GSEB Class 11 Solutions Unit 10 Read 3 Confessions of A Born Spectator (Poem)

Comprehension

Answer The Following Questions In Three To Four Sentences Each:

Question 1. State whether the poet is a player or not.
Answer: The poet is not a participant; rather, he is merely a spectator who observes sports. However, he considers himself the most dedicated spectator, willing to spend any sum of money to purchase a ticket to watch any sporting event.
In simple words: The poet loves watching sports but never plays them himself, happy to spend money on tickets.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on identifying the poet's direct involvement (or lack thereof) in sports and his attitude towards it for a clear answer.

 

Question 2. Is the poet ready to spend any amount of money to applaud his player-friends ?
Answer: Yes, the poet is prepared to spend any amount of money to cheer for his friends who are athletes.
In simple words: The poet is willing to pay any price to support his athlete friends from the stands.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the poet's financial willingness to support players, highlighting his dedication as a spectator.

 

Question 3. List out the things the poet is ready to do with the players, and the things he does not like to do.
Answer: The poet is prepared to share a drink or a meal with the athletes and do almost anything for them. He is also ready to acquire highly expensive tickets to witness their games in the stadium. Nevertheless, he would never contemplate exchanging his position with theirs; he would never become a player himself. He finds contentment in remaining a spectator forever.
In simple words: The poet is happy to socialize with players and buy tickets but absolutely refuses to become a player himself.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between the poet's willingness to support players off the field (drinking, eating, buying tickets) and his firm refusal to participate as a player.

 

Question 4. Why does the poet call himself a 'born spectator'?
Answer: The term 'born' as an adjective signifies inherent qualities or natural aptitude present from birth, which are difficult to alter. In this context, the poet deeply enjoys watching games and sports, but he is naturally timid. He avoids becoming a player because athletes are frequently susceptible to physical injuries, and the poet lacks the courage to endure such risks. Consequently, he desires to perpetually remain a spectator.
In simple words: The poet calls himself a 'born spectator' because he loves watching sports but is too shy and fearful of injuries to ever play.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the meaning of 'born' in this context and connect it to the poet's innate shyness and fear of injury, which prevent him from playing.

 

Question 5. Which parts of a human body are mentioned in the poem?
Answer: The parts of the human body referenced in this poem include the heart, vertebrae, and spine.
In simple words: The poem mentions the heart, vertebrae, and spine as body parts.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the specific body parts mentioned in the poem to demonstrate attention to detail.

 

Write Three To Five Sentences About:

Question 1. The poet's attitude towards the players
Answer: The poet holds athletes in high regard, expressing much admiration for them. He notes that some players perform with great enthusiasm but often sustain various physical injuries during play, which can sometimes be very severe. These athletes display great courage and even risk their lives. The poet is eager to purchase costly tickets to observe these sportsmen competing on the field.
In simple words: The poet highly praises players for their enthusiasm, courage, and risk-taking, even buying expensive tickets to watch them despite their injuries.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the poet's admiration for players' dedication and risk-taking, and his willingness to support them financially as a spectator.

 

Question 2. The advantages the players enjoy
Answer: Being an athlete offers numerous benefits. A skilled player delights in the sport and can also earn a substantial income. Their athletic attire and heroic accomplishments are truly admirable. They achieve global recognition and acquire many privileges, receiving considerable praise and numerous awards. They serve as inspiring role models for younger generations. In the modern era of e-media, they gain a vast following both domestically and internationally, building a significant fan base.
In simple words: Players enjoy benefits like good income, fame, awards, and becoming role models due to their heroic deeds and performance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Enumerate the various advantages (financial, social, inspirational) that players experience as a result of their involvement in sports.

 

Question 3. The physical injuries the players might
Answer: During various games and sports, players are susceptible to severe physical injuries. For instance, in a boxing match, one boxer might knock another to the ground. In horse racing, there's a risk of injuring one's vertebrae and spine. Consequently, athletes frequently suffer serious injuries, and in some cases, these incidents can even be fatal.
In simple words: Players in various sports, like boxing and horse racing, often face severe physical injuries, sometimes risking their lives.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide specific examples of injuries from different sports to illustrate the physical risks athletes face.

 

Additional Questions

Poetry Comprehension

Read The Stanzas And Answer The Questions:

1. Now A runs ninety yards to score,
B knocks the champion to the floor.
C risking vertebrae and spine,
Lashes his steed across the line.
You'd think my ego it would please
To swap positions with one of these.
Questions:
1. Which different sports are mentioned in this stanza?
Answer: The sports mentioned in this stanza are: (i) running race (sprint), (ii) boxing, and (iii) horse race.
In simple words: The stanza refers to running, boxing, and horse racing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read each line of the stanza to identify specific actions related to different sports.

 

2. How would 'C' run risk ?
Answer: While riding a swift horse in a race, person 'C' faces the risk of sustaining a lifelong injury to their vertebrae and spine.
In simple words: 'C' risks serious back injury while riding a fast horse in a race.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link the action described for 'C' (lashing his steed) directly to the potential physical danger (vertebrae and spine injury).

 

3. When would the poet's ego please ?
Answer: The poet's ego would be satisfied if he were to participate directly as one of the athletes on the field.
In simple words: The poet's ego would be pleased if he himself were a participating athlete.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the condition under which the poet's ego would be gratified, which is direct involvement in the sport.

 

2. Well, ego might be pleased enough,
But zealous athletes play so rough,
They do not ever, in their dealings
Consider one another's feelings.
I'm glad that when my struggle begins
Twixt prudence and ego, prudence wins.
Questions:
1. Why does the poet say that some athletes play very rough?
Answer: The poet observes that some enthusiastic athletes play with great intensity because, during competition, they often disregard the feelings of their opponents. Their primary focus is solely on achieving victory at any cost.
In simple words: Athletes play roughly because they are so focused on winning that they ignore opponents' feelings.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain that the rough play of zealous athletes stems from their intense desire to win, often at the expense of considering others' feelings.

 

2. When is the poet glad ? Why ?
Answer: The poet acknowledges that if he were to engage in sports as a player, his ego would likely be pleased. However, due to his delicate physical build, his sensible judgment (prudence) prevents him from doing so. Thus, in the internal conflict between his ego and his good judgment, he finds happiness in the fact that his prudence ultimately prevails over his ego.
In simple words: The poet is glad when his common sense (prudence) wins over his desire (ego) to play, preventing him from risking injury due to his weak physique.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the internal conflict between ego and prudence and explain why the poet is happy when prudence triumphs, linking it to his physical limitations.

 

3. Pick out the lines that show that athletes are not sentimental ?
Answer: The lines indicating that athletes are not sentimental are: 'They do not ever, in their dealings Consider one another's feelings'.
In simple words: The lines "They do not ever... Consider one another's feelings" show athletes aren't sentimental.

🎯 Exam Tip: Quote the exact lines from the poem that demonstrate the athletes' lack of sentimentality or consideration for opponents.

 

3. Athletes, I'll drink to you or eat with you.
Or anything except compete with you.
Buy tickets worth their weight in radium.
To watch you gambol in a stadium
And reassure myself anew
That you're not me and I'm not you.
Questions:
1. What is the poet ready to do ?
Answer: The poet is prepared to share a drink or a meal in honor of the successful athletes. He is also willing to purchase tickets at any cost to watch them compete.
In simple words: The poet is ready to socialize with athletes and buy expensive tickets to watch them play.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the specific actions the poet is willing to undertake, such as drinking, eating, and buying tickets, to show support.

 

2. What is the poet not ready to do ?
Answer: The poet is unwilling to compete against the sportsmen on the field.
In simple words: The poet will not compete in sports himself.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the one activity the poet explicitly refuses to do, which is to compete.

 

3. 'That you're not me and I'm not you.
What does the poet want to say?
Answer: By 'you,' the poet is referring to the athletes. He expresses satisfaction in simply being a spectator, safely seated in the stands, rather than an athlete who is constantly exposed to the risk of injury.
In simple words: The poet means he is content being a spectator, separate from the athletes and their risks.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the poet's contentment with his role as a safe spectator and his distinction from the injury-prone athletes.

 

Paraphrase Versions (Opposite Meaning)

Question 1. I deeply hate the players who struggle hard for money or want to be funny.
Answer: The poet actually admires those dedicated players who exert great effort, whether for enjoyment or financial gain. Watching them play earnestly brings people pleasure. The actual lines from the poem are: 'With all my heart do I admire Athletes who sweat for fun or hire.'
In simple words: The poet actually admires hard-working players, finding joy in their efforts, not hating them for playing for money or fun.

🎯 Exam Tip: Correctly identify the poem's true sentiment of admiration, contrasting it with the given negative paraphrase, and quote the original lines for evidence.

 

Question 2. Mr X beats his donkey to reach at the line, in this action there is always a possibility of his backbone injury.
Answer: In horse racing, horses are professionally trained, and jockeys ride them while people place significant bets. Competitors must cover a specific distance and cross the finish line. This type of riding inherently carries a risk of injury to the vertebrae (backbone). In this particular sport, horses are raced, not donkeys. The actual lines are: 'risking vertebrae and spine, Lashes his steed across the line.'
In simple words: The poet describes horse racing where jockeys risk spinal injury, not a person beating a donkey.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clarify the sport being described (horse racing, not donkey beating) and pinpoint the correct risk mentioned in the poem (jockey's backbone injury), quoting the relevant lines.

 

Question 3. When players play against each other, they become indifferent to each other.
Answer: Every sport or game involves an element of competition. Whether in an individual contest or a team sport, each player or team strives to overcome the opponent at all costs. This competitive intensity often leads to a disregard for feelings such as pity, compassion, kindness, and sometimes honesty, causing them to become indifferent towards one another. The actual lines are: 'But zealous athletes play so rough, They do not ever, in their dealings Consider one another's feelings.'
In simple words: During competitive play, athletes become indifferent to opponents' feelings because of their strong desire to win, as described in the poem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain that the competitive nature of sports leads players to disregard opponents' feelings, emphasizing the intensity of their focus on victory, and cite the poem's lines.

 

Question 4. I am ready to drink or eat with you, but I won't support you.
Answer: The poet openly acknowledges his role as a natural spectator and expresses no desire to switch places with an athlete on the field. This is primarily because he is timid and unwilling to endure physical injuries. However, he is fully prepared to support the athletes by honoring them with drinks, sharing meals, or purchasing very costly tickets to watch them play, though he will never play any game himself and invite injuries. The actual lines are: 'Athletes, I'll drink to you or eat with you. Or anything except compete with you. Buy tickets worth your radium. To watch you gambol in a stadium.'
In simple words: The poet supports athletes by socializing and buying tickets but refuses to play himself due to timidity and fear of injury, which is the opposite of the given statement.

🎯 Exam Tip: Contrast the given statement with the poet's actual stance: he *does* support athletes (financially and socially) but will not *participate* due to personal limitations, quoting the relevant lines.

 

Question 5. I doubt myself now, whether I am you or you are me.
Answer: In reality, the poet has no doubt that he is simply a spectator or observer who enjoys watching athletes perform various sports. He understands that players are distinct from spectators, who merely sit in the stadium lounge, enjoying the games with popcorn. The poet is very conscious that he is only a spectator and that those he watches are players; thus, he cannot be a player, and a player cannot be a spectator. The actual lines are: 'And reassure myself anew That you're not me and I'm not you.'
In simple words: The poet clearly knows he is a spectator and not a player, confirming their distinct roles, contrary to expressing doubt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain that the poet harbors no doubt about his identity as a spectator, differentiating himself clearly from the athletes, and quote the line that reinforces this certainty.

 

Select The Correct Option:

Question 1. The poet says that he enjoys....
(A) athletes' heroic deeds.
(B) athletes' rough play.
(C) his competition with players.
(D) champion's knocking to the floor.
Answer: (A) athletes' heroic deeds.
In simple words: The poet finds enjoyment in observing the brave and heroic actions of the athletes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the poet's primary source of pleasure as a spectator, which is witnessing the courageous acts of players.

 

Question 2. Which of the following games is not mentioned in the poem ?
(A) Horse riding
(B) Weightlifting
(C) Running
(D) Wrestling
Answer: (B) Weightlifting
In simple words: The poem does not mention weightlifting among the sports discussed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recall the specific sports mentioned in the poem to accurately identify the one that is absent from the text.

 

Question 3. The poet is ready to do anything except with the athletes.
(A) eat or drink
(B) buy tickets
(C) compete
(D) watch the match
Answer: (C) compete
In simple words: The poet is willing to do everything with athletes except compete against them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the poet's clear boundary: he will support athletes in many ways, but will not engage in direct competition.

 

Question 4. At the end of the poem, the poet accepts that...
(A) he is pleased with the athletes.
(B) his ego wins over his prudence.
(C) he is glad to fight in a stadium.
(D) he is not like an athlete and the athletes are not like him.
Answer: (D) he is not like an athlete and the athletes are not like him.
In simple words: The poem concludes with the poet acknowledging the fundamental difference between himself (a spectator) and the athletes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the central realization or acceptance of the poet regarding his distinct role compared to that of the athletes.

 

Discuss These Situations Orally:

1. What do you want to be, a good player or a good spectator?
2. Did you find yourself perplexed anytime in your life ? What was your stand at last ?
3. Are you frank to admit your weaknesses openly ?

 

Vocabulary:

Replace the underlined words with the words closest to the meanings given in the box: regain, fragile, toil, recognize, overcome

Many years ago, I encountered a young, delicate girl in primary school. She aspired to become a weightlifter. Sometime later, I attended a weightlifting competition and met a successful female weightlifter. I initially failed to identify her because she had developed a muscular physique. She had clearly dedicated significant effort to achieve that body. I asked her with surprise, "How did you manage to conquer your frail and weak body?" She responded with a smile, "I achieved it through exercises and a special diet, but now it's impossible to restore the original softness of my body."

 

Answer: Many years ago, I met a young **fragile** girl in primary school. She wanted to become a weightlifter. After some time, I went to see a weightlifting competition where I met a successful female weightlifter. I could not **recognize** her because she had become a muscular lady then. She had done **toil** to get that body. I asked her with surprise, "How could you **overcome** your thin and weak body?" She answered with a smile, "I could do it by exercises and a food-programme, but now it is not possible to **regain** that softness in my body."
In simple words: This passage describes a girl who transformed from fragile to muscular through hard work, overcoming her initial weakness, and though she achieved strength, she couldn't regain her original softness.

🎯 Exam Tip: When replacing words, ensure the chosen synonym not only matches the meaning but also fits the context and professional tone of the sentence.

 

I Am A Word. But Who Am I?

Question 1. I am a person, who has started something successfully. People follow me on that path to get success in the field. I am a celebrity.
Answer: A celebrity is someone who has initiated something successfully and whose path to success is followed by others.
In simple words: I am a celebrity, a successful person others look up to.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the key characteristic (successful initiator, followed by others) to match the description with the correct term.

 

Question 2. I am a sportsperson. It is a part of my game to fight with the opponent with my fists. I am a boxer.
Answer: I am a sportsperson whose game involves fighting an opponent with my fists; I am a boxer.
In simple words: I am a boxer, fighting with fists.

🎯 Exam Tip: The core clue is "fight with the opponent with my fists," which directly points to a boxer.

 

Question 3. I become helpful to learn the lessons but I am not a teacher. I just instruct the learner to sharpen her/his skills in the field. I am a coach.
Answer: I assist in learning lessons and instruct learners to refine their skills in a specific field, though I am not a teacher. I am a coach.
In simple words: I am a coach; I instruct and help learners sharpen skills without being a teacher.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the role of instructing and sharpening skills in a practical field, distinct from general teaching, to identify a coach.

 

Question 4. I am a player. I play to earn money from the game. I am a professional sportsperson.
Answer: I am an athlete who competes in games for financial compensation; I am a professional sportsperson.
In simple words: I am a professional sportsperson, playing for money.

🎯 Exam Tip: The phrase "play to earn money" is the direct indicator for a "professional sportsperson."

 

Question 5. I am a platform. I am not round-shaped, yet I am popularly known as circular object. I am a ring.
Answer: I am a platform that, despite not being perfectly round, is widely recognized as a circular object. I am a ring.
In simple words: I am a ring, a platform known as a circular object despite not being perfectly round.

🎯 Exam Tip: The key is being a "platform" popularly known as "circular," which points to a boxing or wrestling ring.

 

Question 6. I am a written life story of a person. In this story, the story-teller is also the story-writer. I am an autobiography.
Answer: I am a written narrative of an individual's life, where the storyteller and the writer are the same person. I am an autobiography.
In simple words: I am an autobiography, a life story written by the person it's about.

🎯 Exam Tip: The crucial detail is "story-teller is also the story-writer," defining an autobiography.

 

Question 7. I am also a life story of a person. But I display the story on a screen. I am a biopic.
Answer: I am a life story of a person, presented visually on a screen. I am a biopic.
In simple words: I am a biopic, a life story shown on screen.

🎯 Exam Tip: The distinction is "display the story on a screen," which refers to a biopic.

 

Tick The Nearest Meaning:

Question 1. Javelin:
[] sword
[✓] spear
[] hammer
[] stick
Answer: (✓) spear
In simple words: A javelin is most accurately described as a spear.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the basic definition of each term to find the closest synonym.

 

Question 2. initially:
[] finally
[] permanently
[✓] of the beginning
[] of the ending
Answer: (✓) of the beginning
In simple words: 'Initially' means at the start or in the beginning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on words that convey the concept of commencement or an early stage.

 

Question 3. dedication:
[] refuse
[✓] devoted to someone or something
[] based on reasoning
[] offer something
Answer: (✓) devoted to someone or something
In simple words: Dedication refers to being strongly committed or devoted.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for the option that captures the essence of commitment or deep attachment.

 

Question 4. scolding:
[✓] rebuke
[] to show unhappiness
[] reject
[] to give honour
Answer: (✓) rebuke
In simple words: To scold means to sharply criticize or rebuke.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the synonym that implies a strong expression of disapproval or criticism.

 

Question 5. opponent:
[✓] a player of the different side
[] enemy
[] classmate
[] co-worker
Answer: (✓) a player of the different side
In simple words: An opponent in sports is a player from the opposing team or side.

🎯 Exam Tip: In a sports context, an opponent is specifically a competitor on the other side, not just a general enemy.

 

Frame A Sentence Using The Words Given In The Group:

Question 1. terrorist - innocent people
Answer: A terrorist kills innocent people.
In simple words: Terrorists harm innocent people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Create a clear, concise sentence that uses both words naturally and makes logical sense.

 

Question 2. Lai Bahadur Shastri - hardship - study at Varanasi
Answer: Lal Bahadur Shastri faced many hardships and studied at Varanasi.
In simple words: Lal Bahadur Shastri overcame difficulties to study in Varanasi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Combine the elements into a factual statement, ensuring correct historical context if applicable.

 

Question 3. You - overcome - obstacle - a successful person
Answer: If you learn to overcome obstacles, you can become a successful person.
In simple words: Learning to conquer difficulties leads to success.

🎯 Exam Tip: Construct a sentence that logically connects overcoming challenges with achieving success.

 

Question 4. my friend - convince - school picnic
Answer: My friend convinced me to join the school picnic.
In simple words: My friend persuaded me to attend the school picnic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use the words to describe a common social interaction clearly and grammatically.

 

Question 5. in market - various - mobile phones
Answer: Various mobile phones are available in the market.
In simple words: Many different mobile phones are sold in the market.

🎯 Exam Tip: Form a simple descriptive sentence about product availability in a market context.

 

Fill In The Blanks Using The Words In The Brackets:

Question. (media, sensation, quota, outstanding, brand ambassador)
Answer: Shahid is a dancing **sensation** of our school. He has given many **outstanding** dance performances in various dance competitions and cultural programmes. For his superb dances, he has been highlighted in **media** too. Due to his dancing skills, our principal has appointed him a **brand ambassador** of our school to promote the fame of our school in our town. He has also been selected in the district youth committee from the cultural **quota**.
In simple words: Shahid, an outstanding dancer, gained media attention and was appointed brand ambassador for his school, also receiving a cultural quota spot in the youth committee.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the full passage first to understand the context, then choose the most appropriate word from the brackets that logically completes each blank, ensuring the narrative flows smoothly.

 

Correct The Sentences By Replacing An Unfitting Word:

Example: The performer of the garden is a sincere lady, (care taker, photographer)
Answer: The care taker of the garden is a sincere lady.
In simple words: The garden's caretaker is a sincere woman.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the word that doesn't fit the context and choose the most suitable replacement from the given options.

 

Question 1. Our teacher won the Governor's Award. We are very happy of him. (jealous, proud)
Answer: Our teacher won the Governor's Award. We are very proud of him.
In simple words: We are proud of our teacher for winning the Governor's Award.

🎯 Exam Tip: Select the adjective that reflects a positive and appropriate emotion when someone achieves an award.

 

Question 2. The library is combining to the municipality office, (adjoining, admiring)
Answer: The library is adjoining to the municipality office.
In simple words: The library is located next to the municipality office.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the word that describes physical proximity or being next to something.

 

Question 3. Cheteshwar has been included in the national team due to his clever performances in the Ranji Trophy Tournament, (brilliant, bright)
Answer: Cheteshwar has been included in the national team due to his brilliant performances in the Ranji Trophy Tournament.
In simple words: Cheteshwar was selected for the national team because of his excellent Ranji Trophy performances.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use an adjective that accurately conveys the high quality of performances leading to selection in a national team.

 

Question 4. To make the edge of his performances normal, he practised a lot. (useful, sharper)
Answer: To make the edge of his performances sharper, he practised a lot.
In simple words: He practiced extensively to enhance the precision and intensity of his performances.

🎯 Exam Tip: The context of practice suggests improving precision or intensity, making "sharper" the best fit.

 

Question 5. There is an age-old monument in Champaner. (memorable, ancient)
Answer: There is an ancient monument in Champaner.
In simple words: Champaner contains a very old monument.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing something "age-old," "ancient" is the more direct and fitting synonym for historical structures.

 

Add One Suitable Word To Each Series:

Question 1. appreciate, respect, approve, admire.
Answer: appreciate, respect, approve, **admire**.
In simple words: The missing word is 'admire', completing the series of positive regard.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the common theme of the given words (showing approval or high regard) to choose a suitable synonym.

 

Question 2. gymnast, player, sportsperson, athlete.
Answer: gymnast, player, sportsperson, **athlete**.
In simple words: The word 'athlete' fits with other terms for sports participants.

🎯 Exam Tip: All words relate to individuals involved in sports, so select another term for a sports participant.

 

Question 3. horse, mare, domestic quadruped with mane and tail, steed.
Answer: horse, mare, domestic quadruped with mane and tail, **steed**.
In simple words: 'Steed' completes the list of words referring to horses.

🎯 Exam Tip: The series describes types of horses; choose a synonym for horse, particularly one used for riding.

 

Question 4. decorated clothes, track suit, field garments, gaudy pomp.
Answer: decorated clothes, track suit, field garments, **gaudy pomp**.
In simple words: 'Gaudy pomp' fits the theme of elaborate or showy clothing.

🎯 Exam Tip: The words describe various types of attire, especially those for display or sport; "gaudy pomp" refers to showy dress.

 

Question 5. exchange, interchange, barter, swap.
Answer: exchange, interchange, barter, **swap**.
In simple words: 'Swap' is a suitable addition to words meaning to exchange.

🎯 Exam Tip: All terms signify trading or replacing one thing with another; choose another synonym for exchange.

 

Question 6. fight, contest, battle, struggle.
Answer: fight, contest, battle, **struggle**.
In simple words: 'Struggle' completes the series of words implying conflict or intense effort.

🎯 Exam Tip: The series describes forms of conflict or competition; "struggle" fits this theme.

 

Question 7. sports ground, open-air structure, sports premises, stadium.
Answer: sports ground, open-air structure, sports premises, **stadium**.
In simple words: 'Stadium' belongs in the list of terms for sports venues.

🎯 Exam Tip: All words refer to places where sports are played; "stadium" is a common example.

 

Question 8. again, repeatedly, reoccur, anew.
Answer: again, repeatedly, reoccur, **anew**.
In simple words: 'Anew' fits the pattern of words indicating repetition or starting afresh.

🎯 Exam Tip: The words denote recurrence or doing something afresh; "anew" fits this meaning.

 

Question 9. unpolished, severe, coarse, rough.
Answer: unpolished, severe, coarse, **rough**.
In simple words: 'Rough' is the logical addition to words describing an unrefined or harsh quality.

🎯 Exam Tip: The series describes a lack of smoothness or refinement; "rough" is a direct synonym.

 

Question 10. happy, delighted, pleased, glad.
Answer: happy, delighted, pleased, **glad**.
In simple words: 'Glad' completes the list of words expressing happiness.

🎯 Exam Tip: All words convey a state of joy or contentment; choose another synonym for happy.

 

Question 1. Remove the bold underlined words from the passage and replace them with their synonyms given in the box:
anew, quota, outstanding, media, professionals, magnificent, zealous, amateurs, toiled, fragile, spectators, sweat
Zonal Athletics Meet
Last year, there was a grand sports meet organized in our school. The players from five neighbouring districts participated in the excellent event. Most of the participants were the players playing without any financial gain, whereas some referees and officials were the players who earned from the games. All the students of our school were very enthusiastic for the event.
There was a fixed share for the viewers inside the stadium, so we had registered for our entry tickets. Wewatched many matches in which the players did hard work to win the game. Their bodies were ull of perspiration. At the time of the result, some players were happy and some were sad. For the news coverage, the representatives of the news providers were there. They were taking) photographs of the delicate moments of the game. If they were not satisfied with the snap, they took it once again.
Answer: Last year, there was a **magnificent** sports meet organized in our school. The players from five neighbouring districts participated in the **outstanding** event. Most of the participants were **amateurs**, whereas some referees and officials were **professionals**. All the students of our school were very **zealous** for the event. There was a **quota** for the **spectators** inside the stadium, so we had registered for our entry tickets.
We watched many matches in which the players **toiled** to win the game. Their bodies were full of **sweat**. At the time of the result, some players were happy and some were sad. For the news coverage, the representatives of the **media** were there. They were taking photographs of the **fragile** moments of the game. If they were not satisfied with the snap, they took it **anew**.
In simple words: This passage describes a sports meet where participants, both amateurs and professionals, passionately competed, generating sweat and media coverage, and viewers were allotted a fixed quota, with photos retaken if unsatisfactory.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the original passage carefully, identify the words to be replaced, and then choose the most fitting synonym from the provided box based on the context of each sentence.

 

Question 2. On the model of the above passage, write a passage, in your own words, in which you have to use the following words:
(ancient, confession, various, hardship, regain, autobiography, obstacle, superlative, edge, dealings, prudence, brand ambassador, overcome)
Answer: Our Sources of Motivation
I used to hear **ancient** stories about great strong individuals (bahubalis) who displayed **superlative** performances and **overcame** numerous **obstacles**. I have also read several **autobiographies** of prominent figures who encountered **various** **hardships** and managed to **regain** their **edge** through great **prudence**. These are **confessions** from successful people who, through their **dealings**, became **brand ambassadors** of noble values.
In simple words: This passage explains that ancient tales and autobiographies of great people, who overcame hardships with prudence, serve as motivations, revealing their confessions and making them brand ambassadors of good values.

🎯 Exam Tip: Construct a coherent narrative, ensuring each of the specified words is incorporated smoothly and meaningfully into the passage, creating a unified theme.

 

Function:

Compare And Fill In The Blanks:

1. (A) This movie is so interesting that we rarely find one like this.	(A) This long spelling is so difficult that we cannot remember it.
(B) This is such an interesting movie that we do not easily find one like this.	(B) This is such a problem that it is very difficult to solve.
(C) Such interesting movies are hard to find.	(C) Such problems are difficult to solve.
2. (A) They were surprised to see that the crowd was so big.	(A) As a kid he was so smart that everybody appreciated him.
(B) They were surprised to see that there was such a big crowd.	(B) He was such a smart kid that he had got appreciation from everywhere.
(C) Such big crowds can be found rarely.	(C) Such smart kids get appreciation from everywhere.
3. (A) The puzzle was so complicated that we could not solve it easily.	(A) Cricket is so interesting a game that it attracts many viewers.
(B) It was such a complicated puzzle that we could hardly solve it.	(B) Cricket is such a popular game in India that many viewers watch it.
(C) Such complicated puzzles are hard to solve.	(C) Such popular games like cricket can bring a large number of viewers to stadium.
4. (A) This hill-station is so nice that we do not find one like this.	(A) The lion is so royal that very few animals behave like it.
(B) It was such a nice hill-station that it is hard to find one like this.	(B) The lion is such a royal animal that it is hard to find one like it.
(C) Such nice hill-stations are not found here and there.	(C) Such sober behaving animals like the lion are rarely found in the forest.

In simple words: This table illustrates the comparative usage of "so" and "such" in sentences, showing how they emphasize a quality to a great extent.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to whether the noun follows directly after the intensifier ("such a/an + noun") or if an adjective/adverb is intensified alone ("so + adjective/adverb").

 

Find Out Incorrect Parts, Correct Them And Rewrite The Passage Again:
Shooting is so difficult game that requires a high level of concentration. There are only a few gaqies such difficult to master. Such challenging games attract a small number of players. There are such many factors that disturb the players' concentration. The players have to be so alert that a small mistake can detract them.

Answer:Shooting is indeed a challenging sport, demanding a high degree of focus. Only a handful of games are as difficult to master. These demanding games draw in a significant number of participants. Numerous elements can disrupt players' concentration, necessitating extreme vigilance to prevent even minor errors from impacting their performance.In simple words: This exercise involves identifying grammatical errors in a passage and then rewriting the corrected version. The original passage contains common errors related to adjective usage ("so difficult game" vs "such a difficult game", "so many factors" vs "such many factors"). The corrected passage rectifies these.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the usage of "so" vs "such a/an" and "so many" vs "such many" in sentences, as these are common areas for errors in English grammar tests. Also, ensure subject-verb agreement and correct vocabulary use.

 

Fill In The Blanks Using The Words In The Brackets:

 

Question 1. Mary Kom has achieved such a success that whole India can take pride for it.
Answer: Mary Kom has achieved such a success that whole India can take pride in it.In simple words: This sentence uses "such a" to emphasize the great extent of Mary Kom's success, implying it's a success of a kind that merits national pride.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that "such a/an" is used before a singular countable noun when emphasizing quality, while "so" is used before an adjective or adverb. Here, "success" is a noun modified by "such a."

 

Question 2. The story was so fascinating that the children didn't make any sound.
Answer: The story was so fascinating that the children didn't make any sound.In simple words: The word "so" is used here to intensify the adjective "fascinating," indicating the story was captivating to a high degree.

🎯 Exam Tip: "So" is often used with adjectives or adverbs to express cause and effect, where the degree of the adjective/adverb leads to a specific outcome. Ensure the correct placement before the adjective.

 

Question 3. I'm glad you all had such a good time in the picnic.
Answer: I'm glad you all had such a good time at the picnic.In simple words: "Such a" is utilized here to describe the quality of the "good time," highlighting that it was a particularly enjoyable experience.

🎯 Exam Tip: When expressing an opinion about the quality of a countable noun phrase (like "a good time"), "such a/an" is the appropriate construction for emphasis. Also, remember prepositions like "at the picnic."

 

Question 4. The sweater was so big that it touched her knees.
Answer: The sweater was so big that it touched her knees.In simple words: The term "so" is placed before the adjective "big" to convey the extreme size of the sweater, which resulted in it reaching her knees.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use "so" with adjectives (without a noun following immediately) to express the degree or intensity of a quality, often followed by a "that" clause indicating a result.

 

Question 5. It was such a lovely day that they decided to go swimming.
Answer: It was such a lovely day that they decided to go swimming.In simple words: "Such a" is correctly used to qualify "lovely day," emphasizing the day's pleasantness to the extent that it prompted a swimming decision.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to use "such a/an" when referring to a singular countable noun that is being described (e.g., "a lovely day"), especially when a consequence follows with "that."

 

Question 6. He was such an intelligent boy that he was put into the advanced level.
Answer: He was such an intelligent boy that he was put into the advanced level.In simple words: The phrase "such an" precedes "intelligent boy" to highlight his exceptional intelligence, leading to his placement in an advanced group.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Such a/an" is used with an adjective followed by a singular countable noun (e.g., "an intelligent boy") to express a strong degree, particularly when explaining a result.

 

Question 7. He ran into such a heavy rain that he could hardly see the road.
Answer: He ran into such a heavy rain that he could hardly see the road.In simple words: "Such a" is used before "heavy rain" to describe the intense nature of the rainfall, which severely impacted visibility.

🎯 Exam Tip: For countable noun phrases (like "a heavy rain"), "such a" is used for emphasis. If it were just "rain" as an uncountable noun, "so much rain" would be typical, but "such a heavy rain" is an acceptable idiomatic expression here.

 

Question 8. They had never seen so many people at the beach.
Answer: They had never seen so many people at the beach.In simple words: "So many" is used to express an unusually large quantity of people observed at the beach.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use "so many" before countable plural nouns (like "people") to indicate a large number, especially when expressing surprise or emphasis.

 

Question 9. The contestants didn't think they would have to face such difficulty.
Answer: The contestants didn't think they would have to face such difficulty.In simple words: "Such" is used here to refer to a specific, intense level of difficulty that the contestants had not anticipated.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Such" can be used alone (without "a/an") before an uncountable noun (like "difficulty") or plural countable noun to emphasize a quality or type. Ensure it agrees with the noun's countability.

 

Question 10. Wow! You are so intelligent!
Answer: Wow! You are so intelligent!In simple words: "So" is used to heighten the adjective "intelligent," conveying strong admiration for someone's intellect.

🎯 Exam Tip: When an adjective stands alone or is followed by an adverbial phrase (but not a noun phrase), "so" is typically used for emphasis. For example, "so good," "so fast," "so intelligent."

 

Complete The Dialogue With So Or Such Or Such A/An:

 

Question. Complete the dialogue with so or such or such a/an:
• Lajja: Hello Mary.
• Mary: Hi Lajja. It is nice to see you.
• Lajja : Thanks. I saw your match live on TV You played so well.
• Mary: OK. It was such a difficult match to play; my whole body was shivering due to winter.
• Lajja: Oh! But you hit such heavy punches to your opponent that she surrendered quickly. Now, tell me something about London.
• Mary: Yes. It is so huge and so beautiful. I was amazed to see it.
• Lajja: Most players never discuss such topics when they meet. But I think it is so important to talk about the city too.
• Mary: Certainly. All the best, Lajja.
• Lajja: Thank you Mary. See you later.
Answer:• Lajja: Hello Mary.
• Mary: Hi Lajja. It is nice to see you.
• Lajja : Thanks. I saw your match live on TV. You played so well.
• Mary: OK. It was such a difficult match to play; my whole body was shivering due to winter.
• Lajja: Oh! But you hit such heavy punches to your opponent that she surrendered quickly. Now, tell me something about London.
• Mary: Yes. It is so huge and so beautiful. I was amazed to see it.
• Lajja: Most players never discuss such topics when they meet. But I think it is so important to talk about the city too.
• Mary: Certainly. All the best, Lajja.
• Lajja: Thank you Mary. See you later.In simple words: This dialogue demonstrates the appropriate usage of "so," "such a," and "such" for emphasis and degree. "So" modifies adjectives (well, huge, beautiful, important), while "such a" modifies a singular countable noun phrase ("a difficult match"), and "such" modifies a plural countable noun phrase ("such heavy punches").

🎯 Exam Tip: Practice identifying whether the emphasized word is an adjective/adverb (use "so") or a noun phrase (use "such a/an" for singular, or "such" for plural/uncountable). Ensure proper article usage with "such a/an."

 

Writing:

 

Cut Out From A Newspaper / Magazine Or Download A Photograph Of Your Favourite Sportsperson, Entrepreneur / Technocrat And Freedom Fighter. Paste Them In Your Notebook And Write A Paragraph Of 150 Words About Him / Her.

 

Your School Is Planning To Organise A Rally On Environment Day. Prepare Signboards And Placards For The Rally.

 

Question. Write a letter of appreciation to the Chief Officer / Commissioner of your city regarding regular cleanliness, maintenance of roads and street lights, etc. of your ward /area.
Answer:Mukti Medan, Maninagar,
Ahmedabad - 380 008.
April 14, 2018
To,
The Commissioner,
Ahmedabad Municipality,
Raikhad,
Ahmedabad.

Subject: Expressing appreciation for consistent cleanliness and infrastructure upkeep.
Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to commend your department for its remarkable commitment and specific endeavors in enhancing the city's well-being and maintaining its infrastructure. On behalf of the residents in my vicinity, I wholeheartedly extend these compliments.

In the past, our city's state was regrettable, with widespread garbage accumulation. Many areas were characterized by unbearable stench from waste piles. Roads were severely damaged with numerous potholes, transforming travel into a difficult experience. Furthermore, non-functional streetlights in various localities contributed to dark conditions, which facilitated illicit activities.

However, your prompt interventions and effective measures have revitalized the municipal operations, leading to clear and tangible improvements. Should these efforts persist, our city is well on its way to earning a 'clean city' designation, for which you are highly deserving of recognition. We hold significant confidence in your continued dedication and ongoing hard work. We are truly proud of these advancements.

Sincerely,
Manthan Joshi

In simple words: This is a formal letter expressing gratitude to the city commissioner for improvements in cleanliness, road maintenance, and street lighting. It acknowledges past issues and praises current efforts, hoping for continued progress.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a formal letter, ensure a clear subject line, proper salutation and closing, and organized paragraphs addressing specific points. Maintain a polite and respectful tone throughout.

 

Activity:

John 'A' 'B'

 

'A'	'B'	'C'
John Milton	was completely blind	He wrote the great epic 'Paradise Lost'.
Stephen Hawking	motor neuron disease	He is a British theoretical physicist, cosmologist, author and Director of Research at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology within the University of Cambridge.
Nicholas James 'Nick'	born with the absence of all four limbs	He is a motivational speaker.
Helen Keller	was both deaf and blind	She was an American author, political activist and lecturer.
Sudha Chandran	lost one of her feet after a car accident	She is one of the most well-known dancers and TV actresses in India.

 

Question. Now frame sentences as this one: Example :
1. John Milton was completely blind. He wrote the great epic 'Paradise Lost'.
Answer:1. John Milton was completely blind, and he wrote the great epic 'Paradise Lost'.
2. Stephen Hawking is a British theoretical physicist, cosmologist, author, and Director of Research at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology within the University of Cambridge. He suffered from motor neuron disease.
3. Nicholas James 'Nick' was born without all four limbs. He is a motivational speaker.
4. Helen Keller was an American author, political activist, and lecturer. She was both deaf and blind.
5. Sudha Chandran lost one of her lower limbs after a car accident. She is one of the most well-known dancers and TV actresses in India.In simple words: This exercise involves combining information about famous personalities from a table into coherent sentences. It requires linking two facts about each person (a characteristic and an achievement/description) into a single statement.

🎯 Exam Tip: When combining sentences, use appropriate conjunctions (like 'and', 'but', 'who', 'which') or rewrite to create complex sentences. Ensure the combined sentence flows logically and maintains grammatical correctness.

 

There Are Many People In The World Who Despite Disability Achieved A Great Height. Prepare A Presentation / Scrapbook And Present It In The Classroom.

 

What Do The Differently-Abled People Face In Their Routine Life? Tie A Handkerchief On Your Eyes And Reach To The Principal's Office. How Will The Students With Disability In Legs Use The Washroom?

 

Confessions Of A Born Spectator Summary In Gujarati

કોઈ પણ રમત રમવા માટે જરૂર છે મજબૂત મનની અને તંદુરસ્ત તનની. નબળો કે મધ્યમ બાંધો ધરાવતા લોકો માટે તો પ્રેક્ષાગાર જ સલામત જગ્યા છે. રમતને માણવા માટે રમતમાં સદેહે ભાગ લેવો જરૂરી નથી. જો ખડતલ શરીર અને પૂરી હિંમત ન હોય, તો દૂર રહીને રમતને નિહાળવી એ જ ઠીક છે. માયકાંગલું શરીર ધરાવતા આ કાવ્યના કવિનો અભરખો તો રમતવીર બનવાનો છે પણ ખેર ખુદાની કે તેમનું ડહાપણ તેમને તેમ કરતાં રોકે છે. પણ રમતમાં સક્રિય ભાગ લેતાં પોતાની જાતને રોકવા માટે કવિએ કરેલી કબૂલાતો આ કાવ્યમાં માણવા જેવી છે. હા, આપણે પણ વાંચ્યા બાદ જરૂર કબૂલીશું કે જૂજ લોકોને બાદ કરતાં આપણે પણ કવિની સાથે પ્રેક્ષાગાર(સ્ટક્સ)માં બેસીને રમતો માણવાનું જ વિચારીએ.

 

Glossary (શબ્દાર્થ)

athlete (n.) (અશ્લીટ) one who is very good at sports or physical exercise - રમતવીર
sweat (v.) (સ્વેટ) to perspire - પસીનો પાડવો, તનતોડ મહેનત કરવી
gaudy pomp (n.) (ગૉડી પોમ્પ) showy dresses - ભભકાદાર વસ્ત્રો
maim (v.) (મેઈમ) to cripple, to disable – (અહીં) અપંગ કે અશક્ત થાય તેવી શારીરિક ઈજા કરવી
romp (v.) (રૉમ્પ) to play or run about wildly or joyfully – કૂદવું, ધિંગામસ્તી કરવી
limp (adj.) (લિંમ્પ્) lacking firmness, weak - નિર્બળ
bashful (adj.) (બૅશફુલ) timid, shy – બીકણ, શરમાળ
heroic deeds (n.) (હિરોઇક ડીડ્ઝ) acts of heroism - વીરતાપૂર્ણ કાર્યો
knock (v.) (નૉક) to hit, (here) to strike and make one fall to the ground (as in boxing) - હૂંફ મારવો, (અહીં) મારીને મેદાન પર હેઠા પાડી દેવું (જેમ કે બૉક્સિંગની રમતમાં)
vertebrae or vertebra (n.) (વર્ટિબ્રે કે વર્ટિબ્રા) any one of the bones or segments of the spinal column – કરોડરજ્જુનો મણકો
spine (n.) (સ્પાઇન) backbone, the spinal column – કરોડરજ્જુ
steed (n.) (સ્ટીડ) a large, strong horse (to ride on)–વિશાળ કદનો (સવારી માટેનો) મજબૂત ઘોડો
swap (v.) (સ્વેપ) to exchange – અદલાબદલી કરવી
zealous (adj.) (ઝીલસ) enthusiastic - ઉત્સાહી
dealing (n.) (ડીલિંગ) way of acting towards others – અન્યો પ્રત્યેનો વ્યવહાર
twixt (adv.) (ટ્વિક્સ્ટ) between – –ની વચ્ચે
prudence (n.) (પ્રુડન્સ) wise or careful thinking-(કશું પણ કરતાં પહેલાં કરવામાં આવતો) વિવેકભર્યો વિચાર
worth (adj.) (વર્થ) having the value for a given sum - –ની કિંમતનું
gambol (v.) (ગૅમ્બલ) (here) to knowingly take any sort of serious risk – (અહીં) રમતમાં જાણીને કોઈ સહેજ જોખમ ઊઠાવવું.
reassure (v.) (રિઅશુઅર) to assure again, to restore confidence – વિશ્વાસનું પુનઃસ્થાપન કરવું
anew (adv.) (અન્યુ) once more, once again - ફરીથી
abridged (v.) (અબ્રિજ્ડ) shortened, curtailed - સંક્ષેપ કરવો, ટૂંકાવવું

 

ભાષાંતર :

હૃદયપૂર્વક હું પ્રશંસા કરું છું રમતવીરોની -
જેઓ પસીનો પાડે છે મજા કે મહેનતાણા માટે,
જેઓ ભભકાદાર વસ્ત્રોમાં મેદાનમાં ઊતરે છે.
અને રમતાં એકબીજાને ઈજા પહોંચાડે છે,
મારો ખોડંગાતો અને શરમાળ જુસ્સો પોરસાય છે
અન્યોનાં વીરતાપૂર્ણ પરાક્રમો પર.
હવે 'આ' દોડી રહ્યો છે નેવું વારનો સ્કોર કરવા,
'બ' આપી રહ્યો છે ચૅમ્પિયનને ભોં-પછાડ,
'ક' પીઠના હાડકાનું અને કરોડરજ્જુન ખેડી રહ્યો છે જોખમ, -
પાણીદાર ઘોડાને ચાબુક ફટકારીને ઘોડાને સીમારેખા ઓળંગાવવા
તમને લાગશે તેનાથી મારો અહમ્ સંતોષાશે -
આમાંના એકાદની સાથે તમારી) સ્થિતિની અદલાબદલી કરીને
વારુ, અહમ્ તો કદાચ સારો એવો સંતોષાય,
પણ ઉત્સાહી રમતવીરો એટલું અણઘડ રમે છે (કે)
તેઓ ક્યારેય, પોતાના વ્યવહારોમાં
એકબીજાની લાગણીઓની તમા રાખતા નથી.
હું ખુશ છું (એ વાતે) કે જ્યારે મારો સંઘર્ષ શરૂ થાય છે
વિવેક અને અહંકાર વચ્ચેનો, (ત્યારે) વિવેકની જીત થાય છે.
હે, રમતવીરો, તમારી સાથે સ્પર્ધામાં ઊતરવા સિવાય
હું તમારા માનમાં પીણું પીશ,
કે તમારી સાથે ભોજન લઈશ,
કે એવું કાંઈ પણ (કરીશ) -
(અને) રેડિયમની ભારોભાર કિંમતની ટિકિટો ખરીદી લઈશ
તમને સ્ટેડિયમમાં રમતના દાવ કરતા જોવા,
અને ફરી એક વાર મારી જાતને ખાતરી આપીશ
કે નથી તમે મારા જેવા અને નથી હું તમારા જેવો.
(સંક્ષિપ્ત)
- ઑન નેશ