GSEB Class 12 English Solutions Unit 9 Read 1 Headache

Comprehension

 

Question 1. Write true or false. Find out the sentences in the Read with similar meanings if the sentences are true.
Answer:
(1) Headache is a generous gift of God. - True
Sentence: Of all the blessings conferred on mankind by a benign providence, the most useful is the headache.
(2) Many a times actual reasons are not practically accepted but headache is easily accepted. - True
Sentence: Factual explanations are not always either palatable or feasible. In such circumstances, headache acts as a sort of password.
(3) Headache is a curse for human being. - False
(4) Students complain of severe headache when they are asked to do physical exercises. - True
Sentence: On the drill ground almost all appeared to be afflicted with 'splitting headache'.
(5) Headache has become a psychological issue than a psychological one. - False
(6) Industries earn a lot. - True
Sentence: Headache has become such a confirmed habit that a huge trade has developed in proving a cure for it.
In simple words: This section checks comprehension of the text by asking students to identify whether statements are true or false, and to find supporting sentences from the reading material when applicable.

🎯 Exam Tip: For true/false questions with supporting sentences, ensure the chosen sentence directly justifies your true or false selection. Accuracy in matching is key for full marks.

 

2. Answer the Following Questions:

 

Question 1. How did the P. T. teacher of the author convert headache from a boon to curse ?
Answer:
During their school days, the author and his classmates strongly disliked physical training (P.T.) hour, often feigning a 'splitting headache' as an excuse. The drill instructor was well aware of this tactic. One day, he instructed all students claiming headaches to raise their arms. He then declared that they would be held back for special exercises designed to cure their headaches. Consequently, no one raised their arm. The instructor then ordered everyone to remove their coats and proceed with the regular drill, expressing his pleasure that the class would exercise at full strength. Thus, the headache, which was previously a convenient escape from physical drills, transformed into an undesirable consequence.
In simple words: The P.T. teacher made headaches a 'curse' by announcing that those with headaches would receive extra, strenuous exercises, effectively removing it as a valid excuse for avoiding drills.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining character actions, focus on the cause-and-effect relationship and the specific methods used to achieve the outcome.

 

Question 2. What can be the reason for the teacher to label the headache as an excuse?
Answer:
The author humorously observes that people often find factual explanations unpalatable or impractical. In such situations, claiming a headache serves as an ideal 'password.' If someone cites a headache as a reason to be excused from work or any commitment, it is generally accepted without question. This principle also applies to the teacher in the school setting. Even when teaching letter-writing, a headache is cited as an excuse for a specimen letter and is readily granted by the teacher. The author suggests that the concept of headache is universally understood and useful to both students and their instructors.
In simple words: The teacher labeled headache an excuse because it is a widely accepted, convenient, and often unquestioned reason to avoid unpleasant tasks or commitments.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze the underlying social observations and humorous tone when explaining the writer's perspective on common human behaviors.

 

Question 3. What is the impact of saying "I have a headache" in a public gathering?
Answer:
Unlike other ailments, which might sound crude or psychological and that sensitive individuals would refrain from mentioning, a headache can be openly discussed without repercussions. It is the only condition one can mention in the most sophisticated social gatherings without causing shock or offense. Stating one has a headache in public does not provoke surprise or disapproval.
In simple words: Claiming a headache in public is socially acceptable and won't shock anyone, unlike mentioning other ailments which might be considered impolite or personal.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on cultural nuances and social etiquette described in the text when discussing public perceptions of ailments.

 

Question 4. Why is headache called “an elegant falsehood"?
Answer:
The author describes headache as an "elegant falsehood" because it is a polite and readily accepted excuse, even when the real reason for absence or disengagement might be different. Many people use this excuse to avoid situations where they are expected to be at a specific time or place, while otherwise being content elsewhere. Thus, a headache is merely a polite untruth that is almost universally accepted and rarely challenged.
In simple words: Headache is called an "elegant falsehood" because it's a polite, easily accepted, and socially graceful lie used to avoid unwanted situations without causing offense.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the dual nature of "elegant" (sophisticated) and "falsehood" (untruth) in the context of social interaction and convenience.

 

Question 5. How does the headache give the sufferer a touch of importance?
Answer:
A headache carries more weight than other common indispositions or minor ailments because it can be cited as an excuse anywhere and at any time. Even in a public assembly, its mention does not come across as an inappropriate gesture. On the contrary, whether used as a legitimate excuse or a mere untruth, people generally accept it gracefully. The person who uses this excuse is often granted permission to leave or be relieved from duties, thereby acquiring a sense of importance or special consideration due to their declared ailment.
In simple words: A headache grants the sufferer importance because it's a widely accepted and respectful excuse for avoiding tasks or engagements, leading to special consideration and permission.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the social acceptability and practical utility of using a headache as an excuse to the feeling of importance it confers upon the individual.

 

Question 6. Find out the sentences from the text which express humour.
Answer:
The following sentences from the text convey a sense of humor:
(1) Of all the blessings bestowed upon mankind by a kind providence, the most useful is the headache.
(2) Headache gives the sufferer a touch of importance.
(3) You could mention headache in the most elegant social gathering and no one would be shocked by it.
(4) I think I should shock mankind if I suddenly said, “There is no such thing as headache or indisposition. It is all just an excuse, an elegant falsehood.”
(5) Headache is essential for maintaining human relationships in working order.
(6) The mother-in-law, who forswears her food on the plea of a splitting head, is clearly not on the best of terms, at least for that day with the daughter-in-law or son.
(7) Headache can also help to keep tutor away.
In simple words: The humorous sentences highlight the absurdity and social acceptance of using headache as a universal excuse, revealing its unexpected "benefits" in various situations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify irony, exaggeration, and unexpected twists in reasoning to pinpoint humorous elements in a text.

 

Question 7. Write about 'benefits of having headache'.
Answer:
The text outlines several 'benefits' associated with having a headache:
(1) It acts as a versatile 'password' that can be used in various situations to achieve desired outcomes.
(2) Students can use a headache as a credible excuse to obtain leave from school.
(3) It is an excuse that can be presented in even the most sophisticated social settings without causing embarrassment or shock.
(4) Headaches are crucial for maintaining harmonious human relationships, especially in workplaces or households.
(5) They effectively conceal a range of uncomfortable situations or avoid unpleasant tasks within one's home.
(6) A headache serves as an excellent reason to skip homework.
(7) It can also be used as a way to send a tutor home earlier.
In simple words: Headaches offer numerous social benefits like providing an easy excuse for avoiding obligations, maintaining relationships, skipping school or homework, and allowing one to gracefully withdraw from unwanted situations.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to list benefits, ensure you cover all explicit and implicit advantages mentioned in the text, organizing them clearly for comprehensive coverage.

 

3. Find Out the Sentences from the Read With the Nearest Meaning.

 

Question 1. Headache is a common excuse.
Answer:
The sentence with the nearest meaning is: Headache acts as a sort of password.
In simple words: The text indicates that a headache functions like a password, easily granting passage or permission when an excuse is needed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify keywords in the given statement and scan the text for sentences that convey the same core idea, even if phrased differently.

 

Question 2. The other word similar to headache is indisposition.
Answer:
The sentence with the nearest meaning is: The only expression which is superior to headache is indisposition.
In simple words: The text suggests 'indisposition' is a more formal and elevated term often used in place of 'headache' for similar minor ailments.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the subtle distinctions and hierarchies of vocabulary used in the text to understand synonyms and their appropriate contexts.

 

Question 3. Indisposition is a word used by eminent persons.
Answer:
The nearest meaning is conveyed by: It (headache) implies that the gentleman is an eminent one.
In simple words: The text implies that using the term 'indisposition' rather than 'headache' lends an air of importance or high status to the person speaking.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand how word choice can reflect social standing or perceived importance as implied by the author.

 

Question 4. The word headache is a blessing for us.
Answer:
The nearest meaning is conveyed by: For us, a headache is a boon.
In simple words: The text playfully suggests that a headache, despite being an ailment, is seen as a beneficial gift because of its utility as an excuse.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize ironic statements where a negative concept is presented positively due to its practical advantages.

 

Question 5. Headache helps us to maintain social relations.
Answer:
The nearest meaning is conveyed by: Headache is essential for maintaining human relationship in working order.
In simple words: The text asserts that headaches are crucial for harmonious social interactions, likely by providing a socially acceptable reason to avoid conflict or awkward situations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the role of social conventions and acceptable excuses in maintaining smooth interpersonal relationships as described in the reading.

 

Question 6. Industry is earning a lot due to this common excuse.
Answer:
The nearest meaning is conveyed by: Headache has become such a confirmed habit that a huge trade has developed in proving a cure for it.
In simple words: The widespread use of headache as an excuse has led to a significant industry dedicated to providing remedies, thus generating substantial profits.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for connections between social habits and economic impacts as described by the author, noting how common behaviors can foster new markets.

 

Question 7. We have to use the word like headache or indisposition because outspokenness is not welcome.
Answer:
The nearest meaning is conveyed by: The world is not yet ripe for such outspokenness.
In simple words: The text implies that direct and honest communication (outspokenness) is not always appreciated, making polite excuses like "headache" or "indisposition" necessary.

🎯 Exam Tip: Interpret metaphorical language like "ripe for outspokenness" to understand the social conventions and communication styles being discussed.

 

4. Some Problems and Excuses Are Given Below. Write the Missing Part in the Table.

 

No.	Problem	Excuse
1.	I am not attending the meeting today since I do not feel like it.	I am not attending the meeting today owing to indisposition.
2.	I will not come to school today.	I am suffering from headache.
3.	Why have you not finished the project yet?	Splitting headache, Sir.
4.	I am not attending the office today because I am not inclined to look at any paper today.	I have developed some indisposition.
5.	Please manage to come half an hour earlier for the meeting.	Owing to indisposition, I am not attending the meeting.

In simple words: This table illustrates how direct, honest reasons for avoiding tasks (problems) are often replaced with socially acceptable, polite excuses (like headache or indisposition) to avoid confrontation or inconvenience.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the practical application of "elegant falsehoods" in daily communication, especially in formal or social contexts.

 

5. Find out some humorous sentences from the Read. Talk to a friend and decide which ones are more / less humorous. Write them in the table.

 

No.	More Humorous Sentences	Less Humorous Sentences
1.	The most useful blessing conferred on mankind is headache.	Factual explanations are not always palatable or feasible.
2.	I always wonder what made our teacher select headache as an excuse even in a specimen letter.	On the drill ground almost all appeared to be afflicted with splitting headache.
3.	Headache gives the sufferer a touch of importance.	No other ailment can be so openly mentioned with impunity.
4.	The mention of indisposition implies that the gentleman is an eminent one.	Headache is essential for maintaining human relationship in working order.

In simple words: The table categorizes sentences based on their humorous impact, distinguishing between those with more overt comedic effect and those that are subtly amusing or observational.

🎯 Exam Tip: To evaluate humor, consider the use of irony, exaggeration, understatement, or unexpected juxtapositions that create amusement.

 

(A) Additional Questions and Answers

 

Answer the Following Questions:

 

Question 1. Why does the writer say that 'headache' is a blessing ?
Answer:
The author suggests that among all the gifts bestowed upon humanity by divine providence, headache is the most advantageous. He clarifies that providing factual reasons is not always agreeable or practical. In such instances, a headache functions as a convenient password, offering relief from all sorts of unwelcome situations.
In simple words: The writer calls headache a blessing because it acts as a universally accepted excuse, allowing people to escape uncomfortable situations when honest explanations are not convenient or well-received.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for the ironic or sarcastic tone of the writer when evaluating why a negative experience like a headache is described as a "blessing."

 

Question 2. What does the writer humorously say about 'indisposition' ?
Answer:
The author humorously remarks that the term 'indisposition' sounds highly impressive in various contexts, such as press notes, health bulletins, or messages from distinguished individuals invited to gatherings. 'Indisposition' typically cannot be directly stated by the afflicted person, nor does it sound convincing when written in the first person. It sounds much better when used in the third person, implying that the individual concerned is a person of considerable importance.
In simple words: The writer humorously points out that 'indisposition' is a more formal and impressive-sounding excuse, often used in the third person to imply the speaker's high status, making it more socially acceptable than a simple 'headache'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the distinction between formal and informal language, and how the author uses this to create humor and comment on social perceptions of status.

 

Question 3. How is headache essential for maintaining human relationship?
Answer:
Headache is crucial for maintaining human relationships effectively, both at home and in public. In any typical household, one can observe various headache claims used to mask uncomfortable situations. For example, a mother-in-law might refuse food due to a splitting headache, indicating strained relations, at least for that day, with her daughter-in-law or son. A son might use this excuse to avoid friends, officers, and even his wife, preventing her from pressuring him to fulfill demands. A student might claim a headache to skip homework or send a tutor away. Yet, no one feels disgraced or offended by such an excuse.
In simple words: Headaches are essential for maintaining human relationships by providing a socially acceptable way to avoid conflict, express displeasure subtly, or skip unwanted duties without causing direct offense or embarrassment.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing the impact of social phenomena, consider both the direct and indirect ways it influences interpersonal dynamics and conflict resolution.

 

(B) Short Note

 

Question. Write a short note focussing on the questions:

• What kind of article is it?
• Is it a blessing to mankind ?
• Is it an easy excuse ?
• Where is it applicable ?
• What kind of falsehood it is ?
• What is its effect on human relationship ?
• How is it beneficial in household ?
• What is its impact on trade?
Answer:
R. K. Narayan's 'Headache' is a humorous article, where he sarcastically portrays headache as a blessing for humanity. He suggests that for individuals needing to avoid engagements without offering factual explanations, a headache is the simplest excuse. This excuse is casually accepted everywhere, from the office to social gatherings, especially when one is unable to disclose the real facts. Any other excuse, like 'indisposition,' might sound like an overt falsehood. However, a headache serves as an "elegant falsehood" that causes no harm and effectively convinces others. Narayan emphasizes its role in maintaining human relationships, stating it's indispensable both at home and in public. Headaches help obscure various uncomfortable domestic situations and have even spurred a significant trade in remedies, from pills and ointments to specialized glasses.
In simple words: This short note explains how R. K. Narayan's humorous article views headache as an "elegant falsehood" – a universally accepted and harmless excuse crucial for social interactions, maintaining relationships, and even driving a thriving market for remedies.

🎯 Exam Tip: For short notes based on multiple sub-questions, synthesize all points into a cohesive, well-structured essay, ensuring logical flow and comprehensive coverage of each aspect.

 

Read the Following Extracts and Answer the Questions:

 

Question. (1) On the drill ground almost all appeared to be afflicted with “Splitting headache, Sir", and our drill instructor put an end to it by decreeing one day, "Those suffering from headache will hold up their arms.” It raised our hopes, but he added, “Since I wish to detain them for some special exercises that will cure their headache." Not one lifted his arm, at which the instructor declared, “Now all of you take off your coats and get through the usual drill. I am glad to find that the class is going to exercise in full strength today.”
Questions:
(1) What was the order of the drill instructor ?
(2) Why did the drill instructor declare that he was glad that day?
Answer:
(1) When the majority of students on the drill ground claimed to suffer from 'splitting headache,' the instructor commanded them to raise their arms. He further stated that he would hold them back for specific exercises designed to alleviate their headaches.
(2) The instructor expressed his satisfaction that day because, after announcing a disciplinary measure for those feigning headaches, no one dared to raise a hand to complain about their headache, resulting in the entire class participating in the drill.
In simple words: The drill instructor ordered students with headaches to raise their arms, threatening extra exercises, and was glad when no one raised a hand, leading to full participation.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering questions based on an extract, ensure your answers directly reference the text provided, avoiding outside information.

 

Question. (2) I think I should shock mankind if I suddenly said "There is no such thing as headache or indisposition. It is all just an excuse, an elegant falsehood, for have I not seen dozens of headache cases walking or driving about gaily to be seen everywhere except where they ought to be at the particular hour!” The world is not yet ripe for such outspokenness. A man cannot say, “I am not attending the meeting today since I don't feel like it.” A clerk who writes to his master, “I am not attending the office today because I am not inclined to look at any paper today,” will lose his job, whereas as he quite at liberty to say that he is down with headache.
Questions:
(1) What is wrong notion about headache, according to the writer ?
(2) Illustrate the statement – ‘The world is not yet ripe for such outspokenness'.
Answer:
(1) According to the writer, the mistaken belief about headache is that it is a genuine ailment. Instead, it is merely an excuse, an "elegant falsehood."
(2) The writer illustrates this by explaining that while providing a true reason for absence, people often resort to a fabricated headache excuse to avoid work they dislike. This lack of courage to be forthright indicates that society is not yet prepared for such blunt honesty. Therefore, the writer asserts that the world is not ready for such outspokenness.
In simple words: The writer believes headache is often a polite lie, and society isn't ready for people to be completely honest about their reasons for avoiding tasks.

🎯 Exam Tip: Interpret the author's critical perspective on social conventions, especially the use of euphemisms to navigate uncomfortable truths.

 

Question. (3) Headache is essential for maintaining human relationship in working order. We cannot do without it either at home or in public. In any normal household one can see a variety of headaches, curtaining off a variety of uncomfortable situations. The mother-in-law, who forswears her food on the plea of a splitting head, is clearly not on the best of terms, at least for that day with the daughter-in-law or son.
Questions:
(1) How is headache essential for maintaining human relationship in working order?
(2) Match the following :
Answer:
(1) The writer humorously posits that headache is vital for sustaining human relationships. In typical households, people frequently use headaches to discreetly conceal uncomfortable situations or avoid conflicts.
(2)
(1) forswear → b. drop
(2) plea → a. excuse
In simple words: Headaches help maintain relationships by offering a polite way to avoid conflicts or awkward situations, and specific words like 'forswear' and 'plea' have direct corresponding meanings related to giving something up or making an appeal.

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions, carefully understand the nuance of each word to find the most accurate synonym or related concept.

 

'A'	'B'
(1) forswear	a. excuse
(2) plea	b. drop
	c. take oath

 

Question. (4) Headache has become such a confirmed habit that a huge trade has developed in proving a cure for it. Some people feel lost unless they carry a tube of some headache remedy in their pockets all the time, and opticians give glasses guaranteed to relieve headache. These are instances to show that mankind easily begins to believe in its myths.
Questions:
(1) How has headache promoted huge trades ?
(2) Give the synonym for the word 'myth'.
Answer:
(1) Headache has become a deeply ingrained habit, leading many to constantly seek remedies. This demand has spurred a substantial industry focused on providing cures. For instance, some individuals feel incomplete without a headache remedy in their pockets, and opticians even sell glasses purported to alleviate headaches.
(2) Synonyms for the word 'myth' include story and illusion.
In simple words: The widespread acceptance and prevalence of headaches have created a large market for remedies, from medicines to special glasses, driving significant commercial activity. A myth is a story or illusion.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about economic impacts, identify the demand-supply relationship and the various products or services that emerge to meet perceived needs.

 

Question. (5) I think I should shock mankind if I suddenly said, "There is no such thing as headache or indisposition. It is all just an excuse, an elegant falsehood, for have I not seen dozens of headache cases walking or driving about gaily to be seen everywhere except where they ought to be at the particular hour!” The world is not yet ripe for such outspokenness. The man cannot say, “I am not attending the meeting today since I don't feel like it.” A clerk who writes to his master, “I am not attending the office today because I am not inclined to look at any paper today", will lose his job, whereas as he quite at liberty to say that he is down with headache.
Questions:
(1) What is the excuse for an author ?
(2) What should a clerk clear to his boss ?
Answer:
(1) The excuse typically used by an author is claiming to have a headache.
(2) A clerk should inform their boss that they are suffering from a headache to be excused from work.
In simple words: The author uses a headache as an excuse, and a clerk should also use a headache as a valid reason for absence to avoid losing their job.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note how the author distinguishes between acceptable and unacceptable excuses in professional settings, highlighting the social utility of the "headache" excuse.

 

Question. (6) For us, a headache was a boon. We used to have a drill after school hours (which I think is an unfair and undesirable practice). We disliked this hour. On the drill ground almost all appeared to be afflicted with “splitting headache, sir.”
Questions:
(1) Find out the opposite of the word 'curse'.
(2) What was the most common excuse on the drill ground?
Answer:
(1) The opposite of the word 'curse' is 'boon'.
(2) The most frequently used excuse on the drill ground was 'splitting headache'.
In simple words: The opposite of 'curse' is 'boon,' and 'splitting headache' was the common excuse used by students to avoid drill practice.

🎯 Exam Tip: For vocabulary questions, ensure you provide precise antonyms, and for comprehension, recall specific details mentioned in the extract.

 

(D) Say True or False

 

Write Whether the Following Sentences Are True or False:
Answer:
(1) R. K. Narayan ironically calls headache a 'blessing'. - True
(2) As a student headache was a 'curse' for the writer. - False
(3) Headache gives the sufferer a touch of importance. - True
(4) To write "Owing to indisposition, I am not attending your meeting”, sounds well. - False
(5) 'Indisposition' is a better expression than 'headache' in social gathering or at formal meetings. - True
(6) Headache is essential for maintaining human relationship in working order. - True
(7) A huge trade has developed in proving a cure for headache. - True
(8) According to the writer, factual explanations are always palatable or feasible. - False
(9) In certain circumstances, headache acts as a password, according to the writer. - True
(10) The only expression which is superior to headache is indisposition. - True
In simple words: This section tests the understanding of key statements from the text, requiring students to identify their truth value based on the author's arguments and observations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read each statement and refer back to the text to confirm its accuracy, paying close attention to words like 'always', 'only', or 'never' which can change a statement's truth value.

 

Vocabulary

 

Question 1. In each set, there are three words which are synonymous while one is an antonym. Tick mark the antonym.
Answer:

	Synonyms	Antonym
(1) puzzle	bewilder, distract	please
(2) renowned	august, famed	obscure
(3) ailment	malady, ill health	wellness
(4) indecent	savage, coarse	sophisticated
(5) approve	deny, disclaim	forsake
(6) gaily	gleefully, spiritedly	solemnly
(7) graceful	exquisite, classic	plain
(8) appetizing	savoury, relishing	repulsive

In simple words: For each given group of words, three are synonyms, and one is their antonym; the task is to identify and mark the word that is opposite in meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: To excel in vocabulary questions, build a strong understanding of synonyms and antonyms, recognizing subtle differences in meaning and context.

 

Question 2. In the two columns given below, column 'B' contains the meanings of certain words taken from the Read. Fill the blanks in column 'A' with the help of column 'B'. The jumbled words are given in column 'A'.
Answer:

No.	'A' (Correct Word)	'B' (Meaning)
1.	SPLITTING	(h) severe pain
2.	FORSWEAR	(d) give up
3.	EMBARRASSMENT	(c) shame
4.	PRECOCIOUS	(b) be inquisitive
5.	DETAIN	(g) hold back
6.	ELEGANT	(e) sophisticated
7.	CRUDE	(f) unrefined
8.	EMINENT	(a) superior in fame, position and achievement

In simple words: The task is to correctly match jumbled words from column 'A' with their precise meanings provided in column 'B', demonstrating vocabulary knowledge.

🎯 Exam Tip: When matching words to meanings, review all options thoroughly and consider the context in which the words appeared in the original text to ensure accurate pairing.

 

Question 3. Fill in the blanks using proper forms of the words given in the brackets.
Answer:
(1) The rings around the planet Saturn are both **elegant** and mysterious. (elegance)
(2) John realized that his son has a great **inclination** for mathematical studies compared to Biological research. (incline)
(3) Rabindranath was **conferred** Knighthood on 3rd June, 1915 in recognition of his genius as a poet. (confer)
(4) A person who **forswears** his promises is not to be believed. (forswear)
(5) Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai was an **eminent** Indian scientist and innovator, widely regarded as the Father of India's Space Programme. (eminence)
(6) The police **detained** several suspects for questioning. (detain)
(7) He was **afflicted** with asthma from a very young age. (afflict)
(8) She **wiped** her eyes quickly as she was **embarrassed** to feel the tears on her cheeks. (embarrass)
In simple words: This exercise requires using the correct grammatical form (e.g., noun, verb, adjective) of a given root word to appropriately complete each sentence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the grammatical context of each blank—whether it requires an adjective, noun, verb, or adverb—to select the correct form of the word in brackets.

 

Question 4. Frame sentences using the words given in the group. Change the sequence and form of words if necessary.
Answer:
Example : Mother – suffer – rheumatism – long time
Answer: Mother has been suffering from rheumatism for a long time.
OR
Mother's rheumatism has caused suffering to her for a long time.
OR
Rheumatism has made mother suffer for a long time.
In simple words: This task involves constructing grammatically correct and meaningful sentences by arranging and, if needed, altering the form of the provided words in each group.

🎯 Exam Tip: When framing sentences, focus on coherent sentence structure, correct verb tense, and appropriate word forms to convey the intended meaning accurately.

 

Question 1. many people - complain - headache - modem times
Answer: Contemporary individuals often report experiencing headaches.
In simple words: People often get headaches these days.

🎯 Exam Tip: When forming sentences from given words, ensure the output is grammatically correct and conveys a clear, concise meaning, reflecting contemporary relevance for 'modern times'.

 

Question 2. diarrhoea - stomach ailment - cause - vomiting - restlessness
Answer: Diarrhea is an intestinal disorder characterized by vomiting and discomfort.
In simple words: Diarrhea is when your stomach hurts, and you feel sick and restless.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on identifying the core medical condition and its primary symptoms to create an accurate and informative sentence.

 

Question 3. she - curtail - household expenses - save money.
Answer: To economize, she has reduced household expenditures.
In simple words: She spent less on home things to save money.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use strong verbs and connect the actions (curtailing expenses) directly to the objective (saving money) for a clear sentence structure.

 

Question 4. Albert Einstein - eminent - scientist - intr-oduce - theory of relativity - Physics
Answer: Albert Einstein, a renowned scientist, developed the theory of relativity in physics.
In simple words: Albert Einstein, a famous scientist, created the theory of relativity.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure proper nouns and technical terms are accurately incorporated, highlighting the key contribution of the individual in the given field.

 

Question 5. defendant - plead - not guilty - charge of murder
Answer: The accused asserted their innocence regarding the murder charge.
In simple words: The person accused said they didn't commit the murder.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the role of the defendant and their plea in response to the specific accusation, using formal legal terminology where appropriate.

 

Question 6. person - forswear - promises - not - believe
Answer: An individual who reneges on commitments should not be trusted.
In simple words: Don't trust someone who breaks their promises.

🎯 Exam Tip: Construct a sentence that conveys a moral lesson or a general truth derived from the given words, emphasizing the consequence of broken promises.

 

Question 7. scandal - major - embarrassment - family
Answer: The family experienced significant mortification due to the massive financial scandal.
In simple words: The family felt very ashamed because of a big money scandal.

🎯 Exam Tip: Combine the elements to describe an event (scandal) and its impact (embarrassment) on a group (family), using descriptive adjectives.

 

5. In Each Of The Following Sentences, There Is One Word Which Does Not Fit In. Underline The Word And Tick Mark The More Appropriate Word From The Brackets To Make The Sentence Meaningful.

 

Example: The honour of Knighthood was presented on Rabindranath Tagore by King George " V in 1915. (conferred, awarded)
Answer: The honour of Knighthood was conferred on Rabindranath Tagore by King George V in 1915.
In simple words: Rabindranath Tagore was given Knighthood by King George V in 1915.

🎯 Exam Tip: For this type of question, carefully read the context to choose the verb that most precisely fits the action described, especially when distinguishing between similar-meaning words.

 

Question 1. She was disposed to decline his offer. (inclined, favourable)
Answer: She was inclined to decline his offer.
In simple words: She was likely to say no to his offer.

🎯 Exam Tip: Select the word that accurately reflects a tendency or predisposition, ensuring the sentence's meaning aligns with the original intent.

 

Question 2. When the President signed the rule on equal rights, everyone in the audience cheered. (announcement, decree)
Answer: When the President announced the rule on equal rights, everyone in the audience cheered.
In simple words: When the President told everyone about the new equal rights rule, they all clapped.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the word that best describes the act of making public an official decision, considering whether it implies a formal signing or a public declaration.

 

Question 3. When his father began to shorten his freedom, he left the village and settled in a city. (clip, curtail)
Answer: When his father began to curtail his freedom, he left the village and settled in a city.
In simple words: When his father limited his freedom, he moved from the village to a city.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between words with similar meanings. 'Curtail' suggests a reduction or restriction, which fits the context of limiting freedom better than 'clip'.

 

Question 4. After being limited by the police for questioning, he was released without charge. (detained, restricted)
Answer: After being detained by the police for questioning, he was released without charge.
In simple words: The police held him for questions, but then let him go without charging him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that 'detained' specifically refers to being held by authorities for questioning, which is more precise in this legal context than 'restricted'.

 

Question 5. The state has been severely inflicted with floods, (afflicted, affected)
Answer: The state has been severely afflicted with floods.
In simple words: The state was badly hit by floods.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that 'afflicted' implies suffering from a severe or chronic problem, making it a stronger and more appropriate term than 'affected' for severe natural disasters like floods.

 

Question 6. Even though a lot of people think Margaret is sensible, she is really extremely intelligent, (inane, rational)
Answer: Even though a lot of people think Margaret is inane, she is extremely intelligent.
In simple words: Many people think Margaret is silly, but she is actually very smart.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to contrasting ideas within the sentence (e.g., 'even though'). 'Inane' provides a strong contrast to 'extremely intelligent' that 'rational' would not.

Function

 

Question 1. Read the poem and observe the paragraph which summarizes the poem.
The year's at the spring.
And day's at the morn;
Mornings at seven;
The hill-side's dew-pearled;
The lark's on the wing;
The snail's on the thorn:
God's in His heaven
All's right with the world ! - Robert Browning
Answer: Robert Browning's poem beautifully depicts nature, portraying a spring morning scene. The hillside glistens with dew, a lark soars, and a snail rests on a thorn. It concludes with the comforting thought that God is in heaven, and thus, all is well with the world.
In simple words: The poem by Robert Browning shows a lovely spring morning, with dew, a flying bird, and a snail. It ends by saying that God is watching, and everything is okay.

🎯 Exam Tip: When summarizing a poem, capture the main theme, imagery, and the overall message conveyed by the poet, rather than simply listing literal details.

 

2. Here Are Some Examples Of Writing A Summary. Study Them Closely. And Note Down The Omission Of Details While Summarizing.

 

(1) August 1998. Nandan Sharma, a famous Industrialist, enters into a world class restaurant. He sits down and with an ease of a businessman, selects and orders something from the menu. (30 words) :
Summary: Nandan Sharma, an Industrialist, goes to a restaurant and orders meal. (11 words)

 

(2) In 2000, 20 % of workers in cities were people who migrated from the rural area to earn livelihood, but by 2016 the digit reached up to
Summary: By 2016 there was an increase of migratory workers in cities. (11)

 

(3) Many scientists believed that music soothes ? the plant. It also helps it to grow. This is now a scientific fact. Les Harsten, a sound engineer from ( New York, carried out some exciting experiments. Here is one of them. Harsten's theory was that plants definitely react to music.
In his experiment, he used two banana plants. He gave both plants same light, heat and water. But for about an hour a day, one of the plants ‘listened' to some music. This music was in fact a high-pitched humming sound. He found that this plant grew faster. It also grew 70 percent taller than the other plant! (106)
Summary: Science tells us that music soothes a plant and helps it grow. In one of his experiments, Les Harsten, a sound engineer, used two banana plants. He found that the one which listened to music grew faster and nearly twice as tall as the other plant. (47)
Answer: When creating a summary, any specific details that are not crucial to the main summarized statement or paragraph can be deliberately excluded.
In simple words: When you summarize, you can leave out small details that aren't the main point.

🎯 Exam Tip: The essence of summarizing lies in retaining core information while omitting redundant or minor details to achieve brevity and clarity.

 

Question 3. Study the score card of an IPL Twenty-20 match and try to fill in the blanks in its summary.

 

Indian Premier League - 1st match							Twenty20 match | 2016 season Played at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai 09 April 2016-night match (20-over match)
Mumbai Indians innings (20 overs maximum)							R	M	B	4s	6s	SR
LMP Simmons b Sharma							8	19	8	0	1	100.00
RG Sharma* lbw b Sharma							7	6	5	1	0	140.00
HH Pandya c +Dhoni b Marsh							9	15	11	2	0	81.81
JC Buttlert c R Ashwin b Marsh							0	6	2	0	0	0.00
AT Rayudu c du Plessis b R Ashwin							22	50	27	2	0	81.48
KA Pollard lbw b Bhatia							1	12	8	0	0	12.50
S Gopal c Rahane b M Ashwin							2	16	16	0	0	12.50
Harbhajan Singh not out							45	42	30	7	1	150.00
R Vinay Kumar c Smith b Singh							12	18	11	0	1	109.09
MJ McClenaghan not out							2	6	2	0	0	100.00
Extras (lb 1, w 12)							13
Total (8 wickets; 20 overs)							121	(6.05 runs per over)
Bowling							O	M	R	W	Econ	Os	4s	6s
RP Singh							3	0	30	1	10.00	7	4	1	(1w)
I Sharma							4	0	36	2	9.00	15	4	1	(4w)
MR Marsh							4	0	21	2	5.25	13	1	1
R Bhatia							4	1	10	1	2.50	17	1	0
M Ashwin							4	0	16	1	4.00	13	1	0
R Ashwin							1	0	7	1	7.00	2	1	0
Rising Pune Supergiants innings (target: 122 runs from 20 overs)							R	M	B	4s	6s	S
AM Rahane not out							66	65	42	7	3	157.14
F du Plessis b Harbhajan Singh							34	46	33	1	3	103.03
KP Pietersen not out							21	18	14	0	2	150.00
Extras (lb 1, nb 1)							5
Total (1 wicket; 14.4 overs)							126	(8.59 runs per over)
Match details
Player of the match AM Rahane (Rising Pune Supergiants)

Answer: The inaugural match of the IPL 2016 season saw Mumbai Indians (MI) and Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) compete at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. RPS secured a nine-wicket victory. Having won the toss, MI opted to bat first, setting a total of 121 runs for eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Notably, only three MI batsmen, including Harbhajan Singh with 45 runs, reached double-digit scores. For RPS, M.R. Marsh and I. Sharma each claimed two wickets.
In simple words: In the first IPL 2016 match, RPS beat MI by 9 wickets. MI batted first and only scored 121 runs with Harbhajan Singh making 45. RPS bowlers M.R. Marsh and I. Sharma took 2 wickets each.

🎯 Exam Tip: When summarizing sports data, highlight key outcomes like winner, margin, significant individual performances, and crucial game events (e.g., toss decision, total scores) for a comprehensive overview.

 

4. Here Is A Summary Of The Last Passage From The Read Ants. Fill In The Blanks With A Phrase Or A Word To Complete The Summary.

 

The most ferocious kind cleared . . . away (161)
Answer: African 'driver' ants are nomadic, constantly marching in extensive columns of millions. These blind insects are incredibly aggressive, consuming not only small creatures but also any animals encountered in their path. When a large colony invades an African villager's home, the residents flee into the forest, returning only after the ants have moved on, to discover their homes entirely cleared of insects.
In simple words: African driver ants are blind, strong, and always on the move in huge groups. They eat all animals in their way. When they enter a village house, people leave, and when they come back, the house is completely clean of bugs.

🎯 Exam Tip: For fill-in-the-blanks summaries, reconstruct the complete factual narrative, ensuring all crucial details are present and the text flows logically, without leaving any conceptual gaps.

 

5. Here Are Seven Steps For Writing A Summary. In The Next Table Same Points Are Summarised. Mention The Point Number Whose Summary Is Given. Write Summary Of The Remaining Points.

(1) Divide - and conquer : First off, skim the text you are going to summarize and divide it into sections. Focus on any headings and subheadings. Also look at any bold-faced terms and make sure you understand them before you read.
(2) Read: Now that you've prepared, go ahead and read the selection. Read straight through. At this point, you don't need to stop to look up anything that gives you trouble-just get a feel for the author's tone, style, and main idea.
(3) Reread: Rereading should be active reading. Underline topic sentences and key facts. Label areas that you want to refer to as you write your summary. Also label areas that should be avoided because the details- though they may be interesting - are too specific. Identify areas that you do not understand and try to clarify those points.
(4) Now start writing well-developed sentences that convey the main idea of each section. Include only the key points and ignore minor details.
(5) Write a thesis statement: This is the key to any well-written summary. Review the sentences you wrote in step 4. From them, you should be able to create a thesis statement that clearly communicates what the entire text was trying to achieve. If you find that you are not able to do this step, then you should go back and make sure your sentences actually addressed key points.
(6) Ready to write : At this point, your first draft is virtually done. You can use the thesis statement as the introductory sentence of your summary, and your other sentences can make up the body. Make sure that they are in order. Add some transition words (then, however, also, moreover) that help with the overall structure and flow of the summary. And once you are actually putting pen to paper (or fingers to keys!), remember these tips:
- Write in the present tense.
- Be concise : A summary should not be equal in length to the original text.
- If you use the words of the author, cite them.
- Don't put your own opinions, ideas, or interpretations into the summary. The purpose of writing a summary is to accurately represent the author wanted to say, not to provide a critique.
(7) Check for accuracy: Reread your summary and make certain that you have accurately represented the author's ideas and key points. Also check to make sure that your text does not contain your own commentary on the piece. (455)
Answer:

Summary of the point	Point Number
Construct well-formed sentences for each section, focusing exclusively on main ideas and omitting trivial details.	4
Read through the selection without concern for full comprehension initially, focusing on the author's overall tone, style, and central theme.	2
During final review, ensure the summary accurately reflects the author's ideas, devoid of personal interpretations.	7
Begin by quickly reading the text, dividing it into sections, and grasping key terminology.	1
Develop a central thesis statement for your summary by reviewing all points, revising earlier sentences as necessary to ensure core ideas are addressed.	5
Use the thesis statement as the introduction, structuring the body with sequential sentences and transition words. Maintain present tense, conciseness, and proper attribution for an effective summary.	6
Engage in active reading to identify and underline key points, discarding irrelevant details and clarifying any unclear sections.	3

In simple words: This table shows the seven steps for writing a good summary. It starts with reading and understanding the text, then identifying main ideas, creating a central statement, drafting the summary, and finally checking it for accuracy and objectivity.

🎯 Exam Tip: When presented with a structured guide like this, practice applying each step to a sample text. This reinforces the practical skills of summarizing and ensures all evaluation criteria are met.

 

6. Here Is A News Item. Complete The Summary In About 90 Words.

 

PRESIDENT THROWS PARTY FOR DEPARTING KING
By our senior correspondent !
Last night the President gave a farewell party for the King, who is about to leave for his country today. The King and his family were on the visit of our country for last two weeks.
The trip was a pleasure trip, not for any political reason.The farewell dinner hosted at Rastrapati Bhavan by the President included the King's favourite food as well as some traditional dishes from our country. After dinner, folk artists from Rajasthan entertained the King and his family.
Following the performance, the President and the King exchanged gifts. While talking with our senior reporter, Devansh Mukherjee, the King said; "I am indeed happy to be in this country and to travel far off historical sites with my family.
I found the citizens so friendly that we have felt at home everywhere. My wife and my children feel sad to leave. We promise to visit again and to invite to visit us very soon.” (157)
Answer: The President hosted a farewell party for a departing King and his family, who had spent two weeks in the country. The visit was non-political, featuring a dinner at Rashtrapati Bhavan with the King's preferred dishes and traditional folk entertainment. Gifts were exchanged, and the King expressed his delight with the trip, the historical sites, and the friendly citizens, promising a return visit and extending an invitation.
In simple words: The President held a farewell party for a King and his family who were leaving after a happy two-week visit. The King loved his trip, the sights, and the people, and promised to come back soon.

🎯 Exam Tip: When summarizing a news report, prioritize the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the main event, ensuring the summary is concise and captures the essence of the report.

 

7. Summarize This News Item (Under Teacher's Guidance).

 

Giant dinosaur footprint discovered in Mongolia desert
The Times of India, Sep. 30, 2016
TOKYO: One of the biggest dinosaur footprints ever recorded has been unearthed in the Gobi Desert, researchers said on Friday, offering a fresh clue about the giant creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago.
A joint Mongolian-Japanese expedition found the giant print, which measures 106 centimetres (42 inches) long and 77 centimetres wide.
One of the several footprints discovered in the vast Mongolian desert, the huge fossil was discovered last month in a geologic layer formed between 70 million and 90 million years ago, researchers said.
It was naturally cast, as sand flowed into dents that had been left by the creature stomping on the once muddy ground. The footprint is believed to have belonged To Titanosaur, a long-necked dinosaur, and could have been more than 30 metres long and 20 metres tall, according to researchers.
"This is a very rare discovery as it's a well- preserved fossil footprint that is more than a metre long with imprints of its claws,” said a statement issued by Okayama University of Science. The Japanese university has been involved in the study with the Mongolian Academy of Science.
Answer: A joint Mongolian-Japanese team discovered one of the largest dinosaur footprints ever recorded in the Gobi Desert. This significant fossil, naturally formed in a geological layer from 70 to 90 million years ago, measures over a meter long with visible claw imprints, and is believed to belong to a Titanosaur, a long-necked dinosaur.
In simple words: Researchers found a very large dinosaur footprint in Mongolia, over a meter long, from 70-90 million years ago. It belonged to a Titanosaur.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the most impactful facts in a scientific news report: the discovery, its scale, location, age, and potential significance, while avoiding overly technical jargon.

 

8. Summarize Any One Poem And A Read From The List Given Below:

(1) Heaven of Freedom
(2) Green Charter (First two passages)
(3) Blind, Deaf Fish
(4) Sunrise on the Kangchenjunga
(5) Unforgettable Walt Disney (First two passages)
Answer:
(1) Heaven of Freedom – Summary.
In "Heaven of Freedom," Tagore envisions India as a liberated nation where individuals enjoy unrestricted thought, spirit, faith, and speech, leading to personal enlightenment. He advocates for universal access to knowledge and encourages citizens to dedicate themselves to labor wholeheartedly, believing this is achievable only when their minds are unconstrained. Furthermore, Tagore’s prayer extends to a world free from divisions caused by religious, cultural, economic, or political conflicts. He desires a unified global society where truth is spoken courageously and where his nation awakens to a liberty unhindered by outdated traditions and superstitions.
In simple words: Tagore's poem dreams of an India where people are free to think and speak, and everyone can learn. He wants people to work hard with free minds to become their best selves.

🎯 Exam Tip: When summarizing a poem, identify the central theme and the poet's main message, ensuring your summary captures the essence of the work without direct quotations.

 

(2) Green Charter (First two passages) – Summary.
The "Green Charter" emphasizes that climate change and global warming pose severe threats, urging individuals to proactively adopt more sustainable lifestyles without solely relying on government action. It calls for reducing carbon footprints by minimizing reliance on transport, halting land clearance, and decreasing the production and consumption of carbon-intensive goods and services.
In simple words: The "Green Charter" warns that climate change is serious and everyone must act now, not just wait for the government. We need to live more responsibly, using less transport, clearing less land, and consuming fewer goods and fuels to lower our carbon footprint.

🎯 Exam Tip: For summaries of policy or environmental texts, focus on the problem identified, the proposed solutions, and the key stakeholders involved, maintaining a neutral and informative tone.

 

Question 9. Write your experience of studying in class 12th in about 150 words.
Answer: Entering 12th standard marked a new chapter in my academic journey, compelling me to approach studies with greater seriousness. I was inundated with advice from parents, relatives, and teachers, all urging a significant transformation in my study habits. I anticipated my leisure activities vanishing as I envisioned myself confined to a study room, perpetually engrossed in books, which felt like an ordeal. The constant barrage of weekly school tests and coaching class exams further intensified the pressure. Consequently, I resorted to fabricating excuses for my parents and teachers to navigate these demands. Nevertheless, I managed to carve out moments for enjoyable leisure activities amidst the academic rigor.
In simple words: Starting 12th grade made me study seriously for the first time, with everyone telling me how to change. I felt like I'd lose all my fun and be stuck with books, which was tough. I even had to lie to my parents and teachers because of all the tests, but I still found ways to enjoy myself.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing personal experiences, ensure a narrative flow, expressing both challenges and adaptations, and concluding with a reflection on the overall impact of the experience.

Writing

 

Question 1. Write a leave application to your class teacher to let you go home on account of severe headache. (Your name - class - roll no. - date - to the Principal - name of the school - subject - reason for leave - number of days leave required for-your physical / mental condition)
Answer:Tanay V. Jani
'Annapurna', Sector 8 A,
Gandhinagar.
23-2-2018

Principal, Std. XII A
St. Xavier's Higher Secondary School
Sector 9, Gandhinagar.

Sub: Leave Application
Ref: Roll No. 14, Std. XII Division A

Sir,

I respectfully request a leave to return home today as I have developed a severe headache in the last thirty minutes. Although I felt fine upon arriving at school, this 'splitting headache' has made it impossible to continue my classes. I believe leaving promptly will allow me to seek treatment sooner. Your timely approval would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Tanay V. Jani
In simple words: A student, Tanay V. Jani, writes to the Principal to ask for leave to go home because he suddenly got a very bad headache in class and can't study anymore. He hopes to get treatment quickly.

🎯 Exam Tip: A well-structured leave application must include essential details like date, recipient's and sender's addresses, a clear subject line, a polite and concise reason for leave, and the duration requested.

 

Question 2. Dr Raman Patel, MD delivered a speech on headache in your school. He talked about the reasons for headache like physical, mental, emotional and environmental. Prepare a report comprising various reasons of headache emphasized by him.
Answer:

Report on Headache Causes and Remedies by Dr. Raman Patel

Ahmedabad, February 25, 2018

To address the frequent student complaints of headaches leading to absenteeism, the Principal of Smt. P. B. D. Joshi school hosted Dr. Raman Patel, an expert, to deliver a speech on headaches. Dr. Patel highlighted various causes, including physical factors like dehydration, neck muscle spasms, sinus infections, allergies, oxygen deficiency in poorly ventilated spaces, anemia, fluctuations in blood pressure, eye strain, and low blood sugar. Environmental factors like sudden weather changes were also noted. He mentioned that caffeine withdrawal is a common trigger, alongside emotional factors such as excessive self-criticism. Dr. Patel categorized headache types, specifically detailing Tension Headaches, Migraines, Mixed Headache Syndrome, and Cluster Headaches. For relief, he recommended cold packs for migraines, and heating pads for tension and sinus headaches. He also suggested remedies like avoiding overly tight hats, headbands, or swimming goggles, and managing computer-induced headaches with blackout curtains or anti-glare screens. Furthermore, Dr. Patel shared various household and homeopathic remedies for headache relief. The Principal extended gratitude to Dr. Patel for his comprehensive insights.
In simple words: Dr. Raman Patel gave a speech about headaches, explaining they can be caused by dehydration, muscle strain, sinus issues, allergies, low oxygen, blood pressure changes, eye strain, low sugar, and even weather. He also mentioned caffeine withdrawal and being too critical of oneself. For treatment, he suggested cold packs for migraines, heating pads for tension and sinus headaches, and using specific items or screen adjustments for other types. The principal thanked him for the useful information.

🎯 Exam Tip: A comprehensive report on a speech should include the speaker's name, the topic, date, and location, followed by a detailed summary of the main points, causes, types, and remedies discussed.

 

Question 3. You read how headache is used as an excuse to skip some gatherings or unwanted places. You might have given a lot of excuses to your teachers or your parents to avoid; certain places or events. Remember all the excuses given by you. Write them down and then write a paragraph on it.
Answer: The excuses to skip are listed below:
(1) Sir, I have intense abdominal pain and cannot remain seated in class.
(2) Sir, I am suffering from diarrhea and will be unable to attend school today.
(3) Sir, my homework notebook is either lost or stolen, preventing me from submitting my homework.
(4) Madam, I was delayed because I missed my usual bus this morning.
(5) Sir, my cycle got hit by a car, making me late.
(6) Sir, my uniform is currently being laundered, so I cannot wear it today.
(7) Sir, my parents are away, making it impossible to obtain their signature on the progress card.
(8) Sir, I must attend my cousin's wedding, so I will be absent for three days.
(9) Madam, I am going to a friend's house as I lack the necessary reference book for this assignment.
(10) Dad, I will be at a friend's place to study and anticipate returning late this evening (which is often a guise for shopping with a friend).
(11) Dad, I need an Android-based phone to conduct extensive online research for my studies.

Students frequently employ their creativity to devise excuses or narratives designed to influence their parents, elders, or teachers, thereby pursuing their desires without restraint. These excuses rarely contain any factual basis.
In simple words: Students often make up excuses to avoid tasks or get what they want from parents and teachers. These excuses, like having a stomach ache, missing a bus, lost homework, or needing a new phone for 'studies', are usually not true.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing common excuses, ensure variety in reasons and contexts (school, home, social). The accompanying paragraph should reflect a general observation about student behavior and the nature of these excuses.

Activity

1. Meet the head of any institution and ask them the reasons why most of their employees remain absent.
2 Meet any five friends and ask them the excuses they give for their incomplete homework.
Write them and discuss them in the class.
Note: Students will carry out the above-mentioned activities themselves.

Project

Meet a doctor and find out causes for headache. Note their remedies too.
Note: Students will meet a doctor and find out causes for having headache. They will also note down their remedie

Headache Summary In Gujarati

Glossary (શબ્દાર્થ)

benign (adj.) (બિનાઈન) liberal, favourable, kind - સૌમ્ય, અનુગ્રહ

providence (n.) (પ્રોવિડન્સ) luck, destiny - નસીબ

embarrassment (n.) (એમ્બેરેસમન્ટ) shame, humiliation - શરમ, અપમાન

factual (adj.) (ફૅક્ચ્યુઅલ) realistic, actual-વાસ્તવિક, હકીકત સંબંધી

palatable (adj.) (પૅલૅટેબલ) acceptable-સ્વીકાર્ય, ગળે ઊતરે તેવું

feasible (adj.) (ફિઝિબલ) possible, practicable - શક્ય તેવું, વ્યવહારુ

excuse (n.) (ઈક્સક્યુઝ) justification, defence-બહાનું, બચાવ

specimen (n.) (સ્પેસિમન) sample, example-નમૂનો, ઉદાહરણ

alike (adv.) (અલાઇક) similar-સમાન, એક જેવા

boon (n.) (બૂન) blessing, something extremely useful-કૃપા/આશીર્વાદ, કશુંક અતિ અગત્યનું હોય તે

drill (n.) (ડ્રિલ) exercise, training-કસરત, તાલીમ

afflict (v.) (એફ્લિક્ટ) trouble, agonise-ત્રાસ આપવો, પીડા આપવી

splitting (adj.) (સ્પ્લિટિંગ) very severe -ફાડી નાખે તેવો (માથાનો દુખાવો)

decree (v.) (ડિક્રી) declare, order - જાહેર કરવું, આદેશ કરવો

detain (v.) (ડિટેન) confine, prevent from processing-બાંધી લેવું, આગળ વધતું અટકાવવું

crude (adj.) (ક્રૂડ) natural, raw - ક્રૂર, ખરબચડું

ailment (n.) (એલમન્ટ) illness, disease-માંદગી, રોગ

impunity (n.) (ઈમ્યુનિટી) exemption from punishment or loss - હાનિ કે સજામાંથી મુક્તિ

elegant (adj.) (એલિગન્ટ) graceful, refined - સુરુચિપૂર્ણ, સંસ્કારી

indisposition (n.) (ઈન્ડિસ્પોઝિશન) a minor ailment - સાધારણ માંદગી / અસ્વસ્થતા

eminent (adj.) (એમિનન્ટ) outstanding or remarkable - આગળ પડતું, સુવિખ્યાત, જાણીતું

unconvincing (adj.) (અનકન્વિન્સિંગ) incredible, unbelievable - માન્યામાં ન આવે તેવું, અવિશ્વસનીય

imply (v.) (ઈમ્પ્લાય) indicate, express - દર્શાવવું, વ્યક્ત કરવું

regret (v.) (રિગ્રેટ) feel sorry or disappointed - દિલગીરી / નિરાશા વ્યક્ત કરવી

sundry (adj.) (સન્ડ્રી) various, several, miscellaneous - વિવિધ, કેટલાંક, પરચૂરણ

twist (v.) (ટ્વિસ્ટ) wind, turn - (અહીં કાન) આમળવા

precociousness (n.) (પ્રિકોશ્યસનેસ) intelligence, understanding beyond one's age - અકાલ પક્વતા, ઉંમરના પ્રમાણમાં વધારે પડતી સમજણ

gaily (adv.) (ગેઈલી) cheerfully, pleasantly - આનંદથી, પ્રફુલ્લિતતાથી

outspokenness (n.) (આઉટસ્પોકનનેસ) frankness - આખાબોલાપણું, નિખાલસતા

forswear (v.) (ફૉર્સ્વેર) renounce, disown, reject - અસ્વીકાર કરવો, છોડી દેવું

plea (n.) (પ્લી) earnest request, appeal - વિનંતિ, અપીલ

plead (v.) (પ્લીડ) appeal, declare- -ને માટે આજીજી કરવી, જાહેર કરવું

skip (v.) (સ્કિપ) omit, let go - છોડી દેવું, ટાળવું

tutor (n.) (ટ્યૂટર) private instructor / coach - ખાનગી શિક્ષક

bluntly (adv.) (બ્લન્ટલી) unadornably, roughly - અવિવેકીપણાથી, તોછડાઈથી

confirmed (adj.) (કન્ફર્મ્ડ) firmly set in habit, unchangeable - આદતપૂર્વક, બદલાય નહિ તેવું

optician (n.) (ઓપ્ટિશન) lens maker - ચશ્માં બનાવનાર

instance (n.) (ઈન્સ્ટન્સ) example, occurrence - ઉદાહરણ, ઘટના

myth (n.) (મિથ) legend, story, tradition - દંતકથા, વાર્તા, રૂઢિ

Phrases And Idioms

confer on (કન્ફર ઓન) grant something to someone-કોઈકને કશુંક આપવું (વિશેષતઃ શૈક્ષણિક ઉપાધિ માટે વપરાય)

its opposite, in disagreement (with) - -થી વિરુદ્ધ, -થી જુદું

let off (લેટ ઑફ) allow to leave, throw off-જવા દેવું, નિષ્કાસિત કરવું

ભાષાંતર

આર. કે. નારાયણ દ્વારા લિખિત Headache એક મનોરંજક લેખ છે. માથાના દુખાવા' જેવા ક્ષુલ્લક વિષય પર લેખકશ્રીએ ભરપૂર વ્યંગ્ય કર્યો છે. તે કહે છે કે “માથાનો દુખાવો' એ માનવજાતને ઈશ્વર તરફથી મળેલ સૌથી ઉપયોગી ભેટ છે.

ક્યારેક વાસ્તવિક ખુલાસાઓ લોકોને ગળે નથી ઊતરતા ત્યારે માથાના દુખાવાનું બહાનું કારગત નીવડે છે. શાળામાં વ્યાયામના તાસમાં જવું કંટાળાજનક હોય ત્યારે કહી દેવું કે માથાનો દુખાવો છે. અરે, બીજું તો ઠીક પણ ‘પત્રલેખનમાં પણ શિક્ષક માથાના દુખાવાના કારણની રજાચિઠ્ઠી લખાવે! ‘માથાના દુખાવાનું બહાનું ઘણા લોકોની વચ્ચે જાહેર સ્થાને પણ કહી શકાય અને એમાં કોઈને અનુચિત પણ ન લાગે. માથાનો દુખાવો' સહેલું બહાનું છે.

જો ગંભીર બહાનું કાઢવું હોય, તો “અસ્વસ્થતા (indisposition)' એવું કાઢી શકાય પણ બધાની વચ્ચે તે કહેવું અવિવેક લાગે. આ બંને બહાનાં માત્ર સુરુચિપૂર્ણ જુઠ્ઠાણાંથી વિશેષ કાંઈ જ નથી. “માથાનો દુખાવો’ માનવસંબંધોને જાળવવા સક્રિય રાખવા ખૂબ જ જરૂરી છે! ઘરમાં કામ ન કરવું હોય કે કશુંક કરવાનું ટાળવું હોય, તો ‘માથાનો દુખાવો' હાથવગો હોય છે! ગૃહકાર્ય ટાળવા, ભણાવવા આવેલા શિક્ષકને પરત વળાવી દેવા જેવા અનેક

સંજોગોમાં “માથાનો દુખાવો' અકસીર ઇલાજ છે! "માથાનો દુખાવો' એ લોકોમાં એવી રીતે ઘર કરી ગયો છે કે તેના આધારે ઘણા મોટા ધંધા-વ્યાપારો વિકસ્યા છે. પછી એ 'માથાનો દુખાવો' માટે ગોળી, ટીકડી, ટ્યૂબ કે પછી ચશ્માં હોય. સૌ કોઈ ‘માથાના દુખાવામાંથી મુક્તિ અપાવવાની ખાતરી આપે છે.

વિસ્મયકારક શબ્દોમાંનો એક છે (જેમ કે, બુદ્ધિહીનતા (મૂઢતા) જેમાં બુદ્ધિ રહેલી નથી તે) જે આગળ hin' લગાડ્યા સિવાય વિરોધાર્થ આપતો નથી.

તમે એવું ના કહી શકો કે, “અસ્વસ્થતાને લીધે હું દવા લેતો નથી, જ્યારે તમે કહી શકો, “અસ્વસ્થતાને લીધે મેં ડૉકટરને બોલાવ્યા છે.” આ અસ્વસ્થતા ખરેખર છે શું? મને એ વાત સમજમાં આવતી નથી કે શા માટે કોઈ પ્રેસ નોટ્સમાં, આરોગ્ય બુલેટિનમાં કે કોઈક મેળાવડામાં આમંત્રિત એવી પ્રતિષ્ઠિત વ્યક્તિના સંદેશામાં તે (indisposition) ખૂબ સરસ લાગે છે. સામાન્ય રીતે જે વ્યક્તિ પ્રત્યક્ષપણે “અસ્વસ્થતાનો ભોગ બની હોય

તેના દ્વારા તેનો ઉલ્લેખ નથી થતો, “અસ્વસ્થતાને લીધે હું મીટિંગમાં હાજરી આપી શકીશ નહિ." આ વાત (કરા) ગળે ઊતરતી નથી. આ વાત ત્રીજા પુરુષમાં જ સારી લાગે છે. એ સૂચિત કરે છે કે આ વાત કોઈક પ્રતિષ્ઠિત વ્યક્તિની છે, જે તેના કોઈ સેક્રેટરી કે નાયબ દ્વારા રજૂ કરવામાં આવે છે.

“શ્રીમાન અમુક-તમુક દિલગીરી સાથે જણાવે છે કે (તેમની) અસ્વસ્થતાને લીધે આજની મીટિંગમાં હાજરી આપી શકશે નહિ. લોકો (આ વાત સમજશે અને (એ) રજૂઆત કોઇ પ્રશ્ન કર્યા સિવાય સ્વીકારી લેશે. “આ અસ્વસ્થતા શી છે?”

એમને કઈ માંદગી છે?” શું તેઓ, મેલેરિયા, શરદી કે સાંધા જકડાઈ જવાને લીધે માંદા પડેલા છે? હું એક ડૉક્ટરને ઓળખું છું એથી ઊલટું, એને યથાતથ (કોઈ ઊંડી પૂછતાછ કર્યા સિવાય)

સ્વીકારી લો અને બીજી બાબત પર આગળ વધો. અસ્વસ્થતાનો ઉલ્લેખ એક ચોક્કસ કક્ષાએ થવો જોઈએ, બધા લોકો ગમે તે જગ્યાએ કરે એ યોગ્ય નથી. શાળાનો એક વિદ્યાર્થી કહે છે, “હું અસ્વસ્થ છું એટલે મને રજા આપો,” તેની આ હરકત માટે તેના કાન આમળવા જોઈએ.

મને લાગે છે કે જો હું એકાએક કહ્યું કે, “માથાનો દુખાવો કે અસ્વસ્થતા જેવી કોઈ બાબત (અસ્તિત્વમાં) છે જ નહિ” તો કદાચ સમગ્ર માનવજાતને આધાત લાગે. “તે એક બહાનું માત્ર છે, એક સોહામણું જુઠ્ઠાણું (કારણ એ છે કે, મેં તમારી આંખે) આવા ડઝનેક માથાના દુખાવાવાળાઓને તેમણે જે ચોક્કસ સમયે જ્યાં હોવું જોઈએ તે સિવાય અન્યત્ર મોજથી ચાલતા કે ગાડી ચલાવતા જોયા છે.

હજુ પરિપક્વ નથી. માણસ એવું કહી નથી શકતો, “મને યોગ્ય નથી લાગતુ તથા (હુ) આ મીટિંગમાં હાજરી આપતો નથી." એક ક્લાર્ક એના માલિકને જો આવી નોંધ

મોકલે. “મને આજે પેપર્સ (ફાઈલ) જોવાનો મૂડ નથી તેથી હું ઑફિસ

આવતો નથી.” તો તેની નોકરી જાય, જ્યારે તે માથાનો દુખાવાને લીધે આવતો નથી એમ કહેવા સ્વતંત્ર (જોખમ રહિત) છે. માથાનો દુખાવો એ માનવસંબંધો કાર્યશીલ રહે તે જાળવવા ખૂબ જ જરૂરી છે. આપણે એના સિવાય ધરમાં કે જાહેરમાં ચલાવી શકીએ નહિ. સામાન્ય ઘરમાં વિવિધ અગવડભરી પરિસ્થિતિ પર પડદો પાડતા અનેક પ્રકારના માથાના દુખાવા જોવા મળી શકે.

ભયંકર માથાના દુખાવાનું કારણ આગળ ધરીને સાસુમા જમવાનું છોડી દે એ કમ સે કમ એ દિવસ પૂરતું એમના દીકરા કે પુત્રવધૂ માટે યોગ્ય ન ગણાય. પુત્ર કે જે માથાના દુખાવાનું બહાનું કાઢે છે તે માત્ર તેના મિત્રો અને અધિકારીઓને ટાળવા જ નહિ, પરંતુ આપેલું વચન પૂરું કરવા તેની પત્નીને બહાર લઈ જવા દબાણ ન કરે તેમ ઇચ્છે છે; બાળક જે માથાના દુખાવાનું બહાનું આગળ ધરે છે તેણે જરૂરથી હોમવર્ક કરવાનું ટાળ્યું છે અને ઇચ્છે છે કે તેના શિક્ષક (ભણાવ્યા સિવાય) ચાલ્યા જાય...

છિનથી. સભ્ય જીવનરીતીની નિશાની એ છે કે ! બહુ ઊંડાણપૂર્વક (કોઈ બાબતે) પૂછપરછ કરવી નહિ, પરંતુ ભાષક દ્વારા અભિવ્યક્ત થયેલા કેટલાક શબ્દો યથાતથ સ્વીકારી લેવા.

માથાનો દુખાવો એટલી હદે (લોકોના સ્વભાવમાં) જડ ધાલી બેઠો છે કે એના ઇલાજની સાબિતીરૂપે એક મસમોટો વ્યાપાર વિકસાવ્યો છે. કેટલાક લોકો ખિસ્સામાં જ હોય ત્યાં સુધી જાણે કે પોતે જાણે જ્યાં સુધી માથાના દુખાવાન દવા પૂરો સમય પોતાના નથી એવું અનુભવે છે, એને ચશ્માં બનાવવાવાળા તેમને ચશ્માં બનાવી આપી માથાના દુખાવામાંથી મુક્તિ અપાવવા ખાતરી આપે છે. આ ઉદાહરણો દર્શાવે છે કે માનવજાત બહુ જ સરળતાથી કાલ્પનિક વાતોમાં વિશ્વાસ રાખતી થઈ જાય છે. - આર. કે. નારાયણ