Class 12 English Core Previous Year Question Paper (2025) with Solutions

by | May 8, 2025 | General | 0 comments

Class 12 English Core Previous Year Question Paper 2025

 

CBSE Class 12 English Core Chapter-wise Previous Years Questions (2025) with Solution

 

Class 12 English Core Question Paper (2025) – Solved Question papers from previous years are very important for preparing for the CBSE Board Exams. It works as a treasure trove. It helps to prepare for the exam precisely. One of key benefits of solving question papers from past board exams is their ability to help identify commonly asked questions. These papers are highly beneficial study resources for students preparing for the upcoming class 12th board examinations. Here we have compiled chapter-wise questions asked in all the sets of CBSE Class 12 English Core question paper (2025).

 

Flamingo Book Lessons

 

Chapter 1 – The Last Lesson

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
My Last French Lesson! Why, I hardly knew how to write! I should never learn any more! I must stop there, then! Oh, how sorry I was for not learning my lessons, for seeking birds ‘eggs or going sliding on the Saar! My books, that had seemed such a nuisance a while ago, so heavy to carry, my grammar, and my history of the saints, were old friends now that I couldn’t give up and M. Hamel, too; the idea that he was going away, that I should never see him again, made me forget all about his ruler and how cranky he was.
Poor man! It was in honour of this last lesson that he had put on his fine Sunday clothes, and now I understood why the old men of the village were sitting there in the back of the room. It was because they were sorry, too, that they had not gone to school more. It was their way of thanking our master for his forty years of faithful service and of showing their respect for the country that was theirs no more.

(i) Choose the correct option:
What is the tone of the speaker in the expression ‘I hardly knew how to write…. how sorry I was for not learning my lessons’?
(A) confused
(B) regretful
(C) surprised
(D) happy
Ans. (B) regretful

(ii) Choose the correct option :
The speaker refers to ‘seeking birds’ egg’ and ‘sliding on the Saar’ as
(A) part of his routine
(B) his daily routine
(C) source of distraction from learning
(D) fun time with friends
Ans. (C) source of distraction from learning

(iii) What is reflected through the shift in the speaker’s perception of his books through his expression of calling them his ‘old ‘friends’ rather than considering them as ‘nuisance’?
Ans. When he realizes that he will no longer be able to study French, there is a change in his feelings. The books which were a nuisance become his old friends.

(iv) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank :
“It was because they were sorry too….”
They were sorry for ___________(not following the government order / not learning their language)
Ans. not learning their language

(v) What is inferred from the expression ‘the country that was theirs no more’?
Ans. It infers that their land had been occupied by another rule and now, they would obey their orders.

(vi) What does M. Hamel’s ruler reflect about his image?
Ans. He was a strict teacher.

Q2. How did Franz plan to turn the commotion in the classroom to his favour? (40-50 words)
Ans. He planned to take benefit of the commotion and reach his seat without getting noticed. As everyone would be out of their seats, he too could walk over to his seat without invoking the anger of M Hamel.

Q3. “I’ve plenty of time. I’ll learn it tomorrow. And now you see where we’ve come out.” 
What does M. Hamel mean to convey through these lines? (40-50 words)
Ans. M Hamel wants to convey that the Frenchmen had procrastinated and put off learning to the next day. However, now, the time was over and their chance to learn their mother tongue was over.

Q4. Sophie is an escapist and a dreamer. Franz loves to miss school. Analyse the result of both these characters as a result of their attitude towards life. (‘Going Places’ ‘The Last Lesson’) (120-150 words)
Ans. Both Sophie and Franz detest the reality. They are impractical because they are engrossed in their dreams. Sophie imagines owning a boutique, meeting Danney Casey, etc. which are not true. She cooks up things to be in the good books of her father and brothers. Franz also wants to play outside rather go to school. He procrastinates study until he realizes that his opportunity has ended.
Later, both of them get trapped in their ideologies. Sophie’s imaginative stories fail and no one believes her. She loses the confidence of her friend Jansie too. Franz is also disappointed when he loses the opportunity to study French. His sudden adoration for his teacher doesn’t help him at the last hour. Thus, both the characters land up in a hot soup due to these traits.

Q5. Franz from the ‘Last Lesson’ and the peddler from the ‘Rattrap’ learn from their mistakes. Discuss with reference to the above texts, the human tendency to make mistakes and learn from them. (120-150 words)
Ans. “To err is human, to forgive is divine.” This quote clearly shows that humans are susceptible to making mistakes. It is however, important for us to learn from these mistakes and ensure not to repeat them. This strategy helps us grow and improve our personality.
Both Franz and the peddler learn from their mistakes. Franz realizes his mistake of procrastinating study. He develops a liking for his teacher and is able to understand the entire lecture taught that day. He becomes eager to study. We also see the character of the peddler who has a change of heart due to Edla’s selfless kindness. He grows up to her expectation of being an army Captain and returns the stolen money along with a rattrap as a gift for Edla. He acknowledges Edla’s kind heart which transformed him and helped him come out of the worldly trap that he was encircled in.
Thus, we see both Franz and the peddler learn from their mistakes and look up to a better future.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 2 – Lost Spring -Stories of Stolen Childhood

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :
“It takes longer to build a school.” I say, embarrassed at having made a promise that was not meant. But promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world.
After months of knowing him, I ask him his name. ‘Saheb-e-Alam’, he announces. He does not know what it means. If he knew its meaning – lord of the universe – he would have a hard time believing it. Unaware of what his name represents, he roams the streets with his friends, an army of bare feet boys who appear like the morning birds and disappear at noon. Over the months, I have come to recognise each of them.
“Why aren’t you wearing chappals?” I ask one.
“My mother did not bring them down from the shelf.” He answers simply.
“Even if she did he will throw them off,” adds another who is wearing shoes that do not match.

Select the option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.

(i) The intention of the speaker in the first line of the extract is one of __________.(clarification/confusion)
Ans. confusion

(ii) What is implied by the expression ‘he would have a hard time believing it’.
(A) Saheb is too innocent to believe everything.
(B) Saheb is living upto his name.
(C) Saheb’s living condition is contrary to the meaning of his name.
(D) Saheb is not used to anyone calling his name.
Ans. (C) Saheb’s living condition is contrary to the meaning of his name.

(iii) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank:
“Promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world.” The above statement of the speaker reveals the fact that people like Saheb are ____(deluded/empowered) by such promises.
Ans. deluded

(iv) State one reason for the boy was wearing shoes that did not match.
Ans. He had got the shoes from a garbage dump. So they were not a matching pair of shoes but two different shoes.

(v) The speaker describes Saheb’s life as a ‘bleak world’ because
(A) he lives in a house without electricity.
(B) his world is his friends.
(C) his life is devoid of hope.
(D) he belongs to the world of illiterates.

Q2. “Why aren’t you wearing chappals ?” I asked one. The conversation between the speaker and the boys reflects the _____ of the speaker.
Ans. concern

Q3. ‘But the game he is watching so intently is out of his reach.’
What are the factors that have made their game inaccessible to Saheb?  (40-50 words)
Ans. There are social and economic barriers which have made the game inaccessible for Saheb. He watches a game of tennis being played but he is not able to participate in it. This is because he lacks the required financial status. He is a ragpicker and so, his social status is also insufficient for allowing him access to the game.

Q4. ‘Where there is a will, there is a way.’ The above saying aptly describes the character of Douglas from ‘Deep Water’ and Mukesh from ‘Lost Spring’. Compare and contrast their characters in terms of their courage, determination, and the pursuit of their goals. (120-150 words)
OR
Analyse the characters of William Douglas from ‘Deep Water’ and Mukesh from ‘Lost Spring’ in terms of their determination and will power in pursing their goals. (120-150 words)
Ans. Yes, the saying is apt for both these characters. In the story Deep Water, the character of William Douglas shows determination to overcome his fear of water. He shows courage and perseverance when he repeatedly faces the fear till he overcomes it. In the story Lost Spring, the character of Mukesh is also determined to fulfil his dream of becoming a car mechanic. Despite the hurdles of family and societal pressure, he is determined to achieve his dream. He shows courage to go on with his aim despite so many pullbacks.
Both the characters display courage and determination in achieving their goals. Douglas fights with his inner self while Mukesh fights the societal and familial hurdles in fulfilling their aims.

Q5. In Indigo’, Gandhi as the sole representative of peasants fought against the injustice to share-croppers and saved them from the exploitation of the British. On the other hand bangle makers in Firozabad in ‘Lost Spring’ felt ‘There is no leader among them, no one could help them see things differently’ and they were caught in the vicious circle.
With reference to the two texts, analyse the importance of a leader and how Gandhi emerged as an ideal leader. (120-150 words)
Ans. A leader is a torchbearer who guides the group to accomplish their goal. In the story Indigo, we see that the poor peasant from Champaran, Raj Kumar Shukla is hell-bent upon taking Gandhiji to Champaran. Gandhiji is an educated man, a political figure who had stood against injustice in Durban. He takes up the cause of the peasants of Champaran and his leadership is the only way for getting justice to the crushed poor peasants. Thus, we see that qualities like education, empathy, diplomacy, justice, selflessness are some of the key aspects for a good leader as seen in Gandhiji;s character. The lack of such a leader among the bangle-makers of Firozabad was the reason behind them being stuck in the vicious cycle of politicians, moneylenders and police. They lacked a strong leader like Gandhiji who could lead them to freedom.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 3 – Deep Water

Q1. Deep Water’ and ‘Indigo’ bring out the importance of overcoming fear. Discuss the two texts with reference to the above statement. (120-150 words)
OR
Gandhi said, “The real relief for them is to be free from fear.” (Indigo)
Roosevelt knew when he said, “All we have to fear is fear itself.” (Deep Water)
Analyse the status of share-croppers and the plight of William Douglas in the light of the above statements. (120-150 words)
Ans. In Deep Water we see the character of William Douglas who develops a childhood fear of water. The fear remains with him for several years and it prevents him from fulfilling his deep desire of swimming. He adopts determination to overcome the fear and his repeated attempts help him succeed. In the story Indigo, we see the peasants are fear-stricken. Gandhiji’s main concern is to make them free from fear because only then, they can demand justice. It is Gandhiji’s support which makes other influential people join the cause of the poor peasants and they manage to get rid of the fear. Someone who is crushed and oppressed will never be able to demand justice for himself.
Thus, we can conclude the importance of being free of fear.

Q2. ‘Where there is a will, there is a way.’ The above saying aptly describes the character of Douglas from ‘Deep Water’ and Mukesh from ‘Lost Spring’. Compare and contrast their characters in terms of their courage, determination, and the pursuit of their goals. (120-150 words)
OR
Analyse the characters of William Douglas from ‘Deep Water’ and Mukesh from ‘Lost Spring’ in terms of their determination and will power in pursing their goals. (120-150 words)
Ans. Yes, the saying is apt for both these characters. In the story Deep Water, the character of William Douglas shows determination to overcome his fear of water. He shows courage and perseverance when he repeatedly faces the fear till he overcomes it. In the story Lost Spring, the character of Mukesh is also determined to fulfil his dream of becoming a car mechanic. Despite the hurdles of family and societal pressure, he is determined to achieve his dream. He shows courage to go on with his aim despite so many pullbacks.
Both characters display courage and determination in achieving their goals. Douglas fights with his inner self while Mukesh fights the societal and familial hurdles in fulfilling their aims.

Q3. Umberto Eco: “I consider myself a University professor who writes novels on Sundays”.
Umberto Eco in ‘The Interview’ and William Douglas in ‘Deep Water’ are multifaceted personalities. Elaborate with reference to the texts. (120-150 words)
Ans. Umberto Eco is an academician, a scholar who has presented his research on semiotics and also writes fiction. His writing output comprises of literary fiction, academic texts, essays, children’s books and newspaper articles. Thus, he manages to do so many things. For this, he manages his time well. Umberto says that he makes good use of the gaps or intervals in time which he calls interstices.
William Douglas was a high-school teacher for two years and later pursued a legal career. He went on to become an adviser to President Roosevelt. He retired in 1975 after remaining as the longest-serving Justice for a span of thirty-six years.
These men have concentration abilities which have enabled them to accomplish so much in life.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 4 – The Rattrap

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :
The next day both men got up in good season. The crofter was in a hurry to milk his cow, and the other man probably thought he should not stay in bed when the head of the house had gotten up. They left the cottage at the same time. The crofter locked the door and put the key in his pocket. The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you, and thereupon each went his own way.
But half an hour later the rattrap peddler stood again before the door. He did not try to get in, however. He only went up to the window, smashed a pane, stuck in his hand, and got hold of the pouch with the thirty Kronor. He took the money and thrust it into his own pocket. Then he hung the leather pouch very carefully back in its place and went away.

(i) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.
The behaviour of the peddler as described in the above extract is an act of _______. (deceit / obedience)
Ans. deceit

(ii) “Both men got up in good season”. The author uses the expression ‘good season’ to denote that
(A) They slept for a long time.
(B) They got up in a good mood.
(C) They got up early and timely.
(D) They got up hurriedly.
Ans. (B) They got up in a good mood.

(iii) State the irony in the peddler’s response. “The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you”.
Ans. The irony is that although he bid good bye, he returned after a few minutes.

(iv) Choose the correct option:
The flaw in the peddler’s character as reflected in the above extract is
(A) He is jealous of rich people.
(B) He indulges in self-pity.
(C) He can rob his benefactor.
(D) He can sleep anywhere without any hesitation.
Ans. (C) He can rob his benefactor.

(v) Complete the following sentence:
The role of cow in the crofter’s life is _____.
Ans. means of income

(vi) Choose one instance from the above extract to show that peddler acted like a well mannered person.
Ans. The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you

Q2. Franz from the ‘Last Lesson’ and the peddler from the ‘Rattrap’ learn from their mistakes. Discuss with reference to the above texts, the human tendency to make mistakes and learn from them. (120-150 words)
Ans. “To err is human, to forgive is divine.” This quote clearly shows that humans are susceptible to making mistakes. It is however, important for us to learn from these mistakes and ensure not to repeat them. This strategy helps us grow and improve our personality.
Both Franz and the peddler learn from their mistakes. Franz realizes his mistake of procrastinating study. He develops a liking for his teacher and is able to understand the entire lecture taught that day. He becomes eager to study. We also see the character of the peddler who has a change of heart due to Edla’s selfless kindness. He grows up to her expectation of being an army Captain and returns the stolen money along with a rattrap as a gift for Edla. He acknowledges Edla’s kind heart which transformed him and helped him come out of the worldly trap that he was encircled in.
Thus, we see both Franz and the peddler learn from their mistakes and look up to a better future.

Q3. How do the peddler from ‘The Rattrap’ and ‘the office boy’ from ‘Poets and Pancakes’ compare in terms of their frustration, status, and grudges against others. (120-150 words)
Ans. Both the peddler and the office boy hold grudges against others. The peddler is a vagabond and he thinks ill of the world. He gets unwonted joy to think of people he knew who had let themselves be caught in the dangerous snare and those who were circling the bait. The office boy at Gemini studio had entered the studio years ago in the hope of becoming a star actor or screen writer, director or lyricist. He remained frustrated and it was all aimed at one person, Kothamanglam Subbu. Perhaps Subbu’s success was the cause of the office boy’s vexation. The peddler’s frustration was general in nature and he held grudges against the worldly pleasures which acted like a bait to lure people. However, the office boy’s frustration was directed at a particular man, Subbu.

Also see:

 

Chapter 5 – Indigo

Q1. How was self-reliance intertwined with the Champaran incident?  (40-50 words)
Ans. Charles Freer Andrews, an English pacifist who had become a devoted follower of Gandhi, came to bid Gandhi farewell before departing for a tour of duty in the Fiji Islands early in the Champaran action. Gandhi’s legal associates thought Andrews should stay in Champaran and assist them. Andrews agreed if Gandhi agreed. Gandhi, on the other hand, was vehemently opposed. “You think that having an Englishman on our side would be beneficial in this unequal fight,” he said. This demonstrates your heart’s weakness. The cause is just, and you must rely on yourself to prevail. “And we had no reply… Gandhi taught us a lesson in self-reliance in this way,” Rajendra Prasad says.
“I understand your point, Mr. Prasad,” Andrews said. “Gandhi’s politics were intertwined with the daily lives of millions of Indians. This was not devotion to abstractions. It was a devotion to living humans. Gandhi attempted to shape a new free Indian who could stand on his own two feet and thus free India in everything he did “He stated.
“To obtain justice for oppressed people, persuasive argumentation and negotiation are required. A good leader should have a magnetic personality and strong persuasive abilities. He had the ability to attract people of all social classes to himself “Rajendra Prasad stated.
“To emerge as a champion of the oppressed and downtrodden, rural upliftment should be prioritized. Gandhi performs humanitarian and national service in obedience to our higher law, the voice of conscience. As a result, he comes across as polite and friendly “Andrews stated.
“His ability to read people’s minds renders them speechless. He believes in self-sufficiency, just cause, and the purity of means to achieve success and triumph over evil!” Rajendra Prasad exclaimed.

Q2. Deep Water’ and ‘Indigo’ bring out the importance of overcoming fear. Discuss the two texts with reference to the above statement. (120-150 words)
OR
Gandhi said, “The real relief for them is to be free from fear.” (Indigo)
Roosevelt knew when he said, “All we have to fear is fear itself.” (Deep Water)
Analyse the status of share-croppers and the plight of William Douglas in the light of the above statements. (120-150 words)
Ans. In Deep Water we see the character of William Douglas who develops a childhood fear of water. The fear remains with him for several years and it prevents him from fulfilling his deep desire of swimming. He adopts determination to overcome the fear and his repeated attempts help him succeed. In the story Indigo, we see the peasants are fear-stricken. Gandhiji’s main concern is to make them free from fear because only then, they can demand justice. It is Gandhiji’s support which makes other influential people join the cause of the poor peasants and they manage to get rid of the fear. Someone who is crushed and oppressed will never be able to demand justice for himself.
Thus, we can conclude the importance of being free of fear.

Q3. In Indigo’, Gandhi as the sole representative of peasants fought against the injustice to share-croppers and saved them from the exploitation of the British. On the other hand bangle makers in Firozabad in ‘Lost Spring’ felt ‘There is no leader among them, no one could help them see things differently’ and they were caught in the vicious circle.
With reference to the two texts, analyse the importance of a leader and how Gandhi emerged as an ideal leader. (120-150 words)
Ans. A leader is a torchbearer who guides the group to accomplish their goal. In the story Indigo, we see that the poor peasant from Champaran, Raj Kumar Shukla is hell-bent upon taking Gandhiji to Champaran. Gandhiji is an educated man, a political figure who had stood against injustice in Durban. He takes up the cause of the peasants of Champaran and his leadership is the only way for getting justice to the crushed poor peasants. Thus, we see that qualities like education, empathy, diplomacy, justice, selflessness are some of the key aspects for a good leader as seen in Gandhiji;s character. The lack of such a leader among the bangle-makers of Firozabad was the reason behind them being stuck in the vicious cycle of politicians, moneylenders and police. They lacked a strong leader like Gandhiji who could lead them to freedom.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 6 – Poets and Pancakes

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
Those were the days of mainly indoor shooting, and only five percent of the film was shot outdoors. I suppose the sets and studio lights needed the girls and boys to be made to look ugly in order to look presentable in the movie. A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up department. The chief make-up man made the chief actors and actresses ugly, his senior assistant ‘second’ hero and heroine, the junior assistant the main comedian and so forth. The players who played the crowd were the responsibility of the office boy. (Even the make-up department of the Gemini Studio had an ‘office boy’)
On the days when there was crowd-shooting, you could see him mixing his paint in a giant vessel and slapping it on the crowd players. The idea was to close every pore on the surface of the face in the process of applying make-up.

(i) What does the writer mean by the phrase ‘indoor shooting’ in the first line of the extract?
Ans. It means shooting in an enclosed, shelter as opposed to an open area.

(ii) Pick up one sentence from the extract that reflects the sarcastic tone of the writer.
Ans. I suppose the sets and studio lights needed the girls and boys to be made to look ugly in order to look presentable in the movie.

(iii) The hierarchy in the make-up department puts the ‘office boy’ in the _______ (lowest/top) rung of the ladder.
Ans. lowest

(iv) Complete the following suitably:
On the days when there was a ‘crowd-shooting’. By the phrase crowd-shooting, the author refers to ____________.
Ans. shooting a scene which involves a group of people

(v) Choose the correct option:
“…..mix his paint in a giant vessel and slapping it on the crowd players.”
The choice of words like ‘paint’ and ‘slapping’ by the author reflects.
(A) author’s intention to degrade the office boy’s role in the make-up department.
(B) the office boy’s lack of seriousness.
(C) author’s sarcastic and humorous writing style.
(D) author’s dislike of the office boy.
Ans. (C) author’s sarcastic and humorous writing style.

(vi) Choose the correct option:
What does the following line from the extract showcase?
“A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up department.”
(A) The office boy took all the decisions in the make-up department.
(B) A system of ranks according to importance of work was followed.
(C) Everyone was given an equal share of work in the department.
(D) Nepotism was prevalent in the make-up department.
Ans. (B) A system of ranks according to importance of work was followed.

Q2. How do the peddler from ‘The Rattrap’ and ‘the office boy’ from ‘Poets and Pancakes’ compare in terms of their frustration, status, and grudges against others. (120-150 words)
Ans. Both the peddler and the office boy hold grudges against others. The peddler is a vagabond and he thinks ill of the world. He gets unwonted joy to think of people he knew who had let themselves be caught in the dangerous snare and those who were circling the bait. The office boy at Gemini studio had entered the studio years ago in the hope of becoming a star actor or screen writer, director or lyricist. He remained frustrated and it was all aimed at one person, Kothamanglam Subbu. Perhaps Subbu’s success was the cause of the office boy’s vexation. The peddler’s frustration was general in nature and he held grudges against the worldly pleasures which acted like a bait to lure people. However, the office boy’s frustration was directed at a particular man, Subbu.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 7 – The Interview

Q1. What valid reason does Rudyard Kipling have to call an interview immoral? (40-50 words)
Ans. According to Rudyard Kipling, an interview is the most condemned thing. His wife wrote in her diary that their day was wrecked by two reporters from Boston. She reported that her husband told the reporters that he refused to be interviewed because it is immoral, a crime against his person like assalut and deserves similar punishment. He added that it was cowardly and vile act which no respectable man would ask for or give.

Q2. Umberto Eco: “I consider myself a University professor who writes novels on Sundays”.
Umberto Eco in ‘The Interview’ and William Douglas in ‘Deep Water’ are multifaceted personalities. Elaborate with reference to the texts. (120-150 words)
Ans. Umberto Eco is an academician, a scholar who has presented his research on semiotics and also writes fiction. His writing output comprises of literary fiction, academic texts, essays, children’s books and newspaper articles. Thus, he manages to do so many things. For this, he manages his time well. Umberto says that he makes good use of the gaps or intervals in time which he calls interstices.
William Douglas was a high-school teacher for two years and later pursued a legal career. He went on to become an adviser to President Roosevelt. He retired in 1975 after remaining as the longest-serving Justice for a span of thirty-six years.
These men have concentration abilities which have enabled them to accomplish so much in life.

 

Also see:

 

Chapter 8 – Going Places

Q1. “One of these days you’re going to talk yourself into a load of trouble;” her father said aggressively. What do you learn about Sophie’s father from these lines?  (40-50 words)
Ans. Sophie’s father is realistic. He is concerned about his daughter’s well-being. When he realizes that Sophie is busy daydreaming, he warns her.

Q2. “Christ, Sophie, you’re still at school. 
What image do you form of Geoff as a brother from the above context? (40-50 words)
Ans. This shows his concern for Sophie. He wants her to realize that she is too young and a celebrity footballer like Danny Casey has a huge fan-following. He does not want her to get excited about such things.

Q3. Sophie is an escapist and a dreamer. Franz loves to miss school. Analyse the result of both these characters as a result of their attitude towards life.  (120-150 words)
Ans. Both Sophie and Franz detest the reality. They are impractical because they are engrossed in their dreams. Sophie imagines owning a boutique, meeting Danney Casey, etc. which are not true. She cooks up things to be in the good books of her father and brothers. Franz also wants to play outside rather go to school. He procrastinates study until he realizes that his opportunity has ended.
Later, both of them get trapped in their ideologies. Sophie’s imaginative stories fail and no one believes her. She loses the confidence of her friend Jansie too. Franz is also disappointed when he loses the opportunity to study French. His sudden adoration for his teacher doesn’t help him at the last hour. Thus, both the characters land up in a hot soup due to these traits.

Also see:

 

Flamingo Book Poems

 

Poem 2 – Keeping Quiet

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :
If we were not so single-minded
about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could do nothing,
perhaps a huge silence
might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves with death.
Perhaps the Earth can teach us
as when everything seems dead
and later proves to be alive.
Now I’ll count up to twelve
And you keep quiet and I will go.

(i) Complete the following suitably.
The poet uses the expression ‘single minded’ to refer to ______.
Ans. the people’s continuous pursuit of material wants without paying heed to the implications of their activities.

(ii) Why does the poet refer to silence as a welcoming interruption?
Ans. Silence is a welcoming interruption because when people will be silent they will be able to introspect into the repercussions of their acts.

(iii) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract.
Assertion: The poet personifies Earth as a teacher.
Reason: We learn from the Earth that pausing doesn’t mean the end.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship.
(A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(B) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans. (A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

(iv) Complete the following suitably.
By the expression “keeping our lives moving” the poet refers to __________.
Ans. Life which is a continuous process

(v) Choose the correct option:
The intention of the poet in the above extract is
(A) to make us aware of the importance of Earth
(B) to criticize our single mindedness..
(C) to highlight the reason for our sadness.
(D) to highlight the importance of sustaining peace and silence.
Ans. (D) to highlight the importance of sustaining peace and silence.

(vi) What is the significance of the last line of the extract ‘you keep quiet and I will go’?
Ans. The poet wants to make the reader understand the importance of silence and introspection. Once understood, he wants to leave so that the reader can ponder upon.

Q2. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines.
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness
Fishermen in the cold sea
would not harm whales
and the man gathering salt
would look back at his hurt hands.

(i) How according to the poet can we create this exotic moment?
Ans. By allowing some time of silence and abstinence from work

(ii) Choose the correct option:
The outcome of fisherman’s activity led to the _____ (destruction/protection) of environment.
Ans. destruction

(iii) What is the common outcome of this exotic moment?
(A) No rush and no mechanization
(B) Men would be gathering salt.
(C) There would be a strangeness among warring nations.
(D) Fisherman will look at his hurt hands.
Ans. (A) No rush and no mechanization

(iv) Choose the correct option:
The tone of the poet is ___________(appealing/introspective) in the line “and the man gathering salt would look back at his hurt hands.”
Ans. appealing

(v) The poet uses the expression ‘sudden strangeness’ to suggest ______.
Ans. the moment when work will be paused will be strange and unusual.

(vi) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract:
Assertion: The poet advocates for taking a break to introspect the damage inflicted by man.
Reason : Introspection will make man’s life better.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship.
(A) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation.
(B) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is correct explanation of the Assertion.
(C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans. (B) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is correct explanation of the Assertion.

Q3. ‘What I want should not be confused’. What clarification does Pablo Neruda give to his readers? (Keeping Quiet) (40-50 words)
Ans. He clarifies that he is requesting for a short pause from work but it should not be confused with death or inactivity.

Q4. How can Earth play the role of a teacher according to Pablo Neruda? (Keeping Quiet)(40-50 words)
Ans. The Earth teaches us about life after death. It is a cycle which can be seen in nature. At one time, everything seems to be dead and then gradually, it comes to life again.

Q5. Pablo Neruda in ‘Keeping Quiet’ and Keats in ‘A Thing of Beauty’ depict nature as a source of inspiration and strength to man. Analyse both the poems in terms of the above perspective. (120-150 words)
OR
‘Nature is the best companion to man.’ In the light of above quote, analyse the themes of ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and ‘Keeping Quiet’.(120-150 words)
OR
What do the images of nature signify in Keats’ ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and Pablo Neruda’s ‘Keeping Quiet’? (120-150 words)
Ans. Both the poets highlight the importance of nature in man’s life. In Keeping Quiet the poet tells us that Earth is a greath teacher. We see that at a point of time, everything seems to have died and later, things begin to gain life again. This inspires us that life and death is a continuous process. In the poem A Thing of Beauty, John keats says that creations of God like trees, Sun, flowers, streams fo water, animals are all beautiful creations which bind us to Earth and give us a reason to live. These are a source of eternal joy like a nectar they flow unto us from the heaven above.
Thus, in both the poems, we see a praise of nature.

Also see:

 

Poem 3 – A Thing of Beauty

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing,
Therefore, on every morrow are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth.

(i) By the phrase “joy forever’ the poet refers to things
(A) that make people extremely happy.
(B) that are a feast to eyes.
(C) that are a constant source of happiness.
(D) that are beautiful but transient.
Ans. (C) that are a constant source of happiness.

(ii) Choose the correct option:
By using the expression ‘never pass into nothingness’ the poet states that nature’s beauty will create a ___________(lasting/temporary) impression on man’s mind.
Ans. lasting

(iii) How does Keats make it evident that there is a link between man’s wellness and nature’s beauty?
Ans. When he says that the beautiful creations of nature are like a flowery band that bind us to the earth, they take away gloom from our lives, they provide us a cooling covert, they are a shelter which gives us sleep, sweet dreams, good health and quiet breathing; he indicates that nature’s beauty is the main source of blessing us with wellness.

(iv) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract:
Assertion: Keats states that man derives strength and inspiration from the beauty of nature.
Reason: Nature gives physical, emotional and mental solace to man.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship.
(A) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(B) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(C) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
(D) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
Ans. (A) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

(v) Select one phrase from the extract which implies that man wants to continue his life on this earth despite innumerable problems.
Ans. wreathing A flowery band to bind us to the earth.

(vi) Complete the following sentence:
‘a sleep full of sweet dreams’ implies ____________.
Ans. peaceful sound sleep

Q2. ‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever.’ Explain with reference to the poem. (40-50 words)
Ans. A Thing of beauty is a joy forever due to various reasons. The natural creations like the Sun provides warmth and energy, the moon is a beauty to look at in the night sky, the sheep provide us wool and milk, the flowers add vibrance to our life, the tales of brave men inspire us, the cool rills of water quench our thirst and the shade of the trees provide us sweet dreams, good sleep and health. Thus, these things of beauty give eternal joy to mankind.

Q3. ‘And such too is the grandeur of dooms’. How can ‘grandeur of dooms’ be impressive and inspiring according to Keats? (40-50 words)
Ans. The tales of the mighty soldiers who sacrificed their lives while fighting the enemy are impressive and inspiring. Thus, the poet says that the tales of the mighty dead have gradeur.

Q4. Pablo Neruda in ‘Keeping Quiet’ and Keats in ‘A Thing of Beauty’ depict nature as a source of inspiration and strength to man. Analyse both the poems in terms of the above perspective. (120-150 words)
OR
‘Nature is the best companion to man.’ In the light of above quote, analyse the themes of ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and ‘Keeping Quiet’.(120-150 words)
OR
What do the images of nature signify in Keats’ ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and Pablo Neruda’s ‘Keeping Quiet’? (120-150 words)
Ans. Both the poets highlight the importance of nature in man’s life. In Keeping Quiet the poet tells us that Earth is a greath teacher. We see that at a point of time, everything seems to have died and later, things begin to gain life again. This inspires us that life and death is a continuous process. In the poem A Thing of Beauty, John keats says that creations of God like trees, Sun, flowers, streams fo water, animals are all beautiful creations which bind us to Earth and give us a reason to live. These are a source of eternal joy like a nectar they flow unto us from the heaven above.
Thus, in both the poems, we see a praise of nature.

Also see:

 

Poem 4 – A Roadside Stand

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :
It is in the news that all these pitiful kin
Are to be bought out and mercifully gathered in
To live in villages, next to the theatre and the store.
Where they won’t have to think for themselves anymore,
While greedy good-doers, beneficent beasts of prey,
Swarm over their lives enforcing benefits
That are calculated to soothe them out of their wits,
And by teaching them how to sleep they sleep all day
Destroy their sleeping at night the ancient way. (A Roadside Stand)

(i) The expression ‘It is in the news’ suggests
(A) it is good news for the roadside stand owners.
(B) an important decision has been taken by the government.
(C) the roadside stand owners have protested against the government.
(D) that the news was not there in the newspaper.
Ans. (B) an important decision has been taken by the government.

(ii) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract.
Assertion: The poet complains that the rural people are exploited by the people in power.
Reason: The rural people reposed blind faith in the false promises of the people in power.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship.
(A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation.
(B) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans. (A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation.

(iii) Complete the following suitably:
In the line ‘that are calculated to soothe them out of their wits”, the phrase ‘soothe them out of their wit’ refers to _____________.
Ans. to put an end to their intelligence by putting them to a state of intoxication

(iv) Bring out the irony in the expression ‘they won’t have to think for themselves’.
Ans. The irony is that they won’t be left capable to think for themselves.

(v) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.
The poet uses the expression ‘greedy good-doers’ to __________ (criticize/appreciate) the intention of the powerful people.
Ans. criticize

(vi) Complete the following suitably.
The tone of the poet in the above extract is ________.
Ans. Ironical

Q2. How do the expressions ‘polished traffic’ and a stand that ‘pathetically pled’ depict the contrasting worlds that co-exist in the poem ‘A Roadside Stand’? (40-50 words)
Ans. The polished traffic indicates the bright polished cars which carry the rich city people. On the contrary, the shed that pathetically pled refers to the rural farmer’s shed which is shabby and which is owned by the poor farmers who request the city people to stop and buy some farm produce so that they get some money.

Also see:

 

VISTAS Book Lessons

 

Lesson 1 – The Third Level

Q1. What was Charlie’s vision about Galesburg as it was in 1894? (40-50 words)
Ans. It was a peaceful world. A Wonderful town with big old frame houses, huge lawns and tremendous trees whose branches met and roofed the streets. The summer evenings were twice as long and people sat in the lawns, men smoked cigars and women waving palm leaf fans with fire-flies around them.

Q2. What is the significance of the third level? (40-50 words)
Ans. The third level is a medium of escape through which man yearns to be away from life’s harsh realities. Modem life is devoid of peace and tranquility so man in his quest to seek solace escapes to a place where his aim is to seek the realization of his dreams and unfulfilled wishes of his subconscious mind.

Q3. What is so ironical about Sam reaching the third level? (40-50 words)
Ans. Sam is the psychiatrist friend of Charley who had discovered that Charley was suffering from waking dream wish fulfillment and he was suffering from anxiety and stress which made him imagine things like the third level on the Grand Central station. On the contrary, towards the end of the story, Sam himself reaches the third level which is ironical.

Q4. Charlie’s desperate attempt to find the third level reflects his frustration with the modern world. What aspects of the modern world have led to Charlie’s frustration?  (40-50 words)
OR
Charlie’s desperate attempt to find the third level reflects his frustration with the modern world. Substantiate the above statement with evidence from the story. (40-50 words)
Ans. Charlie’s frustration with the modern world stems from its stressful and fast-paced nature. The pressure of work, competition, and the lack of peace make him long for an escape.

 

Also see:

 

Lesson 2 – The Tiger King

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :
At midnight when the town slept in peace, the Dewan and his aged wife dragged the tiger to the car and shoved it into the seat. The Dewan himself drove the car straight to the forest where the Maharaja was hunting. When they reached the forest, the tiger launched its Satyagraha and refused to get out of the car. The Dewan was thoroughly exhausted in his efforts to haul the beast out of the car and push it down to the ground.
On the following day, the same old tiger wandered into the Maharaja’s presence and stood as if in humble supplication, “Master, what do you command of me?” It was with boundless joy that the Maharaja took careful aim at the beast. The tiger fell in a crumpled heap.

(i) How did the Dewan manage to take the tiger to the forest?
(A) The Dewan conceded to the tiger’s satyagraha.
(B) The Dewan pushed the tiger into the car and drove to the forest.
(C) The Dewan hauled the tiger into the tent.
(D) The Dewan persuaded the tiger into a humble supplication of the Maharaja.
Ans. (B) The Dewan pushed the tiger into the car and drove to the forest.

(ii) Choose the correct option:
The attitude of the Dewan in the above extract can be described as ____________(negligent and reluctant / meek and servile)
Ans. meek and servile

(iii) Select one statement or expression from the extract that reflects the humorous writing style of the author.
Ans. the tiger launched its Satyagraha

(iv) State one reason for the ‘boundless joy of the Maharaja’.
Ans. He was about to accomplish the target of killing one hundred tigers.

Q2. What image of the Tiger King is revealed in the diamond ring episode? (40-50 words)
Ans. The Tiger King sent fifty diamond rings as bribe to Duraisani expecting her to keep one or two out of them and send the rest back. However, she kept all the fifty rings. The king was happy that he had managed to retain his kingdom though he had lost three lakh rupees. This shows that killing one hundred tigers and saving his kingdom were more important than money.

Q3. “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Analyse the theme of The Tiger King in the light of the above quote.  (120-150 words)
Ans. This quote by Abraham Lincoln is apt in the Tiger King’s story. The king misuses his power and position. He believes that he can outsmart destiny through his acts. He is blinded by his arrogance which makes him overlook the reality and leads to his downfall.

Also see:

 

Lesson 3 – Journey to the end of the Earth

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
The rapid increase of human populations has left us battling with other species for limited resources, and the unmitigated burning of the fossil fuels has now created a blanket of carbon dioxide around the world, which is slowly but surely increasing the average global temperature.
Climate change is one of the most hotly contested environmental debates of our time. Will the west Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? Will the Gulf stream ocean current be disrupted? Will be the end of the world as we know it?

(i) List one way in which the increasing human population is affecting other species.
Ans. It has led to limited resources. As human populations expand, so does the demand for land for housing, agriculture, and infrastructure, leading to a loss of habitat for other species.

(ii) Choose the correct option that best reflects the tone of the writer in the last line of the extract.
(A) happy and excited
(B) encouraging and optimistic
(C) anxious and concerned
(D) spiteful and bitter
Ans. (C) anxious and concerned

(iii) Choose the correct option:
‘unmitigated burning of fossil fuels’ reflects the ______ (avaricious/furious) streak in man’s nature.
Ans. avaricious

(iv) In the above extract, what message is the author giving to mankind?
Ans. The message is to be mindful about our activities and to realize that we share the Earth with other species.

Q2. Why did Geoff Green start the ‘Students on Ice Programme’?  (40-50 words)
OR
‘Students on Ice Programme’ proves Geoff Green’s farsightedness. Explain with reference to the text of ‘The Journey to the End of the Earth’. (40-50 words)
Ans. Geoff Green took high school students on an expedition to one end of the Earth to make them realize the impact that human intervention could have on nature. He wanted the future policy – makers to experience how difficult it would be to sustain life with the rising temperatures. He wanted them to see the melting ice shelves so that they could estimate the trouble that mankind was headed to.

Q3. “In that short time, we’ve managed to create quite a rukus.” What does Tishani Doshi refer to by ‘rukus’? (40-50 words)
Ans. She refers to the commotion and disruption caused by the reckless exploitation of resources. The rapid increase in human population has left us battling with other species for the limited resources. The unmitigated burning of fossil fuels has harmed the environment by creating a blanket of carbon dioxide which is leading to global warming. Such issues have created a rukus.

Q4. The world’s geological history is trapped in Antarctica. Discuss with reference to the chapter ‘Journey to the End of the Earth’. (120-150 words)
Ans. Our understanding of Antarctica can be very perplexing and illuminating. A supercontinent called “Gondwana” existed 350 million years ago; it was centred roughly on what is now Antarctica. The environment was significantly warmer and supported an enormous variety of plants and fauna. Gondwana flourished for 500 million years.
Around that period, the landmass was compelled to divide into nations, greatly influencing the modern world. By the study of this region, it is simple to gain an understanding of where we have come from and where we might be going, as well as the evolution and extinction of species.

Q5. “….how little changes in the environment can have big repercussions” Tishani Doshi in Journey to End of the Earth’ gives an awakening call for man. Analyse the theme of the lesson in the light of the above statement. (120-150 words)
OR
How did Tishani Doshi’s visit to Antartica as part of the Students on Ice Programme make her realise the importance of preserving the Earth?(120-150 words)
Ans. Doshi was a part of the Students on Ice expedition to Antarctica. There she got to know of the geographical history of the land that was Gondwana. She further mentions that the visit exposed her to the past and the future where mankind is headed to. The repercussions of human activity and exploitation of natural resources is better displayed at Antarctica. The effects of climate change and environmental degradation like increase in global temperature can be seen throught he melting ice caps. Retreating glaciers and collapsing ice-shelves make the threat of global warming evident. The affect on the activities of the phytoplanktons caused by the depletion in ozone layer can be observed there.
Her journey to Antarctica makes her give a warning call to mankind.

Also see:

 

Lesson 4 – The Enemy

Q1. Why did the servants leave the house despite their concern for their master Dr. Sadao?
(40-50 words)
Ans. The servants were concerned for their master Dr Sadao. However, when they realized that he had sheltered an enemy soldier, they feared the police. They did not want to be called ‘traitors’. So, they left the master’s house with a heavy heart.

Q2. Dr. Sadao had saved the life of the American soldier, but agreed to the General’s proposal of sending assassins. What prompted Dr. Sadao to agree to the General’s proposal?(40-50 words)
Ans. Dr Sadap agreed to the General’s suggestion of sending assassins to kill the soldier whose life Sadao had saved. Sadao had fulfilled his duty of a doctor by saving the injured man. However, the enemy’s presence at his house was cause a lot of distress and anxiety. Thus, he wanted to get rid of the man and agreed to the General’s idea.

Q3. ‘Not at all,’ Sadao said. “It is inconvenient to have you here any longer.” 
What image do you form of Dr. Sadao based on the above remark? (40-50 words)
Ans. This remark shows that Sadao is a balanced individual. The enemy soldier’s prolonged stay was proving to be detrimental for Sadao and his family. Despite his promise, the General had not sent the assassins. Thus, Sadao decided to get rid of the stranger by aiding his escape via a boat.

Q4. “Who can limit our future? It depends on what we make it.” What image do you form of Dr. Sadao’s father based on the above expressions?  (40-50 words)
Ans. This shows that Sadao’s father is an ambitious man who inspired Sadao to work hard and achieve all that he aspired for. He did not stop Sadao from doing anything.

Q5. The element of dilemma, between humanity and Patriotism elevates the character of Dr. Sadao in ‘The Enemy’. Support your answer with evidence from the text. (120-150 words)
OR
Q. Dr. Sadao’s basic human values and the education he received gave him the ability to rise above prejudices. Analyse the theme of ‘The Enemy’ in the light of the above statement. (120-150 words)
Ans. Dr Sadao in the story “The Enemy” gives importance to humanity and medical ethics in comparison to war-induced prejudices. He is a Japanese doctor and during the second world war, he finds an injured American soldier at his doorstep. His hippocratic oath and moral conscience force him to save the life in danger. He is at a risk of being labelled a ‘traitor’. Still he operates on the enemy soldier and ensures his recovery. Sadao is a patriot and so, he narrates the incident to the General who assures him of sending assassins to get rid of the man. When this plan doesn’t work, Sadao makes the man leave his house in a boat.
Thus, we see Sadao caught in a dilemma of humanity versus patriotism. He rises above prejudices and considers humanity to have an upper hand.

Q6. ‘It is only war that makes people enemies.’ Analyse the theme of the lesson ‘The Enemy’ in the light of the above statement. (120-150 words)
Ans. During the second world war, Japan was at loggerheads with USA. USA exploded two atomic bombs on Japanese cites – Hiroshima and Nagasaki which led to large-scale destruction. However, the situation was not like this forever. Earlier, when Sadao was a student, he had gone to America for higher study. He had lived at an American lady’s house as a tenant and even visited the house of his American professor. It was there that he had met his future wife Hana for the first time. Thus, we see that the people who had been friends once became enemies due to war-induced prejudices.

Q7. Why did Dr. Sadao treat the American soldier, even though it was an unpatriotic act? Describe the difficulties faced by Dr. Sadao when he decided to help the enemy soldier.  (120-150 words)
Ans. Dr Sadao in the story “The Enemy” gives importance to humanity and medical ethics in comparison to war-induced prejudices. He is a Japanese doctor and during the second world war, he finds an injured American soldier at his doorstep. His hippocratic oath and moral conscience force him to save the life in danger. He is at a risk of being labelled a ‘traitor’. Still he operates on the enemy soldier and ensures his recovery.
During the duration of sheltering the enemy, all his loyal servants leave. They fear the police and being labelled as ‘traitors’. Sadao runs the risk of the police, the army General and social ostracization.

Also see:

 

 

Lesson 5 – On the face of it

Q1.Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
Mr. Lamb : When I go down the streets, the kids shout ‘Lamey Lamb’. But they will come into the garden, into my house; it’s a game. They’re not afraid of me. Why should they be? Because I’m not afraid of them, that’s why not.
Derry : Did you get your leg blown off in the war?
Mr. Lamb : Certainly
Derry : How will you climb on a ladder and get the crab apples down, then?
Mr. Lamb : Oh, there’s a lot of things I’ve learned to do and plenty of time for it. Years. I take it steady.

(i) Complete the following suitably :
‘Years. I take it steady’. The above line speaks of the speaker’s ______.
Ans. patience

(ii) Derry, how will you climb on a ladder? What does Derry hint at in the above query?
Ans. He hints at Mr Lamb’s artificial leg.

(iii) ‘When I go down the streets, the kids shout Lamey Lamb.’
The attitude of the speaker expressed in the above line is
(A) his habit of finding fault.
(B) he is timid and faint hearted.
(C) his acceptance of reality and positive attitude.
(D) his indifferent and careless attitude.
Ans. (C) his acceptance of reality and positive attitude.

(iv) Fill in the blank suitably:
Mr. Lamb’s handicap has not ________his attitude towards life.
Ans. dampened

Q2. Mr. Lamb :… you thought it has an empty house, but inside it’s full. What do these words tell you about Mr. Lamb?  (40-50 words)
OR
Q. Analyse the theme of optimism being the right approach to life in the play ‘On the Face of It’. (120-150 words)
Ans. These words indicate his positivity and enthusiasm towards life. He tries to induce the same attitude in Derry too. He shows him that there are two ways of perceiving things. So, it is upto us to decide which aspect we look at.

Q3. ‘I’m not fond of curtains.’ What does the above statement speak of Mr. Lamb’s character?(40-50 words)
Ans. This shows that Mr Lamb does not hide things. He likes nature and so, he does not have curtains in the house. He likes Sunshine and so, does not require curtains. He is a simple man.

Q4. Derry in ‘On the Face of it’ is a victim of self-pity. Analyse Derry’s behaviour in the light of the above statement. (120-150 words)
Ans. Derry hates himself and dislikes people also because they pity him for the acid burn mark that spoiled his face. He feels that his mother also dislikes the burnt half face of his because she kisses him on the other side. Derry is low on self esteem and feels that he cannot do anything in life. He doesn’t even think that any girl can ever like him. He dislikes making friends and remains lonely and sad. He even gets afraid of himself when he sees his face in the mirror. Thus, Derry is consumed in self-pity and self-hatred.

Q5. ‘You speak Peculiar Things.’ Why does Derry find Mr. Lamb’s conversation peculiar?
 (40-50 words)
Ans. Derry’s state of mind is very different from that of Mr Lamb. So, Derry is not able to accept his ideas. He finds Lamb’s talks to be strange. Lamb is positive, enthusiastic and accepts his broken leg. He does not pity himself and has accepted his disability. However, Derry is soaked in self-pity, self-hatredand pessimism.

Also see:

 

Lesson 6 – Memories of childhood Part 1

Q1. ‘I will struggle first.’ I answered. What emotion and trait of Zit-ka-la- sa is revealed in her response? (40-50 words)
Ans. Zitkala’s statement shows her determination and courage. She will not accept any atrocity meekly, rather she will retaliate.

Q2. Bama and Zit-Ka-la-Sa have proven that education is the antidote to all social evils. 
Analyse their characters in terms of their struggles and their will to win. (120-150 words)
OR
Compare the characters of Zit-ka-la-sa and Bama in terms of their struggle, pain, determination, and success.  (120-150 words)
Ans. Zitkala is a victim of racial discrimination while Bama is a victim of social discrimination. Both the writers face shame, victimization and subjugation. They understand that education is the only weapon that can help them overcome these evils. Both of them fought against oppression through their writings. Bama was guided by her elder brother Annan that if she wanted respect and dignity which they were stripped of, she must study and progress. Their stories inspire individuals to improve themselves and shine to gain dignity.

Also see:

 

Lesson 6 – Memories of childhood Part 2

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
When I heard this, I didn’t want to laugh any more, and I felt terribly sad. How could they believe that it was disgusting if one of us held that package in his hands, even though the Vadai had been wrapped first in a banana leaf, and then parcelled in paper? I felt so provoked and angry that I wanted to touch those wretched Vadais myself straight away. Why should we have to fetch and carry for these people. I wondered. Such an important elder of ours goes meekly to the shops to fetch snacks and hands over reverently, bowing and shrinking, to this fellow who just sits there and stuffs them into his mouth. The thought of it infuriated me.

(i) ‘I felt terribly sad’. The reason for the speaker’s sadness is because it was an act of _________.
Ans. untouchability

(ii) Choose the correct option:
‘The thought of it infuriated me’ with reference to the above line, what do you think is the impact of the incident on the speaker?
(A) The speaker was sympathetic and helpless.
(B) The speaker was angry and condemning.
(C) The speaker was excited to see the incident.
(D) The speaker was very impressed and motivated.
Ans. (B) The speaker was angry and condemning.

(iii) Complete the sentence suitably:
‘I wanted to touch those wretched Vadais myself”
The above expression indicates the speaker’s _________.
Ans. anger

(iv) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank :
The incident made the speaker realize that the discrimination was ___________. (dehumanizing/elevating)
Ans. dehumanizing

Q2. How was Annan instrumental in Bama achieving success in life? (40-50 words)
Ans. When Bama was disheartened to know that they were subjected to social discrimination because they were born in a ‘low’ caste, she sought help from her elder brother. Annan told Bama that their people had been subjugated and prejudiced. He directed her that if she wanted respect and dignity, she should educate herself. That way she would get respect in the society.

Q3. Bama and Zit-Ka-la-Sa have proven that education is the antidote to all social evils. 
Analyse their characters in terms of their struggles and their will to win. (120-150 words)
OR
Compare the characters of Zit-ka-la-sa and Bama in terms of their struggle, pain, determination, and success.  (120-150 words)
Ans. Zitkala is a victim of racial discrimination while Bama is a victim of social discrimination. Both the writers face shame, victimization and subjugation. They understand that education is the only weapon that can help them overcome these evils. Both of them fought against oppression through their writings. Bama was guided by her elder brother Annan that if she wanted respect and dignity which they were stripped of, she must study and progress. Their stories inspire individuals to improve themselves and shine to gain dignity.

Also see:

on

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *