Text Book Solutions All Class

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: What sport was Arunima Sinha passionate about before her accident?
a) Cricket
b) Volleyball
c) Football
d) Basketball
Ans: b) Volleyball

The story states that Arunima excelled in sports, especially volleyball, before her accident. 

Q2: What happened to Arunima on April 11, 2011?
a) She joined the paramilitary forces
b) She climbed Mount Everest
c) She lost one leg in a train accident
d) She completed her law degree
Ans: c) She lost one leg in a train accident

On April 11, 2011, Arunima suffered a train accident that resulted in the loss of one leg. 

Q3: Who guided Arunima during her mountaineering training?
a) Swami Vivekananda
b) Bachendri Pal
c) Her father
d) Her mother
Ans: b) Bachendri Pal

Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest, guided Arunima during her training. 

Q4: Which mountain did Arunima climb in January 2019?
a) Mount Everest
b) Mount Kilimanjaro
c) Mount Vinson
d) Mount Elbrus
Ans: c) Mount Vinson

In January 2019, Arunima became the first woman amputee to climb Mount Vinson in Antarctica, completing her Seven Summits challenge. 

Q5: What does the word “resilience” mean in the story?
a) A great achievement
b) A sudden strong feeling
c) The ability to bounce back from tough situations
d) A source of inspiration
Ans: c) The ability to bounce back from tough situations

“Resilience” is defined as the ability to recover from tough situations, reflecting Arunima’s strength after her accident. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Arunima Sinha was born in _______ Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Ans: Ambedkar

Q2: Arunima trained at the _______ Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi.
Ans: Nehru

Q3: On May 21, 2013, Arunima reached the summit of _______.
Ans: Mount Everest

Q4: Arunima placed a photograph of _______ at the top of Mount Everest.
Ans: Swami Vivekananda

Q5: The word “endeavour” means a serious _______ to achieve something.
Ans: effort

True or False

Q1: Arunima planned to become a doctor before her accident.
Ans: False

Arunima planned to join the paramilitary forces, not become a doctor, after her law degree.

Q2: Arunima was the first Indian woman with an artificial leg to climb Mount Everest.
Ans: True

The story confirms Arunima was the first Indian woman with an artificial leg to climb Mount Everest.

Q3: Arunima climbed only Mount Everest and no other peaks.
Ans: False

Arunima climbed the highest peaks of all seven continents, not just Mount Everest.

Q4: The story teaches that challenges can make us stronger with determination.
Ans: True

The moral emphasizes that challenges can strengthen us if faced with determination, as shown by Arunima’s journey.

Q5: The word “prosthetic” means a real leg.
Ans: False

“Prosthetic” refers to an artificial leg, not a real one, as used in the story.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What was Arunima’s profession goal before the accident?
Ans: Join the paramilitary forces

Q2: What inspired Arunima while recovering in the hospital?
Ans: Reading about Mount Everest

Q3: How long did Arunima train before climbing Mount Everest?
Ans: 18 months

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “feat” in the story?
Ans: Great achievement

Q5: What is one moral of the story?
Ans: Never give up on dreams

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How did Arunima’s early life and dreams shape her determination after the accident?
Ans: Arunima’s childhood and dreams played a big role in shaping her determination after the accident. Growing up in Ambedkar Nagar, she loved sports, especially volleyball, which helped build her physical and mental strength. She also dreamed of joining the paramilitary forces after completing her law degree, which showed her desire for a career that combined discipline and physical challenges. Her background in sports and setting goals gave her the strong will needed to overcome the trauma of losing her leg in a train accident. Instead of giving up, her love for challenges and competitive spirit pushed her to aim for something extraordinary—climbing Mount Everest. She turned her childhood dreams into a new, inspiring goal that defined her determination after the accident.

Q2: Describe Arunima’s preparation and challenges in climbing Mount Everest.
Ans: Arunima prepared for her Mount Everest climb by joining the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi, where she trained for 18 months under the guidance of Bachendri Pal. The training was tough and focused on building her physical strength and getting her used to climbing with a prosthetic leg, which made balance and endurance especially challenging. The 52-day climb was exhausting, with extreme weather, steep paths, and physical strain, all made harder by her artificial leg. Even though many people doubted her ability to succeed, Arunima’s mental strength and training helped her push through these difficulties. On May 21, 2013, she reached the summit and proudly planted the Indian flag along with a photo of Swami Vivekananda, marking a historic achievement.

Q3: Explain how Arunima’s achievement of climbing the Seven Summits reflects her resilience.
Ans: Arunima’s accomplishment of climbing the Seven Summits—reaching the highest peaks on all seven continents—shows her incredible resilience and determination. After losing her leg, she faced physical challenges and doubts from others, but she started by conquering Mount Everest, proving her strength. Her goal didn’t stop there; she continued to climb mountains in Europe, Africa, Australia, South America, North America, and Antarctica. In 2019, she became the first woman amputee to reach the summit of Mount Vinson in Antarctica. Each climb required tough training, adjusting to different weather conditions, and enduring pain, but Arunima’s determination and confidence in herself allowed her to turn her challenges into successes, showing resilience at every step.

Q4: What is the moral of the story, and how does Arunima’s journey illustrate it?
Ans: The moral of the story is that with courage, hard work, and self-belief, we can overcome even the toughest challenges and achieve great things. Arunima’s journey shows this clearly, as she turns the tragedy of losing her leg into a chance to accomplish the extraordinary. Rather than giving up, she sets her goal to climb Mount Everest, trains intensely for 18 months, and achieves her dream in 2013, becoming the first Indian woman with an artificial leg to reach the summit. Her determination continues as she conquers the Seven Summits by 2019, showing her relentless drive. Arunima’s ability to face physical, emotional, and societal obstacles with courage and perseverance proves how these qualities can lead to remarkable success.

Q5: Discuss how Arunima’s story inspires others to face their own challenges.
Ans: Arunima’s story inspires others by showing that with determination and a positive mindset, even the toughest challenges can be overcome. Her journey, from a life-changing accident to becoming the first Indian woman amputee to climb Mount Everest and conquer the Seven Summits, proves that setbacks don’t limit one’s potential. Her intense training, under Bachendri Pal’s guidance, and her mental strength in overcoming doubts from others motivate people to work hard and stay resilient in the face of adversity. By placing a photo of Swami Vivekananda on Everest, Arunima underscores the power of inspiration, encouraging others to find their own sources of motivation. Her example shows that with courage, anyone can face their struggles—whether physical, emotional, or societal—and achieve the extraordinary.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the poet of “Travel”?
a) Ruskin Bond
b) Edna St. Vincent Millay
c) Rabindranath Tagore
d) Anita Rau Badami
Ans: b) Edna St. Vincent Millay

The introduction clearly states that the poem is written by Edna St. Vincent Millay. 

Q2: What does the speaker imagine hearing during the day?
a) Friends talking
b) A train’s whistle
c) The engine steaming
d) Cinders falling
Ans: b) A train’s whistle

In stanza 1, the speaker imagines hearing the train’s whistle shrieking during the day, despite the tracks being far away. 

Q3: What does the speaker see in the sky at night?
a) Stars
b) Red cinders
c) Clouds
d) Birds
Ans: b) Red cinders

In stanza 2, the speaker imagines seeing red cinders from the train’s engine on the night sky. 

Q4: What does the speaker say about their friends?
a) They travel with them
b) They are warm and the best
c) They don’t like trains
d) They are far away
Ans: b) They are warm and the best

In stanza 3, the speaker says their heart is warm with the friends they make and that they’ll not know better friends, indicating affection and high regard.

Q5: What does the word “shrieking” mean in the poem?
a) A soft sound
b) A loud, high-pitched sound
c) A quiet hum
d) A glowing spark
Ans: b) A loud, high-pitched sound

The word “shrieking” is defined as a loud, high-pitched sound, describing the train’s whistle. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: The railroad track is _______ away from the speaker.
Ans: miles

Q2: The speaker hears the train’s _______ shrieking all day.
Ans: whistle

Q3: At night, the speaker sees red _______ on the sky.
Ans: cinders

Q4: The speaker’s heart is _______ with the friends they make.
Ans: warm

Q5: The word “cinders” refers to small pieces of burnt _______ or wood.
Ans: coal

True or False

Q1: The speaker only thinks about trains during the day.
Ans: False

The speaker thinks about trains both day and night, as described in stanzas 1 and 2.

Q2: The night is described as a time for sleep and dreaming.
Ans: True

Stanza 2 states the night is still for sleep and dreaming, contrasting with the speaker’s train thoughts.

Q3: The speaker would only take a train to a specific place.
Ans: False

The speaker says they would take any train, “no matter where it’s going,” in stanza 3.

Q4: The poem shows the speaker’s love for adventure.
Ans: True

The speaker’s eagerness to take any train reflects their love for adventure and exploration.

Q5: The word “warm” means feeling cold and distant.
Ans: False

“Warm” means full of love or affection, as used to describe the speaker’s feelings for friends.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What does the speaker hear in the day, even though no train is nearby?
Ans: Train’s whistle

Q2: What does the speaker imagine the train’s engine doing at night?
Ans: Steaming

Q3: What does the speaker say they would take, no matter the destination?
Ans: Any train

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “steaming” in the poem?
Ans: Giving off steam

Q5: What is one moral of the poem?
Ans: Embrace curiosity

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does the speaker’s imagination bring trains to life in the first two stanzas?
Ans: The speaker’s imagination brings trains to life in the first two stanzas by vividly conjuring their sounds and sights despite their physical distance. In stanza 1, during a noisy day filled with voices, the speaker hears the train’s whistle “shrieking,” a sharp, exciting sound that cuts through the chatter, showing their fixation on trains. In stanza 2, in the quiet night meant for sleep, the speaker envisions red cinders glowing against the sky and hears the engine “steaming,” creating a dynamic image of movement and energy. These sensory details—sound, light, and motion—make the trains feel real and present, reflecting the speaker’s deep passion for the idea of travel.

Q2: Describe the contrast between the speaker’s feelings for friends and their urge to travel.
Ans: The speaker shows a deep and warm love for their friends in stanza 3, saying their heart feels “warm” and that they’ll never have better friends. This shows they feel happy and close to them. But at the same time, the speaker feels a strong urge to travel, saying they would get on any train “no matter where it’s going.” This shows that their desire for adventure is stronger than their wish to stay with friends. The difference between these feelings shows how the speaker is torn between the comfort of friendship and the excitement of new experiences. It highlights their deep wish to explore the world, even if it means leaving loved ones behind.

Q3: Explain how the poem captures the excitement of travel and exploration.
Ans: The poem shows the excitement of travel and adventure through lively pictures and an eager voice. The train’s loud “shrieking” whistle in stanza 1 creates a feeling of energy and excitement. In stanza 2, the “red cinders” and “steaming” engine make the train seem magical and full of life. In stanza 3, the speaker says they would hop on any train, no matter where it’s going, showing their brave and carefree love for exploring new places. All these details together make travel feel fun, thrilling, and full of endless possibilities.

Q4: What is the moral of the poem, and how does the speaker’s attitude reflect it?
Ans: The moral of the poem is that being curious and open to new experiences can make life richer, even when we have strong friendships. The speaker shows this by being deeply fascinated with trains, thinking about them all the time. Their eagerness to jump on any train, “no matter where it’s going,” shows they are excited by the unknown and love adventure. At the same time, they clearly care about their friends, which shows that it’s possible to enjoy both close relationships and new journeys. The poem teaches us that life is fuller when we balance friendship with a love for exploring the world.

Q5: Discuss how the poem uses vivid imagery to express the speaker’s love for trains.
Ans: The poem uses strong and clear pictures to show how much the speaker loves trains. In stanza 1, the “shrieking” whistle cuts through the noise of the day, showing how powerful and exciting the train sounds to the speaker. In stanza 2, we see “red cinders” lighting up the night sky and the engine “steaming” as it moves, creating a magical and lively picture of a train in action. These sights and sounds—bright sparks, loud whistles, and the steam—make the train feel real in the speaker’s imagination, showing their deep love for travel and adventure.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the author of “The Tunnel”?
a) Rabindranath Tagore
b) Ruskin Bond
c) Anita Rau Badami
d) G.C. Thornley
Ans: b) Ruskin Bond

The introduction clearly states that the story is written by Ruskin Bond. 

Q2: Why does Suraj visit the railway tunnel?
a) To catch a train
b) To watch the steam train
c) To meet Sunder Singh
d) To find a leopard
Ans: b) To watch the steam train

Suraj visits the tunnel to watch the midday steam train burst out, as he finds it magical.

Q3: What does Sunder Singh use to signal trains at night?
a) A red flag
b) A whistle
c) An oil lamp
d) A torch
Ans: c) An oil lamp

Sunder Singh uses an oil lamp to signal trains at night, as mentioned in the story. 

Q4: What animal do Suraj and Sunder Singh encounter in the tunnel?
a) A porcupine
b) A leopard
c) A bat
d) A lizard
Ans: b) A leopard

Suraj and Sunder Singh hear a sawing sound and encounter a leopard in the tunnel, which they scare away.

Q5: What does the word “plume” mean in the story?
a) A type of bird
b) A long, thin cloud
c) A railway track
d) A loud sound
Ans: b) A long, thin cloud

The word “plume” is defined as a long, thin cloud, like the smoke trailing behind the train. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Suraj hides his _______ in a nearby village before walking to the tunnel.
Ans: bike

Q2: The steam train bursts out of the tunnel like a _______.
Ans: dragon

Q3: Sunder Singh’s job is to inspect the _______ for obstacles.
Ans: tunnel

Q4: Suraj sees a _______ light from Sunder Singh’s lamp when riding the night train.
Ans: flickering

Q5: The word “scuttled” means to run with _______ steps.
Ans: small

True or False

Q1: Suraj wants to catch the midday train to travel to town.
Ans: False

Suraj visits the tunnel to watch the train, not to catch it, as he loves its magical appearance.

Q2: Sunder Singh calls the leopard “his” because it visits the area often.
Ans: True

Sunder Singh refers to the leopard as “his” because it’s a familiar visitor to the area, as he explains to Suraj.

Q3: Suraj and Sunder Singh enter the tunnel to catch the leopard.
Ans: False

They enter the tunnel to scare the leopard away to protect it from the train, not to catch it.

Q4: The story teaches that courage can lead to new friendships.
Ans: True

Suraj’s bravery and curiosity lead to his friendship with Sunder Singh, aligning with the story’s moral.

Q5: The word “shisham” refers to a type of bird.
Ans: False

“Shisham” is a type of tree, not a bird, as defined in the story.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the name of the tunnel’s watchman?
Ans: Sunder Singh

Q2: What does Suraj see on the hillside after leaving the tunnel?
Ans: A leopard’s tail

Q3: What sound alerts Suraj and Sunder Singh to the leopard in the tunnel?
Ans: Sawing sound

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “reassure” in the story?
Ans: To make someone feel calm

Q5: What is one moral of the story?
Ans: Courage leads to adventures

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does Suraj’s fascination with the steam train set the stage for his adventure?
Ans: Suraj’s fascination with the steam train sparks his adventure as he rides his bike from town, hides it, and treks to the railway tunnel just to see the train emerge. His excitement over the train, which he imagines as a “green, black, and gold dragon,” drives his curiosity to explore the tunnel. Inside, he discovers its damp, smoky atmosphere and encounters a bat and a lizard. This exploration leads him to Sunder Singh’s hut, where they become friends and have a thrilling encounter with a leopard. Suraj’s love for the train turns a simple outing into a series of unexpected adventures, showcasing his adventurous spirit.

Q2: Describe the relationship between Suraj and Sunder Singh and how it develops.
Ans: The relationship between Suraj and Sunder Singh starts when Suraj, intrigued by his tunnel exploration, meets the watchman at his hut. Sunder Singh greets him kindly, joking about “owning” the tunnel and sharing stories about the leopard, which creates an instant connection. Their bond grows when Suraj returns for the night adventure, where they share tea and face the leopard together, showing their trust and teamwork. Sunder Singh reassures Suraj and helps him feel safe, while Suraj’s excitement and curiosity make him likable to the watchman. By the end of the story, their friendship is clear, with Suraj fondly remembering the lamp Sunder Singh showed him from the train, highlighting the deep connection they’ve formed through shared experiences and respect.

Q3: Explain the events in the tunnel when Suraj and Sunder Singh face the leopard.
Ans: When Suraj and Sunder Singh hear a sawing sound from the tunnel, signalling the presence of a leopard, they realize it could be in danger of being hit by the incoming night train. Concerned for the leopard’s safety, Sunder Singh decides to scare it away, bringing an axe for protection and reassuring Suraj. Together, they enter the dark tunnel, using loud shouts and the glow of the oil lamp to startle the leopard. The leopard, described as agile and sleek, quickly flees into the jungle, its tail flicking as it escapes. They ensure the tracks are clear and step aside just as the train rushes by. Their actions highlight their courage and quick thinking, successfully protecting both the leopard and the train.

Q4: What is the moral of the story, and how do Suraj’s actions illustrate it?
Ans: The moral of the story is that courage and curiosity can lead to exciting adventures and unexpected friendships. Suraj’s curiosity about the steam train sparks his journey into the jungle tunnel, even though it’s dark and eerie. His bravery shines when he teams up with Sunder Singh to face the leopard, entering the tunnel to protect the animal despite the risks. These bold decisions lead to a thrilling adventure and the start of a meaningful friendship with Sunder Singh. Suraj’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone—from cycling to the jungle to confronting a wild animal—shows that embracing courage and curiosity can lead to rewarding experiences.

Q5: Discuss how the story uses the jungle and train to create a sense of thrill and wonder.
Ans: The story uses the jungle and the steam train to create a sense of thrill and wonder through vivid descriptions and exciting events. The jungle is depicted as a wild and vibrant place, with towering evergreen trees, scrub-covered hills, and wildlife like leopards and nightjars, sparking Suraj’s curiosity while adding an element of danger, especially during the leopard encounter. The steam train, described as a “snorting” and “puffing” dragon bursting from the tunnel, evokes awe with its power and sparks, shaking the jungle into life. The tunnel itself, dark and damp, adds to the thrill as Suraj explores it and faces the tense leopard situation. Together, the untamed jungle and the majestic train provide a backdrop of excitement and mystery, pulling readers into Suraj’s adventurous world and intensifying the story’s sense of wonder.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the main character in this chapter?
a) Shaana’s mother
b) Shaana
c) Anand
d) Shaana’s father
Ans: b) Shaana

The story follows Shaana, a young girl who travels across India and shares her experiences through postcards. 

Q2: Where does Shaana visit first in her journey?
a) Sundarbans
b) Thajiwas Glacier
c) Rann of Kutch
d) Chennai
Ans: b) Thajiwas Glacier

Shaana’s journey begins at the Thajiwas Glacier in Kashmir, as stated in the story. 

Q3: What does Shaana hope to see in Arunachal Pradesh?
a) Crocodiles
b) Red pandas
c) Fish
d) Snowballs
Ans: b) Red pandas

In Arunachal Pradesh, Shaana hopes to see red pandas, showing her excitement for the region’s wildlife. 

Q4: What activity does Shaana do in the Narmada River?
a) Diving
b) Rafting
c) Boating
d) Swimming
Ans: b) Rafting

Shaana enjoys rafting on the Narmada River, while her parents go diving. 

Q5: What does the word “plateaus” mean in the story?
a) Small stones
b) Flat, elevated areas of land
c) Large masses of ice
d) Trees in salty water
Ans: b) Flat, elevated areas of land

The word “plateaus” is defined as flat, elevated areas of land, describing the landscape Shaana sees in Goa. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Shaana visits the _______ Glacier in Kashmir.
Ans: Thajiwas

Q2: In Himachal Pradesh, Shaana stays in a _______ surrounded by mountains.
Ans: cabin

Q3: Shaana sees _______ trees in the Sundarbans that grow in seawater.
Ans: mangrove

Q4: In Goa, Shaana rides a train through many _______.
Ans: tunnels

Q5: The word “chirping” refers to sounds made by _______.
Ans: birds

True or False

Q1: Shaana notices more snow than the previous year in Kashmir.
Ans: False

Shaana notices less snow than the previous year at the Thajiwas Glacier.

Q2: Shaana’s mother jokes that the growling sounds are her father snoring.
Ans: True

In Himachal Pradesh, Shaana’s mother humorously attributes growling sounds to her father’s snoring.

Q3: Shaana is afraid of tunnels throughout her journey.
Ans: False

Shaana overcomes her fear of tunnels in Goa, watching the view confidently.

Q4: The story highlights India’s diverse geography and culture.
Ans: True

The story showcases India’s varied landscapes and cultures through Shaana’s travels.

Q5: The word “mangroves” means flat, elevated land.
Ans: False

“Mangroves” are trees that grow in salty coastal waters, not flat, elevated land.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What does Shaana write in her postcards?
Ans: Her travel experiences

Q2: What animals does Shaana see in the Sundarbans?
Ans: Crocodiles and a snake

Q3: What does Shaana’s mother worry about in the Sundarbans?
Ans: Frequent flooding

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “rafting” in the story?
Ans: Travelling on a river in an inflatable boat

Q5: What is one moral of the story?
Ans: Appreciate India’s diversity

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does Shaana’s visit to the Thajiwas Glacier show her curiosity and the challenges she faces?
Ans: Shaana’s trip to the Thajiwas Glacier in Kashmir shows how curious she is. She is amazed by the white and blue ice and notices that the snow has changed since last year, showing how closely she pays attention to nature. She enjoys playing with her parents, throwing snowballs, which shows her excitement for trying new things. But she also faces some problems—like the freezing cold that makes her hands shake because she forgot her gloves, and needing to wear many warm clothes. Even with these difficulties, Shaana stays eager to explore, showing she is both curious and brave.

Q2: Describe Shaana’s experience in Arunachal Pradesh and why it is her favourite stop.
Ans: In Arunachal Pradesh, Shaana takes a train, a long car ride, and walks through a forest to reach a treehouse, making the journey feel like an exciting adventure. She is amazed by the dense forest and says this is her favourite stop, mainly because she hopes to spot red pandas, showing her love for special animals. Staying in a treehouse makes the experience feel magical and brings her even closer to nature. This place becomes her favourite because of the fun and challenging journey, the beautiful forest, and the chance to see rare wildlife—all of which spark her imagination and excitement.

Red Pandas

Q3: Explain how Shaana’s journey in Goa reflects her personal growth.
Ans: Shaana’s trip to Goa shows how much she has grown by becoming more confident, especially with something she used to fear—train tunnels. Earlier, she was scared of tunnels, but now she looks out the train window calmly, enjoying the views of hills and plateaus. This change shows she has become braver. Her wish to explore these places with friends also shows she is becoming more independent and open to new adventures. This shift from fear to joy highlights how travelling has helped her become stronger and more confident.

Q4: What is the moral of the story, and how does Shaana’s journey illustrate it?
Ans: The story teaches us to value the beauty and variety of our country and to stay open to new experiences. As Shaana travels to places like the snowy Thajiwas Glacier, the hot Rann of Kutch, the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, the mangroves of the Sundarbans, and the beaches of Chennai, she enjoys the different sights, animals, and cultures of each region. Through her postcards, she shares her excitement and curiosity. Her growing confidence—like no longer being afraid of tunnels—shows she is ready for new adventures. Her journey reminds us to appreciate India’s diversity and to keep exploring with an open heart.

Q5: Discuss how the story uses Shaana’s postcards to highlight India’s geographic diversity.
Ans: The story uses Shaana’s postcards to showcase the diverse geography of India through her personal experiences in different landscapes. In Kashmir, she describes the chilly, snowy Thajiwas Glacier, while in Himachal Pradesh, she highlights the cabin in the mountains. In Arunachal Pradesh, she talks about the lush forest, and in Gujarat, she captures the hot, sandy Rann of Kutch. The unique mangrove wetlands of the Sundarbans, the plateaus and tunnels of Goa, and the peaceful sea of Chennai are also featured. Each postcard reflects different climates, terrains, and wildlife, like red pandas and crocodiles, painting a picture of India’s diverse geography, from icy mountains to coastal shores. Through her enthusiastic and curious tone, Shaana links these regions, celebrating the country’s rich natural diversity.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the poet of “Paper Boats”?
a) Anita Rau Badami
b) Rabindranath Tagore
c) G.C. Thornley
d) Natalie Joan
Ans: b) Rabindranath Tagore

The poem is written by Rabindranath Tagore. 

Q2: What does the child write on the paper boats?
a) A poem
b) Their name and village
c) A story
d) The names of flowers
Ans: b) Their name and village

The child writes their name and the name of their village on the paper boats, as described in stanza 2. 

Q3: What does the child load onto the paper boats?
a) Shiuli flowers
b) Small stones
c) Letters
d) Clouds
Ans: a) Shiuli flowers

The child loads the paper boats with shiuli flowers from their garden, as stated in stanza 3. 

Q4: What does the child see in the sky that looks like sails?
a) Stars
b) Birds
c) Clouds
d) Kites
Ans: c) Clouds

In stanza 4, the child sees clouds in the sky that resemble “white bulging sails,” not stars, birds, or kites.

Q5: What does the word “lading” mean in the poem?
a) A type of flower
b) The load carried
c) A small stream
d) A magical fairy
Ans: b) The load carried

The word “lading” is defined as the load carried, referring to the fairies’ baskets of dreams in the boats. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: The child floats paper boats down a _______ stream.
Ans: running

Q2: The child hopes someone in a _______ land will find the boats.
Ans: strange

Q3: The paper boats carry _______ flowers from the garden.
Ans: shiuli

Q4: In the child’s dream, _______ sail in the boats at night.
Ans: fairies

Q5: The word “blooms” refers to _______.
Ans: flowers

True or False

Q1: The child floats paper boats only once a week.
Ans: False

The child floats paper boats “day by day,” not just once a week.

Q2: The child writes in small letters on the boats.
Ans: False

The child writes in “big black letters” on the boats.

Q3: The poem shows the child’s imagination and dreams.
Ans: True

The poem highlights the child’s imaginative play and dreams, like fairies sailing.

Q4: The clouds in the sky race with the paper boats.
Ans: True

The child imagines the clouds racing with their boats, as described in stanza 4.

Q5: The word “shiuli” means a type of cloud.
Ans: False

“Shiuli” refers to small, white flowers, not clouds.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the name of the flower the child puts in the boats?
Ans: Shiuli

Q2: What does the child hope someone will learn from the boats?
Ans: Their name and village

Q3: Who does the child imagine sends the clouds to race with the boats?
Ans: A playmate in the sky

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “launch” in the poem?
Ans: To set in motion

Q5: What is one moral of the poem?
Ans: Small actions carry big dreams

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does the child’s act of floating paper boats reflect their hopes and dreams?
Ans: The child’s act of floating paper boats reflects their hopes and dreams by serving as a small but meaningful way to reach out to the world. By writing their name and village on the boats, the child dreams of connecting with someone in a “strange land” who will learn about them, showing a longing for recognition and friendship. Loading the boats with shiuli flowers expresses their hope to share beauty and joy with others. The child’s dream of the boats sailing under midnight stars with fairies carrying dreams further reveals their imaginative vision of their creations travelling far, embodying their curiosity and desire to touch distant lives through simple acts.

Q2: Describe the role of nature in the poem and how it connects to the child’s imagination.
Ans: Nature plays a central role in the poem, acting as both a setting and a partner in the child’s imagination. The “running stream” carries the paper boats, symbolising a pathway for the child’s hopes to travel. The shiuli flowers from the garden add natural beauty to the boats, connecting the child’s actions to the earth’s cycles of dawn and growth. The clouds, seen as “white bulging sails,” become playful companions racing with the boats, blending the sky with the child’s game. These natural elements—the stream, flowers, and clouds—fuel the child’s imaginative world, transforming a simple activity into a magical adventure that links their dreams to the broader universe.

Q3: Explain the significance of the fairies and dreams in the final stanza.
Ans: In the final stanza, the fairies of sleep sailing in the paper boats with baskets full of dreams are significant because they elevate the child’s simple act into a magical, eternal journey. The fairies symbolise the gentle, imaginative spirit of childhood, carrying the child’s hopes through a dreamy, starlit night. The “baskets full of dreams” suggest that the boats now hold limitless possibilities, spreading wonder beyond the physical world. This imagery creates a peaceful, hopeful conclusion, showing that the child’s small creations continue to inspire and connect with others in a fantastical realm, even as they sleep.

Q4: What is the moral of the poem, and how does the child’s actions illustrate it?
Ans: The moral of the poem is that small actions can carry big dreams and inspire connections with others. The child’s actions illustrate this through their daily ritual of floating paper boats, each marked with their name and village, symbolising a hope to be known by someone far away. Loading the boats with shiuli flowers shows their desire to share beauty, a small but heartfelt gesture. Their imaginative vision of clouds racing and fairies sailing the boats under stars reflects how their simple play carries grand dreams of adventure and connection, demonstrating that even modest efforts can have far-reaching, meaningful impact.

Q5: Discuss how the poem uses simple actions to create a sense of wonder and connection.
Ans: The poem uses the child’s simple action of floating paper boats to create a sense of wonder and connection by infusing it with imagination and hope. Writing their name and village on the boats turns a playful act into a message to the world, sparking wonder about who might find them. Adding shiuli flowers connects the child’s small world to nature’s beauty, inviting distant strangers to share in it. Imagining clouds as racing playmates and fairies sailing the boats under stars transforms the act into a magical adventure, linking the child to the sky and a dreamlike realm. These straightforward actions evoke a profound sense of curiosity, joy, and connection, showing how small deeds can bridge the child’s heart to faraway places and people.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the author of “My Brother’s Great Invention”?
a) G.C. Thornley
b) Anita Rau Badami
c) Natalie Joan
d) Hugh Lofting
Ans: b) Anita Rau Badami

The story is written by Anita Rau Badami. 

Q2: Why does Anand build a burglar alarm?
a) To scare his father
b) To catch thieves in the neighbourhood
c) To test his time machine
d) To contact aliens
Ans: b) To catch thieves in the neighbourhood

Anand builds the burglar alarm due to recent thefts in the neighbourhood, aiming to catch thieves. 

Q3: What happens to Anand’s father because of the burglar alarm?
a) He gets locked out
b) He is soaked with water
c) He trips over wires
d) He hears loud noises
Ans: b) He is soaked with water

The burglar alarm drops a bag of water on Anand’s father, soaking him, as he is mistaken for a thief. 

Q4: Who breaks into the house when Anita and Anand are alone?
a) A neighbour
b) Their father
c) Boppa, the sweeper
d) A policeman
Ans: c) Boppa, the sweeper

Boppa, a rough-looking new sweeper, breaks into the house, as described during the burglary. 

Q5: What does the word “eerie” mean in the story?
a) Loud and annoying
b) Strange and a bit scary
c) Completely wet
d) Quick and careless
Ans: b) Strange and a bit scary

The word “eerie” is defined as strange and a bit scary, describing the sounds from the time machine. The other options relate to different words like “racket” or “sopping.”

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Anand’s burglar alarm drops _______ on the person opening the door.
Ans: water

Q2: Anand is inspired to build a time machine after watching _______ .
Ans: Back to the Future

Q3: Boppa demands to know the location of _______ room.
Ans: their father’s

Q4: The time machine makes a _______ sound during the burglary.
Ans: humming

Q5: The word “tinkering” means experimenting with _______.
Ans: gadgets

True or False

Q1: Anand’s burglar alarm works perfectly as planned.
Ans: False

The alarm soaks Anand’s father instead of a thief, showing it doesn’t work as intended.

Q2: Anita and Anand stay home alone during a wedding.
Ans: True

Their parents attend a wedding, leaving Anita and Anand home alone.

Q3: Boppa is found hiding in Anand’s room after the burglary.
Ans: False

Boppa disappears, leaving only his scarf; he’s not found hiding.

Q4: The story teaches that creativity can lead to unexpected solutions.
Ans: True

Anand’s time machine may have stopped Boppa, showing creativity’s unexpected benefits.

Q5: The word “sceptical” means believing something easily.
Ans: False

“Sceptical” means doubting, not believing easily, as defined in the story.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the name of Anita’s brother?
Ans: Anand

Q2: What does Anand use to build his time machine?
Ans: Wires and bulbs

Q3: What item of Boppa’s is found after the burglary?
Ans: Green scarf

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “brandishing” in the story?
Ans: Waving something threateningly

Q5: What is one moral of the story?
Ans: Creativity is valuable

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does Anand’s burglar alarm cause trouble, and what does this show about his inventions?
Ans: Anand’s burglar alarm creates a problem when it mistakenly drops a bag of water on his father, thinking he’s a thief. This leaves his father drenched and angry. The incident shows that the alarm has a major flaw—it can’t tell the difference between a family member and a real intruder. It also shows that while Anand is full of creative ideas, his inventions don’t always work well because he overlooks important details. His excitement for inventing is clear, but he sometimes forgets to make sure his gadgets are practical and reliable.

Q2: Describe how Anand and Anita react when Boppa breaks into their house.
Ans: When Anita hears strange noises, she wakes up Anand, and they find Boppa breaking in. Anita gets scared when she sees Boppa, a rough sweeper, holding a stick and demanding to know where their father’s room is. Anand quickly thinks of a smart plan and points Boppa to his own room with the time machine instead of their father’s, possibly to trick or distract him. Anita and Anand’s actions show they are both scared but also quick-thinking—Anita warns her brother, and Anand uses his invention to try to protect their home during this scary moment.

Q3: Explain the mysterious events surrounding the time machine during the burglary.
Ans: During the burglary, after Anand sends Boppa into his room with the time machine, strange things start happening. Crashing noises, a humming sound, and other odd noises come from the room, making it seem like the machine is working. When the neighbours come, they find only Boppa’s green scarf on the floor—he’s nowhere to be seen—and the time machine is still quietly humming. This is mysterious because no one knows where Boppa went. While the adults think he ran away, Anand believes the machine sent him back in time. The weird sounds and Boppa’s sudden disappearance make the machine seem even more mysterious.

Q4: What is the moral of the story, and how does Anand’s character reflect it?
Ans: The moral of the story is that creativity and imagination are important, even if they sometimes lead to mistakes, because they can help solve problems in unexpected ways. Anand shows this through his constant inventing. Even when things go wrong—like his burglar alarm soaking his father—he doesn’t give up. His time machine, which no one believed would work, might have actually helped stop the thief, showing his cleverness. Anand’s love for building gadgets and his ability to bounce back after failures teach us that being creative and not giving up are valuable traits, even if the results aren’t perfect.

Q5: Discuss how the story uses humour to highlight Anand’s inventive spirit.
Ans: The story uses humour to show Anand’s love for inventing, especially through the funny problems his gadgets cause. His burglar alarm, which soaks his own father instead of a thief, is amusing because it shows how his invention backfires in a silly way. The messy room full of wires and blinking lights for the time machine creates a comical picture of how serious Anand is, even when things seem unrealistic. The funniest part is when Boppa disappears and Anand proudly claims the machine worked, even though no one is sure. These moments make readers laugh while also showing Anand’s creativity, enthusiasm, and belief in his ideas, even when they don’t go perfectly.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the author of the play “Mary’s Mistake”?
a) Natalie Joan
b) G.C. Thornley
c) Hugh Lofting
d) Helen Keller
Ans: b) G.C. Thornley

The play is written by G.C. Thornley. 

Q2: Why does Mrs. Shaw want the house tidy for the guests?
a) To impress Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee
b) To prepare for a party
c) To sell the house
d) To teach Mary a lesson
Ans: a) To impress Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee

Mrs. Shaw asks Mary to tidy up, like putting away a coat, to make a good impression on Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee. 

Q3: What does Mary mistakenly say about Mrs. Harding’s children?
a) They are rude
b) They are beautiful
c) They are at school
d) They don’t exist
Ans: b) They are beautiful

Mary compliments Mrs. Harding’s “beautiful children,” unaware that Mrs. Harding has no children, causing an awkward moment. 

Q4: What does Mary say when the guests try to leave?
a) “Please stay longer!”
b) “Must you stay? Can’t you go?”
c) “Come back tomorrow!”
d) “Thank you for coming!”
Ans: b) “Must you stay? Can’t you go?”

Mary mistakenly says, “Must you stay? Can’t you go?” when the guests prepare to leave, reversing her mother’s advice to ask them to stay longer. 

Q5: What does the word “blunders” mean in the play?
a) Kind compliments
b) Careless mistakes
c) Polite greetings
d) Funny stories
Ans: b) Careless mistakes

The word “blunders” is defined in the play as careless mistakes, referring to Mary’s errors during the visit. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Mrs. Shaw teaches Mary to say _______ things to make guests happy.
Ans: kind

Q2: Mary compliments Mrs. Harding’s _______ that don’t exist.
Ans: children

Q3: Mrs. Harding’s brother is a _______.
Ans: banker

Q4: Mary criticises _______ that belongs to Mrs. Harding.
Ans: a dog

Q5: The word “awkward” describes an _______ situation.
Ans: uncomfortable

True or False

Q1: Mrs. Shaw wants Mary to stay quiet during the guests’ visit.
Ans: False

Mrs. Shaw allows Mary to stay and talk but advises her to be polite and kind.

Q2: Mary’s mistakes make the guests feel uncomfortable.
Ans: True

Mary’s errors, like mentioning non-existent children, create awkward moments for the guests.

Q3: Mrs. Lee is Mrs. Harding’s mother.
Ans: False

Mrs. Lee is Mrs. Harding’s sister, not her mother, as stated in the play.

Q4: The play teaches the importance of speaking kindly and carefully.
Ans: True

The moral emphasizes speaking kindly and carefully, as Mary’s mistakes show.

Q5: The word “wealthy” means having little money.
Ans: False

“Wealthy” means having a lot of money, as defined in the play.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: Who are the two guests visiting the Shaws?
Ans: Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee

Q2: What does Mrs. Shaw tell Mary to do if the conversation pauses?
Ans: Start a conversation

Q3: What hobby does Mary mock that the Harding family enjoys?
Ans: Horse riding

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “compliments” in the play?
Ans: Kind words to praise

Q5: What is one moral of the play?
Ans: Think before speaking

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does Mrs. Shaw prepare Mary for the guests’ visit, and why is she hesitant to let her stay?
Ans: Mrs. Shaw prepares Mary by teaching her to be polite, advising her to say kind things that make guests happy, laugh to keep the mood light, start conversations if there’s silence, and ask guests to stay longer when they leave, like “Must you go? Can’t you stay?” She ensures Mary changes into a clean dress to look presentable. Mrs. Shaw is hesitant because she worries Mary might say the wrong things, as she’s young and inexperienced, potentially ruining her chance to befriend Mrs. Harding, the wife of a wealthy man, which is important for social connections.

Q2: Describe two mistakes Mary makes during the visit and their impact on the guests.
Ans: First, Mary compliments Mrs. Harding’s “beautiful children,” unaware that Mrs. Harding has no children, causing an awkward and upsetting moment as Mrs. Harding looks distressed. Second, Mary mocks bankers, not knowing Mrs. Harding’s brother is a banker, which offends the guests and creates discomfort. These mistakes make the guests feel embarrassed and unwelcome, turning the visit tense and straining the conversation, as Mrs. Shaw must quickly change topics to ease the situation.

Q3: Explain how Mary’s final mistake when the guests leave adds humour to the play.
Ans: Mary’s final mistake occurs when the guests prepare to leave, and instead of politely asking them to stay longer as her mother advised, she says, “Must you stay? Can’t you go?” This reversal of the polite phrase is humorous because it bluntly suggests the guests should leave, completely undermining her mother’s efforts to make them feel welcome. The unexpected blunder, combined with the guests’ likely shock, adds a comedic climax to the play, highlighting Mary’s innocent misunderstanding in a light-hearted way.

Q4: What is the moral of the play, and how do Mary’s actions illustrate it?
Ans: The moral of the play is that we should think before speaking and choose kind, respectful words to avoid hurting others. Mary’s actions illustrate this through her series of blunders, such as praising non-existent children, mocking bankers, and insulting hobbies like horse riding, all of which upset Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee. Her final mistake of asking the guests to leave instead of stay shows her failure to follow her mother’s advice. These errors demonstrate how careless words can create discomfort, emphasising the need for thoughtful and polite conversation.

Q5: Discuss how the play uses Mary’s blunders to teach a lesson about polite conversation.
Ans: The play uses Mary’s blunders to teach that polite conversation requires care and awareness to make others feel valued. Mary’s mistakes, like assuming Mrs. Harding has children, criticising bankers unaware of Mrs. Harding’s brother’s profession, and mocking hobbies the guests enjoy, show how thoughtless remarks can offend and create awkwardness. Her final blunder, saying “Can’t you go?” instead of asking the guests to stay, humorously underscores her failure to apply her mother’s advice. These errors highlight the importance of listening, choosing kind words, and being mindful of others’ feelings, teaching that polite conversation builds positive relationships and avoids unintended harm.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the poet of “The Funny Man”?
a) Hugh Lofting
b) Natalie Joan
c) Helen Keller
d) Eliza Cook
Ans: b) Natalie Joan

The poem is written by Natalie Joan. 

Q2: What does the funny man wear on his head?
a) A hat
b) A shoe
c) A bun
d) Two hats
Ans: b) A shoe

The poem describes the funny man wearing a shoe on his head, which is an unusual and humorous choice. Hats are worn on his feet, and a bun is offered later, not worn.

Q3: What does the funny man offer the poet instead of a rose?
a) A currant bun
b) A flower
c) A song
d) A hat
Ans: a) A currant bun

The funny man says he is presenting a rose but offers a currant bun, creating a humorous twist. 

Q4: How does the funny man leave at the end of the poem?
a) He walks away
b) He sings a song
c) He hops on his head
d) He gives a bun
Ans: c) He hops on his head

In the final stanza, the funny man turns around and hops home on his head, an absurd and funny way to leave. 

Q5: What does the word “staggered” mean in the poem?
a) Sang loudly
b) Moved unsteadily
c) Jumped quickly
d) Smiled politely
Ans: b) Moved unsteadily

The word “staggered” is defined in the poem as moving unsteadily, as if about to fall, which describes the poet’s reaction to the bun. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: The funny man wears _______ on his feet.
Ans: hats

Q2: The poet describes the man’s action as a funny sounding _______.
Ans: sight

Q3: The man addresses the poet as “Your _______.”
Ans: Highness

Q4: The poet says the bun has a funny looking _______.
Ans: smell

Q5: The word “manners” refers to polite _______.
Ans: behaviour

True or False

Q1: The funny man wears shoes on his feet like most people.
Ans: False

The funny man wears hats on his feet, not shoes, which are on his head.

Q2: The poet is shocked when the man offers a bun as a rose.
Ans: True

The poet staggers back against the wall, showing shock at the bun offered as a rose.

Q3: The funny man answers the poet’s question about his hats.
Ans: False

The man does not answer the question about his hats; he hops away instead.

Q4: The poem teaches us to enjoy playful and imaginative moments.
Ans: True

The moral encourages enjoying playful and imaginative moments, as shown by the man’s actions.

Q5: The word “currant” means a type of shoe.
Ans: False

“Currant” refers to a small, dried fruit, not a shoe, as defined in the poem.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What does the funny man raise to greet the poet?
Ans: The shoe on his head

Q2: Where does the funny man sit while singing his song?
Ans: On the ground

Q3: What does the poet ask the funny man about his appearance?
Ans: Why does he wear two hats on his feet

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “hopped” in the poem?
Ans: Jumped on one foot

Q5: What is one moral of the poem?
Ans: It’s okay to be different

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does the funny man’s appearance and behaviour create humour in the poem?
Ans: The funny man’s appearance and behaviour create humour through their absurdity and unexpectedness. He wears a shoe on his head and hats on his feet, reversing normal clothing in a way that defies logic and amuses readers. His polite manners, like raising his shoe to greet the poet and addressing her as “Your Highness,” contrast comically with his odd actions, such as offering a currant bun as a rose. Singing a strange song while sitting on the ground and hopping home on his head further adds to the silliness, making his carefree and unconventional nature a source of laughter throughout the poem.

Q2: Describe the interaction between the poet and the funny man when he offers a bun.
Ans: When the funny man offers a bun, he politely says he wants to “present” the poet with a rose, addressing her as “Your Highness,” and holds a currant bun to her nose, as if it’s a flower to smell. Shocked by this unexpected act, the poet staggers back against the wall, showing her surprise. She responds wittily, saying she’s never seen a “rose” with such a “funny looking smell,” playing along with the man’s joke. This interaction is humorous and light-hearted, highlighting the poet’s amusement and ability to engage with the man’s quirky sense of humour.

Q3: Explain how the funny man’s actions in the final stanza add to the poem’s playful tone.
Ans: In the final stanza, the funny man’s actions—turning around and hopping home on his head in response to the poet’s question about his hats—add to the poem’s playful tone by escalating the absurdity. Instead of giving a straightforward answer, his bizarre method of leaving is unexpected and impractical, amplifying the silliness. This playful exit reinforces his carefree and imaginative nature, leaving readers with a vivid, humorous image that encapsulates the poem’s light-hearted spirit and encourages laughter at his unconventional behaviour.

Q4: What is the moral of the poem, and how does the funny man’s character reflect it?
Ans: The moral of the poem is that it’s okay to be different and that playfulness can bring joy to others. The funny man’s character reflects this through his eccentric actions, such as wearing a shoe on his head, offering a bun as a rose, and hopping home on his head. These choices show he embraces his unique style without concern for norms, spreading amusement to the poet and readers. His polite yet silly interactions, like singing a strange song or addressing the poet grandly, demonstrate how his imaginative behaviour creates happiness, embodying the poem’s message of celebrating individuality.

Q5: Discuss how the poet uses playful language to make the poem fun and engaging.
Ans: The poet uses playful language to make the poem fun and engaging by blending simple, vivid words with humorous and sensory phrases. Phrases like “funny sounding sight” and “funny looking smell” mix senses in a whimsical way, creating a sense of surprise and delight. The exaggerated address “Your Highness” and descriptions of absurd actions, like “hopped home on his head,” add a lively, silly tone. The use of words like “staggered” and “currant bun” paints a clear, amusing picture, while the rhythmic structure and rhymes, such as “street” and “feet,” keep the poem bouncy and engaging, inviting readers to enjoy the light-hearted fun.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the author of “The Story of Doctor Dolittle”?
a) Helen Keller
b) Hugh Lofting
c) Eliza Cook
d) Kamala Nair
Ans: b) Hugh Lofting

The story is written by Hugh Lofting. 

Q2: Who is the first to suggest that Doctor Dolittle should become an animal doctor?
a) Jip the dog
b) Polynesia the parrot
c) A farmer
d) The Cat’s-food-Man
Ans: d) The Cat’s-food-Man

The Cat’s-food-Man, while discussing his stomach ache, suggests that Dolittle should become an animal doctor due to his knowledge of animals. Polynesia, the parrot, agrees but is not the first to suggest it.

Q3: What problem does the plough horse have?
a) A sore foot
b) Blindness in one eye
c) A stomach ache
d) A broken leg
Ans: b) Blindness in one eye

The plough horse complains to Dolittle that he is going blind in one eye, and Dolittle provides green spectacles to help.

Q4: How do animals communicate, according to Polynesia?
a) Only through sounds
b) Through ears, tails, feet, and noses
c) Only through their eyes
d) Through written messages
Ans: b) Through ears, tails, feet, and noses

Polynesia explains that animals communicate using their ears, tails, feet, and noses, not just sounds or eyes, and definitely not written messages, which are not part of animal communication.

Q5: What does the word “diagnose” mean in the story?
a) To make someone healthy
b) To find out what is wrong
c) To teach a language
d) To build a tunnel
Ans: b) To find out what is wrong

The word “diagnose” is defined in the story as finding out what is wrong with someone or something, as Dolittle does with the plough horse. 

Fill in the Blank

Q1: Doctor Dolittle learns to speak _______ languages.
Ans: animal

Q2: Polynesia teaches Dolittle the basics of _______ language first.
Ans: bird

Q3: The plough horse is given _______ spectacles to help him see.
Ans: green

Q4: Dolittle builds special _______ for different animals to manage the crowd.
Ans: doors

Q5: The word “twitching” refers to small, quick _______.
Ans: movements

True or False

Q1: Doctor Dolittle starts as an animal doctor before treating people.
Ans: False

Dolittle begins as a people’s doctor and only becomes an animal doctor after the Cat’s-food-Man’s suggestion.

Q2: Polynesia reveals that animals have their own languages.
Ans: True

Polynesia shares the secret that animals have their own languages, teaching Dolittle to understand them.

Q3: The plough horse needs medicine to fix his problem.
Ans: False

The plough horse needs glasses, not medicine, for his blindness in one eye.

Q4: Dolittle becomes famous only among people.
Ans: False

Dolittle becomes famous among animals worldwide, not just people.

Q5: The word “veterinarians” means doctors who treat animals.
Ans: True

The story defines “veterinarians” as doctors who treat animals, like the local vet mentioned.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the name of Doctor Dolittle’s parrot?
Ans: Polynesia

Q2: Who brings sick pets to Doctor Dolittle?
Ans: People

Q3: What animal complains about the local vet?
Ans: Plough horse

Q4: What does the word “cure” mean in the story?
Ans: To make healthy again

Q5: What spreads the news of Dolittle’s skills across countries?
Ans: Birds

Long Answer Questions

Q1: How does Polynesia help Doctor Dolittle become an animal doctor?
Ans: Polynesia, the parrot, plays a crucial role in Doctor Dolittle’s transition to becoming an animal doctor. She overhears the Cat’s-food-Man’s suggestion and enthusiastically supports it, encouraging Dolittle to focus on animals. She reveals the secret that animals have their own languages and begins teaching him bird language on a rainy afternoon, explaining how animals communicate through ears, tails, feet, and noses. With her guidance and patient instruction, Dolittle learns to speak and understand animal languages fluently, giving him the skills and confidence to officially become an animal doctor, fulfilling his new purpose.

Q2: Describe how Doctor Dolittle helps the plough horse and what this shows about his skills.
Ans: Doctor Dolittle helps the plough horse by listening carefully to its complaint that the local vet cannot understand its problem. He diagnoses that the horse is going blind in one eye and, instead of prescribing medicine, provides green spectacles to improve its vision, allowing it to work comfortably again. This shows Dolittle’s unique skills as an animal doctor, particularly his ability to communicate directly with animals to understand their needs accurately. His creative solution—glasses for a horse—demonstrates his innovative thinking and deep care for animals’ well-being.

Q3: Explain how Dolittle manages the large number of animals visiting him.
Ans: As Dolittle’s reputation grows, his garden becomes crowded with animals like mice, badgers, and bats seeking his help. To manage this large number, he builds special labelled doors and tunnels tailored for different animals, ensuring organised access to his services. This system allows him to efficiently handle the influx of patients, from small creatures to larger ones like cows and sheep. His thoughtful approach shows his ability to adapt and maintain order, ensuring all animals receive care despite the overwhelming demand.

Q4: What is the moral of the story, and how does Dolittle’s journey reflect it?
Ans: The moral of the story is that listening to new ideas and showing kindness to all creatures can lead to happiness and success. Dolittle’s journey reflects this as he embraces the Cat’s-food-Man’s, and Polynesia’s suggestion to become an animal doctor, despite initially treating people. By learning animal languages and caring for creatures like the plough horse, he finds fulfilment and becomes famous among animals worldwide. His openness to change and dedication to understanding animals demonstrate how embracing new perspectives and compassion can transform one’s life and impact others positively.

Q5: Discuss how the story highlights the importance of understanding and caring for animals.
Ans: The story highlights the importance of understanding and caring for animals through Doctor Dolittle’s transformation into an animal doctor. His ability to learn animal languages, guided by Polynesia, allows him to communicate directly with creatures like the plough horse, addressing their needs accurately, such as providing glasses instead of medicine. The growing number of animals seeking his help, from mice to bats, shows their trust in his care. Dolittle’s efforts to build special doors and tunnels for them further demonstrate his respect and compassion, emphasising that understanding animals’ perspectives and treating them kindly fosters a harmonious relationship and brings joy to both the caregiver and the animals.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: Who is the author of the essay “Three Days to See”?
a) Eliza Cook
b) Kamala Nair
c) Helen Keller
d) King Bruce
Ans: c) Helen Keller

The essay is written by Helen Keller, a well-known author who was blind and deaf. 

Q2: What does Helen Keller enjoy doing to experience the world?
a) Listening to music
b) Touching things
c) Painting landscapes
d) Writing stories
Ans: b) Touching things

The essay describes how Helen enjoys touching things like leaves, tree bark, and buds to experience the world, as she cannot see or hear.

Q3: What does Helen plan to do on the first day of having sight?
a) Visit museums
b) Watch the sunrise
c) See her friends’ faces
d) Observe city life
Ans: c) See her friends’ faces

On the first day, Helen plans to see the faces of her friends and loved ones to understand their feelings, as stated in the essay. The other activities are planned for the second and third days.

Q4: What does Helen call the eyes in the essay?
a) Mirror of the heart
b) Window of the soul
c) Light of the mind
d) Door of the spirit
Ans: b) Window of the soul

Helen refers to eyes as the “window of the soul” when describing her desire to look into her friends’ eyes to understand their true feelings. 

Q5: What is the meaning of the word “panorama” in the essay?
a) A quick look
b) A wide, beautiful view
c) A small shake
d) A tiny piece of food
Ans: b) A wide, beautiful view

The word “panorama” is defined in the essay as a wide, beautiful view, used to describe the sunrise Helen wants to see. The other options correspond to words like “glimpse” (quick look), “quiver” (small shake), and “morsel” (tiny piece of food).

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: Helen feels the _______ of a leaf to enjoy its shape.
Ans: symmetry

Q2: On the second day, Helen wants to watch the _______.
Ans: sunrise

Q3: Helen plans to visit _______ to learn about history.
Ans: museums

Q4: The word “quiver” describes a small, fast _______.
Ans: shake

Q5: Helen encourages people to use their _______ to find happiness.
Ans: sensesTrue or False Questions

Q1: Helen Keller plans to spend her third day in a quiet village.
Ans: False

Helen plans to spend her third day in a busy city to observe people’s daily lives, not in a quiet village.

Q2: Helen believes sight is the most wonderful sense.
Ans: True

Helen states in the essay that she considers sight the most wonderful sense among all.

Q3: Helen feels sad when she sees people smiling in the city.
Ans: False

Helen says she feels happy seeing people smile in the city, not sad.

Q4: The word “mastodons” refers to ancient animals like elephants.
Ans: True

The essay defines “mastodons” as big, furry animals like elephants that lived long ago.

Q5: Helen Keller could see and hear throughout her life.
Ans: False

Helen Keller was blind and deaf, unable to see or hear.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: What does Helen touch to feel nature waking up in spring?
Ans: Tree buds

Q2: What does Helen want to see on the third day?
Ans: People’s daily lives

Q3: What sense does Helen consider the most wonderful?
Ans: Sight

Q4: What is the meaning of the word “companionship” in the essay?
Ans: Feeling close to friends or family

Q5: What does Helen suggest people do with their senses?
Ans: Use them fullyLong Answer Questions

Q1: How does Helen Keller plan to spend her first day of sight, and why is it important to her?
Ans: On the first day, Helen Keller plans to see the faces of her friends and loved ones who have shown her kindness and friendship. She wants to look into their eyes, which she calls the “window of the soul,” to understand their true feelings, as she usually knows them by touching their faces. This day is important to her because these people have made her life special, and seeing their expressions would deepen her connection with them. It reflects her gratitude for their companionship and her longing to experience their presence in a new, visual way.

Q2: Describe what Helen plans to do on the second day and what she hopes to learn.
Ans: On the second day, Helen plans to wake up early to watch the sunrise, marvelling at the beautiful transition from night to day as the sun brightens the earth. She also intends to visit museums to explore the world’s past and present, viewing models of ancient animals like dinosaurs and learning about human progress over time. She hopes to gain a deeper understanding of nature’s beauty and the history of life, appreciating how the world has evolved and how human knowledge has grown.

Q3: Explain how Helen’s third day reflects her interest in ordinary people.
Ans: On the third day, Helen plans to go to a busy city and stand at a street corner to observe people’s daily lives. She wants to look at their faces to see if they are smiling, serious, or sad, feeling happy for those who smile, proud of those working hard, and kind toward those struggling. This reflects her interest in ordinary people because she seeks to connect with their emotions and experiences, valuing the everyday moments that define human life. Her focus on their expressions shows her empathy and desire to understand their joys and challenges.

Q4: What is the moral of the essay, and how does Helen encourage readers to apply it?
Ans: The moral of the essay is to appreciate and fully use our senses to find joy in the world, as they are precious and can be lost. Helen encourages readers to apply this by urging them to use their eyes as if they might lose their sight tomorrow, and to engage all senses—listening to music, touching things, smelling flowers, and tasting food—with the same urgency. She believes this approach brings happiness and fosters gratitude for life’s small wonders, like a leaf or a smile, inspiring readers to live with wonder and awareness.

Q5: Discuss how Helen Keller’s experiences as a blind person shape her perspective in the essay.
Ans: Helen Keller’s experiences as a blind person deeply shape her perspective in the essay. Unable to see or hear, she relies on touch to experience the world, finding joy in the shapes of leaves, tree bark, and buds, which heightens her appreciation for sensory details. Her longing for sight drives her to imagine three days of vision with intense focus, prioritising meaningful experiences like seeing loved ones, nature, history, and ordinary people. Her perspective emphasises gratitude for senses others may take for granted, and her reflections on losing sight again highlight her resilience and ability to find happiness despite her challenges, inspiring readers to value their own senses.