CBSE Class VIII English Poorvi Unit 3 MYSTERY AND MAGIC — SPECTACULAR WONDERS Questions and Answers

UNIT 3: MYSTERY AND MAGIC — SPECTACULAR WONDERS

Let us do these activities before we read

I. Look at the pictures given below and sort them into natural and man-made wonders.

Figure 1: Natural and Man-Made Wonders of India

• Natural: 1, 3, 5, 6, and 8
• Man-made: 2, 4, and 7

II. Which of these wonders—man-made or natural—are more appealing and why? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Natural wonders are more appealing to me because they display the untouched power, beauty, and creativity of nature without any human interference. However, man-made wonders are also impressive as they reflect human intelligence, skill, and ancient architectural heritage.

III. Work in pairs. Write down two wonders of nature that have amazed you. Discuss what makes them impressive. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. The Grand Canyon: Its sheer depth, immense scale, and colorful rock layers carved over millions of years by water make it incredibly impressive.
2. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): The dazzling display of colorful lights glowing across the night sky due to atmospheric solar reactions is truly magical.

IV. Work in groups of four. Complete the web chart given below with words that you associate with the phrase, 'Nature's Power'. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Figure 2: Nature's Power Web Chart Concept

Words associated with Nature's Power:

• Majestic
• Forceful
• Unpredictable
• Awe-inspiring
• Ever-changing
• Breathtaking

Let us discuss

I. Complete the information in the table given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Amazing Natural Phenomena	Location	One Unique Feature
1. The Valley of Flowers	Chamoli district, Uttarakhand	Around 600 species of exotic flowers
2. The Living Root Bridges	Meghalaya	Bridges made of intertwined live plant roots built by indigenous people, lasting hundreds of years
3. The Lonar Crater Lake	Buldhana district, Maharashtra	India's only meteorite impact crater formed in basaltic rock
4. Magnetic Hills	Leh district, Ladakh	An optical illusion where parked vehicles appear to roll uphill
5. Glowing Waters	Kumbalangi village, Kerala	Bioluminescence causing night waters to glow due to high concentrations of micro-planktons
6. The Sundarbans	West Bengal	Mangrove forest in river deltas where tree roots take root underwater in low-oxygen soil
7. The Invisible Chandipur Beach	Balasore district, Odisha	The sea disappears and reappears daily by retreating 2 to 5 km during ebb tide

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1:
"India is home to some of the most mystifying natural phenomena that surprise and spark our imagination."

1. Replace the underlined phrase with one from the extract:
   "India is home to..." (replaces "India is the birthplace of...")
2. What does the phrase 'nature's unusual side' suggest about the phenomena described?
   It suggests that these natural occurrences are rare, extraordinary, puzzling, and challenge normal expectations or scientific understanding.
3. Complete the similarity by choosing the correct option:
   spark: imagination::
   A. inspiration; creativity
4. Identify whether the following statement is true or false:
   Some natural phenomena can surprise people.
   True

Extract 2:
"Have you seen things disappearing in front of your eyes? Well, such things happen at times, when we keep things at some place, and just forget where we have kept them. But, what if there's a sea that disappears? This happens in Odisha. It is a beach in the Balasore district where one can witness the sea disappearing mysteriously-the Chandipur Beach which is known for its unique feature of playing hide-and-seek with its visitors."

1. Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason:
   The writer's most likely purpose to introduce the information about the Chandipur Beach phenomenon with a question is to engage the reader's curiosity and create a sense of suspense.
2. Select the option that is correct for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R):
   (A): Chandipur Beach in Odisha is known for its unique feature of the sea disappearing.
   (R): The tides retreat drastically, exposing the Chandipur beach.
   A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
3. What does the term 'unique' suggest about the beach in Balasore?
   B. one of its kind
4. What does the writer want to convey with the use of the phrase 'playing hide-and-seek with its visitors'?
   The writer wants to convey that the sea rhythmically recedes far into the distance during ebb tide and returns to the shore during high tide, making it seem as though it is playing a playful game of hiding and reappearing.

II. Answer the following questions:

1. How are the living root bridges a boon for the local people of Meghalaya?
   They provide a durable, natural, and long-lasting way to cross flooded rivers and waterways during heavy monsoon rains, outlasting temporary wooden or bamboo bridges.
2. Why is the Lonar Crater Lake considered a remarkable and rare site?
   It is the only meteorite impact crater in basaltic rock in India and ranks among the largest of its kind in the world, featuring a unique saline lake nestled inside.
3. What might be the writer's purpose of highlighting the awe-inspiring natural wonders of India?
   The writer's purpose is to evoke a sense of pride, wonder, curiosity, and appreciation for India's diverse ecological and geological landscapes.
4. The writer uses descriptive language and introductory questions for some of the natural phenomena. What impact does it have on the readers?
   It captures the readers' attention, stimulates their curiosity, creates visual imagery, and makes the text engaging and memorable.
5. Which of these unusual phenomena did you find the most interesting and why?
   I found the Glowing Waters of Kumbalangi most interesting because bioluminescence creates a stunning, magical night view caused naturally by tiny living micro-planktons in the sea.

Let us learn

I. Fill in the blanks with the correct expressions from the text given in the box below:
came into existence | to no end | in full glory | in disbelief | to name a few | age-old problem

1. I have read many stories to name a few.
2. Do you know when this little town came into existence?
3. His hard work has helped him to no end.
4. There are no simple solutions to the age-old problem of traffic jams.
5. He opened the ancient wooden box and stared at the treasure in disbelief.
6. The garden is in full glory in spring with lots of beautiful flowers in bloom.

II. Select the correct synonyms from the box given below that match the list of words in 1–5. You may refer to a thesaurus.
colossal | exotic | serene | enigmatic | spectacular

1. mysterious, puzzling, baffling: enigmatic
2. mighty, gigantic, huge: colossal
3. breath-taking, stunning, awe-inspiring: spectacular
4. peaceful, calm, tranquil: serene
5. unusual, peculiar, foreign: exotic

III. Match the binomials in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. Then use the binomials in sentences of your own.

Column 1	Column 2
1. odds and ends	(vii) small, unimportant things
2. on and off	(v) sometimes, occasionally
3. mix and match	(i) put different things together to get a range of possibilities
4. all or nothing	(viii) something to be done completely or not at all
5. part and parcel	(ii) complete part of or belong to
6. pick and choose	(iii) choose only the best (things, people, etc.)
7. sooner or later	(iv) at some time in the future
8. leaps and bounds	(vi) increase or develop very quickly

Sentences:

1. Odds and ends: I cleaned my study drawer and threw away all the useless odds and ends.
2. On and off: It has been raining on and off since morning.
3. Mix and match: You can mix and match different shirts and trousers to create new outfits.
4. All or nothing: He adopted an all or nothing attitude toward winning the tournament.
5. Part and parcel: Hard work is part and parcel of achieving success in life.
6. Pick and choose: We cannot pick and choose our assignments; we must complete all of them.
7. Sooner or later: Sooner or later, truth always prevails.
8. Leaps and bounds: Her spoken English skills have improved by leaps and bounds.

IV. Fill in the blanks using present participle or past participle form of the verbs in the box given below:
stand | amaze | carve | scatter | glow

1. The glowing marble monument looks even more spectacular in the moonlight.
2. The amazing view of the Himalayas from Darjeeling attracts visitors from all over the world.
3. The Sun Temple in Konark features intricately carved stone wheels and walls.
4. Standing at a height of 182 m, the Statue of Unity is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
5. The scattered islands of the Andaman and Nicobar offer some of the cleanest beaches in India.

V. Underline the gerunds and participles in the following sentences. Write 'G' for gerunds and 'P' for participles in the space provided.

1. Dancing is a great way to express emotions. — G
2. Travelling can broaden your perspective. — G
3. The falling leaves signalled the arrival of autumn. — P
4. She enjoys cooking new recipes for her family. — G
5. Reading helps improve your vocabulary. — G
6. He watched the shimmering stars in the night sky. — P
7. Forgetting the keys inside, Kanchan locked the door. — P

VI. Combine the following pairs of sentences using participles or gerunds. You may use the clues given in brackets.

1. Nitesh entered the room. He saw his friend sitting in the corner. (participle)
   Answer: Entering the room, Nitesh saw his friend sitting in the corner.
2. Smitha walked carelessly. She slipped on the doormat. (participle)
   Answer: Walking carelessly, Smitha slipped on the doormat.
3. Sleep for eight hours. It is good for health. (gerund)
   Answer: Sleeping for eight hours is good for health.
4. Ranjith felt happy about the result. He called his parents. (participle)
   Answer: Feeling happy about the result, Ranjith called his parents.
5. Father encouraged Meena. Meena joined the course. (gerund)
   Answer: Encouraged by her father, Meena enjoyed joining the course. / Father's encouragement led to Meena joining the course.

Let us listen

I. You will listen to a brother and sister discuss a natural phenomenon. As you listen, mark the four true statements from 1–6 given below.

The four true statements based on the transcript are:

• Statement 2: The brother admitted to not knowing about his sister's favourite picture.
• Statement 4: The brother was aware of the reason for the formation of colours on the mountain.
• Statement 5: The brother was surprised to learn about the mountain being covered with snow till recently.
• Statement 6: The sister understood nature's role in the beauty of the mountain.

Let us speak

I. Work in groups of four. Make a presentation on a place of interest in and around your region that people like to visit. You may use the guidelines given in the text.

Figure 3: Presentation Layout and Student Activity

Sample Presentation Structure: Kaziranga National Park, Assam

• Slides 1–2 (Topic): Kaziranga National Park — A Biodiversity Haven.
• Slides 3–4 (Location & Reach): Located in Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. Accessible via National Highway 37 or main connections from Guwahati.
• Slides 5–6 (Attractions & Significance): World-famous for the endangered great one-horned rhinoceros. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with lush grasslands and elephant safaris.
• Slides 7–8 (Local Features): Tropical climate, traditional Assamese cuisine (pitha, fish curry), vibrant Bihu culture, and Assamese language.
• Slides 9–10 (Best Time to Visit): November to April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are highest.

Let us write

I. Write a descriptive essay for your school magazine describing anything from nature that attracted your attention. It may be an object, a place, or an event experienced by you.

The Magic of a Forest Sunset

Nature never fails to mesmerize us with its quiet beauty. Among all its wonders, watching the sunset behind the serene hills near my village remains the most enchanting natural event I have ever experienced.

As late afternoon transitions into evening, the sky turns into a natural canvas. Vibrant hues of orange, gold, and deep violet stretch across the horizon. The tall pine trees stand as bold dark silhouettes against the glowing backdrop, while gentle cool breezes rustle through the autumn leaves.

The sounds of nature shift as well. Birds return to their nests in rhythmic chirping groups, and the quiet gush of the nearby stream becomes more pronounced. As the sun slowly dips beneath the hills, the warm sunlight fades into a calm twilight, giving way to tiny twinkling stars overhead.

This daily spectacle reminds me of the peaceful power of nature. It teaches us to slow down, appreciate simple moments, and stay connected to the majestic world around us.

Let us explore

I. Read about Man-made Wonders.

Figure 4: Historical Man-Made Wonder at Hampi

1. Kallanai Dam (The Grand Anaicut): Built by Chola King Karikala in Tamil Nadu around 150 CE, it is one of the world's oldest functional dams.
2. Nalanda University: Established in Bihar as the world's first residential university long before European universities, declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1980.
3. Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka featuring the 15th-century Vittala Temple, famous for its 56 musical 'SaReGaMa' pillars.
4. Modern Wonders: Bandra-Worli Sea Link (Mumbai), Statue of Unity (Gujarat), and Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Assam).

II. Some micro-planktons in the sea are bioluminescent. Have you seen any other life form that has this quality? Identify the insect given below and find out what it is called in your language.

Figure 5: Bioluminescent Firefly (Jugnu)

Insect Identification: Firefly (Lightning Bug).

Local Names: It is called 'Jugnu' in Hindi/Urdu, 'Jonaki Paruwa' in Assamese, and 'Zeenuga' in Kannada.

CBSE Class VIII English Poorvi Unit 3 MYSTERY AND MAGIC — THE MAGIC BRUSH OF DREAMS Questions and Answers

UNIT 3: MYSTERY AND MAGIC — THE MAGIC BRUSH OF DREAMS

Let us do these activities before we read

Activity I: Work in pairs. Discuss the following questions. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. Mention a magical object that you would like to have. Give a reason for your choice.
2. What would you draw for yourself, if you had a magic paint brush? Why?
3. Would you use the magic paint brush to draw for someone else? If yes, why? If no, why not?

1. I would like to have a magic carpet because I could travel anywhere in the world instantly without needing tickets or fuel.
2. If I had a magic paintbrush, I would draw a library full of books so that I could read and learn whenever I wanted.
3. Yes, I would use the magic paintbrush to draw for others because helping people in need and making them happy brings real joy.

Activity II: Work in pairs. Discuss instances of acts of kindness that you have heard, read, or experienced. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

An act of kindness I experienced was when my classmate noticed I forgot my lunchbox and shared their food with me. Another instance I read about is people planting trees in public parks so everyone can enjoy shade and fresh air.

Activity III: Work in pairs and guess the meanings of the words given below and draw pictures depicting their meanings. Share with your classmates and teacher. Now, arrange these words into different categories as given below.
paintbrush, winding, joy, twig, fortress, bows, feast, fear, drawing, cold

Figure 1: Depictions of Story Elements and Vocabulary

• Things: paintbrush, twig, fortress, bows
• Actions: winding, drawing, feast
• Emotions: joy, fear, cold

Let us discuss

I. Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the poem. The last one has been marked for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. Gopi is told to gather food but instead sits drawing pictures in the sand.
2. A man gives a magic brush to Gopi to paint only for the poor.
3. Gopi paints a bowl of khichdi, which becomes real and amazes the villagers.
4. Gopi uses the magic brush to paint useful items for the villagers.
5. The Zamindar orders Gopi to paint treasures for him.
6. The Zamindar throws Gopi into prison.
7. Gopi paints a road and a horse to escape.
8. Gopi returns to the village with the Zamindar and his men chasing her.
9. Gopi paints a wide river, stopping the Zamindar and his men.
10. Gopi scares the Zamindar away, and celebrates with the villagers.

II. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the box given below:
playful and innocent | tension and suspense | triumphant and celebratory

The tone of the poem shifts throughout, reflecting the different moods of the story. Initially, the tone is 1. playful and innocent as Gopi uses her imagination to draw in the sand, and later when the Zamindar enters the story, the tone shifts to one of 2. tension and suspense. In the final part of the poem, the tone becomes 3. triumphant and celebratory as Gopi escapes, the Zamindar is defeated, and the villagers rejoice.

III. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct option from within the brackets.

1. The poem mostly follows a simple rhyme scheme, ABCB, which adds a rhythmic flow.
2. This poem belongs to the narrative or ballad poetry genre, which tells a story through verse.

IV. Give examples from the poem for the following explanations.

1. The poem is rich in imagery, creating clear pictures in the reader's mind. For example:
   "She paints a bowl of khichdi", "A shawl for a grandmother", and "She paints a mighty river wide, Its currents fast and deep."
2. What is the effect of repetition in the line—'On you, and you and you!'?
   The repetition emphasizes Gopi's direct threat to each of the Zamindar's men, heightening their fear and causing them to flee.

V. Match the phrases from the poem in Column 1 with what they symbolise in Column 2.

Column 1	Column 2
1. The magic paintbrush	(iii) the power of art and imagination to change the world
2. The grand fortress	(i) greed and the desire for wealth
3. The river and the beast	(ii) barriers to protect Gopi from the Zamindar's anger

VI. Identify whether the following statement is true or false:
While Gopi uses the magic brush to help others, the Zamindar wants to use it for personal gain. This contrast drives the moral of the story.

True

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:

Extract 1:
"But on a stone there sits a man,
A brush is in his hand.
He looks around. He calls to Gopi.
"Come here!" he whispers. "Hush!
We mustn't let the village know
About this magic brush."
He slips the brush into her hand
And tells her to be sure,
"Paint not for the wealthy ones,
But only for the poor.""

1. The man is whispering and telling Gopi to keep the brush a secret reflects his careful and secretive nature.
2. What is the significance of the man slipping the brush into Gopi's hand?
   It signifies the passing of a great power and responsibility to a kind, innocent child who can be trusted to use it unselfishly.
3. Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason:
   The most likely reason the man instructs Gopi to 'Paint not for wealthy ones but only for the poor' is because he knows the poor need help to satisfy basic needs, while the wealthy might misuse it out of greed.
4. Select the most appropriate title for the extract:
   A. The Magic Brush's Secret

Extract 2:
"And soon the news spreads far and wide,
Through forests, fields, and plains,
Until the Zamindar himself
Hears of these magic gains.
"I order you to paint for me,
A fortress tall and grand.
Paint treasures, jewels, and riches rare,
Enough to rule this land.""

1. The news of Gopi's magic brush spreads 'through forests, fields, and plains' because of its wondrous nature and the amazing items Gopi creates for the villagers.
2. Why does the poet refer to things painted by Gopi's paintbrush as 'magic gains'?
   Because the objects Gopi paints become real and serve as helpful, valuable gifts for the villagers.
3. Which of the following statements given below is false? Rectify the false statement.
   A. Gopi's magic brush draws the attention of the powerful Zamindar.
   B. The Zamindar requests Gopi to paint a grand fortress and jewels.
   Answer: Statement B is false.
   Rectification: The Zamindar does not request Gopi; he orders and demands her to paint a grand fortress and jewels.
4. What does the Zamindar's demand for a grand fortress and jewels reveal about his character?
   It reveals that he is greedy, power-hungry, authoritative, and selfish.

II. Answer the following questions:

1. Explain why Gopi made the right decision by refusing to paint for the Zamindar.
   Gopi made the right decision because she had promised to use the magic brush only to help the needy, and fulfilling the Zamindar's greedy desires would break her promise and enable tyranny.
2. Gopi threatens to draw a beast to scare away the Zamindar. Justify her action. How would you have dealt with the situation differently?
   Her action was justified because it was a clever, non-violent way to defend herself and protect her village from a cruel tyrant. I would have used the brush similarly to create a barrier or illusion to deter the pursuers safely.
3. What is the significance of Gopi celebrating with the villagers at the end of the poem?
   It signifies the triumph of kindness and generosity over greed, marking the restoration of peace and joy in the community.
4. Compare Gopi's use of the magic brush to how the Zamindar would have used it.
   Gopi used the brush selflessly to fulfill the essential needs of poor villagers (like food and clothes), whereas the Zamindar would have used it selfishly to accumulate wealth, power, and grand structures.
5. What can be inferred about Gopi's character based on her refusal to follow the Zamindar's orders?
   It shows that Gopi is brave, principled, honest, and firm in keeping her promises despite threats to her safety.
6. Justify the appropriateness of the title of the poem.
   The title 'The Magic Brush of Dreams' is appropriate because the brush brings to life the simple dreams and hopes of the needy villagers.
7. If you had the magic brush, how would you use it in today's world?
   I would use it to paint food for the hungry, medical supplies for the sick, and green forests to combat environmental pollution.

Let us learn

I. The verb 'draw' has different meanings in different contexts. Match the sentences in Column 1 with their appropriate meanings in Column 2.

Column 1	Column 2
1. His speech drew loud applause from the audience.	(iii) got a reaction
2. The event will draw huge crowds from all neighbouring places.	(iv) attract
3. Plants draw water from the soil.	(vi) absorb
4. I reached the station when the train was drawing into the station.	(v) moving
5. The room was dark, so she drew the curtains to let the sunlight in.	(i) opened
6. He drew a piece of paper from the folder.	(ii) pulled out

II. Fill in the crossword. Clues have been given below. You will find the words in the poem.

Figure 2: Crossword Puzzle Grid

Answers:

Across:

• 2. GALLOP
• 4. SWIFT
• 7. WHISPERS
• 10. PLUCK
• 11. WEALTHY
• 12. SEIZE

Down:

• 1. FLEES
• 3. MIGHTY
• 5. BELLOWS
• 6. COMPLY
• 8. STREAMED
• 9. VICTORY

III. Match the expressions in Column 1 with what emotions or reactions they convey, in Column 2. Then create sentences using any five expressions.

Column 1	Column 2
1. Phew!	(v) relief
2. Eek!	(vii) alarm
3. Ouch!	(ii) pain
4. Yippee!	(vi) delight
5. Whoa!	(i) surprise
6. Oops!	(iii) mistake
7. Hey!	(iv) attract attention

Five Sentences:

1. Phew! Finally, we finished the difficult task on time.
2. Ouch! I stubbed my toe against the table leg.
3. Yippee! Our team won the final championship match!
4. Whoa! Look at the size of that giant mountain!
5. Oops! I accidentally spilled water on my notebook.

Let us listen

I. You will listen to five speakers speak about a magical power they wish for. As you listen, match statements 1–7 with speakers (i)–(v).

Statements	Speaker No.
1. Power of healing ailments	Speaker (iv)
2. Ability to end poverty in the world	Not used
3. Power to control the weather as per need	Speaker (v)
4. Ability to make wise business decisions	Speaker (i)
5. Power to predict one's own future clearly	Not used
6. Ability to remember information quickly	Speaker (ii)
7. Power to move around without using vehicles	Speaker (iii)

Let us speak

I. Read the following sentences from the text with the falling tone:

• Come here!
• Seize this magic brush...
• Paint my fortress tall!
• Go and fetch some rice.

Practice saying these imperative sentences aloud, dropping your pitch from high to low at the end of each command or request.

II. Work in pairs. Take turns to make requests for formal and informal situations using appropriate phrases.

Formal Requests:

• Situation 1 (Teacher - Class Picnic): "Would it be possible for us to organize a class picnic this month, Ma'am?"
• Situation 2 (Class Teacher - Extra Sports Period): "I was wondering if we could have an extra sports period to make up for the one we missed last week."
• Situation 3 (Activity Incharge - Inter-school Event): "I would like to request you to include me in the upcoming inter-school event."

Informal Requests:

• Situation 1 (Sibling - Project Help): "Can you help me complete my school project today?"
• Situation 2 (Mother - Dance Class): "Do you mind if I enroll in a dance class this session, Mom?"
• Situation 3 (Cousin - Spend Weekend): "Will you come over to spend this weekend with me?"

Let us write

II. Complete the given checklist based on your observations and understanding of what an imaginative essay includes.

Element	Checklist Requirement
1. Title	A relevant title
2. Introduction	• Captivating opening sentence to catch the reader's attention • Clear statement of the setting, situation, or main idea • Establishes the tone (e.g., playful, serious, and adventurous) • Introduces the narrator briefly
3. Setting and Context	• Description of the setting to create a mental picture • Clear time frame (past, present, or future) • Brief explanation of unique or imaginative elements
4. Characters	• Main character introduced with unique traits • Supporting characters briefly described
5. Central Idea	• Clear focus on a single powerful idea or narrative • Logical flow of events
6. Language and Style	• Use of sensory details (sight, sound, touch, smell, taste) • Creative metaphors or similes
7. Resolution	• Key turning point or moment of realisation • Resolution of the main idea • Clear takeaway message
8. Conclusion	• Ends on a reflective or thought-provoking note • Summarises the main message

III. Write an imaginative essay on any one of the topics provided:
Option 1: Imagine you were a scarf that flew away from a clothesline. Describe the places you travelled to and how you came back. Also write about what you thought was the most valuable experience.

The Journey of a Flying Scarf

I was once a bright red woolen scarf hanging peacefully on a backyard clothesline. One breezy autumn afternoon, a strong gust of wind swept me up into the sky. Freedom at last! I began a marvelous journey across the town.

Floating gracefully, I first soared over the bustling city park, catching glimpses of children playing below. Next, the wind carried me high above the ancient clock tower, where I danced with a flock of pigeons. I felt the crisp air in my threads as I drifted over wide green fields and sparkling rivers.

As evening approached, the wind gently dropped me into a small suburban garden. A little girl spotted me draped over a bush, picked me up gently, and washed me clean. Knowing someone in town must miss me, her mother posted a photo on the local board, and soon my original owner came to bring me home.

My journey taught me that while exploring the grand world is exciting, the most valuable experience was realizing how warmth and kindness connect us wherever we go.

Let us explore

I. Read about magician P. C. Sorcar Sr.

Figure 3: P. C. Sorcar Sr. - World's Greatest Magician

P. C. Sorcar Sr. was one of India's most famous magicians, recognized globally as the 'World's Greatest Magician'. He performed live magic shows internationally on stage and television, earning the prestigious Padma Shri award on 26 January 1964.

II. Read the riddles about things that seem to be unreal and find what they refer to:

1. I can fill a room, but I take up no space. I'm often heard, but never seen. What am I?
   Answer: Voice / Sound / Music
2. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?
   Answer: Footsteps
3. I have cities but no houses, I have forests but no trees. What am I?
   Answer: A Map
4. I'm tall when I'm young and short when I'm old, in a dark room, my story is told. What am I?
   Answer: A Candle

III. You are asked to create a magical object. What object would you create? Make a drawing with all its details and mention its special quality on the same sheet. Put up the sheet on the display board.

Magical Object: The Universal Translator Pen

Special Quality: When pointed at any text in any unknown language, ancient script, or code, it instantly projects an easy-to-read translation in mid-air and reads it aloud gently.

CBSE Class VIII English Poorvi Unit 3 MYSTERY AND MAGIC — THE CASE OF THE FIFTH WORD Questions and Answers

UNIT 3: MYSTERY AND MAGIC — THE CASE OF THE FIFTH WORD

Before We Read Activities

Activity I: Work in pairs. Solve the crossword puzzle given below with the clues in the form of anagrams.

Figure 1: Crossword Puzzle Grid

Answers to Crossword Anagrams:

Across:

• 3. Declare → RECLAD
• 6. Tucks → STUCK
• 7. Heart → EARTH
• 9. Felt → LEFT
• 10. Sown → SNOW
• 12. Sword → WORDS
• 13. Evil → LIVE

Down:

• 1. Aces → CASE
• 2. Read → DARE
• 4. Tool → LOOT
• 5. Alps → PALS
• 6. Hooks → SHOOK
• 8. Mane → NAME
• 11. Loves → SOLVE

Activity II: Work in pairs. Match the different meanings of 'case' in Column 2 with the correct usage in the sentences in Column 1.

Column 1 (Sentences)	Column 2 (Meanings)
1. Lalit said that he could not sing but that was not the case as he sang melodiously later.	(iii) situation
2. The lawyer was waiting for the case to be taken up in court.	(iv) matter
3. My pencil case is a gift from my grandmother.	(ii) container
4. The subject of a formal letter is written in title case.	(i) writing format

Text Reading Question: Now, read the following text and find out which 'case' the title refers to.

Answer: The title refers to a police investigation or a legal/crime matter (meaning (iv) matter / police investigation).

Let us discuss (Page 104)

I. Complete the following statements with suitable reasons:

1. Leroy's nickname was Encyclopedia and everyone called him by that name because he read more books than anyone in Idaville, never forgot a fact, and his head was filled with facts from A to Z like a library and computer rolled into one.
2. At the dinner table on Tuesday night, Chief Brown stared at his cream-of-mushroom soup as he had a mystery case that he could not solve.
3. Encyclopedia sat quietly at the dinner table because he knew his mother and father were discussing the case for his benefit.
4. Nolan put the will on the kitchen table because he suffered a stroke, realised he was dying, and wanted to leave everything he owned, including his palm-tree nursery, to Davenport.

II. Do you think Chief Brown would need Leroy's help to solve this case? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Yes, Chief Brown would need Leroy's help. Even though Chief Brown was smart and quick, he had no clues from searching Nolan's house and could not decode the four mysterious words written on the calendar sheet attached to Nolan's will. Leroy was needed to break the code and find the hidden stolen jewellery.

Let us discuss (Pages 107–108)

I. Identify which of the following statements from part I and II of the story are facts or opinions:

1. Encyclopedia's father was the Chief of Police. — Fact
2. Everyone thought that Chief Brown must be the smartest police chief in the country. — Opinion
3. An encyclopedia is a book or set of books filled with facts from A to Z. — Fact
4. Leroy's friends said that he was like a library and computer rolled into one, and more user-friendly. — Opinion
5. Two masked men held up the Diamond Mart on Sixth Avenue. — Fact
6. Nolan and Davenport had met while both were in prison in South Carolina. — Fact
7. Chief Brown's hunch was that Davenport and Nolan decided to hide the loot until things cooled down. — Opinion
8. Nolan wrote a four words code to tell Davenport where he had hidden the stolen jewellery. — Fact

II. Complete the table by choosing the character traits of Leroy given in the box below:

Textual Evidences	Traits
1. He read more books than anyone in Idaville, and he never forgot a fact.	knowledgeable
2. Encyclopedia never spoke of the help he gave his father. He didn't want to seem different from other boys.	humble
3. Encyclopedia sat quietly. He knew his mother and father were discussing the case for his benefit.	keen listener
4. Usually, he needed to ask only one question to solve a case before dessert.	cleverness

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:

Extract 1: "Chief Brown would have liked to tell everyone about his only child. But who would believe him? Who would believe that the best detective alive was an eighth grader? So, he said nothing..."

1. Chief Brown's dilemma can be called unique because his eighth-grade son was the best detective alive who solved difficult police cases, but no one would believe him if he told them.
2. What can be inferred about why Encyclopedia never spoke of the help he gave his father?
   Answer: C. He desires to blend with the other boys to prevent seeming different.
3. The parents choose not to call their son 'Encyclopedia'. Select the reason that is false.
   Answer: C. They want him to be remembered as different from the others around.
4. What does the writer mean by the fact that Leroy was 'stuck with' the name Encyclopedia?
   Answer: It means that although Leroy did not choose the nickname himself and preferred not to stand out, everyone except his parents and teachers called him by that name, and he could not change it.

Extract 2: "Chief Brown studied the four words: Nom Utes Sweden Hurts. He shook his head and passed the notebook to Mrs. Brown again. "Can you figure it out?"..."

1. What does Chief Brown's reaction of shaking his head suggest about his understanding of the four words?
   Answer: B. He is confused, unable to make sense of the words.
2. Identify whether the given statement is true or false: Mrs. Brown explained the actual meanings of the individual words rather than decoding the hidden message behind them.
   Answer: True
3. What does Mrs. Brown's inability to decode the words suggest about the message?
   Answer: It suggests that the message was a clever code created specifically for someone looking for a hiding place and could not be understood literally through regular word definitions or grammar.
4. Complete the following sentence suitably: The purpose of Encyclopedia's reminder in the last line of the extract was to refocus the discussion on the context of the crime.

II. Answer the following questions:

1. Nolan and Davenport were very close. Support this statement with evidence from the text.
   Evidence from the text shows that they met and became friendly in prison due to shared interests. Davenport came to live with Nolan before the robbery, they executed the hold-up together, and Nolan left everything he owned, including his nursery, to Davenport in his will while leaving him a secret code to find the hidden loot.
2. Why did Davenport disappear right after the jewellery hold-up? What might his plans have been if Nolan had not died?
   Davenport disappeared to avoid getting caught by the police while waiting for things to cool down. If Nolan had not died, Davenport likely planned to remain in hiding until it was safe, retrieve the hidden jewellery with Nolan, and split the proceeds.
3. What does Mrs. Brown's interest in the case tell us about her?
   Her interest shows that she is supportive of her family, curious, intelligent, and actively engages in analytical thinking and family discussions at the dinner table.
4. Explain why Chief Brown was proud of his son.
   Chief Brown was proud because Leroy was extraordinarily smart, possessive of vast knowledge, and able to solve complex mysteries that even experienced police officers could not figure out.
5. Why were Chief Brown's suspicions regarding Nolan and Davenport justified, even when there was a lack of concrete proof?
   His suspicions were justified because Nolan and Davenport were former prison mates who lived together right before the robbery, a clerk tentatively recognized Nolan during the hold-up, Davenport vanished immediately after the robbery, and Nolan left his entire estate to Davenport upon his death.
6. Analyse the role of the four-word coded message in the story.
   The four-word coded message ("Nom Utes Sweden Hurts") serves as the central puzzle of the story. Written on a calendar page, it cleverly concealed the location of the stolen jewellery by abbreviating days of the week (Monday through Thursday), pointing to the fifth word/day (Fir/Friday), which revealed that the loot was buried under the fir tree.
7. Write a character sketch on Leroy with the help of the character traits table given in 'Let us discuss' section.
   Encyclopedia was a knowledgeable eighth grader who never forgot a fact that he read. Known to his friends as Encyclopedia because his head was packed with facts from A to Z, he was like a library and computer combined. Despite his extraordinary intelligence and cleverness in solving difficult police cases, Leroy remained remarkably humble and gentle. He never boasted about helping his father, as he preferred to fit in with other boys. He was also a keen listener who quietly gathered details from his parents' discussions before using critical thinking to solve mysteries effortlessly.

Let us learn

I. Match the phrasal verbs from the text given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. Then fill in the blanks.

Matching:

• 1. put on — (iv) wear (clothes, hat, etc.)
• 2. cooled down — (iii) became normal or calmed
• 3. turned up — (i) appeared, been discovered
• 4. make of — (vi) have an idea or understanding of something
• 5. figure out — (ii) solve a problem
• 6. got away with — (v) escaped without being punished

Fill in the blanks:

1. Finally, some important evidence about the case has turned up.
2. After I figured out I understood that I had made a big mistake.
3. I couldn't figure out why he was angry with me.
4. He put on his special coat and went to his friend's birthday party.
5. Ravi forgets to do his homework but he got away with it as teacher didn't ask for it that day.
6. I do not know what to make of his behaviour.

II. Fill in the blanks in the following sentences by choosing the correct word pairs from the box given below:

1. After running for 50 kilometres last week I felt weak for two days.
2. When the committee met yesterday, they brought four local cases to the fore.
3. While learning to drive, Rina used too much force on the brake causing the car to break down.
4. He has composed a beautiful piece of music in order to bring peace to thousands of people.
5. She was busy dyeing her hair not caring about the dying flowers in her garden.

III. Work in pairs to solve the puzzles given in the illustrations below and infer what they say:

Figure 2: Visual Word Puzzles (Rebus Riddles)

• SECRET / SECRET / SECRET (with arrow to top) → Top secret (Example given)
• AGED AGED AGED → Middle aged
• Try stand / 2 → Try to understand
• ↑ uu → Up to you
• GO (It It It It) → Go for it
• sense sense / sense sense / sense (sense) → Sixth sense
• M1LLION → One in a million
• ONCE (Clock at 12) → Once upon a time
• R O ROADS D S → Crossroads

IV. Find the correct order for the following spoonerisms:

1. knowing sits → sewing kits
2. it's roaring with pain → it's pouring with rain
3. plaster man → master plan
4. blarm wanket → warm blanket
5. tars and crucks → cars and trucks
6. shake a tower → take a shower
7. bead a rook → read a book
8. mardon me padam → pardon me madam

V. Fill in the blanks with the words in the box given below to complete the sentences (Detective story):

Detective stories are exciting, keeping readers guessing (i) who the real culprit is. They take place in settings (ii) where clues are hidden carefully. (iii) Though the mystery seems tricky, a clever detective always finds answers. Readers often wonder (iv) why criminals leave small but important clues. The challenge is to decide (v) which suspect is guilty. (vi) When the truth is revealed, everything makes sense. But one may wonder (vii) how they could have solved it themselves. These stories are fun (viii) because they make readers think till the very end.

VI. Combine the following pairs of sentences using the word given in brackets:

1. We gave him the signal. He was waiting for the signal. (that)
   Answer: We gave him the signal that he was waiting for.
2. We went to a place. The incident occurred there. (where)
   Answer: We went to a place where the incident occurred.
3. Teacher said she would retire soon. She is now nearly sixty. (who)
   Answer: The teacher who is now nearly sixty said she would retire soon.
4. It was the day. Half the class was absent. (when)
   Answer: It was the day when half the class was absent.

VII. Follow the steps to transform the sentences given as examples from direct speech to indirect speech:

1. "What's suspicious about that?" Mrs. Brown asked.
   Answer: Mrs. Brown asked what was suspicious about that.
2. "What do you make of the four words, Leroy?"
   Answer: Mrs. Brown questioned Leroy what he made of the four words.
3. "Wasn't he mixed up in a jewellery robbery a few years ago?"
   Answer: Mrs. Brown inquired if he hadn't been mixed up in a jewellery robbery a few years before.
4. "Didn't you search Nolan's house, dear?"
   Answer: Mrs. Brown asked Chief Brown whether he hadn't searched Nolan's house.
5. "Is there a young fir tree in Mr. Nolan's palm-tree nursery?"
   Answer: Mrs. Brown inquired if there was a young fir tree in Mr. Nolan's palm-tree nursery.

VIII. Rewrite the following sentences in Reported Speech:

1. "Why did you stop talking to me?" asked Rohan.
   Answer: Rohan questioned why I had stopped talking to him.
2. "Did you enjoy the family gathering yesterday?" asked my aunt.
   Answer: My aunt asked if I had enjoyed the family gathering the day before.
3. "When will you visit us again?" asked my grandmother.
   Answer: My grandmother inquired when we would visit them again.
4. Madavi said to Ravi, "Will you come with me to meet our old teacher tomorrow?" asked Madavi.
   Answer: Madavi asked Ravi if he would go with her to meet their old teacher the following day.
5. My friend said, "What gift are you planning to give your brother?"
   Answer: My friend inquired what gift I was planning to give my brother.
6. "Shall I carry these notebooks to the staffroom, Ma'am?" asked Veenu.
   Answer: Veenu asked her teacher if she should carry those notebooks to the staffroom.

IX. Complete the paragraph by transforming the dialogue into indirect speech:

Figure 3: Suspect near the lift

Aditi asked Rahul 1. if he had seen anyone leave a package near the lift.

Rahul replied that he had noticed a man wearing a blue jacket drop it off.

Aditi asked Rahul 2. what time he had seen that happen.

Rahul replied that it had been around 6.45 p.m.

Aditi further inquired 3. whether he had been able to see his face.

Rahul said that he had worn a hood, so he couldn't see his face.

Let us listen

I. Mark the statements 1–4 as true or false based on the podcast:

1. Observation skills help improve your common sense. — False (The text states it improves awareness, decision making, and memory).
2. Rushing through tasks helps you focus better and observe more. — False (Rushing leads to missed details).
3. Taking notes or making sketches helps with what you observe. — True
4. Incorporating tips on observation skills will soon lead to success. — True

II. Complete the given sentences by filling in the blanks with one to three exact words you hear:

1. It is important to slow down and take your time to notice several aspects around you more clearly.
2. The more senses like hearing and smelling you use, the more information you absorb.
3. People who are curious tend to be better observers because they seek to understand what they notice.
4. When you make a note of things, it helps reinforce the details in your memory.
5. Practising mindfulness helps a person stay present in the moment with their surroundings.

Let us speak

I. Read the words loudly with the help of the pronunciation guide.

Practice reading all the listed words aloud with proper pronunciation as shown in the textbook guides (e.g., jewellery: jool-ree, clerk: claak, dessert: dih-zuht, pizza: peet-zaa, buffet: buh-fay).

II. Conduct a group discussion on 'The Interesting Aspects of a Mystery Story'.

Follow the provided guidelines and turn-taking phrases (e.g., "If I may say something...", "I fully agree...", "I'm afraid I don't agree...") to conduct a group discussion on mystery elements like suspense, clues, and critical thinking.

Let us write

Report Writing Task: As a member of the Art and Craft Club, write a report on an 'Inter-school Art Exhibition' organised by your school. Include the necessary details.

Inter-school Art Exhibition

By: Ananya Sharma, Class VIII (Member, Art and Craft Club)

An Inter-school Art Exhibition was organised by our Vidyalaya from 10 November 20XX to 12 November 20XX in the School Auditorium. Twelve schools participated in the event, showcasing creative artwork created by talented young artists.

The exhibition was declared open by the Chief Guest, renowned artist Mr. A. K. Varma, on Wednesday, 10 November 20XX at 9:00 a.m. Visitors and students from various schools viewed paintings, sculptures, and craft items displayed across different stalls. The artworks were judged by a panel of art experts based on creativity, technique, and presentation.

Following a close evaluation, the team from Model Senior Secondary School won first prize for their outstanding eco-friendly sculptures. Certificates and trophies were awarded during the closing ceremony. Addressing the students, the Chief Guest encouraged everyone to express their feelings through art. The event was a grand success and was appreciated by all.

Let us explore

I. Read the words and observe the images given below (Optical Illusions):

Figure 4: Optical Illusions

1. teach / learn (Ambiguous typography reading 'teach' and 'learn')
2. hate / love (Ambiguous word art reading 'hate' or 'love')
3. GOOD / EVIL (Reversible word showing 'GOOD' in blue and 'EVIL' in red)
4. Tree / Birds or Animal figures in negative space
5. Penguin / Human Profile
6. Pillars / Human Silhouettes (Vase/Pillar visual illusion)

II. Read the steps to play a language game — Name the Mystery Object.

Follow the rules: Form teams, prepare 3 clues per object, and guess objects to earn 20, 10, or 5 points based on the hint required. (Example object provided in textbook: Blackboard/Greenboard/Smartboard).

III. Visit the library and look for an encyclopedia. What is it? Check how it is different from a dictionary.

An encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work containing detailed articles and background information on a wide range of subjects, concepts, and historical events from A to Z.

Difference: A dictionary primarily gives word meanings, pronunciations, origins, and grammatical usages, whereas an encyclopedia provides in-depth information, context, facts, and explanations about topics, people, and objects.

IV. A thesaurus is a reference book or digital tool that provides a collection of words with similar meanings... Choose any five words and find out their alternative words from the thesaurus.

1. Smart: Intelligent, clever, brilliant, sharp
2. Mystery: Puzzle, enigma, secret, riddle
3. Quick: Fast, swift, rapid, speedy
4. Gather: Collect, assemble, accumulate, muster
5. Quiet: Silent, peaceful, calm, tranquil

CBSE Class VIII English Poorvi Unit 2 Verghese Kurien - I Too Had a Dream Questions and Answers

Verghese Kurien - I Too Had a Dream

Let us do these activities before we read

I. Arrange the worldwide means of communication given below in the timeline provided. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

• 1. telephone
• 2. email
• 3. postcard
• 4. telegraph
• 5. mobile phone
• 6. carrier pigeons

Figure 1: Traditional and modern means of communication shown in the textbook.

Chronological Order Timeline:

1. Carrier pigeons
2. Telegraph
3. Postcard
4. Telephone
5. Mobile phone
6. Email

II. Work in pairs and discuss the following things. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. The reasons for change in the means of communication over the years.
2. The means of communication that you prefer to use and the reason for your choice.
3. Communication through social media: its benefits and precautions that one should take against its misuse.

1. Reasons for change: Technological advancement, the need for faster message delivery, increased convenience, global connectivity, and reduced cost over time.
2. Preferred means of communication: Smartphone/Instant Messaging or Email, because it enables instant connection across long distances, allows rich media sharing, and keeps a written record.
3. Social Media Communication:
   • Benefits: Connects people worldwide instantly, facilitates knowledge sharing, provides quick news updates, and builds communities.
   • Precautions: Avoid sharing personal or sensitive data publicly, do not share unverified news, protect account privacy, and report online harassment or misuse.

Let us discuss

Figure 2: Dr. Verghese Kurien and his legacy in Anand, Gujarat.

I. Identify which of the following statements are facts and which are opinions. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. "But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy." — Opinion
2. "I started my working life soon after our country became independent." — Fact
3. "To be quite honest, service to our nation's farmers was not the career I had envisioned for myself." — Fact
4. "I knew I could make a more meaningful contribution by working here in Anand, Gujarat." — Opinion
5. "...values that I saw in my mentor and supporter here in Anand-Tribhuvandas Patel." — Fact
6. "Life is a privilege, and to waste it would be wrong." — Opinion
7. "I hope that you, too, will discover, as I did, that failure is not about not succeeding." — Opinion
8. "...the magnificent ceremony in which the President awarded me the Padma Vibhushan in 1999?" — Fact

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1:
"In today's fast-paced world we have become so addicted to instant communication that we prefer to use a telephone. But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy. Writing is different. Writing even if it is a letter-not only conveys our present concerns and views of the events taking place around us but it becomes a possession that can be treasured and re-read over the years, with great, abiding pleasure."

(i) Fill in the blank given below by selecting the correct option from the brackets:
When the writer refers to a 'fast-paced world', he is speaking of a world where communication happens quickly but lacks depth.

(ii) Select the option that applies correctly to both Assertion (A) and Reason (R):
(A): Writing letters can be treasured and re-read over the years.
(R): Speaking on the telephone provides long lasting joy.
Answer: C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(iii) Identify whether the statement given below is true or false:
The writer feels that letter-writing is a class apart from other kinds of writing.
Answer: False. (The writer states that writing, even if it is a simple letter, is special compared to instant telephone calls).

(iv) Which of the following is the most appropriate title for the given extract?
Answer: C. The Lasting Joy of Written Words

Extract 2:
"Your grandmother too made an important choice. She knew, in those early days, life in Anand could not offer even the simple comforts that we take for granted today. However, she ardently supported my choice to live and work in Anand. That choice of your grandmother to stand by me has given me an everlasting strength, always ensuring that I shouldered my responsibilities with poise."

(i) How can we say that the grandmother shared her husband's dedication to a greater cause?
She willingly gave up simple modern comforts to live in Anand and ardently supported his decision to serve the dairy farmers.

(ii) Complete the following with the correct option from the two given in brackets:
The fact that the writer (grandfather) praises his wife tells us that he truly values her role in his life.

(iii) Complete the following sentence with the correct option from those given below:
Based on the information in the extract, we can infer that the grandmother had all of the following traits EXCEPT
Answer: C. comforting (While encouraging, understanding, and thoughtful fit, comforting is not explicitly highlighted as a primary trait in contrast to her strong support and sacrifice).

(iv) Select the phrase that conveys- 'showed grace under pressure and carried out my duties with dignity and confidence'.
Answer: "shouldered my responsibilities with poise"

II. Answer the following questions.

1. What event does Dr. Kurien refer to when he mentions receiving the Padma Vibhushan?
   He refers to the magnificent ceremony held in Delhi in 1999, where the President of India awarded him the Padma Vibhushan in the presence of his grandson.
2. How did Dr. Kurien's decision to join the cooperative in Anand affect his life?
   It completely transformed his life, leading him to put aside other career options (like metallurgy, the army, or going to the US) to devote his life to serving India's dairy farmers.
3. Dr. Kurien's decision to work in Anand reveals his values and sense of duty. Explain.
   It shows his humility, personal integrity, selflessness, and commitment to the common good by choosing to empower small farmers over personal wealth or prestige.
4. Why did Dr. Kurien write the letter to his grandson?
   He wrote it to share lasting memories, explain his life choices, and pass down valuable core principles to inspire his grandson and future generations to work for the larger good of the nation.
5. According to Dr. Kurien "life is a privilege and it is wrong to waste it". What is your opinion on this?
   I agree completely. Life gives us capabilities and opportunities, so using our talents to help others and contribute positively to society makes our life meaningful.
6. What message does Dr. Kurien want to convey about selfless service and its long-term impact on the society?
   He conveys that true failure is not putting in your best effort for the common good. Selfless service creates lasting institutions, empowers communities, and brings true personal fulfillment.

Let us learn

I. Replace the underlined words in each sentence with the correct synonym from the box:
[essential | swift | lifelong | momentary | useful | splendid]

1. He received the award in a magnificent ceremony. → splendid
2. I felt a fleeting joy when I received the appreciation for my song. → momentary
3. With today's instant communication, we can share information across the world in seconds. → swift
4. Our school focuses on the core values-collaboration, innovation, and unity. → essential
5. My teacher's advice on time management is a valuable reminder of the importance of planning. → useful
6. Reading books and listening to music can give abiding pleasure that will last forever. → lifelong

II. Match the expressions from the text in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

Column 1	Column 2
1. in all humility	(iv) being humble and having no feeling of self-importance
2. hold their heads high	(vi) be confident and have a positive feeling
3. to be quite honest	(i) to speak in a truthful way
4. to the best of your ability	(ii) doing something using all your skills, talents, and knowledge
5. looked at in awe	(iii) observed with great respect and wonder
6. somewhere deep down	(v) in the innermost part of the self

III. Make as many words as you can out of the following words.

1. community: city, toy, tune, unity, mutiny, cot
2. important: part, port, tan, ant, map, trap, pin, pit, art, mat
3. magnificent: cat, net, mat, fine, gain, coin, giant, magic
4. satisfied: sit, sat, tie, ties, fast, date, side, fist
5. generation: gear, rate, ration, neat, gate, nation, iron, tone
6. achievement: chat, hit, ache, meet, team, time, heat, machine

IV. Let us play a word game—antakshari.
Follow the clues to write synonyms and antonyms:

1. (i) major (synonym) → IMPORTANT
2. (ii) problem (synonym) → TROUBLE
3. (iii) uneven (antonym) → EVEN
4. (iv) related to post office → POSTAL
5. (v) our moral duty → RESPONSIBILITY
6. (vi) related to time → TEMPORARY / SECOND
7. (vii) prosperous (synonym) → RICH / SUCCESSFUL
8. (viii) related to being alive → LIVING

V. Read the sentences below and insert either an em dash (—) or an en dash (–) suitably.

1. The conference will be held from March 15–March 20. (En dash for date range)
2. I have lived in Kanpur–Raipur for five years now. (En dash for connection/range)
3. The artist—known for her vibrant paintings—will be showcasing her work in Guwahati. (Em dash for parenthetical info)
4. The scores for the final match were 2–3. (En dash for scores)
5. My favourite snacks—samosas, pakoras, and jalebis—are all from India. (Em dash for extra detail)
6. The train journey from Belagavi–Bengaluru takes less than ten hours. (En dash for route)
7. I just finished reading the book—it was absolutely amazing! (Em dash for emphasis/thought change)
8. The event will take place on September 1–September 5. (En dash for date range)

VI. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct word from the options given in the brackets.

1. Please remember to bring your (your/you're) assignment book.
2. The team celebrated their (their/they're) victory after the match.
3. It's (its/it's) important to stay hydrated during the hot summer days.
4. I can't believe you're (your/you're) going to the mango festival today.
5. The students said they're (they're/their) excited for the field trip tomorrow.
6. The tree lost its (its/it's) leaves in the winter.

VII. Complete the following sentences with suitable prepositional phrases.

1. The children played happily in the park.
2. Nisha placed the vase on the wooden table.
3. We discussed the project in great detail.
4. Preethi found the lost book under her bed.
5. The cat slept on the soft cushion.

VIII. Rearrange the following jumbled words and phrases into meaningful sentences.

1. Jumbled: barked/at the strangers/the dog/loudly/the house/walking by
   Sentence: The dog barked loudly at the strangers walking by the house.
2. Jumbled: wrote/my classmate/during the/a story/summer vacations
   Sentence: My classmate wrote a story during the summer vacations.
3. Jumbled: enjoyed/under the trees/they/by the lake/a picnic
   Sentence: They enjoyed a picnic under the trees by the lake.
4. Jumbled: in his/grandfather's room/hung/he/the painting
   Sentence: He hung the painting in his grandfather's room.
5. Jumbled: studied/with great determination/for/students/the/exam
   Sentence: The students studied for the exam with great determination.

Let us listen

I. After listening to the passage about Evelyn Glennie, match the words given in Column 1 with their meanings given in Column 2.

Column 1	Column 2
1. percussionist	(i) a person who plays drums and similar instruments
2. impaired	(v) damaged or weakened
3. vibrations	(iv) physical sensations caused by sound
4. determination	(ii) the ability to keep going despite difficulties
5. gradual	(iii) slow and steady over time

II. Listen to the passage once again and state whether the statements given below are true or false.

1. Evelyn Glennie became deaf suddenly. — False (Her loss of hearing was gradual).
2. Her headmistress ignored the signs of her hearing loss. — False (Her headmistress urged her parents to take her to a specialist).
3. Ron Forbes was a percussionist who helped Evelyn. — True
4. Evelyn used her skin and bones to sense music. — True
5. She gave up on music after her diagnosis. — False (She was determined to continue her music).

III. Answer the following questions in one or two words.

1. How did Evelyn turn her disability into strength?
   Through determination / sensing vibrations.
2. What role did Ron Forbes play in her life?
   Percussion mentor / spotted potential.
3. What lessons can we learn from Evelyn's story about how to treat others who have different abilities or challenges?
   Encourage potential / equal empathy.

Let us speak

I. Read aloud the given words with the correct syllable stress according to the part of speech given in the brackets.

• PROduce (noun) — PRO-duce
• proDUCE (verb) — pro-DUCE
• CONtract (noun) — CON-tract
• conTRACT (verb) — con-TRACT
• PROject (noun) — PRO-ject
• proJECT (verb) — pro-JECT
• CONtent (noun) — CON-tent
• conTENT (verb) — con-TENT
• REfuse (noun) — RE-fuse
• reFUSE (verb) — re-FUSE

II. Read aloud the words given below with the 'shuh' or 'zhuh' sound.

• 'Zhuh' sound (/ʒə/): measure, leisure, enclosure, exposure, seizure, composure
• 'Shuh' sound (/ʃə/): reassure, ensure, fissure, unsure

III. Chunk the stanzas with (/) or (//) and read it aloud.

Life is queer with its twists and turns.
As everyone of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about when he might
have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow-
you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man.

Life is queer/ with its twists and turns,//
As everyone of us/ sometimes learns.//
And many a fellow turns about/ when he might have won/ had he stuck it out.//
Don't give up/ though the pace seems slow—//
you may succeed/ with another blow.//
Often the goal is nearer/ than it seems/ to a faint and faltering man.//

Let us write

I. Write a letter to your grandparents thanking them for the valuable lessons they have taught you. Include how their wisdom has shaped your values and behaviour in life.

15, Rosewood Apartments
MG Road, Bengaluru
12 October 2026

Dearest Dada and Dadi,

I hope this letter finds you both in great health and spirits. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for all the wonderful values and life lessons you have taught me over the years.

I will always treasure the stories you shared during my vacations and your acts of kindness toward our neighbors. Watching you care for others with honesty and dedication has taught me the true meaning of integrity and empathy. Your guidance has shaped how I interact with my friends and teachers every day.

Inspired by your actions, I have volunteered to lead our school's community cleanliness campaign. I hope to make you proud by serving society just as you have always done.

With fondest love and respect,

Yours lovingly,
Ananya

Let us explore

Figure 3: Key Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions in India.

I. Research more information about the Revolutions (White, Green, and Blue Revolutions). Share your findings with your classmates and teacher.

• White Revolution (Operation Flood): Led by Dr. Verghese Kurien. Transformed India from a milk-deficient nation into the world's largest milk producer by empowering small dairy farmers through cooperatives like Amul.
• Green Revolution: Spearheaded by Dr. M.S. Swaminathan. Introduced high-yielding seed varieties, modern irrigation, and fertilizers, drastically increasing food grain production (wheat and rice) to ensure national food security.
• Blue Revolution: Led by Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri. Focused on modernizing aquaculture and commercial fisheries to boost productivity, enhance exports, and improve fishermen's livelihoods.

II. Find out more about Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) with the help of the link provided.

Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS): Operating under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, JSS provides non-formal vocational skill training directly to rural non-literates, neo-literates, and school dropouts. It aims to foster local entrepreneurship and socio-economic upliftment.

III. Financial Literacy Discussion Questions

Figure 4: Key concepts of Financial Literacy.

1. The importance of learning about money and saving from a young age. Share one example.
   Learning early helps form responsible spending habits and prepares us for future security. Example: Putting a portion of pocket money into a piggy bank or savings account to buy necessary books later.
2. Imagine you received some money as a gift. How would you decide whether to save it, spend it, or invest it? What factors would you consider?
   I would consider whether I need something urgently (needs vs. wants), save a portion for future requirements, and put the rest into a long-term deposit or investment.
3. If you were in charge of planning a small event at school with a limited budget, how would you manage the money?
   I would create a detailed budget list, prioritize essential items (decorations/snacks), compare prices from different vendors, and keep a small emergency fund reserve.
4. Why is financial literacy important for everyone?
   It prevents debt, allows individuals to manage personal household budgets, aids long-term financial security, and empowers individuals to make informed choices.