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Chapter 15: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar solved
Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 15: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar (Total English) workbook solved, which comprises Articles, Critical Composition, Letters of Complaint, and Practice Paper – 15. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
If you notice any errors in the notes, please mention them in the comments
Articles
Assignment
I. Insert ‘a’ or ‘an’ where required in the gaps in the following sentences. Put a “” mark where no article is required.
1. Their function turned out to be quite ……….. occasion.
Answer: an
Explanation: We use “an” because the word that comes next, “occasion,” starts with a vowel sound, like ‘o’. Think of it like this: if a word sounds like it starts with a, e, i, o, or u, it gets an “an” in front of it.
2. She took ……….. pen and wrote ………. letter.
Answer: a, a
Explanation: The word “pen” starts with a ‘p’ sound, and “letter” starts with an ‘l’ sound. These are consonant sounds. We use “a” before words that start with consonant sounds.
3. ………….glass, unlike ………… water, is……….. poor conductor of …………electricity.
Answer: *, *, a, *
Explanation: “Glass” (the material), “water,” and “electricity” are things you can’t count one-by-one, so they are called uncountable nouns. We usually don’t put “a” or “an” before them when talking about them in general. However, “poor conductor” is a single, countable thing, and “poor” starts with a ‘p’ sound (a consonant), so we say “a poor conductor.”
4. He needs ………… few books from the library.
Answer: a
Explanation: The phrase “a few” means “some” or a small number. If we just say “few books,” it means “almost no books.” Since he needs books from the library, it makes more sense that he needs some books, so we use “a few.”
5. I have only read ………… little of the book so far.
Answer: a
Explanation: Just like with “a few,” the phrase “a little” means a small amount of something. If we say “little of the book,” it means “almost none of the book.” The sentence says the person has “only read” some of it, so “a little” is the right choice to show a small amount has been read.
6. Sibia did………… exemplary act by saving the life of a woman.
Answer: an
Explanation: The word “exemplary” starts with a vowel sound (‘e’). When a word starts with a vowel sound, we put “an” before it.
7. I prefer …………classical music to ……… rock music.
Answer: *, *
Explanation: “Classical music” and “rock music” are general ideas or types of things that we can’t count. Just like you would say “I like juice,” not “I like a juice,” we don’t use an article here because we are talking about these types of music in general.
8. Not many people liked the film, but quite ………… few liked its ………… story.
Answer: a, *
Explanation: The phrase “a few” means a small number. “Quite a few” is a common expression that means a fairly large number. For the second blank, the word “story” already has the word “its” before it. “Its” tells us which story we are talking about, so we don’t need to add “a” or “an.”
9. He takes …………. glass of ………… water before going to play football.
Answer: a, *
Explanation: We are talking about one single “glass,” which you can count, so we say “a glass.” “Water” is something you can’t count, and in the phrase “a glass of water,” it doesn’t need its own article.
10. He can’t afford such …….. expensive shirt.
Answer: an
Explanation: When we use the word “such” before a single item, we need to add “a” or “an.” Because the next word, “expensive,” starts with a vowel sound (‘e’), we must use “an.” It flows better to say “such an expensive shirt.”
II. Insert the definite article where required in the following sentences. Put a ‘x’ mark where no article is required.
1. ……….. earlier everybody agrees, ……….. sooner we can start our journey.
Answer: The, the
Explanation: This is a special sentence structure that shows one thing causes another. Think of it like a pair: “The more you eat, the bigger you get.” We use “the” before the first comparing word (“earlier”) and “the” before the second comparing word (“sooner”) to show they are connected.
2. ……….. more he works ……….. more tired he looks.
Answer: The, the
Explanation: This is just like the first question. It’s a pair that shows a connection. Because he works more, he looks more tired. To show this cause-and-effect link, we put “the” in front of both comparing words: “The more he works, the more tired he looks.”
3. ……….. oil is vital to ……….. economy of America.
Answer: x, the
Explanation: In the first blank, we are talking about “oil” in general, not a specific bottle of oil. When we talk about something general like this, we don’t need an article. In the second blank, we are not talking about just any economy, but the specific economy that belongs to America. Because it is a particular one, we must use “the”.
4. ……….. dosas are made of ……….. rice.
Answer: x, x
Explanation: Here, we are talking about “dosas” and “rice” in a general way. We are not pointing to some specific dosas on a plate or a specific bag of rice. Since we are talking generally about what all dosas are made of, we don’t need to use an article in either blank.
5. ……….. vase we bought ……….. last month needs polishing.
Answer: The, x
Explanation: Which vase needs polishing? Not just any vase, but the specific one “we bought”. The words “we bought” make it a particular vase, so we use “the”. For the second blank, with time phrases like “last month,” “next week,” or “yesterday,” we don’t use an article. It’s a time rule.
6. ……….. office he was working in was on ……….. loan from ……….. bank.
Answer: The, x, a
Explanation: We are talking about the specific office “he was working in,” so we use “the”. The phrase “on loan” is a fixed expression, and we don’t put an article in the middle of it. Finally, the sentence doesn’t say which bank it was, just that it was one bank out of many. So we use “a” to mean any single, non-specific bank.
7. It was on ……….. fifth of ……….. month that he got his salary.
Answer: the, the
Explanation: We always use “the” before ordinal numbers like “first,” “second,” or “fifth.” So it’s “the fifth.” Which month are we talking about? The specific month when he got his salary. Since the context makes it a particular month, we also use “the”.
8. He went abroad at ……….. age of 18.
Answer: the
Explanation: The phrase “at the age of” is a standard, fixed expression we use to say how old someone was when something happened. The words just go together that way, so we always use “the” in this phrase.
9. ……….. old man was taken to ……….. hospital.
Answer: The, x
Explanation: The sentence is likely talking about a particular old man that we already know about from the story, so we use “the”. When someone goes to a place like a hospital, school, or church for its main purpose (to get treatment, to study, to pray), we don’t use “the”. He was taken “to hospital” because he was sick.
10. I doubt if ……….. man will ever be able to avoid ……….. war.
Answer: x, x
Explanation: In the first blank, “man” is used to mean all of humanity or mankind, not just one person. When “man” is used in this general sense, we don’t use an article. In the second blank, “war” refers to the general idea of war, not a specific war. When we talk about big, abstract ideas in general, we don’t use an article.
Critical Composition
Assignment
Write a composition on any one of the following:
(i) Your class has staged The Merchant of Venice by Shakespeare. Write a short article for your school magazine giving an analysis of the play. You may comment on the characters, stage presentation, costumes, light effects and other elements of the drama.
Answer: A Night in Venice: A Triumph on Stage
Last Friday, the school auditorium was transformed into the streets of Venice and the grand halls of Belmont as our class presented William Shakespeare’s timeless play, The Merchant of Venice. The production was a remarkable achievement, bringing the complex story of love, prejudice, justice, and mercy to life for a captivated audience.
The play revolves around the merchant Antonio, who takes a loan from the moneylender Shylock to help his friend Bassanio woo the wealthy heiress Portia. The central theme of justice versus mercy was powerfully explored, especially in the famous courtroom scene. Our production did not shy away from the difficult questions the play raises about prejudice and human nature, making the audience reflect on these issues long after the final curtain.
The characterisations were a standout feature of the evening. The student playing Shylock delivered a compelling performance, portraying him not as a simple villain but as a complex man hardened by persecution. His delivery of the “Hath not a Jew eyes?” monologue was particularly moving. The portrayal of Portia was equally strong, capturing her wit, intelligence, and grace, especially when disguised as the young lawyer Balthazar. The bond between Antonio and Bassanio was also presented with genuine warmth.
The technical aspects of the drama greatly enhanced the performance. The stage presentation used a minimalist set, which allowed for quick scene changes between Venice and Belmont. The costumes were beautifully designed, with the rich, colourful attire of the Venetian nobles contrasting with Shylock’s sombre clothing, effectively highlighting the social divides. Light effects were used to create a distinct atmosphere for each setting; the cold, harsh lighting of the courtroom created a tense mood, while the soft, warm lights of Belmont suggested romance and hope.
Overall, the staging of The Merchant of Venice was a resounding success. It was a testament to the hard work and talent of the students, both on stage and behind the scenes. The performance was not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, offering a fresh look at a literary classic.
(ii) During a recent film festival, you have seen an Indian film. Write an account of the film highlighting the plot, characterisation and acting.
Answer: ‘Gaon’: A Story of the Soil
During the recent Indian Film Festival, I had the opportunity to watch a film titled ‘Gaon’. It was a moving drama that offered a realistic look into the life of a farming community struggling against drought and debt. The film stood out for its simple yet powerful narrative and its exceptional performances.
The plot follows the story of Ramnath, a small-scale farmer whose village is facing its third consecutive year of failed monsoons. He is under immense pressure from a local moneylender and must find a way to save his family and his land. The story is not just about one man’s struggle but reflects the larger crisis faced by countless farmers in the country. It highlights their resilience and their deep connection to the land they cultivate.
The characterisation was the film’s greatest strength. Ramnath, played by a veteran actor, was portrayed with incredible authenticity. His quiet determination and moments of despair felt completely real. The audience could feel the weight of his burdens in his tired eyes and weary posture. His wife, Sita, was another well-drawn character, a pillar of strength who supports her husband through the toughest of times. The acting was natural and understated across the board, from the main leads to the supporting cast who made up the village community. The actor playing the heartless moneylender was also convincing, creating a character that the audience truly disliked.
‘Gaon’ is a film that tells an important story with honesty and compassion. The plot is straightforward, but the emotional depth comes from the superb acting and the realistic portrayal of its characters. It is an account of hardship, but also of hope and the strength of community. The film successfully connects the audience to the lives of people who are often forgotten, making it a memorable and significant cinematic experience.
(iii) Write a review of a book you purchased during the recent Book Fair.
Answer: ‘The Last Mapmaker’: A Journey of Discovery
Among the many treasures I found at the recent Book Fair, one that truly stands out is ‘The Last Mapmaker’ by author Rohan Das. This historical adventure novel is a captivating read that combines a thrilling plot with rich character development, making it a book I could not put down.
The story is set in the 16th century and follows a young apprentice named Kael who works for a renowned mapmaker in a port city. Kael dreams of adventure and gets his chance when he is tasked with joining a perilous sea voyage to chart an unknown part of the world. The plot is full of twists and turns, with dangerous storms, mysterious islands, and rival explorers threatening the mission at every step. The central theme of the book is discovery—not just of new lands, but of one’s own courage and identity.
The characters are wonderfully written. Kael is a relatable protagonist, and the reader follows his transformation from a timid boy into a confident young man. The ship’s captain, a stern but wise old sailor, serves as his mentor, and their relationship is a core part of the story. The author’s style is descriptive and vivid, painting a clear picture of life on a sailing ship and the wonders and dangers of the open sea. The writing is accessible and fast-paced, which keeps the reader engaged throughout the journey.
I would highly recommend ‘The Last Mapmaker’ to anyone who enjoys adventure stories and historical fiction. It is a well-researched and exciting novel that transports you to another time and place. It is more than just a story about making maps; it is an inspiring tale about charting your own course in life. It was certainly the best purchase I made at the Book Fair.
Letters of Complaint
Assignment
Attempt one of the following:
(i) You have noted that the local bus service has become very inefficient in recent weeks. Buses are infrequent and sometimes three or four are going to the same place at the same time. On other occasions, buses with empty seats fail to stop for you. Write a letter to the General Manager of the Transport Corporation complaining about the service.
Answer:
15, Park Street
Kolkata – 700016
10 July 2024
To
The General Manager
Kolkata State Transport Corporation
45, B.T. Road
Kolkata – 700002
Subject: Complaint regarding inefficient local bus service
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the poor and inefficient bus service in our area, specifically on the Park Street route (Route No. 42). For the past several weeks, the service has become very unreliable, causing great inconvenience to daily commuters like myself.
The main problem is the infrequency of the buses. The waiting time has increased, and often we have to wait for more than thirty minutes for a bus. To make matters worse, sometimes three or four buses on the same route arrive at the same time, one after another. This irregular scheduling is very frustrating. Additionally, there have been several instances where buses with plenty of empty seats have not stopped at the designated bus stop, leaving many passengers stranded, especially during peak hours. This behaviour from the bus drivers is unacceptable.
These issues are causing a lot of hardship for people who depend on public transport to get to work and school on time. I request you to please look into this matter urgently and take necessary steps to improve the bus service. Regularising the bus timings and ensuring that drivers stop at all designated stops would greatly help the commuters.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Yours faithfully,
Arjun Sharma
(ii) Your tenant who lives on the second floor has a habit of playing a musical instrument loudly at night, which disturbs you, specially during the examination days. Complain to him/her and suggest what steps he/she could take to solve the problem.
Answer:
A-4, Green Apartments
Model Town
Delhi – 110009
25 February 2024
To
Mr. Rohan Kapoor
B-8, Green Apartments (Second Floor)
Model Town
Delhi – 110009
Subject: Complaint about loud music at night
Dear Mr. Kapoor,
I am writing to you today about a matter that has been causing some disturbance to my family. I live on the first floor, just below your flat, and I wanted to talk about the loud music that is often played late at night.
I understand that you are fond of playing a musical instrument, and I appreciate your passion for music. However, the volume is often very high, especially after 10 p.m. This loud noise makes it difficult for my family and me to sleep. My children are currently preparing for their final examinations, and they need a peaceful environment to study and rest. The disturbance at night is affecting their concentration and their performance in school.
I would be very grateful if you could take some steps to solve this problem. Perhaps you could consider playing your instrument at a lower volume in the evenings. Using headphones might be another good solution that would allow you to enjoy your music without disturbing others. I hope you will understand our situation and cooperate with us. I am sure we can resolve this matter in a friendly way.
Thank you for your understanding.
Yours sincerely,
Sunil Verma
Practice Paper – 15
Question 1
(Do not spend more than 30 minutes on this question.)
Write a composition (300 – 350 words) on any one of the following:
(i) Write a short story which illustrates the truth of the statement, “Actions speak louder than words.”
Answer: The True Helper
In a small village lived a wealthy man named Mr. Verma. He was known for his long speeches about helping the poor. At every village gathering, he would talk for hours about the importance of charity and kindness. He would say, “We must always help those in need. It is our duty.” The villagers would clap and praise him for his noble words. However, no one had ever seen him actually give anything to the poor.
In the same village lived a simple baker named Ravi. He was not a rich man and rarely spoke at public gatherings. He worked hard every day in his small bakery. While Mr. Verma was busy making speeches, Ravi was quietly helping people. Every morning, he would set aside a few loaves of bread for the hungry children who passed by his shop. He never spoke about it. If someone was sick in the village, Ravi would be the first to send them some soup and bread. During the cold winters, he would give away old blankets from his home to those who had none.
One year, a severe flood hit the village. The river overflowed, and many houses were damaged. People lost their homes and belongings. Mr. Verma called a meeting. He gave a long, emotional speech about how sad he was for the villagers. He promised to help them and said he would do everything he could. The villagers listened patiently.
Meanwhile, Ravi had already started working. He opened his bakery and started making bread and biscuits for everyone. He used all his flour and savings to feed the hungry people. He did not make any announcements or speeches. He simply saw a need and acted. He worked day and night, without any rest. The villagers saw Ravi’s hard work and selflessness. They realized who their true friend was. They understood that Mr. Verma’s grand words were empty, while Ravi’s simple actions were full of real kindness. From that day on, they respected Ravi more than anyone else. They had learned a valuable lesson: actions truly do speak louder than words.
(ii) Narrate an incident when it was necessary to tell the truth irrespective of the consequences.
Answer: The Broken Vase
Last summer, my cousin Sameer and I were playing cricket in the living room. Our parents had warned us not to play inside the house, but we were too excited to listen. I was batting, and Sameer was bowling. He threw the ball a bit too fast. I swung the bat hard, missed the ball completely, and it flew straight towards my mother’s favourite crystal vase, which was kept on a corner table. There was a loud crash. The vase was in pieces on the floor.
We both froze. We knew we were in big trouble. My mother loved that vase. It was a gift from her mother. Sameer immediately said, “Let’s just say the cat did it. No one will know.” I was scared, and for a moment, I thought it was a good idea. But then I remembered what my grandfather always told me: “A single lie can lead to a hundred more. Always tell the truth, no matter how hard it is.”
My heart was pounding when my mother came into the room. She saw the broken vase and her face fell. “What happened?” she asked, her voice calm but sad. Sameer stayed silent, looking at the floor. I knew this was the moment. I could lie and escape the punishment, or I could tell the truth and face the consequences.
I took a deep breath and said, “It was my fault, Mom. We were playing cricket, and I hit the ball. I am very, very sorry.” I was ready for her to scold me. I expected to be grounded for a month.
To my surprise, my mother looked at me and her expression softened. She was still sad about the vase, but she was not angry. She said, “I am upset that the vase is broken, but I am proud of you for telling the truth. It takes courage to own up to your mistakes.”
I did get a mild punishment. I was not allowed to watch television for a week. But I felt a sense of relief. I had faced the consequences, and I had not disappointed my mother’s trust in me. That day, I learned that while the truth can sometimes be difficult to tell, it is always the right thing to do. It sets you free from guilt and earns you respect.
(iii) ‘Success favours the talented.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer: Success Favours the Talented
I agree with the statement that success favours the talented. Talent is a natural ability or skill that gives a person a significant advantage in a particular field. While hard work is important, talent often provides the foundation upon which success is built. A person with a natural talent for something can achieve great results with less effort than someone who is not naturally gifted in that area.
Consider the world of sports. A person may practice basketball for years, but if they do not have the natural height, agility, and coordination, they may never reach the level of a naturally talented player like Michael Jordan. Similarly, in music, a person with a natural gift for singing or playing an instrument can create beautiful music more easily. They have an inborn sense of rhythm and melody that cannot be fully taught. While they still need to practice, their talent gives them a head start and allows them to reach greater heights.
In academics as well, some students have a natural ability to understand complex subjects like mathematics or physics. They can grasp concepts quickly and solve problems with ease, while others may struggle despite hours of study. This natural aptitude often leads to better grades and more opportunities for success in their chosen careers.
Of course, talent alone is not enough. It must be combined with hard work, dedication, and perseverance. A talented person who is lazy will not achieve much. However, when talent is paired with effort, the potential for success is immense. Talent acts like a powerful engine; hard work is the fuel that makes it run. Therefore, it is clear that having a natural talent gives a person a distinct advantage and makes them more likely to achieve success in their field. Success, in many ways, does favour the talented.
(iv) You were sleeping on your terrace at night and suddenly got up hearing a strange noise. You were shocked to see an alien landing on your terrace from a spacecraft. Describe the appearance of the alien and narrate what happened thereafter.
Answer: A Visitor from the Stars
The summer night was warm and I was sleeping peacefully on the terrace of my house. Sometime after midnight, a strange humming sound woke me up. I sat up, rubbing my eyes. A bright, colourful light was descending from the sky. I was scared and amazed at the same time. A small, shiny spacecraft, shaped like a saucer, landed silently on my terrace just a few feet away from me.
A door slid open, and a creature stepped out. It was unlike anything I had ever seen. It was not a scary monster like in the movies. It was about four feet tall, with smooth, light blue skin that seemed to glow faintly in the dark. It had large, dark eyes that looked full of curiosity, not anger. It had no hair, but its head was big and round. It had long, thin arms and legs, with three fingers on each hand. It was wearing a silver suit that shimmered under the moonlight. I was too shocked to move or scream.
The alien creature looked at me and made a soft, musical sound. It did not seem to be a threat. It raised one of its hands, and a small beam of light shot out from its fingertip, creating a holographic image in the air between us. The image showed stars, planets, and galaxies. Then it showed its own planet, which looked beautiful and green. The alien pointed to a part of the image that showed its spacecraft with a broken part. I realised it was trying to tell me that its ship was damaged and it had to make an emergency landing.
I slowly stood up. I did not know what to do. I pointed to my toolbox, which was lying in a corner. The alien seemed to understand. It walked towards the toolbox, picked up a wrench, and went back to its ship. For the next hour, I watched in wonder as it expertly repaired its spacecraft. It moved with grace and precision.
When it was done, it turned to me again. The holographic image appeared once more, and this time it showed the alien waving goodbye. It made the same musical sound again, which I now understood was its way of saying thank you. It stepped back into its spacecraft, the door closed, and the ship rose silently into the night sky. It flew away, leaving behind a trail of colourful light. I stood there on the terrace for a long time, looking at the stars, unable to believe what had just happened. It was a night I would never forget.
(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.
Answer: A Family by the Roadside
By the side of a dusty road, a family has made their home. Their shelters are not like the houses many people live in. They are built from bricks, pieces of tin, old cloth, and plastic sheets. These small huts stand close to a wall, and tall trees rise above them. The roofs are held down with stones so they don’t blow away in the wind.
In front of one hut, a father and mother sit on a mat. The mother holds the youngest child in her arms, while the father speaks with his hands moving as if telling a story. Around them, six children play, laugh, and watch. Their clothes are worn, and some are barefoot, yet they seem full of life. A pot for cooking and a pair of shoes lie nearby, showing how few things they own.
Life for this family is hard. They do not have strong walls or safe roofs to keep away rain and cold. Still, they have each other, and that is their biggest strength. The children, though living with very little, make their own games and find joy in each other’s company. Their smiles are like small lights shining against the roughness of their days.
The huts, made from cloth and plastic, can be seen as a picture of their struggle. Just as the shelters stand weak but firm, the family too stands together in their fight to live. The parents care for the children, and the children give hope to the parents.
This scene reminds us that happiness does not always come from big houses or new clothes. Sometimes it is found in being close to the people we love. The family, though poor in things, is rich in love and togetherness.
Question 2
(i) Write a letter to the Manager of the firm of dry-cleaners, that heavily advertises about providing best care for clothes, complaining about the damage done to the original colour of your expensive suit during dry-cleaning and seeking compensation for the same.
Answer:
21, Regent Park
Mumbai – 400050
12 March 2024
To
The Manager
Sparkle Dry-Cleaners
Shop No. 5, City Mall
Mumbai – 400052
Subject: Complaint about colour damage to a suit and request for compensation
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I recently received at your establishment. On 5th March 2024, I brought an expensive new suit to your firm for dry-cleaning. I was assured by your advertisements and staff that you provide the “best care for clothes.” The receipt number for my order is 785.
However, when I collected the suit yesterday, I was shocked to find that its original navy blue colour has faded significantly. There are now light-coloured patches on the jacket and trousers, making the suit unwearable. This is very disappointing, as I trusted your firm’s reputation for quality service. The suit was brand new and had been worn only once. The damage caused by the dry-cleaning process has completely ruined it.
Given that your firm advertises its expertise in handling delicate and expensive clothes, this level of carelessness is unacceptable. The suit cost me ₹15,000, and it is now useless because of the poor service provided by your company. I have attached a copy of the purchase receipt for the suit along with the dry-cleaning receipt.
I request you to look into this matter immediately. I expect full compensation for the cost of the suit. I hope for a prompt and positive response from your side to resolve this issue.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Vikram Singh
(ii) You went to a village on the outskirts of your city as a part of a theatre group to conduct small plays to raise awareness about the ‘Swachch Bharat Mission’. Write a letter to your grandfather describing your experience, your expectations and the lessons you learnt.
Answer:
Room No. 12, School Hostel
St. Xavier’s School
Delhi – 110054
20 October 2024
My Dearest Grandpa,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today to share a very special experience. Last weekend, my school’s theatre group visited a small village named Rampur on the outskirts of Delhi. We went there to perform some short plays to raise awareness about the ‘Swachch Bharat Mission’.
I was very excited, but also a little nervous. I expected that the villagers might not be very interested in what we had to say. I thought they might be too busy with their daily lives to pay attention to a group of school students. But I was so wrong! The villagers were very welcoming. They gathered around the small stage we had set up and watched our plays with great interest.
Our plays were simple and had a touch of humour. They showed the importance of cleanliness, using toilets, and not throwing garbage in the open. After the plays, we had a small discussion with the villagers. Many of them shared their problems and asked us questions. It was amazing to see how much they wanted to learn and bring a positive change to their village.
The experience taught me some valuable lessons, Grandpa. I learned that you don’t need to be an adult to make a difference. Even small efforts can inspire people. I also realised how important it is to connect with people in rural areas and understand their challenges. It was a humbling experience to see their simple lives and their eagerness to improve their surroundings.
I feel very hopeful now. I believe that with continued efforts, the dream of a clean India can be achieved. I will cherish this experience forever.
Please give my love to Grandma. I miss you both.
With lots of love,
Your grandson,
Amit
Question 3
(i) You are the Head Boy/Girl of your school. Write a notice asking students of classes VI to X to submit an artwork on the theme of Friendship for an art exhibition to be held in the foyer of your school on the occasion of Friendship Day.
Answer:
Springfield Senior Secondary School
NOTICE
24th September 2025
Art for Friendship
This is to inform all students of Classes VI to X that an Art Exhibition will be held in the school foyer on the occasion of Friendship Day. The theme for the exhibition is “Friendship”.
Students are invited to submit their original artwork (paintings, sketches, or digital art) for the exhibition. All entries must be on A3 size paper and should have the student’s name, class, and section written clearly on the back.
Please submit your entries to your respective art teachers on or before 30th September 2025. The selected artworks will be displayed, and the best entry will receive a special prize.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of friendship through our creativity!
Ananya Mehta
(Head Girl)
(ii) Write an email to an artist inviting him/her to the art exhibition and asking him/her to select the best entry.
Answer:
To: meenakshi.verma.art@gmail.com
Subject: Invitation to Judge Art Exhibition at Springfield Senior Secondary School
Dear Ms. Verma,
My name is Rohit Sharma, and I am the Head Boy of Springfield Senior Secondary School.
Our school is organising an Art Exhibition on the theme of “Friendship” to celebrate Friendship Day on 30th September 2025. The exhibition will showcase the creative talents of our students from Classes VI to X and will be held in the school foyer from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
We are great admirers of your work and the contribution you have made to the world of art. On behalf of our school, I would like to extend a cordial invitation to you to be our Guest of Honour for this event. Your presence would be a great source of inspiration for our budding artists.
We would also be deeply honoured if you would consent to be the judge for the exhibition and select the best entry. The prize distribution ceremony will be held at 12:30 PM on the same day.
We eagerly look forward to a positive response.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Rohit Sharma
Head Boy
Springfield Senior Secondary School
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
I see from the current columns of the daily press that “Professor Plumb, of the University of Chicago, has just invented a highly concentrated form of food. All the essential nutritive elements are put together in the form of pellets, each of which contains from one to two hundred times as much nourishment as an ounce of an ordinary article of diet. These pellets, diluted with water, will form all that is necessary to support life. The professor looks forward confidently to revolutionising the present food system.”
Now this kind of thing may be all very well in its way, but it is going to have its drawbacks as well. In the bright future anticipated by Professor Plumb, we can easily imagine such incidents as the following:
The smiling family were gathered round the hospitable board. The table was plenteously laid with a soup-plate in front of each beaming child, a bucket of hot water before the radiant mother, and at the head of the board the Christmas dinner of the happy home, warmly covered by a thimble and resting on a poker chip. The expectant whispers of the little ones were hushed as the father, rising from his chair, lifted the thimble and disclosed a small pill of concentrated nourishment on the chip before him. Christmas turkey, cranberry sauce, plum pudding, mince pie—it was all there, all jammed into that little pill and only waiting to expand. Then the father with deep reverence, and a devout eye alternating between the pill and heaven, lifted his voice in a benediction.
At this moment there was an agonised cry from the mother.
“Oh, Henry, quick! Baby has snatched the pill!” It was too true. Dear little Gustavus Adolphus, the golden-haired baby boy, had grabbed the whole Christmas dinner off the poker chip and bolted it. Three hundred and fifty pounds of concentrated nourishment passed down the oesophagus of the unthinking child.
“Clap him on the back!” cried the distracted mother. “Give him water!”
The idea was fatal. The water striking the pill caused it to expand as if the baby had eaten thirteen Christmas dinners. They rushed the child to the emergency ward and waited patiently outside.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. pellets (line 3)
(a) a small mass
(b) bullets
(c) stones
(d) small hard balls
Answer: (d) small hard balls
2. plenteously (line 11)
(a) scantily
(b) abundantly
(c) completely
(d) painfully
Answer: (b) abundantly
(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word disrespect?
(a) reverence
(b) devout
(c) thimble
(d) distracted
Answer: (a) reverence
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) What was Professor Plumb’s newly invented form of food?
Answer: Professor Plumb’s newly invented form of food was a highly concentrated pellet. Each pellet contained all the essential nutritive elements, equivalent to one to two hundred times the nourishment of an ounce of ordinary food.
(b) What was lying under the thimble?
Answer: A small pill of concentrated nourishment, which represented the entire Christmas dinner, was lying under the thimble.
(c) Why did the father raise his voice in benediction?
Answer: The father raised his voice in benediction because he was treating the serving of the Christmas dinner pill with deep, religious reverence, as if it were a sacred moment.
(d) What did the little baby, Gustavus Adolphus do with the pill?
Answer: The little baby, Gustavus Adolphus, snatched the pill from the poker chip and swallowed it whole.
(e) Whose idea was fatal and why?
Answer: The mother’s idea to give the baby water was fatal. It was fatal because the water caused the highly concentrated pill to expand massively inside the child’s oesophagus, equivalent to the baby having eaten thirteen Christmas dinners at once.
(iv) Describe the drawback of the food developed by Professor Plumb. Answer in not more than fifty words.
Answer: The primary drawback of Professor Plumb’s food is its extreme concentration. A single, tiny pill contains an enormous amount of nourishment. If accidentally consumed in excess, or if mixed with water after being swallowed whole, it can expand dangerously inside the body, leading to fatal consequences as illustrated by the baby’s story.
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.
Example: (0) residential
During the Vedic period, Gurukuls were ….0…. (resident) schools where shisyas (learners) ….1…. (receive) formal education. Gurus were ….2…. (instruct) as well as practitioners of their subject which ….3…. (facilitate) students in having deep insights about the practical ….4…. (signify) of their ….5…. (education) domain.
In the Vedic era, ….6…. (teach) followed an interesting trilogy of ….7…. (listen), contemplation and realisation of the knowledge imparted by the instructor. The trilogy urged the learners to deliberate and practice the instructions till they became a part of their life and ….8…. (exist).
Answer:
(1) received
(2) instructors
(3) facilitated
(4) significance
(5) educational
(6) teaching
(7) listening
(8) existence
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
(a) We should not deviate …… from …… our objective.
Answer: from
(b) His lack of manners will be held …… against …… him.
Answer: against
(c) She has enough assets to fall back …… on …… in her old age.
Answer: on
(d) The soldiers fought …… to …… the last man.
Answer: to
(e) Aarti has a craving …… for …… more money.
Answer: for
(f) Yash promised to come but he never turned …… up …… .
Answer: up
(g) The family always failed …… for …… want of money.
Answer: for
(h) There was a dispute …… between …… the father and the son.
Answer: between
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option.
1. How shall we arrange the room for the party? I do not know.
(a) I do not know how we are to arrange the room for the party.
(b) I do not know how we shall arrange the room for the party.
(c) I do not know to arrange the room for the party.
(d) I do not know if we can arrange the room for the party.
Answer: (a) I do not know how we are to arrange the room for the party.
2. Pull the chain. The train will stop.
(a) Pull the chain if the train stops.
(b) The train stops before pulling the chain.
(c) The train will stop unless the chain is pulled.
(d) The train will stop if you pull the chain.
Answer: (d) The train will stop if you pull the chain.
3. A fisherman saved me. Otherwise I would have drowned.
(a) Had the fisherman saved me, I would have drowned.
(b) If the fisherman had not saved me, I would have drowned.
(c) If the fisherman had not saved me, otherwise would have drowned.
(d) Unless the fisherman had not saved me, I would have drowned.
Answer: (b) If the fisherman had not saved me, I would have drowned.
4. A deer defends its young ones. It fights with courage.
(a) A deer fights by courage to defend its young ones.
(b) A deer that fight courageously defend its young ones.
(c) A deer fights courageously to defend its young ones.
(d) A deer fights from courage defending its young ones.
Answer: (c) A deer fights courageously to defend its young ones.
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
1. He requested her to wait there till he returned. (End with: … till I return.”)
(a) He requested her, “Wait there till I return”.
(b) He asked her, “Wait here till he return”
(c) He said to her, “Wait here till I return.”
(d) He says to her, “Wait here till I return.”
Answer: (c) He said to her, “Wait here till I return.”
2. The musician performed admirably on the stage. (Begin with: The musician’s …)
(a) The musician’s performance on the stage was admirable.
(b) The musician’s performance was admired on the stage.
(c) The musician’s performance got admiration on stage.
(d) The musician’s performed on the stage admirably.
Answer: (a) The musician’s performance on the stage was admirable.
3. He is said to have been in the Indian Army. (Begin with: People…)
(a) People say that he has been in the Indian Army.
(b) People said that he was in the Indian Army.
(c) People say that he has been from the Indian Army.
(d) People said that he had been in the Indian Army.
Answer: (a) People say that he has been in the Indian Army.
4. We will not buy the book if we do not like it. (Begin with: Unless…)
(a) Unless we do not like the book, we will not buy it.
(b) Unless the book is liked by us, we will buy it.
(c) Unless we liked the book, we will not buy it.
(d) Unless we like the book, we will not buy it.
Answer: (d) Unless we like the book, we will not buy it.
5. Hydrogen is the lightest of all gases. (Use: lighter)
(a) Hydrogen is lighter than of all gases.
(b) Hydrogen is lighter than any other gas.
(c) Hydrogen is the lighter gas.
(d) Of all gases, hydrogen is the lighter.
Answer: (b) Hydrogen is lighter than any other gas.
6. He needed the money to pay off his debt. (Use: for)
(a) He needed the money for pay off of his debt.
(b) He needed the money for his debt to be paid off.
(c) He needed the money for his debt paid.
(d) He needed the money for payment of debt.
Answer: (d) He needed the money for payment of debt.
7. Ravi said, “I am going to watch a movie tonight.” (Begin with: Ravi said that…)
(a) Ravi said that he is going to watch a movie this night.
(b) Ravi said that I am going to watch a movie that night.
(c) Ravi said that he was going to watch a movie that night.
(d) Ravi said that I was going to watch a movie that night.
Answer: (c) Ravi said that he was going to watch a movie that night.
8. My mother cooks delicious food. (Begin with: Delicious…)
(a) Delicious food is cooked by my mother.
(b) Delicious food is being cooked by my mother.
(c) Delicious food has been cooked by my mother.
(d) Delicious food was cooked by my mother.
Answer: (a) Delicious food is cooked by my mother.
