Lesson 1: Feathered Friend – Arthur C. Clarke

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:

• Illegal → Unlawful

• Friend → Companion

• Oxygen → Air

• Warn → Alert

Q2. Antonyms:

• Life × Death

• Legal × Illegal

• Large × Small

• Safe × Dangerous

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:

• Magnify → Enlarge

• Tiny → Small, minute

• Strange → Unusual

• Discover → Find

Q2. Antonyms:

• Big × Small

• Clear × Blurred

• Magic × Ordinary

• Known × Unknown

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Vocabulary & Language Work

Q1. Synonyms:

• Beam → Ray

• Pioneer → Trailblazer

• Inspire → Motivate

• Honour → Respect

Q2. Antonyms:

• Success × Failure

• Recognised × Ignored

• Early × Late

• Male-dominated × Equal

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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.

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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.

Bravehearts

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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.

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Let Us Discuss

Q1. Complete the table of war heroes.

Q2. Sentences that evoke feelings:

1. Wonder – “29,000 tablets with more than 26,000 names…”

2. Heartening – “Government has recognised the sacrifice of brave soldiers…”

3. Motivation – “I aspire to be courageous like him when I join the army!”

4. Pride – “It truly is a majestic site that filled me with pride…”

5. Visually inspiring – “Lighting design transforms the landscape from dawn to dusk.”

6. Sadness – “The discourses brought tears to my eyes…”

7. Gratitude – “Freedom and security we enjoy today is because of soldiers.”

8. 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.

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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.

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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.

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

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Let Us Discuss

Q1. Complete the summary.

1. land

2. borders

3. scorching

4. lonely

5. deserts

6. youth

7. feat

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

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

Q4. Poetic Devices:

1. Imagery – Shows soldiers in deserts, marshes, seas.

2. Simile – Soldiers compared to yogis.

3. Metaphor – Wind chimes as symbols of respect.

4. Repetition – Emphasises the bond between soldiers and people.

5. Alliteration – “season or snowy,” creates musical effect.

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Think and Reflect (Extract)

1. Opposites – asleep/awake, windy/snowy, hot/cold.

2. Refers to soldiers’ commitment to duty.

3. True.

4. “Windy season or snowy days or scorching sun’s sweltering rays.”

5. Quality → Dedication.

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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.

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Lesson 3: Rani Abbakka (Play)

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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

1. Ullal captured → had to pay tribute.

2. Rani’s marriage decision → husband thought it hasty.

3. Veera Narsimha ordered soldiers → to stop Abbakka.

4. Rajas refused support → feared Portuguese power.

5. Portuguese attacked Ullal → Abbakka retaliated.

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Think and Reflect

Extract

1. Tribute = tax/payment.

2. Because Ullal was independent.

3. True.

4. Replace defied → disobeyed.

5. Qualities → Bold, capable, determined (i, iii, v).

Short Qs

1. Mother felt proud and reassured by Abbakka’s courage.

2. Support shows loyalty and faith in Abbakka’s leadership.

3. People felt proud and relieved when Portuguese were defeated.

4. Abbakka’s victory inspired others to resist foreign powers.

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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.

Culture and Tradition

Part 1 — Hamara Bharat: Incredible India!

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. What makes India unique in the world?
India is unique because of its diversity in languages, religions, food, festivals, music, dance, and traditions, yet all people live together as one nation.

Q2. Which part of India do you belong to? What is special about it?
(Students give personal answers — e.g., Punjab is known for Bhangra and wheat fields, Tamil Nadu for Bharatanatyam and temples, etc.)

Comprehension Check

Q1. What does “Incredible India” mean?
It means India is full of wonders, with rich culture, history, and traditions that make it truly special.

Q2. How does India show unity in diversity?
People from different regions, speaking different languages, eating different foods, and following different religions live together with respect and harmony.

Q3. What examples of India’s cultural richness are given?
Examples include colourful festivals like Diwali and Eid, classical dances like Kathak and Bharatanatyam, monuments like the Taj Mahal, and cuisines like dosa, biryani, and chole-bhature.

Q4. What is the message of this passage?
The message is to take pride in our country’s diversity and to celebrate our shared heritage.

Think & Answer

Q1. Why do people from around the world visit India?
They visit to see its monuments, experience its traditions, taste its food, and enjoy its festivals.

Q2. What can students do to preserve India’s culture?
Students can learn about folk art, respect traditions, celebrate festivals, and promote unity in schools and communities.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Heritage = valuable traditions and culture from the past

• Diverse = varied, different

• Harmony = peaceful living together

• Pride = feeling of honour and respect

Sentences:

1. India has a rich cultural heritage.

2. Our country is diverse in languages and traditions.

3. People should live in harmony despite differences.

4. We feel pride in being Indians.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. What is meant by “unity in diversity”?
   It means people of different backgrounds live together peacefully in one nation.

2. Name some Indian dances.
   Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Manipuri.

3. Which Indian monuments are famous worldwide?
   Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Sun Temple at Konark.

Long Answer

Q. How is India an example of unity in diversity?
India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. People follow different religions like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism. They speak different languages like Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Punjabi, and many more. The food also varies — from idlis and dosas in the south to parathas and dal in the north. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, and Baisakhi are celebrated with equal joy. Despite this diversity, Indians stand united as one nation. This unity makes India strong and unique. It teaches us that differences are not weaknesses but strengths when combined with respect and love.

Summary of Hamara Bharat: Incredible India!

Hamara Bharat introduces the idea of India as “Incredible India,” a land of endless wonders. The passage celebrates the diversity of the country and explains why India is respected all over the world.

India has always been known for its unity in diversity. It is home to people of different religions, languages, and traditions. Each region has its own food, dress, dance, and music. Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Eid, Pongal, Christmas, and Baisakhi fill the land with colours and joy. Despite all these differences, Indians live together as one family, which makes the country unique.

The passage also highlights India’s cultural heritage. Its monuments like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Sun Temple attract visitors from all over the world. Tourists also come to enjoy India’s classical dances such as Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, and Manipuri. The food culture of India is another attraction. From spicy curries to sweets, every state offers something special.

The text reminds readers that India is not just a land of traditions but also of values like peace, respect, and harmony. The strength of India lies in its people, who share their culture with love.

In the end, the message is clear: we must feel proud of our culture, preserve our traditions, and celebrate our unity. This is what makes India incredible.

Part 2 — Kala Kritiyon ka Bharat

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. What kinds of art do you see in your region?
I see folk dances, traditional paintings, handicrafts, and music that reflect local culture.

Q2. Why is it important to learn about other states’ cultures?
It helps us respect diversity, build unity, and feel proud of India’s rich traditions.

Comprehension Check

Q1. What is the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme?
It is a programme started by the Government of India to strengthen unity and cultural exchange among states.

Q2. What are some examples of folk art from different states?

• Madhubani painting from Bihar

• Kathakali dance from Kerala

• Garba dance from Gujarat

• Warli painting from Maharashtra

• Bihu dance from Assam

Q3. How does this programme help students?
It helps students learn about different languages, songs, festivals, art, and culture of other states.

Q4. Why is folk art important?
Because it preserves traditions, teaches history, and shows the creativity of common people.

Think & Answer

Q1. How do cultural exchanges make India strong?
They create respect and understanding among people of different states, building unity in diversity.

Q2. How can schools promote Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat?
By organising cultural exhibitions, folk dance competitions, art fairs, and exchange programmes with students from other states.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Culture = traditions and customs of a group

• Heritage = valuable traditions from the past

• Exchange = giving and receiving between people

• Preserve = to protect and keep safe

Sentences:

1. Each state in India has its own unique culture.

2. Monuments are part of our heritage.

3. Students had an exchange of ideas in the fair.

4. We must preserve our old temples and paintings.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. What does Madhubani painting show?
   It shows scenes from nature, gods, and village life using bright colours.

2. Which dance from Kerala is famous for colourful masks?
   Kathakali is famous for its makeup, masks, and costumes.

3. Why do we need to promote folk art among children?
   Because it keeps traditions alive and helps the young generation value their roots.

Long Answer

Q. Why is Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat important for students?
The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme is important because it teaches students about India’s unity in diversity. By pairing one state with another, students learn about each other’s language, songs, food, art, and festivals. For example, children from Gujarat may learn about Assam’s Bihu dance, and children from Assam may learn about Gujarat’s Garba. This exchange builds respect, friendship, and national pride. It also prevents traditions from being forgotten and helps preserve folk art. For students, it is fun and educational because they not only read but also perform dances, create art, and celebrate festivals together. Thus, the programme makes the idea of “One India, Great India” a reality.

Summary of Kala Kritiyon ka Bharat

The passage Kala Kritiyon ka Bharat explains India’s rich tradition of folk arts and how the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme helps preserve them.

India is a country of diversity. Each state has its own art forms, dances, music, and handicrafts. For example, Bihar is famous for Madhubani paintings, Kerala for Kathakali dance, Assam for Bihu, Gujarat for Garba, and Maharashtra for Warli painting. These art forms are created by common people and passed from one generation to the next. They show the creativity and traditions of villages.

The Government of India started the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme to promote unity. In this programme, states are paired so that students can learn about each other’s culture. Through festivals, exhibitions, workshops, and competitions, young people experience the language, songs, food, and art of other regions. This creates respect and unity among different communities.

The text reminds us that folk art is more than entertainment. It carries stories of history, faith, and everyday life. Without efforts to preserve it, such traditions could be lost. Schools and students play a big role by celebrating art fairs, performing folk dances, and sharing culture.

The message is clear: by respecting and promoting folk art, we celebrate India’s unity in diversity. The strength of our country lies not only in modern progress but also in our cultural heritage.

Part 3 — The Kites

Poem by Daphne Lister

Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. Have you ever flown a kite? How did you feel?
Yes, I have flown a kite. I felt excited, happy, and free as it rose high in the sky.

Q2. Why do you think people enjoy kite flying?
Because it is fun, colourful, and gives a feeling of freedom as the kite dances in the wind.

Comprehension Check

Q1. What do kites look like as they fly in the sky?
The poet compares them to colourful birds soaring in the wind.

Q2. What happens to the kites when the wind blows strongly?
They rise high, dart, and dive, dancing playfully against the sky.

Q3. How does the poet describe kites at sunset?
She describes them as resting, tired and quiet, as the day ends.

Q4. What is the main idea of the poem?
That kites are symbols of joy, playfulness, and freedom, and their flight is like a dance in the sky.

Think & Answer

Q1. How does the poem show the beauty of simple pleasures?
It shows that something as simple as flying kites can fill our hearts with joy and wonder.

Q2. What lesson can we learn from the poem?
We learn to appreciate small joys in life, just like watching kites fly freely in the wind.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Soar = to fly high

• Flutter = to move lightly in the air

• Dart = to move quickly

• Tired = feeling weak after effort

Sentences:

1. Eagles soar high above the mountains.

2. The butterfly began to flutter its wings.

3. The cat made a quick dart to catch the toy.

4. After the long walk, I felt tired.

Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. Why are kites compared to birds?
   Because they fly high, move swiftly, and dance with the wind like colourful birds.

2. What does kite flying symbolise?
   It symbolises freedom, joy, and the playful spirit of life.

3. What happens to kites when the evening comes?
   They grow still and tired, no longer dancing, just as day ends.

Long Answer

Q. How does the poet describe the journey of kites in the sky?
The poet Daphne Lister describes the kites as lively and colourful objects dancing in the wind. At first, they rise high, soaring gracefully. The wind makes them flutter, dart, and dive, just like birds full of energy. Children on the ground control the strings, but the kites look free as they move across the blue sky. The poem captures the excitement of their flight and the beauty of the moment. As the sun sets, the kites grow tired and rest. This ending shows how even joyful things must come to a close. Through her description, the poet shows us how kite flying is not only a game but also a picture of freedom, happiness, and the cycles of life.

Summary of The Kites

The poem The Kites by Daphne Lister is a joyful description of kite flying.

The poet compares the kites to birds that soar high in the sky. They are colourful and move gracefully with the wind. At times they flutter gently, and at other times they dart and dive quickly, showing their playful nature. The sky becomes bright and lively with the kites dancing across it.

The poet shows how kite flying is a symbol of freedom and joy. Children enjoy watching them climb higher and higher, feeling proud of their control. Yet, to the eyes, the kites seem independent, flying freely like living creatures.

As the day moves on and the evening arrives, the kites grow still. They no longer dance in the air but rest quietly as the sun sets. This gives the poem a peaceful ending, reminding us that every activity and every joy has a time to pause.

The poem celebrates the beauty of simple pleasures in life. Just as flying a kite can make a person happy, small experiences can bring great joy. It also symbolises life’s journey — full of energy and play at first, but calm and restful at the end.

Biography — Daphne Lister

Daphne Lister was a poet known for her simple and delightful poems, often written for children. Although not much is widely recorded about her personal life, her works are remembered for their clarity, simplicity, and ability to connect with young readers.

She often used everyday experiences, nature, and play as themes for her poems. The Kites is one such poem, where she describes the movement of kites in the sky. Through vivid comparisons and lively words, she makes children see the beauty of kite flying as more than just a pastime.

Her poetry style is straightforward. She avoids complex words and instead writes with simplicity, so readers can easily understand and enjoy her verses. Many of her poems have been included in school textbooks, where they teach not only language but also values — such as appreciating small joys, respecting nature, and finding beauty in ordinary things.

Through her writing, Daphne Lister has influenced many young learners by showing that poetry is not distant or difficult, but close to our everyday lives. Poems like The Kites are timeless because they remind us of the innocence of childhood and the happiness found in simple activities.

Part 4 — Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams with Her Feet

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Pre-Reading / Warm-up

Q1. Have you heard of people doing extraordinary things despite disabilities?
Yes, there are many inspiring people who achieve greatness despite physical challenges.

Q2. Why is it important to respect differently-abled persons?
Because they show courage, talent, and determination, and they remind us that ability is stronger than disability.

Comprehension Check

Q1. Who is Ila Sachani?
Ila Sachani is a differently-abled woman from Gujarat, famous for her beautiful embroidery work, which she does using her feet.

Q2. Why does Ila use her feet for embroidery?
Because she was born without hands, she trained herself to use her feet skillfully.

Q3. What kind of embroidery does she create?
She creates colourful designs with traditional stitches like mirror work, beadwork, and chain stitch.

Q4. What recognition has Ila Sachani received?
She has won several awards, including the President’s Award for Outstanding Artistry.

Q5. What is the lesson of her life story?
That hard work, courage, and determination can overcome any limitation.

Think & Answer

Q1. How did Ila turn her weakness into her strength?
She could not use her hands, so she trained her feet and became a skilled embroidery artist.

Q2. What inspiration can children take from Ila’s life?
Children can learn that nothing is impossible if we work hard, stay positive, and never give up.

Vocabulary & Grammar

• Differently-abled = having physical challenges but special abilities

• Embroidery = decorative needlework on cloth

• Determination = strong willpower

• Inspire = to encourage by setting an example

Sentences:

1. She is differently-abled but very talented.

2. The dress had beautiful embroidery on it.

3. With determination, he achieved his goal.

4. Great leaders inspire people to do good.

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Extra Questions

Short Answer

1. Where is Ila Sachani from?
   She is from Gujarat, India.

2. What makes her embroidery special?
   She uses her feet with skill and creativity to make colourful, traditional designs.

3. What message does her story give us?
   That courage and determination can turn challenges into opportunities.

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Long Answer

Q. How does Ila Sachani’s life show that disability is not an obstacle to success?
Ila Sachani was born without hands, but she did not let her disability stop her. Instead of feeling helpless, she decided to train her feet to do embroidery. She practised for years and developed extraordinary skill. Using her toes, she threads needles, makes fine stitches, and creates colourful traditional designs. Her work includes mirror embroidery, beadwork, and chain stitch, which are admired for their beauty. Ila’s efforts earned her national awards and recognition. She is respected as an artist who proved that talent and determination are more powerful than physical limitations. Her life teaches us that success is possible if we believe in ourselves and keep working hard.

Summary of Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams with Her Feet

The story Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams with Her Feet is an inspiring account of courage and determination.

Ila Sachani was born in Gujarat without hands. For many people, this would have been a barrier, but Ila refused to let it stop her. From childhood, she was interested in embroidery, a traditional craft of her state. She realised she could not use her hands, so she decided to train her feet instead.

With patience and effort, Ila learned to hold needles and thread between her toes. She practised tirelessly and gradually became skilled at creating beautiful embroidery. Her designs include mirror work, beadwork, and chain stitch, all of which require precision and creativity. What makes her work special is that she uses her feet with the same accuracy that others use their hands.

Her embroidery became famous in her community and later across the country. She participated in exhibitions and received the President’s Award for Outstanding Artistry. Ila’s story spread as an example of how determination can overcome any limitation.

The story also highlights the value of traditional arts. Ila keeps alive the embroidery techniques of Gujarat while showing that disability does not mean inability. Her life teaches everyone that courage, self-belief, and hard work are the keys to success.

In the end, Ila Sachani stands as a role model for children and adults alike. She shows that no obstacle is too great if one has the will to achieve. Her dreams, embroidered with her feet, inspire us to never give up.

Biography — Ila Sachani

Ila Sachani is a famous differently-abled embroidery artist from Gujarat, India. Born without hands, she faced many challenges as a child. Yet, instead of giving up, she found her own way to create art. She trained her feet to do embroidery and soon became highly skilled.

Her work includes traditional embroidery styles such as mirror work, beadwork, and chain stitch, which are part of Gujarat’s heritage. She makes colourful designs on cloth that show both creativity and precision. What makes her embroidery special is that she does it all with her toes.

Ila’s talent brought her national recognition. She was honoured with awards, including the President’s Award for Outstanding Artistry, which is given to people who show excellence in traditional crafts. Her life story has been featured in newspapers, magazines, and school textbooks as an inspiration.

Through her work, Ila Sachani has shown that disability is not the end of dreams. She proves that talent, when combined with determination, can achieve wonders. She also preserves India’s traditional art while motivating others to be strong.

Her biography is not just about art but about courage, perseverance, and hope. Ila Sachani inspires us to believe that there are no limits when we have the will to succeed.