Tag: NCERT English Solutions

Class 10th Science Chapter 1 – Chemical Reactions and Equations – In-text Questions
PAGE NO. 6 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q1. Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air?

Answer:

Magnesium ribbon is cleaned before burning to remove the layer of magnesium oxide that forms on its surface due to reaction with air.
This oxide layer prevents magnesium from burning properly because it blocks direct contact with oxygen in the air.
Cleaning exposes fresh shiny magnesium, which burns readily with a bright flame.

Reaction

$2 M g + O_{2} \to 2 M g O$

Q2. Write the balanced equation for the following chemical reactions:

(i) Hydrogen + Chlorine → Hydrogen chloride

Unbalanced:

$H_{2} + C l_{2} \to H C l$

Balanced:

$H_{2} + C l_{2} \to 2 H C l$

(ii) Barium chloride + Aluminium sulphate → Barium sulphate + Aluminium chloride

Unbalanced:

$B a C l_{2} + A l_{2} (S O_{4})_{3} \to B a S O_{4} + A l C l_{3}$

Balanced:

$3 B a C l_{2} + A l_{2} (S O_{4})_{3} \to 3 B a S O_{4} + 2 A l C l_{3}$

(iii) Sodium + Water → Sodium hydroxide + Hydrogen

Unbalanced:

$N a + H_{2} O \to N a O H + H_{2}$

Balanced:

$2 N a + 2 H_{2} O \to 2 N a O H + H_{2}$

Q3. Write a balanced chemical equation with state symbols for the following reactions.

(i) Solutions of barium chloride and sodium sulphate in water react to give insoluble barium sulphate and sodium chloride solution.

$B a C l_{2} (a q) + N a_{2} S O_{4} (a q) \to B a S O_{4} (s) + 2 N a C l (a q)$
- BaSO₄ forms as a white precipitate, hence (s)
(ii) Sodium hydroxide solution reacts with hydrochloric acid solution to produce sodium chloride solution and water.

$N a O H (a q) + H C l (a q) \to N a C l (a q) + H_{2} O (l)$

PAGE NO. 10 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q 1. A solution of a substance ‘X’ is used for whitewashing.

(i) Name the substance ‘X’ and write its formula.

Answer:

The substance ‘X’ is Calcium oxide (also called Quicklime).
Formula: CaO

(ii) Write the reaction of the substance ‘X’ named in (i) above with water.

Answer:

When calcium oxide reacts with water, it forms calcium hydroxide (slaked lime), which is used for whitewashing.
The reaction is exothermic (produces heat).

$C a O (s) + H_{2} O (l) \to C a (O H)_{2} (a q) + heat$

Explanation (for exams):
- Calcium hydroxide forms a milky suspension called lime water, which hardens on walls by reacting with carbon dioxide in air.
$C a (O H)_{2} + C O_{2} \to C a C O_{3} + H_{2} O$

Calcium carbonate gives the white finish in whitewashing.

Q 2. Why is the amount of gas collected in one of the test tubes in Activity 1.7 double of the amount collected in the other? Name this gas.

Answer :

In Activity 1.7, water is decomposed by passing electric current through it.
Water (H₂O) decomposes into hydrogen and oxygen gases.

According to the chemical equation:

$2 H_{2} O (l) \to 2 H_{2} (g) + O_{2} (g)$

The ratio of hydrogen to oxygen gas formed is 2 : 1.
That means twice the volume of hydrogen gas is produced compared to oxygen.
Therefore, the amount of gas collected in one test tube is double.

Name of the gas collected in larger amount:

Hydrogen gas (H₂)

PAGE NO. 13 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q 1. Why does the colour of copper sulphate solution change when an iron nail is dipped in it?

Answer :

The colour of copper sulphate solution changes because iron is more reactive than copper and it displaces copper from the copper sulphate solution.
As a result, copper gets deposited on the iron nail and the blue colour of copper sulphate changes to green due to the formation of iron sulphate.

Chemical Reaction:

$F e (s) + C u S O_{4} (a q) \to F e S O_{4} (a q) + C u (s)$
- Blue solution of copper sulphate → fades
- Green colour appears because FeSO₄ (Iron sulphate) is formed
- Brown deposit of copper forms on iron nail
In one examination sentence:

The blue colour changes because iron displaces copper from copper sulphate and forms green iron sulphate solution.

Q 2. Give an example of a double displacement reaction other than the one given in Activity 1.10.

Answer:

An example of a double displacement reaction is:

$A g N O_{3} (a q) + N a C l (a q) \to A g C l (s) + N a N O_{3} (a q)$

Explanation:

In this reaction:
- Silver nitrate (AgNO₃) and sodium chloride (NaCl) exchange ions.
- Silver chloride (AgCl) forms as a white precipitate.
- This is a double displacement reaction because ions are exchanged between two compounds to form new products.
In one exam sentence:

A double displacement reaction occurs when two compounds exchange ions to form a precipitate such as in:

$A g N O_{3} + N a C l \to A g C l + N a N O_{3}$

Q 3. Identify the substances that are oxidised and the substances that are reduced in the following reactions.

(i) $4 N a (s) + O_{2} (g) \to 2 N a_{2} O (s)$

Answer:
- Sodium (Na) is oxidised
- Oxygen (O₂) is reduced
Explanation:
- Sodium gains oxygen and is therefore oxidised.
$4 N a \overset{O_{2}}{\to} 2 N a_{2} O$
- Oxygen accepts electrons and forms oxide, so it is reduced.
(ii) $C u O (s) + H_{2} (g) \to C u (s) + H_{2} O (l)$

Answer:
- Hydrogen (H₂) is oxidised
- Copper oxide (CuO) is reduced
Explanation:
- Hydrogen gains oxygen and forms water, so hydrogen is oxidised.
$H_{2} + O \to H_{2} O$
- Copper oxide loses oxygen and forms copper, so CuO is reduced.
$C u O \to C u$
November 17, 2025
Chapter – 6, English, Hornbill, Poem – 1
Poem – Father to Son

Poet: Elizabeth Jennings

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. What kind of bond usually exists between a father and a son?
Ans. The bond is expected to be close, affectionate, and based on love and understanding, though sometimes it may face gaps due to generational differences.

Q2. Can communication gaps harm family relationships?
Ans. Yes. Misunderstandings and lack of dialogue can create distance, even when there is deep love underneath.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

Q1. What problem does the father express in the poem?
Ans. The father feels alienated from his son. Though they live together, he hardly understands his son’s thoughts, feelings, and choices.

Q2. What does the father regret?
Ans. He regrets that despite living under the same roof for years, he has failed to build a close emotional bond with his son.

Q3. How does the son react to the father’s feelings?
Ans. The son too feels the same distance. Though he does not express anger, he is unable to bridge the communication gap.

Q4. What effort does the father make to restore the relationship?
Ans. He offers reconciliation, saying he is ready to “forgive” and start afresh, hoping to heal their strained bond.

Q5. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. The poem highlights the emotional gap between generations, the pain it causes, and the father’s longing for understanding and reconciliation.

B. Talking About the Poem

Q1. Why is the tone of the poem described as both sad and hopeful?
Ans. It is sad because the father feels isolated from his son, but hopeful because he expresses willingness to forgive and rebuild their relationship.

Q2. How does Elizabeth Jennings portray universal family issues?
Ans. She shows that gaps between parents and children are common, caused by changing values and lack of communication, yet love can overcome them.

Q3. What lesson does the poem give?
Ans. That communication, understanding, and forgiveness are essential for maintaining harmony between generations.

C. Working with Words
- Alienation → feeling of separation.
- Reconciliation → restoring friendly relations.
- Estrangement → emotional distance or separation.
D. Noticing Form
- The poem is written in free verse, expressing personal emotions without rhyme.
- It uses repetition (“I do not understand this child”) to stress the father’s feelings.
Summary of Father to Son

Elizabeth Jennings’ poem Father to Son is a poignant reflection on the distance that often arises between parents and children as they grow older. The poem presents the voice of a father who feels alienated from his own son, despite sharing the same home and relationship.

The father begins by confessing that he does not understand his son. Though they have lived together for many years, he feels as if he is speaking to a stranger. This highlights the generation gap, where differences in thoughts, values, and interests create emotional distance.

The father regrets this estrangement. He laments that his son has grown into an independent individual with choices and beliefs that he cannot comprehend. The father feels that his son belongs to another world—one with which he himself is unfamiliar. This alienation causes him both sorrow and guilt.

Despite his sadness, the father’s tone is not harsh or blaming. Instead, it is reflective and full of yearning. He admits his failure to establish a deeper bond but also acknowledges that the fault is mutual—both father and son have contributed to the distance.

The son, though not directly speaking in the poem, is suggested to feel the same alienation. Neither of them openly quarrels, but the silence between them creates a wall stronger than words of anger. The lack of dialogue makes reconciliation difficult.

However, the father does not give up. Towards the end of the poem, he expresses his willingness to forgive and start anew. He says, “I would have him prodigal, returning to his father’s house,” recalling the biblical story of the prodigal son. This indicates his readiness to welcome his son back into emotional closeness, without judgment.

The poem ends with an image of extended hands—both father and son ready to reach out but unable to cross the final barrier. This unresolved tension makes the poem deeply moving, as it reflects real-life struggles within families.

Thematically, Father to Son deals with communication gaps, generational conflict, and the universal longing for love and understanding. Jennings shows that even in relationships built on love, silence and misunderstanding can create painful distance. Yet, the possibility of reconciliation always remains if both sides are willing.

In conclusion, the poem captures the complexity of family bonds, reminding us that while differences are natural, forgiveness and open dialogue are the keys to healing strained relationships.

Biography of Elizabeth Jennings

Elizabeth Jennings (1926–2001) was one of the most significant English poets of the 20th century, known for her lyrical, reflective, and deeply personal poetry. Unlike many of her contemporaries, Jennings avoided experimental styles, choosing instead to write in traditional forms with simplicity and emotional depth.

She was born on 18 July 1926 in Boston, Lincolnshire, England, but grew up in Oxford, where she lived for most of her life. She studied English at St. Anne’s College, Oxford, and soon developed an interest in poetry. Jennings’ early influences included poets like Gerard Manley Hopkins, W.H. Auden, and T.S. Eliot, whose themes of faith, morality, and human experience resonated with her.

Her first collection, Poems (1953), was well received, but it was A Way of Looking (1955) that established her as a major voice. Over the years, she published more than two dozen volumes of poetry, addressing themes of love, faith, loneliness, illness, and human relationships.

Jennings’ poetry is often described as confessional—not in the modern American sense, but in its honesty and intimacy. She frequently wrote about her Catholic faith, her struggles with mental health, and her reflections on life’s fragility. Her simple language and clarity of thought allowed her poems to touch ordinary readers as well as critics.

She was associated with “The Movement,” a group of British poets in the 1950s who reacted against modernist complexity and sought clarity and structure in verse. Alongside poets like Philip Larkin and Kingsley Amis, Jennings emphasised restraint, discipline, and accessibility.

Despite her literary success, Jennings lived a modest and often difficult life. She struggled financially, faced health problems, and never sought fame. Her dedication to poetry was absolute, and she saw writing as both a vocation and a form of spiritual reflection.

Her works include collections such as Song for a Birth or a Death (1961), The Mind Has Mountains (1966), Consequently I Rejoice (1977), and Collected Poems (1986). The poem Father to Son reflects her recurring theme of strained human relationships and the need for reconciliation.

Jennings received several awards, including the Somerset Maugham Award (1955) and the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1992 for her contribution to literature.

Elizabeth Jennings passed away on 26 October 2001, but she left behind a vast body of poetry that continues to inspire readers with its sincerity, compassion, and timeless human themes
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 6, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
Silk Road

Author: Nick Middleton

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Why is the Silk Road famous in history?
Ans. The Silk Road was an ancient trade route connecting Asia with Europe, famous for trade in silk, spices, culture, and ideas.

Q2. What do travelogues usually show us?
Ans. They give firsthand experiences of journeys, describing landscapes, people, and cultures from the perspective of the traveler.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. Where was the author traveling and for what purpose?
Ans. He was traveling to Mount Kailash in Tibet for a pilgrimage, describing the landscape and experiences along the way.

Q2. What difficulties did the travelers face?
Ans. They faced rough roads, altitude sickness, bad weather, and physical exhaustion during the journey.

Q3. Who was Tsetan, and how did he help?
Ans. Tsetan was the Tibetan driver who skillfully guided them through dangerous terrain and ensured their safety.

Q4. How did the author describe the village people?
Ans. He described them as simple, hospitable, and deeply spiritual, living in harmony with nature.

Q5. What impression do we get about the landscape of Tibet?
Ans. Tibet is portrayed as barren yet beautiful, with high mountains, icy winds, remote settlements, and an atmosphere of deep spirituality.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. What values are reflected in the journey to Kailash?
Ans. Determination, faith, endurance, and appreciation of cultural and natural beauty.

Q2. How is the journey both physical and spiritual?
Ans. Physically, it was challenging due to harsh conditions, while spiritually it gave inner strength, peace, and closeness to faith.

Q3. What does the travelogue tell us about Tibetan life?
Ans. Tibetans are shown as resilient people, living with few resources but strong in faith, simplicity, and contentment.

C. Working with Words
- Pilgrimage → religious journey.
- Ascent → climb or upward journey.
- Hospitable → welcoming, generous.
D. Noticing Form
- The text is a travelogue, blending factual description with personal impressions and reflections.
Summary of Silk Road

Nick Middleton’s Silk Road is a travelogue that recounts his adventurous journey through the inhospitable landscape of Tibet as he travels to Mount Kailash, a sacred pilgrimage site. The text is not just about physical travel but also about spiritual discovery and cultural exploration.

The author begins his journey across rugged mountains and rough roads in the company of his Tibetan driver, Tsetan. The terrain is harsh, with icy winds, snow-covered passes, and dangerous roads, making the journey both exhausting and risky. Yet, Tsetan’s expertise and courage ensure safe passage, highlighting the resilience of the Tibetan people.

During the journey, Middleton interacts with locals and describes their lifestyle. He portrays the Tibetan villagers as simple, kind-hearted, and deeply religious. Their homes are modest, but their hospitality is rich. He notices prayer flags, monasteries, and rituals, which add to the spiritual atmosphere of Tibet.

The physical journey also takes a toll on Middleton, who experiences altitude sickness. The thin air, freezing cold, and long climbs test his endurance. Despite the difficulties, the spiritual significance of reaching Mount Kailash keeps him motivated.

The travelogue captures the beauty of Tibet—its barren yet striking landscape, towering mountains, and vast plains. The author notes how nature dominates the land, shaping the lives of its people. Unlike urban societies, Tibet seems untouched by modern excess, retaining its spiritual essence.

At a deeper level, the journey becomes symbolic. The hardships faced on the road mirror the struggles of life, while the destination—Mount Kailash—represents spiritual fulfillment. Middleton suggests that pilgrimage is not only about reaching a holy place but also about experiencing inner growth and reflection.

The Silk Road, historically a trade route connecting Asia and Europe, becomes in the narrative a road of self-discovery. By documenting both the challenges and the rewards, Middleton presents a vivid account of how travel broadens horizons, tests human limits, and enriches the soul.

In conclusion, Silk Road is more than a travel diary. It is a meditation on resilience, faith, and the harmony between human beings and nature. It reminds us that true journeys are both physical and spiritual, shaping not only our experiences but also our inner selves.

Biography of Nick Middleton

Nick Middleton (1960–2021) was a British geographer, writer, explorer, and television presenter, well known for his engaging travel books and documentaries. His work combined scientific geography with personal travel experiences, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience.

Born in London in 1960, Middleton studied geography at Oxford University, where he later became a fellow at St. Anne’s College. His academic focus was on environmental issues, climate, and the impact of geography on human societies. However, he was equally passionate about popularising geography through writing and media.

Middleton’s career as a writer and explorer took him to more than 80 countries. He wrote extensively about deserts, mountains, and remote regions of the world. His book Going to Extremes (1998), based on a Channel 4 television series, explored how people survive in the harshest environments—deserts, Arctic tundra, and high mountains. This combination of scientific explanation and storytelling won him a wide readership.

Another notable work, Atlas of the World’s Extreme Weather (2002), studied how geography and climate shape societies. His travel writings often blended personal adventure with cultural insights, as seen in Silk Road, where he described the harsh yet spiritually rich landscape of Tibet.

In addition to books, Middleton appeared in documentaries and television programs, where he shared his experiences as a traveler and geographer. His warm style and curiosity made him popular among audiences.

Academically, Middleton’s research included work on desertification, climate change, and environmental adaptation. He collaborated with institutions worldwide, bridging the gap between fieldwork and classroom learning.

Despite his global recognition, Middleton remained grounded. He believed geography was not just about maps but about people—their struggles, adaptations, and stories. Through his writing, he showed how geography and culture are inseparable.

Nick Middleton passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy as a geographer who could make the subject exciting and human-centered. His works continue to inspire students, travelers, and readers to view geography not just as a science but as a story of human survival and discovery.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 5, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
The Adventure

Author: Jayant Narlikar

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Do you think history could have turned out differently if some events had changed?
Ans. Yes. History depends on decisions, wars, and discoveries. If any major event had happened differently, the course of history would also have changed.

Q2. How does science fiction help us think about history and reality?
Ans. Science fiction allows us to imagine alternate possibilities—how science, time, or chance could create different worlds or versions of reality.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. What strange experience did Professor Gaitonde have?
Ans. He found himself in an alternate version of reality where history had taken a different course.

Q2. How was the Maratha history different in this parallel world?
Ans. In this world, the Marathas had defeated the British at the Battle of Panipat in 1761 and established strong rule, preventing British colonisation.

Q3. What differences did Gaitonde notice in Bombay?
Ans. He saw signs in Hindi and English, a different set of institutions, and a society influenced more by indigenous traditions than by Western colonial impact.

Q4. How does the author use the concept of Catastrophe Theory in the story?
Ans. He explains that small changes in historical events could lead to massive shifts in the course of history, creating alternate realities.

Q5. How did Gaitonde return to his original reality?
Ans. After an accident (a truck hitting him), he returned to his normal world, realising that he had experienced a time-space shift.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. Why is this story called The Adventure?
Ans. Because it combines the thrill of science fiction with the adventure of exploring alternate versions of history.

Q2. What is the significance of the Battle of Panipat in the story?
Ans. It is the turning point in history; in one world the Marathas lost, in the alternate world they won, leading to completely different futures.

Q3. What message does Jayant Narlikar give through this story?
Ans. That history is not fixed—it could have been different. Science and imagination can help us think critically about reality and its possibilities.

C. Working with Words
- Catastrophe Theory → a scientific idea that small events can trigger sudden large changes.
- Parallel world → another version of reality.
- Alternate history → imagining how history might have unfolded differently.
D. Noticing Form
- The story blends science fiction with historical imagination, creating a mix of realism and speculation.
Summary of The Adventure

Jayant Narlikar’s The Adventure is a fascinating story that blends science fiction with history. It uses the concept of alternate realities to explore how small changes in the past could have completely altered the present.

The protagonist, Professor Gangadharpant Gaitonde, is a historian. One day, he experiences a strange shift after a road accident and finds himself in a world that looks familiar yet different. He realises that he has somehow entered an alternate version of reality.

In this parallel world, history has taken a different course. The Battle of Panipat in 1761, a turning point in Indian history, ended differently here. Instead of losing to Ahmad Shah Abdali, the Marathas won decisively. As a result, they established a strong and unified rule in India, preventing British colonisation.

This alternate victory had far-reaching consequences. When Gaitonde visits Bombay, he notices striking differences. The signs are in Hindi and English, the city is governed by Indian institutions, and society is deeply rooted in Indian traditions rather than Western influence. India in this reality has developed differently, with more indigenous confidence and less colonial dominance.

Gaitonde is both amazed and unsettled by this discovery. Being a historian, he realises that this world is an example of how history could have diverged from the known timeline.

Later, through his friend Rajendra Deshpande, the concept of Catastrophe Theory and quantum mechanics is introduced. Catastrophe Theory suggests that a small event at a crucial point can completely change the outcome of history. In this case, a different decision at Panipat altered the entire destiny of the subcontinent.

Gaitonde eventually returns to his original reality after another accident, realising that his journey into the parallel world was a time-space shift—a glimpse of how things might have been.

The story highlights the fragility of history and the power of imagination. It shows that the world we live in is only one of many possibilities. Science fiction, through such alternate histories, makes us reflect on the complexity of time, space, and chance.

At its core, The Adventure is not just about fantasy. It is a meditation on history, science, and destiny. It teaches that while history is fixed in our records, it could have easily taken another turn, reminding us of the uncertainty of human progress.

Biography of Jayant Narlikar

Jayant Vishnu Narlikar (1938– ) is one of India’s most distinguished astrophysicists and a noted writer of science fiction. He is admired both for his scientific contributions and for his ability to popularise science through lectures, essays, and imaginative stories.

Born on 19 July 1938 in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Narlikar was the son of a mathematician and a Sanskrit scholar, which gave him an early exposure to both scientific and cultural traditions. He pursued his undergraduate studies in physics at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where he stood first in his class. Later, he went to the University of Cambridge, UK, for higher studies.

At Cambridge, Narlikar worked under the famous astrophysicist Fred Hoyle. Together, they developed the Hoyle–Narlikar theory of gravitation, an alternative to Einstein’s general relativity. This theory attempted to explain the universe’s structure and offered a different perspective on cosmology.

Narlikar’s research covered a wide range of areas in astrophysics, including cosmology, relativity, and gravitational theory. His contributions earned him recognition worldwide. He was also a strong advocate for independent and original thinking in Indian science.

In addition to his scientific work, Narlikar is also celebrated as a science communicator and writer. He wrote extensively in English and Marathi, producing essays, books, and stories that made complex scientific concepts accessible to general readers. His science fiction blends imagination with solid scientific ideas, inspiring curiosity in younger generations.

Stories like The Adventure show his creative side. By mixing history with scientific theories such as quantum mechanics and catastrophe theory, he demonstrates how science fiction can be a bridge between fact and imagination. His works often encourage readers to think critically about science, society, and the future.

Narlikar has received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan (1965) and the Padma Vibhushan (2004) for his contributions to science. He also served as the founding director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, making it an international hub for astrophysics research.

Despite his global reputation, Narlikar remained committed to science education in India. He delivered public lectures, wrote popular science books, and inspired countless students to pursue careers in research.

Jayant Narlikar represents the rare combination of a world-class scientist and a creative storyteller. Through his research, he expanded the horizons of cosmology, and through his writings, he expanded the horizons of imagination.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 4, English, Hornbill, Poem – 1
Poem – Childhood

Poet: Markus Natten

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. What do you think marks the end of childhood?
Ans. Childhood ends when innocence gives way to awareness—when a child begins to question, reason, and understand the realities of life.

Q2. Do you believe childhood is lost suddenly or gradually?
Ans. Childhood is lost gradually; as children grow, their thinking changes and they move into maturity step by step.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

Q1. What questions does the poet raise about childhood?
Ans. He asks when childhood ended—was it when he realized that adults are hypocritical, when he discovered the difference between truth and lies, or when he became aware of individuality?

Q2. What realization did the poet have about adults?
Ans. He realized that adults often preach love and goodness but do not practice it, which made him question their honesty.

Q3. What truth about life did the poet discover?
Ans. That heaven and hell are not real physical places, but only exist in the human mind and imagination.

Q4. What is meant by “individuality” in the poem?
Ans. It means self-awareness—the understanding that each person is unique, with an independent identity and personality.

Q5. Where does the poet say childhood has gone?
Ans. He says childhood has gone into some forgotten place, hidden in an infant’s face, symbolising innocence that cannot be regained.

B. Talking About the Poem

Q1. Do you think the poet looks at childhood with nostalgia or criticism?
Ans. With nostalgia. He remembers childhood as a time of innocence, faith, and simplicity, which contrasts with the doubts and complexities of adulthood.

Q2. What message does the poem convey?
Ans. That childhood is a stage of purity and wonder, but it inevitably ends as awareness, reasoning, and individuality take over.

C. Working with Words
- Hypocrisy → pretending to have virtues one does not follow.
- Individuality → uniqueness of a person.
- Innocence → purity, absence of doubt or guilt.
D. Noticing Form
- The poem is written in free verse with a reflective, questioning tone.
- Repetition of the question “When did my childhood go?” emphasises the poet’s search for answers.
Summary of Childhood

Markus Natten’s poem Childhood is a reflective exploration of the transition from innocence to experience. The poet contemplates when exactly childhood ends and maturity begins, raising deep philosophical questions about human growth.

The poem begins with the poet asking when his childhood went away. He suggests several possibilities. Perhaps it ended when he realized that adults often do not practice what they preach. They talk about love and goodness but fail to live up to these ideals. This hypocrisy made the poet question the sincerity of grown-ups. Childhood, in contrast, was a stage of unquestioning faith.

The poet then considers another possibility. Maybe childhood ended when he discovered that heaven and hell were not real physical places but mere concepts. This realization shattered a part of his innocence. As a child, he believed what he was told, but with reasoning and maturity, he understood that such stories were only symbolic.

The third possibility is when he became aware of his individuality. Childhood is often marked by dependence and lack of self-identity, but adulthood comes with the realization that every human being is unique, with independent thoughts, choices, and responsibilities. This awareness may mark the end of innocence and the beginning of maturity.

Despite these reflections, the poet acknowledges that childhood is never truly gone—it hides in “some forgotten place,” perhaps visible in the pure face of an infant. Childhood remains as a symbol of innocence, untouched by hypocrisy, reasoning, or self-consciousness.

The poem captures the universal human experience of growing up. It shows how loss of innocence is both natural and inevitable. Childhood is marked by trust, simplicity, and wonder, but maturity brings doubt, logic, and individuality. This shift is not necessarily negative but highlights the complexity of human development.

The structure of the poem—with repeated questioning—mirrors the poet’s confusion and search for answers. The use of free verse and reflective tone adds to its philosophical quality.

In essence, Childhood is not about a specific time but about a mental shift. It reflects the bittersweet reality of growing up—where one gains self-awareness but loses the innocence of unquestioned belief. Through this poem, Markus Natten reminds readers of the beauty of childhood and the inevitability of change.

Biography of Markus Natten

Markus Natten is a contemporary Norwegian poet best known for his reflective poem Childhood, which is widely studied in schools and universities. Though not a very prolific poet, Natten has gained recognition for his ability to capture deep philosophical ideas in simple language.

Born in Norway in the 20th century, Markus Natten grew up in a literary environment that valued nature, introspection, and philosophical questioning—qualities that strongly influence his writing. Details of his personal life remain relatively private, but his work reveals a deep concern with universal human experiences such as growth, innocence, and the search for meaning.

Childhood, his most famous poem, explores the transition from innocence to awareness, questioning when exactly childhood ends. Natten uses simple, conversational language to reflect profound thoughts, making the poem accessible to young readers while still resonating with adults. This ability to balance simplicity with depth is a hallmark of his style.

Natten’s poetry is often associated with themes of identity, philosophy, and human development. He does not use ornate language or rigid structures. Instead, he prefers free verse, allowing his ideas to flow naturally, almost like a conversation.

His work reflects the Scandinavian tradition of introspection and simplicity, echoing broader European philosophical ideas. By blending personal reflection with universal concerns, Natten ensures that his poetry remains timeless.

Although Childhood is part of the NCERT Class 11 English textbook Hornbill, his writings are appreciated beyond classrooms. The poem resonates globally because every individual experiences the bittersweet passage from childhood to adulthood.

Natten’s contribution lies not in a vast body of work but in his clarity of thought and philosophical depth. Through a single poem, he has managed to provoke generations of students and readers to reflect on their own lives, questioning when and how innocence gives way to maturity.

Even though Markus Natten is not a household name like other great poets, his poem Childhood has earned him a lasting place in literary studies. By raising questions without fixed answers, he teaches readers that growth is complex and subjective.

Thus, Markus Natten’s legacy lies in the way his poetry helps readers explore themselves. Through Childhood, he gives voice to universal emotions, making him a significant yet understated poet of our times.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 4, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role

Author: Nani Palkhivala

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Why do we call Earth “Mother Earth”?
Ans. Because it nourishes, sustains, and protects all living beings just like a mother cares for her children.

Q2. Do you think human beings have respected nature enough?
Ans. No. Human beings have exploited natural resources for selfish gain, leading to pollution, deforestation, and global warming.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. What is the Green Movement? When did it start?
Ans. The Green Movement is a global effort to protect the environment. It started in 1972 when the first worldwide environmental conference was held in Stockholm.

Q2. What are the four principal biological systems mentioned in the text?
Ans. Fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands.

Q3. Why does the author call Earth “an ailing planet”?
Ans. Because human exploitation, overuse of resources, deforestation, and pollution have endangered the planet’s health.

Q4. What is sustainable development according to the author?
Ans. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Q5. Why is population control important for the survival of Earth?
Ans. Because unchecked population growth leads to overconsumption, resource depletion, unemployment, and poverty, which strain the planet’s limited resources.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. Why does the author say that we have not inherited the Earth from our forefathers but borrowed it from our children?
Ans. Because our responsibility is not just to use resources but to preserve them for future generations.

Q2. What is the significance of the Green Movement in modern times?
Ans. It reminds us to protect the environment, adopt sustainable practices, and act responsibly as trustees of the planet.

Q3. What solutions does the author suggest to save the planet?
Ans. Resource conservation, population control, afforestation, sustainable development, and ecological awareness.

C. Working with Words
- Holistic → complete, interconnected.
- Degradation → decline, destruction.
- Ecology → the study of relationships between living beings and environment.
D. Noticing Form
- The essay blends factual information, statistics, and persuasive argument in a journalistic style.
Summary of The Ailing Planet

Nani Palkhivala’s essay The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role is a thought-provoking reflection on the environmental crisis facing humanity. It highlights the urgent need to protect natural resources and adopt sustainable development.

The essay begins by noting the rise of the Green Movement in 1972, which signaled the world’s awakening to environmental concerns. The author emphasizes that Earth is not a limitless resource to be exploited but a living entity that sustains life. Yet, human beings have treated it recklessly, leading to its gradual decline.

Palkhivala identifies four essential biological systems—forests, fisheries, grasslands, and croplands. These systems form the foundation of life, but human exploitation has severely damaged them. Overfishing has depleted marine life; deforestation has destroyed biodiversity; grasslands have been degraded by overgrazing; and croplands have been overused without giving time for soil renewal.

Another major concern is the uncontrolled growth of human population. The author calls it the greatest problem facing mankind. Every additional person puts pressure on resources, creates unemployment, and contributes to poverty. Population explosion, coupled with resource misuse, has made the Earth “ailing.”

Palkhivala underlines the concept of sustainable development—meeting present needs without compromising the future. He stresses that resources must be preserved for future generations, echoing the idea that “We have not inherited this planet from our forefathers; we have borrowed it from our children.” This perspective makes human beings trustees, not masters, of the Earth.

The essay also highlights the importance of awareness. Governments, NGOs, and individuals must recognize that economic progress without ecological balance is meaningless. True progress should integrate environmental responsibility with growth.

In conclusion, the author appeals to readers to act with wisdom and responsibility. Protecting forests, controlling population, and practicing sustainable development are essential steps. Only then can humanity ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

Thus, the essay is both a warning and a call to action. It reminds us that the Earth is fragile and finite, and unless we change our ways, we risk destroying the very foundation of life.

Biography of Nani Palkhivala

Nani Ardeshir Palkhivala (1920–2002) was one of India’s most respected jurists, economists, and public intellectuals. Renowned for his brilliance in law and his eloquence in writing and speech, Palkhivala was also a passionate advocate for environmental and economic issues.

Born on 16 January 1920 in Bombay (now Mumbai), Palkhivala overcame early challenges—he had a speech impediment and struggled with stammering. Yet, through determination, he transformed into one of the most articulate lawyers and speakers of his time. He studied at St. Xavier’s College and Government Law College, Bombay, and went on to become a legal legend.

Palkhivala gained national fame as a constitutional lawyer. He argued several landmark cases in the Supreme Court of India, including the famous Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), which established the “basic structure doctrine” of the Indian Constitution. This judgment became a cornerstone of Indian democracy, ensuring that Parliament could not alter the fundamental framework of the Constitution.

Beyond law, Palkhivala was deeply engaged with economics and public policy. He wrote extensively on India’s economy and delivered popular lectures explaining the Union Budget to the general public in simple language. His book We, the People became a classic on Indian democracy and governance.

Palkhivala was also a champion of environmental awareness. At a time when ecological concerns were not widely discussed in India, he raised his voice for the protection of forests, sustainable development, and ecological balance. His essay The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role reflects his visionary concern for the Earth’s future. He understood that true progress is not possible if we destroy the natural systems that sustain life.

Throughout his career, Palkhivala served on various national and international bodies. He represented India at the United Nations and was also India’s ambassador to the United States in the 1970s. His intellect, integrity, and humility earned him admiration worldwide.

Despite his professional achievements, Palkhivala lived a simple life, dedicated to knowledge and service. His speeches drew thousands, as he could explain complex issues with clarity, passion, and moral conviction.

Nani Palkhivala passed away on 11 December 2002, leaving behind a rich legacy of law, literature, and public service. He is remembered as a defender of democracy, a visionary thinker, and a voice of conscience for environmental and economic justice. His writings continue to inspire new generations to act responsibly towards society and the planet.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 3, English, Hornbill, Poem – 2
Poem – The Voice of the Rain

Poet: Walt Whitman

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Why is rain important for life on earth?
Ans. Rain renews soil fertility, supports crops, quenches thirst, and sustains the cycle of nature. Without rain, life cannot flourish.

Q2. Do you think natural elements like rain can be personified? Why?
Ans. Yes, because poets often give human voices and emotions to nature, allowing us to connect with it more deeply.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

Q1. What does the rain say about its origin?
Ans. Rain says it is born from the earth—rising as vapour from land and sea, then returning to refresh the earth in a perpetual cycle.

Q2. How does the poet describe the cycle of rain?
Ans. Rain rises from the earth, travels through the sky, forms clouds, and falls back to earth, giving life and completing a continuous cycle.

Q3. Why does the rain call itself “the poem of the earth”?
Ans. Because like poetry, rain emerges naturally, beautifies life, quenches thirst, and returns silently, enriching the world without asking for reward.

Q4. What comparison does Whitman make between rain and music/poetry?
Ans. He compares rain to songs—both are born from within, travel outward, return to their origin, and spread joy, beauty, and life.

Q5. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. The poem highlights the eternal life cycle of rain and compares it to the artistic cycle of poetry, both of which renew, nurture, and beautify the world.

B. Talking About the Poem

Q1. Why does the poet use dialogue form in this poem?
Ans. To make the rain speak directly, personifying it, so its life cycle can be explained in simple yet profound terms.

Q2. How does the poem show the relationship between nature and art?
Ans. Just as nature (rain) sustains life, art (poetry) sustains the human spirit. Both work silently yet powerfully.

Q3. What message does Whitman want to give through this poem?
Ans. That natural processes and artistic creation are interconnected—they follow cycles of birth, growth, return, and renewal.

C. Working with Words
- Impalpable → intangible, cannot be touched.
- Perpetual → everlasting, continuous.
- Latent → hidden, not visible but present.
D. Noticing Form
- The poem is written in free verse with no rhyme or rhythm, reflecting Whitman’s unique style.
- It uses personification (rain speaking in first person) and metaphor (rain compared to poetry).
Summary of The Voice of the Rain

Walt Whitman’s The Voice of the Rain is a short yet profound poem that captures the eternal cycle of rain and its symbolic connection with poetry. The poem begins with the poet asking the rain: “And who art thou?” In response, the rain personifies itself and speaks directly.

The rain describes itself as the “poem of the earth.” It explains that it rises invisibly from the land and sea as vapour, ascends into the sky, transforms into clouds, and then returns to earth as rain. This cycle is endless and perpetual, sustaining all life. By returning to the place of its birth, rain nourishes plants, quenches thirst, and cleanses the world, fulfilling its purpose.

The rain emphasizes its silent, selfless role in life. It quenches drought, revives nature, and helps seeds germinate, ensuring the continuation of the natural world. It works without expectation of recognition or reward, much like poetry.

Whitman then compares the rain to poetry. A poem, he says, is born from the poet’s heart or mind. It travels into the world, touches people, and then returns to the poet with recognition, love, or simply in silence. Like rain, poetry is part of a cycle—nurturing human emotions, beautifying life, and then retreating to its origin.

The poem also highlights the similarity between natural and artistic processes. Both rain and poetry arise from within (earth/poet), travel outward (clouds/readers), and then return enriched (life/recognition). Both bring joy and fulfillment, working silently but leaving a lasting impact.

Another key theme is the eternal renewal of life. Rain symbolizes the never-ending cycle of birth, growth, death, and rebirth. Similarly, art never dies; poems may outlive their creators, renewing themselves with each new reader.

Whitman’s use of free verse enhances the natural flow of thought. The dialogue form gives the rain a human voice, making its eternal wisdom accessible to the reader. The imagery of water rising, floating, and falling mirrors the beauty of nature’s processes.

In essence, The Voice of the Rain is not just about the water cycle. It is a meditation on the relationship between nature and creativity. Rain sustains the physical world, and poetry sustains the human soul. Both follow cycles that are silent yet powerful, selfless yet essential, ordinary yet profoundly beautiful.

Biography of Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman (1819–1892) is celebrated as one of America’s greatest poets and the “father of free verse.” His poetry broke traditional forms and embraced a bold, democratic vision of life, nature, and humanity.

Whitman was born on 31 May 1819 in West Hills, Long Island, New York, into a working-class family. He had limited formal education and worked various jobs—printer, teacher, journalist—before devoting himself to writing. His early exposure to ordinary American life shaped his poetry, which celebrated common people and everyday experiences.

His most famous work, Leaves of Grass, was first published in 1855. It was groundbreaking because it abandoned rhyme and meter, using free verse instead. The book shocked critics but also earned admiration for its originality. Whitman continuously expanded Leaves of Grass throughout his life, adding new poems in each edition.

Whitman’s poetry reflects themes of democracy, equality, nature, and spirituality. He believed that poetry should speak for all people—not just the elite. His works celebrated farmers, workers, soldiers, women, and people from all walks of life. He envisioned America as a land of unity and diversity, and his poetry became a voice of democracy.

Nature was central to his vision. Poems like The Voice of the Rain show his reverence for natural cycles. He saw connections between the physical world and the human spirit, often blurring the line between the two.

During the American Civil War, Whitman worked as a nurse, caring for wounded soldiers. This experience deepened his compassion and inspired moving war poems such as Drum-Taps. He also wrote essays and journalistic pieces, but his poetry remained his most lasting contribution.

Whitman’s style was revolutionary. He rejected rigid structures, writing in long, flowing lines that mirrored natural speech. He used repetition, cataloguing, and vivid imagery to create rhythm without rhyme. His openness about the body, sexuality, and individuality was controversial but paved the way for modern poetry.

Though criticized in his time, Whitman gained recognition later as a literary giant. Writers like T.S. Eliot, Ezra Pound, and Allen Ginsberg were influenced by his work. Today, he is regarded as a pioneer of modern poetry and a champion of freedom, equality, and human dignity.

Walt Whitman died on 26 March 1892 in Camden, New Jersey. His legacy endures in the timeless beauty of Leaves of Grass and poems like The Voice of the Rain, which continue to inspire readers with their democratic spirit, love of nature, and celebration of life’s interconnectedness.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 3, English, Hornbill, Poem – 1
Poem – The Laburnum Top

Poet: Ted Hughes

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. What do you usually notice in a tree when it has no birds or animals around?
Ans. It appears silent, lifeless, and still, even though it may still be alive in itself.

Q2. How does the presence of birds make a tree more lively?
Ans. Birds bring sound, movement, and energy to trees. Their chirping and activity turn silence into vibrancy.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

Q1. What is described at the beginning of the poem?
Ans. The laburnum tree, quiet and still, with yellowing leaves, symbolizing lifelessness and emptiness.

Q2. What happens when the goldfinch arrives?
Ans. The goldfinch enters the tree suddenly, bringing a burst of energy and activity. The tree, once silent, comes alive with sound and movement.

Q3. How does the bird transform the tree?
Ans. The bird is like an engine that energises the tree; it turns into a lively machine full of activity and sound.

Q4. What happens when the bird flies away?
Ans. The tree once again becomes silent and still, returning to its lifeless state.

Q5. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. The poem shows the contrast between silence and vitality, suggesting that energy and life come from dynamic forces (symbolised by the bird) even in an otherwise still environment.

B. Talking About the Poem

Q1. Why does the poet compare the bird to an engine?
Ans. Because the bird, like an engine, powers the tree with life, activity, and sound, transforming its stillness into vibrancy.

Q2. How does the poem highlight the interdependence of nature?
Ans. It shows that trees and birds complement each other: the tree provides shelter, and the bird brings liveliness.

Q3. What message do you derive from the poem?
Ans. Life is a balance of stillness and activity. Vitality comes and goes, but both silence and liveliness are natural parts of existence.

C. Working with Words
- Laburnum → a type of tree with yellow flowers.
- Goldfinch → a small bright yellow bird.
- Stirring → moving, coming alive.
D. Noticing Form
- The poem is in free verse, with no rhyme scheme, creating a natural, conversational tone.
- It uses metaphors and similes to compare the bird with an engine and the tree with a machine.
Summary of The Laburnum Top

Ted Hughes’ The Laburnum Top is a symbolic poem that beautifully captures the cycle of silence and vitality in nature through the imagery of a tree and a bird.

The poem opens with a description of a laburnum tree. It appears still, quiet, and lifeless, with yellowing leaves that suggest decay and emptiness. This imagery sets the tone of calmness and silence, highlighting the tree’s dormant state.

Suddenly, the goldfinch enters. The bird is small but energetic, and its arrival immediately changes the atmosphere. As it perches and moves inside the tree, the once-silent laburnum becomes full of movement and sound. The tree is compared to a machine that has been powered by an engine—the goldfinch. The metaphor captures how the bird’s energy infuses the tree with life.

The poet describes how the bird feeds its young ones hidden in the tree. Their chirping and fluttering make the tree vibrate with activity. The laburnum, which seemed lifeless, is transformed into a lively and dynamic space.

However, this liveliness is temporary. Once the goldfinch flies away, the energy departs, and the laburnum returns to silence and stillness. The cycle of silence, sudden vitality, and silence again mirrors the rhythm of life itself.

The poem highlights the interdependence of life in nature. The laburnum tree provides shelter and protection to the bird and its nestlings, while the goldfinch fills the tree with life. Together, they symbolise how different elements of nature support each other.

At a deeper level, the poem symbolises the human condition. Just as the tree remains still until the bird animates it, human lives often gain meaning and energy through relationships, inspiration, or fleeting moments of joy. Yet, silence and stillness are also essential parts of existence.

The poem also reflects Hughes’ fascination with the natural world. His choice of the goldfinch, a bright and energetic bird, highlights the sudden burst of vitality that life brings into otherwise ordinary settings. The contrast between the lifeless laburnum and the energetic bird underscores the theme of transience—that life, energy, and joy are temporary, yet profoundly meaningful.

In conclusion, The Laburnum Top is more than a simple description of a bird and a tree. It is a reflection on how vitality comes and goes, how nature’s cycles mirror human life, and how silence and energy together form the rhythm of existence.

Biography of Ted Hughes

Ted Hughes (1930–1998) was one of the most influential English poets of the 20th century. Known for his powerful imagery, deep connection with nature, and exploration of human instincts, Hughes’ poetry continues to be studied and admired worldwide.

Born on 17 August 1930 in Mytholmroyd, Yorkshire, England, Edward James Hughes (later known as Ted Hughes) grew up surrounded by the wild moors, rivers, and countryside of northern England. This early environment shaped his lifelong fascination with animals and the raw forces of nature, themes that dominate much of his poetry.

He studied at Cambridge University, initially focusing on English literature before switching to archaeology and anthropology. His interest in myth, folklore, and human origins deeply influenced his later works.

Hughes’ first collection, The Hawk in the Rain (1957), immediately established him as a significant voice. His poetry was noted for its vigorous rhythm, stark imagery, and elemental power. Collections such as Crow (1970) and Moortown(1979) continued his exploration of the relationship between humans, animals, and nature.

In 1956, Hughes married the American poet Sylvia Plath. Their marriage was famously turbulent, and Plath’s tragic suicide in 1963 drew public attention. Hughes was both criticised and sympathised with, but he later edited and published much of Plath’s poetry, ensuring her legacy.

As a poet, Hughes was not limited to one style. While much of his poetry is raw and elemental, he also wrote children’s literature, translations, plays, and essays. His children’s works, such as The Iron Man (1968), gained immense popularity.

Hughes’ poetry often portrays animals and birds as symbols of instinctual power. In The Laburnum Top, for instance, the goldfinch symbolises energy and vitality that transforms silence into life. His work is marked by a sense of awe at the brutality and beauty of nature.

In recognition of his contribution to literature, Hughes was appointed Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom in 1984, a position he held until his death in 1998. His later works, including Birthday Letters (1998), addressed his relationship with Sylvia Plath and won the Whitbread Book of the Year award.

Ted Hughes died on 28 October 1998, but his legacy endures. His poetry continues to be celebrated for its intense power, its exploration of nature and human instinct, and its ability to capture life’s energy in striking language.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 3, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues

Author: A.R. Williams

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Why do ancient discoveries like pyramids and tombs fascinate us?
Ans. Because they connect us to lost civilizations, reveal mysteries of history, and make us wonder about human achievements thousands of years ago.

Q2. Do you think science has made archaeology more powerful? How?
Ans. Yes. With tools like CT scans, DNA testing, and carbon dating, archaeologists can learn details about ancient lives, diseases, and cultures that were impossible to know earlier.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. Why was Tutankhamun such a significant figure in history?
Ans. Tutankhamun, the “boy king” of Egypt, ruled during the 18th dynasty. His early death at 19 and the discovery of his intact tomb made him one of the most studied figures of ancient history.

Q2. What problems did archaeologists face when Tut’s body was discovered in 1922?
Ans. His body was badly preserved due to hasty burial, resins had hardened like cement, and attempts to remove the body caused damage.

Q3. What did modern technology reveal about Tut’s body?
Ans. A CT scan in 2005 revealed detailed 3D images of Tut’s body, confirming his physical condition, injuries, and possible causes of death.

Q4. Why is Tutankhamun’s death still a mystery?
Ans. Some historians believe he was murdered, while others think he died due to illness, accident, or genetic issues. No theory has been confirmed.

Q5. How does the author connect past and present in this text?
Ans. By showing how modern science and technology are applied to solve ancient mysteries, bridging the gap between history and modern research.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. Do you think disturbing Tut’s tomb was justified? Why or why not?
Ans. Opinions differ. Some say it was justified for historical and scientific knowledge; others argue it disrespects cultural and spiritual traditions.

Q2. What role does technology play in reshaping history?
Ans. Technology like CT scans allows us to uncover facts hidden for centuries, thus rewriting or refining historical understanding.

Q3. Why do people continue to be fascinated by Tutankhamun even today?
Ans. His youth, mysterious death, and the treasure-filled tomb make him a symbol of mystery, glory, and tragedy.

C. Working with Words
- “Resurrection” → coming back to life
- “Casket” → small box, often for burial
- “Forensic” → relating to scientific investigation of crimes/deaths
D. Noticing Form
- The text blends scientific reportage with historical narrative, making it informative and dramatic at the same time.
Summary of Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues

This lesson explores the story of Tutankhamun, the “boy king” of Egypt, whose life, death, and tomb continue to fascinate the world. Written by A.R. Williams, the article combines history, archaeology, and modern science to show how technology has reshaped our understanding of the past.

Tutankhamun ascended the throne at a very young age and died mysteriously at 19, around 1324 BC. His reign was brief, but his death and the subsequent discovery of his tomb in 1922 by Howard Carter made him one of the most famous figures in archaeology. The tomb contained stunning treasures—gold, jewels, and artifacts—that provided insight into Egyptian civilization.

However, Tut’s mummy raised questions. Carter’s team, in their eagerness, mishandled the body, using hot blades and chisels to separate it from hardened resins. This caused severe damage to the remains. For decades, mystery surrounded Tut’s death—was he murdered, or did he die of natural causes?

In 2005, advanced technology offered new opportunities. Tut’s body was removed from his tomb and subjected to a detailed CT scan, producing 1,700 digital images. These scans revealed the structure of his skull, ribcage, and other features, allowing scientists to create a 3D reconstruction of his body. Though the exact cause of death remained uncertain, the scans ruled out some theories and gave fresh insights into his health.

The CT scans suggested he was a young, physically fragile king who may have suffered injuries before death. Some researchers believe he died from an infection after a leg fracture, while others argue for genetic illness. The debate continues, but technology has provided unprecedented clarity compared to earlier speculation.

The lesson also reflects on the symbolic nature of Tutankhamun’s story. He is not just an ancient king; he is a reminder of human mortality and the mysteries of history. His tomb, filled with treasures, highlights both the glory and the fragility of ancient civilizations.

Ultimately, this text shows how modern science collaborates with history, offering new answers while raising further questions. Tutankhamun, even thousands of years after his death, continues to live in global memory as a symbol of youth, mystery, and discovery.

Biography of A.R. Williams

A.R. Williams (Andrew R. Williams) is an American journalist, editor, and writer known for his contributions to archaeology and history reporting. He has worked extensively with National Geographic, one of the world’s leading magazines on science, history, and culture. Williams is celebrated for his ability to transform complex archaeological discoveries into engaging stories for general readers.

His career spans decades of covering global archaeological projects, from ancient Egyptian tombs to Mayan ruins in Central America. His writings often explore the intersection of history, science, and human culture, showing how discoveries from the past shape our understanding of the present.

Williams has written on topics like mummies, lost civilizations, ancient artifacts, and burial rituals. His articles are notable for combining factual accuracy with narrative drama, which allows readers to not only learn but also feel the excitement of discovery.

One of his most famous works is his coverage of Tutankhamun, the Egyptian boy king. In Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues, Williams explains how modern scientific methods like CT scans and forensic analysis help unravel ancient mysteries. His writing demonstrates a balance between reverence for history and enthusiasm for scientific progress.

In his career at National Geographic, Williams contributed as a senior editor in the Archaeology Department. He collaborated with scientists, archaeologists, and photographers to produce groundbreaking stories that brought archaeology into mainstream media. His articles often highlight the painstaking work of archaeologists and the role of technology in making new discoveries.

Williams’ passion for history extends beyond Egypt. He has covered topics like the Roman Empire, the Inca civilization, and Native American archaeology. His work reflects a global curiosity about how humans lived, built, and believed across centuries.

As an editor and writer, A.R. Williams has also mentored younger journalists and contributed to books, documentaries, and exhibitions on archaeology. His career demonstrates how journalism can bridge the gap between scientific research and popular understanding.

Through his work, Williams has helped millions of readers engage with archaeology—not as a dry academic subject but as a living, thrilling exploration of human history. His legacy lies in making the ancient world accessible, exciting, and meaningful to the modern world.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 2, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
Lesson 1 – We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together

Authors: Gordon Cook & Alan East

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. How would you describe people who go on dangerous sea voyages?
Ans. They are adventurous, courageous, and determined. They embrace risk in pursuit of discovery or personal challenge.

Q2. Why do you think people risk their lives in such expeditions?
Ans. To test human limits, seek adventure, experience nature’s power, and often to fulfill dreams or achieve recognition.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. List the preparations made by the narrator and his family for their voyage.
Ans. They spent 16 years planning, built a 23-metre boat Wavewalker, tested it in harsh weather, and trained themselves in seamanship and survival.

Q2. Describe the initial part of their journey.
Ans. They sailed smoothly from Plymouth, England, in July 1976, covering 1,05,000 km over the years and reaching Cape Town successfully.

Q3. What happened on January 2, 1977?
Ans. They were hit by a gigantic wave in the Indian Ocean. The boat was badly damaged, water flooded in, and the narrator was injured.

Q4. How did the children display courage during the storm?
Ans. The son said he was not afraid to die if all stayed together, and the daughter showed cheerfulness despite her injuries, encouraging her parents.

Q5. How did they manage to survive?
Ans. By pumping out water, making temporary repairs, and navigating carefully with determination and teamwork until they reached Ile Amsterdam, a small island.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. What values are highlighted in this story?
Ans. Courage, resilience, teamwork, family unity, and optimism in the face of adversity.

Q2. Would you call this a story of adventure or survival? Why?
Ans. It is both. It begins as an adventure but turns into a gripping story of survival, where human spirit and determination triumph over disaster.

Q3. How do the children’s responses inspire the adults?
Ans. Their calm acceptance of danger and faith in togetherness inspired the adults to continue fighting for survival.

C. Working with Words
- “Mayday call” → emergency distress signal
- “Stern” → rear part of a ship
- “Deck” → floor surface of a ship
D. Noticing Form
- The story is a first-person account, filled with vivid description and suspense, which makes readers feel the intensity of the storm.
Summary of We’re Not Afraid to Die…

This lesson narrates an extraordinary story of courage, resilience, and survival against nature’s fury. Written by Gordon Cook and Alan East, it documents a sea expedition undertaken by the narrator, his family, and two crewmen.

The narrator, his wife Mary, and their two children Jonathan (6) and Suzanne (7) set out from Plymouth, England, in July 1976, aiming to replicate the round-the-world voyage of Captain James Cook. They spent 16 years planning the journey and had a custom-built boat, Wavewalker, prepared and tested. The initial part of their journey was smooth, and they reached Cape Town safely.

However, while crossing the Indian Ocean on January 2, 1977, they encountered a massive storm. The waves were monstrous, and the boat was repeatedly struck. Suddenly, a gigantic wave hit them, causing severe damage. The narrator was injured, and water gushed into the boat, threatening to sink it. Despite the chaos, everyone displayed remarkable courage. The narrator and his crew fought tirelessly to pump out water, repair the sails, and keep the boat afloat.

The most touching moment came from the children. Jonathan, the six-year-old son, said, “We are not afraid to die if we can all be together.” This innocent yet powerful statement gave the parents immense strength. Suzanne, despite being injured, remained cheerful and brave. Their courage motivated the adults to continue their struggle.

For 15 hours, they battled against nature, working in shifts, enduring exhaustion and fear. Eventually, they managed to control the flooding and make temporary repairs. Guided by determination, seamanship, and teamwork, they navigated towards Ile Amsterdam, a small French island.

After days of struggle, they finally reached the island, where they were rescued. The survival was a triumph not only of skill but also of human endurance, family unity, and the will to live.

The story is not just about adventure but about the human spirit. It shows how ordinary people can rise to extraordinary challenges when they act with courage and support each other. Nature may be powerful, but human resilience, hope, and unity can overcome even the harshest storms.

In conclusion, the lesson teaches us that survival depends on optimism, teamwork, and never giving up, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Biography of Gordon Cook & Alan East

Gordon Cook was a British sailor, adventurer, and writer who undertook several sea voyages in the 20th century. He is best known for his adventurous round-the-world sailing expeditions, one of which forms the basis of the lesson We’re Not Afraid to Die…. Cook, along with his wife and two children, attempted to follow the historic route of Captain James Cook. His passion for the sea reflected not only in his sailing but also in his writing, where he documented the challenges, risks, and beauty of ocean voyages.

Cook’s accounts highlight the qualities of courage, preparedness, and human resilience. He was meticulous in planning his expeditions, often spending years in preparation. His writing style was simple yet gripping, focusing on real-life struggles and lessons in survival. Through stories like this, Gordon Cook inspires readers to embrace challenges, test their limits, and value teamwork and family bonds.

Alan East was a British journalist and writer who collaborated with Gordon Cook to document the story. East had a background in adventure writing and journalism, with a flair for bringing real-life experiences alive on the page. His contribution was to shape the raw experience of Cook’s voyage into a coherent, dramatic narrative that could inspire readers.

Alan East often focused on themes of resilience, courage, and the power of the human spirit in his works. By co-authoring this piece, he helped immortalise a real-life adventure into a story that speaks universally to readers about survival, optimism, and unity.

Together, Gordon Cook and Alan East produced a work that is now part of school curricula, teaching young learners the values of perseverance and courage. Their writing is a reminder that literature is not only about fiction or imagination but also about documenting human experiences that inspire and educate.

Although not widely known in the literary mainstream, both Cook and East contributed significantly to the genre of adventure writing. Their legacy lies in showing how ordinary families and individuals can face extraordinary challenges with strength and determination.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 1, English, Hornbill, Prose – 2
Lesson 2 – A Photograph

Author: Shirley Toulson

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. Why do photographs often carry strong emotions with them?
Ans. Because they freeze moments in time, bringing back memories of people, places, and feelings connected to them.

Q2. Do you think photographs help us remember people who are no longer alive?
Ans. Yes. Photographs become tangible memories, reminding us of the presence, love, and bond we shared with those who have passed away.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. What does the cardboard show? Why has this word been used?
Ans. The cardboard shows a childhood photograph of the poet’s mother, about twelve years old, with her cousins at the beach. The word “cardboard” is used because old photographs were mounted on stiff paper, and also to suggest the fragility and fadedness of time.

Q2. What has the camera captured?
Ans. The camera has captured the smiling faces of the poet’s mother and her cousins as children, enjoying themselves at the beach with their uncle.

Q3. What has not changed over the years?
Ans. The sea, which has been there for eternity, has not changed, while human life has altered and moved on.

Q4. The poet’s mother laughed at the snapshot. What did this laugh indicate?
Ans. It indicated nostalgia and fondness. She remembered her carefree childhood days and laughed at how different life was back then.

Q5. What is the meaning of the line: “Both wry with the laboured ease of loss”?
Ans. It means both the poet and her mother smiled at the photograph but with a sense of helpless acceptance. The mother recalled her childhood with a sense of loss, and now the poet recalls her mother with the same bittersweet feeling.

Q6. What does the poet mean by “its silence silences”?
Ans. The poet means that the photograph evokes deep grief. It reminds her of her mother’s death, leaving her speechless and overcome by silence.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. The poet’s mother laughed at her childhood photo. What does this tell us about her?
Ans. It shows she had a simple, affectionate nature. She could laugh at herself and recall her childhood fondly.

Q2. The sea has not changed, but human life has. What message does this contrast convey?
Ans. It highlights the permanence of nature compared to the transience of human life. While natural elements endure, human beings live and die.

Q3. How does the poem capture the idea of loss and memory?
Ans. Through the photograph, the poet reflects on her mother’s childhood, her mother’s nostalgia in adulthood, and finally the poet’s grief after her mother’s death.

C. Working with Words
- “Cardboard” → old photograph
- “Transient” → short-lived
- “Wry” → ironic, slightly bitter
D. Noticing Form
- The poem is free verse, without rhyme scheme, giving it a conversational and reflective tone.
Summary of A Photograph

Shirley Toulson’s poem A Photograph is a poignant meditation on time, memory, and the loss of loved ones. The poem reflects the universal experience of remembering those who are no longer with us and the inevitable passage of life.

The poem begins with the poet describing a photograph mounted on cardboard. The picture shows her mother as a twelve-year-old girl, standing at a beach with her cousins while their uncle takes the photo. The description is simple, yet full of tenderness: the girls are smiling, carefree, and enjoying their childhood moments. The sea, timeless and eternal, forms the backdrop to this fleeting human joy.

The poet then reflects on how her mother used to look at this picture and laugh. For her mother, the photograph was a reminder of her childhood days—simple, innocent, and carefree. She recalled those times fondly but also with a sense of loss, knowing that those moments could never return. Thus, the mother too was aware of the transient nature of life.

The poem then shifts to the poet’s own perspective. Many years have passed, and now the mother herself is no longer alive. For the poet, the photograph has become doubly painful. It first showed her mother’s nostalgia for her lost childhood, and now it reminds the poet of her own lost mother. The photograph becomes a silent witness to generations passing away.

The lines “Both wry with the laboured ease of loss” express how both the mother and daughter dealt with loss—first the loss of childhood, and then the loss of life itself. Both accepted these losses with a kind of weary resignation, aware that time cannot be reversed.

The poem ends with the deeply moving phrase: “Its silence silences.” The photograph is mute, but its silence conveys grief more powerful than words. For the poet, the silence of the photograph is the silence of her mother’s absence, and this overwhelms her.

At its heart, the poem is about the contrast between permanence and transience. The sea has remained unchanged for centuries, while human life is short-lived and fragile. Childhood gives way to adulthood, and life eventually gives way to death. The photograph freezes a moment, but only highlights the inevitability of change and loss.

Through simple imagery and gentle tone, the poem evokes a universal truth: memories stay, but people pass away, leaving behind only silence.

Biography of Shirley Toulson

Shirley Toulson (1924–2018) was a British poet, writer, and folklorist best known for her sensitive poems on memory, family, and the passage of time. She combined her literary talent with a passion for history and culture, particularly in the study of local traditions and landscapes.

Born in Henley-on-Thames, England, Shirley Toulson received her education at Prior’s Field School and later studied English literature at Birkbeck College, University of London. Early in life, she developed a love for poetry and creative writing, which shaped her career as both a poet and prose writer.

Toulson’s poetry is often marked by themes of loss, nostalgia, and memory. She wrote with great simplicity, yet her words carried emotional depth and universal appeal. Her most widely studied poem, A Photograph, reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the sorrow of losing loved ones. In this poem, she captures how photographs preserve memories, while time continues to take people away. This blend of personal reflection and universal emotion made her poetry resonate with readers across generations.

Apart from poetry, Shirley Toulson had a strong interest in folklore, archaeology, and the English countryside. She wrote extensively about rural traditions, landscapes, and historical trails. One of her most important contributions was her work on ancient pathways and traditions in Britain. Her book The Drovers’ Roads of Wales explored the ancient routes once used by farmers and traders in Wales. She also wrote The Celtic Year, which examined traditional Celtic festivals and beliefs linked to seasons and agriculture.

Toulson combined her literary skill with her interest in history to produce works that were both informative and evocative. She believed that the past lived on in traditions, landscapes, and stories, and much of her work sought to preserve this connection.

Throughout her career, she published collections of poetry, essays, and books on local history and folklore. Her ability to weave together personal memory with cultural history made her a unique voice in English literature.

Shirley Toulson passed away in 2018, but her works continue to be read in schools and appreciated by lovers of poetry and folklore. Through her poetry, she taught us the value of memory, the inevitability of loss, and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments.
September 6, 2025
Chapter – 1, English, Hornbill, Prose – 1
Lesson 1 – The Portrait of a Lady

Author: Khushwant Singh

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Q1. What do you usually observe in the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren?
Ans. The relationship is generally warm, affectionate, and filled with love. Grandparents often share stories, traditions, and values, while grandchildren bring joy and liveliness to their lives.

Q2. Do you think a grandmother can also be a close friend to her grandchild? Why?
Ans. Yes, because grandmothers provide emotional security, spend time in storytelling, and offer unconditional love. Their wisdom and patience make them ideal companions for children.

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

Q1. Mention the three phases of the author’s relationship with his grandmother before he left for abroad.
Ans.
1. Childhood: Close companionship—he lived with her, went to school with her, and she helped him with lessons.
2. Boyhood: Distance grew—he went to an English school in a bus; she could not help with his modern subjects.
3. Youth: Greater separation—he went to university and lived in the city; they shared the same room but little conversation.
Q2. Mention three reasons why the author’s grandmother was disturbed when he went to the city school.
Ans.
1. She could not understand subjects like English, Science, and music.
2. She disliked that there was no teaching about God or scriptures.
3. She felt alienated because she was no longer part of his education.
Q3. Mention three ways in which the author’s grandmother spent her days after he grew up.
Ans.
1. She spun the wheel and recited prayers.
2. She fed stray dogs in the street.
3. She accepted a life of quiet seclusion, withdrawing into her spirituality.
Q4. The odd way in which the grandmother behaved just before she died.
Ans. She stopped talking to the family, lay peacefully reciting prayers and telling her beads, and refused to waste time on worldly conversation.

Q5. The way in which the sparrows expressed their sorrow when the author’s grandmother died.
Ans. Thousands of sparrows sat quietly in and around the house, without chirping, expressing silent grief. The next morning, they flew away quietly.

B. Talking About the Text

Q1. The author’s grandmother was a religious person. What are the different ways in which we come to know this?
Ans. She always prayed while helping the author, carried a rosary, disapproved of music, believed in scriptures, and spent her final days reciting prayers.

Q2. Describe the changing relationship between the author and his grandmother. Did their feelings for each other change?
Ans. Their companionship weakened as he grew, studied modern subjects, and moved to the city. Yet, their emotional bond and love remained unchanged.

Q3. Would you agree that the author’s grandmother was a strong character? Give reasons.
Ans. Yes. She adjusted to loneliness without complaint, maintained her religious devotion, accepted change gracefully, and faced death with dignity.

C. Thinking About Language
- Example: The text uses words like “harl” of rosary beads, “serenity” of her face, “mournful” sparrows. Students should list such words and use them in sentences.
D. Working With Words
- Words like tranquility, seclusion, serenity, mourning, sequestered may be noted and used in exercises.
E. Noticing Form
- The story is written in first person with a reflective, nostalgic tone. Students can attempt writing a short note about their own grandparent in similar style.
Summary of The Portrait of a Lady (≈ 430 words)

Khushwant Singh’s The Portrait of a Lady is a moving and realistic portrayal of his grandmother and their evolving relationship over time. The narrative is personal, reflective, and tinged with nostalgia.

In his early childhood, Singh lived with his grandmother in a village. She was described as an old, wrinkled woman who seemed to have been old for decades. Despite her physical appearance, she was deeply affectionate and spiritually devoted. She bathed him, dressed him, and accompanied him to school. While he learned alphabets, she sat in the temple reading scriptures. Their bond was intimate, and she was a constant companion.

As Singh grew older, changes began to appear. When his parents settled in the city, he joined an English school and started traveling by bus. This created a distance between them. The grandmother could no longer help him with his lessons, as they included English words, Science, and music—subjects she neither understood nor approved of. She disapproved of Western education and particularly disliked music, which she associated with the frivolity of harlots and beggars. This intellectual distance symbolised the fading closeness between them.

Later, when Singh went to university, their separation increased further. They still shared a room, but she withdrew into her spinning wheel, rosary, and prayers. She accepted her seclusion gracefully, without complaint. The only break in her silence was when she fed sparrows and stray dogs, showing her boundless compassion.

When Singh returned from studying abroad, the grandmother was overjoyed. In celebration, she ignored her usual prayers and sang with village women, beating the drum—a rare moment of liveliness. The next day, however, she fell ill. Though the family thought it was a minor fever, she believed her end was near. Refusing to waste her remaining time in conversation, she lay reciting prayers and telling her beads. She died peacefully, leaving behind an image of dignity and devotion.

Her death was mourned not only by the family but also by nature itself. Thousands of sparrows sat silently in and around the house, refusing to eat or chirp. Their silent mourning reflected the gravity of her passing.

The story is not merely about a grandmother but about timeless human values—love, faith, sacrifice, and the acceptance of change and death with grace. Through his grandmother, Singh highlights the beauty of spiritual strength and quiet endurance.

Biography of Khushwant Singh (≈ 420 words)

Khushwant Singh (1915–2014) was one of India’s most prolific writers, journalists, and public intellectuals. Known for his sharp wit, candid expression, and deep insight into Indian society, he left an indelible mark on literature and journalism.

Born on 2 February 1915 in Hadali (now in Pakistan), Singh belonged to a prosperous Sikh family. He studied at Government College, Lahore, before pursuing law at King’s College, London, and later at the Inner Temple, London. Although he briefly practiced law, he soon shifted his focus to writing and journalism.

As a writer, Singh had remarkable versatility. His literary output spanned short stories, novels, historical accounts, biographies, and translations. His most celebrated novel, Train to Pakistan (1956), is a poignant depiction of the Partition of India, capturing the violence, human suffering, and moral dilemmas of that tragic period. Other works include Delhi: A Novel, The Company of Women, and numerous collections of short stories. His fiction is known for its honesty, social critique, and deep humanism.

Apart from fiction, Singh contributed immensely as a historian and biographer. He wrote A History of the Sikhs, a scholarly yet accessible account of Sikhism and its evolution. He also translated classics like the Guru Granth Sahib and Ibn Battuta’s Travels. His historical works reflected his respect for India’s pluralism and cultural richness.

As a journalist, Singh was equally influential. He edited several prominent publications, including The Illustrated Weekly of India, The Hindustan Times, and The National Herald. His bold editorials and satirical columns made him both loved and controversial. For decades, his weekly column “With Malice Towards One and All” entertained readers with sharp humour, irony, and social criticism.

Singh’s personality combined intellectual sharpness with irreverent humour. He was outspoken about politics, religion, and morality, often challenging hypocrisy. At the same time, he was deeply humane, known for his compassion, honesty, and secular outlook.

In recognition of his contributions, Singh was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1974, though he returned it in protest against Operation Blue Star in 1984. Later, he received the Padma Vibhushan in 2007, India’s second-highest civilian award.

Khushwant Singh passed away on 20 March 2014 at the age of 99. His legacy continues through his writings, which blend humour, honesty, and a deep understanding of India. Through works like The Portrait of a Lady, he celebrated ordinary human relationships, capturing their beauty and dignity with simplicity and affection.
September 6, 2025
Unit – 5, Class 8th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson 1: Feathered Friend – Arthur C. Clarke

Before the Text

Q1. What comes to your mind when you hear “life in space”?
Ans. Astronauts floating in zero gravity, space stations, advanced machines, and unusual challenges.

Q2. Do you think animals can be useful in space? How?
Ans. Yes, animals can sense danger earlier, give companionship, and even help in experiments.

Q3. Why might space travel be dangerous for humans?
Ans. Because of lack of oxygen, zero gravity, cosmic radiation, and isolation.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Who was Claribel?
Ans. A small yellow canary secretly taken aboard the space station.

Q2. Who brought her there?
Ans. Sven Olsen, the narrator’s friend and fellow astronaut.

Q3. Why did the narrator think Sven had chosen a canary?
Ans. Because canaries are light, cheerful companions and have been used in coal mines to detect poisonous gases.

Q4. What happened one morning inside the space station?
Ans. Claribel fainted, which alerted the astronauts that oxygen had leaked.

Q5. How did the bird save their lives?
Ans. By fainting first, she warned them of low oxygen levels before it was dangerous for humans.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why did the narrator call Claribel an “illegal immigrant”?
Ans. Because animals were not officially allowed on the space station.

Q2. What does this reveal about Sven?
Ans. That he was kind-hearted, playful, and valued companionship.

Q3. Why was Claribel welcomed despite being illegal?
Ans. Because she brought joy and song to the astronauts.

Extract 2

Q1. Why did Claribel faint before the astronauts?
Ans. Because small animals need more oxygen and are affected earlier by lack of it.

Q2. How does this incident show science in action?
Ans. It shows how living beings react differently to changes in environment, and how animals can be natural warning systems.

Q3. What qualities of Claribel are admired in the story?
Ans. Her innocence, cheerfulness, and her unintentional role as a life-saver.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why did the narrator initially disapprove of Claribel?
Ans. Because he thought bringing a bird was childish and unnecessary in a space station.

Q2. How did his opinion change?
Ans. He realised the bird was useful when she saved their lives.

Q3. What does the story teach us about animals?
Ans. That they are sensitive, valuable companions, and can even save human lives.

Q4. Why is the story titled Feathered Friend?
Ans. Because Claribel, the feathered canary, proved to be a true friend by warning them of danger.

Q5. How is humour used in the story?
Ans. By calling the bird an “illegal immigrant” and describing Sven’s secret plan in a light, amusing way.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Illegal → Unlawful
- Friend → Companion
- Oxygen → Air
- Warn → Alert
Q2. Antonyms:
- Life × Death
- Legal × Illegal
- Large × Small
- Safe × Dangerous
Writing Task

Q. Write a diary entry as Sven Olsen on the day Claribel saved the astronauts.

Ans.
Dear Diary,
Today Claribel proved why she belongs with us in space. This morning, she fainted suddenly. At first, I was terrified. But then we realised what had happened—oxygen levels were dropping fast. If not for her, we might not have noticed until it was too late. Who would have thought a little yellow bird could save the lives of strong astronauts? She is not just my pet, but everyone’s feathered friend now.
– Sven

Summary of the Story

Feathered Friend by Arthur C. Clarke is a humorous yet thoughtful science fiction story set in a space station. Sven Olsen secretly brings a canary, Claribel, aboard. While some astronauts laugh at this, the bird proves her worth when she faints, warning them of low oxygen levels. This helps save their lives. The story highlights the importance of animals, their sensitivity, and the bond between humans and other creatures. It shows that even in a world of science and technology, simple natural companions can be life-savers.

Lesson 2: Magnifying Glass – Walter de la Mare

Before the Text

Q1. Have you used a magnifying glass? What did you observe?
Ans. Yes, I used it to look at leaves, insects, and small print. It made tiny details look bigger and clearer.

Q2. Why do children enjoy using magnifying glasses?
Ans. Because they make small things appear large and magical, sparking curiosity and fun.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. What does the child do with the magnifying glass?
Ans. The child looks at everyday objects—ant, letters, hair, dust, leaf—and discovers hidden details.

Q2. What does the poem suggest about curiosity?
Ans. That curiosity turns ordinary things into exciting discoveries.

Q3. Why does the poet use a child’s point of view?
Ans. To show innocence, wonder, and the joy of exploring small things.

Q4. How does the magnifying glass change the child’s world?
Ans. It makes common objects appear extraordinary, teaching that science reveals hidden beauty.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. What objects does the child observe first?
Ans. An ant and printed letters.

Q2. Why does the ant look different?
Ans. It looks huge and strange through the magnifying glass.

Q3. What does this show about science tools?
Ans. That simple tools help us see the world in new ways.

Extract 2

Q1. What other things did the child see?
Ans. A hair, a leaf, and tiny specks of dust.

Q2. How did these things appear?
Ans. Large, detailed, and sometimes surprising.

Q3. What feelings do these discoveries bring?
Ans. Excitement, wonder, and curiosity to explore more.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. The joy of curiosity and how science tools like magnifying glasses reveal hidden wonders.

Q2. Why is the magnifying glass compared to magic?
Ans. Because it transforms ordinary things into something extraordinary.

Q3. How does the poem connect science and imagination?
Ans. By showing how observation creates amazement, mixing knowledge with wonder.

Q4. What values does the poem teach children?
Ans. Curiosity, observation, creativity, and love for learning.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Magnify → Enlarge
- Tiny → Small, minute
- Strange → Unusual
- Discover → Find
Q2. Antonyms:
- Big × Small
- Clear × Blurred
- Magic × Ordinary
- Known × Unknown
Writing Task

Q. Imagine you are a child with a magnifying glass. Write a short poem or paragraph about what you see.

Ans.
Through my tiny magic glass,
I see the world in class.
A leaf becomes a forest deep,
An ant a giant, on a leap.
Dust like planets in the sky,
So much wonder meets my eye.

Summary of the Poem

Magnifying Glass by Walter de la Mare captures the curiosity of a child exploring the world with a magnifying glass. Simple things like ants, leaves, dust, and letters become extraordinary under the lens. The poem blends science and imagination, showing that curiosity and observation turn everyday life into a magical discovery.

Lesson 3: Bibha Chowdhuri – The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science

Before the Text

Q1. Do you know any famous Indian women scientists?
Ans. Yes, like Kalpana Chawla (astronaut), Janaki Ammal (botanist), and Tessy Thomas (missile scientist).

Q2. Why is it important to highlight women scientists?
Ans. Because their contributions inspire future generations and show that science belongs to everyone.

Q3. What qualities are needed to succeed in science?
Ans. Curiosity, hard work, patience, observation, and determination.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Who was Bibha Chowdhuri?
Ans. She was India’s first woman particle physicist and a pioneer in cosmic ray research.

Q2. With whom did she work in England?
Ans. With Nobel Prize winner Patrick Blackett at the University of Manchester.

Q3. What was her contribution to physics?
Ans. She studied cosmic rays and particles like mesons, making important discoveries in particle physics.

Q4. What role did she play in India after independence?
Ans. She worked at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and later at the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics in Kolkata.

Q5. How was she honoured later?
Ans. The International Astronomical Union named a star, “Bibha,” after her in 2017.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why was it difficult for Bibha to pursue science in her time?
Ans. Because women faced gender bias and very few studied science in the 1930s.

Q2. What does her success prove?
Ans. That determination and talent can overcome social barriers.

Q3. What values are shown in her life?
Ans. Courage, dedication, and passion for knowledge.

Extract 2

Q1. Why was Bibha’s work not widely recognised in her lifetime?
Ans. Because she worked in a male-dominated field where women’s contributions were often overlooked.

Q2. How does naming a star after her give justice?
Ans. It immortalises her name, shining as a symbol of inspiration for future scientists.

Q3. What lesson can students learn from her?
Ans. To never give up, to break barriers, and to follow curiosity with perseverance.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why is Bibha Chowdhuri called “a beam of light”?
Ans. Because like light, she illuminated the path for women in science and inspired others.

Q2. What field of science did she specialise in?
Ans. Particle physics and cosmic ray research.

Q3. How did she contribute to Indian science after returning?
Ans. By teaching, guiding young scientists, and doing research at top Indian institutes.

Q4. What does her story tell us about women in science?
Ans. That though women faced challenges, they made pioneering contributions with courage and brilliance.

Q5. How can we continue her legacy today?
Ans. By encouraging girls in STEM fields, supporting equality, and recognising women scientists.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Beam → Ray
- Pioneer → Trailblazer
- Inspire → Motivate
- Honour → Respect
Q2. Antonyms:
- Success × Failure
- Recognised × Ignored
- Early × Late
- Male-dominated × Equal
Writing Task

Q. Write a short biographical sketch of Bibha Chowdhuri.

Ans.
Bibha Chowdhuri (1913–1991) was India’s first woman particle physicist. She studied physics at the University of Calcutta and later worked with Nobel Laureate Patrick Blackett in England on cosmic rays. Returning to India, she worked at TIFR and the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics. Despite facing gender bias, she made pioneering contributions to particle physics. In 2017, a star was named “Bibha” in her honour. She remains an inspiration for all who wish to break barriers in science.

Summary of the Lesson

This lesson tells the story of Bibha Chowdhuri, India’s first woman particle physicist. At a time when very few women studied science, she became a pioneer in cosmic ray research and worked with Nobel laureates. She contributed greatly to Indian science after independence but did not receive the recognition she deserved during her lifetime. Later, a star was named after her. Her life teaches us the values of determination, courage, and the importance of recognising women in science.
September 6, 2025
Unit – 4, Class 8th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson 1: The Cherry Tree – Ruskin Bond

Before the Text

Q1. Have you ever planted a tree or a sapling? What was the experience like?
Ans. Yes, I planted a neem sapling. Watching it grow gave me joy and taught me patience.

Q2. Why is it important to plant trees?
Ans. Because they give us oxygen, shade, fruits, wood, and help balance the environment.

Q3. How do you feel when you see a tree you planted grow?
Ans. Proud and happy, like taking care of a friend and watching it thrive.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Who planted the cherry seed?
Ans. Rakesh, a boy living in the hills.

Q2. Where did he plant it?
Ans. In a corner of his grandfather’s garden, near a dry stony ground.

Q3. What difficulties did the plant face?
Ans. It was eaten by a goat, cut by a grass-cutter, and once almost dried up in summer.

Q4. How did the cherry tree survive?
Ans. Despite struggles, it grew slowly and strongly with nature’s care—rain, sun, and soil.

Q5. What did the tree look like after four years?
Ans. It grew tall, blossomed with pink flowers, and bore small cherries.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why was Rakesh curious about the seed?
Ans. Because he wanted to see how something so small could grow into a tree.

Q2. What does his act of planting show?
Ans. His love for nature and eagerness to learn.

Q3. What lesson does this extract give us?
Ans. That small actions, like planting a seed, can lead to great results.

Extract 2

Q1. How did the tree reflect the cycle of nature?
Ans. It faced heat, rain, animals, and humans, but continued to grow, showing resilience of life.

Q2. What does the cherry tree symbolize?
Ans. Patience, hope, and the rewards of nurturing nature.

Q3. How did Rakesh and his grandfather feel seeing the blossoms?
Ans. Proud, amazed, and grateful to nature.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why did Rakesh plant the cherry seed?
Ans. Out of curiosity and encouragement from his grandfather.

Q2. How did the goat and grass-cutter affect the plant?
Ans. The goat ate its leaves, and the grass-cutter cut it to the ground.

Q3. Why is nature called a true caretaker in the story?
Ans. Because despite troubles, nature—sunlight, rain, and soil—helped the seed grow into a tree.

Q4. What values do we learn from the cherry tree’s survival?
Ans. Perseverance, patience, and respect for nature.

Q5. How is the story an example of “Environment” theme?
Ans. It shows the bond between humans and nature, and how planting trees sustains life.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Curious → Eager
- Blossom → Flower
- Survive → Continue, endure
- Proud → Glad, happy
Q2. Antonyms:
- Plant × Uproot
- Strong × Weak
- Hope × Despair
- Life × Death
Writing Task

Q. Write a short paragraph on “A Tree I Love.”
Ans. I love the banyan tree in my village. It is huge, with thick roots and branches that spread like a roof. Birds nest in it, and children play under its shade. For me, it is not just a tree but a living companion that has seen many generations.

Summary of the Story

The Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond is about Rakesh, a boy who plants a cherry seed in his grandfather’s garden. The sapling faces many struggles—being eaten by a goat, cut down, and dried by the sun. But with the care of nature, it grows into a beautiful tree with blossoms and cherries after four years. Rakesh and his grandfather feel joy and pride at its growth. The story teaches us the values of patience, perseverance, and love for nature.

Lesson 2: Harvest Hymn – Sarojini Naidu

Before the Text

Q1. Why do farmers pray during harvest time?
Ans. To thank God for the crops and to ask for blessings for a good yield and prosperity.

Q2. How are festivals like Pongal, Baisakhi, or Onam related to harvest?
Ans. They are celebrated by farmers after harvesting crops, to express gratitude and joy.

Q3. Why is agriculture important for our country?
Ans. Because it provides food, raw materials, and livelihood for millions of people.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. To whom is the poem addressed?
Ans. To God, as a prayer of gratitude and request for blessings on the fields.

Q2. What do the farmers ask from God?
Ans. To bless their fields, protect them from pests, storms, and droughts, and grant them rich harvests.

Q3. What images of nature are used in the poem?
Ans. Fields, golden corn, green pastures, rain, sunshine, and storms.

Q4. Why is the poem called a “hymn”?
Ans. Because it is written like a prayer or song of devotion.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. What is meant by “Lord of the harvest”?
Ans. God, who is believed to control nature and crops.

Q2. Why do farmers call themselves “children of earth”?
Ans. Because they live close to the soil and depend on it for survival.

Q3. What values are reflected in these lines?
Ans. Humility, gratitude, and devotion.

Extract 2

Q1. What dangers do farmers fear?
Ans. Pests, floods, droughts, and storms destroying their crops.

Q2. How do they seek God’s help?
Ans. By praying for protection, sunshine, and rain in proper measure.

Q3. What tone do these lines carry?
Ans. Hopeful, humble, and devotional.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why is farming described as a partnership between humans and God?
Ans. Because farmers work hard, but they depend on God’s blessings like rain and sunshine for crops to grow.

Q2. What message does the poem give us?
Ans. To respect nature, be grateful, and pray for balance in the environment.

Q3. How does the poem highlight the link between nature and human life?
Ans. By showing that human survival depends on fields, rain, and natural forces.

Q4. Why is Sarojini Naidu called the “Nightingale of India”?
Ans. Because of her melodious, lyrical poetry expressing deep emotions about nature, patriotism, and life.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Hymn → Prayer, song
- Harvest → Yield, crops
- Bless → Protect, favour
- Earth → Soil, land
Q2. Antonyms:
- Golden × Pale
- Hope × Despair
- Calm × Storm
- Life × Death
Writing Task

Q. Write a short prayer thanking nature for food.

Ans.
“O God of nature, we thank you for the sun that shines, the rain that falls, and the soil that gives us food. Bless the farmers who work hard and protect our fields from harm. May all people share the harvest with joy and gratitude.”

Summary of the Poem

Harvest Hymn by Sarojini Naidu is a prayer-poem sung by farmers. They ask God, the “Lord of the harvest,” to bless their crops, protect them from pests and storms, and give them prosperity. The poem uses beautiful images of fields, sunshine, and rain. It reflects the farmers’ humility, gratitude, and dependence on nature. The central message is that human life depends on nature’s blessings, and we should live with gratitude and devotion.

Lesson 3: Waiting for the Rain – Kamakshi Balasubramanian

Before the Text

Q1. How do people feel when it doesn’t rain for a long time?
Ans. They feel worried, helpless, and anxious because crops, animals, and daily life suffer.

Q2. Why is rain so important in villages?
Ans. Because it provides water for farming, drinking, and daily use—villages mostly depend on rainfall.

Q3. Have you experienced the first rain of the season? How does it feel?
Ans. Yes, it feels refreshing, joyful, and fills the air with a pleasant smell of wet earth.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Where does this story take place?
Ans. In a village suffering from drought.

Q2. Who is the main character?
Ans. A boy named Arjun, who lives with his family.

Q3. What were the villagers waiting for?
Ans. They were waiting desperately for rain to save their crops and lives.

Q4. How did drought affect the people?
Ans. Wells dried up, crops failed, cattle starved, and people became restless.

Q5. How did Arjun’s family respond to the drought?
Ans. They worried about survival but tried to remain hopeful for rain.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why did Arjun’s father look up at the sky so often?
Ans. To check for rain clouds with hope and anxiety.

Q2. What did the parched land symbolise?
Ans. Helplessness of farmers and the dependence on rain.

Q3. What values are shown in the villagers’ behaviour?
Ans. Patience, endurance, and unity in suffering.

Extract 2

Q1. What was the change when the first drops fell?
Ans. The dry earth smelled sweet, people danced with joy, and nature looked alive again.

Q2. How did the rain bring relief?
Ans. It filled tanks and wells, revived crops, and gave hope to the villagers.

Q3. What does the arrival of rain symbolise?
Ans. New life, hope, and the cycle of renewal in nature.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why were the villagers desperate for rain?
Ans. Because without rain they had no water for crops, animals, or daily needs.

Q2. How did the drought affect children like Arjun?
Ans. They felt anxious, hungry, and watched their parents’ struggles with fear.

Q3. What was the mood of the village before and after the rain?
Ans. Before → tense, hopeless, and silent.
After → joyful, lively, and full of celebration.

Q4. What lesson do we learn from the villagers’ experience?
Ans. To value water, use it carefully, and respect nature’s role in our survival.

Q5. How is this story related to “Environment”?
Ans. It shows human dependence on rain, the dangers of drought, and the importance of conserving water.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Parched → Dry
- Drought → Lack of rain
- Relief → Comfort
- Joy → Happiness
Q2. Antonyms:
- Wet × Dry
- Full × Empty
- Hope × Despair
- Alive × Dead
Writing Task

Q. Write a diary entry as Arjun on the day the rain came.

Ans.
Dear Diary,
Today was the happiest day of my life! After so many weeks of waiting, dark clouds covered the sky. Suddenly, drops of rain fell, and the earth smelled wonderful. Everyone in the village came out—some danced, some prayed, all were smiling. Wells are filling again, and our crops will grow. The rain has given us new hope.
– Arjun

📚 Summary of the Story

Waiting for the Rain by Kamakshi Balasubramanian describes life in a drought-hit village through the eyes of a boy, Arjun. The villagers wait anxiously as their crops and cattle suffer. The parched earth reflects their despair. Finally, when the rain arrives, it transforms the scene into joy, relief, and celebration. The story highlights the importance of water and teaches us to value nature, conserve resources, and live with patience and hope.
September 6, 2025
Unit – 3, Class 8th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson 1: The Case of the Fifth Word

(Adapted from Donald J. Sobol’s Encyclopedia Brown stories)

Before the Text

Q1. Do you like detective stories? Why/Why not?
Ans. Yes, because they are full of suspense, puzzles, and clever solutions.

Q2. What qualities should a good detective have?
Ans. Sharp observation, logical thinking, patience, courage, and honesty.

Q3. Can children be detectives? Give reasons.
Ans. Yes, because children are curious, observant, and sometimes notice details adults miss.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Who was Encyclopedia Brown?
Ans. A young boy detective, son of the police chief, who solved mysteries using logic and keen observation.

Q2. What was the mystery in this story?
Ans. Bugs Meany accused Willy Armstrong of cheating in a contest by using five words instead of four in his slogan.

Q3. What was the contest about?
Ans. A supermarket contest where participants had to complete the slogan:
“Supermarket prices are low. You get more at …” in four words only.

Q4. What did Willy write?
Ans. “Supermarket prices are low. You get more at Supermart, not at a competitor.”

Q5. Why did Bugs say it was five words?
Ans. Because he claimed “a competitor” counted as two separate words.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why was Bugs angry with Willy?
Ans. Because Willy had written a better slogan and Bugs wanted to win.

Q2. What did Bugs demand?
Ans. That Willy should be disqualified for using five words.

Q3. How did Encyclopedia Brown solve the puzzle?
Ans. He explained that “a competitor” was treated as one idea in the contest slogan, so Willy’s answer had only four words.

Q4. What qualities of Encyclopedia Brown are shown here?
Ans. Intelligence, logical reasoning, fairness, and confidence.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What was Bugs’ nature?
Ans. He was quarrelsome, jealous, and always tried to bully others.

Q2. How did Encyclopedia Brown prove Willy’s slogan was correct?
Ans. By showing that “a competitor” was not two words but a single idea, making the total four words.

Q3. Why is the story titled “The Case of the Fifth Word”?
Ans. Because the whole mystery revolved around whether Willy had used a fifth word or not.

Q4. What values can we learn from Encyclopedia Brown?
Ans. To think carefully, be fair, and solve problems with logic instead of anger.

Q5. What lesson do we learn from this case?
Ans. That truth and reasoning win over bullying and dishonesty.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Quarrel → Argument
- Competitor → Rival
- Mystery → Puzzle
- Idea → Thought
Q2. Antonyms:
- Fair × Unfair
- Angry × Calm
- Win × Lose
- Friend × Enemy
Writing Task

Q. Imagine you are Encyclopedia Brown. Write a diary entry about how you solved the case.

Ans.
Dear Diary,
Today Bugs tried to bully Willy Armstrong at the supermarket contest. He claimed Willy used five words instead of four. Everyone was confused, but I read the slogan carefully. I noticed that “a competitor” was one idea, not two words. I explained it clearly, and Willy was proved right. Once again, logic and fairness solved the mystery!
– Encyclopedia

Summary of the Story

The Case of the Fifth Word is a detective story about Encyclopedia Brown, a boy detective. In a supermarket contest, Bugs Meany accused Willy Armstrong of cheating by using five words in his slogan instead of four. Encyclopedia Brown carefully examined the slogan and explained that “a competitor” was one idea, so the answer had only four words. Willy was declared correct, and Bugs was defeated. The story teaches us that wit, reasoning, and honesty can solve problems and overcome dishonesty.

Lesson 2: The Magic Brush of Dreams

Before the Text

Q1. Do you like stories or poems about magic? Why?
Ans. Yes, because they make us imagine wonderful possibilities beyond ordinary life.

Q2. What would you create if you had a magic brush?
Ans. (Example:) I would paint a library that never ends, or food for all hungry people.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. That imagination is powerful and can create magical worlds through dreams and art.

Q2. What is the “magic brush of dreams”?
Ans. It is a symbol of creativity and imagination that can bring to life whatever one imagines.

Q3. How does the poet describe the magic brush?
Ans. As a tool that paints wishes into reality—palaces, gardens, rivers, and adventures.

Q4. Why does the poet mix dreams with reality?
Ans. To show that creativity can transform life and that all great achievements begin as dreams.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. What does the brush paint first?
Ans. It paints beautiful scenes like flowers, gardens, and palaces.

Q2. Why is this magical?
Ans. Because ordinary strokes create extraordinary things that normally cannot appear instantly.

Q3. What does this tell us about imagination?
Ans. Imagination can make life colourful and limitless.

Extract 2

Q1. What happens when the brush paints adventures?
Ans. It creates rivers, ships, and journeys that take the dreamer to new places.

Q2. What feelings do these images create?
Ans. Wonder, excitement, and joy of exploration.

Q3. Why does the poet use rich imagery?
Ans. To help readers see, feel, and enjoy the magic in their own imagination.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What is the main message of the poem?
Ans. Creativity and imagination are like a magic brush that can change the world.

Q2. What values does the poem teach us?
Ans. To dream big, be creative, and use imagination for good purposes.

Q3. How is this poem an example of “mystery and magic”?
Ans. Because it describes magical powers of painting dreams into reality.

Q4. Why do children enjoy such poems?
Ans. Because they spark imagination and make the impossible seem possible.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Magic → Enchantment
- Dream → Vision
- Paint → Colour, depict
- Create → Build, form
Q2. Antonyms:
- Real × Imaginary
- Dull × Bright
- Ordinary × Extraordinary
- Limited × Unlimited
Writing Task

Q. Imagine you had a magic brush. Write 4–5 sentences about what you would paint.

Ans.
If I had a magic brush, I would paint food for all hungry people in the world. I would create schools in every village so that all children could study. I would draw forests full of animals and rivers full of clean water. My brush would make the earth a happy and beautiful place.

Summary of the Poem

The Magic Brush of Dreams is a poem that celebrates imagination. It describes a magical brush that paints not just objects but also wishes, adventures, and dreams. The poet shows how creativity can bring joy, colour, and wonder to life. The poem conveys that imagination is powerful, and with creativity we can shape a brighter future.

Lesson 3: Spectacular Wonders

Before the Text

Q1. What comes to your mind when you hear the word “wonder”?
Ans. Something rare, extraordinary, or breathtaking like the Taj Mahal or the Grand Canyon.

Q2. What wonders of nature have you seen?
Ans. (Example:) Waterfalls, caves, mountain ranges, or coral reefs.

Q3. Why are such wonders important?
Ans. Because they inspire awe, attract visitors, and remind us of nature’s power and beauty.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Which natural wonders are described in the lesson?
Ans.
1. Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya
2. Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh
3. Borra Caves of Andhra Pradesh
4. Loktak Lake in Manipur
Q2. What makes the Living Root Bridges special?
Ans. They are made naturally from roots of rubber trees, shaped by people over centuries.

Q3. Why are the Marble Rocks unique?
Ans. Because the river Narmada has cut through marble cliffs, making white shining rocks and waterfalls.

Q4. What is mysterious about the Borra Caves?
Ans. The limestone caves have strange shapes of stalactites and stalagmites that look like animals, gods, and objects.

Q5. Why is Loktak Lake important?
Ans. It is famous for its floating islands (phumdis) and as the habitat of the rare Sangai deer.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. How do the people of Meghalaya use the root bridges?
Ans. They use them as natural pathways across rivers and streams.

Q2. What does this show about their relationship with nature?
Ans. It shows harmony, patience, and respect for nature.

Q3. What values can we learn from this?
Ans. Sustainable living and creativity in using natural resources.

Extract 2

Q1. What sights make the Marble Rocks magical?
Ans. The gleaming white rocks, tall cliffs, and the Dhuandhar waterfall.

Q2. Why do people find them mysterious at night?
Ans. Because moonlight makes the rocks glow, creating an enchanting view.

Extract 3

Q1. How are stalactites and stalagmites formed?
Ans. By deposition of minerals from dripping water over thousands of years.

Q2. Why do visitors see shapes in them?
Ans. Because their natural forms resemble animals, humans, and divine figures.

Extract 4

Q1. What are phumdis?
Ans. Floating islands of vegetation on Loktak Lake.

Q2. Why is the Sangai deer special?
Ans. It is rare, endangered, and found only in Manipur.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What makes India a land of spectacular wonders?
Ans. Its unique geography with caves, rivers, lakes, and natural marvels.

Q2. How do such wonders attract tourism?
Ans. Visitors come to see their beauty and mystery, boosting local culture and economy.

Q3. Why should we preserve these natural wonders?
Ans. To protect biodiversity, maintain ecological balance, and keep heritage alive for future generations.

Q4. Which wonder would you like to visit and why?
Ans. (Example:) Loktak Lake, because floating islands and rare animals sound magical.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Wonder → Marvel
- Rare → Unique
- Preserve → Protect
- Mystery → Secret
Q2. Antonyms:
- Natural × Artificial
- Strong × Weak
- Ancient × Modern
- Safe × Unsafe
Writing Task

Q. Write a short paragraph on “Why we must preserve natural wonders.”
Ans. Natural wonders are treasures of our planet. They show the creativity of nature and give us joy. They also support biodiversity and help tourism. If we damage them, we lose beauty, history, and balance in the environment. Therefore, it is our duty to protect and preserve them.

Summary of the Lesson

Spectacular Wonders introduces some of India’s natural marvels: the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya, the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, the Borra Caves, and Loktak Lake of Manipur. Each of these places combines beauty, mystery, and cultural importance. The lesson teaches us that India’s landscapes are magical, and we must protect them. It highlights values of sustainability, respect for nature, and wonder at creation.
September 6, 2025
Unit – 2, Class 8th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson 1: A Tale of Valour – Major Somnath Sharma

Before the Text

Q1. What do you think about the Republic Day Parade on 26 January?
Ans. It is a grand celebration that showcases India’s cultural diversity, military strength, and unity.

Q2. What are the highlights of this parade?
Ans. Tableaux from states, school performances, bravery awards, and the display of armed forces.

Q3. What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Ans. Gallantry awards such as Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra are awarded to soldiers for acts of extraordinary bravery.

Q4. What qualities should a soldier have?
Ans. Courage, discipline, loyalty, patriotism, self-sacrifice, and determination.

Q5. If you had to share a message with a soldier, what would it be?
Ans. “We are safe because of your courage. Your sacrifice inspires us to serve the nation in our own way.”

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 59)

Q. Arrange the following events in chronological order:
1. Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
2. He trained at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
3. Commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
4. D Company, under his command, was flown into Srinagar.
5. Requested air strikes at Badgam.
6. Killed by a mortar shell in the battle.
7. Soldiers continued fighting even after his death to save Srinagar.
8. He was awarded the first Param Vir Chakra.
Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 60–61)

Extract 1
(i) Inference → B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
(ii) He continued to lead because → he wanted to inspire his men and protect Srinagar.
(iii) Assertion–Reason → A. Both are true, and (R) explains (A).
(iv) Fill word → injuries.

Extract 2
(i) Early influences → C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and duty.
(ii) True/False → False (not mentioned he was wealthy).
(iii) Phrase meaning → He performed duties with dedication, honour, and excellence.
(iv) Word for “visually charming” → picturesque.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What is the significance of “forever alive, forever alive”?
Ans. The repetition emphasizes that Major Somnath’s courage will never be forgotten.

Q2. Why was his leadership critical during the Battle of Badgam?
Ans. His courage, planning, and orders motivated his men to resist until reinforcements arrived.

Q3. What were his last words? What do they show?
Ans. “I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”
They reflect his unshakable duty, bravery, and sacrifice.

Q4. What might have happened if his company had not held ground?
Ans. The enemy would have captured Srinagar airport and Kashmir, changing history.

Q5. Why does his story inspire us even today?
Ans. Because it shows how selflessness and courage can save a nation.

Q6. How can his values apply to our lives?
Ans. By being brave in difficulties, performing our duty sincerely, and making sacrifices for others.

Lesson 2: Somebody’s Mother – Mary Dow Brine

Before the Text

Q1. What do you do when you see an old person struggling to cross the road?
Ans. I try to help them cross safely or stop vehicles until they cross.

Q2. Why should we show respect to elders?
Ans. Because they have experience, wisdom, and deserve care and dignity.

Q3. What values do we learn from helping elders?
Ans. Kindness, empathy, responsibility, and humanity.

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 67)

Q1. How did the woman look?
Ans. Old, poor, weak, with tattered clothes and anxious eyes.

Q2. Why was she afraid to cross?
Ans. Because the road was crowded and slippery, and she was too frail to walk quickly.

Q3. How did the schoolboy help her?
Ans. He offered his arm and carefully guided her across the busy road.

Q4. How did the crowd react?
Ans. They just watched but did not help; only the boy stepped forward.

Q5. What did the boy think after helping her?
Ans. That someone would help his own mother in her old age, just as he helped this woman.

Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 68–69)

Extract 1

Q1. Why did the old woman wait?
Ans. Because she was scared of falling or being hurt on the crowded road.

Q2. What was the crowd doing?
Ans. People were rushing by but nobody stopped to help her.

Q3. What qualities of the woman are shown here?
Ans. Patience, helplessness, and fear.

Q4. What do we learn from this situation?
Ans. That we should be aware of others’ needs and show kindness without waiting for others to act.

Extract 2

Q1. What did the boy do for the old woman?
Ans. He took her hand and led her safely across the road.

Q2. What thought comforted him?
Ans. That someone would show the same kindness to his own mother when she needed help.

Q3. What is the message of the poem?
Ans. That small acts of kindness can make a big difference and will come back to us in the future.

Q4. What quality of the boy do you admire?
Ans. His compassion, selflessness, and respect for elders.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why is the poem called “Somebody’s Mother”?
Ans. Because the old woman, though poor and unknown, was precious to someone as a mother.

Q2. Why did others ignore the old woman?
Ans. They were too busy and indifferent to notice her need.

Q3. How does the poem highlight the contrast between the crowd and the boy?
Ans. The crowd was indifferent, but the boy was kind and thoughtful.

Q4. What values does the poem teach us?
Ans. Compassion, respect for elders, empathy, and humanity.

Q5. How can we practice this lesson in our daily life?
Ans. By helping the needy, respecting elders, and offering kindness without expecting rewards.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Pick synonyms:
- Poor → Needy, destitute
- Afraid → Scared, fearful
- Help → Assist, aid
- Old → Aged, elderly
Q2. Write antonyms:
- Kind × Cruel
- Weak × Strong
- Safe × Unsafe
- Rich × Poor
Writing Task

Q. Write a paragraph on the importance of small acts of kindness.
Ans. Small acts of kindness make the world a better place. Helping an old person, comforting a friend, or sharing with the needy are simple actions but have deep impact. Kindness not only helps others but also brings peace and happiness to us. As shown in the poem, the boy’s small act of helping an old woman became a great lesson in humanity.

Summary of the Poem

Somebody’s Mother by Mary Dow Brine is about a poor old woman waiting to cross a busy road. The crowd ignores her, but one schoolboy helps her cross safely. The boy feels comforted, believing someone will help his own mother in the future. The poem conveys the values of compassion, empathy, and respect for elders, showing that even small acts of kindness are noble and timeless.

Lesson 3: I Too Had a Dream – Verghese Kurien

Before the Text

Q1. Do you drink milk every day? Why is it important?
Ans. Yes, milk gives us protein, calcium, and energy. It helps in growth and keeps our bones strong.

Q2. What do you know about “Operation Flood”?
Ans. It was a dairy development programme started in India to increase milk production and make India the largest producer of milk in the world.

Q3. What qualities are needed for a person to serve society?
Ans. Honesty, dedication, hard work, and a vision to improve people’s lives.

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 77–78)

Q1. What did Verghese Kurien study abroad?
Ans. He studied mechanical engineering and dairy engineering.

Q2. Why did he want to leave Anand at first?
Ans. Because he was sent there for a government job but didn’t like the small town.

Q3. Who convinced him to stay in Anand?
Ans. Tribhuvandas Patel, a freedom fighter and farmer leader.

Q4. What was the situation of farmers before the milk cooperative?
Ans. Farmers were exploited by middlemen and got very little money for their milk.

Q5. What change came after the cooperative movement?
Ans. Farmers began selling milk directly through cooperatives, earning fair prices and improving their lives.

Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 79–80)

Extract 1

Q1. What made Kurien stay back in Anand?
Ans. The trust of farmers and the chance to serve them motivated him to stay.

Q2. What values guided his decision?
Ans. Service, compassion, and social responsibility.

Q3. What does the phrase “white revolution” mean?
Ans. It refers to the increase in milk production and self-sufficiency in India’s dairy sector.

Extract 2

Q1. What was Kurien’s vision for India?
Ans. To empower farmers, make India self-sufficient in milk, and uplift rural communities.

Q2. What role did farmers play in this success?
Ans. Farmers united under cooperatives, worked together, and became owners of the dairy movement.

Q3. What is the tone of the passage?
Ans. Inspiring and hopeful.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why is Verghese Kurien called the “Father of the White Revolution”?
Ans. Because he led India’s milk cooperative movement and made India the world’s largest producer of milk.

Q2. How did Amul become successful?
Ans. By uniting farmers under cooperatives, eliminating middlemen, and ensuring quality milk products.

Q3. What values can we learn from Kurien’s life?
Ans. Dedication, service to society, leadership, and belief in the power of cooperation.

Q4. What might have happened if he had left Anand?
Ans. The cooperative movement would have failed, and farmers would have remained poor and exploited.

Q5. How can students apply Kurien’s example in their own lives?
Ans. By working hard, being honest, and using their knowledge to help society.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:
- Exploit → misuse, take advantage
- Cooperative → teamwork, association
- Vision → dream, goal
- Empower → strengthen, enable
Q2. Antonyms:
- Success × Failure
- Unite × Divide
- Rich × Poor
- Rural × Urban
Writing Task

Q. Write a short paragraph on “Why cooperation is important in society.”
Ans. Cooperation is the key to progress. When people work together, they can solve bigger problems. Just like farmers in Amul united to fight exploitation, cooperation in families, schools, and communities helps achieve goals faster and better. It teaches teamwork, equality, and collective responsibility.

Summary of the Lesson

I Too Had a Dream is the story of Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution. After studying abroad, he came to Anand reluctantly but was persuaded to stay by Tribhuvandas Patel. Seeing the exploitation of farmers, Kurien devoted his life to building cooperatives like Amul. This brought fair prices, empowered farmers, and made India the world’s largest milk producer. His life teaches us that dedication, cooperation, and service to society can transform a nation.
September 6, 2025
Unit – 1, Class 8th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson 1: The Wit that Won Hearts

Before the Text

Q1. Who was Krishnadeva Raya?
Ans. He was a famous emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India, known for his justice, bravery, and encouragement of art and learning.

Q2. Who was Tenali Rama?
Ans. He was a witty poet and advisor in Krishnadeva Raya’s court, known for his intelligence, humour, and presence of mind.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Why did the king of Vijayanagara hold court every day?
Ans. To discuss matters of state, hear grievances, and take advice from his courtiers.

Q2. Why did the court become dull sometimes?
Ans. Because most ministers gave the same kind of answers and only flattered the king instead of being original.

Q3. How did Tenali Rama make the court lively?
Ans. With his wit, humour, and clever remarks, which entertained the king and taught lessons at the same time.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. Why was the king not amused by the courtiers?
Ans. Because their words were repetitive, insincere, and boring.

Q2. What did Tenali Rama do differently?
Ans. He spoke with wit, wisdom, and humour, which impressed everyone.

Q3. What does the phrase “win hearts” mean here?
Ans. To gain admiration, love, and respect of others.

Extract 2

Q1. How did the courtiers feel about Tenali Rama?
Ans. Some admired him, but many were jealous because the king appreciated him most.

Q2. Why did the king value Tenali Rama?
Ans. Because he was bold, intelligent, and made even serious matters easy through humour.

Q3. Which quality of Tenali Rama do you like the most? Why?
Ans. (Personal – Example:) His quick wit, because he could solve problems smartly and make people laugh at the same time.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What was special about Tenali Rama’s wit?
Ans. It was not only funny but also wise, giving lessons in justice and common sense.

Q2. How did Tenali Rama “win hearts”?
Ans. By entertaining the king and courtiers, solving problems cleverly, and teaching lessons through humour.

Q3. Why did some courtiers dislike Tenali Rama?
Ans. Because they were jealous of the attention and rewards he received from the king.

Q4. What lesson do we learn from Tenali Rama’s life?
Ans. That wit and wisdom are more powerful than flattery, and honesty with intelligence always wins.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Pick synonyms for ‘wit’ from the lesson.
Ans. Humour, intelligence, cleverness.

Q2. Write antonyms of:
- Amused × Bored
- Bold × Timid
- Wise × Foolish
- Friend × Enemy
Writing Task

Q1. Write a short paragraph on why wit is important in life.
Ans. Wit is important because it helps us face challenges with intelligence and humour. A witty person can solve problems quickly, avoid conflicts, and make others happy. Wit is not just about being funny but also about being wise and practical.

Summary of the Lesson

The Wit that Won Hearts is about Tenali Rama, a witty courtier in the court of Krishnadeva Raya. While other courtiers only flattered the king, Tenali Rama used his cleverness and humour to entertain and teach lessons. The king valued him because he made the court lively, solved problems wisely, and “won the hearts” of people. The story highlights that intelligence combined with humour is more powerful than flattery or empty praise.

Lesson 2: A Concrete Example – Reginald Arkell

Before the Text

Q1. What does the word ‘concrete’ mean in the title?
Ans. It has two meanings – (i) building material, and (ii) something real and solid, not just an idea. The poet uses it humorously with both meanings.

Q2. What do you think the poem is about?
Ans. About a man who fell on concrete and became a “concrete example” for others.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. What happened to the man in the poem?
Ans. He slipped and fell on the hard concrete road.

Q2. Why did people call him a “concrete example”?
Ans. Because he fell on concrete and became a real-life example of carelessness.

Q3. How is humour created in the poem?
Ans. Through the pun on the word “concrete,” light tone, and exaggeration of a simple fall.

Q4. Why do you think the poet wrote such a short and simple poem?
Ans. To give a quick humorous lesson that carelessness leads to accidents.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. What does “this is a concrete example” mean?
Ans. It means both literally (falling on concrete) and figuratively (a lesson for others).

Q2. Why do you think the poet used very simple words?
Ans. To make the humour clear and easy for everyone to understand.

Q3. What is the tone of the poem?
Ans. Light, humorous, and playful.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. What is the central idea of the poem?
Ans. Carelessness can lead to accidents, and we can learn lessons even from small incidents.

Q2. What is the pun in the poem?
Ans. The word “concrete” is used both as a noun (the road surface) and as an adjective (a real example).

Q3. How does the poem show wit?
Ans. By using wordplay and humour to turn a simple accident into a funny lesson.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Write synonyms of ‘example’.
Ans. Model, illustration, case, instance.

Q2. Write antonyms of:
- Careless × Careful
- Hard × Soft
- Fall × Rise
- Real × Imaginary
Writing Task

Q1. Write two humorous lines like the poem, using wordplay.
Ans.
1. He burned his tongue on hot soup, a spicy example of impatience.
2. She tripped on the stairs, a stepping example of carelessness.
Summary of the Poem

A Concrete Example is a short humorous poem by Reginald Arkell. It describes a careless man who slipped and fell on a concrete road. The poet cleverly plays on the word “concrete” – the man fell on concrete and also became a real-life “concrete example” of carelessness. With wit and humour, the poem teaches us to be careful and shows how even small incidents can be lessons.

Lesson 3: Wisdom Paves the Way – Play (The Four Young Men and the King of Ujjain)

Before the Text

Q1. What do you mean by wisdom?
Ans. Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge, experience, and good judgment to make the right decisions.

Q2. How is wisdom different from knowledge?
Ans. Knowledge is information or facts; wisdom is knowing how to use that knowledge wisely in life.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Who were the four young men?
Ans. They were poor but ambitious Brahmin youths who wanted to learn special skills to improve their lives.

Q2. What did they learn?
Ans. Three of them mastered sciences like creating life and using powers, while the fourth one was wise though less educated.

Q3. Why did they set out to show their learning?
Ans. To prove their knowledge, gain recognition, and use their skills.

Q4. What happened in the forest?
Ans. The three learned men decided to test their powers on the bones of a dead lion.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

Q1. What was the first man’s contribution?
Ans. He collected the bones and arranged them properly.

Q2. What did the second man do?
Ans. He used his science to add flesh and skin to the bones.

Q3. What was the third man about to do?
Ans. He wanted to bring the lion back to life.

Q4. Why did the fourth man stop them?
Ans. Because he was wise enough to see the danger in reviving a lion.

Extract 2

Q1. What did the wise man do while the others worked?
Ans. He quickly climbed up a tree to save himself from danger.

Q2. What happened when the lion came to life?
Ans. The lion killed the three foolish men.

Q3. What lesson does the play teach?
Ans. That wisdom is more important than mere knowledge or skill.

Comprehension Questions

Q1. Why did the three young men lack wisdom?
Ans. Because they were blinded by pride in their knowledge and didn’t think of consequences.

Q2. How did the fourth young man show wisdom?
Ans. By warning the others and saving himself by climbing the tree.

Q3. What is the main difference between knowledge and wisdom in the story?
Ans. Knowledge helped create life, but wisdom prevented foolish actions and saved a life.

Q4. Why is the play called “Wisdom Paves the Way”?
Ans. Because wisdom guided the fourth man safely while the others perished due to lack of it.

Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Find antonyms:
- Wise × Foolish
- Alive × Dead
- Friend × Enemy
- Safe × Unsafe
Q2. Fill in blanks with correct words:
1. The students were full of pride in their knowledge.
2. Only wisdom can prevent misuse of power.
3. He quickly climbed up the tree.
4. The lion killed the three men.
Writing Task

Q1. Write a short paragraph on why wisdom is more valuable than knowledge.
Ans. Wisdom is more valuable than knowledge because knowledge gives us power, but wisdom tells us how to use that power rightly. Without wisdom, knowledge can be dangerous, as shown in the story where three learned men lost their lives, but the wise man survived.

Summary of the Play

Wisdom Paves the Way is a play about four young Brahmins. Three of them had great knowledge of sciences but no wisdom, while the fourth had little learning but much wisdom. To test their skills, the three tried to bring a dead lion back to life. The wise man warned them but was ignored. As the lion came alive, it killed the three, but the wise man saved himself by climbing a tree. The play teaches that knowledge without wisdom is dangerous, and true wisdom is the path to safety and success.
September 6, 2025

Unit – 5, Class 7th English, Poorvi, NCERT

Bravehearts

Lesson 1: A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers

Before the Text

Q1. Whom should every Indian pay homage to?
Ans. Our brave soldiers who defend the nation.

Q2. Write ways to celebrate their victories and honour their sacrifices.

Celebrating Victories	Honouring Sacrifices
Visiting war memorials	Observing Silence on Martyrs’ Day
Organising parades	Supporting families of martyrs
Singing patriotic songs	Building monuments/memorials

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Complete the table of war heroes.

Name of the War Hero	Contribution and Achievement	Award Given
Major Somnath Sharma	Battle of Badgam (1947)	First Param Vir Chakra (PVC) posthumously
Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla	Sacrificed his life in 1971 war as a Navy officer	Maha Vir Chakra (MVC)
Lance Naik Albert Ekka	Displayed courage in 1971 war at Gangasagar	Param Vir Chakra (PVC) posthumously
Major Padmapani Acharya	Kargil War (1999), showed leadership despite injury	Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) posthumously

Q2. Sentences that evoke feelings:

Wonder – “29,000 tablets with more than 26,000 names…”
Heartening – “Government has recognised the sacrifice of brave soldiers…”
Motivation – “I aspire to be courageous like him when I join the army!”
Pride – “It truly is a majestic site that filled me with pride…”
Visually inspiring – “Lighting design transforms the landscape from dawn to dusk.”
Sadness – “The discourses brought tears to my eyes…”
Gratitude – “Freedom and security we enjoy today is because of soldiers.”
Inspiration – “It motivated me to live a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes.”

Q3. Which is India’s highest gallantry award?
Ans. The Param Vir Chakra (PVC).

Q4. How would Ananda feel after reading Soumya’s letter?
Ans. Inspired, proud, and motivated to serve the nation.

Q5. Did Soumya enjoy writing the letter? Why?
Ans. Yes, because she shared her heartfelt emotions and inspiring experience of the National War Memorial.

Think and Reflect (Extracts)

Extract 1:
(i) flame: valour :: wreath: respect
(ii) Lighting design changes the monument’s look and makes it visually appealing.
(iii) “It truly is a majestic site” → opinion.
(iv) Everlasting flame suggests eternal stories of courage.
(v) Tone → Admiring (C).

Extract 2:
(i) “I have heard a lot about it.”
(ii) Because memorials often look like monuments/statues.
(iii) commemorate
(iv) “In my view, it is also an expression of deep gratitude…”
(v) Because they sacrifice their lives to defend the country.

Comprehension Qs

Q1. What is the significance of the National War Memorial?
Ans. It honours fallen soldiers, reminds us of the cost of freedom, and inspires patriotism.

Q2. How did Lance Naik Albert Ekka display courage?
Ans. Despite being wounded, he attacked enemy bunkers, silenced machine guns, and sacrificed his life.

Q3. How is the War Memorial app useful?
Ans. It provides interactive information, murals, and stories in 21 languages to spread awareness.

Q4. Why is it our duty to pay homage to soldiers?
Ans. Because our freedom and safety exist due to their sacrifices.

Q5. How does the title “A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers” fit?
Ans. The text shows gratitude and respect for bravehearts through Soumya’s and Ananda’s letters.

Q6. Why were students awestruck and humbled?
Ans. They realised the courage of soldiers and the heavy sacrifices made for the nation.

✨ Lesson 2: My Dear Soldiers – Poem by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Complete the summary.

land
borders
scorching
lonely
deserts
youth
feat

Q2. Theme of poem?
Ans. (i) Patriotism & sacrifice.

Q3. Tone of poem?
Ans. Respectful, grateful, prayerful. (iv & v)

Q4. Poetic Devices:

Imagery – Shows soldiers in deserts, marshes, seas.
Simile – Soldiers compared to yogis.
Metaphor – Wind chimes as symbols of respect.
Repetition – Emphasises the bond between soldiers and people.
Alliteration – “season or snowy,” creates musical effect.

Think and Reflect (Extract)

Opposites – asleep/awake, windy/snowy, hot/cold.
Refers to soldiers’ commitment to duty.
True.
“Windy season or snowy days or scorching sun’s sweltering rays.”
Quality → Dedication.

Short Answers

Q1. Who is the speaker?
Ans. The poet, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

Q2. How is theme conveyed through imagery?
Ans. Through pictures of soldiers in deserts, seas, marshes, mountains.

Q3. How does the poet highlight commitment?
Ans. By showing soldiers guarding in all terrains and weathers.

Q4. What does “prime of your youth” mean?
Ans. Soldiers sacrifice the best years of their life for the nation.

Q5. Why should we pray for soldiers?
Ans. For their safety, strength, and blessings as they protect the nation selflessly.

Lesson 3: Rani Abbakka (Play)

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Match words with meanings (Pg. 213):

vassal → state under another
coronation → ceremony of making king/queen
successor → one who follows another
rash → careless
sovereign → independent country
league → partnership
wrath → anger
seize → capture
resolve → determination
raged → happened violently
decisive → effective in decision-making
apprehended → caught
dauntless → fearless
avenge → take revenge

Q2. Cause–Effect Table

Ullal captured → had to pay tribute.
Rani’s marriage decision → husband thought it hasty.
Veera Narsimha ordered soldiers → to stop Abbakka.
Rajas refused support → feared Portuguese power.
Portuguese attacked Ullal → Abbakka retaliated.

Think and Reflect

Extract

Tribute = tax/payment.
Because Ullal was independent.
True.
Replace defied → disobeyed.
Qualities → Bold, capable, determined (i, iii, v).

Short Qs

Mother felt proud and reassured by Abbakka’s courage.
Support shows loyalty and faith in Abbakka’s leadership.
People felt proud and relieved when Portuguese were defeated.
Abbakka’s victory inspired others to resist foreign powers.

Unit 5 Summary

A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers – Through Soumya’s and Ananda’s letters, students learn about the National War Memorial and gallant heroes like Major Somnath Sharma, Albert Ekka, and Padmapani Acharya.
My Dear Soldiers – Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s heartfelt poem praises soldiers’ sacrifices, dedication, and courage in every terrain and season.
Rani Abbakka – The fearless queen of Ullal who fought the Portuguese, showing courage, leadership, and patriotism.

September 6, 2025

Unit – 4, Class 7th English, Poorvi, NCERT
Lesson – 1 The Tunnel – Ruskin Bond

Before the Text (Pg. 139–140)

Q1. What kind of an adventure activity would you like to be a part of?
Ans. (Personal response – Example:) Trekking in the mountains because it combines nature and adventure.

Q2. How would you like to spend your weekends?
Ans. (Example:) (i) Trying new activities, (ii) Learning something new.

Q3. Which places would you prefer to explore?
Ans. (Example:) (i) Dense forests and clear streams.

Q4. Which activity would you prefer to do?
Ans. (Example:) (i) Climbing a mountain or exploring a jungle.

Q5. What do you think about teamwork?
Ans. (Example:) (ii) I enjoy working with others.

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 144, 148)

Q1. Suraj compares the train to a magical creature. Pick the phrases.
Ans. “Snorting and puffing like some green, black, and gold dragon” and “some beautiful monster out of Suraj’s dreams.”

Q2. Suraj knew the train was close by because…
Ans. He heard a sound like distant thunder coming from the tunnel.

Q3. What did Suraj see inside the tunnel?
Ans. Smoke, darkness, a bat, and a lizard scuttling between the lines.

Q4. What does Sunder Singh convey about the tunnel?
Ans. He says he has lent it to the Government.

Q5. Complete the flow chart (watchman’s system).
- Walks the length of the tunnel
- (i) If all clear → returns to hut
- (ii) Hangs his lamp at the door
- (iii) Goes to take a nap
- (iv) If danger found → walks back up the line
- (v) Waves his lamp to warn the locomotive driver
Q1. Sunder Singh knew that the leopard was in the tunnel because…
Ans. He heard a rhythmic sawing sound that leopards make.

Q2. Why was Suraj unable to do any shouting in the tunnel?
Ans. (i) He was afraid of the leopard.

Q3. What made the leopard disappear into the darkness?
Ans. The combined shouting of Sunder Singh and Suraj.

Q4. How did Suraj know Sunder Singh was at the tunnel?
Ans. He saw the lamp hanging outside even though he couldn’t see the watchman.

Q5. Why did Suraj’s father take him along to Delhi?
Ans. So that Suraj could learn something about his father’s business.

Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 149–150)

Extract 1
1. Statement: Suraj looked back at the tunnel to check if the train was coming. – False.
2. Suraj did not stop in the tunnel because – A. there was nothing to see in the tunnel.
3. Meaning of “Till then, the cutting belonged to the jungle again.” – It means the jungle regains its silence and control until the next train comes.
4. Suraj’s character trait – Curiosity/adventure-loving nature.
Extract 2
1. Watchman’s concern – The leopard might be run over by the train.
2. Why leopard would not attack – Because it knew him well.
3. True sentences: B, C, D, E.
4. Sunder Singh decides to take his axe → He was cautious.
Short/Long Answer Qs

Q1. What does Sunder Singh mean by lending his tunnel to the Government?
Ans. He feels a personal connection with the tunnel as its caretaker, but officially it belongs to the Government.

Q2. Why does he say forest is safer than the town?
Ans. Because he was almost run over by a bus in town. This shows his comfort and belonging to the jungle.

Q3. How has he become part of the jungle life?
Ans. He knows its animals, is unafraid of them, and lives in harmony with nature.

Q4. What draws Suraj and Sunder Singh together?
Ans. Their shared love for adventure, nature, and the thrilling experience of the tunnel.

Q5. Why is Sunder Singh called a “firefly”?
Ans. Because his lamp lights up the darkness for trains and travelers like a firefly.

Q6. Do you think Suraj is adventure-loving? Give reasons.
Ans. Yes. He goes to the jungle alone, explores the tunnel, and bravely accompanies Sunder Singh to face the leopard.

Lesson 2: Travel – Edna St. Vincent Millay

Before the Text (Pg. 154)

Q1. Why do people travel?
Ans. To explore new places, enjoy nature, meet new people, and learn different cultures.

Q2. Do you like traveling? Why?
Ans. Yes, because it gives adventure, relaxation, and new experiences.

Q3. How do you prefer to travel?
Ans. (Personal – Example:) By train because it is comfortable and allows me to see landscapes.

Q4. Would you rather travel alone or with friends/family? Why?
Ans. (Example:) With family, because we can share experiences and have fun together.

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 156–157)

Q1. What is the main desire expressed in the poem?
Ans. The poet wants to leave everyday routine and go on a journey with the passing train.

Q2. What kind of life is the poet tired of?
Ans. A monotonous life full of duties, responsibilities, and repetition.

Q3. What does the poet want instead?
Ans. She wants freedom, adventure, and to see distant places by traveling.

Q4. What does the train symbolize in the poem?
Ans. It symbolizes escape, adventure, and the possibility of new experiences.

Q5. Why does the poet say “My heart is warm with friends I make”?
Ans. Because traveling allows meeting new people and forming friendships.

Q6. Pick three images of movement in the poem.
Ans. “The longing for the sea’s far reaches,” “The curving sky,” “The ringing of the train.”

Q7. Why does the poet repeat the word “away”?
Ans. To stress her strong desire to escape routine life and go far away.

Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 158–159)

Extract 1

Q1. What is the meaning of “I hear the wind a-blowing”?
Ans. It means the poet imagines the sound of the wind calling her to adventure.

Q2. Why does the poet want to leave?
Ans. Because she feels restless and wants a break from routine life.

Q3. Pick the phrase showing the world is wide and inviting.
Ans. “The curving sky.”

Q4. The tone of the poet here is…
Ans. Longing and restless.

Extract 2

Q1. Why does the poet say “my heart is warm”?
Ans. Because she feels joy at the thought of traveling and meeting new people.

Q2. What are the poet’s feelings in this extract?
Ans. Hopeful and excited about the possibilities of travel.

Q3. Which line shows she is ready to start at once?
Ans. “I am tired of my room and the crowded street.”

Q4. Tone of this extract is…
Ans. Excited and hopeful.

Short/Long Answer Qs

Q1. What is the central theme of the poem?
Ans. The human desire for travel, adventure, and freedom from monotony.

Q2. How does the poet express her restlessness?
Ans. By repeating “away,” describing wind, ringing train, and curving sky.

Q3. What does travel mean for the poet?
Ans. It means escape, joy, freedom, and meeting new people.

Q4. Why is this poem suitable for “Travel and Adventure”?
Ans. Because it celebrates the thrill of leaving routine life to explore the world.

Poetic Devices

Q1. Identify examples of alliteration.
Ans. “wind a-blowing,” “sea’s far reaches.”

Q2. Identify imagery in the poem.
Ans. Visual imagery: “curving sky,” “crowded street.”
Auditory imagery: “wind a-blowing,” “ringing of the train.”

Q3. Rhyme scheme of the poem?
Ans. Irregular rhyme; mainly free verse.

Summary of the Poem

In Travel, Edna St. Vincent Millay expresses a deep desire to leave her ordinary life and travel far away with the passing train. She hears the call of the wind and the ringing train, which symbolize freedom and adventure. She longs for wide skies, the sea, and new friendships. The poem highlights restlessness, curiosity, and the human longing to explore beyond routine life.

Lesson 3: Conquering the Summit – Arunima Sinha’s Story

Before the Text (Pg. 161–162)

Q1. What do you feel when you hear about Mount Everest?
Ans. A sense of awe, challenge, and admiration for climbers who conquer it.

Q2. Name some qualities needed to climb a mountain.
Ans. Courage, determination, physical strength, mental toughness, and teamwork.

Q3. Do you think climbing Everest is easy? Why/Why not?
Ans. No, because it requires intense training, survival skills, and the ability to face extreme weather.

Let Us Discuss (Pg. 165–166)

Q1. What happened to Arunima in 2011?
Ans. She was pushed out of a moving train by robbers and lost her left leg.

Q2. How did she react to her disability?
Ans. She decided not to give up, trained hard, and chose to climb Mount Everest.

Q3. Who trained her for mountaineering?
Ans. Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb Everest.

Q4. What challenges did she face during her climb?
Ans. Harsh weather, fatigue, lack of oxygen, injury pain, and danger of avalanches.

Q5. What was her greatest achievement?
Ans. She became the first woman amputee in the world to climb Mount Everest (2013).

Let Us Think and Reflect (Pg. 167–168)

Extract 1

Q1. Why was the incident shocking?
Ans. Because losing a leg suddenly changed her life completely.

Q2. How did Arunima turn tragedy into opportunity?
Ans. By setting a bigger goal—to climb Everest—and working towards it.

Q3. Which phrase shows her positive mindset?
Ans. “I will turn my weakness into my strength.”

Extract 2

Q1. Why did Arunima dedicate her climb to differently-abled people?
Ans. To inspire them to believe that nothing is impossible.

Q2. What made her journey inspiring?
Ans. Her courage, hard work, and determination despite being an amputee.

Q3. What values can we learn from her?
Ans. Perseverance, courage, resilience, and the power of positive thinking.

Short/Long Answer Qs

Q1. How did Arunima’s disability change her life’s path?
Ans. It gave her a new mission to prove that even with disability one can achieve the impossible.

Q2. What role did Bachendri Pal play in her journey?
Ans. She trained Arunima in mountaineering and motivated her to pursue Everest.

Q3. Why is Arunima a role model?
Ans. Because she showed that with determination, one can overcome any challenge.

Q4. What message does her story give us?
Ans. That obstacles can become opportunities, and hard work leads to success.

Activities (Pg. 169–170)

Q1. What government schemes support differently-abled people?
Ans. Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, ADIP Scheme (Assistive Devices), Scholarships for differently-abled students, Skill Development schemes.

Q2. Imagine you are Arunima writing in your diary after the climb. Write a short entry.

Sample Diary Entry:
“Today, standing at the top of Mount Everest, I feel tears of joy. The pain of losing my leg has turned into strength. I dedicate this climb to all differently-abled people. Nothing is impossible if we believe in ourselves. This moment is proof that determination conquers all.”

Summary of the Lesson

Conquering the Summit is the inspiring story of Arunima Sinha, who lost her leg in a train accident in 2011 but chose not to give up. Instead, she trained in mountaineering under Bachendri Pal and, in 2013, became the first woman amputee to climb Mount Everest. Her courage, determination, and positive mindset made her an icon of resilience. She dedicated her achievement to differently-abled people, proving that no obstacle is too great when one has the will to succeed.

Unit 4 – Final Summary
- The Tunnel (Ruskin Bond): Adventure of Suraj and watchman Sunder Singh, facing fear in the jungle and tunnel.
- Travel (Edna St. Vincent Millay): A lyrical poem about the desire to escape routine and explore new places.
- Conquering the Summit (Arunima Sinha): Real-life story of courage and determination, proving “disability is not inability.”
September 6, 2025

Unit – 3, Class 7th English, Poorvi, NCERT

Dreams and Discoveries

Lesson 1: My Brother’s Great Invention (Prose)

Before the Text

Q1. I am a concept invented by ancient Indian mathematicians. Without me, modern calculations would be impossible. Who am I?
Ans. Zero.

Q2. I am an ancient Indian practice, now popular worldwide. I focus on physical and mental well-being. What am I?
Ans. Yoga.

Q3. What would the world be like without inventions and discoveries?
Ans. Life would be difficult and limited; we wouldn’t have electricity, transport, medicine, or communication.

Q4. Fill the grid with qualities of an inventor.
Ans. Creative, Curious, Determined, Imaginative, Innovative, Risk-taking.

Let Us Discuss

Q1. Complete the cause-and-effect table.

Cause	Effect
Anand set up his burglar alarm to work when the door opened softly.	Papa was soaked and got angry.
Anita avoided responsibility.	Anand alone faced consequences.
They watched Back to the Future.	Anand was inspired to make a time machine.
Papa said “NO” to the time machine.	Anand felt crestfallen but still believed in it.

Q2. Did Anand keep his promise not to use the time machine?
Ans. No. He tried to use it secretly when his parents went out.

Q3. Arrange events in correct order.

Anita wakes Anand, hearing someone at the door.
The door swings open; Boppa enters.
Anand misleads Boppa into his room.
Strange noises come from the time machine.
Mrs. Sharma, her husband, and Dr. Mohan unlock the door.
Boppa disappears; only his green scarf is found.

Let Us Think and Reflect

Extract 1

When Anita says “let me put you in the picture,” what does she mean?
Ans. She wants to introduce the situation to the readers.
What does “tinkering” mean?
Ans. Dismantling and creating or improving gadgets.
Which trait suits Anand best?
Ans. Creative and experimental.
Compare Anita’s view of Anand with his own view.
Ans. Anita thinks Anand is bothersome and careless. Anand thinks he is a scientist and genius.

Extract 2

Why was Anita angry with Anand?
Ans. Because he misled the thief into his own room.
Which action shows Anand’s presence of mind?
Ans. Diverting the thief to buy time to think of a plan.
Cause of strange noises?
Ans. Anand’s time machine getting activated.
Atmosphere of the scene?
Ans. C. Tense and suspenseful.

Character Traits Table

Character	Traits	Evidence
Anand	Bothersome	Gets on Papa’s nerves with inventions.
Anand	Creative	Loves tinkering with gadgets.
Anand	Confident	Says, “Nothing will go wrong this time.”
Anita	Responsible	“We’re old enough to look after ourselves.”
Anita	Curious	“But how does the alarm know…?”
Anita	Careful	“Now clean up this mess before anyone gets home.”

Onomatopoeia Matching

Crash → sudden loud sound of breaking
Humming → continuous low and soothing sound
Hissed → whispered angrily
Hammering, sawing, clattering → constant loud construction noises

Comprehension Qs

Q1. What prompted Anand to create the burglar alarm?
Ans. A series of thefts in the colony.

Q2. How did Papa become the target of the alarm?
Ans. He opened the door softly, which triggered the alarm.

Q3. How did family react to Anand’s inventions?
Ans. Papa got angry, Ma felt concerned, Anita was cautious, but Anand remained confident.

Q4. How was Anand during inventing binges?
Ans. Restless, noisy, and careless, dismantling household items.

Q5. Why did Mr. Sharma not believe Anand?
Ans. Because time machines seemed imaginary and impossible.

Q6. What might have happened to Boppa?
Ans. Either he escaped unnoticed or was transported by the time machine.

Lesson 2: Paper Boats (Rabindranath Tagore – Poem)

Q1. Complete the summary.

Stream
Village
Strange
Shiuli
Night
Clouds
Float
Dreams

Q2. Theme of the poem?
Ans. Innocence, imagination, playfulness. (Option iv: 1, 2, 4)

Q3. The setting is a natural, outdoor environment. True or False?
Ans. True.

Q4. Tone and mood?
Ans. Gentle and wishful; Thoughtful.

Q5. Examples of alliteration.
Ans. “Blooms of the dawn,” “Fairies of sleep.”

Q6. Fill in blanks.

Repetition: “Day by day” and “one by one.”
Imagery: “White bulging sails” and “midnight stars.”

Think and Reflect

Q1. Why does the poet write his personal details?
Ans. So strangers who find the boats may know him.

Q2. How does the poet show child’s imagination?
Ans. By imagining clouds as playmates and fairies sailing his boats.

Q3. How does imagination and reality mix?
Ans. The real paper boats float on the stream; imagination makes them carry flowers, dreams, and fairies.

Lesson 3: North, South, East, West (Travel Postcards – C.G. Salamander)

Table of Shaana’s Travels

Place	Activities / Description
Thajiwas Glacier, Kashmir	White and blue ice, snowball fights.
Himachal Pradesh	Birds chirping, mountains, bears (or Appa’s snoring!).
Arunachal Pradesh	Thick forests, treehouse, hope to see red pandas.
Sundarbans, West Bengal	Wetlands, mangroves, crocodiles, snake, flooding.
Gujarat (Desert)	Hot, colourful clothes, surprise test.
Narmada River	Rafting adventure, fast scary waters.
Goa	Plateaus, hills, tunnels, beaches.
Chennai & Puducherry	Surfing, rough waves.
Olaikaadu Beach	Diving, collecting pebbles.

Think and Reflect

Q1. Why was Amma sad about Sundarbans?
Ans. Because frequent floods affected the land and people.

Q2. Which line shows Shaana’s nervousness?
Ans. “I hope crocodiles and the lonely snake don’t follow us home.”

Q3. Assertion/Reason about missing friends.
Ans. A. Both are true, and reason correctly explains assertion.

Q4. Feeling when Shaana says “I never knew such a place existed”?
Ans. D. Wonder.

Q5. Why did Shaana stay awake in Goa?
Ans. She loved looking out at the plateaus.

Q6. Change in attitude towards tunnels?
Ans. From fear to comfort (Option A).

Q7. What do her observations on snow and flooding show?
Ans. Signs of climate change and environmental concerns.

Q8. What does her travel show about India?
Ans. Diversity of landscapes – glaciers, deserts, wetlands, plateaus, beaches.

Q9. What might Shaana have learnt from her travels?
Ans. Curiosity, respect for nature, geography of India, and cultural diversity.

Q10. Why presented as postcards?
Ans. To make it personal, lively, and show a child’s voice.

Summary

My Brother’s Great Invention – Anand’s failed burglar alarm and time machine bring humour and suspense, showing creativity and risks of inventions.
Paper Boats – Tagore celebrates childhood imagination, innocence, and the blending of dreams with reality.
North, South, East, West – Shaana’s postcards highlight India’s geographical and cultural diversity through travel experiences.

September 6, 2025

Tag: NCERT English Solutions

PAGE NO. 6 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q1. Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air?

Answer:

Reaction

Q2. Write the balanced equation for the following chemical reactions:

(i) Hydrogen + Chlorine → Hydrogen chloride

(ii) Barium chloride + Aluminium sulphate → Barium sulphate + Aluminium chloride

(iii) Sodium + Water → Sodium hydroxide + Hydrogen

Q3. Write a balanced chemical equation with state symbols for the following reactions.

(i) Solutions of barium chloride and sodium sulphate in water react to give insoluble barium sulphate and sodium chloride solution.

(ii) Sodium hydroxide solution reacts with hydrochloric acid solution to produce sodium chloride solution and water.

PAGE NO. 10 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q 1. A solution of a substance ‘X’ is used for whitewashing.

(i) Name the substance ‘X’ and write its formula.

Answer:

(ii) Write the reaction of the substance ‘X’ named in (i) above with water.

Answer:

Explanation (for exams):

Q 2. Why is the amount of gas collected in one of the test tubes in Activity 1.7 double of the amount collected in the other? Name this gas.

Answer :

Name of the gas collected in larger amount:

PAGE NO. 13 – In-Text Questions (Solved)

Q 1. Why does the colour of copper sulphate solution change when an iron nail is dipped in it?

Answer :

Chemical Reaction:

In one examination sentence:

Q 2. Give an example of a double displacement reaction other than the one given in Activity 1.10.

Answer:

Explanation:

In one exam sentence:

Q 3. Identify the substances that are oxidised and the substances that are reduced in the following reactions.

(i) 4Na(s)+O2(g)→2Na2O(s)

Answer:

Explanation:

(ii) CuO(s)+H2(g)→Cu(s)+H2O(l)

Answer:

Explanation:

Poem – Father to Son

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

B. Talking About the Poem

C. Working with Words

D. Noticing Form

Summary of Father to Son

Biography of Elizabeth Jennings

Silk Road

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

B. Talking About the Text

C. Working with Words

D. Noticing Form

Summary of Silk Road

Biography of Nick Middleton

The Adventure

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

B. Talking About the Text

C. Working with Words

D. Noticing Form

Summary of The Adventure

Biography of Jayant Narlikar

Poem – Childhood

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Poem

B. Talking About the Poem

C. Working with Words

D. Noticing Form

Summary of Childhood

Biography of Markus Natten

The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role

Pre-text Questions (with answers)

Post-text Questions (with answers)

A. Understanding the Text

B. Talking About the Text

C. Working with Words

(i) $4 N a (s) + O_{2} (g) \to 2 N a_{2} O (s)$

(ii) $C u O (s) + H_{2} (g) \to C u (s) + H_{2} O (l)$