CBSE Class 10 English Mijbil the Otter Assignment Set 03

Short Answer Type Questions

Question. From where did Maxwell’s friend suggest him to get an otter ?
Answer: When Maxwell shared his desire to adopt an otter, his companion recommended obtaining one from the marshes of the Tigris river. His friend explained that otters were extremely plentiful in that region, comparing their numbers to mosquitoes.
In simple words: Maxwell's friend suggested getting an otter from the Tigris marshes because they were as common as mosquitoes there.

Exam Tip: The key phrases to include are 'Tigris marshes' and the comparison 'as common as mosquitoes'.

Question. “Five days later, my mail arrived.” What happened when Maxwell went to his bedroom to read his mail ?
Answer: When his letters finally arrived after five days, Maxwell took them to his bedroom. Upon entering, he discovered two Arab messengers sitting on the floor next to a sack that was moving restlessly. They presented him with a letter from his friend containing the message: 'Here is your otter...'
In simple words: When his mail arrived, Maxwell went to his bedroom and found two Arabs waiting with a moving sack and a note from his friend saying, 'Here is your otter.'

Exam Tip: Mention the two Arab messengers, the moving sack, and the note from the friend.

Question. How did Maxwell feel when the sack was opened ?
Answer: When the sack was unfastened, Maxwell felt as though a brand new chapter of his life had commenced, one that would stay with him forever. He described this experience as developing an intense obsession with otters, marked by a deep emotional bond and fascination.
In simple words: When the sack opened, Maxwell felt a lifelong connection begin. He developed an obsession with otters, feeling deeply attached to them.

Exam Tip: Use the term 'otter fixation' and explain it as a strong lifelong attachment or obsession.

Question. How did the otter look when he emerged from the sack ?
Answer: As the otter stepped out of the sack, his entire body from head to tail was layered with even, pointed scales of dried mud that looked like protective armor. Through the gaps in this muddy layer, one could see a soft, velvety coat of chocolate-brown fur.
In simple words: When he came out of the sack, he was covered in caked mud scales like armor, with soft chocolate-brown fur underneath.

Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between the rough 'mud armour' and the soft 'chocolate-brown mole-like' fur beneath it.

Question. How did Mijbil behave in the first twenty-four hours ?
Answer: During his initial day, Mijbil showed neither anger nor affection. Instead, he remained detached and quiet, keeping his distance from the author. He preferred to sleep on the floor at the furthest possible point from Maxwell's bed.
In simple words: During the first day, Mijbil was quiet and stayed away. He slept on the floor as far from Maxwell's bed as possible.

Exam Tip: Describe his initial behavior as 'aloof and indifferent' rather than aggressive or friendly, and note where he chose to sleep.

Question. What did Maxwell learn is a characteristic of otters ?
Answer: Maxwell discovered that otters are driven by an instinct to splash and spread water everywhere. In their view, water should never remain still; it must be kept flowing and active, as stationary water seems wasteful and irritating to them.
In simple words: Maxwell learned that otters love to splash water everywhere. They believe water must keep moving and should not be left still.

Exam Tip: Explain how otters view static water as wasteful and how they prefer to keep water constantly in motion.

Question. How would Mij play with the marbles ?
Answer: Mijbil had a unique way of playing where he would turn onto his back and balance marbles between his paws. He would skillfully roll multiple marbles up and down his broad, flat stomach, making sure none of them fell to the ground.
In simple words: Mijbil would lie on his back and juggle marbles with his paws, rolling them on his flat tummy without dropping any.

Exam Tip: Detail his action of lying on his back, juggling with paws, and rolling marbles on his flat belly.

Question. What did the airline insist for the transportation of Mij ?
Answer: The airline required that Mijbil be placed inside a box measuring no more than eighteen inches on each side. Additionally, they mandated that this container be kept on the floor of the plane, right by the author's feet.
In simple words: The airline insisted that Mijbil travel in an 18-inch square box placed on the floor near Maxwell's feet.

Exam Tip: Specify both rules laid down by the airline: the 18-inch square box size limit and its placement at the passenger's feet.

Question. What was the ‘appalling spectacle’ Maxwell noticed when he returned from having a hurried meal ?
Answer: After rushing back from a quick meal, Maxwell was met with absolute silence coming from the container. Alarmingly, dried blood had seeped through the air vents and gaps near the lid. He quickly forced the box open and discovered that Mijbil had shredded the inside lining, hurting himself in his struggle.
In simple words: Maxwell returned to find silence and dried blood around the box. He opened it and saw that Mijbil had shredded the lining and hurt himself.

Exam Tip: The 'appalling spectacle' refers to the dried blood and silence; be sure to describe the shredded lining and the otter's injuries.

Question. “He disappeared at high speed down the aircraft.” What did Mij do when he came back to Maxwell’s seat ?
Answer: Although Maxwell's initial attempts to retrieve Mijbil on the plane failed, the otter eventually returned on his own. While sitting back down, the author heard a soft, anxious squeak of greeting by his feet. Mijbil then bounded onto his lap, nuzzling his nose against Maxwell's neck and face.
In simple words: When Mijbil returned, he made a soft greeting sound by Maxwell's feet, jumped onto his lap, and rubbed his nose on Maxwell's face.

Exam Tip: Describe the otter's sounds of recognition and his affectionate gestures upon returning to Maxwell.

Question. Why was the author not allowed to take a flight of British Airways?
Answer: British Airways had strict rules against transporting animals on their flights. Since Maxwell needed to travel with his pet otter, he had to secure a ticket to Paris with a different airline and then make his way to London.
In simple words: British Airways did not permit pets on their planes. So, Maxwell had to take another airline to Paris first, then go to London.

Exam Tip: Explain that British Airways' policy against pets forced Maxwell to find an alternative route via Paris.

Question. What according to the writer is the ‘real play’ of an otter?
Answer: In the author's view, the true play of an otter involves lying down on its back and balancing tiny things with its feet. Mijbil would often lie this way, keeping two or three marbles rolling across his belly without letting any slip off.
In simple words: My pet's real play is lying on its back and juggling small toys like marbles with its paws without dropping them.

Exam Tip: Mention lying on the back and juggling small items (specifically marbles) to explain the 'real play' concept.

Question. Why were Maxwell and his friends going to Basra?
Answer: Maxwell traveled to the Consulate-General in Basra with his companion to retrieve and respond to their correspondence sent from Europe. Upon arriving, they discovered that while his friend's letters had been delivered, the author's own mail had not yet come.
In simple words: They went to Basra to collect their mail from Europe. Maxwell's friend received his mail, but Maxwell's mail was delayed.

Exam Tip: State the purpose of the trip (collecting mail) and the outcome (friend's mail arrived, but Maxwell's did not).

Question. What happened when Mij disappeared at speed down the aircraft?
Answer: As soon as the container was opened, Mijbil bolted out and dashed down the plane cabin. His rapid escape caused absolute chaos, with passengers crying out in alarm and screaming throughout the journey.
In simple words: When Mijbil escaped from his box, he ran down the plane very fast and caused massive panic and screaming among passengers.

Exam Tip: This question overlaps with Q15. Emphasize the suddenness of the escape and the ensuing panic on the flight.

Question. Prove that Mijbil loved the water, giving two instances in support of your answer.
Answer: Mijbil's fondness for water was obvious. First, after being shown the bathroom just once, he later started going there independently to play. Second, he would run around in the tub, diving, rolling, and splashing enthusiastically, and he even figured out how to turn the faucet on to get water flowing.
In simple words: Mijbil went to the bathroom by himself after only one visit. He loved to splash in the tub and even learned how to turn on the tap.

Exam Tip: The two best proofs are: going to the bathroom independently, and learning to turn on the water tap.

Question. Why was the otter named ‘Maxwell’s otter’?
Answer: The otter belonged to a specific species that had not been documented by scientists before. Because of this, zoologists eventually named the subspecies after the author, calling it 'Maxwell's otter'.
In simple words: Scientists had never seen this type of otter before, so they officially named it 'Maxwell's otter' after him.

Exam Tip: Explain that this species was completely new to science, which led zoologists to name it after Maxwell.

Question. What routine did Mijbil follow everyday while on the walk in London?
Answer: During their daily return walks, Mijbil would pull Maxwell toward a low wall bordering a primary school across from their apartment. The otter would leap onto this wall and run rapidly along its entire thirty-yard stretch, which highly distracted the school children and teachers inside.
In simple words: On his walks, Mijbil would jump onto a nearby school wall and run along its thirty yards, which distracted all the students and teachers.

Exam Tip: Clearly mention the thirty-yard primary school wall and how his running distracted the classes.

Long Answer Type Questions

Question. Why do you think the otter was not friendly at first with the narrator ? Can you relate this to the human nature as well?
Answer: Initially, the otter kept its distance from the author because they were meeting for the very first time. Placed in an unfamiliar setting, the animal felt hesitant as it recognized neither the keeper nor the environment. This unfamiliarity prompted him to maintain a safe distance. However, once he grew accustomed to his new home, his attitude shifted, and he approached the author with warmth. Such conduct closely mirrors human behavior. People generally require a certain amount of time to assess others before establishing a friendly connection. Until they feel entirely secure and at ease in another's company, they usually prefer to keep their distance.
In simple words: The otter was shy at first because everything and everyone was new to him. This is just like humans, who need time to feel comfortable before making friends.
Exam Tip: Clearly divide your answer into two parts - first explaining the otter's initial distance and then drawing a parallel with human social behavior.

Question. “But not knowing otters, I was quite unprepared for what followed”. Why does the writer say this?
Answer: The moment the author settled into his airplane seat, he unfastened the container. Mij escaped instantly and rushed down the cabin aisle with incredible swiftness. This triggered chaotic shouting and screaming from the passengers, with one lady even climbing onto her seat in terror, mistaking the animal for a rat. The author then caught a glimpse of Mij's tail vanishing under the legs of a broad Indian traveler wearing a white turban. Although he lunged forward to grab the pet, he missed his target entirely and ended up with food smeared across his face. He was completely caught off guard by this chaotic chain of events.
In simple words: The author opened Mij's box on the plane, and the otter instantly escaped, causing chaos. Passengers screamed, and the author got curry on his face while trying to catch him.
Exam Tip: Recall specific humorous details like the passenger mistaking the otter for a rat and the narrator getting his face covered in curry to make your answer vivid.

Question. Why had Maxwell gone to Basra ? How did he get the otter there ?
Answer: Gavin Maxwell traveled to the Consulate-General in Basra alongside a companion to pick up and reply to their correspondence arriving from Europe. Upon arrival, they discovered that while his companion's letters had reached, Maxwell's correspondence was missing. He promptly dispatched a telegraphic message to England. When there was still no response after three days, he attempted to place a telephone call. However, international calls during that era required registration a full day beforehand. Despite waiting patiently, he spent another three days failing to make any telephone contact. Consequently, his companion departed, and they made plans to reunite after a week. Eventually, five days afterwards, Maxwell's correspondence arrived. Upon bringing the letters to his room to read them, he discovered a pair of Arabs sitting on the floor, next to a sack that kept moving and wriggling. The men presented him with a brief message from his companion which read, "Here is your otter".
In simple words: Maxwell went to Basra to collect his letters from Europe. While waiting for his delayed mail, his friend left first and sent him an otter in a sack through two Arab men.
Exam Tip: Structure this long-answer question chronologically, clearly explaining first the reason for his visit to Basra, the delays he faced, and finally how the pet was delivered.

Question. “Water must be kept on the move and made to do things; when static it is wasted and provoking.” Do you think this statement was true in case of Mijbil, the otter ?
Answer: Indeed, this observation holds perfectly true for Mijbil. When the author guided Mijbil to the bathroom on a leash, the animal became ecstatic upon encountering water. He began diving, turning, and rolling with sheer delight. He darted along the entire span of the tub beneath the surface, generating an immense amount of splashing and sloshing. The author soon realized that such behavior is highly typical of this species. To an otter, water is meant to be dispersed and scattered everywhere. This trait was demonstrated once more a couple of days later when Mij slipped out of the bedroom just as the author walked in. Tracking him to the bathroom, the author discovered Mij playing with the metallic faucets using his front feet. To the author's amazement, Mij managed to open the faucet, eventually unleashing a powerful stream of water. This incident proves that these creatures find still water unsatisfactory and prefer it to remain constantly active and flowing.
In simple words: Mijbil absolutely loved playing in water, splashing it everywhere. He even learned how to turn on the bathroom tap himself to make the water flow.
Exam Tip: Mention specific instances from the text, such as Mijbil's behavior in the bathtub and his ability to turn on the chromium tap, to justify the quote.

Question. He spent most of his time in play.” How would Mij spend most of his time in play ?
Answer: Once he grew accustomed to the author, Mij started accompanying him without needing a leash and would respond promptly when his name was called. Over time, playing became his primary activity. He would pass hours nudging a rubber ball across the room. He was also skilled at launching the ball with a swift, nimble flick, sending it to remarkable heights and distances. Nevertheless, his absolute favorite game involved lying on his back and playing with tiny items using his paws. He was particularly fond of marbles, rolling multiple spheres up and down his broad, flat chest and abdomen without letting a single one fall to the ground.
In simple words: Mij loved playing with a rubber ball and could even flick it far. His favorite game was lying on his back and rolling marbles on his flat belly without dropping them.
Exam Tip: To get full marks, describe both his active play (with the rubber ball) and his quiet play (juggling marbles on his back) in detail.

Question. One has to be very patient and loving with pets. Was Maxwell an animal lover ? Give his character sketch. For every adjective that you use, give an instance also.
Answer: The author, Maxwell, possessed an intense affection for animals, which is why he decided to adopt an otter instead of a dog. He even admitted to having a deep-seated obsession with the species, one he believed might never fade. When the creature first arrived, it was completely encased in thick, patterned layers of dried earth. This dirt was so deeply ground into its coat that the pet could not shake it loose on its own. However, the author spent a whole month patiently clearing away every single trace of dirt until the animal's natural fur was fully visible. Furthermore, the author was highly observant and detail-oriented. He noted every little aspect of his pet's playful habits, gave him the name Mijbil, and warmly shortened it to Mij. He also proved to be exceptionally gentle and understanding. He gave Mijbil ample time to get used to his new environment, permitted him to sleep comfortably behind his knees, watched his playful antics with affection, and remained calm when the pet played with the bathroom faucets. Lastly, his responsible and protective nature was evident when he made special travel arrangements to fly the pet back to England. When Mijbil escaped inside the airplane cabin and later returned to nuzzle against his neck, the author felt immense relief and joy rather than anger. He was indeed an incredibly compassionate, warm-hearted, and tolerant guardian.
In simple words: Maxwell was a wonderful animal lover who showed incredible patience. He spent a month cleaning his mud-covered otter, tolerated his mischievous antics, and kept his calm when the pet caused chaos on the plane.
Exam Tip: When writing a character sketch, pair every quality you mention (like patience, observation, or compassion) with a specific incident from the chapter as proof.

Question. Mij, the otter, was mischievous. Justify the statement with examples from the text.
Answer: Mijbil possessed a highly playful and mischievous spirit. While initially distant and reserved, he climbed onto the author's bed by the second night to sleep snugly in the bend of his knees. His playful mischief became obvious in the bathroom, where he would celebrate with pure excitement in the tub. He even figured out how to climb up and turn on the water faucet using his paws to create his own play area. The otter dedicated most of his day to recreation. He spent hours nudging a rubber ball around the floor like a four-legged soccer athlete, and he loved lying on his back to juggle glass marbles with his feet. When Maxwell tried to transport him to London in a crate, Mijbil tore at the inner lining in an effort to break free. During the flight, he darted out of the box the instant it was unfastened, causing a massive scare among the travelers before casually returning to sit on his owner's lap. While staying in London, he designed a unique game using a ping-pong ball on a sloping suitcase lid. He also formed a habit during walks of pulling the author toward a two-foot-high boundary wall of a local primary school. He would then sprint along its entire thirty-yard length, distracting and amusing the children inside. He continuously sought out new ways to entertain himself with childlike playfulness.
In simple words: Mijbil was a very playful pet. He turned on taps, ran away on planes, played soccer with a ball, and loved running along a school wall to get attention.
Exam Tip: List at least three distinct playful habits of Mijbil (bathroom antics, plane escape, primary school wall run) to make your answer comprehensive.

Question. Mijbil did things which demonstrated its personality. Which qualities of the narrator are shown in his care for Mijbil?
Answer: The otter was an incredibly bright, lively, and entertaining animal with a great love for water. When the author guided him to the bath, Mij spent thirty minutes playing ecstatically, diving and rolling around. The author nurtured Mijbil with deep, parental affection. He ensured the pet was highly comfortable, supplying him with diverse amusements such as glass spheres, elastic spheres, artificial fruits, and a turtle shell. He was deeply attentive to Mij's unique behaviors and let him play freely. He ensured the pet received regular physical activity. However, when the author kept him inside a travel container to move him, the otter injured himself trying to escape. Upon discovering his pet covered in blood, the author felt immense shock and deep concern, highlighting his profound attachment.
In simple words: Maxwell cared for Mijbil like a parent, providing him with toys and taking him out for daily exercise. He felt extremely upset when the otter hurt himself trying to escape his box.
Exam Tip: Focus on terms like 'parental care', 'empathy', and 'observant nature' when describing Maxwell's character in relation to Mijbil.

Question. Why did Maxwell want to have an otter for a pet? How did he get one?
Answer: The author was eager to find a new animal companion. Since his beloved dog had recently passed away, he felt too heartbroken to bring home another canine. Consequently, during a journey to Southern Iraq, he resolved to adopt an otter as an alternative. A companion recommended searching near the Tigris wetlands, where these animals were exceptionally abundant, comparing them to mosquitoes. This companion also mentioned that local Arabs frequently raised and trained them. Subsequently, the author and his companion visited the Consulate-General in Basra to pick up their letters. Several days afterward, the author's correspondence arrived. Upon entering his room with the letters, he encountered two Arab men sitting on the floor beside a wriggling sack, holding a message from his companion that read, "Here is your otter...."
In simple words: After his dog died, Maxwell wanted a different pet and decided on an otter. His friend helped him get one from the Tigris wetlands, delivered by two Arab men.
Exam Tip: Clearly separate the 'why' (the death of his pet dog) and the 'how' (his friend arranging an otter from Iraq) to cover both parts of the prompt.

Question. Describe the relationship between the otter and Maxwell in your own words.
Answer: Maxwell and Mijbil enjoyed a wonderful, affectionate bond. The author nurtured the otter with the same warmth he would show any domestic pet, ensuring his comfort and happiness. Recognizing his pet's fondness for play, he provided various items like glass marbles, elastic bands, artificial fruits, and a turtle shell. He frequently brought him to the tub, knowing how much otters enjoy active water. He closely watched his pet's developmental traits. Although Mijbil was initially shy and kept his distance, he soon developed a deep friendship with his keeper. The author supported his natural curiosity and took him out for daily physical activities. When the author saw blood leaking from the travel container, he felt deep shock and worry. Upon being released, Mijbil playfully bounded around before settling down calmly on the author's lap, demonstrating their mutual trust and affection.
In simple words: Maxwell and Mijbil had a very loving relationship. Maxwell took great care of him, gave him toys, and Mijbil showed his trust by sleeping close to him and sitting on his lap.
Exam Tip: In character/relationship descriptions, highlight the themes of trust and mutual affection, backed up by the scene of Mijbil resting on Maxwell's knees.

Question. How did it, come to the mind of the writer that an otter can be substituted for dogs or cats?
Answer: Following the death of his beloved dog, the author felt too grief-stricken to bring home another canine. A companion suggested that he adopt an otter from the Tigris wetlands instead, explaining that they were highly common there and frequently raised by local Arabs. While waiting in Basra at the Consulate-General for his delayed correspondence, the author received a package containing an otter, sent by his companion via two Arab messengers. Upon spending time with the unique creature, the author developed a deep emotional bond and affection for it, deciding to keep it as his pet.
In simple words: The author lost his pet dog and wanted a different kind of animal. His friend suggested an otter from the wetlands, which Maxwell instantly grew attached to.
Exam Tip: Mention that the key turning point was the death of his dog, combined with his friend's suggestion about the abundance of otters in Iraq.

Extract Based Questions

1. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
We were going to Basra to the Consulate-General to collect and answer our mail from Europe. At the Consulate-General we found that my friend’s mail had arrived but mine had not. I cabled to England, and when three days later, nothing had happened I tried to telephone. The call had to be booked twenty-four in advance. On the first day the line was out of order; on the second the exchange was closed for a religious holiday. On the third day there was another break down. My friend left and/arranged to meet him in a week’s time. Five days later; my mail arrived.

Question 5(i). Pick the option that classifies (F) Fact from (O) opinion.
1. I feel the author was in a hurry about his mail.
2. I know the author arranged to meet his friend a week later.
3. Let’s not forget, these two friends were wanting their mail from England.
4. But the author had tried to telephone when nothing happened.
(a) F 1 and 2, O 3 and 4
(b) F 2 and 4, O 1 and 3
(c) F 3 and 4, O 1 and 2
(d) F 1 and 4, O 2 and 3
Answer: (b) F 2 and 4, O 1 and 3
In simple words: The arrangements and telephone attempts are verifiable facts from the text, while statements starting with 'I feel' or 'Let's not forget' represent opinions.
Exam Tip: Statements expressing feelings or reminders are often subjective opinions, while direct occurrences described in the text are facts.

Question 5(ii). Which word corresponds to 'booked' as used in the passage?
Answer: pre-arrange
In simple words: In this context, 'booked' means to reserve or arrange a phone call in advance.
Exam Tip: Choose a contextual synonym that shows prior scheduling, which aligns with 'pre-arrange'.

Question 5(iii). In the statement, 'On the first day the line was out of order; on the second the exchange was closed for a religious holiday' another synonym of the underlined words would be _____.
(a) stumped
(b) confounded
(c) breakup
(d) breakdown
Answer: (d) breakdown
In simple words: When machinery or a system stops working, it is called a breakdown.
Exam Tip: Connect 'out of order' to 'breakdown' as both refer to a mechanical or technical failure in a communication system.

Question 5(iv). Why did Gavin Maxwell got stuck in Basra for five days? What does this tell you about the state of communication in those times? Answer in about 40 words.
Answer: Maxwell remained stranded in Basra waiting for his delayed European mail. Making a call was extremely difficult due to line failures and holiday closures. This shows that communications were incredibly slow back then, with phone calls requiring reservations a whole day ahead.
In simple words: Maxwell was stuck waiting for letters. Back then, phones broke down often, and making a call took a whole day of planning.
Exam Tip: Be sure to touch on both aspects: why he was stuck (waiting for mail) and what it says about the era's technology (very slow and unreliable).

2. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Mijbil as I called the otter, was in fact of a race previously unknown to science and was at length christened ..... or Maxwell’s otter. For the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible.

Question 6(i). Pick the option that classifies (F) Fact from (O) opinion.
1. I think the otter was very aloof at first.
2. I feel the otter did not like the author at first.
3. Oh let’s not forget his species was not well known to scientists at first.
4. It is possible that the otter preferred the floor to the bed.
(a) F 2 and 3, O 1 and 4
(b) F 3 and 4, O I and 2
(c) F 1 and 2, O 3 and 4
(d) F 1 and 3, O 2 and 4
Answer: (d) F 1 and 3, O 2 and 4
In simple words: The facts are that the otter kept his distance initially and his species was new to science, while the reasons behind his choices represent opinions.
Exam Tip: Differentiate statements using textual validation; actual behaviors or classifications from the text are facts, whereas motives are often opinions.

Question 6(ii). Which of the following options correctly display the author’s attitude towards Mijbil?
(a) scientific and racial
(b) gentle and understanding
(c) humourous
(d) patronising
Answer: (b) gentle and understanding
In simple words: The author showed great kindness and patience as he let the pet get used to his new surroundings.
Exam Tip: The author's handling of the pet's early shyness shows his empathetic, gentle, and understanding approach.

Question 6(iii). In the statement, 'Mijbil as I called the otter, was in fact of a race previously unknown to science and was at length christened ...' the underlined word can be perfectly substituted with _____.
(a) debuted
(b) baptised
(c) named
(d) labelled
Answer: (c) named
In simple words: The term 'christened' means giving a formal name to someone or something.
Exam Tip: 'Christened' in this scientific and general context is best substituted by the word 'named'.

3. Question 6(iv). Did Mijbil remain aloof and indifferent through his stay with Maxwell or did his behaviour change with the passage of time?
Answer: Mijbil did not stay detached for long. Though initially distant and unresponsive, he gradually grew curious about his environment and comfortable around his keeper. Eventually, he sought affection, playfulness, and safety from Maxwell, just as any domestic animal would.
In simple words: Mijbil was shy only at first. Soon, he became friendly, loved playing with Maxwell, and trusted him completely.
Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between his initial aloofness and his eventual affectionate, playful behavior over time.

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Two days later Mijbil escaped from my bedroom as I entered it and/turned to see his tail disappearing round the bend of the corridor that led to the bathroom. By the time I got there he was up on the end of the bathtub and fumbling at the chromium taps with his paws. I watched, amazed; in less than a minute he had turned the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water and after a moment or two achieved the full flow.

Question 7(i). Which synonym does the word 'fumbling' (as used in the passage) correspond to in the following options?
(a) groping
(b) drubbing
(c) mishandling
(d) blundering
Answer: (a) groping
In simple words: 'Fumbling' means trying to handle or feel around for something clumsily, which is very similar to 'groping'.
Exam Tip: Think of how the otter uses its paws to touch and manipulate the tap blindly or clumsily, making 'groping' the best fit.

Question 7(ii). Choose the statements that are NOT TRUE.
1. The otter escaped from the bedroom two days later.
2. The author ran after the otter.
3. The otter disappeared round the bed of the corridor.
4. The otter used his paws to turn on the tap.
5. The author helped the otter to turn on the tap.
6. In a moment the otter had achieved the full flow of the tap.
(a) 2 and 5
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 3 and 5
(d) 4 and 6
Answer: (a) 2 and 5
In simple words: The author did not run after the otter, nor did he help him open the tap; the otter did it entirely by himself.
Exam Tip: Be careful with 'NOT TRUE' questions, checking each statement against the passage before deciding on the incorrect ones.

Question 7(iii). Pick the option that classifies (F) Fact from (O) opinion.
1. I think otters are very clever animals.
2. Just look at the way Mijbil turned on the full flow of the tap.
3. I feel Mijbil wanted to be freed.
4. Let’s not forget Mijbil could fumble with the chromium tap with his paws.
(a) F 1 and 3, O 2 and 4
(b) F 2 and 4, O 1 and 3
(c) F 3 and 4, O 1 and 2
(d) F 1 and 4, O 2 and 3
Answer: (b) F 2 and 4, O 1 and 3
In simple words: Mijbil turning on the water and fumbling with the faucet are documented occurrences (facts), while general thoughts about his cleverness or desire for freedom are opinions.
Exam Tip: Any statement starting with phrases like 'I think' or 'I feel' indicates a subjective belief (opinion), whereas direct descriptions of actions are objective facts.

Question 7(iv). Mijbil was resourceful and dexterous enough to find his way around his master’s house and also to amuse himself. Answer with relevant examples in about 40 words.
Answer: Mijbil quickly learned to navigate the house, even sneaking to the bathroom where he successfully opened the faucets to splash around. He also showed great creativity by crafting his own games, juggling small items, and rolling glass marbles on his back.
In simple words: Mijbil was very clever. He figured out how to turn on water taps and made up his own fun games with marbles and other toys.
Exam Tip: Use terms like 'resourceful' and 'dexterous' in your answer, supporting them with the tap-turning and marble-juggling examples.