Samacheer Kalvi Class 10 English Solutions Chapter 6 The Last Lesson

10th English Guide The Last Lesson InText Questions and Answers

Question 1. What kind of news was usually put up on the bulletin board?
Answer: The bulletin board usually displayed news about recent battles, the call for military service (the draft), and instructions from the commanding officer. This board was the main way people received important updates.
In simple words: The board showed news about fights, army recruitment, and officer orders.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about what was displayed, list the specific items mentioned in the text clearly.

Question 2. What was the usual scene when school began every day?
Answer: Normally, when school started each day, there was a lot of noise and activity. Students would loudly open and close their desks, repeat lessons together in a chorus, and the teacher's ruler would tap on the table to keep order. It was generally a lively and bustling environment.
In simple words: School usually started with loud noises from desks, many students reciting lessons, and the teacher tapping the ruler.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the sounds and actions to paint a clear picture of the busy school atmosphere.

Question 3. Other than the students who else were present in the class?
Answer: Besides the students, several other people were present in the class. These included old Hauser, the former mayor, the former postmaster, and other villagers. Their presence was unusual and showed the importance of the day.
In simple words: The old Hauser, past mayor, past postmaster, and other village people were in the class too.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to name specific village elders mentioned as being present, as they signify a community event.

Question 4. Why did M. Hamel say it was the last French lesson?
Answer: M. Hamel said it was the last French lesson because an order had come from Berlin. This order stated that only German would be taught in schools in the regions of Alsace and Lorraine from then on. Therefore, this was the final class for French. The changing political landscape directly impacted the local education.
In simple words: An order from Berlin said only German would be taught now, so it was the last French lesson.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the reason (the order from Berlin) and the consequence (only German to be taught) to score full marks.

Question 5. What was Franz asked to tell? Was he able to answer?
Answer: Franz was asked to recite the rules of participles. However, he was not able to answer the question. He felt ashamed because he had not studied for it.
In simple words: Franz had to recite participle rules but could not answer.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both what Franz was asked and his inability to answer for a complete response.

Question 6. Why did M. Hamel blame himself?
Answer: M. Hamel blamed himself because he sometimes sent Franz to water his flowers instead of having him learn his lessons. Also, when he wanted to go fishing, he would give Franz a holiday, which meant Franz missed school. He felt guilty for not always prioritizing their studies. The teacher acknowledged his own role in their missed learning opportunities.
In simple words: M. Hamel blamed himself for sending Franz to water flowers and giving him holidays when he went fishing, causing him to miss lessons.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the specific actions M. Hamel took that led him to blame himself.

Question 7. What did M. Hamel say about the French language?
Answer: M. Hamel said that French was a very beautiful language. He described it as the clearest and most logical language. He encouraged everyone to hold onto their language tightly, as it acts like a key to freedom for an enslaved people. He believed language was a strong symbol of identity.
In simple words: M. Hamel called French beautiful, clear, and logical. He said it was important to keep their language as it's the key to freedom when people are enslaved.

🎯 Exam Tip: Quote M. Hamel's exact description of the French language and its significance.

Question 8. How many years had M. Hamel been in the village?
Answer: M. Hamel had been working as a teacher in that village for forty years. This long service made his departure particularly sad for the community.
In simple words: M. Hamel had been in the village for 40 years.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the number of years clearly as it highlights his dedication and the community's loss.

10th English Guide The Last Lesson Textbook Questions and Answers

A. Answer the following questions in two or three sentences.

Question 1. Why did Franz dread to go to school that day?
Answer: Franz was scared to go to school that day because M. Hamel had announced that he would test them on participles. Franz, however, did not know even the first word about participles, making him fear punishment or embarrassment. He had not prepared at all.
In simple words: Franz was afraid of school because M. Hamel was going to ask questions about participles, and Franz knew nothing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both the topic of the test and Franz's lack of knowledge as the reasons for his dread.

Question 2. What were the various things that tempted Franz to spend his day outdoors?
Answer: Franz was tempted to spend his day outdoors by several things. The weather was warm and bright, and the birds were chirping sweetly in the woods. He also found the sight of the Prussian soldiers drilling very appealing, as it was much more interesting than studying participles. All these outdoor activities seemed more inviting than school.
In simple words: Franz wanted to stay outside because the day was warm and bright, birds were singing, and Prussian soldiers were practicing.

🎯 Exam Tip: List at least two or three specific outdoor attractions Franz found tempting.

Question 3. Why was the narrator not able to get to his desk without being seen?
Answer: The narrator could not get to his desk without being seen because the school was unusually quiet that day. Unlike the normal noisy start, everything was still, like a Sunday morning. This meant he had to open the door and walk in front of everyone who was already seated, making it impossible to slip in unnoticed. The lack of usual commotion made his late arrival stand out.
In simple words: The school was very quiet that day, so the narrator could not enter and sit at his desk without everyone seeing him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the unusual quietness of the school as the main reason for him being unable to hide his late entry.

Question 4. What was Franz sorry for?
Answer: Franz was very sorry for not having learned French properly during his time in school. He regretted wasting time instead of paying attention to his lessons. This regret came when he realized that this was the last French lesson, and he would no longer have the chance to learn his native language. He felt a deep sense of loss for his missed opportunity.
In simple words: Franz was sorry because he had not learned French well and had wasted his chances to study.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state that his regret was specifically about not learning French and wasting time, especially given it was the last lesson.

Question 5. Why were the old villagers sitting in the last desk?
Answer: The old villagers were sitting in the last desks because they felt sad that it was the last French lesson to be taught at their school. They were also sorry that they had not attended school more often in the past. Their presence was a way of showing respect and thanking M. Hamel for his forty years of dedicated service to their community. It was a silent tribute to their language and teacher.
In simple words: The old villagers sat in the back to show sadness about the last French lesson and to thank M. Hamel for his 40 years of teaching.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight both their sorrow for the lost language and their gratitude to M. Hamel.

Question 6. What were the thoughts of the narrator's parents?
Answer: The narrator's parents thought it was better for him to work on a farm or at the mills. They preferred this because it would help them earn a little more money for the family. Their priority was financial stability over their son's education. This shows the practical challenges faced by many families at that time.
In simple words: The narrator's parents wanted him to work on a farm or at the mills to earn more money.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the parents' financial motivations for sending him to work.

Question 7. Why does M. Hamel say that we must guard our language?
Answer: M. Hamel said that people must protect their language among themselves and never forget it. He believed that when a community is enslaved, holding onto their language is like having the key to their prison. It helps them maintain their identity, culture, and hope for freedom, even when everything else is taken away. Language serves as a powerful tool for resistance and unity.
In simple words: M. Hamel said we must protect our language because it is like a key to freedom for enslaved people, helping them keep their identity.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the connection between guarding one's language and the idea of holding the "key to their prison" for an enslaved people.

Question 8. M. Hamel was gazing at many things. What were they?
Answer: M. Hamel was looking around at several things in his garden outside and also inside the classroom. He gazed at the garden, the walnut trees, and the hop-vine that he had planted himself. These were all familiar sights that he was seeing for the last time. He wanted to remember every detail.
In simple words: M. Hamel gazed at his garden, the walnut trees, and the hop-vine he had planted.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the specific things M. Hamel was looking at to show his attachment to his surroundings.

Question 9. When and how did M. Hamel bid farewell to the class?
Answer: M. Hamel said goodbye to the class when the Prussian trumpets sounded under their windows, signaling the end of the lesson. He stood up, looking very pale, and with his throat choked with emotion, he could barely speak. He then turned to the blackboard and, with great effort and a heavy heart, wrote "LONG LIVE FRANCE!" in large letters before dismissing the school with a gesture. This was a poignant and emotional farewell, reflecting his deep patriotism.
In simple words: M. Hamel said goodbye when Prussian trumpets sounded. He was pale and choked with emotion, then wrote "LONG LIVE FRANCE!" on the board before dismissing the class.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include the specific event (Prussian trumpets), M. Hamel's emotional state, and his final action of writing on the blackboard.

Additional Questions and Answers

Question 1. Who called after the narrator as he hurried to school?
Answer: As the narrator, Franz, rushed to school, Watcher the blacksmith and his apprentice called out to him. They were both reading the bulletin board and told Franz not to hurry so much because he would have plenty of time to get to school. They thought he was rushing for no reason. This was an early sign of the unusual events of the day.
In simple words: Watcher the blacksmith and his apprentice called after Franz as he hurried to school.

🎯 Exam Tip: Name both the blacksmith and his apprentice to ensure a complete answer.

Question 2. What did they tell the narrator?
Answer: They told Franz not to rush so quickly. They assured him that he had plenty of time to reach school. They likely already knew about the news on the bulletin board and the change in school lessons. This advice, however, was misunderstood by Franz who thought they were making fun of him.
In simple words: They told the narrator not to go too fast and that he had enough time to get to school.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the exact advice given to Franz by the people.

Question 3. What strange situation did Franz find at school?
Answer: Franz found a very strange situation at school. Usually, there was a lot of noise and commotion when school started. But on this particular day, everything was completely still and quiet, just like a Sunday morning. This unusual silence made the atmosphere feel very different and unsettling. The absence of the normal school sounds was the first sign of something important.
In simple words: Franz found the school unusually quiet, like a Sunday morning, instead of the usual loud commotion.

🎯 Exam Tip: Contrast the usual school noise with the unusual silence to highlight the strangeness.

Question 4. What surprised Franz when he entered his classroom?
Answer: When Franz entered his classroom, he was surprised to see that the backbenches, which were usually empty, were occupied. Old Hauser, the former mayor, the former postmaster, and several other villagers were sitting there. This unexpected presence of the village elders in the class greatly surprised Franz. Their attendance showed the gravity of the day.
In simple words: Franz was surprised to see the backbenches filled with old Hauser, the former mayor, postmaster, and other villagers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the specific people who were sitting in the back to show your understanding of the scene.

Question 5. How was M. Hamel, the narrator's teacher dressed up that day?
Answer: On that day, M. Hamel, the narrator's teacher, was dressed in his beautiful green coat, his frilled shirt, and a little black silk cap. All these clothes were embroidered, indicating they were special attire. He only wore this outfit on inspection days or prize distribution days. His special dress signaled the importance of the occasion.
In simple words: M. Hamel wore his special green coat, frilled shirt, and embroidered black silk cap.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe M. Hamel's attire in detail, mentioning each item of clothing and its special nature.

Question 6. What was special about M. Hamel's dress that he had worn on that day?
Answer: The special thing about M. Hamel's dress was that he never wore it on regular days. He only wore this particular outfit, which included a beautiful green coat, frilled shirt, and embroidered silk cap, during inspections or on prize distribution days. His wearing it on this ordinary day made the occasion feel solemn and significant. It highlighted that this was not a normal class.
In simple words: His dress was special because he only wore it for inspections or prize days, not on regular school days.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain *why* the dress was special by stating the rare occasions he usually wore it.

Question 7. What did Franz think to himself when the pigeons on the roof cooed very low?
Answer: When Franz heard the pigeons cooing softly on the roof, he wondered to himself if the Prussians would even force the pigeons to sing in German. This thought showed his deep distress and fear that the invaders would take away everything, even the natural sounds, and impose their language on everyone and everything. It reflected the profound impact of the new order.
In simple words: When pigeons cooed, Franz wondered if the Prussians would make them sing in German too.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the pigeons' cooing to Franz's internal thought about the Prussians enforcing German on nature itself.

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

Question 1. We appreciate the value of something only when we are about to lose it. Explain this with reference to the French, language, and M. Hamel.
Answer: The story "The Last Lesson" by Alphonse Daudet powerfully shows that we often do not value something until we are about to lose it. This is true for the French people concerning their language and their teacher, M. Hamel. In 1870, after Prussian forces captured the French districts of Alsace and Lorraine, an order came that only German would be taught in schools. This meant an immediate end to French lessons and French teachers had to leave. Before this, many students, like Franz, did not take their French lessons seriously, often preferring to spend time outdoors. Even the adults in the village, who respected M. Hamel, did not always ensure their children attended school regularly or learned their language diligently. They often sent their children to work to earn money. However, on the last day of French class, everyone realized the true value of what they were losing. The entire village, including the old mayor, postmaster, and Hauser, came to attend M. Hamel's final lesson, sitting on the backbenches. They felt a deep regret for not having learned French better and for not cherishing their language enough when they had the chance. M. Hamel himself, after forty years of dedicated service, was seen in a new light. His passion for the French language and his teachings suddenly became extremely precious. He emphasized that their language was a key to their identity and freedom as an enslaved people. The community's sorrow and renewed appreciation on that last day clearly illustrate that the worth of something is often truly understood only when it is on the verge of being taken away forever.
In simple words: People often only value things when they are about to lose them. This is seen when the French people and students realized how important their language and teacher, M. Hamel, were only after they were forbidden to learn French. They regretted not learning it well when they had the chance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Structure your answer by first stating the central theme, then providing examples from the story that illustrate how Franz, the villagers, and M. Hamel's teaching were undervalued until the last lesson.

Question 2. Give an account of the last day of M. Hamel in school.
Answer: M. Hamel's last day in school was filled with deep emotion and a sense of loss, marking the end of an era. An order from Berlin had decreed that German would be the only language taught in schools in Alsace and Lorraine, making this M. Hamel's final French lesson after forty years of teaching. The day began unusually quiet, with no sounds of commotion normally heard at school. Franz, who was late, was surprised by the solemn atmosphere. When he entered the classroom, he found not only his fellow students but also the village elders, like old Hauser, the former mayor, and the former postmaster, occupying the backbenches. They were there to pay their respects to M. Hamel and to their language. M. Hamel himself was dressed in his finest clothes, a green coat, frilled shirt, and embroidered silk cap, which he usually reserved for special occasions like inspection or prize days. His voice was gentle, and he announced with a heavy heart that it was their last French lesson. Throughout the class, M. Hamel taught with immense patience and dedication, explaining everything clearly. He talked about the beauty and logic of the French language, urging everyone to guard it closely as it was the key to their identity even in enslavement. During the lesson, Franz, usually distracted, paid full attention and understood everything easily. He felt a pang of regret for not having learned more. The clock striking twelve and the sound of the Prussian trumpets signaled the end. Overwhelmed with emotion, M. Hamel could not speak further. He turned to the blackboard and, with great effort, wrote "Vive La France!" (Long Live France!) before dismissing the school with a gesture. The day was a powerful farewell, highlighting the significance of language and identity. It also showed how much the community valued their teacher, M. Hamel, only when he was leaving.
In simple words: On M. Hamel's last day, the school was very quiet. Villagers sat in the back. M. Hamel wore his best clothes and taught with great emotion, emphasizing the importance of French. He struggled to speak at the end and wrote "Long Live France!" before dismissing the class, marking a sad farewell after 40 years.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include details about the atmosphere, who was present, M. Hamel's attire, his message about the language, Franz's change in attitude, and M. Hamel's final emotional act to fully describe the last day.

Conclusion:
The clock struck twelve M. Hamel, thus he couldnot speak filled with emotions wrote "vive la France" on the blackboard, and with sorrows, he bid farewell to the class.
Paragraph for Slow Learners:
Hamel was the teacher in faithful service for forty years. He wore his Sunday clothes in honour of his last French class. The old villagers were present on the last day at school. Hamel told Franz that the Prussians would find fault with the French for they do not know to read and write French.
He said that French was the beautiful language. It must be held and guarded to be used as the key to the prison of the enslaved. He took a grammar lesson. Then they had a lesson in writing.
He looked at the garden and the classroom. Hearing the trumpets of the Prussians, Hamel stood up but he could not speak out of grief. He wrote on the blackboard in French, "Long Live France". Then with a gesture, he dismissed the school.

(OR)
1. Hamel had put on his fine Sunday class clothes.
2. It was in honour of his last French lesson.
3. He had worked faithfully for forty years.
4. The old villagers were present in the school, besides children.
5. Hamel told Franz that Prussians would blame the Frenchmen if they could not read and write French.
6. He told that French was the beautiful language.
7. French must be guarded to be used as a key to the prison of the enslaved.
8. Hamel was in grief and he could not speak.
9. He wrote "Long Live France" in French on the blackboard.
10. He dismissed the school with a gesture.
Answer: These points summarize the key events and observations of M. Hamel's last day at school. They cover his attire, the reason for the special day, his long service, the presence of villagers, his warning about the Prussians, his praise for the French language, its importance as a 'key to prison', his visible grief, his final message on the blackboard, and his dismissal of the class. Each point highlights a significant aspect of the emotional and impactful farewell. The events of this day deeply affected Franz and the entire village.
In simple words: This summary describes M. Hamel's last day: he wore special clothes, the villagers came, he spoke about the importance of French, showed his sadness, wrote "Long Live France!" and ended the class.

🎯 Exam Tip: When presenting summary points, ensure each point is distinct and covers a unique aspect of the event.

Vocubulary:

C. In column A are some of the idiomatic phrases from the essay. Match them with equivalent single words in column B.

Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: Learn these idiomatic phrases and their single-word equivalents to enhance your vocabulary and writing skills.

D. Frame sentences of your own using the above idiomatic phrases.

Question 1. He will .................... in the diplomatic service.
Answer: He will go far in the diplomatic service.
In simple words: He will be very successful in his diplomatic job.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Go far" means to achieve great success or progress in a career or field.

Question 2. I never thought that his car would ....................
Answer: I never thought that his car would blow up.
In simple words: I did not expect his car to explode.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Blow up" can mean to explode or to become very angry.

Question 3. He might .................... later but I doubt it.
Answer: He might show up later but I doubt it.
In simple words: He might appear later, but I don't think so.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Show up" means to arrive or appear, especially at an event or meeting.

Question 4. The foreign guests will .................... you next Monday afternoon.
Answer: The foreign guests will call on you next Monday afternoon.
In simple words: The foreign guests will visit you next Monday afternoon.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Call on" can mean to visit someone or to ask someone to do something, depending on context.

Question 5. It is not easy to .................... a bad habit.
Answer: It is not easy to break off a bad habit.
In simple words: It is difficult to stop a bad habit.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Break off" means to stop doing something suddenly or to end a relationship.

Question 6. He refused to .................... the pressure of their enemies.
Answer: He refused to knuckle under the pressure of their enemies.
In simple words: He refused to give in to his enemies' pressure.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Knuckle under" means to yield or submit to pressure or authority.

E. Given below are some idiomatic phrases. Find the meaning using the dictionary.

Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing idiomatic phrases helps in understanding figurative language and improves comprehension skills.

Listening:

F. Listen to the article titled "Remembering Nel Jayaraman”

In pairs, present an interview. One student will be the interviewer and the other sets of conversation has been given as examples for your help.
Student A: (interviewer) – Vanakkam sir. For what cause do you organise festivals?
Student B: (NJ) – I organise these festivals with a difference. I present seeds to all the participating farmers.
Student A: (interviewer) – Oh! That's really good, Sir. What do you expect in return?
Student B: (NJ) – In return I expect them to have double the harvest next year.
Student A: (interviewer) – Where did you organise the NEL festival?
Student B: (NJ) – (1)
Student A: (interviewer) – Can you mention how many people congregated for the meeting?
Student B: (NJ) – (2)
Student A: (interviewer) – What did you distribute to the farmers?
Student B: (NJ) – (3)
Student A: (interviewer) – How did you commute to each of these villages?
Student B: (NJ) – (4)
Student A: (interviewer) – Ayya, Do you plan your schedules?
Student B: (NJ) – (5)
Student A: (interviewer) – How could you remain so cool an calm sir?
Student B: (NJ) – I have an alternative (6)
Student A: (interviewer) – Where was your heart and soul?
Studnet B: (NJ) – (7)
Student A: (interviewer) – People say when your popularity grew, you spent less time in the field?
Student B: (NJ) – (8)
Student A: (interviewer) – What is your message to the world?
Student B: (NJ) – (9)
Student A: (interviewer) – Thank you, Sir. Nandri.

Answer:
1. I organized the Nel festival at Thiruvarur.
2. Around 500 people congregated for the meeting.
3. I distributed traditional paddy seeds to the farmers.
4. I used to cycle across to these villages.
5. Yes, I do plan my seed festival schedules.
6. to everything - no plates meant that we could buy banana leaves; no food meant that we could cook and serve rice which was available in plenty; no mike meant that we have to just raise our voices and speak!
7. My heart and soul was in the field.
8. That's the world we live in!
9. If you work selflessly for the society, it will give back.
In simple words: The answers show Nel Jayaraman held festivals in Thiruvarur, with 500 people, giving out paddy seeds, cycling to villages, planning schedules, and saying that selfless work for society is important. He explains how he managed without plates, food, or a microphone, and his heart was in the field, representing his belief in a selfless world.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the details of the interview and ensure all questions are answered with precise information from the article.

Speaking Activity:

G. A road map is given below. Answer the questions that follow with the help of the road map. Work in pairs and discuss to give directions to get to one place from another.

Question 1. You are at the market and you need directions to go to the pharmacy?
Answer: To reach the pharmacy from the market, first walk straight along George Street. Then, turn right and go past the Police Station and the Museum on Park Street. After that, turn left and walk straight along Central Avenue. You will find the pharmacy on your right side, directly opposite the Hospital. This route ensures you pass clear landmarks.
In simple words: Go straight on George Street, turn right past the police station, then left onto Central Avenue. The pharmacy will be on your right, across from the hospital.

🎯 Exam Tip: When giving directions, always use clear landmarks and cardinal directions (left, right, straight) to make them easy to follow.

Question 2. You are in the book shop. Ask your partner to direct you to the Art Gallery?
Answer: Starting from the Book Shop, go straight along Central Avenue. Continue walking past the School and the Shoe Shop. Then, turn left and walk along South Road. You will then see the Art Gallery, which is located directly opposite the Gift Shop. Always double-check your turns based on the map.
In simple words: From the book shop, go straight on Central Avenue past the school, turn left on South Road, and the Art Gallery is opposite the Gift Shop.

🎯 Exam Tip: For location questions, practice visualizing the path on the map and identifying key buildings along the way.

Question 3. Give your partner the direction to go from the Bank to the hotel?
Answer: From the Bank, walk straight along Park Street. You will pass the Museum and then the Police Station. After passing these, turn right and continue walking along George Street. The Hotel will be visible on your left, opposite the Bakery. It's a fairly direct route once you make the turn onto George Street.
In simple words: From the bank, go straight on Park Street, turn right on George Street, and the hotel is opposite the bakery.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to clearly state the starting and ending points before giving the step-by-step directions.

Question 4. Direct your partner from the post office to the market?
Answer: To get from the Post Office to the Market, first walk straight along Central Avenue. You will pass the Shoe Shop and then the School. Next, turn right and go straight along Park Street. After that, make a left turn and keep going. You will discover the Market located opposite the Swimming Pool. This route takes you through several main areas.
In simple words: From the post office, go straight on Central Avenue, turn right on Park Street, then left. The market is opposite the swimming pool.

🎯 Exam Tip: Break down longer directions into smaller, distinct steps to make them easier to remember and follow.

Question 5. Your partner wants to go to the library from school. Give suitable directions?
Answer: From the School, go straight and then turn left onto North Road. Continue walking past the Post Office and the Hotel. Once you reach George Street, turn left again and proceed straight ahead. You will find the Library, which is situated opposite the Police Station. This path involves a couple of turns but is straightforward.
In simple words: From school, turn left on North Road, pass the post office, turn left on George Street. The library is opposite the police station.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use visual cues like "past the Post Office" to help guide the person through the route.

Reading:

H. Read the poem carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Festivals
Festival of harvest
Celebrations at its best
Festival of Light
To our heart's delight
Festival of Dance
Leaves us in a trance
Festival of Music
Where they sing the joyous lyric
That brightens up with colours
Festival of decorated cars
That twinkle like the stars
Festival of Love
That spreads treasures on a tree,
To share the word from above
That makes us happy and free.
Festival of sacrifice
To unfurl the joy of giving,
Celebrate them well and nice
To make life worth living.

Question 1. Fill in the Blanks:
(a) ..................... is the festival which fills our hearts with delight.
(b) ..................... is referred to as a festival of sacrifice.
Answer:
(a) Festival of light
(b) Joy of giving
In simple words: The poem says that the Festival of Light makes our hearts happy. It also shows that the Festival of Sacrifice is about the joy of giving to others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the poem carefully to find the exact phrases or concepts mentioned for each blank. The answers are often directly stated or implied.

Question 2. What kind of joy is unfurled during the, festival of sacrifice?
Answer: The joy of giving is unfurled during the festival of sacrifice. This type of festival encourages people to share and be generous.
In simple words: The festival of sacrifice brings out the joy of giving things to others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for keywords in the question, like "festival of sacrifice" and "joy," to quickly locate the relevant line in the poem.

Question 3. How can we make our life worth living?
Answer: We can make our life worth living by giving things joyfully and by celebrating them well and nicely. When we appreciate and enjoy life's moments, it feels more meaningful.
In simple words: Our life becomes worth living when we give happily and celebrate good times nicely.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the concluding lines of the poem, as they often contain the main message or advice.

Question 4. What does the poet mean by 'Festival of flowers'?
Answer: The poet means that the Festival of Flowers brings out the brightness of colors. Flowers are often associated with beauty and vibrant hues, adding joy to celebrations.
In simple words: 'Festival of flowers' means a time when bright colors are seen everywhere, just like flowers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect figurative language or specific phrases in the poem to their underlying meaning or imagery.

Question 5. When are we in a state of trance?
Answer: We are in a state of trance during the festival of dance. Dance can be very captivating, making us feel completely absorbed and lost in the moment.
In simple words: We feel like we are in a dream-like state when we are at the festival of dance.

🎯 Exam Tip: The poem often links a specific festival to a feeling or action; identify these direct connections.

Question 6. What do the people do when the festival of Music is celebrated?
Answer: When the festival of music is celebrated, people sing the joyous lyric. Music brings happiness and encourages everyone to join in the singing.
In simple words: During the music festival, people sing happy songs.

🎯 Exam Tip: Simple questions like this usually have direct answers within the poem. Scan for the specific festival mentioned.

Question 7. What makes us happy and free, according to the poet?
Answer: According to the poet, sharing the word of love from above makes us happy and free. This suggests that spreading kindness and positive messages brings true contentment and liberation.
In simple words: Sharing messages of love makes us happy and feel free.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for lines that describe positive emotions like "happy" and "free" and identify what causes them in the poem.

Question 8. Find out the rhyme scheme employed in the fourth stanza?
Answer: The rhyme scheme employed in the fourth stanza is ab, ab. This pattern means that the first and third lines rhyme, and the second and fourth lines rhyme.
In simple words: The fourth part of the poem uses a rhyming pattern where the first and third lines sound alike, and the second and fourth lines sound alike.

🎯 Exam Tip: To find a rhyme scheme, label the end sound of each line with a letter, starting with 'a', and use the same letter for rhyming sounds.

Question 9. Pick out the rhyming words from the first stanza of the poem?
Answer: The rhyming words from the first stanza are: harvest, best; light, delight. These pairs of words create a pleasing sound pattern when read aloud.
In simple words: The words that rhyme in the first part of the poem are "harvest" and "best", and also "light" and "delight".

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the very last word of each line in the stanza to identify rhyming pairs.

Question 10. Write down the words that alliterate in the poetic lines below?
(a) Festival of Flowers
(b) That spreads treasures on a tree.
Answer:
(a) For "Festival of Flowers", the alliterated words are Festival and Flowers. Both words start with the 'F' sound.
(b) For "That spreads treasures on a tree.", the alliterated words are Treasures and Tree. Both words begin with the 'T' sound.
In simple words: Alliteration means when words that are close together start with the same sound. In the first part, 'Festival' and 'Flowers' start with 'F'. In the second part, 'Treasures' and 'Tree' start with 'T'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Alliteration is about the repetition of initial consonant sounds in words, not necessarily the same letter, but often it is. Read the line aloud to hear the sounds.

I. Create posters for the following.

Question 1. You are Raja/ Ranjani. Draft a poster to create awareness about the harmful effects of using plastics, in not more than 50 words.
Answer: Here are some slogans for a poster against plastics:
- Creates air, water, soil pollution.
- Save the environment.
- Serve the world, make it a litter-free zone.
- Safe life, breathe fresh air.
- Make the planet inhale clean, disease-free air.
- Do something drastic to eradicate plastic.
This poster aims to quickly convey the negative impacts and encourage action.
In simple words: The poster shows how plastic pollutes air, water, and soil. It tells people to save the environment and make the world clean and disease-free.

🎯 Exam Tip: For poster questions, use short, impactful slogans and bullet points. Focus on a clear message and direct calls to action.

Question 2. Say 'No to Drugs' - Design a poster for it in not more than 50 words. You may use slogans/ phrases.
Answer: Here are some slogans for a 'Say No to Drugs' poster:
- Drugs destroy your life.
- Drugs destroy peace and good health.
- Drugs shorten your life.
- Drugs decay the divine gift of life.
- Kick it before it kicks you.
These slogans highlight the severe dangers of drug use and urge people to avoid them.
In simple words: The poster lists many bad effects of drugs like destroying life, peace, and health, and tells people to avoid them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use strong, emotive language for posters on social issues to create a lasting impression and encourage people to think seriously.

Question 3. "Save our Earth" is the need of the hour. Draft a poster with attractive slogans/ phrases for the same in not more than 50 words. Use attractive drawings.
Answer: Here are some slogans for a 'Save Our Earth' poster:
- Save our Earth.
- Earth is our home.
- Earth is to be saved from all evils.
- Earth is our resource.
- Don't cut trees, stop pollutions.
- Earth is wealth in abundance.
- Green Earth! Clean Earth!
- Save Earth! Sustain Life!
These messages promote environmental protection and highlight Earth's importance.
In simple words: The poster encourages saving Earth, our home and resource, by stopping pollution and cutting trees, to keep it green and clean for life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Incorporate positive and aspirational messages alongside warnings to inspire action rather than just fear.

Question 4. You are Sita/ Sudhan. Design a poster in not more than 50 words to focus on not wasting water. Be creative.
Answer: Here are some slogans for a 'Save Water' poster:
- Water is the elixir of Life.
- Don't waste water.
- Water is valuable.
- No water! No life!
- Save water! Save life!
These simple yet powerful messages emphasize water's critical role and the need for conservation.
In simple words: The poster reminds us that water is life, it is precious, and wasting it means no life. So, save water to save life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on short, memorable phrases that highlight the scarcity and importance of the resource being discussed.

Question 5. Good handwritng is the index of an individual. Design a poster on the importance of good handwiritng. Use catchy slogans or phrases. Your poster should not exceed 50 words.
Answer: Here are some slogans for a poster on good handwriting:
- "A beautiful handwriting says who you are."
- Handwriting reveals your character.
- Handwriting improves our self-confidence.
- Writing unveils memories.
- Writing enriches your personality.
- Writing changes your life.
These slogans highlight how good handwriting reflects a person's qualities and can be beneficial in many ways.
In simple words: The poster explains that good handwriting shows who you are, builds confidence, helps remember things, improves personality, and can change your life.

🎯 Exam Tip: When making a poster about personal skills, include benefits and positive outcomes to motivate the audience.

J. Draft Letters for the following.

Question 1. You are Ajeet, living in a remote village in Tirunelveli. You participated in a health camp organised by your school. You were surprised to observe that most of the residents were unaware of health and hygiene. As a concerned citizen, write a letter to the editor stating the need to organise such camps focusing on the importance of health and hygiene.
Answer:
From
S. Ajeet,
19, Raj Nagar, N.G.O. Colony,
Tirunelveli.
To
The Editor,
The Hindu, Madurai.
Sub: Organising health camp - Regarding.
Sir,
This letter is to bring to your kind notice that the people in my area do not know much about health and hygiene. They do not eat healthy, clean food and do not keep their surroundings clean. I kindly ask you to help arrange healthy camps in our village. These camps would teach people about good health practices. I believe such efforts are essential for improving community well-being.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
Ajeet
In simple words: Ajeet wrote a letter to the editor about his village where people don't know much about health. He asked for health camps to be organized to teach them about staying healthy and clean.

🎯 Exam Tip: For formal letters, always include a clear 'From' and 'To' address, a concise subject line, and a polite, formal closing. Ensure the body clearly states the problem and suggests a solution.

Question 2. You are Sanjay. Your colony utilises solar energy to light the common areas. You find many friends of your colony forgetting to switch off the lights in the common area. As a responsible citizen, write a letter to a newspaper, echoing the importance to conserve and preserve solar energy.
Answer:
From
Sanjay,
3rd Avenue, Shanthi Nagar,
Tirunelveli.
To
The Editor,
The Hindu, Chennai - 2.
Sub: Conservation of Solar Energy - Regarding.
Sir,
I want to inform you that our colony uses solar energy for common lighting. However, many friends often forget to switch off the lights after use. I kindly ask you to help create awareness about saving solar energy. It is important to conserve this clean energy source for a better future. Please highlight this issue in your newspaper.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
Sanjay
In simple words: Sanjay wrote to the newspaper because people in his colony waste solar energy by leaving lights on. He asked them to raise awareness about saving solar energy.

🎯 Exam Tip: In letters addressing environmental concerns, always emphasize the benefits of conservation and the negative impact of wasteful practices.

Question 3. You are Sadasivam. You recently visited your native town in Vellore. You happened to accompany your grandmother to your family temple. You were shocked to notice the poor condition and maintenance of the temple. Write a letter to the Editor of the local newspaper highlighting the poor condition of the temple. Also, give some suggestions and request the HRC to take steps to improve the situation.
Answer:
From
Sadasivam,
Tirunelveli - 7.
To
The Editor,
The Hindu, Tirunelveli - 7.
Sub: Complaint about poor maintenance of temple premises - Regarding.
Sir,
I wish to bring to the kind notice of the concerned authorities that the Nellaiyappar Temple in my area is not being maintained properly. It needs repair and renewal to protect its artistic work and heritage. I ask the concerned Department to look into this matter and do the needful. Preserving such historical sites is crucial for our culture.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
Sadasivam
In simple words: Sadasivam wrote to the newspaper about the bad condition of a temple in his hometown. He asked for help from the authorities to fix it and save its heritage.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a complaint letter, clearly state the problem, its location, the impact, and suggest actionable solutions. Maintain a respectful but firm tone.

Question 4. You are Sudha. Your neighbour has a pet dog that barks continuously. Write a letter to the Editor of a weekly newspaper of your locality, highlighting the nuisance and noise pollution created thus. Also, suggest ways to solve the problem.
Answer:
From
R. Sudha,
Tirunelveli - 7.
To
The Editor,
The Times, Tirunelveli - 2.
Sub: Pet dog menace - Regarding.
Sir,
Through your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the owners of pet animals about the noise pollution caused by them. My neighbor's dog barks constantly, bothering the whole area. Children and elderly people are greatly affected. Owners should take proper care of their pets, feed them regularly, and provide medical care. I request you to highlight this issue in your newspaper so that owners become aware. This will help create a more peaceful environment for everyone.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
R. Sudha
In simple words: Sudha wrote to the newspaper about a neighbor's dog that barks too much, causing noise pollution and disturbing everyone. She asked for awareness among pet owners to take better care of their dogs.

🎯 Exam Tip: For letters about local problems, explain how the issue affects different groups of people in the community and offer practical solutions.

Question 5. You are Raja. The street lights of your area do not work properly. As a responsible citizen, write a letter to the newspaper enlightening them about the problem and also suggest ways to brighten the area.
Answer:
From
S. Raja,
19, Raj Nagar, N.G.O. Colony,
Tirunelveli.
To
The Editor,
The Hindu, Tirunelveli - 2.
Sub: Complaint on street lights-not working properly - Regarding.
Sir,
I wish to inform you that the street lights in our area are not working correctly. Because of this, the streets are always dark. Potholes cause small accidents for cyclists and scooterists. It is not safe for children. The broken lights should be replaced with new ones quickly. I hope the authorities will do the needful as soon as possible. Good street lighting is vital for safety and security.
Thanking you,
Yours truly,
S. Raja
In simple words: Raja wrote to the newspaper about broken street lights in his area, which makes streets dark and unsafe. He asked for the old lights to be replaced quickly to make the area brighter and safer.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing public utility issues, explain the consequences of the problem (e.g., safety risks) and propose clear, practical steps for resolution.

Grammar:

A. Fill in the blanks appropriately.

Question. 2. There ..................... ten dogs in my street.
3. They ..................... to write the exercises neatly.
4. Buttermilk ..................... good for health.
5. Fruits ..................... good for health.
Answer:
2. are
3. have
4. is
5. are
In simple words: This exercise checks if you know when to use 'is', 'are', and 'have' correctly with different subjects. Remember to use 'is' for one thing, 'are' for many things, and 'have' for possession or actions in a continuous form.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always identify the subject of the sentence (singular or plural) before choosing the correct verb form to fill in the blank.

B. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate verb.
Answer:
1. The quality of dal is not good.
2. The horse carriage is at the door.
3. My friend and teacher have come.
4. Are your father and mother at home?
5. Honour and glory is his reward.
6. The ship with its crew is sailing good.
7. Gullivers Travels is an excellent story.
8. Neither food nor water is found here.
9. Mathematics is a branch of study.
10. Fifteen minutes is allowed to read the question paper.
In simple words: For fill-in-the-blanks, always pick the verb that correctly matches the subject of the sentence and makes the most sense. For example, 'quality' is singular, so 'is' is used.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to subject-verb agreement. Collective nouns or titles, even if plural in form, often take a singular verb if they refer to one entity (e.g., "Gulliver's Travels").

C. Change the singular nouns to plurals by either adding 's', 'ies', 'es', 'ves.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the common rules for forming plurals, especially irregular ones and those ending in 'f', 'fe', 'y', 's', 'x', 'ch', 'sh'.

D. Identify the non-finite in the following sentences and underline them.

Question 1. Roshan dreams of eating an architect.
Answer: The non-finite verb in this sentence is "eating." This word functions as a gerund, which is a verb form used as a noun. It describes what Roshan dreams about.
In simple words: The word 'eating' is the non-finite verb here. It shows the action Roshan dreams of doing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Gerunds, ending in '-ing', act as nouns in a sentence. They are one type of non-finite verb, along with infinitives and participles.

Question 2. We must aim at becoming a Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's dream to make India the most developed country by 2020.
Answer: The non-finite verb in this sentence is "becoming." This is also a gerund, functioning as the object of the preposition "at." It represents the goal we should strive for.
In simple words: Here, 'becoming' is the non-finite verb. It talks about the goal of making India developed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Infinitives (to + verb) and gerunds (verb-ing) are both non-finite forms, but their usage depends on the main verb or preposition in the sentence.

Question 3. Fulfilling the children to the museum is Seema's responsibility.
Answer: The non-finite verb in this sentence is "fulfilling." This gerund acts as the subject of the sentence, indicating the action of carrying out the responsibility.
In simple words: 'Fulfilling' is the non-finite verb here. It is the main action of Seema's duty.

🎯 Exam Tip: A gerund can act as a noun in a sentence, serving as the subject, object, or complement, and will always end in -ing.

Question 4. Taking finished the work, the manager decided to return home.
Answer: The non-finite verb here is "Taking." This is a present participle used to modify the entire clause "finished the work," indicating the action that occurred before the manager decided to return home.
In simple words: 'Taking' is the non-finite verb. It shows the action that happened before the manager decided to go home.

🎯 Exam Tip: Participles (verb-ing or verb-ed forms) can function as adjectives, describing nouns or pronouns, and are another type of non-finite verb.

Question 5. Having with her family, Tara enjoyed every minute of it.
Answer: The non-finite verb in this sentence is "Having." This is a present participle, forming part of a participial phrase that indicates the condition under which Tara enjoyed her time. It implies "being with" her family.
In simple words: 'Having' is the non-finite verb. It tells us that Tara was with her family and enjoyed it.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Having" can be a gerund or a participle, and understanding its role (noun-like or adjective-like) helps in identifying it as a non-finite verb.

E. Fill in the blanks with the correct alternative.

Question 1. on the flute, Krishna returned it. {played / having played}
Answer: The correct alternative to fill the blank is "having played." This phrase shows an action that was completed before another action started.
In simple words: "Having played" is right because it means Krishna played the flute first, then gave it back.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use "having + past participle" to indicate an action that happened before another action in the sentence.

Question 2. We wish she continues healthy, {being / be}
Answer: The correct alternative to fill the blank is "be." The phrase "continues to be" is the standard grammatical construction for this context.
In simple words: "Be" is the correct word because we wish for her to keep *being* healthy.

🎯 Exam Tip: After verbs like "continue," "begin," or "start," both an infinitive (to be) or a gerund (being) can often be used, but "continues to be" is more common for states of being.

Question 3. The doctor advised him against in the sun. {wander/wandering}
Answer: The correct alternative to fill the blank is "wandering." After a preposition like "against," a gerund (verb ending in -ing) is typically used.
In simple words: "Wandering" is correct after "against" because it talks about the action of moving around.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always follow prepositions (like in, on, at, by, for, against, from) with a gerund (verb-ing) when referring to an action.

Question 4. I like rasam. {drinking / drink}
Answer: The correct alternative to fill the blank is "drinking." When expressing a preference or enjoyment for an activity, the gerund form of the verb is usually used after "like."
In simple words: "Drinking" is the right word because it shows the action you like to do with rasam.

🎯 Exam Tip: With verbs of preference (like, love, hate, enjoy), you can often use both the gerund (drinking) or the infinitive (to drink), but the gerund is very common for general preferences.

Question 5. the scissors I returned it to her. {using/having used}
Answer: The correct alternative to fill the blank is "Having used." This perfect participle phrase indicates that the action of using the scissors was completed before they were returned.
In simple words: "Having used" is correct because it means the scissors were used first, then given back to her.

🎯 Exam Tip: The perfect participle "having + past participle" is used to show an action that was finished before the main action of the sentence took place.

F. Tick the correct sentences.

Question 1. Tick the correct sentence from the following pair: I had desired to eat a cake. / I had desired to have eaten cake.
Answer: I had desired to eat a cake.
In simple words: This sentence is grammatically correct as "desired to eat" is the proper phrasing to show a past wish.

🎯 Exam Tip: The infinitive "to eat" correctly follows "desired" to express a wish or intention.

Question 2. Tick the correct sentence from the following pair: My son is fond of music. / My son is fond to music.
Answer: My son is fond of music.
In simple words: The correct preposition to use after "fond" is "of," making "fond of music" the right phrase.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always remember that the adjective "fond" is paired with the preposition "of" when expressing a liking for something.

Question 3. Tick the correct sentence from the following pair: Sreena avoids eating fruits. / Sreena avoids to eat fruits.
Answer: Sreena avoids eating fruits.
In simple words: After the verb "avoids," the gerund form "eating" is correctly used, not "to eat."

🎯 Exam Tip: Some verbs, like "avoid," "enjoy," "finish," and "mind," are typically followed by a gerund (verb-ing form).

Question 4. Tick the correct sentence from the following pair: Bravery is not to pick a quarrel. / Bravery is not picking a quarrel.
Answer: Bravery is not picking a quarrel.
In simple words: The correct way to express an action after "is not" in this context is using the gerund form "picking."

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing what something "is not" (in terms of an action), the gerund form is often the most natural and grammatically correct choice.

Question 5. Tick the correct sentence from the following pair: It is easier to say than do. / It is easier said than done.
Answer: It is easier said than done.
In simple words: This is a common idiom meaning that doing something is often harder than just talking about it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize common English idioms; "easier said than done" is a fixed phrase that should not be changed.