GSEB Class 9 English Beehive Chapter 6 My Childhood Solutions

Question. Find Dhanushkodi and Rameswaram on the map. What language(s) do you think are spoken there ? What languages do you think the author, his family, his friends and his teachers spoke with one another ?
Answer: I believe Tamil and English are the two main languages spoken in those areas. The author, his relatives, and his companions most likely conversed in Tamil among themselves. However, his teachers probably used English when speaking with the students in class.

Exam Tip: When answering questions about geographical locations, consider the region and its common linguistic practices to infer spoken languages.

 

I. Answer these questions in one or two sentences each:

 

Question 1. Where was Abdul Kalam's house ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam's house was situated on Mosque Street in Rameswaram.

Exam Tip: Always specify the exact location mentioned in the text for full accuracy.

 

Question 2. What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your answer.
Answer: Dinamani is the name of a local newspaper. This is because Kalam used to track the stories about the war by reading the headlines in Dinamani.

Exam Tip: When asked to infer, support your conclusion with a clear reason directly from the text.

 

Question 3. Who were Abdul Kalam's school friends ? What did they later become ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam's school friends were Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. Ramanadha Sastry later became the high priest of the Rameswaram temple. Aravindan grew into a transport businessman, and Sivaprakasan became the catering contractor for the Southern Railways.

Exam Tip: Remember to provide both the names of the friends and their later professions as requested by the question.

 

Question 4. How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages ?
Answer: During the Second World War, newspaper bundles were thrown from a moving train. Abdul Kalam earned his initial earnings by helping his cousin, who distributed newspapers in Rameswaram, to catch these bundles.

Exam Tip: Focus on the specific events and actions that directly led to his first income source.

 

Question 5. Had he earned any money before that? In what way?
Answer: Yes, Abdul Kalam had earned some cash even before assisting his cousin. When the Second World War started, there was a sudden need for tamarind seeds in the local market. He gathered these seeds and sold them at a provision shop on Mosque Street, typically earning one anna from a day's collection.

Exam Tip: Provide a clear 'yes' or 'no' first, then elaborate on the method and context of his earlier earnings.

 

II. Answer each of these questions in a short paragraph (about 30 words):

 

Question 1. How does the author describe : (i) his father, (ii) his mother, (iii) himself ?
Answer:
(i) Kalam's father, Jainulabdeen, was not rich or highly educated. However, he was an honest and generous man with deep, natural wisdom. He was self-disciplined and kept away from unnecessary luxuries.
(ii) Kalam's mother, Ashiamma, was a perfect partner to her husband. She deeply believed in goodness and showed great kindness, often feeding many people every day.
(iii) The author describes himself as a short boy with ordinary looks, who had a secure upbringing. He saw himself as an honest and self-disciplined person, committed to good deeds and profound kindness.

Exam Tip: Address each sub-part separately and concisely, using descriptive adjectives from the text.

 

Question 2. What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents ?
Answer: He states that he inherited honesty and self-discipline from his father. He also mentions inheriting faith in goodness and profound kindness from his mother.

Exam Tip: Clearly link each inherited quality to the parent it came from.

 

III. Discuss these questions in class with your teacher and then write down your answers in two or three paragraphs each:

 

Question 1. "On the whole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the segregation of different social groups,” says the author.
(i) Which social groups does he mention ? Were these groups easily identifiable (for example, by the way they dressed) ?
Answer: He mentions two social groups in Rameswaram: orthodox Brahmins and Muslims. Yes, these groups were quite simple to identify, often by their clothing. For instance, Kalam wore a cap, which showed he was a Muslim, while Ramanadha Sastry wore a sacred thread, marking him as a Hindu.

Exam Tip: When identifying social groups, also include how they were recognized, providing specific examples if available.

 

(ii) Were they aware only of their differences or did they also naturally share friendships and experiences ? (Think of the bedtime stories in Kalam's house; of who his friends were; and of what used to take place in the pond near his house.)
Answer: No, they were not just aware of their differences; they also naturally shared friendships and experiences. Kalam's mother and grandmother would tell the children bedtime stories about events from the Ramayana and the prophet's life. During the Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam ceremony, his family would arrange boats with a special platform to carry idols of the Lord from the temple to the marriage spot, located in the middle of the pond called Rama Tirtha, which was close to their home.

Exam Tip: Provide specific examples from the text, like shared stories or community events, to illustrate how differences were bridged by shared experiences.

 

(iii) The author speaks both of people who were very aware of the differences among them and those who tried to bridge these differences. Can you identify such people in the text ?
Answer: The people who were very conscious of the differences were the new teacher who came to Kalam's fifth-standard class at Rameswaram Elementary School, and his science teacher's traditional wife who refused to serve Kalam in her ritually pure kitchen. Those who tried to overcome these differences included Kalam's science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, who invited, served, and dined with him to break social barriers. Lakshmana Sastry also strongly urged the young teacher to change his views.

Exam Tip: Clearly separate those who highlighted differences from those who worked to resolve them, naming specific individuals from the story.

 

(iv) Narrate two incidents that show how differences can be created, and also how they can be resolved. How can people change their attitudes ?
Answer: The first incident demonstrating how differences can be created occurred when the new teacher saw a Muslim student sitting next to a Hindu student and asked Kalam to move to the back row. His friend Ramanadha Sastry was deeply upset by this. They told their parents, and Lakshmana Sastry called the teacher, expressing a strong belief that eventually changed the teacher's mindset. The second incident shows how differences can be overcome. The author's science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, despite being an orthodox Brahmin with a traditional wife, tried to bridge these gaps. People can change their perspectives by seeing no distinction in how Hindus and Muslims eat meals, drink water, and clean their living spaces.

Exam Tip: Use distinct examples for both the creation and resolution of differences, explaining the impact and the lesson learned from each incident.

 

Question 2.
(i) Why did Abdul Kalam want to leave Rameswaram ?
Answer: Kalam wished to leave Rameswaram to pursue further studies. He desired to study at the district headquarters in Ramanathapuram.

Exam Tip: State the primary reason for his desire to leave and mention the destination if specified.

 

(ii) What did his father say to this ?
Answer: Kalam's father stated that he understood Kalam needed to leave one day to mature. He compared it to a seagull that flies alone across the sun without a nest. He then quoted Khalil Gibran to Kalam's hesitant mother.

Exam Tip: Include both the father's direct statement and any analogies or quotes he used to convey his message.

 

Thinking about Language

 

I. Find the sentence in the text where these words occur:

erupt surge trace undistinguished casualty

Look these words up in a dictionary which gives examples of how they are used. Now answer the following questions:

 

Question 1. What are the things that can erupt ? Use examples to explain the various meanings of erupt. Now do the same for the word surge. What things can surge?
Answer: A few things that can erupt are: anger, a volcano, a tooth, a rash, riots, unrest, etc. 'Erupt' has several meanings, and their explanations with examples are as follows:
(1) Start suddenly
Example: Riots suddenly broke out in the city.
(2) Start to burn or burst into flames
Example: The spark quickly burst into flames.
(3) Become active and pour out lava and rocks
Example: The hot lava poured out of the active volcano.
(4) Forceful and strong release of something held back
Example: Their differences in opinion quickly turned into a fight.
(5) Sudden appearance on the skin
Example: On the day of the celebration, a pimple appeared on her face.
(6) Break out
Example: The arrival of a wisdom tooth causes a lot of discomfort. Things that can 'surge' include: pride, anxiety, waves, boats, an army, etc. Its various meanings can be clarified with the following examples:
(1) Sudden powerful flow
Example: The boy nearly drowned in the powerful waves.
(2) Rise and move forward
Example: The army moved quickly towards their foe.
(3) Heave upward under the influence of a natural force
Example: The boat moved upward in the strong tide.
(4) See one's performance improve
Example: Consistent effort helped Sandra's grades to rise.
(5) A sudden or quick strong increase
Example: The sudden increase in the stock market shocked many people.
(6) Rise quickly
Example: As time passed, her stress levels rose quickly.

Exam Tip: Provide clear definitions and distinct examples for each meaning of the word to demonstrate a thorough understanding.

 

Question 2. What are the meanings of the word trace and which of the meanings is closest to the word in the text ?
Answer: The word 'trace' has the following meanings:
1. To follow, discover, or understand the development path of something.
2. To make a mark or lines on a surface.
3. To review something again.
4. To pursue or chase without giving up.
5. To find or discover through investigation.
6. To navigate a path; to travel or pass over, around, or along.
7. To read with difficulty. The meaning of 'trace' that is most relevant in the text is 'to find or discover through investigation'.

Exam Tip: List all relevant meanings first, then explicitly state which one best fits the context provided in the text.

 

Question 3. Can you find undistinguished in your dictionary? (If not, look for the word distinguished and say what undistinguished mean.)
Answer: No, the word 'undistinguished' does not exist as a primary entry in many dictionaries. However, its meaning can be determined from the word 'distinguished', which signifies a 'special or eminent appearance or behavior of a person'. Thus, 'undistinguished' represents an 'ordinary appearance or behavior of a person'.

Exam Tip: If a word is not directly found, explain how its meaning can be logically deduced from its root word and prefix.

 

II.

 

Question 1. Match the phrases in Column 'A' with their meanings in Column 'B':

Answer:
1. broke out - began suddenly in a violent way
2. in accordance with - according to a particular rule, principle or system
3. a helping hand - assistance
4. could not stomach - was not able to tolerate
5. generosity of spirit - an attitude of kindness, a readiness to give freely
6. figures of authority - persons with power to make decisions

Exam Tip: For matching questions, connect each phrase with its precise meaning to ensure accuracy.

 

Question 2. Study the words in italics in the sentences below. They are formed by prefixing un- or in- to their antonyms (words opposite in meaning).
• I was a short boy with rather undistinguished looks, (un + distinguished)
• My austere father used to avoid all inessential comforts, (in + essential)
• The area was completely unaffected by the war. (un + affected)
• He should not spread the poison of social inequality and communal intolerance, (in + equality, in + tolerance)
Now form the opposites of the words below by prefixing un- or in-. The prefix in- can also have the forms il-, ir- or im- (For example : illiterate - il + literate, impractical - im + practical, irrational - ir + rational). You may consult a dictionary if you wish.

Answer:

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the various forms of the "in-" prefix (il-, ir-, im-) and apply them correctly based on the root word's initial sound.

 

III. Passive Voice

Study these sentences:

• My parents were regarded as an ideal couple.
• I was asked to go and sit on the back bench.
• Such problems have to be confronted.

The italicised verbs in these sentences are made up of a form of the verb be and a past participle. (For example : were + regarded, was + asked, be + confronted) These sentences focus on what happens, rather than who does what. Notice that the doer of the action is not included in the sentences.

If necessary, we can mention the doer of the action in a by-phrase. For example :

• The tree was struck by lightning.
• The flag was unfurled by the Chief Guest.

 

IV. Rewrite the sentences below, changing the verbs in brackets into the passive form:
(1) In yesterday's competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
(2) In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
(3) On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
(4) Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
(5) Elections to the Lok Sabha (hold) every five years.
(6) Our National Anthem (compose) Rabindranath Tagore.
Answer:
(1) In yesterday's competition the prizes were given away by the Principal.
(2) In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers were paid on time.
(3) On Republic Day, vehicles are not allowed beyond this point.
(4) Second-hand books are bought and sold on the pavement every Saturday.
(5) Elections to the Lok Sabha are held every five years.
(6) Our National Anthem was composed by Rabindranath Tagore.

Exam Tip: Remember to use the correct form of "to be" (is, am, are, was, were) followed by the past participle of the main verb for passive voice conversions.

 

V. Rewrite the paragraphs below, using the correct form of the verb given in brackets:

Question 1. How Helmets Came to Be Used in Cricket

Nari Contractor was the Captain and an opening batsman for India in the 1960s. The Indian cricket team went on a tour to the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados in Bridgetown, Nari Contractor (seriously injure and collapse). In those days helmets (not wear). Contractor (hit) on the head by a bouncer from Charlie Griffith. Contractor's skull (fracture). The entire team (deeply concern). The West Indies players (worry). Contractor (rush) to hospital. He (accompany) by Frank Worrell, the Captain of the West Indies Team. Blood (donate) by the West Indies players. Thanks to timely help, Contractor (save). Nowadays helmets (routinely use) against bowlers.

Answer: Nari Contractor was the Captain and an opening batsman for India in the 1960s. The Indian cricket team went on a tour to the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados in Bridgetown, Nari Contractor was seriously injured and collapsed. In those days helmets were not worn. Contractor was hit on the head by a bouncer from Charlie Griffith. Contractor's skull was fractured. The entire team was deeply concerned. The West Indies players were worried. Contractor was rushed to hospital. He was accompanied by Frank Worrell, the Captain of the West Indies Team. Blood was donated by the West Indies players. Thanks to timely help, Contractor was saved. Nowadays helmets are routinely used against bowlers.

Exam Tip: Carefully read the context of each sentence to determine the appropriate tense (past simple or passive past) for the verbs in brackets.

 

Question 2. Oil from Seeds

Vegetable oils (make) from seeds and fruits of many plants growing all over the world, from tiny sesame seeds to big, juicy coconuts. Oil (produce) from cotton seeds, groundnuts, soya beans and sunflower seeds. Olive oil (use) for cooking, salad dressing, etc. Olives (shake) from the trees and (gather) up, usually by hand. The olives (ground) to a thick paste which is spread onto special mats. Then the mats (layer) up on the pressing machine which will gently squeeze them to produce olive oil.

Answer: Vegetable oils are made from seeds and fruits of many plants growing all over the world, from tiny sesame seeds to big, juicy coconuts. Oil is produced from cotton seeds, groundnuts, soya beans, and sunflower seeds. Olive oil is used for cooking, salad dressing, etc. Olives are shaken from the trees and gathered up, usually by hand. The olives are ground to a thick paste, which is spread onto special mats. Then the mats are layered up on the pressing machine, which will gently squeeze them to produce olive oil.

Exam Tip: For processes, use present simple tense for general facts and present simple passive voice to describe actions where the doer is not specified.

 

Writing

 

Question. Think and write a short account of what life in Rameswaram in the 1940s must have been like. (Were people rich or poor? Hard working or lazy ? Hopeful of change, or resistant to it ?)
Answer: In the 1940s, life in Rameswaram was likely quite simple. Based on Abdul Kalam's account, the people there were not particularly wealthy. Although religious-based separation existed, individuals generally lived together peacefully. Still, some people disliked different social groups mixing. Religions were often identified by the clothes they wore or their living areas. Orthodox Hindu Brahmin families were more rigid in their social practices.

Exam Tip: Support your observations about the society (wealth, harmony, rigidity) with specific details or inferences from the provided text.

 

GSEB Class 9 English My Childhood Additional Important Questions and Answers

 

Reading Comprehension

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

 

Question 1.

Every child is born, with some inherited characteristics, into a specific socio-economic and emotional environment, and trained in certain ways by figures of authority. I inherited honesty and self-discipline from my father; from my mother, I inherited faith in goodness and deep kindness and so did my three brothers and sister. I had three close friends in my childhood – Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan and Sivaprakasan.

All these boys were from orthodox Hindu Brahmin families. As children, none of us ever felt any difference amongst ourselves because of our religious differences and upbringing. In fact, Ramanadha Sastry was the son of Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, the high priest of the Rameswaram temple. Later, he took over the priesthood of the Rameswaram temple from his father. Aravindan went into the business of arranging transport for visiting pilgrims; and Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for the Southern Railways.

Questions:
1. Faith in goodness and deep kindness can be classified as ........ qualities.
A. social
B. economic
C. emotional
D. rational
Answer: (C) emotional
In simple words: Faith in goodness and deep kindness are feelings that come from within a person. They are linked to how someone feels and expresses themselves, which makes them emotional qualities.

Exam Tip: Understand the nuance between different types of qualities (social, economic, emotional, rational) to correctly categorize human traits.

 

2. The meaning of the word 'Orthodox' is ........
A. religious.
B. conventional.
C. holy.
D. pure.
Answer: (B) conventional.
In simple words: 'Orthodox' means following traditional beliefs or practices very strictly, which is a conventional way of doing things.

Exam Tip: When defining words, look for the meaning that best describes adhering to established, traditional practices or beliefs.

 

3. As children Abdul and his friends never felt any difference amongst themselves because of ........
A. their different religions.
B. their different nurturing.
C. their different dresses.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both (A) and (B)
In simple words: Abdul and his friends, as kids, never noticed differences due to their distinct religions or their different upbringings.

Exam Tip: For multiple-choice questions, carefully read all options and identify if multiple options accurately complete the statement.

 

4. As career, Sivaprakasan chose to become ........
A. a priest.
B. a transporter.
C. a catering contractor.
D. a bank manager.
Answer: (C) a catering contractor.
In simple words: Sivaprakasan pursued a career as a catering contractor.

Exam Tip: Refer back to the passage for specific details about the careers chosen by each character.

 

Question 2.

One day, he invited me to his home for a meal. His wife was horrified at the idea of a Muslim boy being invited to dine in her ritually pure kitchen. She refused to serve me in her kitchen. Sivasubramania Iyer was not perturbed, nor did he get angry with his wife, but instead, served me with his own hands and sat down beside me to eat his meal. His wife watched us from behind the kitchen door.

I wondered whether she had observed any difference in the way I ate rice, drank water or cleaned the floor after the meal. When I was leaving his house, Sivasubramania Iyer invited me to join him for dinner again the next weekend. Observing my hesitation, he told me not to get upset, saying, “Once you decide to change the system, such problems have to be confronted.” When I visited his house the next week, Sivasubramania Iyer's wife took me inside her kitchen and served me food with her own hands.

Questions:
1. What was the reaction of Mr Iyer's wife when Abdul went for a meal at his place ?
A. She was greatly delighted.
B. She was greatly disturbed.
C. She was struck with horror.
D. She became greatly emotional.
Answer: (C) She was struck with horror.
In simple words: Mr. Iyer's wife was very upset and shocked when Abdul, a Muslim boy, came for a meal in her ritually clean kitchen.

Exam Tip: Identify the strongest descriptive word in the passage that reflects the character's emotional state, ensuring it matches one of the options.

 

2. What was being observed of him by Mr Iyer's wife, according to Abdul ?
A. His way of eating rice.
B. His way of drinking water.
C. His way of cleaning the floor.
D. All of these three
Answer: (D) All of these three
In simple words: Abdul thought Mr. Iyer's wife was watching how he ate rice, drank water, and cleaned the floor after his meal.

Exam Tip: Look for any implied observations mentioned by Abdul in the passage and ensure all relevant details are included in your answer.

 

3. Abdul was feeling hesitated when he was invited for dinner again the next weekend because ........
A. he could derive that Mr Iyer's wife had not liked it.
B. he was not treated well that day.
C. Mr Iyer was not happy upsetting his wife again.
D. None of these three
Answer: (A) he could derive that Mr Iyer's wife had not liked it.
In simple words: Abdul felt unsure about going for dinner again because he understood that Mr. Iyer's wife did not approve of his presence in her kitchen.

Exam Tip: Understand the character's emotional state and the subtle reasons behind it, as hinted at in the narrative.

 

4. Problems have to be confronted when ........
A. we cannot face them.
B. we go against them.
C. one decides to change the system.
D. one decides to follow the tradition.
Answer: (C) one decides to change the system.
In simple words: According to Mr. Iyer, challenges arise when someone chooses to alter an existing system or way of doing things.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to direct quotes or statements made by characters that express a general truth or philosophy within the story.

 

Question 3. Then the Second World War was over and India's freedom was imminent. "Indians will build their own India", declared Gandhiji. The whole country was filled with an unprecedented optimism. I asked my father for permission to leave Rameswaram and study at the district headquarters in Ramanathapuram. He told me as if thinking aloud, “Abdul! I know you have to go away to grow. Does the seagull not fly across the sun, alone and without a nest ?” He quoted Khalil Gibran to my hesitant mother. “Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of life's longing for itself. They come through you but not from you. You may give them your love but not your thoughts. For they have their own thoughts.”

Questions:
1. The meaning of the word 'imminent' is
(a) 'distant'.
(b) 'near'.
(c) 'urgent'.
(d) 'delayed'.
Answer: (b) 'near'.
In simple words: The word 'imminent' means something that is about to happen very soon, like being "near" in time.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to context clues when defining words. "Imminent" often suggests something unavoidable and close at hand.

2. What was the reason of 'unprecedented optimism' of people of India ?
(a) India's freedom seemed close by.
(b) Gandhiji's speeches spread optimism.
(c) The Second World War was over.
(d) Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (d) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: People felt very hopeful because India was about to become free, and Gandhiji's speeches made everyone feel very positive.

Exam Tip: When options include "Both A and B," consider if both statements contribute to the situation described in the question.

3. Who was not ready to allow Abdul to leave Rameswaram for further studies ?
(a) His father
(b) His mother
(c) His elder brother
(d) His grandfather
Answer: (b) His mother
In simple words: Abdul's mother was the one who was hesitant about him leaving home to study more.

Exam Tip: Read carefully to identify which character's feelings or actions are being described in the passage.

 

4. What cannot be inherited to children by parents ?
(a) Love
(b) Qualities
(c) Thoughts
(d) Features
Answer: (c) Thoughts
In simple words: Parents can't pass on their exact thoughts to their children; children form their own ideas and views.

Exam Tip: Understand the difference between inheritable traits (like features or qualities) and personal mental states (like thoughts), which are individually formed.

 

Answer the Following Questions in Three to Four Sentences Each:

 

Question 1. Why did A.P.J. Abdul Kalam call his childhood a secure childhood ? OR "Kalam's childhood was a secure one, both materially and emotionally." Illustrate the fact.
Answer: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam described his childhood as a secure time because he had parents who loved and cared for him deeply. He received all the things he needed, including enough food, clothing, and medicines. This ensured he was well-provided for both emotionally and physically during his early years.
In simple words: Abdul Kalam's childhood was secure because his parents loved him, and he had everything he needed like food, clothes, and medicine.

Exam Tip: When asked to "illustrate the fact," provide specific details or examples from the text to support your answer.

 

Question 2. Do you think the new teacher deserved the treatment meted out to him ? Why/Why not?
Answer: Yes, the new teacher certainly deserved the treatment he received. He was actively spreading the harmful idea of communal intolerance among young, impressionable minds, which is a very serious offense. If an educator engages in such an improper act, they do not deserve any leniency or understanding.
In simple words: Yes, the teacher deserved it because he spread hatred between different groups among students, which is very wrong for an educator.

Exam Tip: Clearly state your opinion and support it with reasons drawn directly from the events in the story.

 

Question 3. What was the difference in the attitudes of the science teacher and his wife towards A.P.J. Abdul Kalam ?
Answer: Although his science teacher was an orthodox Hindu, he worked to break down social barriers and interacted with people of different religions. He invited Abdul to his home, served him meals, and ate with him. In contrast, his wife was very traditional and refused to serve Abdul because he was Muslim.
In simple words: The science teacher was open-minded, eating with Abdul, but his wife was traditional and refused to serve Abdul in her kitchen.

Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between the two characters' actions and beliefs to clearly show the difference in their attitudes.

 

Question 4. How did Second World War give opportunity to Kalam to earn his first wages ?
Answer: Kalam's cousin worked as a news agent. When the Second World War caused trains to stop halting at Rameswaram station, newspapers were bundled and thrown from moving trains. Kalam helped his cousin catch these bundles. For this assistance, he was given money, which became his first earnings.
In simple words: During the war, trains stopped at Rameswaram, so newspapers were thrown off. Kalam helped his cousin catch them and earned money for it.

Exam Tip: Focus on the specific circumstances created by the war that led to Kalam's opportunity to earn money.

 

Question 5. How does Abdul Kalam describe his mother ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam describes his mother as an ideal wife and a gentle woman. He learned gentleness and kindness from her. She would often feed many outsiders every day, showing her generous and compassionate nature to everyone around her.
In simple words: Abdul Kalam said his mother was a perfect wife, kind, and gentle, often feeding many guests daily.

Exam Tip: Include both the personal qualities (gentle, kind) and specific actions (feeding outsiders) to give a complete description of his mother.

 

Question 6. What did Abdul Kalam's family do during the annual Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam ceremony ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam's family made arrangements for a special boat with a platform. This boat was used to transport the idols of Lord Shri Sita Rama from the temple to the marriage site, which was located in the middle of a pond called Rama Tirtha. His mother and grandmother also shared stories from the Ramayana and about the Prophet's life with him.
In simple words: His family prepared a special boat to carry idols of Lord Sita Rama from the temple to a pond for a ceremony. His mother and grandmother also told him stories.

Exam Tip: Mention both the family's logistical role in the ceremony and the cultural activities (storytelling) to provide a full answer.

 

Question 7. What characteristics did Abdul Kalam inherited from his parents ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam acquired honesty and self-discipline from his father. From his mother, he inherited faith in goodness and profound kindness. Similar to his parents, he also showed respect for all religions and beliefs, adopting a very broad outlook.
In simple words: From his father, Abdul Kalam got honesty and self-control. From his mother, he learned kindness and belief in good things, and like them, he respected all religions.

Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish which qualities came from his father and which from his mother, as stated in the text.

 

Answer the Following Questions in Five to Six Sentences Each:

 

Question 1. What do you know about A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's family after reading the lesson 'My Childhood' ?
Answer: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam describes his family as a middle-class Tamil family from Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen, was not highly educated or wealthy, but he was a generous, wise, and simple man, yet strict. His mother, Ashiamma, was a very kind woman who used to feed countless people in their home. Kalam's family respected all religions, participated in Hindu festivals, and his mother and grandmother told him stories from the Ramayana, showing love without imposing their thoughts.
In simple words: Abdul Kalam's family was a middle-class Tamil family from Rameswaram. His father was wise and strict, while his mother was kind and fed many people. They respected all religions and shared stories with their children.

Exam Tip: Summarize key aspects of his parents' character, their financial status, religious attitudes, and family practices to give a complete picture.

 

Question 2. What incident took place at the Rameswaram Elementary School when a new teacher came to the class ?
Answer: At Rameswaram Elementary School, a new teacher arrived who could not accept a Hindu priest's son sitting with a Muslim boy. Kalam, identifiable by his cap as a Muslim, and Ramanadha Sastry, wearing a sacred thread as a Brahmin, were friends. The teacher ordered Kalam to move to the back bench, which upset Ramanadha. This incident saddened Abdul and left a negative impression. Both boys told their parents, resulting in the teacher being scolded and reprimanded for promoting communalism and hatred among young students.
In simple words: A new teacher at Rameswaram Elementary School made Abdul Kalam, a Muslim, sit separately from his Hindu friend, Ramanadha Sastry, causing distress. Their parents intervened, and the teacher was reprimanded for spreading division.

Exam Tip: Detail the specific actions of the teacher, the impact on the students, and the subsequent resolution involving the parents.

 

Question 3. How did Abdul Kalam earn his 'first wages' ? How did he feel at that time ?
Answer: Abdul Kalam was only eight years old when the Second World War began in 1939. During this time, there was a high need for tamarind seeds. Abdul would gather these seeds and sell them to a shop. His cousin, Samsuddin, distributed newspapers, but trains no longer stopped at Rameswaram, so bundles were thrown from moving trains. Abdul was hired by his cousin to collect these bundles. This is how he earned his first wages, and he felt immensely proud of his first earnings.
In simple words: Abdul Kalam earned his first money during World War II by collecting tamarind seeds and selling them. He also helped his cousin catch newspaper bundles thrown from trains because trains didn't stop. He felt very proud of this first income.

Exam Tip: Clearly explain both methods Kalam used to earn money and describe his emotional response to receiving his first wages.

 

Question 4. "Once you decide to change the system, such problems have to be confronted.” What system is being refer in the sentence from the chapter 'My Childhood' ? What are such problems?
Answer: The "system" mentioned in the sentence refers to the societal discrimination based on religion. This system includes narrow-mindedness, the harmful effects of social inequality, and communal intolerance, where Brahmins would not permit Muslims into their kitchens. The science teacher, a rebellious individual, invited Kalam home and showed that facing problems and changing the system leads to success. Although such differences appear in everyone's lives, people should maintain a broader perspective and overcome these barriers.
In simple words: The system means religious discrimination and social inequality, like Brahmins not allowing Muslims in their kitchens. Such problems involve narrow-mindedness and communal hatred. The text suggests we need to face these issues with a broad mindset to overcome them.

Exam Tip: Define the "system" clearly and then enumerate the specific problems associated with it as illustrated in the chapter.

 

Question 5. How was the science teacher Siva- subramania Iyer, though an orthodox Brahmin with a very conservative wife, a benefactor of Abdul Kalam ? Give incidents to support your answer.
Answer: The science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, aimed to break down the social divisions between Hindus and Muslims. He desired Kalam to be highly educated and recognized his sharp intelligence. One day, he invited Kalam to his house for a meal. His conservative wife was horrified at the thought of a Muslim boy eating in her kitchen, but Iyer was undeterred. He served Kalam food himself, ate beside him, and later invited him for another meal the following weekend. This clearly demonstrates his helpfulness to Abdul Kalam, despite Kalam being Muslim and Iyer himself an orthodox Brahmin.
In simple words: Sivasubramania Iyer helped Abdul Kalam by trying to break social barriers. He invited Abdul, a Muslim, to his house for a meal, even when his conservative wife was shocked. He served Abdul himself and ate with him, showing his belief in equality.

Exam Tip: Provide concrete examples of the teacher's actions (inviting, serving, eating with Kalam) and explain how these actions demonstrated his beneficent nature and desire to overcome social barriers.

 

Vocabulary

 

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

 

Question 1.
(1) I was one of many children-a short boy with rather __________ looks, __________ to tall and __________ parents. We lived in our __________ house.
(ancestral, born, undistinguished, handsome)
Answer: I was one of many children-a short boy with rather undistinguished looks, born to tall and handsome parents. We lived in our ancestral house.
In simple words: The correct words to fill the blanks are 'undistinguished' for looks, 'born' for the birth aspect, 'handsome' for the parents, and 'ancestral' for the house.

Exam Tip: Consider the context of each blank and the meaning of the provided words to choose the most fitting option.

 

(2) After school, we went home and told our __________ parents about the __________ Lakshmana Sastry __________ the teacher, and in our __________ and scolded him.
(summoned, respective, presence, incident)
Answer: After school, we went home and told our respective parents about the incident. Lakshmana Sastry summoned the teacher, and in our presence and scolded him.
In simple words: The words fill the blanks to describe telling their own parents about the event, Lakshmana Sastry calling the teacher, and scolding him in front of them.

Exam Tip: When filling multiple blanks in a sentence, ensure that the chosen words flow logically and maintain grammatical correctness.

 

Grammar

 

Rectify the Errors in the Passage:

 

Question 1.
(1) Every child is born, with some inherent characteristics, into a specific social-economic and emotive environment, and trained in certain ways by figures of othoritty. I inherit honesty and self-disciplined from my father.
Answer:

In simple words: The provided table shows the incorrect words from the passage and their correct forms to fix the grammatical errors.

Exam Tip: Always proofread carefully for common spelling, agreement, and word form errors in descriptive passages.

 

(2) On the hole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the sagregation of different social groups. Though, my science teacher Sivasubramania Iyer, still an orthodox Brahmin with a very conserving wife, was something of a rebellion.
Answer:

In simple words: This table corrects errors in spelling and word choice from the given passage about Rameswaram society and the science teacher.

Exam Tip: Focus on homophones (like hole/whole) and precise vocabulary (like segregation/sagregation) when correcting such passages.

 

(3) One day, he invited me at his home for a meal. His wife was horrify at the idea of a Muslim boy been invited to dine in her ritually pure kitchen, She refused serving me in her kitchen. Sivasubramania Iyer was not perturbed, or did he got angry with wife.
Answer:

In simple words: This table corrects grammatical errors in the passage, focusing on prepositions, verb forms, and conjunctions.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to verb tense, prepositions, and article usage, as these are common sources of error.

 

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

 

Question 1.
(1) __________ the annual Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam ceremony, our family used to arrange boats __________ a special platform __________ carrying idols __________ the Lord __________ the temple __________ the marriage site.
Answer: During the annual Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam ceremony, our family used to arrange boats with a special platform for carrying idols of the Lord from the temple to the marriage site.
In simple words: The blanks are filled with 'During', 'with', 'for', 'of', 'from', and 'to' to correctly describe the ceremony.

Exam Tip: Practice using articles (a, an, the), conjunctions (and, but, or), and prepositions (in, on, at, for) in various contexts to improve accuracy.

 

(2) He told me __________ thinking aloud, “Abdul! I know you have to go __________ to grow. Does __________ seagull not fly __________ the sun, alone __________ __________ a nest?”
Answer: He told me as if thinking aloud, “Abdul! I know you have to go away to grow. Does a seagull not fly across the sun, alone and without a nest?”
In simple words: The blanks are filled to make the sentence about Abdul's father speaking his thoughts, comparing Abdul to a seagull flying alone.

Exam Tip: Choose prepositions and conjunctions that create a smooth flow and logical connection between the different parts of the sentence.

 

Punctuate the Following Passage:

 

Question 1. He told me as if thinking aloud abdul I know you have to go away to grow does the seagull not fly across the sun alone and without a nest
Answer: He told me as if thinking aloud, “Abdul! I know you have to go away to grow. Does the seagull not fly across the sun, alone and without a nest?”
In simple words: The sentence needs quotation marks for the direct speech, a capital 'A' for Abdul, an exclamation mark or question mark as appropriate, and correct placement of other punctuation marks like commas or question marks.

Exam Tip: Remember to use quotation marks for direct speech, capitalize proper nouns, and end sentences with appropriate punctuation (period, question mark, or exclamation mark).

 

Rewrite as Directed:

 

Question 1. Jainulabdeen had neither much formal education nor much wealth. (Use 'either... or'.)
Answer: Jainulabdeen had not either much formal education or much wealth.
In simple words: The sentence is changed to use "not either...or" instead of "neither...nor" while keeping the same meaning.

Exam Tip: When using "either...or" with a negative, remember to place the "not" before "either" to maintain the correct meaning.

 

Question 2. I would say mine was a secure childhood. (Replace ‘mine' with 'my'.)
Answer: I would say that my childhood was secure.
In simple words: The sentence is rephrased to use "my childhood" instead of "mine was a childhood" for clarity.

Exam Tip: Understand the difference between possessive pronouns (mine) and possessive adjectives (my) and use them correctly according to sentence structure.

 

Question 3. The Second World War broke out in 1939 when I was eight years old. (Make it Simple.)
Answer: At my age of eight years, the Second World War broke out in 1939.
In simple words: The sentence is simplified to say the war started when the person was eight years old.

Exam Tip: "Making it simple" often involves rephrasing complex clauses into more direct and concise statements.

 

Question 4. Every child is born with some inherited characteristics. (Turn into Negative.)
Answer: No child is born without any inherited characteristics.
In simple words: The sentence is changed to a negative form, stating that every child has inherited traits.

Exam Tip: To convert to negative, ensure the meaning remains the same by using words like "no" or "without" appropriately.

 

Question 5. The new teacher could not stomach a Hindu priest's son sitting with a Muslim boy. (Change the Voice.)
Answer: A Hindu priest's son sitting with a Muslim boy could not be stomached by the new teacher.
In simple words: The sentence is changed from active voice to passive voice, showing that the action was received by the Hindu priest's son.

Exam Tip: Remember that in passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject, and the verb changes to a "be" form + past participle.

 

Question 6. I felt very sad, and so did Ramanadha Sastri. (Use 'Both'.)
Answer: Both I and Ramanadha Sastri felt very sad.
In simple words: The sentence is rewritten using "Both" to combine the two subjects who shared the same feeling of sadness.

Exam Tip: When using "both...and," ensure it connects two equivalent elements (like two subjects or two objects) in the sentence.

 

Question 7. He did his best to break social barriers. (Change the Degree.)
Answer: He did better than anybody to break social barriers.
In simple words: The sentence is changed to a comparative degree, indicating that he performed better than anyone else in breaking social barriers.

Exam Tip: To change the degree of comparison, use comparative adjectives (better, worse) and structures like "than anybody else" or "than any other" as appropriate.

 

My Childhood Summary in English

 

My Childhood Introduction:

Answer: Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, born on October 15, 1931, and passing away on July 27, 2015, served as India's 11th President from 2002 to 2007. He was born and brought up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. He pursued studies in physics and aerospace engineering. Kalam dedicated four decades of his life as a scientist and science administrator, primarily working at the DRDO and ISRO. He was actively involved in India's civilian space program and military missile development. He became known as the Missile Man of India due to his contributions to developing ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. He authored many autobiographical and motivational books, including 'Wings of Fire', 'Ignited Minds', 'You are Born to Blossom', 'Target 3 Billion', 'Forge your Future', 'Advantage India', and a book on spiritual realization titled 'Transcendance'.
In simple words: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India's 11th President and the 'Missile Man,' was born in Rameswaram and studied physics and engineering. He worked as a scientist at DRDO and ISRO, contributing to space and missile technology. He also wrote many motivational books about his life.

Exam Tip: When providing an introduction, include key biographical details, significant achievements, and notable works to give a comprehensive overview.

 

My Childhood Summary:

Answer: 'My Childhood' is a part of the autobiography 'Wings of Fire' by A. P.J. Abdul Kalam. Here, Dr. Kalam, one of India's greatest scientists and its 11th President, shares details about his early life. His journey from a middle-class family in Rameswaram to the President's house was not an easy path. He worked diligently and confronted all the difficulties that arose in his life. This remarkable scientist, known as the Missile Man of India, was born into a middle-class Muslim family in 1931 in the island town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. During his childhood, he was greatly shaped by his parents, his teachers, and his friends.
In simple words: 'My Childhood,' a part of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's book 'Wings of Fire,' tells about his early life. He describes his journey from a middle-class family in Rameswaram to becoming President, highlighting the hard work and challenges he faced. He says his parents, teachers, and friends influenced him greatly.

Exam Tip: A summary should cover the main theme (Kalam's childhood journey), the key influences (family, teachers, friends), and the challenges he overcame, all in a concise manner.