Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Poem: I Was Sitting by my Window Summary Q&A Solved and Explained

Let's enjoy the poem.

Q1. Who do you think is the speaker? How can you tell?

ANSWER: The speaker is most likely a child. This can be inferred from the whimsical nature of the events and the focus on a routine like sitting by the window "each morning."


Q2. The speaker's room is clean and tidy. True or False?

ANSWER: False

Q3. The items related to cleaning that appear in the poem are: buckets, ...... (Complete the list.)

ANSWER: The items related to cleaning that appear in the poem are: buckets, dustpans, brooms, boxes of sponges, mops, cans of cleanser, and bars of soap.

Q4. The items related to dancing that appear in the poem are: pirouettes, ......(Complete the list.)

ANSWER: The items related to dancing that appear in the poem are: pirouettes, pivots, a song and dance, wiggles, waltzes, and prances.

Q5. 'this is someone's way of telling me that I should clean my room.' (last stanza) Who do you think 'someone' is? Why do you think so?

ANSWER: 'Someone' here is most probably the mother of the speaker. Usually, parents ask their children to clean their rooms and make them tidy.

Q6. This poem has several examples of personification: for example, mops display playfulness and skill. Can you find other examples of personification in the poem?

ANSWER: The poem brings things to life by pretending they can act like people! It says it rained "buckets" (buckets can't rain!), the supplies showed up "from nowhere" (like magic!), and even danced a "song and dance."

Q7. Find rhyming words in the poem for the following: loom, yawning, four, glance, mope, hill.

ANSWER: Here are some rhyming words in the poem: Loom - room, Yawning - morning, Four-door
Glance - dance, Mope - soap, hill-sill.

Summary

The poem "I Was Sitting by My Window" tells the story of a child who witnesses something strange. While looking out the window, a bunch of cleaning supplies suddenly appear – buckets, dustpans, brooms, and more! These supplies then come alive and put on a whole show, dancing and twirling around the room.  It's a surprising and funny event, and the poem leaves us wondering if it's a playful way of reminding the child to clean up!


Thursday, February 22, 2024

Class VII Main Coursebook Unit 5 Games and Sports page 117 B. Solved

Sania Mirza, a name synonymous with Indian tennis, is a former world No. 1 doubles player who has carved her niche in the sport with six Grand Slam titles to her name. Born in Mumbai in 1986, she picked up a racquet at the age of six, laying the foundation for a remarkable career.

Mirza's talent shone early, and she quickly rose through the ranks, becoming India's No. 1 player in both singles and doubles. Her doubles prowess, coupled with strategic partnerships, led her to her biggest triumphs. She clinched three mixed doubles titles with Mahesh Bhupati and Martina Hingis, and three women's doubles titles with Martina Hingis. Her fighting spirit and powerful volleys made her a formidable opponent on the court.

Beyond her on-court achievements, Mirza is an inspiration for young athletes, particularly girls, in India and beyond. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports and has used her platform to promote social causes. Her autobiography, "Ace Against Odds," chronicles her journey and the challenges she overcame to reach the pinnacle of tennis.

Class VII, Main Coursebook Unit 5 Games and Sports page 117 A.

Pierre de Coubertin's statement that "The important thing in these Olympics is not so much winning as taking part. The important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle; the essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well" is a powerful reminder that the true value of the Olympics lies not just in victory, but in the journey and the spirit of sportsmanship. While winning is undoubtedly a significant achievement, it is the pursuit of excellence, the dedication to training, and the perseverance in the face of challenges that truly define an Olympian.

Participation in the Olympics is an opportunity to push oneself to the limit, to test one's mettle against the best in the world, and to strive for continuous improvement. It is a chance to learn from setbacks, to overcome obstacles, and to grow as an athlete and as a person. The experiences gained, the bonds forged, and the lessons learned along the way are far more valuable than any medal.

Of course, winning is not something to be dismissed. It is a testament to years of hard work, sacrifice, and talent. But it is important to remember that winning is not the only measure of success. The Olympic spirit is about celebrating the human potential, the power of dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, regardless of the outcome.

Sunday, January 21, 2024

Tea from Assam by Arup Kumar Dutta - Glimpses of India NCERT Class 10 Q&A Sloved Summary and Explanation

 Summary of 'Tea From Assam'

The story follows two boys, Pranjol and Rajvir, traveling by train through tea country in India. Rajvir is fascinated by the scenery and history of tea, sharing legends and facts about its origins and global popularity. Pranjol, from a tea plantation family, seems less impressed but reveals the local industry details. As they arrive at Pranjol's father's tea estate, Dhekiabari, Rajvir's enthusiasm remains while Pranjol reconnects with his familiar surroundings. The story ends with Rajvir eager to learn more about tea life on the estate.

In summary, the story captures the contrasting perspectives of two friends experiencing tea country, one with knowledge and excitement, the other with familiarity and practicality. It introduces the reader to the world of tea plantations and hints at future exploration of life on the estate.

Comprehension Questions(Extra)

  1. Where are Pranjol and Rajvir heading to on the train?

    Pranjol and Rajvir are travelling to Assam, which is known for its tea plantations.

  2. According to Rajvir, how much tea is consumed worldwide daily?

    Over eighty crore cups of tea are drunk every day throughout the world.

  3. How does Pranjol initially react to the scenery of tea bushes?

    Pranjol, being from a plantation, isn't excited by the tea bushes; he finds them ordinary.

  4. What are two legends Rajvir mentions about the discovery of tea?

    -One legend involves a Chinese emperor and leaves falling into his boiling water.
    -Another legend talks about Buddhist ascetic Bodhidharma and tea plants growing from his eyelids.

  5. Where and when was tea first consumed according to the text?

    Tea was first drunk in China as far back as 2700 B.C.

  6. What name is given to the type of tea being harvested when they arrive at the estate?

    The type of tea being harvested is the second-flush tea, which occurs from May to July and yields the best quality.

  7. Why does Pranjol's father say Rajvir has done his homework?

    Pranjol's father says Rajvir has done his homework because he demonstrates knowledge about tea history and production.

  8. What does Pranjol's father do for a living?

    Pranjol's father is the manager of the Dhekiabari Tea Estate.

  9. Describe the appearance of the Dhekiabari Tea Estate.

    The Dhekiabari Tea Estate is described as vast, with acre upon acre of neatly pruned tea bushes, gravel roads, and groups of tea-pluckers working among the plants.

  10. What does Rajvir hope to achieve during his visit?

    Rajvir hopes to learn much more about tea, possibly beyond what he has already read, during his stay at the tea estate.

Thinking About The Language

1. Look at these words: upkeep, downpour, undergo, dropout, walk-in. They are built up from a verb (keep, pour, go, drop, walk) and an adverb or a particle (up, down, under, out, in). Use these words appropriately in the sentences below. You may consult a dictionary.

(i) A heavy down-pour has been forecast due to low pressure in the Bay of Bengal.
(ii) Rakesh will under-go major surgery tomorrow morning.
(iii) My brother is responsible for the up-keep of our family property.
(iv) The drop-out rate for this accountancy course is very high.
(v) She went to the Enterprise Company to attend a walk-in interview.

2. Now fill in the blanks in the sentences given below by combining the verb given in brackets with one of the words from the box as appropriate. 
over - by - through - out - up - down

(i) The Army attempted unsuccessfully to overthrow the Government. (throw)
(ii) Scientists are on the brink of a major breakthrough in cancer research. (break)
(iii) The State Government plans to build an overpass for Bhubaneswar to speed up traffic on the main highway. (pass)
(iv) Gautama’s outlook on life changed when he realised that the world is full of sorrow. (look)
(v) Rakesh seemed unusually downcast after the game. (cast)


Saturday, January 13, 2024

Coorg by LOKESH ABROL - 10 MCQs for Practice

10 MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) for Practice - Coorg by Lokesh Abrol

  1. Coorg is located:
    a) Between Mysore and Mangalore
    b) In the Himalayas
    c) Near the Arabian Sea
    d) In the Thar Desert
  2. The main crop grown in Coorg is:
    a) Tea
    b) Rice
    c) Wheat
    d) Coffee
  3. Which of the following activities is NOT mentioned as available for tourists in Coorg?
    a) Birdwatching
    b) Mountain biking
    c) Shopping for spices
    d) Visiting coffee plantations
  4. The Kaveri river is important to Coorg because:
    a) It provides drinking water for the people
    b) It is a popular tourist destination
    c) It supplies water for the coffee plantations
    d) All of the above
  5. Which sentence best describes the Kodavu people?
    a) They are known for their religious diversity.
    b) They are famous for their hospitality and storytelling.
    c) They are skilled farmers and fishermen.
    d) They live in large, extended families.
  6. Which literary device is used in the sentence "This land of rolling hills is inhabited by a proud race of martial men, beautiful women and wild creatures"?
    a) Simile
    b) Metaphor
    c) Personification
    d) Hyperbole
  7. How does the passage suggest the connection between the Kodavu people and nature?
    a) They wear traditional clothing made from natural materials.
    b) They live in houses built from wood and bamboo.
    c) They have many stories about animals and the forest.
    d) All of the above
  8. What piece of evidence supports the theory that the Kodavu people might have Greek ancestry? a) Their love of coffee
    b) Their skill in martial arts
    c) Their long, black coats
    d) Their colorful religious ceremonies
  9. What is the main difference between the monsoon and dry seasons in Coorg?
    a) The temperature
    b) The amount of rainfall
    c) The types of activities available
    d) The traditions celebrated by the people
  10. Why might the author mention the fact that the Kodavus are allowed to carry firearms without a license?
    a) To show their connection to the Indian Army
    b) To emphasize their fierce and independent nature
    c) To warn tourists about potential danger
    d) To explain a unique cultural practice

ANSWER KEY:

  1. a) Between Mysore and Mangalore
  2. d) Coffee
  3. c) Shopping for spices
  4. d) All of the above
  5. b) They are famous for their hospitality and storytelling.
  1. c) Personification
  2. d) All of the above
  3. c) Their long, black coats
  4. b) The amount of rainfall
  5. b) To emphasize their fierce and independent nature

Bonus Questions

  1. If you were planning a one-day trip to Coorg, which three activities would you choose from the passage and why?
  2. Imagine you are a Kodavu storyteller. Write a short tale about a brave ancestor who encountered a wild elephant in the forest.
  3. Compose a haiku poem inspired by the description of the misty landscape of Coorg.
  4. Research the history of the Coorg Regiment and present your findings in a brief infographic.
  5. Compare Coorg to another hill station in India, like Munnar or Darjeeling. What are the key similarities and differences in terms of scenery, activities, and culture?
  1. Do you think the author's description of Coorg is too idealized or unrealistic? Explain your answer.
  2. What are some potential challenges or drawbacks that tourists might face when visiting Coorg?
  3. How might the increasing popularity of tourism in Coorg affect the local environment and culture?
  4. Discuss the ethical implications of allowing the Kodavus to carry firearms without a license.
  5. Imagine you are the Chief Minister of Karnataka. What policies would you implement to protect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Coorg while promoting sustainable tourism?

Coorg by LOKESH ABROL Summary and Q&A Solved Explained

 Summary

Nestled between Mysore and Mangalore, Coorg, India's smallest district, charms with misty hills, lush rainforests, and coffee plantations. The fiercely independent Kodavu people, with possible Greek or Arab ancestry, call this land home. Coffee reigns supreme, filling the air with its invigorating aroma. Adventure seekers can kayak in rivers, trek through forests, or even encounter wild elephants. Don't miss the panoramic views from Brahmagiri hills or a walk across the rope bridge to Nisargadhama Island. For a true Coorgi experience, stay in a coffee estate or home and soak in the warm hospitality. Madikeri, easily accessible by air, rail, or road, is your gateway to this hidden gem of India.

Multiple Choice Questions for Extra Practice 

Thinking About the Text

1. Where is Coorg?

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is the smallest district of Karnataka, India. It sits midway between Mysore and the coastal town of Mangalore.

2. What is the story about the Kodavu people's descent?

There are two main stories about the Kodavu people's descent:

  • Greek descent: One story suggests that part of Alexander's army settled in Coorg when returning south became impractical. Their intermarriage with locals supposedly led to the martial traditions and distinct cultural practices of the Kodavus.
  • Arab descent: Another theory draws support from the long, black coat worn by Kodavus (kuppia) resembling the kuffia worn by Arabs and Kurds.

3. What are some of the things you now know about:

(i) the people of Coorg:

They are fiercely independent and known for their martial traditions. They have a distinct culture with unique marriage and religious rites, different from mainstream Hinduism. Hospitality is deeply ingrained in their traditions, and they love sharing stories of their valorous ancestors. Kodavus are the only people in India allowed to carry firearms without a license.

(ii) the main crop of Coorg:

Coffee is the main crop of Coorg. The region is famous for its coffee plantations and invigorating coffee aroma.

(iii) the sports it offers to tourists:

Coorg offers a variety of high-energy adventure activities like river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Numerous walking trails cater to trekkers.

(iv) the animals you are likely to see in Coorg:

Wild elephants are often encountered in the forests. The Kaveri river is home to mahaseer fish, kingfishers, squirrels, langurs, and elephants. Birds, bees, butterflies, macaques, Malabar squirrels, and slender loris can be spotted in the tree canopy.

(v) its distance from Bangalore, and how to get there:

Coorg is around 250-260 km from Bangalore. Madikeri, the district headquarters, is the main gateway and offers various accommodation options like resorts, coffee estates, and homestays. YOne can reach Coorg by air (Mangalore or Bangalore airports), train (Mysore, Mangalore, or Hassan), or road (via Mysore or Neelamangal).

4. Here are six sentences with some words in italics. Find phrases from the text that have the same meaning. (Look in the paragraphs indicated)

(i) During monsoons it rains so heavily that tourists do not visit Coorg. (para 2)

ANSWER: "to keep many visitors away"

(ii) Some people say that Alexander’s army moved south along the coast and settled there. (para 3)

ANSWER: "As one story goes" 

(iii) The Coorg people are always ready to tell stories of their sons’ and fathers’ valour. (para 4)

ANSWER: "are more than willing"

(iv) Even people who normally lead an easy and slow life get smitten by the high-energy adventure sports of Coorg. (para 6)

ANSWER: "The most laidback individuals become converts"

(v) The theory of the Arab origin is supported by the long coat with embroidered waist-belt they wear. (para 3)

ANSWER: "draws support"

(vi) Macaques, Malabar squirrels observe you carefully from the tree canopy. (para 7) 

ANSWER: "keep a watchful eye"

Multiple Choice Questions for Extra Practice