GSEB Class 11 English Hornbill Chapter 5 The Ailing Planet: The Green Movements Role Solutions

Understanding the Text

Question 1. Locate the lines in the text that support the title 'The Ailing Planet'.
Answer: The lines that support the title of the chapter are given below:
1. The earth's essential signs show a patient with decreasing health.
2. Are we to leave our successors a burnt planet of growing deserts, poor lands, and a sick environment?
3. The environment has worsened so badly that it is 'critical' in many of the eighty-eight countries investigated.
In simple words: To find evidence for the title 'The Ailing Planet', look for sentences that describe the Earth as sick, damaged, or in a declining state, similar to a patient whose health is getting worse.

Exam Tip: When asked to locate supporting lines, quote them exactly as they appear in the text to earn full marks.

Question 2. What does 'the notice 'The world's most dangerous animal' at a cage in the zoo at Lusaka, Zambia, signify?
Answer: The notice means that resources are running out and the environment is getting worse. Humans are responsible for this situation, and their own existence is at risk.
In simple words: The notice shows that human actions are harming the environment and using up resources, which in turn threatens human survival.

Exam Tip: This question assesses your understanding of symbolic representation. Focus on the implied meaning of the 'dangerous animal' being humans themselves.

Question 3. How are the earth's principal biological systems being depleted?
Answer: The earth has four main biological systems: fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands. However, due to the increasing human demand to an 'unsustainable' degree, the output of these systems is being harmed. This excessive demand leads to the worsening and reduction of these resources. In countries where a lot of protein is eaten, overfishing is common, which causes fisheries to fail in those areas. Grasslands have changed into deserts, and crop production is dropping. Forests are being destroyed in large amounts to get firewood. The reduction of tropical forests has also caused the disappearance of many species.
In simple words: Earth's main systems like fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands are being used too much by people, causing them to get damaged and run out. This leads to problems like overfishing, turning grasslands into deserts, and destroying forests.

Exam Tip: When discussing depletion, remember to name the four principal biological systems and provide a specific example of how each is being affected by human activities.

Question 4. Why does the author aver that the growth of world population is one of the strongest factors distorting the future of human society?
Answer: Over-population is one of the most powerful factors causing poverty and joblessness in a nation. It disrupts the earth's main biological systems, leading to environmental harm. The author highlights the issue of over-population by pointing out the mindset of poor people who think more children mean more workers to earn money. They do not understand that having more children only means more people without jobs.
He argues that development is the best birth control method, which includes spreading education, improving health, and increasing income. Spreading education leads to awareness among people, which then causes a decrease in the 'fertility' rate. The author makes a remark that stresses the never-ending cycle of population and poverty by stating that “The choice is really between control of population and the perpetuation of poverty."
In simple words: The author says that too many people make poverty and unemployment worse, harming the environment. Poor families often believe more children will help them earn, but it just creates more joblessness. He suggests that better education, health, and income can help control population, emphasizing the need to choose between population control and ongoing poverty.

Exam Tip: This question requires you to explain the interconnectedness of population growth, poverty, environment, and solutions. Quote the author's final statement for a strong concluding point.

Talking about the Text

Discuss in groups of four:

Question 1. Laws are never respected not enforced in India.
Answer: India, the largest democracy in the world, is criticized for its lax approach to laws. Laws are created but neither followed nor put into practice in our country. For example, the Indian Constitution says that casteism, untouchability, and forced labor should be ended; however, these bad practices openly thrive even today. The author points out that Article 48-A of the Indian Constitution states that "the State shall strive to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country". However, very little is done to achieve this.
What we see is a near "catastrophic reduction" of forests over the past four decades. Forests are disappearing over the decades at a rate of 3.7 million acres a year. Areas that are officially designated as forest land are, in reality, treeless. The actual loss of forests is eight times the rate reported by government figures.
In simple words: In India, laws are often made but not followed or enforced. For instance, despite constitutional bans, issues like casteism still exist. Similarly, even with a law to protect the environment and forests, very little action is taken, leading to massive deforestation far beyond official reports.

Exam Tip: When writing about the enforcement of laws, provide specific examples like Article 48-A or the issues of casteism to illustrate your points effectively.

Question 2. "Are we to leave our successors a scorched planet of advancing deserts, impoverished landscapes and an ailing environment?”
Answer: As we learn in the text, the first Brandt Report raised the above question about the deteriorating state of the planet. Earth is like a 'patient with declining health'. The reduction of forests, grasslands, fisheries, and croplands is the result of too much demand for resources. Over-population has put a severe strain on the health of our planet. We must quickly realize that in this 'Era of Responsibility', it is solely our duty to preserve our planet. We must understand that the earth belongs just as much to future generations as it does to us. Instead of treating it as our property, we should do our best to preserve it for the generations we have 'borrowed it from'.
In simple words: The Brandt Report asked if we're leaving a damaged planet to future generations. Earth is sick from too much resource use and over-population. We must understand it's our job to protect it for those who come after us, as if we've only borrowed it from them.

Exam Tip: This question prompts a discussion on intergenerational equity. Emphasize the concept of "borrowing" the Earth from future generations and the moral responsibility it entails.

Question 3. "We have not inherited this earth from our forefathers; we have borrowed it from our children."
Answer: Over the decades, people's view of the planet has changed. Human perception has moved to a 'holistic and ecological view of the world'. Earth is a living organism that has limited resources. These resources will not last indefinitely. The earth has its own metabolic needs that must be protected. The need of the hour is 'sustainable development', which proposes the need to meet the present generation's needs without risking the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The current problems are not necessarily deadly for us, but they are a 'passport for the future'. This is the 'Era of Responsibility' that calls for us to take responsible action. We must realize that the earth belongs as much to the future generation as it belongs to us.
In simple words: Our view of Earth has shifted; we now see it as a living system with limited resources that must be preserved. We need 'sustainable development' to meet our needs without harming future generations. This 'Era of Responsibility' means we must act responsibly, understanding that the Earth is a shared legacy, not just our possession.

Exam Tip: When explaining this quote, clearly define the shift from a mechanistic to a holistic view, and connect it to sustainable development and the concept of 'Era of Responsibility'.

Question 4. The problems of over-population that directly affect our everyday life.
Answer: Over-population causes issues of poverty and unemployment. The dangerous cycle of population and poverty will persist unless the root cause, which is population, is addressed. It hinders the growth of a country. It causes the consumption of natural resources at a much faster rate. The fossils used up, the forests cleared, the heat generated, and the global warming caused are all consequences of the rapidly growing population.
In simple words: Too many people lead to poverty and joblessness, slowing down a country's growth. It also makes us use up natural resources, like fossil fuels and forests, too quickly, causing global warming and other problems because the population keeps growing fast.

Exam Tip: List specific problems caused by over-population (poverty, unemployment, resource depletion, environmental degradation) to provide a comprehensive answer.

Thinking about Language

Question. The phrase 'inter alia' meaning 'among other things' is one of the many Latin expressions commonly used in English. Find out what these Latin phrases mean.
(1) prima facie
(2) ad hoc
(3) in camera
(4) ad infinitum
(5) mutatis mutandis
(6) caveat
(7) tabula rasa
Answer:
(1) prima facie means 'at first sight, before close inspection'
(2) ad hoc means 'for a specific purpose, case or situation at hand and for no other'
(3) in camera means 'in secret, in private'.
(4) ad infinitum means 'to infinity, having no end'
(5) mutatis mutandis means '(only) the necessary changes having been made'
(6) caveat means 'a warning or caution'
(7) tabula rasa means 'blank slate', 'without any prior experience or knowledge'
In simple words: These Latin phrases are used in English to describe certain legal or general concepts. For example, 'prima facie' means how something looks at first, and 'ad hoc' means for a special, one-time reason.

Exam Tip: When defining foreign phrases, provide both a concise literal translation and a brief explanation of their common usage in English to ensure clarity.

Working with Words

Question 1. Locate the following words in the text and study their connotation:
(1) gripped the imagination of
(2) dawned upon
(3) ushered in
(4) passed into current coin
(5) passport of the future
Answer:
(1) gripped the imagination of: got much attention
(2) dawned upon: understood it for the first time
(3) ushered in: started a new idea
(4) passed into current coin: have been put into use
(5) passport of the future: something that makes achieving it possible or helps one to achieve it.
In simple words: These phrases from the text have specific meanings. "Gripped the imagination of" means to capture strong interest. "Dawned upon" means to suddenly realize something. "Ushered in" means to introduce a new era or idea. "Passed into current coin" refers to an idea becoming commonly accepted or used. "Passport of the future" means something essential for future success.

Exam Tip: For connotation questions, provide a simple, direct meaning that captures the essence of the phrase's use in context, rather than a literal dictionary definition.

Question 2. The words 'grip', 'dawn', 'usher', 'coin', 'passport' have a literal as well as a figurative meaning. Write pairs of sentences using each word in the literal as well as figurative sense.
Answer:
(1) grip:
(a) She was excellent during the rock-climbing session. She has a good grip.
(b) The movement of 'India Against Corruption' has gripped the minds of Indians.
(2) dawn:
(a) The day dawned with a clear sky.
(b) Suddenly, the idea dawned on him.
(3) usher:
(a) The waiter ushered them to their seats.
(b) The Green Movement ushered in a new era of awareness.
(4) coin:
(a) I have ten coins of Rs. 5.
(b) The term was coined by a famous philosopher.
(5) passport:
(a) He has just got his passport made to visit his uncle in the USA.
(b) Education is the passport to a bright future.
In simple words: Each word can be used in two ways: literally, meaning its direct, everyday sense, and figuratively, meaning it's used to represent an idea or feeling. For example, 'grip' can mean holding something physically, or it can mean capturing someone's attention strongly.

Exam Tip: When providing both literal and figurative meanings, ensure your sentences clearly demonstrate the difference in usage for each word, making the distinction obvious to the reader.

Things to Do

Question 1. Make posters to highlight the importance of the Green Movement.
Answer:
GO GREEN - SAVE ENVIRONMENT - ACT NOW
JOIN THE GREEN MOVEMENT
IDEALS
★ Healthy Environment
★ Ecological Balance
★ Conservation of Rare Species
IMPORTANCE
★ Greens - Only Defence Against Pollution
★ Plants and Animals - Living Beings
★ Cleaner Surroundings - Happier Lives
PLANT TREES & CURB DISEASES
GREEN: PASSPORT TO LONG AND HAPPY LIFE
ATTEND
THE FIRST MEETING OF
GREEN GROUP
On
SUNDAY, 26 March 20xx
at 4 p.m.
GREEN PARK NEW CITY
PARTICIPATE IN
CONSERVATION MOVEMENT
TELL ALL
Live Green - Live Longer
In simple words: This poster encourages people to join the Green Movement to protect the environment. It highlights ideals like a healthy environment and saving rare species, and emphasizes the importance of greens for fighting pollution, supporting living beings, and creating happier surroundings. It promotes planting trees and controlling diseases, seeing green living as a path to a long and happy life, with an invitation to a meeting to participate in conservation.

Exam Tip: When creating a poster, use clear headings, bullet points, and strong action-oriented language to effectively convey your message and engage the audience.

Question 2. Maintain a record of the trees cut down and the parks demolished in your area or any other act that violates the environment. Write to newspapers reporting on any such acts that disturb you.
Answer:
271 Green Road,
Silver City,
20 March, 20XX

The Editor
The National Herald
New City,

Subject: Illegal felling of trees

Sir,
May I use the columns of your daily to draw the public's and the concerned authorities' attention to an act that has caused a serious violation of the environment. The central park next to Green Road had many tall and beautiful trees which added to its beauty. Recently, some people began to use it for hosting wedding parties or political events. They caused significant damage to the environment by harming the plants, flowers, young trees, and grass growing in the lawns, as well as creating noise pollution through loudspeakers.

Yesterday, some enthusiastic members of the green club protested to the organizer of a political gathering against the misuse of the park and the untold harm to the environment. To our surprise, we discovered that all the tall trees had been cut down into logs overnight. We have filed a complaint with the local police station. We ask you to publish this letter of protest against the illegal cutting of trees with your comments and remind the authorities that it is the state's duty to preserve a healthy environment. I am confident that you will support this cause.

Yours faithfully,
Deepak / Deepika
In simple words: This is a letter to a newspaper about trees being illegally cut down in a park. The writer explains that the park, once beautiful, was damaged by events and then its trees were felled overnight. The letter asks the newspaper to help raise awareness and pressure authorities to protect the environment.

Exam Tip: For a formal letter to a newspaper, ensure correct formatting (addresses, date, subject line, salutation, closing). Clearly state the problem, its impact, and what action you expect from the authorities or the public.

Questions - Answers (Textual)

Answer the following questions in four to five sentences each:

Question 1. Which movement does Nani Palkhivala refer to? How popular do you think it is?
Answer: The author, Nani Palkhivala, mentions the 'Green Movement'. This movement has become very popular among people in all countries. It began nearly twenty-five years ago and has quickly and completely captured the interest of the entire human race.
In simple words: Nani Palkhivala talks about the 'Green Movement', which has become widely known and accepted globally. It started about twenty-five years ago and quickly became very important to everyone.

Exam Tip: When identifying a movement, name it clearly and then describe its reach and impact as requested by the question.

Question 2. How does the author point out the importance of Green Movement?
Answer: The author highlights the importance of the Green Movement by comparing it to the revolutionary ideas of Copernicus. Copernicus taught humanity in the 16th century that the earth and other planets revolved around the sun. This comparison shows that the Green Movement represents a fundamental shift in how we understand our planet, similar to how Copernicus changed our view of the cosmos.
In simple words: The author shows how important the Green Movement is by comparing it to Copernicus's ideas, which changed how people understood the universe. This means the movement is causing a big, basic change in how we think about Earth.

Exam Tip: A comparative analysis, especially with a well-known historical event or figure, effectively demonstrates the significance of a concept. Ensure the comparison is clearly explained.

Question 3. How have human beings shifted their perceptions?
Answer: We have changed our views from a mechanistic outlook to a holistic and ecological perspective. We now consider the earth as a living organism, a huge being of which we are parts. It has its own metabolic needs and vital processes. We must respect and preserve them.
In simple words: Humans have changed their thinking from seeing the Earth as a machine to viewing it as a whole, living thing. We now understand that we are a part of this planet, which has its own needs and functions, and we must protect them.

Exam Tip: Focus on the transition from a 'mechanistic' to a 'holistic and ecological' view, explaining what each perspective entails for our relationship with the Earth.

Question 4. What is the state of earth today? How should we act now?
Answer: The signs of the earth connected with life show that the earth is a patient with declining health. We must recognize our moral duties to be good caretakers of the planet. We must act as responsible managers of the legacy for future generations.
In simple words: Today, Earth is like a sick patient whose health is getting worse. We need to understand our responsibility to be good guardians of the planet and manage it carefully, preserving it for those who will live here in the future.

Exam Tip: Use vivid imagery like 'patient in declining health' to describe the Earth's state and clearly state the two key actions: recognizing moral obligations and acting as responsible trustees.

Question 5. How has the concept of sustainable development been defined?
Answer: Sustainable development has been defined as development that fulfills the needs of the present without risking the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In other words, the current generation should not take away the natural world's resources that future generations would require.
In simple words: Sustainable development means growing and improving in a way that meets our needs now, but without using up or damaging the resources that people in the future will need. It's about being fair to coming generations with our use of Earth's resources.

Exam Tip: This definition is fundamental. Ensure you include both parts: meeting present needs and not compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs.

Question 6. Who is 'the world's most dangerous animal'? What has he learnt?
Answer: Man is considered the most dangerous animal in the world. He has acquired a new understanding. He has moved from a system of domination to one based on partnership. This shows a positive change in his behavior towards the environment.
In simple words: Humans are called 'the world's most dangerous animal'. However, humanity has started to learn new things, shifting from trying to control everything to working together with nature.

Exam Tip: Identify 'man' as the dangerous animal and then concisely explain the positive shift in his learning – from domination to partnership with nature.

Question 7. What do you learn about the number of living species from this chapter?
Answer: Scientists have organized a list of about 1.4 million living species. The number of unlisted species is much greater. It ranges from three to a hundred million, according to different estimates. These species still remain unknown and haven't been identified.
In simple words: From this chapter, we learn that scientists have identified around 1.4 million living species. However, there are many, many more unlisted species, possibly from three to a hundred million, that are still unknown and haven't been found yet.

Exam Tip: Provide the approximate number of known species and then clearly contrast it with the vast, estimated number of unknown or unidentified species to highlight the scale of biodiversity.

Question 8. What do you know about the earth's biological systems and their functions?
Answer: The earth has four main biological systems. These include fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands. They form the basic structure of the world's economic system. They supply us with food and raw materials for industry.
In simple words: Earth has four key biological systems: fisheries, forests, grasslands, and croplands. These systems are the foundation of our economy, giving us food and materials for factories.

Exam Tip: List the four biological systems and then summarize their dual function: as the basis of the economic system and as suppliers of food and raw materials.

Question 9. What is the state of earth's biological systems now and why?
Answer: In many areas of the world, earth's biological systems have reached an unsustainable level. Their ability to produce has been damaged. This happens because of the too much pressure humans put on them.
In simple words: Earth's biological systems are now in a bad state in many places, having reached an unsustainable level. Their capacity to produce has been harmed because humans are putting too much stress on them.

Exam Tip: Explain both the current condition ('unsustainable level', 'productivity damaged') and the primary cause ('excessive pressure exerted by man') for a complete answer.

Question 10. How do the earth's biological systems behave on reaching an unsustainable level?
Answer: The productivity of the earth's biological systems is harmed upon reaching an unsustainable level. Fisheries collapse, forests disappear, and grasslands turn into dry wastelands. Croplands also worsen. These are all signs that the systems can no longer support the demands placed upon them.
In simple words: When Earth's biological systems are pushed too far, they stop working properly. Fisheries fail, forests vanish, grasslands become barren, and croplands get worse, showing they can't handle the stress anymore.

Exam Tip: Describe the specific negative outcomes for each of the four biological systems (fisheries, forests, grasslands, croplands) when they become unsustainable.

Question 11. How can over-fishing and decimation of forests prove harmful?
Answer: Over-fishing can lead to the stripping of fisheries. Then, people will lose an important source of protein. The destruction of forests will harm the natural balance. Furthermore, many species of life that live in forests will face extinction.
In simple words: Fishing too much can destroy fish populations, making us lose a key food source. Cutting down too many forests harms nature and causes many animal and plant species to disappear forever.

Exam Tip: Differentiate the specific harms of over-fishing (loss of protein source, fishery collapse) and forest decimation (ecological harm, species extinction) for a clear explanation.

Question 12. How do Indians procure fuel for cooking? What is the result of their action?
Answer: Indians gather firewood from forests. Sometimes even green trees are cut to get fuel. Destroying forests harms the environment and wildlife. They also burn animal dung as fuel. Burning dung takes away an important natural fertilizer from the soil.
In simple words: Indians get cooking fuel by collecting firewood from forests, sometimes even cutting green trees. This harms the environment and wildlife. They also burn dung, which takes away natural fertilizer that the soil needs.

Exam Tip: Mention both sources of fuel (firewood, dung) and detail the environmental consequences of each action (deforestation, loss of soil fertility).

Question 13. Why do we need to plant more forests in India?
Answer: According to official data, India is losing its forests at a rate of 3.7 million acres each year. The actual loss of forests is believed to be about eight times the rate shown by government statistics. Large areas, officially called forest land, are already treeless. Furthermore, a five-fold increase in the rate of forest planting is required to meet the expected demand for fuelwood five years later.
In simple words: India is losing forests very quickly, much faster than official reports say, with many forest areas already bare. We need to plant five times more trees just to keep up with future fuelwood needs, making new forests essential for the country.

Exam Tip: Quantify the problem with the provided statistics (3.7 million acres, eight times the rate) and state the necessary action (five-fold increase in planting) to support your explanation.

Question 14. How is the world population increasing over the years?
Answer: The world population is growing at a fast pace nowadays. Every four days, the world population grows by one million. The world population was around one billion in 1800. By 1900, another billion was added. However, in the next 100 years, 3.7 billion more were added. This clearly shows how quickly the world population is growing.
In simple words: The world's population is increasing very fast, adding a million people every four days. It grew from one billion in 1800 to two billion by 1900, then added 3.7 billion in the next century, showing a rapid growth trend.

Exam Tip: Provide specific figures and timeframes (e.g., 1 billion in 1800, 3.7 billion added in the next 100 years) to illustrate the rapid rate of population increase effectively.

Question 15. What was India's population in 1994, and what steps help control population growth?
Answer: India's population was estimated to be 920 million in 1994. Over-population disrupts all development plans and causes poverty and unemployment. Therefore, either population is managed, or people will stay poor forever. Voluntary family planning assists in population control in India.
In simple words: In 1994, India had about 920 million people. Too many people cause poverty and joblessness, hurting progress. So, either we control population, or people will always be poor. Choosing family planning willingly helps manage India's population.

Exam Tip: When discussing population figures, include the specific number and year if available. For control measures, emphasize 'voluntary family planning' as a key strategy.

Question 16. What do you understand by the emerging new world vision?
Answer: The new world vision is a complete view. It is also an ecological perspective. It sees the world as an integrated whole, a global village, rather than separate or isolated parts. This new world vision has brought about an era of responsibility, where people understand their connection to the planet.
In simple words: The new world vision means seeing our planet as one big, connected system, like a global village, rather than many separate pieces. This new way of thinking has started a time when everyone feels more responsible for the environment.

Exam Tip: Define the 'new world vision' by highlighting its 'holistic' and 'ecological' nature, emphasizing the shift from seeing parts to seeing the integrated whole, and its link to the 'era of responsibility'.

Question 17. How can industry play its role in the new 'era of responsibility'?
Answer: It is well-known that industries are a primary source of environmental pollution. There will be a significant improvement in environmental preservation if industrialists become aware of their duties and become environmentally friendly. Thus, industry must play a very important role in this new era of responsibility by adopting sustainable practices.
In simple words: Industries are a big source of pollution. They can help a lot in this 'era of responsibility' by becoming aware of their environmental duties and acting in ways that don't harm nature. This means using sustainable practices.

Exam Tip: Outline the problem (industry as a source of pollution) and then provide the solution (industrialists becoming conscious and environmentally friendly) to show their role in the new era of responsibility.

Question 18. In what connection has the author mentioned Mr Edgar S. Woolard?
Answer: Mr Edgar S. Woolard was the chairman of a famous industrial company, Du Pont. Five years ago, he declared himself to be the company's 'Chief Environmental Officer'. He stated that their continued presence as a leading manufacturer required them to excel in environmental performance. The author mentions him to show that even large corporations are recognizing their environmental responsibilities.
In simple words: The author mentions Mr. Edgar S. Woolard, who was the head of Du Pont, because he appointed himself 'Chief Environmental Officer' and said his company needed to be excellent at protecting the environment to keep being successful. This example shows that even big businesses are seeing the need for environmental care.

Exam Tip: Clearly identify who Mr. Edgar S. Woolard is and explicitly state his declaration about environmental performance to explain the author's reference.

Question 19. Why does the author quote the word of Mrs Margaret Thatcher and Mr Lester Brow;
Answer: The two statements cited by the author support his viewpoint about the need for environmental preservation. According to official data, India is losing its forests at a rate of 3.7 million acres annually. The actual loss is estimated to be about eight times the rate indicated by government statistics. Large areas, officially designated as forest land, actually lack trees. Both statements emphasize protecting the environment and holding it in trust for future generations.
In simple words: The author quotes Mrs. Margaret Thatcher and Mr. Lester Brown to back up his arguments for protecting the environment. Their words highlight that we must act as guardians of the Earth, ensuring its resources are preserved for future generations, especially given the rapid loss of forests in countries like India.

Exam Tip: Explain that the quotes serve to strengthen the author's argument regarding environmental preservation and the intergenerational trust, providing authoritative backing to his claims.

Reading Comprehension (Textual)

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate options as answers to the questions given below them:

The concept of sustainable development was popularised in 1987 by the World Commission on Environment and Development. In its report it defined the idea as "Development that meets the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”, i.e., without stripping the natural world of resources future generations would need.

In the zoo at Lusaka, Zambia, there is a cage where the notice reads, ‘The world's most dangerous animal'. Inside the cage there is no animal but a mirror where you see yourself. Thanks to the efforts of a number of agencies in different countries, a new awareness has now dawned upon the most dangerous animal in the world. He has realised the wisdom of shifting from a system based on domination to one based on partnership.

Question 1. 'Sustainable Development' means
A. development of environment.
B. awareness of environment.
C. development to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations.
D. immediate development at any cost.
Answer: (C) development to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations.
In simple words: Sustainable development means improving things now without making it harder for future generations to meet their own needs.

Exam Tip: Remember the core definition of sustainable development: balancing current needs with future needs without causing harm to resources.

Question 2. It would be a chief concern of sustainable development
A. to care for the needs of future generations.
B. not to bar the natural world of resources.
C. meeting the needs of the present at any cost.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: Sustainable development mainly aims to both protect resources for future generations and make sure we don't block access to natural resources.

Exam Tip: For "Both A and B" options, check if both statements logically follow from the definition or implications of the concept.

Question 3. Who, according to the notice in the zoo at Lusaka, is the world's most dangerous animal?
A. Chimpanzee
B. Space
C. Man himself
D. Still not found
Answer: (C) Man himself
In simple words: According to the zoo's notice, the most dangerous animal in the world is man.

Exam Tip: This is a direct recall question from the passage. Locate the specific detail about the zoo's notice to find the correct answer.

Question 4. What wisdom has man realised today?
A. Shift from a system based on demination to the one based on demination.
B. Shift from a system based on demination to the one based on partnership.
C. Awareness of being developed.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (B) Shift from a system based on demination to the one based on partnership.
In simple words: Today, humans have realized they need to change from dominating nature to working with it as partners.

Exam Tip: Identify the key shift in human perception mentioned in the passage – from 'domination' to 'partnership' with nature.

Mr Lester R. Brown in his thoughtful book, The Global Economic Prospect, points out that the earth's principal biological systems are four-fisheries, forests, grasslands and croplands – and they form the foundation of the global economic system. In addition to supplying our food, these four systems provide virtually all the raw materials for industry except minerals and petroleum-derived synthetics. In large areas of the world, human claims on these systems are reaching an unsustainable level, a point where their productivity is being impaired.

When this happens, fisheries collapse, forests disappear, grasslands are converted into barren wastelands, and croplands deteriorate. In a protein-conscious and protein- hungry world, over-fishing is common every day. In poor countries, local forests are being decimated in order to procure firewood for cooking. In some places, firewood has become so expensive that “what goes under the pot now costs more than what goes inside it". Since the tropical forest is, in the words of Dr Myers, “the powerhouse of evolution", several species of life face extinction as a result of its destruction.

Question 1. The earth's principal biological systems
A. supply our food.
B. provide all the raw materials for industry.
C. provide minerals and petroleum products.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: Earth's main biological systems give us food and also provide raw materials for industry.

Exam Tip: Refer to the passage's description of the biological systems' functions to confirm both food supply and raw material provision for industry.

Question 2. ............ form the foundation of global economic system.
A. Petroleum products
B. Four principal biological systems of the earth
C. Protein-rich food products
D. All of these three
Answer: (B) Four principal biological systems of the earth
In simple words: The four main biological systems of the Earth form the base of the world's economy.

Exam Tip: This is a direct statement from the passage. Identify the subject that "form the foundation of the global economic system."

Question 3. When human claims on the four principal biological systems reach an unsustainable level,...........
A. grasslands are converted into barren wastelands.
B. fisheries collapse.
C. forests disappear.
D. All of these three
Answer: (D) All of these three
In simple words: When humans use Earth's four main biological systems too much, grasslands become deserts, fisheries fail, and forests vanish.

Exam Tip: The passage lists several negative consequences. If multiple options are correct and "All of these" is an option, it's often the intended answer.

Question 4. ............ is the powerhouse of evolution.
A. Decimated forests
B. The tropical forest
C. Grasslands and croplands
D. Biological systems of the earth
Answer: (B) The tropical forest
In simple words: The tropical forest is known as the main source of evolution.

Exam Tip: Locate the specific phrase "powerhouse of evolution" in the passage and identify what it refers to directly.

Question 3.
A three-year study using satellites and aerial photography conducted by the United Nations, warns that the environment has deteriorated so badly that it is 'critical' in many of the eighty-eight countries investigated.
There can be no doubt that the growth of world population is one of the strongest factors distorting the future of human society. It took mankind more than a million years to reach the first billion. That was the world population around the year 1800. By the year 1900, a second billion was added, and the twentieth century has added another 3.7 billion. The present world population is estimated at 5.7 billion. Every four days the world population increases by one million.
Fertility falls as incomes rise, education spreads and health improves. Thus, development is the best contraceptive. But development itself may not be possible if the present increase in numbers continues.
Questions:
1. We have come to know about the deterioration of environment through
A. satellites.
B. aerial photography.
C. survey conducted in the U.S.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: We learn about the worsening state of the environment through both satellite observations and pictures taken from the air.

Exam Tip: When a question asks about the source of information, look for explicit mentions of how data was gathered or studies were conducted in the passage.

2. ...................is one of the strongest factors which has distorted the future of human society.
A. The growth of world population
B. Use of satellites
C. Environmental threat
D. Fall of fertility
Answer: (A) The growth of world population
In simple words: The increasing global population is a major cause of changes that affect what the future of human society might look like.

Exam Tip: Identify keywords in the question like "strongest factors" and "distorted the future" and connect them to direct statements in the passage that highlight causes and effects.

3. To reach the first billion, mankind took years.
A. ten thousand
C. ten lakh thousand
D. ten trillion
Answer: (B) more than ten lakh
In simple words: It took over one million years for the human population to reach the first billion.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to numerical data and timeframes mentioned in the passage, converting them to the required units if necessary (e.g., a million years is 'more than ten lakh' years).

4. ................... is the best preventative of growing world population.
A. Conservation of natural environment
B. Development
C. Collective measures by all the nations of the world
D. None of these three
Answer: (B) Development
In simple words: The passage suggests that progress and advancement, which includes better education and health, is the most effective way to prevent the world's population from growing too much.

Exam Tip: Look for phrases like "best contraceptive" or "most effective preventative" in the passage and identify the concept they are linked to.

Question 4.
For the first time in human history we see a transcending concern-the survival not just of the people but of the planet. We have begun to take a holistic view of the very basis of our existence. The environment problem does not necessarily signal our demise, it is our passport for the future. The emerging new world vision has ushered in the Era of Responsibility. It is a holistic view, an ecological view, seeing the world as an integrated whole rather than a dissociated collection of parts.
Industry has a most crucial role to play in this new Era of Responsibility. What a transformation would be effected if more businessmen shared the view of the Chairman of Du Pont, Mr Edgar S. Woolard who, five years ago, declared himself to be the Company's 'Chief Environmental Officer'. He said, 'Our continued existence as a leading manufacturer requires that we excel in environmental performance.'
Questions:
1. ................... is a transcending concern for the first time in human history.
A. The survival of the people
B. The survival of the planet
C. The environmental problem
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: The passage highlights that for the first time, people are deeply worried not just about their own survival but also about the survival of the entire Earth.

Exam Tip: When a question refers to "transcending concern," identify the broad, overarching issues mentioned in the text that are considered newly significant.

2. The holistic view of the emerging new world vision is
A. seeing the world as an integrated whole world.
B. not to see the world as dissociated collection of parts.
C. seeing the world as a large industry.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: A holistic view of the world means looking at it as a complete and connected system, not just separate pieces.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to definitions or descriptions of key terms like "holistic view" in the passage, and select options that accurately combine its various aspects.

3. What according to the writer, is the most crucial role for an industry?
A. Increasing production against all adversities.
B. Care for environment.
C. Stop the production that affects the environment.
D. Ignore ecological view.
Answer: (B) Care for environment.
In simple words: According to the author, the most important role for businesses is to focus on protecting and looking after the environment.

Exam Tip: For questions about "most crucial role," pinpoint the specific responsibilities or actions emphasized for a particular group (like industry) in the passage.

4. The Chairman of Du Pont declared himself to be the company's
A. CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
B. CEO (Chief Environmental Officer)
C. CEO (Chief Ecological Officer)
D. CEO (Chief Enquiry Officer)
Answer: (B) CEO (Chief Environmental Officer)
In simple words: The head of the Du Pont company publicly stated that his role was the Chief Environmental Officer for his company.

Exam Tip: When names and titles are mentioned, ensure you accurately recall the specific title or role associated with that individual or company in the text.

Grammar

Vocabulary

Question 1. Fill in the blanks choosing the correct words given in the brackets and write the answers only:
(estimates, patrimony, planting, growing, precede, eroding, fuelwood, deprives)
It has been well said that forests ............1............ mankind; deserts follow. The world's ancient............2............ of tropical forests is now ............3............ at the rate of forty to fifty million acre a year. ............4............ the soil of an important natural fertiliser. The World Bank ............5............ that a five-fold increase in the rate of forest ............6............ is needed to cope with the expected ............7............ demand in the year 2000.
Answer:
1. precede
2. patrimony
3. eroding
4. deprives
5. estimates
6. planting
7. fuelwood
In simple words: This exercise requires choosing the right words from a list to complete sentences about forests, land degradation, and the need for more trees.

Exam Tip: Read the full sentence before choosing a word to ensure it fits both grammatically and in terms of meaning within the context.

Question 2. Fill in the blanks choosing the correct words given in the brackets and write the answers only:
(ushered, demise, transcending, holistic, emerging, existence, passport, survival)
For the first time in human history we see a ............1............ concern-the ............2............ not just of the people but of the planet. We have begun to take a ............3............ view of the very basis of our ............4............ . The environmental problem does not necessarily signal our ............5............, it is our ............6............ for the future. The ............7............ new world vision has ............8............ in the Era of Responsibility.
Answer:
1. transcending
2. survival
3. holistic
4. existence
5. demise
6. passport
7. emerging
8. ushered
In simple words: This exercise involves selecting appropriate vocabulary words to complete sentences discussing a new global viewpoint on humanity's connection with the planet and its challenges.

Exam Tip: Consider the meaning of each blank and the surrounding words to logically select the best fit from the provided list, ensuring the completed sentence makes sense.

Rectification of Errors
Rectify the errors in the following passages:

Question 1.
We have shifts-one hopes, irrevocably – from the mechanist view to wholistic and ecological view of the world. It is a shift in human perceptional as revolutionary as that introduced by Copernicus.
Answer:

In simple words: This table corrects common mistakes in word usage and spelling from the given passage, showing the wrong word and its correct replacement.

Exam Tip: When rectifying errors, pay attention to grammatical forms (e.g., noun vs. adjective), spelling, and the overall context of the sentence to ensure accuracy.

Question 2.
The conceptual of sustainable development was popularise in 1987 by the World Commission with Environmental and Development.
Answer:

In simple words: This table identifies and corrects errors in a sentence about sustainable development, changing words like "conceptual" to "concept" and "popularise" to "popularised."

Exam Tip: Check for proper noun capitalization, correct verb tenses, and precise word choice when making corrections to ensure grammatical accuracy.

Question 3.
Scientists have catalogue about 1.4 million living specie with which mankind share the earth. Estimates vary wide as regards the still-uncatalogued living species.
Answer:

In simple words: This table fixes grammatical and spelling errors in sentences discussing the cataloging of living species and estimates of unlisted ones.

Exam Tip: Look for subject-verb agreement (e.g., "mankind shares" not "mankind share") and correct plural forms of nouns (e.g., "species" not "specie").

Question 4.
It has been well says that forests precede mankind; desert follow. The world's ancient patrimonial of tropical forests is now eroding at the rate of forty to fifty million acre a year.
Answer:

In simple words: This table corrects grammatical errors in a passage about forests and deserts, ensuring proper word forms and usage.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to verb tenses, word forms (e.g., adjective vs. noun), and pluralization when identifying and correcting errors in sentences.

Replacing Phrases - Idioms

Question 1. Choose the correct meanings of the phrases/idioms and rewrite the sentences:
1. Once I pulled up to the bank, it dawned upon me that I had forgotten my wallet. (made a mistake, realised, guessed)
2. We ushered in the new year with a celebration. (commenced, celebrated, welcomed)
3. It is difficult to deal with a person with prejudices, (quarrel, blame, manage)
Answer:
1. Once I pulled up to the bank, I realised that I had forgotten my wallet.
2. We welcomed the new year with a celebration.
3. It is difficult to manage with a person with prejudices.
In simple words: This exercise involves selecting the right meaning for idiomatic phrases and then rewriting the sentences to include that simpler meaning.

Exam Tip: Understand the context of the idiom to choose the most accurate synonym or explanation from the given options.

Punctuations
Punctuate the following passages:

Question 1.
James Speth the President of the World Resources Institute said the other day We were saying that we are losing the forests an acre a second
Answer: James Speth, the President of the World Resources Institute, said the other day, “We were saying that we are losing our forests an acre a second.”
In simple words: This task requires adding commas, quotation marks, and a period to correctly punctuate the given sentence about forest loss.

Exam Tip: Remember to use commas to separate introductory phrases and quotes, and place quotation marks correctly around direct speech, with the period inside the closing quote.

Question 2.
The First Brandt Report raised the question Are we to leave our successors a scorched planet of advancing deserts impoverished landscapes and ailing environment.
Answer: The First Brandt Report raised the question – “Are we to leave our successors a scorched planet of advancing deserts, impoverished landscapes and ailing environment?”
In simple words: This answer correctly adds an em dash, quotation marks, and a question mark to punctuate the question from the Brandt Report.

Exam Tip: Ensure that question marks are placed inside the quotation marks if the quoted text itself is a question.

Question 3.
Today we are faced with a peculiar problem Lions are dying. There seems to be some kind of virus We do not know The newspapers are carrying it you find out Justice Madan B Lokur told.
Answer: “Today we are faced with a peculiar problem. Lions are dying. There seems to be some kind of virus. We do not know. The newspapers are carrying it. You find out.” Justice Madan B. Lokur told.
In simple words: This answer adds quotation marks, periods, and a comma to properly punctuate Justice Madan B. Lokur's statement.

Exam Tip: Break down long unpunctuated sentences into logical thoughts, using periods to mark complete sentences and quotation marks for direct speech.

Indirect Narration
Turn the following dialogues into Indirect form of narration:

Question 1.
Taplow: Good Lord, no. He's not a sadist, like one or two of the others.
Frank: I beg your pardon?
Taplow: A sadist, sir, is someone who gets pleasure out of giving pain.
Frank: Indeed? But I think you went on to say that some other masters
Taplow: Well, of course, they are, sir. I won't mention names, but you know them as well as I do.
Answer: Calling upon Lord Taplow assured Frank that he was not a sadist like one or two of the others. Hearing this Frank wanted Taplow to repeat what he had said. Addressing him as sir Taplow clarified that a sadist was someone who got pleasure out of giving pain. Frank wanted to confirm if that was true and added that he (Taplow) had gone on to say that some other masters were indeed sadists, though he would not mention names, and added that he (Frank) as well as he himself (Taplow) knew them.
In simple words: This answer converts a conversation between Taplow and Frank about a sadist teacher into reported speech, rephrasing their dialogue without direct quotes.

Exam Tip: When converting to indirect narration, remember to change pronouns, verb tenses, and time expressions, and remove quotation marks while preserving the original meaning.

Question 2.
Millie: (To Taplow) Waiting for my husband
Taplow: Er-yes.
Millies: He's at the Bursar's and might be there quite a time. If I were you I'd go.
Taplow: (Doubtfully) He said most particularly I was to come.
Answer: Millie asked Taplow if he was waiting for her husband. Taplow affirmed that he was waiting for her husband. Millie informed him that her husband was at Bursar's and that he might be there for quite a time. She suggested that if she was in his place she would go. Taplow doubted if he should follow her suggestion and told her that her (Millie's) husband had most particularly asked him to come.
In simple words: This converts the dialogue between Millie and Taplow into indirect narration, explaining that Millie asked if Taplow was waiting for her husband and then gave advice.

Exam Tip: For conversational exchanges, ensure that each speaker's turn is clearly rephrased into indirect speech, using reporting verbs like 'asked,' 'informed,' or 'suggested.'

Question 3.
Millie: Well, why don't you run away for a quarter of an hour and come back?
Taplow: Supposing he gets here before me?
Millie: (Smiling) I'll take the blame. I tell you what you can do a job for him. Take this prescription to the chemist and get it made up.
Taplow: All right, Mrs Crocker-Harris.
Answer: Millie suggested Taplow that he should run away for a quarter of an hour and then come back. Taplow wanted to clarify his doubt and asked if her husband got there before he did then he (Taplow) would be caught and punished. Millie smiled at him and assured him that she would take the blame. She also showed him a way of escape. She told him he could do a job for him. She asked him to take his prescription to the chemist and get it made up. Taplow agreed to follow her suggestion.
In simple words: This answer converts Millie and Taplow's conversation into reported speech, detailing Millie's suggestions, Taplow's concerns, and Millie's reassurances.

Exam Tip: Use appropriate reporting verbs such as 'suggested,' 'asked,' 'assured,' and 'agreed' to convey the speakers' intentions and actions accurately in indirect narration.

Question 4.
Prank: Oh hullo.
Millie: Hullo.
Taplow: (Whispering frantically) Do you think she heard?
Frank: (Shakes his head comforting) I thftik she did. She was standing there quite a time.
Taplow: If she did and she tells him, there goes my review.
Answer: Frank greeted Millie. Millie acknowledged his greeting. Taplow, whispering frantically, asked Frank if he thought that she had heard them. Frank shook his head comfortingly and affirmed that he thought that she had heard because she had been standing there for quite some time. Taplow expressed his doubt that if she had heard them and if she told him (her husband) he would not get his review. Frank told him that, that was nonsense.
In simple words: This passage narrates the interaction where Taplow worries if Millie heard their conversation and how it might impact his academic review.

Exam Tip: When converting dialogue, capture not just the words but also the implied emotions and actions (like "whispering frantically" or "shook his head comforting") in the reported speech.

Transformation of Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences as dfrected:

Question 1.
No generation lias a freehold on this earth. (Make Affirmative.)
Answer: All generations fail to have a freehold on this earth.
In simple words: This transforms the negative statement into a positive one, meaning that no generation truly owns the earth.

Exam Tip: To convert a negative sentence to affirmative, rephrase it to express the same meaning using positive structures, often by changing words to their antonyms or using phrases like 'fail to'.

Question 2.
Industry has the most crucial role to play in this new era. (Change Degree.)
Answer: No other field of work has as much crucial role to play in this era as the industry has.
In simple words: This changes the sentence to show that no other area of work has a role as important as industry in this modern age.

Exam Tip: When changing the degree of comparison, ensure the new sentence maintains the original meaning. For superlatives, often a negative comparison (e.g., "No other...") is effective.

Question 3.
The emerging new world of vision has ushered in, the Era of Responsibility. (Change Voice.)
Answer: The Era of Responsibility has been ushered by the emerging new world of vision.
In simple words: This changes the sentence from active to passive voice, showing that the Era of Responsibility was introduced by the new world vision.

Exam Tip: To change from active to passive voice, make the object of the active sentence the subject of the passive sentence, and use a form of 'to be' plus the past participle of the main verb.

Question 4.
For the first time in human history we see that the concern of survival is not just of the people but of the planet also. (Use 'as well as'.)
Answer: For the first time in human history we see that the concern of survival is of people as well as of the planet.
In simple words: This rewrites the sentence to emphasize that survival concerns both people and the planet, using the phrase "as well as".

Exam Tip: When using "as well as," ensure it connects two equivalent elements in the sentence, indicating inclusion or addition.

Question 5.
Casteism, untouchability and bonded labour shall be abolished. (Make Negative.)
Answer: Casteism, untouchability and bonded labour shall not be upheld any longer.
In simple words: This converts the sentence into a negative form, stating that casteism, untouchability, and bonded labor will no longer be supported.

Exam Tip: To make a sentence negative without changing its meaning, use a negation (e.g., 'not') with an antonym or a contrasting phrase.

Question 6.
Several species of life face extinction as a result of destruction of forest. (Make Complex.)
Answer: Because the forest are destroyed several species of life face extinction.
In simple words: This changes the sentence into a complex one, showing that the destruction of forests causes many species to die out.

Exam Tip: To create a complex sentence, introduce a dependent clause (often with a subordinating conjunction like 'because,' 'although,' 'when') to add more information about the main clause.

Question 7.
In addition 'to supplying food these four systems provide all the raw material for industry. (Use 'not only ............. but also'.)
Answer: These four systems not only provide food but also all the raw material for industry.
In simple words: This sentence is rewritten to show that the four systems offer both food and raw materials for factories.

Exam Tip: When using "not only... but also," ensure that the phrases following each part of the correlative conjunction are parallel in grammatical structure.

Question 8.
When this happens fisheries will collapse. (Make Simple.)
Answer: In the event of this happening, fisheries will collapse.
In simple words: This simplifies the sentence to state that if this situation occurs, the fishing industry will fail.

Exam Tip: To convert a complex sentence to a simple one, try to express the same idea using a single independent clause, often by converting a clause into a phrase.

Question 9.
Are we to leave our successors a scorched planet of advancing desert? (Make Assertive.)
Answer: We are not to leave our successors a scorched planet of advancing desert.
In simple words: This changes the question into a strong statement, saying that we should not leave a damaged planet for future generations.

Exam Tip: To change an interrogative (question) sentence into an assertive (statement) one, remove the question structure and rephrase it as a declarative sentence, retaining the implied meaning.

Question 10.
Large areas, officially designated as forest land are already virtually treeless. (Make Compound.)
Answer: Large areas are officially designated as forest land but they are already treeless.
In simple words: This combines two related ideas into one sentence, showing that while some lands are called "forest," they actually have no trees.

Exam Tip: To make a compound sentence, connect two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction (e.g., 'and,' 'but,' 'or') or a semicolon, ensuring each clause can stand alone.

The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement's Role Summary in English

The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement's Role Introduction:
Nani Palkhivala was born in Mumbai. He was a jurist, an economist, an advocate, a journalist, and a writer. His forefathers had been manufacturers of Palanquins (palkhis) and so his name was Palkhivala. He had deep knowledge of the Indian Constitution. He strongly felt that people should have the freedom of choosing the language of their study. He was the author of ‘We the Nation', ‘The Lost Decades', 'We the People of India'.

The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement's Role Summary:
The Green Movement started 37 years ago. This has a strong bearing on our existence. Our earth is a living organism. We are part of this organism. The destruction of our environment will make us homeless. We depend on Earth. Man is not concerned of the dangers that pose a threat to our survival. This article deals with environmentalist who have created new awareness in us. A holistic and ecological view of the world has been brought to our consideration.
The Green Movement was launched in 1972. This was popularised by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987. Man is the most dangerous creature as a threat to environment. We are taking very long to realize this. L. K. Jha asks if we are to leave our successors to an advancing desert, poor landscapes and an ailing environment. According to Lester Brown, our biological systems are reaching an unsustainable level. Dr Myers said that forests are powerhouse of evolution. But forests are being destroyed causing extinction of several species. Forests precede mankind and deserts follow. 3.7 million acres of forest are lost every year.
The Constitution says we have to protect and improve environment, safeguard forest and wildlife of the country. We have to conserve forest and bring down population. Palkhivala suggests that development is the only solution. We have to control rise in population by all possible means. Population of India is equal to the population of Africa and South America put together. Today the rich in India are getting richer and the poor remain poor. The survival of the planet is endangered. It is our responsibility to protect environment. According to Margaret Thatcher no generation has a freehold on the Earth. All we have is life tenacity with a full repairing lease. According to the words of Lester Brown we have not inherited this Earth from our forefathers we have borrowed it from our children.