Maharashtra Board Class 10 English Chapter 2.4 An Epitome of Courage Solutions

Warming Up!

A Strange Truth - 'Handicapped are those who refuse to take up challenges, even with all their senses and physiology in perfect condition.'

 

Question 1. Understand and discuss the above truth.
Answer: (वरील सत्याविषयी समजून घ्या व चर्चा करा.)
In simple words: This question asks students to understand and discuss the introductory statement about what truly defines a handicap, emphasizing mental and physical readiness over physical condition.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on explaining the philosophical meaning of "handicap" as discussed in the truth, providing a concise personal interpretation.

 

Question 2. How can you encourage such people to change and become confident? Discuss at least 4-5 ways you can do the above.
Answer:
1. The discussion should be related to the people who are not really disabled mentally or physically. This truth is about the people who are mentally and physically perfect but avoid, hesitate or neglect doing something challenging. By some reasons, they are not ready to change their attitude or fixed ideas. They don't wish to change their mindset and stick to their passive and inactive attitude.
2. Think and try to understand the reasons behind their lethargy, inactiveness or indifference and try to encourage them and give them confidence.
3. Ways to encourage them and give confidence :
• Know his mindset, know his/her handicaps and obstacles he faced.
• Talk to him/her in friendly manner about his good qualities.
• Give examples of successful persons who have faced the challenges.
• Advice him/her to be brave, courageous and active.
• Help him/her in the fields where he/she lacks (confidence, courage, boldness, openness, etc.)
In simple words: To encourage individuals who are physically able but mentally hesitant, one must understand their mindset, identify their internal barriers, and then provide support through friendly discussions, inspiring examples, and practical help to build their confidence.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing ways to encourage, use clear, actionable points. Focus on empathy, understanding, and practical support to score well.

 

Question 1. There are pleasant and polite ways of referring to people with physical and mental disabilities. Fill in the table below:
Answer:

Previously used Term	New Polite Terms
1. Blind	(a) Visually challenged
2. Deaf	(b) Hearing impaired
3. Dumb	(c) Speech impaired
4. mad	(d) mentally ill
5. lame	(e) physically handicapped

In simple words: This question asks to identify and use more respectful and polite terms when referring to individuals with various physical and mental disabilities, replacing outdated or less sensitive language.

🎯 Exam Tip: Accuracy in matching the previously used terms with their appropriate polite alternatives is crucial. Focus on understanding the nuance of each term.

 

Question 2. Read the beginning and complete the story in your own words:
Sumit, the son oç a shoe maker, was a highly intelligent student in a municipal school.
His Maths teacher Called him 1Einstein', for he was brilliant in Maths.
He loved Maths. umit wanted to study further after C, however he suffered
from Polio and ....
Now, continue the story with a favourable/positive ending.
Answer:





In simple words: This is an open-ended creative writing task where students must continue a given story about a bright student named Sumit, who suffers from Polio, towards a positive and encouraging conclusion.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on developing a coherent plot with a positive resolution. Creativity, character consistency, and adherence to the positive ending requirement are key.

English Workshop:

 

Question 1. Match the following.
Answer:

Group 'A'	Group 'B'
1. Galileo	(d) The greatest scientist 300 years before Hawking.
2. Dr. Stephen Hawking	(c) The greatest scientist of this century.
3. Black Holes	(a) The concept which helped Stephen to get his Ph.D.
4. Stephen's favourite subjects	(b) Music and Mathematics

In simple words: This question requires matching key figures and concepts related to Stephen Hawking with their correct descriptions or associated facts to demonstrate understanding of the text.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure precise matching based on factual information from the text. A clear understanding of each item in both columns is essential.

 

Question 1. Complete the following web-chart containing the qualities of Dr. Stephen Hawking.
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र डॉ. स्टीफन हॉकिंग के गुणों को एक वेब-चार्ट के रूप में दर्शाता है। चार्ट के केंद्र में 'डॉ. स्टीफन हॉकिंग के गुण' हैं और उनसे तीर निकलकर छह गुणों को दिखाते हैं: बुद्धिमान, साहसी, आशावादी, विनम्र, निडर, और महान लेखक। यह वेब-चार्ट उनके व्यक्तित्व की बहुमुखी विशेषताओं को उजागर करता है।
In simple words: This question asks you to complete a web-chart by listing the various positive qualities and characteristics of Dr. Stephen Hawking, as described in the chapter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify and list all the qualities mentioned in the text that describe Dr. Stephen Hawking accurately. Ensure your list is comprehensive and reflects his personality and achievements.

 

Question 1. Arrange the following statements according to the occurance in the life history of Dr Stephen Hawking.
(a) At the age of 17, Stephen noticed that he fell down a couple of times for no reason.
(b) He became a fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Science.
(c) He believes that in the next millennium, science will discover the core secrets of the universe.
(d) Stephen was born on 8th January, 1942 and then grew up like an average child and a normal teenager.
(e) The disease worked its way into Stephen's body and left him disabled.
(f) Stephen decided to continue his doctoral research work with renewed vigor.
(g) Stephen was diagnosed with a rare disease - ALS or LOU.
(h) Though confined to a wheelchair he worked on computer and expressed his thoughts.
Answer:
(a) Stephen was born on 8th January, 1942 and then grew up like an average child and a normal teenager.
(b) At the age of 17, Stephen noticed that he fell down a couple of times for no reason.
(c) Stephen was diagnosed with a rare disease- ALS or LOU.
(d) Stephen decided to continue his doctoral research work with renewed vigour.
(e) The disease worked its way into Stephen's body and left him disabled.
(f) Though confined to a wheelchair he worked on computer and expressed his thoughts.
(g) He became a fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Science.
(h) He believes that in the next millennium, science will discover the core secrets of the universe.
In simple words: This question requires you to sequence events from Dr. Stephen Hawking's life chronologically, from his birth and early life to his later achievements and beliefs, showing an understanding of his biography.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to dates and the logical progression of events in Dr. Hawking's life as presented in the text to ensure accurate ordering.

4. Homographs - Pairs Of Words That Are Spelled And Pronounced The Same, But Have Different Meanings, In Different Contexts.

 

Question 1. Use the following words in two different contexts.
Answer:
(a) couple - couple
1. The bowler managed to take a couple of wickets.
2. The elderly couple was taking a walk in the park.
In simple words: This part asks you to use the word "couple" in two different sentences, demonstrating its meaning as "two of something" and "a married pair".

🎯 Exam Tip: For homographs, ensure each sentence clearly illustrates a distinct meaning of the word without ambiguity.

 

Question 1. Use the following words in two different contexts.
Answer:
(b) mind - mind
1. There were many thoughts in his mind, before he left his house.
2. Do you mind, if I put on the fan?
In simple words: This part requires you to use the word "mind" in two sentences, one showing it as the seat of thought and the other as an expression of caring or objection.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly differentiate between "mind" as a noun (brain) and "mind" as a verb (to object/care) in your sentences.

 

Question 1. Use the following words in two different contexts.
Answer:
(c) space - space
1. We shall make some space for our new table.
2. Man is thinking of building a space station on the moon.
In simple words: This part asks you to use "space" in two sentences, illustrating its meanings as an "available area" and the "outer universe".

🎯 Exam Tip: Show the contrast between "space" as physical room and "space" as the cosmos in your example sentences.

 

Question 1. Use the following words in two different contexts.
Answer:
(d) sound - sound
1. The loud sound at midnight startled everyone.
2. His idea of celebrating birthday in a different way sounds quite interesting.
In simple words: This part requires you to use "sound" in two sentences, demonstrating its meaning as an "auditory sensation" and "to appear or seem".

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between "sound" as a noun (noise) and "sound" as a verb (to seem) in your contextual usage.

 

Question 1. Use the following words in two different contexts.
Answer:
(e) left - left
1. Go straight and then turn left to reach the station.
2. As soon as he completed his Ph.D., he left for USA.
In simple words: This part asks you to use "left" in two sentences, showing its meaning as a "direction" and as the "past tense of leave".

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly show the difference between "left" as a direction and "left" as the action of departing in your sentences.

5. Use The Following Words/Phrases In Your Own Sentences.

 

Question 1. Use the following words/phrases in your own sentences.
Answer:
(a) quirk of fate
By the quirk of fate, all the members of the happy family died in an accident.
In simple words: This part requires you to use the phrase "quirk of fate" in a sentence, illustrating an unusual or unexpected turn of events beyond control.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the sentence clearly conveys the idea of an odd or unexpected occurrence attributed to destiny.

 

Question 1. Use the following words/phrases in your own sentences.
Answer:
(b) confined to
My neighbour is confined to bed for a long time with paralysis.
In simple words: This part asks you to use the phrase "confined to" in a sentence, showing a state of being restricted or limited to a particular place or condition.

🎯 Exam Tip: The sentence should clearly indicate a restriction of movement or activity to a specific area or state.

 

Question 1. Use the following words/phrases in your own sentences.
Answer:
(c) exaggeration
He told me the strange news without any . exaggeration.
In simple words: This part requires you to use the word "exaggeration" in a sentence, illustrating the act of making something seem larger, better, or worse than it really is.

🎯 Exam Tip: The sentence should show how something is described beyond its actual truth or importance.

 

Question 1. Use the following words/phrases in your own sentences.
Answer:
(d) an epitome of
The champion cricketer is an epitome of modesty
In simple words: This part asks you to use the phrase "an epitome of" in a sentence, meaning a perfect example of a particular quality or type.

🎯 Exam Tip: The sentence should present a subject as the perfect or purest representation of a specific characteristic.

 

Question 1. Use the following words/phrases in your own sentences.
Answer:
(e) millennium.
I believe that man will go to stay on other planets before the next millennium.
In simple words: This part requires you to use the word "millennium" in a sentence, referring to a period of one thousand years.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the sentence uses "millennium" to correctly denote a long period of time, specifically a thousand years.

6. Expand The Given Themes. Make Use Of This Support/Hints:

 

Question 1.a. Falling ill during the Final Exam.
Hints: First step/what to do support/help
Answer:
If I fall ill during my final exam, I'll feel worried in the beginning. But soon I'll collect myself and will face the problem boldly. Determinedly I'll continue to appear for the remaining exam papers because there will be no reason getting into a panic about the final exam. I already have completed my study and revised it well before the exam. My parents, I am sure, will be there to nurse me well and look after my health, medicines and my fast recovery. My friends also will help me in my studies. They will comfort me and give me confidence. If I feel a little better, I myself will continue my studies for the final exam. So everything will fall into place.
In simple words: If you fall ill during exams, the key is to stay calm, focus on recovery, and rely on prior preparation and support from family and friends to manage the situation effectively.

🎯 Exam Tip: For such personal response questions, focus on a positive mindset, realistic solutions, and the support system (family, friends) that would help overcome the challenge.

 

Question 1.b. Helping a Disabled Person.
Hints: Act/behave Contact whom?
Answer:
If I meet a disabled person who needs help, I'll treat him kindly. I shall sympathetically enquire about his difficulties and his requirements. I shall, with the help of my friends, try to provide him with the things he needs. If his needs are beyond our reach, we shall contact the persons or the organizations who could support him and fulfill his needs and requirements. We shall continue our efforts till he meets all his essential needs and equipment.
In simple words: To help a disabled person, approach them kindly, understand their specific needs, and then offer practical assistance directly or by connecting them with appropriate support organizations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize empathy, practical help, and the importance of connecting with relevant organizations if personal assistance is insufficient.

 

Question 1.c. Helping a Friend in Trouble.
Hints: Gestures/Body language Patience/Tolerance
Answer:
If any of my friends is in trouble, I will immediately visit him and find out the nature of his trouble. I shall try to pacify him if he is really very much affected. I shall console him if his trouble is because of emotional or financial problems. My friends and I will promise him to share his problem if he speaks it up clearly and freely. A trouble shared is a trouble halved. We shall advise him to be patient and tolerate the situation bravely and courageously. We shall try to help and support our friend in every possible way.
In simple words: When a friend is in trouble, it's important to offer immediate emotional support, understand their problem without judgment, and then provide practical help or advice to navigate the difficulty.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight active listening, offering both emotional and practical support, and encouraging open communication as key elements of helping a friend.

 

Question 1.d. Meeting a Great Person like Dr. Stephen Hawking.
Hints: Plan/organise Face /Handle/Overcome Succeed/Accomplish
Answer:
Before meeting such a great person like Dr. Stephen Hawking, I will have to preplan my visit and get permission for the visit from him. I must be ready with the information about his life history, his characteristics, his education, his achievements and his display of exemplary courage in the face of overwhelming odds. It is difficult to face and get to talk to such an awe-inspiring person. But I know how to handle myself in this situation. I will talk to him boldly and respectfully. I will overcome my fear of meeting such a great man. I will tell him how I am impressed and inspired by his work and achievements. I will get the greatest joy of my life in meeting such a great personality.
In simple words: Meeting an inspirational figure like Dr. Stephen Hawking requires preparation, respectful communication, and a clear purpose to express admiration and seek inspiration from their journey.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize pre-planning, showing respect, and focusing on what you hope to learn or convey from such an encounter. Highlight the inspirational aspect.

7. You Happen To Meet A Successful Person Who Is A Disabled. Write An Imaginary Dialogue Between You And Him/Her. You Can Take Support Of The Hints Provided.

 

Question 1. You happen to meet a successful person who is a disabled. Write an imaginary dialogue between you and him/her. You can take support of the hints provided.
(a) introductionlwelcome/greetings
(b) congratulating/honouring
(c) cause/reason for the disability
(d) decisionlplan/organisationlimplementation
(e) idols in life
(f) parents/friends - support if any
(g) success stories/accomplishments
(h) conclusion/final message if any
Answer:
An Imaginary Dialogue between Sumit, a disabled and you:
• Myself: Hello, Sir, nice to meet you. I have read that you have received 'The Sangeet Samrat' Award of our city. Congratulations!
• Sumit: Yes, you are right, and thank you for your good wishes.
• Myself: You are confined to the wheelchair and both your legs are amputated. What made you disabled?
• Sumit: At the age of five I was crippled by Polio, The disease worked its way into my legs and they had to be amputated. I was confined to this wheelchair since then.
• Myself: I wonder how you could achieve such a great feat. Didn't you feel depressed?
• Sumit: That is a long story. Music was in my blood. My father was a great classical singer. I used to listen to him since my childhood. He was my first Guru.
• Myself: With all your sufferings and this disability, what made you live a normal life and who inspired you?
Sumit: God is great! And courage is a wonderful thing! I was optimistic, so I faced the calamity without losing heart. Fortunately one of our teachers in our special school inspired me. He told me the story of Wilma Rudolf whose legs were crippled by Polio. Even then she wanted to become the fastest runner in the world and she did it! She practised with determination. She failed in many races got up started again. The day came when she reached Rome for participating in the 1960 Olympics. In women's running races (events), she won gold medals in 100 metres running, 200 metres running and 400 metres relay race, defeating all the participants. She became the fastest runner in the then world. The story inspired me and I started my riyaz undauntedly for hours together and here I am today.
• Myself: Were there any obstacles?
• Sumit: Yes, there were. I faced them boldly and moved ahead. People began to admire my songs and music. Now people respect me as rich and famous, but a humble music director.
• Myself: Could you please tell me about the most memorable day in your career as a music composer?
• Sumit: Yes, It is unforgettable that I received my 'Sangeet Samrat Award' from Godlike Guru Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar.
• Myself: What are your plans for future?
• Sumit: I will continue my service to music and please my fans.
• Myself: What is your advice to the younger generation?
• Sumit: Come what may. Work hard determinedly. Win over your physical or mental calamities courageously. Don't give up and try your best to get success in life.
• Myself: Thank you for giving your precious time and talk.
• Sumit: It's my pleasure!
In simple words: This question requires you to write a dialogue with a successful disabled person, covering their achievements, challenges, inspirations, and advice for others, using provided hints to structure the conversation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the dialogue flows naturally and addresses all the given hints. Focus on conveying inspiration and resilience through the character's responses.

Language Study:

 

1. Complete The Following Word Chain Of Adjectives.

 

Question 1. Complete the following Word Chain of adjectives
Answer:
(a) cruel \( \to \) lazy \( \to \) yearlong \( \to \) genuine \( \to \) enthusiastic.
(b) medicine \( \to \) energy \( \to \) yardstick \( \to \) keyboard \( \to \) diary.
(c) grow \( \to \) withstand \( \to \) develop \( \to \) practice \( \to \) entertain.
(d) physics \( \to \) secretary \( \to \) yawn \( \to \) nature \( \to \) eligible
In simple words: This question requires you to form a chain of words where each subsequent word starts with the last letter of the previous word.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure that each word in the chain starts with the exact last letter of the preceding word and that all words are adjectives (or the specified part of speech). Accuracy in spelling is also important.

2. (A) Convert The Following To Exclamatory Sentences Of The Same Meaning.

 

Question 1. Convert the following to Exclamatory sentences of the same meaning.
(a) Dr Hawking is a very humble man.
(b) He was very clumsy.
(c) He was very simple and intelligent.
(d) Courage is a truly wonderful thing.
Answer:
(a) How humble a man Dr. Hawking is!
(b) How clumsy was he!
(c) How simple and intelligent was he!
(d) How truly wonderful a thing courage is!
In simple words: This question asks you to transform declarative sentences into exclamatory sentences, expressing strong feelings or surprise, while retaining their original meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to use "How" or "What a/an" at the beginning of the exclamatory sentence and end it with an exclamation mark (!). Maintain the original sentiment.

 

(B) Convert The Following To Interrogative (Question) Form.

 

Question 1. Convert the following to Interrogative (Question) form.
1. The prognosis was bad.
2. Stephen decided to continue his research.
3. There are many people who display exemplary courage.
4. His mind would soar up into space like light.
Answer:
1. Wasn't the prognosis bad?
2. Didn't Stephen decide to continue his research?
3. Aren't there many people who display exemplary courage?
4. Wouldn't his mind soar up into space, like light?
In simple words: This question requires you to change given statements into questions, ensuring that the interrogative form reflects the original meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: To form questions, typically use auxiliary verbs (do, did, is, was, etc.) at the beginning, or form a negative question for implied agreement. Always end with a question mark.

Read The Following Passage And Do The Activities:

Simple Factual Activities:

 

Question 1. Complete the following sentences with the help of the information from the passage:
(Answers are directly given and underlined.)
Answer:
1. Dr. Stephen Hawking was born on the eighth day of January 1942 in Oxford.
2. Courage is the quality which makes people not to lose heart when faced with a great calamity.
3. Dr. Stephen Hawking was a living legend of Cosmology.
4. He wanted to study mathematics but the Oxford University did not have mathematics course then, so he opted to study physics instead.
5. Stephen Hawking's parents failed to know ! about Stephen that one day their little boy; will be acclaimed as one of the greatest scientist of this century.
6. Stephen Hawkings was sent to the University of Oxford to study Mathematics.
In simple words: This question asks you to fill in the blanks in sentences using specific facts and details provided within the reading passage.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the passage carefully to identify the exact words and phrases needed to complete each sentence accurately, ensuring no information is missed or altered.

 

Question 2. State whether the following sentences are True or False:
Answer:
1. Dr. Stephen Hawking was born on the eighth day of February 1942. - False
2. Dr. Stephen Hawking was a living legend of Biology. - False
3. Courage makes people not lose heart when faced with a great calamity. - True
4. Dr. Stephen Hawking was born before the death of Galileo. - False
In simple words: This question requires you to determine if given statements about Dr. Stephen Hawking and related concepts are factually correct or incorrect, based on the provided passage.

🎯 Exam Tip: Cross-reference each statement with the information in the passage to confirm its accuracy. Pay close attention to details like dates, subjects, and specific descriptions.

 

Question 3. Say whether the following statements are True or False:
Answer:
1. At the age of 17 Dr. Stephen Hawking was suffering from an extremely rare disease. - True
2. Stephen's teachers liked his handwriting very much. - False
3. He got his Ph.D. studying the concept of 'Black Holes'. - True
4. At the dismal stage Dr. Hawking enjoyed his life the most. - True
In simple words: This question tests your comprehension of key facts from the passage by asking you to identify whether specific statements about Dr. Stephen Hawking's life are true or false.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully compare each statement to the exact details presented in the passage. Minor discrepancies can make a statement false.

 

Question 4. Complete the following sentences with the help of the information given in the passage:
(Answers are directly given and underlined.)
Answer:
1. Dr. Hawking is a very humble man, though he is considered Einstein's equal in intelligence.
2. Dr. Hawking expressed his thoughts with the help of his finger and with a computer.
3. He was bestowed with numerous honorary doctorates and awards.
4. Dr. Hawking's 'A Brief History of Time' is one of the best selling books of our time.
In simple words: This question requires you to complete sentences by extracting specific details and phrases directly from the provided reading passage.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure that the completed sentences perfectly reflect the information in the passage. Do not add outside information or interpretations.

Complex Factual Activities

 

Question 1. What do you know about Dr Stephen Hawking from this passage?
Answer:
Dr Stephen Hawking was born in Oxford on the 8th of January 1942. Nobody could imagine that the little boy would be one of the greatest scientists of this century. He faced a great calamity with great courage and became living legend of Cosmology. His body was bound to a wheelchair but his mind was working and that made him one of the greatest scientists of this century.
In simple words: This question asks for a summary of what the passage reveals about Dr. Stephen Hawking, including his birth, challenges, and his transformation into a leading scientist.

🎯 Exam Tip: When summarizing, select the most important facts and achievements of Dr. Hawking mentioned in the passage, focusing on his resilience and intellectual contributions.

 

Question 3. Complete the following web showing the effects of the disease ALS or LOU on Dr Hawking:
(Answers are directly given and underlined.)
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र डॉ. स्टीफन हॉकिंग पर ALS या LOU बीमारी के प्रभावों को दर्शाता है। बीमारी उनके शरीर में फैल गई, जिससे वे अक्षम हो गए और उन्हें व्हीलचेयर तक सीमित कर दिया। इस बीमारी के कारण उन्होंने अपने हाथों और वाणी पर तेजी से नियंत्रण खो दिया।
In simple words: The diagram illustrates the severe impact of ALS/LOU disease on Dr. Stephen Hawking, showing how it disabled him, confined him to a wheelchair, and caused him to lose control over his hands and speech.

🎯 Exam Tip: For web diagrams, clearly identify the central theme and list all interconnected points as distinct effects or characteristics. Accuracy in linking is key.

 

Question 4. What did Dr. Stephen achieve even after the disease disabled him?
Answer: Even after the disease disabled Stephen he continued his doctoral research work with renewed vigour. He studied the concept of "Black Holes" and got his Ph.D. in the subject. The study sparked his imagination with bright ideas. He made many epoch-making statements that shook established theories. To explain the concept of 'Big Bang' better, Stephen invented what is known as "Lie Algebra".
In simple words: Despite being disabled by the disease, Dr. Stephen Hawking continued his research, earned his Ph.D. on "Black Holes," made groundbreaking scientific statements, and even invented "Lie Algebra."

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on identifying key achievements and contributions made despite adversity. Highlight specific areas of his work like his Ph.D. topic and theories.

 

Question 5. What does the writer say about the books authored by Dr. Hawking?
Answer: The writer says about Dr. Hawking's books that he wrote many books dealing with his terrific ideas keeping a common man in mind. His writing is full of wit and humour. His style is so lucid that non-scientists can also understand his writing. His book 'A Brief History of Time' is one of the best selling books of our time.
In simple words: The writer describes Dr. Hawking's books as insightful, witty, humorous, and written in a lucid style that makes complex ideas accessible to everyone, with 'A Brief History of Time' being a bestseller.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing authored works, mention characteristics of the writing style and notable titles to demonstrate comprehensive understanding.

 

Question 6. Which of Dr. Hawking's achievements are mentioned in this passage?
Answer: Dr. Hawking is an authority on profound subjects of science. Numerous honorary doctorates and awards have been bestowed upon him. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Sciences. He has authored many books dealing with his awesome ideas. His book 'A Brief History of Time' is one of best selling books of our times.
In simple words: Dr. Hawking's achievements include being an authority in science, receiving numerous honorary doctorates and awards, becoming a Fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Sciences, and authoring best-selling books like 'A Brief History of Time'.

🎯 Exam Tip: List specific accolades, affiliations, and significant works to thoroughly answer questions about achievements.

 

Activities Based On Vocabulary

 

Question 1. Classify the following words into verbs, adjectives and nouns:
whole, know, little, predict, calamity, legend, mind, physics, great, imagine, wonderful, cruel, courage, faced, grew, heart, fate, course.
Answer:
1. Verbs - know, predict, imagine, faced, grew
2. Adjectives - little, wonderful, cruel, whole, great
3. Nouns - calamity, legend, mind, physics, courage, heart, fate, course
In simple words: Words are categorized into verbs (actions), adjectives (descriptions), and nouns (people, places, things, ideas) based on their grammatical function.

🎯 Exam Tip: Practice identifying the part of speech for different words. Look for suffixes and prefixes that often indicate a word's category.

 

Question 2. Find the similar meaning word/phrase for the following from the passage
Answer:
1. a period of hundred years - century.
2. a very fine example of something - epitome
3. acclaimed - hailed
4. unexpected change of destiny - quirk of fate
In simple words: This exercise matches given phrases with single words or concise phrases that carry the same meaning, as found in the reading passage.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to context when finding synonyms in a passage. The word must fit the exact meaning and nuance intended by the author.

 

Question 3. Match the words in Column 'A' with their meanings in Column 'B':

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. confined	(b) awkward
2. undaunted	(c) restricted
3. perplexed	(d) worried because of difficulty
4. clumsy	(a) determined despite difficulties

Answer:

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. confined	(c) restricted
2. undaunted	(a) determined despite difficulties
3. perplexed	(d) worried because of difficulty
4. clumsy	(b) awkward

In simple words: This task involves pairing words from one column with their correct definitions or synonyms from another column.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read both columns and eliminate obvious mismatches. For tricky pairs, try using the word in a sentence to recall its meaning.

 

Question 4. Write the adjectives for the following nouns from the passage:
1. ideas
2. style
3. courage
4. secrets.
Answer:
1. awesome ideas
2. lucid style
3. exemplary courage
4. core secrets
In simple words: This activity requires identifying an appropriate adjective that describes each given noun, based on the context of the passage.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to find adjectives from a passage, scan for words modifying the given nouns. Ensure the adjective accurately describes the noun's characteristic in the text.

 

Question 5. Match the words in Column 'A' with their meanings in Column 'B':

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. profound	(a) a person without any special skill
2. awesome	(b) a perfect example
3. layman	(c) showing very (knowledge) great
4. quintessence	(d) very impressive

Answer:

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. profound	(c) showing very (knowledge)
2. awesome	(d) very impressive
3. layman	(a) a person without any special skill
4. quintessence	(b) a perfect example

In simple words: This task involves pairing words from one column with their precise definitions or close synonyms from another column.

🎯 Exam Tip: Take your time to understand the nuances of each word and its potential matches. Cross-referencing can help confirm choices.

 

Activities Based On Contextual Grammar:

 

Question 1. Make the following sentences exclamatory:
i. Courage is truly a wonderful thing.
Answer: What a wonderful thing courage is!
ii. He was very clumsy.
Answer: How clumsy he was!
In simple words: To change a sentence into an exclamatory one, we use "What" or "How" at the beginning, followed by an adjective or noun, and end with an exclamation mark, expressing strong feeling.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to use "What a/an" for noun phrases and "How" for adjectives/adverbs when converting to exclamatory sentences. End with an exclamation mark.

 

Question 2. Change the following sentence into positive and comparative degree:
Dr Hawking is one of the greatest scientists of this century.
Answer:
i. Positive degree: Very few (Not many) scientists of this century are as great as Dr. Hawking.
ii. Comparative degree: Dr. Hawking is greater than most other scientists of this century.
In simple words: This involves rephrasing a superlative sentence to express the same idea using positive (as...as) and comparative (than most other) degrees without changing its core meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: When converting from superlative "one of the greatest," use "Very few... as great as" for positive and "greater than most other" for comparative degree.

 

Question 3. He is one of the greatest scientists of this century. (Choose the correct question tag from the given alternatives.)
(a) aren't he?
(b) is he?
(c) wasn't he?
(d) isn't he?
Answer: He is one of the greatest scientists of this century; isn't he?
In simple words: A question tag is a short question added to the end of a statement, formed using an auxiliary verb and a pronoun, to ask for confirmation.

🎯 Exam Tip: The question tag should match the tense and auxiliary verb of the main sentence. If the main sentence is positive, the tag is negative, and vice-versa.

 

Question 4. He made many epoch-making statements. (Rewrite the sentence using Present Continuous Tense.)
Answer: He is making many epoch-making statements.
In simple words: To change a sentence to present continuous tense, replace the simple past verb with "is/are + -ing" form, indicating an ongoing action.

🎯 Exam Tip: For present continuous tense, use the structure 'subject + am/is/are + verb-ing + object/complement'.

 

Question 5. This disease came as a bolt from the blue. (Rewrite the sentence using Past Perfect Tense.)
Answer: This disease had come as a bolt from the blue.
In simple words: To rewrite in past perfect tense, change the simple past verb to "had + past participle," indicating an action completed before another past action or a specific past time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Past perfect tense uses 'had' + past participle to describe an action that occurred before another action in the past.

 

Personal Responses:

 

Question 1. Do you think, that courage is a wonderful thing? Why do you think so?
Answer: Yes, I do think that courage is a wonderful thing because it can work miracles in one's life. A person with great courage stimulates an ordinary or even a disabled person to achieve the impossible. I know a small boy who rescued his younger sister from a tiger's fierce attack. A courageous person is brave enough to do whatever he/she feels to be right and good in his or her opinion.
In simple words: Yes, courage is wonderful because it enables individuals, even those with disabilities, to overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary feats, driven by their inner conviction of what is right.

🎯 Exam Tip: For personal response questions, express your opinion clearly and support it with logical reasoning and a relevant example, if possible.

 

Question 2. What, do you think, are the miseries of a person who is confined to wheelchair?
Answer: I think, the person who is confined to a wheelchair has to face many restrictions, difficulties and inconveniences. He is mentally and physically depressed all the time. He is deprived of living comfortable happy life. He neither has control over his limbs nor on his mind.
In simple words: A person confined to a wheelchair faces numerous physical and mental challenges, including restrictions, difficulties, and feelings of depression, impacting their overall quality of life and sense of control.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing miseries, consider both the physical limitations and the emotional/psychological impact on the individual.

 

Question 3. How do you know that Dr. Hawking is a perfect example of optimism and hope?
Answer: He fully believed in his courage, his intelligence and his authority on profound subjects of science. He did not lose his hopes, even when he was suffering from the dreaded ALS disease. He believed that his life was not different from other people. He tried his best and lived a normal life like other people. He did not think about his sufferings or regret the things that prevented him from doing the things he hoped. His optimism helped him to fulfill his hopes and goals.
In simple words: Dr. Hawking exemplified optimism and hope by maintaining belief in his abilities despite ALS, refusing to let his physical condition define him, and continuously striving to live a normal life and achieve his scientific goals.

🎯 Exam Tip: To showcase someone as an example of optimism, cite specific instances where they overcame adversity, maintained a positive outlook, and pursued their goals despite challenges.

 

Do As Directed:

 

Question 1. His writing is full of wit and humour.
(Rewrite the sentence using Past Perfect Tense.)
Answer: His writing had been full of wit and humour.
In simple words: To change to past perfect tense, the helping verb "is" becomes "had been," indicating a state that existed and was completed in the past.

🎯 Exam Tip: For sentences with "is/are," the past perfect form typically uses "had been."

 

Question 2. He is a fellow of the Royal society and a member of the US National Academy of Science.
(Use not only - but also)
Answer: He is not only a fellow of the Royal society but also a member.
In simple words: This construction is used to emphasize that a person or thing has two distinct attributes or is involved in two different roles.

🎯 Exam Tip: Place "not only" before the first element and "but also" before the second element that are being contrasted or added to, ensuring parallel structure.

 

Activities Based On Language Study

 

Do as directed:

 

Question 1. Complete the words by using the correct letter:
1. de_th
2. st_ge
3. boo_s
4. b_ave
Answer:
1. death
2. stage
3. books
4. brave
In simple words: This task requires filling in the missing letters to complete common English words.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the partial word aloud and consider common spelling patterns. Think of related words to help recall the correct letter.

 

Question 2. Put the following words in alphabetical order:
1. profound, prognosis, planet, possible
2. undaunted, confined, awesome, explain
Answer:
1. planet, possible, profound, prognosis
2. awesome, confined, explain, undaunted
In simple words: This involves arranging a given list of words according to the standard alphabetical sequence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Compare words letter by letter from left to right. If the first letters are the same, move to the second, and so on.

 

Question 3. Punctuate the following sentences:
1. he said to her we must have to come out of this calamity
2. shall we reach meeras house on time i asked.
Answer:
1. He said to her, "We must have to come out of this calamity."
2. "Shall we reach Meera's house on time?" I asked.
In simple words: Punctuation involves adding necessary capital letters, commas, quotation marks, and question marks to make sentences grammatically correct and clear.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to capitalize the first word of a sentence and direct speech. Use quotation marks for direct speech and commas to separate clauses or before quotes.

 

Question 4. Make four words (minimum 3 letters each) using the letters in the word meanwhile:
Answer: mean, while, meal, mile
In simple words: This task is to create new words of at least three letters using only the letters available in a given word.

🎯 Exam Tip: Systematically look for combinations of letters. Start with larger words and then try smaller ones. Ensure each word is at least three letters long and a valid English word.

 

Question 5. Write related words as shown in the example:
(Answers are directly given and underlined.)
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र 'idea' शब्द से संबंधित विशेषणों का एक 'वेब' या 'माइंड मैप' दर्शाता है। 'idea' के चारों ओर 'fantastic', 'awesome', 'good', 'sensible' और 'strange' जैसे शब्द हैं, जो विचार की विभिन्न विशेषताओं का वर्णन करते हैं।
In simple words: The diagram illustrates a web of words related to 'idea,' showing various adjectives that can describe an idea, such as fantastic, awesome, good, sensible, and strange.

🎯 Exam Tip: For 'related words' or 'word web' questions, think of synonyms, antonyms, adjectives, verbs, or nouns that directly associate with the central word.

 

Do as directed:

 

1. Attempt anyone:
b. Add a clause to the following sentence to expand it meaningfully.
Nobody thought that
Answer: Nobody thought that he would become such a great sportsman.
In simple words: This task requires adding a dependent clause to an incomplete sentence to provide more information and create a complete, meaningful statement.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the added clause logically extends the initial phrase and forms a grammatically correct complex sentence.

 

2. Attempt anyone:
a. Add a prefix or suffix to make new words:
1. known
2. lucky
Answer:
1. unknown
2. unlucky
OR
b. Make a meaningful sentence using any one of the following words:
1. known
2. lucky
Answer:
1. Satyendra Nath Bose was one of the known scientists of India.
2. Our school team was lucky to win the Kabaddi match at the last moment.
In simple words: This question offers two choices: either create new words by adding prefixes/suffixes to given words, or use given words to form meaningful sentences.

🎯 Exam Tip: When adding prefixes/suffixes, choose common ones that form valid words. When writing sentences, ensure they are grammatically correct and clearly convey meaning.