Ch 1His First Flight
5-Mark Questions
Why did the seagull fail to fly?
The young seagull failed to fly because he was overwhelmed by fear and lacked confidence in his own abilities. The primary obstacle was his intense fear of falling from the cliff, which made him hesitate at the critical moment when he needed to take the leap. Every time he approached the edge, this paralyzing fear would grip him and prevent him from launching himself into the air. His brothers and sister had already learned to fly successfully, but the young seagull could not overcome his psychological barrier despite his parents' encouragement. …
What did the parents do, when the young seagull failed to fly?
When the young seagull failed to fly, his parents adopted a tough love approach to force him into independence and self-reliance. Rather than helping him or coddling him, they refused to assist him in any way that would enable his dependence on them. They scolded him harshly for his failure and lack of courage, making him feel ashamed of his inability to fly like his siblings. Most significantly, they withheld food from him as a form of pressure, refusing to feed him until he learned to fly on his own. …
2-Mark Questions
What was the first catch of the young seagull's older brother?
The first catch of the young seagull's older brother was a small fish, specifically a sand-eel or little fish. This successful catch demonstrated the older brother's ability to hunt and feed himself, which contrasted sharply with the young seagull's fear and reluctance to attempt flight and find food on his own. The older brother's achievement served as an example of what the young bird could accomplish once he overcame his fear and took the leap into the sky.
What did the young seagull manage to find in his search for food on the ledge?
Only a few scraps — nothing substantial; he could not find proper food on the ledge.
What did the young bird do to seek the attention of his parents?
The young bird sought the attention of his parents by crying loudly and beating his wings vigorously. He flapped his wings repeatedly and screamed in distress, hoping that his parents would come to his aid and perhaps feed him or encourage him. This behavior reflected his desperation and fear, as he was reluctant to leave the safety of the ledge and attempt to fly, so he resorted to calling out for parental support and reassurance.
Ch 2Life
5-Mark Questions
1. Let me but live my life from year to year, With forward face and unreluctant soul; a. Whom does the word 'me' refer to? b. What kind of life does the poet want to lead?
a. The word 'me' refers to the speaker or the poet himself. The poet uses the first-person pronoun to express his personal desire and vision for how he wishes to live his life. b. The poet wants to lead a steady, purposeful, and courageous life. He desires to move forward with determination and an unwilling or reluctant soul, meaning he wants to face life's challenges with a willing heart and positive attitude. He wishes to live each year with a forward-looking perspective, accepting life's journey with courage and hope rather than fear or hesitation. …
2. Not hurrying to, nor turning from the goal; Not mourning for the things that disappear a. Why do you think the poet is not in a hurry? b. What should one not mourn for?
a. The poet is not in a hurry because he values the journey of life more than reaching the destination. He prefers steady, purposeful progress and wants to enjoy and appreciate each moment and experience along the way rather than rushing anxiously toward the final goal. This reflects a philosophical approach to life that emphasizes the importance of the process and the present moment over the end result. By not hurrying, the poet suggests that one should savor life's experiences, learn from them, and maintain a balanced pace that allows for genuine living and growth. b. …
2-Mark Questions
6. In the dim past, nor holding back in fear From what the future veils; but with a whole And happy heart, that pays its toll To Youth and Age, and travels on with cheer. a. Identify the rhyming words of the given lines.
The rhyming pairs in the given lines are 'fear' and 'cheer,' which are perfect rhymes as they have identical ending sounds. The second rhyming pair is 'whole' and 'toll,' which also form a perfect rhyme with matching vowel and consonant sounds. These rhymes help create a musical quality and rhythm in the poem while reinforcing the thematic connections between the words. …
7. Let me but live my life from year to year, With forward face and unreluctant soul; Not hurrying to, nor turning from the goal; Not mourning for the things that disappear a. Identify the rhyme scheme of the given lines.
The rhyme scheme of the given lines is ABBA. The first line ends with 'year' (A), the second line ends with 'soul' (B), the third line ends with 'goal' (B), and the fourth line ends with 'disappear' (A). This creates an interlocking or enclosed rhyme pattern where the first and fourth lines rhyme with each other, and the second and third lines rhyme with each other. This ABBA pattern is characteristic of a quatrain and is often used in poetry to create a sense of unity and closure within a stanza. …
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Complete the passage using the phrases given in the box. Box phrases: youth to old age up or down the hill to hurry nor move away high adventure joyful mourn looking ahead The poet wants to live his life __________, willing to do something. He neither wants __________from his goal. He does not want to _______ the things he has lost, not hold back for fear of the future. He instead prefers to live his life with a whole and happy heart which cheerfully travels from __________. Therefore, it does not matter to him whether the path goes __________, rough or smooth, the journey will be __________. He will continue to seek what he wanted as a boy - new friendship, __________ and a crown (prize). His heart will remain courageous and pursue his desires. He hopes that every turn in his life's journey will be the best.
G; C; F; A; B; E; D
Ch 3The Tempest
5-Mark Questions
Identify the character or speaker: 1. She imprisoned the spirits in the bodies of large trees. 2. He was the chief of all spirits. 3. I was Duke of Milan, and you were a princess.
1. Sycorax, who was Caliban's mother and a powerful witch, is described as having imprisoned spirits in the trunks of large trees, demonstrating her magical abilities and control over supernatural forces. 2. Ariel is identified as the chief of all spirits who serves Prospero faithfully, carrying out his magical commands and helping him control events on the island. 3. …
Who were on the ship? How were they related to Prospero?
On the ship were several important figures including Alonso, the King of Naples, and his son Ferdinand, a young prince. Also aboard were Antonio, Prospero's own brother who had usurped his dukedom and caused him to be cast away, along with Sebastian and Gonzalo. These people were directly connected to Prospero's past life in Milan. Antonio was Prospero's treacherous brother who had stolen his throne and position. Gonzalo was a loyal friend and counselor who had shown Prospero kindness years earlier by secretly helping him and Miranda escape after Antonio's betrayal. …
2-Mark Questions
Who were the inhabitants of the island?
The main inhabitants of the island were Prospero, Miranda, Caliban, and Ariel along with other spirits under Prospero's command. Caliban was the native inhabitant of the island before Prospero's arrival, while Ariel and the other spirits were supernatural beings controlled by Prospero's magic. There were no other permanent human residents on the island, making it a place isolated from the civilized world where Prospero could exercise his magical powers and raise his daughter away from the dangers of his former life in Milan.
What powers did Prospero possess?
Prospero possessed extraordinary magical powers that he had gained from his books of magic and his deep knowledge of the occult arts. Through these powers, he could control and command spirits like Ariel, forcing them to obey his will and perform various tasks. He could create violent storms and tempests at sea, summon magical visions and illusions to confuse and test people, and manipulate events on the island to achieve his purposes. …
Who was Caliban? What was he employed for?
Caliban was the son of Sycorax, a powerful witch, and was the native inhabitant of the island before Prospero's arrival. He was a creature of the island, neither fully human nor entirely supernatural, and represented the original occupant of the land. Prospero enslaved Caliban and employed him as his servant and laborer, forcing him to perform all the manual work necessary to maintain the island and support Prospero and Miranda's life there. Despite his servitude, Caliban possessed knowledge of the island's resources and secrets, making him useful to Prospero even as he resented his bondage.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Prospero ordered Ariel to bring to his place.
b
Ch 4The Grumble Family
5-Mark Questions
Read the following lines from the poem and answer the questions given below. 1. There's a family nobody likes to meet; They live, it is said, on Complaining Street a. Where does the family live? b. Why do you think the street is named as 'Complaining Street'?
a. The Grumble family lives on Complaining Street, a place that exists in the poem as a symbolic location representing the dwelling of perpetually dissatisfied people. b. The street is named 'Complaining Street' because the family living there constantly complains and grumbles about everything around them. They find fault with all circumstances and conditions, no matter what they are. The name reflects the dominant characteristic of the people who inhabit this street — their habit of perpetual complaint and their inability to find satisfaction or contentment in anything. …
2. They growl at that and they growl at this; Whatever comes, there is something amiss; a. What does the word 'growl' mean here? b. Why do they find everything amiss?
a. 'Growl' here means to grumble or complain. b. They are habitually dissatisfied and critical, so they always find fault with whatever happens.
2-Mark Questions
3. Nothing goes right with the folks you meet Down on that gloomy Complaining Street. a. What is the opinion about the folks you meet down the street? b. What does the word 'gloomy' mean here?
a. The opinion about the folks you meet down Complaining Street is that nothing ever goes right for them. They are portrayed as perpetually unhappy, unlucky, and dissatisfied with their circumstances. They seem to experience constant misfortune or at least perceive everything negatively, always finding something to complain about regardless of the actual situation. b. The word 'gloomy' in this context means dark, sad, cheerless, and depressing. …
There's a family nobody likes to meet; They live, it is said, on Complaining Street a. Where does the family live? b. Why do you think the street is named as 'Complaining Street'?
a. The Grumble family lives on Complaining Street, a symbolic location in the poem that represents the home of people who are perpetually dissatisfied and negative. b. The street is named 'Complaining Street' because the family and people living there are characterized by their constant complaining and grumbling about everything. They habitually find fault with all aspects of life and are never satisfied, so the street's name directly reflects this dominant trait of its inhabitants.
And whether their station be high or humble,… Pick out the alliteration from the above line.
Alliteration is the repetition of the same initial consonant sound in words that are close together in a line or phrase. In the line 'And whether their station be high or humble,' the words 'high' and 'humble' both begin with the 'h' sound, creating an alliteration. This repetition of the initial 'h' sound creates a pleasing rhythmic effect and helps emphasize these words in the line.
Ch 5The Night the Ghost Got In
5-Mark Questions
How did the Bodwells react, when a shoe was thrown into their house?
When a shoe was thrown into their house, the Bodwells reacted with considerable alarm and distress. They were startled and upset by this sudden and violent intrusion into their home. The incident alarmed them greatly because they had no idea what was happening or why a shoe had been hurled through their window. Their reaction was one of fear and anxiety, and they came out of their house to investigate and complain about the incident. This led to an angry and anxious response from them, and the commotion escalated as they tried to understand what was occurring. …
What made the reporter gaze at the author?
The reporter gazed at the author with a peculiar and puzzled expression because the author's reply of 'We had ghosts' provided no useful or satisfactory explanation for the night's events. The reporter had expected a logical and concrete answer to his questions about what had actually happened, but instead received a vague and unhelpful response. The author's comparison of the reporter's gaze to that of a slot machine into which a coin had been dropped without results is particularly apt and humorous. …
2-Mark Questions
Where was the author when he heard the noise?
He was lying in bed (upstairs) in his room when he heard the noise.
What did the narrator think the unusual sound was?
When the narrator heard the unusual sound, he initially thought it was an intruder or a burglar moving around in the house. The strange noise alarmed him because he believed someone had broken into the house and was moving through it, which naturally caused him concern and fear about the safety of his family and home.
What were the various sounds the brothers heard when they went downstairs?
When the brothers went downstairs, they heard a variety of strange and unexplained sounds that heightened their fear and confusion. These sounds included scuffling and dragging noises, which suggested something or someone moving around in the house. They also heard odd footsteps that seemed to come from different parts of the house, creating an eerie atmosphere. Additionally, they heard creaking sounds, typical of an old house but alarming in the context of believing there was an intruder. …
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
The rich man was from....
Thailand.
Ch 6Zigzag
5-Mark Questions
A. Identify the speaker / character. 1. Even though I clearly said no! 2. The one that spits deadly poison straight into its opponent's eyes. 3. Remember the tiny penknife he gave me last year. 4. It's Somu's thoughtless ways that reduce me to tears. 5. Come in, Zigzag, come in dear!
1. Dr. Krishnan 2. Maya 3. Maya 4. Mrs. Krishnan 5. Visu (Uncle Somu's cook)
B. Read the story again and write how these characters reacted in these situations: 3. Just wait till Zigzag settles down in this new home. Visu………….................……………… 1. You're both quite mistaken. Arvind and Maya…….………………. Dr. Krishnan ........……………………. 4. Zigzag hardly ever sleeps. Mrs. Krishnan……....………………… Somu………………………................... 2. It's Somu's thoughtless ways that reduce me to tears. Dr.Krishnan…………………......……. 5. You are an absolute treasure……….…. Mrs. Krishnan …………………....….. Dr.Krishnan………………................... Dr. Krishnan ……………..…......……. Zigzag……………………...............…..
3. Visu — reassured the family, saying they should wait; he comforted them that Zigzag would settle in and they would enjoy him. 1. Arvind and Maya — protested eagerly, defended Zigzag/Uncle Somu and expressed delight; Dr. Krishnan — hastened to explain and reassure them that Zigzag was harmless and lovable. 4. Mrs. Krishnan — annoyed and determined to get rid of Zigzag at home (asked Dr. Krishnan to find Visu); Somu — in his e-mail said he had never heard Zigzag snore and that Zigzag hardly ever sleeps (recommended Visu keep him). 2. Dr. …
2-Mark Questions
Why did Dr. Ashok's cousin call him ?
Dr Ashok Krishnan's cousin Somu called him to ask him to look after his pet bird, Zigzag, while Somu was away in Alaska. Somu needed someone trustworthy to care for the bird during his absence, and he turned to his cousin Dr. Krishnan for this responsibility. This request set off a chain of unexpected and chaotic events at the Krishnan household.
Mention at least two expressions which show that Mrs. Krishnan was not willing to have Zigzag at home.
Two expressions are: "I'm going crazy with the sound of Zigzag snoring, plus all these telephone calls" and "And my beautiful painting..."
What pets did Somu have?
Somu had a giant green-and-gold fighting beetle and an African snake.
Ch 7I am Every Woman
5-Mark Questions
1. The summer of life she's ready to see in spring. She says, "Spring will come again, my dear Let me care for the ones who're near." a) What does the word summer mean here? b) How does she take life ? c) What does she mean by "spring will come again?"
a) 'Summer' in this context means a period of happiness, prosperity, fulfilment and the best phase of life. It represents the peak or the most vibrant time of one's existence. b) She takes life with optimism, resilience and a caring attitude. She faces challenges with hope and determination, and she expresses her commitment to nurturing and protecting the ones she loves and cares for, showing that she values relationships and responsibility. …
2. Strong is she in her faith and beliefs. "Persistence is the key to everything," says she. a) What is she strong about? b) How does she deal with the adversities in life?
a) She is strong in her faith and convictions. b) She meets adversities with persistence and steady faith; she does not give up but keeps trying.
Ch 8The Story of Mulan
5-Mark Questions
Identify the character or speaker of the following lines: 1. I heard about it in town. 2. I am your son now. 3. The General is a woman? 4. Mulan, stay with me in the palace. 5. You are too kind, sire.
1. Mulan's father — He heard about the Emperor's order in town and was discussing it. 2. One of the soldiers or Mulan's comrades — This soldier is expressing loyalty to Mulan, acknowledging her as a fellow soldier and friend. 3. A soldier or one of Mulan's comrades — This soldier is expressing shock and surprise upon discovering that the General is actually a woman. 4. The Emperor — He is inviting Mulan to stay with him in the palace, likely as a gesture of honor and gratitude. 5. Mulan — She is responding humbly to the Emperor's offer or gesture, showing her modest and respectful nature.
How did the soldiers come to know about Mulan's real identity?
Her comrades discovered she was a woman when she removed her armour and put on women's clothes (and/or when she bathed and revealed her true identity).
2-Mark Questions
What was the Emperor's order?
The Emperor ordered that each family must send one man to join the army to fight the invaders.
Where did Mulan's father hear about the Emperor's order?
He heard about the Emperor's order in the town.
Why couldn't Mulan's brother go to war?
Mulan's brother could not go to war because he was too young to be enlisted. The army required soldiers to be of a certain age and maturity to serve in combat, and her brother had not yet reached that age requirement. This is why Mulan felt compelled to take his place and go to war herself, disguising herself as a man to fulfill the family's obligation to contribute a soldier to the army.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Mulan goes to the battle instead of her father because _________
c
Ch 9The Ant and the Cricket
5-Mark Questions
4. At last by starvation and famine made bold, All dripping with wet, and all trembling with cold, a) What made the cricket bold? b) Why did the cricket drip and tremble? (Also: Pick out the rhyming words in the above lines and give more examples of rhyming words from the poem.)
a) Starvation and extreme hunger made the cricket bold enough to seek help. b) He was dripping from wet weather (rain/snow melt) and trembling from the cold of winter. Rhyming words in the lines: bold / cold. More rhymes from the poem: sing / spring; found / ground; rain / grain; borrow / tomorrow; light / night / might / sight (examples).
5. Away he set off to a miserly ant, To keep if, to keep him alive, he would grant Him shelter from rain, And a mouthful of grain. a) Whom did the cricket want to meet? Why? b) What would keep him alive? (Mention the rhyme scheme employed in the above lines.)
a) The cricket wanted to meet a miserly ant to ask for help and shelter. He went to the ant because he was desperate and had nowhere else to turn. The cricket hoped that the ant would take pity on him and provide him with the basic necessities to survive the harsh winter season. b) Shelter from rain and a mouthful of grain would keep him alive during the winter. These two things represent the basic needs for survival—protection from the elements and food to sustain life. …
2-Mark Questions
A silly young cricket accustomed to sing Through the warm, sunny months of gay summer and spring. a) What was the routine of the cricket? b) Name the seasons mentioned here.
a) The routine of the cricket was to sing regularly and continuously throughout the warm, sunny months of summer and spring. He spent his days singing and enjoying himself without any concern for the future or the need to work and prepare for harder times ahead. b) The seasons mentioned in these lines are summer and spring, both of which are warm and pleasant seasons when the cricket was carefree and occupied with singing.
Began to complain when he found that, at home, His cupboard was empty, and winter was come. a) Who does 'he' refer to? b) Why was his cupboard empty?
a) 'He' refers to the cricket, the main character of the poem who had spent the warm months singing instead of working. b) His cupboard was empty because the cricket had not saved any food during the warm months of summer and spring. Instead of working and storing food for the winter like the ant, the cricket had spent all his time singing and enjoying himself, leaving him unprepared when winter arrived and food became scarce.
Not a crumb to be found On the snow-covered ground; a) What couldn't he find on the ground? b) Why was the ground covered with snow?
a) He couldn't find any crumbs (food) on the ground. b) The ground was covered with snow because it was winter.
Ch 10The Attic
5-Mark Questions
What did Nagen uncle tell about Sanyal's past life?
Nagen uncle said that Sanyal had led a cursed life: he had sold his land for his daughter's marriage and had lost his wife and only son the previous year.
Write a few lines about the owner of the shop.
The tea-shop owner was over sixty and rustic in appearance, with neatly combed white hair and a clean look. He wore a dhoti, a blue-striped shirt and a green shawl.
2-Mark Questions
When did Aditya leave the local school?
Aditya left the local school after he had passed the matriculation examination.
Why did Aditya think that the school would not be recognisable?
Aditya thought that the school would not be recognizable because he was visiting it after twenty-nine years had passed since his departure. During such a long span of time, schools typically undergo significant changes including renovations, expansions, modifications to buildings and infrastructure, changes in layout and facilities, and updates to accommodate modern educational needs. Aditya expected that the physical appearance and structure of the school would be substantially different from what he remembered from his childhood and youth.
Who were Aditya's ancestors?
Aditya's ancestors were zamindars.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Call me _________ you need money.
C
Ch 11Tech Bloomers
5-Mark Questions
What are the benefits of the internet to the common man?
The Internet provides ordinary people with quick and easy access to vast amounts of information on virtually any topic, enabling them to learn and stay informed. It allows them to communicate with people across the world instantly through email and messaging platforms, breaking down geographical barriers. Beyond communication, the Internet enables financial transactions such as transferring money and paying bills from home. It also facilitates practical tasks like reserving tickets for travel and entertainment, and applying for overseas education opportunities. …
Do you think technology has improved communication? How?
Yes, technology has significantly improved communication in multiple ways. Email allows people to send written messages instantly across any distance, eliminating delays caused by traditional postal systems. Mobile phones enable voice communication from anywhere, making it possible to stay connected on the move. Social networks have created platforms where people can share information, maintain relationships, and connect with communities of interest regardless of location. …
2-Mark Questions
What is the future of technology?
Future technology will bring significant advancements in automation and smart devices that will transform everyday life. Machines and appliances will become increasingly intelligent and responsive to human needs. Gestures may control smart televisions, allowing users to change channels or adjust settings without physical remotes. Refrigerators may replenish supplies themselves by automatically ordering groceries when items run low. Driverless cars and factory robots may become common, reducing the need for human drivers and manual labour in manufacturing. …
How many people in India suffer with disability?
According to the 2011 Census, about 2.21% of India's population, roughly 2.7 crore people, lives with a disability.
Who is Kim?
Kim is the assistive technologist at Alisha's school.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
"Who took my English book?" He was curious to know who...
b
Ch 12The Secret of the Machines
5-Mark Questions
Mention a few machines which are hammered to design.
Several machines are shaped and designed through the process of hammering. Hand-forged tools such as hammers, chisels, and axes are traditionally created by blacksmiths who heat metal and then hammer it into the desired shape. Anvils themselves, which are used as the base for hammering other metals, are also forged through hammering. Many machine parts and components, particularly those requiring strength and durability, are shaped using forging techniques where heated metal is repeatedly struck with hammers to achieve the final design. …
Are machines humble to accept the evolution of human brain? Why?
Machines do not possess feelings or emotions such as humility, as they are inanimate objects created by human intelligence and engineering. Machines accept and follow human intelligence not out of humility but because they are designed, programmed, and controlled by humans. They have no consciousness or will of their own and therefore must obey the instructions and commands given to them by their operators and creators. …
2-Mark Questions
Who are the speakers and listeners of this poem?
The speakers in this poem are the machines themselves, who voice their thoughts, concerns, and perspective about their relationship with humanity. The listeners are human beings, specifically the makers and users of the machines. Through this unique narrative device, the poem presents the machines' point of view, allowing them to communicate directly with their human creators and operators about their role, capabilities, and the nature of their dependence on humans.
What metals are obtained from ores and mines?
Common metals obtained from ores and mines include iron, copper, tin, lead, silver and gold. Iron is extracted from iron ore and is one of the most widely used metals in industry and construction. Copper is valued for its electrical conductivity and is used in wiring and various industrial applications. Tin and lead have been historically important metals used in alloys and manufacturing. Silver and gold are precious metals that have been prized for both ornamental and industrial purposes throughout human history. …
Mention the names of a few machines that run on water, coal or oil.
Machines that run on water include water wheels and hydro turbines, which harness the power of flowing or falling water to generate energy. Machines powered by coal include steam engines and steam locomotives, which burn coal to heat water and create steam that drives pistons and wheels. Machines that run on oil include diesel engines and internal-combustion engines, which burn oil or petroleum products to create controlled explosions that power mechanical movement. …
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Who does 'we' refer to in first stanza?
b
Ch 13No Men Are Foreign
5-Mark Questions
Beneath all uniforms, a single body breathes Like ours: the land our brothers walk upon Is earth like this, in which we all shall lie. a) What is found beneath all uniforms? b) What is same for every one of us? c) Where are we all going to lie finally?
a) Beneath all uniforms, a single human body breathes, which represents our common humanity and shared physical nature regardless of nationality, rank, or allegiance. b) What is the same for everyone is the land upon which our brothers walk—the earth itself—and our common human nature, as we all share the same basic biological and spiritual essence. c) We are all going to lie finally in the earth, meaning that death is universal and all human beings, regardless of their differences, will ultimately be buried in the same earth from which we all come, emphasizing our fundamental equality and sha …
They, too, aware of sun and air and water, Are fed by peaceful harvests, by war's long winter starv'd. a) What is common for all of us? b) How are we fed? c) Mention the season referred here.
a) What is common for all of us is our awareness of and dependence on the basic elements of nature: sun, air, and water, which sustain all human life regardless of nationality or origin. b) We are fed by peaceful harvests when there is peace and prosperity, but during war, people face long winters of starvation and deprivation, showing how conflict disrupts the natural cycle of sustenance and survival. …
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
This poem is about the ___(1)___ of all men.
(1) Brotherhood.
Ch 14The Last Lesson
5-Mark Questions
Why did M.Hamel blame himself?
He blamed himself for not having made the villagers and children love and guard their language enough.
M. Hamel was gazing at many things. What were they?
M. Hamel was gazing at many things with deep emotion and nostalgia as he conducted his last lesson. He gazed at the schoolroom itself, the map hanging on the wall, the blackboard where he had written so many lessons, and most importantly, at his pupils—the children he had taught. He was looking at everything that had been connected with his life as a teacher, every object and every face that held memories of his years of dedication to education. His gaze reflected his love for teaching and the profound sadness of having to leave behind the work that had defined his life.
2-Mark Questions
What kind of news was usually put up on the bulletin board?
Official notices and proclamations (village news and government orders).
What was the usual scene when school began everyday?
Noisy, busy arrival of children — laughing, running, talking and settling down.
Other than the students, who were present in the class?
Many villagers and old men of the village.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
10. Write down the words that alliterate in the poetic lines below. (a) Festival of Flowers (b) That spreads treasures on a tree
(a) Festival, Flowers. (b) treasures, tree.
Ch 15The Little Hero of Holland
5-Mark Questions
1. What are the little children of Holland aware of?
The little children of Holland are acutely aware of the constant danger posed by the sea, which is always attempting to break through the protective dikes and flood their country. This awareness is deeply ingrained in their consciousness from an early age, as the dikes represent the only barrier between their homeland and the destructive forces of the sea. The children understand that maintaining the integrity of the dikes is a matter of survival for their entire nation, and they recognize that vigilance and collective responsibility are essential. …
1. Narrate in your own words the circumstances that led Peter to be a brave little hero.
Peter became a brave little hero through a series of circumstances that tested his character and courage. While on an errand to deliver cakes to a blind neighbour across the dike, Peter discovered a small leak in the dike wall. Recognizing the potential danger this posed to his entire country, he immediately took action by plugging the hole with his finger. Despite the discomfort and the growing darkness, Peter remained at his post throughout the entire night, holding back the water with his small finger to prevent it from widening the breach. …
2-Mark Questions
"I want you to go across the dike and take these cakes to your friend, the blind man."
This line represents Peter's mother instructing him to undertake an important errand. She is directing Peter to cross the dike and deliver cakes to their blind neighbour, demonstrating both her trust in Peter's ability to complete the task and her concern for their neighbour's welfare. The instruction sets the stage for the events that follow in the story.
"I am glad they are so strong."
This statement is likely spoken by Peter's mother, expressing her relief and satisfaction that the dikes are strong and sturdy. She is reassuring herself and others that the protective barriers are robust enough to withstand the pressure of the sea, reflecting the confidence and trust that the people of Holland place in their dikes for their safety and survival.
"Holland shall not be drowned while I am here."
This statement is spoken by Peter, the little hero of Holland. Peter is a young boy who discovers a leak in the dike while returning home from visiting his blind neighbor. Despite his fear and exhaustion, he demonstrates remarkable courage and determination by placing his finger in the hole to prevent water from flowing through. His declaration reflects his sense of responsibility and his understanding of the danger that the leaking dike poses to his entire country. …
Ch 16A Dilemma
5-Mark Questions
He would think it over and come back later.
The shopkeeper/jeweller (or a buyer) — someone considering a purchase and deciding to return.
What did the uncle do as soon as he bought a stone?
Whenever Uncle Philip bought a new stone, he carried it in his pocket for a month and took it out from time to time to admire it; afterward he stored it safely at the trust company.
2-Mark Questions
I suppose you think me queer. I will explain.
The uncle (speaking in his letter/statement to Tom).
Don't come back. It won't hasten things.
This command is given by Uncle Philip to Tom or to whoever might be inclined to visit him. The uncle is telling them not to return or come back because their return will not speed up or hasten the outcome or the process that he has set in motion. He is essentially saying that visiting him again will not change anything or make things happen any faster.
He thought it simply a cruel jest.
When Tom hears the uncle's strange and unusual arrangement regarding the inheritance and the condition attached to it, he initially thinks it is simply a cruel jest or joke. Tom does not take the uncle's words seriously at first and believes that the uncle is joking with him rather than stating a genuine condition for the inheritance.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
The uncle had collected precious . (jewels / stones / articles)
stones.
Ch 17The Dying Detective
5-Mark Questions
a. How did Watson feel when he heard of Holmes' illness?
Watson was alarmed and anxious; he was shocked to learn Holmes was dangerously ill and hurried to his lodgings, deeply concerned for his friend's life.
b. Why didn't the landlady call the doctor?
The landlady did not call the doctor because Holmes had explicitly instructed that no doctor should be called, and the household obeyed his wishes. Mrs Hudson was following Holmes' direct orders and was unaware that Holmes was enacting an elaborate ruse or deception. Holmes had deliberately isolated himself and refused medical assistance as part of his plan to trap the criminal. The landlady respected Holmes' authority and his explicit instructions, even though she was naturally concerned about his apparent illness. …
2-Mark Questions
d. What according to Holmes was the disease he was suffering from?
Holmes claimed to be suffering from Tapanuli fever, a rare and deadly disease mentioned in the story. This was the disease that Holmes told Watson he had contracted, and it was presented as an extremely serious and often fatal condition. Holmes used this claim as part of his elaborate deception to convince others, particularly Culverton Smith, that he was genuinely dying.
e. Who did Watson see when he entered the room?
Watson saw a stranger in the room when he entered—Culverton Smith, the visitor whom Holmes had invited. Smith's presence was unexpected to Watson, who had not been informed in advance that Holmes was expecting a guest. This stranger turned out to be the key figure in Holmes' investigation, the person Holmes believed was responsible for a serious crime.
What explanation did Holmes give for speaking rudely to Watson?
Holmes explained that his rudeness towards Watson was entirely deliberate and formed an essential part of his carefully planned deception. He wished to irritate and annoy Watson so that Watson would become discouraged and keep away from him, thereby preventing Watson from interfering with or accidentally discovering the plan. By driving Watson away through harsh words and cold behaviour, Holmes ensured that Watson would not come close enough to detect the truth behind his apparent illness or inadvertently expose the trap he was setting for Culverton Smith.
1-Mark Questions (MCQ)
Niteesh bought a ________ (knew/new) cricket bat.
b
Ch 18The House on Elm Street
5-Mark Questions
It sat alone. What happened there is still today unknown. It is a very mysterious place, And inside you can tell it has a ton of space, But at the same time it is bare to the bone. a. What does 'It' refer to? b. Pick out the line that indicates the size of the house
a. 'It' refers to the house. b. "And inside you can tell it has a ton of space."
It never grows leaves, Not in the winter, spring, summer or fall. It just sits there never getting small or ever growing tall. a. What does 'it' refer to? b. In what way the tree is a mystery?
a. 'It' refers to the tree that stands on the property of the house on Elm Street. b. The tree is a mystery because it defies the natural cycle of seasons. Unlike normal trees that grow leaves in spring and summer, shed them in autumn, and remain bare in winter, this tree never grows leaves at any time of the year. Additionally, it never changes in size—it neither grows taller nor becomes smaller. This complete absence of seasonal change and growth makes the tree an enigma, suggesting that something is fundamentally unnatural or wrong about it. …
2-Mark Questions
I drive past the house almost every day. The house seems to be a bit brighter. On this warm summer day in May. It plays with your mind. a. Who does 'I' refer to? b. Pick out the alliterated words in the 2nd line.
a. 'I' refers to the speaker or narrator of the poem, who is the person observing and describing the house on Elm Street. The speaker is someone who drives past the house regularly and has developed a personal connection to it through repeated observation. b. The alliterated words in the second line 'The house seems to be a bit brighter' are 'bit' and 'brighter,' which both begin with the 'b' sound. This alliteration creates a rhythmic effect and emphasizes the brightening appearance of the house on that particular warm summer day in May.
Frequently asked questions
- Why did the seagull fail to fly?
- The young seagull failed to fly because he was overwhelmed by fear and lacked confidence in his own abilities. The primary obstacle was his intense fear of falling from the cliff, which made him hesitate at the critical moment when he needed to take the leap. Every time he approached the edge, this paralyzing fear would grip him and prevent him from launching himself into the air. His brothers and sister had already learned to fly successfully, but the young seagull could not overcome his psychological barrier despite his parents' encouragement. …
- What did the parents do, when the young seagull failed to fly?
- When the young seagull failed to fly, his parents adopted a tough love approach to force him into independence and self-reliance. Rather than helping him or coddling him, they refused to assist him in any way that would enable his dependence on them. They scolded him harshly for his failure and lack of courage, making him feel ashamed of his inability to fly like his siblings. Most significantly, they withheld food from him as a form of pressure, refusing to feed him until he learned to fly on his own. …
- What was the first catch of the young seagull's older brother?
- The first catch of the young seagull's older brother was a small fish, specifically a sand-eel or little fish. This successful catch demonstrated the older brother's ability to hunt and feed himself, which contrasted sharply with the young seagull's fear and reluctance to attempt flight and find food on his own. The older brother's achievement served as an example of what the young bird could accomplish once he overcame his fear and took the leap into the sky.
- What did the young seagull manage to find in his search for food on the ledge?
- Only a few scraps — nothing substantial; he could not find proper food on the ledge.
These important questions are selected from the Samacheer Kalvi Class 10 English textbook book-back exercises to help you revise the most useful questions. Mark weightage (5/2/1) follows the usual exam pattern and may vary by exam — always check your latest syllabus and question pattern. Open each chapter for the complete set of questions and answers.