1

A Letter to God

i People get support from family and friends during bad times. How does
Lencho’s family behave after the harvest is ruined?

ii ‘Lencho was an ox of a man, working like an animal in the fields, but still he
knew how to write.’ What does this line tell us about the norm amongst
such farmers, then?
iii What, according to you would have been the likely reaction of Lencho’s
wife upon knowing about him writing an actual letter to God?
(iv) Lencho waited eagerly for a reply to his letter to God. Do you think the
postmaster was also very keen to know Lencho’s reaction upon receiving the
‘reply’?
(v) ‘The field was white, as if covered with salt.’ This is how the field is
described after the hailstorm. The pelting hailstones could have been easily seen
as sugar cubes. Do you think comparing it with sugar would have
been more appropriate? Why/ Why not?
vi Lencho and his family knew the implications the hailstorm would have on
their lives. Write a conversation between Lencho and his wife as they watched
the downpour turn to a hailstorm.
vii Lencho did not bother exploring any other means to resolve his situation but
just turned to God. Do you feel that his approach was justified?

viii. The people at the post-office contribute to put together whatever they can
manage, for Lencho.
(a) What do you think was the main reason behind their help? Would you have
done the same if you were one of the employees?
(b) As an employee, write about your perspective and reason(s) for contributing
to the fund. The fact that you don’t want to say ‘no’ to a cause initiated by your
boss, can also be an equally compelling reason!

Dust of Snow

(i) Rationalise what you think the poet was probably doing when the dust of
snow fell on him?
ii What does the presence of a hemlock tree tell you about the setting of the
poem?
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iii The dusting of snow on account of the crow helped make the poet’s day
better. How do you think the crow’s droppings might have impacted the poet?

FIRE AND ICE

i "Fire and Ice" was first published in 1920. Briefly explain how the WW I
might have influenced the theme of the poem.
ii Create a tag line / slogan / catchphrase for the poem.
iii ‘Dust of Snow’ is one of Frost’s most loved poems. Elaborate why you think
this is so.
iv The poem evokes a sense of black and white. Justify.
v. The crow and hemlock are usually used as negative references in literature.
How is this different in this poem?
vi The tone of the speaker contrasts with the seriousness of the subject matter.
Justify.
vii. Fire and Ice projects a pessimistic outlook. Comment.
viii. Evaluate the line- Some say the world will end in fire/Some say in ice- in
the
context of volcanic eruptions, forest fires, meteor collisions, melting ice caps
etc.

Long Answer type:

i As a crow you feel highly injured by the incorrect perception humans have
about your species.
Imagine yourself to be a crow and write your opinion about this prejudice.
Make a case for breaking stereotypes.

ii Imagine that Frost is of present day and has been invited to write for an e-zine
- “Teen Talk”.
He chooses to draw upon his experience with the crow and the dusting of snow
to share his thoughts on ‘Every cloud has a silver lining’.
As Frost, express your thoughts for the e-zine.

iii Imagine that Nelson Mandela read ‘Fire and Ice’.

As Mandela, write a diary entry associating the impact of the troubled history
of South Africa with the idea expressed in the poem.
You may begin like this:
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10 May 1994, Tuesday 10 p.m.

Today, when I am the President of South Africa, I can’t help recalling Robert
Frost’s ‘Fire and Ice’………………...(continue)…………

(iv) Most of your classmates, like Frost, feel that man’s greed and rage or hate,
would lead the world to its destruction.
You feel that the ‘fire and ice’ in Mankind can be addressed to create a
harmonious world.
Write a speech, for your classmates, expressing your belief/s with respect to the
poem.

NELSON MANDELA

i Based on your reading of the lesson, what can you infer about Mandela as
a father and as a leader?
ii Mandela feels that courage is triumph over fear. How would you define
courage in this context?
iii If you were in Mandela’s position, would you have given preference to your
family or your country? Why?
iv Mandela says that his country’s greatest wealth is its people and not the
purest diamonds. Justify his statement.
Long Answer
i Create a questionnaire of two most important questions that you would
have liked to ask Nelson Mandela during an interview. Give your reasons for
choosing those questions.
ii Your teacher organised a mini-debate competition in class on the topic:
Courage, Wisdom and Generosity are the ONLY attributes of a
remarkable leader.
Write the debate script with two points to supplement your stand, either as a
proposition speaker or as an opposition one.
iii You recently read a blog by your teen friend, on ‘Freedom-My Perception’.
You feel that your perception of freedom has seen a transformation after
having read The Long walk to Freedom.
Complete the dialogue in 120 words, with your friend, explaining your new
understanding of freedom. You may begin like this:
Friend: I think the freedom to watch T.V. for extended hours or choose the
kind of programmes I’d like to view is important.
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You: ………………………………………………………
Friend: Hmmm. I still feel that the restrictions are not required. I want my
freedom. I’m human too, am I not?
You: ………………………
(iv) Freedom is inconsequential if it is behind bars of prejudice and narrow
mindedness. How would you explain this statement? Support your answer with
suitable examples from the real world.
(v) After having read the lesson on the oppression that communities faced in
South Africa, you were deeply hurt. You could also relate to the struggles
and hardships of millions of Indians who fought against the oppressive
British rule.
Write a diary entry expressing your feelings about oppression faced by
people in their homeland.
You may begin like this:

24 August 20XX, Monday 9:00 pm

My heart is filled with sadness as I think of the
oppressed who
had to tolerate the inhuman attitude of the
oppressors in their
own land. …………………………

Prejudice based on race and colour or any other reason causes profound
hurt.
Write about any one character from the chapters in First Flight who was
subjected to such prejudice?
Discuss the consequence of this prejudice for the character.
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GLIMPSES OF INDIA
(i) Inspired by the diversity in the chapter, ‘Glimpses of India’, you wrote an
article for your school magazine on the topic, ‘Diversity-the Uniqueness
of India’. Write a paragraph, sharing two key opinions from the article.
India is a country that is diverse in many ways. It is not just about religion or
language, but it's also about culture, food, music, and traditions. Each state in
India has its own unique culture, and it's fascinating to see how they coexist
and thrive. Diversity in India is both a challenge and an opportunity: While
diversity is undoubtedly a strength of India, it also poses challenges. One of
the biggest challenges is to ensure that everyone is treated equally however,
if we can overcome these challenges, diversity can be a significant
opportunity for India to grow and prosper. India's diversity is a source of
innovation and creativity. It is also a significant attraction for tourists from
all over the world. The government of India has recognized the importance
of diversity and has launched several initiatives to promote it. One such
initiative is the "Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat" program, which aims to
promote national integration by showcasing the rich heritage and culture of
different states.
(ii) The culture, lifestyle and traditions of a place are influenced by the
people who lived or settled there at some point of time. Cultural
assimilation adds flavour to the existing structure of a society. Summarise
your opinion on the given idea
Ans. I agree with the idea that culture, lifestyle, and traditions are influenced
by the people who have lived in a place over time. Cultural assimilation
enriches a society by bringing in diverse elements, contributing to a more
vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape. It's the fusion of different cultures
that often adds depth and uniqueness to a society's identity.
(iii) Pen down a brief travelogue* entry, narrating any personal impression/s
about a visit to Coorg. Include your reflections about the differences
between the place where you live and the place you’ve visited. (* A
travelogue is a person’s account of a journey to another country or place.
It can either be a written report with many factual details or a narrative
story about personal impressions and experiences.) You may begin like
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this... As I stepped into the land of evergreen forests, I was blown away
by the pristine beauty and ………………………………(continue
Ans. As I stepped into the land of evergreen forests, I was blown away by
the pristine beauty and tranquility of Coorg. The rolling hills covered in lush
coffee plantations created a breathtaking panorama. It was a stark contrast to
the bustling city I call home, where concrete jungles dominate the landscape.
The air in Coorg was filled with the earthy aroma of coffee and the sweet
scent of blooming flowers, a refreshing departure from the smog and traffic of
urban life. The people in Coorg were warm and hospitable, reflecting the
region's rich culture and traditions.One notable difference was the pace of life.
Coorg seemed to move at a more relaxed rhythm, allowing me to savor every
moment. It was a stark contrast to the fast-paced, time-driven life I was
accustomed to.In Coorg, I found a deep connection with nature and a sense of
serenity that had eluded me in my busy city life. The visit was not just a journey
but a profound experience that made me appreciate the diversity and beauty of
our world.

(iv) The narrator shares, “Baking was indeed a profitable profession in the old
days.” a) What do you feel has changed now? Why? b) State any one
way, you feel, the paders can regain their lost glory.
Ans. a. In the present day, the profitability of baking has declined due
to various factors. One significant change is the shift in dietary
preferences and the increased availability of factory-produced,
packaged bread, which often sells at a lower cost. Modern consumers
are inclined towards convenience and speed, which has led to a
decline in the demand for traditional handmade bread. Additionally,
the younger generation may not be as interested in taking up the
demanding profession of baking, resulting in a shortage of skilled
bakers. Economic factors, such as rising ingredient costs and
competition, have further impacted profitability.
b. To regain their lost glory, paders can consider adapting to the
changing times while preserving their heritage. They could modernize
their bakeries by introducing new and innovative bread varieties that
cater to contemporary tastes. Promotion and marketing strategies can
be employed to highlight the cultural significance of traditional Goan
bread, creating a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Collaborating
with local restaurants and cafes to showcase their products can also
help increase demand. Moreover, offering baking workshops or
apprenticeships to aspiring bakers can ensure the continuation of this
valuable tradition, passing down the skills and knowledge to the next
generation while reviving the bakery's prosperity.
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(v) In the chapter, ‘A Baker from Goa’ the narrator talks about his childhood
in Goa and his fond memories. Compare the childhood of Nelson
Mandela with that of the narrator.
Ans. The childhoods of Nelson Mandela and the narrator in "A Baker
from Goa" differ significantly in terms of their experiences and
environments. Nelson Mandela grew up in a racially segregated South
Africa during the era of apartheid, which subjected him to extreme
racial discrimination and inequality. His early life was marked by
systemic oppression and hardships due to his African heritage, with
limited access to education and basic rights.
In contrast, the narrator in "A Baker from Goa" reminisces about his
childhood in Goa, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and
relatively peaceful coexistence. He enjoyed the warmth of a tight-knit
community and fondly recalls the simple pleasures of life, like buying
bread from the local bakery. Unlike Mandela's tumultuous upbringing,
the narrator's childhood seems to have been filled with a sense of
belonging and cultural continuity.In summary, while Nelson
Mandela's childhood was marred by racial injustice and struggle, the
narrator's childhood in Goa appears to have been more idyllic and
rooted in the traditions of his community.

(vi) The author says During our childhood in Goa, the baker used to be our
friend, companion and guide. Elaborate.
Answer:

During the author's childhood in Goa, the baker was more than just a
bread-seller. He was seen as a friendly figure who visited twice daily,
bringing joy with the sound of his bamboo staff. Children eagerly
awaited him, not just for bread, but also for the special bond they
shared, making him a cherished friend and guide in their daily lives.

(vii) Coorg has been defined as a piece of heaven by the writer. Justify.
(Glimpses of India)
Ans.
 scenic beauty / rolling hills / great weather / evergreen rainforests and
coffee plantations/variety of birds and animals
 brave race of people / colorful and warm.
 Hence, a popular tourist destination.
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(viii) The most laid back individuals become converts to the life of high-energy
adventure. Elaborate with reference to Coorg. [2024, 40-50 words]
Ans: Coorg’s natural beauty and outdoor activities inspire even the
most sedentary persons to seek adventure. The region’s activities,
including river rafting, rock climbing and trekking, provide an
exciting and challenging alternative to its normally easygoing
lifestyle. In the ‘Glimpses of India’ the image of Coorg powerfully
illustrates this transformative effect.
(ix) Valour and hospitality are inherent in the people of Coorg.
Explain. [2023, 40-50 words]
Or
(x) The people of Coorg have a tradition of courage and bravery. How
has it been recognised in modern India?
OR
“The people of Coorg are famous for their tradition of hospitality
and valour in the army.” Explain with reference to ‘Glimpses of
India’.
Ans. It is quite true that the people of Coorg are famous for their
traditions of hospitality, love, respect and fellow feeling. People visiting
Coorg always feel at home there and enjoy the panoramic view of the
whole landscape of Coorg. The visitors get pleasure in riding the
elephants and the fresh smell of coffee plantation. The residents are
always eager to tell the tales of vigour, bravery and courage only related
to their sons and fathers. These people show utmost courage and
exemplary bravery during the war period. It is a matter of great concern
for all of us that Coorg Regiment is famous for its bravery. It is one of the
most decorated in the Indian army. General Cariappa was a Coorgi. It is
very rewarding for all of us. Even the government has allowed the
Coorgis to carry firearms with them. They can move in any part of the
country without a license. This proves that they are reliable and brave.
(xi) Kodavus have contradictory traits. Support the statement with reference
to the text. [2022, 30-40 words]
Ans. The Kodavus are well-known for their hospitality and are fierce
tooThey are harmony cherishing and are known for their love for
neighbours. On the other hand, they are also known for their bravery
and boldness. They are the only martial race in India, who are allowed
to possess guns without a permit.
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Justify the opinion that the traditional baker and his bread play a
significant role in the cultural and social fabric of Goan society.
Ans. The traditional baker and his bread play a significant role in the cultural
and social fabric of Goan society.
the Portuguese introduced their famous loaves of bread to Goa - they
left but the bread-makers remained, and their age-old, time-tested
furnaces still exist.
The baker's bread was not just a food item, but it was an essential part
of Goan cuisine and culture - not just a staple food item but also
served as a symbol of social and economic status
The traditional baker and his bread -- played a vital role in local
commerce -- baker would sell his bread by going from house to house
-- a critical role in local distribution and trade
bread-making tradition -- passed down from one generation to the next
-- many bakers continuing the family profession to this day
continued existence of these bakers and their furnaces represents a
living connection to Goa's cultural and culinary heritage -- continues
to be cherished and celebrated by the local community.

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK & AMANDA

(xii) You have been chosen to address the school assembly, to speak on the
epistemology of loss and the resilience of the human spirit during times
of crisis. Prepare the speech draft, with reference to You may begin this
way : Good morning everyone. Today, re that offer a powerful insight
into how to deal with loss and the resilience of the human spirit required
during times of crisis. You may end this way : ........................ . Thank
you.

Answer:

Good morning everyone.

Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight
into how to deal with loss and the resilience of the human spirit required during
times of crisis: "The Ball Poem" by John Berryman and "From the Diary of
Anne Frank".

In "The Ball Poem", the boy learns about loss when his ball is lost forever. This
poem reflects on how we must face and accept loss as a part of life, teaching us
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resilience through hardship.

Similarly, Anne Frank's diary captures her resilience while hiding from the
Nazis during World War II. Her words illustrate how hope, courage, and the
strength to endure adversity can sustain us through even the darkest times.

To conclude, I'd like to say that both pieces remind us that while loss is
inevitable, our ability to endure and grow from it defines our resilience as
individuals.
(xiii) Kitty plays a vital role in Anne’s life. Elucidate.
Anne was a very shy and introvert girl. She had friends but none with whom
she could share her secrets. She never confided in any of them. On her
thirteenth birthday, she was presented a red and white checkered diary by her
parents. The first sight of the diary had made Anne grow liking to it and she
started making entry of her deep thoughts and feelings into it. She gave it a
name Kitty" and in all her entries, she had referred to it as "Dear Kitty".
There was no aspect of her life which she had not mentioned in the diary.
Whenever she found time she spent it with the diary She confided about the
teenage- desires, her friends, her fears, her loneliness-in fact everything in the
diary. She pen down all her thoughts and feelings in the diary and diary
(Kitty) also listens to Annie without giving any sour or sweet advises and
preconceptions. She always felt the need of a true friend, with whom she
could confide everything, She found that true friend in her Kitty
(xiv) In every alternate stanza, Amanda drifts into fantasy and yearns for more
freedom and silence. Justify and elaborate the reason. (Amanda)
Answer:

Amanda drifts into fantasy in every alternate stanza because it offers her a
refuge from constant commands and criticism in real life. These fantasies
allow her to escape into worlds where she can experience freedom, silence,
and independence. The contrast between her real-life constraints and the
tranquility of her fantasies underscores her desire for autonomy and a break
from being monitored and judged.
Summarise the role of the use of parentheses in the poem ‘Amanda!’.
In the poem 'Amanda!' by Robin Klein, parentheses serve several critical
purposes that enhance the reader's understanding of the protagonist’s internal
struggles. The use of parentheses allows the speaker to include important,
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almost asides about the character Amanda, which adds depth to her personality
and highlights her feelings of confinement. Stanzas 2, 4 and 6 are given in
parenthesis because they exhibit the inner thoughts and reaction of Amanda as
she receives instructions from her mother given in stanzas 1, 3 and 5. As there is
an alternate sequence of scolding by Amanda’s mother, she gives a
corresponding reaction to it on the following stanzas in parenthesis. the use of
paranthesis illustrates Amanda's restless spirit yearning for freedom from
societal norms

(xv) Summarize the role of teacher-student relationship, class atmosphere and

discipline in the lesson, ‘From the Diary of Anne Frank’.
“The diary of Anne Frank” clearly describes the teacher-student
relationship, class atmosphere and discipline. Anne who talks a lot in
the class gets punished by Mr Keesing her Maths teacher. He asks her
to write essays as punishment which is learning in disguise because he
wanted her to focus on studies. He cannot be blamed for the
punishment as he did it for the development of Anne. The teacher-
student relationship is very respectful and sacred. It is about discipline
and classroom manners which are essential for every student as well
as teacher, otherwise both teaching or learning could hamper. This
relationship is clearly shown in Mr Keesing and Anne Frank actions as
they both try to joke on each other but in very humorous and healthy
manner. So this healthy relationship is needed everywhere in the class
for effective teaching and learning.
(xvi) Both the lessons, From the Diary of Anne Frank and Madam Rides the
Bus talk about young girls caving their way through various difficulties
and problems that come across them and do something unique. Examine
the similarities and differences between them.
Ans: From the Diary of Anne Frank and Madam Rides the Bus share
insights on the resilience of two young girls, Anne Frank and Valli.
Both displayed incredible courage and determination despite facing
very different circumstances.

Anne Frank, a Jewish girl during World War II, showed remarkable
strength while hiding from the Nazis. Through her diary, she
expressed her hopes and fears, inspiring millions with her indomitable
spirit.
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Valli, from the story "Madam Rides the Bus," was a young girl with a
strong desire to explore the world. Despite her limited means, she
saved money and faced challenges to fulfill her dream of riding a bus
and seeing the world beyond her village.

While Anne faced the horrors of war, Valli tackled the challenges of
her everyday life. Both girls, however, shared a common trait:
resilience. They demonstrated that no matter the situation,
determination and courage can help us overcome difficulties.

The stories of Anne Frank and Valli teach us that resilience and a
strong spirit can guide us through even the toughest times. Their
stories inspire us to be brave and never give up on our dreams.
(xvii) Anne called 26th July a ‘tumultuous’ day. Explain the reasons behind it.

Answer: Anne called 26th July a tumultous day as it was full of

tension and fright. The first warning siren was sent off in the morning
but nobody paid any attention to it because it only meant that the
planes were crossing the coast. The siren alarmed again around 2
O’clock in the afternoon. Anne and her sister went upstairs but after
five minutes they heard loud gunshots. After half an hour, drone of
engines faded and life became normal. The city was enveloped in
thick fog. But after dinner time, there was another gun-fire round and
swarms of planes. The air was buzz with the drone of engines.
Nobody was able to sleep that night because it repeated again at
midnight.

MIDNIGHT VISITOR
(xviii)Despite his unusual appearance, Ausable s presence of mind helped him
get rid of Max. Comment with reference to the story The Midnight
Visitor .
(xix) Who was Henry? What role did he play in Ausable’s plan?
(xx) Evaluate how Ausable’s character is in total contrast with his appearance
and he turns out to be a smart, quick witted and intelligent detective
unlike Fowler’s expectations.
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(xxi) With reference to The Midnight Visitor’, do you think presence of mind
should be developed and to what advantage? Elaborate highlighting the
characteristics of Ausable

FOOTPRINTS WITHOUT FEET

(xxii) A character arc is the transformation or development of a character

throughout a story and refers to the changes a character undergoes as a
result of his/her experiences, challenges and interactions with other
characters. In light of the above information, trace the character arc of
Griffin in H.G. Wells Footprints without Feet .
Ans. Griffin is a mad scientist who uses his scientific advancement for the
wrong reasons. He becomes invisible and then sets the landlord’s house on
fire. He escapes and only the muddy footprints are visible. Then he enters a
closed store, looking for warmth, sleeps through the night and on being
discovered, hits the storekeeper. Then he again steals things like props from
a theatre store. Griffin is an anti-social and anti-law. He wants to escape the
city and his search for solitude takes him to the village of Iping. There also,
his irritant nature leads him to hit people and enter into fights. Finally, the
policeman Jaffers is called in to catch the invisible man who creates a lot of
ruckus.
(xxiii)“Scientists contribute to make this place a better place.” Griffin is an anti
thesis to this statement. Justify.
Ans. Griffin is a violent man who resorts to destruction. He uses his
scientific research to rob his landlord. Once he is caught sleeping in a store
in London, he attacks the storekeeper. At the in at Iping, he attacks the
owners by becoming invisible. Thus, he misuse the scientific advancements.
(xxiv) Evaluate how Griffin's character is shaped by a combination of personal
ambition, the unintended consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the
reactions of the society he faces.

Personal anbittion
i. Griffin is driven by alstrong desire to make scientific advances,
demonstrating exceptional intellectual ambition and dedication..
ii. He prioritises selfish aims over social or ethical considerations, as
seen by his willingness to isolate himself for experimentation.
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Unintended Consequences of Scientific Pursuits

i. Being invisible makes him physically vulnerable, leading to thievery
and fraud for basic survival needs such as warmth and food.

ii. Invisibility can cause paranoia and detachment from human

relationships, affecting one's perception and interactions with the
world.
* Reactions of the Society He Faces
i. Initially, society reacts with wonder and dread but quickly becomes
hostile as Griffin's activities worsen.
ii. Griffin's aggressive behaviour and society's fear lead to a cyde of
reprisal, further alienating him.
iii. Lack of understanding from others about his condition and
requirements leads to resentment and estrangement, which fuels his
hostile attitude
(xxv) How would you assess Griffin as a scientist? [2020, 100-150 words]
Ans. Griffin was a brilliant scientist, as he discovered the scientific
formula to make a human body invisible. This was indeed a big
achievement in science but he seemed to enjoy the feeling of power
when he became invisible. He misused his discovery to satisfy his
personal needs and got sadistic pleasure by hurting others. Although
he was brilliant in his job, but he was not a noble scientist who made
contribution to the larger benefit of society. His discovery of
invisibility was therefore, done just for his own benefit.

(xxvi) A brilliant scientist though he was, Griffin misused his scientific

discovery. Illustrate this point by giving any two examples from the
story. [2020, 100-150 words]
Ans. Griffin was brilliant as a scientist. He had found a way by which
a human could become invisible. He himself became invisible a
number of times and his experiment was a huge hit. His invention
could have been used for the welfare of science as well as mankind if
he used it in a proper way but he chose to use his invention for his
own selfish needs.
When he ran out of money, he decided to steal money from the house
of a clergyman and to do so he misused his own invention. When
everyone suspected him and called the police, he even tried to escape
from the chase of the police.
 15

One more crime that he committed after misusing his invention was
burning the house of his landlord when the landlord asked him to
empty his house.
(xxvii) iscoveries of science can be used for the welfare of mankind as
well as for its destruction. How is this applicable to Griffin’s
scientific discovery? Explain giving examples from the text. [2020,
100-150 words]
Ans. Discoveries of science can be used for the welfare of mankind as
well as for its destruction. This is completely applicable to griffin’s
scientific discovery. Griffin as a scientist was brilliant. He had found a
way by which a human can become invisible. He himself became
invisible a number of times and his experiment was a huge hit. His
invention could have been used for the welfare of science as well as
mankind if he used it in a proper way but he chose to use his invention
for his own selfish needs.
When he ran out of money, he decided to steal money from the house
of a clergyman and when police chased him he escaped. One more
crime that he committed after misusing his invention was burning the
house of his landlord when the landlord asked him to empty his house.

A QUESTION OF TRUST

(xxviii) Horace Danby represents such people who adopt the wrong ways
to fulfil their wishes. What values would you like such people to imbibe
to reform themselves? (A Question of Trust)