Lesson 1: The Cherry Tree – Ruskin Bond

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.”

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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📚 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.

Lesson – 1 The Tunnel – Ruskin Bond

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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).

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.”

Sports and Wellness

Part 1 — Change of Heart

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. Do you play outdoor games? Which is your favourite?
Yes, I play outdoor games. My favourite is cricket because it teaches teamwork and strategy.

Q2. What do we learn from playing games?
We learn discipline, teamwork, leadership, patience, and respect for rules.

Q3. How should we behave with our competitors?
We should respect them, play fairly, and show good sportsmanship whether we win or lose.

Comprehension Check

Q1. Who were Prabhat and Surya?
Prabhat and Surya were classmates and competitors in a running race.

Q2. How did Prabhat feel before the race?
Prabhat was nervous and wanted to win at any cost.

Q3. What happened during the race?
Prabhat ran fast, but when he saw Surya fall down, he stopped to help him instead of continuing.

Q4. What was the reaction of the spectators?
The spectators cheered for Prabhat’s kindness and appreciated his sporting spirit more than a medal.

Q5. What did Prabhat realise in the end?
He realised that true victory lies in humanity, compassion, and good sportsmanship, not just in winning medals.

Think & Answer

Q1. Why did Prabhat stop during the race?
Because he saw Surya fall and realised helping a friend was more important than winning.

Q2. What lesson does the story teach us?
It teaches us that humanity, kindness, and sportsmanship are more valuable than competition.

Vocabulary & Grammar

Q1. Opposites from the story:

• Win × Lose

• Start × Finish

• Nervous × Confident

• Friend × Enemy

Q2. Sentences:

1. The player showed great sportsmanship by praising his opponent.

2. Helping others is the true mark of humanity.

3. She was nervous before the test.

4. Winning with honesty brings pride.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. Why did the audience clap for Prabhat?
   Because he showed kindness and humanity, which were greater than winning.

2. What did Surya learn from Prabhat’s action?
   He learned that friendship and support matter more than rivalry.

3. What does the title “Change of Heart” mean?
   It means Prabhat changed his attitude from selfishness to kindness and humanity.

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Long Answer

Q. How does the story highlight the true meaning of sports?
The story highlights that sports are not only about winning but also about discipline, compassion, and fair play. Prabhat initially wanted to win at any cost. However, when he saw Surya fall, he stopped and helped him instead of rushing to victory. This act earned him the respect of the spectators. The crowd valued his humanity more than a medal. Prabhat’s action showed that the spirit of sports lies in friendship, respect, and care. Winning is temporary, but kindness is remembered forever. The story teaches children that true success is measured by values, not trophies.

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Summary of Change of Heart

Change of Heart is a heartwarming story about two classmates, Prabhat and Surya, who take part in a school running race.

Prabhat was determined to win and dreamed of standing first. He practised hard and wanted the medal badly. On the day of the race, the students gathered to cheer. Prabhat and Surya lined up with other competitors. The whistle blew, and the race began. Prabhat ran with all his strength, his eyes fixed on the finish line.

As the race progressed, Surya suddenly stumbled and fell to the ground. Seeing this, Prabhat felt torn. At first, he thought of running on to secure victory. But then his heart changed. Instead of ignoring Surya, he stopped, turned back, and helped his classmate to stand. The two boys walked together, finishing the race side by side.

The crowd erupted in applause. They admired Prabhat’s humanity more than they would have admired any winner. Though he lost the race, he won the hearts of all. The teachers and students praised him for showing true sportsmanship.

Prabhat realised that medals and trophies fade, but kindness and friendship are remembered forever. The story teaches us that the purpose of sports is not just to compete but to build discipline, friendship, and values.

The title Change of Heart refers to Prabhat’s transformation — from focusing only on victory to understanding that helping others is the real triumph. His noble act showed that compassion is greater than competition.

This story is an inspiring reminder for children and adults alike: winning is important, but playing with fairness, respect, and humanity is the true essence of sports.

Part 2 — The Winner

Poem by Georgia Heard

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. Who do you think is a winner?
A winner is someone who tries their best, shows courage, and does not give up, even if they lose.

Q2. Is winning only about medals and trophies?
No, true winning is about effort, honesty, and never losing hope.

Comprehension Check

Q1. What does the poet mean by “the one who listens to the heart”?
It means the true winner follows their inner voice, dreams, and values rather than focusing only on prizes.

Q2. Who does the poet call a real winner?
The poet calls someone a real winner who keeps trying, believes in themselves, and does not give up, whether they win a medal or not.

Q3. Why does the poet say the winner is not always the one who comes first?
Because winning is about courage, effort, and determination, not just standing first in a competition.

Think & Answer

Q1. How is effort more important than result?
Effort shows our strength, honesty, and spirit. Results may change, but effort makes us stronger and teaches lessons.

Q2. What message does the poem give to children?
That they should not worry only about ranks and medals. True victory lies in trying, dreaming, and believing in themselves.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Courage = bravery to face difficulties

• Effort = hard work put into something

• Heart = symbol of feelings and inner strength

• Victory = success or triumph

Sentences:

1. She had the courage to speak the truth.

2. With constant effort, he improved his handwriting.

3. Always listen to your heart while making decisions.

4. The team celebrated their victory with joy.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. Why is listening to the heart important?
   Because it guides us to follow our dreams and stay true to ourselves.

2. What kind of people are true winners?
   Those who work hard, stay positive, and never give up even if they lose.

3. Why does the poet say victory is not always about coming first?
   Because the value lies in trying and showing courage, not just winning medals.

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Long Answer

Q. How does the poem redefine the meaning of winning?
The poem The Winner teaches us that true winning is not about trophies or ranks but about courage, determination, and effort. The poet, Georgia Heard, explains that a real winner is someone who listens to their heart, follows their dreams, and does not give up. Such a person may or may not come first, but they have the courage to keep trying. The poem inspires children to value effort over results. It encourages them not to be discouraged by failure but to see every step as progress. This view makes winning more meaningful because it is about inner strength, not just outer prizes.

Summary of The Winner

Georgia Heard’s poem The Winner gives a new meaning to the idea of victory.

The poet says that the real winner is not always the person who comes first in a competition. Instead, the true winner is the one who listens to their heart, works hard, and never gives up. Winning is not just about medals and certificates but about courage, hope, and determination.

The poem explains that dreams and goals guide us, and those who keep following their dreams are true champions. Even if they fail sometimes, their effort makes them stronger. True winners rise after every fall and continue their journey with courage.

The poet’s message is simple: do not measure success only by trophies. Success is about honesty, effort, and inner satisfaction. Children should learn to try their best without fear of losing. The poem inspires everyone to be brave, hopeful, and determined in life.

Thus, The Winner is not about victory in sports alone but about victory in life through courage and perseverance.

Biography — Georgia Heard

Georgia Heard is an American poet, author, and educator known for her inspiring poems and books for children. She believes that poetry is not just about rhyme and rhythm but about feelings and truth.

She was born in 1958 in the United States and grew up with a love for reading and writing. She studied creative writing and later began teaching children how to express themselves through poetry. Her career is dedicated to making poetry meaningful and accessible to students.

Heard has written many poetry collections and books on teaching poetry, such as Awakening the Heart: Exploring Poetry in Elementary and Middle School, For the Good of the Earth and Sun, and The Arrow Finds Its Mark. Her works show how poetry can help children understand their emotions and connect with the world.

In her poems, she often talks about courage, dreams, and inner strength. The poem The Winner is an excellent example of her belief that success is about effort and self-belief, not just medals.

She has been honoured as a thoughtful teacher and writer who inspires both children and teachers. Her life’s work is to spread the joy of poetry and to teach young people that their voices matter.

Georgia Heard continues to write, teach, and inspire readers all over the world. Her poems are included in many schoolbooks because of their simple language and strong messages.

Part 3 — Yoga: A Way of Life

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. Have you ever practised yoga? How did you feel?
Yes, I have practised yoga. It made me feel calm, fresh, and more energetic.

Q2. Why do you think yoga is popular all over the world?
Because yoga improves both physical health and mental peace, and anyone can practise it.

Comprehension Check

Q1. What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice from India that connects the body, mind, and spirit through postures, breathing, and meditation.

Q2. Who is known as the father of yoga?
Sage Patanjali is called the father of yoga because he compiled its principles in the Yoga Sutras.

Q3. How does yoga help our body?
It makes the body flexible, improves blood circulation, strengthens muscles, and keeps us fit.

Q4. How does yoga help the mind?
It improves concentration, reduces stress, and brings peace of mind.

Q5. Why is yoga called “a way of life”?
Because it is not just exercise but a discipline that guides how we live, eat, think, and behave in daily life.

Think & Answer

Q1. Why do people all over the world practise yoga today?
Because it improves health, reduces stress, and brings balance to life.

Q2. What lesson does yoga teach us?
It teaches harmony, discipline, self-control, and respect for both body and nature.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Posture = the position of the body

• Meditation = practice of focusing the mind

• Discipline = training of the mind and body to follow rules

• Harmony = living peacefully and in balance

Sentences:

1. The teacher corrected my sitting posture.

2. Daily meditation brings peace of mind.

3. Good health requires discipline.

4. Music brings harmony to the soul.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. What are some yoga postures mentioned in the text?
   Examples include Padmasana (lotus pose), Bhujangasana (cobra pose), and Tadasana (mountain pose).

2. Why is breathing important in yoga?
   Because controlled breathing gives more oxygen, calms the mind, and improves focus.

3. What does yoga combine together?
   Yoga combines body, mind, and spirit into harmony.

Long Answer

Q. How is yoga different from ordinary exercise?
Yoga is different from ordinary exercise because it focuses on both the body and the mind. While exercise strengthens muscles and improves stamina, yoga also improves breathing, concentration, and emotional balance. Yoga includes postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. It not only makes the body flexible but also helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Unlike exercises that may strain the body, yoga works gently and can be done by people of all ages. It teaches self-control, discipline, and harmony. That is why yoga is called a way of life.

Summary of Yoga: A Way of Life

Yoga: A Way of Life is an informative passage that explains the origin, benefits, and importance of yoga.

Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that connects the body, mind, and spirit. It was developed thousands of years ago and explained by Sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras. He is remembered as the father of yoga. The text explains that yoga is not only physical exercise but a lifestyle that promotes balance and harmony.

Yoga includes asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and dhyana (meditation). Postures make the body strong and flexible, while breathing exercises improve oxygen supply and calm the mind. Meditation develops focus and peace. Together, these practices create overall well-being.

The passage explains that yoga benefits both the body and the mind. It helps in digestion, blood circulation, and muscle strength. It reduces stress, improves memory, and develops confidence. Unlike ordinary exercise, yoga is gentle and can be done by anyone. It also teaches discipline, healthy eating, and right thinking.

That is why yoga is called “a way of life.” It is not limited to the yoga mat but extends to how we live each day — with harmony, respect, and discipline.

Today, yoga has spread all over the world. People in every country practise it for fitness and mental peace. The United Nations has even declared June 21 as International Yoga Day to honour this priceless gift of India to the world.

The passage concludes by reminding us that practising yoga daily makes life healthier and happier. It brings unity between body and mind, and teaches us to live in balance with nature.

Biography / Note — Sage Patanjali

Sage Patanjali is remembered as the father of yoga. He lived in ancient India, though the exact dates of his life are not known. He is famous for compiling the Yoga Sutras, a collection of 195 short verses that explain the philosophy and practice of yoga.

Patanjali taught that yoga is more than exercise; it is a way to control the mind and achieve inner peace. According to him, yoga helps us reduce suffering, calm the mind, and move toward self-realisation. His Yoga Sutras describe the eightfold path of yoga, known as Ashtanga Yoga, which includes moral values, self-discipline, postures, breathing, concentration, meditation, and ultimate union with the spirit.

Because of his clear explanation, yoga became organised and easier to practise. That is why Patanjali is called the father of yoga. His teachings are still relevant today, and millions of people around the world practise yoga according to his principles.

Yoga is India’s gift to the world, and Sage Patanjali’s contribution is invaluable. By reminding us to live with discipline, harmony, and balance, his work continues to guide people toward a healthy and peaceful life.