SCHOOL

VIJAYANTA MODEL
HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL
XII Standard
ENGLISH, PROSE, POEM
&
NON-DETAILED
1
STUDY MATERIAL 2019 - 2020
PROSE
UNIT - 1 TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA
Synonyms & Antonyms:
artless, beside, bought, brisk, cautious, deserted, devotion, disappeared, disapprove, eager, engaging,
errands, gazing, glaring, hawked, humble, imagined, intrude, nobility, paused, persuaded, propped,
provoked, resistance, rubble, scarce, scarcely, selfless, shabby, slackened, uncomfortably, vestibule,
vexation, wild, worn
Words Synonyms Antonyms
artless innocent, guileless guileful
beside alongside from far away
bought purchased sold
brisk quick, fast slow
cautious careful, alert careless
deserted uninhabited, unoccupied crowded
devotion loyalty disloyalty
disappeared vanished appeared
disapprove deny, refuse permit
eager anxious, enthusiastic unenthusiastic
engaging charming, captivating boring
errands short work, odd jobs -
gazing looking steadily abhor
glaring starting with anger obscured, concealed
hawked sold bought
humble modest, poor, inferior luxury, superior
imagined speculated, guessed unimagined
intrude enter without permission leave
nobility dignity, virtue dishonour
paused delay continued
persuaded induced dissuaded
propped rested discourage
provoked aroused unprovoked, unexcited
resistance fighting, struggle co-operation
rubble debris, broken bricks valuable
scarce insufficient, deficient adequate
scarcely hardly abundantly
selfless unselfish selfish
shabby ill-dressed royal
slackened reduced increased
uncomfortably uncomfortably comfortably
vestibule lobby outlet
vexation annoyance happiness
wild fruit grown without
proper cultivation -
worn old and damaged fresh
2
1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each based on your understanding of
the story.
a. Who did the narrator meet at the outskirts of Verona?
The narrator met two boys selling wild strawberries at the outskirts of Verona.
b. Why did the driver not approve of the narrator buying fruits from the boys?
The two boys had a shabby appearance. They were wearing old and worn out clothes. So, the driver did
not approve of the narrator buying fruits from the boys.
c. The boys did not spend much on clothes and food. Why?
They had to save money for medical treatment of their sister. So, they did not spend much on clothes
and food.
d. Were the boys saving money to go the States? How do you know?
No, they were not saving money to go to the states. They told the narrator that they would like to go to
the States, but they had other plans.
e. Why did the author avoid going to Lucia's room?
The author avoided going to Lucia's room because he did not want to intrude into the privacy of the
brothers and sister.
f. What was Lucia suffering from?
Lucia was suffering from Tuberculosis.
g. What made the boys join the resistance movement against the Germans?
The boys joined the resistance movement against the Germans because they hated the Germans as
they destroyed their family.
h. What made the boys work so hard?
The boys worked so hard to pay for their sister's medical bills and food.
i. Why didn't the boys disclose their problem to the author?
The boys didnot disclose their problems to the author, as they didn't like to be sympathised.
ADDITIONAL
1. Does a gentleman have consideration for others and their feelings?
Yes, a gentleman has consideration for others and their feelings. A real gentleman is one who is
sensitive and thoughtful towards the people around him.
2. Why was Nicola not pleased when Jacopo asked the narrator to drive them to Poleta?
Nicola was not pleased, as he did not want to ask anyone for favours.
3. Why did the author not speak to the boys on their return journey?
The author did not speak to the boys on their return journey, as he thought the boys would prefer to keep
their secret.
4. What are the qualities of a gentleman?
The quality of a gentleman are being respectful, courteous, chivalrous, understanding, considering and
wise.
2. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences each.

a. Describe the appearance of Nicola and jacopo.
One boy was wearing an old damaged Jersey and cut-off Khaki pants. The other boy was slim and was
wearing a shortened army tunic gathered in loose folds. Both of them had uncombed hair and brown
skin. Nicola, the elder was 13 years old and Jacopo was 12 years old.
b. What were the various jobs undertaken by the little boys?
During the summer days, under the hot sun, they shined shoes, sold fruits, hawked newspapers,
conducted tourists round the town and ran errands.
c. How did the narrator help the boys on Sunday?
When the boys requested the narrator to drive them to a village, he readily agreed and drove them to the
tiny village 'Poleta' set high upon the hill side. He also waited for the boys to rejoin them and then drove
them back to the city
3
d. Who took the author to the cubicle?
A pleasant looking woman, with steel-rimmed spectacles, was dressed in the white uniform of a trained
nurse. She took the author to the cubicle.
e. Describe the girl with whom the boys were talking to in the cubicle?
Lucia, the boys' sister was a young girl of twenty. She was wearing a pretty lace jacket and was
listening to her brothers' chatter. Her eyes were soft and tender. She had a resemblance to her brothers,
who took good care of her.
f. Recount the untold sufferings undergone by the siblings after they were rendered homeless.
After the siblings were rendered homeless, they suffered horribly from near starvation and exposure to
the cold winter. For months, they lived in the shelter made of broken building walls and bricks. The boys
hated the Germans and stood against them as rebels. After the war, they got back to their sister and
found her suffering from tuberculosis of the spine.
g. The narrator did not utter a word and preferred to keep the secret to himself. Why? Substantiate the
statement with reference to the story.
The narrator had understood their character well and he knew they wouldn't like to have sympathised.
Therefore he did not confront the boys and kept the secret to himself. Their spirit and selfless action
brought a new nobility to human life.
ADDITIONAL
1. Why was the author surprised to see Nicola and Jacopo working as shoe shine boys?
The narrator was surprised to see Nicola and Jacopo working as shoe shine boys because he thought
they sold fruit only for a living. The day before, the narrator had bought strawberries from them. So, the
next day he was in for a surprise to see them shining shoes.
2. How were the boys useful to the author?
The boys helped the author in many ways - they fetched American cigarettes for him, bought him seats
for the opera and even told him the name of a'good restaurant in the town.
3. Why were the boys in the deserted square at night? What character traits do they exhibit?
The boys were waiting for the last bus from Padua and so they were in deserted square at midnight.
They wanted to sell all their unsold newspapers to the travellers in the bus. The traits exhibited by the
boys are that they were hard working and had self-determination.
4. The narrator asks the boy, “Must you work so hard? You both look rather tired”. The boy replies, “We are
not complaining, Sir” What do you learn about the boy from his reply?
The boy's reply shows that they are working hard because of their own will. It is not forced upon them.
The boys are brave, courageous and have a strong will power to face the challenges. They do not feel
sad. They are not dejected. It indicates that they took every challenge in life confidently.
5. When the narrator asks the boys about their plan, they are evasive. Why didn't they disclose their
problems?
The boys are evasive and do not disclose their problems to the narrator. They don't expect sympathy
and help from anyone. The boys are hard working and determined to fight their own battle of life. They
do not want to feel weak and so do not disclose their problems to anyone.
6. Do you think the boys looked after Lucia willingly? Give reasons for your answer.
Yes, I think the boys looked after Lucia willingly. The amount of hard work they did and the kind of
sincerity and determination they had towards their work cannot be forced upon a person. It was their
own dedication towards their sister and so they were willing to look after her.
3. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100-150 words each.
a. What was the driving force that made the boys do various jobs?
When the boys and their sister were rendered homeless in the war, they suffered horribly from
starvation and exposure to cold winter. The boys found that their sister was suffering from tuberculosis
of the spine. They took her to a hospital and persuaded the staff to take her into the hospital and look
after her. In order to pay for her food, medicines and a comfortable life, they had to do various jobs like
shine shoes, sell fruits, hawk newspapers, conduct tourists round the town and run errands. Despite
facing so many problems in their early life, the boys did not lose hope. The brothers' positive approach
and determination to get their sister cured had helped the staff treat her well.
4
b. How was the family affected by the war?
The siblings' mother died early in their life. Their father, who was a well known singer became a victim of
the early war. The children became homeless, as their home got destroyed. They had always known a
comfortable and cultured life. But after they were rendered homeless, they had suffered a lot from near
starvation and exposure to the cold winter. For months, they had barely kept themselves alive in a sort
of shelter, they built with their own hands amidst the broken bricks. The boys hated the Germans, as
they were responsible for the ruin of their happy family. They stood against them as rebels. After the war,
when they got back to their sister, they found her suffering from tuberculosis of the spine. It was another
shock to those poor kids.
c. Write a character sketch of Nicola and Jacopo.
Character Sketch of Nicola and Jacopo
The 'Two gentlemen' of Verona are the boys in the story, 'Nicolo and Jacopo'. Nicola, aged l3 is the
elder brother of Jacopo aged 12. Both the siblings are very sincere and self-sacrificing. They are
prepared to do any work for helping their sister Lucia to recover from tuberculosis. They live a hard life
and do all sorts of odd jobs. Right from shining shoes, selling fruits, distributing newspapers, to working
as tourist guides and running their errands, they still look contented and maintain their self -respect.
They don't have the intention of talking about their family problem to anyone and want to keep it a
secret. During the war period, they started hating the Germans and also joined the resistance
movement for their country's freedom.
d. What message is conveyed through the story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona'?
The story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' promises hope for the society. The boys Nicola and Jacopo were
devoted and sincere towards the cause of their sister's ailment. They were self-sacrificing, despite the
harshness faced by them. 'This approach of theirs towards life shows positivity and nobility. Despite all
the negativity in the world like war, hatred, jealously, rivalry and selfishness, the boys' attitude indicated
that goodness still persisted in some souls. It conveys the message that there is scope for the world, for
all of us, to become a better place one day.
e. Justify the title of the story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona’
A.J. Cronin used the title 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' in an ironic manner, as at a very young age, the
boys faced the hardships of life - their mother died early in their life, their father became a victim of the
early war, their village suffered due to German occupation, their home got destroyed, suffered
.starvation and cold winter. The family struggled for life. They found their sister suffering from
Tuberculosis of spine. It was another shock to those poor kids. Despite facing so many problems in their
early, they did not lose hope. Their positive approach and determination managed them to give their
sister, the best they could. They did various jobs, but lived a poor life to save money for their sister's
treatment and food. They never tried to take anyone's sympathy. Hence these two young boys have
every quality of the being called 'The Gentlemen of Verona’.
f. Adversity brings out the best as well as the worst in people. Elucidate this statement with reference to
the story.
'Adversity brings out the best as well as the worst in people'. This is displayed in the story 'Two
Gentlemen of Verona. The bitter and indomitable struggle of I Nicola and Jacopo, amidst the ravages of
war, takes on epic proportions. The two young boys depict great maturity, wisdom and faith in the
power of human spirit. The die-hard nature of the two boys changes the nature of people around them
with their vibrant spark of humanity. Their dignity and perseverance show their extreme faith in their own
ability to cater to their sister's medical treatment. So the relentless struggle of the two boys offers a wide
colourful view of love, tenderness, wisdom and trust which even a catastrophic war failed to crush.
g. Which character do you like the most in the story and why?
I like the characters of the two boys, 'Nicolo and Jacopo' the most, as they were devoted, sincere and
self-sacrificing, despite the harshness faced by them. Although the boys were childish, simple and
natural, there was a grave seriousness on their faces. This was indicative of the rude and harsh life,
which they had faced at such an early age. As they had lost their parents and home, and their sister was
battling an ailment, the young boys were serious towards life. They had lost their childhood. Despite all
the negativity in the world like war, hatred, jealousy, rivalry and selfishness, the boys' attitude indicated
that goodness still persisted in some souls. It also conveys us that there is scope for the world to
become a better place one day
5
ADDITIONAL
1. Appearances are deceptive. Discuss with reference to the two boys.

“Appearances are deceptive”, is appropriate for the boys. On the first glance, they looked childish,
natural and simple. They were just like any other young boys, who seemed to be doing petty jobs in
order to earn their livelihood. When the narrator interacts with them, he sees seriousness in their eyes.
This serious expression is in contrast to their otherwise childish behaviour.
No one can make out the true purpose of their sincerity towards their work. It is oniy when the narrator
visits the hospital and meets the nurse that he comes to know the harsh truth of their life. It is then that
he discovers their purpose, for earning all the money, by working continuously. The narrator is
surprised by their devotion towards their elder sister which is unrealistic for such small children of their
age. Thus, the above mentioned words are appropriate for them.
2. How does the story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' promise hope for society?
The story 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' promises hope for the society. The boys Nicola and Jacopo were
devoted and sincere towards the cause of their sister's ailment. They were self sacrificing despite the
harshness faced by them. This approach of theirs towards life shows positivity and nobility.
Despite all the negativity in the world like war, hatred, jealously, rivalry and selfishness, the boys'
attitude I indicates that goodness still persisted in some souls. It indicates that there is scope for the
world, for all of us, to become a better place one day.
LETTER WRITING
a) Read the following letter carefully, discuss with your partner and answer the questions:
Questions:
a. Who is the sender of the letter?
Ans: Srivatsav is the sender of the letter.
b. Who is the receiver?
Ans: The editor of a newspaper is the receiver.
c. What is the issue?
Ans: Reckless riders who violate the traffic rules should be punished.
d. What is the request of the sender?
Ans: The sender requests the concerned authorities to take appropriate measures to put an end to the
menace.
e. Who will take steps after reading it?
Ans: The law and the police will take steps after reading it.
b) You have chosen Computer science in the has a very good scope for my future. I wish to
Higher Secondary Course. Write a letter to become a Computer Engineer in a software
your friend giving reasons for your choice. company and go abroad for my future prospects
Read the clues given in brackets to complete in my career. Recently we have heard a lot of
the letter. unhealthy happenings in Social Media and the
7th March, 2019 society All these have made me to take up this
profession to cleanse the unhealthy situations. I
No. 4, Gandhi Street,
have plans to pursue my higher studies in this
K. K. Nagar,
field.
Chennai - 78.
All the best for your CA preparation. Convey my
regards to your mother, father and brother.
Dear Rahul,
Yours lovingly,
Hope you are fine. I would like to inform you that
I have chosen Computer Science in my higher
secondary course. I took this group, because it K. Ramesh.
6
TASK This is to inform you with pleasure that I shall
(a) You had been to your grandma’s house preside over the inauguration of your English
during the summer holidays. You enjoyed Literary Club on 15th of June. I will be there in
your stay in her company. Write a letter to your school before 3 . 30 p. m. for the
your grandma stating how much you miss programme. I have made some changes in my
her after returning to your home. schedule to attend this programme, as this is the
February, 2019. school, where I had studied from 1978 to 1985. I
feel honoured to preside over this event.
30, 2” Street,
Shanthi Nagar, Thank you,
Chennai - 80.
Yours sincerely,
Dear Grandma, C. Nagaraj
I am fine here. How is your health? Are you (Head of English department)
taking your medicines daily? During the
summer holidays, I was with you in Salem. I (c) Write a letter to the Headmaster of a school
cannot forget those happy days. I miss you a lot requesting him to help you obtain a
Grandma. After returning to Chennai, a day duplicate mark sheet of class XII, which you
never goes without remembering you. How you lost while travelling.
had cared for me during my stay with you! How 3rd January, 2019
much I enjoyed in our beautiful garden, listening
to your wonderful stories! I can never forget From
these pleasant days. I am longing to see you S. Madan,
again. Convey my love to grandpa, aunt and 12, Gandhi Street,
uncle. Poonamallee,
Chennai.
Yours lovingly, To
R. Nisha. The Principal,
RMM Hr. Sec. School,
(b) You are the head of the English Department Poonamallee,
in a renowned institution. You are invited to Chennai.
preside over the inauguration of English
Literary Club in your alma mater. Respond to
the letter you have received either accepting Dear Sir,
the invitation or expressing your inability to Sub: Requisition - Duplicate mark sheet
attend the function. regarding.
5th June, 2019
From I wish to bring to your kind notice that l lost my
C. Nagaraj mark sheet while travelling to Trichy. Last
Professor of English, month, I visited my aunt’s place at Trichy to do
Head of the Department, my higher studies in the college over there. But
ABC Arts College, ‘K’ City unfortunately, I lost my mark sheets while I was
travelling. So I request you to kindly issue my
Pin : YYYYYY duplicate mark sheet as I need to do my higher
studies.
To
The Principal Thank you,
XYZ Higher Secondary School,
‘B’ City, Yours sincerely,
Pin XXXXXX S. Madan
Dear Sir, (4) Write a letter to AZ Company requesting

them to replace the defetive juicer that you
Sub : Accepting your invitation. bought recently. Include the following
details: the problem, date of purchase,
7
receipt number, model and warranty. Kindly give me the details of the duration of the
2’ February, 2019 course and fee structure. I would like to know if I
can avail any scholarships for this training.
From Further, kindly let me know about the hostel
S. Rajesh facilities and the placement details after the
52, Oliver Road completion of this training.
Jaya Nagar, Bengaluru. Thank you,
To
The Manager Yours faithfully,
AZ Company K. Suresh
Jaya Nagar, Bengaluru.
Sir, (f) Write a letter to the manager of Waves
Sub: Replacement of the defective juicer - Reg. Furniture Company ordering furniture for a
Two days back, I bought a juicer from your coaching centre. Include the following
company. It was a blue colour Preethi Juicer. It details:description of the furniture, number
cost Rs. 2,000/-. Yesterday it was delivered to of pieces, mode of payment, time and
me. After I started using it, I discovered that it delivery options.
was defective. You have given me two years
warranty for that juicer. So kindly replace the 24th February, 2019
defective product with another one. It was From
bought on 30th January 2019 and I have K. Namitha,
enclosed the bill along with this letter.
No. 10, Raman Street,
Thirupathi Nagar,
Thank you,
Kolattur,
Chennai - 600 099.
Yours sincerely,
S. Rajesh.
To
The Manager,
(e) You wish to become a pilot. Write a letter to
the college enquiring details of the pilot Waves Furniture Company,
training course offered by the college. Kolathur,
Include the following details in your enquiry: Chennai - 600 099.
duration of the course, fee Structure,
sc h o la r sh ip s, ho ste l f a c ilit ie s and Sir,
placement details.
We are starting a coaching centre for the
21st January, 2019 students of X, XI and XII standards. So we need
From to order some furniture for this. Kindly send us
Suresh. K the following furniture to the above address.
26, Sardar Pate! Road,
St. Thomas Mount, 1. Writing tables - 10 Nos
Chennai - 600 016. 2. Chairs - 30 Nos.
To 3. Stools (small) - 10 Nos.
The Principal
MNN College of Aeronautical Engineering, We need these furniture on or before 1st March
St. Thomas Mount, before 12 noon. I am sending a cheque of
Chennai - 600 016. 5,000/- as an advance for this furniture. The
balance would be paid on delivery of the items.
Than you,
Dear Sir,
Yours sincerely,
Sub : Pilot training course - Reg.
K. Namitha.
I wish to join the Pilot Training Course, which is
to be conducted in your college from this year.
8
(g) Write an application for the post of Personal Languages known : English, Tamil and Hindi
Secretary to the Managing Director of a
References : 1. Dr. S. Roy, HOD Business
company. Include the following details:
Administration Department,
Educational qualification, experience,
various other qualifications required for the Madras University.
post. 2. Dr. R.M. Rohit, Director
23rd February, 2019 National Computers Pvt.
From Ltd., Chennai.
S. Vasanth Kumar,
62, Ayappa Nagar,
Declaration
III Street, Agaram,
I hereby declare that the above particualrs are
Chennai - 82. true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
To Date: 23.02.2019 Sd/-

The Recruitment Manager, Place: Chennai - 82. Signature
Vivid Colours Pvt. Ltd.,
T. Nagar, Chennai - 17. Address on the envelope:
Respected Sir, To
The Recruitment Manager,
Sub : Application for the Post of Personal Vivid Colours Pvt. Ltd.
Secretary to the Managing Director - Reg.
T. Nagar, Chennai - 17.
This is with reference to your advertisement

published in ‘The Hindu dated 22nd February, h) Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper
2019 for the post of Personal Secretary to the about the nuisance created by the roadside
Managing Director. I wish to apply for the said vendors blocking the pavements and
post. If given a chance, I shall discharge my occupying the parking zone.
duties sincerely to the utmost satisfaction of all
my superiors. I am enclosing my resume for 25th February, 2019:
your perusal. From
M. Randeer,
Thank you, No. 15, Jawahar Street,
Kolathur, Chennai - 600 099.
Yours faithfully,
S. Vasanth Kumar To
The Editor,
CURRICULUM VITAE The Hindu,
Name : S. Vasanth Kumar 859, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 002.
Father’s Name : H. Sampath
Date of Birth : 10th December 1988. Sub Nuisance created by the roadside vendors - Reg.
Marital Status : Single
We, the residents of Kolathur in Patel Nagar are
Educational facing nuisance created by the roadside
Qualification : 1. B.A. (Hons) - 65% vendors. They block the pavements and occupy
2. M.B.A. (HR) - 60% the parking zones. Kindly publish about this in
your newspaper, for further action against it.
Work Experience : Presently working in Thank you,
National Computers Pvt.
(Ltd.) Since July 2012 as Yours sincerely,
Personal Executive. M. Randeer.
9
(I Write a letter to your relative or friend who is happily and in good health. Be positive always.
admitted in hospital for treatment of Don’t have negative thoughts about the illness.
jaundice. Advise him/her not to worry about If you need any financial help, I am there to help
the illness and be positive. Assure him/her you. Kindly don’t hesitate to ask. I pray that you
of your psychological and financial help should get well as soon as possible.
during the crisis.
Wishing a quick recovery.
Chennai - 600 017

Yours lovingly,
23rd February, 2019

Address on the envelope:
To
My dear Ravi,
Mr. Ravi
3, K. K. Street,
I am sorry to hear that you are admitted in the
St. Thomas Mount
hospital for the treatment of jaundice. You will
soon get well and come out of the hospital Chennai - 600 016
UNIT - 2 A NICE CUP OF TEA

considerable, controversial, curious, dangling, despised, etiquette, forward, invariably, liable, minority,
mysterious, optimistic, predicting, reasonable, ruin, subsidiary, subtilized, unanswerable, violent,
virtues, worth, wringing

considerable significant insignificant
controversial arguable, disputable agreeable
curious interesting uninteresting
dangling hanging freely, suspended rigid
despised hated loved
etiquette acceptable behaviour misbehaviour
forward move towards backward
invariably always never
liable responsible irresponsible
minority the smaller number majority
mysterious incomprehensible transparent
optimistic positive, hopeful pessimistic
predicting anticipating ignore
reasonable agreeable unreasonable
ruin destroy create
subsidiary supplementary original / capital
subtilized refined unrefined
unanswerable unexplainable answerable
violent rough / destructive gentle / calm
virtues admirable qualities vices
worth value worthless
wringing extremely wet extremely dry
10
1. Based on the understanding of the text, answer each of the following questions in one or two
sentences.
a. What seems 'curious' to the author?
Tea is one of the mainstays of civilization in Britain and the best manner of making it is the subject of
violent disputes. This seems curious to the author.
b. Why does the author say that it is important to include tea recipe in cookery books?
The author says that it is important to include tea recipe in cookery books because most of the people
don’t know the outstanding points to be followed while preparing tea.
c. Mention the countries in which tea is a part of civilization.
Tea is a part of civilization in Britain, Eire, Australia and New Zealand.
d. Which tea does the author prefer- China tea or Indian tea?
The author prefers Indian or Ceylonese Tea.
e. According to the author, what does the phrase 'a nice cup of tea' refer to?
According to the author, the phrase ‘a nice cup of tea’ refers to ‘India tea’.
f. What is the second golden rule in the preparation of tea?
The second gold rule in the preparation of tea is to make tea in small quantities in a teapot made of
China or earthenware.
g. How does army tea taste?
Army tea, made in a cauldron, tastes of grease and whitewash.
h. Do tea lovers generally like strong tea or weak tea?
Tea lovers generally love strong tea. They like it a little stronger with each year that passes.
i. Why should tea be directly added to the pot?
Tea should be directly added to the pot because if the tea is not loose in the pot, it never infuses properly.
j. Why does the author prefer the cylindrical cup to a flat cup?
The cylindrical cup holds more, whereas the flat, shallow cup makes tea always half cold before one
starts on it.
k. What should be poured into the cup first- tea or milk?
Tea should be poured first into the cup, as one can exactly regulate the amount of milk to be poured in it.
l. Why does the author advise removing cream from the milk?
The author advises up to remove cream from the milk, as the milk, that is too creamy, gives a sickly
taste.
m Does the author like drinking tea with sugar? Give reasons.
No, the author does not like drinking tea with sugar because the flavour of tea is destroyed by putting
sugar in it.
n. Why does the author refer to himself being in 'a minority'?
The author refers to himself being in a minority in drinking tea without sugar because most of the people
prefer tea with sugar.
o. Whom does the author call 'misguided people'? What is his advice to them?
People, who only drink tea in order to be warmed and stimulated, need sugar to take the taste away.
The author calls these people as ‘misguided ones’. He advises them to drink tea without sugar for a
fortnight and after that, they would never want to ruin their tea by sweetening it.
11
ADDITIONAL
1. What do you find in the cookery book about tea?
Only a few lines of sketchy instructions which give no ruling on most important points are found in the
cookery book.
2. How many outstanding points are there in the author's own recipe?
There are eleven outstanding points in the author's own recipe.
3. According to the author, how many rules are acutely controversial?
There are at least four rules which are acutely controversial.
4. Can one drink China tea without milk?
Yes, one can drink China tea without milk.
5. What is a cauldron?
A cauldron is a big pot used for boiling.
6. What do Silver or Britannia ware teapots produce?
Silver or Britannia ware teapots produce inferior tea.
7. What is the better way of warming the pot beforehand?
The pot should be warmed beforehand by placing it on the hob, (a cooking appliance).
8. Which point is the most controversial point of all?
'The tenth point about the tea which should be poured first' is the most controversial point of all.
9. What do you mean by the word 'etiquette'?
'Etiquette' means socially acceptable behaviour.
2. Based on the understanding of the text, answer each of the following questions in four or five
sentences.
a. What are the author's views on China tea?
China tea has good beneficial qualities, which are not to be hated nowadays. It is also economical and
we drink it without milk. But there is not much stimulation in it. One does not feel wiser, braver or
optimistic after drinking it.
b. How does adding sugar affect the taste of tea?
If we sweeten tea, we are no longer tasting the tea. But we would be tasting the sugar. You could make a
very similar drink by dissolving sugar in plain hot water.
c. Elucidate the author's ideas about teapots.
The author insists that the teapot should be made of China or earthenware. Tea out of an urn is always
tasteless. Silver or Britannia ware teapots produce inferior tea. Enamel pots are worse, but pewter
teapot is not so bad.
ADDITIONAL
1. How much tea leaves should be added to a pot holding a quart?
If you are going to fill a pot nearly to its brim, we need six heaped teaspoons of tea leaves.
2. What is compared to twenty weak cups of tea?
One strong cup of tea is better than twenty weak ones.
3. What are teapots in some countries fitted with?
In some countries, teapots are fitted with little dangling baskets under the spout to catch the stray
leaves which are supposed to be harmful.
12
4. Why should tea be poured straight into the pot?
Tea should be poured straight into the pot because if the tea is not loose in the pot, it never infuses
properly.
5. When do we put too much of milk in tea?
When we put tea first we can regulate the amount of milk, whereas we are responsible to put too much
of milk, if we do it the other way round.
3. Answer each of the following questions in a paragraph of 100- 1 50 words.

a. Summarise George Orwell's distinctive ideas in “A Nice Cup of Tea”
'A Nice Cup of Tea' by George Orwell is a discussion of the craft of making a cup of tea. The author gives
eleven golden rules to prepare a tea. First he begins to insist on using an Indian or Ceylonese Tea, to
feel wiser, braver and more optimistic. Tea should be made in small quantities in a China or
earthenware. The pot should be warmed beforehand. Tea should always be strong and it should be put
straight into the teapot. We should take the teapot to the kettle and after making tea, one should stir it
well. Tea should be drunk out of a cylindrical type of cup, as it holds more tea. Milk that is too creamy
always gives the tea, a sickly taste. So we should pour the cream off the milk. Next, one should pour tea
into the cup first. Lastly,he says that we should drink tea without sugar. These are the controversial
points to arise in connection with tea drinking.
b. Discuss how: Ex. The essay reveals the factual points and the author's personal opinions on
preparation of tea.
If we look into a cookery book for the preparation of tea, it would not be mentioned there. We can find at
the most only a few lines of sketchy instructions, which gives no importance on several important
points. The best manner of making it is the subject of violent disputes. So the author gives his personal
opinion on the preparation of tea. He gives his own eleven rules, every one of which he regards as
golden. Two of these rules are generally agreed by the public, but at least four others are acutely
controversial. 'What should be poured first in the cup' has become a subject of controversial points.
George Orwell says that one should pour tea first in the cup. While most of the people prefer to add
sugar in the tea, the author says to add pepper or salt to it. If we drink tea without sugar for a fortnight, we
would never ruin the tea by sweetening it again.
c. What are the aspects that contribute to humour in the essay?
One of the most influential statements of British 'Way of Tea' is George Orwell's essay “A Nice Cup of
Tea” It was written at a time, when tea was in short supply, against the backdrop of severe food
shortages across Europe. There's something sentimental, but also ironic about his title. This was a time
when tea was widely available, as every adult in Britain had a weekly ration, but very little of it was nice.
In mock-serious tones, Orwell's essay gives us an eleven-point guide to tea making in mid-twentieth
century England. Orwell's bitter experience in the army, makes him to criticize the army tea as tasting of
grease and whitewash. There are some points of differences in his eleven rules. But we should
appreciate him for writing it with great spirit and whatever difference holds in making tea in different
cultures, tea lovers just love to have a great cup of tea.
ADDITIONAL
1. What does the author say about the cookery book and his own recipe for preparing Tea?
Tea has been an important beverage for most of the people in a thousand years. The author highlights
the distinctive features of preparing a nice cup of tea. If we look up for 'tea' in the first cookery book that
comes to our hand, we probably find that it is unmentioned, or we will find a few lines of sketchy
instructions which give no ruling on several of the most important points. This is interesting because tea
is one of the mainstays of civilization in Britain, Eire, Australia and New Zealand. The author says that
the best method for making tea is a subject of violent disputes.
The author's own recipe for a perfect cup of tea is that there are no fewer than eleven outstanding
points. Though two of his points are generally agreed by the public, there are at least four points, which
are controversial.
13
UNIT-3 IN CELEBRATION OF BEING ALIVE
agony, amputated, amusement, appreciate, career, celebration, commandeered, confidence,
consideration, encouragement, ennobles, fact, fate, finale, gloomy, important, intrepid, malignant,
nobility, noble, particularly, perforated, pleasure, prevalent, profound, severe, sinks, solace,
sophisticated, suffering, totally
agony suffering happiness
amputated cut off joined
amusement delight boredom
appreciate admire criticize, condemn
career profession -
celebration achievement failure
commandeered hijacked released
confidence self-reliance diffidence, distrust
consideration careful thought disregard
encouragement motivation discouragement
ennobles dignify humiliate
fact truth -
fate destiny forced / self-made
finale climax beginning
gloomy sorrowful cheerful
important significant insignificant, inessential
intrepid bold fearful
malignant deadly benign, harmless
nobility decency dishonour
noble gentle ignoble
particularly notably generally
perforated damaged with holes intact
pleasure joy agony
prevalent common rare
profound very great slight
severe serious mild
sinks depresses -
solace comfort distress, worry
sophisticated well advanced primitive
suffering agony, distress enjoying
totally completely partially
1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences based on your understanding of the
lesson.
a. What thoughts troubled Dr. Christiaan Barnard as he neared the end of his career as a heart surgeon?
As Dr. Barnard neared the end of his career as a heart surgeon, his thoughts have turned to the
consideration of why people should suffer.
b. What were Dr. Barnard's feelings when he was hospitalized after an accident?
Dr. Barnard could not understand why his wife and he had to suffer.
c. When and where did the accident occur?
The accident occurred when he was crossing the street with his wife after a lovely meal together, and
the next minute, a car had hit him and knocked him into his wife. She was thrown into the other lane and
struck by a car coming from the opposite direction.
14
d. How did the hospitalization of Dr. Barnard and his wife affect their routine?
Dr. Barnard had work to do and there were patients waiting for him to operate on them. His wife had a
young baby who needed her care.
e. How was Dr. Barnard's attitude to suffering different from that of his father's?
Dr. Barnard's father, had he still been alive, would have said, “That it was God's will. That's the way God
tests you, suffering ennobles us - makes us a better person”. But, as a doctor, sees nothing noble in a
patient's thrashing around in a sweat-soaked bed, mind clouded in agony. Nor can he see any nobility in
the crying of a lonely child in a ward at night.
f. How was the unattended trolley put to use?
The unattended trolley was put to use by two little patients as their vehicle. They drove it happily.
g. What roles did the duo take up?
The duo took up the role of a mechanic and a driver.
h. Why did the choice of roles prove to be easy for them?
The choice of roles was easy because the mechanic was totally blind and the driver had only one arm.
i. Who encouraged them and how?
The patients encouraged them by laughing and praising the duo.
j. What does Dr. Barnard compare this entertainment to?
Dr. Barnard compares this entertainment to the Indianapolis 500 car race.
k. What happened in the grand finale?
There was a grand finale of scattered plates and silverware, before the nurse and ward sister caught up
with them, scolded them and put them back to bed.
l. How does Dr. Barnard know the boy who played the trolley's driver?
A few years earlier the doctor had successfully closed a hole in trolley's driver's heart. He had returned
to the hospital because he had a malignant tumour of the bone. A few days before the race, his shoulder
and arm were amputated. There was little hope of his recovery. After the Grand Prix, he proudly
informed the doctor that the trolley's wheels were not properly oiled, but he was a good driver, and he
had full confidence in the mechanic.
m. What was the profound lesson Dr. Barnard learnt from the boys?
The profound lesson Dr. Barnard learnt from the boys was that it's not what you've lost that's important.
What is important is what you have left.
2. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences.
a. Detail the statistics Dr. Barnard has provided in his speech.
Suffering seems so cruelly prevalent in the world today. Out of 125 million children born this year, 12
million are unlikely to reach the age of one and another six million will die before the age of five and of
the rest, many will end up as mental or physical cripples. This is the statistics provided by Dr. Barnard.
b. What happened when the doctor couple were crossing the Street?
When Dr. Barnard and his wife were crossing a street after a meal, a car knocked him into his wife. She
was thrown out into the other lane where another car from the opposite direction struck her.
c. What injuries did they sustain in the accident?
Dr. Barnard had eleven broken ribs and a perforated lung. His wife had a badly fractured shoulder.
d. Dr. Barnard couldn't find any nobility in suffering. Why?
He couldn't find any nobility in suffering because his heart sinks, when the patients move about restless
and when a lonely child cries in a ward at night.
e. Why does Dr. Barnard find suffering of children heartbreaking?
Dr. Barnard finds the suffering of children heart breaking because of their total trust in doctors and
nurses.
f. How did the boy who played the mechanic lose his eyesight?
One night, when the boy's mother and father were drunk, his mother threw a lantern at his father. It
missed and the lantern broke over the child's head and shoulders. He suffered severe third-degree
burns on the upper part of his body and lost both his eyes.
g. Why does Dr. Barnard describe the blind boy as a 'walking horror'?
15
Dr. Barnard described the blind boy as a 'walking horror' because he had a disfigured face and a long
flap of skin was hanging from the side of his neck to his body.
h. What were the problems the trolley driver suffered from?
A few years earlier, the doctor successfully closed a hole in the trolley's driver's heart. The boy had also
a malignant tumour of the bone. His shoulder and arm were amputated, a few days before the race.
ADDITIONAL
1. How did Dr. Barnard react to the accident that he and his wife had?
The accident that Dr. Barnard met with, let him think about the suffering of the human beings. He was
angry because there were patients waiting for him to be operated on them. And his wife had to take care
of her young baby.
2. Why do you think Dr. Barnard talks about the accident?
Dr. Barnard talks about the accident to bring out the unforeseen suffering experienced by them and to
prove the uncertainty of living in the modern world.
3. Who were 'the driver' and 'the mechanic' in the Grand Prix held at the Cape Town's Red Cross
Children's Hospital? In what way was the choice of their roles suitable?
The driver was a one-armed boy. The mechanic sat on the lower deck of the trolley and steered it by
scrapping his feet on the floor. The mechanic provided motor power by galloping along behind the
trolley. Though he could not see, he was able to push the trolley. Thus the choice of their roles was
suitable.
4. What lesson did the children teach Dr. Barnard?
Dr. Barnard had a distorted view of suffering. But the two children taught a profound lesson to Dr.
Barnard. In spite of being disabled, they provided a lot of entertainment to the patients of the hospital.
He learnt that suffering is necessary, and being alive is important. He also learnt that the business of
living is the celebration of being alive.
3. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100 - 150 words each.
a. Give an account of the medical problems for which the two boys were hospitalized.
The mechanic was seven years old. One night, when his mother and father were drunk, his mother
threw a lantern at his father. It missed and the lantern broke over the child's head and shoulders. He
suffered severe third-degree burns on the upper part of his body and lost both his eyes. He was
hospitalized. As the wound healed around his neck, his lower jaw became gripped in a mass of fibrous
tissue. The only way this little boy could open his mouth was to raise his head.
The trolley driver's heart was operated to close a hole in it. He had also a malignant tumour of the bone.
A few days before the race, his shoulder and arm were amputated. There was little hope of his
recovery.
b. “These two children had given me a profound lesson “Elucidate. ”
Dr. Barnard realized that the children had given him a profound lesson in getting on with the business of
living. It is the joy in the real sense of word, not just something for pleasure, amusement and recreation.
It is the celebration of being alive. Dr. Barnard had been looking at the suffering from the wrong end. He
understood that the experience of suffering makes person a better one. One cannot appreciate light, if
he has not known darkness. Similarly, warmth cannot be appreciated, if one has experienced biting
cold. The two children have shown Dr. Barnard that what you have left is more important then what you
have lost.
c. Describe the 'Grand Prix' at Capetown's Red Cross Children's Hospital.
At Cape Town's Red Cross Childrens Hospital, a nurse had left a breakfast trolley unattended. This
trolley was taken over by a daring and bold duo - a driver and a mechanic. The mechanic provided motor
power by galloping along behind the trolley with his head down, while the driver, seated on the mower
deck, held on with one hand and steered by scraping his foot on the floor. The choice of roles was easy
because the mechanic was totally blind and the driver had only one arm. That put on quite a show that
day. Judging the laughter and shouts of encouragement from the rest of the patients, it was a much
better entertainment than anything anyone puts on at Indianapolis 500 car race.
d. How did a casual incident in hospital help Dr. Barnard perceive a new dimension of life?
Dr. Barnard had a wrong view of suffering. But the two children taught him a profound lesson. Inspite of
their disabilities, they provided a lot of entertainment to the patients at the hospital. He learnt that
suffering is necessary and being alive is important. He also learnt that the business of living is the
16
celebration of being alive. They showed him, its not what you have lost that's important. What is
important is what you have left. He understood that we don't become a better person because we are
suffering. But we become a better person because we have experienced suffering. Through these
children, he perceived a new dimension of life.
e. Life is unjust and cruel to certain people. Do they all resign themselves to their fate? Can you think of
some who have fought their disabilities heroically and remained a stellar example for others? (for e.g.
the astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, a paraplegic). Give an account of one such person and his / her
struggle to live a fruitful life.
Being blind and deaf, Helen Keller became a lecturer and an activist. It's not so easy to become a
lecturer for a person, if he is blind and deaf, unless they possess tremendous will power. She was the
first person to earn a degree of Bachelor's in Arts. She was the co-founder of American Civil Liberties
Union (ACLU), a political activist and an American author. She devoted much of her later life to raising
funds for the American foundation for the blind. During seven trips between 1946 and 1957, she visited
35 countries on five continents. She met the world class leaders there. She received a presidential
Medal of freedom award by the President of the United States.
ADDITIONAL
1. What lesson did Dr. Barnard learn from the children who took part in Grand Prix?
The two children taught a profound lesson to Dr. Barnard. The incident of the two disabled boys in the
Grand Prix of Cape Town of taking over the unattended breakfast trolley and driving it through the
hospital, provided a lot of entertainment to the patients of the hospital. This opened his eyes. One of the
boys was totally blind and the other had one shoulder and arm amputated. But, they did not go on
thinking of their sufferings. They felt that they had won and their race was a success. The business of
living was joy. Their attitude brought about a change in Dr. Barnard's distorted view of suffering. He
learnt that suffering is necessary. Being alive is much more important. Dr. Barnard has realized that a
person who has experienced suffering can appreciate better and thus becomes a better person. One
can't appreciate light if he has not known darkness.
UNIT-4 THE SUMMIT

Synonyms & Antonyms :
cautiously, collapsed, concluded, crawled, crest, descending, devout, diminishing, disguising, distant,
donned, dragged, enormous, exhausted, fierce, firm, flapped, frequent, gale, grim, hauled, heaved,
hoisted, leading, ledge, levered, loomed, muster, narrowed, overhanging, perpetual, persisted,
protected, regaining, relieved, ridge, scrambling, scraped, sink, soften, sparingly, spurred, stamping,
stance, steady, tantalize, thrust, traverse, zest
UNIT-4 - The Summit

cautiously carefully carelessly
collapsed fallen refreshed
concluded completed commenced
crawled moved slowly raced
crest peak, top base
descending lowering ascending
devout religious faithless
diminishing reducing increasing
disguising concealing revealing
distant faraway near
donned put on took off
dragged pulled pushed
enormous very large little
exhausted worn out energetic
17
fierce intense mild
firm hard soft
flapped crashed calmed
frequent regular rare
gale violent storm breeze
grim gloomy cheerful
hauled pulled, dragged pushed
heaved lifted, hauled, pulled dropped, pushed
hoisted lifted dropped
leading preceding trailing
ledge edge centre
levered lifted dropped
lofty high -
loomed appeared vanished
muster mobilize, gather demobilise
narrowed contracted broadened
overhanging dangling stiff
perpetual everlasting temporary
persisted continued stopped
protected guarded unprotected
regaining recovering losing
relieved eased, satisfied afraid
ridge narrow hilltop base
scrambling climbing hurriedly retreating
scraped scratched restored
sink dip float
soften ease harden
sparingly moderately fully, richly
spurred urged calmed
stamping stepping hard softly
stance attitude inaction
steady firm unsteady
tantalize tease or taunt / torment make happy
thrust propulsion retreat
trail path, track, way -
traverse cross over back up
zest enthusiasm boredom
18
1. Based on your reading of the text, answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.
a. What did Hillary do with his wet boots?
Hillary. warmed them over the fierce flame of the cooking stove and managed to soften them up.
b. Name an equipment and a tool carried by the climbers during their expedition.
The oxygen apparatus and an ice-axe are carried by the climbers during their expedition.
c. Why did Hillary become clumsy-fingered and slow moving?
Hillary became clumsy-fingered and slow-moving because his oxygen was getting exhausted.
d. What did Hillary find in a tiny hollow?
Hillary found two oxygen bottles left on the earlier attempt by Evans and Bourdillon.
e. When did Hillary feel a sense of freedom and well being?
Hillary's apparatus was much lighter, weighing just over 20 lb and as he cut steps down of the South
Summit, he felt a sense of freedom and well-being.
f. What did Hillary mean by saying “We had had enough to do the job, but by no means too much”?
Hillary and Tenzing had undergone a lot of dangers and difficulties to reach to the summit. But as Hillary
loves mountaineering, he feels it was not much for an adventurous achievement.
2. Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each.
a. How did the mountaineers belay?
While Tenzing was belaying Hillary, worked on. Then in turn, Hillary would sink his shaft and put a few
loops of the rope around it and Tenzing, protected against a breaking step, would move up to him, Then
once again as Tenzing belayed him, Hillary would go on cutting.
b. Why was the original zest fading away?
Their original zest was fading away because as the time was passing, the ridge seemed never-ending.
It was turning out to be a serious struggle.
c. What did Edmund Hillary do to escape the large overhanging ice cornices?
In order to escape large overhanging ice cornices, Hillary cut a line of steps down to where the snow
met the rocks on the west.
d. What did Tenzing and Edmund Hillary gift to the God of lofty Summit? How did they do it?
Tenzing made a little hole in the snow and placed various small articles of food like a bar of chocolate, a
packet of biscuits and a handful of lollics in it. Hillary too made a hole in the snow and placed a crucifix in
it. The crucifix was given to him by Sir John Hunt.
e. What did the photograph portray?
The photograph portrayed the North Col and the old route which had been made famous by the
struggles of the great climbers of 1920's and 193 0's.
f. The soft snow was difficult and dangerous. Why?
The soft snow made the route on top of the ridge both difficult and dangerous, as it held their weight but
often gave way suddenly.
g. How did the firm snow at the higher regions fill them with hope?
The snow was crystalline and firm at the higher regions. Two or three blows of the ice-axe produced a
step large enough even for a over-sized High Attitude boots. A firm thrust of the ice-axe would sink it
half-way up the shaft, giving a solid and comfortable belay. This filled them with hope.
ADDITIONAL
1. Who were the six men at Camp 8?
Alfred Gregory and the two .Sherpas, Pemba and Ang Nyima were the six men at Camp 8.
2. Where were the three companions of Hillary and Tenzing going?
The three companions were going down the ridge, back towards the South Col.
3. When did they got ready for the climb?
On 29t May 1953, at 4 a.m., they began to get ready for the climb.
4. What did Hillary do with the oxygen sets?
19
Hillary dragged the oxygen sets into the tent, cleaned the ice off them, then rechecked and tested them.
5. What did they do, just below the South Summit?
They cut a seat for themselves just below the South Summit and removed their oxygen apparatus.
6. What did they see on the east side of the Everest?
On the east side of the Everest was another great cornice. Running up the full forty feet of the step, was
a narrow crack between the cornice and the rock.
7. What did Hillary decide to do, after seeing the crack?
Hillary asked Tenzing to belay him as best as he could and jammed his way into that crack.
8. What did Colonel Hunt give Hillary, when they were together in the South Col?
Colonel Hunt gave Hillary a small crucifix when they were together in the South Col.
3. Based on the text, answer the following questions In a paragraph of about 100-150 words each,
a. How did Hilary and Tenzing prepare themselves before they set off to the summit?
Ang bags. The following morning at 4 a.m. on May 29th, they began to get ready for the climb. They stas
the sun set, Hillary and Tenzing crawled into the tent, put on all their warm clothing, and wriggled into
their sleepirted up their cooker and drank large quantities of lemon juice and sugar, followed with the
last tin of sardines on biscuits. They dragged their oxygen sets into the tent, cleaned the ice off them,
then rechecked and tested them. As Hillary's shoes were wet, he warmed them up and managed to
soften them.
They wore their wind proof over their down clothing. They pulled three pairs of gloves on to their hands.
At 6.30 p.m. they crawled out of that tent into the snow, hoisted their 30 lb of oxygen gear on to their
backs, connected up their masks and turned on the valves to bring life-giving oxygen into their lungs.
After taking good deep breaths, they were ready to set off to the Summit.
b. Give an account of the journey to the South Col from 28,000 feet.
The ridge narrowed to a knife edge from 28,000 feet. Hillary took the lead from there. The soft snow
made the route both difficult and dangerous. After several hundred feet, they came tO a tiny hollow and
found two oxygen bottles. The oxygen bottles still contained several hundred litres of oxygen - enough
to get them down to the South Col. Though they felt unhappy about the snow conditions, they decided to
go on. On the higher region, the snow was firmer. So they were able to make a solid and comfortable
belay. They cut a line of steps down to where the snow met the rocks on the west. As time was passing,
the ridge was never-ending. After some struggle, they realized that the ridge dropped sharply away.
They could see a narrow snow ridge running up to a snowy summit. A few more strikes of the ice-axe
could make them reach the summit.
c. Describe the feelings of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing as they reached the top of the Summit.
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing were relieved after they were nearing the summit. There were no more
steps to cut, no more ridges to traverse and no more humps to tantalize them with hopes of success.
Hillary looked at Tenzing. In spite of the balaclava helmet, goggles and oxygen mask - all encrusted with
long icicles, that concealed his face, there was no sign of hiding his joy as he looked all around him.
They shook hands, threw each one's arms around their shoulders and thumped each other on their
backs until they were almost breathless. It was 11.30 a.m., when they reached the top of the summit.
d. The ridge had taken us two and half hours, but it seemed like lifetime. Why?
Hillary's progress towards the ridge was very slow but steady. There was the overhanging mass of snow
along the ridge. So, while passing through the path of snow, he prayed that the cornices would remain
attached to the rock. Tenzing wriggled his way up the crack. Hillary felt a fierce determination to reach
the top. The giant cornices were on the right and the steep rock sloped on the left. The ridge seemed
never-ending. Their great enthusiasm had gone, and it was turning more into a gloomy struggle. Hillary
then realized that the ridge ahead, instead of rising, now dropped sharply away. He looked upwards to
see a narrow snow ridge running up to a snowy summit. Thus they reached to the top of the summit with
so much struggle. So Hillary told that the ridge had taken them two and a half hours, but it seemed like a
lifetime.
e. Describe the view from the top. What was the most important photograph?
To the east was the giant neighbour Makalu which was unexplored and unclimbed. Far away across the
clouds, the great bulk of Kanchenjunga appeared on the horizon. To the west, we could see the great
20
unexplored ranges of Nepal stretching off into the distance. The most important photograph was a shot
down the North Ridge, showing the North Col and the old route, which had been made famous by the
struggles of great climbers of the 1920's and 1930's. After ten minutes, Hillary realized that he was
becoming rather clumsy - fingered and slow-moving. So he quickly replaced his oxygen set. Though the
struggle was extreme, they felt happy at the photograph shot by them.
f. “There is no height, no depth that the spirit of man, guided by higher Spirit cannot attain? Discuss the
above statement in the context of the achievement of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing.
The story of the ascent of Everest is one of comradeship and team work, formed through dangers and
difficulties met and overcome together by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary. It is their spirit of
formidable adventure and firm determination which made them achieve such a feat. Their selflessness
and resolve enabled them to climb the Everest. They were led to the expedition by Sir John Hunt.
They had climbed to the top. There were shouts of joy, handshakes and hugs for the two heroes. Their
happiness and pride showed how these men had shared in the achievement, that was brilliantly
concluded by Tenzing and Hillary. So they had proved that 'there is no height and no depth that the spirit
of man, guided by higher spirit cannot attain.
ADDITIONAL
1. Who led the expedition to the Everest? What did he feel about the achievement?
John Hunt led the expedition to the Everest. He stated 'It was an unforgettable day'. They had climbed to
the top. There were shouts of joy, handshakes and hugs for the two heroes. Their happiness and pride
showed how these men had shared in the achievement, that was brilliantly concluded by Tenzing and
Hillary. The adventure was over. The story of the ascent of Everest is one of comradeship and
teamwork, formed through dangers and difficulties met and overcome together by the great heroes
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Their selflessness and resolve enabled them to climb the Everest
guided by the Almighty.
UNIT-5 THE STATUS OF TAMIL AS A CLASSICAL LANGUAGE

acquainted, ancient, anthologies, antiquity, arose, conservative, consider, considerable, constitutes,
delighted, deny, derived, ethics, explored, extensively, extremely, fecund, greatest, illuminated,
independent, indigenous, influence, inscriptions, intellectual, merely, myriad, obvious, patently, pre-
dates, profundity, received, recited, request, sacred, secular, subaltern, subtlety, unequivocally,
unique, vast, vital

acquainted aware of unaware
ancient archaic old modern
anthologies analects -
antiquity ancientness modernity, newness
arose emerged, appeared disappear
conservative traditional modern
consider analyse disregard
considerable ample, sizable little, tiny
constitutes establishes destroys
delighted very happy sad
deny refuse admit, accept
derived obtained underived
ethics morals immorality
explored examined unexplored
extensively broadly, largely slightly
extremely greatly, highly hardly, little
fecund fertile barren, infertile
21
greatest best least
illuminated lucid or clear blacked out
independent autonomous dependent
indigenous native foreign
influence impact unimportance
inscriptions epigraphs -
intellectual genius ignorant
merely simply greatly
myriad infinite, numerous limited
obvious clear unclear
patently clearly, undoubtedly obscurely
pre-dates comes first, comes before comes in last
profundity solidity, sophistication stupidity
received got delivered
recited chanted kept quiet
request desire, entreaty command
sacred divine, holy unholy, cursed
secular non religious, temporal religious
subaltern subordinate, inferior superior
subtlety distinction, nuance -
unequivocally unambiguously, absolutely equivocally, unclearly
unique special, distinctive ordinary
vast enormous small, little
vital essential needless
1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences based on your understanding of the
letter.
a. Which is considered the oldest work in Tamil? When was it written?
Tolkappiyam is considered as the oldest work in Tamil. It was written in 200 BCE.
b. What is the evidence that supports the finding of the oldest Tamil work?
The earliest Tamil inscriptions in Tolkappiyam support the finding of the oldest Tamil work.
c. Mention the Tamil works that date to the first two centuries of the current era.
The Sangam anthologies and the Pattuppattu are the Tamil works that date to the first two centuries of
the current era.
d. Name the great Tamil work that speaks volumes on ethics.
Tirukkural is the great Tamil work that speaks volumes on ethics.
e. What are the other classical languages mentioned by the author?
The other classical languages are Sanskrit, Greek, Latin, Chinese, Persian and Arabic.
f. Can you define and list the themes explored in Tamil Literature? Why?
The distinction and sophistication of Tamil works, their varied scopes and their universality qualify Tamil
to stand as one of the greatest classical traditions and literatures of the world.
g. What is unique about Tamil and its sources?
Tamil is one of the primary independent sources of modern Indian culture and tradition.
h. Modern Indian languages are productive on earth. Why does the author say so?
The author says that modern languages are productive on earth because each of it brings into
existence a modern literature that can stand with any of the major literatures of the world.
i. Which language is as old as Latin?
Tamil language is as old as Latin.
22
j. Why is it said that Tamil has the most independent tradition?
It is said that Tamil has the most independent tradition because it arose with no influence from Sanskrit
or other languages.
k. What is the role of Classical Tamil in Modern Tamil arid Malayalam?
Tamil is the source language of Modern Tamil and Malayalam.
2. Answer the following questions In three or four sentences each.

a. Supreme works in Tamil elevate it to be treated as sacred as the Vedas. How?
Supreme works in Tamil elevate it to be treated as sacred as the Vedas by reciting them as Vedic
mantras in the great Vaishnava temples of South India.
b. Tamil is a touchstone to understand the Dravidian's nature and development. Elucidate.
Tamil is the most conservative of the Dravidian languages. It is the touchstone that linguists must
consult to understand the nature and development of Dravidians.
c. How do you correlate the richness of Tamil language with Indian culture?
To deny that Tamil is a classical language is to deny a vital and central part of greatness and richness of
Indian culture.
ADDITIONAL
a. What did Professor Maraimalai ask Mr. George L. Hart?
Professor Maraimalai asked Mr.Hart to write regarding the position of Tamil as classical language.
b. Where was George working?
George was a Professor of Tamil at the University of California, Berkeley.
c. What degree did George Hant receive in 1970?
Hant received a degree in Sanskrit in 1970 from Harvard University.
d. What was his first employment?
His first employment was as a Sanskrit professor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1969.
e. Besides Tamil and Sanskrit, what other languages did he know?
He knew the classical languages of Latin and Greek.
f. Which is the only pre modern Indian literature to treat the subaltern extensively?
Tamil is the only pre-modern Indian literature to treat the subaltern extensively.
g. Which language is least changed of the Indo-Aryan languages?
Sanskrit is the least changed of the Indo-Aryan Languages.
3. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100-150 words each.

a. How does the author justify the statement that Tamil is a classical language?
The author justifies the statement that Tamil is a classical language by giving four reasons. First, Tamil is
an ancient language. It exists earlier than the literatures of other modern Indian languages. The
greatest works of ancient Tamil, the Sangam anthologies and the Pattuppattu, date to the first two
centuries of the current era. Secondly, Tamil constitutes the only literary tradition native to India that is
not derived from Sanskrit. Its literature arose before the influence of Sanskrit in the South. It has its own
poetic theory, its own grammatical traditions, its own esthetics and a large body of unique literature. The
third reason is that the quality of classical Tamil literature is fit to stand beside the great literatures of
Sanskrit, Greek, Latin, Chinese, Persian and Arabic. Finally Tamil is one of the primary independent
sources of modern Indian culture and tradition. It is the most conservative of the Dravidian languages.
Its ancient literature is vast and rich.
b. Tirukkural is a fine example of an outstanding quality of classical Tamil Literature. Substantiate.
Tirukkural is a classical Tamil literature, consisting of 1,330 couplets or 'Kurals' dealing with every day
virtues of an individual. It is one of the two oldest works in Tamil literature. The other one is 'Tolkappiyam’
Tirukkural is considered to be one of the greatest works ever written on ethics and morality. It was
23
authored by Valluvar, also known as Thiruvalluvar. The text has been dated variously from 300 BCE to
5th century CE. It is one of the major and extremely varied work that comprise the Tamil classical
tradition. There is no one that is not explored and enlightened by this great literature.
ADDITIONAL
a. According to the author, what must a language need to qualify itself as a 'classical language'?
A language should fit several criteria, to be qualified as a classical tradition. It should be ancient, it
should be an independent tradition that arose mostly on its own. It should not be an offshoot of another
tradition. It must have a large and extremely rich body of ancient literature. Unlike the other modern
languages of India, Tamil meets each of these requirements. It is extremely old. It is as old as Latin and
older than Arabic. It rose an entirely independent tradition, with almost no influence from Sanskrit or
other languages. Its ancient literature is vast and rich.
b. Illustrate the richness of modern Indian languages.
The modern Indian languages are among the most fertile and productive languages on earth. Each of it
has brought into existence a modern or a medieval literature that can stand with any of the major
literatures of the world. Yet none of them is a classical language. Like English and other modern
languages of Europe (with the exception of Greek), they rose on former traditions rather late. They were
developed in the second millennium. There are 21 modern Indian languages. These are Assamese,
Bangle, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarathi, Hindi, Kashmiri, Kannada, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri,
Marathi, Nepal, Oriya, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Santoli, Sindhi, and Urdu. To qualify as a classical
tradition, a language must fit several criteria. Unlike other modern languages tamil mets all the
requirements.
UNIT-6 ON THE RULE OF THE ROAD

accommodation, affair, anarchy, bitter,. chaos, confusion, conscious, consideration, contract,
conventional, curtailed, curtailment, declare, entitled, fancy, forbid, hurry, indifferent, inquire, insolence,
interfere, judgment, liable, liberty, maelstrom, nay, object, observance, outraged, pavement,
pedestrians, peril, preserved, pulled, qualified, rare, remind, ridiculous, stout, tyranny

accommodation compromise refusal, disagreement
affair matter, thing -
anarchy lawlessness / rebellion lawfulness
bitter sour sweet
chaos confusion orderliness
confusion mess calm
conscious aware unaware, unconscious
consideration scrutiny disregard
contract commitment disagreement
conventional normal unusual, strange
curtailed reduced, restricted extended
curtailment reduction extension
declare state, announce deny
entitled permitted banned
fancy desire hate
forbid ban allow
hurry (n) rush delay
indifferent unconcerned concerned
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inquire ask respond, answer
insolence rudeness modesty
interfere hinder assist, aid
judgment wisdom misjudgment
liable likely unlikely
liberty freedom slavery
maelstrom utter confusion -
nay no yes
object protest, oppose agree, accept
observance compliance violation
outraged infuriated pacified, calmed
pavement footpath, sidewalk -
pedestrians persons who walk on the streets -
peril risk safety
preserved maintained destroyed
pulled towed pushed
qualified capable incompetent, unqualified
rare unusual normal
remind remember forget
ridiculous comical serious
stout fat thin
tyranny autocracy democracy
1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.

a. Why did the lady think she was entitled to walk down the middle of the road?
The lady thought that she has got the Iiberty to walk where she likes to roam.
b. What would be the consequence of the old lady's action?
It did not occur to the old lady that if liberty entitled the pedestrian to walk down the middle of the road,
then the end of such liberty would be a universal confusion.
c. What does the 'rule of the road' mean?
The 'rule of the road' means that in order that the liberties of all may be preserved, the liberties of
everybody must be curtailed (limited).
d. Why should individual liberty be curtailed?
Individual liberty should be curtailed because if everybody gets into everybody else's way, it would
become a social lawlessness.
e. How would a reasonable person react when his actions affect other person's liberty?
A reasonable person will understand that if a policeman did not interfere with him, he would not interfere
with anyone. So the result would be a commotion everywhere.
f. Define Liberty as perceived by the author.
'Liberty is not a personal affair only, but a social contract'.
g. According to the author, what are we more conscious of?
We are much more conscious of the faults of others than of our own.
h. What is the foundation of social conduct?
A reasonable consideration for the rights or feelings of others is the foundation of social conduct.
i. How can we sweeten our life's journey?
It is the little habits of common place intercourse that make up the great sum of life and sweeten our life's
journey.
j. What does the traffic policeman symbolize?
The traffic policeman symbolizes 'liberty'.
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a. What is 'liberty' according to the old lady?

According to the old lady, “Liberty is to walk wherever she likes to roam”. She thinks that she has got the
liberty to do so.
b. How would 'liberty' cause universal chaos?
If liberty entitled the pedestrian to walk down the middle of the road, then the end of such liberty would
be universal chaos (confusion).
c. Why is there a danger of the world getting 'liberty drunk'?
There is a danger of the world getting liberty-drunk these days because individual liberty is becoming a
social lawlessness, as everybody gets into everyone's way.
d. 'Curtailment of private liberty is done to establish social order' — Do you agree?
Yes. It is true that curtailment of private liberty is done to establish social order. Considering the rights
and feelings of others and limiting our private liberties can bring in social order.
ADDITIONAL
1. Where was the stout lady walking?

The stout lady was walking with her basket down the middle of a street in Petrograd.
2. Is the policeman a symbol of tyranny?
No, the policeman is not a symbol of tyranny.
3. What happens when everybody getting in everybody else's way?
When everybody gets in everybody else's way, nobody would get anywhere.
4. What is the danger of the world getting these days?
There is a danger of the world getting liberty-drunk in these days.
5. What do we do in our kingdom of liberty?
In our kingdom of liberty, we rule alone, can do what we choose, be wise or ridiculous, harsh or easy,
normal or strange.
6. What does the author say about practising on the trombone?
You might like to practise on the trombone from midnight till three in the morning on top of Everest. This
could please you. But if you do it in your bedroom, your family will object. If you do out in the streets, the
neighbours will object.
7. How do we pass judgements upon ourselves?
We pass judgement upon ourselves by observing the rules of the road.
3. Answer each of the following In a paragraph of 100—1 50 words.

a. What do you infer from Gardiner's essay 'On the rule of the Road'?
A. G. Gardiner in his essay 'The Rule of the Road' points out what constitutes true liberty. The rule of the
road means that in order “to preserve the liberties of all, the liberties of everybody must be curtailed”
When the policeman puts out his hand at Piccadilly Circus street, we must not think our liberty has been
violated. If we are a reasonable person, we will reflect that if he didn't interfere, the result would be a
commotion. We have to curtail our private liberties so that we can enjoy a social order. Liberty is not a
personal affair, but it is a social contract. It is an adjustment of interests. We have to preserve both the
individual liberty and social liberty. By observing the rules of the road, we can judge ourselves. We can
declare ourselves easily whether we are civilized or uncivilized. These habits of common place
intercourse make our life journey sweet or bitter.
b. Explain in your own words, “What freedom means?”
When Gardiner refers to the rule of the road, he is talking about the rules that govern what you are
allowed to do on the road. He is referring to the anecdote about the Russian woman walking down the
middle of the road and causing traffic problems. That woman was not following the laws that govern
what we may do on roads.
26
The major point of this essay is that people need to think about how their actions affect others and how
they affect society. In this sense, the rules of the road, are the rules of politeness and unselfishness.
They are rules such as 'don't play your trombone too loudly or at the wrong time or don't have loud
conversations in public places’. When we want freedom, we have to follow certain rules so that we don't
hurt other's feelings and rights.
c. “My right to swing my fist ends, where your nose begins” Elucidate with reference to, 'On the Rule of the
Road’.
This adage means that everybody must have a right to be free. Freedom is a part of human nature. No
one shall have the right to limit other people's freedom or impose any kind of restrictions. The principle
of universality makes it an ideal rather than a hypocritical statement. We either believe in freedom for all
or we don't believe in it at all.
This is a saying that a person's rights have minimum and maximum privileges. The minimum is what
you are guaranteed by your rights. We respect the limits of our right. It should not over exceed and
interfere on to another person's rights. So you don't bother others and people do the same for you. This
is the ideal situation. But it will never be perfect in our present world.
d. Civilization can only exist when the public collectively accepts constraints on its freedom of action —
Explain.
In 'On the rule of the road’ Gardiner emphasizes, the necessity of certain constraints on individual
liberty, if society is to function in a truly civilized manner. As he wrote in his essay, liberty is not a personal
affair only, but a social contract. A reasonable consideration for the rights or feelings of others is the
foundation of social conduct. Freedom cannot exist in a vacuum. It must follow a set of principles to a
certain extent. These private liberties should not interfere in other's rights or feelings. We enjoy the
freedom to speak our mind, but at some point, freedom of speech breaks the rule of the public good.
Gardiner offers his own illustrations to make his point, such as the role of the police officer in controlling
traffic - a role that imposes constraints on personal freedom. Thus civilization can only exist when the
public collectively accepts constraints on its freedom of action.
ADDITIONAL
1 In “On the Rule of the Road” by A G Gardiner, liberty is not a personal affair only, but a social contract.
Explain.
In 'On the Rule of the Road' Gardiner emphasizes the necessity of certain constraints on individual
liberty if society is to function in a truly civilized manner. A reasonable consideration for the rights or
feelings of other's is the foundation of social conduct. Further, Gardiner wrote that “in order that the
liberties of all may be preserved, the liberties everybody must be curtailed. Freedom, cannot exist in a
vacuum. It must conform to some degree to a set of principles that exist to ensure that one's liberties do
not infringe on others.
We enjoy the freedom to speak our mind, but, at some point, freedom of speech runs afoul of the public
good. Gardiner offers his own illustrations to make his point, such as the role of the police officer in
controlling traffic - a role that imposes constraints on personal freedom. Civilization can only exist when
the public collectively accepts constraints on its freedom of action.
2. In the essay “On the Rule of the Road” by A.G. Gardiner, what should one submit to in order to make
one's liberty a reality?
Gardiner tells us that there will often be times when we have to “submit to a curtailment of private liberty”
if we want to live in a social order where we truly have liberty. He is saying that we have to give up some
of our liberty in order to make our liberty a reality.
In return for our doing this, the society protects our truly important rights. This is one major point
Gardiner is trying to make in this essay.
In the essay, Gardiner is saying that people in a society must give up some liberties such as the liberty to
walk in the middle of the road or the liberty to play the trombone loudly in the middle of the night.
When we give up these kinds of liberty, we create a society in which our important liberties are
protected.
3. How is liberty a social contract?
It is much more common to say that liberty is part of the social contract than it is to say that liberty is a
social contract.
27
Without the social contract, people do, in a sense, have complete liberty in a state of nature there are no
rules or laws to tell people what they may and may not do. When there is no law, you only have whatever
liberty you can defend by your own physical power.
True liberty only comes about as part of the social contract. People get together and agree to give up
some of their liberty to a government. The government allows people to have greater liberty than they
would, if they had not agreed to a social contract.
Thus, we can say that liberty is part of the social contract because the government protects people's
most important liberties, when they enter into the social contract.
GRAMMAR EXERCISES
(From Textbook Page No. 215 to 223; 227, 228)
UNIT -1
TENSES
Correct the errors in the underlined words.
Take a career aptitude test. There are dozens of career aptitude tests online that ask a series of questions.
These are formulated to find out what kind of work would suit you the best. These tests analyze your
strengths, weaknesses, interests, and personality to help you narrow down your career choice. You can
also do an Internet search for “career aptitude tests” and takes several so that you can compare the results.
Once you have an idea of what field you want to work in, consider all the options within that field. For
instance, if you would want to work in healthcare, you could be a nurse or a doctor, you can also, consider
paramedical careers in physiotherapy, occupational therapy and micro-biology.
Take a career aptitude test. There are dozens of career aptitude tests online that ask a series of questions.
These are formulated to find out what kind of work would suit you the best. These tests analyze your
strengths, weaknesses, interests, and personality to help you narrow down your career choice. You can
also do an Internet search for “career aptitude tests” and takes several so that you can compare the
results. Once you have an idea of what field you want to work in, consider all the options within that field. For
instance, if you would want to work in healthcare, you could be a nurse or a doctor, you can also consider
paramedical careers in physiotherapy, occupational therapy and micro-biology.
MODAL AUXILIARIES
Complete the following news item choosing the best phrases given below:
can't be can't have could take may get may not have
might be must be may be may not be ought not
As a result of the flooding, as many as 5,000 families a) homeless, although the figure is only
an estimate. 'The emergency services are working hard, but I'm sure they b) more than 20
helicopters for rescue operation. It c) days to reach everyone and take them to safety’ said an aid
worker in the area. 'Conditions for those families still waiting to be rescued d) dreadful. There
e) any clean water to drink. Worryingly, more rain is forecast, so the floods f) ' worse in the next
few days. The emergency services g) time to reach, everyone before the waters rise again.
Answer
As a result of the flooding, as many as 5,000 families a) may be homeless, although the figure is only an
estimate. 'The emergency services are working hard, but I'm sure they b) can't have more than 20
helicopters for rescue operation. It c) could take days to reach everyone and take them to safety: said an
aid worker in the area. 'Conditions for those families still waiting to be rescued d) may get dreadful. There e)
can't be any clean water to drink. Worryingly, more rain is forecast, so the floods f) must be worse in the
next few days. The emergency services g) may not have time to reach everyone before the waters rise
again.
28
REPORTED SPEECH
Change the following sentences into indirect speech.
a) The pilot said to the passengers, “The plane will land in Delhi at 9 p.m”
The pilot told the passengers that the plane would land in Delhi at 9 p.m.
b) The Principal said, “young students must, think about the ways to control the use of plastic band in the
school campus”
The Principal advised that young students must think about the ways to control the use of plastic band in
the school campus.
c) Gowtham said to me, “I was very ill last week, but I am better now”.
Gowtham told me that he had been very ill the previous week but he was better then.
d) Priya said, “I want to give my sister a present”.
Priya said that she wanted to give her sister a present.
e) Madhu said to me, “I am. so happy you have completed your project”.
Madhu told me that she was so happy I had completed my project.
f) The manager said, “I will speak to you on Friday'.
he manager told me that he would speak to me on Friday.
g) Mani said to his coach, “I shall improve, if you guide me”.
Mani told his coach that he would improve, if his coach guided him.
h) My mother said to me, “You can go swimming tomorrow'.
My mother told me that I could go swimming the next day.
i) Sandeep said to John, “Would you like to watch a movie with me?”
Sandeep asked John whether he (John) would like to watch a movie with him.
j) Geetha asked Angel, “Will you help me to pack my bag?”
Geetha asked Angel whether she (Angel) would help her to pack her bag.
k) The librarian said to the students, “You are not allowed to scribble anything on the library books”.
The librarian warned the students that they were not allowed to scribble anything on the library books.
l) The motorist said to me, “Can you direct me to the post office?”
The motorist asked me whether I could direct him to the post office.
m) Umar said to his mother, “Could you make me a cup of coffee?”
Umar asked his mother whether she could make him a cup of coffee.
n) The little boy said to me, “Alas! My dog is dead”.
The little boy exclaimed with sorrow that his dog was dead.
o) Grandmother said to her grandson, “May God bless you”.
Grandmother prayed that God might bless her grandson.
UNIT - 2
PREPOSITION
Edit the following passage by circling the incorrect prepositions and writing the correct
preposition against each line.
Dolphins are regarded as the friendliest between the sea creatures. 1
There have been several stories of dolphins helping drowning sailors. 2
The more we learn on dolphins, the more we realise how 3
amazing they are, they care off the sick, protect the weakest 4
at danger, they communicate very well with each other. 5
Answer
Dolphins are regarded as the friendliest between the sea creatures. 1. among
2. on
There have been several stories of dolphins helping drowning sailors. The more 3. about
we learn on dolphins, the more we realise how amazing they are, they care off the 4. about
sick, protect the weakest at danger, they communicate very well with each other. 5. in
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CONJUNCTIONS
Spot the errors In the following sentences. Correct and rewrite them.
a) Neither Ramya is a singer nor a dancer.
Ramya is neither a singer nor a dancer.
b) Scarcely had the workers stepped out, than the building collapsed.
Scarcely had the workers stepped out, then the building collapsed.
c) No sooner did the power resume, when the children screamed in joy.
No sooner did the power resume, than the children screamed in joy.
d) My friend can type so fast as I.
My friend can type as fast as I.
e) Sitha had no other assignment, but that of collecting the data.
Sitha had no other assignment, except that of collecting the data.
f) Rekha cooks like her mother does.
Rekha cooks as her mother does.
g) Professor Usha is not only a writer but an orators
Professor Usha is not only a writer but also an orator.
h) Your neighbours are not so wicked like you think.
Your neighbours are not so wicked as you think.
i) The girl both won an award and a scholarship
The girl won both an award and a scholarship.
j) Three years have passed when my cousin resigned his job.
Three years have passed since my cousin resigned his job.
UNIT - 3
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE VOICE
Change the voice of the following scntences.
1. Gayathri gave a set of pens to Mani.

A set of pens were given to Mani and Gayathri.
2. By whom will the new stadium be built?
Who will build the new stadium?
3. Where will the holidays be spent by your family?
Where will your family spend the holidays?
4. They offered the job to Sundari.
The job was offered to Sundari by them.
5. Could some money be lent to me by your father?
Could your father lend some money to me?
6. Let the door not be opened.
Open the door.
7. Sophia sold her old car to Selvi.
Her old car was sold by Sophiato Selvi.
8. Don't touch the electric wire with bare hands.
You are warned not to touch the electric wire with bare hands.
9. I cannot agree to your proposal.
Your proposal cannot be agreed by me.
10. Kindly complete the assignment in time.
Let the assignment be completed in time, please.
30
11. Raman is known to me since childhood.
I know Raman since childhood
12. Don't insult the poor and weak.
Let not the poor and weak be insulted.
13. Who has broken the chair?
By whom has the chair been broken.
14. His shoulder was hurt in an accident.
He hurt his shoulder in an accident.
15. It is time for the bell to be rung.
It is time to ring the bell.
16. We wish you forget this episode.
We wish this episode be forgotten by you.
17. They would net have done this shameful act.
This shameful act would not have been done by them.
18. How do you know my uncle?
How is my uncle known to you?
19. It is believed that he is an honest man.
We believe that he is an honest man.
20. My request was acceded to by the authorities.
The authorities acceded my request.
QUESTION TAGS
Find out if the question tag used in each of the following sentences is right. If it is correct, put a tick
 or if it is incorrect, replace it with the correct tag question in the box provided against each
sentence.
1. These children look very weak and tired, aren't they?
2. Nobody can resolve this issue, can they?
3. We seldom speak to our neighbours, do we?
4. The old woman sells dolls made of sea-shells, doesn't she?
5. I have captured some beautiful moments in my camera, aren't I?
6. Pragathi put the bunch of flowers in the vase, doesn't she?
7. Arun was in a great dilemma at that time, didn't he?
8. I am an expert in cooking, amn't I?
9. Let's take this matter to court, can we?
10. Don't forget to hand over this file to my manager, do you?
11. The pair of shoes near the door is not yours, are they?
12. They have a resort in Yercaud, isn't it?
13. Our dog scarcely sleeps at night, doesn't it?
14. You do a lot of social service, don't you?
15. There is a stadium near your office, isn't it?
Answer
1. These children look very weak and tired, aren't they? don't they
2. Nobody can resolve this issue, can they?
3. We seldom speak to our neighbours, do we?
4. The old woman sells dolls made of sea-shells, doesn't she?
5. I have captured some beautiful moments in my camera, aren't I? haven't I?
6. Pragathi put the bunch of flowers in the vase, doesn't she? didn't she?
7. Arun was in a great dilemma at that time, didn't he? wasn't he?
8. I am an expert in cooking, amn't I? aren’t I?
31
9. Let's take this matter to court, can we? shall we?
10. Don't forget to hand over this file to my manager, do you? will you?
11. The pair of shoes near the door is not yours, are they? is it?
12. They have a resort in Yercaud, isn't it? havent they?
13. Our dog scarcely sleeps at night, doesn't it? does it?
14. You do a lot of social service, dont you?
15. There is a stadium near your office, isn't it?
UNIT - 4
KINDS OF SENTENCES : SIMPLE, COMPLEX AND COMPOUND
Do as directed
a) Besides being a singer, she is also a dancer. (Rewrite as a compound sentence)
She is both a singer and a dancer.
b) Praveen ran into the field so that he might congratulate the winners. (Rewrite as a simple sentence)
Praveen ran into the field to congratulate the winners.
c) The mountain was steep but he was able to climb it. (Rewrite as a complex sentence)
Though the mountain was steep, he was able to climb it.
d) Smita carried out the survey and presented her report. (Rewrite as a simple sentence)
After carrying out the surrey, Smita presented her report.
e) Unless you have a valid passport you cannot leave the country. (Rewrite as a compound sentence)
You should have a valid passport or else / otherwise you cannot leave the country.
f) This is not the way to answer. (Rewrite as a complex sentence)
This is not the way how one must answer.
Combine each of the following pairs of sentences into a single sentence.

a) I met a man at the party. He is the Chairman of a computer form.
I met a man, who is the Chairman of a computer form, at the party.
b) Mahatma Gandhi stood for Ahimsa. The whole world knows it.
The whole world knows that Mahatma Gandhi stood for Ahimsa.
c) Concentrate on your strengths. You will reap success in your life.
If you concentrate on your strengths, you will reap success in your life.
d) Consider all the facts once again. Then make your decision.
Make your decision after considering all the facts once again.
e) A number of books are missing from the library. Measures should be taken to retrieve them.
As a number of books are missing from the library, measures should be taken to retrieve them.
UNIT - 5
NON- FINITE VERBS
Fill in the blanks using suitable gerund.
1. My friend is good at the saxophone.
2. They don't like on Saturdays.
3. They started late, so they were afraid of the train.
4. She enjoys horror movies.
5. on the wall can prove dangerous.
6. a two wheeler without a helmet may prove fatal.
7. uniform to school is compulsory.
8. trees is a must, to prevent soil erosion.
32
9. Seema apologized for late.
10. an event successfully is a challenge.
Answer
1. My friend, is good at playing the saxophone.
2. They dont like to play on Saturdays.
3. They started late, so they were afraid of missing the train.
4. She enjoys seeing horror movies.
5. Walking on the wall can prove dangerous.
6. Riding a two wheeler without a helmet may prove fatal.
7. Wearing uniform to school is compulsory.
8. Planting trees is a must, to prevent soil erosion.
9. Seema apologized for coming late.
10. Organising an event successfully is a challenge.
Unscramble the sentences.

1. rupees / lunch / to buy / it / twenty / costs
2. become/ my / is / a doctor / dream / to
3. eight years/ to win/ it/ took/ the world cup
4. as / a / I / want / collector/ to see /you
5. divine / is / to forgive
Answer
1. It costs twenty rupees to buy lunch.
2. My dream is to become a doctor.
3. It took eight years to win the world cup.
4. I want to see you as a collector.
5. To forgive is divine.
Complete the conversation with the word from the box.

Man : Could you show the way to the hospital?
Woman : Sure. I will guide you (1) the hospital. In about 15 minutes you will, get there. Start
by taking the GST Road for about 10 minutes. Remember, (2) a carefully. The road is
usually very busy. After 10 minutes you will reach a grey wall. From there you have
(3) right and go straight. As you drive along you will notice a bank. It is also important
for you (4) attention to the road as there is a school nearby. Once you cross the
school, you will get (5) the whereabouts of the hospital.
to reach to drive to pay to know to turn
Answer
Sure. I will guide you (1) to reach the hospital. In about 15 minutes you will get there. Start by
taking the GST Road for about 10 minutes. Remember, (2) to drive a carefully. The road is
usually very busy. After 10 minutes you will reach a grey wall. From there you have (3) to turn
right and go straight. As you drive along you will notice a bank. It is also important for you (4) to
pay attention to the road as there is a school nearby. Once you cross the school, you will get (5)
to know the whereabouts of the hospital.
Rewrite changing the gerund in each of the following sentences to infinitives without changing the
meaning.
1. Teach me swimming.
2. Giving is better than receiving.
3. Seeing is believing.
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4. I like reading.
5. He managed reaching there in time.
6. Walking in the sun is harmful to the eyes.
7. Stealing is a crime.
8. What I hate most is running across traffic.
9. Sitting here is wasting time.
10. Exercising is good for health.
Answer
1. Teach me how to swim.
2. To give is better than to receive.
3. To see is the believe.
4. I like to read.
5. He managed to reach there in time.
6. To walk in the sun is harmful to the eyes.
7. To steal is a crime.
8. What I hate most is across traffic to run.
9. To sit here is to waste time.
10. To Exercise is good for health.
Spot the errors, If any.

1. She wants to continuing her studies abroad.
2. It was a shame breaking up.
3. It will be a waste throwing the food away.
4. She made me to cry.
5. My company has delayed to give pay rise due to economic problems.
6. There's someone to talk on the phone, but they cannot hear me.
7. My friends and I were sitting in a cafe and to talk.
8. To carry a heavy pile of books, she tripped and fell.
Answer
1. She wants to continue her studies abroad.
2. It was a shame to break up.
3. It will be a waste to throw the food away.
4. She made me cry.
5. My company has delayed giving pay rise due to economic problems.
6. There's someone talking on the phone, but they cannot hear me.
7. My friends and I were sitting in a cafe and talking.
8. Carrying a heavy pile of books, she tripped and fell.
ARTICLES AND DETERMINERS

Fill in the blanks with appropriate articles or determiners
1. We met Americans at the restaurant.
2. Monisha has films in her hands.
3. I am eldest in my family.
4 There are only chocolates left for you
5. Can you get me butter?
6. They haven't got roses in their garden.
7. Samuel hasn't got homework today, so he is playing cricket.
8. Please give me hammer and nail.
9. My mother is honest woman.
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10. She bought useful gadget.
11. Please give me ice cube.
12. We need light in the room.
13. Why are you reading book?
14. My boss wanted draft of the report in a day.
15. hand-out is available online.
Answer
1. We met some Americans at the restaurant.
2. Monisha has a few films in her hands.
3. I am the eldest in my family.
4. There are only two chocolates left for you.
5. Can you get me some butter?
6. They haven't got many roses in their garden.
7. Samuel hasn't got any homework today, so he is playing cricket.
8. Please give me a hammer and a nail.
9. My mother is an honest woman.
10. She bought a useful gadget.
11. Please give me an ice cube.
12. We need some light in the room.
13. Why are you reading this book?
14. My boss wanted a draft of the report in a day.
15. Our hand-out is available online.
DEGREES OF COMPARISON
Identify the error in each of the following sentences and correct them appropriately.
1. Oxygen is more heavier than hydrogen.
2. Very few indoor games are more interesting than chess.
3. Henry is the most strongest of all the players in the team.
4. Faster you run, sooner you get tired.
5. Diamond is more precious than any gem.
6. Mr. Sridhar is wiser than all men in our family.
7. The Biology lab in our school is spacious than the Chemistry lab.
8. This is one of the busier streets in our town.
9. The sparrow is the most unique bird.
10. Beema is stronger among the five Pandava brothers.
11. An ounce is lesser than a gallon.
12. Let me introduce my oldest daughter to you all.
13 Of the two sisters, Helen is the prettiest
14. This is the most least mark I have ever scored
Answer
1. Oxygen is heavier than hydrogen.
2. Very few indoor games are so interesting as chess (or) Chess is more interesting than many other
indoor games.
3. Henry is the strongest of all the players in the team.
4. The faster you run, the sooner you get tired.
5. Diamond is more precious than any other gem.
6. Mr. Sridhar is wiser than all the men in our family.
7. The Biology lab in our school more specious than the Chemistry lab.
8. This is one of the busiest streets in our town.
9. The sparrow is a unique bird.
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10. Beema is the strongest among the five Pandava brothers.
11. An ounce is less than a gallon
12. Let me introduce my eldest daughter to you all.
13. Of the two sister, Helen is prettier.
14. This is the least mark I have ever scored.
Spell Test
Task 1 : Encircle the word that has been spell correctly, in each pair below:
1. beleive - believe
2. separate - seperate
3. assistant - asisstant
4. hippocrites - hypocrites
5. secretary - secretery
6. buoyantly - bouyantly
7. necessary - neccesary
8. evolution - evolusion
9. athletics - aheletics
10. warehouse - wearhouse
11. contemtuously - contemptuously
12. indispensible - indispensable
13. tommorrow - tomorrow
14. foriegn - foreign
15. dysentery - dysentry
16. Iieing - lying
17. concience - conscience
18. competent - competant
19. pleasant - plaesant
20. chocolate - choclate
21. awfully - wefully
22. amatuer - amateur
Answer
1. believe 2. separate 3. assistant 4. hypocrites 5. secretary 6. buoyantly

7. necessary 8. evolution 9. athletics 10. warehouse 11. contemptuously 12. indispensable
13. tomorrow 14. foreign 15. dysentery 16. lying 17. conscience 18. competent
19. pleasant 20. chocolate 21. awfully 22. amateur
Task 2 : Edit the following passages by correcting the spelling mistakes:

Passage — 1: Some parents are notorious in maintaining a somber environment at home, especially
during the period when their children have examinations. They should understand that
brief divertions from the main task can dramatically improve their attention span.
Entertainment is without any doubt, indispensible for children. However, parents should
educate their children to use modaration in their entertainments, and above all, not to
seak enjoyment at the expence of their health and success.
Answer 1: Some parents are notorious in maintaining a sombre environment at home, especially
during the period when their children have examinations. They should understand that
brief diversions from the main task can dramatically improve their attention span.
Entertainment is, without any doubt, indispensable for children. However, parents
should educate their children to use moderations in their entertainments, and above all,
not to seek enjoyment at the expense of their health and success.
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Passage — 2: Tolerence refers to an attitude of openess and respect for the differences that exist among
people. It was originally used to refer to ethenic and religeous differences and the
concepts of diversity. But in the present times, forbaerance can also be applied to gender,
people with physical and intellectual disebiities, and other differences, too. Tolerence
means respecting others, valueing differences, bridgeing cultural gaps, rejecting unfair
steriotypes, discovering common ground, and creating new bonds.
Answer 2: Tolerance refers to an attitude of openness and respect for the differences that exist
among people. It was originally used to refer to ethnic and religious differences and the
concepts of diversity. But in the present times, forbearance can also be applied to
gender, people with physical and intellectual disabilities, and other differences, too.
Tolerance means respecting others, valuing differences, bridging cultural gaps,
rejecting unfair stereotypes, discovering common ground, and creating new bonds.
APPENDIX - PUNCTUATION
Punctuate the following.
1. Indias prime minister lal bahadur shastri who coined the slogan jai jawan jai kisan was a man of humble
origin
2. When were stressed we eat a lot of sweets chocolates and ice creams because the word stressed
when spelled backwards becomes desserts
3. To lead a healthy life man needs three things clean water unpolluted air and bright sunshine
4. The notice displayed on the pin-board read those who can do those who cant do learn those who cant
learn quit
5. When we transport something by car its called a shipment but when we transport something by ship its
called cargo
6. If i remember right i was studying in tagore middle school at that time one day my english teacher
looked at me and said name two pronouns i said who me
7. What is punctuation To quote lynne truss punctuation marks are the traffic signals of a language they
tell us to slow down notice this take a detour and stop
8. Behold how beautiful these flowers are they dont blossom for their own sake rather they take pride in
spreading fragrance around and making people happy
9. Edison built a huge plant at ogdensburg new jersey to process iron ore this venture was one of edisons
few failures however Tom shrugged off the losses incurred well its gone he said of the money but we
had a good time spending it
10. Alexander the great was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his mother while he was on his deathbed
fearing that he may not live to see her he said take my entire kingdom oh god i wish i knew beforehand
that my entire strength of men and material cant be exchanged for a single breath of life for then
wouldnt have wasted my life in amassing this empire
Answer
1. India's Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, who coined the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” was a man of
humble origin.
2. When we're stressed, we eat a lot of sweets chocolates and ice creams because the word 'stressed'
when spelled backwards becomes 'desserts’.
3. To lead a healthy life man needs three things Clean water, Unpolluted air and Bright sunshine.
4. The notice displayed on the pin-board read - Those who can do, those who can't do, learn. Those who
cant learn, quit.
5. When we transport something by car, it's called a shipment. But when we transport something by ship,
it's called cargo.
6. If I remember right, I was studying in Tagore Middle School at that time. One day my English teacher
looked at me and I said, “Name two pronouns,” I said, “Who, me?”
7. What is Punctuation? To quote Lynne Truss, “Punctuation marks are the traffic signals of a language.
They tell us to slow down Notice this “Take a detour and stop?”
8. Behold how beautiful these flowers are They don't blossom for their own sake; rather they take pride in
spreading fragrance around and making people happy.
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9. Edison built a huge plant at Ogdensburg, New jersey, to process iron ore. This venture was one of
Edison's few failures. However Tom shrugged off the losses incurred. “Well it's gone”, he said, “of the
money, but we had a good time spending it.”
10. Alexander the Great was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his mother while he was on his deathbed.
Fearing that he may not live to see her, he said, “Take my entire kingdom, Oh! God, I wish I knew
beforehand that my entire strength of men and material can't be exchanged for a single breath of life.
For then, I wouldn't have wasted my life in amassing this empire”.
POEM
UNIT - 1 THE CASTLE
1. Based on your understanding of the poem answer the following questions in one or two
sentences each.
a. Who is the narrator in the poem?
The narrator is one of the several men who had been lodged in a seemingly impenetrable castle.
b. How long had the soldiers been in the castle?
The soldiers had been in the castle all throughout the summer.
c. Why were the soldiers in the castle fearless?
The soldiers were confident of their castle's physical strength.
d. Where were the enemies?
The enemies were beyond the distance of half-a -mile.
e. Why does the narrator say that the enemy was no threat at all?
The soldiers were able to watch only the mowers and no enemy was found up to the distance of half-a
mile. So the narrator said that the enemy was no threat at all.
f. Did the soldiers fight with the enemies face to face?
No, the soldiers did not fight with the enemies face to face.
g. Who had let the enemies in?
An old guard had let the enemies in.
h. How did the enemies enter the castle?
The enemies entered the castle through a little private gate.
i. Why were the secret galleries bare?
The secret galleries were bare because the enemies had taken all the gold from there.
j. What was the 'shameful act'?
The shameful act was the act of betrayal by one of the old guards and giving way to the enemies to
enter into the castle.
k. Why didnt the narrator want to tell the tale to anybody?
The narrator didn't want to tell the tale to anyone because it was a shameful act of betrayal.
I. Why did the narrator feel helpless?
The narrator felt helpless to keep the truth to himself.
m. Who was the real enemy?
The real enemy was the old guard who betrayed them, by taking gold as bribe
ADDITIONAL
1. What is the poem about?
The poem is about the capture of the well-guarded castle.
2. What do you mean by the word 'provender'?
'Provender' means 'food’
3. What was in stock in the castle?
A large quantity of food was in stock in the castle.
4. How did the soldiers stand on the towering castle?
The soldiers stood one above the other on the towering castle.
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5. What did the soldiers believe?
The soldiers believed that the castle was absolutely safe.
6. Was their captain brave and loyal?
Yes, their captain was brave and loyal.
7. What was the citadel known for?
The citadel had been known for its secret gallery and intricate path.
8. Why did the strong castle became weak and thin?
The strong castle became weak and thin because of the greedy disloyal warder.
9. Why did the narrator regret?
The narrator regretted not finding any weapon to fight with the enemy called 'gold’
10. What is a turret wall?
A turret wall is a defensive wall with a small tower at the corners and sides of a castle.
2. Read the poem again and complete the summary using the words given in box.
Stanza 1-3
'The Castle' by Edwin Muir is a moving poem on the (1) of a well-guarded (2) The
soldiers of the castle were totally stress-free and relaxed. They were (3) of their castle's
physical strength. Through the turrets they were able to watch the mowers and no enemy was found up to
the distance of (4) and so it seemed no threat to the castle. They had (5) of
weapons to protect, a large quantity of (6) in stock to take care of the well-being of th soldiers
inside the castle. The soldiers stood one above the other on the towering (7) to shoot enemies
at sight. They believed that the castle was absolutely safe because their captain was (8)
and the soldiers were loyal.
half - a - kilometre watching castle brave
ration capture plenty confident
Stanza 4-6
Even by a trick no one but the birds could enter. The enemy could not use a (9) for their entry
inside the castle. But there was a wicket gate guarded by a (10) He (11) in the
enemies inside the famous citadel that had been known for its secret gallery and intricate path. The strong
castle became (12) and thin because of the greedy disloyal warder. The (13) was
captured by the enemies for (14) The narrator (15) over the (16) of the
useless warder and also decided not to disclose this (17) story to anyone. He was (18)
and wondered how he would keep this truth to himself. He regretted not finding any (19) to fight
with the (20) called ‘gold’.
lamented shameful wicked guard bait let gold
weapon citadel weak disloyalty helpless enemy
Answer
2. (1) capture (2) castle (3) confident (4) half-a kilometre (5) plenty
(6) ration (7) watching (8) brave (9) bait (10) wicked guard
(11) let (12)weak (13) citadel (14) gold (15) lamented
(16) disloyalty (17) shameful (18) helpless (19) weapon (20) enemy
3. Read the poem and answer the following in a short paragraph of 8-10 sentences each.
a. How safe was the castle? How was it conquered?
The castle was safe with strong gates, thick walls which were high and smooth. The soldiers of the
castle were totally stress-free and relaxed. They were confident of their castle's physical strength.
Through the turrets, they were able to watch the mowers and no enemy was found up to the distance of
half - a mile and so it seemed no threat to the castle. They had plenty of weapons to protect, and a large
quantity of ration in stock to take care of the well-being of the soldiers, who were inside the castle. The
soldiers were loyal and their captain was brave. But there was a wicket little gate guarded by a wicked
guard. He let the enemies into the castle by betraying the soldiers. He became a victim of bribery given
by the enemies. Hence the enemies conquered the castle.
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b. Bring out the contrasting picture of the castle as depicted in stanzas 3 and 5.
The castle had gates, which were strong and the walls were thick, high and smooth. There was a
foothold, from which an advance military operation is made. The soldiers stood one above the other on
the tower, watching to shoot the enemies at sight. They believed that the castle was absolutely safe
because their captain was brave and the soldiers were loyal. Even by a trick no one could enter the
castle. No soldiers would be attracted with a bribe for the entry inside the castle. But there was an evil
old guard, who was fascinated by the bribery of the enemies and let them in through a little private gate.
The citadel was known for its secret galleries and intricating path. This strong castle became weak and
thin because of the greedy disloyal warder. The citadel was captured by the enemies for gold. The
narrator lamented over the betrayal of the old warder. He also decided not to tell anyone about this
shameful act of the guard.
c. Human greed led to the mighty fall of the citadel. Explain.
The poem 'The Castle' by Edwin Muir tells the story of an unspecified battle. Though the castle had
strong towers, high and thick walls, it was captured by the enemies by the greediness of an old guard of
the castle. He gets bribed by the enemies and let them in through a little private gate, where no one
could enter by any wicked tricks. They entered the castle through the intricating path of the castle and
captured the citadel for gold. The narrator lamented over the disloyalty of the guard and he was feeling
ashamed to tell anyone about this shameful act of the guard. He regretted for not finding any weapon
to fight with the enemy called gold. Thus 'Human greed led to the mighty fall of the citadel’.
4. Read the given lines and answer the questions that follow in a line or two.
a. All through the summer at ease we lay
And daily from the turret wall
We watched the mowers in the hay
i) 'Who does 'we' refer to?
The word 'We' refers to the soldiers.
ii) How did the soldiers spend the summer days?
The soldiers spent the summer days totally stress- free and relaxed.
iii) What could they watch from the turret wall?
They could watch the mowers trimming the grass and levelling the lawns.
b. Our gates were strong, our walls were thick
So smooth and high, no man could win.
i) How safe was the castle?
The castle's gates were strong and the walls were thick.
ii) What was the firm belief of the soldiers?
The soldiers firmly believed that no one could enter into the strong and well protected castle.
c. A foot hold there, no clever trick
Could take us dead or quick
Only a bird could have got in.
i) What was challenging?
No one could enter the castle except a bird. This was challenging in the castle.
ii) Which aspect of the castle's strength is conveyed by the above line?
The castle had a strong foothold and no clever tricks could take anyone in dead or alive.
d. Oh then our maze of tunneled stone
Grew thin and treacherous as air.
The castle was lost without a groan.
The famous citadel overthrown.
i) Bring out the contrast in the first two lines.
A winding and an intricate path of the tunneled stone grew thin and disloyal as air, when it gave way to
the enemies.
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ii) What happened to the castle?
The castle was captured and overthrown by the enemies.
e. We could do nothing, being sold.
i) Why couldn't they do anything?
They couldn't do anything because it was an unspecified battle.
ii) Why did they feel helpless?
They felt helpless because it was a shameful act of the old guard and they could not tell this tale to
anyone.
ADDITIONAL
1. For what, we thought, had we to fear
With our arms and provender, load on load,
i) Why were the soldiers confident that they were safe?
The soldiers were confident of the physical strength of the castle. They had plenty of weapons and food
in stock.
ii) Pick out the alliterated words.
The alliterated words are what - we; load - load.
2. And friendly allies drawing near
on every leafy summer road.
i) Who are friendly allies?
Friendly allies are helping or supporting nations or armed forces.
ii) What does you the poet mean by “every leafy summer road”?
The threats are insignificant and the castle is surrounded by pleasantries of spring and nature
3. There was a little private gate
A little wicked wicket gate
The wizened warder let them through'.
i) What do you mean by a 'wicked wicket gate'?
A wicked wicket gate is an evil small door or gate.
ii) What is the figure of speech used in the second line?
There are two figure of speeches used here.
(i) Personification : The small door or gate is personified as an evil one.
(ii) Alliteration : wicket - wicked
4. 'Our only enemy was gold
And we had no arms to fight it with'.
i) Why did the poet say 'our only enemy was gold'?
The enemies captured their castle by bribing their guard. So the poet says their enemy was gold.
ii) What does the word, 'it' refer to?
'It' refers to the 'gold
5. Explain the following with reference to the context in about 50-60 words each.
a. They seemed no threat to us at all.
Reference : This line is taken from the poem 'The Castle' written by Edwin Muir.
Context : The narrator talks about the confidence of the soldiers.
Explanation : As the castle was strong and there was no trace of the enemies found at a distance of
half - a mile.
So it seemed that there was no threat at all.
b. How can this shameful act be told.
Reference: This line is taken from the poem 'The Castle' written by Edwin Muir.
Context: The narrator reveals the shameful act of the old guard in this context.
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Explanation: The narrator lamented about the disloyalty of the old guard and decided to hold the
shameful tale by not telling to anyone until his death. This reveals his sorrow and helplessness to fight
with the enemy called 'gold’.
c. I will maintain until my death.
Context: The narrator lamented over the disloyalty of the greedy warder. As it was a shameful tale,
he decided not to reveal it to anyone until his death.
Explanation: The wicked old guard of the castle got gold as bribe and allowed the enemies into the
castle through a little wicked wicket gate. As it was a shameful act, the narrator decided not to tell this
story to anyone until his death.
d. Our only enemy was gold
Context: The narrator insists that his only enemy was gold.
Explanation: The narrator regrets for not finding any weapon to fight with the enemy called 'gold He
feels helpless and sad about the shameful act of one of his guards.
6. Underline the alliterated words In the following lines:

a. With our arms and provender load on load load - load
b. A little wicked wicket gate wicked - wicket
c. The wizened warder let them through wizened - warder; them - through
7. Identify the figure of speech used In the following lines:

a. A little wicked wicket gate Alliteration - wicked - wicket
b. Oh then our maze of tunneled stone Metaphor - The tunneled stone is compared to maze.
c. Grew thin and treacherous as air. Simile - The path grew weak and disloyal as air.
d. How can this shameful tale be told? Alliteration - tale - told
e. Our only enemy was gold Metaphor - The gold or the bribe is compared to an enemy.
UNIT-2 - OUR CASUARINA TREE
1. Fill in the blanks choosing the words from the box given and complete the summary of the
poem.
The casuarina tree is tall and strong, with a creeper winding around it like a (1) The tree
stands like a (2) with a colourful scarf of flowers. Birds surround the garden and the sweet
song of the birds is heard. The poet is delighted to see the casuarina tree through her (3)
She sees a grey monkey sitting like a (4) on top of the tree, the cows grazing and the water
lilies (5) in the pond. The poet feels that the tree is dear to her not for its (6)
appearance but for the (7) memories of her happy childhood that it brings to her. She
strongly believes that (8) communicates with human beings. The poet could communicate
with the tree even when she is in a far-off land as she could hear the tree (9) her absence.
The poet (10) the tree's memory to her loved ones, who are not alive. She immortalizes the
tree through her poem like the poet Wordsworth who (11) the yew tree of Borrowdale in
verse. She expresses her wish that the tree should be remembered out of love and not just because it
cannot be (12) .
python statue nature casement nostalgic lamenting
impressive forgotten giant consecrates springing sanctified
Answer:
(1) python (2) giant (3) casement (4) statue (5) springing (6) gallant
(7)nostalgic (8) nature (9) lamenting (10) consecrates (11) sanctified (12) forgotten
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2.. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions In one or two
sentences each.
a. What is the creeper compared to?
The creeper is compared to a python.
b. How does the creeper appear on the tree?
The creeper with its red crimson flowers appears like a scarf for the tree.
c.. Describe the garden during the night.
Often at nights, the garden overflows with the sweet song of a nightingale which has no end.
d. How does the poet spend her winter?
The poet spends her winter by looking through her window at the casuarina tree. Sometimes, she
spots a grey monkey sitting on the crest of the tree, like a statue and watching the sunrise, while on the
lower boughs, its tiny young ones leap and play.
e. Name the bird that sings in the poet's garden.
Kokila is the bird that sings in the poet's garden.
f. Why is the casuarina tree dear to her heart?
The casuarina tree is dear to her heart because it was under her shade that she played with her
siblings and friends.
g. Does nature communicate with human beings?
Yes, Nature communicates with human beings, as it is clearly evident in this poem.
h. What has Wordsworth sanctified in his poem?
Wordsworth has sanctified the yew tree of Borrowdale in his verse.
i. To whom does Toru Dutt want to consecrate the tree's memory?
The poet consecrates the tree's memory to her loved ones, who are not alive.
j. The Casuarina tree will be remembered for ever. Why?
The tree will be remembered for ever because of the poet's love towards it and many happy memories
of her childhood days.
ADDITIONAL
1. Describe the casuarina tree.
The casuarina tree is a deciduous tree. It grows to a height of 100 metres. It has small cones and big
straight stem. It lives for a long period. The sound of the leaves of the tree is soothing.
2. Who gather by the casuarina tree on all days?
Birds and bees gather by the casuarina tree on all days.
3. Whose sweet songs seem to have no close?
The songs of the nightingale seem to have no end.
4. What is a 'baboon'?
A kind of large ape with a short tail.
5. To what is tree's lament compared?
The tree's lament is compared to a dirge like murmur that produces a ringing rattling sound on a
pebble covered beach.
6. What does the casuarina tree symbolizes?
The casuarina tree symbolizes everlasting friendship.
7. What is the theme of the poem?
The theme of the poem is about lasting friendship and lost childhood.
8. What is the tone of the poem?
The tone of the poem is one of remembrance and reminiscence. The poetess remembers her
childhood spent underneath the shade of the Casuarina tree, as she played with her friends.
9. What does the poetess fell can save the casuarina tree from demise?
Her strong love for the tree can save the casuarina tree from its demise.
10. How is the tree depicted in the poem?
The tree is depicted as grand and charming.
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3. Read the lines given below and answer the questions that follow.
a. A creeper climbs, in whose embraces bound
No other tree could live.
(i) Which tree is referred to in the above lines?
The casuarina tree is referred to in the above lines.
(ii) How does the tree survive the tight hold of the creeper?
The tree is so strong that it bears the tight hold of the creeper.
(iii) Why does Toru Dutt use the expression 'a creeper climbs'?
Toru Dutt uses this expression to emphasise the strength of the creeper and its tight hold.
b. The giant wears the scarf and flowers are hung
In crimson clusters all the bough among!
(i) Who is the giant here?
The casuarina tree is the giant here.
(ii) Why is the scarf colourful?
The scarf is colourful as the creeper with red crimson flowers has wound around the tree.
c. Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,
And Time the shadow, “and though weak the verse
That would thy beauty farm, oh, fain rehearse,
May Love defend tree from oblivion's curse
(i) What does the poet mean by the expression 'May love defend thee from oblivion's curse?
Tree should be remembered out of love and not just because it cannot be forgotten.
(ii) 'What does the expression 'fain' convey?
'Fain' conveys eagerness and joy, which the poet once experienced with her siblings.
(iii) What does the poet convey through the expression 'Fear, trembling hope'?
The poet conveys that a man of unflinching love and devotion never fears the blows of death.
She personifies fear, time, death and hope to intensify her feeling of loss.
ADDITIONAL
1. And oft at nights the garden overflows

With one sweet song that seems to have no close,
Sung darkling from our tree, while men repose.
i) What often happens at nights?
The garden overflows with the sweet song of the nightingale.
ii) What do men do, when the nightingale sings?
Men take rest while they listen to the nightingale's song.
iii) How sweet was the song of the nightingale?
The song was so sweet that it could be heard without end.
2. And far and near kokilas hail the day;

And to their pastures wend our sleepy cows;
i) What do Kokilas do?
Kokilas hail the day with their sweet voice.
ii) Who stroll to their pastures?
The sleepy cows stroll to their pastures.
iii) Why are cows sleepy?
Cows are sleepy because they hear the songs of the Kokilas in the early hours of the morning.
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3. By that hoar tree, so beautful and vast,
The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed.
i) What do you mean by the word 'hoar'?
'Hoar' means the 'greyish white'.
ii) What is so beautiful and vast?
The water lilies are so beautiful and vast.
iii) Describe the pond.
The pond is covered with beautiful and vast lilies.
4. Unknown, yet well-known to the eye of faith!
Ah, I have heard that wail far, far away
In distant lands, by many a sheltered bay,
i) What is the figure of speech used here?
Personification: 'Eye of faith' is a personification.
ii) What does the 'wail' denotes?
The wail denotes the cry of the tree.
iii) Pick out the alliterated words.
have - heard; far - far; by - buy are the alliterated words.
5. Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime

I saw thee, in my own loved native clime.
i) What is the poetic device used here?
Personification : The poet begins to personify the tree, giving it human characteristics by addressing it
as 'Thy' and by capitalizing 'Tree'.
ii) What do you mean by the term 'native clime'?
Native clime means 'our native climate' that is here she specifies her native land.
4. Explain the following lines with reference to the context.

a. Dear is the Casuarina to my soul;
Reference : This line is taken from the poem 'Our Casuarina Tree' by Toru Dutt.
Context: The poet says that it is not because of the majestic appearance of the Casuarina tree that
it is dear to her heart and soul. It is dear to her, since she had played with her siblings and friend
under its shade.
Explanation : This shows that the tree is dearer to her than her life.
b. It is the trees lament, an eerie speech,...
Reference : This line is taken from the poem ‘Our Casuarina Tree' by Toru Dutt.
Context : The tree's lament seems to be strange and loud enough like that of a giant. It could be
heard or reach even unknown lands.
Explanation: It reveals the tree's attachment to the poet.
c. Unto thy honor, Tree beloved of those Who now in blessed sleep for aye repose,
Reference: These lines are taken from the poem 'Our Casuarina Tree' by Toru Dutt.
Context : Here the poet immortalizes the tree. She would like to dedicate a lay or create a
monument in the honour of the tree because it is beloved of those who now in blessed sleep for
repose.
Explanation: The poet wanted the tree to be there immortalized even after her days.
ADDITIONAL
a. The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars,
Up to its very summit near the stars,
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem 'Our Casuarina Tree' by Toru Dutt.
Context : The pet describes the appearance of the tree.
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Explanation : The trunk ofthe Casuarina tree is rugged marked with deep scars. It is so tall enough
as if it seems to touch the stars. It is strong enough to continue growing inspite of its deep scars. The
tree stands grand and charming.
b. While on lower boughs
His puny offspring leap about and play;
Reference: These lines are taken from the poem 'Our Casuarina Tree' by Toru Dutt.
Context : The poet describes the activities of a Baboon and its young ones.
Explanation : A grey monkey sits like a statue on the crest of the Casuarina tree, while its young
ones leap and play on the lower boughs of the tree. The poet is delighted to see this from her
casement.
5. Identify the figure of speech used in each of the extracts given below and write down the
answer in the space given below. The first one is done for you.
a. Like a huge Python, winding round and round
The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars,
Zoomorphism Simile. The creeper is compared to a huge Python winding around the tree. It is also
called zoo morphism describing the vine in animal terms (as a python). This is used to illustrate
movement making the tree seem more actively alive and also by implying movement, there is subtle
indication of the process of life.
b. A creeper climbs, is whose embraces bound
No other tree could live. But gallantly
Personification: A creeper is personified as a human being, which climbs the tree and embraces it.
The tree is a link to the poet's past. She treats the tree like a person that looks as if it is wearing a scarf.
It could speak and tell her stories of the past.
The giant wears the scarf and flowers are hung.
c. “A grey baboon sits statue - like alone”
Simile. The grey baboon (monkey) is compared to a statue. It sits alone like a statue.
d. “The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed”
Simile. The water lilies are sprung fully in the pond which seem to be like a snow covered place.
e. What is that dirge - like murmur that I hear Like the sea breaking on a Shingle -beach?
Personification. The tree is personified singing its lament which might be the wind rustling through the
leaves, a dirge - like murmur, mourning the loss of the past.
6. Answer each of the following questions in a paragraph of 100-150 words.

a. Describe the reminiscences of the poet, when she sees the Casuarina tree.
The poet Toru Dutt writes this poem in reminiscence of the Casuarina tree that grew in the courtyard of
her childhood home. The tree represents as a medium to link the poet's past with its present. The poet
remembers the tree because of the many happy memories of childhood days that are linked to it which
are a source of comfort and consolation to her in another country. The tree brings to her mind the
memories of time, when she used to play under it in the company of her brother and sister, both of them
are already dead. The memories of her brother and sister brings tears into her eyes. She hopes that
the 1. tree will be remembered for ever as the Yew trees of Borrowdale immortalized by Wordsworth
are still remembered. She also immortalizes the tree for the sake of her loved ones in the poem.
b. How does nature communicate with the poet?
'Our Casuarina Tree' is an impulsive frank expression of the poetess' intimate attachment to the big,
hoary tree that bore the happy memories of her early days and sweet companions. Though she lived
apart from her country home and her favourite tree for a pretty long time, when she was in France and
Italy, she could not forget that and remained with it even in her quiet mood a happy vision. She strongly
believed that nature communicates with human beings. She could hear the tree lamenting her
absence. She consecrates the tree's memory to her loved ones, who are not alive. The Casuarina
would always remain very dear to her heart and soul because it was under her shade that she played
with her siblings.
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c. The poet immortalizes the tree. Elucidate.
‘Our casuarina tree’ is the finest specimen of Toru Dutt's poetic craftsmanship. The tree is presented
both as a symbol and as an object of nature and in it, the poet projects both time and eternity. The major
part of the poem is filled with memories of the past and happy childhood days. She remembers her
companions, how much she loved them and was loved in return. In the last stanza, she immortalizes
the tree. She would like to dedicate a lay or create a monument in the honour of the tree because it is
beloved by those, who are now in blessed sleep. Though her verse may be weak, her love will confer
immortality on the Casuarina tree. She immortalizes the tree through her poem like the poet
Wordsworth who sanctified the Yew tree of Borrowdale in Verse. She expresses her wish that the tree
should be remembered out of love and not just because it cannot be forgotten.
ADDITIONAL
1. Elucidate the theme and critical overview of 'Our Casuarina Tree’.
The poem, our Casuarina tree, celebrates a particular tree in India that seems to symbolise not only
the poet's childhood, but also comes to stand for the former friends and family members, who have
died and passed on. The tree is described as being so immense and powerful that even a thick creeper
which would strangle any other tree only appears to adorn the tree as though it were a scarf. The poem
is written in homage to this tree and the reference to “our” in the title when referring to the tree
signposts that it is much more than simply a poem about the tree itself. The last line of the poem asks
'Love' to protect the tree from “oblivion's curse” and this is something that indicates the tree symbolises
the childhood and the memories that the poet has of her own past and the past that she has shared
with those who have gone.
UNIT - 3 : ALL THE WORLD’S STAGE
1. Fill in the blanks using the words given in the box to complete the summary of the poem.
Shakespeare considers the whole world a stage where men and women are only (1) .
They (2) the stage when they are born and exit when they die. Every man, during his life
time, plays seven roles based on age. In the first act, as an infant, he is wholly (3) on the mother
or a nurse. Later, emerging as a school child, he slings his bag over his shoulder and creeps most (4)
to school. His next act is that of a lover, busy (5) ballads for his beloved and yearns
for her (6) . In the fourth stage, he is aggressive and ambitious and seeks (7) in all that he
does. He (8) solemnly to guard his country and becomes a soldier. As he grows older, with
(9) and wisdom, he becomes a fair judge. During this stage, he is firm and (10) . In the
sixth act, he is seen with loose pantaloons and spectacles. His manly voice changes into a childish (11)
. The last scene of all is his second childhood. Slowly, he loses his (12) of sight,
hearing, smell and taste and exits from the roles of his life.
attention treble reluctantly actors maturity reputation

serious faculties composing enter promises dependent
Answer
(1) actors (2) enter (3) dependent (4) reluctantly (5) composing (6) attention
(7) reputation (8) promises (9) maturity (10) serious (11) treble (12) faculties
2. From your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions briefly in a sentence or
two.
a. What is the world compared to?
The world is compared to a stage of a theatre.
b “And they have their exits and their entrances” What do the words 'exits and entrances' mean?
The exits are deaths and entrances are births.
c. What is the first stage of a human's life?
The first stage of human's life is an infant, who is wholly dependent on his mother or nurse.
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d. Describe the second stage of life as elaborated by Shakespeare.
The second stage is a schoolboy, who slings his bag over his shoulder and slowly moves like a snail to
school. He is reluctant to go to school.
e. How does a man play a lover's role?
The lover is busy composing ballads for his beloved, and yearns for her attention.
f. Bring out the features of the fourth stage of a man as described by the poet.
The fourth stage is a soldier, who is aggressive and ambitious. He seeks fame, though it is temporary
and short-lived. He promises solemnly to guard his country.
g. When does a man become a judge? How?
When a man grows older, he becomes a judge, with maturity and wisdom.
h. Which stage of man's life is associated with the 'shrunk shank'?
The sixth stage of a man's life is associated with the “shrunk shank”
i. Why is the last stage called second childhood?
The last stage is called a second childhood because the old man becomes like a child. He loses his
teeth, vision, taste and smell. He needs care similar to that of a child.
ADDITIONAL
1. why does the poet say that the school boy creeps like a snail to school?
The school boy is not very willing to go to school. He is disinterested and just walks slowly like a snail
carrying his school bag. He is always whining and complaining.
2. why does the poet call the world a 'stage'?
Stage is a platform in a theatre where actors perform their parts. Similarly, life is also a performance in
which men and women play different parts. These roles are preordained and are in God's power.
3. How can one man play many parts?
The various parts are the various stages in man's life: childhood, adolescence, youth, middle age and
finally death.
4. How is the life of a person like a infant?
The first stage of man is of childhood - an infant who cries and vomits in his nurse's arms. He is helpless
and depends on others for his every need. The next stage is of a schoolboy who carries his school bag,
goes to school unwillingly and slowly like snail. At this time, his face is always scrubbed and shining.
But he is not a very willing student, he keeps whining and complaining.
5. Why has been the last stage of a man's life been referred to as second childishness?
An infant has to depend on others for everything. Similarly, an old man is weak and ignorant of
everything around him. He has no teeth, no sense of taste and is absolutely helpless.
6. What are the problems faced by a person in 'soldier' stage?
The fourth stage of a man is of a soldier. He is heroic, seeking reputation, willing to face total
annihilation. He is fierce like a leapord, full of vigour and is easily provoked. He is jealous and
defensive. He risks his life.
3. Explain the following lines briefly with reference to the context.

a. “They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts”
Reference : These lines are taken from William Shakespeare's poem 'All the world's a stage'
Context : Shakespeare considers the whole world a stage where men and women are only actors.
They enter the stages when they are born and exit when they die. One man in his life time, plays
many parts.
Explanation : The poet talks about the seven stages of a human who enters a stage when he is born
and exists when he dies.
b. “Jealous in honour, sudden and quick in quarrel, Seeking the bubble reputation”.
Reference : These lines are taken from William Shakespeare's poem 'All the world's a stage'
Context : Here, the poet tells about the fourth stage of man a soldier who is aggressive and
ambitious.
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Explanation: The soldier seeks reputation in all that he does. He takes great care of his honour. He
is ready to risk his life for his country.
c. “Is second childishness and mere oblivion; Sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste, sans everything.”
Reference : These lines are taken from William Shakespeare's poem 'All the world's a stage
Context : Thç poet talks about the last stage of man - a very miserable man whose mental
capabilities decline and he forgets everything.
Explanation: In the last stage, he becomes senile. He enters into second childishness. He is as
dependent upon others as a child. He loses his teeth, vision, hearing sense of smell and everything.
ADDITIONAL
1. “Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel

And shining morning face, creeping like snail
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem All the world's a stage' by William Shakespeare.
Context : The poet talks about the second stage of man. He is a schoolboy, who cries to go to school.
Explanation: The schoolboy has a shining fresh morning face. He slings his bag on his shoulders and
reluctantly goes to school. He moves like a snail to school.
2. The sixth age shifts
Into the lean and slipper'd pantaloon,
Reference These lines are taken from the poem 'All the world's a stage' by William Shakespeare.
Context : Here, the poet talks about the sixth stage of man. He is a thin old man.
Explanation : This thin old man wears a loose pantaloons and spectacles. His manly voice changes
into a childish treble.
4. Read the poem once again carefully and identify the figure of speech that has been used in
each of the following lines from the poem.
a. “All the world's a stage”
Metaphor. The poet indirectly compares the world to a stage.
b. “And all the men and women merely players”
Metaphor. The poet indirectly compares all men and women to actors, who perform on the stage.
c. “And shining morning face, creeping like snail”
Simile. The schoolboy's movement is compared to snail's movement. Direct comparison, using the
word, 'like'
d. “Full of strange oaths, and bearded like the pard,”
Simile. The poet compares the soldier to a pard (a leopard). Direct comparison, using the word, “like'
e. “Seeking the bubble reputation”
Metaphor. The reputation of the soldier is indirectly compared to a bubble.
f. His youthful hose, well sav'd, a world too wide”
Alliteration. 1. his - hose 2. well - world - wide
g. “and his big manly voice, turning again toward childish treble”
Alliteration, turning - toward - treble
5. Pick out the words in 'alliteration' in the following lines.

a. “and all the men and women merely players”
Alliteration, men - merely
b. “and one man in his time plays many parts”
Alliteration. 1. plays - parts 2. man - many
c. “Jealous in honour, sudden and quick in quarrel.”
Alliteration. quick - quarrel
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6. Read the given lines and answer the questions that follow.
a. Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel
Unwillingly to school.
(i) Which stage of life is being referred to here by the poet?
The second stage is being referred here.
(ii) What are the characteristics of this stage?
The boy is reluctant to go to school. So he is crying.
(iii) How does the boy go to school?
The boy goes to school slowly like a snail.
(iv) Which figure of speech has been employed in the second line?
'Simile'. The boy's movement is directly compared, using the word, “like”
b. Then a soldier,
full of strange oaths, and bearded like the pard,
Jealous in honour, sudden and quick in quarrel,
Seeking the bubble reputation
Even in the cannon's mouth.
(i) What is the soldier ready to do?
The soldier is ready to guard his country.
(ii) Explain 'bubble reputation’
A bubble is empty. So by seeking bubble reputation it is understood as short lived glory.
(iii) What are the distinguishing features of this stage?
The soldier is aggressive and ambitious. He seeks reputation in all that he does. He promises solemnly
to guard his country. He thinks great of his honour.
c. And then the justice,
In fair round belly with good capon lin'd,
With eyes severe and beard formal cut,
Full of wise saws and modern instances;
(i) Whom does justice refer to?
Justice refers to the judge, the man in fifth stage of life.
(ii) Describe his appearance.
He is fair and healthy full of wisdom. He has a round belly. He cites modern instances. His eyes are
severe and he has a beard of formal cut.
(iii) How does he behave with the people around him?
He is very firm and serious with people around him.
(iv) What does he do to show his wisdom?
He advises people with wise sayings and examples from contemporary life.
ADDITIONAL
a. “All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts,
(i) What does the poet mean by the terms 'exits and entrances'?
In this line 'exits and entrances' symbolise deaths and births respectively.
(ii) What parallelism has the poet drawn between the stage and world?
Stage is a platform in a theatre where actors perform their act. Similarly, life is also a theatre where men
and women play their part and die.
(iii) Which figure of speech has been used in the second line?
Metaphor is used in the second line.
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b. Jealous in honour, sudden and quick in quarrel,
Seeking the bubble reputation
Even in the cannon's mouth.
(i) Who is the person being described in the above lines?
The person described in the above lines is a soldier, the man in fourth stage of life.
(ii) What traits characterise this stage?
A man in this stage is fierce and can be easily provoked. He is prone to jealousy and a desire to safe
guard his reputation.
(iii) Explain: The bubble reputation'?
Bubble reputation means that reputation is as short lived as the life of a bubble.
c. At first the infant,

Mewling and puking in the nurse's arms;
Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel
(i) How is the life of a person like an infant?
As an infant, a man is totally dependent. The infant cries and vomits milk in the nurse's arms.
(ii) How does a schoolboy appear?
A schoolboy appears to be sulking and unwillingly carrying his school bag to the school.
(iii) The schoolboy is depicted as 'shining' and 'whining'? Why?
Since he is a small boy, his face is shining. Whining depicts his unwillingness to go to school.
7. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in about 100-150
words each. You may add your own ideas if required, to present and justify your point of view.
a. Describe the various stages of a man's life picturised in the poem “All the World's a stage”.
Shakespeare picturises the various stages of a man in this poem. He says that a world is a stage. All of
us are actors in it. We enter the stage, when we are born and exit when we die. Every man during his
life time plays seven roles based on the age. In the first stage, as an infant, he is wholly depended on
the mother. The second stage is a school boy crying to go to school. The third stage is a lover who
composes sorrowful ballads to his lover. The soldier, who is aggressive and ambitious is the fourth
stage. He seeks reputation in whatever he does. Then comes the fifth stage, with maturity and wisdom,
the stage of a judge. He is firm and serious. In the sixth stage, we see a thin old man with loose
pantaloons and spectacles. The last stage is an old and weak man in his second childhood. Slowly, he
loses his sight, hearing, teeth and sense of smell. With this, the man's part in the play ends and he exits
from the stages of his life forever.
b. Shakespeare has skilfully brought out the parallels between the life of man and actors on stage.
Elaborate this statement with reference to the poem.
In this poem, Shakespeare skillfully brings out the parallel between the life of man and actors on the
stage. The poet wants us to realize that human life is like the stage of a theatre. Men and women like
actors, come, play their roles and quit. Each stage of life has its own peculiarities. Nothing good and
charming remains for long. The same man who looks charming and dashing, looks weak, thin and
funny in his old age. We should accept our fate humbly. We should be ready to play our role on the
stage of life to quit forever. Nothing in this world is permanent.
ADDITIONAL
1. What is the theme of the poem 'The Seven Ages'?
This poem is based on a speech given by a character Jacques who is a cynic in the well known play 'As
you like it Jacques' speech about the seven stages of a man's life is a famous one. The world is
compared to a drama I stage and men and women are the actors who have to play their roles in the
drama. For Jacques, there is nothing noble or praise-worthy in a man's life. He makes fun of the seven
ages of man and calls birth as 'entry' and death as 'exit'. Human life is not a permanent one.
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2. What message does Shakespeare's 'All the world's a stage” convey?
Shakespeare wishes to point out that human life is transitory. We are in this world for a short period. We
are born with a predetermined destiny. We must accept our fate with grace and humility. Every human
being has to pass through the necessary stages from childhood to death. Shakespeare catalogues the
stages in a man's life as, infant, schoolboy, lover, soldier, judge, old age and very old age. Deaths and
births are like the exits and entrances of actors and we are in God's hands. So,we should not complain
or grumble but should perform our roles with dignity. Since life is short, we should not resort to
arrogance or vanity. We are mere puppets in the hands of the puppet-master, that is, God, so, gratitude
and compliance are expected from us.
3. Why is the seventh stage similar to the first stage?
The seventh stage is similar to the first stage because in the first stage the man is not in a state to hear
things the way he used to hear when he was young. The man who used to understand everything, from
the second stage to the sixth stage, is not able to do so in the seventh stage. Just like an infant needs
care, support and love, a man in the seventh stage needs the same. His eyes become weak in the
seventh stage and the first stage the infant is not in a condition to see things clearly. Just like an infant is
not having teeth when it is born, the man in the seventh stage starts losing its teeth.
4. Describe the fourth and fifth stages of man.
The fourth stage is of a soldier. He is fierce like - a leopard full of vigour and can easily be provoked. He
is jealous and always defensive to save his honour. In the fifth stage he is a judge. He is fat and huge.
There is sombreness in his eyes and his beard gives him a formal look. He is always full of advice for
others and performs.
5. Write two characteristics of infant state mentioned in the poem 'The Seven Ages'?
The two characteristics of an infant stage are crying and vomiting out his milk. Whenever he needs
anything, he cries, whether he is hungry, sick, or wet. The only language he knows is of crying which
attracts the attention of those who care for him. The only reaction he gives regarding his behaviour is
by vomiting out his milk. These two traits characterise an infant.
unit - 4 : ulysses
1. Complete the summary of the poem, choosing words from the list given below.
Lines 1 to 32
Ulysses is (1) to discharge his duties as a (2) , as he longs for (3) he
is filled with an (4) thirst for (5) and wishes to live life to the (6) he has
travelled far and wide gaining (7) of various places, cultures, men and (8) he recalls
with delight his experience at the battle of troy. Enriched by his (9) he longs for more and his
quest seems endless. Like metal which would (10) if unused, life without adventure is
meaningless. According to him living is not merely (11) to stay alive. Though old but zestful,
ulysses looks at every hour as a bringer of new things and yearns to follow knowledge even if it is
(12)
fullest unquenchable unattainable experience knowledge king
matters rust adventure unwilling travel breathing
Answer lines 1 to 32
1. Unwilling 2. King 3. Travel 4. Unquenchable 5. Adventure 6. Fullest
7. Knowledge 8. Matters 9. Experience 10. Rust 11. Breathing 12. Unattainable
Lines 33 to 42
Ulysses desires to hand over his (1) to his son telemachus, who would fulfil his duties towards his
subjects with care and (2) . Telemachus possesses patience and has the will to civilise the
citizens of ithaca in a (3) way. Ulysses is happy that his son would do his work blamelessly and he
would pursue his (4) for travel and knowledge.
prudence kingdom quest tender
Answer lines 33 to 42
1. Kingdom 2. Prudence 3. Tender 4. Quest
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Lines 44 to 70
Ulysses beckons his sailors to (1) at the port where the ship is ready to sail. His companions who
have faced both (2) and sunshine with a smile, are united by their undying spirit of adventure. Though
death would end everything, ulysses urges his companions to join him and sail beyond the sunset and seek
a newer (3) regardless of tender consequences. These brave hearts who had once moved (4) —
and earth, may have grown old and weak physically but their spirit is young and (5) his call is an
inspiration for all those who seek true knowledge and strive to lead (6) lives.
World thunder meaningful gather undaunted heaven
Answer: Lines 44 to 70
1. Gather 2. Thunder 3. World 4. Heaven 5. Undaunted 6. Meaningful

A. 'ulysses is not happy to perform his duties as a king.' why?
ulysses is not happy to perform his duties as a king because he longs for travel and adventures.
B. What does he think of the people of his kingdom?
he thinks that the people are large groups of drones who do nothing but eat and sleep.
C. What has ulysses gained from his travel experiences?
he had gained wide knowledge of various places, cultures, men and matters.
D. Pick out the lines which convey that his quest for travel is unending.
'for always roaming with a hungry heart'
much have i seen and known; cities of men
and manners, climates, councils, governments
myself not least, but honour'd of them all’
are the lines that convey that his quest for travel is unending.
E. 'as tho' to breathe were life!' — from the given line what do you understand of ulysses' attitude to life?
according to ulysses, living is not merely breathing to stay alive. Life is about adventure,
F. What does ulysses yearn for?
ulysses yearns to follow knowledge like a sinking star.
G. Who does the speaker address in the second part?
the speaker addresses his son telemachus in the second part.
H. Why did ulysses want to hand over the kingdom to his son?
ulysses wanted to hand over his kingdom to his son because he felt that he would fulfil his duties
towards his subjects with care and prudence.
I. How would telemachus transform the subjects?
telemachus possesses patience and has the will to civilize the citizens of ithaca in a tender way.
J. 'he works his work, i mine' — how is the work distinguished?
ulysses is happy that his son would do his work blamelessly and he would pursue his quest (work) for
travel and knowledge.
K. In what ways were ulysses and his mariners alike?
ulysses and his mariners are alike by their undying spirit of adventure.
L. What could be the possible outcomes of their travel?
the outcome of their travel would be to seek a newer world and to live a meaningful life.
3. Identify the figures of speech employed in the following lines.
A. Thro' scudding drifts the rainy hyades vext the dim sea.
personification is employed in the above lines.
B. For always roaming with a hungry heart
metaphor - ulysses indirectly compares himself to a predatory animal.
C. And drunk delight of battle with my peers;
metaphor. Enjoying battle is indirectly compared to drinking.
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D.the deep
moans round with many voices.
personification - voices is given the human qualities. It moans with many voices.
E. To follow knowledge like a sinking star.
simile. The pursuit of knowledge is directly compared to a sinking star using the word, “like”.
F. There lies the port the vessel puffs her sail
alliteration. The words port and puffs are alliterated words.
4. Read the sets of lines from the poem and answer the questions that follow.
A. I mete and dole
unequal laws unto a savage race,
that hoard, and sleep, and fred, and know not me.
(i) what does ulysses do?
the king ulysses sits with his wife by the fire and makes laws for people who don't even know him.
(ii) did he enjoy what he was doing? Give reasons.
no, he doesn't enjoy what he was doing as he feels that he gains nothing from just sitting around by the
fire with his wife and making laws for people.
B. Yet all experience is an arch wherethrough
gleams that untravelled world, whose margin fades
for ever and for ever when i move.
(i) 'what is experience compared to?
ulysses compares his experience to an arch and describes the untravelled world as a place that
'gleams' at him through that arch. All he has to do is walk through the arch.
(ii) how do the lines convey that the experience is endless?
the untravelled word is a reference to death. Death is always looking at him through to arch of his
experience, but somehow seems to recede, as he keeps moving. The more he travels, the more
margins or edges are covered up.
C. Little remains: but every hour is saved
from that eternal silence, something more,
a bringer of new things; and vile it were
(i) how is every hour important to ulysses?
ulysses says that each additional hour that he lives, or each hour that he is saved from death, brings
him newexperiences.
(ii) what does the term 'little remains' convey?
the term “little remain” conveys his life nearing death. He is very old and a few days remain in his life. So
he wanted to utilize, every hour of his life to gain knowledge.
D. This is my son, mine own telemachus,
to whom i leave the sceptre and the isle
well-loved of me,
(i) who does ulysses entrust his kingdom to, in his absence?
ulysses entrusts his kingdom to his son telemachus in his absence.
(ii) bring out the significance of the 'sceptre’
'sceptre' is an ornamental rod carried by the rulers on ceremonial occasions as a symbol of
sovereignty.
E. That ever with a frolic welcome took
the thunder and the sunshine, and opposed
(i) what do 'thunder' and 'sunshine' refer to?
'thunder' and 'sun shine' refer to 'bad times' and 'good times'.
(ii) what do we infer about the attitude of the sailors?
the sailors have gladly good and bad times with an undying spirit of adventure.
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F death closes all: but something ere the end,
some work of noble note, may yet be done,
not unbecoming men that strove with gods.
(i) the above lines convey the undying spirit of ulysses. Explain.
though death would end everything, ulysses urges his companions to join him and sail beyond the
sunset and seek a newer world, regardless of consequences. They are united by their undying spirit of
adventure.
(ii) pick out the words in alliteration in the above lines.
noble - note are the alliterated words.
G ............... for my purpose holds
to sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
of all the western stars, until i die.
(i) what was ulysses' purpose in life?
ulysses' purpose in life is to sail far away beyond the horizon of the unknown world until he dies.
(ii) how long would his venture last?
his venture lasts till he dies.
H. One equal temper of heroic hearts,
made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
(i) though made weak by time and fate, the hearts are heroic. Explain.
the brave hearts of sailors have grown old and weak physically. But their spirits are young and unafraid.
(ii) pick out the words in alliteration in the above lines.
heroic -hearts; by - but; to - to and strive - seek are the words in alliteration in the above lines.
Additional
1. Thro' scudding drifts the rainy hyades vext the dim sea: i am become a name;
i) what do you mean by the word 'vext'?
the word 'vext' means to be agitated or distressed.
ii) what is meant by 'hyades'?
hyades is a group of stars in the constellation taurus, often associated with rain.
2. Not unbecoming men that strove with gods. The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks:
i) what is the symbolism used here?
ulysses describes himself and his fellow travellers as men that 'strove with gods'. They communicate
easily with the greek gods.
ii) what does the second line mean?
it is an elegant way of saying that the stars are coming out to shine in the sky.
3. A rugged people, and thro' soft degrees subdue them to the useful and the good.
i) what is the literary device used here?
metaphor. The people of ithaca are indirectly compared to a rugged surface.
ii) what do you mean by the word 'subdue'?
'subdue' means to quieten or make someone mild.
5. Explain with reference to the context the following lines.
A. I cannot rest from travel:
i will drink life to the lees:
reference : these lines are taken from the poem 'ulysses' written by alfred tennyson.
context: we learn that the king ulysses is a restless spirit who doesnt want to take a break from
roaming the ocean in search of adventure.
explanation : ulysses longs for travel. He has an unquenchable thirst for adventure and wishes to live
life to the fullest.
B. I am become a name;
for always roaming with a hungry heart
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context: these lines reveal ulysses' hungry heart for knowledge and adventure.
explanation: ulysses has become famous because he's travelled to so many places. He has visited a
variety of different places with different manners, weather, governments, etc. He portrays himself as a
traveller with an insatiable desire (hungry heart) to see as many places as he can and try as many
foods as he can.
C. Hov dull it is to pause, to make an end,
to rust unburnished, not to shine in use!
context: ulysses tells that life is meaningless without adventure.
explanation: life without adventure is meaningless as a metal which would rust, if unused. According
to ulysses, living is not merely breathing to stay alive.
D. To follow knowledge like a sinking star,
beyond the utmost bound of human thought.
context : ulysses continues to radiate a desire for adventure near the end of his life, he wants to make
the most of whats left.
explanation: ulysses wanted to chase after knowledge and try to catch it as it sinks like a star. It has
another meaning also. Ulysses himself could be a sinking star as he is a great personality, who is
moving closer to death.
E. He works his work, i mine.
reference: this line is taken from the poem 'ulysses' written by alfred tennyson.
context : ulysses has confidence that his son telemachus fulfils his duties towards his subjects.
explanation : ulysses is happy that his son would do his work blamelessly and he would pursue his
quest for travel and knowledge. His son has the will to civilize the civilians in a tender way. Ulysses will
do his work that his search for adventure.
F............you and i are old;
old age hath yet his honour and his toil;
context: old people never shirk responsibilities and lose courage.
explanation : ulysses is happy that his sailors were old, but their spirit was young. They were fearless.
Old people are respected. They also have responsibilities.
G. The long day wanes: the slow moon climbs: the deep
moans round with many voices.
context: ulysses observes the sunset and the arrival of the night. It seems like he is thinking about his
own death.
explanation : though death ends everything, ulysses urges his companions to join him and sail
beyond the sunset and seek a newer world regardless to consequences. According to him when a day
ends, it is like the end of his life. It reminds us of ghosts or people mourning a death.
H. It may be we shall touch the happy isles,
and see the great achilles, whom we knew
context: ulysses realises that he and his companions might die but after death, they might visit their
old pal achilles in the happy isles.
explanation: ulysses wanted to touch the happy isles which refers to the islands of the blessed, a
place where big-time greek heroes like achilles enjoyed perpetual summer after they died.
I. We are not now that strength which in old days
moved earth and heaven;
reference: these lines are taken from the poem 'ulysses' written by alfred tennyson.
context: ulysses tells that even though he and his sailors are old and don't have a lot of gas left in the
tank, there's enough left to go a little farther.
explanation: the brave hearts of the sailors had once moved heaven and earth. They have grown old
and weak physically. But their spirit is young and fearless.
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J. To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
reference : this line is taken from the poem 'ulysses' written by alfred tennyson.
context: ulysses reveals that we are strong because of our will to strive, seek and find.
explanation: the sailors who are old have the will to seek out and face challenges without giving up.
Ulysses call is an inspiration for all those who seek true knowledge and strive to lead meaningful lives.
6. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 100 words each.
A. What makes ulysses seek newer adventures?
ulysses' unquenchable quest for adventure makes him seek a newer world. He wishes to live life to the
fullest. The speaker ulysses in this poem delivers a reflection on old age and death to other elderly
veterans who have fought with him. Even though death is inevitable in his life, ulysses suggests here
that there is a better way to spend the last bit of his life. 'while travelling, we can gain knowledge of
various places culture, men and matters. There is no point in waiting idle at home for death. The
warriors should set out on new adventure. The last few lines of the poem are motivating and emotional.
Ulysses tells his warriors to take a leap into the unknown. He expects to meet with his after-life on this
adventure. It is better to face these challenges in life head-on rather than yield to weakness, old age
and death.
B. List the roles and responsibilities ulysses assigns to his son telemachus, while he is away.
ulysses appoints his son telemachus as his successor. He feels that his son is much more suited to be
a governor of his people than ulysses. He would fulfil his duties towards his subjects with care and
prudence. His son telemachus possesses patience and has the will to civilize the citizens of ithaca in a
tender way. Ulysses is happy that his son would do his work blamelessly as ulysses would pursue his
search for travel and knowledge. Telemachus would be able to bring out the best in the people he
governs. He is a competent civil leader. Ulysses distinguishes himself from his son by telling that
telemachus will do his work correctly and he will carry on his quest for adventure.
C. What is ulysses' clarion call to his sailors? How does he inspire them?
ulysses' call is an inspiration for all those who seek true knowledge and strive to lead meaningful lives.
He calls his sailors to gather at the port where the ship is ready to sail. His companions who have faced
both thunder and sunshine with a smile, are united by their undying spirit of adventure. Though death
would end everything, ulysses urges his companions to join him and sail beyond the sunset and seek a
newer world, regardless of consequences. These brave hearts had once moved heaven and earth.
They have grown old and weak physically. But their spirit is young and fearless. Saying this, ulysses
gives a call to his sailors and inspires them.
Additional
1. What does ulysses want his listeners to do?
in tennyson's “ulysses” we meet an aged ulysses struggling against the effects of time, mortality, and
old age. In contrast to the dashing hero who led armies in the trojan war, ulysses is now an old man. He
hates his responsibilities to his subjects and family. Ulysses says “i am become a name”, thus
illustrating the dissolution of his heroic status. To remedy this problem, ulysses vows to set forth on
new adventures “not unbecoming men that strove with gods”. Overall, ulysses wants his listeners to
show resistance in the face of old age and mortality. His determination to continue living life is
admirable. Ulysses is determined to move forward and fight for his dignity. Thus, we can assume that
the king of ithaca wants his listeners to defy their own inevitable mortality and continue living life to the
fullest.
Unit - 5 a father to his son
poem.
Lines 1 to 25
The poet carl sandburg gives a vivid description of a father's worldly (1) in directing a son who is at the
threshold of his (2) Here the father motivates his son to be like a hard (3) and withstand life's
(4) and sudden betrayals. (5) is like a fertile soil. We can make our life fruitful if we are
gentle, and take life as it comes. At times (6) overtakes harshness. The growth of a (7)
can split a rock. One should have a (8) and strong will to achieve. Greed for (9) has left men
dead before they really die. Good men also have fallen prey in quest for (10) money. Time for (11)
is not a waste. When you seek knowledge never feel ashamed to be called a (12) for not
knowing, at the same time learn from your (13) and never (14) it.
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deep desire manhood gentleness mistakes easy leisure fool
Life money repeat tender-flower rock challenges wisdom
Lines 26 to 44
Do (15) often, and do not hesitate to accept your shortcomings, avoid (16) to protect self
against other people. Solitude helps to be (17) and (18) are taken in silent rooms.
Instead of being one among many, be (19) , if that is your nature. The son may need lazy days to find
his (20) abilities, to seek what he is born for. He will then know how free imaginations bring (21)
to the world, which (22) change. During such resentment, let him know that it is time for him
to be on his own, and (23) to achieve like shakespeare, the wright brothers, pasteur, pavlov and
michael faraday.
changes introspect inherent work resents
white lies creative final decisions different
Answer
(1) wisdom (2) manhood (3) rock (4) challenges (5) life (6) gentleness
(7) tender flower (8) deep desire (9) money (10) easy (11) leisure (12) fool
(13) mistakes (14) repeat (15) introspect (16) white lies (17) creative
(18) final decisions (19) different (20) inherent (21) changes (22) resents (23) work
2. Based on your understanding of the poem answer the following questions in one or two
sentences.
A. How would the poet's advice help his son who is at the threshold of the manhood?
the poet's advice helps his son to strive hard, achieve success and change the world.
B. 'a tough will counts.' explain.
a deep desire and a strong will power leads to success in life.
C. What happened to the people who wanted too much money?
greed for money has left men dead before they really die.
D. What has twisted good men into thwarted worms?
the quest for easy money turned good men into frustrated worms.
E. How would his being alone help the boy?
being alone, helps the boy to be creative.
F. Where are the final decisions taken?
the final decisions are taken in silent rooms.
G. What are the poet's thoughts on 'being different'?
the poet tells his son that he should be different from others. He should be unique and different, if that is
what makes him happy.
H. Why does the poet advise his son to have lazy days?
the poet advises his son to have lazy days to find his inborn abilities and to seek what he is born for.
I the poet says 'without rich wanting nothing arrives' but he condemns 'the quest of lucre beyond a few
easy needs’ analyse the difference and write.
the poet at first says that without wealth nothing could be done. But later he says that good men have
fallen prey in the search for easy money.
Additional
1. What does a tender flower can do to a rock?
the tender flower can split a rock sometimes.
2. What can cause, if you have too much of material goods?
too much of material goods can cause death or corruption.
3. Why should his son try to be alone?
his son should be alone sometimes to improve on himself.
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4. What does the poet says a creative aspect?
solitude is creative, if we are strong.
5. What do you know about the poet's attitude from this poem?
the poet feels that people can change and they must spend time alone to improve himself and others.
6. What does the poem focus on?
the poem focuses on a father's advice and feelings towards his son.
A. “life is hard; be steel; be a rock.”
(i) how should one face life?
one should face like a rock and steel.
(ii) identify the figure of speech in the above line.
the figure of speech used here is metaphor. Life is compared to hardness as a rock and steel.
B. “life is a soft loam; be gentle; go easy.”
and this too might serve him.
(i) why does the poet suggest to take life easy?
we can make our life fruitful, if we are gentle and take as it comes.
the figure of speech is metaphor. Life is compared to a fertile soil.
C. Tell him solitude is creative f he is strong
and the final decisions are made in silent rooms.
(i) can being in solitude help a strong human being? How?
yes, solitude helps a strong human being to be creative.
personification is the figure of speech used here. Solitude is personified here to be creative person.
D. Tell him time as a stuff can be wasted.
tell him to be a fool every so often
(i) why does the poet suggest that time can be wasted?
time can be wasted as a leisure for a person.
anaphora is the figure of speech used here. 'tell him' is the anaphora used here, as it is the repetition of
words at the beginning of successive lines to create a sonic effect.
E. Tell him to be a fool ever so often
and to have no shame over having been a fool
yet learning something out of every folly
hoping to repeat none of the cheap follies
(i) is it a shame to be a fool at times?
no, it is not a shame to be a fool at times.
(ii) what does one learn from every folly?
one learns not to repeat his mistakes again.
F ...................... free imaginations
bringing changes into a world resenting change.
(i) how does free imagination help the world?
free imaginations help to bring about a change in the world.
(ii) identify the figure of speech.
transferred epithet' is used here. The people in the world are referred here to dislike the change.
G. And this might stand him for the storms
pick out the alliterated words from the poem and write.
Ans: this - the; stand - storms are the alliterated words.
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Additional
1. Tell him to be alone often and get at himself
and above all tell himself no lies about himself
whatever the white lies and protective fronts
he may use against other people.
i) what is 'white lies' mentioned here?
'white lies' are lies told to avoid hurting one's feelings.
ii) why should his son avoid white lies?
his son should avoid white lies to protect himself against other people.
iii) what are the alliterated words in the third line?
whatever - white are the alliterated words.
2. Let him have lazy days seeking his deeper motives.
let him seek deep for where he is born natural.
i) why does the son may need lazy days?
he may need lazy days to find his inherent abilities.
ii) what is the figure of speech used here?
1. 'transferred epithet'. Days are not lazy, but his son should be lazy enough to seek his in born
abilities.
2. Anaphora. Repetition of the words 'let him' at the beginning of successive lines.
3. Then he may understand shakespeare
and the wright brothers, pasteur, pavlov,
michael faraday and free imaginations
whose works will be understood by his son?
the works of shakespeare, the wright brothers, pasteur, pavlov and michael faraday will be understood
by his son if he is on his own.
4. He will be lonely enough
to have time for the work
he knows as his own.
i) why should the son be lonely?
the son should be lonely enough to have time to know the work of all the celebrities.
ii) pick out the alliterated words.
to - time; he - his are the alliterated words.
4. Explain the following lines with reference to the context.
A. And guide him among sudden betrayals
and tighten him for slack moments.
reference : these lines are taken from the poem 'a father to his son' written by carl august sandburg.
context: the poet explains the aspects of being hard in character.
explanation: here the poet gives a vivid description of a father's worldly advice. He motivates his son
to be hard like a rock and withstand life's challenges and sudden betrayals.
B. Brutes have been gentled where lashes failed.
reference : this line is taken. From the poem 'a father to his son' written by carl august sandburg.
context: the poet tells that humbleness and gentle nature can do wonder.
explanation : the poet insists that if we are gentle, we can make our life fruitful. At times gentleness
overtakes harshness.
C. Yet learning something out of every folly
context: the father advises his son to be truthful and humble.
explanation : when you seek knowledge, never feel ashamed to be called a fool for not knowing
anything. At the same time, learn from your mistakes and never repeat them.
hoping to repeat none of the cheap follies
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D. He will be lonely enough
to have time for the work
context : the father wants him to change the world that hates changes.
explanation : the father tells his son that he had to be on his own and work to achieve like
shakespeare, the wright brothers, pasteur, pavlov and michael faraday.
5. Answer the following questions in about 100-1 50 words each.
A. Explain how the poet guides his son who is at the threshold of manhood, to face the challenges of life.
the poet carl sandburg gives a detailed description of a father's worldly wisdom in directing his son who
is at the threshold of this manhood. The father motivates his son to be like a hard rock and withstand
life's challenges and sudden betrayals. Life is like a fertile soil. We can make our life fruitful, if we are
gentle and calm. We should take as it comes. At time gentleness overtakes harshness. One should
have a deep desire and strong will power to achieve success. Greed for money has left man dead
before they really die. Don't feel ashamed to be called as a fool, when you seek knowledge. At the
same time, learn from your mistakes and never repeat it.
B. How according to the poet is it possible for his son to bring changes into a world that resents change?
according to the poet, carl sandburg, free imaginations bring changes to the world. He advises his son
not to hesitate to accept his short comings and to avoid telling lies to protect himself against other
people. 'loneliness' helps to be creative and all the final decisions are taken in silent rooms. He insists
him to be different from others if that is his nature. The son may need his lazy days to find his inborn
abilities, and to seek what he is born for. He will then know, that how free imaginations bring changes to
the world, which resents change. It is time for him to be on his own and work to achieve success like
shakespeare, the wright brothers, pasteur, pavlov and michael faraday.
Unit - 6 incident of the french camp
poem.
the poet robert browning narrates an incident at the french camp in the war of 1809 between france and
austria, in a (a) version. He describes the brave action of a (b) soldier,
whose heroic devotion to duty and his (c) in it is inspiring and worthy of (d)
during the attack of the french army on ratisbon, napoleon was anxious about the (e)
austrians were defending ratisbon with great (f) and courage. Napoleon was watching
the war standing on a (g) near the battlefield.
all of a sudden a rider appeared from the closed smoke and dust. Riding at great speed, jumping and
leaping, he approached the mound where napoleon stood. As he came closer, the narrator noticed that
the rider, a young boy, was severely wounded. But the rider showed no sign of pain and smiling in joy,
jumped off the horse and gave the happy news of (h) to the emperor.
he exclaimed with pride that french had (i) ratisbon and he himself had hoisted the flag of
france. When napoleon heard the news, his plans (j) up like fire. His eyes (k)
when he saw that the soldier was severely wounded. Like a caring mother eagle, the emperor asked if
he was wounded. The (i) soldier replied proudly that he was killed and died heroically.
determination pride wounded conquered result admiration
mound soared dramatic softened victory valiant
Answer
(a) dramatic (b) wounded (c) pride (d) admiration (e) result (f) determination
(g) mound (h) victory (i) conquered (j) soared (k) softened (l) valiant
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in one or two
sentences each.
A. Who do you think is the narrator of the poem?
a french soldier guarded who napoleon is the narrator of the poem.
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B. Where was the narrator when the incident happened?
the narrator was at the french camp in the war between french and austria.
C. Who took the city of ratisbon by storm?
the french took the city of ratisbon by storm.
D. Where was napoleon standing on the day of attack on the city of ratisbon?
the french emperor napoleon stood on a hillock just a mile away from the scene of the onslaught.
E. Describe the posture of napoleon.
napoleon had his neck sticking out and his legs were wide apart. He had his arms joined behind his
bark and a cloud on his brow was quite visible.
F. Who came galloping on a horse to napoleon?
a young french soldier came galloping on a horse to napoleon.
G. What does the phrase 'full galloping' suggest?
the phrase 'full galloping' suggests riding at a top speed.
H. Why was the rider in a hurry?
the rider was in a hurry because he wanted to convey the message of victory to napoleon, before he
dies.
I. What did the rider do when he reached napoleon?
the rider jumped off his horse and stood at attention before his chief and gave the happy news of victory
to the emperor.
J. Why did the rider keep his lips compressed?
the rider's mouth was full of blood, but he had his lips so tightly sealed that not a drop of blood oozed out
of it. He kept his lips compressed to hide that he is wounded.
K. Where did the rider plant the french flag after ratisbon was captured?
the rider planted the french flag over ratisbon.
L. What was napoleon's reaction on hearing the news of victory?
on hearing the news of victory, a sparkle of joy and satisfaction came to napoleon's eyes.
M. When did the narrator find that the boy was badly wounded?
after hearing the news of victory from the young soldier, napoleon noticed that the soldier was fatally
wounded.
N. Why did napoleon's eyes become soft as a mother eagle's eyes?
when napoleon saw the fatally wounded soldier, he felt very sad like a mother eagle. The mother eagle
gets confused, when she finds her young ones badly bruised and on the verge of death.
O. How did the young soldier face his end?
there was a smile of pride and satisfaction on the young soldier's lips. He fell dead near his emperor's
feet.
Additional
1. Where is ratisbon?
ratisbon is a city in austria.
2. What is the modern name of ratisbon?
regensburg is the modern name of ratisbon.
3. What did napoleon ask the rider?
napoelon asked the rider if he was wounded.
4. What is the central idea of the poem “incident of the french cainp”?
a brave soldier is always ready to sacrifice his life happily in the defence of his country.
5. Why did napoleon's eyes flash?
napoleon's eyes flashed because once again his plans had succeeded.
6. Why was napoleon worried?
napoleon was much worried because the war between france and austria had entered a critical stage.
7. Explain the lines “with neck out-thrust, you fancy how, legs wide, arms locked behind?
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in these lines robert browning says that napoleon was standing on a small hill at a distance of a mile or
so from the city of ratisbon. He was looking at the ground with bowed head with his neck, out-thrust,
legs wide-apart and arms locked behind.
8. Explain the lines “a film mother-eagle's eye, when her bruised eaglet breathes”?
in these lines the poet says that when an eaglet takes its last breath in front of its mother eagle, as a film
covers the eyes of mother eagle. It means that a mother eagle cannot bear to see her young one dying
in front of her.
9. Why was there a smile on the face of the rider before he died?
there was a smile on the face of the rider before he died because he was satisfied with his duty and
loyalty. He had himself planted the french flag in the market place in ratisbon city. He was very glad to
deliver the news of victory to his emperor, napoleon.
10. What happened when napoleon was engaged in his thoughts?
while napoleon was engaged in his thoughts, a rider came out from the clouds of smoke from the
battlefield. He was riding at full speed and did not draw his bridle till he reached the mound where
napoleon was standing. He got off his horse and told him that his army had captured the city of
ratisbon.
11. Why did the rider not draw the bridle of his horse till the reached the mound where napoleon was
standing?
the rider did not draw the bridle of the horse until he reached the mound because he wanted to give the
news of the victory to napoleon about the city of ratisbon.
3. Literary devices.
find out two more instances of alliteration.
1. Stood on our storming-day stood -storming
2. Legs wide, arms locked behind legs - locked
3. By just his horse's mane, a boy his - horse's
4. The marshal's in the market-place marshal's - market
5. To see your flag-bird flap his vans flag-flap
6. Softened itself, as sheathes softened - sheathes
7. Touched to the quick, he said touched - to - the
A. Legs wide, arms locked behind,
as if to balance the prone brow
oppressive with its mind.
(i) whose action is described here?
napoleon's action is described here.
(ii) what is meant by prone brow?
'prone brow' means something very important was weighing upon the mind of napoleon.
(iii) what is his state of mind?
napoleon was working out his future strategy and line of action.
B. 'you're wounded!''nay', his soldier's pride
touched to the quick, he said:
(i) why did the boy contradict napoleon's words?
the boy contradicted napoleons words because he felt joy and thrill in giving his life for this country.
(ii) why was his pride touched?
there was a smile of pride and satisfaction on the young soldier's lips, as he fell dead near his emperor's
feet.
C. A film the mother-eagles eye
when her bruised eaglet breathes
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(i) who is compared to the mother eagle in the above lines?
napoleon is compared to the mother eagle in the above lines. .
(ii) explain the comparison.
the feelings of napoleon at the sight of wounded soldier were just like those of the mother eagle. The
eagle gets confused when she finds her young ones badly wounded and on the verge of death. The
mother eagle fails to understand how to save their lives.
D) explain the following lines with reference to the context.
i. Then off there flung in smiling joy, and held himself erect
reference : these lines are taken from the poem 'incident of the french camp' by robert browning.
context : although the soldier was fatally wounded, he displayed extraordinary courage, confidence
and self-control. He jumped off his horse and stood at attention before his chief.
explanation: this shows the heroic behaviour and patriotism of the french soldier.
ii. 'i'm killed, sire!' and, his chief beside, smiling, the boy fell dead.
reference: these lines are taken from the poem 'incident of the french camp' by robert browning.
context: the soldier proudly declared that he felt joy and thrill in giving his life for his country. There was
a smile of pride and satisfaction on the young soldier's lips. He fell dead near his emperor's feet.
explanation: the dedication, patriotism and determination of the young soldier is obvious here.
iii. To see your flag-bird flap his vans where i, to heart's desire, perched him!’
reference: these lines are taken from the poem 'incident of the french camp' by robert browning.
context : the soldier felt a special kind of joy and pride in the fact that he, with his own hands, had flown
the french flag over ratisbon. The flag had the figure of a bird on it. Thus when the flag fluttered in the air,
it seemed as though the bird was flapping its wings.
explanation: the joy and pride of the young soldier after the flag was hoisted is revealed here.
5. Answer the following questions in about 100—1 50 words each.

A. The young soldier matched his emperor in courage and patriotism. Elucidate your answer.
the poet describes the heroic action of a wounded soldier. His heroic devotion to duty and his pride in it
is inspiring. It is worthy of admiration. During the attack of french army on ratisbon, napoleon was much
worried about the result. His future plans depended upon the result. He was standing on a mound near
the battlefield. He was watching the war from there. All of a sudden a rider appeared from the closed
smoke and dust. Galloping fast, he approached napoleon. As he came closer, napoleon noticed that
he was a young boy seriously wounded and not far from his death. He came closer and gave the happy
news of victory to napoleon. He exclaimed with joy that the french had conquered ratisbon. He himself
had hoisted the flag of france in the city. With a little touch of pride, he informed napoleon that he has
played an important role in the victory at the risk of his life. Thus he matched his emperor in courage
and patriotism.
B. What is the role of the young soldier in the victory of the french at ratisbon?
the young soldier's actions in the poem can be considered heroic. He ignores his own mortal wound to
deliver the news of victory to napoleon. In doing so, he shows his own belief that he has served his
emperor, nation and god worthily. He served in the army, even though he is only a boy. He participated
in a dangerous battle. He was mortally wounded in the battle. Even then, he rode his horse at a fast
gallop to inform the emperor about their victory. He felt happy and proud for the victory. He did not
bother about his death. He told the emperor that he had hoisted the french flag over ratisbon. He felt
proud that he had served his nation, emperor and god worthily. He expressed no regrets about his
death. He seemed happier about the outcome of the battle. He was not concerned about his wounds.
There was a smile of pride and satisfaction on the young soldier's lips as he fell dead near his
emperor's feet.
C. Napoleon was a great source of inspiration to his army. Justify
napoleon bonaparte's rise to power is one of the great stories of european history. In his life, we can
learn principles that are applicable to anyone. First of all, he was always learning. He was diligent to
improve himself always. He was a good general and an efficient organizer. One essential feature of
napoleon's character was his brilliance. Not only was he smart, but he could also handle many topics at
once. He had immense memory for details. When he came to power in france, he fixed many of the
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nations' problems. He ensured that the contractors and troops got paid on time. He was a master of
propaganda and popular manipulation. All these qualities made him an inspiring source to his army.
Additional
1. What happened all of a sudden when napoleon was standing on the mound?
all of a sudden, a rider appeared from the closed smoke and dust. He approached napoleon, who was
standing on the mound. As he came closer, napoleon noticed that he was a young boy seriously
wounded and not far from his death. As he came near, he jumped off the horse and gave the happy
news of their victory. He exclaimed with joy that the french had conquered ratisbon and he himself had
hoisted the flag of france in the city. With a little touch of pride, he informed napoleon that he had played
an important role in the victory at the risk of his life. Actually, he expected some words of appreciation.
He proudly declared that he felt joy and thrill in giving his life for his country. So saying this, the boy fell
dead near his emperor's feet
SUPPLEMENTARY
UNIT -1 GOD SEES THE TRUTH BUT WAITS
1. Answer the following questions in a sentence or two each, based on your understanding of the
story.
a. Why did Aksionov's wife stop him from going to the fair?
Aksionov's wife stopped him from going to the fair because she had a bad dream, the previous night.
b. What is the importance of Aksionov's wife's dream?
Aksionov's wife dreamt that when her husband returned from the town, he had grey hair, which stated
clearly that he would return home only after a long period of time.
c. What made Aksionov leave the inn before dawn?
Aksionov left the inn before dawn to travel to the fair, while it was still cool.
d. What were the cirucumstances that led to Aksionov's imprisonment?
Aksionov was accused of a murder, which he did not commit. He pleaded innocence. But the police
searched his luggage and found a blood-stained knife. So he was imprisoned.
e. Why did Aksionov give up sending petitions?
Aksionov's wife had sent a petition to the Czar, but it had not been accepted. He was dejected that his
wife, too, suspected him. He felt that only God could show mercy. So he gave up sending petitions.
f. Why didn't Makar disclose that he had killed the merchant?
Makar didn't disclose that he had killed the merchant as he feared of being sentenced in the prison for a
longer period.
g. Did Makar feel guilty when he heard Aksionov's story?
No, Makar did not feel guilty, when he hard Aksionov's story.
h. What made Aksionov think that Makar was the real murderer?
After overhearing several conversations, Aksionov was convinced that Makar was the real murderer.
i. What was Aksionov's realization by the end of the story?
Aksionov no longer had any desire to leave the prison, but only hoped for his last hour to come.
j. Why did Aksionov's wife suspect him of involvement in the murder?
Aksionov's wife did not know what to believe. So she suspected her husband's involvement in the
murder.

a. Did the police officer have sufficient evidence to convict Aksionov?
Yes, the police officer had sufficient evidence to convict Aksionov. He found a blood-stained knife in
Aksionov's bag. Aksionov had stayed with the merchant, the previous night.
b. What impact did the book “The Lives of saints” have on Aksionov?
The book, “The Lives of the Saints” changed Aksionov's life. The prison authorities liked Aksionov for
his gentleness and his fellow prisoners respect him. They called him Grandfather and 'The Saint When
there were quarrels, they came to him to put things right and to judge the matter.
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c. Pick out the clues that convey that Makar Semyonich recognized Aksionov.
Aksionov's companions in the prison told Makar that Akshionov came to Siberia because he had been
accused of a murder, committed by someone and that person had put a blood-stained knife in his bag.
Hearing this, Makar recognized Aksionov.
3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 1 50 words each.

a. Compare and contrast the main characters, Aksionov and Makar Semyonich, in the story.
Ivan Dmitrich Aksionov was a handsome, fair-haired curly headed fellow. He was always enthusiastic.
He was very fond of singing. When he was young, he used to drink, but after marriage, he gave it up.
When he was imprisoned for a murder, he did not commit, he lost all his hopes of getting released. So
he only prayed to God to show mercy on him. In prison he learnt to make boots and earned a little
money and bought a book, 'The Lives of the Saints'. This book changed his life. He was gentle to
everyone. He was respected by prison authorities and his fellow prisoners. Makar Semyonich was a
new convict to the prison. He came to know about Aksionov but did not reveal to him that he was the
culprit, who killed the merchant and escaped. He did not even repent that he had made a faithful
merchant to suffer twenty six years in prison for the crime he had committed. But finally, after being
moved by Aksionov's activity towards him, he changed his attitude and admitted his fault to the
authorities.
b. How did Aksionov react when his wife suspected him?
When Aksionov's wife suspected him, he was very much dejected. He was sad that his wife too
suspected him. Hiding his face in his hands, he began to weep. Then a soldier came to say that the wife
and children must go away. Aksionov bade them good bye for the last time. When they were gone, he
recalled what had been said and when he remembered that his wife also had suspected Him, he said
to himself, “It seems that only God can know the truth, it is to Him alone, we must appeal and from him
alone expect mercy”. From then on, he wrote no more petitions, gave up all hope and only prayed to
God.
c. Describe the life of Aksionov in prison.
Life of Aksionov in Prison Aksionov was driven to Siberia with other convicts. He lived there as a
convict for twenty six years. His hair turned white as snow and his beard grew long, thin and grey. All
his cheerfulness stopped. He stooped and walked slowly, spoke little and never laughed. But he often
prayed. In prison, he learnt to make boots and earned a little money, with which he bought 'the Lives of
the Saints. He read this book, when there was light enough in the prison. On Sundays in the prison-
church, he sang songs in the choir and read the lessons from this book. The prison authorities, liked
him for his gentleness and respected him. When there were quarrels, they came to him to set things
right and to judge the matter. His fellow-prisoners called him “Grandfather” and “The Saint”.
d. Why did Aksionov decide not to reveal the truth about Makar Semyonich?
Aksionov decided not to reveal the truth about Makar Semyonich because he felt that the authorities
will flog the life out of him. He also felt that he would suspected him wrongly. At first, when the
Governor of the prison asked him who dug the hole, Aksionov's lips and hands trembled and for a long
time, he could not utter a word. He thought why should he screen him who had ruined his life. Let him
pay for what he had suffered. But then he had a second thought that if he tell them about Makar, they
will probably flog the life out of him and may be he suspected him wrongly. That won't be any good to
him. So he decided not to reveal the truth about Makar Semyonich.
e. Discuss the meaning and importance of the saying “God Sees the Truth But Waits”.
An important element of the story is that the truth comes out, but only after waiting a long time. The
reader knows from the beginning that Aksionov is innocent. A clever reader also figures out fairly early
that Makar Semyonich must be the real villain. Justice, however is not arrived at, until the very end of
the story, when years later after the crime. Makar confesses and Aksionov dies as a contented man.
The author is cynically pointing out that justice sometimes arrives too late. But we must have faith that
God will eventually bring justice to every situation.
f. Forgiveness is the best form of revenge. Substantiate the statement with reference to the story.
It is very easy to take revenge, but it is very difficult to forgive others. It needs a broad and great heart. It
is common for a person to make a mistake but forgiveness is an attribute of God. Forgiveness is the
best form of taking revenge, as it makes the opponent to suffer from a sort of humiliation.
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In this story’ though Makar had murdered a merchant and he was the cause for the twenty six years
imprisonment of Aksionov he was forgiven by Aksionov. This act of Aksionov made Makar to suffer
humiliation and he admitted his fault to the authorities. He wept bitterly and beat his head on the floor.
Thus Aksionov's forgiveness is the best form of revenge on Makar.
ADDITIONAL
1. What does Aksionov realize by the end of the story?
Aksionov realizes that forgiveness is the path to peace. In this story Aksionov suffers in prison for
twenty six years. Coincidentally, the man who is responsible for Aksionov's unenviable situation ends
up in the same prison. In the end, Makar confesses that he was the one who killed the merchant and
planted the murder weapon in Aksionov's luggage. When Aksionov reminisces about everything he
has lost, his anger rises against Makar. He has little peace, despite his prayers to God. At last, an
opportunity arises for Aksionov to betray Makar and cause his enemy to suffer. But later, he feels that
making Makar to suffer will not do him good. It will not restore his past life to him. So he decides to stay
silent, when he was questioned by the Governor. Later in the night, Makar Semyonich approaches
Aksionov and asks for his forgiveness. But Aksionov tells him that God will forgive him. He finally
realizes that forbearance and forgiveness are the only paths to peace.
4. Using the mind map given below, write a brief summary of the story in your own words.
Aksionov lived with His wife tried to The local police officer
his wife and children. stop him because arrested and charged
He decided to make she had a bad him with murder.
a trip to the fair. dream.
Akslonov frequently prayed He was sent to A petition of mercy

to God. He bought the work in the mines was turned down
book 'The Lives of the of Siberia. He grew and be felt
Saints' in prison old there, devastated.
Aksinnov was respected Aksionov found out Aksionov forgave

by all the inmates due to the truth about Makar. Semyonich accepted
his gentle bebaviour One Eventually Makar the truth, attained self
day he met Makar Semyonich admitted realization and died
Semyonich. his crime. in peace.
Summary using the Mind map

Aksionov lived with his wife and children in the town of Vladimir. One day, he decided to make a trip to
the fair. His wife tried to stop him because she had a bad dream. Aksionov disregards his wife's dream
and leaves for the fair. He meets another merchant and stays with him in an inn. Next day, at dawn he
leaves the inn to go to the fair. But the local police officer arrested and charged him with a murder of the
merchant. A petition of mercy was turned down and he felt devastated. He was sent to work in the
mines of Siberia. He grew old there. Aksionov frequently prayed to God. He bought the book 'The Lives
of the Saints' in prison. He was respected by all the inmates due to his gentle behaviour. One day, he
met Makar Semyonich and found out the truth about him. Eventually, Makar Semyonich admitted his
crime. Aksionov forgave him, accepted the truth, attained self-realization and died in peace.
UNIT -2 LIFE OF PI
story.
a. Describe the pathetic condition of Pi in the middle of the ocean.
Pi was alone and orphaned, in the middle of the Pacific, hanging on to an oar, an adult tiger in front of
him, sharks beneath him, and a storm raging about him.
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b. Who was Richard Parker?
Richard Parker was an adult Bengal tiger.
c. Richard Parker's survival seemed incredible to Pi. Why?
Looking at the danger, he is surrounded with, Pi thought that his survival was incredible.
d. Why was the great beast not behaving naturally?
The great beast was not behaving naturally due to sedation and seasickness.
e. Why was Pi not afraid of the hyena?
Pi was not afraid of the hyena because he felt that coping with a hyena seemed remotely possible than
the great beast Richard tiger.
f. Describe Pi's struggle to find drinking water.
Pi explores the lifeboat looking for water. He discovers a locker containing emergency supplies under
the end of the lifeboat under the tarpaulin, where Richard Parker has his den. Carefully he opens the
locker and assesses the contents, greedily drinking some canned water.
g. What was Pi's reaction when he discovered drinking water?
When Pi discovered drinking water, his pulse raced at the thought of quenching his thirst. He felt that
he was about to be delivered from his hellish thirst. Aching expectation had run its fruitful course. He
had to drink or he would die.
h. Why did Pi want to tame Parker?
Pi wanted to tame Parker because he realized that it was a necessity at the moment. They were in the
same boat. They would live or die together. Only if he tamed the tiger, he could possibly trick it into
dying first.
i. What saved Pi's life?
Pi says that it was because of Richard Parker who kept him from thinking too much about his family and
his tragic circumstances, he had been saved.
j. How did Pi reunite with this family?
Pi left Richard Parker in a jungle and waited for a ship which reunited him with his family.
2. Answer the following questions In about 50 words.
a. How did the presence of Richard Parker help Pi?
The presence of Richard Parker made him to survive in the great ocean. Richard made him to keep on
thinking too much about his family and his tragic circumstances. He pushed him to go on living.
Without Richard Parker, he wouldn't be alive.
b. Describe the lifeboat.
The lifeboat was three and half feet deep, eight feet wide and twenty-six feet long. The lifeboat was
designed to accommodate a maximum of thirty two people. Pi took stock of the lifeboat. The size of the
lifeboat was printed on one of the benches in black letters.
c. How did Pi feel after drinking water?
After drinking water, a sense of well-being quickly overcame Pi. His mouth became moist and soft. His
skin relaxed and his joints moved with greater ease. His heart began to beat like a merry drum and
blood started flowing through his veins. Strength and suppleness came back to his muscles. He felt
that he was coming back to life from the dead.
d. Did Pi want Richard Parker to die? Answer giving reasons.
No, Richard did not want Richard Parker to die because if the tiger died, he would be left alone with
despair, which Pi considered to be an enemy more stronger than a tiger.
3. Answer in a paragraph.
a. How did the presence of Richard Parker influence the attitude of Pi?
In the beginning, Pi was scared of the presence of Richard Parker. He did not notice for two and a half
days, 450 pound Bengal tiger in a lifeboat. From the tip of the nose to its tip of the tail, the tiger took up
over a third of the length of the ship. Seeing this, Pi lost all hope of surviving. But the great beast was
not behaving like a great beast to such an extent that the hyena had taken liberties. Richard Parker's
passivity for three long days was not natural. It may be due to sedation and seasickness. Pi's father
used to sedate a number of the animals to lessen their stress. He had also sedated Richard Parker
shortly before the ship sank. Pi's thirst for water overpowered his fear of Richard Parker and he went
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about exploring for fresh water. His search for water took him dangerously close to Richard Parker, but
nothing could stop him-neither Richard nor the 4. hyena. He succeeded in his search. Pi came back to
life. Later, he understood that it was Richard Parker who helped him survive for 227 days. He realized
that Parker who scared him earlier brought him peace, purpose and wholeness.
b. Water is the Elixir of Life. Substantiate the statement with reference to the story of 'Life Of Pi’.
The elixir of life, is also known as elixir of immortality. Water is a potion that grants the drinker eternal
life. It is said to cure all discases. Our health is truly dependent on the quantity and quality of water we
drink. When Pi was dying of thirst, he forgot his fear of Richard Parker. His thirst overpowered his fear
of Richard Parker and he went about exploring for fresh water. A little later, he succeeded in his search
and came back to life and senses, after drinking the elixir of life. His mouth became moist and soft. His
joints moved with great ease. Blood started flowing through his veins and his heart began to beat like a
merry drum. He was coming back to life from the dead. Thus we have to recognize the amazing gifts of
water to us, not just take it for granted because water is the elixir of life.
c. If you were lost at sea for as long as Pi was, what is the one item you would want with you? Write a diary
entry in which you identify the item and explain why it is the one thing you would want with you.
20th April 2019
Saturday 10 p.m.
Dear Diary,
Last month, I sailed to Mauritius with my friends. The ship was quite spacious and had all the facilities.
After six hours of travel, we experienced a ship wreck. We were stranded in the middle of the ocean.
Our ship was sinking slowly. So we jumped into the sea to save our lives. We had one item which was
very much needed at that hour. It was our lifeboat We got into our lifeboat with some water bottles. We
were stranded there for 20 hours without any help from anyone. At last, we were able to go to a nearby
island in our lifeboat. From there, we contacted our higher officials who came to save our lives and took
us to our destination. Therefore, we should be thankful to the captain of the ship who arranged the
lifeboat and guided us to go ashore with the help of it. It was an unforgettable bad experience in our life.
ADDITIONAL
1. In Life of Pi, what powerful forces or obstacles does Pi struggle against?
Pi narrates both his early life and his ordeal on the lifeboat. As a sensitive boy, he seems at the mercy of
all forces. His full name, Piscine, is a terrible burden (because it sounds like “pissing”). So other boys
tease him. The impact of the global political economy on India precipitates his family's move to
Canada, which ends up losing Pi's family. Adrift in the lifeboat, Pi's greatest opponent is nature. He and
the animals do not know what the sea and weather will do or whether they will be rescued.
As hunger, dehydration, and the elements take their toll, blindness and the threat of mental break
down loom large. In Pi's view, the most powerful forces he faces, day in and day out, are Richard
Parker and the hyena. After the hyena's death, Pi gradually works to establish dominance over
Richard Parker.
After Pi is rescued, during his recovery, he changes his views on many aspects of those forces and
obstacles.
4. Sequence the following incidents logically to write the summary of the story' Life of Pi'.
1. As he looked around, he was shocked to find Richard Parker on board.
2. His search for water took him dangerously close to Richard Parker but nothing could stop him neither
Richard Parker nor the hyena.
3. Pi left Richard Parker in a jungle and reunited with his family.
4. Pi came back to life and his senses after drinking the elixir of life.
5. He understood that it was Richard Parker who helped him survive for 227 days.
6. He was pinned by weakness having had no food, water or even sleep for nearly three days.
7. Strangely his thirst overpowered his fear of Richard Parker and he went about exploring for fresh
water.
8. A little later, he succeeded in his search, when he found stacks of cans of drinking water.
9. Pi was stranded in the Pacific on a lifeboat.
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10. Then, he realized that Parker who scared him earlier brought him peace, purpose and wholeness.
9,1,6,2,7,8,4,10,5,3
Pi was stranded in the Pacific on a lifeboat. As he looked around, he was shocked to find Richard
Parker on board. He was pinned by weakness having had no food, water or even sleep for nearly three
days. His search for water took him dangerously close to Richard Parker but nothing could stop him-
neither Richard Parker nor the hyena. Strangely his thirst overpowered his fear of Richard Parker and
he went about exploring for fresh water. A little later, he succeeded in his search, when he found stacks
of cans of drinking water. Pi came back to life and senses after drinking the elixir of life. Then, he
realized that Parker who scared him earlier brought him peace, purpose and wholeness. He
understood that it was Richard Parker who helped him survive for 227 days. Pi left Richard Parker in a
jungle and reunited with his family.
UNIT - 3 - THE HOUR OF TRUTH (PLAY)

1. Rearrange the following sentences In a meaningful sequence and write the summary of the play.
a) Baldwin who returned home after meeting Gresham, informed his family that Gresham had offered a
hundred thousand, if he would utter the words 'I don't remember' in court, during the trial.
b) The family members tried to justify Gresham's act and enticed Baldwin into accepting the money.
c) Thus 'The Hour of Truth' had dawned relieving Baldwin of the heavy burden and guilt.
d) Baldwin was an honest and upright man, working under John Gresham, in a bank.
e) To save Baldwin, Mr. Marshall, President of the Third National, visited him and informed him that
Gresham had confessed his crime, in order to free him from betraying his trusted friend and testifying
painfully against him.
f) Gresham and Baldwin had been thick friends for over 30 years and Baldwin had even named his son
after Gresham.
g) Baldwin felt disgusted with himself and the attitude of his family members.
h) Gresham had been arrested for misappropriation of money at the bank and Baldwin was to testify
against him.
i) Mr. Marshall also offered Baldwin a job in his Bank, to reward him for his honesty and integrity
j) The family members who were initially against Gresham, changed their mind on hearing the huge sum
offered by him.
d, h, f, a, j, b, g, e, I c
Baldwin was an honest and upright man, working under John Gresham, in a bank. Gresham had been
arrested for misappropriation of money at the bank and Baldwin was to testify against him. Gresham
and Baldwin had been thick friends for over 30 years and Baldwin had even named his son after
Gresham. Baldwin who returned home after meeting Gresham, informed his family that Gresham had
offered a hundred thousand, if he would utter the words 'I don't remember' in court, during the trial. The
family members who were initially against Gresham, changed their mind on hearing the huge sum
offered by him. The family members tried to justify Gresham's act and enticed Baldwin into accepting
the money. .Baldwin felt disgusted with himself and the attitude of his family members. To save
Baldwin, Mr. Marshall, President of the Third National, visited him and informed him that Gresham had
confessed his crime, in order to free him from betraying his trusted friend and testifying painfully
against him. Mr. Marshall also offered Baldwin ajob in his Bank, to reward him for his honesty and
integrity. Thus 'The Hour of Truth' had dawned relieving Baldwin of the heavy burden and guilt.

a. Why did Baldwin meet Gresham?
Mr. Gresham sent for Mr. Robert Baldwin to talk to him.
b. What made Martha withdraw her money from the bank?
When Martha suspected that there was something wrong in the bank, she withdrew her money from
the bank.
c. How is Martha's strong conviction in Baldwin's integrity revealed?
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When John, Martha's son, chides his father about keeping the matter from all of them, Martha has a
strong conviction that her husband will only tell the truth, no matter whatever comes of it and do his
duty.
d. What had Donovan told John?
Donovan told John that nobody had any idea that there was anything wrong in the bank until the crash
came.
e. John feels Gresham deserves punishment. Why?
Gresham underpaid his employees including his father and robbed his depositors. So he feels that
Gresham deserves a punishment.
f. What was Baldwin's advice to Gresham?
Baldwin advised Gresham that he would have to do the best he could and the first thing would be to
close the bank.
g. What did Gresham want Baldwin to do?
Gresham wanted Baldwin to answer 'I don't remember when the officers question him, the next day at
the trial.
h. Explain the significance of the words 'I don't remember’
Gresham requests Robert Baldwin to have an attack of poor memory. If Baldwin tells the officers all he
knows, Gresham would go to jail and no power on earth can save him. So Gresham wants Baldwin to
tell the officers, 'I don't remember so that they can't prove he does remember.
i. Why does John turn wild on hearing that Gresham had offered his father money?
John turned wild on hearing that Gresham had offered his father money to tell a lie.
j. When would Baldwin part company with Gresham?
When John Gresham ceases to be an honest man, Baldwin would part company with Gresham.
k. What does John consider 'a technicality'?
John considers Gresham going to jail as a technicality because he believes that he has not done any
mistake, as nobody loses a cent.
l. Why was John filled with shame?
Robert Baldwin's determination not to lie about Gresham, fills John with shame because his father was
willing to jail the man, after whom he named his son 'John Gresham’.
m. How much did Gresham offer to pay Baldwin for saving his skin and how did he justify that?
Gresham offered to pay Baldwin hundred thousand dollars. He told Baldwin that he had underpaid him
all these years. His hundred thousand dollars represented the difference between what he had paid
him and what Gresham had actually been worthy to him.
n. What was Mr. Marshall's offer to Baldwin?
Mr. Marshall offered Baldwin a position in the Third National bank.
o. How was Baldwin's honesty rewarded?
Baldwin's honesty was rewarded by getting him a good job in Third National Bank.
3. Answer in a paragraph of about 150 words each.

a. Trace the bond of friendship between Baldwin and Gresham. Explain why Baldwin wished to attribute
some credit to his friend.
Robert Baldwin is John Gresham's personal secretary. Gresham is known to Robert Baldwin for thirty-
five years. They worked side by side ever since they were young in the same bank. Though Gresham
underpaid him, with sixty dollers a week, Baldwin didn't complain. Baldwin was loyal to him, When
Gresham was taken into custody by the police, he asked Baldwin to tell a lie that he can't remeber
anything to the police Gresham also offered a hundred thousand dollars for this as bride. When
Baldwin rejects it, Gresham calls it as a payment, which was due to him. Yet Baldwin rejects the offer
respectfully. This action makes Gresham feel ashamed which in turn leads him to confess his own
crime.
b. How did Martha and John react when they came to know that Baldwin had rejected the generous offer
made by Gresham?
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Gresham was taken into custody, as he misappropriated the funds in his bank. At first, Baldwin's wife
Martha and her son John accuse him for his wrong. They ask Baldwin to tell the truth about Gresham.
But later when they came to know that Gresham had offered a hundred thousand dollars, they support
Gresham and force Baldwin to tell a lie for money. They justify their act of supporting Gresham by
asking Baldwin, 'when the depositors don't lose even a cent, why should Gresham go to jail?' Nobody
wants to see Gresham punished. Martha also insists that Gresham had always been good to
Gresham.
c. Is Baldwin really honest or does he maintain his honesty fearing criticism? Why do you say so?
Baldwin was really honest. He was sincere to Gresham and was dedicated in his duty. He never
complained when he had been underpaid by his boss Gresham. When Gresham was accused for his
wrong deeds, he advised him to do the best he could, and the first step to close his bank. When he was
forced by his family to tell a lie for money, he stays honest. But he also maintained his honesty in fear of
criticism. He says that he had lived throughout his life honestly and he wanted to die with that name. He
doesn't want the world to say that he had led his life as a liar.
d. Sketch the character of: (i) Robert Baldwin (ii) John Gresham.
(i) Robert Baldwin: Robert Baldwin is the personal secretary of John Gresham. When his boss
underpaid him, Baldwin did not complain. He is a man of integrity and honour. He is also a long-
suffering and dependable person. When Gresham begged him to testify under the defence of faulty
memory, he rejects despite the money offered to him. He is morally incorruptable and he is stubbornly
against misrepresentation of any kind. He is truly distressed about taking the bribe money. When his
family force him to tell a lie for money, he is shocked. But he remains firm in his decision. He represents
old generation of honourable persons.
(ii) John Gresham : John Gresham was the boss of Baldwin. He had a positive outlook. But this outlook
changed when he got accused of misappropriation of depositor's money. He told Baldwin a lie. He also
offered a hundred thousand dollars as bribe to Baldwin to save him. So he was dishonest and
corrupted. However in the end, he turns out to be fine by confessing his mistake. He also spreads out
Baldwin's reputation as a decent and dignified man.
e. Who do you think exhibits true friendship-Baldwin or Gresham? Justify your answer.
John Gresham exhibits true friendship to a greater extent. Baldwin gives importance to truthfulness.
Even though, there was an offer made to him by the way of a hundred thousand dollars, he never yields
to it and does not agree to tell a lie. Whereas, Gresham knew that no amount of money could make his
friend Baldwin do something, he thought wrong. So he paid him the supreme compliment by
confessing everything to the police, without going to trial. He was so impressed by the principles of
Baldwin.
ADDITIONAL
1. Does Baldwin's son relish his being named after John Gresham? Substantiate your statement, citing
two instances from the play.
Baldwin's son John does not relish his being named after John Gresham, as Gresham was under the
police custody for misappropriating the funds. His father was the only witness against Gresham and
John is named after him as John Gresham Baldwin. He is upset that his name would be ruined, when
Gresham gets arrested. He feels that it is going to be a nasty mess, if they put John Gresham in jail with
John's name after him. He recollects the day when John was baptized, Gresham stood sponser for
him and Baldwin proudly announced that his son John should always live up to the name, which they
have given him. Thus, John doesn't relish his being named after John Gresham.
2. Gresham's not being surprised at Baldwin's refusal of the money turned out to be a compliment. Give
reasons.
Baldwin was the personal secretary to John Gresham. They worked together side by side in John
Gresham's bank for thirty-five years. Gresham is aware of Baldwin's sincerity and his dedication
towards his job.
When Gresham was taken into custody by the police for misappropriating the funds in the bank,
Baldwin could not bear his best friend being jailed. He was the only witness against him. So Gresham
begs him to have an attack of poor memory. When Gresham offers Baldwin, a hundred thousand
dollars, Baldwin gets angry and rejects it. Gresham was not surprised at this attitude of Baldwin,
because he knows his sincerity and dedication. This turned out to be a compliment to Baldwin.
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3. How do Martha and John justify their act of supporting Gresham?
Gresham was taken into custody, as he misappropriated the funds in his bank. At first, Martha and her
son John accuse Gresham for his wrong. They ask Baldwin to tell the truth about Gresham. But later
when they came to known that Gresham had offered a hundred thousand dollars, they support him
and force Baldwin to tell a lie for the money. They justify their act of supporting Gresham by asking
Baldwin, 'when the depositors don't lose a cent, why should Gresham go to jail?' Nobody wants to see
him punished. Martha also insists that Greshain had always been good to Baldwin.
4. When a friend demands you to be an accomplice for his misdeeds, which could you consider important
- Friendship or Truthfulness.
When my friend demands me to be a partner in her crime (accomplice), I will rejects because I don't like
to be a person who commits a mistake. Instead, will give my friend an advice not to indulge in such a
crime henceforth and to rectify the mistake, she had committed. Though she is my best friend, I will not
entertain the crime, she had committed. I will always stand by Truthfulness. My mother and father had
instilled in me right from my childhood to go in the path of truth. Never to be dishonest. Thus, I will
always consider being truthful is important.
5. Briefly sketch the moral values you have learnt from this play.
The moral values we learn from this play are, 'Truth wins and the bad gets punished. Every hour is the
hour of truth. Money has a great influence on people but not on truth. Virtue gets rewarded. Leo Tolstoy
quote 'God sees the Truth but waits' is true with this story. God waits may be for the confession of the
criminal or to test a truthful person to see how far he can be truthful. Bribe may be given better names,
but truth will prevail in the end.
6. Comment on the characters of John Gresham Baldwin and Ms. Evie.
John Gresham Baldwin and Evie are children of Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin. In the beginning of the play, they
were stubborn against Mr. Gresham, their father's boss, who was under the police custody for the
mistake he had committed. Later on, they change their mind. Money influences them too. They compel
their father to accept the bribe money. They find every possible excuse for supporting their act of
compelling their father. They don't feel ashamed of being dishonest. Money corrupts the youth very
easily. They represent, the present day generation.
7. Does Martha support her husband? What changes her mind?
Martha was a great support to her husband. She firmly believes that her husband will always remain
loyal and never does a wrong thing. He will do his duty no matter what comes of it. She gradually
changes her mind at the prospect of getting a huge amount. Money makes changes in her character.
She even persuades her husband to accept the bribe money offered by Gresham, as a compensation
for being underpaid. She urges him not to send a good friend to jail and he can accept the offer, as he
worked faithfully for Gresham. The influence of money corrupts her to forget her moral values.
UNIT - 4 - THE MIDNIGHT VISITOR

story.
a. Mention two features of Ausable that were uncharacteristic of a detective.
Ausable was very fat and sloppy fellow with an accent of German. He was not a romantic figure.
b. What was Ausable waiting for?
Ausable was waiting for the arrival of the important papers concerning about the new missiles.
c. Who was the Midnight Visitor? What was the purpose of his visit?
The midnight visitor was Max, a criminal. He visited Ausable to get the important report of the new
missiles.
d. How had Max actually entered the room?
Max entered the room by using a passkey or a masterkey.
e. Did Max's presence alarm Ausable?
Yes, Max's presence alarmed Ausable. But Ausable handled him cleverly and got rid of him.
f. How did Ausable describe the balcony and the manner in which one could get into his room, through it?
Ausable told him that there was a balcony just below the window of his room. His room used to be a
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part of a large unit and the next room used to be the living room. It had the balcony which extended
under his window. One can get on to it from the empty room.
g. Where did Max try to hide himself?
Max tried to hide himself on the balcony.
h. Who was Henry? Why had he visited Ausable's room?
Henry was the waiter of the hotel. He had visited Ausable's room to serve them a drink. Ausable had
ordered them.
i. What happened to Max finally?
Max jumped through the window to the balcony, As there was no balcony, Max fell down to the ground
from the sixth floor and was killed.
a. Who was Fowler? Why did he meet Ausable?
Fowler was a romantic writer. He met Ausable to know about the life of a secret agent.
b. Why was Fowler initially disillusioned with Ausable?
Fowler felt let down and disappointed to meet Ausable. He had a different picture of a secret agent in
his mind. He thought they should look to be very mysterious and romantic. But he found Ausable as a
very fat and boring man.
c. Fowler was thrilled when he entered Ausable's room. Why?
Fowler was much surprised when he entered Ausable's room. He saw a thin man standing in the
middle of the room with a pistol in his hand. It was his first authentic thrill.
d. How, according to Ausable, had Max entered the room?
According to Ausable, Max had entered his room, through the balcony of his window. He tries to cook a
story of a balcony to fool the criminal Max.
e. How did the three men react to the knocking at the door?
Ausable knew who was knocking at his door. So he was cool and calm. But Fowler and Max were very
nervous after they heard the knocking.
f. Was Ausable really waiting for the police? Give reasons.
No. He was not waiting for the police. Ausable just cooked up a story to get rid of the criminal Max.
3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 150 words each.
a. How did Ausable outwit Max?
Ausable was a secret agent. He was short and fat. Though he spoke French and German fairly well, he
had an American accent. He entered into his room with Fowler, the romantic writer. He was shocked to
see a man with a pistol in his hand. He knew him. He was Max, a criminal. He came to visit Ausable for
the important papers concerning about new missiles. Ausable cooked up a story about a balcony. He
told Max that there was a balcony just below his window. He said that the balcony was a part of the next
room. When the waiter knocked at the door. Ausable told Max that it would be the police. Max became
nervous. He dropped himself to the balcony through the window. But outside, there was no balcony.
He fell down, to the ground from the sixth floor and died.
b. Describe the significance of the balcony.
Ausable was a very intelligent spy agent. When he found Max waiting for him in his room, he
immediately thought of the plan. He told Max that there is a balcony from where people enter his room.
Max must have also entered from there. He told Max that it was not his balcony, but belongs to the next
apartment and earlier his room used to be a part of a large unit. Hearing this cooked up story, Max got
convinced about the story. Hence when someone knocked the door, he ran towards the balcony to
hide. He jumped through the window assuming that there was a balcony. He fell straight from the sixth
floor to the ground. He was dead. The balcony in this story plays a significant role to get rid of a
criminal.
c. Ausable planned to get rid of Max the very moment he noticed him. Explain with supporting evidence
from the story.
Ausable was a secret agent. But he did not look smart and romantic. He was very fat and short. But he
had a good presence of mind. He deals in spying danger. Fowler was a writer. He came to meet
Ausable to write a new story or a report. As the two entered the room, they saw a man in the middle of
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Ausable's room. He had a pistol in his hand. He was Max, a criminal. Ausable knew him when he was in
Berlin. The very moment he noticed him, he planned to get rid of him, by some means. So he planned
to cook up a story about a balcony. He told Max that there was a balcony just below the window of his
room. Last month too, an unknown person had entered the room through that balcony. Max told that he
never knew about the balcony, otherwise he would have entered through it. He had used a master key
to enter the room. When there was a knocking on the door, Max became nervous and jumped from the
window to hide in the balcony. But unfortunately there was no balcony. He fell down to the ground from
the sixth floor and died. Ausable's presence of mind and cleverness, made him get rid of Max.
d. Sketch the character of Ausable.
Ausable was a secret agent. He was a fat and sloppy fellow. In his appearance, he did not seem to be a
romantic figure. He came to Paris from Boston twenty years ago. He could speak French and German
fairly well. He had not lost the American accent. He was a very intelligent person. He had a great
presence of mind. He did not lose heart in a difficult situation. When he faced a man with a pistol in his
hand, he remained cool. He cooked up a story about the balcony. He made Max nervous by telling him
about the police. He got Max killed without any fighting and shooting. Fowler, who was disappointed to
meet him at the beginning of the story, was very much impressed with his intelligence and presence of
mind at the end of the story.
e. Do you think physical appearance matters most for a secret agent? Answer giving reasons in the
context of the story 'The Midnight Visitor’
Physical appearances do not matter most for a secret agent. Only presence of mind, cleverness and
good judgement is very much needed for a secret agent to tackle any difficult situations. When Max,
the criminal, entered his room to take away the important reports, he acted promptly to get rid of I him.
He cooked up a story about a balcony and told him that there was unknown person who entered his
room earlier. When Max heard a knock on the door, Ausable told him that it was the police whom he
had called for the extra protection of the papers. Max wanted him to send them off quickly till he waited
on the balcony. Actually it was the waiter knocking at the door. Ausable used the false story to mislead
Max. So Max tried to hide himself in the balcony and jumped from the window. Thus he fell down on the
ground from the sixth floor and died. This proves the presence of mind and cleverness of the secret
agent Ausable.
f. The unexpected presence of a criminal wielding a gun triggers different reactions in the two men who
entered the room. In this light, discuss the appropriacy of the title.
“The unexpected presence of a criminal weilding a gun triggers different reactions in the two men who
entered the room”. This is evident in the story of 'The Midnight Visitor’. Max, a criminal had hatched an
evil plan to take the confidential report concerning a new missile from Ausable, a secret agent. Seeing
that the criminal had been determined getting the report, Ausable was shocked. But his presence of
mind was more powerful than the shock. He pretended to be unaffected by this and moved to an
armchair and sat down heavily. He swore that he was not going to forgive the management of the hotel
for its carelessness and irresponsibility. He cooked up a story of the balcony that never existed. His
presence of mind made him get rid of the criminai Max. But Fowler was not like Ausable. He was
scared of the criminal and did not know what to do. Even at the end of the story, he was still scared and
staring at Ausable. He was afraid that Max would come back again he was not aware of the death of
Max.
ADDITIONAL
1. What information did Ausable give about the imaginary balcony? Why did he do so?
Ausable created a detailed description of how his room was part of a bigger apartment and how the
next room had a direct connection with a balcony. His statement that somebody else had also broken
into his office through that balcony made it a convincing story. Ausable did this to fool Max into thinking
that a balcony existed just outside the window. He knew that soon the waiter would bring the drinks, he
had ordered. He expected that he would be knocking at the door. It would prompt Max to jump into the
imaginary balcony to hide. Rightly enough, it happened as assumed by Ausable. Max jumped from the
window and fell down to the ground from the sixth floor and died.
2. Ausable was a clever secret agent. Do you agree with the statement? Justify your answer.
Ausable did not look at all the conventional image of a secret agent. He was short and very fat.
Besides, he spoke French and German which lacked fluency as well as the right accent. The American
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accent was quite palpable in his speech. However, Ausable had a very sharp and active mind because
he invented two stories, one about a nonexistent balcony outside his hotel window and another about
the police arriving to give extra security to some important documents, he was about to receive. He
was an intelligent man and a clever secret agent to be able to invent such stories on the spur of the
moment in the face of imminent danger in the form of Max, a criminal.
3. Why did Max scream shrilly when he dropped to the balcony?
A person screams shrilly when something unexpected happens to him. Here, Max screamed shrilly
when he jumped to the 'balcony', because actually there was no balcony at all; it was only a figment of
Ausable's imagination. Ausable had described the balcony so vividly, including its history and use.
Max was convinced that there was a balcony just outside the window. So, when there was a loud
knocking at the door, Ausable cleverly told that, that was the police. Max got nervous and wanted to
hide from the police. He immediately jumped to the balcony, without looking. As the room was on the
sixth floor, Max would certainly have been died by falling from such a height. This was the presence of
mind and intelligence of Ausable which made him to get rid of Max.
4. A calm mind can help you tackle direct stress. Explain.
Certainly, a calm mind can help us to tackle direct stress. If Ausable had panicked and done something
fishy, then Max probably would have killed him. But Ausable kept his mind cool. Apart from this story,
there can be some real life examples also. We are always told to focus when we are appearing for
exams or not to panic in a difficult situation because such things hamper our thinking ability. We are not
able to take proper decisions at this time. If we keep our mind cool and focus, then only can we find
ways to get out of crunch situations. So we should always be calm and patient, tackle difficult
situations.
5. Presence of mind is basically mental preparedness or the ability to think and act wisely in a dangerous
or surprising situation. How would you react to the situation if you see a small child being knocked
down by a speeding motorcycle or car, which speeds away after hitting the child?
First aid should be given to the child at once. Public help may also be asked, if necessary. Depending
on the seriousness of the injury, the child may be shifted to hospital. Simultaneously, we should try to
note the license plate number of the offending vehicle, so that the police may be intimated to arrest the
criminal. If the child is conscious and can talk coherently, we should try to find out the name and
telephone number of any of its family members to inform them about the mishap. Thus the presence of
mind is basically mental preparedness or ability to think or act wisely in a dangerous situation.
UNIT - 5 - ALL SUMMER IN A DAY

1. Based on your understanding of the story, answer the following questions in a sentence or
two.
a. What do children get ready for at the beginning of the story?
The children get ready to see the sun which would come out on Venus that day after seven years.
b. How is life in the planet Venus described?
It had been raining for seven years. There were tidal waves. A thousand forests had been crushed
under the rain and grown up a thousand times to be crushed again. This was the life in the planet
Venus.
c. Who is Margot? How is she different from the rest of the children?
Margot is a nine year old girl, who moved from Ohio to the planet Venus when she was four years old.
She remembers the sun and the sky very well. But the rest of the children do not remember the sun and
its appearance.
d. What does Margot like the most - the sun or the rain?
Margot likes the sun, the most. She had a fascination for the sun.
e. What was Margot waiting for? Why did William say that it was a joke?
Margot was waiting for the rain to stop and for the sun to come out. William told that it was a joke
because he didn't believe that the sun would come out.
f. Why does Margot wish to return to the earth?
Margot wished to return to the earth, as she was not happy there on planet Venus. She wanted to see
the sun which fascinates here.
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g. Why did the children lock Margot in a closet?
The children locked Margot in a closet because they disliked her. So they forcibly put Margot in a closet
while their teacher was away.
h. Margot could recall what the sun looked like while the other children could not. Why?
Margot could recall what the sun looked like because she lived in Ohio until she was four years old.
She still had many memories of the sun. The other children could not remember the sun because the
sun had come out in Venus when they were two years old.
i. How long did the Sun shine on Venus?
The sun shone on Venus for one or two hours.
j. Why did one of the girls wail?
One of the girls wailed because she remembered that Margot was still in the closet.
2. Based on your understanding of the story, answer the following in three or four sentences.
a. What is the significance of the particular day described in the story “All summer in a day”?
On planet Venus, sunshine occurs only once in seven years. So the teacher and the children of the
school await the appearance of the sun with great curiosity. So this is the significance of the particular
day described in the story.
b. What happens to Margot while the teacher is out of the classroom?
Margot was forcibly caught and pushed into a closet. She was locked there. The teacher had no
knowledge about this mischief.
c. How did Margot describe the sun to others?
Margot described the sun as it was like a penny or like a fire in the stove. But other children did not
believe her. They thought that was lying.
d. How did the children react when the sun came out after seven years?
The children had never experienced the sun before. So they turned their faces up to the sky and felt the
sun on their cheeks like a warm iron. They took off their jackets and let the sun burn their arms. One of
the children - remarked that the real sunlight was much better than the sun lamps.
e. Why did William and the other children bully Margot?
The children did not like Margot because she was different from them. She played no games with
them. If they tagged her and ran, she stood blinking after them and did not follow them. They were
upset by her behaviour. So they bullied her.
f. What were their feelings towards Margot at the end of the story?
When, the children remembered Margot locked in a closet, they regretted their action. Their faces
became solemn and pale. They looked at their hands and feet with their faces down. They could not
meet each other's glances.
g. What does the title of the story convey?
The title, of the story is very apt, as the appearance of the Sun for the children living on Venus is very
significant. Before the appearance of the sun, the children lacked compassion and consideration for
others. They do not gain their humanity until they spend some time in the light of the sun. The sun is the
life-giver for all of them.
3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 100—150 words each.

a. What is the conflict between Margot and the other children in the story, “All Summer in a day”?
Margot was like an alien for the other school children. They thought her to be different. All kinds of
rumorus were spreading about Margot. For example, it was rumoured that her father and mother were
taking her back to Earth next year. Even Margot wanted that she should go back to Earth, though it
would mean the loss of thousand of dollars to her family. Moreover they thought of Margot as a liar, who
often talked about the penny-like shape of the sun and also its fire. They could never believe in
anything like the sun. They hated her pale snow face, her waiting silence, her thinness and her
possible future.
b. How do the children react to the long awaited event in the story?
The children lay down on the jungle mattress and heard it sigh and squeak under their pressure. They
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ran among the trees, slipping, falling and pushing each other. They played games like hide-and-seek
and tag. Most of all, they squinted at the sun until tears ran down their faces. This shows how excited
they were at seeing the sun for the first time in these seven years. They breathed the fresh air and
listened to the silence. They wildly escaped from their 'caves' and ran around in circles making a lot of
noise.
c. The sun brought about a positive change in the attitude of the children. Illustrate the statement.
The light of the sun was a new phenomenon for the children. They had never experienced it before.
They turned their faces up to the sky and they could feel the sun on their cheeks like a warm iron. They
took off their jackets and let the sun burn their arms. One of the children remarked that the real sunlight
was much better than the sun lamps. The children stood in the great jungle that covered Venus. The
jungle looked like a nest of octopi, clustering up great arms of flesh like weed, wavering, flowering in
this brief spring.
d. Did the children regret having locked Margot in a closet? Answer citing relevantly from the story.
It had started raining very hard once again. The children knew that the rain would continue every where
and forever. Suddenly one of the children gave out a little cry “Margot” When the other children asked
her what was wrong, she reminded them that Margot was still in the closet, where they had locked her.
They could not meet each other's glances because they felt guilty. It was Margot, who had first told
them about the sun and its size and colour. But nobody had believed her at the time. Now, everybody
had seen the sun face to face and everybody felt that she was right and they were wrong. As soon as
they realized their error, they walked down the hall towards the closet. They walked through the sound
of storm and thunder and unlocked the door slowly and let Margot out. This is how, they discovered the
truth. They regained their compassion and consideration for others after spending some time in the
light of the sun.
ADDITIONAL
1. What is the significance of the title of the story “All Summer in a Day?” Is the title appropriate?
“All Summer in a Day” is a fanciful story written by Ray Douglas Bradbury. Bradbury is known for his
science fiction, horror and mystery stories. The present story is also a curious mixture of mystery,
suspense and horror. The setting of the story is the planet Venus where it keeps on raining for years
together. Sunshine occurs only once in seven years. That too for one or two hours. The scene of the
story is set in a school where the teachers and children await the appearance of the sun with great
curiosity.
One sunny day is equal to an earthy summer on this planet. Hence, the title is quite appropriate.
2. What is the majority difference between Margot and other children on the planet Venus?
Margot was like a stranger in her class. She has come to this planet (Venus) only five years ago from
Earth. She still remembered the sun and the sky and how they looked when she was only four years
old in the city of Ohio. The other children in the school had been on Venus all their lives and they had
been only two years old when last the sun come out on Venus. Since they were small at that time, they
had now forgotten the colour and heat of the sun and how it looked. When Margot told them that the
sun was like a penny or like a fire in the stove, nobody was ready to believe her. They thought that she
was lying.
3. What were the reason of big and little consequence because of which the other children hated Margot?
Margot was like an alien for the other children. They thought her to be 'different'. All kinds of rumours
were spreading about Margot. For example, it was rumoured that her father and mother were taking
her back to Earth next year. Even Margot wanted that she should go back to earth, though it would
mean the loss of thousands of dollars to her family. More over they thought of Margot as a liar who
often talked about the penny-like shape of the sun and also its fire. They hated her pale snow face, her
waiting silence, her thinness and her possible future.
4. Why did the children lock Margot in a closet?
Margot had seen the sun as a four-year old girl when she was in Ohio. She knew the colour and heat of
the sun and remembered it even after coming to Venus. The other children were all nine years old and
had completely forgotten about the sun that had risen seven years ago on Venus. For them the sun did
not exist. But now the news had come from scientists that the sun would again rise for a day, after
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seven long years of raining. Though the children were all excited about the coming event, none of them
liked Margot for talking about it so authentically. One of the boys said, “let's put her in a closet before
the teacher comes!” Then they all surged about her, caught her up and pushed her into a closet and
locked the door. The teacher had no knowledge of this mischief.
5. What happened when the sun finally came out?
The rain slackened slowly and came to a stop. It was followed by a disturbed violence which seemed
like a tornado, a hurricane or volcanic eruption. Then everything went silent as if the world had ground
to a standstill. The silence was so overwhelming that one felt as if one had gone deaf. The children put
their hands to their ears. Then, all of a sudden, the sun came out. It was flaming bronze in colour and it
looked very large. The sky was blazing blue and the whole jungle seemed to burn with sunlight. It was
incredible.
The children felt as if they had been released from a spell. They rushed out, yelling into the spring time,
which comes only once in 7 years. The teachers warned them not to go too far. The children had only
two hours to remain outside. But the children seemed to go out of control. They were running and
turning their faces up to the sky.
They were feeling the sun on their cheeks like a warm iron. They were letting the sun burn their arms
after taking off their jackets.
UNIT - 6 - REMEMBER CAESAR (Play)

1. Complete the summary of the play, choosing the appropriate words from the list given below
the passage.
Lord Weston was a (1) judge in England. Being pompous and vain, he told his secretary
Roger that he had attained glory by hard work and (2) . He expressed his displeasure over
Roger's request for a half-holiday. Suddenly, he discovered a piece of paper with the words (3)
in his pocket, and he feared that the message was a warning conveyed by his enemies
who had received legal punishments from him. As the message was sent on the 15th of March, (the
day Julius Caesar was assassinated), he was (4) that someone affected by his fair
judgement was plotting his murder. Sensing the definite attack, Lord Weston ordered his secretary to
(5) all the doors and windows. But his wife remained (6) by the threat. So, Lord
Weston was angered by her (7) reaction. He ordered Roger to send the cook and the (8)
away. Both Weston and Roger took elaborate precautionary measures to thwart the (9)
attempt. Finally, Weston was able to recollect that he had written the message “Remember
Caesar” himself as a (10) Caesar was actually a gardener who had an appointment to visit
Weston's garden. The play revolves around Weston's absent-mindedness which is the crux of the
play.
callous unperturbed well-known gardener reminder
zealous service remember Caesar assassination shut convinced
Answer
(1) well-known (2) zealous service (3) Remember Caesar (4) convinced
(5) shut (6) unperturbed (7) callous (8) gardener
(9) assassination (10) reminder
2. Based on your understanding of the text, answer the following questions briefly.
a. How did Lord Weston describe himself?
Lord Weston described himself as a hard worker. He won his honours by hard work and zealous
service.
b. How did Roger react to Lord Weston's advice?
Roger was not paying attention to his advice. He was rather more busy in his work of copying words
spoken by his master.
c. What made Lord Weston think that his life was in danger?
Weston finds a scrap of paper in his pocket. On it was written 'Remember Caesar’. These words made
him to think that his life was in danger.
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d. Why was the speaker keen to know what day it was?
As the message was sent on the 15th of March, he was convinced that someone affected by his
judgement would kill him. On 15th of March, Julius Caesar was murdered. So Weston was keen to
know the day.
e. Mention the immediate steps taken by Lord Weston to protect himself from his assassin.
The immediate steps taken by Lord Weston was to shut all the doors and windows in his house. He
also ordered Roger to send away all his servants.
f. Do you think that Lady Weston did not care about the threat to her husband? State reasons.
Yes, Lady Weston did not care about the threat to her husband because Lord Weston makes noises
and bustles over small matters. He panicked for silly things.
g. How did Lord Weston 'defuse' the 'infernal machine'?
Lord Weston sees a package on a chair. He thinks it is an explosive. So he tries to defuse it by inserting
it in a pail of water. It becomes completely wet.
h. Whose life was of 'great value' to England? In what way?
Lord Weston’s life is of great value to England, as he is a strict judge. He is well known in England for
his hard work and zealous service.
i. Why did the speaker consider his life less important?
The speaker considers his life as less important because he thinks that he is only a secretary to the
judge.
j. Who reminded Lord Weston about Mr. Caesar?
Roger, his secretary reminded Lord Weston about Mr. Caesar, the gardener.
k. What was the truth about the crumpled piece of paper?
The crumpled piece of paper was a reminder written by Lord Weston about Caesar, the gardener. He
had to come to see the Rose trees.
l. Bring out the irony in the message “Remember Caesar”.
Being a very reputed judge in England, Weston took this message for an assassin’s warning to him.
Checking the date, Lord Weston saw that it was the 15th March. It was the very day Julius Caesar was
assassinated. Finally, the story reveals that it is the absent-mindedness of Lord Weston, who writes a
reminder about his gardener named Caesar. He had an appointment to visit Weston’s garden.
3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph about 1 50 words each.

a. “Remember Caesar” is a light hearted comedy. Discuss the statement in a group and identify various
aspects such as title, plot and characterisation that contribute to the humour in the play.
A well-known judge in England discovered a piece of paper with a message written on it - “Remember
Caesar” He feared that the message was a warning conveyed by one of his enemies, who had
received legal punishments from him. The message was sent on the 15th of March. It was the day
when Julius Caesar was assassinated. He was convinced that someone affected by his fair
judgement, was plotting his murder. Sensing the direct attack, he was very careful. He ordered to shut
all the windows, and doors. But his wife remained undisturbed and calm. They drowned a newly
bought velvet cloak. They thought it was an explosive. Finally, Weston was able to recollect that he had
written the message as a reminder. Caesar was actually a gardener. He had an appointment to visit
Weston’s garden. The play revolves around Weston’s absent-mindedness. This contributes to the
humour in the play.
b. Compare the character traits of Lord Weston and his wife.
Lord Weston was a man of extreme self importance. He was a judge, severe and straight forward. He
had placed law above all. Therefore, he feared that his enemies would kill him. He was proud that he
had got glory by hard work and zealous service. He advised his secretary Roger to be hardworking
and respectful. He was a man of absent-mindedness. He makes noises and bustle over a small matter.
He had enemies around him as he was a strict judge. So he feared that his life was in danger. As soon
as he found the message, ‘Remember Caesar’, he was convinced that his life was in danger. But his
wife Lady Weston was light hearted. She is a sensible lady. Her husband’s explosive reaction was
normal to her. So she was undisturbed and calm when there was a threat to her husband. The contrast
between them provides the humour to the play.
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c. Group Work: The play revolves around a 'perceived threat' and how Lord Weston and Lady Weston
react to it. Let's reverse their roles. Imagine a panic-stricken Lady Weston and a frivolous Lord
Weston. Read the following piece of dialogue from the play and rewrite it to suit the changed roles.
LADY WESTON : My dear, your wife's life is in grave danger.

WESTON : The last time it was in danger you had been eating game pie. What is
it this time?
LADY WESTON : (annihilating his flippancy with one broadside) : Assassination!
WESTON : Well, well! You always wanted to be a great woman and now you have got your
wish!
LADY WESTON : What do you mean?
WESTON : They don't assassinate anybody.
ADDITIONAL
1. What was Weston's advice for Roger?

Weston was proud of being a honest judge. He wanted Roger to consider his own success in the world
more than being dutiful to his master. He wanted Roger to be more than being a secretary all his life. He
advised him to be hard working and have respect for detail.
He placed himself as an ideal example for him, saying he did not become Lord Weston by twiddling his
thumbs and hoping for favours. Instead, he won his honours by hard work and zealous service. He
proudly reminded Roger that because of his diligence, he rose to the status of being the best-known,
and certainly the most impartial, judge in England, and a favoured servant of his gracious majesty,
Charles the second.
2. How does Lady Weston make fun of her husband's spurt of emotions?
Lord Weston was a judge but he was also a coward who saw his life in constant danger. On the other
hand, his wife Frances had been fed up with her husband's foolish behaviour. She spoke as if she too
had believed that the message 'Remember Caesar' posed immediate threat to Weston's life. She also
said that it was fortunate that his spills had exhausted and he would have gone out without seeing the
warning message in the pocket. In an utmost sarcasm, Lady Weston makes fun of her husband's over-
cautions nature.
3. How did Weston happen to see the alarming message of 'Remember Caesar'?
Lord Weston was looking for a spill for his pipe when he found a scrap of paper, rather crushed, in his
pocket. He smoothed it out to make a rough spill. Reading automatically and with some difficulty what
is written on the scrap of paper, he found a short message - 'Remember Caesar'.Wondering what the
message meant, he took it for himself - a terrible message for him, warning him of his death. Having
considered him too important in the country, he thought that he was going to be killed by one of his
enemies. He further connected that Julius Caesar was assassinated by the conspirators on 15th
March and he found the warning message also on 15th March.
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PART - I
(One Mark Questions)
Choose the correct answer for each of the following from the options given: 20 x 1 = 20 Marks
1. Synonyms
A word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase is called synonym.
UNIT - 1 Two Gentlemen of Verona
1. As we drove through the foothills of the Alps, two small boys stopped us on the outskirts of Verona.
(a) inner parts of the city (b) interior parts (c) the outer parts of a town (d) centre of the town
2. As we made the rounds, my interest was again provoked by their remarkable demeanour.
(a) appearance and behaviour (b) amble (c) annihilation (d) sloth
3. Nicola was glancing at his younger brother in vexation.
(a) enjoyment (b) annoyance (c) comfort (d) convenience
4. She led me through a cool, tiled vestibule into the hospital.
(a) outlet (b) lobby (c) door (d) band room
5. They brought her here, persuaded us to take her into the hospital.
(a) discouraged (b) disallowed (c) convinced (d) deterred
6. I felt I could not bear to intrude upon this happy family party.
(a) leave (b) ignore (c) enter without permission (d) protrude
7. They were childish enough and in many ways quite artless.
(a) innocent (b) opportunistic (c) hypocritical (d) cunning
8. Then as trade slackened, we went over.
(a) increased (b) prospered (c) reduced (d) continued
9. One boy had on a worn jersey and cut-off khaki pants.
(a) new (b) old and damaged (c) invigorated (d) fresh
10. He shrugged his shoulders to convey his disapproval of their shabby appearance.
(a) good (b) royal (c) clean (d) ill-dressed
Unit - 2 - A Nice Cup of Tea
1. This is curious not only because tea is one of the main stays of civilization in this country.
(a) interesting (b) boring (c) average (d) painful
2. China Tea has virtues which are not to be despised nowadays.
(a) liked (b) hated (c) attracted (d) fascinated
3. One does not feel wiser, braver or more optimistic after drinking it.
(a) positive (b) negative (c) gloomy (d) doubtful
4. In some countries, teapots are fitted with little dangling baskets.
(a) colouring (b) brimming (c) twisting (d) hanging freely
5. I know very well that I am in a minority here.
(a) the smaller number (b) greater number (c) seniority (d) ample number
6. These are not the only controversial points to arise in connection with teadrinking.
(a) unarguable (b) agreeable (c) peaceful (d) arguable
7. There is also the mysterious social etiquette surrounding the teapot.
(a) rudeness (b) acceptable behaviour (c) improper manners (d) misbehaviour
8. Army Tea, made in a cauldron tastes of grease and whitewash.
(a) small pot used for boiling (b) sauce pan (c) big pot used for boiling (d) griddle
UNIT - 3 In Celebration of Being Alive
1. my thoughts have turned to the consideration of why people should suffer.
(a) disregard (b) careful thought (c) ignorance (d) failure
2. Suffering seems so cruelly prevalent, in the world today.
(a) rare (b) abnormal (c) common (d) irregular
3. I experienced not only agony and fear but also anger.
(a) comfort (b) happiness (c) health (d) suffering
4. I had eleven broken ribs and a perforated lung.
(a) aspirated (b) damaged with holes (ç) enlarged (d) swollen
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5. In those days, they didn't have sophisticated heart surgery.
(a) well advanced (b) harsh (c) simple (d) basic
6. Suffering was something basic that was full of solace for me.
(a) comfort (b) distress (c) anguish (d) boredom
7. This trolley was commandeered by an intrepid crew of two.
(a) coward (b) bold (c) timid (d) shy
8. His shoulder and arm were amputated.
(a) fixed (b) cut off (c) mended (d) regulated
9. Suddenly, I realized that these children had given me a profound lesson.
(a) very great (b) partial (c) trivial (d) short
10. There was a grand finale.
(a) opening (b) debut (c) initiation (d) climax
UNIT -4 - The Summit
1. Sir Edmund Hillary's own words, tell how the summit of the Everest was reached.
(a) base (b) cellar (c) meadow (d) centre
2. They watched their three companions go down the ridge back towards the South Col.
(a) higher edge (b) foundation (c) trench (d) basin
3. We donned our wind proof as our down clothing.
(a) took off (b) disrobed (c) sold out (d) put on
4. Tenzing kicked steps in a long traverse back towards the ridge.
(a) back up (b) travel across (c) bear out (d) stay
5. I scraped the ice off the gauges.
(a) restored (b) scratched (c) loaded (d) collected
6. I decided to go on and we finally reached firmer snow higher up.
(a) stronger (b) softer (c) wavering (d) weaker
7. I continued making the trail on up the ridge.
(a) design (b) signal (c) sound (d) way
8. Scrambling on the rocks and cutting hand holds on the snow
(a) climbing fast (b) retreating (c) resting (d) stopping
9. My progress, although slow, was steady.
(a) weak (b) bad (c) firm (d) worse
10. As I heaved hard on the rope, Tenzing wriggled his way up the crack.
(a) pushed (b) pulled (c) threw (d) dropped
UNIT - 5 The Status of Tamil as a Classical Language
1. First, Tamil is of considerable antiquity.
(a) newness (b) ancientness (c) aptness (d) goodness
2. The greatest works of ancient Tamil are the Sangam anthologist and the Pattuppattu.
(a) collection of writings (b) collections of jewels
(c) collection of gifts (d) collection of paintings
3. Tamil language has its own esthetics which is unique.
(a) common (b) distinctive (c) normal (d) ordinary
4. It shows a sort of Indian sensibility that is quite different from anything.
(a) apathy (b) finer feelings (c) severity (d) possibility
5. They are the great secular body of poetry written in India.

(a) religious (b) non-religious (c) important (d) wonderful
6. Tamil constitutes the only literary tradition indigenous to India.
(a) alien (b) foreign (c) external (d) native
7. There is not a facet of human existence that is not explored and illuminated by this great literature.
(a) overhead (b) feature (c) entirety (d) straddle
8. The great sacred works of Tamil Hinduism have undergirded the development of modern Hinduism.
(a) support (b) stopped (c) blocked (d) prevented
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9. They rose on pre existing traditions rather late and developed.
(a) latter (b) future (b) former (d) following
10. The status of Tamil as greatest classical language is patently obvious to anyone who knows the
subject.
(a) clearly (b) dramatically (c) covertly (d) obscurely
11. They had also edited most of the classical texts for the first time.
(a) disordered (b) disorganized (c) disturbed (d) compiled
12. I am delighted to respond to his request.
(a) ask (b) ignore (c) question (d) answer
UNIT - 6 On the Rule of the Road
1. Individual liberty would have become social anarchy.
(a) lawfulness (b) order (c) lawlessness (d) control
2. The liberties of everybody must be curtailed.
(a) increased (b) reduced (c) unlimited (d) raised
3. He is the symbol of tyranny.
(a) autocracy (b) liberty (c) democracy (d) autonomy
4. seeing your car pulled up by his insolence of office.
(a) gentleness (b) modesty (c) awareness (d) rudeness
5. Liberty is not a personal affair only, but a social contract.
(a) commitment (b) disloyalty (c) treachery (d) falseness
6. I have liberty to be indifferent to you.
(a) concerned (b) troubled (c) unconcerned (d) anxious
7. I have a fancy for dyeing my hair.
(a) hatred (b) desire (c) aversion (d) dislike
8. We have a whole kingdom, in which we can be conventional or odd.
(a) normal (b) unusual (c) abnormal (d) strange
9. I have to accommodate my liberty to their liberties.
(a) hinder (b) hamper (c) fit in with (d) reject
10. A reasonable consideration for the rights or feelings of others is the foundation of social conduct.
(a) overlook (b) disregard (c) neglect (d) scrutiny
ANTONYMS
Antonym is a word opposite in meaning to another word.
UNIT - 1 Two Gentlemen of Verona
1. They were selling wild strawberries.
(a) strange (b) strong (c) domestic (d) feral
2. We bought their biggest basket and then set off.
(a) ordered (b) took (c) sold (d) purchased
3. Nicola's smile was steady and engaging.
(a) charming (b) alluring (c) attracting (d) unappealing
4. He smiled uncomfortably.
(a) comfortably (b) gloomily (c) restlessly (d) painfully
5. I imagined that our destinations would be some humble dwelling.
(a) thought (b) guessed (c) unimagined (d) perceived
6. They disappeared beyond the corner of the wall.
(a) lost (b) hide (c) concealed (d) appeared
7. She paused, took a quick breath.
(a) continued (b) interrupted (c) stopped (d) waited
8. They sat beside me, not speaking.
(a) aside (b) from far away (c) nearby (d) close to
9. Their selfless action brought a new nobility to human life.
(a) genuine (b) honest (c) selfish (d) sincere
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10. Their devotion had touched me deeply.
(a) dedication (b) loyalty (c) love (d) disloyalty
Unit - 2 - A Nice Cup of Tea

1. The best manner of making tea, is the subject of violent disputes.
(a) rough (b) gentle (c) severe (d) harsh
2. Anyone who has used that comforting phrase 'a nice cup of tea' invariably means Indian tea.
(a) never (b) always (c) constantly (d) ever
3. Actually, one can swallow tea-leaves in considerable quantities without ill-effect.
(a) significant (b) ample (c) abundant (d) insignificant
4. The milk-first school can bring forward some fairly strong arguments.
(a) in front of (b) backward (c) forth (d) ahead
5. I maintain that my own argument is unanswerable.
(a) answerable (b) unreliable (c) admirable (d) notable
6. It would be equally reasonable to put in pepper or salt.
(a) wise (b) logical (c) appropriate (d) unreasonable
7. You will ever want to ruin your tea by sweetening it again.
(a) damage (b) destroy (c) create (d) spoil
8. They are sufficient to show how subtilized the whole business has become.
(a) refined (b) modernised (c) unrefined (d) developed
9. It is worth paying attention to such details.
(a) good (b) apt (c) best (d) worthless
UNIT - 3 In Celebration of Being Alive

1. He suffered severe third-degree burns on the upper part of his body.
(a) strict (b) harsh (c) mild (d) serious
2. He had full confidence in the mechanic.
(a) trust (b) diffidence (c) reliance (d) sureness
3. You don't become a better person because you are suffering.
(a) enjoying (b) anguishing (c) tormenting (d) crying
4. We can't appreciate light, if we haven't known darkness.
(a) adore (b) condemn (c) admire (d) like
5. The business of living is the celebration of being alive.
(a) failure (b) jubilation (c) achievement (d) triumph
6. What is important is what you have left.
(a) vital (b) crucial (c) unwanted (d) critical
7 ................ he had a malignant tumour of hone.
(a) deadly (b) harmless (c) lethal (d) destructive
8. Suffering ennobles you, makes you a better person.
(a) makes dignified (b) humiliates (c) honours (d) exalts
UNIT -4 - The Summit

1. As the sun set, Hillary and Tenzing crawled into the tent.
(a) creeped (b) raced (c) dragged (c) plodded
2. From here, the ridge narrowed to a knife-edge.
(a) broadened (b) contracted (c) decreased (d) reduced
3. We persisted in our efforts to beat a trail up it.
(a) continued (b) remained (c) stayed (d) slopped
4. We made frequent changes of lead.
(a) regular (b) rare (c) repeated (d) continual
5. Tenzing collapsed at the top like a giant fish.
(a) failed completely (b) refreshed (c) fell down (d) gave way
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6. For a few moments I lay regaining my breath.
(a) achieving (b) reaching (c) losing (d) attaining
7. Far away across the clouds, the great bulk Kanchenjunga loomed on the horizon.
(a) emerged (b) came out (c) appeared (d) vanished
8. The achievement, that was brilliantly concluded by Tenzing and Hillary.
(a) completed (b) commenced (c) stopped (d) closed
9. Some are close at hand, others are far away in distant lands.
(a) far (b) isolated (c) near (d) remote
UNIT - 5 The Status of Tamil as a Classical Language

1. Let me consider them one by one.
(a) analyse (b) disregard (c) regard (d) study
2. But there is merely one of a myriad of major and extremely varied works
(a) infinite (b) numerous (c) limited (d) multiple
3. Tamil contains its own extremely rich and vast intellectual tradition.
(a) small (b) large (c) wide (d) huge
4. I have written extensively on the influence of a Southern tradition on the Sanskrit poetic tradition.
(a) widely (b) slightly (c) broadly (d) greatly
5. I know that they are among the most fecund and productive languages on earth.
(a) fertile (b) infertile (c) yielding (d) bountiful
6. Yet none of them is a classical language.
(a) traditional (b) customary (c) conventional (d) modernized
7. It rose as an entirely independent tradition.
(a) new look (b) habitual (c) orthodox (d) custom
8. To deny that Tamil is classical language is to deny a vital and central part of the greatness and richness
of Indian culture.
(a) reject (b) refuse (c) accept (d) abstain
9. It pre-dates the literatures of other modern Indian languages by more than a thousand years
(a) comes first (b) outranks (c) comes in last (d) precedes
10. I am also well-acquainted with comparative and the literatures of modern Europe.
(a) ancient (b) latest (c) new (d) current
UNIT - 6 On the Rule of the Road

1. A stout old lady was walking with her basket in the middle of a street.
(a) fat (b) thin (c) bulky (d) plump
2. There is a danger of the world getting liberty-drunk in these days.
(a) threat (b) safe (c) harm (d) injury
3. How dare this follow interfere with your free use of the public highway?
(a) hinder (b) intrude (c) meddle (d) aid
4. It is an accommodation of interests.
(a) adaptation (b) settlement (c) refusal (d) fitting
5. I shall not inquire of you whether I may eat mustard with my mutton.
(a) respond (b) ask (c) investigate (d) interrogate
6. Our personal liberty of action becomes qualified by other people's liberty
(a) capable (b) incompetent (c) skilled (d) trained
7. We are liable to forget this aspect.
(a) likely (b) inclined (c) unlikely (d) apt
8. We pass judgment upon ourselves.
(a) wisdom (b) wit (c) misjudgement (d) shrewdness
9. The great moments of heroism and sacrifice are rare.
(a) bravery (b) courage (c) fearlessness (d) cowardliness
10. The end of such liberty would be universal chaos.
(a) confusion (b) orderliness (c) disorder (d) commotion
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Clipped Words
Clipping is the process of forming a new word by dropping one or more syllables from a polysyllabic word,
such as cellphone from cellular phone. In other words, clipping refers to part of a word that serves for the
whole, such as ad and phone from advertisement and telephone, respectively. The term is also known as a
clipped form, clipped word, shortening, and truncation.
A clipped form generally has the same denotative meaning as the word it comes from, but it's regarded as
more colloquial and informal. Clipping also makes it easier to spell and write many words. For example, a
clipped form may replace the original word in everyday usage—such as the use of piano in place of
pianoforte.
1. burger hamburger 15. rep representative
2. cab cabriolet 16. rhino rhinoceros
3. caps capsule 17. sax saxophone
4. celebs celebrities 18. specs spectacles
5. chute parachute 19. stats statistics
6. doc document 20. temp temperature
7. exam examination 21. ump umpire
8. gas gasoline 22. bus omnibus
9. gents gentlemen 23. cafe cafeteria
10. info information 24. champ champion
11. intro introduction 25. chemist alchemist
12. maths mathematics 26. copter helicopter
13. mayo mayonnaise 27. debut debutante
14. ref reference 28. fan fanatic
29. fax facsimile 39. memo memorandum
30. flu influenza 40. perk perquisite
31. fridge refrigerator 41. phone telephone
32. gym gymnasium 42. photo photograph
33. hippo hippopotamus 43. plane airplane
34. lab laboratory 44. pro professional
35. lube lubricate 45. prof professor
36. lunch luncheon 46. stereo stereophonic
37. mike microphone 47. van caravan
38. mart market
EXERCISES
1. Choose the clipped form of the word for 'bicycle'.
(a) byke (b) bike (c) cycle (d) bicy
2. Choose the clipped form of the word for 'advertisement'.
(a) advertise (b) ad (c) ads (d) advert
3. Choose the clipped form of the word for 'demonstration'.
(a) demo (b) demon (c) station (d) demons
4. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'motorbike'.
(a) motor (b) moto (c) bikes (d) bike
5. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'pressure cooker'.
(a) cooker (b) pressure (c) sure (d) cook
6. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'handkerchief'.
(a) hand (b) chief (c) kerchief (d) handker
7. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'newscast'.
(a) cast (b) new (c) casts (d) news
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8. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'public house'.
(a) pub (b) public (c) house (d) use
9. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'zoological park'.
(a) park (b) zoo (c) logical (d) zoology
10. Choose the clipped from of the word for 'earthquake'.
(a) eq (b) earthake (c) quake (d) earth
UnClipped Words
“'To unclipped a word” means to expand the clipped form to its original form.
eg: mike : microphone
EXERCISES
1. Choose the unclipped form of “teen”.
(a) teendom (b) teenager (c) teenhood (d) teeny
2. Choose the unclipped form of “bro”
(a) brother (b) brochure (c) broth (d) browse
.3. Choose the unclipped form of “grad”.
(a) postgraduate (b) graduation (c) undergrad (d) graduate
4. Choose the unclipped form of “lab”.
(a) laboratoire (b) science lab (c) laboratory (d) laboratories
5. Choose the unclipped form of ‘jet’
(a) jetliner (b) jet aircraft (c) jet plane (d) jet engine
6. Choose the unclipped form of “exam”.
(a) examiners (b) examination (c) examining (d) examinees
7. Choose the unclipped form of “dorm”.
(a) dormit (b) dormitry (c) dormitory (d) dormy
8. Choose the unclipped form of “varsity”.
(a) university (b) adversity (c) versatile (d) universe
9. Choose the unclipped form of “tie”.
(a) untie (b) neck tie (c) tier (d) knot tie
10. Choose the unclipped form of “pant”
(a) elephant (b) pantry (c) pantaloon (d) triumphant
Blended Words
A blended word is a word that is formed by combining two different terms to create a new entity. Through
blending the sounds and meanings of two existing words, a portmanteau creates a new expression that is a
linguistic blend of the two individual terms.
For example : blog is derived from the source words web and log.
Formation of a word by blending two words:
1. agriculture + business = agribusiness 11. motor + bike = mobike
2. beauty + utility = beautility 12. motor + pedalcycle = moped
3. breakfast + lunch = brunch 13. motorway + hotel = motel
4. camera + recorder = camcorder 14. sky + laboratory = skylab
5. electronic + mail = e-mail 15. smoke + fog = smog
6. fantastic + fabulous fantabulous 16. television + photogenic = teiegenic
7. information + commercial = informercial 17. transfer + resistor = transistor
8. laundry + automat = laundromat 18. volcanic + ash = vash
9 medical + claim = mediclairn 19. wireless + fidelity = wifi
10. modulator + demodulator = modem 20. work + welfare = workfare
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EXERCISES
1. Choose the blended form of ‘breathalyzer’
(a) breath + analyzer (b) breadth + analayser (c) breathing + analyzer (d) bread + analyser
2. Choose the blended form of 'emoticon'
(a) emotion + icon (b) emote + cone (c) emote + iconic (d) emote + icon
3. Choose the blended form of 'motel'
(a) motor car + hotel (b) motor + hotel (c) motorway + hotel (d) motorist + hotel
4. Choose the blended form of 'spork'.
(a) spoon + port (b) spoon + fork (c) spill + cork (d) sport + cork
5. Choose the blended form of 'webinar'
(a) website + seminar (b) web + seminar (c) webs + minar (d) web + seminary
6. Choose the blended form of 'paratroops'
(a) parachute + troop (b) parachute + troops (c) para + armytroop (d) paranormal ÷ troops
7. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'biopic'.
(a) biography + picture (b) biograph + pictures (c) biographical + picture (d) bio + pictures
8. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'travelogue'.
(a) travel + prologue (b) travellers + catalogue (c) travellers + dialogue (d) travel + catalogue
9. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'newscast'.
(a) news + telecast (b) newspaper + recast (c) news + broadcast (d) newsline + recast
10. Choose the right combination for the blended word ‘vegeburger'.
(a) vegetable + burger (b) vegetarian + burger (c) veg + burger (d) vegetative + burger
11. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'interpol'.
(a) international + policy (b) interstate + police (c) international + politics (d) international + police
12. Choose the right combination forthe blended word 'lecdem'.
(a) lector + demarcate (b) lecture + demand (c) lecture + demonstration (d) lecture + demonstrator
13. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'brunch'.
(a) brief + lunch (b) breakfast + lunch (c) break + crunch (d) break + lunch
14. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'medicare'.
(a) medical + scare (b) medicine + care (c)medical + care (d) medical + daycare
15. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'edutainment'.
(a) education + department (b) education + entertainment
(c) educational + entertainment (d) educate + entertain
16. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'infotech'.
(a) information + technological (b) inform + technical
(c) information + technology (d) information + technique
17. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'bit'.
(a) biotic + digit (b) billion + digit (c) binary + bitt (d) binary + digit
18. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'byte'.
(a) binary + table (b) binary + template (c) byline + tech (d) bypass + technique
19. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'heliport'.
(a) heli + port (b) helicopter + airport (c) helicopter + portal (d) helicopters + portals
20. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'electrocute'.
(a) electricity + execute (b) electrons + execute (c) eleçtro + execute (d) electronics + execute
21. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'workaholic'.
(a) worker + alcoholic (b) workers + alcoholic (c) work + alcoholic (d) works + alcoholic
22. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'docudrama'.
(a) document + drama (b) documentation + drama (c) documentary + drama (d) docu + drama
23. Choose the right combination for the blended word 'hi-tech'.
(a) highest + technics (b) higher + technical (c) high + technics (d) high + technology
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Right Definition of a term
(Text Book Page No. : 148)
I. 'ics words with their meaning:
1. Linguistics - the scientific study of a language.
2. Numismatics - the study of money and coins.
3. Electro Dynamics - the study of the way that electric currents and magnetic fields
affect each other.
4. Phonetics - the study of speech sounds.
5. Aesthetics - the study of principles of beauty.
6. Genetics - the study of genes.
7. Statistics - the study of processing data for storage and retrieval.
8. Politics - the study of government and using power in public life.
9. Aeronautics - the study of building and flying air-craft.
10. Informatics - the study of analysing information shown in numbers.
II. Professions with their relevant job descriptions:
1. archaeologist - one who studies arte facts and physical remains.
2. entomologist - one who studies insects.
3. geologist - one who studies the matter that constitutes the earth.
4. herpetologist - one who studies reptiles and amphibians.
5. linguist - one who studies languages and structures.
6. meteorologist - one who studies atmosphere, weather and climate.
7. ornithologist - one who studies birds.
8. pathologist - one who studies diseases.
9. seismologist - one who studies earthquakes.
10. sociologist - one who studies functioning of human society.
III. Some more words with meanings:
1. ambidextrous - able to use both hands with equal facility.
2. bibliophile - a person who collects or is fond of books.
3. globetrotter - to travel often and widely, especially for sightseeing.
4. misanthrope - one who hates or mistrusts humankind.
5. nonagenarian - a person who is between 90 and 99 years old.
6. optimist - one who usually expects a favourable outcome.
7. philanthropist - a person who practices philanthropy.
8. polyglot - a person having a speaking, reading, or writing knowledge of several languages.
9. sadist - someone who obtains pleasure from inflicting pain or others.
10. teetotaller - one who abstains completely from alcoholic beverages.
11. thespian - an actor (or) actress.
IV. Some more words with meanings:
1. cardiologist - one who treats the heart problems.
2. dermatologist - one who specializes in skin problems.
3. gastroenterologist - one who treats stomach disorders.
4. gynaecologist - one who treats diseases specific to women.
5. neonatologist - one who specializes in critical infants.
6. nephrologist - one who treats kidney diseases.
7. neurologist - one who treats diseases and disorders of the nervous system.
8. ophthalmologist - one who treats vision problems.
9. otolaryngologist - one who treats the problems of ear, nose, tongue.
10. pulmonologist - one who specializes in lung problems.
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V. Words ending with '-ology':
1. ecology - study of the relationship between living organisations and their environment.
2. cynology - study of dog training.
3. ichthyology - study of fish.
4. ornithology - study of birds.
5. oology - study of birds' eggs.
VI. Words ending with '-ism' with meanings:
1. absenteeism - habitual failure to be present at work.
2. amateurism - participating in sports as a hobby rather than for money.
3. barbarism - a brutal barbarous, savage act.
4. criticism - a serious examination and judgment of something.
5. egocentrism - concern for your own interests and welfare.
6. feminism - a doctrine that advocates equal rights for women.
7. heroism - exceptional courage when facing danger.
8. idealism - belief that the best possible concepts should be pursued.
9. nationalism - the doctrine that your country's interests are superior.
10. optimism - the hopeful feeling that all is going to turn out well.
11. patriotism - ove of country and willingness to sacrifice for it.
VII. Words ending with '-cide' with meanings:
1. Infanticide - killing of a child
2. Matricide - killing of mother
3. Patricide - killing of father
VIII. Words ending with '-mania' with meanings: (refers to mental illness of a particular type)
1. Bibliomania - a craze for books
2. Megalomania - mental illness in which one has exaggerated belief in one's importance
3. Mythomania - abnormal tendency to lie and exaggerate
4. Plutomania - abnormal craving for wealth
5. Theomania - belief that one is God
6. Zoomania - abnormal love of animals
IX. Words ending with '-phobia' with meanings: (refers to unknown fear of something)
1. acousticophobia - fear of noise
2. agoraphobia - fear of open spaces
3. amnesiphobia - fear of amnesia
4. anthophobia - fear of flowers
5. arsonhobia - fear of fire
6. autophobia - fear of being alone or isolated
7. bibliophobia - fear of books
8. bromidrophobia - fear of body smells
9. carcinophobia - fear of cancer
10. claustrophobia - fear of enclosed space
11. cyberphobia - fear of computers
12. cynophobia - fear of dogs
13. demophobia - fear of crowds
14. ecophobia - fear of home
15. glossophobia - fear of speaking in public place
16. hydrophobia - fear of water
17. mastigophobia - fear of punishment
18. melophobia - fear of music
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19. nyctophobia - fear of night/darkness
20. ochophobia - fear of vehicles
21. oneirophobia - fear of dreams
22. phasmophobia - fear of ghosts
23. plutophobia - fear of wealth
24. psychophobia - fear of mind
25. radiophobia - fear of radiations
26. scolionophobia - fear of school
27. sitophobia - fear of food
28. tachophobia - fear of speed
29. theophobia - fear of God
30. xenophobia - fear of strangers or foreigners
Misc. words:
1. conservative - one who prefers traditional values to a sudden social change.
2. introvert - one who is slow and unwilling to express opinions.
3. emotional - one who has strong feelings such as love or anger.
4. mean - one who is not willing to give or share with others.
5. musicologist - one who studies music.
6. paleontologist - one who studies the fossils.
7. pessimist - a person who believes that the worst will happen.
8. reserved - one who is more interested in his own thought and does not mix with others.
EXERCISES
Choosing the right definition for the given term:
1. Choose the right definition for the given term 'hylophobia'.
(a) Fear of forests (b) Fear of darkness (c) Fear of sun (d) Fear of cholera
2. Choose the right definition for the given term 'rupophobia'.
(a) Fear of fever (b) Fear of dirt (c) Fear of spiders (d) Fear of money
3. Choose the right definition for the given term 'anglophobia'.
(a) Fear of meeting strangers (b) Fear of drinking alcohol
(c) Fear of using English (d) Fear of playing outdoor
4. Choose the right definition for the given term 'iophobia'.
(a) Fear of insects (b) Fear of heights (c) Fear of poison (d) Fear of failure
5. Choose the right definition for the given term 'nephophobia'.
(a) fear of god (b) fear of mind (c) fear of birds (d) fear of clouds
6. Choose the right definition for the given term 'paedophobia'.
(a) fear of dreams (b) fear of children (c) fear of light (d) fear of body odour
7. Choose the right definition for the given term 'mechanophobia'.
(a) fear of machinery (b) fear of mirrors (c) fear of lightning (d) fear of men
8. Choose the right definition for the given term 'claustrophobia'.
(a) fear of books (b) fear of closed spaces (c) fear of noise (d) fear of being along or isolated
9. Choose the right definition for the given term 'regicide'.
(a) the act of killing an Other person (b) the act of killing yourself
(c) the act of killing a king (d) the act of killing a tyrant
10. Choose the right definition for the given term 'acaricide'.
(a) killing of people (b) killing of mites (c) killing of father (d) killing of larval pests
11. Choose the right definition for the given term 'deicide'.
(a) killing of giant (b) killing of a king (c) killing of a god or a divine being (d) killing of a bishop
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12. Choose the right definition for the given term 'fratricide'.
(a) killing of one's brother or sister (b) killing of self (c) killing of animals (d) killing of a child
13. Choose the right definition for the given term 'genocide'.
(a) killing of insects (b) killing of large group of people (c) killing of self (d) killing of brother
14. Choose the right definition for the given term 'homicide'.
(a) killing of large group of people (b) killing of self (c) killing of another person (d) killing of animals
15. Choose the right definition for the given term 'pyromania'.
(a) craze for books (b) strong desire to steal
(c) abnormal craving for wealth (d) obsessive desire to set fire
16. Choose the right definition for the given term 'kleptomania'.
(a) abnormal craving for wealth (b) abnormal tendency to lie
(c) craze for books (d) strong desire to steal
17. Choose the right definition for the given term 'squandermania'.
(a) strong desire to steal (b) craze for books
(c) spending lavishly and wastefully (d) strong desire to drink alcohol
18. Choose the right definition for the given term 'dipsomania'.
(a) binge drinking of alcohol (b) abnormal love of animals
(c) lying to an abnormal degree (d) strong desire to steal
19. Choose the right definition for the given term 'suicide'.
(a) killing of self (b) killing of one's brother or sister (c) killing of a child (d) killing of insects
20. Choose the right definition for the given term 'acrophobia'.
(a) Fear of enclosed space (b) Fear of heights (c) Fear of spiders (d) Fear of thunder and lighting
IDIOMS
(Text Book Page No. : 109, 117)
An idiom is an expression in English language that has a special meaning of its own. It cannot be
understood from the meanings of the individual words.
Here are a few idioms that you came across in the play you have just read. For e.g. 'I told him he would have
to make good The idiom 'to make good' means 'to compensate for a wrongdoing
Some more idioms and meanings:
1. a bolt from the blue unexpected event; complete surprise (usually unwelcome)
2. a drop in the ocean a very small amount compared with what is needed or expected
3. a penny for your thoughts a way of asking what someone is thinking.
4. a stone's throw a very short distance
5. a wild goose chase a worthless hunt or chase
6. a yellow streak cowardice in one's character
7. above board honest, not secret
8. add insult to injury to worsen an unfavourable situation
9. at close quarters very near
10. at hand very near
11. at logger heads to disagree strongly
12. at snail's pace very slowly
13. at the drop of the hat without any hesitation
14. at the end of one's tether to have no power, patience or endurance left
15. barking up the wrong tree accusing the wrong person
16. be armed with be equipped with
17. beat around the bush avoiding the main topic
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18. best of both worlds all the advantages
19. bite the bullet to get something over with because it is inevitable
20. blessing in disguise something good that isn't recognized at first
21. break even make no profit or loss
22. break the ice make people feel more comfortable
23 call it a day stop working on something
24 can't judge a book by its cover cannot judge something primarily on appearance
25 clean slate a past record without discredit
26 comparing apples to oranges comparing two things that cannot be compared
27 costs an arm and a leg very expensive
28 curiosity killed the cat being inquisitive can lead you into an unpleasant situation
29 devil's advocate to present a counter argument
30 draw a blank unable to get information
31 every cloud has a silver lining good-things come after bad things
32 eyewash something to deceive
33 fair and square in a fair way
34 far cry from very different from
35 feel the pinch feeling unpleasant change in ones standard of living
36 fit as a fiddle in good health
37 fortune favours the bold take risks
38 give (someone) a piece of to tell someone frankly what one thinks especially when
one's mind one disapproves of the other's behaviour
39 go down in flames fail spectacularly
40 go on a wild goose chase to do something pointless
41 going from bad to worse deteriorate further
42 hard to come by difficult to find
43 have a hand to get involved
44 have no hand in does not take part in an activity
45 head back return
46 herculean task difficult task
47 hit the nail on the head do or say something exactly right
48 hit the sack go to sleep
49 holds good valid at the time of discussion
50 honour bound (to do something) required to do something as a moral duty but not by law
51 in a big way on a large scale
52 in a nutshell briefly
53 in all walks of.life all social groups
54 in deep waters in trouble
55 in short supply Not enough / scarce
56 in the service of available for
57 it is a piece of cake it is easy
58 it's raining cats and dogs it's raining hard
59 keep pace with to move with same speed
60 keep something at bay keep something away
61 kicked the bucket passed away
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62 leave no stone unturned look everywhere
63 let the cat out of the bag give away a secret
64 loud and clear very clearly
65 make both ends meet live within means
66 make up one's mind decide, determine
67 matter of concern something to worry about
68 miss the boat it's too late
69 not playing with a full deck someone who lacks intelligence
70 note of hand promissory note
71 on cloud nine to be extremely happy
72 once and for all completely and finally
73 once in a blue moon very rarely
74 one thing leads to another series of events in which each event was caused by the previous one
75 pink of health extremely healthy, in perfect condition
76 play an important role to have a significant position
77 pull yourself together calm down
78 put on airs behave in an unnatural way to impress others
79 shadow of one's not having the strength, former self influence, etc., that one once had
80 side by side along with
81 speak volumes to express something very clearly and completely.
82 spill the beans give away a secret
83 take to one's heels to run away
84 taken a very hard line not giving in
85 the ball is in your court it's your decision
86 the burning question a crucial issue
87 the whys and wherefores the reasons for something
88 tread on walk with difficilty
89 trial and error to try many times to succeed
90 tricks of the trade the expertise of doing business
91 whole nine yards everything, all of it
92 with a bang in a very exciting way
EXERCISES
Choose the meaning of the idiom:
1. The villagers 'muffled up' their noses and mouths when the toxic gas was released.
(a) cleaned up (b) washed up (c) covered up (d) scrubbed up
2. The police are 'in hot pursuit' of the smuggler.
(a) neglecting (b) chasing (c) retarding (d) retreating
3. Thousands of small businesses are falling prey to high interest rates.
(a) very happy (b) energetic (c) enthusiastic (d) become a victim
4. She claimed the lion's share of the credit for the show's case.
(a) bitterly crying (b) totally upset (c) major share (d) extremely healthy
5. Don't make fun of me.
(a) agree reading (b) fight ferociously (c) argue continuously (d) ridicule
6. They had a warm debate and the two gave each other tit for tat.
(a) revenge (b) bravery (c) intolerance (d) gentle nature
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7. The things in his room were always 'at sixes and sevens'.
(a) either in six or seven (b) in complete disorder (c) neatly kept (d) arranged beautifully
8. He prepared for the examination 'at the eleventh hour'.
(a) well ahead (b) prior to the exam (c) at the last moment (d) at the earliest
9. At present, the performance of the Indian hockey team is 'at a low ebb'.
(a) on a rise (b) outstanding (c) not up to mark (d) on the decline
10. People like him are the 'backbones' of the country.
(a) useless people (b) chief support (c) apt people (d) helpful people
11. He was always 'in the good books of' his professor.
(a) in agreement (b) in argument (c) in the favour of (d) against
12. Life is not a 'bed of roses'.
(a) luxurious style (b) rigid life (c) bed with a lot of flowers (d) comfortable place or position
13. He is the only 'black sheep' in a family of well educated members.
(a) exceptional (b) person with a bad reputation (c) perfect person (d) money - minded person
14. His 'down-to-earth' policies got him great success.
(a) useful (b) Difficult (c) rare (d) practical
15. The judgement of the lower court was declared 'null and void' by the High Court.
(a) invalid (b) relevant (c) valid (d) correct
16. He came to the college in a suit 'once in a blue moon'.
(a) very often (b) suddenly (c) very rarely (d) sometimes
17. Orders for the new product are coming in thick and fast'.
(a) large numbers (b) small volumes (c) limited quantity (d) appropriate level
18. How can anyone 'make ends meet' with just Rs. 2000/- a month?
(a) join the two ends (b) arrange for a meeting (c) manage with the money (d) account for the meeting
19. My uncle is an 'armchair expert' and often tells us how to play cricket.
(a) best cricket player (b) best expert in making arm chairs
(c) best adviser but without any practical knowledge
(d) best adviser with excellent practical knowledge
20. I 'told him flat' that I had no intention of lending him any money.
(a) telling in humorous way (b) expressed opinion directly
(c) expressed insignificantly (d) expression to confuse
PhrasaI Verbs
(Text Book Page No.: 7, 118)
Phrasal Verbs consist of verb + adverb or verb + preposition.
The meaning of these combinations is mostly very different from the verb and the adverb or preposition
alone.
Study the following examples:
 look after — He often looks after his brother. (to take care of somebody/ something )
 look back — My grandfather likes to look back on his childhood. (to think about something in the past )
 look down - They looked down on her because she didn't study at a university. (to think that somebody is
not as good as others )
 look for — I'm looking for my watch. (to try to find somebody/something )
 look forward to — She always looks forward to meeting him. (to be excited about something that is going
to happen)
 look in — Could you look in on Sathish when you are in town? (to make a short visit )
 look out (for) - Look out for Gokul while you are in the shuttle court. (to try to spot somebody/ something)
 look over — Could you look over my report, please? (to review something )
 look up — You should look up the word in a dictionary. (to look for information - online or offline )
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Phrasal Verbs
These verbs consist of verb + adverb. Phrasal Verbs can stand alone (intransitive verbs) or they can be
used together with an object.
 Watch out. There is a bike coming.
If there is an adverb in the sentence the phrasal verb can be put before or after the object.
 He picked the broken toy up. (or) I picked up the broken toy.
If you use the pronoun it for the phrase the broken car, the pronoun has to go between the verb and the
adverb.
 I picked it up.
Prepositional Verbs
These verbs consist of verb + preposition. The object has to go after the preposition. The object must not go
between the verb and the preposition. Prepositional Verbs cannot be separated.
 Sriram often looks at his photos.
Some More examples for your practice:
A agree with : I agree with him on that point.
B back off : Sujatha was told to back off.
be in : Are your parents in?
be off : I'm off now.
black out : And then she just blacked out.
blow up : The bomb might have blown up.
break away : At last, the hostage could break away from the terrorists.
break down : Finally her car broke down
bring up : (1) She was brought up in Salem.
(2) Why do you have to bring that up?
C call off : I had to call off the meeting because of the bad weather.
calm down : Please calm down.
carry on : Please carry on with your homework.
check out : I will check it out.
close down : The shop was closed down by the police.
D do without : I guess I will have to do without lunch today.
drop in : I can't believe who dropped in on us last night.
drop off : You can drop me off at the next signal.
E ease off : The storm eased off a little.
end up : How will this end up?
even out : The surface of the road was evened out.
F figure out : I just can't figure her out.
fill out : Would you fill out the form, please?
focus (on) : She focussed on this issue.
G get along with : He couldn't get along with his roommate.
get by (on) (manage) : He had just enough money to get by.
get into : He managed to get himself into the class he wanted.
get on : How are you getting on?
get on with : (1) I need to get on with my homework.
(2) How do you get on with Sameera?
get out of : You've got to get out of there.
get up : Today I got up at 10 am.
give up : Are you sure you want to give up your career?
go through : (1) The truck wouldn't go through the tunnel.
(2) He went through his pockets, looking for his wallet.
(3) You won't believe what I've gone through.
(4) I guess we need to go through the whole song a few more times.
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H hand out : The teacher handed out the test sheet to the students.
hang up : Why did you hang up on me?
hit back : He hit me, but I didn't hit him back.
hold on : Hold on a minute! I have to check this first.
hurry up : Hurry up, will you? I got some errands to run today.
I idle away : Don't idle the whole day away.
insist (on) : He insisted on it.
invite over : Let's invite them over for dinner.
J jump in(to) : I just jumped into the pool and had a refreshing swim.
K keep at : I need to keep at this.
keep off : Please keep off the lawn.
keep on : (1) It's a little chilly in here, so I better keep my coat on.
(2) Just keep on practicing your scales by simply playing them up and down.
keep out (of) : (1) Keep out of this and mind your own business.
(2) My door is closed. Keep out!
knock off : Knock it off!
I lead up to : (1) A narrow path leads up to his cabin.
(2) She was just leading up to something when he interrupted.
leak out : I hope that news does not leak out.
leave out (of) : Leave me out of it, please.
leave up to : They left this decision up to me.
let down : I won't let you down again.
let in : Don't let strangers in.
let on (about) : I promised I wouldn't let on about her new job.
let up : The storm has let up.
lie down : I need to lie down and take a little nap.
light up : We lighted the house up with the headlights of our automobile.
lighten up : Hey, lighten up a little. Enjoy the day.
line up : Everyone, please line up.
live up to : That meal did not live up to my expectations.
look back (at/on) : When I look back on him, I am amazed at all he has accomplished.
look for : I am looking for my watch.
look in (on) : I will look in on him from time to time.
look out (for) : Look out for that car!
look up to : She is glad they look up to her.
loom up : An old cottage loomed up in the distance.
loosen up : Relax and loosen yourself up.
M make out : Can you make out what she is saying?
make up : (1) Did she make up the toys yet?
(2) I made up that story.
(3) I'm sorry, but you can't make up that test you missed.
(4) Class participation will make up 25% of your final grade.
march on : Time marches on.
mess up : (1) He messed up his room.
(2) The dirty water messed my pants up.
(3) Losing my job really messed my life up.
move in(to) : I moved into a new apartment last month.
move on (to) : (1) The officer stopped for a minute, asked some questions, and then moved on.
(2) Alright, let's move on to our next point.
move out (of) : I moved out of my old apartment last month.
move up (to) : How long will it be before they can move her up?
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N nail up : (1) Please nail this picture up.
(2) Who nailed up the door? I can't get out.
O open up : They opened up the border a few weeks ago.
order in(to) : The officer ordered me in.
P pass away/on : Her uncle passed away last summer.
pass out : Please can you pass these handouts out to everyone?
pay off : The time I spent in this project didn't pay off.
pick up : (1) Relax. I will pick her up from school.
(2) The storm picked up about midnight.
(3) I picked up a little French while I was in Puducherry
pile up : Exams are piling up on my desk.
plan out : They met and planned out their strategy.
play along : The guy with the guitar came in and played along.
point out : That's exactly what I pointed out earlier.
pop up : I don't know where he's going to pop up next.
power up : Okay, let's power up the engine and get going.
pull in(to) : A stranger just pulled into our street.
pull up : He reached down and pulled her up.
put on : Don't you have some clothes to put on?
put off (until) : Can't you just put this off until tomorrow?
put together : We put a team together on very short notice.
put up with : I just don't know why I even put up with you.
Q quiet down : (1) Try to quiet him down.
(2) Ask him to quiet down.
R rattle off : She rattled off the long list of names.
reach out : I reached out, but there was nothing I could get hold of.
read over/through: Please read this text over and tell me what is about.
rely (up) on : Can we rely on you in this case?
ride out : Things are rough around here, but I think I can ride it out.
rub away : I used that towel to rub away the dirt on my shoes.
rule on : When will the court rule on your decision?
run away : The cat ran away from me.
run down : The car's battery ran down.
run off : This allows rainwater to run off.
run off with : The kidnappers ran off with her little daughter.
run over : (1) He ran over his neighbour's cat.
(2) I ran over the time allotted for the presentation.
run out of : I'm afraid we ran out of milk and cookies.
rush in(to) : Don't rush into this job.
S save up : I'm saving up money for a new car.
see through : (1) I knew what he was up to, because I saw through him.
(2) I'll see this project through.
sell out (to) : (1) He refused to sell out to a large corporation.
(2) He shouldn't have sold out to them.
send away for : I had to send away for a new part.
send for : He sent for his secretary.
send over (to) : She sent me over to her office.
set up (for) : I will set up a meeting for next week.
settle down : (1) One day they will settle down in a small cabin in the mountains.
(2) Will you please settle down and relax?
share together : We shared a room together in college.
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show off : Stop showing off.
sign in : Did you remember to sign in?
sign up for : Did you remember to sign up for the class?
sit around : Don't just sit around. Do something!
sit down : Please, sit down and relax.
sit in on : You guys mind if I sit in on your discussion?
sit out : I'm not playing. I better sit out this time.
sit up : (1) I sat up and read a book.
(2) I wouldn't get such terrible backaches if I sat up properly.
sleep in : I slept in this morning.
slim down : You have slimmed down a lot since December.
slow down : You're going to fast. Please slow down.
smash into : The car smashed into the side of a bus.
sort itself out : Things will sort itself out by the end of the month.
speak up for : You can speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
spread out : He told them to spread out and continue their search.
stand around : Don't stand around. Get busy!
stand by : Stand by while I search for another song.
stand in (for) : Saran is sick. Can you stand in for him?
stand up : She stood up and looked across the room.
start over : Sorry, I guess I messed this up, so can I start over?
start up : Start your car up and let's go.
stay over : Can my friend stay over, please?
steal away : She stole away while he was refilling her coffee.
step aside : Step aside, please. You're in my way.
stick together : We must stick together.
stop by : Please stop by before you go on vacation.
stop over : We stopped over in Coimbatore for two nights.
storm in(to) : He stormed into the room, shouting and yelling.
storm out (of) : He got angry and stormed out of the meeting.
straighten out : (1) We have to straighten this mess out.
(2) They straightened out the line of people.
strip down : The doctor told me to strip down for the examination.
stumble (upon) : I just stumbled upon her.
sum up : Can you sum up the arguments of this essay?
swell up : I bumped my ankle and it swelled up.
switch off : I forgot to switch the TV off before I went to bed.
switch on : Can someone switch the light on, please?
T take away : The police took her daughter away.
take apart : Don't take my TV apart.
take off : (1) When does your plane take off?
(2) Sorry, I have to take off now.
(3) Take your coat off, please.
take over : If you take over, you will be in charge.
talk back (to) : Don't ever talk back to her.
talk out : Let's just talk this matter out.
team up (with) : I don't want to team up with him.
tear off (of) : She tore the label off the bottle.
tell off : I should have told him off.
tell on : I'm going to call your father and tell on you.
think back (to) : Try and think back to the morning of June 5.
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think over : I needed a few minutes to think it over.
think through : First, let me think this through and I'll call you tomorrow first in the morning.
think of : I quickly had to think of something.
think up : I'll think something up.
throw up : I was so nauseous I almost threw up.
tidy away : Please tidy your stuff away.
tidy up : Your room looks like a pig sty. You better tidy it up now.
trick into : He tried to trick her into doing it his way.
try out : Let's try out this candy store.
turn around/about : The car turned around and went the other way.
turn down : (1) He turned his collar down, when he entered her house.
(2) Turn the music down a little, will you?
(3) Our proposal was turned down.
turn in : I need some sleep. I'm going to turn in now.
turn in(to) : Turn in for some gas.
turn off : Could you please turn the radio off?
turn on : Don't forget to turn on the lights when the sun goes down.
turn up : (1) Turn your cuffs up, please.
(2) Something always turns up.
(3) Apparently, new evidence has turned up.
U use up : You can use it up. I have more of it.
W wake up : Wake up! We have to hit the road.
watch over : Can you watch over the kids while we're gone.
watch out (for) : Watch out for the snakes in the bushes.
wear out : After weeks of learning for this stupid test, I'm worn out.
wipe off (of) : Don't use your sleeve to wipe the ice cream off of your hand.
work out : (1) Everything will work out in the end.
(2) She needs to work out more often.
work over : They really worked him over.
wrap up : Wrap up the presents quickly.
write away for : I wrote away for a book on poetry.
Y yell out : The pain caused me to yell out.
What do Phrasal and Prepositional Verbs have in common and what are the differences?
Two-word verbs can be Phrasal Verbs or Prepositional Verb.
Phrasal Verbs often have a very different (idiomatic) meaning.
 verb : look
 adverb : in
 Phrasal Verb : look in
What is the difference between a preposition and an adverb and why this distinction is important.
An object can go before or after an adverb — but it can only go after a preposition. So:
 Phrasal Verbs can be separated,
 Prepositional Verbs must not be separated,
EXERCISES
I. Choose the Phrasal verb from the options given to substitute the underlined word in the given
sentence:
1. Choose the phrasal verb from the options given to substitute the underlined word in the given
sentence. The building collapsed by itself after being erect of almost 40 years.
(a) piled on (b) nosing around (c) caved in (d) figured out
sentence. I cannot understand your handwriting.
(a) make for (b) make up (c) make out (d) make in
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sentence. He will not yield to pressure and he will face the challenge bravely.
(a) give away (b) give in (c) give out (d) give off
sentence. I was surprised when I won the lottery.
(a) taken on (b) taken of (c) taken away (d) taken aback
sentence. Whenever you need help you can visit me at any time.
(a) call at (b) call on (c) call for (d) call in
sentence. He will surely pass exam with flying colours.
(a) get out (b) get in (c) get through (d) get on
sentence. You should take care of your health.
(a) Look into (b) look after (c) look before (d) look at
II. Choose the correct phrasal verb and complete the sentence
1. Quick! the bus. It's ready to leave. (Get on / get up / get of)
2. I don't know where my book is. I have to it. (look for / look into / look after)
3. It's dark inside. Can you the light, please? (switch on / switch off / switch ib)
4. the form, please. (Fill in / fill out / fill into)
5. I need some new clothes. Why don't you these jeans? (try on / try in / try out)
6. It's warm inside, your coat. (Take off / take on / take out)
7. This pencil is really old. You can . (throw it of / throw it up / throw it away)
8. It's so loud here. Can you the radio a little? (turn down / turn off / turn on)
9. The firemen were able to the fire in Church Street. (put out / put off / put on)
10. Does your little brother ghosts? (believe in / believe on / believe about)
Appropriate Phrases
(Text Book Page No. 45)
A phrase is a small group of words that forms a meaningful unit within a clause. Phrases play an
important role in combining two sentences into a simple sentence.
In spite of his ill-health, Rohit scored well.
The underlined words in the above sentence is a phrase.
(A prepositional phrase is made up of a preposition and a noun phrase)
Example:
Choose the appropriate phrases and complete the following sentences.
1. time, the criminal realised his mistake. [Ans: (c) In due course of]
(a) Along with (b) In case of (c) In due course of (d) Instead of
2. He resigned illness. [Ans: (c) on account of]
(a) in spite of (b) in the event of (c) on account of (d) in case of
3. very cold, she was shivering. [Ans: (b) Being]
(a) In spite of (b) Being (c) In case of (d) Even though
4. you don't receive the information within two days, call this number. [Ans: (a) In case]
(a) In case (b) In the event of (c) In spite of (d) because of
5. your advertisement, I send my resume. [Ans: (b) With reference to]
(a) By dint of (b) With reference to (c) Ahead of (d) In spite of
6. the rain stopped, we rushed to our home. [Ans: (b) As soon as]
(a) In order to (b) As soon as (c) Instead of (d) In spite of
7. , discipline is learnt only in school. [Ans: (b) In my opinion]
(a) With my opinion (b) In my opinion (c) Due to my opinion (d) about my opinion
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8. My father knows Hindi English. [Ans: (a) in addition to]
(a) in addition to (b) on account of (c) in case of (d) because of
9. being poor, he is happy. [Ans: (b) In spite of]
(a) In the event of (b) In spite of (c) Due to (d) In order to
10. it rained, the teams continued to play the match. [Ans: (c) Even though]
(a) In the event of (b) On account of (c) Even though (d) In case of
Exercises
Choose the appropriate phrases and complete the following sentences.
1. his illness, he could not attend the meeting.
(a) In spite of (b) instead of (c) in case of (d) owing to
2. his popularity, he cannot be considered as a great actor.
(a) instead of (b) in spite of (c) in case of (d) owing to
3. being rich, she is hard working.
4. power failure, switch on the generator.
5. I brought my umbrella to be prepared rain.
(a) in the event of (b) on account of (c) even though (d) in case of
6. I brought my umbrella sudden rain.
(a) in spite of (b) being (c) in case of (d) even though
7. You might bring seasickness pills on a cruise stormy seas.
(a) in the event of (b) on account of (c) even though (d) in case of
8. of an earthquake, stand in a doorway away from the windows.
(a) In the event (b) Instead of (c) In case of (d) Owing to
9. “Bring an extra pair of socks, your feet get wet.
(a) by dint of (b) with reference to (c) just in case (d) in spite of
10. He was frustrated the punctured wheel.
(a) in spite of (b) due to (c) due though (d) in case of
11. I missed the class the rain.
(a) due to (b) in spite of (c) due though (d) owing to
12. I didn't attend the class yesterday fever.
(a) in addition to (b) on account of (c) in case of (d) because of
13. She hard difficulty communicating in English all her years of study.
(a) in the event of (b) in spite of (c) due to (d) in order to
14. We lost the game, the fact that we practiced all week.
(a) in spite of (b) due to (c) due though (d) owing to
15. not having an umbrella, I walked home in the rain.
(a) In spite of (b) in stead of (c) in case of (d) in case of
Foreign Words
English language has acquired words and phrases from various other languages of the world. These words
are noted as Foreign words.
I. Foreign words from Textual Examples / Exercises:
No. Foreign Word Meaning
1. ad hoc for this situation for a special purpose,
2. bon voyage, saying good bye and wishing good luck,
3. bons mots witty remarks,
4. en famille as a family,
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5. ex gratia a payment made as a favour,
6. in toto totally, as a whole,
7. rapport close relationship with good understanding,
8. resume a brief summary,
9. sine die without a date being fixed,
II. Foreign Words : Additional

No. Foreign Word Meaning
1 ad valorem according to the value,
2 alias otherwise known as,
3 alibi accused claiming his presence elsewhere at the time of crime,
4 ante meridiem before noon,
5 de facto actual, real,
6 deja vu the feeling that you have previously experienced something which is actually
happening to you just now,
7 in camera in private, without the public, newspaper reporters, etc. being there,
8 in memoriam in memory of,
9 lingua franca a common language,
10 locus standi a place or standing,
11 mala fide with bad faith,
12 melee confused scuffle,
13 modus operan- di plan of working, mode of operation,
14 mon ami my friend,
15 nouveau riche person who has recently become rich / acquired wealth,
16 par excellence eminently,
17 pari pasu with equal pace,
18 Prima facie based on the first impression,
19 proforma for the sake of form,
20 protégé dependant who is helped and taught by an expert,
21 status quo the situation or state of affairs as it is now,
22 tete a tete an intimate private conversation between two,
23 versus against,
24 via media a middle way between two extremes,
25 vide with reference to,
26 viva voce a spoken examination,
EXERCISES
Choose the meaning of the foreign word in the sentence:
1. The government offers funds to support elite athletes in this country.
(a) uneducated (b) the best (c) rural (d) urban
2. The workers staged a boycott en masse.
(a) one at a time (b) elegantly (c) all together (d) modestly
3. The policemen were travelling in the bus incognito to nab the eve teasers.
(a) in a group (b) in a hurry (c) in order (d) in disguise
4. The hardcore criminal is good at creating alibi.
(a) fabricating an evidence towards an innocent
(b) destroying all the evidences at the place of crime
(c) false record of his presence elsewhere at the time of crime
(d) escaping from the police network
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5. Rajan arrives in the same type of attire, sans a shirt.
(a) donates (b) presents (c) with (d) without
6. “Now it's time to bid adieu to all of you gathered here:'
(a) welcome (b) salute (c) goodbye (d) ovation
7. As the College Principal resigned, the Correspondent took over the charges ad interim.
(a) with hesitation (b) temporarily (c) permanently (d) anxiously
8. The agreement between the workers and the management is fait accompli.
(a) can be revised at any time (b) the Chairman alone can revise
(c) irreversible and cannot be altered (d) the union leader alone can revise
9. Our Principal is a bon homie.
(a) good natured person (b) cruel person (c) glum person (d) ferocious man
10. I realised that not attending my friend's birthday party was a faux pas.
(a) wonderful incident (b) social blunder (c) good decision (d) pleasant thing
11. Rani is seriously preparing for the 'viva-voce'.
(a) aptitude test (b) spoken examination (c) written examination (d) fitness test
12. The hearing of the murder case is adjourned 'sine die'.
(a) till the judgement (b) after the confession of the accused
(c) without a date being fixed (d) till the death
13. All 'bonafide' cases of hardship will receive help.
(a) uncertified (b) bonded labour (c) genuine (d) fake
14. The company maintained a close 'liaison' with the trade union.
(a) vigilance (b) secret agreement (c) coordination (d) supervision
15. We are en route to the botanical garden.
(a) returned to (b) on the way to (c) on the short-cut road (d) in the wrong route
16. In our country, cases which are sub judice cannot be discussed in the media.
(a) not worthy (b) money oriented (c) under judicial consideration (d) fake
17. The hearing should only be held ex parte as necessary.
(a) on one side (b) amicably (c) in camera (d) at high level
18. The post-mortem showed that she had been strangled.
(a) evidences at a place (b) circumstances
(c) eye-witnesses (d) medical examination of the dead body
19. The judge wanted a verbatim record of the murderer.
(a) previous statement (b) exactly the same words (c) eye-witness (d) mistake proof
20. The trial of the terrorist was held in camera in the interests of security.
(a) in public chamber (b) in police parade ground (c) in private chamber (d) at police academy
Compound Words
A compound word is a combination of two or more words that function is a single unit of meaning. There are
three types of compound:
1. Closed compound words are formed when two unique words are joined together. e.g. flowerpots.
2. Open compound words have a space between the words, but when they are read together, a new
meaning is formed. e.g: living room.
3. Hyphenated compound words are connected by a hyphen. e.g: brother-in-law.
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Example: grand + father — grandfather
Compound Words: Examples
NOUN + NOUN
air + ticket = airticket hand + cuff = handcuff school + bus = school bus
bed + room = bedroom honey + bee = honeybee school + girl = school girl
bed + time = bed-time lady + bug = ladybug sea + shore = sea-shore
birth + day = birthday motor + cycle = motorcycle shoe + lace = shoe-lace
book + stall = bookstall news + stand = newsstand sky + line = skyline
border + line = borderline note + book = notebook sun + dial = sun-dial
bus + station = bus-station picture + book = picture book sun + light = sunlight
chess + men = chessmen pig + tail = pigtail tax + rebate = tax rebate
class + room = classroom post + card = postcard time + limit = time limit
cork + screw = cork-screw post + man = postman time + schedule=time schedule
dream + world = dream-world post + war = postwar train + track = train track
eye + liner = eye-liner printer + cartridge = printer cartridge truck + load = truck-load
field + glasses = field glasses rabbit + hole = rabbit-hole water + proof = waterproof
fire + man = fireman rail + road= railroad water + tank = water tank
hand + bag = hand bag river + bank = riverbank white + paper = white paper
NOUN + VERB
air + tight = airtight hair + cut = haircut rain + fall = rainfall
bench + mark = benchmark hand + wash = handwash root + cause = rootcause
breast + feed = breastfeed head + ache = headache snow + drop = snow drop
bus + stop = busstop head + line = headline snow + fall = snowfall
day + break = daybreak house + sitting = housesitting sun + rise = sunrise
dog + eared = dog-eared lip + read = lipread sun + set = sunset
ear + mark = earmark machine + wash = machine wash tooth + ache = tooth-ache
finger + pointing = finger-pointing moon + walk = moon walk tooth + brush = tooth brush
finger + print = finger print paint + brush =paintbrush way + lay = waylay
NOUN + ADJECTIVE.
accident + prone = accident-prone hen + pecked = henpecked milk + white = milk white
age + old = age-old home + less = homeless picture + perfect = picture-perfect
bad + tempered = bad-tempered home + sick = homesick red + hot = red hot
black + gold = blackgold honey + sweet = honey-sweet round + about = roundabout
care + less = careless jet + black = jet black silver + white = silver white
dead + slow = deadsiow knee + deep = knee-deep sky + blue = sky blue
down + trodden = downtrodden life + long = lifelong snow + white = snow-white
duty + free = duty free mercy + less = merciless world + famous = world famous
NOUN + GERUND
air + conditioning = air conditioning heart + rending = heart-rending snow + skiing = snow-skiing
air + lifting = airlifting mind + blowing = mind-blowing soul + stirring = soul-stirring
book + binding = book-binding mind + boggling = mind-boggling story + telling = storytelling
breath + taking = breath-taking mind + reading = mind reading test + driving = test-driving
cat + walking = cat walking oil + drilling = oil drilling time + consuming = time-consuming
cross + questioning = cross-questioning roller + skating = roller-skating train + spotting = train-spotting
day + dreaming = day-dreaming sight + seeing = sight-seeing white + washing = white-washing
hand + writing = handwriting slow + cycling = slow-cycling -
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NOUN + PREPOSITION
country + side = countryside root + out = root out .
VERB+NOUN
bath + Room = bath Room pass + port = pass port stop + clock = stop clock
break + fast = breakfast pay + day = pay day taste+ buds = taste buds
call + Taxi = call Taxi pick + pocket = pickpocket walk + man = walk man
cross + fire = cross fire play + ground = playground watch + dog = watch dog
cross + word = crossword pop + corn = popcorn watch + man = watch man -
cry + baby = crybaby rest + house = rest house work + room = workroom
drive + inn = drive inn search + engine = search engine cut + throat = cut throat
fire + place = fire place search + light = search light drip + irrigation = drip irrigation
guide + book = guide book show + room = show room run + down = run down
handle + bar = handle bar spoil + sport = spoilsport
VERB + GERUND
type + setting = type setting type + writing = type writing
VERB + ADVERB
camp + out = camp-out drop + out = drop-out look + out = lookout
draw + back = drawback fall + out = fall-out take + off take-off
VERB + PREPOSITION
give ÷ up = give up look + down = look down put ÷ on put on
lock + up = lockup
GERUND + NOUN
biting + cold = biting cold fishing + net = fishing net waiting + hail = waiting-hall
blotting + paper blotting paper looking + glass = looking glass waiting + list = waiting list
cooking + gas = cooking gas reading + room = reading-room walking + stick = walking stick
dining + table = dining table setting + sun = setting sun washing + machine = washing machine
driving + licence = driving licence stepping + stone = stepping-stone winning + post = winning post
driving + school = driving-school swimming + pool = swimming pool writing + pad = writing pad
fishing + net = fishing net visiting + card = visiting card
ADVERB + NOUN
after + thought after thought out + patient = out-patient under + garment = undergarment
by + stander = bystander over + coat = overcoat upper + division = upper division
on + looker = onlooker post + script = postscript
ADVERB + VERB
back + drop = backdrop over + act = overact under + go = undergo
back + track = backtrack over + charge = overcharge under + rate = under-rate
fore + ground = foreground over + come overcome under + take = undertake
in + put = input over + grow = over-grow up + keep upkeep
in + take = intake over + spend = overspend up + set = upset
out + live = outlive over + throw = overthrow up + turn = upturn
out + put = output under + charge = undercharge
out + set = outset under + estimate = under estimate
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ADVERB + ADJECTIVE
amazingly + good = amazinly good carefully + chosen = carefully chosen terrible + hot = terribly hot
blue + black = blue black newly + rich newly rich vitally + important = vitally important
ADVERB + PARTICIPLE
ill + gotten = ill gotten over + worked = overworked well + dressed = well dressed
over + loaded = overloaded under + privileged = under privileged
ADJECTIVE + NOUN
black + board = black board deep + well = deep well noble + man = noble man
black + box = black box full + moon full moon red + cross = red cross
blue + berry = blueberry gentle + man = gentleman red + head = redhead
blue + cross = blue cross green + board = green board short + change = shortchange
blue + moon = blue moon green + house = greenhouse soft+ ware = software
blue + print = blue print hard + ware = hardware white + board = white board
clever + boy = clever boy high + way = highway
ADJECTIVE + VERB
black + list= blacklist long + forgotten = long forgotten side + walk = side walk
clear + cut = clear cut safe + guard = safeguard time + taken = time taken
high + light = highlight short + change = shortchange white + wash = white wash
long + awaited = long awaited
ADJECTIVE + GERUND
curious + looking =curious-looking good + looking = good-looking public + speaking = public speaking
dry + cleaning = dry-cleaning hard + working = hard working shabby + looking = shabby-looking
easy + going = easy-going
PREPOSITION + NOUN
after + noon = afternoon in + box = inbox over + age = overage
after + thought = after thought in + side = inside over + bridge = overbridge
back + ground = background in + service = in service over + coat = overcoat
by + lane = by lane off + spring = offspring over + confidence = overconfidence
by + path = by-path out + class = outclass over + time = overtime
down + fall = downfall out + number = outnumber over + work = overwork
down + hill = downhill Out + patient = outpatient under + class = under class
fore + see = foresee out + shine = outshine under + production = underproduction
fore + thought = forethought out + wit = outwit
PREPOSITION + VERB
by + line = byline over + board = overboard under + rate = underrate
out + look = outlook over + fed = overfed under + stand = understand
out + number = outnumber over + ride = over-ride up + load = upload
out + shine = outshine under + charge = undercharge
over + act = overact under + estimate = under-estimate
PREPOSITION + GERUND
in + coming = incoming out + going = outgoing
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Exercises : Type- 1
Choose the correct combination for the compound word:
1. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'sunlight'.
(a) Noun + Adverb (b) Noun + Noun (c) Adjective + Verb (d) Adverb + Noun
2. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'roundabout'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Verb + Noun (c) Adverb + Verb (d) Adverb + Noun
3. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'snowdrop'
(a) Noun + Verb (b) Adverb + Adjective (c) Adjective + Verb (d) Adverb + Noun
4. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'catwalking'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Adverb + Noun (c) Noun + Gerund (d) Verb + Noun
5. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'honey-sweet'.
(a) Adjective + Adverb (b) Adverb + Noun (c) Noun + Adjective (d) Noun + Verb
6. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'postman'.
(a) Noun + Verb (b) Adverb + Adjective (c) Adjective + Noun (d) Noun + Noun
7. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'redhot'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Verb + Noun (c) Adverb + Noun (d) Adjective + Adverb
8. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'day dream'.
(a) Noun + Adverb (b) Noun + Verb (c) Adjective + Verb (d) Adverb + Noun
9. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'bus stop'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Adverb + Noun (c)Noun + Verb (d) Verb + Noun
10. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'sunrise'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Noun + Verb (c) Adverb + Noun (d) Adjective + Noun
11. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'White wash'.
(a) Noun + Verb (b) Adjective + Noun (c) Adjective + Verb (d) Adverb + Noun
12. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'duty free'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Adverb + Verb (c) Adverb + Noun (d) Adjective + Noun
13. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'long-forgotten'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Adjective + Verb (c) Adverb + Noun (d) Adjective + Noun
14. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'air-conditioning'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Adverb + Noun (c) Noun + Gerund (d) Verb + Noun
15. Choose the correct combination for the compound word 'school girl'.
(a) Noun + Adjective (b) Noun + Noun (c) Adverb + Noun (d) Adjective + Noun
Exercises : Type - 2
Choose the word from the options given to form a compound word:
1. Which of the words given below can be placed after the word car to form a compound word?
(a) street (b) park (c) house (d) top
2. Which of the words given below can be placed after fast to form a compound word?
(a) mark (b) port (c) good (d.) food
3. Which of the words given below can be placed before post to form a compound word?
(a) gate (b) out (c) late (d) quick
4. Which of the words given below can be placed after the word table to form a compound word?
(a) role (b) leader (c) manager (d) tennis
5. Which of the words given below can be placed after the word heart to form a compound word?
(a) ache (b) condition (c) pain (d) attack
6. Which word can be placed after ice to form a compound word?
(a) cool (b) cream (c) cut (d) fridge
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7. Which word can be placed after light to form a compound. word?
(a) room (b) night (c) house (d) way
8. Which of the words given below can be placed after the word 'Wind' to form a compound word.
(a) cool (b) chill (c) screen (d) breeze
9. Which of the words given below can be placed after the word 'water' to form a compound word?
(a) sea (b) child (c) rain (d) man
10. Which word can be placed before power to form a compound word?
(a) head (b) house (c) horse (d) mute
11. Which of the words given below can be placed after sea to form a compound word?
(a) hood (b) lake (c) space (d) port
12. Which word can be placed after cricket to form a compound word?
(a) field (b) court (c) ground (d) area
13 Which word can be placed before light to form a compound word?
(a) face (b) hand (c) head (d) back
14. Which word can be placed before screen to form a compound word?
(a) road (b) car (c) wind (d) main
15. Which word can be placed before brow to form a compound word?
(a) brown (b) eye (c) hair (d) thick
Prefixes
An affix is added to the root of a word to change its meaning.
An affix added to the front of a word is known as a prefix. Prefixes may be hyphenated too. eg: incapable,
ex-president.
Prefix Function Examples
auto It is used with the meaning of by oneself automatic, autopilot, auto focus,
(or) itself. automotive, automobile, autobiography
bi It is generally used with the meaning binomial, bisector, bicycle, biangular, binacular,
of “two” bicarbonate
dis It is normally used with the meaning disappear, dishonest, disbelief, dislike, dishearten
of negative (or) reversing force
il It means marginal (or) not illegal, illiterate, illegible, illogical, illness
non It is used with the meaning of absence of non stop, nonsense, nonprofit,
something (or) not nontoxic, non-verbal
mid It is used with the meaning of “middle mid portion, midpoint, mid noon, midnight
over It is normally used with the meaning of over expression, over flow, over act, over coat
excess (or) too much
Exercises
Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word:
1. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'existence'.
(a) un (b) co (c) sub (d) de
2. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'look'.
(a) over (b) en (c) co (d) un
3. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'circle'.
(a) de (b) hyper (c) en (d) re
4. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'claim'.
(a) pro (b) en (c) co (d) il
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5. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word ‘cast’.
(a) co (b) mal (c) inter (d) tele
6. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'prove'.
(a) co (b) mis (c) dis (d) non
7. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'kindly'.
(a) dis (b) non (c) pro (d) un
8. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'gratitude'.
(a) dis (b) in (c) mis (d) il
9. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'former'
(a) sub (b) pro (c) re (d) dis
10. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'dependent'
(a) in (b) en (c) non (d) un
11. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'valence
(a) un (b) tele (c) pre (d) de
12. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'consistent'.
(a) ir (b) ii (c) in (d) dis
13. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word ‘just’.
(a) un (b) in (c) mis (d) il
14. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'dominated'
(a) il (b) pre (c) re (d) sub
15. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'dispensable'.
(a) en (b) ir (c) pre (d) in
16. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'break'.
(a) in (b) il (c)out (d) de
17. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'adulterated
(a) un (b)in (c)ir (d)en
18. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'lasting'
(a) de (b) ever (c) dis (d) pre
19. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'tour
(a) co (b) mis (c) non (d) de
20. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the root word 'reparable'.
(a) dis (b) ir (C) en (d) in
Suffixes
An affix is added to the back of a word is known as suffix. Suffixes are unstressed. eg: confusion.
Prefix Function Examples

‘_ile’ It is used to express capability liability docile, fragile, juvenile, volatile, ductile
susceptibility, etc.
‘”_ling' It refers to one that is young, small or inferior. Princeling, duckling, hireling
‘_let'. Indicates smallness. booklet, leaflet, eaglet
‘_ette' It is generally used in the diminutive sense novelette, kitchenette
referring to something small and tiny.
'—ity' It is used for changing adjectives into visibility, ability, durability, capability,
nouns of quality and condition. ductility, sensibility
'—ise' It is used to turn an adjective or a noun familiarise, verbalise, popularise,
into a verb. It is also used to indicate criticise, vandalise, publicise
quality, condition or function.
'—ly' It is used for changing adjectives into slowly, sweetly, immediately, frequently
adverbs,
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Exercises
Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word:
1. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'play'
(a) ness (b) ism (c) ful (d) ment
2. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'music'
(a) able (b) ian (c) ful (d) ish
3. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'danger'
(a) ful (b) ness (c) ous (d) al
4. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'perform'
(a) ful (b) ness (c) ance (d) al
5. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'dream'
(a) y (b) al (c) ism (d) ness
6. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'grievous':
(a) ful (b) ive (c) ly (d) tion
7. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'honour':
(a) ly (b) ness (c) ance (d) able
8. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'faith':
(a) ism (b) ful (c) ness (d) able
9. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'right':
(a) al (b) ism (c) ive (d) ly
10. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'parch':
(a) ful (b) ment (c) ness (d) ance
ii. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'utter':
(a) ness (b) est (c) ance (d) tion
12. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'cease':
(a) age (b) less (c) hood (d) ness
13. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'leader':
(a) ship (b) hood (c) able (d) age
14. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'move':
(a) let (b) ment (c) ous (d) ness
15. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'radical':
(a) ment (b) ish (c) ly (d) ous
16. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'help'
(a) ly (b) less (c) ness (d) ous
17. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'ultimate'.
(a) ful (b) less (c) ly (d) ness
18. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'inferior'.
(a) ance (b) ity (c) al (d) ish
19. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'widow'.
(a) al (b) ish (c) ous (d) hood
20. Form a new word by adding a suitable suffix to the root word 'comfort'.
(a) ial (b) able (c) ous (d) ship
Expanded form of Abbreviation and Acronyms
An Abbreviation is a short form of a word obtained by using the first letters of the words or by dropping some
letters of the words.
example: IST - Indian Standard Time.
1 AAI Airport Authority of India
2 BC Before Christ, Backward Class
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3 BDS Bachelor of Dental Surgery 50 LAC Line of Actual Control
4 B.E. Bachelor of Engineering 51 LIC Life Insurance Corporation of India
5 BPL Below Poverty Line 52 LNG Liquefied Natural Gas
6 BPO Business Process Outsourcing 53 LOC Line of Control
7 BPS Bytes Per Second 54 M.A Master of Arts
8 BSE Bombay Stock Exchange 55 M.E. Mechanical Engineering
9 BSF Border Security Force 56 MLA Member of Legislative Assembly
10 BSNL Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited 57 MLC Member of Legislative Council
11 CBI Central Bureau of Investigation 58 MP Member of Parliament
12 CD Compact Disc 59 M.S. Master of Surgery
13 CFL Compact Fluorescent Lamp 60 NLC Neyveli Lignite Corporation
14 CID Criminal Investigation Department 61 NOC No Objection Certificate
15 CMRL Chennai Metro Rail Limited 62 OTG On-The-Go
16 CNN Cable News Network 63 PC Personal Computer
17 CRPF Central Reserve Police Force 64 PhD Doctor of Philosophy
18 C.V. Curriculum Vitae 65 PMG Post Master General
19 CVR Cockpit Voice Recorder 66 PSU Public Sector Undertaking
20 D.D. Demand Draft 67 P.T. Physical Training
21 DDT Dichioro-Diphenyl-Trichioro-ethane 68 PTI Press Trust of India
22 DIG Deputy Inspector General of Police 69 PTO Please Turn Over
23 DTP Desktop Publishing 70 PVC Poly Vinyl Chloride, Param Virchakra
24 DTS Digital Theatre System 71 PWD Public Works Department
25 E.C. Election Commission 72 RBI Reserve Bank of India
26 ENT Ear, Nose, and Throat (Specialist) 73 RPF Railway Protection Force
27 EPF Employees' Provident Fund 74 RPM Revolution Per Minute
28 FAO Food and Agriculture Organisation 75 RTO Regional Transport Officer
29 FAQ Frequently Asked Questions 76 S.P. Superintendent of Police
30 FBI Federal Bureau of Investigation 77 SBI State Bank of India
31 FIR First Information Report 78 SHG Self Help Group (for women)
32 FM Frequency Modulation 79 SLV Satellite Launch Vehicle
33 G.K. General Knowledge 80 SPCA Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
34 GPO General Post Office 81 STF Special Task Force
35 HIV Human Immuno deficiency Virus 32 STP Software Technology Park
36 lAP Indian Air Force 83 TB Tuberculosis
37 lAS Indian Administrative Service 84 TV Television
38 ICC International Cricket Council 85 UAE United Arab Emirates
39 IMF International Monetary Fund 86 UNO United Nations Organization
40 lOB Indian Overseas Bank 87 UPS Uninterrupted Power Supply
41 H.M. Head Master 88 UPSC Union Public Service Commission
42 HRC Human Rights Commission 89 VAO Village Administrative Officer
43 IAAI International Airport Authority of India 90 VC Vice Chancellor
44 IPO Indian Postal Order 91 VGA Video Graphics Array
45 IPS Indian Police Service 92 VIP Very Important Person
46 ISBN International Standard Book Nunber 93 WTO World Trade Organisation
47 ISI Indian Standard Institute 94 WWW World Wide Web
48 IST Indian Standard Time
49 JEE Joint Entrance Examination
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Exercises: Choose the expanded form of the abbreviation
1. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation SSC.
(a) State Subordinate Commission (b) Staff Selection Commission
(c) State School Certificate (d) School System Common
2. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation SMS.
(a) Simple Message Service (b) Simple and Minimum Service
(c) Short Message Service (d) Short Membership Service
3. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation MNC.
(a) Mobile Network Corporation (b) Multi National Corporation
(c) Multi Nationalised Companies (d) Multi News Confederation
4. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation UGC.
(a) Universal Grant Commission (b) University Grants Commission
(c) University Graduates Committee (d) Under Graduates Conference
5. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation BBC.
(a) Britain Broadcasting Company (b) British Baseball Club
(c) Bengal Business Corporation (d) British Broadcasting Corporation
6. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation LPG.
(a) Limited Pressure Gas (b) Limited Premium Gas
(c) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (d) Liquefied Paraffin Gas
7. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation MCI
(a) Multiple Crimes Investigation (b) Municipal Committee of Intellectuals
(c) Medical Council of India (d) Multiple Civil Institutions
8. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation CA
(a) Chief Accountant (b) Central Accountant (c) Central Army (d) Chartered Accountant
9. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation BPT
(a) Bachelor of Pure Therapy (b) Bachelor of Physiotherapy
(c) Bachelor of Post Treatment (d) Bachelor of Poverty Treatment
10. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation BPO.
(a) Bank Process Outsourcing (b) Better Process Outsourcing
(c) Business Process Outsourcing (d) Boyle Process Outsourcing
11. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation ATM.
(a) Automatic Teller Machine (b) Automated Teller Machine
(c) Automatic Typing Machine (d) Automated Telling Man
12. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation CLRI.
(a) Central Legal Research Institute (b) Central Labour Research Institute
(c) Central Leather Research Institute (d) Central Learner' s Research Institute
13. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation CCTV.
(a) Charged Channel Television (b) Closed Channel Television
(c) Closed-Circuit Television (d) Checked-Circuit Television
14. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation IAS
(a) Indian Administrative Service (b) Indian Armed Service
(c) Indian Army Service (d) Indian Agricultural Service
15. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation ILO
(a) International Law and Order (b) International Labour Organisation
(c) Indian Legal Orientation (d) Inter-state Lawful Ordinance
16. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation IPC.
(a) Integrated Police Council (b) Indian Penal Code
(c) Independent Police Corps (d) International Public Census
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17. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation KPO.
(a) Kinetic Potential Output (b) Knowledge Process Outsourcing
(c) Keen Programme Observation (d) Knowledge Performance Outcome
18. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation PA.
(a) Personal Ambassador (b) Private Affair (c) Personal Assistant (d) Public Apartment
19. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation RRB.
(a) Railsand Reservation Board (b) Record and Revenue Bank
(c) Railway Recruitment Board (d) Roadways and Railways Bureau
20. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation SR.
(a) Suburban Railways (b) Standard Railways (c) Southern Railways (d) Steam Railways
ACRONYM
An Acronym is formed using the first letters of the group of words to form a word that can be pronounced as
a word.
Points to Remember:
Example: AWOL - is the acronym for 'Absent Without Official Leave'
Example: Acronym Expanded Form
AFK Away FromKeyboard
Examples of Acronyms:
AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
AIIMS All India Institute of Medical Sciences
ASAP As Soon As Possible
BARC Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
BEL Bharat Electronics Limited
BHEL Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
BIOS Basic Input Output System
BIT Binary Digit
CAD Computer Aided Design
CIBIL Credit Information Bureau of India Limited
CIET Central Institute of Education Technology
CRY Child Relief and You
DIET District Institute of Education and Training E-
MAIL Electronic Mailing
ERNET Educational and Research Network
GMAT Graduate Management Admission Test
HUDCO Housing and Urban Development Corporation
IGNOU Indira Gandhi National Open University
LASER Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
LED Light Emitting Diode
NAM Non-Aligned Movement
NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organisation
NAV Net Asset Value
OIL Oil India Limited
OPEC Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
PAN Permanent Account Number
POTA Prevention of Terrorism Act
QUIZ Questions Under Intellectual Zone
RADAR Radio Detection and Ranging
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ROM Read Only Memory
SAARC South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation
SAl Sports Authority of India
SAIL Steel Authority of India Limited
SIDCO Small Industries Development Corporation
SIM Subscriber Identification Module
SIP Systematic Investment Planning
SIT Special Investigation Team
SLET State Level Eligibility Test
TAFE Tractor and Farm Equipment Limited
TANCET Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test
TANSI Tamil Nadu Small Industries Corporation Limited
TASMAC Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation
TELCO Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company
TIPS Token Insuring Prompt Service
TISCO Tata Iron and Steel Company
TOEFL Test of English as a Foreign Language
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
UNICEF United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund
VAT Value Added Tax
VIRUS Vital Information Resources Under Siege
WHO World Health Organization
ZIP Zone Improvement Plan
Exercises : Choose the expanded form of the acronym:
1. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym NASA.
(a) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (b) National Acrobatics and Sports Administration
(c) National Aerospace and Special Administration
(d) National Agriculture and Support Administration
2. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym ISRO.
(a) International Satellite Research Organisation (b) Indian Space Research Organisation
(c) Indian Social Reforms Organisation (d) Indian Southern Railway Organisation
3. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym PIN.
(a) Population Index Number (b) Postal Index Number
(c) Poor Identification Notice (d) Physics Internal Note
4. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym AIR.
(a) All India Railways (b) All India Rivers (c) All India Radio (d) All Indian Religions
5. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym CAT.
(a) Common Aptitude Test (b) Computer Aptitude Test
(c) Computer Accuracy Test (d) Computer Accessories Test
6. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym INSAT.
(a) International Satellite (b) Integrated Space and Technology Work
(c) Indian National Satellite (d) Independent Satellite Track
7. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym RAM.
(a) Read Only Memory (b) Read Access Memory
(c) Rapid Accurate Memory (d) Random Access Memory
8. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym LAN.
(a) Local Available Network (b) Local Area Node
(c) Local Area Network (d) Large Area Network
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9. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym FERA.
(a) Federal Railways Act (b) Foreign Exchange Regulation Act
(c) Federal Eastern Railways Administration (d) Foreign Exchange Regional Act
10. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym GAIL.
(a) Gas Assessment in Infertile Land (b) Greenery Agricultural India Limited
(c) Gas Authority of India Limited (d) Gas Availability Indicator Light
11. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym SAT
(a) Standard Account Task (b) Standard Assessment Task
(c) Standard Aptitude Test (d) Scholastic Assessment Test
12. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym LAC
(a) Local Area Coverage (b) Line of Actual Control
(c) Line of Airport Control (d) Lawyer Assembly Corporation
13. Choose the correct expansion of the acronym GATE
(a) General Aptitude Test in Electronics (b) Graduate Aptitude Test in Electronics
(c) Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (d) General Aptitude Test in Engineering
SyIIabification
Words can be divided according to the number of syllables in them.
A syllable is a unit of sound. It can be a vowel, a diphthong, or vowels combined with one or more
consonants. Words that have more than one syllable are divided by a dot or space or bar between the
syllables.
eg: con-di-tion, con di tion, con/di/tion.
Choosing the mono / di / tn / tetra syllabic word, as asked in the question.
1. Choose the tetra-syllabic word from the given options:
(a) political (b) multiply (c) logical (d) fantastic
2. Choose the monosyllabic word from the given options:
(a) sullen (b) torture (c) senses (d) yelled
3. Choose the disyllabic word from the given options:
(a) steel (b) heavy (c) base (d) plot
4. Choose the trisyllabic word from the given options:
(a) merchant (b) inform (c) charity (d) life
5 Choose the tetrasyllabic word from the given options:
(a) logical (b) expression (c) environment (d) computer
(a) tongue (b) worse (c) early (d) vague
7. Choose the trisyllabic word from the given options:
(a) valiant (b) oration (c) politician (d) Hiroshima
8. Choose the tetrasyllabic word from the given options:
(a) effective (b) statemen (c) indifferent (d) excitement
(a) bizarre (b) snake (c) count (d) month
10. Choose the monosyllabic word from the given options:
(a) rule (b) crusader (c) further (d) doctor
11. Choose the tetrasyllabic word from the given options:
(a) domestic (b) establish (c) further (d) population
12. Choose the pentasyllabic word from the given options:
(a) bright (b) documentary (c) political (d) observer
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Choosing the correct syllabification of the given word:
1. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “entertainment”.
(a) ent-er-ta-in-meiit (b) en-ter-tain-ment (c) en-ter-ta-in-ment (d) ent-ert-ainment
2. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “psycology”.
(a) psy-cho-lo-gy (b) psy-chol-o-gy (c) p-sy-cho-lo-gy (d) psy-chol-o-gy
3. Choose the corrct syllabification of the word “organisation”.
(a) or-ga-ni-sa-tion (b) orga-ni-sa-tion (c) org-a-ni-sa-tion (d) organ-i-sa-tion
4. Choose the correct syllabification, of the word “emigrant”.
(a) e-mi-grant (b) e-mig-rant (c) em-i-grant (d) emi-gra-nt
5. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “maladministration”.
(a) mal-admin-is-tra-tion (b) mal-ad-minis-tra-tion (c) mal-ad-min-is-tra-tion (d) mal-admi-nis-trat-ion
6. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “superstition”.
(a) su-per-sti-tion (b) sup-er-sti-tion (c) super-sti-tion (d) su-pers-ti-ti-on
7. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “etymology”.
(a) ety-mo-lo-gy (b) ety-mol-o-gy (c) et-y-mo-log-y (d) et-y-mol-o-gy
8. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “organisation”.
(a) or-ga-ni-sa-tion (b) orga-ni-sa-tion (c) org-a-ni-sa-tion (d) organ-i-sa-tion
9. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “subjugation”.
(a) subju-ga-tion (b) sub-jug-a-tion (c) sub-ju-ga-tion (d) sub-juga-ti-on
10. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “implicit”.
(a) im-pli-c-it (b) im-plic-it (c) i-mph-cit (d) imp-li-cit
11. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “argumentative”.
(a) argu-ment-at-ive (b) arg-u-men-ta-tive (c) ar-gu-men-ta-tive (d) argu-ment-ta-tive
12. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “censure”.
(a) cen-sure (b) ce-n-sure (c) cen-su-re (d) cens-ure
13. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “eccentric”.
(a) ecc-en-tric (b) ec-cen-tric (c) ecc-ent-ric (d) e-ccen-tric
14. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “embodiment”.
(a) em-bo-dim-ent (b) em-bodi-ment (c) em-bod-i-ment (d) emb-odi-men-t
15. Choose the correct syllabification of the word “magnificent”.
(a) ma-gni-fi-cent (b) mag-ni-fi-cent (c) mag-nif-i-cent (d) magni-fi-cent
Question Tag
(Text Book Page No. : 79-81, 217)
A Question Tag is the shortest form of a question using the verb plus pronoun.
(i) A positive statement takes a negative tag. (positive. question tag Negative)
(ii) A negative statement takes a positive tag. (negative. cu question tag Positive)
A tag question is a short question (e.g. have you? / haven't you?) that follows a statement.
Example:
You haven't got a car, have you?
It was a good film, wasn't it?
Normally we use a positive question tag with a negative sentence:
Tom won't be late, will he?
They don't like us, do they?
That isn't Sanju over there, is it?
And normally we use a negative question tag with a positive sentence:
Geetha will be here soon, won't she?
Krish should pass his exam, shouldn't he?
They were very angry, weren't they?
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Types
A: THE AUXILIARY VERB (OR BE)
1) If the statement is positive, the verb in the tag is negative and usually contracted. If the
statement is negative, the verb in the tag is positive.
He is reading, isn't he? He isn't reading, is he?
2) The auxiliary verb (or be) in the tag matches the auxiliary verb (or be) in the statement.
She can play chess, can't she?
They weren't working, were they?
You have seen him, haven't you?
3) If there is no auxiliary (or be) in the statement, we use do(n't) / does(n't) / did(n't) in the tag.
You feel tired, don't you?
He feels tired, doesn't he?
They felt tired, didn't they?
B: THE SUBJECT PRONOUN
1) If the subject of the sentence is a pronoun, the same pronoun is used in the tag:
He is reading, isn't he?
2) If the subject of the sentence is a noun (or noun phrase), a pronoun - pronoun which agrees
with the noun (or noun phrase) is used in the tag.
Prices are coming down, aren't they?
The tall girl in the garden is your sister, isn't she?
3) Statements with words as: neither, no (adjective), none, no one, nobody, nothing, hardly,
hardly ever, rarely, seldom are considered negative followed by positive tags.
They invited nobody, did they?
Nothing happened, did it?
Jordi hardly ever studies, does he?
4) If the subject of the sentence is: anyone, anybody, everyone, everybody, someone, somebody,
no one, nobody, none, neither, the pronoun in the tag is they:
Nobody arrived, did they?
Neither of them would complain, would they?
Somebody entered the room, didn't they?
5) After imperatives (positive or negative), the question tag is always will you:
Open the window, will you? Don't open the door, will you?
6) IRREGULAR TAGS
If the statements starts with there is, there are, ... the subject pronoun in the tag is also there.
There was a park, wasn't there?
There isn't a problem, is there?
If the statement starts with l am the tag is aren't I.
I am a teacher, aren't I?
If the statement starts with Let's the tag is shall we.
Let's play tennis, shall we?
If any of the following word is included in a sentence, then it will be a Negative sentence.
hardly, rarely, scarcely, seldom, few, little.
Therefore, Positive tag should be added.
Sentence with suggestion, (Let us..)  Shall we.
Sentence with simple request, (Please come..) Will you.
Sentence with urgent request,  Won't you
Sentence with impatient remarks, Can't you
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Exercises Type - 1: Choose the most appropriate question tag for the following sentence.
1. Students should be allowed to use the library everyday ?
(a) Should they (b) Isn't it (c) Shouldn't they (d) Isn't they
2. Our team will win the match, ? (a) will we (b) Will n't we (c) won we (d) won't we
3. She rarely absents herself, ?
(a) doesn't she (b) does she (c) will she (d) willn't she
4. Character is influenced by surrounding, ?
(a) is it (b) isn't they (c) isn't it (d) is they
5. Lets go for a movie, ? (a) shall we (b) can we (c) will we (d) wouldn't
6. I haven't answered your questions, ?
(a) is it (b) have I (c) did I (d) didn't she
7. The lessons are quite interesting, ?
(a) isn't it (b) aren't they (c) are they (d) is it
8. She doesn't like sweets, ?
(a) doesn't she (b) didn't she (c) did she (d) does she
9. He hardly absent himself. ? (a) does he (b) isn't it (c) doesn't he (d) is it
10. I won't repeat it, ? (a) will'nt I (b) will I (c) won't I (d) won I
11. Let us start working, ?
(a) will we (b) must we (c) shall we (d) shalln't we
12. We need not come tomorrow, ?
(a) should we (b) need we (c) needn't we (d) shouldn't we
13. It has been raining heavily, ?
(a) has it (b) does it (c) doesn't it (d) hasn't it
14. He never fails in his duty
(a) doesn't he (b) does he (c) won't he (d) won he
15. You should treat each other with respect. ?
(a) Should you (b) Has it (c) Shouldn't you (d) Hasn't it
16. Plants give out oxygen during the day; ?
(a) do they (b) won they (c) won't they (d) don't they
17. The flag has four colours on it, ?
(a) isn't it (b) hasn't it (c) has it (d) is it
18. The Sun sets in the west, ? (a) does it (b) isn't it (c) is it (d) doesn't it
19. Shreya draws well, ?
(a) won't she (b) doesn't she (c) do she (d) won she
20. I'm not late, ? (a) are'n't (b) am I (c) have'I (d) are it
Exercises : Type -2
Add appropriate question tags:
1. Shakespeare was English Novelist, ?
2. Malathi couldn't sing well, ?
3. They often talk to their neighbours, ?
4. We've seen this film, ?
5. He can write, ?
6. Kaleel can write good poems, ?
7. They have finished their homework, ?
8. Bharath and Justin are reading comics, ?
9. There are a lot of people here, ?
10. The big Ben is in England, ?
11. You don't like curd,
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12. He has a car, ?
13. They did not go to dance class last week, ?
14. The teacher was late for school, ?
15. Umar got up at seven, ?
16. Miya is reading a book, ?
17. You can't play the piano, ?
18. Bhavesh will be late, ?
19. You weren't listening, ?
20. Abi has got a new car, ?
21. Kannan hadn't seen you before, ?
22. People shouldn't watch too much TV, ?
23. We must hurry, ?
24. Your brother speaks Spanish, ?
25. George arrived late, ?
Modal / Semi-Modal Verbs

A modal is a type of auxiliary (helping) verb that is used to express: ability, possibility, permission or
obligation. Modal phrases (or semi-modals) are used to express the same things as modals, but are a
combination of auxiliary verbs and the preposition to. Modal Auxiliary Verbs
In addition to the three main auxiliary verbs, have, do, and be, there are additional auxiliary verbs. These
are called modal auxiliary verbs, and they never change form.
MODAL VERBS
Modal Examples
can ability : I can speak English.
permission : Can I go to the library?
request : Can you wait a moment, please?
offer : I can lend you my. pen.
could ability (past) I could speak English.
polite request : Could you wait a moment, please? (present)
may possibility : It may rain today.
permission : May I go to the cinema? (formal)
might possibility (less possible than may) : It might rain today.
must force, necessity : I must go to the supermarket today.
recommendation : You must read the new novel by Bhagat.
shall suggestion : Shall I carry your bag?
should advice : You should drive carefully on the highway.
obligation : You should switch off the lights when you leave, the
classroom.
will wish, request, demand,
order : Will you please shut the door?
prediction, assumption : I think it will rain on Friday.
spontaneous decision : Can somebody take me to the hospital? I will.
would wish, request : Would you shut the door, please?
habits in the past : Sometimes he would bring me some flowers.
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Exercises
Complete the following sentence choosing the most appropriate Modal Verb.
1. How you leave the classroom in such a mess?
(a) must (b) might (c) could (d) will
2. Mano be lazy but he is certainly not weak.
(a) must (b) would (c) should (d) may
3. I speak French, Hindi and English.
(a) can (b) may (c) should (d) must
4. I think we are lost. The man have given us the wrong directions.
(a) might (b) should (c) would (d) will
5. You not be serious about swimming outdoors in the sea.
(a) would (b) can (c) must (d) might
6. Plants have sunlight in order to make food.
(a) can (b) may (c) must (d) will
7. Since our bags are identical you have taken mine by mistake.
(a) can (b) will (c) shall (d) could
8. you excuse me for a moment ?
(a) Would (b) Should (c) Must (d) May
9. She stay up late if she takes a nap now.
(a) must (b) should (c) can (d) will
10. We not make the first move.
(a) can (b) must (c) shall (d) could
QUASI (OR) SEMI MODAL VERBS

Ought to, used to, need, dare are called semi modal auxiliary verbs, which are also called quasi modal
auxiliary verbs.
Quasi/Semi Examples
Modal
Ought to duty : You ought to submit your assignment on time.
moral obligation : We ought to help the needy.
necessity : We ought to hire some furniture for the party.
Used to habits in the past : My grandfather used to walk for long hours
when he was young.
Need necessity : I need to buy a packet of milk.
moral obligation : We need to keep our environment clean.
Dare boldness : I dare not go out in the dark.
challenge : How dare you enter my room?
Exercises
Complete the following sentence choosing the most appropriate Semi-modal Verb.
1. He to study for the test.
(a) ought (b) need (c) used (d) dare
2. The train leave now. (a) ought to (b) dare to (c) need to (d) used to
3. I drink coffee, when I was young.
(a) dare (b) need (c) used to (d) ought to
4. How you speak to me.
(a) dare (b) ought to (c) used to (d) need
5. You not lose any more weight. You are already slim.
(a) ought (b) need (c) used to (d) dare
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6. I get a visa for Nepal?
(a) Ought to (b) Used to (c) Dare (d) Need
7. How you talk to him like that?
8. She really mend her ways.
(a) ought to (b) need to (c)used to (d)dare
9. He listen to his teacher.
(a) ought to (b) need (c) used to (d) dare
10. We to talk to the higher authorities.
(a) ought (b) used (c) need (d) dare
11. Devotees maintain silence in the Meditation Hall.
(a) dare (b) need c) used to (d) ought to
12. How you speak to me like that?
13. Military men undergo strenuous training.
(a) ought to (b) need (c) used to (d) dare
14. We clean our rooms everyday.
(a) ought to (b) need (c) dare (d) used to
Choosing the American English Word

for the British English Word
There are a few notable differences between British English and American English. The most noticeable
difference between American and British English is vocabulary. There are hundreds of everyday words that
are different.
There is also a difference in the accent, spelling and Grammar. There are many cases in which the two
varieties of English use different terms to describe the same thing.
In this question, a British English word will be given along with the options. Options will contain four
American English words. You have to choose the correct American word from the options given.
We give below some important words of British English and the equivalent words of American English.
1. Differences in Vocabulary
British English American English British English American English
anti clockwise counter clockwise cooker oven, stove
autumn fall corridor passage
barrister attorney cot crib
biscuit cookie cotton thread
blind window shade crossroads intersection
bonnet (of a car) hood cup board closet / wardrobe
boot (of a car) trunk curriculum vitae resume
caravan trailer cutting clipping (newspaper)
carpet rug dustbin garbage can/trash can
chemist druggist fellow guy
chips french fries fever/ill sick
cinema movie flat apartment
consultant specialist football soccer
garden yard rubber eraser
goods train freight train rubbish garbage, trash
ground floor first floor sellotape scotch tape
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British English American English British English American English
handbag purse shop store
holiday vacation shop assistant sales clerk
interval intermission single (ticket) one-way (ticket)
jam jelly sportsman athlete
jug pitcher stable barn
lift elevator storm tempest
lorry truck sweet candy
luggage baggage tap faucet
mad crazy taxi cab
mobile phone cell phone tea cup tea pot
motorcar automobile timetable schedule
nappy diaper tin can
paraffin kerosene torch flash light
pavement / footpath sidewalk trumpet horn
pedestrian crossing crosswalk underground subway
petrol gas, gasoline veranda porch
post box mail box washbasin sink
post code zip code washing laundry
queue line windscreen windshield
railway railroad witness box witness stand
ring up call zed zee
2. Differences in Spelling:
British Spelling American Spelling British Spelling American Spelling
analyse analyze labour labor
behaviour behavior licence license
catalogue catalog metre meter
centre center neighbour neighbor
cheque check organise organize
colour color plough plow
defence defense practise (verb) practice (noun & verb)
favourite favorite programme program
flavour flavor realise realize
focussed focused skilful skillful
fulfil fulfill theatre theater
honour honor traveller traveler
jewellery jewelery tyre tire
Exercises
Choose the correct American English word:
1. Choose the American English word for “tire”
(a) rubber (b) tyre (c) wheel (d) cycle
2. Choose the American English word for “schedule”
(a) plan (b) agenda (c) timetable (d) planner
3. Choose the American English word for “cell phones”.
(a) mobile phones (b) mobile (c) phone (d) cello
4. Choose the American English word for “sink”
(a) sinker (b) tank (c) washer (d) wash basin
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5. Choose the American English word for “drapes”.
(a) curtains (b) drier (c) dress (d) cloth
6. Choose the American English word for “parking lot”
(a) valet (b) parking (c) carpark (d) area lobby
7. Choose the American English word for “generator”.
(a) power supply (b) dynamo c) inverter (d) electricity producer
8. Choose the American English word for “trunk”
(a) boot (b) box (c) front (d) iron bar
9. Choose the American English word for “zip code”
(a) pin code (b) post code (c) pen code (d) number code
10. Choose the American English word for “balcony”.
(a) arena (b) elite class (c) gallery (d) deluxe
Prepositions: Fill in
(Text Book Page No. 43, 216)
A preposition is a word or a phrase that is used to show the relationship between a noun and another noun.
List of Prepositions and Prepositional Phrases
A between L regardless of
about beyond like S
above by M since
across C minus T
after concerning N than
against D near through
ahead of despite next to till
along down O to
amid during of towards
amidst E off U
among except for on under
around I on behalf of unlike
as far as following on top of until
aside from for onto up
at from opposite upon
B in case of out V
barring in front of out of. versus
behind in place of outside via
before in spite of over W
below including past with
beneath inside plus within
beside instead of R without
besides into regarding
since / for
since  for an action continuing from the past to the present time (past)
 Yuvan has been playing badminton well since 2014.
for  the total duration of an action/ existence from the past to the present time,
 Yuvan has been playing badminton for the past four years.
above/over
above when one thing is not directly over the other,
 My brother lived in the mountains above the lake.
over  for horizontal movement at a higher level,
 I saw a helicopter fly over a lake.
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below/under
below  'Below' is the opposite of 'above', 'above' 'below
 Her head was below the level of the table. So, nobody noticed her.
under  'under' is the opposite of 'over'; for horizontal movement at a lower level,
 A child places his toys under a blanket.
 A boy ran under the bridge when the river was dry.
along/through
along  for following a line of specific movement,
 A man walked along the side of the river.
through for movement in a three dimensional space from one side to the other
 Hunters walked through the forest.
between/among
between used for two nouns/adverbials, when something is in the middle of two things,
 There was amity between Jessie Owens and Luz Long in the Berlin Olympics.
among used for more than two nouns, (or) when something is in the middle of many things,
 There was a healthy discussion about communal harmony among Ramesh, Abdul and John.
before/after
before  used for the second action in a phrase when we mention two actions,
 Before eating food, we clean our hands.
after used for the first action in a phrase when we mention two actions,
 After eating food, children love playing.
Exercises : Type 1
Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate preposition.
1. We saw a baseball game the stadium.
(a) on (b) of (c) at (d) over
2. Could you get me this pants a larger size?
(a) on (b) at (c) in (d) to
3. This class will be held Mondays.
(a) on (b) at (c) in (d) of
4. He is the neighboring town.
(a) on (b) about (c) after (d) from
5. She fell the water
(a) since (b) into (c) along (d) in
6. I am heading the airport.
(a) on (b) of (c) at (d) to
7. She left he arrived.
(a) across (b) before (c) for (d) from
8. I just live the street
(a) across (b) after (c) over (d) from
9. A cute cat emerged behind the post.
(a) across (b) after (c) with (d) from
10. He was a heroic icon the war.
(a) from (b) during (c) over (d) with
Exercises:Type-2 : Fill in the blanks using a correct Preposition.
1. The concert will be staged the month of May.
2. I learned how to ski the holidays.
3. He usually arrives 3pm.
4. It was six in the morning when we made it to bed.
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5. The store is open midnight.
6. Once a time, there was a beautiful princess.
7. The baby climbed the table.
8. It is us to find the answer.
9. She never leaves her phone.
10. The bird sat the oak tree.
11. The caterpillar turned a butterfly.
12. I was unable to get the appointment.
Link Words / Conjunctions

(Text Book Page No. : 46,47,216)
LINKERS AND CONNECTORS
Words or phrases that join sentences are called linkers and connectors.
RESULT
Consequently / As a result / Therefore, So / Such (a) that
It was late, so I decided to take a taxi home.
The storm was so terrible that the roofs were ripped off.
CAUSE AND REASON

Because / Since / As / Because of / Due to
Since we arrived late, all the best seats had been taken.
We were unable to go by train because of the strike.
CONTRAST Although / Even though / But

Despite / In spite of / However / Nevertheless / On the other hand
Although the car is old, it is still reliable.
Despite / In spite of the rain, / went for a walk.
Buying a house is expensive. However, it is a good investment.
TIME
When / While / After / Before / As soon as / Until / By the time
While / was driving home, / saw a terrible accident.
He went out after he had finished work.
ADDITION
And / In addition / Furthermore / Moreover / Besides / In addition to / As well as
I don't feel like going out tonight. Besides, there is a good film on.
She writes novels. In addition, she also writes poetry
They robbed a bank as well as a post office.
They adore Indian food. I like Indian food, too.
COORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS
Cumulative conjunctions and, also, as well as
Choice conjunctions or, or else, otherwise
Contrast conjunctions yet, but, still, nevertheless, whereas, while
Consequence conjunctions so, and so, therefore, consequently, for
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SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS
time before, after, when while, till
place where, wherever, whether, whither
manner as, as if, as though
comparison as, than
cause/reason because, since, for
result / consequence that, so that
purpose so that, in order that
condition/concession if, unless, provided, even if
contrast though, even though, although
Example: Choose th most appropriate conjunction/connector/linker and complete the sentences

1. I know you must be tired, I will let you rest.
(a) as (b) since (c) so (d) yet [Ans: (c) so]
2. We should be proud of this, we are.
(a) before (b) since (c) and so (d) after [Ans: (c) and so]
3. He worked hard, he failed.
(a) so (b) still (c) as (d) since [Ans: (b) still]
4. Why are you bad?
(a) yet (b) since (c) and (d) so [Ans: (d) só]
5. He is foolish, he is loved by others.
(a) so (b) yet (c) as (d) since [Ans: (b) yell]
6. Pizza burgers are my favourite snacks.
(a) but (b) as (c) and (d) after [Ans: (c) and]
7. We were late, we took a taxi.
(a) as (b) since (c) so (d) yet [Ans: (c) so]
8. You may go, comeback soon.
(a) still (b) but (c) as (d) since [Ans: (b) but]
9. I know him, he was a child.
(a) so (b) but (c) yet (d) since [Ans: (d) sincé]
10. This is the current position, it will remain.
(a) and so (b) since (c) before (d) after [Ans: (a) and so]
Exercises:
Choose the most appropriate conjunction/connector/linker and complete the sentences
1. Receptionists must be able to convey information pass messages accurately.
(a) or (b) and (c) but (d) because
2. I did not attend the party I had to take care of my sister.
(a) until (b) because (c) so (d) but
3. Tharanivel is the Secretary the Correspondent of the school.
(a) as (b) or (c) and (d) but
4. Correct all the mistakes you take a print.
(a) or (b) before (c) because (d) while
5. Keep the food covered the flies will contaminate it.
(a) or (b) and (c) until (d) though
6. he looks feeble, he is strong.
(a) But (b) As (c) Though (d) Because
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7. They had an unpleasant experience they were staying in the resort.
(a) but (b) and (c) because (d) while
8. The committee rejected the proposal they did not think it was practical.
(a) or (b) but (c) though (d) because
9. The Principal welcomed his guests offered them bouquets.
(a) and (b) while (c) until (d) as
10. These rooms are very comfortable they have a good view of the city.
(a) also (b) and (c) still (d) as
11. He sat down he could take rest.
(a) so that (b) and so (c) yet (d) and still
12. We'll leave the note on the table he can see it.
(a) but (b) since (c) such that (d) in case
13. I have a great respect for him, I don't particularly like him.
(a) Though (b) As (c) Since (d) After
14. there are no more questions to discuss, we can finish the meeting.
(a) Yet (b) Since (c) Whenever (d) still
15. Linkers are quite difficult to learn, they are worth studying.
(a) so that (b) and so (c) since (d) but
16. I failed the exam precisely I didn't have time to study.
(a) though (b) although (c) since (d) after
17. Dora eatsgreen vegetables they are good for her health.
(a) so that (b) and so (c) since (d) as
18. the teacher was out of the class, some pupils wrote a message on the board.
(a) Yet (b) however (c) Whenever (d) still
19. There's time to get a sandwich from the cafeteria the next class begins.
(a) when (b) till (c) after (d) then
20. Viman has to go to the dentist he has an infected tooth.
(a) Yet (b) since (c) whenever (d) still
Substitute Words / Phrases with Polite AIternatives
Substitute Words
Euphemistic words or phrase are the mild or indirect words or expressions substituted for words considered
to be too harsh or blunt or inappropriate when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
e.g.: “Professional foul”  cheating.
Some of the words and their substitutes are given below:
Unpleasant words Substitute words with polite alternatives
barber hair dresser
dead dearly departed
death put to sleep, going to the other side
die bite the big one
fat obese, big-boned
handicapped differently-abled
house wife home maker
idiot Intellectually challenged
killed whacked
killing someone neutralizing the target
old person senior citizen
poor people in poverty
retarded mentally challenged
stupid academically challenged
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Exercises
Choose the correct substitute word for the underlined word below:
1. How long have you been unemployed?
(a) without earning (b) between jobs (c) wandering (d) wasting time
2. Where is the toilet?
(a) washing room (b) lavatory (c) bathroom (d) restroom
3. Raja is quite short but his brothers are both really tall.
(a) diminutive (b) undersized (c) vertically challenged (d) abruptly challenged
4. Misfortunes have rained heavily upon the old man.
(a) senior fellow (b) senior citizen (c) old fellow (d) old chap
5. The President of our neighbouring country died yesterday.
(a) stopped living (b) expired (c) passed away (d) ceased to exist
6. Though the watch was very cheap, it goes quit well.
(a) depreciated (b) heavily priced (c) inferior (d) economical
7. It might have been accidental death.
(a) collateral damage (b) incidental murder (c) deliberate killing (d) premeditated death
8. The school for blind is completely damaged by the flood.
(a) mentally challenged (b) handicapped (c) unseeing (d) visually impaired
9. No one should use the word deaf to identify a person who lacks the power of hearing.
(a) unable to hear (b) earless (c) deafened (d) hearing impaired
10. One in 200 people now homeless in Britain as crisis deepens.
(a) on the streets (b) uncared-for (c) estranged (d) outcast
11. The culprit was put in jail.
(a) prison (b) cell (c) confinement (d) correctional facility
12. He is in a prison camp.
(a) relocation centre (b) jail (c) training (d) parade
Singular and Plural Form
Singular Plural Singular Plural

Agendum Agenda Hypothesis Hypotheses
Alumnus Alumni Index Indexes
Axis Axes Key Keys
Bacterium Bacteria Man Men
Basis Bases Matrix Matrixes
Bench Benches Medium Media
Brush Brushes Memorandum Memoranda
Butterfly Butterflies Mouse Mice
Child Children Nucleus Nuclei
Criterion Criteria Phenomenon Phenomena
Curriculum Curricula Potato Potatoes
Datum Data Radius Radii
Deer Deer Stadium Stadia
Father-in-law Fathers-in-law Stimulus Stimuli
Fish Fish Stratum Strata
Foot Feet Syllabus Syllabi
Formula Formulae Ultimatum Ultimate
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Exercises:
Choose the correct plural form of the word:
1. Choose the correct plural form of the word analysis.
(a) analyse (b) analyses (c) analysises (d) analysie
2. Choose the correct plural form of the word axis.
(a) axes (b) axises (c) axie (d) axiey
3. Choose the correct plural form of the word calf.
(a) calfs (b) calve (c) calves (d) calfes
4. Choose the correct plural form of the word commando.
(a) commandos (b) commander (c) èommandoes (d) commanders
5. Choose the correct plural form of the word dictum
(a) dictums (b) dicta (c) dictam (d) dictams
6. Choose the correct plural form of the word ox
(a) oxes (b) oxe (c) oxen (d) oxens
7. Choose the correct plural form of the word poultry.
(a) poultrys (b) poultries (c) poultry (d) poultrie
8. Choose the correct plural form of the word elf
(a) elfs (b) elves (c) elve (d) elvee
9. Choose the correct plural form of the word erratum
(a) errata (b) erratums (c) errate (d) erratas
10. Choose the correct plural form of the word focus
(a) focuses (b) focui (c) foci (d) focuis
11. Choose the correct plural form of the word fungus
(a) fungi (b) fungusi (c) fungues (d) fungie
12. Choose the correct plural form of the word goose
(a) gooses (b) geese (c) goosee (d) goesie
13. Choose the correct plural form of the word knife
(a) knif (b) knifes (c) knives (d) knive
14. Choose the correct plural form of the word louse
(a) louses (b) lousie (c) lice (d) lousee
15. Choose the correct plural form of the word terminus
(a) termin (b) termini (c) termine (d) termines
Sentence Pattern
1. SV (Subject+ Verb)
2. SVO (Subject + Verb + Object)
3. SVIODO (Subject + Verb + Indirect Object + Direct Object)
4. SVC (Subject + Verb + Complement)
5. SVOC (Subject + Verb + Object + Complement)
Note: Adjunct could be added to all these five patterns.

1. SV
S V
God forgives.
Caesar hath wept.
The crowd laughed.
Gold glitters.
The telephone rang.
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2. SVO
S V O
Ronaldo scored three goals.
He would not take the crown.
The collector inspected the building.
He has donated his eyes.
Brutus stabbed Caesar.
3. SVIODO
S V IO DO
You lend me your ears.
He gave her a beautiful bouquet.
The Secretary sanctioned to the school ten lakh.
He taught me Hindi.
The company
chairperson promised them better salary.
4. SVC
S V C
This lesson is interesting.
Brutus is an honourable man.
She is a dermatologist.
He remained a bachelor.
The white rose looks beautiful.
5. SVOC
S V IO DO
They elected her the class leader.
The committee declared him the winner.
He painted the car blue.
It will make you mad.
They appointed him the vice-captain.
Note: As mentioned earlier, Adjunct (A) can be added to these five basic sentence patterns.
1. SVA
We are meeting on Friday.
S V A
2. SVOA
The crowd cheered him lustily.
S V O A
3. SVIODOA
I presented him a kingly crown thrice.
S V IO DO A
4. SVCA
He is a professor with a lot of experience.
S V C A
5. SVOCA
The committee appointed him the chairperson on Friday.
S V O C A
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EXERCISES: Identify the pattern of the following sentence:
1. Rani is a nurse.
2. They proved him wrong.
3. Kumar gave Janani a rose.
4. He bought a kilo of apples.
5. My mother keeps the house clean.
6. The teacher gave the class a difficult assignment.

7. You Pardon me.
8. I loved Caesar.
9. I presented him a cheque for Rs. 25,000/-
10. I have the same dagger.
11. I come to bury Caesar.
12. You all do know this mantle.

13. This was the most unkindest cut of all.
PART - II (Two Marks Questions) [14 Marks]
Q. No. 21 to 26: Poem Comprehension & Figure of Speech
(a) 21 to 26 : Poem Comprehension and / Figure of Speech (Answer any four out of six) 4x2=8
Refer to the Poem Sections Unit 1 to 6 of this Guide

(b) 27 to 30 : “Do as Directed” questions (Answer any three out of four) 3 x 2 = 6
1. Direct / Indirect Speech
(Text Book Page No.: 14, 15,215)
Direct speech:
In direct speech, we reproduce the message of the speaker in his own actual words without any change.
The words of the speaker are put within inverted commas.
Reporting Speech Reported Speech
The son said to his father, “I am preparing for my exams now”
speaker reporting listener pronoun reported verb pronoun time

verb
Indirect speech:
In indirect speech, we do not reproduce the actual words of the speaker.
We report the message of the speaker in our own words to another person after making some changes
Direct to Indirect
(a) Changing direct speech into indirect speech:
Now, let us look at an example to learn how to change speech from direct to indirect. It will emphasize the
difference between direct and indirect speech.
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The son told his father that he was preparing for his exams then.
(conjunction) (pronoun) (reported verb) (pronoun) (time)
Changes to be observed:
Reporting Verb - said  told
Pronouns -I he
my his
Tense - am preparing was preparing
Time Concept - now then
Procedure to change direct speech into indirect speech:

1. Remove comma and inverted commas.
2. Put “that” between the reporting and reported speeches. (In some rare cases, “that” need not be
written).
3. Change the 1st letter of reported speech, into small letter except for “I”.
4. Change the pronoun of the direct speech according to the rules given below.
5. Change the tense of the direct speech suitably according to rules given below.
6. Change the words expressing nearness in time or places of the direct speech into its suitable words
expressing distance, as given below.
Rules:
1. Past tense is generally used, except when the reporting verb is given in present tense.
2. Direct speech condition Indirect speech conversion
If the reporting verb is in the past tense ... Present tenses in direct speech are changed into
past tenses.
If the reporting verb is in present tense, as—
say, says, will say, etc. do not change the tense of direct speech in the
If the words in inverted commas denote a indirect speech sentence.
universal truth
3. Changes in Time & Places:
Direct Speech To Indirect Speech
1. ago - before
2. come - go
3. here - there
4. hence - thence
5. last night - the night before
6. now - then
7. next week - the following week
8. next month - the following month
9. next year - the following year
10. this - that
11. these - those
12. thus - so
13. today - that day
14. tomorrow - the next day
15. tonight - that night
16. yesterday - the day before
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Change in Pronouns:
The pronouns of the Direct Speech are changed where necessary, according to their relations with the
speaker and his listener. The pronouns will change in the following ways.
1. The 1st person of the reported speech changes according to the subject of the reporting speech.
She says, “I am in the kitchen.” She says that she is in the kitchen.
(subject) (1st person)

2. The 2nd person of the reported speech changes according to the object of the reporting speech.
Ravi says to them, “you have wasted your time.”
(object) (2nd person)

 Ravi tells them that they have wasted their time.
(To indirect)
3. The 3rd person of the reported speech does not change.
He says, “He is in the library  He says that he is in the library.
(3rd person)
Changes to be observed:
I, you  he, she, it
my, mine, your, yours  his, her, hers, its.
we  they
our, ours  their, theirs
us  them
Conveying the exact words of the speaker in his own actual words without any change to another person is
called 'the Direct Speech'.
Sameera said, “I am going to the market now”.
Reporting of what a speaker said in our own words to another person without quoting his exact words is
called 'Indirect Speech'.
Sameera said that she was going to the market then.
Rules of changing Direct into Indirect Speech changes in Tenses:

1. Simple Present changes To Simple Past “I always drink tea”, he said.
He said that he always drank tea.
2. Present Continuous changes To Past Continuous “I am reading a book”, she said.
She said that she was reading a book.
3. Present Perfect changes To Past Perfect She said, “He has finished his work”
She said that he had finished his work.
4. Present Perfect Continuous changes To Past Perfect Continuous
“I have been to England”, he said to me.
He told me that he had been to England.
5. Simple Past changes To Past Perfect
“Evangeline arrived on Saturday”, he said.
He said that Evangeline had arrived on Saturday.
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6. Past Perfect doesn't take any change in tense.
“I had just come back from work,” he said.
He said that he had just come back from work.
7. Past Continuous changes To Past Perfect Continuous
“We were living in Chennai”, they said to us.
They told us that they had been living in Chennai.
8. Past Perfect Continuous doesn't take any change in tense.
“We had been living there for 5 years”, they said to me.
They told me that they had been living there for 5 years.
9 Future Changes To Present Conditional
“I will be in Kashmir on Saturday” she said
She said that she would be in Kashmir on Saturday.
10. Future Continuous changes To Conditional Continuous
He said, “I'll be visiting mother next Monday.”
He said that he would be visiting mother next Monday.
When it is uncertain if the statement is true or when we are reporting objectively, the past tense is often
used.
Direct Speech Indirect Speech
Here There
Today that day
this morning that morning
Yesterday the day before
Tomorrow the next day
next week the following week
next month the following month
Change of place and time
Direct Speech Indirect Speech
Now Then
Go Before
Last Night the night before
This That
These Those
DIRECT TO INDIRECT SPEECH

Exercises : Type 1
Rewrite the following in reported form.
1. I said, “It is late”.
2. Rita said, “I am singing for the play”.
3. He said, “I am learning French these days”.
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4. She says, “I am a little bit nervous”.
5. He said, “I want to-buy this book”.
6. They said, “Sir, the time is over”.
7. She said, “I visited Oxford University yesterday”.
8. My father said, “I am going to see him tonight”.
9. Dad said, “I was fixing the faucet”.
10. Tom said, “I enjoy watching action movies”.
REPORTED SPEECH
Exercises: Type 2
Rewrite the following dialogue in to reported form.
1. Passenger : Please give me two tickets to Ambattur. How much is it?
Conductor : Five rupees a ticket.
Passenger : Okay. Here's ten rupees.
2. Tourist : Hi, I'm Sydney Carton and I'm from Australia, I'd like to know something about
Mahabalipuram from a tourist point of view.
Guide : With pleasure, Mr. Sydney, the Pallava kings erected the Five Rathas and it is
worth seeing!
3. Anil : Hello Atul, how are you?

Atul : Fine Anil, what brings you here?
Anil : I have just come to see you. It is long since we've met.
Atul : Thank you, Let us have tea.
4. Gopal : Good morning, Sir, i'm Gopal, a former student of this school. I want my Transfer
Certificate, Sir.
Headmaster : Give me your application. Please come tomorrow and collect your T.C.
Gopal : Can't I get it today, Sir?
Headmaster : I am sorry. It is not possible. The clerk is on leave today.
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5. Latha : What are you looking for?
Mala : I have lost my purse.
Latha : Where did you keep it?
Mala : I remember keeping it in the shelf.
Latha : Don't worry. We will find it soon.
6. Bank Manager : Tell me, what can I do for you?

Student : I am a student. Could I open an account here?
Bank Manager : Sure. Get the application form and fill it up.
Indirect to Direct Speech

(b) Changing indirect speech into direct speech.
Rules for conversion of Indirect Speech to Direct Speech:
To change from Indirect to Direct Speech, keep the rules of the Direct Speech applied in the reverse order.
1. Use the reporting verb, “say“ or “said to” in its correct tense-
2. Remove the conjunctions “that, to, if, or.... etc” or whether etc wherever necessary.
3. Insert inverted commas, question mark, exclamation and fullstop, wherever necessary.
4. Put a comma before the statement.
5. Write the 1st letter of the word of the statement with capital letter.
6. Change the past tense into present tense wherever the reporting verb is in the past tense.
7. Convert the past perfect either into past tense or present perfect according to the rules given.
8. Take care in forming the order of words in the Direct speech.
The following conjunctions will point out the kind of sentences.

Conjunction in Indirect Speech Kind of sentence (Direct Speech)
that statement (or) exclamatory
to, not to imperative
requested + to imperative sentence starting with 'please’.
if (or) whether interrogative sentence (Aux. verb + subject + main verb + ...?
what, when, how, etc. ['wh' (or) 'how' +Aux. verb + subject + main verb + ...?
Hints:
For Statement:
Remove: 'that’ Change: 'told' - said to; 'said'  'said' (No change - if there is no listener). eg: Rani told
her teacher that she was unwell.
e.g. Rani said to her teacher, “l am unwell:'
If there is no listener, then 'said' will not be changed.
eg: The Minister said that he would help the poor students.
The Minister said, “I will help the poor students”.
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For Interrogative:
Remove: 'if' (or) 'whether' Don't remove 'Wh’, 'How' questions.
Change: 'asked' said to, said.
eg: He asked me what I was doing?
He said to me, “what are you doing?”
For Imperative:
Remove: 'to’ Change: ordered / asked / commanded / requested /
advised /warned / suggested / told  said to, said
“not to” - to be replaced by “Don't”.
eg: Somu requested his friend to wait there till he returned.
Somu said to his friend, “Please wait here till I return”.
For Exclamatory:
Remove: 'that’ Change: exclaimed  said to / said
exclaimed with pleasure  said, “Hurrah!”
exclaimed with grief  said, “Alas!” / “Oh!”
eg: He exclaimed sadly that he was undone.
He said, “Alas! I am undone”.
Exercises
Rewrite the following in direct speech:
1. The happy prince asked me why I wept.
2. He told you that he didn't trust you.
3. She says that she is happy to be there that evening.
4. The Policeman enquired him where he was going.
5. The teacher told the boys to sit down.
6. The Commander ordered his men to halt.
7. The king ordered the Hatter to take off his hat.
8. Rajesh told Shyam that he didn't like that party
9. My teacher said that the Sun rises in the East.
10. He said that he would write to her if he knew her address.
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11. The teacher said .that if Raghav had studied harder, he wouldn't have failed his exam.
12. Their mother told the children to run away.
13. She asked me if I would wait for a minute.
14. The Judge commanded them to call the first witness.
15. He exclaimed sadly that his dog was dead.
16. The Chief guest said that it gave him great pleasure to be there that evening.
17. He said that he would go as soon as it was possible.
18. He applauded him, saying that he had done well.
Active Voice / Passive Voice

(Text Book Page No. : 76,217)
1. Passive — Use
We use the passive when we are interested in the object or when we do not know who caused the
action.
Ex: Rare trees are found in the valley.
2. Passive — Form
to be + past participle
How to form a passive sentence when an active sentence is given:
object of the active sentence becomes subject in the passive sentence
subject of the active sentence becomes object in the passive sentence (or is left out)
We can only form a passive sentence from an active sentence when there is an object in the active
sentence.
3. Examples
Simple Present
Type of sentence Subject Verb Object
Active sentence: Surya builds a house.
Passive sentence: A house is built by Surya.
Simple Past -
Active sentence: Surya built a house.
Passive sentence: A house was built by Surya.
Present Perfect
Active sentence: Surya has built a house.
Passive sentence: A house has been built by Surya.
will-future
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Active sentence: Surya will build a house.
Passive sentence: A house will be built by Surya.
Modals
Active sentence: Surya can build a house.
Passive sentence: A house can be built by Surya.
Two objects in an active sentences — two possible passive sentences
When there are two objects in an active sentence, there are two possible active sentences and two póssible
passive sentences.
Sentence 1: The teacher gave the students the books.
Sentence 2 : The teacher gave the books to the students.
There are two objects in each of the following sentences:
Object 1 = indirect object  the students
Object 2 = direct object  the books
An indirect object is very often a person, a direct object a thing. When a direct object is followed by an
indirect one, we put to in front of the indirect object.
Active sentence: 1
Subject Verb indirect Object direct Object
The teacher gave the students the books.
Active sentence : 2
Subject Verb direct Object indirect Object with to
The teacher gave the books to the students.
Each of the objects (books/students) in the active sentences can become subject in the passive sentence.
Passive sentence: 1
Subject Verb Object (by-agent)
The students were given the books. (by the teacher).
Passive sentence: 2
Subject Verb Object (by-agent)
The books were given to the students (by the teacher).
Exercises
I. Complete the sentences using the correct passive form of the verbs in brackets.
1. Do you think actors should so much attention? (pay)
2. I've just heard the news that the concert (cancel)
3. The first show in 1975! (broadcast)
4. Hundreds of films by Hollywood every year. (release)
5. The festival by the Prime Minister next week! (inaugurate)
6. The Olympics once in four years. (hold)
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7. The special prize by a farmer from Tanjore. (win)
8. You for your ID at the door, so don't worry (not ask)
9. How many people for that role? (select)
10. I think all the teams should for the final. (choose)
II. Choose the correct form (Active / Passive)

1. Who invented / was invented the telephone?.
2. The CBI raid reported / was reported finding ancient sculptures in an old age home.
3. The criminals caught / were caught by the police.
4. He hasn't / wasn't invited to the party.
5. 200 kg of ivory seized / was seized in a haul in Coorg last Monday.
6. The use of cars has restricted / has been restricted in the city for the next two weeks.
7. Owing to high levels of pollution, the factory has shut down / has been shut down for the next three
days.
8. How many tickets have sold / have been sold for the concert so far?
9. The new comedian will be performing / will be performed at 8 o'clock this evening.
10. He didn't switch off / wasn't switched off his phone at the theatre and it rang during the play.
Ill. Change into the other voice form.

1. New books were bought by the school for the library.
2. The actors were being given the wrong script by the assistant director.
3. You will be offered a new role by the teacher.
4. The parcel won't be delivered to Kaleel by the Postman today.
5. They will be taught by the music teacher in the morning.
6. That house was built for my grandparents by my parents.
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7. They should have been given a new bike by the company.
8. The money to go to the mall will be lent to me by my sister.
9. The organisers were told about the plans by the performers on Friday.
10. They gave Adhira a warm welcome
11. We don't allow mobile phones in the theatre.
12. A ten year old boy will sing the first song at the concert tonight.
13. Who wrote that play?
14. You must show your ticket at the door.
15. Please don't make too much noise
16. We will ask you to leave the room.
17. SONY will broadcast the IPL on TV.
18. They should have awarded her an Oscar for her performance in that film.
19. Will they postpone the concert?
20. We have edited that comedy show.
IV. Choose the correct form of transformation of Voice.

1. They have made a film based on this novel.
(a) A film was based on this novel and made. (b) A film have been made based on this novel
(c) A film, based on this novel, has been made (d) A film has been based and made on this novel
2. The people couldn't move me to the hospital and the doctor operated on me at home
(a) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and was operated on at home by the doctor.
(b) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and I had to be operated on at home.
(c) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and I was operated on at home by the doctor.
(d) I couldn't be moved to the hospital by the people and operated on at home.
3. Why did he deprive you of the membership?
(a) Why you were deprived of the membership?
(b) Why were you deprived of his membership by him?
(c) Why was he deprived of his membership?
(d) Why were you deprived of your membership by him?
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4. The news has been bought to us by him.
(a) He brought us the news (b) He has brought us the news
(c) He was brought the news to us (d) We brought the news to him.
5. Not a word was spoken by the criminal in self-defence.
(a) The criminal spoke not a word inself-defence. (b) The criminal in self-defence spoke no word
(c) The criminal did not speak a word in self-defence (d) The criminal spoke in self-defence not a word.
6. The agent had disclosed the secret before it was evening.
(a) The secret was disclosed by the agent before it was evening
(b) The secret had disclosed by the agent before it had been evening
(c) The secret had been disclosed by the agent before it was evening
(d) The secret was disclosed by the agent before it had been evening.
7. Surely the lost child must have been found by now.
(a) Surely must have found the lost child by now.
(b) Surely someone must have found the lost child by now
(c) Surely now must have found the lost child
(d) Now must have found the lost child surely.
8. Lie face-down; stretch your arms in front.
(a) You are face down, arms are to be outstretched
(b) You should be lying face down, with arms outstretched.
(c) You should be lying face down; let arms stretch out.
(d) Let face be down; let arms be stretched out.
9. The Greeks expected to win the international trophy.
(a) It was expected that the Greeks would win the international trophy.
(b) The international trophy was expected to be won by the Greeks.
(c) It was expected that the Greeks will win the international trophy.
(d) It was expected by the Greeks that they would win the international trophy
10. She took the dog for a walk.
(a) The dog was took for a walk. (b) The dog took a walk by her.
(c) The dog was taken for a walk by her. (d) The dog took her for a walk.
11. She will bring cakes.
(a) Cakes will be brought by her (b) Cakes are to be bought by her
(c) Cakes are to be brought by her (d) Cakes will be bought by her
12. Promises should be kept.
(a) You should have kept your promises. (b) One must keep one's promises.
(c) You had to keep promises. (d) Promises should have been kept.
13. Give the order.
(a) An order was given by someone. (b) Order was given.
(c) Order given. (d) Let the order be given.
14. My neighbour described his history tome.
(a) His history had been described by my neighbour to me.
(b) His history was described to me by my neighbour.
(c) Description of his history to me was done by my neighbour.
(d) My neighbour's history was described to me by himself.
15. Many cities had been destroyed by the invaders in,those days.
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(a) The invaders destroy many cities in these days.
(b) Many cities were destroyed in those days by invaders
(c) Many invaders destroyed cities in those days.
(d) In those days the invaders had destroyed many cities.
16. Please close the door.
(a) Please be the door closed by you (b) Let the door be closed by you.
(c) You please close the door. (d) You close the door yourself.
17. We must take care of our parents.
(a) Our parents will be taken care of by us. (b) Our parents are taken care of by us.
(c) Our parents must be taken care by us. (d) Our parents had been taken care of by us.
18. I like the food they serve at the restaurant.
(a) The food being served by them at the restaurant is liked by me.
(b) The food they serve at the restaurant is liked by me.
(c) The food served by them at the restaurant is liked by me. (d) None of the above
19. I surf the Internet every day.
(a) Internet is surfed by me every day. (b) Internet is being surfed by me every day.
(c) Internet was surfed by me every day. (d) None of the above
20. Don't you clean your room every day?
(a) Isn't your room clean by you every day? (b) Isn't your room cleaned by you every day?
(c) Every day, isn't your room cleaned by you? (d) None of the above
21. We will visit the museum in the afternoon.
(a) The museum will visit by me in the afternoon. (b) The museum will be visit by us in the afternoon.
(c) The museum will be visited by us in the afternoon. (d) None of the above
22. You are not watching the movie.
(a) The movie is not being watched by us. (b) The movie is not being watched by you.
(c) The movie was not being watched by us. (d) None of the above
23. He will receive the letter by tomorrow.
(a) The letter will be received by him by tomorrow.
(b) The letter will has been received by him by tomorrow.
(c) The letter will have been received by him by the next day. (d) None of the above
24. He has finished his homework.
(a) His homework has been finished by him. (b) The homework had been finished by him.
(c) The homework has finished by him. (d) None of the above
25. After Rani had finished the work, she went to lunch.
(a) After the work was finished by Rani, she went to lunch.
(b) After the work was finished by Rani, lunch was being done by her.
(c) After the work had been finished by Rani, she went to lunch. (d) None of the above
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CondtionaI CIauses
There are four basic types of conditional sentences in the English language.
Examples:
The zero conditional (type 0) : I take my umbrella if it rains.
The first conditional (type 1) : I'll call you if I work late.
The second conditional (type 2) : If the bus didn't arrive on time, I would drive you to the airport. (or) If I
were a bird, I would fly.
The third conditional (type 3) : She wouldn't have come if I hadn't invited her.
Example:
Combine the following two sentences using 'If' clause:
1. He did his work well. He would be rewarded.
Ans: If he had not worked well, he would not have been rewarded.
2. You did not play well. Therefore you did not win the match.
Ans: If you had played well, you would have won the match.
3. He wants to pass the exam. He has to work harder.
Ans: If he wants to pass the exam, he has to work harder.
4. He went to the party. He met many of his old friends.
Ans: If he had not gone to the party. he would not have met many of his old friends.
5. Shankar did not start early. He was late to school.
Ans: If Shankar had started early, he would not have been late to school.
6. Don't waste rain water. Otherwise you will suffer.
Ans: If you waste rain water, you will suffer.
7. I forgot the answer. I lost the marks.
Ans: If I had not forgotten the answer, I would not have lost the marks.
8. He did not run fast. He lost the race.
Ans: If he had run fast, he wouldn't have lost the race.
9. Suresh did not have a cycle. He did not reach school early.
Ans: If Suresh had a cycle, he would have reached school early.
10. Ravi must work hard. Otherwise he will not secure high marks..
Ans: If Ravi works hard, he will secure high marks.
Exercises: Type- 1
Choose the correct form of the verb and complete the following conditional sentences.
1. If you your plus two successfully, you will have many choices before you for your further
studies, employment and vocation.
(a) complete (b) completed (c) had completed (d) have completed
2. If you are a nature lover, you horticulture and gardening.
(a) are trying (b) trying (c) tried (d) can try
3. If you are good at language ,storytelling, original writing skill for language and culture
studies
(a) going (b) are going (c) go (d) can go
4. Music, television and film may be a good choice if you skill in acting.
(a) has (b) have (c) having (d) had had
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5. Logistics a good choice if you want to try your luck in import and export business.
(a) are going (b) will be (c) were (d) would
6. If you to show your talent in capturing the beauty photography may give you amazing opening.
(a) wished (b) wishing (c) wish (d) are wishing
7. If you want to be a trend setter (take /took /taken /have taken /had taken) a new path and
don't travel on a beaten track.
(a) take (b) have taken (c) took (d) had taken
8. Most importantly students will have bright vocational choices in life if they (give) skill based
training from the schools as Gandhiji emphasized.
(a) given (b) is given (c) had given (d) are given
9. Knowing well about the deadly weather at our border if they are ready to serve our nation, what do we
them?
(a) call (b) called (c) calling (d) h ave called
10. If you a citizen of this nation you ought to know its glorious past.
(a) being (b) are (c) be (d) been
11. Will I get admission in this college if I more than 85%?
(a) secured (b) scored (c) score (d) am scored
12. What would Raja do if he that this one is a fake company?
(a) find (b) found (c) has found (d) finds
13. How I support Saritha if she had no plan for the needy?
(a) may (b) is (c) has (d) could
14. Omar would have joined army if he the physical tests.
(a) has passed (b) has pass (c) passes (d) have passed
15. If I won the lottery I you.
(a) would inform (b) would be informed (c) will have inform (d) would have been informed
16. If Ramya wears a light colour saree she awesome.
(a) looked (b) look (c) may look (d) looks
17. If you composed even in a difficult situation, you shall win the hearts of many people.
(a) stay (b) stayed (c) have stayed (d) had stayed
18. If the crow had been careful it its vada.
(a) would not lose (b) should have lost (c) could (d) would not have lost
19. If Selvi the lecture she would have changed her earlier view.
(a) had attended (b) has attended (c) has been attended (d) have been attended
20. My mother and her friend if they had had an idea about the horrible weather condition of that
place.
(a) would have pilgrimage (b) would have pilgrimaged
(c) would not have pilgrimaged (d) should not have pilgrimaged
21. Even if I don't know the answer I from my neighbor.
(a) will no copy (b) won't copy (c) would copy (d) shall copy
22. If a person says he knew his future he kidding.
(a) would be (b) will (c) will be (d) is
23. If a person goes on smoking the air around him polluted.
(a) would have got (b) gets (c) would get (d) will get
24. If I a Millionaire I would help others.
(a) am (b) was (c) were (d) have been
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25. People if the rich helped them unconditionally.
(a) suffered (b) will suffer (c) would not suffer (d) suffering
Exercises: Type - 2
Fill in the conditional clauses appropriately.
1. If you (be) kind, people (love) you.
2. If I (study) diligently, I (pass) the examination.
3. If he (be) a patient, he (win) the argument.
4. If you (call) me, I (come).
5. If you (study) well, you (surely get) good marks.
6. If Naveen (be) late, he (punish).
7. If I (work) harder, I (succeed).
8. If I (come) earlier, I (caught) the train.
9. If Somu (study) well, he (score) more marks.
10. If it (rain) I (wet).
11. If the driver (alert), the accident (avoid).
Exercises: Type -3
Combine the following two sentences using 'Unless'.
1. You should meet the Principal. You will be sent out.
2. You should eat well. You will stay healthy.
3. You must agree to this. You will not lose.
4. Work hard. You will pass.
5. They must come early. They will miss the class.
6. Take the test. Know the result
7. Take care of your health now. Don't suffer later.
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8. You must pay. You cannot enter.
9. Things may go wrong. Call the police.
10. Send the bill. I will pay it.
Inversion of Conditional Clauses
Conditional sentences with inversion are more formal than those that follow the usual word order.
In certain Conditional Sentences, subjects and verbs may also be inverted.
This can be done if the auxiliary verbs are should (conditional type I), were (conditional type II), and had
(conditional type III).
Inversion in Conditional Sentences and the connector “if” is omitted (conditional without “if”).
This makes the sentences more formal and makes the events less likely.
Exercises
Inversion in conditional sentences. Begin with should / had / were
1. If an angel were to tell me such a thing of her, I would not believe it.
2. If it had not rained, we would have gone to the theatre. (Begin with had)
3. If I were a lion, I would kill all the animals in the forest. (Begin with were)
4. If I had come earlier, I would have met my grandfather. (Begin with had)
5. If she had attended the interview, she would have been selected. (Begin with had)
6. If Paul were a rich man, he would help all the poor. (Begin with were)
7. If you should be late once again, you would lose your job. (Begin with should)
8. If he had explained the problem, I would have helped him. (Begin with had)
9. If it were not for the expenses involved, I would go by air. (Begin with were)
10. If you should need to meet me, you can call this number. (Begin with should)
Simple, Compound and complex

(Text Book Page No. 121,218)
The sentences are classed in three categories depending on the number and types of finite clauses.
i. Simple Sentence ii. Compound Sentence iii. Complex Sentence

i. Simple Sentence
The sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
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Example: Messi (subject) plays (verb) football every afternoon.
In this type of sentence, there is only one independent clause and there might be multiple dependent
clauses joined by non-finite verbs (gerund, participle, infinitive.) (independent clause) (dependent
clauses) (non-finite verbs) (finite verbs)
But there can be only one finite verb.
Example: 1. While going there I met him.
While going (non-finite verb : present participle) ; I (subject)
met (finite verb).
2. Despite being sick, he attended the meeting.
Despite being (non-finite verb: present participle); he (subject);
attended (finite verb).
There is no use of conjunction (to join clauses) in simple sentences.
ii) Compound Sentence

In this type of sentence, there are multiple independent clauses and no dependent clause. All the clauses
are joined together by coordinating conjunctions. Such sentences have two finite verbs and two subjects.
List of Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions connect two equal parts of a sentence. Coordinating conjunctions
They are: And, but, nor, or, so, yet
Examples: 1. I tired to speak Spanish, and my friend tried to speak English.
I (subject); tried (finite verb); my friend (subject); tried (finite verb)
2. Messi played football, so Ronaldo went for shopping.
Messi (subject); played (finite verb); Ronaldo (subject); went (finite verb)
iii. Complex Sentence
This type of sentence consists of at least one independent clause and one dependent clause. There are two
finite verbs joined by subordinating conjunction.
Subordinate conjunctions connect two unequal parts, e.g., dependent and independent clauses.
Subordinate conjunctions
Here is the list of subordinating conjunctions:
Since, as, when, though, although, so that, whenever, because, than, whereas, that, wherever, that,
whether,
if, though, which, till, while, unless, who, until, why, how, what
Examples: 1. When he handed in his homework, he forgot to give the teacher the last page.
When (subordinate conjunction); he (subject);
handed (finite verb); he (subject); forgot (finite verb)
2. The teacher returned the homework after she noticed the error.
The teacher (subject); returned (finite verb); after (subordinator);
she (subject); noticed (finite verb)
4. Complex sentences with relative pronouns as subordinators:
Examples: 1. The book that Riyaz read is on the shelf. -
The book (subject); that (relative pronoun - as subordinator)
Riyaz (subject); read is (verb)
2. The town where I grew up is in Tamil Nadu.
The town (subject); where (relative pronoun assubordinator)
(subject); grew up is (verb)
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Rules of Transforming Complex-Simple-Compound Sentences:
To Transform into Simple Sentence:
a) Use non-finite verb,
b) Don't use any conjunction.
c) Always maintain the meaning of the given sentence,
To Transform into Compound Sentences:

a) Use coordinating conjunctions like and/but/or/and so/and then.
b) Use separate subjects and verbs for each clause.
c) Always maintain the meaning of the given sentence.
To Transform into Complex Sentence:

a) Use subordinating conjunctions like though/since/as/when/relative pronoun.
b) Use separate subjects and verbs for each clause.
c) Always maintain the meaning the of given sentence.
Examples:
1. When/as/since/because (Complex) ---- verb+ing or being+v3 or because of (Simple) --- and
(Compound)
Complex : When the thief saw the police, he ran away.
Simple : Seeing the police , the thief ran away.
Compound : The thief saw the police and ran away.
******
Simple : Being ill, Varun could not come. / Because of his illness, Varun could not come.
Compound : Varun was ill and so he could not come.
Complex : As Varun was ill, he could not come.
2. If/Unless (Complex) - -- On + verb + ing/without + verb + ing (Simple) --- or (Compound)

Example:
Complex : If you work hard you will succeed.
Simple : On working hard you will succeed.
Compound : Work hard or you won't succeed.
3. Relative pronoun (wh word/that) (Complex) ---- non-finite form/direct adjective/adverb (Simple) --- and
(Compound)
Example:
Complex : The sum which has been done by him was very hard.
Simple : The sum done by him was very hard. (Participle)
Compound : The sum was done by him and it was very hard
******
Complex : Zuber is a student who is very intelligent.
Simple : Zuber is a very intelligent student.
Compound : Zuber is a student and he is very intelligent.
Complex : It was daylight when he woke up.
Simple : He woke up at daylight.
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Compound : He woke up and it was daylight.
********
Complex : He admitted that he was guilty.
Simple : He admitted his guilt.
Compound : He admitted and he was guilty.
********
4. Though/Although (complex) --- inspite of/despite (simple) + but (compound)
Example:
Complex : Though he tried hard, he failed.
Simple : In spite of trying hard, he failed.
Compound : He tried hard but failed.
********
5. So... that (Complex) --- to infinitive (Simple) --- and (Compound)
Example:
Complex : We eat so that we can live well.
Simple : We eat to live well.
Compound : We eat and we live well.
Change into a Simple Sentence
e.g. 1. Choose goals that are challenging and reachable. (Complex sentence) is re-written as
Choose challenging and reachable goals. (Simple sentence)
2. Since they have planned everything, they feel relaxed. (Complex sentence) is changed to
Having planned everything, they feel relaxed. (Simple sentence)
3. Goals provide direction to your behaviour and guide your thoughts and actions. (Compound
sentence) is re-written as
Providing direction to your behaviour, goals guide your thoughts and action. (Simple sentence)
Example:
(i) Transform the following COMPOUND sentences into SIMPLE sentences:
1. He writes the letter and put it in an envelope. Writing the letter, he put it in an envelope.
2. Let's forgive them because they are ignorant. Let's forgive them for their ignorance.
(ii) Transform the following COMPLEX sentences into SIMPLE sentences:

1. He found a bag that was full of gold coins. He found a bag of gold coins.
2. Agra is the place where Taj Mahal is situated. The Taj Mahal is situated in Agra.
Exercises
Combine the following two sentences into a simple sentence.
1. I went to his home but he did not meet me.
2. He was ill and so he could not attend the meeting.
3. I woke up and received your phone call.
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4. Work hard and you will be successful.
5. Manuel saw a snake and killed it at once.
Change into a Compound Sentence
Example:
(i) Transform the following SIMPLE sentences into COMPOUND Sentences:
1. Being an old man, he cannot walk fast.
He is an old man so he cannot walk fast.
2. Drinking has ruined his health.
He had been drinking and so he ruined his health.
(ii) Transform the following COMPLEX sentences into COMPOUND sentences:

1. As he is old, he is weak.
He is old, and so he is weak.
2. If we don't win, we shall die.
We should win or we shall die.
Exercises
Change the following into a Compound sentence.
1. Though Saran is not sick, he feels weak.
2. As soon as the electricity went out, the thief entered the house.
3. If you work hard, you will shine in life.
4. If you do it, you will die.
5. The man went home so that he could see his grandson.
Change into a Complex Sentence

Example:
(I) Transform the following SIMPLE sentences into COMPLEX sentences:
1. We heard of his death.
We heard that he had died.
2. Forewarned is forearmed.
One who is forewarned is forearmed.
(ii) Transform the following COMPOUND sentences into COMPLEX sentences:

1. Spare the rod and spoil the child.
If you spare the rod, you will spoil the child.
2. Meet me tomorrow and I'll give you a novel.
Meet me tomorrow so that I'll give you a novel.
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Exercises
Change the following into a Complex sentence.
1. I saw a beautiful girl.
2. Being sincere and hardworking, Vijay earned the reward.
3. She was too poor to educate her children.
4. I have informed him of his success.
5. In spite of his being tall, Bharath does not play basketball.
Combining two Sentences

Exercises
Combine into a single sentence

1. Malar had one pen only. She helped Manoj. (Combine the sentence using though)
2. My uncle was not willing to help me. I had to apply for a loan from the bank. (Combine using and so)
3. He was ill at the time of the examination. He obtained a high score in the subject (Combine the
sentence using though)
4. I like tea I prefer coffee (combine the sentence using though)
5. My friend was not there. I had to come back disappointed. (Combine using and so)
6. It started drizzling. The cricket match did not stop. (Combine the sentences using though)
7. You should work hard. You will not pass. (Combine using or else)
8. The transport workers were on strike. I had to walk back home. (Combine the sentence using as)
9. He tried his best. He could not open the box. (Combine the sentences using though)
10. My brother was sick. He could not attend the class. (Combine using and so)
11. I hurried to the railway station. I could not catch the train. (Combine the sentence using 'though')
12. It was raining heavily. The farmers went on with their work. (Combine the sentences using 'though')
13. The day broke. The birds came out of their nests. (Combine using when)
14. Priya has recovered after the accident. Her fractured arm is still in a cast. (Combine using but)
15. Run three miles every day. You will lose one and a half kilos a week. (Combine using if)
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PART - III (Three Marks Questions) (21 Marks)
(a) 31 - 33 Explanation with Reference to the Context (Poem) : (Answer any 2 out of 3) 2 x3=6
Refer to the Poem Section Unit 1 to 6 of this Guide )
(b) 34 - 36 Prose Short Answer Questions: (Answer any 2 out of 3) 2 x 3 = 6
Refer to the Prose Section Unit 1 to 6 of this Guide )
(c) 37 - 40 : Answer any 3 out of 4. 3 x 3 = 9
Rearranging the Words in a Sentence

A set of words are jumbled in a sentence. Arranging them in the correct order to make sense is the process
of 'Re arranging the words in a sentence'
Example:
Re-arrange the shuffled words to make meaningful sentence.
1. (a) Electoral reforms / held / Parties on / The Election Commission / a meeting with / all Political
(b) over South Peninsula / North-east monsoon / rainfall activity / the major period of / season is
(c) and guide / administrator / able / is an / Our Headmaster
Ans: (a) The Election Commission held a meeting with all Political Parties on Electoral reforms.
(b) North-east monsoon season is the major period of rainfall activity over South Peninsula.
(c) Our Headmaster is an able administrator and guide.
2. (a) selfless / at war fronts / The Red Cross / society does / service
(b) at every school / better functioning / The Parent / Teacher's / works towards its! / Association
(c) well to face / instructor / Our Physical Training / trained us / sports / the District
Ans: (a) The Red cross society does selfless service at war fronts.
(b) The Parent Teacher's Association at every school, works towards its better functioning.
(c) Our Physical Training instructor trained us well to face the District sports.
3. (a) is on! Gas cylinders / constant hike / Liquid Petroleum / The cost of
(b) will express / our voice / confidence / The quality of! and the manner / and excitement/ of
speech (c) in the cities / year around / The Arabs / who are not / live in the / desert all the
Ans: (a) The cost of Liquid Petroleum Gas cylinders is on constant hike.
(b) The quality of our voice and the manner of speech will express confidence and
excitement.
(c) The Arabs, who are not in the cities, live in the desert all the year around.
4. (a) the dictionary of / Impossible is I only to be I fools! found in I a word
(b) and principles / our ideals I we forget / and objectives / only when / Failure comes
(c) devotion to tin your mission, / To succeed / single-minded / you must have / your goal
Ans: (a) Impossible is a word only to be found in the dictionary of fools.
(b) Failure comes only when we forget our ideals and principles and objectives.
(c) To succeed in your mission, you must have single-minded devotion to your goal.
5. (a) which is / 104 satellites / a world record / The ISRO shot off / in a single mission / into space
(b) in every home / light up / knowledge! Good books I and magazines / the lamp of
(c) very young / and married / were both born / Gandhiji and Kasturba / in 1882 / in 1869
Ans: (a) The ISRO shot off 104 satellites into space in a single mission which is a world record.
(b) Good books and magazines light up the lamp of knowledge in every home.
(c) Gandhiji and Kasturba were both born in 1869 and married very young in 1882.
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Exercises
Re-arrange the shuffled words to make meaningful sentence.
1. (a) athletes / to note that / It is sad / world class / yet to produce / India is
(b) cholesterol levels / garlic / increasing / can lower / evidence that / There is
(c) Thar Desert / the Great Indian Desert / The only desert / also called as / in Rajasthan / in India is
2. (a) may lay their hands / are apprehesive / World leaders / that terrorists / on atom bombs
(b) their examination / while writing / maipractices / indulged in / that a few students / It is unfortunate
(c) confidently / face interview / boards / Students trained / in communication skills
3. (a) to play / in politics / encouraged / Women should be / active part / and nation building
(b) on time / is undoubtley / do not run / an exhausting experience / When buses / waiting for a bus
(c) but we were / at all / all night / We stayed up / not tired
4. (a) the most thrilling / are the / saddest ones / generally / or beautiful songs / Poets and musicians /
believe that
(b) when you expect / the worst / the best / Things become / instead of / better
(c) the way of / his entire self / the man / Nothing can / on a problem / stand in / who focuses
5. (a) problems / to challenges / seek out / and convert them / We must

(b) to grow to / is to enable / its full stature / The aim of education / the human personality
(c) not to move / police arrived / The cyclist / warned / the driver / his car / till the
Extending Conversation
Exercises
Extend the conversation with three more exchanges.
1. Venkat : Good morning. I want to report a break-in happened last night.
Inspector : Good morning, Who were there at home?
2. Patient : Doctor, I have a problem.

Doctor : What's your problem?
3. Father : Kumar, where are you going?

Son : I am going to meet Ravi.
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4. Customer : Good morning sir.
Tele. Officer : Good morning. What can I do for you?
5. Officer : Good morning. How can I help you?

Customer :Good morning. I have a complaint about my phone. It is not working.
6. Student : May I come in, sir?

Teacher : Yes, stand here. Why do you always come late?
7. Cloth merchant : Good morning, sir. What can I do for you?

Customer : I want to look at some cloth for a suit.
8. Shopkeeper : Hi. How may I help You?

Girl : Well ......... Yeah. I'm looking for a Mother's Day Gift.
Completion of the dialogue

(Text Book Page No.: 75)
Exercises
Completion of the dialogue (Fill in):
1. Employer : How old are you?
Candidate : (i)
Employer : Where did you study?
Candidate : I studied at the Presidency College, Chennai,
Employer : (ii)
Candidate : I am, a post-graduate in Physics.
Employer : Are you working anywhere?
Candidate : (iii)
Employer : When can you join duty if you are appointed?
Candidate : I can join duty right away Sir. Thank you, Sir.
2. Boy : May I come in Sir?
Librarian : Yes, come in (i)
Boy : I want to become a member of the library.
Librarian : Where are you from?
Boy : (ii)
Librarian : OK. Fill this form and Pay Rs. 100.
Boy : Yes. Sir, (iii)
Librarian : Yes, you can bring the form tomorrow before 8.00 p.m.
Boy : Thank you Sir.
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3. Policeman : Where do you want to go?
Tourist : (i) to the Big Temple.
Does this road lead to the Temple?
Policeman : Yes (ii)
Tourist : How far is it from here?
Policeman : (iii)
Tourist : Can I get an auto here?
Policeman : Yes, you can.
4. Gautham : May I come in Madam?
Teacher : (i)
Gautham : My bus broke down. So I could not come to school on time.
Teacher : (ii)
Gautham : Please excuse me, Madam. May I inform her now?
Teacher : (iii)
Gautham : Thank you. Madam.
5. Student : Yesterday I purchased a book from your shop.
Shopkeeper : (i)
Student : Eight pages are missing in this book.
Shopkeeper : (ii)
Student : Yes, I have brought the book along with the cash bill.
Shopkeeper : (iii)
Student : Thank you for the replacement.
6. Patient : Doctor, I have a problem.
Doctor : (i)
Patient : Doctor, I am unable to read for a long time.
Doctor : (ii)
Patient : For about three months.
Doctor : (iii)
Patient : I get a headache if I read for half an hour continuously. My eyes start watering.
Doctor : No problem, I will give you medicine. Please pay Rs. 100 for consultation and
medicines.
7. Father : Kumar, where are you going?
Son : (i)
Father : Why do you want to meet him?
Son : Because we wish to study together.
Father : (ii)
Son : Yes, I have prepared well for my examination.
Father : (iii)
Son : I will score 450 marks.
Tele. Officer : Good morning. (i)
Customer : My telephone is not functioning for the past one week.
Tele. Officer : (ii)
Customer : I am from Triplicane.
Tele. Officer : OK. Write a complaint in this register.
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Customer : (iii)
Tele. Officer : No. It is not possible to rectify the fault today.
Shop Keeper : Good morning. (i)
Customer : I want to buy a new mobile phone.
Shop Keeper : Which company mobile do you want to buy?
Customer : (ii)
Shop Keeper : OK. It is latest with 8M.P. camera.
Customer : (iii)
Shop Keeper : It costs Rs. 8,000/-
10. Salesman : Good morning sir. Do you want shoes or slippers?
Customer : (I)
Salesman : Is it for you or your family member?
Customer : For me.
Salesman : (ii)
Customer : Please take the white colour slippers in the first rack.
Salesman : (iii)
Customer : It seems perfect.
Expansion of News HeadIines

Students should expand each headline into a complete sentence by modifying them and rewriting the
statements in complete sentences.
Passive voice is often used to report the news objectively.
Infinite phrases which show future tense are used.
Exercises
Expand the following News Headlines:
1. (i) Tomato price goes up.
(ii) Heavy floods in Bihar, crops ruined.
(iii) Mobile phones banned in schools.
2. (i) Passengers injured in train accident.
(ii) Number of Indian Students in UK on the rise.
(iii) Samsung heir jailed for five years for corruption.
3. (i) Jewels stolen from a house in Mylapore.
(ii) PM to visit US in September.
(iii) Dutch teens arrive for reunion with family.
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4. (i) Sudden fall in price of gold.
(ii) Call to save tigers.
(iii) Plastic carry bags banned in shops.

5. (i) Robber caught red handed by the public.
(ii) Diabetic day celebrated with free check-up.
(iii) New teaching techniques for school teachers.
Describing a Process
(Text BookPage No:38, 187,188)
Describing a process involves outlining the procedure of an activity. The description may be in the form of
(a) a guideline to be followed before actually doing / performing the task or (b) recounting the actual
process. (Care should be taken to maintain the sequence of steps.)
e.g. 1. On making a cup of Tea: “Take a tea pot with the required quantity of water. Heat it on a stove. When
the water boils drop in the tea leaves - a heaped spoon per cup. Add an extra spoon of tea leaves
for the pot. Close the pot and remove from stove. Allow tea leaves to settle. Strain tea decoction
into a cup. Add milk and sugar to taste”
Here you find that the instructions have been given to carry out the action, hence verbs in the
imperative mood have been used.
e.g. 2. Making a cup of tea: A pot with required quantity of water is taken. It is put on a stove and heated.
When the water is boiled, the required. quantity of tea leaves is added to it ...............
You find that the passive voice has been used here to indicate the actual process. It's always wise
and advisable to use passive constructions while describing a process.
Exercises:
1. Describe the process of preparing a flower bouquet.
2. Describe the process of preparing a cup of coffee.
3. Describe the process of borrowing books from your school library.
4. Describe the process of knotting a bow tie.
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5. Describe the process of polishing shoes.
6. Describe the process of opening a bank account.
7. How will you make ice-cubes with a refrigerator.
8. Describe the process of making lemon tea.
9. Describe the process of ironing a cotton shirt.
10. Describe the process of preparing a fruit salad.
Notice Writing
A Notice is displayed on notice boards and at strategic locations.
Tips for drafting a Notice :
 Enclose in a box.
 Do not exceed 50 words.
 Be brief.
 Include details of event! programme.
 Avoid pronouns.
 Use passive form.
Example:
You are Radhika / Raghav, Secretary of the Debate Club, Harmony School, Hyderabad. Your school is
organizing an Inter-School Discussion Programme on 5th February 2019. Draft a notice informing the
students and teachers of various schools about this programme.
NOTICE Write the word 'NOTICE
Draw a rectangular or a square box.
Harmony School, Hyderabad Name of the School / Institute.
Inter-School Discussion 'Heading' or 'Subject
30th January 2019 Date, when the notice is displayed.
Time : 11 a.m.
Venue :The Jubilee Auditorium, Harmony School
Representative students and teachers from the schools in the city 'Content' of the notice.
of Hyderabad are eligible to participate. Those interested should
register with the undersigned on or before 25th January 2019.
Raghav
(Raghav)
Secretary
Debate Club, 'Name' & Designation' of the
person issuing the notice.
Harmony School, Hyderabad.
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Draft a Notice:
1. You are Vikram Singh / Vineesha, the Secretary of the Science. Society Your school has decided to
organize a fair on the occasion of National Science and Technology day. Draft a notice requesting all
the office bearers to attend a meeting to discuss the arrangements of the fair.
2 You are Sura, / Sruthi, the student co-ordinator of DAV Public School, Chennai Your school is
organizing a Green Drive to create awareness among students to conserve forests and wildlife as part
of the world wildlife day celebrations on 3rd March. Draft a notice to inform the students about this.
162
3. You are Varun / Vanitha, the Secretary of the Music Club in your school. You school is hosting the 6th
inter-school Musical Carnival for classes VI-IX on April 3rd 2019. Draft a notice inviting the students to
this carnival.
4. You are Ram Lakhan / Raghav, the Head boy / Head girl of your school. You intend to lend a helping
hand by donating generously to the state run homes. Draft a notice requesting your students to
donate for these homes.
5. You are Raghu / Raghavi, Secretary of the English literary club. Your literary club is arranging a
documentary film in your auditorium for the students of XI and XII standard. Draft a notice inviting the
students to view this film.
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E-mail Writing
E-mail is a less formal method of communicating but has replaced the conventional letter, as a means of
communication. E-mails can be forwarded to a number of people without your knowledge, so one should
consider it as an unsealed letter.
Why is the e-mail so popular?
(1) It makes communication almost instant.
(2) It is less laborious to write.
When writing an e-mail, please note,

(i) Short forms, symbols, recognizable abbreviations can be used.
(ii) Receiver's / sender's address, date, need not be used as they are already programmed in the computer.
(iii) The communication should resemble a message / formal / informal letter, depending on the purpose
and the receiver.
A Sample E-mail
Consider yourself as the Principal and draft a mail to dhoni@abcmail.com, inviting him for the
Annual Sports Day.
Ans.: E-Mail
To : dhoni@abcmail.com
Cc : anandv@notmail.com, sumathy@zahoo.com
Sub : Invitation — Annual Sports Day
Dear Sir,
We are happy and honoured that you have agreed to be the Chief Guest on our 34th Annual
Sports Day on 5th January, 2019. Our students are very thrilled about this and eagerly look
forward to seeing you on that great day. We expect your esteemed presence by 5 p.m. at the
stadium. Please find attached a copy of our invite.
Regards,
Principal, ABC GHSS.
Exercises
Draft a Mail:
1. You are Màthew / Merlin, the students incharge of sports. Draft a mail to your friend Rakesh / Rani to
come to the new sports centre with you tomorrow.
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2. You are Ahmed / Rashida. Draft a mail to your friend Khalid about your new friend in your English
class.
3. You are Ravi / Raghavi, the students of the ANM School. You come to know that your friend had
injured his / her arm. Draft a mail inquiring about his / her health.
Report Writing
Writing is a skill for communication for conveying ideas and feelings from one person to another. This can
be done by writing reports, notices, messages, paragraphs and letters. A report is a short writing skill
describing some event or incident.
Points to be kept in mind.
1. A report is a piece of first-hand information about an incident, occurrence or event.
2. It must be brief, to the point and systematic.
3. It must be written in past tense
4. It must be given a suitable heading or title, the name of the person writing it, date and the place from
where it was written.
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Report Writing:
 A report is written for a clear purpose.
 Reports can be academic, technical or business related.
 The first step is to collect relevant material or information.
 The next step is to organize the collected information and put it together in an outline.
 Proper planning will be easier to write a report.
 A report can be written about an incident, accident or a natural calamity, or a coverage of an official
function or the visit of a dignitary etc.
While collecting facts and writing a report, remember to check and include the following.
 Correctness of facts (authenticity) or accuracy should be ensured to avoid legal complications.
 Be concise, factual and clear.
 Give the title and name of reporter.
 Mention place and date of event.
 Use reported speech for narrations.
 Style should be engrossing, to sustain the interest of the reader.
 Main text should include three components - introduction, discussion and conclusion.
 Use the active voice to make writing flow smoothly and easily.
Exercises
1. A seminar on “Stop Plastics ! Save Earth' was held in your school. Write a report in about 40 words
giving details of the seminar.
2. A 'Clean India” campaign was organized in your school. Write a report in about 40 words highlighting
the main features of the campaign.
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3. Your school NSS unit has organized a blood donation camp. As a member of the NSS group, write a
report in 40 words to be printed in your school magazine. You are Anita / Sunil.
4. During the Vardha cyclone, the Arts Club of your colony had organised various cultural activities to
collect funds for the farmers' families. As the secretary of the club, write a report to be published in
some popular newspaper.
Article Writing
What is an article?
An article is a piece of written work, the purpose of which is to propagate news, inform about results of
research, analyse academic information, express opinions or persuade through suggestions.
Components of an article:
(Title) : (it should be catchy enough to draw the reader's attention)
(Byline) : (the name of the writer of the article)
(Introduction) : (outlines the topic)
(Body) : (builds upon the topic; consists of two to four paragraphs)
(Conclusion) : (summarises and offers final opinions)
Exercises:
1. You read about the disappearance of bird habitats from city forests, parks. Write an article in 100-120
words stressing upon the need for bringing back the bird to the city. You are Kaleel/Kavya.
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2. Computers have become a rage with children. Nowadays young children are glued to their computers.
Computers play a major role in today’s age but one must understand its function as a major distraction.
Write an article highlighting the role of computers and also pointing out the hazards their excessive use
can cause. You are Justin/Jaya.
3. Due to growing materialism, there is a shift in the values of youngsters. They continue pestering their
parents for items like mobile phone, digital camera, bike, etc. for personal use even though there is no
genuine need for these gadgets. Write an article in about 120 words expressing your views on the
same. You are Sathish/Swathi.
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4. Children are the future of the nation. Schools and parents play an important role in moulding a child’s
personality. You are Mani/Moni. Write an article on the topic ‘Role of School in a child’s life’ in 100-120
words.
5. You are Namita/Nainar. Write an article on the topic ‘India - A Tourist’s Paradise’ in 100-120 words.
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Framing Questions
The interrogative pronouns who, what, whom, whose, which and the interrogative Adverbs where, when,
why and how are used to frame information questions. The structure 'how + an adjective I adverb' may also
be used to frame questions.
Example:
Frame questions for the following answers.
1. (i) Ravi will prepare the draft today itself.
Ans: Who will prepare the draft today itself?
(ii) The men pulled the animal out using ropes.
Ans: How did the men pull the animal out?
(iii) You will find the keys on the table.
Ans: Where will you find the keys?
2. (i) The man at the gas station will help you.
Ans: Who will help you? / What will the man at the gas station do?
(ii) They will close the shop at 9 pm.
Ans: When will they close the shop?
(iii) We can rely on her promises.
Ans: Can we rely on her promises?
Exercises
Frame questions for the following answers.
1. (i) I shall write to the manager.
(ii) You will be treated as a friend.
(iii) She will invite the CEO as the Chief Guest.
2. (i) They will see the Niagara Falls during their trip to Canada.
(ii) John is writing a letter.
(iii) She walks home from school.
3. (i) The children are sitting in the garden.
(ii) Peter runs with his dog on Sundays.
(iii) My rabbit has a cage in the garden.
4. (i) They go to work by bus.
(ii) David likes cats because they are nice.
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(iii) Jenny isn't sleeping late today.
5. (i) We are going to the cinema.
(ii) I'm leaving now.
(iii) I came home early to watch the match.
Completion of Proverb
Some Important Proverbs:
1. One flower makes no garland. A single person cannot be powerful.
2. Waste not want not. Do not waste, be frugal.
3. Pen is mightier than the sword Words can be more powerful than the wars.
4. To err in human No one is perfect.
5. Haste makes waste Hurry makes worry.
6. United we stand, divided we fall Union is strength. -
7. Work is worship Be conscious of your duty.
8. Truth alone triumphs Always speak the truth.
9. Blood is thicker than water Your relatives are more interested in you.
10. Covet all, lose all Do not be over ambitious.
11. All that glitters is not gold Do not be misguided by appearances.
12. As you sow as you reap Accept the result of your actions.
13. Look before you leap Think well before taking any action.
14. Make hay while the sun shines Make use of every opportunity
15. Too many cooks spoil the broth A work should not be entrusted to many people.
16. Birds of the same feather flock together Like minded persons always help one another.
17. Better late than never Even if delayed attend the meeting.
18. No pain, no gain One cannot succeed without hard work.
19. Seeing is believing Do not believe in rumours.
20. Strike while the iron is hot Make use of every opportunity.
21. Honesty is the best policy Always speak the truth.
22. Empty vessels make much noise People who talk more will achieve nothing.
23. Many a drop makes an ocean Small saving makes one rich.
24. Manners makes a man You should learn good manners.
25. Even Homer nods Even perfect people fail some time.
26. Reading makes a perfect man Try to read as much as possible.
27. Borrowed garments never fit well Don't imitate others.
28. Rome was not built in a day Nothing can be achieved at once.
29. Brevity is the soul of wit Be short while speaking and writing.
30. Where there is a will, there is a way Strong will power is needed to achieve anything.
31. Health is wealth Take care of your health.
32. No man is an island Prepare to live in groups.
33. Face is the index of the mind Appearances are often deceptive.
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Exercises
Complete the proverbs with the suitable options:
1. (a) is a symbol of maturity.
(a) Life (b) Anger (c) Age (d) Childishness
(b) A lights others and consumes itself
(a) candle (b) bulb (c) flame (d) fire
(c) Doubt is the key to
(a) Knowledge (b) deeds (c) words (d) thoughts
2. (a) Dont count your chickens, before they are
(a) matured (b) hatched (c) laid (d) grown
(b) is the best teacher.
(a) Confidence (b) Determination (c) Experience (d) Hope
(c) die many times, but the brave die only once
(a) Fools (b) Cowards (c) Great men (d) Scholars
3. (a) Man proposes, disposes.
(a) Teacher (b) Parent (c) God (d) Child
(b) Variety is the spice of
(a) life (b) creation (c) hard work (d) slavery
(c) was not built in a day.
(a) Europe (b) Britain (c) Rome (d) Iraq
4. (a) is the mother of invention.
(a) Conversation (b) Necessity (c) Retention (d) Scarcity
(b) The pen is mightier than the
(a) sword (b) dagger (c) spear (d) spade
(c) Fortune favours the
(a) poor (b) rich (c) virtuous (d) bold
5. (a) Like like son.
(a) mother (b) father (c) sister (d) brother
(b) Out of sight, out of
(a) mind (b) brain (c) leg (d) child
(c) One swallow doesn't make a
(a) winter (b) rainy (c) summer (d) spring
6. (a) A bold is half the battle.
(a) mind (b) heart (c) decision (d) word
(b) A good conscience is a soft
(a) bed (b) noise (c) pillow (d) mattress
(c) A man is known by the he keeps.
(a) friends (b) company (c) neighbour (d) relatives
7. (a) Cut your coat, according to thern
(a) piece (b) garments (c) cloth (d) dress
(b) garments never, fit well.
(a) Bought (b) Brought (c) Borrowed (d) Dyed
(c) makes a man perfect.
(a) Writing (b) Listening (c) Reading (d) Working
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8. (a) When one door shuts, another
(a) closes (b) opens (c) locks (d) knocks
(b) 'Where there is a will, there is a .
(a) end (b) outlet (c) way (d) entrance
(c) No bees, no honey; no work, no
(a) pain (b) money (c) gain (d) happiness
Filling suitable forms of Verbs (Tenses)

Tenses of verbs are used to express time. They indicate the time and state of the action. There are three
main tenses in English. They are-
1. Present Tense 2. Past Tense 3. Future Tense
Verbs come in three tenses : past, present, and future. The past is used to describe things that have already
happened (e.g., earlier in the day, yesterday, last week, three years ago). The present tense is used to
describe things that are happening right now, or things that are continuous.
THE PRESENT TENSE

When should we use the Present Simple?
1. We use the present simple when something is generally or always true.
 People need food.
 It is very hot in summer here.
 The earth revolves around the sun
2. Similarly, we need to use this tense for a situation that we think is more or less permanent.
 Where do you live?
 She works in a school.
 I don't like ice-cream.
3. The next use is for habits or things that we do regularly.
We often use adverbs of frequency (such as 'often 'always' and 'sometimes') in this case, as well as
expressions like 'every Sunday' or 'twice a month
 Do you dance?
 I play tennis every Tuesday.
 I don't travel very often.
4. We can also use the present simple for short actions that are happening now. The actions are so short
that they are finished almost as soon as you've said the sentence. This is often used with sports
commentary.
 He takes the ball, he runs down the wing, and he scores!
5. We use the present simple to talk about the future when we are discussing a timetable or a fixed plan.
 School begins at nine tomorrow.
 What time does the film start?
 The train doesn't arrive at seven, it arrives at seven thirty.
6. We also use the present simple to talk about the future after words like ''when 'until', 'after 'before' and
'as soon as' These are sometimes called subordinate clauses of time.
 I will call you when I have time. (Not 'will have)
 I won't go out until it stops raining.
 I'm going to make dinner after I watch the news.
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7. We use the present simple in the first and the zero conditionals. (See the conditionals section for more
information.)
 If it rains, we won't come.
 If you heat water to 100 degrees, it boils.
When should We use the Present Continuous?
1. First, we use the present continuous for things that are happening at the moment of speaking. These
things usually last for quite a short time and they are not finished when we are talking about them.
 I'm working at the moment.
 Vinisha is sleeping now.
2. We can also use this tense for other kinds of temporary situations, even if the action isn't,happening at
this moment.
 Harsha is working in a dance academy until he finds ajob in his field. (He might not be working now.)
 I'm reading a really great book.
 She's staying with her friend for a week.
Compare this with the present, simple, which is used for permanent situations that we feel will continue
for a long time
 I work in a school. (I think this is a permanent)) .
 I m working in a school. (I think this is a temporary situation.)
3. The next use is for definite future arrangements (with a future time word). In this case we have already
made a plan and we are pretty sure that the event will happen in the future.
 I'm meeting my father tomorrow.
 We're going to the beach at the weekend.
 I'm leaving at three
When should we use the Present Perfect?
Unfinished Actions
1. We use this tense when we want to talk about unfinished actions or states or habits that started in the
past and continue to the ' present. Usually we use it to say 'how long' and we need 'since' or 'for'
 I've known the tailor since 1994.
 She has worked in a parlour for three years.
 I've stayed there for six months.
'Since' and 'For'
We use 'since' with a fixed time in the past (2004, April 23rd, last year, two hours ago). The fixed time
can be another action, which is in the past simple (since I was at school, since I arrived).
 I've liked chocolate since I was a child.
 She's been here since 2pm.
2. Life experience.
These are actions or events that happened sometime during a person's life. We don't say when the
experience happened, and the person needs to be alive now.
We often use the words 'ever' and 'never' here.
 I have been to the Nilgiris.
 They, have visited Rameswaram three times.
 We have never seen that film.
3. With an unfinished time word (this month, this week, today). The period of time is still continuing.
 I haven't played a match this month.
 She's drunk three cups of coffee today.
 I have already shifted house twice this year!
We can't use the present perfect with a finished time word.
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4. A finished action with a result in the present (focus on result). We often use the present perfect to talk
about something that happened in the recent past, but that is still true or important now.
 I have lost my keys (so I can't get into my house).
 She has hurt her leg (so she can't play tennis today).
 They have missed the bus (so they will be late).
When should we use the Present Perfect Continuous?
1. To say how long for unfinished actions which started in the past and continue to the present. We often
use this with 'for' and 'since’.
 I've been living in Coimbatore for two years.
 She's been working here since 2004.
 We've been waiting for the bus for hours.
2. For temporary habits or situations. The action started in the past and continues to the present in the
same way as above, but we don't answer the questions about 'how long' so clearly. Instead, we use a
word like 'recently'
 I've been going to the gym a lot recently.
 They've been living with his mother while they look for a house.
 I've been reading a lot recently.
THE PAST TENSE
The Simple Past
This is the basic past tense. We use it whenever we want to talk about the past and we don't have any
special situation that means we should use the past perfect, present perfect, past continuous, etc.
Finished actions, states or habits in the past.
1. We use it with finished actions, states or habits in the past when we have expressions or words
indicating completed action (yesterday, last week, at 2 o'clock, in 2013).
 I went to the cinema yesterday.
 We spent a lot of time in 2017.
2. We use it with finished actions, states or habits in the past when we know from general knowledge that
the time period has finished. This includes when the person we are talking about is dead.
 Leonardo painted the Mona Lisa.
 The Mughals invaded India.
3. For stories or lists of events, we often use the past simple for the actions in the story and the past
continuous for the background.
 He went to a café. People were chatting and music was playing. He sat down and ordered a coffee.
4. We use the past simple to talk about things that are not real in the present or future. So we use it with
the second conditional and after words like 'wish
 If I won the lottery, I would buy a house.
 I wish I had more time!
When should we use the Past Continuous (also called the Past Progressive)?
1. An action in the past which overlaps another action or a time. The action in the past continuous starts
before and often continues after the other shorter action or time:
 I was walking to the station when I met Malathy. (I started walking before I met Malathy, and maybe
I continued afterwards.)
 At three o'clock, I was working. (I started before three o'clock and finished after three o’clock.)
2. In the same way, we can use the present continuous for the background of a story.
 The birds were singing, the sun was shining and in the temple ,people were laughing and chatting.
3. Temporary habits or habits that happen more often than we expect in the past. We often use 'always,
constantly' or 'forever' here. This is the same as the way we use the present continuous for habits, but
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the habit started and finished in the past. This thing doesn't happen now.
 He was always leaving the tap running. She was constantly singing.
4. To emphasise that something lasted for a while. This use is often optional and we usually use it with
time expressions like 'all day' or 'all evening' or 'for hours
 I was working in the garden all day.
 He was reading all evening
When should We use the Past Perfect?
1. A finished action before a second point in the past.
When we arrived, the film had started ( first the film started, then we arrived).
I had eaten dinner so I wasn't hungry.
It had rained heavily in the night, so the bus didn't arrive.
The film started before we arrived / the film had started before we arrived.
2. Something that started in the past and continued up to another action or time in the past.
When he graduated, he had been in Chennai for six years. (= He arrived in Chennai six years before,
he graduated and lived there until he graduated, or even longer.)
3. To talk about unreal or imaginary things in the past. In the same way that we use the past simple to talk
about unreal or imaginary things in the present, we use the past perfect (one step back in time) to talk
about unreal things in the past. This is common in the third conditional and after 'wish'.
 If I had known you were ill, I would have visited you.
 She would have passed the exam if she had studied harder.
 I wish I hadn't gone to bed so late!
When should We use the Past Perfect Continuous?
1. Something that started in the past and continued up to another action or time in the past. The past
perfect continuous tells us 'how long just like the present perfect continuous, but this time the action
continues up to a point in the past rather than the present.
 She had been working at that company for a year when she met Han.
 I had been walking for hours when I finally found the house.
 We had been living in Anna Nagar for ' three months when we had to leave.
2. Something that finished just before another event in the past. This is usually used to show a result at a
time in the past. It's very similar to the present perfect continuous, but the action finishes before
another time in the past, rather than finishing before the present.
 The pavement was wet, it had been raining.
 The children had been playing and so the room was a mess!
 I'd been working before I saw you and that's why I was really tired.
THE FUTURE TENSE
When Should we use the Simple Future & Continuous?
1. We use the future simple with 'will or shall' to predict the future.We can use it for future facts.
 I shall help you with your homework.
 Will you give me a hand?
2. We use the simple future with 'will''in the first conditional, and in other sentences that have a
conditional feeling.
 If it doesn't rain, we shall go to the park.
3. We use the future continuous to talk about an action in the future that overlaps another, shorter action
or a time. The action in the future continuous usually starts before and might continue after the second
action or time.
 I'll be waiting when you arrive.
 At eight o'clock, I will be eating dinner.
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Exercises
Fill in the blanks appropriately (Mixed Tenses & Conditionals)

1. My brother (buy) a cycle recently. He (drive) it at the moment.
2. Varun and Tarun (go) to a concert tomorrow night. They (look forward to) it the whole week.
3. Raj (watch) the news on TV every day and it (help) him with his English.
4. My father's car (break) down when he (drive) home from work.
5. When he (found) Microsoft, Bill Gates was only 20 years old. He (already
write) his first computer programme six years earlier.
6. An accident (happen) near my house last night. A car (hit) a young man.
7. Mrs. Sathya said that one day she (retire) from teaching. She (say) that she
(spend) her free time learning about computers.
8. I (not sleep) at all last night. Someone (listen) to music all night.
9. I (see) a film a week ago, but I (not enjoy) it very much because. I
(already read) the book.
10. The judge (sentence) the man to eight years in prison because he (rob) a
bank.
11. They (stand) in the queue for over an hour when the manager (tell) them that there
(be) no more tickets.
12. Bala (be) injured in the car accident yesterday. The driver (lose) control of
his car because (fall) asleep.
13. Aji (not see) her friend Catherine since she (start) to work in that school two years ago.
14. If I (not read) the book I (probably enjoy) the film more.
15. Shankar phoned and explained that he (not teach) the lesson because he
(be) still sick.
16. I (just see) the film “The Da Vinci Code' (you see) it too? — No, I
(not have) but I (read) the book.
17. My sister (fly) home from Chennai today. Her flight (arrive) in an hour so I am
(leave) for the airport right now to get there in time.
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18. Many people (see) the accident. The police (interrogate) them last night.
19. While Phiomena (wait) for the bus there (be) a robbery at the bank. After the
robbers (go) away the police (come) but they (not be) to catch them.
20. I (use) to dance when I was at middle but I (break) a leg two years ago and
since then I (not dance) any more.
21. He (fix) it if he (know) what was wrong.
22. But he (do) not so he (have) to take it to the garage.
23. He (ride) his bike when someone in front of him suddenly (open) a car door.
Articles and Determiners

(Text Book Page No. 156,220)
Determiners identify nouns. They point them out.
Example: The, this, that, what etc.,
Kinds of Determiners. -
1. Articles : A, An, The
2. Demonstratives : This, that, there, these
3. Distributive : Either, neither, each, every
4. Possessive : My, ours, your, his, her, its, their
5. Quantitative : Much, little, whole, half, some, any, enough, all, sufficient, no, none
6. Numeral : One, two, first, second, third etc.
7. Interrogative : What, which, where.
Example:
Fill in the blanks with articles and determiners.
1. Would you like fish? No thanks. I don't want . [Ans: Some; any]
2. I am going to buy potatoes. [Ans: these]
3. There aren't shops on this street. [Ans: many]
4. people are rather narrow-minded. [Ans: Most]
5. Isn't there shampoo? I want to wash my hair. [Ans: any]
6. Can you help me? I am having trouble opening this cooker. [Ans: Some]
7. of my friends hopped in and had a whole of a time last evening. [Ans: Most]
8. Ranjana and Shyam don't have children so they are planning to adopt a child. [Ans: any]
9. I am going for walk. I need fresh air. [Ans: some]
10. I cannot take photographs as I have forgotten to bring camera. [Ans: any]
Exercises
I. Complete the blanks with articles and determiners.
1. We spent money during our stay in Kanyakumari.
(a) a lot of (b) many (c) all of
2. We arrived late so us were tired.
(a) all of (b) none of (c) few of
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3. I had money at that time and it was hard for me to get by.
(a) none (b) none of (c) no
4. She has eaten all the biscuits. There are left.
(a) none (b) no (c) neither
5. I had friends in Chennai so I moved to Vellore.
(a) none (b) a few (c)few
6. Akash thinks that people are evil.
(a) all of (b) all (c) the whole
7. your mates like cookies, don't they?
(a) Some (b) Some of (c) Several
8. Slow down, we have time.
(a) a few (b) plenty of (c) lot of
9. I was in Delhi for years.
(a) few (b) a few (c) a lot of
10. Have you watched these films?
(a) any of (b) some of (c) any
11. the students passed the exam.
(a) No (b) None (c) None of
12. The concert wasn't popular. Only people came.
(a) few (b) a few (c) a little
13. The accident was terrible. He had luck that he survived.
(a) many (b) much (c) a lot of
14. We've been living here for years.
(a) many (b) a lot of (c) much
15. people think that the world is getting worse.
(a) Lot of (b) Most of (c) Many
16. Did it cost to buy such a nice car?
(a) many (b) much (c) a lot of
17. I met Akshay yesterday. Fortunately, we had time to talk to.
(a) few (b) a little (c) little
18. The room was extremely tiny. There was space to move.
(a) little (b) a little (c) some
19. I saw her days ago. She was with Madhesh.
(a) a few (b) few (c) a lot of
20. people enjoyed the party, but were disappointed.
(a) Few, many (b) Some, the other (c) A few, most
II. Choose the correct (and most natural-sounding) response to complete each sentence:
1. They usually spend their holidays in mountains.
(a) the (b) no article (c) a
2. Ooty has ideal climate.
(a) no article (b) an (c) the
3. This is best restaurant in the city
(a) no article (b) a (c) the
179
4. I can't live on 500 rupees a month.
(a) the (b) no article (c) a
5. He got M.A degree in English.
(a) a (b)the (c)an
6. Someone call police!
(a) no article (b) the (c) a
7. Abinandan is real Indian hero.
8. I don't like dogs, but I like my brother's dog.
(a) a (b) no article (c) the
9. I haven't seen him in five years.
10. Kiran is kabbadi player.
(a) the (b) a (c) no article
Non-Verbal Comprehension
A pie chart is a circular statistical graphic which is divided into slices to illustrate numerical proportion.
In a pie chart, the arc length of each slice is propositional to the quantity it represents.
1. Study the pie-chart given and answer the questions that follow:
Percentage of hostellers in different districts.
Virudhunagar Dindigul 12%
14%
Madurai 4%
Perambalur 9%
Tiruchi
34%
Thanjavur 27%
QUESTIONS:
(a) What is the difference in percentage of hostellers between Virudhunagar and Thanjavur districts?
(b) What would be the reason for the maximum percentage of hostellers from Tiruchi District?
(c) Which district holds the minimum percentage of hostellers?
2. Study the pie-chart given and answer the questions that follow:
Time spent by Steffi in a day
QUESTIONS:
sleep (8)
school (8)
(a) How many hours does Steffi spend on learning?
(b) How long does she sleep?
(c) Where does Steffi spend most of her time?
180
3. Temperature of various places in Tamil Nadu.
Metupalayam
o
25 C QUESTIONS:
Chennai
o
(a) Which is the coolest place of all?
32 C
Trichy
(b) Which place has the second highest temperature?
Madurai o
35 C
o
38 C (c) Which places are hotter than Kanyakumari?
Kanyakumari
o
30 C
Analytical interpretation of Data:

4. Study the following Bar Chart and write three sentences on your inference about the data:
BPO Salaries in India (Rupees per month)
Senior Process Executive (17,500)
Process Specialist (32,300)
Systems Engineer (28,800)
Accountant (15,800)
Team Leader (41,500)
0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000

Monthly Salaries (in Rupees)
181
5. Study the following table and write three sentences on your inference about the data:
2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics medal table
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
1 USA 46 37 38 121
2 Great Britain 27 23 17 67
3 China 26 18 26 70
4 Russia 19 17 20 56
5 Germany 17 10 15 42
6 Japan 12 8 21 41
7 India 0 1 1 2
Homophones / Confusables
Words, in any language, have to be properly used. The right words have to be chosen to say exactly what
one means. In English, some words offer different meanings in different contexts.
Sound Spelling Meaning Example
Homophones Same Different Different stare (looking deeply) stair (steps)
Homonyms Same Same Different kind (type) kind (caring)
Homographs Different Same Different tear (pull apart
tear (drop of liquid from eyes)
List of some homophones:
adopt adapt dew due loan lone son sun
advice (n) advise (v) die dye meat meet stare stair
aloud allowed fair fare new knew storey story
birth berth flour floor none nun stationary stationery
blew blue form farm pale pail steel steal
brake break foul fowl pass pause sum some
by buy hair hare peace piece tale tail
canvass canvas hair heir peal peel tied tide
carat carrot heal heel prey pray tow toe
career carrier heard herd principle principal vacation vocation
cereal serial here hear prize price wait weight
check cheque hole whole quiet quite way weigh
compliment complement hour our rice rise weak week
cot caught inn in roll role weather whether
council counsel knight night root route wear where
dairy diary knot not sell cell whole hole
dessert desert know no sail sale write right
line lion sea see
Example: Choose the correct word from the confusable words in the options.
1. He is not sure he will be able to attend the function. [Ans: (c) whether]
(a) weather (b) whither (c) whether (d) wither
2. This would be a good for a new golf course. [Ans: (d) site]
(a) sight (b) side (c) cite (d) site
182
3. My grandfather lived to a age. [Ans: (b) great]
(a) large (b) great (c) big (d) high
4. My teacher guided me in the choice of a [Ans: (c) career]
(a) carrier (b) carriage (c) career (d) carrel
5. I will not your gift. [Ans: (a) accept]
(a) accept (b) except (c) aspect (d) adept
6. You should not in bed all day. [Ans: (b) lie]
(a) lay (b) lie (c) lain (d) lying
7. Read your papers to hear your mistakes. [Ans: (b) aloud]
(a) allowed (b) aloud (c) aloft (d) aloof
8. The childless couple a child. [Ans: (a) adopted]
(a) adopted (b) adapted (c) abated (d) adept
9. The soil was so that the task of digging was given up. [Ans: (c) hardi]
(a) hardy (b) hardly (c) hard (d) hardness
10. The failure of the of the bus caused a major accident. [Ans: (b) brake]
(a) break (b) brake (c) branks (d) bren
Choose the correct word from the parenthesis at the end of the sentence as in the example.
1. As a child, I each vacation with my grandmother.
(a) had (b) spent (c) sent (d) wasted
2. I have already to the traditions of the area I live in.
(a) adapted (b) mixed (c) adopted (d) reached
3. Balaji Suma at a birthday party last month.
(a) seen (b) met (c) knew (d) meet
4. The girls money from their father to buy their mom a gift.
(a) lend (b) lent (c) borrowed (d) gave
5. Our Headmaster the National flag on all Mondays.
(a) arise (b) rises (c) raises (d) arose
6. He's down because he doesn't feel well
(a) lieing (b) lying (c) laying (d) lay
7. Jai left India and to Australia in 2018.
(a) left (b) immigrated (c) emigrated (d) migrated
8. I hope you will your job well.
(a) do (b) try (c) make (d) give
9. Gokul plays online games every night. It has started his studies.
(a) effecting (b) affecting (c) missing (d) playing with
10. Please turn off the lights. We don't like to energy
(a) spent (b) send (c) waste (d) conserve
Exercises: Type - 2:
Fill in the blanks with suitable Homophones with respect to the underlined word:
1. The farmer was ready to pour the pesticide through a
2. The Mayor has a strong in his home.
3. I can't bear the heat if I walk on foot.
4. There is a stationery shop in the boat in the harbour.
5. They made a doe with the
183
Slogan Writing
Generally, slogans are written to advertise a product or to create an awareness among the public for a
social cause.
Tips for writing on effective sIogan
It should be -
Easy to understand.
Consistent.
Short and simple.
With Rhythmic catchy phases.
Unique and different.
Example:
TV - Neighbour's envy, Owner's pride.
Safety - No Holiday for Safety
Exercises
Choose the correct word from the confusable words in the options.
1. (a) Hair Oil (b) Bi-cycle (c) Laptop
a)
b)
c)
2. (a) Labour Day (b)Mother's Day (c) Teacher's Day
a)
b)
c)
3. (a) Environment Day (b) Water Conservation (c) Junk Food
a)
b)
c)
4. (a) Tree (b) Lens (c) Hotel
a)
b)
c)
5. (a) Motor bike (b) Encyclopedia (c) Furniture
a)
b)
c)
6. (a) Credit card (b) Gum (c) Tooth paste
a)
b)
c)
7. (a) Home theatre (b) Watch (c) Silk sarees
a)
b)
c)
184
8. (a) Lipstick (b) Binoculars (c) Air conditioner
a)
b)
c)
Correct and Edit a Passage

(Text Book Page No. :223)
Exercises:
Correct and Edit the following passage:
1. One night, was came upon there in the windy and deserted square, resting of the stone pavement
beneath a lights. Nicola sat upright, tired. A bundle on unsold newspapers lay a his feet.
2. Then a three years a Germans ruled the city. The boys grow to hate the Germans. When the resistance
movement began secretly to for they was among the first the join.
3. When I look through my own recipe from the perfect cup of tea, I found no fewer there eleven
outstanding points. On perhaps two the them there would been pretty general agreement, but at least
four others were acutely controversial.
4. Some people wouldn't answer that they do like tea in itself, that there only drink it on order to the
warmed and stimulated, and they had sugar to take the taste awake.
5. In these days, they did have sophisticated heart surgery. I had always found the suffering a children
particularly heartbreaking—especially become of their total trust on doctors and nurses.
6. I decided to go of; and were finally reached firmer snow higher of, and then chipped steps up a last
steep slopes an cramponed on to a South Peak. It was now 9 a.m.
185
7. Tamil his one of the primary independent sources on modern Indian culture and tradition. I had written
extensively of the influence of an Southern tradition of the Sanskrit poetic tradition.
8. There were a lot of people in the world, and I had to accommodate my liberty to their liberties. We are
all liable the forget this, and unfortunately there are much most conscious of the imperfections of
others in these respect than of our own.
PART - IV (Five Marks Questions) 35 Marks

41. - 47: “Either .........”Or” - Questions: 7 x 5 = 35
41. Paragraph Questions from Prose: 1x5 = 5

42. Paragraph Questions from Poetry 1x5 = 5
43. Paragraph Questions from Supplementary Reader. 1x5 = 5
Refer to the Prose, Poem and Supplementary Sections Unit 1 to 6 of this Guide
Q. Nos. 44 to 47: In 3 model Question Papers, 10 Topics have been covered,

in ‘either’..... ‘or’ type. 4x5=20
Note-Making and Summarizing

I. Note-Making
Note-making involves the fundamental skills of reading and writing.
We make notes to record the important points of a text for future reference. Note-making is a study skill
that helps to make notes of important points from a long text. It is particularly useful to store and
retrieve information in the form of a summary.
The Process
 First, the main points and supporting details should be identified. The main information should be
condensed and organised in a systematic way.
 To avoid difficulty in recollecting information, symbols or abbreviations should be used while making
notes. But these should be clear enough to recall or understand later.
 Notes need not be in complete sentences.
 Notes should be shorter than the original text.
 Main points and supporting details should be clearly distinguished.
 Functional words like articles, relative pronouns should be avoided.
 Headings and sub headings should be numbered.
Heading Title
1 . Sub-heading
1. a Point 1 Heading 1 Heading 2
1.b sub-sub heading Sub heading
1.b. 1 Sub Point 1
1.b. 2 Sub Point 2 Sub sub heading Sub sub heading
186
Heading
2. Sub-heading 2
Point 1
sub-sub heading
2.b. 1 Sub Point 1
 Summarising is to briefly sum up the various points given in the notes made from the original passage.
 It is a retrieval of information from the notes made.
 Hence, while writing it, one need not go back to the original passage but refer only to the notes made.
 A first draft will help us to write a fair summary.
II. Tips on Summary Writing:

1. Read the passage.
2. Identify the important points - use Note Making.
3. Write the rough copy based on important points.
4. Avoid examples, quotations, numerical dates and exact sentences from the passage. The number of
words can be approximately one-third of the original passage words.
5. Write the fair copy, with a title, neatly without over-writing, crossing and cancelling.
6. Check the points, underline those important points in the fair copy. Then cancel the rough copy.
Spot the Errors & Correct

1. singular - plurals 2. Degrees of Comparison 3. Articles - A, An, the 4. Preposition
5. Conjunction 6. If clause - conditional 7. Tenses 8. Phrases
Examples:
He is confident on his success  He is confident of his success
Let us hope through the best  Let us hope for the best.
I met in an accident  I met with an accident.
He goes to school by foot  He goes to school on foot.
He congratulated of his success  He congratulated on his success.
They discuss about politics  They discuss politics (about  deleted)
I enter into the room  I enter the room. (into  deleted)
They told to me  They told me. (to  deleted)
Neither you nor he are active  Neither you nor he is active.
He gave a lot of advices  He gave a lot of advice.
I bought new furnitures  I bought new furniture.
He has finished his meals  He has finished his meal.
Exercises
Spot the errors and correct them:
1. (a) He gave me an one-rupee note. (b) Though she is weak but she is active.
(c) She kept the book in the table. (d) He is confident on his success.
(e) My father gave me a lot of advices.
187
2. (a) None of you know the answer. (b) We speak the English.
(c) Children prefer TV games than story books.
(d) Though he practised well, but he did not win the prize.
(e) He took up gymnastic when he was seven years old.
3. (a) One of the boy has got the first prize. (b) Two and two make four.
(c) Though he was poor, but he was honest.
(d) Although he came late, but he finished the work in time.
(e) A group of twelve students are travelling together.
4. (a) Sheela is junior than me. (b) Ramesh went to abroad. (c) Guilty must be punished.
(d) A honest man is always respected. (e) Mathematics are my favourite subject.
5. (a) Though he is ill, but he attends the class. (b) The principal with all the teachers are present.
(c) If they had contacted me, I would help them.
(d) Each of the student has participated in the competition. (e) No one know the answer.
Semantic FieIds
(Text Book Page No. :119)
A semantic field is a set of words grouped semantically (by meaning) that refers to a specific subject.
Exercises
Match each of the following sentences with the suitable field in the list given below:
1. (a) Plantations turn into natural forest. (b) Google reveals new search formula.
(c) Big win for Congress in Gurdaspur Lok Sabha by-poll.
(d) MBA in Hospital Management.
188
(e) Voyager-I leaves solar system.
(Education, Politics, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Computer)
2. (a) Tannery ordered to be closed.

(b) Gold prices hiked.
(c) Madurai farmers turning tech savvy.
(d) Measles to be eliminated by South East Asian countries by 2020.
(e) Indian weight lifters bag awards. (Sports, Health, Environment, Economy, Agriculture)
3. (a) Solar energy in Paramakudi. (b) LPG price hike will help monetise gas reserves.
(c) Deepika Kumari clinches gold in Commonwealth Games.
(d) India, UK oncologists collaborate. (e) Ganesha idols immersed.
(Medicine, Sports, Religion, Economy, Environment)
4. (a) Kejriwal wins the confidence vote (b) Japan launches new cheaper rocket
(c) Green tea costlier in Ooty. (d) Sachin to stop playing.
(e) Sunflower oil cuts down cholesterol.
(Sports, Industry, Health, Politics, Science and Technology)
5. (a) ECR road gets new reflectors. (b) Child labourers rescued.
(c) New CBSE schools mushrooming. (d) Syria advised to stop chemical weapons.
(e) Smart televisions in vogue.
(Mass Media, Education, Politics, Transport, Social)
6. (a) Ooty is plastic free. (b) Cloning has proved that it is possible to replicate human beings.
(c) An Indian is invited to referee the French Open.
(d) The world will have to live with high oil prices and their negative impact on economic growth.
(e) The committee discussed development of ideal teacher training curriculum.
(Commerce, Science, Education, Sports, Environment)
189
7. (a) Walt Disney's land of fun and fantasy, the vision that gives pleasure to kids and adults alike, turns fifty
this year.
(b) Maruti Udyog improved its operating margins by 2.4 per cent in 2004-05.
(c) People use the binary system, which is able to represent any number using only two digits, 0 and 1.
(d) Every plant organ has a definite form and structure and also performs certain specific functions.
(e) An Indian woman was honoured for her leadership in starting a bank for poor women.
(Computer, Tourism, Social service, Business, Botany)
8. (a) We can find many archaic words in the works of Shakespeare.

(b) Hero Honda has recorded a sales volume of 4 lakh motor cycles.
(c) The symbol used at the Olympic Games shows five' interlocked rings.
(d) Hybrid variety of Tomato gives a good harvest.
(e) Thousands of people witnessed Makara Jothi in Sabarimala.
(Business, Sports, Literature, Religion, Agriculture)
9. (a) Satellites are helpful in weather forecast.

(b) Good link of roads would help in smooth flow of traffic.
(c) Data can be easily transferred by using pen-drives.
(d) I am good at billiards. (e) We watched a thriller movie yesterday.
(Media, Computer, Sports, Transport, Space)
10 (a) Rice contains more carbohydrates. (b) The monitor displays the menu.
(c) We go by train to Mysore. (d) Newspapers bring news from all parts of the world.
(e) Michael Jackson was known as king of pop.
(Travel, Music, Nutrition and Dietetics, Computer, Media)
189
190

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VIJAYANTA MODEL

HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL

2. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences each.

1. Appearances are deceptive. Discuss with reference to the two boys.

Dear Sir, (4) Write a letter to AZ Company requesting

To Date: 23.02.2019 Sd/-

This is with reference to your advertisement

Chennai - 600 017

23rd February, 2019

UNIT - 2 A NICE CUP OF TEA

Words Synonyms Antonyms

3. Answer each of the following questions in a paragraph of 100- 1 50 words.

UNIT-4 THE SUMMIT

UNIT-4 - The Summit

UNIT-5 THE STATUS OF TAMIL AS A CLASSICAL LANGUAGE

Synonyms & Antonyms:

2. Answer the following questions In three or four sentences each.

3. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100-150 words each.

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Synonyms & Antonyms:

Words Synonyms Antonyms

1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.

a. What is 'liberty' according to the old lady?

1. Where was the stout lady walking?

3. Answer each of the following In a paragraph of 100—1 50 words.

Change the voice of the following scntences.

1. Gayathri gave a set of pens to Mani.

Combine each of the following pairs of sentences into a single sentence.

Unscramble the sentences.

Complete the conversation with the word from the box.

Spot the errors, If any.

ARTICLES AND DETERMINERS

1. believe 2. separate 3. assistant 4. hypocrites 5. secretary 6. buoyantly

Task 2 : Edit the following passages by correcting the spelling mistakes:

6. Underline the alliterated words In the following lines:

7. Identify the figure of speech used In the following lines:

UNIT-2 - OUR CASUARINA TREE

1. And oft at nights the garden overflows

2. And far and near kokilas hail the day;

5. Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime

4. Explain the following lines with reference to the context.

6. Answer each of the following questions in a paragraph of 100-150 words.

UNIT - 3 : ALL THE WORLD’S STAGE

attention treble reluctantly actors maturity reputation

3. Explain the following lines briefly with reference to the context.

1. “Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel

5. Pick out the words in 'alliteration' in the following lines.

c. At first the infant,

2. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.

Unit - 6 incident of the french camp

5. Answer the following questions in about 100—1 50 words each.

2. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences each.

3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 1 50 words each.

Akslonov frequently prayed He was sent to A petition of mercy

Aksinnov was respected Aksionov found out Aksionov forgave

Summary using the Mind map

UNIT - 3 - THE HOUR OF TRUTH (PLAY)

2. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.

3. Answer in a paragraph of about 150 words each.

UNIT - 4 - THE MIDNIGHT VISITOR

UNIT - 5 - ALL SUMMER IN A DAY

3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 100—150 words each.

UNIT - 6 - REMEMBER CAESAR (Play)