RBSE Solutions Class 12 English Rainbow Chapter 11 On the Face of It

Get the most accurate RBSE Solutions for Class 12 English Chapter 11 On the Face of It here. Updated for the 2026-27 academic session, these solutions are based on the latest RBSE textbooks for Class 12 English. Our expert-created answers for Class 12 English are available for free download in PDF format.

Detailed Chapter 11 On the Face of It RBSE Solutions for Class 12 English

For Class 12 students, solving RBSE textbook questions is the most effective way to build a strong conceptual foundation. Our Class 12 English solutions follow a detailed, step-by-step approach to ensure you understand the logic behind every answer. Practicing these Chapter 11 On the Face of It solutions will improve your exam performance.

Class 12 English Chapter 11 On the Face of It RBSE Solutions PDF

Activity 1: Comprehension

A. State whether the following statements are True or False. Write 'T' for true and 'F' for false:

 

Question 1. Derry suffered from disease because of which other children made fun of him.
Answer: False.
In simple words: Derry did not suffer from a disease. His face was burned by acid, which caused other children to make fun of him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always state clearly whether the statement is true or false. If false, briefly explain the correct information.

 

Question 2. As other people did, Mr Lamb made fun of Derry and also humiliated him.
Answer: False.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb was kind and understanding to Derry, unlike other people. He never made fun of him or humiliated him.

🎯 Exam Tip: When characters interact, pay attention to their actions and words to determine their true nature and relationship.

 

Question 3. Li ....................ends because he had a tin leg.
Answer: False. (The full question is not visible, but from the context of "tin leg" referring to Mr Lamb, it is likely that it asks if he loses friends because of it. Mr Lamb does not lose friends because of his tin leg, as he keeps his gate open and welcomes everyone.)
In simple words: Mr. Lamb did not lose friends because of his tin leg. He was a friendly person and welcomed everyone, even children who sometimes teased him about it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Even with incomplete questions, sometimes context from the story can help infer the most probable answer, but always acknowledge the limitation if the question is partial.

 

B. Answer the following questions in about 30-40 words each:

 

Question 1. What physical disability did Derry suffer from? How did he come by it?
Answer: Derry suffered from a burnt face on one side. This happened when acid fell on his face, leaving it permanently scarred. This physical disability made Derry feel alone and avoid other people. The accident changed his appearance and how he interacted with the world.
In simple words: Derry had a burnt face on one side because acid fell on it. This made him feel lonely and avoid others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the disability and its cause. Then, briefly explain the immediate emotional impact it had on the character.

 

Question 2. What is Derry afraid of?
Answer: Derry is afraid of meeting people. Since one side of his face is burnt, he feels different and isolated. He always feels that people stare at him and will either make fun of him or show him pity. His fear stems from how others react to his appearance.
In simple words: Derry is afraid to meet people because his burnt face makes him feel different, and he worries they will stare or mock him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the core fear and directly link it to the character's unique situation. Explain why this fear exists.

 

Question 3. Why does Derry not like being with other people?
Answer: Derry does not like being with other people because his burnt face makes him feel unwanted. He believes that no one genuinely likes his company or loves him. He feels that society does not accept him as a normal person, which makes him prefer to be alone. This feeling of being different isolates him.
In simple words: Derry does not like being with others because his burnt face makes him feel disliked and unaccepted by people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on Derry's internal thoughts and beliefs about how others perceive him. This is the root of his dislike for company.

 

Question 4. What disability did Mr Lamb suffer from? How did he overcome his feeling of loneliness and alienation?
Answer: Mr. Lamb had lost one of his legs in a war explosion and used a tin leg. To overcome his feelings of loneliness and isolation, he always kept his garden gate open, welcoming everyone. People, including children who came for apples and pears, would visit and sit in his garden, creating a lively atmosphere around him. This simple act helped him connect with the community.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb had a tin leg from a war injury. He kept his garden gate open for visitors, which helped him feel less lonely.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the physical disability and then clearly explain the specific actions Mr. Lamb took to deal with his feelings of loneliness.

 

Question 5. How was Mr Lamb friendly with kids despite their teasing him about his broken leg?
Answer: Mr. Lamb was friendly with children even though they teased him about his broken leg. He never minded their comments and always kept his garden gate open for them. He would let the children play in his garden and often gave them apples, pears, and toffees he made himself with honey. His kind nature and welcoming attitude made him popular despite the teasing.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb was friendly with children because he didn't care when they teased his broken leg. He let them play in his garden and gave them treats.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight Mr. Lamb's tolerant nature and actions that show his friendliness, even when faced with teasing.

 

Question 6. Why does Derry come back to Mr Lamb's house?
Answer: Derry comes back to Mr. Lamb's house because he feels inspired by Mr. Lamb's positive outlook on life, despite both having physical disabilities. Mr. Lamb offers him friendship and helps Derry see things in a new, hopeful way. Derry finds Mr. Lamb to be a truly interesting person who understands him without judgment, which makes him want to return.
In simple words: Derry comes back to Mr. Lamb's house because Mr. Lamb's positive attitude and friendship make Derry feel inspired and understood.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the positive influence Mr. Lamb has on Derry and the sense of connection Derry feels, which he lacks elsewhere.

 

B. Answer the following questions in about 125 words each:

 

Question 1. What does Derry not like about the people around him?
Answer: Derry has a face burnt by acid, which is his physical disability. He strongly dislikes how people around him react to his appearance. They often whisper about him, commenting that his face is terrible and that only his mother could ever love him. People stare at him and make odd remarks, while his own parents show him excessive care and sympathy, making him feel helpless. Derry feels they see him as a poor, incapable person who cannot achieve anything in life. He hates this attitude, which varies from fear to hatred to pity. He just wants to be treated like a normal person and not as someone who is helpless. This longing for normalcy shapes his interactions.
In simple words: Derry dislikes how people react to his burnt face; they whisper, stare, pity him, or show hatred. His parents' overprotection also makes him feel helpless. He simply wants to be treated normally.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail the various negative reactions Derry observes from people and explain how these reactions contribute to his feelings of frustration and alienation. Include his desire for normal treatment.

 

Question 2. What bond unites Derry and Mr Lamb?
Answer: Derry has an acid-burnt face, and Mr. Lamb has a tin leg after losing his original leg. Both characters share a common bond of physical disability. Derry initially suffers from an inferiority complex and avoids people, thinking his appearance frightens them. However, he finds Mr. Lamb to be a completely different person. Mr. Lamb, despite his own disability, shows no signs of inferiority; instead, he loves meeting people and living life fully. He inspires Derry to embrace life as it is, using his own experiences as an example. Derry finds Mr. Lamb to be a patient listener and a role model for living without shame. This shared experience, combined with Mr. Lamb's positive attitude, draws Derry to him, creating a strong bond of understanding and friendship.
In simple words: Derry, with his burnt face, and Mr. Lamb, with his tin leg, share a physical disability. Mr. Lamb's positive and accepting view of life inspires Derry to overcome his own inferiority, forming a deep bond between them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain both the shared physical element and the emotional/philosophical connection that brings them together, highlighting Mr. Lamb's role as a mentor.

 

Question 3. Describe in detail the tactics used by Mr Lamb to help Derry overcome the feelings of loneliness and alienation.
Answer: Mr. Lamb uses several tactics to help Derry overcome his feelings of loneliness and isolation. First, he speaks to Derry with great kindness and offers him an open invitation to visit his house anytime, making Derry feel accepted. He shares his own experience of living with a tin leg, explaining that children tease him but he still enjoys their company. Mr. Lamb also tells Derry that people have more interesting things to do than to stare at his face, encouraging him to ignore negative attention. He advises Derry to meet people, do what he wants, and not worry about others' opinions. Mr. Lamb even invites Derry to his garden to play with other children. Through these actions, Mr. Lamb successfully encourages Derry to adopt a positive outlook on life and re-engage with the world.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb helped Derry by being kind, inviting him to his home, sharing his own story, and encouraging him to ignore others' judgments. He taught Derry to be positive and meet people without fear.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the specific strategies Mr. Lamb employs (e.g., open invitation, personal example, positive reframing, encouragement) and show how each contributes to Derry's change.

 

Question 4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion or will Mr Lamb's brief association effect his future life?
Answer: Derry suffers from an inferiority complex due to his burnt face, which makes him avoid people. However, Mr. Lamb inspires him to live a normal life, just like everyone else. Through his own example, Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to meet people and enjoy their company. This short but impactful time with Mr. Lamb will profoundly change Derry's future life. He will likely overcome his feelings of isolation and inferiority, learning to mingle with people without hesitation. He will stop caring about others' negative comments. His future will be one of a self-confident boy, as Mr. Lamb's encouraging words lead Derry to decide to join the mainstream of society and interact positively with others.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb's positive influence will help Derry overcome his shyness and burnt face issues. He will learn to live a normal, confident life and interact happily with people, leaving his old isolation behind.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the transformative power of Mr. Lamb's philosophy. Focus on how Derry internalizes these lessons and the resulting changes in his attitude and behavior.

 

Question 5. Give a character sketch of Mr Lamb.
Answer: Mr. Lamb is a central character in the play 'On the Face of It', known for his positive and philosophical outlook on life. Despite having a tin leg, he never sees himself as inferior. He lives a busy life, overcoming loneliness by engaging with nature and people. He loves his garden, birds, and honeybees. Mr. Lamb is a kind, caring, and understanding person who welcomes everyone into his garden, even children who tease him. He actively motivates physically challenged individuals, like Derry, to adopt a positive attitude and integrate into society. He is very talkative and enjoys connecting with people, showing genuine interest in everything. Mr. Lamb's inspiring personality makes him a role model for facing life's challenges with optimism and self-acceptance.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb is a kind, positive, and wise old man with a tin leg. He loves nature and people, always keeping his garden open. He inspires others, especially Derry, to overcome challenges with a good attitude and live a full life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Structure a character sketch by introducing the character, describing their key traits (physical, emotional, philosophical), providing examples from the text, and summarizing their impact or significance.

 

Question 6. Derry suffers from inferiority complex. How far is his family responsible for this state of his mind?
Answer: Derry's acid-burnt face makes him feel inferior, leading him to avoid company because he believes people find his face ugly. His family, to a large extent, contributes to this state of mind. They do not treat him like a normal boy but are overly protective. Their excessive sympathy and constant care make him feel helpless and unable to lead a normal life. This over-carefulness fills him with fear and a lack of confidence, preventing him from developing self-reliance. Derry mentions that his parents often talk about "what will happen to him when we are gone?" This kind of talk further reinforces his feeling of inadequacy and dependence, making him feel low about himself and deepening his inferiority complex.
In simple words: Derry's family contributes to his low self-esteem by being too protective and pitying him because of his burnt face. This makes him feel helpless and unable to live normally.

🎯 Exam Tip: When evaluating responsibility, consider both the character's internal struggles and the external influences from their environment, such as family dynamics.

 

Question 7. Which story does Mr Lamb tell Derry and why?
Answer: Mr. Lamb tells Derry the story of a man who was always afraid to go outside. This man feared everything: a bus running him over, deadly germs from someone's breath, a donkey kick, or being struck by lightning. He was even afraid of falling in love and being left by the girl. So, he locked himself in his room and stayed in bed. One day, a picture fell from the wall onto his head and killed him. Mr. Lamb tells this story to teach Derry that hiding from the world does not solve problems and can even be dangerous. He wants Derry to develop self-confidence, meet people, and remove his inferiority complex.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb tells Derry about a man who feared everything and stayed locked indoors, only to die from a falling picture. He tells this story to show Derry that hiding from life is not the answer and encourages him to be brave.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly narrate the story Mr. Lamb tells and then explicitly state the moral or lesson he intends Derry to learn from it.

 

Question 8. What change did Mr Lamb bring in Derry's attitude towards life? OR How did Mr Lamb's meeting with Derry become a turning point in Derry's life?
Answer: Mr. Lamb's meeting with Derry became a crucial turning point in Derry's life. Initially, Derry was withdrawn and filled with an inferiority complex due to his burnt face, avoiding people and conversation. Mr. Lamb, despite his own physical impairment, lived a full and normal life, free from self-pity. He shared his positive philosophy, teaching Derry not to be ashamed of his appearance and to embrace life as it is. Mr. Lamb encouraged Derry to meet people, talk to them, and pursue his desires without worrying about others' opinions. Derry found a patient listener and a true mentor in Mr. Lamb, who helped him understand that true disability lies in one's mind, not in their physical state. This transformative association helped Derry shed his feelings of isolation and inadequacy, inspiring him to love life, connect with others, and bravely face the world.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb taught Derry to accept himself and not hide from the world because of his burnt face. He inspired Derry to be confident, meet people, and love life, changing Derry's outlook from negative to positive.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe Derry's initial state, then explain the specific lessons Mr. Lamb taught him, and finally, detail the positive changes in Derry's behavior and mindset after their interaction.

 

Question 9. What is the message of the play?
Answer: The play 'On the Face of It' conveys a powerful message about the challenges faced by physically impaired individuals and society's role in their lives. It highlights the emotional pain and isolation such individuals often experience when society refuses to accept them normally. The play emphasizes that these individuals deserve respect and should be treated like everyone else to preserve their self-esteem. It also encourages physically impaired persons not to develop an inferiority complex but to see themselves as normal members of society. They should engage in hobbies, stay busy, and seek friendships with optimistic people. Mr. Lamb's positive influence on Derry shows that a supportive environment can inspire those with disabilities to live a normal and fulfilling life, teaching them to talk to people and embrace the world.
In simple words: The play teaches that people with physical challenges should be treated with respect and seen as normal. It also tells them to be confident, stay active, and make friends, not letting their disability make them feel inferior.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the core theme of the play and elaborate on both what society should do and what individuals with disabilities can do to achieve acceptance and self-respect.

 

Question A. Change the following adjectives into Nouns and use them in your own sentences: Beautiful, young, ugly, poor, ripe, good, golden, different, important, deaf, born, dead, blind, cool.
Answer:
Adjective - Noun - Sentence
1. beautiful (सुन्दर) - beauty (सौन्दर्य) - The beauty of the landscape is enthralling.
2. young (युवा/छोटा) - youth (यौवन) - Youth are the future of a country.
3. ugly (भद्दा) - ugliness (भद्दापन) - Ugliness exists not in appearance, but in mind.
4. poor (गरीब) - poverty (गरीबी) - Poverty is a big problem faced by India.
5. ripe (पका हुआ) - ripeness (पक्वता) - Ripeness makes fruits sweet.
6. good (अच्छा) - goodness (अच्छाई) - Make goodness your habit.
7. golden (सोने का) - gold (सोना) - The piece of jewellery is made of gold.
8. different (भिन्न) - difference (भिन्नता) - God makes no difference among His children.
9. important (महत्वपूर्ण) - importance (महत्व) - Education is of much importance in life.
10. deaf (बहरा) - deafness (वधिरता) - Owing to deafness, she could not understand the lecture.
11. born (उत्पन्न/जात) - birth (जन्म) - Gautam Buddha was of royal birth.
12. dead (मृत) - death (मृत्यु) - Death is the truth of life.
13. blind (अन्धा) - blindness (अन्धता) - Blindness is a kind of physical disability.
14. cool (शीतल) - coolness (शीतलता) - Coolness of mind is a great quality.
In simple words: To change these words, we turn them from describing words (adjectives) into naming words (nouns). For example, "beautiful" becomes "beauty." Then, we use these new naming words in simple sentences.

🎯 Exam Tip: When converting adjectives to nouns, pay attention to common suffixes like -ty, -ness, -ence, or -th. Practice using the new noun form correctly in a sentence.

 

Question B. Give antonyms of the following words and use each in a sentence of your own. Long, empty, indoors, climb, young, whole, plenty, handsome, love, brave, near, friend, downstairs, die, never, nothing, dead, steady.
Answer:
1. long (लम्बा) - short (छोटा) - The short road saved us time.
2. empty (खाली) - full (भरा) - The bottle is full of water.
3. indoors (घर के अंदर) - outdoors (घर के बाहर) - They decided to play outdoors.
4. climb (चढ़ना) - descend (उतरना) - She stumbled while descending the hill.
5. young (छोटा) - old (वृद्ध) - The old man gave him a useful lecture.
6. whole (पूर्ण) - part (भाग) - A part of the pumpkin is rotten.
7. plenty (प्रचुरता) - shortage (कमी) - There is a shortage of foodgrain in the country.
8. handsome (सुन्दर) - ugly (भद्दा) - Not his appearance, but his deeds were ugly.
9. love (प्यार करना) - hate (घृणा करना) - We should hate sin, and not the sinner.
10. brave (बहादुर) - coward (कायर) - He is a coward in not accepting the challenge.
11. near (निकट) - far (दूर) - My house is far away from the market.
12. friend (मित्र) - foe/enemy (शत्रु) - Beware of your foe/enemy.
13. downstairs (नीचे की मंजिल) - upstairs (ऊपर की मंजिल) - She lives upstairs on the first floor.
14. die (मरना) - live (जीना) - Live a life full of virtue.
15. never (कभी नहीं) - always (हमेशा) - We should always be humble.
16. nothing (कुछ नहीं) - something (कुछ) - Something is better than nothing.
17. dead (मृत) - alive (जीवित) - As long as we are alive, we should work hard.
18. steady (दृढ़) - frail (कमजोर) - The old woman is very frail in body.
In simple words: An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word. For each word, we find its opposite and then write a sentence using that opposite word.

🎯 Exam Tip: When finding antonyms, think about direct opposites. If a word has multiple meanings, choose the antonym that fits the most common or primary meaning.

 

Activity 3: Speech Activity

 

Question 1. Prepare a speech to be read out in a speech competition on 'The need for a positive outlook for the physically challenged in our society'.
Answer: Respected audience, I'm here to talk about 'The need for a positive outlook for the physically challenged in our society'. Often, people with physical challenges are made fun of or feel left out. This can make them feel bad about themselves, which is not good for them or for society. A person might have a physical challenge in one area, but they can still be very helpful to society in many other ways. If we ignore such people, we lose their valuable talents. These individuals should also be brave enough to face the world as it is and use their skills to the fullest. We must all work together to create a society where everyone, regardless of physical ability, is valued and included.
In simple words: This speech talks about how society should treat people with physical challenges. We should be positive, include them, and let them use their talents, instead of making them feel bad or left out.

🎯 Exam Tip: For a speech, start with a clear topic, explain the problem, suggest solutions, and end with a strong message of encouragement and inclusion. Use simple, direct language.

 

Question 2. Stage the play 'On the Face of It' during the cultural week of your school by role-playing to support the cause of the physically impaired and to create awareness about their sense of alienation and insecurity.
Answer: This is a cultural activity to be performed under the guidance of your teachers. The play 'On the Face of It' can be a powerful tool during your school's cultural week to highlight the challenges faced by physically impaired individuals. By acting out the roles of Derry and Mr. Lamb, students can explore themes of alienation, insecurity, acceptance, and the importance of a positive outlook. The performance can help the audience understand the emotional impact of disability and inspire empathy. Teachers can guide students in understanding the characters' motivations and emotions, ensuring that the portrayal is sensitive and impactful. This activity not only promotes awareness but also encourages inclusive thinking within the school community.
In simple words: Perform the play 'On the Face of It' at school to show how people with physical challenges feel lonely and unsafe. It helps everyone understand their feelings and encourages kindness.

🎯 Exam Tip: When staging a play for awareness, focus on conveying the core message through clear acting and emotional depth. Ensure the audience understands the characters' struggles and triumphs.

 

Activity 4: Speech Activity

 

Question 1. To prepare for your examination make notes on this lesson followed by Abstraction in your own words.
Answer:
Notes:
• Derry enters Mr. Lamb's garden thinking it is a lonely place.
• He is surprised to find Mr. Lamb there.
• Mr. Lamb behaves politely with him.
• Mr. Lamb tells Derry not to be ashamed of his burnt face.
• Gives his own example and encourages him to mingle with people.
• Derry goes home with the promise of coming back.
• Comes back to Mr. Lamb's garden and finds him dead.

Abstract:
The lesson is about a teenager, Derry, whose face is burnt on one side. This makes him feel lonely and avoid company. One day, he meets Mr. Lamb, who has a broken leg (a tin leg). Mr. Lamb talks to Derry in a kind way that helps Derry develop a positive view of himself. He learns to accept himself and look at life more optimistically.
In simple words: This lesson is about Derry, a boy with a burnt face, who feels lonely. He meets Mr. Lamb, who has a tin leg, and Mr. Lamb helps him feel good about himself and life.

🎯 Exam Tip: When making notes, use bullet points for key events or ideas. For an abstract, summarize the main characters, their core conflict, and the resolution in a few concise sentences.

 

Question 2. Assuming you are Derry, write a letter to Mr Lamb expressing your inability to be present at dinner being hosted by him tomorrow.
Answer:
Dear Mr. Lamb,

It is truly wonderful to know that you are hosting a dinner tomorrow. I hope all your friends, and of course, the children who often visit your garden, will join. I am sure it will be a truly enjoyable occasion.

However, it saddens me to inform you that because of my exams this week, I will not be able to join your dinner tomorrow. I hope you understand why I cannot be there.

Wishing you much fun and happiness.

Yours very own,
Derry
In simple words: Write a letter from Derry to Mr. Lamb. Say thank you for the dinner invitation, but explain that you can't come because of exams. Wish him a happy dinner.

🎯 Exam Tip: In a formal letter, use polite language. Clearly state the purpose of the letter (inability to attend) and provide a brief, polite reason. Ensure proper salutation and closing.

 

B. Answer the following questions in about 125 words each:

 

Question 1. What is it that draws Derry towards Mr Lamb?
Answer: Derry is drawn to Mr. Lamb because Mr. Lamb is completely different from everyone else Derry has met. Derry has an acid-burnt face and hates how people stare at him, which makes him avoid company and feel inferior. He finds Mr. Lamb, who also has a physical disability (a tin leg), to be free from any inferiority complex. Instead, Mr. Lamb loves meeting people and inspires Derry to embrace life as it is. Mr. Lamb teaches Derry to face life's challenges happily and patiently listens to him, offering understanding rather than pity or judgment. Mr. Lamb’s personality is an example of how to live without shame. All these qualities—his acceptance, positive outlook, and genuine friendship—make Derry feel a deep connection and familiarity, pulling him towards Mr. Lamb as an ideal mentor and companion.
In simple words: Derry is drawn to Mr. Lamb because Mr. Lamb, despite his own disability, is positive and accepting. Mr. Lamb doesn't judge Derry and inspires him to face life bravely, making Derry feel understood and respected.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on Mr. Lamb's unique qualities and how they directly address Derry's insecurities and negative experiences with other people. Emphasize the contrast between Mr. Lamb and others.

 

Question 2. In what way does Mr Lamb display signs of loneliness and disappointment? What are the factors responsible for this state of his mind?
Answer: At the end of the first scene, Mr. Lamb talks to himself, revealing signs of loneliness and disappointment. Even though Derry promises to return, Mr. Lamb believes he will never come back, saying, "People never come back to him." This shows his deep-seated experience with loneliness. The factors responsible for this state of mind are his physical disability (a tin leg from a war explosion) and the fact that most people, especially adults, do not visit him regularly. He tries to overcome these feelings by keeping himself busy, listening to bees, making honey toffees, and giving apples and pears to children to encourage them to visit again. Despite his outward optimism, his internal monologue about people not returning shows his quiet disappointment and the loneliness that he constantly battles.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb shows loneliness by talking to himself, believing Derry won't return, as people usually don't visit him. His tin leg and the lack of consistent visitors cause his disappointment, which he tries to overcome by staying busy and inviting children.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for subtle cues in a character's actions or inner thoughts (like soliloquies) to understand deeper emotions like loneliness, even if they present a positive front.

 

Question 3. The actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment is often much less than the sense of alienation felt by the person with disabilities. What kind of behaviour does that person expect from others?
Answer: It is true that the physical pain from a disability is often less impactful than the emotional pain of feeling alienated. People with disabilities often experience hurt not from their physical condition itself, but from the behavior of others. Some people laugh at them, while others show excessive sympathy, both of which can be offensive. Derry, for instance, suffers from an inferiority complex because of how others stare and react to his burnt face, making him feel rejected by society. A physically impaired person primarily expects normal behavior from others. They wish for people to understand their challenges without making them feel lesser or incomplete. They expect to be treated with respect, kindness, and as an equal member of society, allowing them to live a dignified life without feeling isolated.
In simple words: For people with disabilities, feeling left out hurts more than physical pain. They want others to act normally, understand their challenges, and treat them with respect as equals, not with pity or laughter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain that emotional pain often outweighs physical discomfort. Detail the specific types of negative reactions from others and contrast them with the respectful, normal behavior expected.

 

Question 4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion or will Mr Lamb's brief association effect his future life?
Answer: Derry suffers from an inferiority complex due to his burnt face, which makes him avoid people. However, Mr. Lamb inspires him to live a normal life, just like everyone else. Through his own example, Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to meet people and enjoy their company. This short but impactful time with Mr. Lamb will profoundly change Derry's future life. He will likely overcome his feelings of isolation and inferiority, learning to mingle with people without hesitation. He will stop caring about others' negative comments. His future will be one of a self-confident boy, as Mr. Lamb's encouraging words lead Derry to decide to join the mainstream of society and interact positively with others.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb's positive influence will help Derry overcome his shyness and burnt face issues. He will learn to live a normal, confident life and interact happily with people, leaving his old isolation behind.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the transformative power of Mr. Lamb's philosophy. Focus on how Derry internalizes these lessons and the resulting changes in his attitude and behavior.

 

Question 5. Give a character sketch of Mr Lamb.
Answer: Mr. Lamb is a central character in the play 'On the Face of It', known for his positive and philosophical outlook on life. Despite having a tin leg, he never sees himself as inferior. He lives a busy life, overcoming loneliness by engaging with nature and people. He loves his garden, birds, and honeybees. Mr. Lamb is a kind, caring, and understanding person who welcomes everyone into his garden, even children who tease him. He actively motivates physically challenged individuals, like Derry, to adopt a positive attitude and integrate into society. He is very talkative and enjoys connecting with people, showing genuine interest in everything. Mr. Lamb's inspiring personality makes him a role model for facing life's challenges with optimism and self-acceptance.
In simple words: Mr. Lamb is a kind, positive, and wise old man with a tin leg. He loves nature and people, always keeping his garden open. He inspires others, especially Derry, to overcome challenges with a good attitude and live a full life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Structure a character sketch by introducing the character, describing their key traits (physical, emotional, philosophical), providing examples from the text, and summarizing their impact or significance.

 

Question 4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion or will Mr Lamb's brief association effect his future life?
Answer: Derry suffers from an inferiority complex because one side of his face is burnt. This makes him avoid other people. However, Mr Lamb encourages him to live a normal life just like everyone else. Mr Lamb uses his own experiences to inspire Derry to meet people and enjoy their company. This short time with Mr Lamb will certainly help Derry live a normal life in the future. He will stop hiding away and overcome his feelings of not being good enough. He will mix with people without any fear. From now on, he won't pay attention to negative comments. His future life will be one of a confident boy. Mr Lamb inspires Derry so strongly that Derry decides to join society's mainstream and easily mix with others.
In simple words: Derry will change for the better. Mr Lamb's positive influence helps him overcome his shyness and inferiority complex, encouraging him to live a normal, confident life among people.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing character development, focus on the 'before and after' states and clearly state the turning point or catalyst for change.

 

Question 5. Give a character sketch of Mr Lamb.
Answer: Mr Lamb is the main character in the play 'On the Face of It'. His key qualities are:
(i) Even though he is physically disabled, he does not feel less than anyone else. He has a tin leg but lives a normal life.
(ii) He keeps himself busy to fight off loneliness.
(iii) He loves nature. He enjoys his garden, birds, and honeybees.
(iv) His life serves as an inspiration for other people with physical disabilities.
(v) He has a positive view of life.
(vi) He is a confident person.
(vii) He is a wise man.
(viii) He is a kind person and is friendly with everyone.
(ix) He is interested in everything around him.
(x) He enjoys meeting people and talking to them. He is truly a role model that everyone should follow.
In simple words: Mr Lamb is a kind, confident, and wise man who lives life positively despite his physical disability. He loves nature, enjoys people's company, and inspires others.

🎯 Exam Tip: For character sketches, always list specific traits and support them with examples from the story to show a deep understanding of the character.

 

Question 6. Derry suffers from inferiority complex. How far is his family responsible for this state of his mind?
Answer: Derry's face is burnt on one side by acid, which makes him feel inferior to others. He avoids company because he believes people hate his 'ugly' face. His family is largely responsible for his mindset. They don't treat him like a normal boy and are overly protective. They show too much sympathy, which makes him feel he will never lead a normal life. This excessive care makes him fearful and lacking in confidence. It stops him from developing self-confidence and makes him feel totally dependent on them. Derry tells Mr Lamb that his parents often talk about what will happen to him when they are gone, which makes him feel even worse about himself.
In simple words: Derry's family contributes to his low self-esteem by being overprotective and showing too much sympathy because of his burnt face. This makes him feel helpless and unable to live a normal life.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing character psychology, remember to link specific actions or words of other characters (like Derry's family) directly to the protagonist's feelings and development.

 

Question 7. Which story does Mr Lamb tell Derry and why?
Answer: Mr Lamb tells Derry the story of a man who was always scared to go outside. At every step, he worried about getting hurt or dying. He feared a bus might hit him, catching germs, a donkey kicking him to death, or lightning striking him. He even worried about falling in love with a girl who might leave him. So, the man locked himself in his room and stayed in bed, only to be killed when a picture fell from the wall onto his head. Mr Lamb tells this story to Derry to teach him that staying alone does not solve any problems. He wants Derry to meet people and talk to them to build his self-confidence and remove his feelings of inferiority. In the end, Mr Lamb's efforts succeed, and Derry's attitude towards life changes.
In simple words: Mr Lamb tells a story about a man who was so afraid of the world that he hid indoors but still died from an accident inside. He tells this to Derry to show that hiding won't stop problems and to encourage him to be brave and interact with people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the central moral or lesson of any embedded story and explain how it applies to the main character's situation.

 

Question 8. What change did Mr Lamb bring in Derry's attitude towards life? OR How did Mr Lamb's meeting with Derry become a turning point in Derry's life?
Answer: Derry's face was burnt by acid, which gave him an inferiority complex. He used to avoid meeting people and talking to them. However, his meeting with Mr Lamb became a life-changing moment for him. Mr Lamb had a tin leg but lived a normal life without any feelings of inferiority. He loved meeting people. Mr Lamb's life became an inspiration for Derry, helping him overcome his own low self-esteem. Derry was freed from the idea that people disliked him. He began to love life and started meeting and talking to people. He came out of his loneliness. Derry enjoyed Mr Lamb's company and, despite his mother's objections, returned to him. Thus, Mr Lamb brought about a positive change in Derry's view of life.
In simple words: Mr Lamb inspired Derry to stop hiding due to his burnt face. By showing his own positive outlook despite a tin leg, Mr Lamb taught Derry to love life, meet people, and overcome his feelings of being less worthy, making Derry's life much better.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the specific qualities or actions of the mentor character (Mr Lamb) that directly influenced the change in the protagonist (Derry).

 

Question 9. What is the message of the play?
Answer: The play 'On the Face of It' highlights the pain and suffering of people with physical disabilities. Such individuals often feel isolated because society struggles to accept them. The play's message is that these people deserve proper respect. We should treat them like normal individuals and help them maintain their self-respect. Physically impaired people should also avoid developing an inferiority complex. They should see themselves as regular members of society and not choose loneliness. Instead, they should pursue hobbies, stay busy, and build friendships with optimistic people. Mr Lamb's brief friendship changed Derry's life, giving him the inspiration to live normally and encouraged him to talk to others.
In simple words: The play teaches us to treat people with disabilities with respect and acceptance, helping them to feel normal and confident. It shows that people with disabilities should also embrace life and connect with others, instead of isolating themselves.

🎯 Exam Tip: When identifying the central message, ensure your answer addresses both society's role and the individual's journey towards acceptance and self-worth.

 

Question A. Change the following adjectives into Nouns and use them in your own sentences:
Beautiful, young, ugly, poor, ripe, good, golden, different, important, deaf, born, dead, blind, cool.
Answer:
1. beautiful (सुन्दर) - beauty (सौन्दर्य)
   The beauty of the landscape is enthralling.
2. young (युवा/छोटा) - youth (यौवन)
   Youth are the future of a country.
3. ugly (भद्दा) - ugliness (भद्दापन)
   Ugliness exists not in appearance, but in mind.
4. poor (गरीब) - poverty (गरीबी)
   Poverty is a big problem faced by India.
5. ripe (पका हुआ) - ripeness (पक्वता)
   Ripeness makes fruits sweet.
6. good (अच्छा) - goodness (अच्छाई)
   Make goodness your habit.
7. golden (सोने का) - gold (सोना)
   The piece of jewellery is made of gold.
8. different (भिन्न) - difference (भिन्नता)
   God makes no difference among His children.
9. important (महत्वपूर्ण) - importance (महत्व)
   Education is of much importance in life.
10. deaf (बहरा) - deafness (बधिरता)
   Owing to deafness, she could not understand the lecture.
11. born (उत्पन्न/जात) - birth (जन्म)
   Gautam Buddha was of royal birth.
12. dead (मृत) - death (मृत्यु)
   Death is the truth of life.
13. blind (अन्धा) - blindness (अन्धता)
   Blindness is a kind of physical disability.
14. cool (शीतल) - coolness (शीतलता)
   Coolness of mind is a great quality.
In simple words: To change an adjective to a noun, you often change its ending. For example, 'beautiful' becomes 'beauty'. Then, use this new noun in a sentence that makes sense.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to spelling changes when converting words between parts of speech; many nouns have different endings than their adjective forms.

 

Question B. Give antonyms of the following words and use each in a sentence of your own.
Long, empty, indoors, climb, young, whole, plenty, handsome, love, brave, near, friend, downstairs, die, never, nothing, dead, steady.
Answer:
1. descend (उतरना) - She stumbled while descending the hill.
2. old (वृद्ध) - The old man gave him a useful lecture.
3. part (भाग) - A part of the pumpkin is rotten.
4. shortage (कमी) - There is a shortage of foodgrain in the country.
5. ugly (भद्दा) - Not his appearance, but the deeds were ugly.
6. hate (घृणा करना) - We should hate sin, and not the sinner.
7. coward (कायर) - He is a coward in not accepting the challenge.
8. far (दूर) - My house is far away from the market.
9. foe/enemy (शत्रु) - Beware of your foe/enemy.
10. upstairs (ऊपर की मंजिल) - She lives upstairs on the first floor.
11. live (जीना) - Live a life full of virtue.
12. always (हमेशा) - We should always be humble.
13. something (कुछ) - Something is better than nothing.
14. alive (जीवित) - As long as we are alive, we should work hard.
15. frail (कमजोर) - The old woman is very frail in body.
In simple words: For each word, find its opposite (antonym). Then, write a simple sentence using that antonym to show you understand its meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always double-check your antonyms and make sure your example sentences clearly and correctly use the new word in context.

 

Activity 3: Speech Activity
Prepare a speech to be read out in a speech competition on 'The need for a positive outlook for the physically challenged in our society'.
Answer: Respected members, I am here to speak on 'The need for a positive outlook for the physically challenged in our society'. Often, we see that people with physical challenges are made fun of or kept separate. This creates a feeling of being less worthy in them, which is not good for them or for society. A person might be physically challenged in one way, but they can still be useful to society in other ways. By keeping such people apart, we lose out on their talents. These individuals should also be brave enough to face the world as it is. They should make the best use of their skills. We must remember that everyone deserves respect and a chance to contribute.
In simple words: This speech explains that society needs to have a positive view of people with physical challenges. It encourages everyone to treat them normally, respect their abilities, and help them feel confident, rather than making them feel left out.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a speech, start with a clear introduction, present your points logically with supporting ideas, and conclude with a strong summary or call to action.

 

Activity 3: Question 2.
Stage the play 'On the Face of It' during the cultural week of your school by role-playing to support the cause of the physically impaired and to create awareness about their sense of alienation and insecurity.
Note: It is a cultural activity to be performed in the direction of your teachers.

 

Activity 4: Question 1.
To prepare for your examination make notes on this lesson followed by Abstraction in your own words.
Answer:
Notes:
• Derry enters Mr Lamb's garden thinking it to be a lonely place.
• He is surprised to find Mr Lamb there.
• Mr Lamb behaves politely with him.
• Mr Lamb tells Derry not to be ashamed of his burnt face.
• Gives his own example and invokes him to mingle with people.
• Derry goes home with the promise of coming back.
• Comes back to Mr Lamb's garden and finds him dead.
Abstract:
The lesson is about a teenager named Derry. One side of Derry's face is burnt, which causes him to feel lonely and avoid others. One day, he meets Mr Lamb, who has a broken leg (a tin leg). Mr Lamb talks to him in a way that helps Derry develop a positive outlook on himself. After Derry leaves, Mr Lamb is picking apples but falls and dies. When Derry returns, he finds Mr Lamb dead and cries, regretting that he couldn't help him. The story highlights how one person's kindness can change another's life.
In simple words: This lesson is about Derry, a boy with a burnt face who feels lonely. He meets Mr Lamb, a man with a tin leg, who helps him feel better about himself. The lesson teaches us about acceptance and positive thinking.

🎯 Exam Tip: When making notes, use bullet points for key events or ideas. For an abstract, summarize the main characters, plot, and central theme in a concise paragraph.

 

Activity 4: Question 2.
Assuming you are Derry, write a letter to Mr Lamb expressing your inability to be present at dinner being hosted by him tomorrow.
Answer:
Dear Mr Lamb,
It is truly wonderful to know that you are hosting a dinner tomorrow. I hope all your friends, and of course, the children who often visit your garden, will join. I'm sure it will be a really fun occasion.
However, I am sad to inform you that due to my exams this week, I will not be able to come to your dinner tomorrow. I hope you understand why I cannot be there.
Wishing you lots of fun and happiness.
Yours very own,
Derry
In simple words: This is a polite letter from Derry to Mr Lamb, saying he cannot come to dinner because he has exams. He wishes everyone a good time.

🎯 Exam Tip: For letter writing, always remember to include a clear address and date (if specified), a polite opening and closing, and state the purpose of the letter clearly and concisely.

Free study material for English

RBSE Solutions Class 12 English Chapter 11 On the Face of It

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