Previous year question

1. Who read the letter sent by Lencho ? What did he do then ?

Ans: A postman came across the letter and shared it with the Postmaster. At first,
the Postmaster laughed, but soon his mood changed. He became determined to
collect money and send it to Lencho, believing it would help preserve the farmer's
faith in God.

2. Explain the irony in the chapter, (A Letter to God).

Ans: Lencho’s unwavering faith in God is ironic because it leads him to overlook
practicality. He believes that God himself has directly sent him the money, which is
unrealistic. Additionally, Lencho’s innocence causes him to question the honesty of
the post office staff when he finds only seventy pesos in the envelope, instead of
the hundred pesos he had requested.

3. What idea does the Postmaster come up with? What did he do to stick to his
resolution? (A Letter to God)

Ans : The postmaster wishes to preserve the farmer’s trust in God. Therefore, he
decides to send him the money. However, since he cannot gather the money on his
own, he reaches out to his coworkers at the post office. They contribute, and he
collects a total of 70 Pesos, which he places in an envelope, waiting for Lencho to
come by.

4. How far would you agree that one’s positivity can bring in a spark of
brightness even in adverse circumstances?

Ans: Maintaining a positive outlook can certainly bring light even in the toughest
of situations. It was Lencho's optimism and unwavering faith in God that gave him
hope, despite losing everything. Even in the face of despair, Lencho found the
courage to write a letter to God, asking for help to feed his family and replant his
crops.

5. In what way would writing a letter to God help Lencho tide over his crisis?
Ans: Lencho held an unshakeable faith in God. After the hailstorm ruined his entire
crop, he had no other option but to turn to God for help. So, Lencho decided to
write a letter to God, requesting 100 pesos to help him plant a new crop and
provide for his family.

6. The postmaster had mixed emotions while opening the letter. Explain.

Ans: The postmaster felt both curious and satisfied as he opened Lencho’s second
letter. He expected to read a note of gratitude from Lencho, thanking God for the
money. However, he was stunned to find that Lencho was unhappy and accused the
post office staff of being thieves who had stolen the remaining thirty pesos from
the envelope.

7. Why did the night after the rains turn sorrowful for Lencho? [2023, 40-50
words]

Ans : It was a dreadful night. The fields, blanketed in hail, had turned a salt-white
color, and the crop was completely ruined. This meant there would be no harvest,
leaving Lencho's family facing the threat of hunger.

8. Why did the night turn sorrowful for Lencho after the rains?

Ans: The rain was soon followed by a hailstorm that ruined the crops in Lencho’s
field. This left the farmer in despair, as they now had nothing—no food for the
family and no money to plant new crops.

9. What are the raindrops compared to and why? [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans: Raindrops are compared to new coins- the bigger ones are ten-cent coins
while the smaller are five cent. It is because they promised a good harvest and as
such good money to Lencho.

10. What were Lencho’s feelings when the hail stopped? [2020, 30-40 words] Ans:
When the hail stopped, Lencho’s soul was filled with sadness: He was very
much troubled. His crop was totally destroyed. He said, “The hail has left
nothing. This year we will have no com. We will all go hungry.

11. Why did Lencho’s happy mood change into concern?

ANS: Lencho had been overjoyed when the rain arrived, thinking it would help his
crops grow and bring in money. But then, out of nowhere, a fierce wind picked up,
bringing with it hailstones that destroyed his crops. His happiness quickly turned to
worry as he realized the loss of his harvest.

12.Did the letter reach God? Why did the postmaster send a reply to Lencho?
[2020, 30-40 words

Ans: The letter couldn’t have reached God, as that was impossible. Instead, the
postmaster received it. Upon reading the letter, the postmaster resolved to preserve
the farmer’s faith in God. Being a kind, generous, and God-fearing man, he
decided to respond to Lencho by sending him money, all in the name of God.

Nelson Mandela A long walk to Freedom

1. Nelson Mandela in his inauguration speech says, “We, who were outlaws
not so long ago, have today been given the rare privilege to be host to the nations
of the world on our own soil.”
What is the significance of this statement with reference to the political system that
prevailed before this? [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans: In the past, the system of white supremacy in South Africa had established a
regime of dominance, and individuals like Mandela, who fought for the freedom of
the people, were seen as criminals and punished. However, with the collapse of
that system, a democratic government was being formed, and these freedom
fighters were now recognized as the champions of liberty. As a result, those once
labeled as outlaws became the leaders of the nation, welcoming world leaders
during the swearing-in ceremony.

2. In the chapter ‘A Baker from Goa’ the narrator talks about his childhood in
Goa and his fond memories. In about 120 words write a presentation draft
comparing the childhood of the narrator in ‘A Baker from Goa’ to that of Nelson
Mandela.
You may begin this way:
Childhood memories remind us of the days gone by…..
Reference : A Baker from Goa and Nelson Mandela : Long Walk [2024, 120
words]

Ans: Childhood memories take us back to simpler times. In the story A Baker from
Goa, the author fondly recalls the days spent in Goa. He describes the leisurely
mornings when the baker would visit twice a day, offering fresh baked goods. The
children eagerly awaited their favorite bread bangles, often eating them before
brushing their teeth. The entire narrative is filled with nostalgia, highlighting the
important role the baker played in Goan households. The baker was not just a
seller, but a friend, companion, and guide to the narrator. The author also
emphasizes the significance of baked goods in Goan culture, making the baker an
integral part of the community. Through this, the narrator shares cherished
memories of his childhood.

Nelson Mandela’s childhood, too, was filled with freedom. He had the liberty to do
as he pleased—running through fields, swimming in streams, roasting mealies
under the stars, and riding bulls. Mandela also treasures the memories of a
childhood where he could follow his heart, with the only expectation being to obey
his father and abide by the rules of his tribe.

Both of these individuals express nostalgia for their carefree childhoods, longing
for the days when life was simple and full of freedom.

3. Mandela said, “People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can
be taught to love.” Discuss.

Ans: According to Nelson, love is an innate feeling that comes naturally to the
human heart. From infancy, we experience love and warmth. In contrast, hatred is
something we are taught later on. Hatred brings sadness and despair to those who
receive it. The person who is subjected to hatred longs for love and warmth to
escape that sorrow. Through this experience, they come to recognize love. Having
felt the pain of hatred, they understand its hurt and eventually stop spreading it. In
this way, over time, society as a whole gradually lets go of hatred and embraces
love.

4. What did Nelson Mandela remember on the day of the inaugural ceremony?

ANS: On the day of the inaugural ceremony, Nelson Mandela reflected on the early
years of the twentieth century, when the white population of South Africa settled
their internal conflicts and established a system of racial domination over the dark-
skinned people of the country. This system of discrimination, known as Apartheid,
continued until the final decade of the same century.

5. What does Mandela refer to as ‘an extraordinary human disaster’?

Ans: At the start of his speech, Mandela describes the system of apartheid in South
Africa as "an extraordinary human disaster." This system inflicted a profound and
enduring harm on his country, resulting in the oppression of one group of people
(the blacks) by another (the whites).

6. Why was Nelson Mandela overwhelmed with a sense of history? How did he
succeed in ending the apartheid regime in South Africa? [2020, 100-150 words]

Ans: Nelson Mandela was filled with a profound sense of history during his
inauguration, as it signified a pivotal moment in South Africa’s transformation
from a nation plagued by racial discrimination to a democratic, non-racial
government. This event was not merely a personal achievement, but a historic
milestone for the entire country, marking the end of a brutal system of racial
segregation that had long oppressed the majority of its people.

Mandela’s contribution to the dismantling of apartheid stemmed from his strong

belief in freedom and equality, which led him to join the African National
Congress and become a key figure in the anti-apartheid struggle. His leadership
stood out for its remarkable blend of determination and openness to dialogue and
reconciliation. Mandela recognized that true freedom for black South Africans also
meant freeing white South Africans from the grip of prejudice. His commitment to
not only opposing the apartheid regime but also advocating for a peaceful
transition and national unity was crucial in bringing about the collapse of the
apartheid system.
Two stories about Flying

1. Briefly bring out the contrast between the young seagull’s initial attempts to fly
and his first successful flight.

Ans: The young seagull is filled with fear, doubting that his wings will be strong
enough to carry him. He watches his siblings glide and dive effortlessly, but he
cannot conquer his fear. When his family leaves him behind, hunger eventually
drives him to act. The sight of fish in his mother's beak excites him, and he takes
his first flight. Although he is terrified at first, he soon discovers that he can fly and
begins to do so confidently.
2. Flying is a natural act in birds. Then why was the young seagull ‘exhausted by
the strange exercise’? Justify the given statement with reference to baby
seagull’s fear. [2024, 40-50 words]

Ans: The young seagull was a coward. He lacked courage and feared that he would
fall and hit the ground. The wings might not be strong enough to bear his weight.
Thus, he was not able to fly.

3. Describe the young seagull’s first flight.

Ans: The seagull was hungry, and when it saw its mother flying toward him with a
fish in her beak, he called out to her. However, she paused mid-flight, which
frustrated the seagull. In a moment of impulse, he took flight without thinking. As
he soared through the air, he soon realized what he had done and felt a sense of joy
for having overcome his fear.

4. Family played a vital role in the first flight of the young seagull.’ Give examples
to substantiate the above statement. [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans : The seagull’s mother played a crucial role by carrying the fish in her beak
and pausing mid-flight in front of the hungry bird. This action motivated the
seagull to take flight out of hunger. The father, however, ignored the frightened
seagull, which made it feel inadequate. Meanwhile, the siblings circled around the
seagull, calling him to join them in flight. This showed their support and
encouragement for their scared brother.
5. Motivation plays an important role in taking risks in life and in succeeding. Do
you agree? Discuss with reference to the pilot of the old Dakota and the young
seagull. [2023, 100-120 words]

Ans: Indeed, motivation gives us the drive to take risks in life. We often think that
if someone else can achieve a task, so can we. The success of a role model inspires
us to take that first step and break through the mental barriers we’ve set for
ourselves.

In the story Two Stories About Flying, we see the young seagull, initially terrified
of taking his first flight. However, his intense hunger and the sight of fish in his
mother's beak push him to leap off the cliff. Similarly, the pilot, eager to reach
home and enjoy an English breakfast with his family, overlooks the dark storm
clouds and flies straight into them.
In both cases, we observe that the characters take risks driven by powerful
motivating factors.

6. “The sight of the food maddened him.” What does this suggest? [2020, 30-40
words]

Ans: The young seagull had been hungry for 24 hours, growing increasingly
impatient and desperate for food. When he saw his mother carrying fish in her
beak, he called out to her. This moment highlights that his hunger ultimately
pushed him to take his first flight.

7. . How did the young seagull overcome his fear and make his first flight? [2020,
100-150 words]

Ans: The young seagull was terrified of flying. He was convinced that his wings
wouldn’t be able to support him and couldn’t bring himself to fly like his siblings.
His parents, along with his brother and sister, decided to leave him behind, but
soon he became frantic with hunger. When he saw his mother holding a piece of
fish in her beak, just within reach, the sight of the fish drove him to act. Without
thinking of the consequences, he lunged at the fish. As he plummeted down, he
suddenly felt his wings spread out, and before he knew it, he was flying. He began
soaring, gradually rising and descending. No longer afraid, he realized he had just
taken his first flight.
8. How did the seagull’s parents try to make him fly?

Ans: The parents tried different tactics to make the seagull fly. They scolded him,
made him starve, ignored him and even left him stranded on a cliff.

9. Why was the young seagull afraid to fly? [2019, 30-40 words]

Ans: The young seagull was afraid because he lacked courage. He was scared that
his wings would not be able to bear his weight and that he would fall and hit the
ground below.

From the Diary of Anne Frank

Q1. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :

(A) I started right away at the Montessori Nursery School. I stayed there until I was
six, at which time I started in the first form. In the sixth form, my teacher was Mrs.
Kuperus, the headmistress. At the end of the year we were both in tears as we said
a heartbreaking farewell. In the summer of 1941, Grandma fell ill and had to have
an operation, so my birthday passed with little celebration. [2024]

(i) “In the summer of 1941, Grandma fell ill and had to have an operation, so my
birthday passed with little celebration.”
State any one inference about Anne from the above context. Ans.
Anne was attached to her grand mother.

(ii) The first education of Anne started at ___________.

(A) some Kindergarten School
(B) a Nursery School
(C) Montessori Nursery School
(D) Elementary School
Ans. (C) Montessori Nursery School

(iii) Who was Mrs. Kuperus? What kind of relationship did Anne share with her?
Ans. She was Anne’s teacher in the Sixth form and also the headmistress. Both
were attached to each other.

(iv) Substitute the word ‘heartbreaking’ with a word similar in meaning in the
following sentence:
“At the end of the year we were both in tears as we said a heartbreaking
farewell.” Ans. emotional

2. Anyone could ramble on and leave big spaces between the words, but the trick
was to come up with convincing arguments to prove the necessity of talking. I
thought and suddenly I had an idea. I wrote the three pages, Mr. Keesing had
assigned me and was satisfied. I argued that talking is a students’ trait and that I
would do my best to keep it under control, but that I would never be able to cure
myself of the habit since my mother talked as much as I did if not more, and that
there’s not much you can do about inherited traits. (From the Diary of Annie
Frank) [2024]

(i) State any one inference about Anne from the given context.
“Anyone could ramble on and leave big spaces between the words, but the trick
was to come up with convincing arguments to prove the necessity of talking.” Ans.
She wants to make logical arguments

(ii) In about 40 words, elaborate on the justification Anne gives for her talkative
nature.
Ans. Anne says that she can do nothing about her talkative nature because she has
inherited the trait from her mother.

(iii) Which one of the following best describes the tone of the given extract?
(A) derogatory (B) persuasive
(C) nostalgic (D) cautionary
Ans. (B) persuasive

(iv) Which phrase would correctly substitute ‘ramble on’ in the given sentence
from the extract ?
Ans. The alternative phrase that could substitute ‘ramble on’ in the given sentence
is ‘talk aimlessly’.

3. Read the following extracts and answer the questions :

(A) Let me put this more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year old
girl is completely alone in this world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a
sixteen years old sister, and there are almost thirty people I can call friends. I have
a family, loving aunts and a good house. No, on the surface I seem to have
everything, except my one true friend. All I think about when I am with friends is
having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything, but ordinary
everyday things. [2023]

(i) On the surface, it appears that Anne the thirteen year old girl __________. Ans.
was completely alone.

(ii) How can we infer that the speaker felt alone in the world?
(a) She had a family of many people.
(b) She had loving parents.
(c) She had thirty friends.
(d) She craves for a true friend.
Ans. (d)
(iii) Anne and her friends talked about _______.
(a) their problematic parents (b) their financial problems
(c) common everyday things (d) the commuting problems
Ans. (c)

(iv) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text : alone :
friends : : nothing :
Ans. everything/ something

(v) Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the idiom ‘bring
myself’ from the extract:
(a) to do something willingly (b) to do something unwillingly
(c) a charitable act (d) an involuntary act
Ans. (b)

4. How did Mr. Keesing’s attitude towards Anne change? [2019, 30 – 40

words] Ans: Anne Frank was punished three times and asked to write essays about
her talkative nature. However, in each assignment, she created new stories to
explain and justify her habit. Mr. Keesing, impressed by her clever and humorous
essays, began to change his attitude towards her.

5. What do you think about Anne’s talent for writing essays which she wrote
convincingly when punished by the teacher?
Ans: Anne was a bright but talkative girl. Her teacher, Mr. Keesing, was frustrated
by the disruption caused by her talking in class, so he assigned her writing tasks as
punishment. However, Anne used her intelligence to present logical arguments
defending her habit, which ultimately convinced her teacher. In her third
assignment, she even wrote a poem, showcasing her talent and creativity. This not
only highlighted her intelligence but also revealed her ability as a prolific writer.

1. The baker and his family never starved. Elaborate.

Ans: Baking was a lucrative profession because baked goods played a crucial role
in Goan culture. The baker would visit every house twice a day, delivering bread
and other baked items that were a staple in the Goan diet. The bakers often had
round, jackfruit-shaped bellies, a sign of their prosperity.

2. “During our childhood in Goa, the baker used to be our friend, companion and
guide.” What does this statement imply in relation to the character of the baker?
[2024, 40-50 words]
OR
The author says – ‘During our childhood in Goa, the baker used to be our friend,
companion and guide.’ Elaborate. [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans: This shows that the baker was a respected figure in the community. He was
knowledgeable, and people would seek his advice and share their secrets with him.
He visited households daily, delivering freshly baked goods, some of which were
an integral part of various festivals and traditions. As a result, the baker became
like a family member in Goan homes.

3. Why does the author say that the presence of the Baker’s furnace in the village is
absolutely essential? Justify with reference to “A Baker from Goa”.
[2024, 40-50 words]
Ans: The author points this out to highlight that every village in Goa had its own
bakery, underscoring the significance of baked goods in Goan cuisine. Different
baked items were essential for various festivals and special occasions. For instance,
cakes and bolinhas for Christmas, sandwiches for a daughter's engagement, and bol
for wedding gifts. As a child, the author would have bread bangles every morning.
Therefore, it makes sense that there was a baker’s furnace in every village.

4. ‘A Baker from Goa’ is a nostalgic saga of childhood memories.

Comment. [2023, 40-50 words]
Ans: "A Baker from Goa" stirs nostalgia by bringing to life the vivid childhood
memories of the traditional baker’s visits. The story recalls the thrill of hearing the
jingle of the bamboo stick, rushing to greet the baker, and the joy of picking out
bread-bangles. It creates a nostalgic image of simpler times and the happiness
found in the small pleasures of village life.

5. Who are paders and why are they friends of children? [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans: In the villages of Goa, the bakers, called paders, sell their baked goods by
going door to door. The children especially love these bakers, as they bring fresh
bread bangles and loaves every morning. While the loaves are sold to the
households, the children happily enjoy munching on the tasty bread bangles.

6. How is the Goan baker still an important part of the life of a Goan village?
[2023, 40-50

Ans: In a Goan village, the baker, or “pader,” plays a crucial and irreplaceable role.
Bakery items such as bol, bolinhas, and cakes are integral to every social and
religious event, making these occasions incomplete without them. Moreover, the
day in a Goan household begins with the joyful arrival of the baker, marked by the
pleasant sound of his music in certain areas. More than just a baker, he is a friend,
companion, and guide to the villagers. His distinctive clothing and robust physique
are defining features that make him a unique figure in the community. Therefore,
the baker’s presence and contributions are deeply valued and essential to the
vibrant life of Goan villages.

7. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: The baker
usually collected his bills at the end of the month. Monthly accounts used to be
recorded on some wall in pencil. Baking was indeed a profitable profession in
the old days. The baker and his family never starved. He, his family and his
servants always looked happy and prosperous. Their plump physique was an
open testimony to this. Even today any person with a jackfruit-like physical
appearance is easily compared to a baker. [2019]

(a) Where did the baker record his accounts?

Ans. The monthly accounts were recorded on some wall.

(b) Why did the baker and his family never starve?
Ans. They never starved because the bakery products were always in demand

(c) Which word in the extract is a synonym of ‘rich’?

Ans. prosperous
(d) How can a baker be identified in Goa?
Ans. The jackfruit-like physical appearance of a person identifies him as a baker.

8. How do we know that Goa’s bakers are very prosperous? [2019, 30-40 words]
Goa’s bakers thrive due to the high demand for bakery products. Certain baked
items are essential for various events and ceremonies. People purchase bread and
other baked goods daily, making it a constant source of business for the bakers.

9. What importance does a baker enjoy in a Goan village? [2019, 30-40 words]

Ans : The baker is regarded as a member of the family. Every morning, the sound
of the bamboo, with its jhang-jhang and thud, wakes the people. The baker makes
two visits each day, and the residents purchase bread and other baked goods
regularly.

Mijbill the otter

Q1. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: For the
first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof
and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible. The
second night Mijbil came on to my bed in the small hours and remained asleep in
the crook of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning, and during the
day he began to lose his apathy and take a keen, much too keen, interest in his
surroundings. I made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom,
where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water. (Mijbil the Otter) [2024]
(i) Which of the following is not a reason why Mijbil came on to Maxwell’s bed in
the small hours?
(A) He had started taking interest in his surroundings.
(B) He was becoming friendly with Maxwell.
(C) He wanted to play with Maxwell on his bed.
(D) He wanted to feel safe and not remain indifferent.
Ans. (C)

(ii) Maxwell says that Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly, he was simply
aloof and indifferent for the first twenty-four hours. Give reasons in not more than
40 words.
Ans. Mijbil was in unfamiliar surroundings, he needed time to adjust and feel
comfortable around Maxwell, thus initially showing indifference and aloofness as a
natural response to the change in his setting.

(iii) Read the following descriptions (A) — (D) and identify which one correctly
corresponds to the extract.
(A) Owning a pet is tedious and needs commitment.
(B) A pet needs his own space and time to get adjusted to his owner’s environment.
(C) Maxwell decided to bring Mijbil because he was very sad to lose his dog.
(D) Maxwell and Mijbil loved travelling.
Ans. (B)

(iv) Which characteristic trait of otters is revealed when Mijbil is taken to the
bathroom?
Ans. Joy in water

Q2. Mijbil turned out to be a playful pet. Elaborate.

Mijbil was an active and playful pet. It loved to play with water, marbles, and ping-
pong balls. During walks, it would run along the school wall, catching the attention
of both teachers and students. Full of energy, Mijbil was always lively and
engaging.

3. Maxwell decides to keep an otter as a pet. Elucidate with reference to the

fact that owning a pet is a life of commitment. [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans : Owning a pet demands a lot of commitment. The pet relies on its owner,
requiring constant care. When Mijbil played with water in the bathroom, Maxwell
had to ensure the pet didn’t drown. On one occasion, when Mijbil was left
unattended, it hurt itself and started bleeding. The author even had to change
airlines because some of them didn’t allow animals. During the flight, Maxwell
faced challenges due to Mijbil’s mischief. Thus, taking care of Mijbil required
Maxwell to be fully dedicated and committed.

4. What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly and
fun-loving animal who needs love?

Ans : Mij was a lively and playful pet, enjoying games with water, marbles, ping
pong balls, and even a broken suitcase. His creative play showcased his
intelligence. When placed in a new environment, Mij initially kept to himself and
took time to bond with the author. He was active, even turning on the tap to play
with water. Mij’s intelligence was evident in the games he invented using ping
pong balls, marbles, and the author’s broken suitcase. During walks, he would leap
and gallop along the full length of the school wall. On a flight, Mij was allowed to
roam outside his box, disappearing for a while before returning to his owner. This
demonstrates that Mijbil was not only smart but also fun-loving and sociable.

5. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: When I
casually mentioned this to a friend, he casually replied that I had better get one in
the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often
tamed by the Arabs. We were going to Basra to the Consulate-General to collect
and answer our mail from Europe. At the Consulate-General we found that my
friend’s mail had arrived but that mine had not. [2019]

Questions :
(a) What was ‘they’?
Ans. It refers to otters.

(b) Where could the author get ‘one’?

Ans. He could get an otter in the marshes of Tigris river.

(c) Find the exact word from the extract which means ‘domesticated.’ Ans. Tamed

(d) What did the author find at the Consulate-General?

Ans. He found that his friend’s mail had arrived and his mail had not arrived yet.

6. How did Maxwell get the otter? [2019, 30-40 words]

Maxwell preferred having an otter as a pet rather than a dog. He shared his desire
with a friend who then arranged for an otter and sent it to Maxwell through two
Arabs. In this way, Maxwell received his domesticated otter.

7. What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What did it do two
days after that? [2019, 100-120 words]

Ans: When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, the otter became ecstatic, diving
and rolling in the water, creating a huge splash and making enough noise to rival a
hippo. He splashed every drop of water, showing his immense love for it. Two days
later, Mijbil managed to escape from the bedroom and enter the bathroom again.
By the time Maxwell arrived, Mijbil was perched at the edge of the bathtub, using
his paws to fumble with the taps. He wrestled with the chromium tap until the
water flowed freely.
Madam Ride the bus

1. How did Valli save money to travel by bus? [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans: Valli carefully planned her bus fare for her first trip outside the village. She
needed sixty paise for the round-trip fare, which required some research and plenty
of time. She saved the money on her own, gathered information from the
passengers, and used the time when her mother was napping to make her
arrangements.

2.Why did Valli spend her time all alone and what became her favourite pastime.
[2023, 40-50 words]

Ans: Valli spent much of her time by herself since there were no children of her
age in the neighborhood. As a result, her favorite activity was standing by her door,
observing the street in front of her house, which offered her many unique and
interesting experiences.
3. How did Valli gather the details of the bus journey?

Ans: Valli meticulously collected information about the bus trip. To understand
every aspect of the journey, she attentively listened to the conversations of her
neighbors and regular bus passengers. She also asked insightful questions, which
helped her learn a lot about the trip, including many small details.

4.What stopped Valli from going to the stall to have a drink? What do we learn
about Valli from this? [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans: Valli simply wanted to experience the bus ride and enjoy the sights, without
spending money on a drink. She also believed that getting off the bus in an
unfamiliar town wasn't safe for her since she was alone. This demonstrates that
Valli was a sensible and responsible young girl.

5. Valli was an extra-ordinary girl who had self-confidence and courage to

realise her ambition by planning and drawing on her spirit of adventure. Discuss in
reference to the chapter ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. [2023, 100-120 words)

Ans: Valli, also known as Valliamai, is an eight-year-old girl who shows

remarkable maturity beyond her years. She is confident and poised, capable of
achieving her goals independently. She resists the temptation to spend on candies
and other treats, saving her money for the bus ride instead. Valli is thoughtful and
diligent, gathering all the information she needs before embarking on her journey.
She carefully plans the trip during her mother's afternoon nap. On the bus ride,
Valli carries herself with the demeanor of an adult and dislikes being treated as a
child. She is cautious and doesn’t allow the conductor or other passengers to take
advantage of her. She also stays unaffected by the tempting drinks at the bus stand.
In this way, Valli ensures that her bus ride is a success by taking all the necessary
precautions.

6. The people and surroundings are a great book to learn from. Valli in the
lesson ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ learns a lot from others. Mention the traits of her
character which help her to learn from people and her surroundings. [2023, 100120
words]

Ans: Valli was determined to take the bus ride and was eager to learn everything
about it, such as the timings, fare, and route. She observed the bus closely and
concluded that it passed by at regular intervals. By listening to the passengers, she
gathered details about the fare, and she also asked subtle questions to obtain as
much information as possible. During her bus trip, Valli acted with maturity and
confidence. She was cautious and thoughtful, limiting her adventure to just the bus
ride and resisting the temptation of the drinks being sold at the bus stand. Her
return journey became particularly memorable when she saw a dead cow, which
made her realize the fleeting nature of life. Through the bus journey, Valli gained
valuable lessons and insights.

7. Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our

way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus? [2023, 100-120 words]

Ans: Indeed, challenges often arise when we pursue our desires. However, having
ambition is crucial in life. Persistence is key to achieving our goals. Valli had a
strong desire to take the bus, but lacked the necessary funds. To solve this, she
carefully saved every bit of spare change, resisting the urge to spend on sweets,
toys, or balloons. Over time, she collected thirty pence. Valli also made sure to pay
close attention to the bus schedule and observed the passengers' conversations
about their travels. Ultimately, her determination and efforts paid off, and she was
able to accomplish her goal.
8. Valli was sensitive, but at the same time she was fearless and quite
determined. Explain with reference to the text. [2022, 120 words]

Ans: In the story “Madam Rides the Bus,” Valli, an eight-year-old girl,
demonstrated both sensitivity and courage. While she was sensitive to her desires,
she was also fearless in pursuing her dream of riding the bus. She proactively
gathered details about the bus ride by eavesdropping on conversations and asking
questions, showcasing her determination. Despite being tempted by the allure of
treats and toys, Valli stayed focused and saved her money for the fare. When she
finally took the bus alone, she exhibited courage by declining offers for help,
resisting free treats, and avoiding conversation with strangers. These actions reflect
Valli’s sensitivity to her wishes and the strong determination and courage she
displayed in fulfilling them.

Q1. What message might the Buddha’s story hold for those who are in positions of
power and privilege? [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans : The story conveys the lesson that death is an inevitable reality for everyone,
regardless of their status or privileges. Every individual is mortal, and in the end,
all power, wealth, and relationships are left behind.

2. What does the Buddha say about the world? [2023, 40-50 words]
Ans: According to Buddha the world is affected by suffering, death and decay.

3. What does Kisa Gotami ask for when she goes from house to house after she
speaks with Buddha? Does she get it? Why? Why not? [2023, 40-50 words] Ans
: Kisa requests mustard seeds from a home that has never experienced the loss of
a loved one. However, she is unable to find such a household, as every home has
gone through the sorrow of losing someone dear to death.

4. Kisa Gotami went from door to door when her son died. What was the result?
[2023, 40-50 words]
Ans. Kisa was looking for a cure for her son and her quest led her to Gautama
Buddha. Buddha asked her to get mustard seeds from such a house that had not
lost a beloved to death. Thus, she went from one house to another but failed to
find such a house that had not suffered the pain of losing a beloved. Thus, Kisa
realized that death is the ultimate truth and she accepted her son’s death. Q5.
What did Siddhartha Gautama come across by chance when he was about
twenty-five years old? [2023, 40-50 words]
Ans. While out hunting, he chanced upon a sick man, then an aged man, then a
funeral procession, and finally a monk begging for alms.

6. What did Kisa Gotami do after the death of her only son?
Ans: Grief-stricken after the death of her only son, Kisa Gotami was consumed by
sorrow. Unable to accept her heartbreaking loss, she struggled to think rationally.
In her desperation and anguish, she roamed through her neighborhood, carrying her
deceased child, and begged everyone she encountered for a remedy that could
restore her child to life.

7. Describe the journey of Sidhartha Gautama becoming the Buddha. [2020, 100-
150 words]
Ans: Buddha, originally born as Prince Siddhartha, lived a life of luxury until the
age of twenty-five. Upon witnessing the suffering in the world, he renounced his
royal life, leaving behind his wife and son, to seek deeper understanding. After
years of searching, he meditated beneath a peepal tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, where
he achieved enlightenment and became known as ‘Buddha’, the Enlightened One.
He then traveled to Sarnath, where he began teaching others. Throughout the
remainder of his life, he journeyed and spread his teachings on concepts like
‘Tanha’ and ‘Karma’. He passed away in Kushinagar.

8. What lesson on death and suffering did the Buddha teach Kisa Gotami in the
chapter, ‘The Sermon At Benares’? [2020, 100-150 words]
Ans: Buddha taught Kisa Gotami a profound lesson about death and suffering,
explaining that both are universal experiences. He told her that there is no escape
from death or pain. He reminded her that human life is fleeting, filled with
challenges, and often marked by suffering. The path to inner peace, he said, lies in
releasing sorrow, complaints, and grief. By letting go of selfish desires, one can
achieve a sense of immortality in this life. Rather than directly telling her this truth,
Buddha guided Kisa Gotami to discover it for herself, helping her to look beyond
her personal sorrow.

9. How did Kisa Gotami realise that life and death is a normal process? When
Kisa was unable to find a single home that hadn't endured the pain of losing a
loved one, she understood that death is a natural part of life. She realized that
her grief had been selfish, as death affects everyone and is a shared experience.

The Proposal Question

Q1. “Oh, what a burden, Lord, to be the father of a grown-up daughter!”

Explain what this line conveys about Chubukov as a father. [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans: The line suggests that a father encounters difficulties in fulfilling his
responsibilities towards his adult daughter. Chubukov is trying to carry out his
parental duties, but his daughter has her own ideas, leading to a conflict that makes
him feel overwhelmed.
Q2. What argument do Lomov and Natalya give over the superiority of their dogs,
Guess and Squeezer? [2024, 40-50 words]

Ans Lomov and Natalya engage in a heated argument over their dogs, Guess and
Squeezer. Lomov claims that Squeezer is the better dog, highlighting his pedigree
and hunting skills, while Natalya counters, asserting that Guess is superior in
hunting and dismissing Squeezer's attributes. Their dispute intensifies, revealing
their competitive natures and the deeper tensions in their relationship, symbolizing
how small issues can disrupt human connections.

3. Lomov and Natalya trade charges against each other about the ownership of
Meadows. Explain. [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans : Both Lomov and Natalya assert ownership of the Oxen Meadows. Lomov
argues that his aunt's grandmother had given the meadows to Natalya’s father’s
grandfather for free use in exchange for making bricks. They had used the land for
forty years, leading them to consider it their own. Natalya, however, denies this
claim, stating that her grandfather and great-grandfather had always maintained
that their land extended up to Burnt Marsh, implying that the Oxen Meadows
belonged to them.

Q4. Justify the title of the play ‘The Proposal’ with reference to the characters and
plot. [2024, 40-50 words]

Ans : The title of the play, The Proposal, is quite fitting. Lomov, a young man,
intends to propose marriage to Natalya and goes to her house for this purpose.
However, he is so nervous and confused that he doesn't propose directly. Instead,
he dances around the subject, speaking irrelevantly. Natalya, unaware of his
intentions, assumes that he has come to dispute the ownership of the Oxen
Meadows, and they begin arguing. This leads to a series of quarrels between them.
After her father, Chubukov, intervenes and helps reconcile them, Natalya finally
realizes that Lomov’s visit is to propose marriage. Upon hearing this, she quickly
forgets the earlier conflict, and the proposal is made and accepted. Ultimately, they
get engaged.

5. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:

Lomov : But you can see from the documents, honoured Natalya Stepanovna.
Oxen Meadows, its true were once the subject of dispute, but now everybody
knows they are mine. There’s nothing to argue about. You see my aunts
grandmother gave the free use of these Meadows in perpetuity to the peasants of
your father’s grandfather, in return for which they were to make bricks for her. The
peasants belonging to your father’s grandfather had the free use of Meadows for
forty years, and had got into the habit of regarding them as their own, when it
happened that ……………….
Natalya : No, it isn’t at all like that ! Both grandfather and great grandfather
reckoned that their land extended to Burnt Marsh – which means Oxen Meadows
were ours. I don’t see what there is to argue about, its simply silly. [2023]

(i) The subject of dispute was regarding (a)

free use of Meadows.
(b) making of bricks.
(c) peasants using Meadows.
(d) ownership of Meadows.
Ans. (d)

(ii) Find the word from the extract which means ‘continuance’ :
(a) dispute
(b) perpetuity
(c) belonging
(d) reckoned
Ans. (b)

(iii) Lomov’s aunt’s grandmother gave Oxen Meadows to Natalya’s father’s

grandfather in lieu of ……….
Ans. Lomov’s aunt’s grandmother gave Oxen Meadows to Natalya’s father’s
grandfather in lieu of the great-grandfather’s peasants constructing bricks for her.
(iv) According to Natalya why did Oxen Meadows belong to them? Ans.
Natalya claimed that they owned Oxen Meadows because her greatgrandfather
and her grandfather believed their land extended to Burnt Marsh, which
contained Oxen Meadows.
6. How did Chubukov react when Lomov asked for the hand of his daughter in
marriage? [2023, 40-50 words]

Ans : Initially, Chubukov was doubtful and thought that Lomov had come to ask
for money. However, when he learned the true reason for Lomov’s visit, he was
filled with immense joy, as he saw Lomov as a beneficial match for his daughter.
Overcome with happiness, he embraced and kissed Lomov.

7. What was the objective of Lomov’s visit to Chubukov’s house?

Ans : Lomov, a prosperous landowner, lived next door to Chubukov. At 35 years

old, he was a wealthy bachelor seeking to marry Natalya, Chubukov’s daughter. He
came over in the evening, dressed in a jacket and white gloves, with the intention
of asking for Natalya’s hand in marriage.

8. Why did Chubukov misunderstand the purpose of Lomov’s visit?

Ans The play aims to critique the excessive materialism of the Russians. Due to
Lomov's formal attire, Chubukov mistakenly assumed that Lomov's visit was to
request a loan. Chubukov, having his own financial concerns, was led to believe
that Lomov had come to ask for money.