Showing posts with label Question Answers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Question Answers. Show all posts

Thursday, August 13, 2026

The Pot Maker by Temsula Ao: Chapter 2 Detailed Solutions & Q&A

๐Ÿบ The Pot Maker

Chapter 2 · Temsula Ao · Complete Solutions

6 sections ๐Ÿ“– 28 questions ✨ crafted with care
Hello dear students!

Welcome to the solutions for Chapter 2, The Pot Maker by Temsula Ao. This beautiful story teaches us about passion, perseverance, and the importance of our traditional crafts. Let's solve the exercises step-by-step!

Reflect and Respond

Look at the pictures given below and identify the vocations. Now, list at least five more vocations.

Answer: (Students will identify the vocations from the textbook pictures, such as Pottery, Weaving, or Carpentry.)

Five more vocations:

  • ๐Ÿ”จ Blacksmithing
  • ๐Ÿงต Tailoring / Stitching
  • ๐Ÿ’ Goldsmithing
  • ๐ŸŒพ Farming / Agriculture
  • ๐Ÿ‘ž Cobbling (Shoemaking)
Work in pairs. Discuss the following questions and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. What is common among these pictures?
Answer: All these pictures show people engaged in traditional, skill-based manual work or craftsmanship.
2. We refer to such skill-based work as v__a__t_i_o_n_s.
Answer: vocations
3. Mention a few differences between handmade and machine-made products.
  • Handmade products are unique, take more time and effort to create, and reflect the artisan's personal touch and cultural tradition.
  • Machine-made products are mass-produced, identical to each other, made much faster, and lack the individual uniqueness of handcrafted items.

Check Your Understanding

Read the questions given below and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. Do you think pot making is easy? If yes, why? If no, why not?
Answer: No, pot making is not easy. It requires immense skill, patience, and heavy physical labour. The clay must be collected from distant riverbanks, carried uphill, pounded inside bamboo cylinders to soften it, and then carefully shaped and fired. Over-firing or under-firing can ruin the entire batch.
2. Would Sentila be able to fulfil her dream of becoming a pot maker? Explain.
Answer: Yes, Sentila would be able to fulfil her dream because she is deeply passionate, observant, and persistent. Despite her mother's initial opposition and her own early failures with shaping the clay, she continued to watch, learn, and practice secretly until she mastered the craft.
3. Do you think Mesoba and Arenla would support Sentila? Give a reason.
Answer: Initially, they did not support her because Arenla felt pot making was physically exhausting and brought little money, preferring weaving instead. However, eventually, due to the village council's pressure regarding community traditions, and seeing Sentila's sheer dedication and talent, they accept her calling.
4. Do you think Onula's support helped Sentila? If yes, why? If no, why not?
Answer: Yes, Onula's support was absolutely crucial. When Sentila was tense and failing to shape the pot, Onula patiently guided her, eased her nervousness ("Don't worry, little one"), and taught her the correct technique. This emotional encouragement gave Sentila the confidence she needed to succeed.
5. Sentila observes her mother making pots. What does this tell us about her?
Answer: It tells us that Sentila is a keen, determined, and patient learner. Even when discouraged, she doesn't give up. Instead, she uses close observation as a powerful tool to understand the complex rhythm and techniques of the craft.
Arrange the following events of the story in the correct sequence. Share your answer with your classmates and teacher.

Answer: The correct chronological sequence is:

  1. (4) Sentila was passionate about pottery but did not share it with her mother.
  2. (6) Sentila overheard her mother saying that pot making was a tiring job and that she earned very little from it.
  3. (3) Sentila observed how other expert potters crafted beautiful pots.
  4. (8) Sentila learnt the art of pot making for a year from her mother, but was unsuccessful.
  5. (1) The village council called Mesoba to know about Arenla's unwillingness to teach pottery to Sentila.
  6. (2) Arenla made a new batch of pots and asked Sentila to continue the work as she was unwell.
  7. (5) Onula guided Sentila in the art of pot making.
  8. (7) Onula observed two rows of pots inside the work shed, which she felt was the work of two people.
  9. (9) Sentila was able to make pots quickly and skillfully, just one less than her mother's.

Critical Reflection

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

"Pounding the stubborn clay inside bamboo cylinders to soften it, is also tedious. So many times I've dropped the mould out of sheer exhaustion and have had to start all over again. It takes months to bring out a batch of pots after so much labour. And the reward? A few rupees. But if Sentila learns weaving, she can make much more money besides providing enough cloth for the family. Weaving is not messy like pot making and can be done indoors in all seasons. Also, the time spent on weaving one shawl is much less and the return is handsome."

(i) Choose the correct reason for the given assertion.
(A): The effort in making pots is far greater than the returns.
A. The process of pot making is quite tiresome and long, and one hardly earns much.
B. The process of pot making is exhausting, takes a long time, yet gives a sense of satisfaction.

Answer: A. The process of pot making is quite tiresome and long, and one hardly earns much.
(ii) Why does Arenla want Sentila to learn weaving?
Answer: Arenla wants Sentila to learn weaving because she can earn much more money, provide enough cloth for the family, it is not messy, it can be done indoors in all seasons, and the time spent yields handsome returns.
(iii) State one advantage that weaving has over pot making, as per the extract.
Answer: Weaving is not messy and can be done indoors in all seasons.
(iv) Choose the sentence that uses the word ‘handsome’ in the same way as in the extract.
A. My father is a handsome man.
B. They will make a handsome profit selling this property.

Answer: B. They will make a handsome profit selling this property. (Here, 'handsome' means a large amount of money).
(v) ‘And the reward?’ What is the author's purpose of using a question mark here?
Answer: The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasise the disappointingly low financial return (a few rupees) compared to the intense, months-long physical labour required for pot making.

"Onula saw her taking out some clay and the implements from her basket quietly. She watched Sentila's clumsy efforts to make a pot and noticed that Sentila was too tense. As a result, the clay seemed unable or unwilling to yield the right shape. When Sentila wearily let the misshapen lump fall at on the ground, Onula went to her and said, “Don't worry, little one, I shall teach you how to make a perfect pot.” Sentila watched in amazement as Onula fashioned a beautiful pot and asked her to try again."

(i) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.
Onula feels Sentila's effort at making a pot is clumsy because ______________.
Answer: ...she was too tense.
(ii) Choose the correct option to complete the following sentence.
‘Don't worry, little one, I shall teach you how to make a perfect pot.’
This shows that Onula was _____________.
A. sincere and generous
B. forgiving and thoughtful
C. thoughtful and generous
D. forgiving and sincere

Answer: C. thoughtful and generous
(iii) Which among the following is the effect of a cause?
A. As a result, the clay seemed unable or unwilling to yield the right shape.
B. Onula saw her taking out some clay and the implements from her basket quietly.

Answer: A. As a result, the clay seemed unable or unwilling to yield the right shape.
(iv) ‘Onula fashioned a beautiful pot.’ Here, the word ‘fashioned’ means ______________.
Answer: created
(v) How might Sentila have felt when she saw ‘the misshapen lump fall flat on the ground’?
Answer: Sentila might have felt extremely exhausted, frustrated, defeated, and discouraged by her failure.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. Why did Sentila keep her fascination for pot making a secret from her mother?
Answer: Sentila kept it a secret because she had overheard her mother, Arenla, complaining that pot making was a tiring job which brought very little income. She knew her mother strongly wanted her to learn weaving instead.
2. What was Sentila's mother's reason for discouraging her from making pots?
Answer: Arenla discouraged Sentila because pot making involved gruelling physical labour (like pounding the stubborn clay) and yielded very little financial reward. She believed weaving was far more profitable, less messy, could be done indoors during all seasons, and provided cloth for the family.
3. List the sequence of activities that Sentila undertook to learn pot making.
Answer: First, she closely observed expert potters in the village crafting beautiful pots. Second, she secretly tried to shape the clay by herself when her parents were away at the fields. Finally, she received proper guidance from Onula, who patiently taught her the correct techniques until she mastered the craft.
4. State the reason why Mesoba and Arenla were asked to present themselves before the village council.
Answer: They were summoned because the village council learned of Arenla's unwillingness to teach pottery to Sentila. The council needed to officially warn them that an expert potter could not deny teaching anyone who wanted to learn, as traditional skills belonged to the whole community, not the individual.
5. How does Sentila's response to the council's decision highlight her passion and determination?
Answer: Sentila's response highlights her deep passion because she willingly endured the grueling physical labour her mother assigned her without a single complaint. Even after failing repeatedly to shape the clay perfectly, she did not give up, proving her unwavering determination to succeed in her chosen craft.
6. 'Weaving is not messy like pot making...'. To what extent do you agree with Arenla's statement? Give reasons to support your answer.
Answer: I completely agree with Arenla's statement. Pot making requires digging mud from riverbanks, pounding wet clay, and constantly working with dirt and water, making it inherently messy. Weaving, conversely, deals with clean yarns and threads, is done comfortably indoors, and completely avoids the dirt associated with clay preparation.
7. 'The traditional skills of the village did not belong to the individual but to the entire community.' Explain this statement with reference to the story.
Answer: This statement means that indigenous crafts, such as pot making, are the cultural heritage and shared identity of the whole village, rather than the private property of one person. The village council enforced this belief to ensure that expert potters like Arenla pass on their knowledge to the next generation, thus preserving the community's traditional art forms from dying out.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context

Arrange the following steps for stone statue making in the correct sequence.

Answer: The correct order is:

  1. Choose the stone.
  2. Set up the different tools.
  3. Carve to remove large unwanted portions.
  4. Work to bring out the imagined shape.
  5. Refine the creation within the stone.
  6. Detach the creation from the stone as the final statue.

Extract Based Questions

"Ever since Sentila became old enough to accompany her mother to the fields and forests, she began to dream of becoming a pot maker like her mother and grandmother..."

1. What was Sentila's dream from childhood?
Answer: Sentila's dream from a very young age was to become an expert pot maker, carrying on the tradition of her mother and grandmother.
2. State one advantage that weaving has over pot making, as per the text.
Answer: Weaving can be done indoors in all seasons, requires far less grueling physical labour (unlike climbing steep riverbanks to carry heavy clay), and brings in a more steady income along with cloth for the family.

Teacher's Insight: The Heart of the Story

Sentila's journey is more than just a tale about pottery — it is a mirror to the quiet revolutions that happen in every classroom. How often do we see a student's passion flicker beneath the weight of family expectations or societal norms? Sentila teaches us that persistent observation and silent practice are often the most powerful forms of learning.

Notice that the village council intervened not to force a skill, but to protect a shared cultural inheritance. This reminds us that traditional crafts are living knowledge — they belong to the community, not to any single individual. As you read, ask yourself: What traditional skill or art form in your own family or region is in danger of being forgotten?

Finally, Onula's gentle mentorship shows that a single word of encouragement can change everything. Sentila's success was not just her own — it was built on the patience of those who believed in her. May we all find our own Onula, and may we be an Onula for someone else.

๐ŸŒŸ Great job completing Chapter 2!

Sentila's story teaches us that true passion, combined with hard work and determination, will always help you overcome obstacles. Keep revising!

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 1 Poem Solutions: Bharat Our Land

Poem: Bharat Our Land

Hello dear students! Welcome to the solutions for the poem Bharat Our Land. This beautiful poem by Subramania Bharati fills us with immense pride for our country. Let us work through the exercises together!
Kavery Poem Bharat Our Land

Reflect and Respond

I. Recall the lines of the National Anthem and complete the table given below with the names of the states, mountain ranges, and rivers mentioned in it.

States/Provinces Mountain Ranges Rivers
Punjab, Sindh, Gujarat, Maratha, Dravida (South India), Utkala (Odisha), Banga (Bengal) Vindhya, Himachala (Himalayas) Yamuna, Ganga

II. Work in pairs. Discuss what the words ‘เคœเคฏ เคนे' (Jaya he) in the last two lines of the National Anthem convey. Share your answer with your classmates and teacher.

Answer: The words ‘เคœเคฏ เคนे' (Jaya he) translate to "Victory to thee". They convey a deep sense of reverence, salutation, and a patriotic prayer for the eternal victory, triumph, and glory of our motherland, India.

III. Read the underlined words in the given lines of the poem. Choose the odd one out that does not correspond with the meaning of the underlined word.

Answers:
1. She's peerless, let's praise her! (valuable, incomparable, unmatched)
Odd one out: valuable

2. Many a sage has sanctified this land. (blessed, purified, applauded)
Odd one out: applauded

3. And here all auspicious things are found. (fortunate, fantastic, favourable)
Odd one out: fantastic

4. Of hoary antiquity is Bharat, (ancient times, recent past, time immemorial)
Odd one out: recent past

Check Your Understanding

I. Fill in the blanks by choosing appropriate words from the box given below to complete the summary of the poem.

Answer:
The poem is a tribute to India, celebrating its natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and 1. historical greatness. The poet praises the 2. Himavant, describing it as mighty and unparalleled. The 3. Ganga is depicted as generous and graceful, while the 4. Upanishads are honoured as sacred and unmatched. The poem highlights the contributions of 5. warriors and 6. sages who have enriched the land with their bravery and wisdom. It also acknowledges the presence of 7. Brahma-knowledge and the teachings of 8. Buddha, highlighting India's deep-rooted spiritual and philosophical traditions. The poet repeatedly asserts that India is 9. peerless, urging everyone to 10. praise her.

II. Complete the following features about the poem.

Answers:
1. The impact on the readers (mood): Patriotic, proud, and inspiring.
2. The poet's attitude (tone): Reverent, celebratory, and deeply admiring.
3. The rhyme scheme: Free verse (it does not follow a strict rhyming pattern, though it uses a powerful refrain).
4. Examples of personification: "generous Ganga", "match her grace".

III. What is the impact of the refrain, 'she's peerless, let's praise her!'?

Answer: The refrain creates a rhythmic, musical quality and reinforces the central theme of the poem. By repeating this line, the poet constantly reminds the reader of India's unmatched greatness and strongly urges us to honour and celebrate our motherland.

IV. Complete the following sentence appropriately.
India is metaphorically described as 'this sunny golden land,' suggesting that it is ________________________.

Answer: ...suggesting that it is prosperous, radiant, full of warmth, and rich in natural and spiritual wealth.

V. The poet uses symbolism. Match the symbols in Column 1 to what they suggest in Column 2.

Answer:
1. Himavant - (v) strength and permanence
2. Ganga - (iii) purity and generosity
3. Upanishads - (ii) spiritual and philosophical legacy
4. Gallant warriors and sages - (vi) courage and wisdom
5. Brahma-knowledge and Buddha's Dhamma - (i) knowledge and enlightenment
6. Sunny golden land - (iv) richness and glory

VI. The poet uses imagery (descriptive language to create vivid mental pictures that appeal to the senses). Give any two examples from the poem.

Answer:
1. "mighty Himavant" (Visual imagery evoking the towering, majestic, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks).
2. "divinest music has been heard" (Auditory imagery that makes the reader imagine pure, soul-stirring traditional melodies).

VII. What is the impact of the use of hyphens in the first stanza? Select the options that are true.

Answer: The true options are:
1. Creates deliberate pauses to reinforce the sense of admiration and pride.
5. Presents a key element of India's greatness before the hyphen and makes a strong assertion about its uniqueness after the hyphen.

VIII. The poet uses hyperbole in the poem. [Explanation of hyperbole provided in textbook].

(Teacher's note: This section in the book explains the concept of hyperbole to help students understand literary exaggeration, but does not ask a direct question here. We move to IX.)

IX. The poem is an ode. [Explanation of ode provided in textbook]. Now, identify examples from the poem that correspond to it being an ode.

Answer: Since an ode expresses deep admiration and praise, the following lines perfectly correspond to this definition:
- "she's peerless, let's praise her!"
- "The mighty Himavant is ours- there's no equal anywhere on earth."

X. The poet uses allusion in the poem. [Explanation of allusion provided in textbook]. Now, read the explanations and identify the matching allusions from the poem for the following.

Answers:
1. An allusion to the ancient Indian scriptures that form the philosophical core and symbolise deep wisdom and enlightenment. ➡ "The sacred Upanishads"
2. An allusion to the concept of spiritual knowledge associated with self-realisation and ultimate truth. ➡ "Brahma-knowledge"
3. An allusion to Gautama Buddha's teachings, which include compassion, non-violence, and enlightenment. ➡ "the Buddha preached his dhamma here."

Critical Reflection

I. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

The mighty Himavant is ours- there's no equal anywhere on earth.
The generous Ganga is ours- which other river can match her grace?
The sacred Upanishads are ours- what scriptures else to name with them?

1. Complete the sentence.
The word 'mighty' refers to the ________________________ of the Himavant.

Answer: immense size, towering strength, and grandeur

2. Choose the correct option to complete the sentence given below.
The question mark at the end of the fourth and sixth line of the extract is used to _______________.

Answer: (ii) emphasise a point (It is a rhetorical question that doesn't expect an answer but stresses that nothing else compares).

3. The poet uses the word 'generous' to describe the Ganga. Why?

Answer: The Ganga is described as 'generous' because the river provides abundant, life-sustaining water for drinking and agriculture to millions of people across the Indian plains without expecting anything in return.

4. Why has the movement of the river been described as graceful?

Answer: It is described as graceful because the river flows smoothly, calmly, and majestically, nurturing the land and its people like a gentle mother.

5. Fill in the blank with the correct option from the words given in the brackets.
The poet is implying that the Upanishads are _______________ (unmatched/abundant) in their wisdom and spiritual depth.

Answer: unmatched

II. Answer the following questions.

1. How does the poem reflect a strong connection to cultural identity and heritage?

Answer: The poem reflects this strong connection by proudly listing and celebrating India's iconic natural landmarks (the Himalayas and the Ganga), its ancient and revered texts (the Upanishads), and its great historical and spiritual figures (Lord Buddha, sages, and warriors).

2. What can you infer about the poet's attitude towards India from the repeated phrase 'she's peerless, let's praise her!'?

Answer: We can easily infer that the poet has immense pride, deep love, and supreme reverence for India. She firmly believes that her motherland is unequalled (peerless) in the entire world and deserves the highest celebration.

3. What does the line 'many a sage has sanctified this land' suggest about India's spiritual heritage?

Answer: It suggests that India is a profoundly holy land. It has been made pure, blessed, and sacred (sanctified) by the meditation, wisdom, and very presence of numerous enlightened saints and seers over thousands of years.

4. How does the poet connect warriors and music to India's greatness?

Answer: The poet shows that India is a perfectly balanced nation. It is not only great because of its spiritual depth, but it has also produced "gallant warriors" who displayed unmatched physical bravery, and it is the birthplace of the "divinest music," showing its supreme achievements in art and culture.

5. How does this poem foster a sense of national pride?

Answer: The poem fosters national pride by vividly reminding Indians of their rich, unparalleled heritage. By highlighting our mighty mountains, giving rivers, profound scriptures, brave heroes, and spiritual depth, it invokes a collective sense of belonging and immense respect for the motherland.

Vocabulary in Context

I. Complete the table by choosing words from the poem.

Suffix Meaning Examples (from poem)
-ous full of, having the qualities of 1. generous
-ity the state of being 2. antiquity
-est superlative form 3. divinest
-less without something 4. peerless

II. Complete the following table by adding a different suffix to form new words. Also, create a sentence using the created word. One example has been done for you.

Suffix Meaning Sentences
-tion the action or process of Example: indicate-indication
The dark clouds were an indication that it would rain soon.
-ive quality or nature of 1. act - active
He is a very active member of the school's sports club.
-ment the action or result of 2. achieve - achievement
Winning the science fair was a proud achievement for her.
-ed past-tense version of a verb 3. play - played
The children played happily in the garden until sunset.

Listen and Respond

I. You will listen to four people talk about the places they like to travel to. As you listen, write the speaker number for the two pictures given.

Answer: (Based on the audio transcript provided to teachers)
- If the picture shows a serene Riverside: Speaker No. 1
- If the picture shows Mountains/Adventure: Speaker No. 2
- If the picture shows a Desert: Speaker No. 3
- If the picture shows a Forest/Greenery: Speaker No. 4

II. You will once again listen to the four speakers. As you listen, match the given statements to the speaker. There are two statements that you do not need.

Statement Speaker
1. The green surroundings look beautiful visually. Speaker 4
2. The group visits make even the difficult areas seem easy. (Not needed)
3. The quietness of the environment here leads to a peaceful experience. Speaker 1
4. The risk and thrill in such an area is what is most appealing. Speaker 2
5. The dry expanse promises to appeal to the spirit of exploration. (Not needed)
6. The sight of such beauty is very inviting and has to be captured. Speaker 3

Speaking Activity

I. In pairs, take turns to speak about the aspects of your village/town/city that you feel are an asset. It could be about geographical, cultural, traditional features, or even its history.

(Students will use the cues provided in the textbook to speak about their own hometown. Encourage them to be proud of their local heritage!)

Writing Task

I. Write a paragraph about a place that you have visited which has stayed in your memory.

Sample Answer:
A place that has truly stayed in my memory is the breathtaking hill station of Manali. Last summer, I travelled there with my parents and younger sister to escape the scorching city heat. We packed warm clothes and booked a cozy wooden cottage facing the snow-capped peaks. During our stay, we did many exciting activities like trekking through the tall pine forests and experiencing the thrill of river rafting in the icy waters of the Beas River. The crisp mountain air, the majestic views, and the quality time spent with my family made this trip an unforgettable adventure.

Learning Beyond the Text

I. Search for poems or songs dedicated to India, your motherland, in your regional language. Share them with your classmates and explain their meaning too.

(Teacher's note: Encourage students to explore beautiful patriotic songs like 'Vande Mataram' in Bengali/Sanskrit or 'Thamizh Thaai Vaazhthu' in Tamil, and present their meanings in class.)

II. In groups of six, prepare an interdisciplinary project on India's major geographical features. Include one example of each of the following: Mountains, Rivers, Deserts, Valleys, Islands, Plateaus.

Sample Project Pointers:
  • Mountains: The Himalayas (Protects the northern borders, source of major rivers, influences the monsoon).
  • Rivers: The Ganga (The lifeline of northern India, spiritually significant, supports vast agriculture).
  • Deserts: The Thar Desert (Located in Rajasthan, unique ecosystem, vibrant local culture and resilient lifestyle).
  • Valleys: The Kashmir Valley (Known as 'Paradise on Earth', famous for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and saffron).
  • Islands: Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Rich biodiversity, beautiful coral reefs, significant maritime location).
  • Plateaus: The Deccan Plateau (Rich in minerals, unique black soil excellent for cotton cultivation, covers a vast area of South India).
Excellent work on Chapter 2! The poem 'Bharat Our Land' reminds us of our glorious roots. Keep up the great effort in understanding the literary devices and vocabulary!

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 1 Solutions: How I Taught My Grandmother to Read

Chapter 1: How I Taught My Grandmother to Read

Hello dear students! Welcome to the solutions for Chapter 1. As your English teacher, I have broken down the answers step-by-step so that they are easy for you to understand and learn. Let's dive right in!

Reflect and Respond

I. Complete the given word web. (Why is it important to learn how to read and write?)

Answer: Learning to read and write is important because it helps us to:
  • Gain knowledge and understand the world.
  • Become independent and self-reliant.
  • Communicate our thoughts effectively.
  • Stay safe from being cheated or misled.

II. Read the questions given below and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Answer: (Students should answer these based on their personal experiences. Here is a sample response.)
1. My grandparents speak Hindi and their regional dialect.
2. They spend their time reading newspapers, gardening, and praying. I spend time with them by listening to their old stories and helping them use their smartphones.
3. My favourite experience is cooking traditional recipes with my grandmother.
4. They enjoy watching me play video games or use the computer, as they find modern technology fascinating.

III. Read the following passage. Match the highlighted words with their meanings given in the box below.

Answer:
  1. protagonist - main character
  2. debate - discussion
  3. episode - a part of a story
  4. community - people living in one particular area
  5. concentration - focus
  6. eagerly - excitedly
  7. convincing - believable
  8. guided - directed

Check Your Understanding (Part I)

I. Complete the cause and effect table given below based on Part I of the story.

Cause Effect
1. The transport system was not very good. (i) The morning papers and weekly magazines would come one day late.
2. The grandmother, Krishtakka, never went to school. (ii) She could not read the story 'Kashi Yatre' on her own.
3. She identified herself with the novel's protagonist. (iii) She was deeply interested in the story and discussed it with her friends.
4. The narrator went to a wedding for a week. (iv) The grandmother could not know what happened in the next episode and felt helpless.
5. In those days, people never considered education essential for girls. (v) The grandmother never went to school.
6. The grandmother regretted not going to school. (vi) She made sure that her children and grandchildren studied well.

II. Do you think the narrator expected to see her grandmother in tears when she returned to the village? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer: No, the narrator did not expect to see her grandmother in tears. She was surprised and worried because she had never seen her grandmother cry, even in the most difficult and challenging situations.

III. How might the narrator help her grandmother to fulfil her desire to learn to read and write?

Answer: The narrator could help her grandmother by becoming her teacher and patiently teaching her the Kannada alphabet, allowing her to read the story independently.

Check Your Understanding (Part II)

I. State whether the following sentences are true or false.

Answer:
  1. The grandmother wanted to learn the Kannada alphabet to gain independence. - True
  2. The grandmother asked someone in the village to read Kashi Yatre to her while the narrator was away. - False (She was too embarrassed to ask anyone else.)
  3. The narrator was the grandmother's first teacher and taught her how to read Kannada. - True
  4. The grandmother believed that there was no age limit for learning. - True
  5. The grandmother touched the narrator's feet as a mark of respect for her as a teacher. - True
  6. The narrator was disappointed with the progress her grandmother made in learning to read. - False (The narrator was amazed by her hard work and proud when she passed with flying colours.)

Critical Reflection

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1: "When I came back to my village, I saw my grandmother in tears. I was surprised, for I had never seen her cry even in the most difficult situations. What had happened? I was worried. 'Avva, is everything all right? Are you O.K.?' I used to call her Avva, which means mother in the Kannada spoken in north Karnataka. She nodded but did not reply. I did not understand and forgot about it. In the night, after dinner, we were sleeping in the open terrace of the house. It was a summer night and there was a full moon. Avva came and sat next to me. Her affectionate hands touched my forehead. I realised she wanted to speak. I asked her, ‘What is the matter?’"

Extract 1 Questions:

  1. Complete the following sentence with the appropriate option.
    The phrase ‘never seen her cry in the most difficult situations’ tells us that the grandmother was ________________________.
    A. strong-willed
    B. understanding
    C. considerate
    D. bold
  2. Complete the following with the correct option from those given in the brackets.
    Grandmother did not reply when the narrator asked if she was alright because she might have been too ________________________ (emotional/tired) to respond.
  3. Identify the clue from the extract that indicates a rural setting with traditional customs.
  4. Which lines of the extract establish a tender atmosphere?
  5. Which of the following aspect is NOT emphasised in the given extract?
    A. the emotional turmoil of the grandmother
    B. the affectionate bond between the narrator and her grandmother
    C. the grandmother’s regret over her lack of education
    D. the narrator’s concern for her grandmother
Answers:
(i) A. strong-willed
(ii) emotional
(iii) "sleeping in the open terrace of the house."
(iv) "Her affectionate hands touched my forehead."
(v) C. the grandmother’s regret over her lack of education (This detail is revealed later, not in this specific extract).
Extract 2: "‘I have decided I want to learn the Kannada alphabet from tomorrow onwards. I will work very hard. I will keep Saraswati Pooja day during Dassara as the deadline. That day I should be able to read a novel on my own. I want to be independent.’ I saw the determination on her face. Yet I laughed at her. ‘Avva, at this age of sixty-two you want to learn an alphabet? All your hair is grey, your hands are wrinkled, you wear spectacles and you work so much in the kitchen...’ Childishly I made fun of the old lady. But she just smiled. ‘For a good cause if you are determined, you can overcome any obstacle. I will work harder than anybody but I will do it. For learning there is no age bar.’"

Extract 2 Questions:

  1. Complete the following sentence with the appropriate option.
    The grandmother's decision to learn the Kannada alphabet reveals that she ________________________.
    A. seeks attention
    B. desires self-sufficiency
    C. is competitive
    D. is easily influenced
  2. Complete the sentence appropriately.
    The grandmother firmly believed that for learning there is no ________________________.
  3. State the reason for the narrator making fun of the old lady.
  4. Which traits of the grandmother's character are evident in the given extract?
  5. What does the narrator's reaction reveal about her initial mindset regarding education?
Answers:
(i) B. desires self-sufficiency
(ii) age bar (or age limit)
(iii) The narrator laughed because she associated learning with young age. She thought her grandmother's physical signs of aging (grey hair, wrinkled hands) and busy kitchen routine made it impossible for her to learn the alphabet.
(iv) She was determined, firm, and hardworking.
(v) The narrator assumes that learning and education are restricted only to the youth and that old age is a barrier to starting something new.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. Why do you think the grandmother felt embarrassed to ask someone else to read to her while the narrator was away?

Answer: The grandmother felt embarrassed because she was a wealthy, respected, sixty-two-year-old lady, yet she lacked the basic skill of reading. She felt ashamed to reveal her dependency and helplessness to outsiders.

2. Why does the narrator initially laugh at her grandmother's determination to learn at the age of sixty-two?

Answer: The young narrator laughs childishly because she associated learning only with young age. She thought her grandmother's grey hair, wrinkled hands, and busy kitchen routine made it impossible for her to learn the alphabet now.

3. What significance does the story of Kashi Yatre have in both the grandmother's life and the story?

Answer: The grandmother closely identified with the old lady in 'Kashi Yatre' who had a strong desire but faced obstacles. Just as the protagonist in the story gave up her savings for a good cause, the grandmother sacrificed her time and ego to achieve her own noble goal: independence through literacy.

4. What does the grandmother's desire to learn the Kannada alphabet reflect about her?

Answer: It reflects her immense willpower, resilience, and her firm belief that "for learning there is no age bar." It shows she deeply valued independence and self-reliance.

5. What lessons can we infer from the grandmother's action of touching the narrator's feet?

Answer: We learn that true respect is based on knowledge and guidance, not just age or gender. The grandmother taught us the traditional Indian value of revering a 'Guru' (teacher), even if the teacher is your own young granddaughter.

6. What does the following line tell us about the broader theme of the story? 'For a good cause if you are determined, you can overcome any obstacle.'

Answer: This line highlights the central theme of the story: strong willpower and dedication can conquer any barrier. Whether it is old age, societal norms, or lack of early opportunities, true determination always leads to success.

7. How effectively does the story highlight the value of education in supporting personal independence?

Answer: The story highlights this very effectively. The grandmother was wealthy, but she clearly stated, "What use is money when I cannot be independent?" Her inability to read made her feel helpless. Only after gaining education did she truly feel confident and independent.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context

I. Match the binomials in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

Answer:
  1. sink or swim - (vii) succeed or fail without help
  2. on and off - (v) sometimes, occasionally
  3. mix and match - (i) put different things together to get a range of possibilities
  4. all or nothing - (viii) something to be done completely or not at all
  5. part and parcel - (ii) complete part of or belong to
  6. pick and choose - (iii) choose only the best (things, people, etc.)
  7. sooner or later - (iv) at sometime in the future
  8. leaps and bounds - (vi) increase or develop very quickly
Sentences of your own (Any five):
1. In this new job, you either sink or swim.
2. It has been raining on and off since morning.
3. Stress is part and parcel of modern life.
4. He is improving in his studies by leaps and bounds.
5. You must finish this work sooner or later.

II. Make words by adding suitable prefixes (un, im, dis, in, mis, extra).

Answer:
  1. popular - unpopular
  2. belief - disbelief
  3. important - unimportant
  4. respect - disrespect
  5. correct - incorrect
  6. continue - discontinue
  7. understand - misunderstand
  8. ordinary - extraordinary
  9. interesting - uninteresting
  10. possible - impossible

III. Identify any five words with prefixes from the story and make sentences using each.

Answer:
  1. Unfortunately: Unfortunately, we missed the train by just two minutes.
  2. Immensely: I love my parents immensely.
  3. Unusual: It is highly unusual to see snow in this city.
  4. Independent: Education helps you become an independent citizen.
  5. Irrespective: Everyone should be treated fairly, irrespective of their background.

IV. Match the idioms related to 'learning' with their meanings.

Answer:
  1. to hit the books - (iii) to study seriously
  2. to draw a blank - (v) to be unable to remember
  3. to learn the ropes - (vi) to understand how to do an activity
  4. to rack one's brain - (ii) to think very hard
  5. to learn by heart - (i) to memorise something
  6. burn the midnight oil - (iv) to study or work late into the night
Sentences:
1. Exams are approaching, so I need to hit the books.
2. I tried to remember his name, but I completely drew a blank.
3. It will take a few weeks to learn the ropes at my new job.
4. I had to rack my brain to solve that difficult puzzle.
5. Our teacher asked us to learn the poem by heart.
6. She had to burn the midnight oil to finish her science project.

V. Fill in the blanks with simple past and past perfect tense form of the verbs.

Answer (i):
A. When the delegates arrived at the conference, the keynote speaker had already begun the session.
B. After the students had learned how to identify fake news online, they started verifying information before sharing it.
C. Before Kiran started using digital payment platforms, she had ensured her understanding of online fraud prevention.
D. By the time Varun recognised the importance of budgeting, he had exhausted most of his savings.
E. When Raghu logged in to the cybersecurity webinar, the instructor had already discussed the importance of strong passwords.

Answer (ii):
Last year, my parents and I A. took a financial planning course. When we B. reviewed our expenses, we realised we C. had spent too much on unnecessary purchases. After my parents D. had discussed ways to save, I E. opened a savings account. By the time we F. set our budget, the course G. had already introduced investment strategies. We H. hurried to take notes, but many participants I. had completed their financial plans. Despite that, we J. enjoyed learning how to manage money wisely.

Listen and Respond

I. Complete the following sentences with one to three exact words that you hear.

Answer:
1. Literacy these days includes the ability to use digital tools effectively.
2. Digital literacy is also about protecting personal data.
3. Digital literacy enables the elderly to stay connected.
4. Digital literacy encourages using the internet safely by helping us recognise misinformation, scams, and cyber threats.
5. The National Digital Literacy Mission helps people across the country by imparting IT training.

Writing Task

I. Write a letter to the Editor of a local newspaper emphasising the importance of student participation in adult literacy camps.

Sample Answer:

A-14, Green Park
New Delhi

20 April 2026

The Editor
The Daily Times
New Delhi

Subject: Importance of student participation in adult literacy camps

Sir/Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, as a concerned citizen, I would like to draw the attention of the public and school authorities towards the urgent need for student participation in adult literacy camps.

The issue of illiteracy affects a large section of our society, particularly the elderly who missed out on education in their youth. It is imperative that we help them become self-reliant. By engaging in these literacy programmes, students can pass on their knowledge and bridge the generational gap. Such initiatives nurture a sense of empathy, social responsibility, and community bonding among the youth, while empowering adults to read, write, and handle simple day-to-day tasks independently.

A possible solution to this issue could be schools making it mandatory for senior students to volunteer a few hours monthly for local literacy drives. Authorities could consider implementing a recognition system to encourage active volunteers. I trust this matter will be considered seriously for the benefit of all.

I hope this letter gets published in your esteemed daily to awaken the spirit of service among our youth.

Yours truly,
[Your Name]
A Socially Responsible Citizen

Learning Beyond the Text

I. Complete the given table with words from any five Indian languages.

Answer: (This is an experiential learning task. Here is a sample with common Indian languages).
Language 1. Kannada 2. Hindi 3. Tamil 4. Marathi 5. Bengali
Grandmother Avva/Ajji Dadi/Nani Patti Aaji Thakurma/Didima
Grandfather Ajja Dada/Nana Thatha Ajoba Dadu
Mother Amma Maa Amma Aai Maa
Father Appa Pita ji / Papa Appa Baba Baba
Sister Akka / Thangi Behen Akka / Thangai Tai Didi / Bon
Brother Anna / Thamma Bhai Anna / Thambi Dada / Bhau Dada / Bhai
Great job completing Chapter 1! Keep revising these exercises to master your vocabulary and grammar. Remember, like the Grandmother in the story, determination is the key to all success!

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Why is the Title "Change of Heart" Suitable? Class 6 Summary

Class 6: "Change of Heart" Title Meaning

Textbook: Poorvi (NCERT) | Unit 4: Sports and Wellness

Why is the title suitable?

Simple Answer

The title "Change of Heart" is perfect for this story because it tells us about how Prabhat changed his feelings about winning and losing.

In the beginning, Prabhat only wanted to win. He even cheated to win. But by the end of the story, his heart changed. He learned that playing happily is more important than winning.

Story in Short

Prabhat was a boy who hated losing. He would only play games he could win. A new boy named Surya joined the school. They played a badminton match.

Prabhat cheated in the match to defeat Surya. But Surya did not get angry. He smiled and said, "It was fun." Later, Prabhat saw Surya playing basketball badly but still smiling. This made Prabhat realize that you don't need to win to be happy. He changed his attitude and became a good sportsman.

Prabhat's Change (Step-by-Step)

Here is how Prabhat changed from a bad loser to a good player:

1. Before

Prabhat was selfish. He cheated in the badminton match because he was scared of losing.

2. The Lesson

He saw Surya happy even after losing. He realized Surya enjoyed the game, not just the score.

3. After

Prabhat had a "Change of Heart." He started playing for fun and became a fair player.

๐Ÿง  Teacher's Tip:

If your teacher asks "What is the moral of the story?", you can write:

"Sportsmanship is more important than winning."

The title shows that Prabhat became a better person by learning from Surya.

Key Words to Use in Answers

  • Sportsmanship: Playing fair and respecting others.
  • Cheating: Doing something dishonest to win (what Prabhat did first).
  • Transformation: Changing for the better.

Need the Complete Chapter Solution?

Get all Question Answers, Grammar, and Word Meanings for "Change of Heart".

View Full Solutions

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Wisdom Paves the Way: Class 8 NCERT | Full Summary & All Solved Exercise Answers

Wisdom Paves the Way

Complete Play Guide & Exercise Solutions

Wisdom Paves the Way: Class 8 NCERT | Full Summary & All Solved Exercise Answers

Play Summary

"Wisdom Paves the Way" is a play about four intelligent young men—Ram Datt, Shiv Datt, Har Datt, and Dev Datt—who are traveling to the city of Ujjain in search of work. They hope to gain an audience with the King, confident that he will recognize their talents. On their way, they come across the fresh tracks of a camel and, through keen observation, each deduces a specific detail about the animal. Ram Datt figures out it's lame, Shiv Datt that it's blind in one eye, Har Datt that it has a short tail, and Dev Datt that it's suffering from stomach pain.

They soon encounter a distressed merchant who has lost his camel. When the four men describe the camel perfectly, the merchant, instead of being impressed, accuses them of theft since they claim they haven't seen the animal. He drags them to the King's court. Before the King, each man calmly explains the logical reasoning behind his deduction. The King is thoroughly impressed by their sharp intellect and wisdom. He dismisses the merchant's baseless accusation and, recognizing the value of such minds, offers the four men positions as his royal advisors. The play concludes with the men humbly accepting the honor, their long journey ending with unexpected success, proving that wisdom indeed paves the way.

Word Meanings

Difficult Word/Expression Meaning
adornedbeautified
tapestriesheavy decorative fabrics woven with pictures or patterns
resolutedetermined
bustlingbusy
eludesdifficult to obtain
deviseto think of
deliberateto think carefully
scrutiniseto look carefully at
in hastein a hurry
pursuedchased
countenancefacial expression
distressedworried
astrayaway from the correct path
indignantangry
yonderover there
draperieslong thick curtains
canopya cover fixed over a seat for decoration
grievancecomplaint
accusationsclaims that someone has done something wrong
deduceto determine by reasoning
discernto see or notice something
foliagegreen leaves and plants
fended offguarded against
insighta clear/deep understanding
soundhealthy
intimatelyin a detailed way
flawlessperfect
chastenedfelt sorry
counseladvice
beaconguiding light

Let us do these activities before we read

II. Classify each one as either 'knowledge' or 'wisdom'.

KnowledgeWisdom
1. Riya's understanding of plant care helped her grow a healthy vegetable garden in her backyard.2. Mr. Kumar values time with family over chasing wealth.
3. Karuna's expertise in computer programming helped her develop a successful app.4. Rohan understood the value of time management and created a timetable to complete his assignments systematically.
6. Ms. Vaijayanthi delivered a lecture on Indian Classical music at the cultural festival.5. Ramesh chose to forgive his friend for a misunderstanding.

Let us discuss

Scene I: Complete the following sentences with suitable reasons.

  1. Shiv Datt said, "I believe it has been over a week, perhaps even longer," because it had been a long time since they left the village.
  2. Dev Datt said, "Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. That is why we press on towards Ujjain," because their shared goal of meeting the King gave them the determination to continue their difficult journey.
  3. Har Datt said, "Look there, friends. A camel has passed this way. The tracks are fresh," because he could see clear footprints on the dusty road that had not yet been disturbed by wind or time.
  4. Shiv Datt said, "It appears to be a merchant, running as if pursued by trouble," because the man was running quickly and had a worried or distressed expression on his face.
  5. The merchant said, "How could you possibly know that? The poor creature has been unwell for two weeks now. Surely you are a healer!" because he was astonished that Dev Datt knew about the camel's stomach pain without having seen the animal.
  6. Dev Datt said, "You are free to do as you wish, sir. If the King desires our presence, we shall be waiting under that banyan tree yonder," because he was confident and calm, knowing they had done nothing wrong and were not afraid to face the King.

Scene II: Arrange the following events in order.

  1. (3) The King asks the merchant to clearly state his accusation.
  2. (8) The merchant accuses the four men of knowing a lot about his missing camel.
  3. (2) Ram Datt explains how he infers from the tracks that the camel is lame.
  4. (5) Shiv Datt reveals that the camel is blind in its right eye as it had only chewed on the leaves on the left side of the road.
  5. (7) Har Datt clarifies how he knew that the camel has a short tail.
  6. (6) Dev Datt explains his observation about the camel's pain and careful movement.
  7. (4) The King praises the young men for their observations and dismisses the merchant's accusation.
  8. (1) The King makes the four young men his advisers, impressed by their skills.

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1

  1. Identify the false statement from the two given below and rectify it.
    False Statement: A. Dev Datt believes that finding employment is an easy task.
    Rectified Statement: Dev Datt believes that finding suitable employment may take a long time and require them to "wander many more roads."
  2. What does Ram Datt's confidence in gaining the King's recognition tell us about him?
    It tells us that Ram Datt is confident in his and his friends' abilities and believes that their talents are valuable enough to be recognized by a ruler.
  3. In the line, 'That's why we press on towards Ujjain', the phrase 'press on' refers to
    B. moving forward with determination
  4. What can be inferred about Har Datt's character from his statement?
    C. He is cautious and thoughtful, preferring to plan ahead.

Extract 2

  1. Select the option that is true for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R).
    B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). (The Merchant left because his accusation was proven baseless, not because the men were hired.)
  2. The line, 'See beyond the obvious' means that the men had the ability to
    C. notice details that others might overlook
  3. Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason.
    Ram Datt described the King's offer as 'an honour we had not dared to dream of' because they were simple travelers looking for any kind of work, and being appointed as royal advisors was an outcome far beyond their highest expectations.
  4. How does the King's offer to the four men reflect his values as a ruler?
    It reflects that the King is a wise ruler who values intelligence, wisdom, and keen observation over status or wealth. He recognizes true talent and understands its importance in governing his kingdom.

II. Answer the following questions.

  1. What does the dusty road leading to Ujjain tell us about the challenges of the young men's journey?
    The dusty road symbolizes a long, tiring, and difficult journey. It suggests that the young men have faced hardship and have been traveling for a while, yet they remain determined.
  2. Why did the merchant become suspicious of the four men? What does this tell us about him?
    The merchant became suspicious because the men knew precise details about his lost camel without claiming to have seen it. This tells us that the merchant is quick to jump to conclusions, mistrustful, and perhaps not very imaginative, as he couldn't conceive of how they could know such things through deduction alone.
  3. How do the four young men's observations about the camel serve as a turning point in the play?
    The observations are the turning point because they transform the men from ordinary, unemployed travelers into extraordinary individuals in the eyes of the King. Their deductions serve as an unconventional job interview, showcasing their unique talents and leading directly to their appointment as royal advisors.
  4. Why did the King believe the four young men and not the merchant?
    The King believed the young men because they provided logical, flawless reasoning for each of their observations. Their explanations were based on evidence and deduction, whereas the merchant's claim was based only on suspicion and anger. The King, being wise, recognized the power of their intellect.
  5. How does the capability of the four young men make them suitable to become advisors?
    Their capabilities—keen observation, logical deduction, and the ability to see beyond the obvious—are essential qualities for advisors. These skills allow them to analyze situations deeply, understand complex problems from small details, and provide insightful counsel, which is invaluable for a ruler.
  6. Why does the merchant feel ashamed for accusing the four young men of stealing his camel? Explain in your own words.
    The merchant feels ashamed because he realizes how wrong he was. He publicly accused innocent men of being thieves in front of the King, only to have them prove their intelligence and integrity. He was proven to be foolish and quick to anger, which left him embarrassed and chastened.

Let us learn

I. Complete the sentences by filling in the noun form of the textual words.

  1. Some word games need a lot of thought and deduction. (deduce)
  2. We need to make close observations of animals in order to understand their behaviour. (observe)
  3. A detailed scrutiny of the documents shows a lot of errors. (scrutinise)
  4. You should not make any false accusations against anyone. (accuse)
  5. She was given an award in recognition of her contribution to literature. (recognise)

II. Match the expressions in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

  • 1. with all our hearts → (vi) complete sincerity
  • 2. to be precise → (iv) exact and accurate
  • 3. gain an audience with → (v) meeting or hearing someone
  • 4. catch his breath → (vii) to pause or rest for some time
  • 5. erupts in applause → (ii) starts cheering together
  • 6. grand scheme of things → (viii) overall plan of life in a larger context
  • 7. taken aback → (i) surprised
  • 8. more than meets the eye → (iii) hidden information that is not obvious

III. Match the different meanings of 'face' and 'bear'.

Face

  • (i) Ravi turned to face his father, when he was called. → 2. (v.) to be positioned with the face or front towards
  • (ii) The face of the clock was painted red and blue. → 4. (n.) the front or surface of a thing
  • (iii) She has a round, smiling face. → 1. (n.) the front part of a person's head
  • (iv) We should be ready to face life's challenges. → 3. (v.) to deal with a difficult task or situation

Bear

  • (i) The trees that I planted in my garden took a long time to bear fruit. → 4. (v.) produce; give birth to
  • (ii) I spotted a bear on a wildlife safari. → 3. (n.) a large heavy mammal
  • (iii) Riya agreed to bear the responsibilities with confidence. → 2. (v.) accept
  • (iv) I can't bear the sound of vehicles honking. → 1. (v.) tolerate

IV. Match the highlighted words with the functions they express.

  • 1. I will gladly pay your fee... → (ix) willingness
  • 2. You must have stolen it... → (v) logical conclusion
  • 3. You shall come with me... → (x) command
  • 4. How could you possibly know that? → (i) expression of disbelief
  • 5. I am confident he would recognise our talents... → (xi) possibility
  • 6. A camel with a long tail would have fended off... → (ii) imagined (hypothetical) possibility
  • 7. They may tell us more than meets the eye. → (viii) prediction
  • 8. May your wisdom shine upon Ujjain... → (vi) wish or hope
  • 9. Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. → (iii) moral obligation or advice
  • 10. We need to devise a strategy. → (vii) necessity
  • 11. ...as if it stood before you, yet you dare to claim... → (iv) challenge

V. Complete the following story with modal verbs.

An old man, known for his wisdom, lived in a small village. One day, a young boy asked him, "How 1. can (ability) I become wise like you?" The old man smiled and said, "Wisdom 2. must (necessity) be earned through patience. You 3. should (suggestion) listen, more than you speak." The boy thought for a while and replied, "It 4. might (weak possibility) take years, but I'll try." The old man nodded. "You 5. need to (obligation) learn from your mistakes too. Wisdom 6. may (possibility) come slowly, but it always arrives for those who seek it." The boy knew he 7. could (ability) become wise if he followed the old man's advice.

VI. Rewrite the following sentences using appropriate modal verbs.

  1. It is advisable for you to think before you speak.
    You should think before you speak.
  2. It is unnecessary to worry about things beyond your control.
    You need not worry about things beyond your control.
  3. It is not possible for a person to gain experience without taking risks.
    A person cannot gain experience without taking risks.
  4. It is essential to treat others with kindness, even when they disagree with you.
    You must treat others with kindness, even when they disagree with you.
  5. It is not allowed to interrupt when someone else is speaking.
    You must not interrupt when someone else is speaking.

Let us listen

I. Match statements 1-6 given below to the speakers (i)-(iv).

  • Statement 1: Witty characters prove that cleverness is as powerful as strength. → Speaker (ii)
  • Statement 2: Witty characters show us ways to make learning enjoyable. → Speaker (iv)
  • Statement 3: Witty characters in a story keep the reader involved. → Not used
  • Statement 4: Witty characters teach me that tricky situations can be managed calmly. → Speaker (iii)
  • Statement 5: Witty characters add excitement to a story by their extraordinary deeds. → Not used
  • Statement 6: Witty characters can deactivate tense situations with their cleverness. → Speaker (i)

Let us write

I. Write a letter of complaint.

15, Nehru Nagar,

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

14 October 2025

The Commissioner,

Municipal Corporation,

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

Subject: Complaint regarding the poor condition of Kutcha Road in Nehru Nagar

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to draw your attention to the deplorable condition of the kutcha road leading to our colony, Nehru Nagar. Due to the recent heavy rains, the road has become virtually unusable and is causing significant inconvenience to the residents.

The road is now riddled with large potholes, which are filled with stagnant water. Firstly, these potholes pose a serious threat to commuters, especially two-wheeler riders and pedestrians, and could lead to accidents. Secondly, the stagnant water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue and malaria in our locality. As a result, the daily life of residents has been severely disrupted.

Firstly, I would like to suggest that immediate action be taken to fill the potholes as a temporary measure. Secondly, we request you to initiate the process of constructing a proper, permanent road for our colony. I request you to look into this matter urgently and take the necessary action to resolve these issues.

Thank you.

I look forward to your prompt response.

Yours faithfully,

(Signature)

Rohan Sharma

Let us explore

This final section encourages you to bring the play to life and explore other classic tales of intelligence. You are invited to:

  1. Stage the play 'Wisdom Paves the Way' in your class, following the detailed steps provided for production, from choosing a director to performing for an audience.
  2. Visit the library to read other famous stories that celebrate wit and wisdom, such as tales of Vikramaditya and Betal, Gopal the Jester, Tenali Rama, and the Panchatantra Tales.