GSEB Class 9 English Beehive Chapter 5 The Snake and the Mirror Solutions

Thinking About The Text

I. Discuss in pairs and answer each question below in a short paragraph (30-40 words):

Question 1. "The sound was a familiar one." What sound did the doctor hear? What did he think it was? How many times did he hear it? (Find the places in the text.) When and why did the sound stop?
Answer: The doctor resided in a room filled with many rats. He heard the noises made by these rats. There was constant movement of rats to and from the beam. He listened to the sound three times. The sound suddenly ended because the rats had spotted a snake.
In simple words: The doctor heard rats in his room three times. The noise stopped when a snake appeared.

Exam Tip: For descriptive questions, identify the main event, characters, and key details like frequency or reason for action.

Question 2. What two 'important' and 'earth-shaking' decisions did the doctor take while he was looking into the mirror?
Answer: The doctor made two 'important' and 'earth-shaking' choices while observing himself in the mirror. First, he decided to shave every day and grow a slender mustache. Second, he resolved to always maintain an appealing smile on his face.
In simple words: The doctor decided to shave daily and grow a thin mustache. He also decided to keep an attractive smile always.

Exam Tip: When listing decisions or reasons, present them clearly and separately for better clarity and full marks.

Question 3. 'I looked into the mirror and smiled,” says the doctor. A little later he says, "I forgot my danger and smiled feebly at myself.” What is the doctor's opinion about himself when: (i) he first smiles, and (ii) he smiles again? In what way do his thoughts change in between, and why?
Answer:
(i) When the doctor first smiles, he has a very high self-opinion, admiring his appearance and his job.
(ii) In the second instance, the doctor smiles at his own silliness and powerlessness. His ideas change after he met the snake – from being a conceited doctor, he moves to accept his own foolishness.
In simple words: First, the doctor smiled, feeling proud of his looks. Later, he smiled weakly, realizing his foolishness after the snake encounter. His thoughts changed from pride to humility.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to shifts in character emotions and self-perception, noting the triggers for these changes.

II. This story about a frightening incident is narrated in a humorous way. What makes it humorous? (Think of the contrasts it presents between dreams and reality. Some of them are listed below.)
Question 1.
(i) The kind of person the doctor is (money, possessions)
(ii) The kind of person he wants to be (appearance, ambition)
Answer:
(i) The doctor is a poor individual. He possesses hardly any funds. He lives in a house without electricity. It is a small rented space with many rats residing there. He has just started his medical work. So, he is not a man with wealth or possessions.
(ii) The person wishes to become wealthy. He also wants to have a good look. That's why he decides to grow a slender mustache.
In simple words: (i) The doctor is poor, lives in a rat-filled room, and has just started his medical job. (ii) He wants to be rich and look good, deciding to grow a thin mustache.

Exam Tip: Contrast questions require you to clearly state both sides of the comparison to show understanding.

Question 2.
(i) The person he wants to marry
(ii) The person he actually marries
Answer:
(i) The doctor desires to wed a female doctor with a successful medical practice and ample funds. He hoped she would be plump so she couldn't pursue him and catch him.
(ii) He actually weds a slender, thin woman who possesses the talent of a fast runner.
In simple words: The doctor dreamed of marrying a rich, plump female doctor. Instead, he married a thin woman who was a fast runner.

Exam Tip: Highlight the irony or contrast between aspirations and reality, which often contributes to humor in stories.

Question 3.
(i) His thoughts when he looks into the mirror.
(ii) His thoughts when the snake is coiled around his arm.
Answer:
(i) His thoughts are full of joy and happiness. He decides to grow a slender mustache and continue smiling constantly. He finds his smile appealing.
(ii) He changed into stone. He sat like a stone statue in his body. However, his mind was very active. He sensed the powerful presence of the creator. He decides to write the words 'O God' outside his small heart.
In simple words: (i) When looking in the mirror, he feels happy and proud of his smile and mustache. (ii) With the snake on his arm, he feels terrified and frozen, thinking of God.

Exam Tip: Distinguish between internal thoughts and external actions, especially when a character is under stress or in a dangerous situation.

Thinking About Language

I. Here are some sentences from the text. Say which of them tell you, that the author: (a) was afraid of the snake, (b) was proud of his appearance, (c) had a sense of humour, (d) was no longer afraid of the snake.

Exam Tip: When categorizing phrases, consider the implied emotion or authorial intent behind each statement in the context of the story.

II. Expressions Used To Show Fear.

Can you find the expressions in the story that tell you that the author was frightened? Read the story and complete the following sentences:
(1) I was turned to stone.
(2) I sat there holding my breath.
(3) In the light of the lamp I sat there like a stone image in the flesh.
Answer:
(1) I was turned to stone.
(2) I sat there holding my breath.
(3) In the light of the lamp, I sat there like a stone image in the flesh.
In simple words: The phrases "turned to stone," "holding my breath," and "like a stone image in the flesh" show the author's fear.

Exam Tip: Identify descriptive phrases that convey strong emotions. Figurative language often helps to express these feelings vividly.

III. In the sentences given below some words and expressions are italicised. They variously mean that one
• is very frightened.
• is too scared to move.
• is frightened by something that happens suddenly.
• makes another feel frightened.
Match the meanings with the words/expressions in italics, and write the appropriate meaning next to the sentence: (The first one has been done for you.)
(1) I knew a man was following me, I was scared out of my wits, (very frightened)
(2) I got a fright when I realised how close I was to the cliff edge. (was frightened by something that happened suddenly)
(3) He nearly jumped out of his skin when he saw the bull coming towards him. (was very frightened)
(4) You really gave me a fright when you crept up behind me like that (was frightened by something that happens suddenly)
(5) Wait until I tell his story - it will make your hair stand on end. (make another feel frightened)
(6) Paralysed with fear, the boy faced his abductors, (too scared to move)
(7) The boy hid behind the door, not moving a muscle, (too scared to move)
Answer:
(1) I knew a man was following me, I was scared out of my wits, (was very frightened)
(2) I got a fright when I realised how close I was to the cliff edge, (was frightened by something that happened suddenly)
(3) He nearly jumped out of his skin when he saw the bull coming towards him. (was very frightened)
(4) You really gave me a fright when you crept up behind me like that (was frightened by something that happens suddenly)
(5) Wait until I tell his story - it will make your hair stand on end. (make another feel frightened)
(6) Paralysed with fear, the boy faced his abductors, (too scared to move)
(7) The boy hid behind the door, not moving a muscle, (too scared to move)
In simple words: These phrases describe different types of fear, like being extremely scared, surprised by something sudden, unable to move due to fear, or causing fear in others.

Exam Tip: Understand the nuances of different expressions of fear. Context clues often help determine the exact meaning of an idiom or phrase.

IV. Reported Questions Study these sentences:

His friend asked, “Did you see the snake the next day, doctor?” His friend asked the doctor whether/if he had seen the snake the next day.

The little girl wondered, “Will I be home before the TV show begins?” The little girl wondered if/whether she would be home before the TV show began.

Someone asked, “Why has the thief left the vest behind?”

Someone asked why the thief had left the vest behind.

The words if/whether are used to report questions which begin with: do, will, can, have, are, etc. These questions can be answered 'yes' or 'no'.

Questions beginning with why / when / where / how / which / what are reported using these same words.

The reporting verbs we use in questions with if/whether/why/when etc. are: ask, inquire and wonder.

Remember that in reported speech,

• the present tense changes to past tense
• here, today, tomorrow, yesterday, etc. change to there, that day, the next day, the day before, etc.
• I/you change to me/him/he, etc., as necessary.

Examples:

• He said to me, “I don't believe you.”
  He said he did not believe me.
• She said to him, 7 don't believe you.'
  She told him that she did not believe him.

Report these questions using if / whether or why / when / where / how / which / what: Remember the italicised verbs change into the past tense:
(1) Meena asked her friend. “Do you think your teacher will come today?”
(2) David asked his colleague, “Where will you go this summer?"
(3) He asked the little boy, “Why are you studying English?”
(4) She asked me, “When are we going to leave?
(5) Pran asked me, "Have you finished reading the newspaper?"
(6) Seema asked her, “How long have you lived here?”
(7) Sheila asked the children. “Are you ready to do the work?"
Answer:
(1) Meena asked her friend if she thought her teacher would come that day.
(2) David asked his colleague where he would go that summer.
(3) He asked the little boy why he was studying English.
(4) She asked me when we were going to leave.
(5) Pran asked me if I had finished reading the newspaper.
(6) Seema asked her how long she had lived there.
(7) Sheila asked the children if they were ready to do the work.
In simple words: These are examples of converting direct questions into indirect (reported) speech, where tenses and pronouns are adjusted, and 'if/whether' or question words like 'where' or 'why' are used to link the reporting verb.

Exam Tip: Remember to change the tense of the verb (present to past), adjust pronouns, and use appropriate conjunctions like 'if', 'whether', or question words when converting to indirect speech.

Writing

Question 1. Try to rewrite the story without its humour, merely as a frightening incident. What details or parts of the story would you? leave out?
Answer: On a warm summer night, around ten o'clock, I came back to my room after eating at a restaurant. I heard a sound from above but disregarded it because many rats were in the room. I changed my clothes and sat on the chair in front of a mirror. At that moment, I heard a dull thump as if a rubber tube had fallen on the floor, but I did not believe it was anything to be concerned about. Then, as I turned, a thick snake slithered over the back of my chair and landed on my shoulder. I was so terrified that I became motionless. My mind was sharp and active. If I moved or trembled, I would risk death. It coiled around my left arm, spread its hood, and extended its head, barely three or four inches from my face. I was just stunned and breathless, literally waiting for it to strike me. I could see my pale face in the mirror, and I felt my entire body growing cold. I was making a desperate attempt not to tremble or shiver at all if I wanted to save my life. To my great fortune, after about five minutes, it unwound itself and glided down my body onto the floor.
In simple words: On a summer night, a doctor returned home, heard a thud, and then a snake landed on his shoulder. He was terrified, froze, and waited for death, seeing his pale face in the mirror. After five agonizing minutes, the snake silently left, saving his life.

Exam Tip: When rewriting a story to remove humor, focus on intense sensory details, immediate reactions, and the raw emotions of fear and vulnerability.

Question 2. Read the description given below this sketch from a photograph in a newspaper I (Times of India, 4 September 1999). Make up a story about what the monkey is thinking, or why it is looking Into a mirror. Write a paragraph about it.
Answer: Looking closely at the image, it appears that the monkey is very puzzled. It must believe that the reflection is another monkey staring back. Now, its attempts start to confirm how dangerous the other one is. First, it raises its eyebrow, and the same action is seen in the other monkey. Then it begins grinning, and the other one mirrors the action. The monkey looking into the mirror-piece is not only curious but also confused. It makes different facial expressions, and these are reflected back. Then, it moves the mirror-piece a little away, and besides its face, its body is also visible. Then, feeling very scared by this strange response from the monkey in the mirror, it threw away the mirror piece and jumped off.
In simple words: The monkey in the picture is confused by its reflection, thinking it's another monkey. It tests the "other monkey" by making faces. Scared by the reflection's matching actions, it eventually throws the mirror away and flees.

Exam Tip: For creative writing tasks based on visuals, brainstorm a central emotion or conflict shown in the image and build a narrative around it, focusing on the character's internal thoughts and external reactions.

Reading Comprehension

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate answers for the questions given below them:

I went back into the room and sat down on the chair. I opened the box beneath the table and took out a book, the Materia Medica. I opened it at the table on which stood the lamp and a large mirror; a small comb lay beside the mirror.

One feels tempted to look into a mirror when it is near one. I took a look. In those days I was a great admirer of beauty and I believed in making myself look handsome. I was unmarried and I was a doctor. I felt I had to make my presence felt. I picked up the comb and ran it through my hair and adjusted the parting so that it looked straight and neat. Again I heard that sound from above.

Questions:
1. The table that the writer was sitting at was a ...........
(A) dining table.
(B) dressing table.
(C) games table.
(D) writing table.
Answer: (B) dressing table.
In simple words: The writer was sitting at a dressing table, as it had a mirror and a comb.

Exam Tip: Look for contextual clues within the passage, such as items associated with the table (mirror, comb), to determine its purpose.

2. What is the writer by professions?
(A) Writer
(B) Painter
(C) Doctor
(D) Architect
Answer: (C) Doctor
In simple words: The writer's profession is a doctor, as stated in the passage.

Exam Tip: Always refer directly to the passage to confirm factual information about characters or settings.

3. The writer started combing his hair to ...........
(A) look more handsome than he was.
(B) look into the mirror.
(C) make his presence felt there.
(D) All of these three
Answer: (C) make his presence felt there.
In simple words: The writer combed his hair to make his presence more noticeable.

Exam Tip: Identify the motive or reason behind an action mentioned in the text rather than just the action itself.

4. What was the writer busy doing when he heard the sound from above?
(A) combing his hair.
(B) Reading his medical book.
(C) Admiring beauty.
(D) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (A) combing his hair.
In simple words: The writer was combing his hair when he heard the noise from above.

Exam Tip: Pinpoint the specific action happening at the exact moment a new event occurs in the narrative.

I didn't jump. I didn't tremble. I didn't cry out. There was no time to do any such thing. The snake slithered along my shoulder and coiled around my left arm above the elbow. The hood was spread out and its head was hardly three or four inches from my face!

It would not be correct to say merely that I sat there holding my breath. I was turned to stone. But my mind was very active. The door opened into darkness. The room was surrounded by darkness. In the light of the lamp I sat there like a stone image in the flesh.

Questions:
1. What could the writer's expressions have been on finding the snake on his shoulder?
(A) Jumping
(B) Trembling
(C) Crying out
(D) All of these three
Answer: (D) All of these three
In simple words: The writer's initial reactions to the snake included not jumping, trembling, or crying out.

Exam Tip: When the passage explicitly states what a character *didn't* do, consider it as a contrast to what would be expected, providing insight into their suppressed reactions.

2. How close did the writer find the snake?
(A) Coiled around his left arm.
(B) With his head three or four inches away from his face.
(C) With his head spread.
(D) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: The snake was wrapped around his left arm, with its head just a few inches from his face.

Exam Tip: For details about proximity or position, extract exact measurements or descriptions directly from the passage.

3. What was the writer's reaction with the snake coiled around his left arm?
(A) He sat breathless.
(B) The speed of his breathing increased to a great frequency.
(C) He went towards the door.
(D) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (A) He sat breathless.
In simple words: The writer sat without breathing, frozen by fear.

Exam Tip: Focus on the immediate physical and emotional state of the character as described in the passage.

4. What are the words 'a stone image in the flesh' used for?
(A) The snake looking into the mirror.
(B) The writer with a snake coiled around his left arm.
(C) The stone image the writer was sitting in the front.
(D) None of these three
Answer: (B) The writer with a snake coiled around his left arm.
In simple words: The phrase describes the writer sitting absolutely still, like a statue, with the snake on his arm.

Exam Tip: Understand figurative language; here, "stone image" vividly conveys extreme stillness and terror.

At my slightest movement the snake would strike me! Death lurked four inches away. Suppose it struck, what was the medicine I had to take? There were no medicines in the room. I was but a poor, foolish and stupid doctor. I forgot my danger and smiled feebly at myself.

It seemed as if God appreciated that. The snake turned its head. It looked into the mirror and saw its reflection, I do not claim that it was the first snake that had ever looked into a mirror. But it was certain that the snake was looking into the mirror. Was it admiring its own beauty? Was it trying to make an important decision about growing a moustache or using eye shadow and mascara or wearing a vermilion spot on its forehead?

Questions:
1. The writer would not move even slightest because ...........
(A) he had lost courage.
(B) in that case, the snake would strike him.
(C) it would disturb the snake.
(D) in that case, the snake would run away.
Answer: (B) in that case, the snake would strike him.
In simple words: The writer knew moving slightly would cause the snake to bite him.

Exam Tip: Connect actions with their direct consequences as stated in the text to understand character motivations.

2. The writer did not have any medicine in his room because ...........
(A) they were all at his clinic.
(B) they had run out.
(C) he was a poor doctor.
(D) All of these three
Answer: (B) they had run out.
In simple words: The writer had no medicine because his supply had finished.

Exam Tip: Be precise with the reason. If multiple options are plausible, choose the one explicitly stated or strongly implied by the passage.

3. What was the snake doing looking itself into the mirror, according to the writer?
(A) Admiring its own beauty.
(B) thinking about growing a moustache.
(C) deciding about using eye shadow and mascara.
(D) All of these three
Answer: (D) All of these three
In simple words: The writer humorously imagined the snake was admiring itself or contemplating its appearance.

Exam Tip: When the passage offers multiple possibilities for an event, especially with a humorous tone, "All of these" is often the correct choice if they all fit the context.

4. What colour is 'vermilion'?
(A) Vivid red
(B) Reddish orange
(C) Yellow
(D) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: Vermilion is a vibrant red or reddish-orange color.

Exam Tip: For vocabulary questions, recall general knowledge or context clues to understand the meaning of words.

Answer the following questions in three to four sentences each:

Question 1. What was the doctor thinking while he was seated before the mirror?
Answer: The doctor contemplated various remedies he had and whether any medicine was potent enough to rescue him if the snake bit him. He also understood that God had punished him for being so arrogant and proud.
In simple words: The doctor thought about what medicine to take if bitten by the snake. He also realized God was punishing his pride.

Exam Tip: For questions about thoughts or reflections, identify both the practical considerations and the emotional or philosophical insights of the character.

Question 2. Why did the doctor run from his house? OR Why did the doctor run away to his friend's house?
Answer: The snake slid from the writer's arm onto his lap, then crept onto the table, and then moved towards the mirror. The writer recovered, silently got up from the chair, exited through the door into the veranda, leaped into the yard, and sprinted to his friend's house to save his own life.
In simple words: The doctor ran away because the snake left his arm, moved to the table, and distracted by its reflection, giving him a chance to escape. He went to his friend's house for safety.

Exam Tip: Explain the chain of events that led to the character's actions, ensuring all steps are logically connected.

Question 3. How did the doctor show the presence of mind when he encountered the snake?
Answer: The doctor showed great quick thinking upon seeing the snake. He neither leaped nor cried out. He remained seated in the chair, holding his breath. His body was still, but his mind stayed very active.
In simple words: The doctor stayed calm, didn't jump or yell. He sat still, holding his breath, but his mind was alert.

Exam Tip: "Presence of mind" implies calm and rational action in a crisis. Focus on the character's ability to control their immediate reactions.

Question 4. How did the snake change the writer's opinion about himself?
Answer: The writer was proud of being a doctor. Encountering the snake made him humble. He concluded that he was just a poor and foolish doctor who should not be proud of his profession.
In simple words: The snake encounter made the proud doctor humble. He realized he was just a poor, foolish person with no reason for pride.

Exam Tip: Note how significant events or challenges can lead to profound self-realization and changes in perspective for characters.

Question 5. While looking into the mirror, what important and earth-shaking decisions did the doctor make? OR What were the two important decisions taken by the doctor while looking into the mirror?
Answer: The two significant decisions made by the doctor were that he would shave daily and grow a slender mustache, to appear more attractive. The momentous decision made by the doctor was that he would always maintain an appealing smile on his face.
In simple words: The doctor decided to shave every day, grow a thin mustache, and always keep an attractive smile to look more handsome.

Exam Tip: Ensure that both parts of the question are fully answered and that the decisions mentioned are specific and relevant to the character's vanity.

Question 6. What did the doctor do on seeing the snake?
Answer: The doctor saw the snake's reflection in the mirror. He, then, moved closer to examine it. He got up from the chair and sprinted away from the house.
In simple words: The doctor saw the snake's reflection, moved closer, then got up and ran from the house.

Exam Tip: Detail the sequence of reactions a character has when faced with a sudden, frightening event.

Question 7. What type of woman did the doctor in the story “The Snake and the Mirror”, want to get married to and why?
Answer: The doctor wished to wed a woman who possessed abundant money and a successful medical practice, and who was also plump. The reason he gave was that if he, the doctor-husband, ever made a mistake and tried to flee, she would be unable to capture him and prevent his escape.
In simple words: The doctor wanted to marry a rich, fat female doctor. He thought her size would stop her from catching him if he made a mistake and tried to run away.

Exam Tip: When explaining character desires, always include the specific reasons or motivations provided in the story.

Question 8. Why did the author of “The Snake and the Mirror" fantasize a fat woman as his wife?
Answer: The author of "The Snake and the Mirror" imagined a plump woman as his wife because she would never manage to capture the doctor for his misdeeds. She would be unable to run after him, and he would be safe from all sorts of repercussions. Thus, the author envisioned a stout woman as his wife.
In simple words: The author imagined a fat wife so she couldn't catch him if he made mistakes, saving him from punishment.

Exam Tip: Connect the fantasy directly to the character's underlying fears or desires for self-preservation, which often adds to the story's humor.

Question 9. Why did the snake leave the doctor's arm?
Answer: The snake departed from the doctor's arm because it observed its reflection in the mirror and was captivated by it. It wished to fully appreciate its own reflection by taking a closer look.
In simple words: The snake left the doctor's arm because it saw its reflection in the mirror, got fascinated, and wanted a closer look.

Exam Tip: For action-reaction questions, clearly state the cause and effect, especially when an unusual or surprising event occurs.

Question 10. What made the doctor utter “Death lurked four inches away"?
Answer: The doctor was under the snake's control, and its head was barely three or four inches from his face. He knew very well that the snake would bite him at the slightest movement. This is what caused him to say those words.
In simple words: The doctor said "Death lurked four inches away" because the snake's head was very close to his face, and he knew a slight movement would trigger a bite.

Exam Tip: When analyzing a quote, explain the immediate circumstances and the character's internal state that led to that specific utterance.

Answer the Following Questions in Five to Six Sentences Each:

Question 1. "Birds of the same feathers flock together" goes the saying. Does the encounter between the snake and the doctor in the story 'The Snake and the Mirror' support the saying ? Why or why not?
Answer: Yes, the story supports the proverb, which means that individuals with similar customs and preferences often come together. The doctor enjoyed admiring himself and could not help gazing at his reflection in the mirror. He also made several choices to enhance his looks. The snake, which wrapped itself around the doctor's arm, kept staring at its own image in the mirror for a long duration, enjoying its beauty and valuing its form. The snake became so absorbed in its own beauty that it completely forgot why it had arrived at the author's residence.
In simple words: Yes, the story shows how people with similar likes attract each other. Both the doctor and the snake loved looking at themselves in the mirror and appreciating their own good looks.

Exam Tip: Always identify key details from the text to support your answers and make sure to address all parts of the question clearly.

Question 2. Without mirror, the story will lose its charm and reality. Justify.
Answer: The narrative would lose its appeal and truth without the mirror, as it captivates both main characters: the doctor and the snake. The doctor forms two significant plans- to shave every day and grow a slender mustache to appear more attractive, and to always maintain a pleasant smile while gazing at himself in the mirror. The snake also feels drawn to see itself in the mirror and then slides off the doctor's arm. It settles on the table directly before the mirror, which gives the doctor a chance to escape and save his life. Therefore, the story truly centers around the mirror, making it very important.
In simple words: The story needs the mirror because it attracts both the doctor and the snake. The doctor makes plans about his appearance, and the snake also gets interested in its reflection, giving the doctor a chance to run away.

Exam Tip: When justifying the importance of an element, link it directly to character actions, plot developments, and overall theme.

Question 3. What are the similarities between the doctor and the snake ?
Answer: The doctor and the snake shared noticeable commonalities. Both were examples of self-love. This is clearly shown in two choices the doctor made: to shave every day and grow a slender mustache, and to wear a pleasing smile to appear good-looking. Meanwhile, the snake liked looking at its own image up close. It did move from the doctor's arm and then slowly went onto the table, moving towards the mirror.
In simple words: Both the doctor and the snake were very fond of themselves. The doctor wanted to look handsome, and the snake also loved to see its reflection.

Exam Tip: When comparing characters, identify specific actions or traits that highlight their shared characteristics as described in the narrative.

Question 4. Justify the title of the story 'The Snake and the Mirror'.
Answer: The story centers on the storyteller, the serpent, and the looking glass. The storyteller hears some recognizable noises – a soft thump, and then a snake lands on his shoulder. The doctor feels very scared and remains motionless like a statue. He suddenly senses the presence of the universe's creator and death just a few inches away. He forgets about the threat and offers a weak smile. The snake gazes into the mirror, slides closer to it, and wishes to enjoy a detailed view of its own image. Thus, the title is appropriate because the story truly focuses on the snake and the mirror.
In simple words: The story is about the narrator, a snake, and a mirror. The doctor is terrified when the snake lands on him, but then the snake gets interested in its reflection in the mirror, making the title a good fit for the story.

Exam Tip: To justify a title, show how the key elements in the title are central to the plot, character development, or theme of the story.

Question 5. Describe in detail the doctor's feelings when he saw the snake coiled around his arm.
Answer: The doctor was so deep in his daydreams that he did not notice a thick snake had slithered over the back of his seat and landed on his shoulder, wrapping itself around his left arm with its hood expanded. The doctor remained still, not moving at all, fearing the snake might attack. He considered the different remedies he possessed and wondered if any could protect him if the snake bit. He then understood the presence of the Divine and felt that his pride and arrogance were being punished.
In simple words: The doctor was completely lost in thought and didn't see the snake coil around his arm. He froze, scared it would bite him, and thought about medicines. He also felt that God was punishing him for being proud.

Exam Tip: When describing feelings, use strong descriptive language and connect the emotions directly to the character's thoughts and reactions in the situation.

Vocabulary and Grammar

Fill in the Blanks Choosing the Correct Words Given in the Brackets:

Question 1. (handsome, look, tempted, admirer)
One feels ...................... to look into a mirror when it is near one. I took a ................ In those days I was a great ..... .......................... of beauty and I believed in making myself look ....... .d. .........
Answer: One often feels **drawn** to **gaze** into a mirror when it is nearby. I took a **glance**. In those times, I was a big **fan** of beauty and wanted to appear **good-looking**.
In simple words: People often feel like looking into a mirror when one is close. I took a look. Back then, I really liked beauty and wished to look handsome.

Exam Tip: For fill-in-the-blanks, read the full sentence to understand the context and identify the most appropriate word that fits both meaning and grammar.

Question 2. (suppose, presence, something, universe)
I felt then the great.......................... of the creator of this world and His .......................... God was there, ..……………………………………………………………….. I said ..………………………………..………………………... and he did not like it.
Answer: I then felt the vast **existence** of the world's maker and its whole **cosmos**. God was present there, **Imagine** I uttered **anything** and He did not approve of it.
In simple words: I then sensed the large presence of the world's creator and its universe. God was there, and I imagined I said something He didn't like.

Exam Tip: Consider the meaning of each option in the context of the sentence to choose the most fitting word that completes the idea logically.

Grammar

Rectify the Errors in the Passage:

Question 1. The house was not electrical; it was a small rented room. I have just set up my medical practise and my earnings were meagre. I had about sixty rupees in my sutcase. Along with some shirts and dhotis, I also possess one solitary black coat whom I was then wearing.
Answer: The house was not **electrified**; it was a tiny rented apartment. I **had** just **started** my medical **practice**, and my income was small. I had around sixty rupees in my **suitcase**. Along with some shirts and dhotis, I also **owned** one single black coat **which** I was then wearing.

Exam Tip: Carefully read each sentence to identify grammatical inconsistencies, spelling mistakes, and incorrect word choices, especially with parts of speech.

Question 2. I got up, passed up and down the room. Then another lovely thought strike me. I would get married to a woman doctor which had plenty of money and a good medicine practice. She has to be fat; for a valid reason. Unless I made some silly mistake and needed to run away, she would not catch me.
Answer: I got up, **paced** up and down the room. Then another lovely thought **struck** me. I would marry a woman doctor **who** had plenty of money and a good **medical** practice. She **had** to be fat; for a valid reason. **If** I made some silly mistake and needed to run away, she would not catch me.

Exam Tip: When correcting passages, review verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and appropriate use of relative pronouns like 'which' vs. 'who'.

Question 3. At my slight movement the snake would strike me ! Death lurks four inches away. Suppose it struck, which was the medicine I had to take ? There were some medicines in the room. I was such a poor, foolish and stupid doctor. I forgot my danger and smiled feeble at myself.
Answer: At my **slightest** movement, the snake would strike me! Death **lurked** four inches away. **What** medicine did I have to take if it bit me? There were **no** medicines in the room. I was **but** a poor, foolish, and stupid doctor. I forgot my danger and smiled **feebly** at myself.

Exam Tip: Be mindful of superlatives (like 'slightest'), past tense forms, and how quantifiers (like 'some' vs. 'no') impact the sentence's meaning and correctness.

Fill in the Blanks Using Article(s), Conjunction(s), and Preposition(s) at the Correct Places:

Question 1. I took ............................. close look ........................... my face in ........................... mirror. I made important decision-I would shave daily ....... grow .d. .f..... thin moustache to look more handsome.
Answer: I took **a** careful glance **at** my face in **the** mirror. I made **an** important choice – I would shave every day **and** cultivate **a** slender mustache to appear more attractive.
In simple words: I took a close look at my face in the mirror. I made an important decision: I would shave every day and grow a thin mustache to look more handsome.

Exam Tip: Remember to use articles (a, an, the) correctly, choose conjunctions (and, but, or) that connect ideas logically, and select prepositions (in, on, at, into) that indicate proper relationships between words.

Question 2. I went back …………………………………………………………….... the room ................. chair. I opened box ............... the table and took f............ a book.
Answer: I went back **into** the room **and** sat **down** on **the** chair. I opened the box **under** the table and took **out** a book.
In simple words: I returned into the room and sat down on the chair. I opened the box under the table and got out a book.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to phrasal verbs and how prepositions change their meaning. For example, "sit down" or "take out" often require specific prepositions.

Punctuate the Following Passage:

Question. Phew each of us heaved a sigh of relief somebody asked doctor is your wife very fat no the doctor said god willed otherwise.
Answer: “Phew!” Every one of us breathed a sigh of relief. Someone inquired, "Doctor, is your wife very heavy?" "No," the doctor replied, "God intended it differently."
In simple words: We all sighed in relief. Someone asked the doctor if his wife was fat, and he said no, it was God's will.

Exam Tip: Remember to use quotation marks for direct speech, commas to separate clauses, and exclamation marks for strong emotions.

Convert the Following Into Indirect Speech:

Question. "My life companion is a thin reedy person with the gift of a sprinter."
Someone else asked, "Doctor, when you ran, did the snake follow you ?"
Answer: The doctor stated that his wife was a slender, delicate individual with the talent of a runner. Then, another person asked the doctor whether the snake had pursued him after he ran. The doctor responded that he had run continuously until he arrived at a friend's home, and added that he had promptly applied oil all over himself and had bathed.
In simple words: The doctor said his wife was thin and fast. Then someone asked if the snake chased him when he ran, and the doctor explained he ran to a friend's house, put oil on himself, and took a bath.

Exam Tip: When converting to indirect speech, ensure all tenses shift to the past, pronouns are adjusted, and question structures become statements (e.g., "did the snake follow" becomes "if the snake had followed").

Rewrite as Directed:

Question 1. All of us fell silent. (Turn into Negative.)
Answer: All of us did not **speak** anything / make any sound.
In simple words: No one among us made any noise.

Exam Tip: To convert to negative, identify the main verb and use "not" or a negative construction, ensuring the original meaning is preserved.

Question 2. I had my meal at the restaurant and returned to my room.(Turn into Simple.)
Answer: After **eating** my meal at the restaurant, I went back to my room.
In simple words: After eating at the restaurant, I went to my room.

Exam Tip: To create a simple sentence, often combine clauses using participles or infinitives, focusing on one main subject and verb.

Question 3. I made my bed and pulled it close to the wall. (Change the Voice.)
Answer: My bed was **prepared** by me, and it was moved near to the wall.
In simple words: My bed was made by me and put next to the wall.

Exam Tip: When changing to passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject, use a form of "to be" + past participle, and "by" to introduce the original subject.

Question 4. I adjusted the parting so that it looked straight and neat. (Use 'with a view to'.)
Answer: I **arranged** my hair parting with the goal of making it appear straight and tidy.
In simple words: I fixed my hair parting to make it look straight and neat.

Exam Tip: The phrase "with a view to" must be followed by a gerund (verb-ing) to express purpose or intention.

Question 5. With such thoughts in my mind, I resumed my seat in the chair. (Make it Compound.)
Answer: I **held** these thoughts in my mind, and I went back to my chair.
In simple words: I had these thoughts, and then I sat back in my chair.

Exam Tip: A compound sentence joins two independent clauses (complete sentences) with a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.

Question 6. No sooner did I turn than a fat snake wriggled over the back of the chair. (Use 'Hardly...when'.)
Answer: Hardly had I **moved** when a thick snake slithered over the back of the seat.
In simple words: I had barely turned when a large snake moved over the back of the chair.

Exam Tip: "Hardly...when" is a common inversion structure that emphasizes an immediate sequence of events; ensure the auxiliary verb ("had") precedes the subject.

Question 7. I did not know anything for certain. (Turn into Affirmative.)
Answer: I was fairly **ignorant** of everything for sure.
In simple words: I was quite unsure about everything.

Exam Tip: To convert to affirmative, rephrase the sentence using positive words that convey the same meaning as the original negative statement.