: close the doors of our house firmly so that the wind cannot get into. Key Points • In these lines, the poet stops speaking to the wind, and starts speaking to his readers. • He tells his readers that the wind does not listen to anybody, and that his actions are governed by him alone. • Therefore, we cannot escape the ill effects of the wind by appealing to the wind like he has been doing. • Instead, we should build our homes on a strong foundation, and ensure that our doors should not be weak or vulnerable to the wind. • Metaphorically speaking, in order to protect us from the hardships of our lives, we should be physically and mentally strong. (Lines 16-18) Practise to firm the body. Make the heart steadfast. Do this, and the wind will be friends with us. Vocabulary: 1. firm the body: We must train our bodies. 2. heart steadfast: We should be mentally strong. Key Points • In these lines, the poet says that we must make ourselves strong, both physically and mentally. • We must train our bodies and our hearts to fight against and resist the ill effects of the wind. • If we are able to do this, then the poet thinks that we will no longer consider the wind an enemy. Instead the wind will invite us to become his friend, and we will be able to fearlessly accept his invitation. (Lines 19-20) The wind blows out weak fires. He makes strong fires roar and flourish Vocabulary: 1. roar and flourish : The wind makes all the things that are strong, flourish and grow to become stronger. Key Points • In these lines, the poet describes how the wind has both bad effects and good effects. • In order to elucidate on the bad effects of the wind, he shows how the wind can blow out a fire if it is glowing with a weak force. • However, if the fire is burning strongly, then the wind will not blow it out, but makes it fiercer. • Thus the wind can nurture that which is already strong. (Lines 21-23: His friendship is good. We praise him every day. Wind, come softly. Key Points • In these lines, the poet comes to a conclusion after counting both the bad effects and the good effects of the wind. • He says that if we are strong, then the wind is a good friend for us to have as he will increase our strength. • He also says that we should sing our devotion to the wind god on a daily basis. Finally, he asks for the wind to come to him softly. • He knows how the wind i.e. adversity or bad phase of our life can strengthen him. But as a precaution so that the wind does not cause damage to him, he asks the wind to come to him in a gentle manner. Bonus Info: (Explanation of the Last Four Lines) In these lines, the poet is describing the effects of the wind and expressing admiration for its qualities. Let's break it down in simpler terms: 1. The wind blows out weak fires: The poet suggests that when the wind blows, it can extinguish weak fires. This implies that the wind has the power to diminish or put an end to things that are feeble or lacking strength. 2. He makes strong fires roar and flourish: On the other hand, when the wind encounters strong fires, it causes them to roar and flourish. This means that the wind can enhance and intensify things that are already powerful or robust. 3. His friendship is good: Here, the poet personifies the wind and refers to it as a friend. By saying "his friendship is good," the poet implies that having the wind as a companion or ally is beneficial or advantageous. 4. We praise him every day: The poet expresses the act of praising the wind on a daily basis. This suggests that the wind is highly regarded and appreciated for its qualities and the positive impact it can have. Overall, the lines convey a sense of admiration for the wind's ability to distinguish between weak and strong, enhance what is already powerful, and the positive influence it brings. Recapitulation The wind blows violently and causes destruction. The wind breaks the shutters of weak windows. It scatters the papers and throws down books on the shelves. The poet has regarded wind as God. He says that he makes fun of the weak persons and things. The fast blowing wind destructs weak houses, weak doors and weak bodies. The poet suggests us to build strong houses and strong doors. We must be healthy physically and mentally. It will help the wind to be friend with us. To sum up the poem, people with strong physique and mind are able to stand and face odds or obstacles of life. NCERT Solution: 1. What are the things the wind does in the first stanza? Ans: The wind breaks open the doors and windows. It blows around papers, making them fly all over the place. It even knocks down the books on the shelf. The wind is so strong that it tears the pages of the books. Additionally, it brings rain along with it. 2. Have you seen anybody winnow grain at home or in a paddy field? What is the word in your language for winnowing? What do people use for winnowing? (Give the words in your language, if you know them.) Note: This is a subjective answer and will vary according to your experience and locale. However, a sample answer is given for your understanding. Ans: Winnowing is a common agricultural practice used to separate grains from unwanted materials such as straws and dust. In my village, I have seen women separating grains from unwanted materials like straws and dust. Winnowing helps to clean the grains and make them pure. In our village, this winnowing process is called 'Barsana.' It's a way for people to make sure the grains they have are clean and ready to use. 3. What does the poet say the wind god 'winnows'? In the poem the line "Wind god winnows" refers to the wind acting as a metaphorical winnowing process. Here, the poet is comparing the actions of the wind to the process of winnowing grains. By using this metaphor, the poet highlights the transformative power of the wind. Just as winnowing separates the grain from impurities, the wind, as a divine force, has the ability to bring about change, remove obstacles, and purify the world. Bonus Info: (Not a part of the answer) In winnowing, the purpose is to separate the grain from unwanted materials like straws and dust. Similarly, the poet suggests that the wind, like a winnowing process conducted by a god, sifts through the world, bringing about change and separating what is valuable from what is not. In essence, the line "Wind god winnows" implies that the wind acts as a powerful force that purifies and transforms, separating what is essential from what is extraneous in the world. 4. What should we do to make friends with the wind? The poet suggests to us that if we want to be friends with the wind, we should build sturdy houses and secure our doors properly. This means we should prepare ourselves to face the challenges and uncertainties that life brings. By building strong houses and securing the doors firmly, we are metaphorically preparing ourselves to withstand the powerful forces of the wind. In the same way, in life, we should be mentally and emotionally strong to face the difficulties and obstacles that come our way. Bonus Info: ( Not a part of the answer) The poet is suggesting that instead of being afraid of the wind or the challenges of life, we should be resilient and tough. By being strong and prepared, we can overcome obstacles and establish a harmonious relationship with the wind, symbolizing the various trials and tribulations that we encounter in life. 5. What do the last four lines of the poem mean to you? The last four lines of the poem convey a message about determination, confidence, and success. The poet suggests that people who lack determination and confidence often face defeat in life. They may easily give up or be discouraged when faced with obstacles. On the other hand, the poet emphasizes that those who set goals for themselves and make sincere efforts are not easily disturbed or deterred by hurdles. They have a strong sense of purpose and are willing to work hard to achieve their objectives. 6. How does the poet speak to the wind — in anger or with humour? You must also have seen or heard of the wind “crumbling lives”. What is your response to this? Is it like the poet’s? Ans: The poet has a humorous conversation with the wind. The poet jokingly invites the wind to come and attack him, and the poet intends to prepare himself for that attack. I have also witnessed the wind causing destruction without mercy. For example, cyclones and their devastating impact in Gujrat and Odisha. The power of the wind in a cyclone is responsible for causing widespread destruction. The strong winds can uproot trees, damage buildings, and infrastructure, and generate storm surges that result in coastal flooding. My response to the power of the wind is more of a nightmarish than humorous in so far as its devastating impact is concerned unlike the poet who is at times light-hearted and humorous in his description of the wind. 7. The poem you have just read is originally in the Tamil. Do you know any such poems in your language? Ans: Students are advised to do a research about poems of similar themes in their respective languages.

NCERT Questions READ AND FIND OUT Lesson Architecture 1. NCERT Solution 2. Theme 4. Story At a Glance 5. Recapitulation 6. CBE-Based Questions NCERT Official Lecture on Tiger King by Kalki, Part I by Prof. Kriti Kapoor NCERT Official Lecture on Tiger King by Kalki, Part II by Prof. Kriti Kapoor Concept Video from Learning with A Difference NCERT Solution Q1. Who is the Tiger King? Why does he get that name? (Page 8) Ans. The Maharaja Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur of Pratibandapuram is known as The Tiger King. After his birth it was predicted that his death would be caused by a tiger. He could kill ninety-nine tigers, but ended up being killed by a toy tiger. As he was very much occupied with hunting of tigers, therefore, he came to be known as the Tiger King. Q 2. What did the royal infant grow up to be? (Page 10) Ans. Crown prince Jung Jung Bahadur grew up to be the king of Pratibandapuram. He got the control of his state when he came of age at twenty. He then made tiger-hunting his mission in life to prove the astrologer’s prediction wrong that he would be killed by the hundredth tiger. Q3. What will the Maharaja do to find the required number of tigers to kill? (Page 13) Ans. Maharaja asked Diwan to find out a girl belonging to a royal family from a state which has a large number of tiger population. The Diwan managed to find a girl of a royal lineage from a neighbouring state for Maharaja. The marriage took place and each time Maharaja visited his father-in-law’s place, the Maharaja killed five or six tigers. Thus he was able to find the required number of tigers to kill. Q4. How will the Maharaja prepare himself for the hundredth tiger which was supposed to decide his fate? ( Page 14) Ans. Maharaja’s anxiety reached fever pitch when there was only one tiger left to be killed. He thought of the hundredth tiger day in and day out. But tiger population became extinct even in his father-in-law’s kingdom. If he could kill just that one single beast, the Maharaja would be left with no fear. The Maharaja continued chasing in the forest and waiting for the tiger. But he did not catch a glimpse of any tiger. The dewan had brought a tiger from the people’s Park in Madras and kept it hidden in his house. When the Maharaja threatened him with dire consequences, he understood that the only way to save himself was to ‘plant’ a tiger for the kill. So he and his aged wife dragged the tiger to the forest, where the king was hunting. Thus Maharaja’s quest for tiger hunting came to an end. But ironically, the tiger got fainted from the loud report of the gun and not from Maharaja’s bullet. Q5. What will now happen to the astrologer? Do you think the prophecy was indisputably disproved? ( Page 15) Ans. Nothing will happen to the astrologer as he has died much before Maharaja presumably killed hundred tigers. Therefore, the tiger did not have any opportunity to disprove the prophecy of the astrologer. The prophecy was not indisputably disproved as Maharaja eventually died from the tiny slivers of a toy tiger. Although it was a toy tiger, but it was the hundredth tiger. As per the prediction his death would be caused by the hundredth tiger. Therefore, Maharaja could not disprove the prediction made by the late Chief astrologer. Reading With Insight ( Page 17) CBE Questions 1. The story is a satire on the conceit of those in power. How does the author employ the literary device of dramatic irony in the story? Ans. The Tiger King is of course a satire on the whims and fancies of those in power. The British officer and Maharaja of Pratibandapuram are the two people representatives of those in power in the story. Maharaja was very much wilful and the best use of his authority to take arbitrary decisions like doubling the land tax, laying off the employees, threatening the Diwan to fire from the job. All these cruel instances go on to establish the fact that Maharaja exploited his subjects and made bad use of his authority as a king. Tiger hunting became his sole passion and is an act of willful act for those in power. Whoever came on the way to Maharaja as a stumbling block, he mistreated with him. He wanted to disprove the prediction made by the astrologer. Therefore, he went for the tiger expedition much to the displeasure of animal lovers. The British official is also another example of misusing power. He has a passion for the photography with the carcass of a tiger. He is not so much interested in hunting as much as being posed with the carcass of a tiger. Maharaja had to pay a price of three lakh rupees in the form of diamond jewelry for refusing the British official to hunt tiger in his kingdom. With the help of the use of dramatic irony the writer made fun at the characters in the play. For instance, the Dewan made some humourous statements for Maharaja. All this was done with the help of a literary device called dramatic irony. The manner in which the Maharaja got killed merely by a splinter of a wooden tiger justifies the use of dramatic irony. Maharaja may be a king of kings, but with the help of dramatic irony it is shown that he has similar feelings of love and affection for his child like an ordinary person. 2. What is the author’s indirect comment on subjecting innocent animals to the willfulness of human beings? Ans. Since time immemorial innocent animals have been subjected to the willfulness of human beings. Animals bear the brunt of man’s greed and willfulness. Animals have been an easy target of man leisurely pleasure, meat or organs of body. The trend has been in practice till now. In the story Maharaja defends his hunter expedition when he said that one can kill even a cow in self-deference. Hence tiger being his enemy, he could afford to kill them in the name of self defense. The extinction of tiger species in Pratibandapuram state and the state ruled by the Maharaja’s father-in-law amply illustrates the outcome of man’s cruelty towards wild animals. It is very important to maintain ecological balance. Every living organism has an equal right to live on this earth. But the way animals become victims of poaching and hunting point to man’s callousness towards nature and wild life. The writer has sensitized us towards preserving wild life and maintain ecological balance as a part of holistic approach to our mother Earth. Therefore, the story has a societal message for all to stop killing the animals and contribute to maintaining a healthy wild life population. 3. How would you describe the behaviour of the Maharaja’s minions towards him? Do you find them truly sincere towards him or are they driven by fear when they obey him? Do we find a similarity in today’s political order? Ans. Maharaja’s minions were all sycophants and scared of him very much. They paid respect to him lest his ego got hurt. They never raise their objections against Maharaja’s willful activities. For instance, the chief astrologer was initially scared of predicting that Maharaja would die of a tiger. Secondly, the Dewan did not make any objection when Maharaja wanted to marry a girl from a province which boasted of tiger population. Thirdly, The Dewan stealthily managed a weak tiger from People’s park in Chennai for the fear of being thrown out by Maharaja from the job. Fourthly, the hunters themselves killed the ailing tiger and did not dare to inform the tiger king lest his anger reached fever pitch. They are not sincere towards him. They are driven by fear which goaded them to perform their duties towards Maharaja. They are very much obliging in nature only owing to their underlying fear of Maharaja. The fear stems from the fact that they might lose their jobs or any other harsh imposition on them. Yes, there is a similarity in today’s political order nowadays. There is widespread sycophancy everywhere. The officials succumb to the political or bureaucratic pressure from above to do the work as dictated by them. Similarly, such fears in the hearts of the Maharaja’s minions caused moral degeneration in public life. Additional CBE Questions of 5 Marks Q1. Discuss the irony in the story "Tiger King" regarding the Maharaja's attempts to avoid his predicted death. How do these attempts contribute to his downfall? Q2. Analyze the role of the chief astrologer in the story. What insights does his character provide about the theme of fate versus free will? Q3. What symbolic significance does the tiger hold in the story "Tiger King"? How does it relate to the themes of conservation and balance in nature? Q4. How does the story "Tiger King" reflect the concept of karma and the consequences of one's actions? Q5. Analyze the symbolic significance of the wooden toy tiger in the story. How does its role as the hundredth tiger add depth to the theme of fate and the consequences of one's actions? Solution| English CBE Questions: CBSE | Class 12 | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com) THEME The writer tries to tell us how kings, not interested in the welfare of the people, circumvented all laws to suit their own selfish interests. The story is about the Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram about whom the chief astrologer had predicted that the cause of his death would be a tiger The prophecy of the astrologer proved to be true, despite the king's best efforts to prove it wrong. The story also stresses at the conservation of wildlife in this age of depleting wild population. Story At a Glance The story is about the Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram about whom the chief astrologer had predicted that the cause of his death would be a tiger Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram was born as an extra-ordinary child. The family astrologer said that that as the tiger king was born in the hour of the bull which was an enemy of the tiger, hence, the tiger king would die due to a tiger As soon as the Crown Prince Jung Jang Bahadur heard the name of a tiger he made a deep growing sound and spoke terrifying words. He said that all the tigers should beware. Crown prince Jung Jung Bahadur grew taller and stronger day by day. No other miracle marked his childhood days apart from the event already described. The boy drank the milk of an English cow, was brought up by an English nanny, tutored in English by an Englishman, saw nothing but English films — exactly as the crown princes of all the other Indian states did. At the age of 20, he became the ruler of his state. The state astrologer’s prediction came to the king’s ears and he started tiger hunt expedition in self-defense. The Maharaja showed the dead tiger to the astrologer, who warned him to be very careful with the hundredth tiger. The Maharaja asked what if the hundredth tiger were also killed to which astrologer replied that he would tear up all his books on astrology and set them on fire, cut off his tuft, crop his hair short and become an insurance agent. The State banned tiger hunting by anyone except the Maharaja. A proclamation was issued to the effect that if anyone dared to fling so much as a stone at a tiger, all his wealth and property would be confiscated. The Maharaja was able to kill seventy tigers within ten years. When the tiger population became short in his kingdom of Pratibandapuram, he decided to marry a girl from a Royal family of a state with a lrge tiger population. The Maharaja Jung Jung Bahadur killed five ofr six tigers every time he visited his father-in-law. In this manner, ninety-nine tiger skins adorned the walls of the reception hall in the Pratibandapuram palace. The Maharaja’s anxiety reached a fever pitch when there remained just one tiger to achieve his tally of a hundred. He became very anxious and curious to kill the hundredth tiger. But the tiger population in his father-in-law’s forests also became awfully short. But soon came the happy news which dispelled that gloom. In his own state sheep began to disappear frequently from a hillside village. The Maharaja announced a three-year exemption from all taxes for that village and set out on the hunt at once. He refused to leave the forest until the tiger was found. As the days passed, the Maharaja’s fury and obstinacy mounted alarmingly. Many officers lost their jobs. One day when his rage was at its height, the Maharaja called the dewan and ordered him to double the land tax immediately. When the Dewan said that people would be unhappy at his decision, he asked Dewan to resign. You can imagine Maharaja was so impulsive in nature. The dewan found that the tiger that had been brought from the People's Park in Madras was hidden in his house, he felt relieved. At midnight when the town slept in peace, the dewan and his aged wife dragged the tiger to the car and shoved it into the seat The dewan was thoroughly exhausted in his efforts to haul the beast out of the car and push it down to the ground. The next day Maharaja was very happy to see the hundredth tiger and he aimed at the tiger. The tiger fell down as if it had been shot dead by the king. He was overjoyed to have killed the hundredth tiger and had fulfilled his wow. After the Maharaja had left, the hunter discovered that the tiger was alive. The tiger got fainted as a mere shock when the bullet went very close to his body. One of the hunters killed the tiger. The hunters followed the king’s orders and took the dead tiger to the town in a procession. It was buried and a beautiful tomb was erected on the tiger’s grave. After a few days, the maharaja’s son’s third birthday was celebrated. King Jung Jung Bahadur wanted to give a special gift to his son on his birthday and so he went to the shopping centre in Pratibandapuram. He saw a wooden tiger in a toy shop and considered it to be the perfect gift. The king was very happy and he said that this was the shop owner’s gift to the Crown Prince. He took the tiger with him. While playing with his son with the wooden tiger, one of the tiny slivers pierced the maharaja’s right hand. Three famous surgeons were brought in from Madras. After holding a consultation they decided to operate. The operation took place. But the Maharaja did not survive. Thus, the wooden tiger, which was actually the hundredth tiger, had killed him. Therefore, the astrologer’s prediction came true. Recapitulation Maharaja Pratibandhpuram born as an extra-ordinary child Prediction about his death due to a tiger the child was born under bull star bull and tiger are the enemies. The child was brought up like an English child. The Prince grew up and became a great king. The king decided to kill a tiger killed the first tiger successfully. But the chief astrologer warned him that he will be killed by the hundredth tiger. King became the sole hunter, banned hunting in his estate. The child was brought up like an English child. He started killing tigers and thus killed seventy tigers. He married a princess whose kingdom boasted of tigers. He killed ninety nine tigers. But he was unable to find one more tiger in his father-in-law’s forests. The Dewan brought an old and feeble tiger from the zoo. The tiger king aimed at it but it fainted. The king thought that he had killed the hundred tigers. After the king went away the tiger opened its eyes in bafflement. 18 One of the hunters killed it. The tiger was honoured and taken in a procession. The king purchased a wooden tiger for his son to give him some special gift on his birthday. Its sliver pierced the hand of the king. Infection flared and developed into suppurating sore. Three surgeons from Madras operated on the tiger king. But the operation was unsuccessful and the king died. The astrologer’s prediction came true. Recommended Reading The Third Level | Jack Finney | CBE-Based Questions (englishwithadifference.com) Journey To the End of the Earth |CBE Questions | NCERT Solution | Text Translation | Concept Videos (englishwithadifference.com) The Enemy I English Core I Class 12 (englishwithadifference.com)

Lesson Architecture Significance of the Title Concept Videos Text Translation Glossary NCERT Solution CBE-Based Questions Significance of the Title The title ‘Journey to the End of the Earth’, has more than one meaning. It describes an educational journey to Antarctica undertaken by a group of high school students. To learn more about the real impact of global warming and future of the earth 52 students went to the coldest, driest, windiest continent in the world called Antarctica in Russian research vessel, the Akademik Shokalskiy. The author calls it a journey to the end of the earth because it began 13:09 degrees North of Equator in Madras, involved crossing nine time zones, six checkpoints, three oceans and as many ecospheres. She travelled over 100 hours in combination of a car, an aeroplane and a ship. The journey being to the extreme south of the the earth, was really towards the end of it. Another meaning of this title is more significant as the warnings that Antarctica gives are shocking and much concerning the humanity and the millions of other species on the earth. The changes taking place in Antarctica are pointing a warning finger at the existence of of the earth; the earth is journeying to its end. Concept Videos NCERT Official Audio Lectures on Journey to the End of the Earth Mystery of Antarctica Tales from the End of the World Introduction to Plate Tectonics Text Translation in Easy English Text ( Page 18/Para 1) If you want to know more about the planet’s past, present and future, the Antarctica is the place to go to. Bon Voyage! EARLY this year, I found myself aboard a Russian research vessel — the Akademik Shokalskiy — heading towards the coldest, driest, windiest continent in the world: Antarctica. My journey began 13.09 degrees north of the Equator in Madras, and involved crossing nine time zones, six checkpoints, three bodies of water, and at least as many ecospheres. Easy English Translation If you want to learn more about the history, current conditions, and what might happen in the future on our planet, Antarctica is the perfect place to visit. Have a great trip! Earlier this year, I went on an adventure aboard a Russian research ship called the Akademik Shokalskiy. Our destination was Antarctica, which is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent in the world. My journey started in Madras, which is 13.09 degrees north of the Equator. It involved traveling through nine different time zones, passing six checkpoints, crossing three bodies of water, and experiencing at least as many different environments. Glossary: 13.09 degrees north of the Equator : The Equator is an imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. Latitude is the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator, and it is expressed in degrees. When someone mentions a location as "13.09 degrees north of the Equator," it means that the place is situated approximately 13.09 degrees of latitude north of the Equator. This indicates that it is in the Northern Hemisphere, and the higher the value of latitude, the closer the location is to the North Pole. Text ( Page 18/Para 2) By the time I actually set foot on the Antarctic continent I had been travelling over 100 hours in combination of a car, an aeroplane and a ship; so, my first emotion on facing Antarctica’s expansive white landscape and uninterrupted blue horizon was relief, followed up with an immediate and profound wonder. Wonder at its immensity, its isolation, but mainly at how there could ever have been a time when India and Antarctica were part of the same landmass. Easy English Translation Before I finally arrived on the Antarctic continent, I had been traveling for more than 100 hours using a car, an airplane, and a ship. So, when I saw Antarctica's vast white landscape and never-ending blue horizon, my first feeling was relief, followed by an immediate and deep sense of amazement. I was amazed by its enormous size, its isolation, and most of all, by the fact that there was once a time when India and Antarctica were connected as part of the same landmass. Text ( Page 19/Para 1) Part of history Six hundred and fifty million years ago, a giant amalgamated southern supercontinent — Gondwana — did indeed exist, centred roughly around the present-day Antarctica. Things were quite different then: humans hadn’t arrived on the global scene, and the climate was much warmer, hosting a huge variety of flora and fauna. For 500 million years Gondwana thrived, but around the time when the dinosaurs were wiped out and the age of the mammals got under way, the landmass was forced to separate into countries, shaping the globe much as we know it today. Easy English Translation Around 650 million years ago, there was a massive supercontinent called Gondwana that existed in the southern part of the Earth, with its center roughly around present-day Antarctica. At that time, the world was very different from what it is today: humans had not yet appeared, and the climate was much warmer, supporting a wide variety of plants and animals. Gondwana existed and thrived for about 500 million years. However, around the time when dinosaurs disappeared from the Earth, and the age of mammals began, the supercontinent started breaking apart into separate landmasses, which eventually shaped the world as we know it today, with different countries and continents scattered across the globe. Glossary: a giant amalgamated southern supercontinent: A "giant amalgamated southern supercontinent" refers to a massive landmass formed by the merging and joining together of several smaller continental blocks in the southern part of the Earth. In the context of the passage, this supercontinent is called Gondwana. ''Supercontinent" indicates that it was a vast and significant landmass that included present-day South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Gondwana Gondwana existed around 650 million years ago and played a crucial role in shaping the Earth's geological history. Over time, due to the movement of tectonic plates, Gondwana began to break apart, eventually giving rise to the continents we know today. Gondwana was a massive supercontinent that existed in Earth's geological past, approximately 650 to 180 million years ago. It was one of the most significant landmasses in history, and its name comes from the Gondwana region in central India, where rocks from this ancient supercontinent were first studied. The splitting of Gondwana had a profound impact on the evolution of life on Earth. It played a significant role in the distribution of species across different continents, influencing biodiversity and shaping the natural history of our planet. Today, the remnants of Gondwana's geological heritage can be seen in the similarities between the rocks, fossils, and geological structures found in the continents it once encompassed. Text ( Page 18/Para 2) To visit Antarctica now is to be a part of that history; to get a grasp of where we’ve come from and where we could possibly be heading. It’s to understand the significance of Cordilleran folds and pre-Cambrian granite shields; ozone and carbon; evolution and extinction. When you think about all that can happen in a million years, it can get pretty mind-boggling. Imagine: India pushing northwards, jamming against Asia to buckle its crust and form the Himalayas; South America drifting off to join North America, opening up the Drake Passage to create a cold circumpolar current, keeping Antarctica frigid, desolate, and at the bottom of the world. Easy English Translation Visiting Antarctica today allows you to be a part of that fascinating history and gain insights into where we have come from and where we might be heading in the future. It helps you understand the significance of geological features like Cordilleran folds and pre-Cambrian granite shields, the importance of factors like ozone and carbon, and the concepts of evolution and extinction. When you contemplate the vast span of time, such as a million years, it can be truly mind-boggling. For instance, you can imagine how India gradually moved northwards, pushing against Asia, and causing the Earth's crust to buckle, forming the majestic Himalayas. Similarly, South America drifted away from North America, creating the Drake Passage and a cold circumpolar current that keeps Antarctica icy, desolate, and located at the bottom of the world. Antarctica's history is intertwined with the geological forces and natural processes that have shaped our planet over millions of years. Visiting this unique continent offers an extraordinary opportunity to appreciate the dynamic and ever-changing nature of Earth's geological and environmental history. Glossary Cordilleran folds Cordilleran folds are geological features that are a result of tectonic forces causing rocks in the Earth's crust to bend and fold. These folds are found in the Cordillera, a major mountain range system in North America extending from Alaska to Central America. The Cordilleran folds formed due to the collision between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. As these plates move towards each other, the rocks on the leading edge of the North American Plate are subjected to pressure, causing them to buckle and fold. This process creates large mountain ranges like the Rocky Mountains and the Coast Mountains. Cordilleran folds have shaped the landscape of the region, creating diverse terrains with steep slopes, deep valleys, and high peaks. They are important for various activities such as agriculture, mining, and tourism, and they provide valuable insights into the Earth's geological history. Pre-Cambrian granite shields Pre-Cambrian granite shields are ancient geological formations that consist of granite rocks and are some of the oldest and most stable parts of the Earth's crust. They date back to the Pre-Cambrian era, which is the earliest and longest period of Earth's history, lasting from about 4.6 billion years ago to around 541 million years ago. These granite shields are found in various regions around the world, often forming large, exposed areas of rocky landscapes. They are known for their resilience and resistance to erosion, which is why they have endured for billions of years. Drake Passage The Drake Passage is a narrow body of water that lies between the southernmost tip of South America (Cape Horn) and the northernmost part of the Antarctic Peninsula. It connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, and it is one of the most significant oceanic passages on Earth. The Drake Passage is known for its challenging and often treacherous conditions, characterized by strong winds, rough seas, and intense currents. The absence of any substantial landmass in the area allows for unobstructed water flow, making it a crucial region for the circulation of ocean currents around Antarctica. These currents play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate by distributing heat and nutrients throughout the global ocean system. The passage is named after Sir Francis Drake, the English explorer, who is believed to be the first European to navigate these waters in the late 16th century. Today, the Drake Passage is an essential route for ships and scientific research vessels traveling between South America and Antarctica, allowing access to the remote continent and its surrounding waters. Many expeditions and scientific missions pass through the Drake Passage to study Antarctica's unique ecosystem and climate patterns. Circumpolar current The circumpolar current, also known as the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), is a vast ocean current that flows around Antarctica. It encircles the continent in a west-to-east direction, connecting the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Driven by strong winds and cooling near Antarctica, it plays a crucial role in global ocean circulation, climate patterns, and marine ecosystems. The circumpolar current acts as a barrier, preventing warm waters from reaching Antarctica's ice shelves and maintaining the frigid temperature of the continent. Text ( Page 19/Para 2) For a sun-worshipping South Indian like myself, two weeks in a place where 90 per cent of the Earth’s total ice volumes are stored is a chilling prospect (not just for circulatory and metabolic functions, but also for the imagination). It’s like walking into a giant ping-pong bal devoid of any human markers — no trees, billboards, buildings. You lose all earthly sense of perspective and time here. The visual scale ranges from the microscopic to the mighty: midges and mites to blue whales and icebergs as big as countries (the largest recorded was the size of Belgium). Days go on and on and on in surreal 24-hour austral summer light, and a ubiquitous silence, interrupted only by the occasional avalanche or calving ice sheet, consecrates the place. It’s an immersion that will force you to place yourself in the context of the earth’s geological history. And for humans, the prognosis isn’t good. Easy English Translation As a person from South India who loves the warmth of the sun, spending two weeks in a place where 90 percent of the Earth's total ice volumes are stored can be quite a chilling and intimidating experience. It's not just a challenge for our body's circulation and metabolism, but also for our imagination. It's like entering a vast, featureless space, similar to a giant ping-pong ball, with no human markers like trees, billboards, or buildings. Here, you lose all sense of earthly perspective and time. In Antarctica, everything you see ranges from the tiniest creatures like midges and mites to magnificent giants like blue whales and icebergs as large as countries (some as big as Belgium). The days seem to stretch on endlessly in the surreal 24-hour light of the austral summer, and there's a constant, all-encompassing silence, occasionally broken by the sound of avalanches or calving ice sheets. Being in this place makes you truly immerse yourself in the context of the Earth's geological history. It forces you to understand that human presence is minimal compared to the vastness of time and the natural world. Unfortunately, when considering the future for humans, the outlook isn't promising in the face of climate change and environmental challenges. Antarctica's stark beauty and isolation serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystem and the need for responsible stewardship to preserve it for future generations. Glossary: It’s like walking into a giant ping-pong bal devoid of any human markers The speaker is comparing the experience of being in a specific location to the feeling one would have if they were walking into a giant ping-pong ball. In this context, "giant ping-pong ball" is used to emphasize the vastness and the sense of being enclosed or surrounded by something immense and featureless. The phrase "devoid of any human markers" means that there are no signs of human presence or activity in that place. It suggests that the location is completely untouched and uninhabited by humans, lacking any man-made structures or signs of civilization. Overall, the sentence conveys the idea of entering a massive and desolate space where there are no human traces, possibly evoking feelings of isolation, awe, or a sense of being disconnected from the familiar human world. Days go on and on and on in surreal 24-hour austral summer light The phrase "Days go on and on and on in surreal 24-hour austral summer light" describes an extraordinary aspect of the Antarctic region during the austral summer. In the southern hemisphere, the austral summer refers to the period when Antarctica experiences its warmest months, usually from December to February. During this time, there are long periods of continuous daylight, known as the "midnight sun" phenomenon. The sun remains visible for 24 hours a day, without setting below the horizon. The phrase "Days go on and on and on" highlights the duration of the daylight hours during the austral summer in Antarctica. Unlike other parts of the world where the sun rises and sets daily, in Antarctica, it remains above the horizon, creating an uninterrupted stream of daylight that extends for weeks. The word "surreal" suggests that this phenomenon is highly unusual and dreamlike, as it defies the typical diurnal cycle that most people experience. It is an awe-inspiring and disorienting experience for visitors, as they can continue their activities under the constant illumination of daylight, and traditional concepts of day and night blur. It’s an immersion that will force you to place yourself in the context of the earth’s geological history. In brief, this sentence means that visiting Antarctica is a deeply engrossing experience that compels you to consider and understand the Earth's geological history. Being in this remote and ancient continent immerses you in the wonders of its unique environment, making you reflect on the immense timescales and geological processes that have shaped the planet over millions of years. It fosters a sense of connection to the Earth's past and the importance of preserving and comprehending its natural history. Being in such an ancient and isolated place prompts you to think about how the planet has evolved over millions of years, the movement of tectonic plates, the formation of mountains and ice, and other geological processes that have shaped the Earth's surface. And for humans, the prognosis isn’t good. In simpler terms, it indicates that considering the current state of the Earth's climate and the impact of human actions on the environment, the prospects or future consequences for humans may not be positive. It implies that there are serious concerns about how human activities, such as climate change, pollution, and other environmental issues, may affect the well-being and sustainability of the human species and the planet as a whole. The sentence serves as a cautionary note, urging us to be mindful of the impact we have on the Earth and to take actions to address environmental issues for a better future. Text ( Page 20/Para 1) Human impact Human civilisations have been around for a paltry 12,000 years — barely a few seconds on the geological clock. In that short amount of time, we’ve managed to create quite a ruckus, etching our dominance over Nature with our villages, towns, cities, megacities. The rapid increase of human populations has left us battling with other species for limited resources, and the unmitigated burning of fossil fuels has now created a blanket of carbon dioxide around the world, which is slowly but surely increasing the average global temperature. Easy English Translation Human civilizations have only existed for a relatively short time, just around 12,000 years. That's like only a few seconds compared to the long history of the Earth. In this short period, we have made a lot of noise and changes to the natural world. We built villages, towns, cities, and huge megacities, showing our dominance over nature. However, our fast-growing population has led to competition with other species for limited resources. Also, our excessive burning of fossil fuels has caused a build-up of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This is gradually raising the average temperature of the planet, causing global warming. It means the Earth is getting hotter overall. Glossary barely a few seconds on the geological clock "Barely a few seconds on the geological clock" means that in the context of Earth's long history, the time human civilizations have been around is extremely short and insignificant. It emphasizes the brevity of human existence compared to the vast timescales of geological processes that have shaped the planet over millions of years. We’ve managed to create quite a ruckus, etching our dominance over Nature In brief, the phrase "we've managed to create quite a ruckus, etching our dominance over Nature" means that humans have caused significant disruption and chaos, asserting their control and superiority over the natural world. The phrase serves as a reminder of the responsibility we have to be mindful of our actions and strive for more sustainable and harmonious interactions with the natural world. a blanket of carbon dioxide around the world "A blanket of carbon dioxide around the world" refers to the increasing concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. This greenhouse gas, released primarily from human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, accumulates in the atmosphere and acts like a blanket, trapping heat from the sun. This leads to the greenhouse effect, which causes the planet to warm up, resulting in global warming and climate change. Do you Know What is Geological Clock? The "geological clock" is a metaphorical concept used to represent the vast timescales and history of Earth's geological processes. It refers to the idea that the Earth's history can be imagined as a clock, where each minute or hour represents millions or billions of years. Geological processes, such as the formation of mountains, the shifting of tectonic plates, the deposition of sedimentary layers, and the evolution of life forms, have occurred over incredibly long periods of time. By using the metaphor of a clock, scientists and geologists can better comprehend the slow and gradual changes that have shaped the Earth's surface and its ecosystems throughout its history. For example, when we talk about human civilizations existing for around 12,000 years, it's just a tiny fraction of the geological clock, which has been ticking for billions of years. The geological clock allows us to understand the immense timescales involved in Earth's history and the slow but significant processes that have shaped the planet into what it is today. Text ( Page 20/Para 2) Climate change is one of the most hotly contested environmental debates of our time. Will the West Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? Will the Gulf Stream ocean current be disrupted? Will it be the end of the world as we know it? Maybe. Maybe not. Either way, Antarctica is a crucial element in this debate — not just because it’s the only place in the world, which has never sustained a human population and therefore remains relatively ‘pristine’ in this respect; but more importantly, because it holds in its ice-cores half-million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layers of ice. If we want to study and examine the Earth’s past, present and future, Antarctica is the place to go. Easy English Translation Climate change is a big topic of discussion about the environment nowadays. People argue and debate about it a lot. They wonder if the huge West Antarctic ice sheet will completely melt. They worry about the Gulf Stream ocean current getting disrupted. Some even fear it might mean the end of the world as we know it. But we don't know for sure. Antarctica, however, plays a vital role in this discussion. It's crucial because it's the only place on Earth where humans have never lived, making it relatively untouched. But what's even more important is that Antarctica's ice holds ancient carbon records that go back half a million years. By studying these ice-cores, we can learn about the Earth's past, understand the present, and even predict the future. So, if we want to know more about our planet's history and what lies ahead, Antarctica is the perfect place to explore. Glossary Will the West Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? Will the Gulf Stream ocean current be disrupted? Will it be the end of the world as we know it? All these questions revolve around the potential consequences of climate change and its impacts on the Earth's environment. 1. Will the West Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? The West Antarctic ice sheet is a vast mass of ice that covers a significant portion of the Antarctic continent. It contains enough ice to raise global sea levels by several meters if it were to melt entirely. This has raised concerns among scientists and policymakers because the melting of this ice sheet could have severe implications for coastal areas around the world, leading to flooding and displacement of millions of people. However, the rate and extent of the ice sheet's melting are still uncertain and the subject of ongoing scientific research. 2. Will the Gulf Stream ocean current be disrupted? The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current that carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic Ocean, influencing weather patterns and climate in regions along its path, including Europe. There is evidence that the melting of the Greenland ice sheet and increased freshwater input into the North Atlantic could potentially disrupt the Gulf Stream. If the Gulf Stream were to weaken or change its course significantly, it could have profound impacts on regional climates, ocean ecosystems, and weather patterns in the affected areas. 3. Will it be the end of the world as we know it? This question is a more generalized and dramatic expression of concern about the potential consequences of climate change. While it is not likely that climate change will lead to the literal end of the world, it does raise valid concerns about the far-reaching impacts on the Earth's ecosystems, biodiversity, human societies, and economies. Climate change is a complex and multi-faceted issue that can exacerbate existing problems like extreme weather events, sea-level rise, food and water shortages, and disruptions to ecosystems. These changes could have significant consequences for human well-being and the planet's overall health. it holds in its ice-cores half-million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layers of ice. Ice-cores are cylindrical samples of ice drilled from the glaciers and ice sheets of Antarctica. These ice-cores serve as historical records of the Earth's climate and atmospheric conditions over an exceptionally long time span. The phrase "half-million-year-old carbon records" means that the ice-cores contain traces of carbon and other substances that have accumulated over the course of half a million years. As snow falls on Antarctica, it traps tiny air bubbles and various particles from the atmosphere. As more layers of snow accumulate, they compress and turn into ice, preserving these air bubbles and particles within the ice layers. These air bubbles serve as time capsules that hold the atmospheric composition of the past, including the concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2). The study of ice-cores from Antarctica has been instrumental in confirming the reality of human-induced climate change and its implications for the Earth's future. These ice-cores serve as an essential tool for climate researchers and policymakers to understand the long-term patterns of climate variability and the urgency of taking action to address the current global warming trend caused by human activities. Text ( Page 21/Para 1) Students on Ice, the programme I was working with on the Shokalskiy, aims to do exactly this by taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with inspiring educational opportunities which will help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet. It’s been in operation for six years now, headed by Canadian Geoff Green, who got tired of carting celebrities and retired, rich, curiosity-seekers who could only ‘give’ back in a limited way. With Students on Ice, he offers the future generation of policy-makers a life-changing experience at an age when they’re ready to absorb, learn, and most importantly, act. Easy English Translation Students on Ice is a program that takes high school students to remote and exciting places in the world, like Antarctica, to give them a chance to learn and be inspired. The goal is to help them understand and appreciate our planet better. This program has been running for six years and is led by a Canadian named Geoff Green. He started this program because he was tired of taking rich and famous people on trips, as they could only give back in a limited way. With Students on Ice, he wants to give young people, who will become future leaders and decision-makers, a life-changing experience while they are still at an age to absorb, learn, and take action. Glossary/ Resource for CBE-Based Question Students on Ice, the programme I was working with on the Shokalskiy, aims to do exactly this by taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with inspiring educational opportunities which will help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet. The sentence is describing the purpose and objectives of the "Students on Ice" program, which the speaker was involved with while working on the ship named "Shokalskiy." The program's main goal is to take high school students on journeys to remote and extreme places in the world, referred to as "the ends of the world." During these expeditions, the students are provided with educational opportunities that are inspiring and transformative. The program aims to achieve two significant outcomes: 1. Foster a New Understanding: By exposing the students to these unique and challenging environments, the program seeks to broaden their knowledge and awareness of the Earth's diverse and delicate ecosystems. It encourages the students to explore and appreciate the natural world in a way they might not have experienced before. 2. Develop Respect for Our Planet: Through these inspiring educational opportunities, the program also aims to instill in the students a deep sense of respect and care for the planet. By witnessing firsthand the beauty and vulnerability of remote environments, the students are encouraged to become responsible stewards of the Earth, actively participating in its conservation and protection. In essence, "Students on Ice" strives to provide young learners with eye-opening experiences in some of the most pristine and challenging environments on Earth. By doing so, it aspires to cultivate a new generation of environmentally conscious individuals who will value, respect, and protect our planet for the future. Text ( Page 21/Para 2) The reason the programme has been so successful is because it’s impossible to go anywhere near the South Pole and not be affected by it. It’s easy to be blasé about polar ice-caps melting while sitting in the comfort zone of our respective latitude and longitude, but when you can visibly see glaciers retreating and ice shelves collapsing, you begin to realise that the threat of global warming is very real. Easy English Translation The program's success is due to the fact that it's impossible to visit anywhere close to the South Pole without being profoundly impacted by it. While sitting comfortably at our own locations, we may take the melting polar ice caps lightly, but witnessing glaciers shrinking and ice shelves collapsing firsthand makes us realize that global warming is a genuine and immediate threat. Glossary/ Resource for CBE-Based Question It’s easy to be blasé about polar ice-caps melting while sitting in the comfort zone of our respective latitude and longitude.. The sentence highlights a common human tendency to be indifferent or nonchalant about the melting of polar ice-caps when one is in a comfortable and relatively unaffected location. It points out that people who live far away from the polar regions, in places with milder climates and no direct consequences of melting ice-caps, may not fully grasp the urgency and significance of this environmental issue. Blasé Attitude: The term "blasé" means being unimpressed, unconcerned, or apathetic about something. In the context of the sentence, it refers to the attitude some individuals might adopt regarding the melting of polar ice-caps. Since they are not directly experiencing the consequences of climate change, they may not fully appreciate the seriousness of the issue or the urgency to take action. Respective Latitude and Longitude: "Respective latitude and longitude" indicates that each person's location on the Earth's surface has different climatic conditions and geographical characteristics. It means people are situated at various distances from the polar regions, and therefore, their experiences with climate change may differ significantly. The sentence serves as a call to recognize the importance of considering the broader global implications of melting polar ice-caps and the need for collective action to address climate change, even for those who may not experience its direct effects in their immediate surroundings. Understanding the interconnectedness of the Earth's climate system is essential in tackling the challenges posed by climate change and protecting the planet for future generations. Text ( Page 21/Para 3) Antarctica, because of her simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity, is the perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. Take the microscopic phytoplankton — those grasses of the sea that nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean’s food chain. These single-celled plants use the sun’s energy to assimilate carbon and synthesise organic compounds in that wondrous and most important of processes called photosynthesis. Scientists warn that a further depletion in the ozone layer will affect the activities of phytoplankton, which in turn will affect the lives of all the marine animals and birds of the region, and the global carbon cycle. In the parable of the phytoplankton, there is a great metaphor for existence: take care of the small things and the big things will fall into place. Easy English Translation Antarctica is a great place to study how small changes in the environment can have significant impacts because its ecosystem is simple and lacks biodiversity. One example is the microscopic phytoplankton, tiny plants in the ocean that play a vital role in sustaining the entire food chain in the Southern Ocean. These small plants use the sun's energy to absorb carbon and create essential organic compounds through a process called photosynthesis. Scientists warn that if the ozone layer continues to deplete, it will affect the activities of phytoplankton. This, in turn, will impact the lives of marine animals and birds in the region, as well as the global carbon cycle. The lesson from the phytoplankton story is a metaphor for life: if we take care of the small things, the bigger things in our environment will fall into place. It emphasizes the importance of protecting and preserving even the tiniest parts of our ecosystem to maintain a healthy and balanced world. Glossary Antarctica, because of her simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity, is the perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. Take the microscopic phytoplankton — those grasses of the sea that nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean’s food chain. Antarctica is an ideal location for studying the impact of small environmental changes due to its unique characteristics, particularly its simple ecosystem and limited biodiversity. These features provide a controlled and clear environment to observe how even minor alterations can lead to significant consequences. 1. Simple Ecosystem: Antarctica's ecosystem is relatively straightforward compared to other regions on Earth. It has fewer species and ecological interactions, making it easier for scientists to understand the cause-and-effect relationships within the ecosystem. This simplicity allows researchers to isolate and study specific components and their responses to changes in the environment. 2. Lack of Biodiversity: The biodiversity in Antarctica is limited due to its extreme cold and harsh conditions. Only a few species of plants and animals can survive in this challenging environment. This limited biodiversity further simplifies the ecosystem, allowing scientists to focus on key species and their ecological roles. 3. Microscopic Phytoplankton: The sentence specifically mentions "microscopic phytoplankton," which are tiny, single-celled plants found in the ocean. Despite their small size, phytoplankton play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. They are primary producers, using sunlight and nutrients to undergo photosynthesis and produce organic matter, acting as the foundation of the food chain. 4. Nourishing the Southern Ocean's Food Chain: Phytoplankton serve as the primary food source for many marine organisms in the Southern Ocean. Zooplankton, small animals that consume phytoplankton, are then eaten by larger marine creatures, creating a complex food web that sustains life in the region. By studying phytoplankton in Antarctica, scientists can gain insights into how changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature, light availability, and nutrient levels, impact these essential microscopic organisms. Even slight changes in these factors can influence the growth and distribution of phytoplankton, which, in turn, affects the entire food chain in the Southern Ocean. The study of Antarctica's simple ecosystem and phytoplankton offers valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of life on our planet and the importance of taking proactive measures to protect and conserve the environment for future generations. Text ( Page 22/Para 1) Walk on the ocean My Antarctic experience was full of such epiphanies, but the best occurred just short of the Antarctic Circle at 65.55 degrees south. The Shokalskiy had managed to wedge herself into a thick white stretch of ice between the peninsula and Tadpole Island which was preventing us from going any further. The Captain decided we were going to turn around and head back north, but before we did, we were all instructed to climb down the gangplank and walk on the ocean. So there we were, all 52 of us, kitted out in Gore-Tex and glares, walking on a stark whiteness that seemed to spread out forever. Underneath our feet was a metre-thick ice pack, and underneath that, 180 metres of living, breathing, salt water. In the periphery Crabeater seals were stretching and sunning themselves on ice floes much like stray dogs will do under the shade of a banyan tree. It was nothing short of a revelation: everything does indeed connect. Easy English Translation During my time in Antarctica, I had many eye-opening moments, but the best one happened just before reaching the Antarctic Circle at 65.55 degrees south. The ship I was on, the Shokalskiy, got stuck in thick ice between the peninsula and Tadpole Island, preventing us from going further. The Captain decided to turn back north, but before doing so, we were told to get off the ship and walk on the ocean! All 52 of us, dressed in special waterproof clothes and sunglasses, stepped out onto a vast expanse of pure white ice that seemed to stretch on forever. Underneath our feet was a layer of ice about one meter thick, and below that, there were 180 meters of living, breathing, salty water. We could see Crabeater seals relaxing and basking in the sun on ice floats, just like stray dogs find shade under a banyan tree. This experience was truly amazing and made me realize something important: everything in nature is connected. The ice we walked on, the water below it, the seals on the ice, and even us humans, are all part of the same intricate web of life. It was a powerful revelation that showed me the interdependence of all living things and the significance of our actions in preserving this delicate balance in our world. Glossary: My Antarctic experience was full of such epiphanies, but the best occurred just short of the Antarctic Circle at 65.55 degrees south. The sentence describes the speaker's experiences during their time in Antarctica and highlights a particularly profound and meaningful moment that happened near the Antarctic Circle at 65.55 degrees south. 1. Antarctic Experience: The speaker is reflecting on their overall experiences in Antarctica, suggesting that their time in this remote and extreme region was filled with significant moments and realizations. 2. Epiphanies: The word "epiphanies" refers to sudden and profound insights or revelations. It indicates that the speaker had moments of deep understanding or enlightenment during their Antarctic journey. 3. Near the Antarctic Circle: The Antarctic Circle is an imaginary line at approximately 66.5 degrees south latitude, marking the southernmost point where the sun is visible during the winter solstice and invisible during the summer solstice. The speaker's experience took place just short of this significant geographic marker, indicating that they were deep in the southern polar region. The sentence sets the stage for a story or reflection on the speaker's remarkable journey in Antarctica. It suggests that something extraordinary and life-changing occurred during their time near the Antarctic Circle, and it is likely that the following context will provide more details about this profound moment and its impact on the speaker's perspective and understanding. wedge herself into a thick white stretch of ice between the peninsula and Tadpole Island The sentence provides a description of a situation during the speaker's journey on the ship named "Shokalskiy" in Antarctica. The ship had encountered a challenging obstacle in the form of a thick expanse of white ice that was wedged between the peninsula and Tadpole Island. This ice barrier was preventing the ship from proceeding further on its intended route. 1. The Shokalskiy: The Shokalskiy is the name of the ship that the speaker was on during her Antarctic expedition. It is a vessel used for scientific research and exploration in polar regions. 2. Wedged into Thick White Ice: The phrase "wedged into" means that the ship had become stuck or trapped within the ice. The "thick white ice" refers to a massive and dense expanse of ice covering the surrounding waters, creating a formidable barrier for the ship's progress. 3. Between the Peninsula and Tadpole Island: The ship was positioned in a location situated between the Antarctic Peninsula and Tadpole Island. The Antarctic Peninsula is a long stretch of land extending from Antarctica towards South America, while Tadpole Island is a specific geographical feature in the vicinity. The sentence sets the stage for a potential tale of adventure and challenges faced during the expedition. The encounter with the thick ice creates a sense of suspense and anticipation for the reader, as they might wonder how the crew and passengers on the Shokalskiy would overcome this obstacle and continue their journey in the frozen and challenging Antarctic environment. we were all instructed to climb down the gangplank and walk on the ocean. The sentence describes a unique and extraordinary moment during the Antarctic expedition where all the people on board the ship (including the speaker) were given specific instructions to participate in a remarkable activity. 1. Climb Down the Gangplank: The gangplank is a movable bridge or ramp used to embark or disembark from a ship. In this case, the instruction was for everyone on the ship to "climb down the gangplank," which means they were to descend from the ship onto a particular location outside. 2. Walk on the Ocean: The surprising and unusual instruction was to "walk on the ocean." This might initially seem perplexing, as walking on water is not something humans can ordinarily do. However, in this context, it means that the location where the ship was situated had a thick layer of ice covering the ocean's surface. kitted out in Gore-Tex and glares.. The sentence paints a vivid picture of the scene during the Antarctic expedition. It describes the moment when all 52 people on board the ship were standing on the vast expanse of ice, dressed in special gear, and surrounded by an endless sea of brilliant white. Kitted Out in Gore-Tex and Glares: Kitted out" means that everyone was fully equipped or dressed in specialized clothing and gear. "Gore-Tex" is a high-performance fabric often used in outdoor clothing, known for its water-resistance and breathability, making it suitable for extreme weather conditions like those in Antarctica. "Glares" refer to sunglasses or protective eyewear to shield the eyes from the intense glare of the sun reflecting off the ice. Crabeater seals were stretching and sunning themselves on ice floes The sentence provides a captivating image of the Antarctic surroundings, specifically describing the presence of Crabeater seals and drawing a comparison to stray dogs seeking shade under a banyan tree. 1. Crabeater Seals: The sentence mentions "Crabeater seals," which are a species of seals commonly found in the Antarctic region. Despite their name, these seals primarily feed on krill, a small shrimp-like crustacean, rather than crabs. 2. In the Periphery: The term "periphery" refers to the outer edges or surrounding area. In this context, it means that the Crabeater seals were seen at the outskirts or on the fringes of the main area where the group of people was walking on the ice. 3. Stretching and Sunning Themselves: The seals were observed stretching their bodies and sunning themselves on ice floes. Sunning is a common behavior among seals to warm themselves under the sunlight, as the Antarctic sun can be quite intense, despite the cold temperatures. 4. Similar to Stray Dogs: The sentence draws a comparison between the behavior of the Crabeater seals and that of stray dogs seeking shade under a banyan tree. This analogy emphasizes how the seals are engaging in a behavior that mirrors what one might observe in a different context, with dogs seeking shade to escape from the heat. The sentence beautifully juxtaposes the serene image of the seals relaxing on ice floes with the relatable behavior of dogs seeking shade under a tree, which creates a sense of connection between different aspects of nature. It highlights the fascinating and often surprising similarities between the behaviors of animals in different environments and underscores the shared experiences and instincts that exist across diverse species. The vivid imagery paints a captivating picture of the Antarctic landscape and the diverse life that thrives in this extreme and mesmerizing region. It was nothing short of a revelation: everything does indeed connect. The sentence expresses a powerful revelation or realization experienced by the speaker during their time in Antarctica. This moment left a profound impact on them, leading them to recognize the interconnectedness of everything in nature. 1. Nothing Short of a Revelation: The use of the phrase "nothing short of a revelation" indicates that the experience was incredibly significant and eye-opening for the speaker. It was not a minor realization but a profound and transformative moment. 2. Everything Does Indeed Connect: The core message of the sentence is that the speaker came to understand that everything in nature is interconnected. The experiences and occurrences in one part of the environment can have ripple effects and connections that extend far beyond that specific location. The sentence encapsulates a moment of deep insight and understanding, where the speaker perceives the intricate and delicate web of connections that bind all living things and natural processes together. It suggests that the diverse elements of the Antarctic ecosystem—the ice, the seals, the phytoplankton, and more—are all part of a complex and harmonious whole. Moreover, this realization is not limited to just the Antarctic environment; it can be applied to the entire planet. The concept of interconnectedness in nature is an essential theme in ecology and environmental science. It highlights that actions or changes in one part of the world can have far-reaching consequences for other regions and species. Understanding this interdependence emphasizes the need for responsible stewardship of the Earth and the recognition that our actions can have both positive and negative impacts on the delicate balance of the natural world. Text ( Page 22/Para 2) Nine time zones, six checkpoints, three bodies of water and many ecospheres later, I was still wondering about the beauty of balance in play on our planet. How would it be if Antarctica were to become the warm place that it once used to be? Will we be around to see it, or would we have gone the way of the dinosaurs, mammoths and woolly rhinos? Who’s to say? But after spending two weeks with a bunch of teenagers who still have the idealism to save the world, all I can say is that a lot can happen in a million years, but what a difference a day makes! Easy English Translation After traveling through nine time zones, passing six checkpoints, crossing three bodies of water, and exploring various ecospheres, I continued to be amazed by the delicate balance present on our planet. I couldn't help but wonder: what if Antarctica returned to the warm place it once was? Would we be here to witness it, or would humanity have disappeared, similar to the fate of the dinosaurs, mammoths, and woolly rhinos? It's hard to predict. However, spending two weeks with enthusiastic teenagers who still believe in saving the world made me realize that a lot can change over a million years, but even a single day can make a significant difference! Glossary beauty of balance in play on our planet. suggests that the speaker is contemplating the harmonious coexistence and interdependence of the Earth's ecosystems. Despite the various landscapes and environments encountered during the journey, the speaker is struck by the beauty of how everything seems to work together in a delicate balance. How would it be if Antarctica were to become the warm place that it once used to be? It is essential to recognize that the scenario of Antarctica becoming warm again is purely speculative. Currently, the planet is experiencing global warming due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This anthropogenic global warming is leading to the melting of polar ice and significant climate changes worldwide. NCERT Solution Q1. How do geological phenomena help us to know about the history of humankind? ( Page 19) Ans: The geological phenomena of separating various continents and water bodies from one compact landmass indicate the age of existence of human race. Six hundred-and -fifty million years ago, no human race existed on the earth because the environment was not conducive to existence of life. After dinosaurs were wiped out, the mammals started existing and after the separation of landmass, the human race started flourishing on the earth. Q2. What are the indications for the future of humankind? ( Page 20) The future of the humankind is in danger in the likely event of the the emission of carbon -dioxide and other poisonous gases . These gases deplete the ozone layer thus allowing the ultra-violet rays of the sun to enter the earth's environment. This gives rise to global warming. Increased temperature is likely to melt the ice of the Antarctica causing further damage to the environment vis-a-vis future of human kind. Reading with Insight ( Page 23) 1. The world's geological history is trapped in Antarctica. How is the study of this region useful to us? Ans: Antarctica is the only place in the world which has never sustained a human population. It thus remains relatively 'pristine' in this respect. But most importantly it holds in its ice-cores, half-million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layer of ice. Secondly, Antarctica has her simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity. It is , therefore, the perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. The microscopic phytoplanktons, nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean's food chain. These single-celled plants use the sun's energy to assimilate carbon and synthesise organic compounds in photosynthesis. Scientists warn that a further depletion in the ozone layer will affect the activities of phytoplanktons. In return, this effect will affect the lives of all the marine animals, birds of the region and the global carbon cycle. Thus the study of these phenomena in the context of increasing environmental pollution shall help us how to maintain the survival of life on Earth. The programme students on Ice is such a programme. 2. What are Geoff Green's reasons for including high school students in the Students on Ice expedition? Ans: Students on Ice is a programme headed by Canadian Geoff Green. It aims at taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with inspiring educational opportunities. These will help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet. The reasons behind Green's programme are obvious. Geoff Green was tired of taking celebrities and retired rich curiosity seekers who could only 'give' back in a limited way. Green wanted something in 'return' from his 'passengers' to solve the problems relating to climatic changes due to environmental pollution. With Students on Ice he offers the future generation of policy-makers, a life changing experience at an age when they are ready to absorb, learn and act. Antarctica with its simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity is the perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. Antarctica holds the key to study all this. Students being the next generation shall learn to understand and respect our planet Earth by going to Antarctica. Q3. 'Take care of small things and the big things will take care of themselves.' What is the relevance of this statement in the context of the Antarctic environment? Ans Antarctica is the only place on earth which has never sustained a human population. So it remains pristine to the core in this respect. But most importantly it holds in its ice-cores, half-million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layers of ice. These shall reveal the Earth's past, present and future. Antarctica's simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity are unique. It is thus the perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. The author gives the example of the microscopic phytoplanktons-those sea grasses that nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean's food chain. These single-chained plants use the sun's energy to assimilate carbon and synthesize under the process 'photosynthesis.' A slight change in microscopic phytoplanktons shall affect the lives of all the marine animals, birds of the region and the global carbon cycle. This means that if w take care of these small things, bigger things shall take care of themselves. The programme students on Ice aims a this aspect of human life and research. Q4. Why is Antarctica the place to go to , to understand, the earth's present, past and future? Ans: The statement is true due to simple ecosystem and lack of bio-diversity of Antarctica. Then it has never had human population . Antarctica's Cordilleran folds and pre-Cambrian granite shields can best be studies together with ozone and carbon; evolution and extinction, to know and understand the evolution. Antarctica had once been a warmer place hosting a huge variety of flora and fauna. It is the only place in the world that has never sustained a human population. It holds in its ice-cores, half -million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layers of ice. These can throw immense light on the Earth's past, present and future. Next, Antarctica is the perfect and right place to study how climatic changes in the environment can have big repercussions. The author gives the example of the microscopic phytoplanktons. These are the sea grasses that nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean's food chain. A slight effect on them shall affect the lives of all the marine animals, birds, of the region and the global carbon cycle. Competnecy-Based Questions ( CBE) Q1. Why do you think Antarctica is the place to go if we want to study and examine the Earth’s past, present and future? (CBE Question) The statement emphasizes the importance of Antarctica as a crucial location for studying and examining various aspects of the Earth's past, present, and future. There are several key reasons why Antarctica holds such significance: 1. Earth's Geological History: Antarctica provides a unique and relatively undisturbed geological record that extends back millions of years. The continent's ice sheets and glaciers preserve layers of ancient sediment and ice-cores, containing valuable information about past climates, atmospheric conditions, and environmental changes. By studying these records, scientists can reconstruct the Earth's geological history and gain insights into past climate fluctuations, ice ages, and the evolution of the planet's ecosystems. 2. Climate Change Research: Antarctica plays a crucial role in understanding current climate change trends. As one of the coldest and most remote regions on Earth, it is particularly sensitive to global warming and its effects on the polar ice. Monitoring and studying changes in Antarctica's ice sheets, glaciers, and surrounding seas provide essential data for climate scientists to assess the impacts of human activities on the climate and its consequences for sea-level rise and ocean circulation. 3. Biodiversity and Ecosystems: Despite its harsh conditions, Antarctica supports unique and diverse ecosystems, including marine life, seabirds, seals, and penguins. By studying these ecosystems, scientists can gain valuable insights into the resilience of life in extreme environments and how these ecosystems may respond to environmental changes. 4. Global Collaboration: Antarctica is one of the few places on Earth governed by international agreements, and it is considered a continent for science. The Antarctic Treaty System promotes scientific research, cooperation, and the peaceful use of the continent. Scientists from different countries work together in research stations across Antarctica, fostering international collaboration in addressing global challenges such as climate change and environmental conservation. 5. Testing Ground for Space Exploration: Antarctica's remote and harsh environment makes it an ideal location for testing space technologies and conducting space-related research. Due to its similarities with the extreme conditions of space, scientists use Antarctica to simulate and prepare for future space missions. In summary, Antarctica's significance as a research destination lies in its unparalleled preservation of the Earth's geological history, its role in understanding climate change, the diverse and resilient ecosystems it hosts, global scientific collaboration, and its usefulness as a testing ground for space exploration. The scientific endeavors in Antarctica contribute not only to expanding our knowledge of the planet's past and present but also to formulating strategies for a sustainable and informed future. Q2. The author states that her Antarctic experience was full of epiphanies, but the best occurred just short of the Antarctic Circle of 65–55 degrees south? Explain. Ans: Epiphanies is a Christian festival that celebrates the revelation or enlightenment. Here epiphanies are used metaphorically to suggest moments when the author suddenly becomes conscious of something that is very important to her. The author experienced the rare of the rarest experiences there in Antarctica both in relation to beauty, wonder and geological phenomena. Such masterly geological epiphany was experienced by her when the Akademik Shokalskiy got wedged into a thick white stretch of ice between the peninsula and Tadpole Island. The captain decided to turn around and asked the passengers to walk on the ocean. They kitted out in Gore-Tex and glares, walking on a white sheet of ice. Underneath their feet was a metre-thick ice pack. And underneath that, 180 metres of living breathing, salt water lay before them. In the periphery crabeater seals were stretching and sunning themselves on ice floes. They were doing so like stray clogs will do under the shade of a banyan tree. It was nothing short of revelation. The author saw in it that everything does, indeed connect. This really proved to be the most wonderful experience of all experiences of Antarctica. Q3.What makes Antarctica an ideal subject of study? Ans : Antarctica is the only place in the world which has never sustained a human population. It thus remains relatively pristine in this respect. But, more importantly, it holds in its ice core, half a millionyear- old carbon records trapped in its layers of life. Antarctica has a simple ecosystem and lack of biodiversity. It is, therefore, a perfect place to study how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions. Visiting Antarctica means knowing where we have come from and where we could possibly be heading. This place holds the key to know the geological evolution and it shall reveal the earth’s past, present and future. Q4. What emotions did the author experience when she reached Antarctica at last? Ans : The author finally set foot on the Antarctica continent after travelling over 100 hours in combination of car, aeroplane and ship. Her first emotion on seeing the vast expansive white landscape and the blue horizon was of relief. She experienced the emotion of wonder at its immensity and isolation and its strange relationship with India. Q5. How has Antarctica sustained itself and managed to remain pristine? Ans: Antarctica, on account of being the coldest, windiest and driest continent in the world, has never sustained a human population and has thus managed to remain pristine. This has prevented man from being able to create ruckus in this part of the world by his thoughtless exploitation of the natural resources. Q6. What are the reasons for the success of the Students on Ice programme? Ans: Sitting distant in the comfort zone of our houses, any talk about global warming looks so unreal and one can be unconcerned. But the visible experience of seeing glaciers retreating, ice caps melting and ice shelves collapsing makes one understand and realize what global warming is all about. The indications for the future of humankind become clear when one actually witnesses the geological phenomena. Q7. What is that beauty of balance that a trip to Antarctica unfolded to the author? Ans: The author was wonderstruck by the beauty of balance in play on our planet. Travelling across nine time zones, three bodies of water and as many ecospheres was an experience that unfolded a wide range of climate, geographical features, and flora and fauna. It was also a visible experience of the varied geographical phenomena. Q8. By whom and with what objective was Students on Ice programme started? How far has it achieved its goals? Ans : The Students on Ice programme was started by Canadian Geoff Green. He felt students are the future generation of policy-makers. They should be provided an opportunity to have this lifechanging experience at a young age in order to foster a new understanding and respect for our planet. It would help them to absorb, learn and, more importantly, act for the benefit of the planet. Geoff Green was tired of taking celebrities and retired rich curiosity seekers who could only give back in a limited way. It means Geoff wanted something in return from his passengers to solve the problems relating to climate changes due to environmental pollution. It is difficult to imagine or be affected by the polar ice caps melting while sitting in our living rooms and so this visible life changing experience is important. Hence, this programme made the children learn that to save big things, small things must be cared for. Q9. How is Antarctica a crucial element in the debate of climate change? Ans : Antarctica is a crucial element not because it has no human population but because it holds in its ice cores half a million year old carbon records. They are trapped in its layers of ice. It will open up areas of knowledge about the past, present and future of the earth. For 6 marks Antarctica is a crucial element in the debate of climate change due to several significant reasons: 1. Ice Sheets and Sea-Level Rise: Antarctica is home to massive ice sheets that store approximately 70% of the world's freshwater. As global temperatures rise due to climate change, these ice sheets are melting at an accelerating rate. The melting of Antarctica's ice contributes to rising sea levels, posing a significant threat to coastal regions and low-lying islands worldwide. 2. Climate Research: Antarctica serves as a natural laboratory for scientists to study past climate changes. Ice cores drilled from Antarctica's ice sheets provide valuable records of past climate conditions, atmospheric composition, and greenhouse gas concentrations over hundreds of thousands of years. This data helps researchers understand historical climate patterns and how they relate to current changes. 3. Ozone Depletion: Antarctica has been a focal point in the study of ozone depletion, particularly the infamous "ozone hole" over the region. The discovery of the ozone hole led to global action through the Montreal Protocol to phase out ozone-depleting substances, showing that international cooperation can address environmental challenges. 4. Biodiversity and Ecosystems: While the harsh conditions limit biodiversity, Antarctica's unique ecosystems are highly vulnerable to even small environmental changes. Understanding these ecosystems helps researchers assess the impacts of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems in the polar regions. 5. Carbon Storage: Antarctic ice contains ancient air bubbles that preserve samples of past atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Studying these ice cores allows scientists to reconstruct the history of carbon dioxide concentrations and understand the role of greenhouse gases in driving climate change. 6. Feedback Mechanisms: Changes in Antarctica's climate can trigger feedback loops that amplify global climate change. For example, melting ice can reduce the Earth's reflectivity, leading to more absorbed heat and further warming. 7. Global Climate Impact: The climate changes occurring in Antarctica have far-reaching consequences beyond the region itself. Changes in ocean circulation, sea ice extent, and atmospheric patterns influence weather patterns around the globe, affecting weather, agriculture, and ecosystems in various regions. In summary, Antarctica plays a vital role in the climate change debate due to its contributions to rising sea levels, its value as a climate research hub, its role in understanding ozone depletion, the vulnerability of its ecosystems, its carbon storage potential, its impact on global climate patterns, and its significance in shaping international policies for environmental protection. As a region highly sensitive to climate change, studying Antarctica provides crucial insights into the consequences of global warming and emphasizes the urgent need for effective climate action worldwide. Q10 How is global temperature increasing? What are the immediate fears due to it? Ans : Global temperature is increasing due to the increasing burning of fossil fuels. It has now created a blanket of carbon dioxide around the world. This has given birth to questions like: Will the West Antarctica ice sheet melt entirely? Will the Gulf Stream Ocean current be disrupted? Will it be the end of the world as we know of? It may be. It may not be. Q11. Does the study of the lesson give you a feeling that man is his own great enemy? Ans: In his 12000-year-long stint on the earth so far man has caused untold harm to the planet, its environment and biodiversity. His activities in the name of development have spelt doom for the flora and fauna and his own existence is in danger. Man is to blame for all the havoc and ruckus created on earth. Thus it is quite right that man is his own great enemy. Q12. What is the significance of the title ‘Journey to the End of the Earth’? Ans : The title ‘Journey to the End of the Earth’, has more than one meaning. It describes an educational journey to Antarctica undertaken by a group of high school students. To learn more about the real impact of global warming and future of the earth 52 students went to the coldest, driest, windiest continent in the world called Antarctica in Russian research vessel, the Akademik Shokalskiy. The author calls it a journey to the end of the earth because it began 13:09 degrees North of Equator in Madras, involved crossing nine time zones, six checkpoints, three oceans and as many ecospheres. She travelled over 100 hours in combination of a car, an aeroplane and a ship. The journey being to the extreme south of the the earth, was really towards the end of it. Another meaning of this title is more significant as the warnings that Antarctica gives are shocking and much concerning the humanity and the millions of other species on the earth. The changes taking place in Antarctica are pointing a warning finger at the existence of of the earth; the earth is journeying to its end. Recommended Concept Videos Students on Ice Foundation <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Biography After graduating with English and Economics, he spent two years teaching high school in Yakima. He then decided to pursue a legal career. He was a leading advocate of individual rights. He retired in 1975 and remained the longest-serving Justice in the history of the court. The story’ Deep Water’ is taken from his book ‘ Of Men and Mountains’ by William O Douglas. NCERT Official Discussion on Deep Water THEME The story is an autobiographical story of the author’s childhood misadventure at a swimming pool. The story describes the origin of fear, its effect and how to conquer it. The story highlights the positive aspect of how one can overcome negative emotion like fear with sheer will-power and determination. The story also throws light on the psychological aspect of how childhood fear leaves a residual fragments in our subconscious mind in the later part of our life and haunt us till we get rid of it. STORY AT A GLANCE The narrator recalls a horrific incident that happened to him when he was ten or eleven years old. He decided to learn swimming at YMCA pool, which was only two or three feet deep at the shallow end and, nine feet deep at the other end. He got a pair of water wings and went to the pool. The author then recounts his childhood experience of fear at a beach in California with his father. The waves knocked him down and swept over him. He was frightened. The introduction to the YMCA pool revived the narrator’s unpleasant memories and stirred his childhood fears. He gathered confidence and paddled with his new water wings. When he felt confident, an misadventure happened. An eighteen-year-old boy with a beautiful muscular body tossed him into the deep end of water. He landed in a sitting position, swallowed water and went at once to the bottom. He planned that when his feet would hit the bottom, he would make a big jump, come to the surface, lie flat on it and paddle to the edge of the pool. However, the nine feet down seemed more like ninety to poor Douglas. He was totally out of breath when his feet touched the bottom. He made a great spring upwards after summoning all his strength. He imagined he would bob to the surface like a cork. He came up slowly, opened his eyes and saw water with a dirty yellow tinge int it. He tried to yell, but no sound came out. His legs hung like dead weights. He started drowning. He had lost all his breath. His lungs ached and his head throbbed. He again jumped with all his might, but his jump went in vain. He was still under water. The stark terror took him more tightly in its clutches. Douglas describes how fear paralyzed him. His arms and legs stopped moving. He trembled with fright. He tried to call for his mother, but nothing happened. Suddenly, Douglas found himself coming out of the water. He sucked for air and got water. Then he started going down for the third time. Then all his efforts ceased and his body went limp. A blackness took over his brain which wiped out fear and terror. Everything went quiet and peaceful. Douglas felt as if he was wrapped in his mother’s arms. Then he fell unconscious. The next thing he remembers was lying on his stomach beside the pool, vomiting. Douglas couldn’t eat that night. He was weak and trembling. He shook and cried on his bed. He never went back to the pool. He feared water and avoided it whenever he could. Douglas couldn’t eat that night. He was weak and trembling. He shook and cried on his bed. He never went back to the pool. He feared water and avoided it whenever he could. Whenever he went near water, the terror that had seized him in the pool would return to haunt him. The fear paralysed him. This handicap stayed with him as years rolled by. It ruined his fishing trips and deprived him of the joy of canoeing, boating and swimming. He tried his best to overcome this fear, but it didn’t let go of him. Douglas decided to get a swimming instructor. He went to a pool and practised five days a week, an hour each day. The instructor put a belt with a rope around Douglas. This rope went through a pulley. The instructor held on to the other end of the rope. Each time the instructor relaxed his hold on the rope and Douglas went under, some of the old terror returned and froze his legs. It took him three months to get over this fear. The instructor taught him to put his face under water and exhale and raise his nose and inhale. Next he taught him to move his legs. Thus, piece by piece, bit by bit, he built a swimmer out of Douglas. Douglas went to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire and swam two miles across the lake. When Douglas was in the middle of the lake, he put his face under and saw nothing but bottomless water. The old sensation come back to haunt him. But this time Douglas was strong. He went to the Warm Lake. He swam to the other shore and back. He was thrilled with joy, as he had conquered his fear of water. The experience had a deep meaning for him. He explains that death was peaceful but it was the fear of death that crippled a person. Here he quotes President Roosevelt, saying, ‘All we have to fear is fear itself. Because he had experienced death and the terror that it could produce, his will to live somehow grew in intensity. RECAPITULATION In this story the author tells about his fear of water and how he conquered it by determination and will power. As a child, when he was 3 or 4 years old, he would go to the beach in California with his father. Huge waves which swept over him instilled a fear in his sub – conscious mind. He was pushed into the pool by a boy at YMCA pool, which he describes as misadventure in the story. He learned swimming with the help of an instructor who ensured that William knew swimming well enough to be able to swim in huge lakes and waterfalls also. Douglas went to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire. The old sensation come back to haunt him. But this time Douglas was strong. He went to the Warm Lake. He swam to the other shore and back. He was thrilled with joy, as he had conquered his fear of water. William realized that death is peaceful and it is the fear of death that is terrorizing. His will to live life grew intensely as he had overcome his fear and started living fearlessly. NCERT Solution: 1.What is the misadventure that William Douglas speaks about? Ans: The misadventure refers to the author's being ducked by the eighteen year old into the YMCA swimming pool. He could somehow manage to rescued himself from this dreadful incident. 2. What were the series of of emotions and fear that Douglas experienced when he was thrown into the pool? What plans did he make to come to the surface? Ans: The nine feet depth of the pool was like ninety feet for the author . Before he touched the bottom his lungs were ready to burst. His lungs ached and his head throbbed. He was getting dizzy. However, when he could not manage to come to the surface, he was gripped with panic and this paralyzed his limb. 3. How did this experience affect him? Ans: This experience left him so fearful and allergic to water bodies. He could not go near the pool, nor could he enjoy any water related sport and it robbed him of the joy of canoeing , boating and fishing. 4. Why was Douglas determined to get over his fear of water? Ans: Douglas was determined to conquer his fear of water as it prevented him from undertaking any water sports. He could not only go near any water body, but also from activities like canoeing, boating and fishing. 5. How did the instructor 'build a swimmer' out of Douglas? Ans: The instructor put a belt around Douglas. A rope attached to the belt went through a pulley that ran on an overhead cable. He held on to the end of the rope and they went back and forth across the pool. The instructor taught him to put his face under water and exhale and to raise his nose and inhale. Thus over a period of about three months, he was able t make a swimmer out of him. 6. How did Douglas make sure that he conquered the old terror? Ans: Douglas finally got rid of his fear of water when he went to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire, dived off a dock at Triggs Islands and swam two miles across the lake to Stamp Act Island. He swam the crawl, breast stroke, side stroke, and back stroke. Only once did the terror return. When I was in the middle of the lake, he put his face under and saw nothing but bottomless water. He shouted with joy at conquering his fear of water. Understanding the Text: ( Page 29) How does Douglas make clear to the reader the sense of panic that gripped him as he almost drowned? Describe the details that have made the description vivid. Ans: Douglas delineates with his pen the sense of panic that overpowered him to the extent of death. With a deft use of words he captivates those emotional states of his mind. In the first stage he recounts his experience of being ducked, he swallowed water and went to the bottom of the water almost to the point of drowning. He swallowed water and was choked. He lost all his breath. His lu1. ngs ached and head throbbed. The mass of yellow water that held him captive in its grip produced stark terror over which he had no control. When there attempts to rise to the surface failed, he fainted. His vivid description of this terrifying experience makes the reader feel empathetic towards him. 2. How did Douglas overcome his fear of water? Ans: The fear of water haunted Douglas for many years till eventually he made up his mind to hire a swimming instructor and get rid of his underlying fear of water. The instructor put a belt around Douglas. A rope attached to the belt went through a pulley that ran on an overhead cable. He held on to the end of the rope and they went back and forth across the pool. The instructor taught him to put his face under water and exhale and to raise his nose and inhale. Thus over a period of about three months, he was able t make a swimmer out of him. 3. Why does Douglas as an adult recount a childhood experience of terror and his conquering of it? What larger meaning does he draw from this experience? Ans: Douglas wanted to reaffirm his grit and determination to get over his underlying fear of water. In life we have a host of challenges. Overcoming these challenges gives us reassurance to view life with a renewed interest and optimism. As Douglas could overcome his childhood fear of water in later stage of his life, he felt a sense of achievement and fulfillment in overcoming a challenge which haunted him over the span of many years. His underlying fear deprived him of the joys of canoeing, boating and swimming. The larger meaning that he draws from his experience is that if we are committed and determined for a cause, we can end up conquering any challenge that works as a deterrent for us. The very quote of Roosevelt that he cites in the story-''All we have to fear is fear itself-speaks volume of his philosophy in life that with a fighting spirit we can overcome all challenges of life. CBE Questions ''From the beginning, however, I had an aversion to the water when I was in it''. When did it start and how? ''And then in the midst of terror came a touch of reason.'' What was this 'touch of reason'? What was his condition even after this 'touch of reason'? ''This handicap stayed with me as the years rolled by''. What was the 'handicap' and how it ruined the author's interest in fishing, boating, swimming etc? Describe the moments when Douglas' curtain of life' was falling on him. The instructor assured Douglas in April that he could swim. But he was not sure that completely. How did he feel during those months till July? What does the author mean when he says, ' The experience had a deep meaning for me'? Recommended Reading 1. The Rattrap | NCERT Solution| CBE Based Questions | Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com) 2. Lost Spring | | CBE-Based Questions | NCERT Solution |Board Exam 2024 (englishwithadifference.com) 3. Competency-Based Questions | Class 12 | CBSE 4. Journey To the End of the Earth |CBE Questions | Detailed Analysis

NCERT Official Live Discussion by Dr. Meenakshi Khar Theme The story deals with the untold tale of slum children who live a life of depression and poverty for generations together. Their forefathers are either immigrant from Bangladesh or migrant workers from different parts of the country. This story is divided into two parts- the first part describes the deplorable state of Saheb and his family, who have migrated from Bangladesh during 1971 war. The second part of the story describes about Mukesh, whose family tradition of bangle making continues for generations tighter in spite of health hazards of working in dingy cells, where bangles are manufactured. Mukesh belongs to a family which is engaged in bangle making like many other families. Firozabad is the hub of India’s glass blowing industry where generation after generation has been involved in this business. Lesson Summary In this lesson ‘Lost Spring’ , spring has been used in the context of ‘Childhood’. Spring is considered the most cherished season of the year when flowers bloom. Similarly, childhood is the most formative years of life . The story describes the pathetic life of the innocent children losing their childhood in the vicious circle of poverty and illiteracy. The deplorable condition of exploitation of slum children has been highlighted in the story. Saheb and Mukesh are metaphors for all slum children who fall prey to the family tradition of ragpicking and bangle making profession respectively, with Mukesh being the exception as he wants to be a motor mechanic breaking the family tradition of bangle making. The author’s acquaintance with Saheb and other barefoot ragpickers introduced her to Seemapuri. Seemapuri consists of people who left Bangladesh in the 1971 war. Saheb’s family is among them. About 10000 ragpickers live here. When Anees visits that place, she comes to know that these ragpickers have lived here for more than thirty years without any identity. They do not have permits but do have ration cards, thanks to the selfish whims and wishes of the politicians. With these they can get their name on the voter’s lists and buy grains. The family tradition of rag picking in the case of Saheb and Bangle making in the case of Mukesh is a deterrent for both the boys to think big and do something out of the box. However, Mukesh in the second part of the story wants to be a motor mechanic, something which is a night mare for his family members as they cannot afford to embrace any other profession besides bangle making. Therefore, Mukesh has been projected to be an iconoclast in the story. Saheb, too lost his freedom when he was working at a tea stall and was paid eight hundred rupees as well as his meals. Saheb was not happy as the steel canister seemed heavier than the plastic bag. He wanted to be his own master. Therefore, the longing for living a normal childhood can be seen in both the boys. The author feels that the slum people are caught in two distinct worlds. One is the family caught in the clutches of poverty and the stigma of caste and secondly the world of those rich people who exploit them for their selfish benefits. These people are caught in the vicious circle of Sahukars, middlemen, policemen, bureaucrats and politicians. It is because of these people that the child is weighed down with responsibilities at such a tender age. NCERT Solution: Think as You Read ( page 17) 1.What is Saheb looking for in the garbage dumps? Where is he and where has he come from? Ans: Saheb is looking for coins, which is considered as ‘gold’ in the story, in garbage dumps. He is presently living at Seemapuri, which is at the periphery of Delhi. He has come from Bangladesh in 1971. 2.What explanations does the author offer for the children not wearing footwear? Ans: The narrator found that children across the country walk barefoot in cities and on village roads. It is not lack of money always, but a tradition to stay barefoot. But the narrator wonders about the fact that the children are walking barefoot to explain away a perpetual state of poverty. 3.Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain. Ans: No, Saheb is not happy working at the tea stall. As he was no longer his own master by working at the tea stall at a meagre salary of 800 with meals. The steel canister , which he was carrying in his hand, seemed heavier than the plastic bag he was carrying over his shoulder. Therefore, he left the tea stall. Think as You Read ( page 17) 4. What makes the city of Firozabad famous? Ans: Firozabad is famous for bangle industries. It is the centre of India’s glass-blowing industry. Families have spent generations working around furnaces, welding glass, making bangles for all the women in the land. 5. Mention the hazards of working in the glass industry. Ans: The glass bangle industry offers very unhealthy environment to the people. They have to work in the glass furnaces with high temperature in dingy cells. Their eyes are more adjusted to the dark than to the light outside. This makes them blind before they become adults. 6. How is Mukehs’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family? Ans: Mukush’s family looks at the family profession of bangle making as ‘karam’ or destiny. His grandmother perceives it as ‘god-given. They are ready to die out of blindness and grim poverty, but won’t defy this profession. On the other hand, Mukesh wants to be a motor mechanic and is therefore considered to be an iconoclast as he dares to deviate from taking to his family tradition of bangle making. Short Questions: 7.Why does the author say that the bangle makers are caught in a vicious web? Ans: Certain forces conspire to keep the workers in bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty. These include the money lenders, the middlemen, the policeman, the law keepers, the bureaucrats and politicans. They dictate their will to get their work done cheaply and impose a heavy burden on children. 8.Why could the bangle makers not organise themselves into a co-operative? Ans: The bangle makers are trapped in the vicious circle of sahukars, middlemen, policemen, bureaucrats and politicians. If they tried to organise themselves, they would be beaten by police and pout in jail. 9.Garbage to them is gold. Why does the author say so about the ragpickers? Ans: Garbage is gold to the rag pickers of Seemapuri because it provides them with food and is a means of survival. Moreover, it is gold also because the ragpickers can find stray coins and currency notes in it. 10. Can Mukesh realise his dream of becoming a motor mechanic? Ans: Man is a product of his environment around him. It is difficult to realise his dream as he is torn between his desires and his family , which firmly believes that the art of bangle making is a God given lineage that cannot be escaped. However, he is ambitious and is willing to walk a long way to the garage to give wings to his dreams. CBE-Based Extract Questions 1. ‘‘The young men echo the lament of their elders.’’ Select the option which indicates Anees Junge’s view on young men. (a) They don’t take any initiative. (b) They are as poor as their elders. c) They are as helpless as their elders. (d) They don’t support their elders. [CBSE Term-1 2021] 2. From this chapter, it is evident that the author has an attitude of: (a) sympathy (b) apathy (c) empathy (d) bewilderment [CBSE Question Bank 2021] 3. Choose the statement that is NOT TRUE about ragpickers in Seemapuri. (a) Children are equally involved in rag picking as their parents. (b) The ragpickers settle down in a place permanently. (c) Rag picking has accomplished itself as a skill and form of art. (d) Ragpickers live in unsteady shanties on the outskirts of Delhi. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] 4.. ‘Set amidst the green fields of Dhaka, his home is not even a distant memory’. What does the author mean when she says, ‘his home is not even a distant memory’? (a) He doesn’t remember his home at all. (b) He remembers his home a bit but it’s hazy. (c) He tries to remember his home but can’t. 5. Why was the author’s advice to Saheb to go to school ‘hollow’? (1) Because Saheb has a full-time job which he needs to go. (2) Because it is not Saheb’s problem but the problem with a system. (3) Because she realises Saheb is not playing truant. (4) Because she knows that there are no schools around. (a) (1) and (2) (b) (2) and (3) (c) (3) and (4) (d) (1) and (3) 6. Select the suitable option for the given statements, based on your reading of Lost Spring. (1) The writer notices that Saheb has lost his carefree look. (2) Saheb has had to surrender his freedom for ` 800 per month. (a) (1) is false but (2) is true. (b) Both (1) and (2) are true. (c) (2) is a fact but unrelated to (1). (d) (1) is the cause for (2). [CBSE Term-1 SQP 2021] 7. Saheb’s full name, Saheb-e-Alam, means ‘lord of the universe’, and it is the exact opposite of his situation in life. He is figuratively at the bottom of the world. This is an example of which literary device? (a) Simile (b) Metaphor (c) Irony (d) Imagery 8. Which of the following quotes captures the essence of Saheb’s and Mukesh’s stories? (a) As long as poverty, injustice and gross inequality exist in our world, none of us can truly rest. —Nelson Mandela (b) God does not create poverty; we do, because we do not share. —Mother Teresa (c) Love conquers all things except poverty and a toothache. —Mae West (d) Poverty is not just lack of money; it is not having the capability to realise one’s full potential as a human being. —Amartya Sen 9. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: Together they have imposed the baggage on the child that he cannot put down. Before he is aware, he accepts it as naturally as his father. To do anything else would mean to dare. And daring is not part of his growing up. When I sense a flash of it in Mukesh I am cheered. “I want to be a motor mechanic,’ he repeats. He will go to a garage and learn. But the garage is a long way from his home. “I will walk,” he insists. “Do you also dream of flying a plane?” He is suddenly silent. “No,” he says, staring at the ground. In his small murmur there is an embarrassment that has not yet turned into regret. He is content to dream of cars that he sees hurtling down the streets of his town. Few airplanes fly over Firozabad. (A) Choose two meanings of the word ‘flash’. (1) A long, deep cut, especially in the skin (2) A sudden bright light that quickly disappears (3) To run or move very quickly or hastily (4) A sudden thought crosses one’s mind (a) (1) and (3) (b) (2) and (4) (c) (1) and (2) (d) (3) and (4) (B) Why does Mukesh go suddenly silent when asked if he dreams of flying a plane? (a) He doesn’t want to talk to the author. (b) He did not think about planes. (c) He has a secret desire to fly planes. (d) He doesn’t want to talk about planes. (c) Why has Mukesh’s embarrassment not turned to regret yet? (a) He is too brave. (b) He is too hopeful. (c) He is too young. (d) He is too tired. Q10. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: Mukesh insists on being his own master. “I will be a motor mechanic,” he announces. “Do you know anything about cars?” I ask. “I will learn to drive a car,” he answers, looking straight into my eyes. His dream looms like a mirage amidst the dust of streets that fill his town Firozabad, famous for its bangles. Every other family in Firozabad is engaged in making bangles. It is the centre of India’s glassblowing industry where families have spent generations working around furnaces, welding glass, making bangles for all the women in the land it seems. (A) How confident was Mukesh in pursuing his dream? (i) Not at all confident (ii) Overconfident (iii) Underconfident (iv) Confident Ans: (ii) Overconfident (B) Why does the author compare Mukesh’s dream to a mirage? (i) Because the author thinks it might not come true. (ii) Because Firozabad lies in the middle of a desert. (iii) Because the author can predict the future. (iv) Because the author saw a mirage in Firozabad. Ans: (i) Because the author thinks it might not come true. (C) Choose the literary device used in this line: ‘His dream looms like a mirage…’ (i) hyperbole (ii) metaphor (iii) simile (iv) personification Ans: (iii) simile (D) From the passage which two adjectives best describe Mukesh? (i) dreamer (ii) arrogant (iii) loyal (iv) funny (v) imaginative (vi) kind (a) (2) and (4) (b) (2) and (5) (c) (3) and (4) (d) (1) and (5) Ans: (d) (1) and (5) CBE-based Short Questions Q1. Do you believe that ‘God-given lineage can be broken’? Support your position with a rationale. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans. I strongly believe that our dream is not determined by lineage but by our skill and commitment. Therefore, I certainly believe that 'God-given lineage' can be broken by hard work and dedication towards one's goal in life. History is replete with examples where we can see that family lineage has nothing to do with the success of individuals in their chosen field. Santosh Yadan, Kalpana Chawla, A P J Abdul Kalam are just a few names to justify my views on this topic. Q2. How do you think the author’s life might have been impacted after her interactions with the children and their families mentioned in ‘Lost Spring’? [CBSE Question Bank 2021] Ans. The author might have become highly touched by the despicable life which the slum children and their families were living. They live under unimaginable circumstances and still get along with drudgeries of life without giving up. So the author might have also thought about extending his helping hands for the upliftment of these slum children with some charity work or by mobilizing human resources to donate money and uplift the deplorable lifestyle of these slum populace. Q3. What does garbage mean to the adults and the children of Seemapuri? [CBSE 2015, 12] Ans. The adults view garbage as a means of survival from their cash-strapped life. They can use whatever stray coins come on their way in buying the household essentials. On the other hand, the children view garbage like a treasure hunt where they desperately forage through garbage on subsequent days to find ten rupee notes. Q4. Is there gender equality amongst the bangle sellers? Explain why/why not. Ans. Savita, the old woman, her husband and Mukesh’s family are all engaged in making bangles. Since both men and women are equally involved in bangle making there is some resemblance of gender equality. However, at home as in Mukesh’s sister-in-law’s case, it is always the woman’s responsibility to look after household affairs . In this sense, there is no gender equality. Question for Practice: 1. Explain the societal problem that the bangle makers are caught in Anees Jung’s ‘Lost Spring’. 2. Validate how similar and different Saheb’s and Mukesh’s stories are. Long Questions 1. Certain traditions and lineage, condemn thousands of children to a life of abject poverty and choke their aspirations. • Do you agree? Explain. • How can we change this? Suggest some ways to tackle this issue. [CBSE Question Bank 2021] 2. ‘Food is more important for survival than an identity.’ Examine ‘Lost Spring’ by Anees Jung in the light of this statement. Recommended Reading

Theme The poem contrasts a tiger in the zoo with the tiger in his natural habitat. The poetess describes how the basic freedom of movement and free will of a tiger is curtailed when he is imprisoned behind the confined space of a zoo. The Tiger in the poem is the metaphor for all the caged animals, who are stripped off their natural habitat and thereby restricting them to the miseries of the caged wall. They languish for the entire duration of their lifespan behind the caged cell of the zoo. The poem moves from the zoo to the jungle, and back again to the zoo. By comparison the poem shows the merits of roaming in his natural habitat vis a vis demerits of of caged life. Thus the poem conveys the message that wild animals appear to be beautiful in their natural habitat just like a child looks beautiful on the lap of his mother. We should not deprive them of their basic and rightful freedom by captivating them in the zoo cell. Vocabulary Stalks – Walks slowly Vivid – Clear Stripes – Lines Pads – Feet Velvet – Soft Rage – Anger Lurking – Hiding Sliding – Moving Water hole – A river where animals come to drink Plump deer – Young deer Snarling – Showing the teeth Jungle’s edge – Border of the forest Baring – Showing White fangs – White teeth Claws – Nails Terrorizing – Frightening · Concrete – Cemented · Cell – Cage · Behind bars – Caged; locked · Stalking – Walking NCERT Solution ( Page 30) Thinking about the Poem 1. Read the poem again and work in pairs or groups to do the following tasks. i) Find the words that describe the movements and actions of the tiger in the cage and in the wild. Arrange them in two columns. (ii) Find the words that describe the two places and arrange them in columns. 2. Notice the use of a word repeated in lines such as these: (i) On pads of velvet quiet, In his quiet rage. (ii) And stares with his brilliant eyes At the brilliant stars. What do you think is the effect of this repetition? The repetition is a poetic device which is used in order to give emphasis to the meaning of the words that are repeated. i) In the first sentence, ‘velvet quiet’ refers to soft velvet pads/feet of the tiger when it moves on the surface of the zoo, whereas the ‘quiet rage’ refers to the suppressed anger of the tiger at not being able to exercise his natural freedom of movement. ii) In the second sentence ‘brilliant eyes’ refers to the dazzling and beautiful eyes, which are the creation of the almighty God, yet confined in artificial zoo, which is contrasted with the natural ‘brilliant stars’, which are in their natural habitat. CBE-based Extract Questions Extract 1 He should be lurking in shadow, Sliding through long grass Near the water hole Where plump deer pass (i) According to the extract, the poet wishes for the tiger to be ‘sliding’ through the foliage as this would a) assist in keeping the prey unsuspecting of the predator’s sound. b) aid in camouflaging the presence of the predator before it rushes in. c) help the predator pounce on the prey comfortably without getting tired. d) Support the predator’s vision as it eyes its prey. (ii) Which fact DOES NOT connect with the significance of the water hole for the tiger? a) Many tigers chase prey into the water and holds the victim’s head under water until it drowns. b) Prey feed in the water on water-lilies, and often wander into the middle of the water hole, where they are vulnerable and easy for the tiger to kill. c) Prey that has quenched its thirst ensures consumption of hydrated meat for the tiger. d) Chasing the panicked prey from shallow to deep water where the tiger grabs it. (iii) Pick the option that DOES NOT use ‘lurking’ correctly to fill in the blank. a) The thug was _________ in the alley late evening, for unsuspecting passers-by. b) The hyena was __________ in its den after a good meal. c) The detective cautioned her team about the _________ dangers likely to impact the case. d) The prejudices __________beneath the surface create misunderstandings (iv) ‘shadow’ here, refers to the shadow of a) the tiger. b) long grass. c) water hole. d) deer (v) Pick the phrase that DOES NOT suggest that the forest in the extract is lush. a) long grass b) the water hole c) plump deer d) lurking in shadow Answers i. a) assist in keeping the prey unsuspecting of the predator’s sound. ii. c) Prey that has quenched its thirst ensures consumption of hydrated meat for the tiger. iii. b) The hyena was __________ in its den after a good meal. iv. b ) long grass. v. d) lurking in shadow Extract 2 But he’s locked in a concrete cell, His strength behind bars, Stalking the length of his cage, Ignoring visitors. He hears the last voice at night, The patrolling cars, … (i) Which option correctly lists the reason for the tiger ‘stalking the length of his cage’? a) Animals tend to cover large distances and burn a lot of their energy by hunting for prey, in their natural habitat. Zoos deprive them of such stimulation and they are restless and bored. b) Animals are scared of visitors gazing at them in their unnatural surroundings. Zoos are places where animals are far removed from the privacy of their natural habitat. c) Animals dislike human noises in the city and react to them aggressively. Zoos are often located in cities or outskirts. d) Animals require human love and care and miss this when in captivity. Zoos are places where they walk around mechanically to attract human attention. (ii) The main contrasting idea suggested by the extract is that of a) strength and weakness. b) nature and culture. c) beasts and mortals. d) confinement and freedom. (iii) Choose the option listing the most likely reason for the tiger to ignore visitors, according to the extract a) He is scared of their constant stares. b) The visitors don’t provide him with any food. c) He knows that none would help him out of captivity. d) The visitors don’t speak to him kindly. Answers: (i) Animals tend to cover large distances and burn a lot of their energy by hunting for prey, in their natural habitat. Zoos deprive them of such stimulation and they are restless and bored. (ii) d) confinement and freedom. (iii) c) He knows that none would help him out of captivity. (iv) Why is the word 'cell' used in the extract? Ans: The word 'cell' evokes the image of a prison in our mind. The poet uses the word in order to highlight that the tiger is caged inside a zoo. (v) Identify the use of alliteration in the exract. Ans: Alliteration is used with the phrase 'behind bars.' Extract 3 He hears the last voice at night, The patrolling cars, And stares with his brilliant eyes At the brilliant stars. (i) Whose voice does the tiger hear the last at night? Ans: The tiger hears the voice of the patrolling cars moving arond the zoo to keep watch over the surroundings. (ii) Why are the eyes of the tiger compared with the stars? Ans: The eyes of the tiger and the stars have been referred to as 'brilliant' because they shine at night. (iii) Which literary device is used for the word ' brilliant'. Ans: Here the literary device- 'Repetition' has been used as the word 'brilliant' has been repeated for both the eyes of the tiger and the star. CBE-based Short Questions 1. Compare the lesson 'Long Walk to Freedom' with the poem ' A Tiger in the Zoo'. Ans: Both 'Long Walk to Freedom' and the poem ' A Tiger in the Zoo' deal with the concept of freedom. In the first lesson, Mandela fights for the freedom of the Black community in South Africa from the policy of apartheid as practised by the White Governement. Mandela asserts the right of every citizen to live freely without having to face discriminations of any kind. On the other hand, in the poem ' A Tiger in the Zoo' we can observe that the tiger has been deprived of his freedom of movement in his natural habitat. As a result of habitat displacement, the tiger is unhappy in the zoo. Hence the two lessons as discussed above have a common theme and so they merit comparison. 2. Why do you think the tiger's rage has been referred to as 'quiet'? Ans: The tiger inside the zoo is helpless and is incapable of exerting his authority and strenght in the zoo. Therefore, he has subdued anger which is brewing inside. Therefore, the poet refers to his rage being 'quiet'. 3. Explain the line ' HIs strength behind bars'? Ans: The tiger is unable to assert his strength and launch attacks on humans due to confinement inside the zoo. The tiger's natural instinct of aggression is of no use as it has been stripped of owing to habitat displacement. Therefore, the writer says that his strength has been put to no use as he is confined behind the bars of the zoo. Questions for Practice Q4. It is said that an animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language. Explain with reference to the tiger. Q5. How does the poem point to the cruelty of animals in captivity? Q6. The poet celebrates the strength of the tiger in this poem. Counter the statement. Q7. Do you think the tiger in the poem had lost its natural instinct due to captivity? Support your response with evidence from the poem. Q8. What do you think the tiger would say to you, as a visitor? You may begin like this: Please stop staring. You have no idea……………(continue)……… Q9. Imagine that Man has been accused by the tiger of cruelty in an animal court. What would be the tiger’s two major accusations and how would Man defend them? Present your answer in two paragraphs. Q10. The tiger in the poem ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ presents a contrasting image with the tiger in the poem ‘How to Tell Wild Animals’. Compare and contrast the two tigers with reference to the manner in which they have been presented in both poems.

Lesson Architecture Geo-Political Perspectives Theme Story-At-A-Glance Recapitulation NCERT Solution CBE Questions Geo-Political Perspectives In the context of the story "The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck, the war between America and Japan serves as a pivotal backdrop that shapes the narrative's intricacies and the characters' dynamics. The war is a manifestation of the broader historical conflict of World War II, a global struggle that engulfed nations in a relentless battle for supremacy. Within this tumultuous period, the specific reasons for the war between America and Japan are rooted in complex geopolitical and ideological factors. The hostilities between America and Japan were catalyzed by a series of events that strained diplomatic relations and ultimately escalated into military confrontation. The bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, stands as a significant trigger, propelling the United States into the war and prompting the declaration of war against Japan. This attack, carried out by Japanese forces, marked a profound breach of trust and a direct assault on American territory. The narrative of "The Enemy" navigates the intricacies of this war-driven context, exploring how the conflict reverberates beyond the battlefields and onto the lives of individuals. The story delves into the profound impact of war on personal relationships, as well as the challenges posed by cultural differences and the quest for understanding amidst the chaos of conflict. Against the backdrop of this war, the characters' struggles and interactions are emblematic of the broader human experience during times of turmoil, encapsulating the universal themes of resilience, empathy, and the search for common ground in the face of adversity. Theme The story unfolds a moral dilemma of a Japanese doctor emotionally torn between his twin duty both as professional doctor and a real Japanese human being trained abroad. In the end his humanism coupled with professional morality wins over his nationalistic compulsions. He finds a way in between and proves his sterling qualities both as a doctor, as a true Japanese, and a true human being. The real human side of Sadao against the American prejudice makes him a symbol of what a real doctor should be irrespective of racism and narrow minded prejudice. Glossary of Important Line/Phrases It seems a pity that we cannot better combine the German ruthlessness with the American sentimentality. STORY-AT-A-GLANCE Concern of Sadao’s Father Dr. Sadao’s father was a serious kind of guy. His son’s education used to be his chief concern. For this he had sent his son at twenty-two to America for medical studies. Sadao returned at thirty. Before his father died, Sadao had become famous not only as a surgeon but as a scientist also. Reason for not sending Sadao abroad with Troops Dr. Sadao was not sent abroad with the troops during the World War because he was perfecting a discovery which would render woulds entirely clean. Secondly, the old General might need an operation and for that Dr. Sadao had to be there in Japan. Meeting between Sadao & Hana in America. Sadao had met Hana in America. But he waited to fall in love with her until he was sure she was a a true Japanese. His father would never have received her unless she had bee pure in her race. Sadao often told Hana how he had nearly not gone to professor Harley’s house due to their small rooms and bad food. The marriage between Sadao and Hana had been arranged in the old Japanese way on their return. They were a ahappy couple now with two children. Discovery of American Prisoners of war on the Sea Shore Both Sadao and Hana saw a man come out of the mists. He had been flung up out of the ocean. Sadao said that he could be a fisherman washed from his boat. The man had managed to come through the dangerous rocks. Sadao went near the man. He was wounded. He was in wet rags of garments. Hana whispered that he was a white man. He was unconscious. He had a ‘young and tortured face.’ Sadao began to search the wounds of the man . He saw that on the right side of his lower back a gun wound had bee reopened. Not many days ago he had been shot and had not been tended. The rock had struck the wound. He was bleeding. Sadao’s Hesitation in rendering treatment to the Prisoner-of War Sadao packed the wound with the sea moss. The man moaned but did not wake . Sadao told Hana that the best thing would be to put him back into the sea. Hana replied in the affirmative. Sadao then added that they sheltered a whilte man in their house, they would be arrested. And if they turned him over as a prisoner, he would certainly die. Identification of the American Prisoner of War Sadao told his wife that the man looked to be an American. The man was a prisoner of war. Hana cried that he escaped and that was why he was wounded in the back. Sadao said that if the man was ‘whole’ he could hand him over to the police without difficulty. But since he was wounded, he hesitated. Hana also added that they couldn’t throw him back into the sea. So they decided to carry him into the house. Arrival of the Prisoner of war to Sadao’s House. The wounded man was taken to Sadao’s father’s bedroom. Hana hesitated to take out a soft silk quilt as the man was so dirty. Sadao told her that he would better be washed. He told Hana that if she fetched hot water, he would wash him. Sadao decided to operate the patient at once; otherwise he would die. Sadao further said that at any rate something must be done with him. Differences in the minds of Sadao’s servants Sadao told the two servants about the man. The old gardener said that the master should not heal the wound of the man. The sea caught him an wounded him with her rocks. If he was healed, the gun and the sea would take revenge on him. Yuni got stubborn saying that she would not wash so dirty a man. Then she told Yumi that they wanted to bring the white man to his senses so that he could be handed over as a prisoner. Yumi refused to wash the American prisoner. Hana Washes the American Prisoner Hana washed the young man. She rose and put the quilt over the man lest he should be chilled. Sadao asked Hana to bring in the towels. Sada told Hana that she would have to give the man the anesthesia if he needed. He also instructed her how to administer it to the patient. Sadao starts the Surgery Sadao took out the packing. Blood started flowing more quickly. Hana’s face got sulphur-like. Sadao told her to be courageous. He also told her that if he stopped, the man would surely die. He wanted to get at the bullet in the man’s back. Hana felt choked. She ran out of the room and started retching. Sadao told her that it would be better for her to empty her stomach. Hana had never seen the surgery. Her distress and Sadao’s irritation made him think that there was no reason under heaven that the man should live. Hana returned and Sadao asked her to administer Anesthesia to the prisoner. Hana observed deep scars on the man’s neck, just under the ear. She spoke of them to Sadao. At that moment he felt his instrument had struck the bullet dangerously near the kidney. He felt a great pleasure. Sadao’s remembrance of his Professor’s Words. He probed with his fingers into the wound. He recollected what his old American professor of anatomy had stated: ‘Ignorance of the human body is the surgeon’s cardinal sin’ and ‘To operate without complete knowledge of the body as if you had made it-anything less than that is murder. ‘Sadao murmured ‘friend’ to the man forgetting that he was his enemy. He took out the bullet. American Prisoners of war comes back to senses The young man came back to senses and spoke a few English words. But he sank into silence once again. His pulse was faint and feeble. He gave him an injection. The man’s pulse grew stronger. Sadao said to Hana that the man would live. At last the young man woke up. When Hana spoke to him in English, he asked how she spoke English. Hana told him that she been in America for a long time. She told him that he would soon be strong. Sadao told the man that he did not know himself what he would do with him. He should be given to the police as he was a prisoner of war. Reactions of Sadao’s Servants Hana told Sadao that the servants felt they could not stay if they hid the man there anymore. The cook said hatefully that Sadao was proud of his skill to save life that he saved it. Yumi said that they must think of the children. What will be their fate if their father ( Dr. Sadao) was condemned as a traitor? Sadao’s Report to the Police Sadao checked the wound everyday He had pulled out the last stitches. The young man would be well in a fortnight. Sadao went back to his office. He carefully typed a letter to the chief of police reporting the whole matter. Departure of Servants On the seventh day two things happened. In the morning the servants left together. Hana did not show her injured pride as a mistress. She paid them off and thanked them. They were crying but she didn’t . The cook and the gardener had served Sadao since he was a little boy. Yumi cried because of the children. She told Hana that if the baby missed her she might be sent for. Sadao Meets the General In the afternoon the second thing occurred. Hana saw a messenger come to the house in official uniform. Sadao asked the messenger what the matter was. He replied that he was to go to the palace as the General was in pain again. Hana had a sight of relief. She told Sadao that she had thought they had come to arrest him. Sadao told Hana then that he must get rid of that man for their sake. The General repeated that Sadao had told him that he could stand ‘one more such attack.’ Sadao added that he could not stand more than one attack. The General stated that in that case he could allow nothing to happen to Sadao. The General’s face became expressionless. He asked Sadao what would happen if he had to have an operation and he ( Dr. Sadao) was condemned to death? Sadao replied that there were other surgeons. But the General told that he could trust none. German’s ruthlessness and American sentimentality The General explained that the best surgeons had been trained by Germans. They would consider the operation successful even if he died. It was a pity that they could not better combine the‘German ruthlessness with the American sentimentality.’ Then Sadao could turn his prisoner over to execution and yet he could be sure he won’t murder him while he was unconscious. He asked Sadao if he could not combine those two foreign elements. Sadao smiled that he would try for his sake. General’s offer of getting the man killed After some moments the General told Sadao that it would be best if the prisoner could be quietly killed. The General had his own private assassins. He asked Sadao to leave the outer partition of the white man’s room open to the garden. ‘The killing would be natural’, agreed Sadao. The General assured Sadao that the assassins were very capable of doing their job. There would be no traces of the killing. Sadao obeyed that it would be best. Sadao’s restless night Sadao slept badly that night. Time and time again he woke up thinking he had heard the rustling of footsteps etc of the assassins. The next morning he went to the guest room . If the American had gone he could tell Hana that the General had directed so. But he found him asleep. Hana asked Sadao what they would do to the American. He told her that he would decide in a day or two. The third night was to be decisive. Sadao slept a little better. But he woke up at the sound of a crash and leapt to his feet. He asked what was the noise about. Sadao found the American washed and on his feet. Sadao couldn’t go through another night. He decided that he must pack the American off. Sadao’s Plan to get rid of the American Prisoner Sadao told the American that he was well then. If he put his oat on the shore that night with food, clothing, water etc, he would be able to row to the little island. It was near the coast. Nobody lived on that. He could live there until he saw a Korean fishing boat pass by. As soon as it was dark Sadao put the boat down to the shore. He put food, bottled water and two quilts. Sadao checked carefully the American’s temperature, wound his heart and pulse. Sadao also decided to give his own small flashlight to the American. He told him to signal him two flashes at the time of the sunset if his food ran out. He should not signal in darkness, for it would be seen. He also told him that he could find fresh fish there. He should eat them raw as fire would be seen. The American finally escaped. Sadao slept that night. Sadao Meets the General Again Sadao had operated the General a week before. When he met him, the General asked him if the American had escaped. After a week when the General’s condition became well, Sadao told him that the American had escaped. The General recollected his promise of getting him killed for Sadao. He also admitted that he had forgotten that and it was very careless of him. He also said that ‘it was not lack of patriotism or dereliction of duty.’ Sadao’s Recollection of America Sadao stood on the veranda gazing out to the sea. In his mind there cam other white faces that he had known-the professor at whose house he had met Hana and his old teacher of anatomy who had insisted on mercy with the knife. He also remembered the landlady at whose house he had unwillingly stayed. It was because he, being a Japanese, had great difficulty to find a place to live. Sadao despised the ignorant and dirty old American woman for the prejudice. Once he had tried to be grateful to her because she had nursed him through influenza. But it was the same as she was no less repulsive to him in her kindness. So white people were repulsive. It was a relief to be openly at war with them. He also remembered the face of the prisoner-‘white and repulsive.’ He wondered why he could not kill him. Recapitulation: Dr Sadao was loyal to his profession which is shown when he volunteered to cure the American prisoner of war without caring for his identity. He had to struggle between loyalty to his country and his professional ethics. He decided in favour of his professional ethics. Although his impulse initially guided him to hand over the the prisoner to the police, his humanitarian feelings and professional ethics ruled the roost and compelled him to save the life of the Amercian prisoner of war.. Thus humanitarian consideration override man-made barriers of racial prejudice. Love and compassion are the basic tenets of humanity , which has been wonderfully illustrated with the characters of Dr. Sadao and his wife, Hana in the story. NCERT Solution 1. Who was Dr. Sadao? Where was his house? Ans: Dr. Sadao was a Japanese national who pursued his medicine in the USA. His house was situated on a spot near the Japanese coast. There were islands nearby this coast, which Dr. Sadao's father used to call as ' the stepping stones to the future for Japan'. 2. Will Dr. Sadao be arrested on the charge of harbouring an enemy? Ans: Under normal circumstances, Dr. Sadao would have certainly been arrested. But as the General needed him for his treatment, he woudn't be arrested . Moreover, Dr. Sadao confessed to the General that he had sheltered an enemy soldier as he was lying unconscious on the beach. So his chances of being arrested were remote. 3. Will Hana help the wounded man and wash him herself? Hana's maid Yumi being very much puritan in her approach towards the White soldier and refused to carry out the task of washing the White man. So Hana had to shoulder the task of washing the American soldier herself. 4. What will Dr. Sadao and his wife do with the man? Ans: If Dr. Sadao and his wife sheltered a white man in their house they could be arrested. It was the World War time and if they turned him over as a prisoner, he would certainly die. Dr. Sadao could not go against his medical ethics. He thought of attending the american prisoner and after the soldier became cured, he could be handed over to the Japanese authorities. 5. What will Dr. Sadao do to get rid of the man? Ans: Dr. Sadao dragged a boat down to the shore. He put food , bottled water and two quilts. He gave his own little flashlight to him. He told the american soldier to tow to the little island nearby and stay there until the Korean fish passed by. Reading with Insight Competency Based Questions 1. There are moments in life when we have to make hard choices between our roles as private individuals and as citizens with a sense of national loyalty. Discuss with reference to the story you have just read. Ans: We have to make hard choices between our roles as private individuals and as citizens as highlighted in the story 'The Enemy'. This is embodied in the characterization of Dr. Sadao. In conformity to his medical ethics, he decided to first nurse the American soldier back to recovery stage and then hand him over to the Japanese Authorities. On the other hand, his patriotic feeling was also prominent while tending the wounded man. He recalls the American prejudice against the Japanese. He feels guilty in attending the American soldier. He writes a report to the police and takes the General in confidence. After the American soldier was nursed back to recovery, Dr. Sadao was very restless to send him back to a nearby island and wait for Korean boats to pass by. It shows his patriotic zeal and loyalty for his country. Thus we can see that Dr. Sadao as a doctor did not hesitate in nursing the soldier as he showed his ethics in medical profession. On the other hand, he showed his patriotic zeal in sending the soldier to a nearby island. Therefore, he did justice both to his profession as well as to himself as a Japanese national. 2. Dr. Sadao was compelled by his duty as a doctor to help the enemy soldier. What made Hana, his wife, sympathetic to him in the face of open defiance from the domestic staff? Ans: Hana had to endorse the decision taken by her husband with regard to the enemy soldier. Both Dr. Sadao and Hana were kind and sympathetic by nature. So their values and loyalty towards their profession made them help the enemy soldier. They prioritized human life over nationalistic consideration. Thus in spite of open defiance from the domestic staff, they remained steadfast in their decision to heal the soldier first as they had been trained not to let a man die if they could help to rescue a patient. 3. How would you explain the reluctance of the soldier to leave the shelter of the doctor's home even when he knew he couldn't stay there without risk to the doctor and himself? Ans: The young man was not sure about his life as he was living in enemy country. However, he says that he ought to thank Dr. Sadao for having saved his life. He expressed his gratitude that if he had not met a Jap like him, he would not have been alive that day. And if all the Japs were like him there would not have been a war. The young soldier understood everything and accepted Dr. Sadao's plan to escape in the darkness. The kind of hospitality and concern that Dr. Sadao and Hana displayed in their treatment of the American soldier made him reluctant to leave the company of such a great personality like Dr. Sadao. 4. What explains the carelessness of the attitude of the General in the matter of the enemy soldier? Was it human consideration, lack of national loyalty, dereliction of duty or simply self-absorption? Ans: The General came up with a plan to get rid of enemy soldier from Dr. Sadao's house by deputing the private assassins. But unfortunately, he fell prey to his forgetfulness and failed to execute the plan. The General was operated upon a week before. He became totally self-absorbed that he forget his own commitment to Dr. Sadao in relation to the enemy soldier. In the meantime, Dr. Sadao himself took the initiative, packed the soldier off during the night and got rid of him eventually. However, the General recollects his promise after a week and praises Dr. Sadao for his initiative to get rid of the prisoner. He himself admitted to Dr. Sadao that the latter should not think that it was 'lack of patriotism or dereliction of duty' from the General's part. Thus his self-absorption owing to his declining health contributed to his carelessness in dealing with the enemy soldier. 5. While hatred against a member of the enemy race is justifiable, especially during war time, what makes a human being rise above narrow prejudices? Ans: Dr. Sadao demonstrated qualities of head and heart in the context of his dealing with the enemy soldier. On the one hand, he displayed ethics and commitment to his profession by agreeing to nurse the soldier back to recovery. On the other hand, he showed his loyalty and patriotic fervour by packing the enemy soldier off to a nearby island after the latter became fit enough to escape on his own. In saving the life of an enemy soldier he rose above the narrow prejudice of man-made nationalities. It was possible as he considered human life to be more precious than any other man-made barriers of race, colour and nationalities. It is owing to the innate values of universal feeling of love and brotherhood in Dr. Sadao and Hana, his wife, that he could rise above narrow prejudices and render his medical assistance to the enemy soldier. This is how Dr. Sadao has become a role model to other doctors as well all human beings. He has displayed exemplary acts of innate goodness in a human being as well the patriotic feeling in a critical situation . 6. Do you think the doctor's final solution to the problem was the best possible one in the circumstances? Ans: The General forgot his own commitment to get the enemy soldier quietly killed through his own private assassins. Therefore, Dr. Sadao wanted to get rid of the wounded soldier at the earliest as he himself stood in a grave risk of his life. He devised his own plan to pack the soldier off to the nearby island. He put his boat on the shore with food and extra clothing in it. He instructed the soldier how he should conduct himself on that unmanned island and get a Korean fishing boat only to escape. Thus we can say that under the given circumstances, it was the best possible escape plan that Dr. Sadao had devised for the enemy soldier. With his smart initiative he not only saved the life of his enemy soldier, but he himself could get a huge relief against the alleged seditious charges. 7. Does the story remind you of Birth by A. J. Cronin that you read in Snapshots last year? What are the similarities? Ans: Both the stories are the instances of intense love and profound loyalty for their profession. The American Soldier was in enemy territory and Dr. Sadao refused to take this fact into consideration while extending his medical help to the enemy soldier. Mr. Andrew in Cronin's story also went an extra mile in saving the life of a asphyxiated child while the midwife and nurse pronounced him dead. The following are the similarities in the two stories. (1) Both Dr. Sadao and Dr. Andrew were loyal to their respective professions and adhered to medical ethics while dealing with their respective patients. (2) Both of them made utmost use of their expertise in rendering medical assistance to their respective patients. (3) Both the doctors sacrificed their personal lives and gave priority to saving the lives of their respective patients. (4) Both the doctors rose above narrow prejudices, race or colour and prioritized only on saving the life of their patients. Their human values of innate love for humanity and loyalty to medical ethics raise them above the ordinary human beings in the society. Both are the role models for the humanity in general. Explanation of Important Paragraphs Page 40 (Flamingo) “There are other surgeons, Excellency,” Sadao suggested. “None I trust,” the General replied. “The best ones have been trained by Germans and would consider the operation successful even if I died. I do not care for their point of view.” He sighed. “It seems a pity that we cannot better combine the German ruthlessness with the American sentimentality. Then you could turn your prisoner over to execution and yet I could be sure you would not murder me while I was unconscious.” The General laughed. He had an unusual sense of humour. “As a Japanese, could you not combine these two foreign elements?” he asked. Explanation In this excerpt from "The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck, the General and Sadao are discussing the complex and contrasting qualities of different nations' medical approaches, particularly in the context of war. The conversation revolves around the General's need for a surgery and his desire for a surgeon he can trust. The General expresses his lack of trust in other surgeons, even those who are skilled, because they have been trained by Germans and might prioritize success from a clinical perspective over his personal well-being. He refers to the perceived "German ruthlessness," which implies a willingness to prioritize objectives or outcomes over individual emotions or lives. Conversely, the General mentions "American sentimentality," describing the compassionate and empathetic nature that he believes American doctors might bring to their medical practice. The phrase implies that American doctors might be more inclined to consider the patient's well-being and emotions rather than just achieving a successful outcome. The General's statement highlights the tension between these two contrasting qualities – the strategic, objective-driven approach of the Germans and the empathetic, patient-centered approach of the Americans. He playfully suggests that if these qualities could be combined in a surgeon, it would ensure both his safety and the successful treatment of the prisoner, implying that he wishes for a surgeon who is both skillful and compassionate, bridging the gap between ruthlessness and sentimentality. This passage delves into the complexities of decision-making, ethics, and the clash of cultural values in the midst of war, further illustrating the intricate dynamics present in "The Enemy." It seems a pity that we cannot better combine the German ruthlessness with the American sentimentality. In the context of "The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck, the statement "It seems a pity that we cannot better combine the German ruthlessness with the American sentimentality" reflects a nuanced perspective on the qualities of different nations and their approaches to war, conflict, and morality. The speaker, General Takima, is engaging in a conversation with Dr. Sadao Hoki, who is a skilled surgeon and the main character of the story. The General expresses a somewhat lighthearted and hypothetical wish that the best attributes of both German and American attitudes could be combined to achieve an ideal balance. This statement carries several layers of meaning: 1. **German Ruthlessness:** The General refers to the perceived ruthlessness of the German military. This quality suggests an unyielding and determined approach to achieving objectives, even if it means making difficult and harsh decisions. It is often associated with a strategic mindset that prioritizes success and victory in a conflict. 2. **American Sentimentality:** The General contrasts German ruthlessness with American sentimentality. He refers to the compassionate and empathetic nature often attributed to Americans, highlighting their consideration for human lives, emotions, and ethical considerations even in the midst of conflict. 3. **Balancing Perspectives:** The General's wish to combine these contrasting qualities reflects a desire for a balanced approach that takes into account both strategic determination and humanitarian values. He suggests that such a combination could lead to more effective decision-making in challenging situations. 4. **Personal Relationships:** The statement also serves to further develop the relationship between the General and Dr. Sadao. Their playful banter and shared perspectives on the complexities of wartime decisions add depth to their interactions and shed light on their personal values. 5. **Ethical Considerations:** The General's wish underscores the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals during times of war. It invites reflection on the moral challenges of making tough decisions while considering the broader consequences and implications. Overall, this statement adds a layer of complexity to the story by exploring the interplay between different cultural and national characteristics, as well as the challenges of navigating conflicting values and ethical dilemmas in the midst of war. It contributes to the broader themes of the story, including the exploration of cultural differences, humanity in the face of conflict, and the intricate dynamics of personal relationships during tumultuous times. 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Tips Read the passage paragraph wise and answer the questions accordingly. Don't read the whole passage together. Competency-Based Questions Q1. Read the passage given below and choose the best alternative from the options that follow. Mother In life, we generally come across various forms of relationships like father-son, husband-wife, love, friendship etc but the most dear and hearty relation of all is of a mother and her child. The bond of mother and child is the purest and holiest. Mother is next to GOD. She knows everything. A warm and affectionate touch of your mother will give you immense pleasure and you will feel as if you are in heaven. The relationship of a mother and a child carries deep emotions and feelings within it and it is always nurtured by love, affection and care. She is the one who gives birth to the child, brings him up, supports him when he needs someone the most, guides him in taking right decisions, stands against crowd and favours her child if he is right, suffers a lot of pain from the time of birth of a child till he becomes adult but never expects anything in return. Whenever you feel sad and tensed, she will embrace you and all your worries will come to an end. The most respectful and adorable person on this earth is “Mother”. Even if you fight with her, argue with her, pour you anger on her, she will forgive you for everything with a gentle smile on her face and without thinking for a second. Is there any relationship better than this relation where there is no ego, no fears, no hard feelings, just the feeling of love and affection? In today‟s world people get so much busy in their lives that they hardly find time for their mother, they don‟t even remember the things she has done for them to make their life smooth and comfortable. A person should always remember the efforts made by the mother for his betterment and should give utmost respect and care to his mother, as she really deserves it. He should let her mother know what she means to him and she will be the happiest person in this whole world. We celebrate mother' s day once in a year but tell me, do we need any special day to show our gratitude to our mother who has devoted and sacrifice her whole life for us. We should make her feel that she means a lot to us each day, that will be true gift to her. If you really want to express your love for your mother, don‟t wait for long now and don‟t hesitate, go to her and give a hug and tell her “Mother, you are next to GOD, thanks for everything you have done for me. You are the best person on this whole earth and I really mean it; you have given your whole life for us and you deserve the best of everything. I love you mother”. You can also express your feelings for your mother in a different way. You can take the help of poems and quotes, which will help you in expressing your feelings in a better way. Dedicate the poems to your mother and show your respect, affection and gratitude to her and you will see she will keep on smiling. I. Select the option that best captures the central theme of the passage. A. The importance of various relationships in life B. The significance of expressing love and gratitude to one's mother C. The challenges of maintaining a strong mother-child bond D. The role of mothers in shaping their children's personalities II. What is the author's perspective on the relationship between a mother and a child? A. It is a bond characterized by conflicts and misunderstandings. B. It is a one-sided relationship where the child does all the giving. C. It is a pure and selfless bond nurtured by love and care. D. It is a relationship built on expectations and demands. III. Share evidence from the passage to support the idea that a mother's love is unconditional. IV. Complete the sentence appropriately with a characteristic or its description. V. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase "The most respectful and adorable person on this earth is 'Mother'." A. The person who commands the most respect and adoration on Earth is 'Mother.' B. The individual who deserves the highest regard and affection on this planet is 'Mother.' C. The most honorable and endearing individual in the world is 'Mother.' D. The individual with the most esteemed and cherished status in the world is 'Mother.' VI. Explain, in about 40 words, the significance of expressing gratitude and love to one's mother beyond special occasions. VII. In the context of the passage, what does the author suggest about the modern world's attitude towards mothers? VIII. How does the following impact the reader's understanding of the passage's message? "We celebrate mother's day once in a year but tell me, do we need any special day to show our gratitude to our mother who has devoted and sacrificed her whole life for us.'' IX. Read the five headlines (a)-(e) given below: (a) A MOTHER'S SACRIFICE AND DEVOTION: A LESSON IN SELFLESSNESS (b) THE ROLE OF FAMILY RELATIONS IN SHAPING INDIVIDUALS (c) EXPRESSING LOVE AND GRATITUDE BEYOND SPECIAL OCCASIONS (d) FINDING TIME FOR LOVED ONES IN A BUSY WORLD (e) UNDERSTANDING THE UNIQUE BOND BETWEEN MOTHER AND CHILD Identify the option that displays the headline/s that correspond with occurrences mentioned in the passage. A. (a) and (c) B. (b) and (e) C. (a) and (d) D. (c) and (e) Answer Key I. Answer: B. The significance of expressing love and gratitude to one's mother II. Answer: C. It is a pure and selfless bond nurtured by love and care. III. Answer: The passage mentions that even if someone fights, argues, or pours anger on their mother, she forgives everything with a gentle smile on her face without thinking for a second. IV. a mother's love is portrayed as selfless, forgiving, and characterized by a lack of ego or hard feelings. V. Answer: B. The individual who deserves the highest regard and affection on this planet is 'Mother.' VI. Expressing gratitude and love to one's mother beyond special occasions reinforces the idea that her sacrifices and efforts are valued and acknowledged consistently, emphasizing the depth of the relationship. VII. Answer: The author suggests that in today's busy world, people often neglect expressing gratitude and remembering the efforts made by their mothers, emphasizing the need for consistent appreciation. VIII. This statement challenges the idea of limiting appreciation to a single day and encourages the reader to express gratitude more frequently. IX. Answer: D. (c) and (e) For Students of Classes 6 & 7 On the basis of your reading of the above passage, complete the statements that follow with the help of given options. (a) The most dear and hearty relation of all is the relationship of __________. (i) father and son (ii) husband and wife (iii) mother and child (iv) friendship and love (b) This relationship carries__________ (i) worries (ii) suffering (iii) love for money (iv) deep emotions and feelings (c) This relation is devoid of__________ (i) ego and fear (ii) love and affection (iii) anger and hard feelings (iv) (i) and (iii) (d) Today‟s generation__________. (i) is very busy in their lives (ii) easily finds time for their mother (iii) remembers the things she has done for them (iv) shows respect and care for mother (e) Do we need any special day to__________? (i) show our anger (ii) show our gratitude towards her (iii) blame her (iv) disobey her (f) You can express your love towards your mother by__________. (i) writing poems and quotes (ii) showing respect (iii) hugging her (iv) all of the above (g) The word from the passage which means the same as „gratitude‟ is__________. (i) greatness (ii) thankfulness (iii) sacrifice (iv) respect Q2. Read the passage given below and choose the best alternative from the options that follow. SISTER COME HOME A child sitting under a tree prayed quietly to himself without anyone knowing – only the tree knew. The tree was several decades old, but it still stood straight and tall. The people in the village all knew that a while ago, this tree‟s bark was falling off and it was dying. But it was brought back to life by a short phrase that its caretaker said, and when other people asked the young girl how she healed the tree, the girl said with a sweet smile, “It‟s a secret”. Everyone was puzzled. A few years later, the girl went to a faraway place to earn money for her little brother‟s school tuition. When the young girl returned. She saw how haggard the old tree had become, and she was sad. She again said a few words to the tree. The tree unexpectedly became its old self once again, tall and straight. The villagers praised it as they came and went. After another week, the girl had to leave again. Crying, the girl‟s mother said, “Daughter, your father and I have let you down.”The girl, also crying, said, “Don‟t speak that way. Can you summon my little brother?” “Of course I can.” The sister said to her little brother, “This tree I give to you, when you look at it, it shall be the same as looking at me. Study hard, make me proud, and make mom and dad proud. You must safeguard the tree. I may be gone for 3-5 years. Take good care of mom and dad, and that will make me proud.” The little brother said, “Sister, I know I‟ll be industrious, and I‟II take good care of the tree.” Touching the tree last time, the girl turned and left. As each day passed, the boy grew up. During the day he studied and played beneath the tree, and at night, he sat against the tree and quietly prayed. After a few more months the boy ran to the top of a mountain and yelled out the words he‟d been wanting to say, “Sister, come home!” A few years later, he suddenly learned some startling news. It was said that the sister had died saving a little girl‟s life. This had happened several years before, and the money that was sent to the village was sent by the little girl‟s mother, because this was the sister‟s final request before she died. People all say that good people go to heaven after they die. I think that girl is surely in heaven watching over her brother! I. Select the option that best captures the central theme of the passage. A. The power of nature in healing and guiding human lives B. The bond between siblings and the impact of their actions C. The importance of secrets and mystery in life D. The role of trees in preserving memories and emotions II. What significant change did the young girl bring about in the tree's condition, and how did she achieve it? A. She made the tree taller by planting new seeds. B. She revived the dying tree by saying a few words. C. She pruned the tree's branches to improve its health. D. She watered the tree regularly to keep it alive. III. Share evidence from the passage that highlights the depth of the sibling bond between the girl and her little brother. IV. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase "Can you summon my little brother?" A. Can you bring my little brother here? B. Can you call for my little brother? C. Can you scold my little brother? D. Can you find my little brother? V. Explain, in about 40 words, the symbolic significance of the tree in the story. VI. In the context of the passage, what does the boy's act of yelling out "Sister, come home!" symbolize? VII. How does the following impact the reader's perception of the passage's message? "People all say that good people go to heaven after they die. I think that girl is surely in heaven watching over her brother!" VIII. Read the five headlines (a)-(e) given below: (a) SIBLING BONDS: A STORY OF LOVE, SACRIFICE, AND GUIDANCE (b) THE MAGICAL HEALING POWER OF TREES (c) A SISTER'S LEGACY: CREATING A LASTING IMPACT (d) REMEMBERING GOOD DEEDS: A CELEBRATION OF A LIFE WELL-LIVED (e) THE ROLE OF FAMILY TRADITIONS IN NURTURING COMPASSION Identify the option that displays the headline/s that correspond with occurrences mentioned in the passage. A. (a) and (d) B. (b) and (c) C. (a) and (e) D. (c) and (d) Answer Key I. Answer: B. The bond between siblings and the impact of their actions II. Answer: B. She revived the dying tree by saying a few words. III. Answer: The girl entrusts the tree to her little brother, symbolizing that looking at the tree would be the same as looking at her. She also emphasizes the importance of taking care of their parents and studying hard. IV. Answer: Answer: B. Can you call for my little brother? V. The tree serves as a symbol of the girl's presence, guidance, and love for her little brother. It becomes a tangible connection between them and represents her wish for his growth and success. VI. Answer: The boy's act symbolizes his deep longing for his sister's presence and his yearning for her return, demonstrating the enduring impact of their relationship. VII. This statement reinforces the idea that the girl's selfless actions and love have left a lasting impact, suggesting a sense of comfort and guidance even after her passing. VIII. Answer: A. (a) and (d) Easy Questions for Std. 6 & 7 On the basis of your reading of the above passage complete the statement that follow with the help of the given options. (a) The dying tree was brought back to life by __________ (i) a child sitting under the tree (ii) the people of the village (iii) a short phrase that its caretaker said (iv) an old tree (b) The girl went to a faraway place to __________ (i) enjoy a picnic (ii) to keep her secret (iii) motivate the tree (iv) to earn money (c) When the young girl returned to her village, she found the tree __________ (i) in good shape (ii) completely bare (iii) in bad shape (iv) reduced to a stump (d) The girl summoned her little brother to __________ (i) look after the young tree (ii) look after the old tree only (iii) look after the parents only (iv) look after the old tree and his parents (e) The girl had died __________ (i) in a car accident (ii) saving a little girl (iii) while trying to cross the flooded river (iv) of snake bite Answer Key is available for download below.

Reading Comprehension Worksheet for High School Students Tips for Answering Questions Correctly Don't read the whole passage together. Read paragraph wise. For example, read paragraph 1 and try to find out the answers of the questions from Paragraph 1 and then read para 2 and so on.... Reading Paragraph-wise and attempting answers from each para will help you save your precious time in the exam/test. Don't just copy the lines from the paragraphs while answering a question. You can copy basic words from the passage, but you are instructed to make the answer in your own words. For a 1-mark question, write one or two sentences only. Remember copying the sentences verbatim or blindly from the passage is not advisable and the examiner has the discretion to deduct some marks for this. Competency-Based Reading Comprehension Q1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow An Independence Day is an annual celebration commemorating the anniversary of a nation’s assumption of independent statehood, usually after ceasing to be a colony or part of another state, more rarely after the end of a military occupation. Most countries honour their respective independence day as a national holiday. On 15 August 1947 , India attained freedom from the British Rule. Every year, August 15 is celebrated as the Independence Day in India. This national festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over the country. The Independence Day of any country is a moment of pride and glory. On this special occasion, rich tributes are paid to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives and fought to free their motherland from the clutches of the oppressors – British who ruled the country. The British had initially come for trade but gradually took over the total administration of the country. At the strike of midnight of the August 15, 1947 ,India shook off the shackles of British Rule and became free. It was a night of celebration all over the country. I. Select the option that best describes the emotions associated with Independence Day celebrations as described in the passage. A. Sadness and sorrow B. Regret and remorse C. Joy and pride D. Fear and apprehension II. What event is being commemorated on Independence Day? A. The end of a military occupation B. The anniversary of a nation's assumption of statehood C. The beginning of a colony D. The end of a civil war III. Share evidence from the passage, in about 40 words, to support the idea that Independence Day is a time to honor those who fought for freedom. The passage mentions that on Independence Day, rich tributes are paid to freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives and fought against the British oppressors to free the country. IV. Complete the sentence appropriately with a characteristic or its description. Based on the information in the passage, Independence Day is typically celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotism, as it marks a significant milestone in a nation's history. V. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the expression, "shackles of British Rule." A. Legacy of British Rule B. Influence of British Rule C. Chains of British Rule D. Impact of British Rule VI. Explain, in about 40 words, the historical significance of the date August 15, 1947, for India. August 15, 1947, holds historical significance for India as it marks the day when India achieved freedom from British colonial rule after years of struggle and sacrifices by its citizens. VII. In the context of the passage, why is Independence Day referred to as a "national festival"? Independence Day is considered a national festival because it is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm and serves as a unifying event that brings citizens together to commemorate their nation's freedom. VIII. How does the following impact the reader's perception of Independence Day celebrations? "At the strike of midnight of the August 15, 1947, India shook off the shackles of British Rule and became free." This statement creates a powerful and vivid image of a momentous historical event—the exact moment when India gained independence. It emphasizes the significance of that instant in the country's history. IX. Read the five headlines (a)-(e) given below: (a) NATION CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH PATRIOTIC FERVOR (b) THE ORIGINS OF INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS (c) FORMER COLONIES REMAIN UNDER FOREIGN RULE (d) FREEDOM FIGHTERS: UNSUNG HEROES OF INDEPENDENCE (e) HOW INDEPENDENCE DAY AFFECTS GLOBAL DIPLOMACY Identify the option that displays the headline/s that correspond with occurrences mentioned in the passage. A. (a) and (b) B. (c) and (d) C. (b) and (e) D. (a) and (d) Answer Key I. C. Joy and pride II. B. The anniversary of a nation's assumption of statehood III. On Independence Day, rich tributes are paid to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives and fought against the British oppressors to free their motherland. IV. Based on the information in the passage, Independence Day is typically celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotism, as it marks a significant milestone in a nation's history. V. C. Chains of British Rule VI. August 15, 1947, holds historical significance for India as it marks the day when India achieved freedom from British colonial rule after years of struggle and sacrifices by its citizens. VII. Independence Day is considered a national festival because it is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm and serves as a unifying event that brings citizens together to commemorate their nation's freedom. VIII. This statement creates a powerful and vivid image of a momentous historical event—the exact moment when India gained independence. It emphasizes the significance of that instant in the country's history. IX. D. (a) and (d) Q2. Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow. By the time our delayed train reached and I disembarked with my father and baby Lavanya, it was well past midnight. It was cold, dark and foggy. My husband, Manas, who was to receive us , was nowhere in sight. Soon the platform became deserted. Then, a burly man approached us and offered to carry our bags. He wasn't wearing the usual porter's red shirt and tag, and though I was wary, my father decided to hire him. Leaving Lavanya and me with the man, my father went to look for Manas. I took a closer look at the man and felt apprehensive. He was big hairy, his face was pock marked and his eyes looked bloodshot. Just then Lavanya, who had been sleeping in my arms, awoke and turned to look at the porter. He gave a playful smile and held out his arms. I thought she'd start crying and held her closer. But she smiled back and twisted herself out of my arms into his. Now I was really scared. What if he ran away with my baby ? He must have sensed my fear and , even before I reached out to take Lavanya back, he handed her to me. Turning around , he mumbled that though everyone was scared of him, my innocent baby had accepted him. His eyes had tears in them. I didn't know what to say. At that moment,my father returned with Manas. The man picked up our bags and walked towards the cars park. As we followed him, I asked Manas to pay him a little extra. But, having put our luggage in the car, the man refused to take payment from us. Coming up to me,he placed his hand on my baby's head for a moment as if to say, ''God bless you !'' and walked away. I. Select the option that best describes the initial emotion of the narrator upon disembarking from the train. A. Excitement and anticipation B. Anxiety and uncertainty C. Relief and happiness D. Indifference and boredom II. What caused the narrator's apprehension when approached by the burly man? A. The man's lack of a red shirt and tag B. The man's playful smile C. The man's offer to carry their bags D. The man's pock-marked face and bloodshot eyes III. Share evidence from the passage, in about 40 words, to support the idea that the narrator's baby, Lavanya, reacted positively to the porter. IV. Complete the sentence appropriately with a characteristic or its description. V. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the expression, "What if he ran away with my baby?" A. What if he took my baby and left? B. What if he played with my baby and left? C. What if he made my baby cry and left? D. What if he hugged my baby and left? VI. Explain, in about 40 words, the reason behind the narrator's fear turning into appreciation for the burly porter. VII. In the context of the passage, what is the significance of the porter placing his hand on the baby's head and uttering, "God bless you!"? VIII. How does the following impact the reader's perception of the porter's character? "His eyes had tears in them. I didn't know what to say." IX. Read the five headlines (a)-(e) given below: (a) STRANGERS CAN SOMETIMES BE ANGELS IN DISGUISE (b) UNEXPECTED ACTS OF KINDNESS: A STORY OF A BURLY PORTER (c) HANDLING FEAR AND APPREHENSION IN UNFAMILIAR SITUATIONS (d) A JOURNEY THROUGH THE DARK NIGHT: MEMORIES AND ENCOUNTERS (e) NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF TRAIN TRAVEL WITH A BABY Identify the option that displays the headline/s that correspond with occurrences mentioned in the passage. A. (a) and (b) B. (c) and (e) C. (b) and (d) D. (a) and (c) Answer Key I. B. Anxiety and uncertainty II. D. The man's pock-marked face and bloodshot eyes III. When Lavanya awoke and saw the porter's playful smile, she smiled back and willingly moved into his arms, indicating a positive and friendly response. IV. Based on the information in the passage, the narrator's initial apprehension toward the burly porter transforms into a mixture of fear and then appreciation for his kind-heartedness. V. A. What if he took my baby and left? VI. The burly porter's gentle behavior towards Lavanya, his playfulness, and handing the baby back when sensing the narrator's fear showcased his innocence and kindness, causing the narrator's fear to give way to appreciation. VII. The gesture of placing his hand on the baby's head and uttering a blessing signifies the porter's goodwill and his genuine concern for the baby's well-being. It also reflects the porter's compassionate nature. VIII. This statement reveals the emotional depth of the porter, showcasing his sensitivity and contrasting with his initial intimidating appearance, thus adding complexity to his character. IX. B. (c) and (e) Extra Questions for Std. VI & VII (a) Choose the correct option to answer each question : 1. The author was apprehensive when a man approached her as : (a) he was scary looking (b) her father was not with her (c) he was drunk and had bloodshot eyes (d) her husband was nowhere in sight 2. The man refused payment because : (a) the money offered was less (b) he was not a porter (c) he sensed the woman‟s fears and wanted to help her (d) the baby had come to him 3. The man handed the baby back to the lady as : (a) he feared the baby would start crying (b) she reached out for the baby (c) he realized that she was scared (d) his eyes had suddenly filled up with tears 4. This incident made the author realize that one should : (a) not be scared of strangers (b) only take the services of a regular porter (c) not allow strangers to handle their children (d) not judge people by their appearance 5. ''Apprehensive‟ means : (a) appreciative (b) fearful (c) happy (d) sad 2 (b) Find words from the passage which mean the same as (i) get off (ii) speak unclearly Q3. Read the poem carefully answer the questions that follow: Where the mind is without fear and The head is held high ; Where knowledge is free ; Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls ; Where words come out from the depth of truth, Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection ; Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit; Where the mind is led forward by Thee into ever-widening thought and action- Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake. Rabindranath Tagore I. Select the option that best captures the central theme of the passage. A. Overcoming adversity and challenges B. Freedom from fear and narrow boundaries C. The power of knowledge and reason D. Celebrating cultural diversity II. What is the significance of the phrase "Where the mind is without fear"? A. It describes a mind that is fearless and brave. B. It emphasizes the importance of intellectual growth. C. It symbolizes a state of freedom and openness. D. It suggests a mind filled with doubt and hesitation. III. Share evidence from the passage to support the idea that the author envisions a society without divisions. IV. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase "tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection." A. Continuous effort extends toward excellence. B. Relentless pursuit reaches absolute success. C. Unwavering endeavor leads to perfect results. D. Exhaustive work extends toward ultimate achievement. V. Explain, in about 40 words, the significance of the phrase "the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit." VI. In the context of the passage, why does the author use the metaphor of "heaven of freedom"? VII. How does the following impact the reader's understanding of the passage's message? "Where the mind is led forward by Thee into ever-widening thought and action." VIIII. Read the five headlines (a)-(e) given below: (a) BREAKING BARRIERS: OVERCOMING SOCIETAL LIMITATIONS (b) THE POWER OF FEARLESS MINDS IN A GLOBALIZED WORLD (c) EMBRACING TRUTH AND KNOWLEDGE FOR A BETTER SOCIETY (d) CREATING A WORLD WITHOUT CULTURAL BOUNDARIES (e) A VISION OF UNRESTRICTED THINKING AND ACTION Identify the option that displays the headline/s that correspond with occurrences mentioned in the passage. A. (a) and (c) B. (b) and (e) C. (c) and (d) D. (a) and (b) Answer Key I. B. Freedom from fear and narrow boundaries II. Answer: C. It symbolizes a state of freedom and openness. III. Answer: The phrase "Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls" indicates the author's vision of a united and undivided world. IV. Answer: A. Continuous effort extends toward excellence. V. The phrase highlights the importance of keeping rational thinking free from stagnation caused by unchanging routines and habits, ensuring that the flow of reasoning remains vibrant and purposeful. VI. Answer: The metaphor of "heaven of freedom" represents the author's ideal vision of a perfect and liberated society. VII. This phrase emphasizes the role of divine guidance in driving the mind towards progressive and inclusive thinking and action, reinforcing the theme of openness and growth. VIII. Answer: B. (b) and (e) More Questions for Std. VI & VII (Qs.) On the basis of your reading of the poem, answer the following questions by choosing the correct options given below. (a) ''The head held high'' means one is __________ . (i) full of arrogance (ii) having self-respect and dignity (iii) has a painful neck (b) ''domestic walls‟ stands for __________ . (i) wall of bricks and cement ii) the wall of anger and hate (iii) the wall of regional and religious differences (iv) the wall of isolation (c) Where words come out from the __________ . (i) depth of logic (ii) depth of truth (ii) analysis (iv) happiness (d) We can achieve ''perfection'' by __________ . (i) tired efforts (ii) tireless cribbing (iii) tireless striving (iv) tiring efforts (e) Where ''clear stream of season‟ has not lost its way to (i) dead logic (ii) unreasonable people (iii) dead habit (iv) uneasy efforts (f) The poet wants the mind to be led forward by God into __________ . (i) ever growing prosperity and abundance (ii) ever shrinking logic and knowledge (iii) ever living happiness and love (iv) ever widening thought and action (g) The opposite for the word “sleep” is __________ . (i) acknowledge (ii) accept (iii) awake (iv) embark For the answer key, Please Click Here

Learn the Trending Topics across the Globe in Conversational Mode. Plastic Pollution: Threat to Our Mother Earth | Board Exam 2024 John: Hey Jane, have you heard about the staggering amount of plastic pollution that our planet is facing? Jane: Yes, it's truly concerning, John. Plastic production has increased exponentially over the years, and a significant amount of it ends up in our oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems. It's alarming to think about the long-term consequences of this plastic crisis. John : Plastic pollution is indeed a pressing issue. According to the report by Nature, approximately 14 million tons of plastic find their way into the oceans annually. If we don't take action, this number is projected to increase to a staggering 29 million metric tons per year by 2040. The cumulative amount of plastic in the ocean, including microplastics, could reach 600 million tons by that same year. Jane: Those numbers are shocking. It's disheartening to think about the impact on our marine ecosystems. We need to find solutions to tackle this problem before it becomes even more severe. John: Absolutely, John. It's not just about the immediate harm to wildlife and habitats; plastic pollution has long-lasting effects. National Geographic revealed that only 9% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled. This highlights a significant market failure and emphasizes the urgency to address this issue. Jane: You're right, John. The fact that plastic takes around 400 years to decompose means that it will persist in our environment for generations. The long-term consequences of plastic pollution on ecosystems, human health, and the overall balance of our planet are still not fully understood. John: So, what can we do to combat plastic pollution? Are there any solutions that can help us address this issue? Jane: There are several approaches we can take to tackle plastic pollution. Firstly, reducing the production and consumption of single-use plastics is crucial. We can opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, metal straws, and refillable water bottles. By making these small changes in our daily lives, we can significantly reduce plastic waste. John: Education and awareness play a significant role too. We can spread knowledge about the harmful effects of plastic pollution and the importance of recycling. Encouraging others to join recycling programs and advocating for proper waste management and recycling infrastructure in our communities can make a difference. Jane: : Absolutely, Jane. Additionally, supporting policies and regulations that promote a circular economy, where plastic waste is minimized, recycled, and reused, is essential. This involves promoting extended producer responsibility, where manufacturers are held accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, including their disposal. Jane: It's good to know that there are tangible steps we can take. Apart from individual actions, are there any collective efforts or innovations being developed to combat plastic pollution? John: Yes, there are several collective efforts underway. Many organizations and governments are working towards developing innovative solutions. For instance, there are initiatives focused on developing sustainable packaging alternatives, promoting biodegradable plastics, and investing in improved waste management systems. Technological advancements, such as plastic-eating enzymes and recycling innovations, are also being explored. Jane: That's promising to hear. It shows that there is a growing awareness and commitment to addressing plastic pollution. I believe if we combine individual actions, collective efforts, and support innovative solutions, we can make significant progress in reducing plastic waste and protecting our environment. John: Absolutely, Jane. It will require a combination of personal responsibility, systemic changes, and global collaboration. By raising awareness, advocating for sustainable practices, and actively participating in solutions, we can work towards a cleaner, plastic-free future. Jane: Thank you for sharing this information and the potential solutions. It's essential for us to take action and be part of the solution. Let's do our part and inspire others to join us in fighting plastic pollution. John: You're welcome, Jane. Together, we can make a difference. Let's spread the word, make sustainable choices, and work towards a world where plastic pollution is minimized, allowing our environment and future generations to thrive.

English Article Writing , Board Exam 2024 EVs, or Electric Vehicles, are automobiles that are powered by one or more electric motors using electricity stored in rechargeable batteries. They have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential to contribute to sustainable living and reduce environmental impact. Here are the objectives and benefits of EVs for sustainable living: Objectives of EVs for Sustainable Living: 1. Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: One of the primary objectives of EVs is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a major contributor to climate change. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they do not release any pollutants during operation. 2. Minimize Air Pollution: Traditional internal combustion engines emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to air pollution and negatively impact human health. By replacing these engines with electric motors, EVs help minimize air pollution and improve air quality. 3. Decrease Dependence on Fossil Fuels: EVs aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, which are finite resources and contribute to geopolitical tensions. By transitioning to electricity as a primary source of transportation energy, EVs promote energy diversification and increased reliance on renewable energy sources. 4. Economic Opportunities: EVs present opportunities for economic growth and job creation. The shift towards EVs fosters the development of new industries and business models, including the manufacturing of EV components, charging infrastructure installation, and the provision of related services. As the EV market expands, it can stimulate economic activity and create employment opportunities in various sectors. 5. Sustainable Mobility: EVs aim to provide sustainable and efficient mobility solutions. With advancements in battery technology and the expansion of charging infrastructure, EVs offer a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles. The objective is to create a transportation system that meets the needs of individuals and society while minimizing the negative impacts on the environment and public health. Benefits of EVs for Sustainable Living: 1. Environmental Sustainability: By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, EVs contribute to environmental sustainability. They help mitigate climate change, preserve ecosystems, and protect natural resources by minimizing the environmental impact of transportation. 2. Energy Efficiency: Electric motors are more energy-efficient than internal combustion engines. EVs convert a higher percentage of energy from the grid to power at the wheels, resulting in greater energy efficiency. This efficiency helps optimize resource utilization and reduces overall energy consumption. 3. Renewable Energy Integration: As the grid transitions to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, EVs offer the potential to integrate these clean energy sources. They can serve as energy storage devices, allowing excess electricity generated during peak renewable energy production to be stored in EV batteries and used during periods of high demand or when renewable energy generation is low. 4. Cost Savings: While the upfront cost of EVs may be higher compared to traditional vehicles, they offer potential long-term cost savings. Electric charging is generally less expensive than refueling with gasoline or diesel, and EVs typically require less maintenance due to their simpler mechanical structure, leading to reduced operating costs over time. 5. Technological Innovation: The rise of EVs has stimulated technological advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and renewable energy integration. These innovations extend beyond transportation, benefiting other sectors and accelerating the overall transition to a sustainable future. 5. Noise Reduction: EVs produce less noise compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, contributing to reduced noise pollution in urban areas. By adopting EVs, we can move towards a more sustainable and cleaner transportation system, mitigating the impacts of climate change, improving air quality, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. EVs Adoption Across the Globe Several countries have made significant strides in adopting and promoting electric vehicles (EVs) to transition towards sustainable transportation. Here are a few examples: 1. Norway: Norway leads the world in EV adoption. It has implemented strong incentives such as exemptions from vehicle registration taxes, toll road fees, and reduced or free parking for EV owners. As a result, EVs accounted for over 75% of new car sales in Norway in 2020. 2. China: China is the world's largest EV market and has been actively promoting EV adoption. The government provides generous subsidies, offers license plate lotteries and exemptions, and has set sales quotas for automakers to produce a certain percentage of new energy vehicles (NEVs), including EVs. Chinese EV manufacturers like BYD and NIO have gained prominence globally. 3. Netherlands: The Netherlands has set ambitious goals to transition to electric mobility. It offers tax incentives, grants, and subsidies for EVs. Additionally, the government plans to ban the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars by 2030. The Netherlands has an extensive charging infrastructure network and EVs accounted for over 25% of new car sales in 2020. 4. Sweden: Sweden has been actively promoting EVs through various measures. The country provides financial incentives such as exemptions from vehicle taxes and reduced company car taxes for EV owners. Sweden aims to be climate-neutral by 2045 and has set a target of having only new EV sales by 2030. 5. United Kingdom: The UK has implemented several initiatives to accelerate EV adoption. It offers grants for purchasing EVs, has exempted them from certain taxes, and is expanding its charging infrastructure. The government has set a target to ban the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars by 2030. 6. Germany: Germany has been making efforts to boost EV adoption. It provides financial incentives and subsidies for EV buyers, including a grant program called "Umweltbonus." The country aims to have 7 to 10 million EVs on its roads by 2030 and has plans to expand its charging infrastructure. These examples demonstrate the commitment of various countries to transition towards sustainable transportation by adopting electric vehicles. The efforts include incentives, subsidies, infrastructure development, and policy targets to accelerate EV adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. Types of Electric Vehicles 1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): These are fully electric vehicles that run solely on electricity. They are powered by rechargeable batteries and do not have an internal combustion engine. BEVs have zero tailpipe emissions and offer the longest driving ranges among EVs. 2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs combine an electric motor with an internal combustion engine. They can be charged from an external power source and also use gasoline or diesel. PHEVs offer both electric driving range and the ability to switch to the combustion engine for longer trips. 3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): HEVs utilize a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. However, they cannot be charged externally and rely on regenerative braking and the combustion engine to charge the battery. HEVs provide improved fuel efficiency compared to conventional vehicles. Key Components of EVs: 1. Electric Motor: The electric motor is the primary power source in an EV. It converts electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle. 2. Battery Pack: EVs use high-capacity lithium-ion or other advanced batteries to store electrical energy. The battery pack provides the required energy to power the electric motor. 3. Power Electronics: Power electronics control the flow of electricity between the battery pack and the electric motor. They convert the direct current (DC) from the battery to alternating current (AC) to drive the motor. 4. Onboard Charger: EVs have onboard chargers that convert AC power from an external charging station or wall outlet to DC power to charge the battery pack. 5. Regenerative Braking: EVs employ regenerative braking systems that capture and convert the kinetic energy generated during braking into electrical energy, which is then stored in the battery for later use. Charging Infrastructure: To support widespread EV adoption, the development of charging infrastructure is crucial. Charging options include: 1. Level 1 Charging: This involves using a standard 120-volt electrical outlet. It is the slowest method but can be convenient for overnight charging at home. 2. Level 2 Charging: Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt power source and provide faster charging compared to Level 1. They are commonly installed at homes, workplaces, and public charging stations. 3. DC Fast Charging: Also known as Level 3 charging, DC fast chargers provide rapid charging by delivering high-power DC directly to the vehicle's battery. They are typically found at public charging stations along highways and can charge an EV significantly faster. The continuous advancements in EV technology, battery capacity, and charging infrastructure are driving the transition towards a more sustainable transportation system. Governments, businesses, and individuals play significant roles in promoting and adopting EVs to achieve a greener future.