Samacheer Kalvi Class 10 English Solutions Chapter 4 The Attic

Warm up

Look at the image given below.

Question 1. Pick out the qualities that you possess and qualities that you expect from your siblings / friends.
Answer: Below is a table showing qualities an individual may possess and those they might expect from their siblings or friends. Sharing and understanding these qualities helps build stronger relationships.
In simple words: Identify what good qualities you have and what good qualities you hope your brothers, sisters, or friends also have.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing personal qualities, ensure they are positive traits that foster healthy relationships. You can provide a brief explanation for each if time permits.

Question 2. Working in pairs, find out the mutual qualities that you and your friend share. Justify your top priority with his / hers. Mutual Qualities I and my friends share. Top priority with his / hers.
Answer: Among the qualities my friends and I share, forgiveness is our top priority. We believe forgiveness is very important because it allows us to overcome disagreements and maintain strong relationships. If you have love for others, forgiveness becomes possible, which then helps build and strengthen friendships. Being able to forgive leads to lasting bonds.
In simple words: My friends and I share qualities like love and friendship. Our most important quality is forgiveness, because it helps us stay friends, especially when we truly care for each other.

🎯 Exam Tip: When justifying your top priority, relate it to core values that support strong, lasting relationships, such as mutual respect or empathy.

Question 3. Discuss in group the need for human values?
Answer: Humans are social beings, and human values are essential because they make us better individuals. These values, like love, care, forgiveness, and respect, bring people together. Faith is also an important value that gives us hope and confidence in life. Values help us feel secure and brave in dealing with different situations.
In simple words: Human values are important because they help people live together, show love, care, forgive, and respect each other. They give us hope and confidence.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing human values, emphasize their role in fostering social harmony, personal growth, and collective confidence.

10th English Guide The Attic InText Questions and Answers

Question (a) When did Aditya leave the local school?
Answer: Aditya left the local school after he had finished his matriculation examination. This means he completed his secondary education before moving on.
In simple words: Aditya left his school after passing his final exams.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to keywords like "when" to identify the specific time or event required in the answer.

Question (b) Why did Aditya think that the school would not be recognisable?
Answer: Aditya thought the school would be hard to recognise because it had changed a lot over time. He expected many updates and new structures, making it look different from his memories. This is common for old places after many years.
In simple words: Aditya felt the school changed a lot, so he thought he would not know it.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks "why," always provide the reason or cause clearly, explaining the connection between events.

Question (c) Who were Aditya's ancestors?
Answer: Aditya's ancestors were once Zamindars, who were powerful landowners in the past. They had a significant role in collecting taxes and managing land.
In simple words: Aditya's family members from long ago were Zamindars, which means they owned a lot of land.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions about historical roles, define the term briefly if it adds clarity to the answer.

Question (d) How was the landscape through which they travelled?
Answer: As they traveled, the landscape was filled with paddy fields on both sides of the road. This painted a picture of a lush, agricultural area, common in many parts of the region.
In simple words: The land they passed through had many rice fields on both sides of the road.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a setting, use concise and descriptive words to capture the essence of the place.

Question (e) What did Aditya visit?
Answer: Aditya first visited his old school. Beyond its iron gates, there was a playing field and a two-storeyed school building, bringing back many memories for him. He wanted to see how much it had changed.
In simple words: Aditya went to see his old school first. He saw the playing field and the school building.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be direct and specific when asked "what" was visited or done, and provide a small detail if it makes the answer clearer.

Question (f) Where was Nagen's uncle's shop?
Answer: Nagen's uncle's shop was located right next to the grocery shop and directly across from the Lord Shiva temple. This made it a central and easy-to-find spot in the locality.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle's shop was near the grocery shop and opposite the Shiva temple.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for a location, provide clear references to nearby landmarks for precise identification.

Question (g) Besides tea, what did Nagen's uncle have in his shop?
Answer: Besides serving tea, Nagen's uncle also sold biscuits and other savoury snacks in his shop. This offered more options to his customers, making it a popular spot for refreshments. They were popular items for local villagers.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle sold biscuits and snacks along with tea in his shop.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure your answer completely addresses all parts of the question, listing all items requested.

Question (h) What did Nagen's uncle tell about Sanyal?
Answer: Nagen's uncle mentioned that Sanyal had poor eyesight and hearing. He also added that Sanyal did not have enough money to buy new spectacles to help with his vision. This detail painted a picture of Sanyal's difficult circumstances.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle said Sanyal could not see or hear well, and he did not have money for glasses.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include all relevant details mentioned in the source when describing a character or situation.

Question (i) In what way was Mr. Sanyal's behaviour strange?
Answer: Mr. Sanyal's behavior was strange because he suddenly stood up, stretched out his arm, and with wide-open eyes, started reciting a poem by Tagore called "Panraksha." After finishing the poem, he then made a Namaste gesture to no one in particular before leaving. This peculiar act surprised those around him.
In simple words: Mr. Sanyal suddenly stood up, stretched, and recited a poem, then bowed to no one. This was very strange.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to describe strange behavior, detail the specific actions that made it unusual.

Question (j) What did Nagen's uncle tell about Sanyal's past life?
Answer: Nagen's uncle revealed that Sanyal had a very difficult life, often described as cursed. He had to sell his land to pay for his daughter's wedding and had also lost his wife and son. These misfortunes had a profound impact on him.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle said Sanyal had a hard life; he sold his land for his daughter's marriage and lost his wife and son.

🎯 Exam Tip: Summarize key life events when asked about a character's past, focusing on significant turning points.

Question (k) How did Sanyal show that he had a sense of self-respect?
Answer: Sanyal demonstrated his self-respect by always paying for his tea and biscuits at Nagen's tea shop. Even though he seemed to be in a difficult financial situation, he made sure to settle his bills, showing he did not want to owe anyone. This act highlighted his strong sense of dignity.
In simple words: Sanyal always paid for his tea and biscuits, showing he respected himself and did not want to be in debt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect actions directly to the character trait requested, using clear examples from the text.

Question (l) Why was the attics favourite place for the children?
Answer: The attic was the children's favourite place because it felt like a world of their own. Attics often store old, forgotten items, sparking imagination and providing a private space for play and adventure away from adults. This freedom made it very appealing.
In simple words: Children liked the attic best because it felt like their own secret world where they could play and imagine.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a favorite place, explain the unique qualities that make it appealing to the characters.

Question (m) What did Aditya do on reaching the attic?
Answer: Upon reaching the attic, Aditya immediately began searching for a particular article and eventually found it on top of a packing case. He was determined to retrieve this specific item, indicating its importance. His focused search showed his resolve.
In simple words: When Aditya got to the attic, he looked for something special and found it on a box.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the character's first actions and their immediate goal when describing what they did.

Question (n) What did the jeweller say about the article?
Answer: The jeweller identified the article as an antique, meaning it was very old and likely valuable. This appraisal confirmed its unique and historical nature. Such items often carry significant worth.
In simple words: The jeweller said the item was an antique, meaning it was old and special.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the direct observation or statement made by a character when asked for their opinion or information.

Question (o) Was Sanyal happy about his visitors?
Answer: No, Sanyal was not happy to see his visitors. His reaction suggested he preferred solitude or perhaps felt uncomfortable with unexpected company. His discomfort was clear to Aditya.
In simple words: No, Sanyal was not happy when visitors came to see him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Give a clear "yes" or "no" answer first, then provide a brief explanation if needed.

Question (p) Why did Sanyal recite the poem in the tea shop earlier?
Answer: Sanyal recited the poem in the tea shop to make Aditya remember the past events of the prize-giving day. He likely hoped this familiar recitation would trigger Aditya's memory about their shared history and the medal. This was a deliberate act to evoke recognition.
In simple words: Sanyal recited the poem so Aditya would remember what happened on the day he got his prize.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a character's action has a clear motive, explain that motive as the core of your answer.

Question (q) What was engraved on the medal?
Answer: The medal had "Sriman Sasanka Sanyal - Special Prize for Recitation - 1948" engraved on it. This inscription clearly identified the recipient, the type of award, and the year it was received. This detail highlighted the medal's historical significance.
In simple words: The medal had "Sriman Sasanka Sanyal - Special Prize for Recitation - 1948" written on it.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for specific engraved text, reproduce it accurately and completely.

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences.

Question 1. Write a few lines about the owner of the shop?
Answer: The shop owner was Nagen's uncle, a sixty-year-old man with a simple, rustic look. He had neatly combed white hair and a clean appearance. He wore a dhoti, a blue striped shirt, and a green shawl. He seemed to embody the traditional village shopkeeper.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle, the shop owner, was sixty years old and looked simple. He had white hair, a clean face, and wore traditional clothes like a dhoti and a striped shirt with a green shawl.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a character, include details about their age, appearance, and attire to create a complete picture.

Question 2. What was the daily routine of Sanyal?
Answer: Sanyal's daily routine included visiting the tea shop for tea and biscuits. He consistently made sure to pay for his purchases, showing a strong sense of self-respect. This routine highlighted his disciplined nature even in simple matters.
In simple words: Every day, Sanyal would go to the tea shop for tea and biscuits, and he always paid for them because he was a self-respecting person.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on habitual actions and underlying character traits when describing a routine.

Question 3. Why was there a sudden change in Aditya's expression?
Answer: Aditya's expression suddenly changed because he heard Sanyal recite the same poem that was performed on the prize-giving day. This familiar recitation brought back a strong memory, leading to an emotional reaction. The poem reminded him of a significant past event.
In simple words: Aditya's face changed suddenly because Sanyal recited the same poem that Aditya heard on the prize-giving day long ago.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the direct cause and effect, linking a character's reaction to the specific trigger mentioned in the narrative.

Question 4. Why did Aditya decide to visit his ancestral home?
Answer: Aditya decided to visit his ancestral home because he wanted to retrieve the medal from his attic. This visit was driven by a strong desire to correct a past wrong and bring closure to a long-standing issue. He knew exactly where the medal was hidden.
In simple words: Aditya decided to go to his old family home to get the medal from the attic.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for the reason behind a decision, clearly state the motive and connect it to the character's overall goal.

Question 5. What was the condition of the attic?
Answer: The attic was in poor condition; a part of its wall was damaged. The floor was also dirty, covered with straw and bird's dropping. This showed that the attic had been neglected for a long time. These details suggest it was not a regularly used space.
In simple words: The attic had a broken wall and a dirty floor with straw and bird droppings.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide specific sensory details when describing a place to make the answer more vivid and complete.

Question 6. When did Aditya heave a sigh of relief? why?
Answer: Aditya heaved a sigh of relief when he found the silver medal he was looking for in the attic. This medal belonged to Sanyal, and Aditya had taken it twenty-nine years ago, lying that it was lost. His relief came from finally locating the medal he intended to return. The discovery meant he could finally right a past wrong.
In simple words: Aditya felt relieved when he found Sanyal's silver medal in the attic, which he had taken long ago and lied about losing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Address both parts of the question, stating when the event occurred and explaining the specific reason for the character's emotional reaction.

Question 7. Why did Aditya and his friend go to the jeweller?
Answer: Aditya and his friend went to the jeweller to determine the exact weight of the silver medal. Knowing the weight was important to assess its value and ensure a fair transaction when offering compensation to Sanyal. They wanted to be accurate with the medal's worth.
In simple words: Aditya and his friend visited the jeweller to find out how much the silver medal weighed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the purpose or objective when a question asks "why" someone went somewhere or did something.

Question 8. What did Aditya offer Sanyal?
Answer: Aditya offered Sanyal one hundred and fifty rupees, which was the monetary equivalent of the medal. He offered this amount as the price for the medal Sanyal had received in school for recitation, hoping it would compensate him. The offer was a gesture to right the past wrong.
In simple words: Aditya offered Sanyal Rs.150, which was the cost of the medal Sanyal had won.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specify the exact amount or item offered when asked what a character provided.

Question 9. 'Your grievances are absolutely justified' Who says this to whom? Why?
Answer: Aditya said these words to Sanyal. He said it because he had wished to pay Sanyal the cost of the medal, acknowledging Sanyal's long-held resentment and pain over the stolen item. This statement was an act of apology and validation. Aditya understood Sanyal's feelings were valid.
In simple words: Aditya said, "Your grievances are absolutely justified" to Sanyal. He said this because he wanted to pay Sanyal for the medal he had stolen, understanding Sanyal's long-held anger.

🎯 Exam Tip: For quotes, always identify the speaker and recipient, then explain the context and underlying reason for the statement.

Additional Questions and Answers

Question 1. Where did Aditya continue his studies after his Matriculation examination?
Answer: After finishing his matriculation examination, Aditya continued his studies in Calcutta. This move suggests further educational pursuits in a bigger city. Calcutta offered more opportunities for higher education.
In simple words: Aditya studied in Calcutta after finishing his school exams.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise about locations and educational stages when answering questions about a character's journey.

Question 2. When did Aditya leave his ancestral house?
Answer: Aditya left his ancestral house twenty-nine years ago. This long period of absence highlights the emotional significance of his return. The passage of nearly three decades indicates a significant gap in his life.
In simple words: Aditya left his family home twenty-nine years ago.

🎯 Exam Tip: Exact figures for time or duration should be included in the answer if they are provided in the source text.

Question 3. Who were the Zamindar of Bramhapur?
Answer: Aditya's ancestors were the Zamindar of Bramhapur. This shows that his family had a historical connection to landownership and a prominent status in the region. The Zamindar title implied significant local power.
In simple words: Aditya's ancestors were the Zamindars of Bramhapur.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state who held the position when asked about a role or title, and mention their relation to the main character.

Question 4. What did Aditya's father do in Kolkata?
Answer: Aditya's father established his own business in Kolkata. This indicates a shift from their ancestral role as Zamindars to a more entrepreneurial path in a major city. Starting a business requires a lot of effort.
In simple words: Aditya's father started his own business in Kolkata.

🎯 Exam Tip: For career or activity questions, state the occupation or action clearly and concisely.

Question 5. What was Aditya doing after his father's death?
Answer: After his father's death, Aditya was managing his father's business. This shows his responsibility in taking over the family enterprise. He stepped up to maintain the family's financial stability.
In simple words: After his father died, Aditya took care of his father's business.

🎯 Exam Tip: Infer the missing part of an incomplete question from the context of the answer provided in the source.

Question 6. Where did Aditya and his friend decide to go and have tea?
Answer: Aditya and his friend decided to go and have tea at Nagen's tea shop. This was a familiar local spot, indicating their comfort with the area. It was a place where they could relax and talk.
In simple words: Aditya and his friend chose to drink tea at Nagen's tea shop.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide the specific name of the place when asked for a destination or venue.

Question 7. Where were Aditya and his friend coming from?
Answer: Aditya and his friend were coming from Deodarganj. This was their point of origin for this part of their journey. It's often helpful to trace a character's movements.
In simple words: Aditya and his friend came from Deodarganj.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the starting point clearly when asked about a character's origin or previous location.

Question 8. What did Aditya and his friend ask Nagen's uncle to give them?
Answer: Aditya and his friend asked Nagen's uncle to give them two nankhatai each. These are traditional biscuits, suggesting they wanted a familiar and local treat. They enjoyed the local snacks offered.
In simple words: Aditya and his friend asked Nagen's uncle for two nankhatai (biscuits) each.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be specific about the items requested, including the quantity if mentioned.

Question 9. Why did Nagen's uncle remind Mr. Sanyal to go home?
Answer: Nagen's uncle reminded Mr. Sanyal to go home because it was already 4 p.m. This indicated that it was getting late, and he was likely concerned for Sanyal's well-being or routine. It was a gentle nudge to end his visit.
In simple words: Nagen's uncle told Mr. Sanyal to go home because it was already 4 p.m.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a reminder or instruction, provide the specific context or reason behind it.

Question 10. What was Sanyal doing when Aditya and his friend enter Sanyal's house?
Answer: When Aditya and his friend entered Sanyal's house, Sanyal was busy reciting verses from Tagore. This shows that even in his personal space, he continued his passion for poetry. It was a common pastime for him.
In simple words: Sanyal was reciting poems by Tagore when Aditya and his friend came into his house.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the ongoing action of a character accurately when asked about their activity at a specific moment.

Question 11. How did Sanyal recognise Aditya at Nagen uncle's tea shop?
Answer: Sanyal recognised Aditya at Nagen uncle's tea shop by a distinctive mole on Aditya's right cheek. This small physical detail served as a clear identifier after many years, showing Sanyal's keen memory. It was a unique mark that had not changed over time.
In simple words: Sanyal knew Aditya at the tea shop because of a mole on Aditya's right cheek.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about recognition, specify the exact feature or detail that allowed for identification.

Question 12. Why did Sanyal recite the same poem he had recited on the prize-giving day?
Answer: Sanyal recited the same poem he had recited on the prize-giving day so that Aditya might remember the incidents of that day. He hoped this familiar recitation would trigger Aditya's conscience about the medal he had taken. This was a deliberate act to evoke recognition.
In simple words: Sanyal said the same poem to help Aditya remember what happened on the day he won a prize.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the character's motivation and intended outcome when their actions are purposeful.

Question 13. What did Aditya request Sanyal with the money?
Answer: Aditya requested Sanyal to accept the money, stating that he would be happy if Sanyal did. He was trying to compensate for the lost medal and find peace by making amends. Aditya genuinely hoped Sanyal would take the payment.
In simple words: Aditya asked Sanyal to take the money, saying he would be pleased if Sanyal accepted it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the specific request made and the reason behind it from the character's perspective.

Question 14. Why did Sanyal not accept the money?
Answer: Sanyal did not accept the money because he felt it would be spent quickly and not truly replace the sentimental value of his medal. For him, the medal represented a cherished memory and a symbol of past achievement that money could not buy. He wanted the medal itself, not its monetary equivalent. This highlighted his deep emotional connection to the prize.
In simple words: Sanyal did not take the money because he knew it would be gone soon, and he valued his medal's memory more than cash.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining refusal, focus on the character's values and priorities that lead to their decision.

Question 15. How would Sanyal have forgotten the unpleasant incident of his childhood?
Answer: Sanyal would have been able to forget the unpleasant incident from his childhood if he had received his medal back. The medal's return would have brought closure and healed the old wound, allowing him to move past the painful memory. The physical return of the item was key to his emotional recovery.
In simple words: Sanyal could have forgotten the sad childhood event if he had gotten his medal back.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing hypothetical scenarios ("how would"), explain the condition that would lead to the specified outcome.

Question 16. What happened eventually after twenty-nine long years?
Answer: After twenty-nine long years, the medal that had been hidden in the attic was finally given back to its rightful owner. This event brought a resolution to a long-standing issue and a significant moment of truth and reconciliation. It marked the end of a long wait for Sanyal.
In simple words: After twenty-nine years, the medal hidden in the attic was finally returned to the person it belonged to.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the final outcome or resolution when asked about what "eventually" happened after a long period.

B. Answer in detail the following questions in about 100-150 words.

Question 1. Give a detailed account of all thoughts and questions in the narrator's mind while accompanying Aditya from the tea shop to Sanyal's house?
Answer: The narrator observed Aditya's strong interest in visiting the tea shop in Bramhapur, noting his eagerness to see if it still existed. When they met Sasanka Sanyal, the narrator witnessed Sanyal's strange behavior, particularly his sharp reaction when asked to leave. Before Sanyal left, he recited a Tagore poem and made a Namaste gesture to no one. This unusual conduct and the poem itself caused a noticeable change in Aditya's expression, making the narrator curious. The narrator's mind was filled with questions about Aditya's intense desire to know more about Sanyal and his past. Information from Nagen's uncle further disturbed Aditya, and the narrator also heard a quote, "Memories are sometimes pleasant yet disturbing." Aditya's unusual behavior, combined with the details gathered, made the narrator eager to understand what was driving Aditya's actions. These moments helped the narrator to slowly piece together the story and Aditya's connection to Sanyal. Upon leaving, Aditya was determined to visit his ancestral house, feeling an intense need to go there, which made the narrator wonder even more. His nerves seemed overwhelmed, and his keen interest in visiting his old home, where he had lived twenty-nine years ago, made him seem like a completely different person. The narrator saw Aditya wanted to fix something from the past. The narrator then understood that Aditya wanted to visit his old house. He went there and found a medal in the attic, then took it to the jeweller to find its weight. The narrator did not know why, so he asked Aditya, but Aditya did not answer. After this, they went to Jogesh Kabiraj's house, where they found Mr. Sanyal. All the narrator's questions were finally answered through Aditya's actions.
In simple words: The narrator saw Aditya was very interested in Sanyal and his old school. Sanyal's strange poem recitation changed Aditya's face and made the narrator wonder why. Nagen's uncle told them about Sanyal's sad past. Aditya then went to his old house, found a medal, and took it to a jeweller. All these events made the narrator confused. Finally, Aditya's actions of meeting Sanyal explained everything.

🎯 Exam Tip: For detailed accounts, synthesize observations, character reactions, and plot developments to provide a comprehensive narrative of the narrator's internal experience.

Question 2. 'Man does change with time - What were the various changes that came about in Aditya?
Answer: **Introduction:** Twenty-nine years ago, Aditya came from a rich family and was a classmate of Sanyal. Sanyal always came first in school, which made Aditya jealous. One day, Aditya took Sanyal's medal and never gave it back, claiming it was lost. This act shows his character in childhood. **Narrator's visit:** After 29 years, the narrator and Aditya visited Aditya's village. They went to Nagen's uncle's tea shop, noticing the green fields. There, they met Sanyal. **Visiting Sanyal:** When Sanyal suddenly stood up and recited "Panraksha" by Tagore, the narrator saw Aditya's expression change. The narrator understood that Aditya was trying to fix a past mistake. Aditya then went to his ancestral house, found the medal in the attic, and got its weight checked by a jeweller. He did not tell the narrator what it was. Then they went to Jogesh Kabiraj's house where Sanyal was staying. Aditya confessed to Sanyal that he had stolen his medal. This act of confession and return showed how Aditya had changed over time. He had transformed from a jealous boy into a responsible man trying to correct a past wrong. The narrator understood everything about Aditya's actions at this point. This shows his growth and maturity, reflecting that people indeed change with time.
In simple words: Aditya, once a jealous boy who stole Sanyal's medal, returned after 29 years to find Sanyal. He confessed his theft and gave the medal back, showing he had changed from a dishonest child to a responsible adult who wanted to correct his past actions.

🎯 Exam Tip: When tracing changes in a character, clearly outline their initial state, the journey or events that influenced them, and their final transformed state with supporting examples.

Question 3. Give a brief character sketch of Sasanka Sanyal?
Answer: Sasanka Sanyal was a very smart and talented student who always came first in school. However, he was a bit innocent, which led to Aditya taking his poetry recitation medal out of jealousy and never returning it. Sanyal had an amazing memory and could remember everything from his past. He never forgot how Aditya had taken his medal. Later in life, Sanyal faced many hardships; he lost his wife and son, and had to sell his land for his daughter's marriage. He was also short-sighted and struggled financially. Despite his difficult life, he held onto his self-respect and always paid for his tea and biscuits at Nagen's shop. When Aditya returned after 29 years, Sanyal recognized him by a mole on his right cheek. He showed anger towards Aditya for the past event. Aditya offered Rs. 150 for the medal, but Sanyal refused, wanting only the medal itself. When Aditya finally returned the medal, Sanyal was overjoyed, feeling he had regained his pride and dignity. This shows his strong sense of self-worth that permeated every aspect of his life.
In simple words: Sasanka Sanyal was a very bright student who faced many hard times, including losing his family and selling his land. He had a great memory and strong self-respect, always insisting on paying his bills. He cared more about his stolen medal and his honor than about money.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a character sketch, focus on describing the person's key traits, their past, and how their actions show who they are. Use examples from the story to support your description.

Question C. Complete the following table with two more compound words.

In simple words: Compound words are formed by joining two or more words. They can be made from different types of words like two nouns (e.g., kitchen garden) or a noun and a verb (e.g., mouthwash).

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the grammatical categories (noun, verb, adjective, preposition, gerund) to correctly identify the components of a compound word. This helps in forming new words accurately.

Question D. Combine the words in column A with those in column B to form compound words.

Answer:

In simple words: Compound words are made by joining two words together to form a new word with a new meaning. For example, "rain" and "light" combine to make "rainfall".

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to whether the compound word is written as one word, two words, or hyphenated, as there are no strict rules and it often depends on common usage.

Question E. Form compound words from the boxes given below and fill in the blanks in the sentences that follow with the appropriate compound words.
The words from the boxes are: waiting, out, income, green, sun, room, tax, alarm, dry, traffic, wall, house, clock, jam, glasses, hair, cleaning, cut, nut, paper.
1. Siva visited the hairstylist to have a clean ..........................
2. Tharani had given the sarees for ..........................
3. The .......................... is a natural process that warms the earth's surface.
4. Never wait for an .......................... to wake you up.
5. The children were late to school as there was a .......................... near the toll plaza.
6. The government expects every individual to promptly pay the ..........................
7. People usually wear .......................... during summer.
8. The patients were asked to sit in the .......................... until the doctor arrived.
9. With teamwork, we are able to multiply our ..........................
10. The room was looking bright with the colourful ..........................
Answer:
1. hair cut
2. dry cleaning
3. greenhouse
4. alarm clock
5. traffic jam
6. income tax
7. sunglasses
8. waiting room
9. output
10. wallpaper
In simple words: This exercise helps you learn how different words can be combined to create new words that fit into sentences. You use the given parts to make compound words and then put them in the right place.

🎯 Exam Tip: When forming compound words, think about which words naturally go together to describe a single item or idea. For fill-in-the-blank questions, read the sentence carefully to understand the context and the type of word needed.

Question F. (I) Form new words by adding appropriate prefix/suffix:
1. accurate
2. understand
3. practice
4. technology
5. fashion
6. different
7. child
8. national
9. origin
10. enjoy
Answer:
1. inaccurate
2. misunderstand
3. malpractice
4. bio-technology
5. fashionable
6. indifferent/differential
7. childish/childhood
8. nationalise
9. original/originality
10. enjoyable
In simple words: Prefixes are added to the beginning of a word, and suffixes are added to the end. They change the meaning or the word type. For example, 'in-' makes 'accurate' into 'inaccurate', meaning not accurate.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing common prefixes (like un-, dis-, in-) and suffixes (like -able, -tion, -ment) can help you understand new words and expand your vocabulary quickly.

Question F. (ii) Frame sentences of your own using any five newly formed words.
The newly formed words from F(I) are: inaccurate, misunderstand, malpractice, bio-technology, fashionable, indifferent/differential, childish/childhood, nationalise, original/originality, enjoyable.
Answer:
1. He remembered his childhood days.
2. There is great technological advancement in the world.
3. This is an original copy.
4. Ooty is enjoyable in summer.
5. A few students were caught in malpractice in the public examination.
In simple words: When you frame sentences, make sure the new word fits the sentence smoothly and makes sense. It's about showing you understand how to use these changed words.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always make sure your sentences are grammatically correct and that the chosen words fit the context well. Practicing with different sentence structures helps.

Question G. Fill in the blanks by adding appropriate prefix/suffix to the words given in brackets.
1. He was sleeping .......................... on his couch. (comfort)
2. Kavya rides a .......................... to school. (cycle)
3. There was only a .......................... of people in the theatre. (hand)
4. It is .......................... to cut sandalwood trees. (legal)
5. The .......................... of the President has been expected for the last half an hour. (arrive)
6. The man behaved .......................... in front of the crowd. (normal)
7. Swathy had no .......................... of visiting the doctor. (intend)
8. The bacteria are so small that you need a .......................... to see them. (scope)
Answer:
1. comfortable
2. bicycle
3. handful
4. illegal
5. arrival
6. normally
7. intention
8. microscope
In simple words: Look at the word in brackets and the sentence around the blank. Decide if you need to add a prefix (beginning) or a suffix (end) to change the word so it makes sense in the sentence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the part of speech needed in the blank (e.g., adjective, noun, adverb). This will guide you in choosing the correct prefix or suffix to transform the base word.

Question A. Complete the sentences given below choosing the right connectors given in brackets.
1. Call me .......................... you need money, (so that, in order that, in case)
2. I forgot .......................... I had to meet the Principal, (whether, that, if)
3. .......................... he is ninety years old, he is in the pink of health, (when, since, though)
4. It is raining. Take an umbrella .......................... you will get drenched, (or else, and, but)
5. They faced many hardships .......................... they are always cheerful, (although, nevertheless, otherwise)
Answer:
1. in case
2. that
3. Though
4. or else
5. nevertheless
In simple words: Connectors are words that join sentences or ideas together. Choose the word that makes the two parts of the sentence flow well and have the correct meaning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the meaning of each connector. For example, "in case" implies a condition, "though" implies contrast, and "or else" implies a consequence if something isn't done.

Question B. Fill in the blanks with the connector that goes with the underlined words.
1. Both the minister .......................... the officers visited the affected areas.
2. Jaya teaches not only English .......................... Science.
3. Either Raghu .......................... Bala will have to buy vegetables from the market.
4. No sooner did I enter the house .......................... it started drizzling.
Answer:
1. and
2. but also
3. or
4. than
In simple words: Some words like "both" or "not only" come in pairs with other words like "and" or "but also". Find the partner word that completes the pair correctly in the sentence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize common correlative conjunctions (like both-and, not only-but also, either-or, no sooner-than) as they always appear together.

Question C. Combine the pairs of sentences using appropriate connectors.
1. We came late. We did not miss the train?
2. They checked the packet twice. Then they sealed it.
3. Sita saw a snake. At once she ran away?
4. Robert completed the project. Did he submit it to the teacher?
5. Yusuf was running at a high temperature. He could not take part in the competition?
Answer:
1. Although we came late, we did not miss the train.
2. After they checked the packet twice, they sealed it.
3. As soon as Sita saw a snake, she ran away.
4. When Robert completed the project, he submitted it to the teacher.
5. Since Yusuf was running at a high temperature, he could not take part in the competition.
In simple words: To combine sentences, you need a connector that shows how the two ideas are related. It could be about time, reason, or contrast.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose connectors that clearly express the relationship between the two clauses. For example, "although" shows contrast, "after" and "when" show time order, and "since" gives a reason.

Question D. Tick the correct linker.
1. .......................... he was honest, he was punished. (though / but)
2. Walk carefully .......................... you will fall down. (unless / otherwise)
3. My mother called me .......................... I was playing football. (or / while)
4. My salary is low .......................... I find the work interesting. (nevertheless / similarly)
5. The passengers rushed to board the bus .......................... it arrived. (as soon as / as long as)
Answer:
1. though
2. otherwise
3. while
4. nevertheless
5. as soon as
In simple words: This helps you pick the right word to connect sentences or ideas. Each linker has a different meaning, so choose the one that makes the sentence flow correctly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the meaning of the sentence and the relationship between its parts. "Though" shows contrast, "otherwise" indicates a consequence, "while" shows simultaneous action, "nevertheless" shows contrast despite something, and "as soon as" shows immediate sequence.

Question E. Supply suitable linkers.
1. ".......................... I was alive and had a human heart, “answered the statue, “I did not know what tears were, .......................... I lived in the palace .......................... sorrow was not allowed to enter. My courtiers called me the Happy Prince .......................... Happy Indeed I was. So I lived and .......................... I died.
2. Many writers make incorrect sentences .......................... they try to put sentences together. They may make grammatical errors .......................... leave out important punctuation marks. Making such mistakes is quite common .......................... preparing the first draft. .......................... he must carefully edit his final draft.
3. In most large cities .......................... towns of our country, there are special schools for girls, there are many co-educational schools .......................... girls boys study together. Most parents allow their daughters to attend these schools, .......................... there are some parents .......................... are against such schools for girls .......................... the age of 14 or 15.
Answer:
1. "When I was alive and had a human heart," answered the statue, "I did not know what tears were, for I lived in the palace where sorrow was not allowed to enter. My courtiers called me the Happy Prince and Happy Indeed I was. So I lived and so I died."
2. Many writers make incorrect sentences when they try to put sentences together. They may make grammatical errors and leave out important punctuation marks. Making such mistakes is quite common while preparing the first draft. So he must carefully edit his final draft.
3. In most large cities and towns of our country, there are special schools for girls, there are many co-educational schools. Likewise, where girls and boys study together. Most parents allow their daughters to attend these schools, but there are some parents who are against such schools for girls after the age of 14 or 15.
In simple words: Linkers help join sentences and ideas, making your writing smooth. You need to pick the best word that connects the thoughts logically, whether it's for time, reason, or to show a different idea.

🎯 Exam Tip: When filling multiple blanks, read the complete sentence to understand the overall meaning. Test each linker in its position to ensure it creates a clear and logical flow of ideas.

Question F. Rearrange the words in the correct order to make meaningful sentences.
1. as / I / healthy / are / you / am / as
2. your / today / put on / new / since / is / birthday /dress / the
3. allergic / dogs / Rani / though / is / to / of / six / she / them / has
4. speaks / Ruben / besides / German / languages / two
5. loan / apply / you / if / for / you / a / get / will / immediately / it /
Answer:
1. I am as healthy as you are!
2. Since today is your birthday, put on the new dress.
3. Though Rani is allergic to dogs, she has six of them.
4. Ruben speaks two languages besides German.
5. If you apply for a loan, you will get it immediately.
In simple words: When words are jumbled, try to find the subject and verb first. Then, build the sentence around them, making sure it makes sense and follows normal sentence structure.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for capital letters at the beginning and punctuation at the end to identify the start and end of a sentence. Then, identify the main verb and subject to build the core structure.

Question G. Write the noun forms of the following words.
1. beautiful
2. breathe
3. know
4. deafen
5. zealous
6. familiar
7. accept
8. dangerous
Answer:
1. beauty
2. breath
3. knowledge
4. deaf
5. zeal, zealot, zealousness
6. familiarity
7. acceptance
8. danger
In simple words: Nominalisation is changing a word (like a verb or adjective) into its noun form. For example, the noun form of 'beautiful' is 'beauty'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Many noun forms end in suffixes like -tion, -ment, -ness, -ity, or -age. Practice recognizing these patterns to quickly identify noun forms.

Question H. Complete the following sentences using the noun form of the words given in brackets.
1. The boy had to give a proper .......................... for being late. (explain)
2. They could make .......................... about the future. (predict)
3. At one point in life, he had no .......................... but to trust his friend. (choose)
4. The monuments are to be preserved because of their historical .......................... (significant)
5. It is very difficult to work with so many .......................... (distract)
Answer:
1. The boy had to give a proper explanation for being late.
2. They could make a prediction about the future.
3. At one point in life, he had no choice but to trust his friend.
4. The monuments are to be preserved because of their historical significance.
5. It is very difficult to work with so many distractions.
In simple words: Take the word in brackets and change it into its noun form so it fits the sentence correctly. For example, "explain" becomes "explanation".

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read the sentence to see what kind of noun is required – often it's an abstract noun representing an idea or action.

I. Rewrite the Sentence Nominalising the Underlined Words. The First One Has Been Done For You.

Question 1. Rewrite the sentence, changing the underlined word to its noun form: "We succeeded in our attempt."
Answer: We got success in our attempt. This conversion from verb to noun helps to make the sentence more formal or to shift focus to the outcome.
In simple words: Change "succeeded" to its noun form "success" in the sentence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Nominalisation involves transforming a verb or adjective into its noun form, which can simplify complex sentences or make writing more academic.

Question 2. Rewrite the sentence, changing the underlined word to its noun form: "Nalini leads a happy life."
Answer: Nalini leads a life of happiness. Converting "happy" to "happiness" changes the word type from an adjective to a noun.
In simple words: Change the adjective "happy" to its noun form "happiness".

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to suffixes like "-ness", "-tion", "-ment", or "-ence" that often indicate noun forms, and ensure the sentence structure remains grammatically correct after the change.

Question 3. Rewrite the sentence, changing the underlined word to its noun form: "She failed and it disappointed her."
Answer: She failed and it was a disappointment to her. Here, the verb "disappointed" is changed to the noun "disappointment".
In simple words: Change "disappointed" to "disappointment" to make it a noun.

🎯 Exam Tip: When nominalising, sometimes you need to rephrase the entire clause (e.g., "it disappointed her" becomes "it was a disappointment to her") to fit the new noun form.

Question 4. Rewrite the sentence, changing the underlined word to its noun form: "India became an independent country in the year 1947."
Answer: India got independence in the year 1947. The adjective "independent" becomes the noun "independence" to describe the state of being free.
In simple words: Change "independent" to "independence" to show India became free.

🎯 Exam Tip: Common noun endings for adjectives include "-ence" (independent -> independence) or "-ity" (responsible -> responsibility).

Question 5. Rewrite the sentence, changing the underlined word to its noun form: "The child resembles her father."
Answer: The child has a resemblance of her father. The verb "resembles" is transformed into the noun "resemblance".
In simple words: Change "resembles" to "resemblance" to talk about how the child looks like the father.

🎯 Exam Tip: When converting verbs to nouns, look for forms ending in "-ance", "-ment", "-al", or "-ion", and adjust the surrounding words for proper grammar (e.g., "has a resemblance of").

J. Combine the Pairs of Sentences Given Below into a Single Sentence Using the Appropriate Connector.

Question 1. Combine the sentences: "He is an honest person. Everyone likes him."
Answer: Because of his honesty, everyone likes him. Using "because of" clearly shows the reason for his popularity.
In simple words: Join the two sentences to show why people like him, using "because of".

🎯 Exam Tip: When combining sentences, choose the linker that best expresses the logical relationship between the two ideas, such as cause, effect, or contrast, to ensure clarity.

Question 2. Combine the sentences: "Sathya gave an explanation. The police wanted her to prove it."
Answer: Though Sathya gave an explanation, the police wanted proof for it. "Though" shows a contrast between giving an explanation and the need for proof. Use a comma after the introductory clause.
In simple words: Join these sentences using "though" to show that even with an explanation, proof was still needed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Conjunctions like "though," "although," or "even though" introduce a contrasting idea and are often followed by a comma when starting a sentence or clause.

Question 3. Combine the sentences: "He speaks well. It attracts all."
Answer: His speech gets an attraction from all. This combines the ideas into a single statement about the effect of his speaking ability.
In simple words: Combine the sentences to say that his good speaking attracts everyone.

🎯 Exam Tip: Sometimes, combining sentences involves nominalisation (like "speaks well" becoming "speech") to create a more concise and flowing sentence.

Question 4. Combine the sentences: "Suresh is always punctual and regular. It has earned him a good job."
Answer: The punctuality and regularity of Suresh earned him a good job. This highlights how his traits led to a positive outcome.
In simple words: Join the sentences to show how Suresh's good habits helped him get a good job.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the core subject and action in each sentence. Then, use appropriate nominalisation or conjunctions to smoothly link them without losing information.

Question 5. Combine the sentences: "The policeman arrived quickly. It made us happy."
Answer: The quick arrival of the policeman made us happy. This combines the event and its effect into one clear sentence.
In simple words: Combine the sentences to explain that the policeman arriving fast made everyone happy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for opportunities to turn verbs or adverbs into adjectives or nouns (e.g., "arrived quickly" to "quick arrival") to create a more compact combined sentence.

K. Complete the Sentences in the Paragraph Using the Appropriate Form of Words Given in Brackets.

Question 1. Complete the following paragraph using the appropriate noun forms of the words given in brackets: "My sister wanted to go to Mumbai last week. She made a ................. (decide) to buy a ticket at once. As ................. (reserve) could be done online, she gave (prefer) to book a ticket that way. First, she collected ................. (inform) about the ................. (arrive) and ................. (depart) of trains and airplanes."
Answer: My sister wanted to go to Mumbai last week. She made a **decision** to buy a ticket at once. As **reservation** could be done online, she gave **preference** to book a ticket that way. First, she collected **information** about the **arrival** and **departure** of trains and airplanes. Using the correct word form helps create a coherent and grammatically correct paragraph.
In simple words: Fill in the blanks with the correct noun versions of the words given in brackets: "decision", "reservation", "preference", "information", "arrival", and "departure".

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the context of each blank to determine whether a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb form is needed, and then select the correct form of the root word.

Question 2. Complete the following paragraph using the appropriate forms of the words given in brackets: "A few days later, Androcles was captured by his master. He had to suffer all kinds of ................. (punish). At last, he was thrown to a lion which was in great ................. (hungry). It had been kept in an ................. (enclose) and had not been fed for several days. His friends stood there with ................. (tear) eyes as the lion rushed towards him. The lion stopped near him and stood for a while ................. (look) at him. Then it lay down by his side like a pet dog. (obvious), the lion recognized Androcles and the ................. (help) he had given it."
Answer: A few days later, Androcles was captured by his master. He had to suffer all kinds of **punishment**. At last, he was thrown to a lion which was in great **hunger**. It had been kept in an **enclosure** and had not been fed for several days. His friends stood there with **tearful** eyes as the lion rushed towards him. The lion stopped near him and stood for a while **looking** at him. Then it lay down by his side like a pet dog. **Obviously**, the lion recognized Androcles and the **help** he had given it. Carefully choosing the word forms ensures the narrative flows smoothly.
In simple words: Fill in the blanks with the correct word forms (nouns, adjectives, adverbs) for "punishment", "hunger", "enclosure", "tearful", "looking", "obviously", and "help".

🎯 Exam Tip: For paragraph completion, read the entire paragraph first to grasp the overall meaning, then fill in each blank by considering the part of speech required and the context of the sentence.

L. Identify the Phrases in the Following Sentences and Classify Them as Adjective, Adverb, or Noun Phrases.

Question 1. Identify the phrase and classify it: "The girl in blue saree is my sister." [Adjective phrase]
Answer: The phrase is "**in blue saree**," which functions as an **adjective phrase**. It describes the noun "girl."
In simple words: "In blue saree" describes the girl, so it is an adjective phrase.

🎯 Exam Tip: An adjective phrase modifies a noun or pronoun, typically answering "which one" or "what kind."

Question 2. Identify the phrase and classify it: "Kohli hopes to win the trophy." [Noun phrase]
Answer: The phrase is "**to win the trophy**," which functions as a **noun phrase**. It acts as the direct object of the verb "hopes."
In simple words: "To win the trophy" acts like a noun, showing what Kohli hopes for.

🎯 Exam Tip: A noun phrase acts as a noun in a sentence, often serving as the subject, object, or complement.

Question 3. Identify the phrase and classify it: "The train halts at every junction." [Adverb phrase]
Answer: The phrase is "**at every junction**," which functions as an **adverb phrase**. It tells us where the train halts.
In simple words: "At every junction" tells where the train stops, so it's an adverb phrase.

🎯 Exam Tip: An adverb phrase modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb, answering questions like "how," "when," "where," "why," or "to what extent."

Question 4. Identify the phrase and classify it: "I have never seen such a picture." [Noun phrase]
Answer: The phrase is "**such a picture**," which functions as a **noun phrase**. It acts as the direct object of the verb "seen."
In simple words: "Such a picture" is the thing that was seen, making it a noun phrase.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that a noun phrase can be a single noun or a group of words that functions as a noun, including determiners and modifiers.

Question 5. Identify the phrase and classify it: "She worked in an enthusiastic manner." [Adverb phrase]
Answer: The phrase is "**in an enthusiastic manner**," which functions as an **adverb phrase**. It describes how she worked.
In simple words: "In an enthusiastic manner" tells how she worked, so it's an adverb phrase.

🎯 Exam Tip: Prepositional phrases can often function as either adjective phrases (if they describe a noun) or adverb phrases (if they describe a verb, adjective, or adverb).

M. Identify the Clauses and Classify Them Accordingly.

Question 1. Identify the clause and classify it: "Ram bought a pen that doesn't write well." [Adjective clause]
Answer: The clause is "**that doesn't write well**," which is an **adjective clause**. This clause describes the noun "pen." Adjective clauses often start with words like "that," "which," or "who."
In simple words: "That doesn't write well" describes the pen, so it's an adjective clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Adjective clauses (also called relative clauses) modify nouns or pronouns and usually begin with a relative pronoun (who, whom, whose, which, that) or a relative adverb (where, when, why).

Question 2. Identify the clause and classify it: "Come back as soon as possible." [Adverb clause]
Answer: The clause is "**as soon as possible**," which is an **adverb clause**. It indicates the time for the action "come back." Adverb clauses can tell when, where, why, how, or to what extent.
In simple words: "As soon as possible" tells when to come back, so it's an adverb clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Adverb clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions such as 'when', 'while', 'because', 'although', 'if', 'as soon as', or 'until'.

Question 3. Identify the clause and classify it: "Most of her friends whom she had invited attended her wedding." [Noun clause]
Answer: The clause is "**whom she had invited**," which is an **adjective clause** modifying "friends." However, the question states "Noun clause," indicating an error in the prompt's classification. The correct classification is **adjective clause**.
In simple words: "Whom she had invited" tells us more about "her friends", making it an adjective clause, even though the prompt suggested a noun clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Noun clauses function as nouns (subject, object, complement), while adjective clauses modify nouns or pronouns. Distinguish them by their role in the sentence.

Question 4. Identify the clause and classify it: "My brother visits my father whenever he comes to Chennai." [Adverb clause]
Answer: The clause is "**whenever he comes to Chennai**," which is an **adverb clause**. It specifies the time of his visit. This clause modifies the verb "visits."
In simple words: "Whenever he comes to Chennai" tells when his brother visits, so it's an adverb clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Adverb clauses of time often begin with "when," "whenever," "while," "as soon as," "before," "after," or "until."

Question 5. Identify the clause and classify it: "Call me in case there is an emergency." [Adverb clause]
Answer: The clause is "**in case there is an emergency**," which is an **adverb clause**. It explains the condition for calling. This clause modifies the verb "call."
In simple words: "In case there is an emergency" tells the reason to call, so it's an adverb clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Adverb clauses of condition often begin with "if," "unless," "provided that," "as long as," or "in case."

Question 6. Identify the clause and classify it: "Until the sun sets the old woman cannot step out of her house." [Adverb clause]
Answer: The clause is "**Until the sun sets**," which is an **adverb clause**. It tells when the old woman cannot step out. This clause modifies the verb "cannot step out."
In simple words: "Until the sun sets" tells the time limit for stepping out, so it's an adverb clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: An adverb clause can appear at the beginning or end of a sentence. If it begins the sentence, it is usually followed by a comma.

Question 7. Identify the clause and classify it: "She knows where I go." [Noun clause]
Answer: The clause is "**where I go**," which is a **noun clause**. It functions as the direct object of the verb "knows." Noun clauses can act as subjects, objects, or complements.
In simple words: "Where I go" is the thing she knows, so it's a noun clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Noun clauses often begin with interrogative words (who, what, where, when, why, how) or "that," and they can often be replaced by a single noun or pronoun (e.g., "She knows that").

Question 8. Identify the clause and classify it: "You can go wherever you want." [Adverb clause]
Answer: The clause is "**wherever you want**," which is an **adverb clause**. It specifies the place where you can go. This clause modifies the verb "go."
In simple words: "Wherever you want" tells you the place you can go, so it's an adverb clause.

🎯 Exam Tip: Adverb clauses of place often begin with "where" or "wherever," indicating location or direction for the main verb.

Listening:

N. Fill in the Blanks:

Question 1. Fill in the blank: "Login into your IRCTC account."
Answer: **Login** into your IRCTC account. This verb is the first step to access the online platform.
In simple words: Use "Login" to complete the sentence about getting into your IRCTC account.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the sentence carefully to understand its meaning and select the word that fits best both in context and grammar.

Question 2. Fill in the blank: "Fill in the information asked to you in book your ticket section."
Answer: Fill in the information asked to you in **book your ticket** section. This phrase indicates the specific part of the form to complete.
In simple words: Complete the sentence by adding "book your ticket" to show which section needs information.

🎯 Exam Tip: For blanks that require multiple words, ensure the entire phrase makes sense within the sentence and maintains grammatical correctness.

Question 3. Fill in the blanks: "The starting point and destination of your journey must also be selected."
Answer: The **starting point** and **destination** of your journey must also be selected. These two nouns are crucial for any travel booking.
In simple words: Add "starting point" and "destination" to complete the sentence about planning a journey.

🎯 Exam Tip: When filling multiple blanks in a single sentence, consider how the words relate to each other and to the overall context of the sentence to ensure logical flow.

Question 4. Fill in the blank: "List of available trains will appear."
Answer: List of **available** trains will appear. This adjective describes the trains that can be booked.
In simple words: Put "available" in the blank to say that a list of trains you can choose from will show up.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for adjectives or adverbs that would naturally fit the noun or verb they are modifying in the context of the sentence.

Question 5. Fill in the blanks: "You must check on the availability and fare for the train of your choice."
Answer: You must check on the **availability** and **fare** for the train of your choice. These nouns refer to whether tickets are present and their cost.
In simple words: Fill in "availability" and "fare" to explain what you need to check for your train.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that "availability" refers to whether something is present or accessible, and "fare" refers to the cost of travel, ensuring you choose words that fit the context of booking a train.

Question 6. Fill in the blanks: "Your personal details like name, date of birth are must."
Answer: Your personal details like **name**, **date of birth** are must. These are common pieces of identification needed for booking.
In simple words: Add "name" and "date of birth" to complete the sentence about required personal details.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for "personal details," common examples include name, date of birth, address, and contact information. Select the most relevant ones for the context.

Question 7. Fill in the blank: "After filling information and captcha click on confirm booking."
Answer: After filling information and captcha click on **confirm** booking. This verb indicates the action to finalize the reservation.
In simple words: Use "confirm" to complete the sentence about finalizing your booking.

🎯 Exam Tip: In online processes, "confirm" is a key action word used to finalize a transaction or selection after all details have been entered.

Question 8. Fill in the blanks: "You can make the payment either by credit/debit cards or e-wallets."
Answer: You can make the payment either by **credit/debit cards** or **e-wallets**. These are common methods for online transactions. Using "credit/debit cards" covers both types of bank cards.
In simple words: Add "credit/debit cards" and "e-wallets" to show how you can pay.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be aware of common payment methods in digital contexts, which usually include bank cards, online payment systems, and digital wallets.

Reading:

Read the Following Letter From a Parent to Her Son's Coach and Answer the Questions Given Below:

Dear coach,

Thanks for the special gifts that you have given to my child. You learned his name and spoke it often. You taught him the basics of the sport as well as special ways to improve and excel. Although you had a whole team of kids to mentor, you took time for individual instruction where needed.

Under your care, I have watched him transform from a timid, doubting child to a strong, happy player willing to give all for the team. Throughout the season when he gave his best, even though it was not quite enough to gain that extra point, you recognised his contribution with a pat on the back and encouraging words.

Your wise approach showed him that, although winning is a goal, there are other goals just as worthy. He learned the value of finishing what he started and joy of personal accomplishment. These attributes carried him through a season that was full of hard work and fun, discouragement and resolve, defeat and victory.

And at the very end, at the championship meet when he brought home his first-place medal, you were among those who were so very proud of how far

It is a victory to all of us. What amazes me is you've taught them skills that will last a lifetime. You've kindled in them a desire to excel. The medals, trophies and ribbons are all symbols of real gifts. These most certainly have had to come straight from your heart.

With appreciation,
A parent.

P. Answer the Following Questions:

Question 1. What did the coach teach the child?
Answer: The coach taught the child the fundamental rules of sports. They also showed him special methods to improve his skills and perform exceptionally well. Understanding the basics is essential for any athlete.
In simple words: The coach taught the child the basics of sports and how to get better.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions asking about specific information from a passage, highlight or underline the key details in the text before formulating your answer.

Question 2. What values did the child learn?
Answer: The child learned the importance of finishing what he started and the happiness that comes from personal achievements. These are important life lessons that build character.
In simple words: The child learned to finish tasks and felt happy about his own success.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for keywords related to character, morals, or life lessons in the passage to identify the values learned by a character.

Question 3. The parents noticed some changes in the child. What were they?
Answer: The child changed from being timid and uncertain to a strong, happy player who was eager to contribute everything for the team. This transformation shows significant growth.
In simple words: The child changed from being shy and doubtful to a strong and happy team player.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing transformations, use contrasting adjectives or phrases (e.g., timid to strong, doubting to happy) to clearly illustrate the change.

Question 4. Read the letter again and write a few lines on each of the following:
(a) things that the coach taught
(b) transformation in the child
(c) things that amazed the writer
Answer:
(a) **Things the coach taught:** The coach taught the child the fundamental rules of sports, along with special techniques to improve and excel in the game. He provided individual guidance to help the child learn and grow.
(b) **Transformation in the child:** Under the coach's care, the child changed from being shy and uncertain to a strong, happy player who was always ready to give his best for the team. This shows a big boost in confidence.
(c) **Things that amazed the writer:** The writer was amazed that the coach taught the child skills that would be useful for a lifetime. The coach also inspired a strong desire to achieve greatness in the child. It was more than just winning games.
In simple words: (a) The coach taught sports basics and special improvement methods. (b) The child changed from shy to confident. (c) The writer was amazed by the lasting skills and desire to excel taught by the coach.

🎯 Exam Tip: For multi-part questions, address each sub-part separately and clearly, using distinct points or sentences to ensure all aspects of the question are covered.

Question 5. Find sentences/words from the text which express the following:
(a) The parent's earlier view of the child.
(b) One of the qualities of the teacher.
(c) Words related to the prize.
Answer:
(a) **The parent's earlier view of the child:** "timid, doubting child"
(b) **One of the qualities of the teacher:** "Wise approach"
(c) **Words related to the prize:** "Medals, trophies, and ribbons"
In simple words: (a) The parent saw the child as shy and unsure. (b) The teacher was smart in how they taught. (c) Medals, trophies, and ribbons are all about prizes.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to find specific words or phrases from a text, quote them directly as they appear in the passage to ensure accuracy.

Q. Prepare Notice for the Following.

Notice
GOVERNMENT HIGHER
SECONDARY SCHOOL, TRICHY
World Elder's Day
15 November 2020
All the students are informed that our school is celebrating World Elders' Day on the 20th of December at 3:30 p.m. in our school auditorium. Interested students are requested to bring their grandparents for the celebration. Tea and snacks will be provided. Fun activities will also be organised.

Nikhil/Nikita
Head Boy/ Head Girl

Question (i) You are the school monitor of Modern Matriculation School, Villupuram. Your school Principal has requested you to inform the students about a trip to Yercaud for 3 days. Prepare a notice giving details such as date of journey, mode of transportation, amount, dress code, etc.
Answer:
Modern Matriculation School, Villupuram
**3 DAYS TRIP TO YERCAUD**
20th September, 2020
Dear Students,
You are informed that a trip to Yercaud has been planned for 3 days on 15, 16, 17 October 2020. The total cost for transportation by luxury coach, boarding, and lodging is Rs.2500/- only. Students who are interested may register their names at our school office by 3 October 2020. All must come to school in uniform only. A well-written notice clearly communicates all necessary information to the target audience.
In simple words: Write a notice about a school trip to Yercaud, including dates, cost, transport, and how to register, making sure to include all key information for students.

🎯 Exam Tip: A good notice must include the name of the issuing body, a clear heading, date, and all relevant details in a concise manner, ending with the issuer's name and designation.

Question (ii) You are the Secretary of Park Circus Residents Welfare Association. Write a notice to inform the residents of your colony of a Meditation program under the guidance of Dr. P. Ranjit with a view to understanding the self better. The program is exclusively for the residents. It will be conducted on the second Saturday of the following month between 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. at the children's park nearby.
Answer:
**Notice**
Park Circus Residents Welfare Association
**Meditation Programme**
15 September, 2020
A meditation programme has been organised under the guidance of Dr. P. Ranjit at the children's park in our colony. It is to be conducted on the second Saturday of May between 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. All the residents of our colony are asked to participate with a view to understanding the self better. An effective notice provides all essential details clearly and concisely.

Premnath
Secretary
In simple words: Write a notice for your colony about a meditation program, giving details like date, time, place, and who is leading it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always specify the target audience and purpose of the notice clearly. Ensure the date of issue, event date, time, and venue are prominently mentioned.

Question (iii) You are Ganesh/Gayathri Head boy/Head girl of your school. Write a notice for your school notice board informing the students about the 'Fancy Fete' that is going to be organised at your school campus on the 10th of next month.
Answer:
**Notice**
Loyola Matriculation School,
NGO A Colony, Tirunelveli 627 007
25 July, 2020
A 'Fancy Fete' will be conducted in our school premises on 10th August 2020. Students who wish to participate in this programme may give their names to their respective class teachers on or before 30 July 2020. A well-structured notice informs the school community about an upcoming event.

Gayathri
Head Girl
In simple words: Write a notice for the school about a 'Fancy Fete' that will happen next month, telling students how to sign up if they want to join.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a notice about an event, include crucial information like the event's name, purpose, date, time, venue, and any registration deadlines or participation requirements.

R. Write an Article on the Following:

Question (i) You are Jansi/Avinash of Class X studying in GHSS, Chengalpet. You believe that physical activities improve our health and reduce the risk of sickness. It has got immediate and long term benefits. Write an article in not more than 150-200 words for your school magazine stressing the importance of physical activities in a student's day-to-day life.
Answer:
**Physical Activities**
By Jansi

There are many reasons why regular activity boosts our health. Being active is one of the best ways to keep our bodies healthy. Regular physical activity or exercise can relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. People often feel a good sensation after doing physical activity. Most people notice they feel better over time as physical activity becomes a regular part of their lives. Regular exercise helps maintain physical and mental well-being.

Without regular activity, our body slowly loses its strength, stamina, and ability to do other physical activities. Physical exercise makes our muscles strong and stout. It helps to digest food. It also helps the free circulation of blood and keeps our minds fresh. Physical activity is a cornerstone of overall health and longevity. Staying active helps you stay focused and energetic throughout the day, improving academic performance too.
In simple words: Write an article for your school magazine about why physical activities are important for health and how they help students in daily life.

🎯 Exam Tip: An effective article starts with a strong title, includes a byline, and presents ideas clearly in paragraphs with a logical flow, concluding with a summary or call to action. Ensure it adheres to the word limit.

Question (ii) The service provided by the conservancy workers in your city is very poor. You find all the street corners dumped with garbage thrown by the residents of the locality. It causes a menace for the public at large. You are Ramya/Rajan of Class X, studying in TM Model School, Dharmapuri. Write an article in about 150-200 words to the editor of The Indian Express, about this and suggest ways by which the situation could be improved.
Answer:
**Garbage Menace**
By Rajan

I would like to bring to the notice of the authority concerned through your leading newspaper about the garbage menace in our locality. The sanitary condition of our streets is getting worse as they are dumped with garbage thrown by the residents of this area. The presence of garbage heaps creates an unpleasant environment and poses health risks to the community.

These garbage heaps are a source of noxious stink and spread many diseases. This garbage has lots of plastic and other dangerous substances in it. When these substances are burnt, toxic gases are released into the atmosphere. These pose a serious threat to the health of residents, especially children and aged people. I appeal to the authorities concerned to look into this matter and take stern actions for the speedy disposal of the garbage heaps. Effective waste management is crucial for public health.
In simple words: Write an article for a newspaper about the problem of garbage in your area and suggest ways to fix it, explaining how it affects people's health.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing to an editor, clearly state the problem, explain its impact, and offer constructive solutions. Maintain a formal tone and adhere to the specified word count.

Question (iii) Recently while returning home from school you were knocked down by a speeding motorcycle. You escaped with minor injuries. You are Kishore/ Kavitha of Class XI, studying in GHSS, Coimbatore. Write an article to The Hindu, in about 150-200 words expressing your concern about the increasing number of road accidents due to reckless driving. Also, stress the importance of following traffic rules.
Answer:
**The Importance of Following Traffic Rules**
By Kishore

Traffic rules are designed to protect us on the road. We must follow them carefully. When we fail to follow them, we are not only putting ourselves at risk but also innocent bystanders and other drivers. By following the rules of the road, practicing good driving skills, and generally taking care as a good road user, one can play a vital role in preventing an accident. Road safety is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone.

As the traffic is increasing day by day in the country, the government is making new roads for a better environment and to avoid such hustle and bustle on the roads. It is necessary that rules are to be followed by each and every citizen. People have to follow the traffic signals sincerely. This helps them for their safe journey. People should also avoid using mobile phones while driving a motor car. If we follow the rules of the road, accidents will not follow us. I request you to publish in the column of your esteemed daily for the benefits of the motorists as well as the public.
In simple words: Write an article for a newspaper about how many road accidents happen because of bad driving and why everyone needs to follow traffic rules to stay safe.

🎯 Exam Tip: In an article about a social issue, clearly state the problem, provide supporting details or consequences, and propose solutions or call for action. Use a persuasive tone and maintain word limits.