GSEB Class 8 English Honeydew Chapter 7 A Visit to Cambridge Solutions

Answer The Following Questions:

Question. (i) Did the prospect of meeting Stephen Hawking make the writer nervous? If so, why?
Answer: Yes, he felt anxious when he went to meet Stephen Hawking because he was tired of people asking him to be brave.
In simple words: The writer got nervous before meeting Stephen Hawking. He felt this way because he was already annoyed by others telling him to be brave.

Exam Tip: When explaining character feelings, always state the emotion clearly and provide the reason from the text.

Question. (ii) Did he at the same time feel very excited? If so, why?
Answer: Yes, he felt very thrilled at the same moment because Stephen Hawking was also completely paralyzed, yet he had achieved great success. This gave him power to do even better.
In simple words: He was also very excited. Stephen Hawking was paralyzed too, but had achieved so much, which made the writer feel stronger and more hopeful.

Exam Tip: Note how contrasting emotions (nervousness and excitement) can coexist in a character due to different contributing factors.

Question 2. Guess the first question put to the scientist by the writer.
Answer: "You have been very brave, haven't you?” said the narrator.
In simple words: The first thing the writer asked Stephen Hawking was if he felt very brave.

Exam Tip: When asked to "guess" or infer, base your answer on the initial interactions or common assumptions depicted in the story.

Question 3. Stephen Hawking said, “I've had no choice.” Does the writer think there was a choice? What was it?
Answer: The writer believed that there was a choice. Stephen Hawking could have decided to leave everything and feel sad and depressed. He could have sulked. However, he chose to live creatively, understanding the truth of his body's breakdown.
In simple words: The writer thought Stephen Hawking had a choice. He could have given up or been sad. Instead, he chose to live his life fully, even with his failing body.

Exam Tip: Analyze the contrasting viewpoints of characters, especially when one challenges another's statement. Focus on what each character *thinks*.

Question 4. "I could feel his anguish.” What could be the anguish?
Answer: Stephen Hawking's mind was active with many ideas that he wished to communicate, but his thoughts came out in small phrases, without showing his true feelings or emotions. His sentences were just lines, without any deep sentiment. The writer felt he could comprehend his distress and frustration at that.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking felt deep mental pain because his mind was full of thoughts, but he could only speak them in short, emotionless phrases due to his condition. The writer understood this frustration.

Exam Tip: "Anguish" refers to severe mental or physical suffering. When asked to explain it, describe the specific source of that suffering as presented in the text.

Question 5. What endeared the scientist to the writer so that he said he was looking at one of the most beautiful men in the world?
Answer: The writer asked Stephen Hawking if he found it annoying that someone like him visited and bothered him during his work. To this question, the scientist replied honestly and directly, saying "yes." Then, he smiled his unique one-sided smile, and this action was what made him dear to the writer. The writer felt that he was seeing one of the most wonderful men in the world.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking honestly admitted he found it annoying when people disturbed him. His simple, honest smile made the writer feel he was looking at a truly remarkable person.

Exam Tip: Characters are often endeared by qualities like honesty, humility, and a unique way of expressing themselves, especially in challenging circumstances.

Question 6. Read aloud the description of the beautiful' man. Which is the most beautiful sentence in the description?
Answer: 'Before you, like a lantern whose walls are worn so thin you glimpse only the light inside, is the incandescence of a man.'
In simple words: The most beautiful sentence compares a man to a lantern with thin walls, meaning you can see his inner light or spirit clearly.

Exam Tip: When identifying the "most beautiful" sentence, look for vivid imagery, profound metaphors, or deeply expressive language that stands out.

Question 7.
(i) If 'the lantern' is the man, what would its 'walls' be?
Answer: If the lantern is the man, its 'walls' are the human body.
In simple words: The "walls" of the lantern represent a person's physical body.

Exam Tip: When interpreting metaphors, clearly identify what each part of the comparison represents in simpler terms.

(ii) What is housed within the thin walls?
Answer: The light of life is kept within the thin walls.
In simple words: Inside the body, the "light of life" or soul is present.

Exam Tip: In metaphorical contexts, "light" often symbolizes life, spirit, or inner essence.

(iii) What general conclusion does the writer draw from this comparison?
Answer: The writer reaches the conclusion that each of us has an eternal spirit, and the physical body is not such an important thing. Everything else is just an extra part.
In simple words: The writer concludes that our spirit is eternal and our body is not as important. Everything else is merely an addition.

Exam Tip: Look for overarching themes or messages that the author conveys through extended metaphors or comparisons.

Question 8. What is the scientist's message for the disabled?
Answer: Stephen Hawking's message for people with disabilities is that they should focus on what they are skilled at. He felt that the Olympics for people with disabilities are a waste of effort.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking told disabled people to focus on their strengths. He thought things like the Paralympics were a waste of time.

Exam Tip: Identify key advice or strong opinions offered by significant characters in the text, as these often reveal central themes.

Question 9. Why does the writer refer to the guitar incident? Which idea does it support?
Answer: When Stephen Hawking stated that things like disabled Olympics were a waste of energy, the writer fully agreed with him. He recalled the years he spent attempting to play a Spanish guitar that was much larger than he was. He felt very happy when he removed the strings from it one night. This anecdote backs Stephen Hawking's idea that disabled individuals should only concentrate on what they are capable of, and not try activities that do not suit their preferences.
In simple words: The writer brought up the guitar story to agree with Stephen Hawking. He once tried to play a guitar that was too big, showing that people should stick to what they are good at and enjoy, not force themselves into unsuitable activities.

Exam Tip: When an author includes a personal anecdote, connect it to the larger argument or theme it is meant to illustrate or support.

Question 10. The writer expresses his great gratitude to Stephen Hawking. What is the gratitude for?
Answer: The writer showed his deep thankfulness to Stephen Hawking because he had been an inspiration to him. He viewed Stephen as the living example of his bravest self. He felt that if he could learn from Stephen, he would have accomplished a great deal. He believed he was moving towards the ideal he had believed in for many years. That is why he conveyed his greatest appreciation to him, as Stephen had helped him understand what great achievements he could reach.
In simple words: The writer was very grateful to Stephen Hawking because Hawking inspired him. He saw Hawking as the perfect example of bravery, which made him realize his own potential for great achievements.

Exam Tip: Look for words expressing strong emotions (like "gratitude") and then trace the specific actions or qualities that evoked such feelings in the character.

Question 11. Complete the following sentences taking their appropriate parts from both boxes below:
(i) There was his assistant on the line
(ii) You get fed up with people asking you to be brave,.
(iii) There he was,
(iv) You look at his eyes which can speak,.
(v) It doesn't do much good to know........
Answer:
(i) There was his assistant on the line and I told him I had come in a wheelchair from India.
(ii) You get fed up with people asking you to be brave, as if you have a courage account on which you are too lazy to draw a cheque.
(iii) There he was, tapping at a little switch in his hand trying to find the words on his computer.
(iv) You look at his eyes which can speak, and they are saying something huge and urgent.
(v) It doesn't do much good to know that there are people smiling with admiration to see you breathing still. - it is hard to tell what.
In simple words: You need to combine the sentence beginnings with their correct endings from the boxes to make complete, meaningful sentences.

Exam Tip: For sentence completion tasks, read all parts carefully to find logical and grammatical matches, paying attention to context and flow.

Working With Language

Question 1. Fill in the blanks in the sentences below using the appropriate forms of the worlds given in the following box:
guide, succeed, chair, travel pale, draw true
1. I met a ................. from an antique land.
2. I need special ................. in mathematics. I can't count the number of times I have failed in the subject.
3. The guide called Stephen Hawking a worthy ................. to Issac Newton.
4. His other problems ................. into insignificance beside this unforeseen mishap.
5. The meeting was ................. by the youngest member of the board.
6. Some people say 'yours .................when they informally refer to themselves.
7. I wish it had been a ................. match. We would have been spared the noise of celebrations, at least.
Answer:
1. traveller
2. guidance
3. successor
4. paled
5. chaired
6. truly
7. drawn
In simple words: For each blank, pick the correct form of the given words to make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to the part of speech required (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) for each blank and choose the appropriate form of the given word.

Question 2. Look at the following words
walk, stick
Can you create a meaningful phrase using both these words?
(It is simple. Add -ing to the verb and use it before the noun. Put an article at the beginning.)
a walking stick
Now make six such phrases using the words given in the box:
Answer:
1. reading session
2. smiling face
3. revolving chair
4. walking tour
5. dancing doll
6. winning chance
In simple words: Create phrases by adding "-ing" to the first word (verb) and placing it before the second word (noun), with an article like "a" or "an" at the start.

Exam Tip: Practice forming compound nouns or participial phrases by combining a verb (as a participle) and a noun to describe specific objects or events.

Question 3. Use 'all' or 'both' in the blanks. Tell your partner why you chose one or the other:
1. He has two brothers ................. are lawyers.
2. More than ten persons called. ................. of them wanted to see you.
3. They ................. cheered the team.
4. ................. her parents are teachers.
5. How much have you got ? Give me ................. of it.
Answer:
1. Both
2. All
3. All
4. Both
5. all
In simple words: Use "both" when referring to two distinct items or people, and "all" when referring to more than two or an entire group.

Exam Tip: Remember that 'both' specifically applies to exactly two items, while 'all' is used for three or more, or for an unspecified total quantity.

Question 4. Complete each sentence using the right form of the adjective given in the brackets:
1. My friend has one of the ................. cars on the road. (fast)
2. This is the ................. story I have ever read. (interesting)
3. What you are doing now is ................. than what you did yesterday. (easy)
4. Ramesh and his wife are both ................. (short)
5. He arrived ................. as usual. Even the chief guest came ................. than he did. (late, early)
Answer:
1. fastest
2. most interesting
3. easier
4. short
5. late, earlier
In simple words: Change the adjective in the brackets to its correct form (comparative, superlative, or positive) to fit each sentence properly.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to keywords like "one of the," "ever," and "than" to determine if a superlative or comparative form of the adjective is needed.

Speaking And Writing

Question 1. Say the following words with correct stress. Pronounce the parts given in colour s loudly and clearly:
camel, balloon, decent, opinion
fearless, enormous, careful, fulfil
father, together, govern, degree
bottle, before
(i) In a word having more than one syllable, the stressed syllable is the one that is more prominent than the other syllable(s).
(ii) A word has as many syllables as it has vowels.
man (one syllable)
manner (two syllables)
(iii) The mark (') indicates that the first syllable in 'manner' is more prominent than the other.
Answer: This question provides instructions and explanations about word stress and syllables, rather than a direct answer to be extracted. Students are expected to practice pronunciation based on the rules given.
In simple words: This section teaches how to stress parts of words and count syllables. The stress mark shows which part of a word to say loudest.

Exam Tip: Understanding syllable count and stress placement is crucial for clear pronunciation and can improve listening comprehension. Practice with common words.

Question 2. Underline the stressed syllables in the following words. Consult the dictionary < or ask the teacher if necessary:
artist, mistake, accident
moment, compare, satisfy
relation, table, illegal
agree, backward, mountain
Answer:
'artist, mis'take, 'accident
'moment com'pare, 'satisfy
re'lation, 'table, i'llegal
a'gree 'backward, 'mountain
In simple words: The apostrophe mark shows which part of each word should be said with more emphasis or stress.

Exam Tip: Correctly stressing syllables helps with pronunciation and understanding. For multi-syllable words, often only one syllable carries the primary stress.

Question 3. Writing a notice for the School Noticeboard.
Step 1:
Discuss why notices are put up on the ' noticeboard.
What kinds of 'notices' have you lately seen on the board?
How is a notice different from a letter or a descriptive paragraph?
Step 2 :
Suppose you have lost or found something on the campus.
What have you lost or found?
You want to write a notice about it. If you have lost something, you want it restored to you in case someone has found it. If you have found something, you want to return it to its owner.
Step 3:
Write a few lines describing the object you have lost or found. Mention the purpose of the notice in clear terms. Also write your name, class, section and date.
Step 4:
Let one member of each group read aloud the notice to the entire class.
Compare your notice with the other notices, and make changes, if necessary, with the help of the teacher.
OR
• Imagine that you are a journalist.
• You have been asked to interview the president of the village panchayat.
• Write eight to ten questions you wish to ask.
• Hie questions should elicit comments as well as plans regarding water and electricity, cleanliness and school education in the village.
Answer:

Smt. P. B. D. Joshi High School

NOTICE

May 5, 2019

Found a purse in the school playground. It has no name-card in it. It seems that it belongs to some class VIII student. The owner may contact the undersigned, prove his claim and take it away.

Tirthraj Dave
Roll No. 45
VIII A

OR

The questions that I would ask the president of the village panchayat:

(1) What steps will you take for the development of education in your area?

(2) What will you do for health facilities?

(3) What will you do for roads?

(4) What will you do for civil amenities?

(5) How will you improve agriculture of your village?

(6) What will you do for the farmers?

(7) What do you plan for the 'Save the, Girl-child' campaign?

Exam Tip: For notice writing, ensure the format is correct (school name, NOTICE, date, clear subject, details, and sender's info). For interviews, frame open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses.

Writing

Question. Write an essay on ‘Disabled Children' in about 150 words.
Answer: A child with a disability presents a significant challenge to the world. The five most common types of disability are physical limitations, long-term illness, mental slowness, and sensory impairments. Recognizing this global issue, the United Nations General Assembly declared 1981 as the International Year of Disabled Persons, with the main goal of 'full participation and equality.' Its resolution established five key aims for improving the situation of disabled individuals: (1) Assisting them in their physical and social environments; (2) Providing proper training and support to secure employment; (3) Encouraging the study and research projects to aid them; (4) Educating and informing the public about the rights of disabled individuals; (5) Promoting effective ways to prevent disability. Every citizen should be aware of the difficult situation of disabled children. Much can be achieved regarding prevention, protection, immunization, etc. Immunization camps should be organized, and parents should be informed that poor nutrition can cause disability. Public involvement in remedial work and rehabilitation can also contribute to solid progress in this area. Individuals can demonstrate care for children with disabilities by dedicating some time to them. It is a wonderful thing to bring hope to their dark world. Reading aloud to children in a blind school, connecting with mothers of physically challenged children, and helping them with this task will also make a big difference. Every community can organize a special playgroup, and other children should accept their disabled friends and play with them. Preventing and protecting against disability can lessen suffering.
In simple words: Children with disabilities face many issues. The UN declared 1981 the International Year of Disabled Persons to help them. This involved making sure they could take part fully, get training, and have their rights known. Everyone should work together to prevent disability and support disabled children through education, care, and play.

Exam Tip: When writing an essay, start with an introduction, discuss main points in body paragraphs, and conclude with a summary or final thought. Ensure your language is empathetic and respectful.

GSEB Class 8 English A Short Monsoon Diary Additional Important Questions And Answers

Question 1. What was common between the writer and the visitee?
(a) Nature
(b) Intelligence
(c) Disability
(d) The way of thinking
Answer: (c) Disability
In simple words: Both the writer and Stephen Hawking shared the common experience of having a disability.

Exam Tip: For "commonality" questions, look for shared traits, experiences, or characteristics that connect two or more individuals or concepts.

Question 2. Firdaus Kanga was disabled because of ................. problem.
(a) Down's Syndrome
(b) Brittle bones
(c) Polio
(d) Paralysis
Answer: (b) Brittle bones
In simple words: Firdaus Kanga had a disability due to a problem with fragile bones, which made them break easily.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to specific details mentioned about characters' conditions or backgrounds to answer direct factual questions accurately.

Question 3. Cambridge was my 'metaphor' for England. Here 'metaphor' is a/an ................. for England.
(a) allegory
(b) appreciation
(c) favourite visiting destination
(d) honour
Answer: (a) allegory
In simple words: In this context, "metaphor" means that Cambridge serves as a symbolic representation or an allegory for England.

Exam Tip: Understand literary terms like 'metaphor' and 'allegory'. A metaphor makes a direct comparison, while an allegory represents an abstract idea through characters or events.

Question 4. Stephen Hawking succeeded ................. holding the chair at the Cambridge University.
(a) Albert Einstein
(b) Issac Newton
(c) Earnest Rutherford
(d) Louis Pasteur
Answer: (b) Issac Newton
In simple words: Stephen Hawking took over the professorship at Cambridge University, a position previously held by Isaac Newton.

Exam Tip: Memorize important names and their associations or successors when significant historical or academic roles are discussed.

Question 5. Stephen Hawking was a/an .................
(a) physician.
(b) astronomist.
(c) astrophysicist.
(d) astrologer.
Answer: (c) astrophysicist.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking was a scientist who studied the physical properties of celestial objects and phenomena, known as an astrophysicist.

Exam Tip: Be precise with professional titles. An 'astronomist' studies celestial bodies, while an 'astrophysicist' focuses on the physics of the universe.

Question 6. If one is disabled, people often ask him .................
(a) to consult a good doctor.
(b) to develop positive attitude.
(c) to become brave.
(d) to get used to suffering.
Answer: (c) to become brave.
In simple words: People often tell individuals with disabilities that they need to be brave.

Exam Tip: Identify common misconceptions or insensitive remarks people make towards individuals with disabilities, as highlighted in the text.

Question 7. Stephen Hawking talked .................
(a) in computer-voice.
(b) in broken sentences.
(c) in a mild tone.
(d) in a harsh voice.
Answer: (a) in computer-voice.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking communicated by using a special computer that spoke for him.

Exam Tip: Recall specific sensory details or communication methods used by characters, especially those with unique circumstances.

Question 8. The writer had a sense of guilt .................
(a) talking with Stephen Hawking.
(b) forcing Stephen Hawking to respond to his questions.
(c) visiting Stephen Hawking at odd time.
(d) None of these three
Answer: (b) forcing Stephen Hawking to respond to his questions.
In simple words: The writer felt guilty because he knew asking questions made Stephen Hawking work hard to reply.

Exam Tip: Analyze the narrator's internal thoughts and feelings, especially when they reflect on their own actions and their impact on others.

Question 9. Stephen Hawking found it amusing when .................
(a) he looked at other people.
(b) people patronised him.
(c) someone visited him.
(d) someone took pity on him.
Answer: (b) people patronised him.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking found it funny when people treated him as if he were inferior or needed special pity because of his condition.

Exam Tip: Identify instances where characters react unexpectedly (like amusement instead of annoyance) to common social interactions, and understand the underlying reasons.

Question 10. The first glimpse that Kanga took of Stephen Hawking was shocking because .................
(a) he looked like a still photograph.
(b) his face looked feelingless.
(c) his condition was pitiable.
(d) All of these three
Answer: (a) he looked like a still photograph.
In simple words: Kanga was surprised when he first saw Stephen Hawking because he seemed as motionless as a picture.

Exam Tip: Note specific visual descriptions of characters, especially initial impressions, as they often contribute to the narrative's emotional impact.

Question 11. our body is .................
(a) an accessory.
(b) irrelevant.
(c) a case made of shadows,
(d) All of these three
Answer: (a) an accessory.
In simple words: The text implies that our physical body is merely an accessory, not the core of our being.

Exam Tip: Connect this statement back to earlier philosophical discussions in the text about the soul versus the body, often emphasizing the spiritual over the physical.

Question 12. The writer and Stephen Hawking could not talk much while having a round in the garden because of .................
(a) the rumbling noise of Stephen Hawking's motorised wheelchair.
(b) the letters on the computer screen disappeared in the glare of the sunlight,
(c) both of them had already had enough talk.
(d) None of these three
Answer: (b) the letters on the computer screen disappeared in the glare of the sunlight,
In simple words: They couldn't converse much in the garden because the bright sun made it hard to see the words on Stephen Hawking's computer screen.

Exam Tip: Look for external environmental factors or practical limitations that impact character interactions or communication.

Say Whether The Following Sentences Are True Or False:

Question 1. Firdaus Kanga is the writer of the book 'A Brief History of Time'.
Answer: False
In simple words: Firdaus Kanga did not write 'A Brief History of Time'; Stephen Hawking did.

Exam Tip: Be careful to attribute works or accomplishments to the correct individuals as stated in the text.

Question 2. Stephen Hawking's assistant perhaps thought that Kanga had propelled himself on a wheelchair all the way from India to meet Stephen Hawking.
Answer: True
In simple words: The assistant likely assumed Kanga traveled from India in his wheelchair.

Exam Tip: Note specific details in the text that reveal potential misunderstandings or initial assumptions between characters.

Question 3. Though Stephen Hawking's mind was intensely active and vibrant, he couldn't express himself thoroughly.
Answer: True
In simple words: Despite his brilliant mind, Stephen Hawking struggled to communicate his thoughts fully due to his condition.

Exam Tip: This statement highlights the contrast between internal mental capacity and external physical limitations in communication.

Question 4. Stephen Hawking did not find it annoying when someone came and disturbed him in his work.
Answer: False
In simple words: Stephen Hawking actually admitted that he found it annoying when people interrupted his work.

Exam Tip: Remember to reference specific character statements or reactions to determine the truthfulness of a factual claim.

Question 5. Viewing Stephen Hawking in person, it looked like a three-dimensional photograph.
Answer: True
In simple words: Seeing Stephen Hawking in person was like looking at a very realistic, 3D photograph because he was so still.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to vivid descriptive phrases, as they often convey strong visual impressions or metaphors.

Question 6. Meeting Stephen Hawking reminded the writer that our body is like a lantern with worn, thin walls.
Answer: True
In simple words: The meeting made the writer think of the body as a fragile lantern, where the inner light (soul) is clearly visible through thin, worn walls.

Exam Tip: Connect observations about characters to broader philosophical reflections or metaphors presented by the author.

Question 7. According to Stephen Hawking, things like the disabled Olympics are a waste of time.
Answer: True
In simple words: Stephen Hawking believed that events such as the disabled Olympics were not productive.

Exam Tip: Always attribute opinions to the correct character or source to ensure accuracy in your answers.

Question 8. Stephen Hawking offered Kanga tea and took him around the garden.
Answer: True
In simple words: Stephen Hawking invited Kanga for tea and showed him around his garden.

Exam Tip: Note specific acts of hospitality or interaction described between characters, as they often reveal aspects of their personality or the relationship dynamic.

Question 9. While parting, Kanga kissed Stephen Hawking and touched his shoulder.
Answer: False
In simple words: Kanga did not kiss Stephen Hawking or touch his shoulder when they said goodbye.

Exam Tip: Be precise about character actions. If a detail is not explicitly mentioned or is contradicted, the statement is false.

Question 10. While wheeling out, Kanga looked back and found that Stephen Hawking was waving to him.
Answer: False
In simple words: As Kanga left, Stephen Hawking was not seen waving goodbye to him.

Exam Tip: Differentiate between what a character might expect or imagine versus what actually occurs according to the narrative.

Answer The Following Questions In Two To Three Sentences Each:

Question 1. Who was Stephen Hawking?
Answer: Stephen Hawking was a brilliant scientist, an astrophysicist. However, he was disabled – completely paralyzed and restricted to a wheelchair. He authored the book 'A Brief History of Time' and could only communicate using a computer.
In simple words: Stephen Hawking was a famous astrophysicist. He was paralyzed and used a wheelchair, communicating through a computer. He wrote 'A Brief History of Time'.

Exam Tip: When asked for a character's identity, provide their key roles, professions, and any significant personal details from the text.

Question 2. What took Firdaus Kanga to England? Why did he wish to see Stephen Hawking?
Answer: Firdaus Kanga, a writer and journalist, had come in a wheelchair from India to write about his travels in Britain. Based on his guide's suggestion, Kanga planned to meet Stephen Hawking, the most brilliant and completely paralyzed astrophysicist, in Cambridge.

Exam Tip: When explaining motives, clearly state the primary reason for the action and any contributing factors like advice or suggestions.

Question 3. How did Kanga fix the interview with Stephen Hawking?
Answer: Kanga called Stephen Hawking's house from a public phone booth. He spoke with Stephen Hawking's assistant and asked them to set up a meeting with Stephen Hawking. Luckily, he was given half an hour for the interview.

Exam Tip: Focus on the sequence of events and the specific actions taken to achieve the goal when describing a process.

Question 4. What advice do people generally give to the disabled? Was Stephen Hawking brave by choice?
Answer: People commonly tell disabled individuals to be brave. However, Stephen Hawking honestly admitted that he was not brave. In fact, he explained that he had no actual choice in his condition.

Exam Tip: Differentiate between societal expectations and a person's actual feelings or circumstances, especially when discussing difficult situations.

Question 5. What makes a disabled person feel stronger?
Answer: Meeting another disabled person who has achieved something significant makes a disabled person feel more powerful and more inspired to perform better in their own lives.

Exam Tip: Highlight the importance of role models and peer experiences in motivating individuals facing similar challenges.

Question 6. What is common between the speaker and the person he is talking to?
Answer: Both the speaker and Stephen Hawking were disabled and confined to wheelchairs. They had both chosen to live their lives creatively despite their physical limitations.

Exam Tip: When asked about commonalities, identify shared characteristics or experiences between the mentioned individuals.

Question 7. What message did Stephen give to disabled people world over?
Answer: Stephen Hawking urged all disabled people to focus completely on what they were truly capable of doing. He advised them not to try to imitate able-bodied individuals, stating that Olympic games organized for the disabled were a complete waste of effort and time.

Exam Tip: Summarize the core advice or philosophy provided, ensuring to include any specific examples or exclusions mentioned.

Answer the following questions in Four to five sentences each:

Question 1. Write about Stephen Hawking and Firdaus Kanga.
Answer: Both Stephen Hawking and Firdaus Kanga were disabled. Firdaus Kanga, a writer and journalist living and working in Mumbai, was born with 'brittle bones' that broke easily, keeping him in a wheelchair. Stephen Hawking, one of the greatest scientists of his era, suffered from paralysis that also confined him to a wheelchair, allowing him to 'speak' only by using buttons on a computer, which produced a machine-like voice.

Exam Tip: For comparative questions, describe each person's relevant background and condition before highlighting their shared circumstances.

Question 2. Why did the writer feel guilty talking to Stephen Hawking?
Answer: The writer felt bad talking to Stephen Hawking every time because he was forcing him to respond, which was a painful task for Hawking. Hawking had to tap a small switch in his hand, trying to find words on his computer with the only remaining bit of movement. His eyes frequently closed in frustration and exhaustion. The writer understood his pain but had no other option.

Exam Tip: Explain the writer's emotional state by describing the specific actions that caused the feeling and the difficulties faced by the other person.

Question 3. Describe the posture of Stephen Hawking in the wheelchair.
Answer: Confined to his wheelchair, Stephen Hawking looked like a still photograph. His head was twisted sideways into a slumped position, and his body appeared shrunken inside his light blue shirt. His legs hung uselessly, and his eyes, which could convey meaning, looked steady and unmoving.

Exam Tip: Use descriptive adjectives and details from the text to paint a clear mental picture of the physical appearance.

Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions given below them:

Question 1. When the walking tour was done, I rushed to a phone booth and, almost tearing the cord so it could reach me outside, phoned Stephen Hawking's house. There was his assistant on the line and I told him I had come in a wheelchair from India (perhaps he thought I had propelled myself all the way) to write about my travels in Britain. I had to see Professor Hawking-even ten minutes would do. “Half an hour,” he said. “From three-thirty to four."

And suddenly I felt weak all over. Growing up disabled, you get fed up with people asking you to be brave, as if you have a courage account on which you are too lazy to draw a cheque. The only thing that makes you stronger is seeing somebody like you, achieving something huge. Then you know how much is possible and you reach out further than you ever thought you could.

Questions:
(1) I rushed to a phone booth and, almost tearing the cord so it could reach me outside, phoned Stephen Hawking's house. What kind of the writer's feeling do these underlined words show?
Answer: These words demonstrate the writer's intense eagerness and strong desire to see Stephen Hawking.

Exam Tip: When analyzing specific phrases, identify the emotion or intent conveyed by the actions and words used.

(2) Why had the writer come all the way from India?
Answer: The writer had come all the way from India specifically to write about his travels in Britain.

Exam Tip: For direct questions, provide a concise and factual answer based on the passage.

(3) Why did the writer feel weak all over ?
Answer: The writer felt weak all over because he had expected to get only ten minutes to meet Stephen Hawking. Instead, he received a surprising half-hour for the interview. This unexpected permission turned his anxiety into extreme nervousness, making him feel physically weak.

Exam Tip: Explain both the cause (unexpected long interview slot) and the effect (anxiety turning into weakness) mentioned in the passage.

Question 2. "What do you think is the best thing about being disabled?” I had asked him earlier, "I don't think there is anything good about ] being disabled.”
“I think," I said, “you do discover how much kindness there is in the world.”

“Yes,” he said; it was a disadvantage of i his voice synthesiser that it could convey no inflection, no shades or tone. And I could not tell how enthusiastically he agreed with me.

Every time I shifted in my chair or turned my wrist to watch the time -1 wanted to make every one of our thirty minutes count-I felt a huge relief and exhilaration in the possibilities; of my body. How little it mattered then that I would never walk, or even stand.

Questions:
(1) What was the reply from Stephen Hawking for 'the best thing about being j disabled' ?
Answer: For 'the best thing about being disabled', Stephen Hawking replied that he did not think there was anything good about being disabled.

Exam Tip: Extract the exact sentiment expressed by the character in response to the specific question posed.

(2) Why could the writer not tell the intensity of Stephen Hawking's enthusiasm in replying his question?
Answer: The writer could not understand the strength of Stephen Hawking's excitement in his reply because the voice synthesizer he used could not express any tone variations, nuances, or emphasis in Hawking's speech.

Exam Tip: Focus on the limitations of the voice synthesizer as the reason for the lack of emotional cues.

(3) Why did the writer look at his watch every now and then?
Answer: The writer checked his watch frequently to keep track of the time because he wanted to make sure he used every single minute of the allocated meeting time effectively.

Exam Tip: Connect the action directly to the writer's intention or desire for the conversation.

(4) What was the writer's feeling in the end ?
Answer: In the end, the writer felt a great sense of relief and excitement about the potential of his own body. He realized that even if he could never walk or stand, it did not actually matter to him.

Exam Tip: Describe the final emotional state and the underlying realization or change in perspective experienced by the writer.

Question 3. "Is there any advice you can give disabled people, something that might help make life better?"
"They should concentrate on what they are good at; I think things like the disabled Olympics are a waste of time.”

"I know what you mean." I remembered the years I'd spent trying to play a Spanish guitar considerably larger than I was; and how gleefully I had unstringed it one night.

The half-hour was up. “I think I've annoyed you enough,” " I said, grinning. 'Tha for..."

"Stay,” I waited. “Have some tea. I can show you the garden.”

The garden was as big as a park, but Stephen Hawking covered every inch, rumbling along in his motorised wheelchair while I dodged to keep out of the way. We couldn't talk very much; the sun made him silent, the letters on his screen disappearing in the glare.

Questions.
(1) What advice did Stephen Hawking give to disabled people?
Answer: Stephen Hawking suggested that disabled individuals should focus on what they are naturally good at, rather than attempting things that do not suit their abilities.

Exam Tip: State the advice clearly and concisely, highlighting the key area of focus for disabled people.

(2) What had the writer been trying to play some years?
Answer: For several years, the writer had been trying to play a Spanish guitar that was significantly larger than his size.

Exam Tip: Provide a direct and specific answer regarding the instrument and its characteristic mentioned.

(3) What was said by the writer to Stephen Hawking courteously after the half-hour was up?
Answer: After their half-hour meeting ended, the writer politely told Stephen Hawking that he thought he had bothered him enough and thanked him for his time.

Exam Tip: Focus on the polite and considerate nature of the writer's closing remarks.

(4) Why could the writer and Stephen Hawking not talk much in the garden?
Answer: The writer and Stephen Hawking could not converse much in the garden because the sunlight's glare caused the letters on Hawking's computer screen to disappear, making communication difficult.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific environmental factor (sunlight glare) that hindered their communication.

Vocabulary

Choose the correct words from the ^ brackets and complete the following passages:

Question 1. (though, mentioned, through, disabled, walking, successor)
It was on a ...............1............... tour ...............2............... Cambridge that the guide ...............3............... Stephen Hawking, 'poor man, who is quite ...............4............... now, ...............5............... he is a worthy ...............6............... to Issac Newton, whose chair he has at the university.'
Answer:
1. walking
2. through
3. mentioned
4. disabled
5. though
6. successor

Exam Tip: Read the full sentence carefully to understand the context and choose the word that best fits the grammatical structure and meaning of each blank.

Question 2. (quiet, movement, disintegrating, tapping, creatively, guilty)
Surely, I wanted to say, living ...............1............... with the reality of his ...............2............... body was a choice? But I kept ...............3..............., because I felt ...............4............... every time I spoke to him, forcing him to respond. There he was, ...............5............... at the little switch in his hand, trying to find the words on his computer with the only bit of ...............6............... left to him, his long, pale fingers.
Answer:
1. creatively
2. disintegrating
3. quiet
4. guilty
5. tapping
6. movement

Exam Tip: When filling in multiple blanks, try to identify the type of word needed (verb, noun, adjective) and how it connects to the overall meaning of the passage.

Grammar

Choose the correct Article(s), Conjunction(s) and Preposition (s) and complete the following passages:

Question 1. The answer flashed. "Yes." ...............1............... he smiled his one-way smile ...............2............... I knew, ...............3............... being sentimental or silly, ...............4............... I was looking at one of the most beautiful men in the world.
A first glimpse of him is shocking, ...............5............... he is like a still photograph- ...............6............... all those pictures of him in magazines and newspapers have turned three-dimensional.
Answer:
1. Then
2. and
3. without
4. that
5. because
6. so that

Exam Tip: Consider the logical flow of ideas and grammatical connections when choosing articles, conjunctions, and prepositions to ensure the sentence structure is correct.

Question 2. Before you, like ...............1............... lantern ...............2............... walls are worn ...............3............... thin you glimpse only the light inside, is the incandescence of a man. ...............4............... body, almost irrelevant, exists only like a case made of shadows. ...............5............... I, no believer in eternal souls, know that this is ...............6............... each of us is; everything else an accessory.
Answer:
1. a
2. whose
3. so
4. The
5. So that
6. what

Exam Tip: Pay attention to noun-article agreement, pronoun usage, and conjunctions that establish cause-and-effect or conditional relationships.

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate forms of verbs given in the brackets and complete the texts:

Question 1. Surely, I wanted to say, ...............1............... (live) creatively with the reality of his disintegrating body was a choice? But I ...............2............... (keep) quiet, because I felt guilty every time I spoke to him, ...............3............... (force) him ...............4............... (respond).
Answer:
1. living
2. kept
3. forcing
4. to respond

Exam Tip: Identify the correct tense and form of the verb (gerund, infinitive, past participle) based on the surrounding sentence structure and meaning.

Question 2. "A lot of people seem ...............1............... (think) that disabled people ...............2............... (be) chronically unhappy," I said. "............................... (know) that's not true myself. ...............4............... you often ...............4............... (laugh) | inside ?"
Answer:
1. to think
2. are
3. I know
4. Are, laughing

Exam Tip: Ensure subject-verb agreement and select verb forms that accurately reflect the speaker's thoughts and questions.

Change the voice of the following:

Question 1.
(1) I could feel his anguish.
(2) I find it amusing when people patronise me.
(3) I was looking at one of the most beautiful men in the world.
(4) His voice synthesiser could convey no inflection.
(5) I felt a huge relief and exhilaration.
(6) It doesn't do much good.
(7) They should concentrate on what they are good at.
Answer:
(1) His anguish could be felt by me.
(2) It is found amusing when I am patronized by people.
(3) One of the most beautiful men in the world was being looked at by me.
(4) No inflection could be conveyed by his voice synthesizer.
(5) A huge relief and exhilaration was felt by me.
(6) Much good is not done by it.
(7) What they are good at should be concentrated on by them.

Exam Tip: Remember to switch the subject and object, use the correct form of "to be" verb, and use the past participle of the main verb for passive voice transformations.

Turn the following dialogue into Indirect Speech:

Question 1. "What do you think is the best thing about being disabled ?” I had asked him earlier.
"I don't think there is anything good about being disabled.”
"I think," I said, "you do discover how much kindness there is in the world."
Answer: I had asked him earlier what he thought was the best part about being disabled. He replied that he did not think there was anything good about being disabled. Then I said that I believed he did discover how much kindness existed in the world.

Exam Tip: When converting to indirect speech, change pronouns, verb tenses, and time/place expressions as needed, and use reporting verbs like 'asked', 'replied', and 'said'.

Question 2. "A lot of people seem to think that disabled people are chronically unhappy,” I said. “I know that's not true true myself. Are you often laughing inside?"
About three minutes later, he responded, “I find it amusing when people patronise me.”
"And do you find it annoying when someone like me comes and disturbs you in your work?"
Answer: I said that many people appeared to believe that disabled individuals were always unhappy, and I expressed my view that I personally knew that was not true. Then I asked him if he frequently laughed internally. About three minutes later, he responded that he found it amusing when people treated him in a condescending way. I asked him further if he found it bothersome when someone like me came and interrupted his work.

Exam Tip: Ensure that the questions are correctly transformed into reported questions using 'if' or 'whether' and that all pronouns and tenses are adjusted appropriately.

Rewrite as directed:

Question 1.
(1) When the walking tour was done, I rushed to a phone booth. (Use 'As soon as'.)
(2) If you have grown up disabled, you get fed up with people asking you to be brave. (Use ‘If’.)
(3) You are too lazy to draw a cheque. (Remove 'too'.)
(4) I've had no choice. (Turn into Affirmative.)
(5) I kept quiet because I felt guilty every time. (Use 'Since'.)
(6) I find it amusing when people patronise me. (Turn into Compound sentence.)
(7) How little it mattered that I would never walk, or even stand! (Turn into Assertive.)
Answer:
(1) As soon as the walking tour was completed, I rushed to a phone booth.
(2) If you have grown up disabled, you will get annoyed when people ask you to be brave.
(3) You are so lazy that you will not draw a cheque.
(4) I've been without any choice.
(5) Since I felt guilty every time, I remained quiet.
(6) People patronize me, and I find it amusing.
(7) It mattered very little that I would never walk, or even stand.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the specific instructions for each sentence transformation, ensuring the new sentence structure and conjunctions are correct while maintaining the original meaning.

A Visit to Cambridge Summary in English

A Visit to Cambridge Summary:

This is the story of a meeting between two disabled people, both remarkable in their respective fields. Stephen Hawking was a renowned scientist, despite suffering from paralysis, and could only communicate using a computer while confined to a wheelchair. Firdaus Kanga, the writer and journalist from Mumbai, was born with very weak and easily breakable bones, also moving around in a wheelchair. He met Hawking in England, and they discussed how so-called normal people should view the disabled.

The writer, Firdaus, was on a walking tour through Cambridge. His guide informed him about Stephen Hawking, who held Newton's chair at the university but was a disabled person. Hawking had authored "A Brief History of Time," one of the all-time bestsellers. Firdaus called Hawking's house and spoke to his assistant, explaining that he was from India and wished to meet Hawking to write about his travels in Britain. Firdaus was granted a half-hour meeting. The idea of meeting someone like himself in a wheelchair gave Firdaus courage. Both of them were disabled, and their bodies were deteriorating. Hawking had a small switch in his hand, which he could use with his finger to find words on his computer. His mind was brilliant and constantly filled with thoughts. Firdaus observed that people often thought disabled individuals were unhappy.

Hawking stated that the condescending attitude of others sometimes entertained him. He admitted that he felt irritated when another disabled person arrived and disturbed his work. He viewed his body as merely a vessel for his brilliant mind and soul, and he saw nothing beneficial about being disabled.