Grammar Solved Chapter 8
Grammar Solved Chapter 8
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Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 8: ICSE Class 10 English Language/Grammar (Total
English) solved which comprises Synthesis, Narrative Composition, Letter Writing: Invitations, and Test Paper – 8. However, the
educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Table of Contents
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Synthesis
Narrative Composition
Test Paper – 8
Synthesis
ASSIGNMENT
I. Join each of the following pairs of sentences without using and, but or so.
2. The referee has arrived. They should get ready for the match.
Answer: Since the referee has arrived, they should get ready for the match.
II.Combine each of the following pairs of sentences according to the directions given in brackets.
Answer: It was so dark that they could hardly see each other.
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Answer: You must pass the exam since your future depends on it.
Narrative Composition
1. A famous social worker has recently visited your school. Write an article for your school magazine describing his/her visit.
Our school had the privilege of hosting an inspiring social worker, Dr. Kavita Sharma, on January 12. She is well-known for her efforts
in improving education for underprivileged children. The excitement among students and teachers was clear as the day began with
preparations to welcome her.
Dr. Sharma was greeted warmly by the school principal, staff, and student representatives. She started her visit by interacting with
students in the auditorium, where she shared stories about her journey. She explained how she began her work in small villages and
gradually expanded her efforts to reach more children. Her simple and clear way of speaking made the session enjoyable and easy to
understand.
During her talk, she encouraged us to think about how we could contribute to society, no matter how small our efforts might seem. She
shared examples of young people who had supported her initiatives, showing us that anyone can make a difference. Her words were
motivating and gave many of us new ideas for how we could help others.
Later, Dr. Sharma visited a few classrooms and interacted directly with students. She listened to their thoughts about social issues and
answered questions with patience. Her ability to connect with young people made a lasting impression.
The day ended with a short cultural programme by students, followed by a heartfelt thank-you speech from our principal. Dr. Sharma’s
visit left us all inspired to do more for our communities and showed us the value of kindness and hard work. It was a day we will
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2. Describe an incident in which you felt you were the victim of envy or spite.
It happened during a class quiz competition last August. I had worked hard to prepare, reading books and practising questions for weeks.
On the day of the quiz, I felt confident and ready. The event began, and my answers earned applause from my classmates. However, I
noticed that one of my friends, Arjun, wasn’t clapping or cheering like the others.
As the quiz progressed, I noticed him whispering to others, pointing in my direction, and making faces. At first, I ignored it, thinking it
was harmless. But during the break, I overheard him saying I was only winning because I had studied questions beforehand from the
teacher’s notes. That wasn’t true, but it stung to hear such words from someone I considered a friend.
I tried to focus on the quiz after the break, but the joy of participating had dimmed. By the end of the event, I was declared the winner.
While most of the class congratulated me, Arjun avoided eye contact and left the room quickly.
Later, I decided to talk to him about it. At first, he denied saying anything, but eventually, he admitted he felt jealous because he had
expected to win. Though it hurt, I appreciated his honesty. We talked it out, and I assured him that he, too, was capable of doing well
with a little more effort.
That incident taught me a lot about handling jealousy and misunderstandings. While it was unpleasant at first, it helped strengthen our
friendship and reminded me to stay humble in success.
Test Paper – 8
Question 1
(i) Write an original short story which has a crowd of onlookers, a howling mother and a group of policemen.
It was a busy afternoon at the crowded Chandni Bazaar. Vendors called out loudly, selling everything from fresh fruits to vibrant
fabrics. The chatter of buyers and the sound of haggling filled the air. Suddenly, a loud scream silenced the chaos.
A woman ran into the middle of the market, shouting frantically. “My son! He’s missing!” she cried, her face pale and eyes wide with
fear. The crowd gathered around her, trying to understand what had happened. The woman, dressed in a simple saree, pointed towards a
lane, her voice trembling. “He was right here! He’s just five years old!”
Within minutes, a group of policemen arrived, led by Inspector Rajan. The officers began questioning the woman and the nearby
vendors. Some people in the crowd murmured about kidnappers, while others speculated that the boy might have wandered off on his
own. The mother’s cries grew louder, and her desperation made the onlookers feel uneasy.
Inspector Rajan quickly took charge. “Search the area,” he instructed his team. Two officers went down the narrow alleys, while another
checked the nearby shops. Meanwhile, the crowd grew restless, some offering help and others simply watching.
After what felt like hours, one of the officers returned, holding the hand of a young boy. The child looked confused but unharmed. The
mother’s eyes lit up as she ran towards him, pulling him into a tight embrace. Tears of relief streamed down her face, and she thanked
the police repeatedly.
The officer explained that the boy had wandered into a toy shop, fascinated by the colourful cars on display. The shopkeeper hadn’t
realised he was lost and had assumed his parents were nearby.
As the crowd slowly dispersed, murmurs of admiration for the police’s swift action filled the air. The mother, still holding her son
tightly, walked away with tears of gratitude in her eyes. The market soon returned to its usual chaos, but for those who had witnessed
the incident, it was a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant.
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(ii) There was an electric malfunction in one of the compartments of the train in which you were travelling. Luckily, you were
not hurt. You helped in evacuating and rescuing other passengers. Give a detailed account of your experience.
It was a chilly December evening, and I was travelling to Delhi by train to visit my cousins. The journey had been smooth until we
reached a small station around midnight. Suddenly, the lights in our compartment flickered and went out. Moments later, we heard
shouts from a few compartments ahead. Soon, a smell of burning wires filled the air, and panic broke out among the passengers.
The train came to a halt as people rushed to find out what had happened. I stepped out of my seat and moved cautiously towards the
source of the commotion. A conductor informed us that there had been an electrical malfunction in one of the compartments, and there
was a risk of a fire. Some people had already started evacuating.
Though I was frightened, I couldn’t stand still while others needed help. I, along with a few other passengers, began guiding people out
of the affected compartments. We made sure to tell everyone to leave their luggage behind and focus on getting to safety. Families with
children and elderly passengers were prioritised.
One elderly woman, unable to walk properly, was stuck in her seat. I, along with another young man, helped her out and escorted her to
the safety of an open field next to the train. By then, the railway staff had arrived with fire extinguishers to contain the situation.
Thankfully, the malfunction did not lead to a fire, and everyone was safely evacuated.
After the chaos subsided, the railway officials thanked us for helping with the rescue efforts. It was only then that I realised my hands
were trembling from the adrenaline. I was grateful that no one had been hurt, but the incident left a strong impression on me. That night,
I learned how important it is to stay calm in emergencies and help others without hesitation. The rest of the journey continued smoothly,
but I’ll never forget that chaotic night on the train.
(iii) ‘Fear of punishment enforces discipline.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
I believe that fear of punishment can enforce discipline, but it is not the ideal or lasting way to achieve it. While fear might lead to
immediate compliance, it often fails to nurture true understanding or responsibility. Discipline that arises from fear is fragile and may
vanish when the fear is removed.
Fear can work as a short-term motivator. For example, students might complete their homework on time to avoid punishment, or
workers might follow rules strictly when under strict supervision. However, this kind of discipline often relies entirely on external
pressure. People comply not because they value the rules, but because they want to avoid consequences. This limits their ability to make
responsible decisions independently.
Moreover, fear-based discipline can have negative effects. It can create anxiety, resentment, and a lack of trust between individuals. For
example, a child who fears punishment from parents may follow instructions but could also become secretive or rebellious later.
Similarly, in workplaces, fear can discourage open communication and creativity.
True discipline comes from understanding the value of rules and developing self-control. For instance, if a student understands that
completing homework helps in learning, they are more likely to work sincerely. Encouragement, positive reinforcement, and clear
explanations are more effective in building long-term discipline than fear ever could.
That said, I do not deny that punishment has its place in extreme cases where repeated warnings or guidance have failed. However, such
punishment should be fair and aimed at correcting behaviour, not instilling fear.
While fear of punishment can enforce discipline temporarily, it is not the best way to instil lasting values. Discipline should be based on
understanding, mutual respect, and the desire to do what is right. Only then can it create a responsible and self-motivated individual.
(iv) Describe a person who, according to you, has made immense contribution to rural development in India.
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Among the many individuals who have worked tirelessly for rural development in India, Dr. Anil Verma stands out for his immense
contributions. A native of a small village in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Verma chose to dedicate his life to improving the lives of rural
communities.
After completing his education in agriculture and rural development, Dr. Verma started his journey by focusing on sustainable farming
techniques. He introduced innovative practices, such as organic farming and water conservation, which significantly boosted the
productivity of small farmers in his district. His methods helped reduce their dependence on expensive chemical fertilisers and ensured
long-term soil health.
Dr. Verma’s work extended beyond agriculture. He set up schools in remote areas where children had no access to education. He
ensured that girls, in particular, were given equal opportunities to study. By organising health camps and providing affordable medical
care, he tackled issues like malnutrition and preventable diseases that plagued these areas.
One of his most significant achievements was the formation of self-help groups for women. These groups not only provided small loans
but also trained women in skills like tailoring, handicrafts, and food processing. This effort made many rural women financially
independent and improved the living standards of their families.
Dr. Verma also worked to improve basic infrastructure. He collaborated with local authorities to build better roads, install solar panels
for electricity, and provide clean drinking water to villages. His ability to engage with local communities and understand their needs
made his initiatives successful.
Today, his work has transformed several villages into thriving, self-reliant communities. Dr. Verma’s life is an example of how
dedication, knowledge, and empathy can bring meaningful change. He continues to inspire many young Indians to contribute to the
development of rural areas and build a stronger, more inclusive nation.
(v) Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may
be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the
picture and your composition.
[Image Description: An aeroplane floating on a river. Many boats are surrounding the plane, rescuing the passengers.]
It was a calm afternoon when flight AI-236 took off from the city airport. The passengers were seated comfortably, and everything
seemed routine. But about twenty minutes into the flight, a sudden jolt shook the plane. Smoke started billowing from one of the
engines. Panic spread among the passengers as the crew tried to reassure everyone. The captain’s voice came over the intercom, calm
but urgent: “Brace for impact.”
The plane had lost both engines and was descending rapidly. Below lay a vast river, and the captain made the bold decision to attempt
an emergency landing on the water. As the aircraft descended, the cabin filled with prayers and muffled sobs. With remarkable skill, the
captain managed to land the plane on the river’s surface. The impact was harsh, but the plane stayed afloat.
Immediately, the crew sprang into action, guiding passengers out onto the inflatable life rafts. Some passengers waded through the
water, clinging to anything they could find for support. Local fishermen, who had witnessed the incident, rushed to the site in their small
boats. They worked tirelessly alongside rescue teams to pull people to safety.
Among the passengers was a young boy named Aditya, clutching tightly to his mother’s hand. His wide eyes reflected both fear and
hope as a fisherman helped them onto his boat. A group of elderly passengers was also rescued, some needing medical attention for
minor injuries.
Hours later, all 150 passengers and crew members were accounted for. Despite the terrifying experience, there were no fatalities, a fact
that seemed nothing short of a miracle. News channels hailed the pilot and crew as heroes for their quick thinking and calm response
under pressure.
Looking at the picture of the plane floating in the river, I am reminded of the resilience and unity displayed that day. It serves as a
powerful reminder that, even in the face of disaster, human courage and compassion can save lives.
Question 2
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(i) You have recently won a national level debating competition held in a different city in which students from 15 States
participated. Write a letter to your brother expressing your happiness at winning the competition.
Dear Rohan,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I have some exciting news to share that I couldn’t wait to tell you about. I recently
participated in a national-level debating competition held in Pune. Students from 15 states took part in it, and I am thrilled to share that I
won the first prize!
The competition was intense, with participants presenting such well-prepared arguments that it felt challenging. My topic was “The Role
of Technology in Education,” and I spoke in favour. It was a wonderful experience, and I learned so much from the other speakers.
When the judges announced my name as the winner, I could hardly believe it. The feeling of standing on that stage, holding the trophy,
is something I’ll always remember.
The event was also a chance to meet students from different parts of India, and I even made a few new friends. Pune is a beautiful city,
and the organisers took us on a short tour, which made the trip even more special.
I wish you were there to witness it all. Let’s celebrate when I come home next weekend. I’ll bring the trophy to show you!
Yours lovingly,
Ananya
(ii) Write a letter to the customer care of a popular brand of phones, complaining against the defective working of the mobile
phone recently purchased by you.
To
The Customer Care
Galaxy Electronics Pvt. Ltd.
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the defective functioning of a mobile phone I recently purchased from your brand. The phone,
Galaxy Ultra X, was bought on January 10, 2025, from your authorised store in Delhi (Invoice No. GUX12345).
The phone initially worked fine, but within three days, it started showing issues. The screen freezes frequently, and the touch response is
inconsistent. Moreover, the battery drains rapidly, even without heavy usage. Despite trying basic troubleshooting steps as mentioned in
the user manual, the problems persist.
As the phone is under warranty, I request you to either replace the defective product or provide a refund at the earliest. I have attached a
copy of the purchase invoice for your reference. Kindly let me know the next steps and how to proceed with the return or replacement
process.
I trust your brand for its quality and service and hope the issue will be resolved promptly. Please contact me via email at your earliest
convenience.
Yours sincerely,
Priya Sharma
Question 3
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(i) Your are the Head Boy/Head Girl of your school. The school is organising an inter-house Painting Competition on the
occasion of Dussehra. Write out a notice to be put up in your school informing students about it.
All students are informed that an inter-house Painting Competition will be held on the occasion of Dussehra. The competition will take
place on 20 January 2025, in the school auditorium from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
The theme for the competition is “The Victory of Good Over Evil”. Participants must bring their own painting materials. Sheets will be
provided by the school.
Interested students should register with their House Captains by 18 January 2025.
For further details, contact the Art Teacher, Ms. Kavita Sharma.
Rajiv Mehta
Head Boy
(ii) Write an email to a famous painter, requesting him/her to be the judge at the painting competition.
To: [email protected]
Subject: Invitation to Judge Our Inter-House Painting Competition
I hope this email finds you well. I am Rajiv Mehta, the Head Boy of Vidya Jyoti Public School, Delhi. On the occasion of Dussehra, our
school is organizing an inter-house painting competition on 20 January 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, in our school auditorium.
We would be deeply honored if you could grace the event as the judge. Your expertise and guidance would inspire our young artists and
make the event truly special. The theme for the competition is “The Victory of Good Over Evil”, which reflects the spirit of Dussehra.
Please let us know if your schedule permits you to join us. We will be happy to provide any assistance or details you may need.
Warm regards,
Rajiv Mehta
Head Boy
Vidya Jyoti Public School
Delhi
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Kunin, a permanent employee of the Church, called for the priest, Father Yakov. Five hours later, Father Yakov appeared. “Sit down,
Father,” he began more carelessly than cordially. Father Yakov coughed into his fist, sank awkwardly on to the edge of the chair, and
laid his open hands on his knees. With his short figure, his narrow chest, and his red and perspiring face, he made a most unpleasant
impression on Kunin.
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“I have invited you on business, Father,” said Kunin. “The bishop has suggested that I should take under my supervision the church
school which is being opened in Sinkino.” Kunin explained his views and watched Father Yakov’s face, seeking signs of approval in it.
But the face was apathetic and immobile. Father Yakov revived somewhat only when the servant came into the room bringing in two
glasses of tea and some biscuits. He took his glass and began drinking the tea at once. He drank and smacked his lips over every gulp.
In the evening, Kunin wrote a letter to the bishop. After asking for money and a blessing for the school, he wrote his opinion of the
priest at Sinkino: “He is young,” he wrote, “insufficiently educated, and altogether fails to satisfy the ideals which the Russian people
have of what a priest should be.”
After a few days, Father Yakov visited Kunin and asked him if he could appoint him to the post of his secretary, which was vacant.
“Why, are you giving up the Church service?” said Kunin in amazement.
“No, no,” Father Yakov said. “You see, I could do the work between whiles… so as to increase my income.”
“H’m! … your income…. But you know, I only pay my secretary twenty roubles a month.”
“Good heavens! I would take ten,” whispered Father Yakov, and went on: “I will explain it all truly…. I am ashamed of my clothes… I
am ashamed of my being hungry… I get a hundred and fifty roubles a year from my parish. I pay forty roubles a year to the school for
my brother. Then I have not yet paid up all that I owe for my place here. They charged me two hundred roubles for the living and I was
to pay ten roubles a month…. You can judge what is left! And, besides, I must allow Father Avramy at least three roubles a month.”
“Father Avramy was priest at Sinkino before I came. He was deprived of the living on account of his failing health. Though he is old, he
must have a corner, and food and clothing—I can’t let him go begging on the roads in his position.”
Kunin shook hands with Father Yakov without speaking, saw him to the gate, and, going back into his study, stood at the window. He
passed his hand over his eyes, and it seemed to him that his hand was moist. He could not help remembering the recent past when he
was senselessly squandering his father’s fortune.
Kunin then recalled the letter he had sent to the bishop. That memory filled him with overwhelming shame before his inner self and
before the unseen truth.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage):
1. cordially (line 3)
(a) rudely
(b) roughly
(c) graciously
(d) carefully
(a) uninterested
(b) sad
(c) desirous
(d) courage
(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word rejection?
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(a) impression
(b) approval
(c) supervision
(d) opinion
(a) How did Father Yakov make the most unpleasant impression on Kunin?
Answer: Father Yakov made a poor impression on Kunin with his awkward manners, narrow chest, short figure, and red, perspiring
face, which Kunin found unattractive.
(b) What did Kunin write about Father Yakov to his Bishop?
Answer: Kunin wrote that Father Yakov was young, insufficiently educated, and did not meet the Russian people’s expectations of a
priest.
(c) Who was Father Avramy? Why did he need financial support?
Answer: Father Avramy was the former priest at Sinkino who had been removed due to ill health. He needed financial support because
he was old and could not support himself.
(d) What were Kunin’s feelings after the departure of the priest?
Answer: After the priest left, Kunin felt deeply ashamed and emotional. He regretted his harsh judgment and was moved by the priest’s
hardships and selflessness.
(e) Why was Kunin filled with shame when he recalled the letter he had sent to the Bishop?
Answer: Kunin felt ashamed because his letter harshly criticised Father Yakov, but he later realised the priest’s struggles and sacrifices,
which made his earlier judgment seem unjust and insensitive.
(iv) In not more than 50 words, summarise Kunin’s feelings towards Father Yakov in the beginning and at the end of the story.
Answer: Initially, Kunin felt disdain and disapproval towards Father Yakov due to his awkward manners and perceived inadequacies.
By the end, Kunin felt compassion and regret, recognising the priest’s hardships, selflessness, and dedication, which contrasted with his
own earlier judgemental attitude.
Question 5
(i) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage but write in
correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space.
Once, there was a farmer who regularly …0… (sell) butter to a baker. One day, the baker …1… (decide) to weigh the butter to see if he
was …2… (get) the exact amount that he asked for. He …3… (find) out that he was not, so he …4… (take) the farmer to court.
The judge …5… (ask) the farmer if he uses any measure to weigh the butter. The farmer replied, “Your Honour, I am primitive. I do not
have a proper measure.”
The farmer replied, “Your Honour, long before the baker started …6… (buy) butter from me, I have been buying a pound loaf of bread
from him. Every day, when the baker …7… (bring) the bread, I put it on the scale and …8… (give) him the same weight in butter. If
anyone is to be blamed, it is the baker.”
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Answer:
1. decided
2. getting
3. found
4. took
5. asked
6. buying
7. brings
8. give
Answer: to
Explanation: The phrase “deaf to” is an idiomatic expression used to indicate someone ignoring or not paying attention to something,
like a request or plea. For example, “He was deaf to her complaints.”
Answer: with
Explanation: The preposition “with” is used after “pleased” to show satisfaction or dissatisfaction with something. For example, “She
was pleased with her performance.”
Answer: over
Explanation: “Over” is used when something is above or across a surface, such as a bridge crossing a river. For example, “The plane
flew over the mountains.”
(d) We long…………peace.
Answer: for
Explanation: The verb “long” (meaning to desire strongly) is followed by “for” when referring to the object of longing. For example,
“They long for a better future.”
Answer: by
Explanation: The phrasal verb “abide by” means to follow or comply with rules, laws, or agreements. For example, “You must abide
by the terms of the contract.”
Answer: about
Explanation: The phrase “told you about” is used when referring to someone or something previously mentioned. For example, “Here
is the book I told you about.”
Answer: on
Explanation: The preposition “on” is used in “on time” to mean something is happening as scheduled. For example, “The train arrived
on time.”
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Answer: between
Explanation: The preposition “between” is used when dividing something among two entities. For example, “They shared the
responsibilities between them.” For more than two, “among” would be used.
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option.
1. The match began in the midst of a storm. The match was abandoned.
Answer: (b) The match was abandoned as it began in the midst of a storm.
Answer: (c) The man who committed the theft has been caught.
3. The monsoon may break soon. Otherwise there will be water scarcity.
Answer: (d) If the monsoon does not break soon there will be water scarcity.
(a) Although Akhil has never been abroad, he is studying French and German.
(b) Akhil is studying French and German to go abroad.
(c) Akhil has never been abroad to study French and German.
(d) Akhil has been studying French and German to go abroad.
Answer: (a) Although Akhil has never been abroad, he is studying French and German.
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
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3. “I cannot lend you more than 3000,” the manager said. (Begin with: The manager said that he…)
(a) The manager said that he cannot lend me more than 3000.
(b) The manager said that he could not lend him more than 3000.
(c) The manager said that he will not lend me more than 3000.
(d) The manager said that he will not lend him more than 3000.
Answer: (b) The manager said that he could not lend him more than 3000.
4. It would be sensible to take him to hospital, before he collapses. (Begin with: We had…)
Answer: (a) We had better take him to the hospital before he collapses.
5. Sita said, “What a pretty flower this is!” (Rewrite: as reported speech)
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NBSE SEBA/AHSEC
NCERT TBSE
WBBSE/WBCHSE ICSE/ISC
BSEM/COHSEM MBOSE
Custom Notes Service Question papers
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