Q1.

You have been asked to give a speech on the topic 'The

journey is more important than the destination. Prepare a draft
for the speech, in not more than 120 words, with reference to
the texts Madam Rides the Bus and The Black Aeroplane.

You may begin this way:

Good morning, everyone. Today, I would like to talk to you
about how the journeys that we experience in life are often
more important than their destinations.
You may end this way:
To conclude, I would like to say that...
Thank you.
Answer: Good morning, everyone. Today, would like to talk to you about how the
journeys that we experience in life are often more important than their
destinations.
In 'Madam Rides the Bus’, Valli's journey was initially filled with
excitement. It was only when she saw the young cow dead on the road
that her spirits dampened.
This experience made her learn about life and death. Similarly, the pilot in
'The Black Aeroplane' was guided to safety by another plane when his
plane went into a storm. However, he later learned that there were no
other planes in the sky! Valli's bus ride symbolises a journey of
exploration and self-discovery, while the pilot's flight through the storm
represents a journey of courage and resilience.
To conclude, I would like to say that you should enjoy every moment of
your journey, because that's where you'll find the true treasures.
Thank you
 Q2. Imagine Robert Frost from 'A Dust of Snow' met with
Lencho from 'A Letter to God' and discussed the various ways
nature can influence a person's mood. Create this
conversation in not more than 120 words.

You may begin this way:

Lencho: As a farmer, my livelihood depends on nature and
sometimes nature can be cruel.
Answer: Lencho: As a farmer, my livelihood depends on nature, and sometimes
nature can be cruel. Just like that hailstorm that destroyed my crops, it
felt like God himself was testing my faith.
Robert Frost: | understand, Lencho. Nature can be both a friend and a
foe. Take, for instance, the dust of snow shaken from a hemlock tree.
It seems so insignificant, but it changed my entire mood that day. It
reminded me that even in the midst of life's challenges, nature can
offer unexpected moments of beauty and solace.
Lencho: Indeed, Mr. Frost, your poem reminds me that nature's
smallest gestures can have a profound impact on our lives.
Perhaps God's response to my letter wasn't just about the money, but
a reminder of His presence in the world around me.
Robert Frost: Nature has its own way of speaking to us, often when
we least expect it.
Q3. Did Griffin from 'Footprints without Feet' follow the saying
'With great power comes great responsibility'? Justify your
answer in 120 words.
Answer: No, Griffin did not follow the saying 'with great power comes great
responsibility:
Since Griffin did not think of anyone else except himself, this saying is
not what he followed. After he managed to make himself invisible, he
did not use his powers of invisibility for good. Instead, one of the first
things he did was set fire to his landlord's house in an act of revenge.
He did not think of helping anyone with his newfound powers; instead,
he harmed other people for his own gain. He stole clothes and food for
himself without feeling any remorse.
When his money ran low once more, he again resorted to stealing and
robbed a clergyman. Finally, when the police were about to catch him,
instead of going quietly and accepting his arrest, he fought back and
escaped. At no time did Griffin take any responsibility for his actions.
Q4. Imagine that Mrs. Pumphrey from 'A Triumph of Surgery,
reflects upon her behaviour, learns from her mistakes, and
writes a diary entry about the consequences of
overindulgence. Write this diary entry as Mrs. Pumphrey in
about 120 words.
Answer: 31st March, 20XX
Wednesday, 5 p.m.
Dear Diary,
Today, I had a dreadful realisation. I love my dear Tricki, but I fear that that love
has caused me to excessively indulge and pamper my dear pet. The sight of
him, bloated and unhealthy, broke my heart. I believed that showering him with
treats was a sign of care.
But instead, I was causing him more harm than good. Thank goodness for Mr.
Herriot.
He aptly deduced that the reason for Tric-ki's decline in health was my lack of
strict boundaries with Tricki. When he noticed that I was not following his advice,
he took Tricki away from me to take care of him.
During Tricki's absence, I began to reflect on my actions. Old habits die hard, but
I will try my best to be a better caretaker for Tricki now that he is back home.
Mrs. Pumphrey
 Q5. You have been asked to present an evaluation of the
approaches of the mothers of both, the baby seagull and
Amanda, towards helping their children.

Write this presentation draft including your insights, in about

120 words, comparing the approaches of both parents.
You may begin this way:
One acknowledges that both parents, Amanda's mother and
the baby seagulls mother both...however, ...
(Reference -Amanda! & His First Flight)
The baby seagull's mother:
The baby seagull's mother, was a parent
who wanted to better her child's life by
pushing him out of his comfort zone and
encouraging him to learn new skills. She
believed that her son is capable of flying,
even though he was afraid, and tried to
motivate him by showing him how much fun
it could be. She also offered him scraps of
fish to reward him for his efforts, which is
truly a kind of positive reinforcement
strategy,
However, the mother's approach also had
some drawbacks. By constantly pushing the
baby seagull to fly, she was putting him in
danger and risking his physical well-being.
She also didn't seem to acknowledge his
fear and anx-iety, which could be a source
of stress for the baby seagull.
Amanda's mother:
Amanda's mother is depicted as a strict and critical figure
who is presented as always correcting Amanda's
behaviour, from her posture and habits to her academic
performance and personal hygiene.
While her intentions may be good, her methods are
shown to be ineffective, and in some cases, harmful. By
constantly nit-picking Amanda's behaviour, her mother
creates an atmosphere of tension and anxiety, which only
serves to make Amanda feel worse about her-self. This
also causes Amanda to feel like she can never measure
up, leading her to seek solace in imaginary worlds and
fantasies.
The methods of Amanda's mother do not come across as
conducive to achieving this goal. Rather than focusing on
Amanda's strengths and encouraging her to develop
them, she highlights her weaknesses and shortcomings.
Amanda is thus, left feeling undervalued, which could
have a negative impact on her self-esteem and mental
health.
Answer: Comparison:
In comparison to Amanda's mother, the seagull's mother seems to be more
attuned to her child's needs and abilities.
She recognizes that the baby seagull is capable of flying and wants to help him
achieve his full potential. However, she may not be taking into account his fears
and anxieties, which can be just as important to his well-being as his ability to
fly. In contrast, Amanda's mother seems to be too focused on correcting her
daughter's flaws and may not be paying enough attention to her strengths and
abilities.
Even though both mothers have good intentions and want to better their
children's lives, their methods, in part, may be misguided or ineffective. The
seagull's mother could benefit from being more sensitive to her child's
emo-tions, while Amanda's mother could benefit from focusing on her daughter's
strengths and building her self-esteem.
Ultimately, the best approach of both parents would be the one that would
balance positive reinforcement with sensitivity to the child's needs and
limitations.
 Q6. Imagine that M. Loisel, from The Necklace by Guy de
Maupassant, writes a diary entry, exploring the theme of class
and social status, and the nature of social mobility, in the
context of his own experience.

Write this diary entry, as M. Loisel, in about 120 words.

Answer: 13th December, 19XX
Monday, 8 p.m.
Dear diary
Today, I recall my experience of class and social status and the predicaments it
brought to me and my wife Matilda.
Both me and my wife were happy until one night we fell into this ugly trap of
upward social mobility which leads to the destruction of houses.
This whole circle of social mobility, from end to top, is quite vicious. The rich gets
richer while the poor gets poorer.
The middle class gets entirely stuck in between and tries to make ends meet
with his little bucks but pretends to be classy. Matilda was too a victim of this
fake pretence and this gave us a very tough time for several years when she lost
the borrowed necklace. Had she not tried to pretend the upper class that night,
we would have been living a different life.
People should never lose their happiness for such unattainable dreams.
M. Loisel
 Q7. As Valli, make a diary entry about your experience of
riding the bus alone for the first time. (Madan Rides the Bus)
Answer: 12th January, 20Xx
6 p.m. Sunday,
Dear Diary,
Today, I finally fulfilled my dream of riding a bus alone. I am so happy and
content with this feeling. Before taking the ride, I had to collect each and
every piece of information about the ride, and I did all of that on my own.
The people on the bus were so loving and caring towards me.
From the conductor to the passengers, all took care of me. The scenes
from the bus window were amazing. The green trees and the small homes
on the sides of the road were a treat to the eyes. I was so excited during
my journey but equally sad while returning, as the cow I saw running on the
road earlier was lying dead on the road later.
However, I loved every minute of the ride and safely returned home in time.
Valli
 Q8. How does Buddha bring about a different perspective in
Kisa Gotami's understanding of life? (The Sermon at Benares)
Answer: In the chapter, 'The Sermon at Benares', Kisa Gotami went from house to
house in search of a medicine that could bring his dead son back as she
lost her only son.
Kisa was so hopeless and sorrowful that she couldn't accept the harsh
reality of life.
At last, she went to Buddha in the hope of bringing her son back to life.
However, Budha told Kisa that life belongs to the Almighty and that
everyone has to die one day. To make Kisa understand well, he asked her
to collect mustard seeds from a house where no one has ever died.
Kisa went to all the houses but couldn't find a single house that hadn't lost
a loved one. Finally, Kisa understood that death is an inevitable part of life.
Lamentation would only bring discontentment, while acceptance would
lessen the sorrow of the loss.
Q9. As a reader do you sympathise with Matilda? Give reasons
from the text to support your answer. (The Necklace)
Answer: Yes, as a reader, I sympathise with Matilda as she was a young lady who
had a long life ahead of her but due to her immense greed and pretense,
she had to suffer a lot. So much so that even her beauty was sacrificed in
the process. Matilda borrowed a diamond necklace from her dear friend
Mme. Frostier to pretend to be rich at the party.
However, when she lost it, she and her husband had to compensate all
their life for purchasing a similar diamond necklace to return to Mme.
Forestier. Little did they know that the diamond necklace which Matilda
borrowed was artificial. Had she told the truth to Mme. Forestier, she would
have escaped ruining her own life in poverty to make up for the
unnecessary financial loss.
Q10. Hari Singh realises that even after being aware about the
theft, Anil is not ready to inform the police. Ashamed of his
deed, Hari Singh confesses the crime and apologises for
breaking Anil's trust. Prepare a conversation between Hari
Singh and Anil.
Answer: Hari: Anil, I need to talk to you. I have

something important to confess.

Anil: What is it? You seem troubled. Is

everything alright?

Hari: I betrayed your trust, Anil. I stole the money from under your mattress.

I know you are aware of it, but you never said a word to the police. I am sorry for my actions.

Anil: Hari, I appreciate your honesty in admitting your mistake.

Hari: I am truly ashamed of what I did. I promise that I will make things right and earn back
your trust.

Anil: We all make mistakes, but it's how we learn from them that defines our character. I
believe in second chances, and I'm willing to give you one.

Hari: Thank you, Anil, for understanding me.

 Q11. Mme. Forestier writes a diary entry after having met
Matilda, knowing the truth and seeing the transformation in
her friend. Write a short diary entry as Mme. Forestier about
your encounter and how you felt.

You may begin like this:

Today, I had a surprising encounter with my dear friend,
Matilda, who once used to be filled with dreams and
aspirations...
Answer: 15th November, 20xx
Monday, 10 am
Dear Diary,
Today, I had a surprising encounter with my dear friend, Matilda, who once used to be
filled with dreams and aspirations. She, now appears burdened by life's challenges
and, it breaks my heart to see her in such a situation.
I kept thinking about the borrowed necklace when we met today. I couldn't help but
experience all kinds of feelings. I feel pity for her upon seeing the consequences of her
actions and the difficulties that she is currently dealing with. Her experience serves as
an important reminder that material things alone cannot provide true happiness.
It is a lesson that I will always carry with me, cherishing the genuine blessings in my
own life.
With a heavy heart, I hope that Matilda finds peace and learns from her experiences.
Mme Forestier
Q12. You have been asked to present an evaluation on "The Ball
Poem" and "The Sermon at Benares". Both the poem and the
story highlight the experience of losing something and the
profound impact it can have on a person. Write this presentation
draft including your insights, in about 120 words, and suggest
how we can apply this understanding of loss and impermanence
to find meaning and resilience in our own lives:

You may begin this way:

Today, I want to talk about two amazing pieces:
"The Ball Poem" and "The Sermon at Benares".
Both the poem and the story explore...
You may end this way:
Understanding loss and accepting that things change can
help.....
Answer: Exploring Loss and Resilience
Today, I want to talk about two amazing pieces: "The Ball Poem" and "The
Sermon at Benares". Both the poem and the story explore the deep impact of
losing something and the emotions that come with it.
In the poem, a boy feels really sad when he loses his ball. The poem shows us
that losing something is not just about the thing itself, it makes us see the world
differently. Similarly, in the story, Kisa Gotami desperately tries to bring her son
back to life. Through her journey, she realises that loss is a natural part of life
and that everything is temporary.
Understanding loss and accepting that things change can help us find meaning
and become stronger in our own lives.
When we know that loss is an unavoidable part of life, we can face it with
kindness and understanding.
 Q13. Read the extracts given below and comment on the
similarity of tone in both the extracts.

Also, analyse the situations in the context.

(A) CHUBOKOV: To court? You can take it to the court, and all
that! You can! I know you; you're just on the look-out for a
chance to go to court, and all that. You pettifogger! All your
people were like that! All of them!
(B) "God! Of the money that I asked for, only seventy pesos
reached me. Send me the rest, since I need it very much.
But don't send it to me through mail because the post office
employees are a bunch of crooks.
Answer: (A) The tone in both the dialogues given is accusing. Chubokov accuses
Lomov's family to have cheated them and grabbed the Oxen Meadows
when it rightfully belongs to them. In the play, Oxen Meadows becomes a
land of dispute because both Natalya and Lomov exercise their right over
the land and end up in a heated argument.
Chubokov's accusation does not improve the situation as he too resorts to
name-calling and accuses Lomov of engaging in such betrayal.
(B) Similarly, Lencho also feels betrayed by the postmaster as he is
surprised to find 30 pesos less. Being an ardent believer in god, he cannot
expect god sending him 30 pesos less. Thus, he accuses the postmaster to
have swindled away the remaining 30 pesos.
Q14. Imagine Richard wrote a letter to his mother when he was
studying at Harvard University to thank her for motivating him
and being a constant source of support throughout his growing
years. Write that letter of gratitude as Richard.

You may begin like this:

Dear Mom
It's been long since I've written to you....
 Harvard University

Answer: Cambridge

Massachusetts

20th September 1981

Mrs. Ebright Reading

Pennsylvania

20th September, 20XX

Dear Mom,

It's been a while since I last wrote to you, and I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for
everything you have done for me. Throughout my life, you have been my biggest supporter and a constant
source of motivation.

From my early days of collecting butterflies and exploring the world around me, you always encouraged my
curiosity and provided me with the tools and resources for me to learn and grow. You were there during
countless science fair projects and experiments, guiding me and cheering me on. Your love, dedication, and
belief in me have shaped me into who I am today. As I pursue my studies here at Harvard, I carry your lessons
and values with me. Thank you for always being there, Mom.

With love,

Richie
 Q15. "The ones who create chaos in society, dismantle the
notion of quietude for their own vested interests, are indeed
termed as lawless." Analyse the character of Griffin in the light
of the statement given above.
Answer: Griffin was a brilliant scientist. He had discovered a drug, which made his
body as transparent as a sheet of glass. This made him invisible. However,
Griffin became a lawless person. His greed, overconfidence and inclination
to commit crimes made him a homeless wanderer without clothes and
money. Griffin was a man who had no conscience. He was self-centered
and did not care for the troubles of other people.
He seemed to be at war with all of mankind and only wanted to save
himself. He had no sympathy for others. He enjoyed being cruel and
lawless.
So, although Griffin was a talented scientist, his negative traits and utter
disregard for law ruined him.
 Q16. You have been asked to present an evaluation of the
approaches of "Gautama Buddha" and "Nelson Mandela"
towards alleviating suffering and bringing about change. Write
this presentation draft including your insights, in about 120
words, comparing the approaches of both influential figures.
(Reference- The Sermon at Benaras and Nelson Mandela - Long
Walk to Freedom)
Answer: Gautama Buddha and Nelson Mandela took different but impactful routes to
alleviate suffering and induce change. Buddha, witnessing the inevitable
sufferings of life birth, aging, illness, and death-sought enlightenment and
shared his wisdom in the Sermon at Benaras. His approach was spiritual
and aimed at individual enlightenment for collective well-being.
Mandela, on the other hand, took a more political route. Imprisoned for 27
years, his fight was against the concrete social injustice of apartheid. He
aimed for legislative change and social equality. While Buddha provides a
philosophical solution to life's sufferings, Mandela gives a practical, social
one.
Both are different but essential ways to address the human condition.
Q17. You are invited to speak at a community event about the
theme of independence and personal growth as seen through
the eyes of children and nature. Prepare a speech draft in not
more than 120 words, discussing the common themes of
freedom and growth in 'Madam Rides the Bus' and 'The Trees'
by Adrienne Rich.
Answer: Hello everyone! Today, I want to talk about the idea of freedom and growth.
In 'Madam Rides the Bus,' Valli shows us that you don't have to be big or
old to want independence. Her bus ride is a big step toward growing up and
feeling free. Similarly, in 'The Trees' by Adrienne Rich, the trees break free
from the ground to find their own space and light. Both stories teach us that
the desire for freedom is natural, whether you're a young girl of a tree. It's a
part of growing up and becoming who you are.
Thank you.
Q18. Imagine that Mrs. Pumphrey, from 'A Triumph of Surgery,'
writes a diary entry reflecting on her own misconceptions about
care and affection toward pets, especially in the context of her
experience with Tricki. Write this diary entry, as Mrs. Pumphrey,
in about 120 words.
Answer: Dear Diary,
Today made me think a lot. I always thought giving Tricki lots of food and
treats was the way to show Love. But I was so wrong! After sending him to
the vet, I've learned that too much of anything is bad. Mr.
Herriot helped Tricki get healthier and happier with just the basics: good
food in right amounts and plenty of exercise. It wasn't fancy creams or
luxury beds that Tricki needed. It was simple care and attention.
I've learned that love isn't about giving things, but about providing what's
really needed.
Mrs. Pumphrey
Q19. Considering the concept of a character arc, describe how
Bholi transforms over the course of the story due to her
experiences and interactions. Trace her development in about
120 words.
Answer: In the beginning, Bholi is shy and self-conscious because of her scars and
speech issue. People make fun of her, and even her family doesn't expect
much from her. When a marriage proposal comes, she's ready to accept
her fate, thinking it's her only option.
However, when she realizes that she is being sold off to an older man who
just wants her as a caretaker, something changes. She stands up for
herself and rejects the marriage. This is a turning point. Bholi gains
self-respect and courage, showing that she's more than her appearance or
her speech. By the end, she's a strong, confident woman who knows her
worth.
 Q20. You are asked to write an essay comparing the struggles
faced by the tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" and the young seagull
in "His First Flight" in their respective environments. Discuss
how the two characters yearn for freedom, but are trapped by
their circumstances or fears. Write your essay in 120 words.
You may begin this way: Both the tiger in 'A Tiger in the Zoo'
and the young seagull in 'His First Flight' exemplify the intrinsic
desire for freedom in living beings, yet are...
Answer: Both the tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" and the young seagull in "His First
Flight" show us how important freedom is to all living beings. The tiger is
caged and separated from his natural habitat, longing to prowl freely in the
forest. His eyes at night show his unfulfilled desires. The young seagull is
also trapped, but by his own fear of flying. He longs to fly high and join his
family, searching for food. Both characters show that freedom isn't just
physical; it's also mental and emotional. The seagull overcomes his fear
and finally tastes freedom, unlike the tiger who remains physically confined.
The stories teach us that while some barriers can be broken, others remain
insurmountable.
 Q21. You have been chosen to give a presentation discussing
the themes of faith and providence as presented in "A Letter to
God" and "The Black Aeroplane." Prepare your presentation
draft in no more than 120 words.
You may begin this way: Good afternoon, I am honored to
discuss two stories today that delve into the themes of faith and
providence, namely A Letter to God' and 'The Black
Aeroplane"...
Answer: Good afternoon. Today, let's talk about the fascinating themes of faith and
providence as shown in "A Letter to God" and "The Black Aeroplane." In "A
Letter to God," Lencho has immense faith in God to help him through tough
times. Despite losing his crops, he believes God will save him and writes a
letter asking for help. His faith is so strong that he even believes the money
sent by the postmaster is from God. Similarly, in "The Black Aeroplane," the
pilot puts his faith in a mysterious black aeroplane that guides him safely
through the storm. In both stories, the characters are saved through what
they believe is divine intervention, highlighting the power of faith and the
mysterious ways in which help can arrive.
Q22. Imagine that you are the young boy in "The Making of a
Scientist." Write a diary entry, reflecting on how your
experiences and challenges have shaped your dream of
becoming a scientist. Limit your entry to 120 words.
Answer: Dear diary,
As you know, I had a deep fascination of collecting butterflies of different
species. By the time I was in the second grade, I had collected all twenty
five species of butterflies found around his hometown.
That was probably the end of butterfly collecting for him. When mum
brought 'The Travels of Monarch X' which explained how monarch
butterflies migrated to Central America, it opened the world of science for
me. After reading the book, I found a lot of interest in tracking the migration
of butterflies.
This deep interest led me to work on several other projects and
experiments on the Monarch butterflies.
I know the road is long and hard, but I'm ready for it. Becoming a scientist
isn't just a career; it's my calling.
Goodnight diary!
Q23. If you had to summarize the evolution of the character of
Think-Tank, the Great and Mighty, in "The Book that Saved the
Earth," how would you do it? Discuss his change in perception
about Earth and its literature in 120 words.
Answer: In the beginning, Think-Tank is extremely dismissive of Earth, considering it
a primitive planet. He ridicules the idea that books could be a form of
"sandwich' showcasing his ignorance.
However, as he attempts to understand the contents of a nursery rhyme
book, he becomes more and more puzzled. By the end, he reverses his
opinion, declaring that Earth people are far too advanced. He orders an
immediate retreat, fearing the intellectual capabilities of Earthlings. His
character arc is one of humbling realization, showing how initial arrogance
can lead to ultimate respect.
 Q24. You have been asked to present an evaluation of the
characters of both Anne Frank from and Custard, the dragon
towards facing challenges. Write this presentation draft including
your insights, in about 120 words, comparing the characters of
both.
You may begin this way: One acknowledges that both Anne
Frank and Custard both face challenges in their respective
stories; however, ...
(Reference - "From the Diary of Anne Frank" & "The Tale of
Custard the Dragon")
Answer: One acknowledges that both Anne Frank and Custard the Dragon face challenges in
their respective stories; however, their approach to adversity is vastly different,
revealing distinct characteristics and life lessons.
Anne was a free-spirited child and didn't conform to the societal norms of her time.
She was different from the other children of her age and often felt misunderstood.
Anne had a positive outlook and a strong sense of humor. She felt utterly lonely and
couldn't confide in others. She needed a true friend before whom she could open out
her heart and share her inmost feelings. She found that true friend in
'Kitty', her diary.
On the other hand, in "The Tale of Custard the Dragon," Custard, a timid and cowardly
dragon, is faced with a challenge when his friends are in danger. Initially afraid,
Custard surprises everyone by summoning his courage and saving the day.
Custard teaches us that courage can manifest in moments of need, making him
unexpectedly heroic.
Both characters underline that facing challenges can reveal unexpected facets of one's
character.
Q25. Using the concept of a character arc, trace the development
of Dr. Herriot's character in the chapter 'A Triumph of Surgery'.
How does his transformation throughout the chapter reflect the
impact of his experiences and interactions with others?
Answer: In the chapter 'A Triumph of Surgery', Dr. Herriot undergoes a significant character
arc. Initially, he is portrayed as a skilled and confident surgeon, but his encounter with
the challenging case of Mrs.
Pumphrey's dog, Tricki, brings about a profound change in him. Dr. Herriot's
experiences with Tricki's surgery and recovery are filled with ups and downs,
highlighting the emotional and physical toll it takes on him. His interactions with Mrs.
Pumphrey, who spoils Tricki and neglects his health, also play a crucial role in his
transformation.
Throughout the chapter, Dr. Herriot's character evolves as he learns important lessons.
He realizes that being a good veterinarian goes beyond surgical skills. It requires
empathy, patience, and understanding. Dr. Herriot's interactions with Tricki and Mrs.
Pumphrey teach him the significance of educating pet owners about proper care and
nutrition. He becomes more compassionate and holistic in his approach,
understanding that the well-being of animals is interconnected with their owners'
actions. This transformation reflects the impact of Dr. Herriot's experiences and
interactions, as he evolves into a more well-rounded and empathetic practitioner. His
character arc showcases the growth and development he undergoes as a result of his
experiences with Tricki and Mrs. Pumphrey. Dr. Herriot's transformation highlights the
importance of empathy and education in the field of veterinary medicine.
Q27. Imagine that Ausable, from "The Midnight Visitor" by Robert
Arthur, writes a diary entry reflecting on the themes of deception,
intelligence, and the unexpected facets of spy craft in the context
of his recent experience with Fowler and Max. Write this diary
entry, as Ausable, in about 120 words.
Answer: Dear Diary,
What an evening it has been! Fowler, the young reporter, thought the life of a spy
would be full of action, like in movies. But today showed that it's not always about
gunfights or car chases; sometimes it's about outsmarting your enemy with wit and
quick thinking. Max, the enemy spy, fell for my made-up story about a balcony and a
secret police trap. I must say, even I was surprised when the plan worked and he
actually jumped through the window! It goes to show that in this line of work, being
clever is as important as being brave.
Tonight taught me something too. The unexpected can be a useful tool. Just when you
think you've seen it all, life throws you a curveball, and if you're smart enough, you can
use it to your advantage. I guess that's the real art of being a spy: to expect the
unexpected and use it well.
Goodnight diary!
Q28. You have been asked to evaluate the contrasting roles of
guidance and intuition in "Black Aeroplane" and "Fog,"
specifically focusing on the pilot in "Black Aeroplane" and the
metaphorical fog in Carl Sandburg's "Fog." How do these
elements help or hinder the characters' journey? Write this
evaluation draft, including your insights, in about 120 words
Answer: In "Black Aeroplane," the pilot is guided by a mysterious second plane that helps him
find his way through the storm, allowing him to land safely. The guidance he receives
is direct and almost miraculous, saving him from what could have been a tragic fate. In
contrast, "Fog" by Carl Sandburg uses the metaphor of fog to describe confusion and
lack of clarity, which one must navigate without any external guide.
The fog sits "on silent haunches," and then "moves on," implying that one must wait for
clarity to arrive on its own. While the pilot in "Black Aeroplane" receives tangible
assistance, the metaphorical fog suggests that sometimes, we have to rely on our
intuition and patience to move through challenges.
Both stories explore the idea that life's journey is a mix of external guidance and inner
wisdom.
Q29. You've been selected to speak to students about the power
of individual choice and self-worth, as exemplified in "Madam
Rides the Bus" and "For Anne Gregory." Prepare your speech in
not more than 120 words, focusing on how the characters in
these stories embody these virtues.
Answer: Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to talk about two incredible stories
that highlight the importance of individual choice and self-worth. In "Madam
Rides the Bus," Valli, a young girl, chooses to take a bus ride to the town,
despite societal norms that might discourage her. Her curiosity and
independence are commendable. Similarly, in "For Anne Gregory," the
poem emphasizes that true value isn't skin-deep and that one's self-worth
comes from within. Anne asserts that her hair's color doesn't define her; she
is much more than appearances. Both stories teach us that we have the
power to define ourselves, regardless of societal expectations or norms. So,
let's learn to appreciate ourselves for who we truly are, rather than
conforming to what others think we should be. Thank you.
Q30. Imagine that Bholi's father writes a diary entry, reflecting on
the traditional societal norms regarding women and education,
and how his perceptions changed after witnessing Bholi's
transformation through education. Write this diary entry in about
120 words.
Answer: Dear Diary,
Today has been a revelation. For years, I thought educating a girl,
especially one like Bholl, was pointless. She had a stammer and scars, and
in our village, that often means a life devoid of respect.
I agreed to let her go to school, not because 1 saw its value, but because
there was nothing to lose.
But oh, how wrong I was. Education gave Bholi a voice, not just to speak
clearly but to speak up for herself. Today, she refused a marriage proposal
that wasn't right for her. She was strong and confident.
It made me realize the power of education to change lives, even for girls in
our society. What a fool I have been to not see its value before.
Bholi's Father
 Q31. Considering the concept of a character arc, describe the
transformation that Griffin, the scientist in H.G. Wells' "Footprints
Without Feet," undergoes as a result of his experiences and
choices. Write your answer in about 120 words.
Answer: In the beginning, Griffin is a brilliant scientist driven by ambition. He
discovers the formula for invisibility but becomes consumed by the power it
offers.
Initially, it seems like a breakthrough, a testament to his genius. However,
as he becomes invisible, he finds himself isolated from society, increasingly
desperate and unethical in his actions. His morals decline; he resorts to
theft and evokes fear. His gift turns into a curse as he realizes the social
and practical limitations of being invisible. In the end, his own invention is
his undoing. Griffin's character arc is a cautionary tale about the dangers of
letting ambition override ethics, and how advancements in science should
be tempered by moral responsibility.
 Q32. You have been asked to present an evaluation of the role
that nature plays in positively impacting the lives of individuals
in the chapters "Coorg" and "Dust of Snow." Write this
presentation draft including your insights, in about 120 words,
comparing how nature serves as a source of inspiration or
transformation in both chapters.
Answer: In the chapter "Coorg," nature is depicted as a serene and beautiful place,
rich with flora and fauna. It serves as a sanctuary where people can find
peace and solace. The author elaborates on the beauty of Coorg, making it
evident how nature can be an excellent source for rejuvenation and
relaxation. In "Dust of Snow," the natural world has a transformative effect
on the mood of the person. A simple event, like a crow shaking off snow
from a tree onto the speaker, is enough to change his mood for the day.
While
"Coorg" gives a longer, all-around sense of how nature makes you feel
good, "Dust of Snow" proves that even a quick moment with nature can
really make a difference. Both chapters together make it clear that nature
can boost your mood and bring good vibes.
 Q33. You have been invited to speak at a community gathering
about the themes of loss and acceptance depicted in "The
Sermon at Benares" and "The Ball Poem." Prepare your speech
draft in not more than 120 words, elaborating on how both works
offer insights into dealing with loss and moving forward in life.
Answer: Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss
"The Sermon at Benares" and "The Ball Poem" ,two pieces that deal with
loss and the subsequent acceptance. In "The Sermon at Benares," Buddha
preaches about the inevitability of suffering and death. He encourages
acceptance and understanding as the path to enlightenment. In "The Ball
Poem," the loss of a ball symbolizes the loss of innocence and the
acceptance of life's harsh realities. The boy in the poem learns to move on,
understanding that some things can't be replaced. Both pieces teach us
that life will bring losses, but it's how we accept and grow from these
experiences that shape our character. To conclude, both works guide us
toward acceptance and resilience, crucial life skills we all need to master.
Thank you.
Q34. Imagine that you are Think-Tank, the Martian leader from
"The Book That Saved the Earth." Write a diary entry reflecting
on your misconceptions about Earth and its literature,
specifically how the nursery rhyme book changed your
perspective, in about 120 words.
Answer: Dear Diary, today was a lesson in humility. I, Think-Tank, the great Martian
leader, was fooled by Earth's nursery rhyme book. Initially, I thought
Earthlings were primitive, their literature a tool for conquest.
I treated their nursery rhyme book as a dangerous weapon. Oh, how wrong
I was! It was but a simple book for children. My advisers and I
misinterpreted its innocent rhymes. This experience has taught me not to
underestimate any civilization based on initial impressions. Literature, no
matter how simple, can be powerful enough to change perspectives, even
for a leader like me. I must be more careful and respectful in my future
interplanetary dealings.
Think-Tank
 Q35. Trace the character arc of Nelson Mandela in "Nelson
Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," focusing on how he evolves as
a leader committed to equality and justice. Discuss the changes
he experiences and the lessons he learns, in about 120 words.
Answer: In "Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," we see Mandela's journey
from a young man aware of the unjust social structure to a leader
committed to fighting for equality. Over time, he understands that freedom
comes with sacrifices, including his own freedom and family life. Despite
spending 27 years in prison, he does not become bitter or vengeful.
Instead, the experience molds him into a wise, patient leader who believes
in reconciliation rather than revenge.
His character arc is transformative, reflecting his resilience and unwavering
commitment to justice.
By the time he becomes the President of South Africa, he has learned that
leadership is not about power, but about fostering unity and peace. Mandela
evolves from a young, passionate activist to a wise, compassionate
statesman, teaching us the importance of maintaining one's principles even
in the face of extreme adversity.