Samacheer Kalvi Class 12 English Solutions Chapter 3 In Celebration of Being Alive

Textual Questions:

1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences based on your understanding of the lesson: (P.No. 70)(Note: IQ -> Important Questions)

Question a. What thoughts troubled Dr. Christiaan Barnard as he neared the end of his career as a heart surgeon?
Answer: Towards the end of his career, Dr. Christiaan Barnard was worried about human suffering, especially that of young children. He was saddened by the fact that many children would not live past the age of one or five years old. It made him deeply reflect on the purpose of life.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard was troubled by how much people, especially kids, suffered as his career ended. He couldn't understand why so many children died young.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about a character's thoughts or feelings, clearly state the emotion and then provide the reasons behind it as mentioned in the text.

Question b. What were Dr. Barnard's feelings when he was hospitalized after an accident?
Answer: When Dr. Barnard was hospitalized after his accident, he wondered why he and his wife had to experience such suffering. This personal experience of pain made him question the meaning of life and its hardships even more deeply. He thought about why bad things happen to good people.
In simple words: After his accident, Dr. Barnard wondered why he and his wife had to go through suffering.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to how characters react to personal challenges, as this often reveals their core beliefs or internal conflicts.

Question c. When and where did the accident occur? (IQ)
Answer: The accident happened when Dr. Barnard and his wife were crossing the road after a nice meal. A car hit him and pushed him into his wife. His wife was then thrown into the opposite lane and hit by another car coming from that direction. This sudden event changed their lives.
In simple words: The accident happened while Dr. Barnard and his wife were crossing the road. A car hit him, pushing him into his wife, who was then hit by another car.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always specify both the time (if mentioned) and the location for "when and where" questions to score full marks.

Question d. How did the hospitalization of Dr. Barnard and his wife affect their routine?
Answer: Dr. Barnard's hospitalization meant he could not see the patients who were waiting for him to perform surgery. His wife was also unable to care for their young baby because of her injuries. This sudden disruption showed them how much they relied on their health for their daily tasks.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard could not operate on his patients, and his wife could not care for their baby.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail the specific consequences of an event on characters' lives, focusing on key roles and responsibilities mentioned in the text.

Question e. How was Dr. Barnard's attitude to suffering different from that of his father's?
Answer: Dr. Barnard's father believed that suffering made people better and was God's will. However, Dr. Barnard himself found no meaning in the extreme pain and suffering experienced by patients, especially young children. He felt a deep sense of sadness and confusion, unlike his father's acceptance.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard's father accepted suffering as God's will, thinking it made people nobler. Dr. Barnard, however, saw no point in the severe suffering of patients, especially children.

🎯 Exam Tip: When comparing attitudes, clearly state each person's view and highlight the contrast between them using phrases like "unlike" or "however."

Question f. How was the unattended trolley put to use? (IQ)
Answer: The unattended trolley was used by two boys as a "car" for a pretend race inside the hospital. They called it the "Grand Prix of Cape Town's Red Cross Children's Hospital." This imaginative play transformed a simple object into a source of great joy. They found a way to create happiness from nothing.
In simple words: The unattended trolley became a "car" for a race, which the boys called the "Grand Prix," inside the hospital.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions about how something was used, describe the object's new function and the context in which it was used.

Question g. What roles did the duo take up?
Answer:
1. The two boys took on the roles of a driver and a mechanic.
2. The blind boy acted as the mechanic, and the boy with one arm took on the role of the driver. They chose these roles to best suit their physical conditions, showing great teamwork and adaptability.
In simple words: One boy was the driver, and the other was the mechanic. The blind boy was the mechanic, and the boy with one arm was the driver.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about roles or duties, clearly list each role and specify who took it up, especially if there's a specific reason for the choice.

Question h. Why did the choice of roles prove to be easy for them?
Answer: The roles were easy to choose because of the boys' physical conditions. The mechanic, who was blind, provided power by pushing the trolley, while the driver, who had only one arm, steered it with his foot. They cleverly used their abilities in a way that helped them enjoy the game. This shows how they adapted to their circumstances.
In simple words: The choice was easy because the mechanic was blind, and the driver had only one arm, so they picked roles that suited their bodies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the characters' specific attributes to the reasons for their decisions, demonstrating an understanding of cause and effect.

Question i. Who encouraged them and how?
Answer: The other patients in the hospital encouraged the boys by laughing and shouting cheerfully. Their joyful sounds added to the excitement of the race and made the boys feel supported. This created a lively and positive atmosphere in the ward.
In simple words: Other patients encouraged them by laughing and shouting.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing encouragement, state who provided it and what actions they took to show their support.

Question j. What does Dr. Barnard compare this entertainment to?
Answer: Dr. Barnard compared the trolley race to the Indianapolis 500 car race, stating that the boys' entertainment was much better. He was deeply moved by their spirit and joy, which surpassed any professional race. This comparison highlights the profound impact the boys had on him.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard compared the trolley race to the Indianapolis 500 car race and felt the boys' race was much better.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify specific comparisons made in the text and explain the underlying meaning or impact of that comparison.

Question k. What happened in the grand finale? (IQ)
Answer: In the grand finale, plates and silverware that were on the trolley scattered everywhere. This dramatic ending added to the excitement and chaos of the race before the nurses intervened. It was a messy but memorable conclusion to their fun.
In simple words: During the grand finale, plates and silverware from the trolley scattered all around.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the climax or key event clearly and concisely, focusing on the immediate outcomes mentioned in the text.

Question l. How does Dr. Barnard know the boy who played the trolley's driver?
Answer: Dr. Barnard knew the boy who drove the trolley very well because he had successfully performed surgery to close a hole in the boy's heart a few years earlier. This personal connection made the boy's resilience even more impactful for Dr. Barnard. It shows the doctor's long-standing care for his patients.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard knew the driver because he had operated on his heart a few years ago to fix a hole.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about connections between characters, provide specific details about their past interactions or relationships.

Question m. What was the profound lesson that Dr. Barnard learned from the boys?
Answer: The profound lesson Dr. Barnard learned from the boys was that the true business of living is the celebration of being alive, regardless of challenges. He realized that happiness comes from within and not from perfect circumstances. This experience changed his perspective on life and suffering. He understood that living fully is about finding joy in every moment.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard learned that living means celebrating being alive, no matter what difficulties you face.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions about lessons or themes, clearly state the core message and briefly explain how it was learned or demonstrated.

2. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences: (Text Book Page No. 71)

Question a. Detail the statistics Dr. Barnard has provided in his speech.
Answer: Dr. Barnard shared some sad statistics in his speech. Out of 125 million children born each year, 12 million do not live to see their first birthday. Another 6 million children die before reaching the age of five. Many of the remaining children also suffer from mental or physical disabilities. These numbers highlight the vast amount of suffering in the world, especially among the young.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard stated that 12 million babies do not reach age one, and 6 million children die before age five each year. Many others end up with mental or physical disabilities.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing statistics, ensure accuracy of numbers and context, and then briefly explain their significance if appropriate.

Question b. What happened when the doctor couple was crossing the street?
Answer: As Dr. Barnard and his wife were crossing the street, a car hit him, knocking him into his wife. This impact caused her to be thrown into the other lane. Sadly, a second car coming from the opposite direction then struck her. The sudden and severe nature of the accident highlights its unexpected and tragic impact.
In simple words: A car hit Dr. Barnard, pushing him into his wife. She was then thrown into another lane and hit by a car coming from the opposite side.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the sequence of events clearly and chronologically, including all major actions and their immediate consequences.

Question c. What injuries did they sustain in the accident?
Answer: In the accident, Dr. Barnard suffered eleven broken ribs and a perforated (punctured) lung. His wife had a badly fractured shoulder. These serious injuries required hospitalization and caused them significant pain. Their recovery process would be long and difficult, showing the severity of the incident.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard broke eleven ribs and had a punctured lung. His wife suffered a badly fractured shoulder.

🎯 Exam Tip: List all specific injuries mentioned, ensuring accuracy of medical terms if used in the text.

Question d. Dr. Barnard couldn't find any nobility in suffering. Why?
Answer: Dr. Barnard could not find any nobility in suffering because he saw that a person enduring pain would constantly be restless and filled with agony. He witnessed firsthand how suffering made people miserable, not noble. For him, there was no dignity or higher purpose in the sheer physical and mental torment. He believed suffering simply brought misery.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard couldn't see any nobility in suffering because he felt it only brought agony and restlessness, not a higher purpose.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the character's perspective by referring to their direct observations or internal reasoning, as stated in the text.

Question e. Why does Dr. Barnard find the suffering of children heartbreaking?
Answer: Dr. Barnard finds the suffering of young children heartbreaking because they have complete trust in doctors and believe they will always help. Children do not complain, even after undergoing painful surgeries. Their innocent faith and resilience make their pain even more difficult for him to bear. He sees their suffering as pure and undeserved, which deeply affects him.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard finds children's suffering heartbreaking because they trust doctors completely and don't complain even after difficult surgeries.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a character's emotional response, link it to specific characteristics or behaviors of the people they are reacting to.

Question f. How did the boy who played the mechanic lose his eyesight?
Answer:
1. One night, the boy's mother and father were drunk and fighting.
2. His mother threw a lantern at his father, but it missed and broke over the boy's head and shoulders.
3. He suffered severe third-degree burns on the upper part of his body and completely lost both his eyesight. This tragic incident highlights the dangerous consequences of domestic violence.
In simple words: The boy lost his eyesight when his drunk mother threw a lantern at his father during a fight; it broke over his head, causing severe burns.

🎯 Exam Tip: For incidents involving multiple steps, present them as a clear sequence of events to ensure full understanding.

Question g. Why does Dr. Barnard describe the blind boy as a 'walking horror'?
Answer: Dr. Barnard described the blind boy as a 'walking horror' because his face was badly disfigured due to the burns. A large flap of skin hung from the side of his neck to his body. As the wound healed, the fibrous tissue around his neck tightened, making it difficult for him to open his mouth without raising his head. His appearance was deeply shocking due to these severe injuries.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard called the blind boy a 'walking horror' because his face was disfigured, a skin flap hung from his neck, and he had trouble opening his mouth due to healing wounds.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the literal and figurative reasons behind descriptive phrases, detailing the physical conditions that led to such a description.

Question h. What were the problems the trolley driver suffered from?
Answer:
1. The trolley driver had a hole in his heart, which Dr. Barnard had successfully closed earlier. This surgery was a major intervention in his young life.
2. He also suffered from a malignant (cancerous) bone tumour, which led to the amputation of his shoulder and arm. These severe health issues show the profound challenges he faced. Despite this, he maintained a spirit of play.
In simple words: The trolley driver had a hole in his heart that Dr. Barnard fixed. He also had a cancerous bone tumour, which caused his shoulder and arm to be amputated.

🎯 Exam Tip: List all medical problems accurately and include any relevant details about their treatment or cause mentioned in the text.

3.Answer the following in a paragraph of 100 – 150 words each: (P.No. 71)

Question a. Give an account of the medical problems for which the two boys were hospitalized.
Answer: The seven-year-old boy, who played the mechanic, was hospitalized due to severe third-degree burns on his upper body. These burns had caused him to lose both his eyes and left him disfigured, with a large flap of skin hanging from his neck. As his wounds healed, the fibrous tissue around his neck tightened, making it very difficult for him to open his mouth without raising his head. He was truly a 'walking horror' due to these injuries. The other boy, the trolley driver, had a hole in his heart that Dr. Barnard had previously repaired. Tragically, he was later hospitalized again because of a malignant bone tumour that required the amputation of his shoulder and arm. Despite these severe health issues, both boys found joy and celebrated life in the hospital. Their ability to find happiness in such difficult situations deeply moved Dr. Barnard. If adults had faced similar problems, they would likely have given up hope. This shows their amazing spirit.
In simple words: The mechanic boy had severe third-degree burns, lost his eyesight, and was disfigured, with skin hanging from his neck. His healing wounds made it hard to open his mouth. The driver boy had a hole in his heart, fixed by Dr. Barnard, and later had a cancerous bone tumour, leading to his shoulder and arm amputation. Both boys faced severe medical challenges, yet found joy.

🎯 Exam Tip: When detailing medical problems for multiple characters, ensure you clearly distinguish each person's ailments and their specific impacts, covering all aspects mentioned.

Question b. “These two children had given me a profound lesson ..." Elucidate.
Answer: Dr. Barnard felt that the two children had taught him a profound lesson about life. He learned from them that the true purpose of living is to celebrate being alive, regardless of the suffering one faces. Despite their severe disabilities—one boy being blind and disfigured, and the other having lost an arm and battled heart disease and cancer—they found immense joy in a simple trolley race. They showed him that happiness comes from within, not from perfect circumstances. This experience fundamentally changed his perspective on suffering and the human spirit. Their game, full of laughter and encouragement from other patients, was more entertaining than any professional car race. They chose roles that suited their physical limitations, which was inspiring. The boys' ability to celebrate life even in a hospital setting taught Dr. Barnard that what matters most is what you have left, not what you have lost. They taught him how to live in suffering and still find delight. This was a realization that life’s value isn't diminished by physical limitations, but rather highlighted by the ability to find joy in any circumstance.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard learned from the two disabled boys that true living is about celebrating being alive, even through great suffering. Their joy during a simple trolley race, despite their severe health problems, taught him that happiness comes from within and that the spirit to live is more important than physical perfection.

🎯 Exam Tip: To elucidate a quote, first state its meaning, then provide specific examples from the text that demonstrate this meaning, and finally explain the impact on the character.

Question c. Describe the 'Grand Prix' at Cape Town's Red Cross Children's Hospital.
Answer: The 'Grand Prix' at Cape Town's Red Cross Children's Hospital was an impromptu, heartwarming event. It began when a nurse left a breakfast trolley unattended. Quickly, two daring boys—one blind (the mechanic) and one with one arm (the driver)—took charge of it. The blind mechanic pushed the trolley from behind with his head down, supplying the motor power by galloping. The one-armed driver steered by scraping his foot on the floor. This "race" became an amazing spectacle, drawing shouts and laughter from the other patients, who eagerly cheered them on. Dr. Barnard found it more entertaining than the Indianapolis 500 car race. The grand finale involved plates and silverware scattering as the boys navigated the trolley with wild enthusiasm, only stopping when the nurse and ward sister intervened. This incident was a powerful display of resilience and joy amidst the hospital's challenges. The boys, with their creative play, brought a moment of pure celebration to a place often filled with pain.
In simple words: The 'Grand Prix' was an exciting, unplanned race in the hospital using an unattended breakfast trolley. A blind boy pushed it, and a one-armed boy steered it, with other patients cheering. It ended with scattered dishes before staff stopped them, showing great joy despite their conditions.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing an event, ensure you include the setting, participants, key actions, and the overall atmosphere or significance, providing vivid details.

Question d. How did a casual incident in a hospital help Dr. Barnard perceive a new dimension of life?
Answer: A simple incident involving two disabled boys and a breakfast trolley in the hospital profoundly changed Dr. Barnard's perception of life. He witnessed the boys, despite their severe physical challenges (one blind, one with one arm), transforming the trolley into a race car and finding immense joy. Their laughter and the cheering of other patients created an atmosphere of celebration that deeply moved him. This made him realize that the "business of living" is not about avoiding suffering or achieving perfect health, but about finding and celebrating the joy of being alive, no matter the circumstances. It showed him that true happiness comes from within and the ability to embrace what one has, rather than dwelling on what is lost. This newfound perspective contrasted sharply with his earlier struggles to understand human suffering, leading him to appreciate life’s resilience. The boys taught him to focus on the joy that remains, not the sorrow that has passed. This realization became a turning point in his outlook on life.
In simple words: A casual trolley race by two disabled boys in the hospital helped Dr. Barnard understand that life's true meaning is celebrating simply being alive, regardless of suffering. Their joy showed him that happiness comes from within, changing his view from focusing on what was lost to appreciating what remained.

🎯 Exam Tip: To explain how an incident changed a character's perspective, describe the incident, the character's initial view, the new realization, and the contrast between the two.

Question e. Life is unjust and cruel to certain people. Do they all resign themselves to their fate? Can you think of some who have fought their disabilities heroically and remained a stellar example for others? (for e.g. the astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, a paraplegic). Give an account of one such person and his/her struggle to live a fruitful life.
Answer: It is true that life can be very unfair and cruel to some people, but not everyone gives up. Many individuals bravely fight against their difficulties and become inspiring examples for others. For instance, consider Divij Shah, a one-handed cycling champion. He lost his right hand in an accident when he was just four years old. Despite this, Divij decided not to let the mishap define him. He has achieved more than many people with two hands. In his teenage years, he played for West Bengal's U-16 cricket team. Always seeking new challenges, he also took up paracyding. After a lot of hard practice, he won a silver medal at the Asian Para-cycling championships recently. Divij is now focused on becoming a champion in the 2020 Paralympics. His story shows that with determination, one can overcome immense obstacles and live a truly fulfilling life, inspiring many along the way. He embodies the spirit of resilience and never giving up.
In simple words: Life can be unfair, but not everyone gives up. Divij Shah, a one-handed cycling champion who lost his hand at age four, is an example. He played cricket, won silver in para-cycling, and aims for the Paralympics, showing heroic resilience against his disability.

🎯 Exam Tip: When providing an example, clearly state the person's name, their disability, their achievements, and how they exemplify fighting against fate.

Paragraph:

Introduction:

In celebration of being alive is an extract of Christiaan Barnard's speech wherein he narrates an incident which took place in his hospital. It is this incident which made him look at the positive aspect of life. He and his wife met with an accident a few years back. They both were affected very badly. Barnard had eleven broken ribs and a perforated lung and his wife had a badly fractured shoulder. He had a bad feeling about why his wife and himself had to suffer.
In simple words: "In Celebration of Being Alive" is from Dr. Christiaan Barnard's speech, where he shares a hospital incident that changed his view on life. After he and his wife suffered severe injuries in an accident, he wondered why they had to experience such pain.

🎯 Exam Tip: Summarize the key information briefly, capturing the main idea without giving away too many details about the subsequent sections of the paragraph.

4 Better person:
He remembered his father's words who was of the view that suffering ennobles one and makes one a better person. Barnard found the suffering of children heartbreaking.
In simple words: Dr. Barnard remembered his father saying suffering makes one a better person. However, he found children's suffering very sad and difficult to accept.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the character's internal thoughts or external actions related to the heading, providing specific examples or beliefs.

In the hospital:
A 'Grand Prix' of Cape Town's Red Cross Children's Hospital made him perceive a new dimension of life. A nurse had left a breakfast trolley unattended which was taken possession of by two bold and daring boys. One acted as a driver and the other a mechanic.
In simple words: At Cape Town's Red Cross Children's Hospital, an unattended breakfast trolley became a 'Grand Prix' race for two brave boys, one a driver and one a mechanic, showing Dr. Barnard a new way to look at life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe the key elements of the hospital scene, including the objects involved and the roles taken by the characters.

The mechanic who was seven years old suffered severe third-degree burns on the upper part of his body and lost both his eyes. The trolley's driver had a hole in his heart which was successfully closed by Dr. Barnard. Later he was hospitalized again because he had a malignant tumour of the bone out of which his shoulder and arm were amputated.
In simple words: The seven-year-old mechanic had severe burns, was blind, and disfigured. The driver, whose heart hole Dr. Barnard fixed, later had his shoulder and arm amputated due to a cancerous bone tumour.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide clear and concise descriptions of each character's injuries or medical conditions, ensuring all details from the source are included.

Life lesson:
The patients encouraged them by their shouts and laughter. It was a much better entertainment the result of which was the scattered plates and silverware placed on the trolley. After the Grand Prix, the driver who had a little hope of recovery proudly informed Dr. Barnard that the trolley's wheels were not properly oiled but he was a good driver and he had full confidence in the mechanic.
In simple words: The patients cheered loudly, enjoying the exciting trolley race that ended with scattered plates. After the race, the driver, despite his limited recovery hope, confidently told Dr. Barnard he was a good driver and trusted his mechanic, teaching Dr. Barnard a lesson about finding joy and confidence in difficult times.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the key takeaway or message from the section, focusing on how character actions or statements contribute to the overall theme.

Conclusion:
Thus the action of the two children made Dr. Barnard realize the fact that the business of living is the celebration of being alive. He also realized that what is important is what you've left and not what you've lost. Learn to live in the sufferings
In simple words: The children's actions taught Dr. Barnard that life's true purpose is celebrating existence, and that what remains is more important than what has been lost, even when facing hardships.

🎯 Exam Tip: Summarize the ultimate impact or realization the character gains, linking it back to the main message of the text.

Vocabulary:

Go through the lesson and spot the words which mean the same as the following: (Text Book Page No. 71)

Question 1. profession (para 1)
Answer: Career
In simple words: "Profession" means the same as "career," referring to one's main job or line of work.

🎯 Exam Tip: When finding synonyms, always refer to the specific paragraph mentioned to ensure the context is correct.

Question 2. sorrowful (para 2)
Answer: Gloomy
In simple words: "Sorrowful" means feeling or causing sadness, similar to "gloomy."

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the emotional tone of the words when identifying synonyms, as slight differences in meaning can exist.

Question 3. decency (para 5)
Answer: Noble
In simple words: "Decency" refers to polite, honest, and moral behavior, similar to "noble" actions or character.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider both the general meaning and any specific connotations (like moral character) when choosing the best synonym.

Question 4. destiny (para 6)
Answer: Fate
In simple words: "Destiny" and "fate" both refer to events that are believed to be predetermined or unavoidable.

🎯 Exam Tip: For simple words, often a direct equivalent is found in the text; avoid overthinking complex synonyms unless necessary.

Question 5. hijacked (para 8)
Answer: Commandeered
In simple words: "Hijacked" means to illegally seize control of a vehicle or, in this context, to take control of something by force, similar to "commandeered."

🎯 Exam Tip: For verbs, ensure the synonym matches the action and the context (e.g., taking control).

Question 6. motivation (para 9)
Answer: Encouragement
In simple words: "Motivation" is the reason for acting or behaving in a particular way, similar to getting "encouragement" to do something.

🎯 Exam Tip: Think about what drives an action; "motivation" and "encouragement" are closely related in this sense.

Question 7. serious (para 10)
Answer: Severe
In simple words: "Serious" means significant or bad, which is also what "severe" implies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose synonyms that reflect the intensity or degree implied by the original word.

Question 8. significant (para 13)
Answer: Important
In simple words: "Significant" means important or noteworthy, so "important" is a direct synonym.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for straightforward replacements when dealing with common adjectives like "significant."

b) Go through the lesson and spot the words opposite to the meaning of the following:

Question 1. rare (para 1)
Answer: Prevalent
In simple words: "Rare" means not common, so "prevalent" (meaning common or widespread) is its opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: When finding antonyms, think of the direct opposite characteristic or state, not just a different one.

Question 2. primitive (para 6)
Answer: Sophisticated
In simple words: "Primitive" means simple or undeveloped, so "sophisticated" (meaning advanced or complex) is its opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the level of development or complexity implied by the word when choosing an antonym.

Question 3. fiction (para 7)
Answer: Witness / Fact
In simple words: "Fiction" means an invented story, so "witness" (a real observation) or "fact" (a truth) are its opposites.

🎯 Exam Tip: Sometimes, there can be more than one appropriate antonym, depending on the exact nuance of "fiction" being emphasized.

Question 4. fearful (para 8)
Answer: Intrepid
In simple words: "Fearful" means feeling afraid, so "intrepid" (meaning brave or fearless) is its opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: Antonyms often relate to opposite emotional states or courageous traits.

Question 5. benign (para 11)
Answer: Malignant
In simple words: "Benign" means harmless, especially in medical terms (like a benign tumor), so "malignant" (meaning harmful or cancerous) is its opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: For medical terms, look for their precise counterparts to ensure accuracy in antonyms.

Question 6. diffidence (para 11)
Answer: Hope, confidence
In simple words: "Diffidence" means a lack of confidence, so "hope" and "confidence" are its opposites, representing a positive and assured outlook.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a word implies a lack of something, its antonym will often be the presence of that quality.

Question 7. boredom (para 12)
Answer: Amusement/recreation
In simple words: "Boredom" is the state of feeling tired or uninterested, so "amusement" or "recreation" (activities that provide enjoyment) are its opposites.

🎯 Exam Tip: Antonyms for states of feeling often involve activities or states that evoke the opposite emotion.

Question 8. criticize (para 13)
Answer: Appreciate.
In simple words: "Criticize" means to express disapproval, so "appreciate" (to recognize the value of something) is its opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the action described by the verb; the antonym will be the contrasting action.

c) Frame illustrative sentences to distinguish the meaning of the words in the following clusters: (Text Book Page No. 72)

Question 6. diffidence (para 11)
Answer: The opposite of diffidence is hope and confidence. Diffidence means being shy or lacking self-assurance, so hope and confidence show the opposite feeling of being positive and sure of oneself.
In simple words: The opposite words are hope and confidence, which mean being sure and positive.

🎯 Exam Tip: When finding antonyms, think about the core meaning of the given word and then find a word that expresses the complete opposite idea.

Question 7. boredom (para 12)
Answer: The opposite of boredom is amusement and recreation. While boredom makes you feel dull, amusement and recreation make you feel happy and entertained. Engaging in a hobby or a fun activity helps overcome boredom effectively.
In simple words: The opposite of being bored is finding things fun or relaxing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the feeling a word evokes; its antonym will typically evoke the opposite feeling.

Question 8. criticize (para 13)
Answer: The opposite of criticize is appreciate. To criticize means to find fault, while to appreciate means to value or admire something. It is always good to appreciate someone's efforts rather than just criticize them.
In simple words: The opposite of criticizing is to show you like or value something.

🎯 Exam Tip: For verbs, think of actions that convey the reverse intention of the original verb.

c) Frame illustrative sentences to distinguish the meaning of the words in the following clusters: (Text Book Page No. 72)

d) Fill in the blanks with the words given in brackets: (Text Book Page No. 72)

[profound, amusement, confidence, agony, solace, intrepid, disfigured, perforated]

Question 1. Theatrical plays were a main source of _______ before the advent of television.
Answer: amusement
In simple words: Before TV, plays were the main way people found fun.

🎯 Exam Tip: Read the sentence carefully and choose the word from the list that best fits the context and meaning.

Question 2. The _______ warriors of the Spartan Army marched into battle against a powerful enemy.
Answer: intrepid
In simple words: Spartan warriors were brave when fighting strong enemies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider adjectives that describe a quality matching the noun in the sentence, like warriors being brave.

Question 3. The _______ of parents finally came to an end when their lost child was found with the help of police.
Answer: agony
In simple words: The great pain of the parents ended when their lost child was found.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for words that describe strong emotions or states when filling in blanks related to human feelings.

Question 4. Social media has brought about a _______ impact on the lives of millennials.
Answer: profound
In simple words: Social media has made a very deep change in young people's lives.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Profound' implies a deep and significant effect, making it suitable for describing a major impact.

Question 5. The tires of the car got _______ when the vehicle rolled over the rusted nails scattered on the road.
Answer: perforated
In simple words: The car's tires got holes from running over rusty nails.

🎯 Exam Tip: The context of "rusted nails" immediately suggests damage involving holes, pointing to "perforated."

Question 6. Thomas Alva Edison did not lose his, _______ even after facing a series of experimental failures in his quest to discover tungsten.
Answer: confidence
In simple words: Edison stayed sure of himself even after many failed experiments to find tungsten.

🎯 Exam Tip: The phrase "did not lose his" implies something positive like belief or assurance, which leads to "confidence."

Question 7. Many victims of the pipeline explosion in an oil refinery were left permanently _______.
Answer: disfigured
In simple words: Many people hurt in the oil explosion were permanently changed in appearance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Disfigurement is a permanent alteration of appearance, fitting the severity implied by "pipeline explosion."

Question 8. The old lady found _______ in the company of the children in the neighbourhood.
Answer: solace
In simple words: The old lady found comfort and peace when she was with the children.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Solace" is a good fit when someone finds comfort or relief from sadness in the presence of others.

e) Form a phrase with each of the following pairs of nouns given below: (Text Book Page No. 72)

Here is an example from the lesson:
fibre + tissue - fibrous tissue

Question 1. muscle + pain
Answer: Muscular pain
In simple words: When muscles hurt, it's called muscle pain.

🎯 Exam Tip: To form an adjective from 'muscle,' use 'muscular' to describe something related to muscles.

Question 2. skeleton + system
Answer: skeletal system
In simple words: All the bones in your body make up your skeletal system.

🎯 Exam Tip: For 'skeleton,' 'skeletal' is the correct adjective form to use when referring to a system.

Question 3. nerve + disorder
Answer: nervous disorder
In simple words: A problem with nerves is called a nervous disorder.

🎯 Exam Tip: When forming a phrase, often the first noun can be changed into its adjective form to describe the second noun.

Question 4. digestion + enzymes
Answer: digestive enzymes
In simple words: These are special liquids that help your body break down food.

🎯 Exam Tip: The word 'digestive' is the adjective form of 'digestion' and describes things related to the process of digestion.

Question 5. surgery + instruments
Answer: surgical instruments
In simple words: These are tools used by doctors during operations.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Surgical' is the adjective form of 'surgery' and is used to describe items related to medical operations.

Question 6. agony + experience
Answer: agonic experience
In simple words: An agonic experience means a very painful and difficult time.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Agonic' is the adjective form of 'agony' and conveys the sense of extreme suffering.

Question 7. glory + victory
Answer: glorious victory
In simple words: A glorious victory is a great win that brings much fame.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Glorious' is the adjective form of 'glory,' indicating something that brings great honor.

Question 8. fancy + idea
Answer: fanciful idea
In simple words: A fanciful idea is one that is very creative or imaginative, but perhaps not practical.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Fanciful' means imaginative or creative, often impractical, and is the adjective form of 'fancy' in this context.

Question 9. emotion + song
Answer: emotional song
In simple words: An emotional song is one that makes you feel strong feelings.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Emotional' is the adjective form of 'emotion' and indicates that something evokes strong feelings.

Question 10. sense + issue
Answer: sensible issue / sensitive issue.
In simple words: It means a matter that needs careful thought or one that can easily upset people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Both 'sensible' (practical/reasonable) and 'sensitive' (easily affected/delicate) can form valid phrases with 'issue', depending on the intended meaning.

f) Fill the empty boxes with suitable words under each word class: (Text Book Page No. 73)

Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding how words change form across different parts of speech (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) is crucial for building vocabulary and writing correctly.

g) Spot the errors in the following sentences and rewrite them correctly: (Text Book Page No. 73)

Question 1. My grandfather is well-known in the village for his noble deeds.
Answer: noble
In simple words: The word 'noble' is correctly used here to describe good deeds.

🎯 Exam Tip: 'Noble' is an adjective meaning 'having fine personal qualities or high moral principles', and it correctly modifies 'deeds'.

Question 2. I had my evening meals in a restaurant near my office.
Answer: meal
In simple words: The correct word is 'meal' because it refers to a single instance of eating, not multiple.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to singular and plural forms; "meals" implies multiple instances, while "meal" is for one. Always ensure the noun matches the context.

Question 3. The Boss had full confidence in his Manager for the successful completion of the project.
Answer: in
In simple words: The correct preposition is 'in' because you have confidence *in* someone.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember common prepositional phrases, such as "confidence in someone/something," to avoid errors.

Question 4. After the complicated surgery, the patient hoped to complete recovery.
Answer: for
In simple words: The correct preposition is 'for' because you hope *for* something.

🎯 Exam Tip: Verbs like 'hope' are often followed by 'for' when referring to a desired outcome.

Question 5. The new health care scheme announced by the Government will bring relief to the children suffering with acute tuberculosis.
Answer: from
In simple words: The correct preposition is 'from' because people suffer *from* an illness.

🎯 Exam Tip: The phrase "suffering from" is the standard idiom used to describe experiencing an illness or ailment.

Question 6. In spite of his poverty and setbacks, was able to launch his dream carrier.
Answer: career.
In simple words: The correct word is 'career' which means a job or profession. 'Carrier' means something that carries.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be careful with homophones (words that sound alike but have different meanings and spellings) like 'career' and 'carrier'; choose the one that fits the context.

Listening: (Text Book Page No. 73)

Listen to the passage being readout. Based on your understanding, complete the statements given below with appropriate answers:

Question 1. Boredom occurs when a person is unable to _______
Answer: stay attentive
In simple words: People get bored when they cannot focus or pay attention.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listening for completions, identify keywords in the question and match them with phrases in the audio.

Question 2. _______ and _______ are emotional consequences of boredom.
Answer: Anger, frustration
In simple words: Feeling angry and annoyed are emotions that come from being bored.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on emotions mentioned as direct results when listening to identify 'consequences'.

Question 3. Two physical signs of acute boredom are _______
Answer:
• eyelids droop
• the frown on the face
In simple words: When someone is very bored, their eyelids might get heavy, and their face might show a frown.

🎯 Exam Tip: For physical signs, listen for descriptions of body language or facial expressions.

Question 4. How does boredom affect the quality of work a person does?
Answer: A bored person commits a lot of errors in his work. If a task feels too easy or too repetitive, the mind tends to wander, leading to mistakes.
In simple words: When a person is bored, they make many mistakes in their work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Answers for "how" questions should describe the manner or effect, linking the cause (boredom) to the result (errors).

Question 5. Mention two ways by which one can overcome boredom.
Answer:
• exercise
• set goals and work for them
Taking part in physical activities and having clear aims can help keep the mind active and engaged.
In simple words: You can beat boredom by exercising and setting clear goals to work towards.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing ways to overcome a problem, provide practical and actionable solutions mentioned in the text.

Speaking: (Text Book Page No. 73)

Question 1. You are rushing to attend to important work and you witness an accident on your way. Will you go to the rescue of the injured person? Share your views with the class.
Answer: Yes, I would definitely go to help the injured person, even if I was rushing for important work. Helping others in need is a basic human duty. For example, once I saw an old lady hit by a car while crossing the road. She was bleeding, so I immediately tied a cloth around the wound to stop the bleeding and then took her to a nearby hospital in an auto-rickshaw. The doctors helped her, and her life was saved. After that, I contacted her family to let them know. It felt good to help her, and they were very thankful. Saving a life is more important than any urgent work.
In simple words: Yes, I would help the injured person because helping others is important. I would stop bleeding and take them to a hospital, like I did for an old lady once.

🎯 Exam Tip: For opinion-based questions, state your stance clearly, provide a relevant example if possible, and conclude with a strong reason.

Question 2. Every person should take up the responsibility to serve society in his or her own way. Discuss the various ways in which you can serve society.
Answer: Every person has a role in helping society. There are many ways to do this, such as helping needy people. For example, plastic waste is harming our environment greatly, and the government is trying to stop its use. I would gather a small group of friends and visit homes in our area to teach people about the dangers of plastic. Also, planting trees is vital for a healthy planet. I would talk to people and try to plant young trees wherever possible. I would also meet children in our area and their parents to encourage good hygiene habits, like washing hands regularly. Each small effort contributes to a better community.
In simple words: We can help society in many ways, like teaching people about plastic dangers, planting trees, and promoting good health habits in our neighborhood.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing ways to serve society, offer specific, actionable examples that show a clear understanding of community needs and solutions.

Dialogue: (Text Book Page No. 73)

Here is a conversation between a student who wishes to open an account and a bank clerk. (Text Book Page No. 74)

Question. Here is a conversation between a student who wishes to open an account and a bank clerk.
Answer:
Student: Good morning, madam.
Bank Clerk: Good morning, what can I do for you?
Student: I would like to open an account in your bank.
Bank Clerk: Are you a student from a school or a college?
Student: I am a student of Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Tirunelveli.
Bank Clerk: Why do you want to open an account?
Student: My class teacher advised me to open an account to receive money benefits from government schemes.
Bank Clerk: Here is an application form to open an account in our bank. Please fill it up.
Student: Should I include any document with the form?
Bank Clerk: Yes. You should include a valid identity proof and an address proof that are approved by the government.
Student: Madam, can I submit the form and documents tomorrow?
Bank Clerk: Okay. You need to make an initial deposit of Rs. 500/- to open an account.
Student: Sure Madam, Thank you.
Bank Clerk: You are welcome.
In simple words: This conversation shows a student asking a bank clerk how to open an account to get government money. The clerk explains the steps, like filling a form, showing ID, and depositing Rs. 500.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing a dialogue, ensure each speaker's lines are distinct, logical, and contribute to the flow of the conversation, using appropriate polite language.

a) Pair work: Practise the dialogue with another student. Then write a similar dialogue between a student and the class teacher regarding an educational trip: (Text Book Page No. 74)

Question. Write a dialogue between a student and the class teacher regarding an educational trip.
Answer:
Student: Good morning, Mam.
Teacher: Yes, good morning. What about our educational trip?
Student: Yes Mam, I have come to speak about that.
Teacher: Did you tell all the students about it?
Student: Yes, Mam. I have told all the students. But some of them are not willing to come.
Teacher: Why? Is there any problem?
Student: Yes Mam, money is the only problem for them.
Teacher: OK, give me the list of the students who are willing to join the educational trip.
Student: Yes Mam, I will give it to you at once.
Teacher: OK, see you in the classroom.
In simple words: This dialogue is about a student talking to a teacher about an upcoming school trip. The student shares that some classmates cannot go because of money problems.

🎯 Exam Tip: In dialogues, keep the language simple and direct, matching the context and relationship between the speakers. Ensure there's a clear beginning, middle, and end to the conversation.

b) Build a conversation for the following situations with a minimum of five exchanges: (Text Book Page No. 74)

Question 1. A passenger and a railway staff regarding the cancellation of the reserved tickets:
Answer:
Passenger: Good Morning Sir.
Staff: Good morning, what can I do for you?
Passenger: Sir, I want to cancel my reserved ticket.
Staff: Why? What is the reason?
Passenger: My grandfather is dead. So I am unable to go now.
Staff: Ok, It's all right.
Passenger: Will you refund the money, Sir?
Staff: Yes, please fill the cancellation form.
In simple words: A passenger wants to cancel a train ticket because his grandfather died. The staff asks him to fill a form to get his money back.

🎯 Exam Tip: Dialogues should reflect real-life interactions; use polite language for formal settings and ensure clarity in stating the purpose and resolution.

Question 2. Two friends about the NSS camp which they are going to attend:
Answer:
Ramu: Hi Rahul, How are you?
Raghul: I am fine. How are you?
Ramu: I am fine. Are you coming to the NSS camp?
Raghul: Yes, I will come. What about you?
Ramu: Yeah! I will also come.
Raghul: Are you willing to participate in any programme?
Ramu: Yes, I will.
Raghul: Shall we speak about the danger of plastics?
Ramu: OK. It's a good idea.
Raghul: OK, Ram we shall meet in the NSS camp.
In simple words: Ramu and Raghul, two friends, confirm they are attending the NSS camp. They plan to talk about the dangers of plastics there.

🎯 Exam Tip: For informal dialogues between friends, use natural, conversational language, but ensure the core information of the situation is clearly exchanged.

Question 3. A salesman and a customer at an electronic shop:
Answer:
Salesman: You are welcome Sir. What do you want?
Customer: May I have a mixie?
Salesman: Yes, of course. Which company do you want sir?
Customer: I want to buy Preethi sir.
Salesman: Please come to this side.
Customer: What is the price of it?
Salesman: It is only Rs. 3500 sir.
Salesman: Does it have any warranty?
Salesman: Yes, sir. It has 10 years warranty.
Customer: OK sir, I take this one.
In simple words: A customer asks a salesman for a Preethi mixie, checks its price (Rs. 3500) and 10-year warranty, then decides to buy it.

🎯 Exam Tip: In transactional dialogues, ensure all necessary information for a purchase (item, brand, price, warranty) is exchanged clearly and politely.

Question 4. A father and his daughter about the advantages of the habit of newspaper-reading:
Answer:
Father: Do you read any newspaper regularly?
Daughter: Yes dad, I am reading the newspaper daily.
Father: That's nice. Do you think reading newspapers is essential?
Daughter: Certainly. In fact, it is a storehouse of knowledge.
Father: What can you learn from it?
Daughter: I can learn about world trade, business, politics, films, games, and sports, etc. from it.
Father: Now, what is your suggestion for others?
Daughter: I want to say that everybody should read at least one newspaper daily.
Father: Okay, it is a good habit, and keep going.
Daughter: Thank you, Dad.
In simple words: A father and daughter talk about newspaper reading. The daughter explains that it's a good habit because it gives knowledge about many things like world news, business, and sports.

🎯 Exam Tip: For discussions about advantages, ensure both speakers contribute points, and the conversation flows logically from question to explanation and advice.

c) Extend the conversation with two more relevant exchanges: (Text Book Page No. 75)

Question 1. Receptionist: Good evening, sir. Welcome to Chennai.
Answer:
Receptionist: Good evening, sir. Welcome to Chennai.
Traveller: I would like to book a deluxe room in your hotel for 3 days.
Receptionist: Single room or double room?
Traveller: Double room, please.
Receptionist: Sir, please give me your Aadhar card.
Traveller: I have my driving license only.
Receptionist: Ok. That will do sir.
In simple words: A traveler wants to book a double deluxe room for three days in a Chennai hotel. The receptionist asks for ID, and the traveler gives their driving license instead of an Aadhar card.

🎯 Exam Tip: In a hotel booking dialogue, key information like room type, duration, and identification should be clearly exchanged.

Question 2. Student: Good morning, sir. May I come in?
Answer:
Student: Good morning, sir. May I come in?
Teacher: Good morning, why are you late today?
Student: My bus broke down on the way. So I had to walk to school.
Teacher: Go and inform the HM.
Student: Yes sir, I will inform him.
Teacher: Get his permission and then enter the classroom.
In simple words: A student arrives late to class because their bus broke down. The teacher asks them to get permission from the Headmaster before entering.

🎯 Exam Tip: Classroom dialogues should follow polite school protocols; a student asking for permission and explaining lateness is typical.

Reading:

Reading Comprehension: (Text Book Page No. 75)

Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:

Humans have long been fascinated by fiction. We experience the excitement in assigning supernatural power to imaginary characters in fictional stories and so we have Spiderman, Batman, He-man, Titans, and many more. The 'Cyborg' was an offshoot of such wild imagination of humans to invest our species with superhuman powers. Today, the Cyborg is no more an imaginary organism. We are living in a world where a sizeable population of humans has merged their bodies with technological implants. The term Cyborg, short for 'cybernetic organism' was coined to describe a man, whose body is implanted with technological devices to supplement and substitute body functions. Cyborgs include people with cardiac pacemakers, contact lenses, bionic ears and eyes, prosthetics, and so on. In other words, a cyborg is partly human and partly machine. The technological innovations in the field of medicine and healthcare augment humans with machines, producing a beta version of the human body. The advent of brain-machine interfaces is certain to blur the boundary between humans and machines. Scientists are working hard to find a technique for age reversal too. People do not want to die, so mankind is striving to get to the final frontier, which is the development of machines and devices that would accord man immortality.

Question a. Account for the popularity of characters with supernatural powers. (Text Book Page No. 76)
Answer: Humans have always been very interested in fictional stories. We enjoy the thrill of giving special, superhuman abilities to characters in these stories. This interest explains why heroes like Spiderman, Batman, and He-man are so popular. These characters allow us to imagine beyond our normal capabilities.
In simple words: People like characters with special powers because it's exciting to imagine superhuman abilities in stories.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining popularity, connect it to human fascination and the appeal of imagining extraordinary abilities as mentioned in the text.

Question b. Who is referred to as a 'Cyborg'?
Answer: A 'Cyborg' is a concept that came from humans' big imagination to give our species superhuman abilities. Nowadays, a Cyborg is not just an imaginary creature. We live in a world where many people have put technology into their bodies through implants. The word 'Cyborg' means 'cybernetic organism' and describes a person whose body has technological devices added to help or replace body functions. These devices include things like heart pacemakers, special contact lenses, and bionic ears. The term helps us understand the blend of human and machine.
In simple words: A 'Cyborg' is a person who has technology put into their body to help or replace body parts, making them part human and part machine.

🎯 Exam Tip: For definitions, provide the origin, current status, and specific examples to give a complete picture as found in the passage.

Question c. What is expected to happen with the advent of the brain-machine interface?
Answer: With the arrival of brain-machine interfaces, it is expected that the line between humans and machines will become unclear. This technology will allow human brains to connect directly with computers, possibly leading to new ways of thinking and interacting with the world. This blurring of boundaries could redefine what it means to be human.
In simple words: When brain-machine interfaces come, the difference between humans and machines will become less clear.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the direct consequence mentioned in the passage regarding the specific technology in question.

Question a. Account for the popularity of characters with supernatural powers. (Text Book Page No. 76)
Answer: Humans have always been fascinated by fictional characters with special powers. We enjoy the excitement of seeing heroes like Spiderman and Batman, who possess superhuman abilities in stories. This deep interest often makes such characters very popular. This fascination shows our natural desire to imagine possibilities beyond our normal lives.
In simple words: People love stories about characters with special powers. It's exciting to imagine superhuman abilities in fiction.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining popularity, always connect it to human psychology or desires, such as the appeal of escape or wish fulfillment.

Question b. Who is referred to as a 'Cyborg'?
Answer: A 'Cyborg' refers to a being that is part human and part machine, created from the wild imagination of humans to give our species superhuman powers. Today, it is no longer just an imaginary idea. Many people in the world have merged their bodies with technology, using implants to improve or replace body functions. This blend of biology and mechanics is what defines a cyborg.
In simple words: A Cyborg is a person whose body has been mixed with technology. It's like a human with machine parts to make them stronger or better.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to mention both the imaginative origin and the modern reality of cyborgs, focusing on the human-machine integration.

Question c. What is expected to happen with the advent of the brain-machine interface?
Answer: With the arrival of brain-machine interfaces, the line between humans and machines is expected to become less clear. These interfaces allow direct communication between the brain and external devices, blurring what is natural and what is artificial. This advancement aims to enhance human capabilities or restore lost functions.
In simple words: Brain-machine interfaces will make it hard to tell where humans end and machines begin.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on keywords like "blur the boundary" when discussing the impact of advanced interfaces on human identity.

Question d. The needs of humans are not limited. How is this statement elaborated in the passage?
Answer: The passage explains that human needs are endless. Over time, things like food habits, ways of thinking, and even how people look keep changing. We are moving towards a future with self-driving cars. Computers and smartphones have become very important in our lives. This constant evolution shows that our desires and requirements are always expanding and never fully satisfied.
In simple words: Human needs keep changing and growing. We want new things all the time, like driverless cars and smart devices.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide specific examples from the text to support the idea of unlimited human needs, such as changing habits and new technologies.

Question e. How can a machine turn into a virtual companion for humans?
Answer: A machine can become a virtual companion as humans rely more on technology and merge with it, which slowly reduces our humanness. The goal is to put intelligence into machines and design robots in a way that gives people a virtual human friend. These advanced machines can interact with us, learn from us, and provide assistance, making them feel like companions. This evolution highlights our growing reliance on artificial intelligence for emotional and practical support.
In simple words: Machines can become virtual friends by being designed with intelligence to act like human companions, as we use more technology.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the role of artificial intelligence and robotics in mimicking human interaction to create a sense of companionship.

Question f. Explain the flip side of the rapid technological advancement.
Answer: The negative side of quick technological progress is that scientists are also trying to find ways to reverse aging. People do not want to die, so humanity is working towards achieving immortality through machines and devices. While promising, this focus on defying natural limits could lead to unforeseen ethical and social challenges. The pursuit of endless life can also shift our priorities away from present-day human issues.
In simple words: One bad side of fast technology is that people want to live forever using machines, which might cause new problems.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing the "flip side," focus on the potential negative or challenging aspects, such as the pursuit of immortality, as mentioned in the text.

Question g. Identify the word in para 1 which means 'everlasting life'.
Answer: Long - immortality
In simple words: The word that means "everlasting life" is "immortality".

🎯 Exam Tip: For vocabulary questions, always give the exact word and its meaning as requested by the question.

Question h. Which of the following words is synonymous with 'amalgamation'?
(a) recreation
(b) integration
(c) exploration
(d) proposition
Answer: (b) integration
In simple words: The word that means the same as 'amalgamation' is 'integration'. Both words mean mixing or combining different things.

🎯 Exam Tip: To find a synonym, think about the core meaning of the given word and choose the option that shares that core meaning, like "mixing" or "combining" for 'amalgamation'.

Question i. Which of the following options is the antonym of the word 'advent'?
(a) drawback
(b) dispute
(c) departure
(d) danger
Answer: (c) departure
In simple words: The word that means the opposite of 'advent' (which means arrival) is 'departure'.

🎯 Exam Tip: When looking for an antonym, consider the primary meaning of the word. 'Advent' means arrival, so its opposite is leaving or going away.

Question j. Find out the word which is the antonym of 'natural' in para 2.
Answer: Artificial.
In simple words: The opposite of "natural" is "artificial".

🎯 Exam Tip: For antonyms, think about words that represent the exact opposite quality or state of the given word.

Active And Passive Voice

Task 1

Change The Following Sentences Into Passive Voice:

Question a. Governor inaugurated the exhibition at ten o'clock.
Answer: The exhibition was inaugurated by the Governor at ten o'clock.
In simple words: The exhibition was opened by the Governor at 10 AM.

🎯 Exam Tip: In passive voice, the action's receiver (the exhibition) becomes the subject, and the doer (the Governor) is introduced with "by."

Question b. The crowd expected their leader to arrive early in the morning.
Answer: Their leader was expected to arrive early in the morning by the crowd.
In simple words: People thought their leader would come early in the morning.

🎯 Exam Tip: For sentences with "expect," the passive structure often begins with "It was expected that..." or uses the object of the active verb as the new subject.

Question c. Who taught her Computer Science?
Answer: By whom was she taught computer science?
In simple words: We ask who taught her computer science by using 'by whom' at the start.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the active voice question starts with "Who," the passive voice question starts with "By whom."

Question d. They unanimously named Ravi the captain of the team.
Answer: Ravi was unanimously named the captain of the team by them.
In simple words: Everyone agreed to pick Ravi as the team captain.

🎯 Exam Tip: Place adverbs like "unanimously" before the main verb in passive voice for clarity.

Question e. The President gave the commander an award.
Answer: The commander was given an award by the President.
In simple words: The President presented an award to the commander.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the active voice has two objects (commander, award), either can be the subject in passive voice, but typically the person is preferred.

Question f. Do not tell a lie.
Answer: Let not a lie be told.
In simple words: This means we should not say anything untrue.

🎯 Exam Tip: Imperative sentences (commands or requests) in passive voice often start with "Let."

Question g. Please open the door.
Answer: Let the door be opened.
In simple words: The door should be opened.

🎯 Exam Tip: Sentences with "Please" in the active voice can often be converted using "Let..." in the passive voice.

Question h. It is time to stop work.
Answer: It is time for the work to be stopped.
In simple words: We should stop working now.

🎯 Exam Tip: For "It is time to + verb" structures, the passive form uses "It is time for + object + to be + past participle."

Question i. They say he is a spy.
Answer: He is said to be a spy.
In simple words: People believe he is a spy.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the active subject is general (like "they" or "people"), it can often be omitted in the passive voice for brevity.

Question j. One should keep one's promise.
Answer: A promise should be kept.
In simple words: Everyone must fulfill their promises.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the active subject is "one" or "people," it is usually left out in the passive sentence because it's understood.

Question k. People burn a great deal of wood in winter.
Answer: A great deal of wood is burned by people in winter.
In simple words: Much wood is used for burning in the cold season.

🎯 Exam Tip: For passive voice, clearly identify the object of the active sentence (wood) to make it the new subject.

Question l. Where had you kept the book?
Answer: Where had the book been kept by you?
In simple words: We are asking where you put the book.

🎯 Exam Tip: In passive interrogative sentences, the interrogative word (Where) stays at the beginning, followed by the auxiliary verb.

Question m. When did you feel the tremors?
Answer: When were the tremors felt by you?
In simple words: We want to know the time you sensed the shaking.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure that the tense of the verb (past simple) is maintained correctly in the passive transformation.

Question n. How did you do the experiment?
Answer: How was the experiment done by you?
In simple words: We are asking about the method you used for the experiment.

🎯 Exam Tip: The auxiliary verb in the passive voice must agree with the new subject (experiment is singular, so "was").

Question o. Whose car did someone park in front of your gate?
Answer: Whose car was parked by someone in front of your gate?
In simple words: We are asking whose car was left at your gate by another person.

🎯 Exam Tip: Keep the possessive pronoun (Whose) at the start of the question when transforming to passive voice.

Change The Following Sentences Into Active Voice:

Question a. The smuggler has been nabbed by the police.
Answer: The police have nabbed the smuggler.
In simple words: The police caught the smuggler.

🎯 Exam Tip: To convert to active voice, identify the doer of the action (police) and make it the new subject, while the original subject (smuggler) becomes the object.

Question b. By whom were you interviewed?
Answer: Who interviewed you?
In simple words: We want to know the person who spoke to you for an interview.

🎯 Exam Tip: Passive questions starting with "By whom" convert to active questions starting with "Who."

Question c. Why were you scolded by your parents?
Answer: Why did your parents scold you?
In simple words: We are asking for the reason your parents spoke angrily to you.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the tense (past simple) is correctly used in the active voice when converting from passive.

Question d. Not a word was spoken by the convict in self-defense.
Answer: The convict did not speak a word in self-defense.
In simple words: The guilty person said nothing to protect themselves.

🎯 Exam Tip: Move the agent ("the convict") from the "by" phrase to the beginning of the sentence as the active subject.

Question e. Good news is expected shortly.
Answer: They expect good news shortly.
In simple words: People think good news will come soon.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the agent is unknown or general in passive voice, use a general subject like "They" or "People" for active voice.

Question f. The mail has just been received.
Answer: They have just received the mail.
In simple words: Someone just got the letter.

🎯 Exam Tip: In cases where the doer of the action is not specified in passive, use a general pronoun like "They" as the subject in active voice.

Question g. Sundari has been taken to the hospital by her husband.
Answer: Her husband has taken Sundari to the hospital.
In simple words: Sundari's husband brought her to the hospital.

🎯 Exam Tip: Make the agent ("her husband") the subject, and the original subject ("Sundari") the object, keeping the tense (present perfect) consistent.

Question h. Our television is being repaired now.
Answer: He is repairing our television now.
In simple words: Someone is fixing our TV right now.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the agent is unknown, use a suitable pronoun like "He" or "Someone" as the subject in the active voice.

Question i. Sweets have not been distributed to children by the organizers.
Answer: The organizers have not distributed sweets to children.
In simple words: The people in charge did not give sweets to the kids.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the agent ("the organizers") from the "by" phrase and make them the subject of the active sentence.

Question j. Prizes were being given by the chief guest.
Answer: The chief guest was giving the prizes.
In simple words: The main guest was handing out the awards.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure the past continuous tense (was giving) is correctly used for the active voice equivalent of "were being given."

Question k. Nobody has been seen in the library this week.
Answer: I have seen nobody in the library this week.
In simple words: I haven't seen anyone in the library this week.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the passive sentence is negative and implies a general observation, use a subject like "I" or "We" to form the active sentence.

Question l. Nobody would have known the truth if you had not disclosed it.
Answer: The truth would not have been known by anybody if you had not disclosed it.
In simple words: If you hadn't told, no one would have found out the truth.

🎯 Exam Tip: When changing to active voice for conditional sentences, ensure both clauses are correctly restructured to reflect the active agent.

Question m. You are advised to help the poor and needy.
Answer: You have to help the poor and needy.
In simple words: It is suggested that you support those who are not well-off.

🎯 Exam Tip: "You are advised to" often simplifies to "You have to" or "You should" in active voice, expressing a recommendation or duty.

Question n. You are requested to make a cup of tea for the guest.
Answer: Please make a cup of tea for the guest.
In simple words: Kindly prepare tea for the visitor.

🎯 Exam Tip: "You are requested to" is a polite way to make a request in passive voice, which becomes an imperative "Please" command in active voice.

Question Tags:

Task 1

Add Suitable Question Tags To The Following Sentences And Punctuate Properly:

Question 1. The children are very happy today.
Answer: Aren't they?
In simple words: The children are happy, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: Use a negative tag for a positive statement, and use the same auxiliary verb as in the statement.

Question 2. You have not returned my books yet.
Answer: Have you?
In simple words: You still have my books, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: Use a positive tag for a negative statement, and use the auxiliary verb present in the main sentence.

Question 3. We enjoyed the trip very much.
Answer: Didn't we?
In simple words: We really liked the trip, didn't we?

🎯 Exam Tip: For simple past tense statements, use "did" or "didn't" in the question tag.

Question 4. Let's clean the shelves this weekend.
Answer: Shall we?
In simple words: Let's tidy the shelves this weekend, okay?

🎯 Exam Tip: Sentences starting with "Let's" always take the question tag "shall we?"

Question 5. My mother rarely travels by bus.
Answer: Does she?
In simple words: My mother almost never takes the bus, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: Words like "rarely," "hardly," "scarcely" are negative. Therefore, the question tag should be positive.

Question 6. Somebody must bell the cat.
Answer: Mustn't someone?
In simple words: Someone needs to do the difficult task, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: For indefinite pronouns like "somebody," "everybody," "nobody," the pronoun in the tag is "they," but if the main verb is a modal like "must," it stays "mustn't."

Question 7. Anita never comes late to the office.
Answer: Does she?
In simple words: Anita is always on time for work, isn't she?

🎯 Exam Tip: "Never" is a negative word, so the tag should be positive. Use "does" for third-person singular present tense.

Question 8. I am always the winner.
Answer: Aren't I?
In simple words: I always win, don't I?

🎯 Exam Tip: For statements starting with "I am," the question tag is "aren't I?"

Question 9. Don't commit this mistake again.
Answer: Will you?
In simple words: Please don't repeat this error.

🎯 Exam Tip: Imperative negative sentences (commands) use "will you?" as their question tag.

Question 10. There is a pharmacy near that bus stand.
Answer: Isn't there?
In simple words: There's a medicine shop close to the bus stop, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: When a sentence starts with "There is/are," the question tag uses "there" instead of a pronoun.

Question 11. Bacteria can never survive in extreme weather conditions.
Answer: Can they?
In simple words: Bacteria cannot live in very harsh weather, correct?

🎯 Exam Tip: "Never" makes the statement negative, so the tag must be positive. Use "they" for "bacteria."

Question 12. I am not as smart as you are.
Answer: Am I?
In simple words: I am not as clever as you, am I?

🎯 Exam Tip: For negative statements with "I am not," the tag is "Am I?"

Question 13. The boys broke the windowpane last evening.
Answer: Didn't they?
In simple words: The boys shattered the window last night, didn't they?

🎯 Exam Tip: For past tense verbs without an auxiliary, use "did" or "didn't" in the tag.

Question 14. Leaves wither during autumn.
Answer: Don't they?
In simple words: Leaves dry up in fall, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: For present tense verbs, use "do" or "don't" in the tag. "Leaves" is plural, so use "they."

Question 15. You should add a little salt to the buttermilk.
Answer: Shouldn't you?
In simple words: You need to put a bit of salt in the drink, right?

🎯 Exam Tip: If the statement contains a modal verb like "should," use the same modal verb in the question tag.

Task 2

Correct The Error Found In The Question Tag In Each Of The Following:

Question 1. The evildoers cannot cross the path of truth, can't they?
Answer: Can they?
In simple words: Those who do wrong cannot overcome honesty, can they?

🎯 Exam Tip: A negative statement should always have a positive question tag.

Question 2. The vegetables in the fridge are still fresh, aren't it?
Answer: Aren't they?
In simple words: The vegetables in the fridge are still good to eat, aren't they?

🎯 Exam Tip: The pronoun in the question tag must agree with the subject. "Vegetables" is plural, so "they" should be used.

Question 3. The village head understood the intention of the politician, doesn't he?
Answer: Didn't he?
In simple words: The village leader understood what the politician wanted to do, didn't he?

🎯 Exam Tip: The verb "understood" is in the simple past tense, so the auxiliary "did" should be used in the tag.

Question 4. I claim to be a person of faith and prayer, aren't I?
Answer: Don't I?
In simple words: I say I am a person who believes and prays, don't I?

🎯 Exam Tip: For the verb "claim" (present tense), use "do" or "don't" in the tag. "Aren't I?" is used with "I am," not "I claim."

Question 5. The employees are seldom allowed to meet their boss, aren't they?
Answer: Are they?
In simple words: The workers are rarely permitted to see their boss, are they?

🎯 Exam Tip: "Seldom" is a negative adverb, so the question tag should be positive.

Question 6. Let's organize a trip to Goa, can we?
Answer: Shall we?
In simple words: Let's plan a trip to Goa, shall we?

🎯 Exam Tip: Sentences starting with "Let's" always take the question tag "shall we?"

Question 7. The landlady will charge me for the damage, shan't she?
Answer: Won't she?
In simple words: The building owner will make me pay for the harm, won't she?

🎯 Exam Tip: The negative form of "will" is "won't," not "shan't."

Question 8. Both the sisters have left for Canada, aren't they?
Answer: Haven't they?
In simple words: Both siblings have gone to Canada, haven't they?

🎯 Exam Tip: When the auxiliary verb is "have" (present perfect tense), the question tag should also use "have" or "haven't."

Question 9. That's definitely not the right thing to do in this situation, isn't that?
Answer: Is that?
In simple words: That is certainly the wrong action in this situation, isn't it?

🎯 Exam Tip: A negative statement requires a positive question tag.

Question 10. We needn't apply for a bank loan, do we?
Answer: Need we?
In simple words: We don't have to ask for a bank loan, do we?

🎯 Exam Tip: When "need" is used as a modal verb (like "needn't"), the question tag uses "need" or "needn't."

Question 11. The Chief Guest spoke a few words, did he?
Answer: Didn't he?
In simple words: The main speaker said a few things, didn't he?

🎯 Exam Tip: A positive statement needs a negative question tag. "Spoke" is positive, so "didn't he" is correct.

Question 12. The rhinoceros has a horn made of keratin, haven't they?
Answer: Hasn't it?
In simple words: The rhino's horn is made of keratin, isn't it?

🎯 Exam Tip: The subject "rhinoceros" is singular, so the pronoun "it" should be used, and the auxiliary verb "has" becomes "hasn't."

Story Writing:

Task 1

Expand The Following Outlines Into Complete Stories And Supply A Suitable Title For Each:

Question 1. Big cotton merchant - owned a factory - many employees - one day a heap of cotton stolen - no due - merchant's secretary assured to find out - asked him to host dinner - invite all workers - merchant agreed - middle of the feast - secretary suddenly shouted - cotton sticking to hair of thieves - the guilty dusted their heads - tried to clear - caught in the trap - punished.
Answer:

The Clever Secretary

Once upon a time, there was a big cotton merchant who owned a large factory with many employees. One day, a huge pile of cotton was stolen, and the merchant had no idea who took it. His clever secretary promised to find the thief. She suggested that the merchant host a dinner and invite all his workers, which he agreed to do. In the middle of the feast, the secretary suddenly shouted, "There is cotton sticking to the hair of the thieves!" Immediately, the guilty workers started dusting their heads to clear the imaginary cotton. This action revealed them, and they were caught in the trap and punished. The clever secretary used a smart trick to find the real culprits and ensure justice was served.

🎯 Exam Tip: When expanding a story outline, use vivid descriptions and connecting phrases to create a smooth narrative. Ensure all key points from the outline are included in the expanded story, adding details to make it engaging.

Question 2. Mr. X, a rich businessman - runs a company - always very busy with office work - one day his son 10 years old - approaches dad and asks - how much he earns in one hour - father gets furious - boy persuades - father says Rs. 500 - immediate son asks for Rs. 300 - father shouts - wasting money on toys - son leaves to his room crying - father feels bad - thinks might need some stationery - enters boy's room and gives money - boy becomes happy - takes some crumpled notes - under his pillow - counts everything together - total Rs.500 - gives it to dad - wants to buy - one hour of his time - father realizes his mistake - feels sorry and guilty - hugs son - closes all office files - takes him on a picnic - decides to spend more time with near and dear ones.
Answer:

Son's Love for His Father

Mr. X was a very rich businessman who ran a successful company. He was always incredibly busy with his office work. One day, his ten-year-old son came to him and bravely asked, "Dad, how much do you earn in one hour?" The father became very angry at first. However, his son kept asking, so the father reluctantly replied, "Rs. 500 an hour." Immediately, the boy asked his dad for Rs. 300. The father got upset, thinking his son wanted to waste money on toys. The boy then went to his room, crying sadly. The father soon felt bad, realizing his son might genuinely need the money for school supplies. He went into his son's room and gave him the Rs. 300. The boy became very happy and quickly pulled out some crumpled notes from under his pillow. He counted all the money, which totaled Rs. 500, and gave it to his dad. "I want to buy one hour of your time," he said. "Now will you spend an hour with me?" The father instantly understood his mistake. He felt deep sorrow and guilt. He hugged his son tightly, closed all his office files for the day, and took his son on a picnic. From that day on, he decided to spend more quality time with his family and loved ones, understanding that time together was more precious than any wealth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on character emotions and the turning point in the story. Ensure the dialogue feels natural and conveys the characters' feelings effectively, building towards the moral lesson.

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

Task 2:

Continue and complete the following stories and suggest suitable titles for the same: (Text Book Page No. 85)

Question 1. A rich man had a neighbour who was suffering from acute poverty. The rich man was proud of his wealth and treated his poor neighbour with disrespect and derision. One day, a fortune-teller told the rich man that all his wealth would be possessed by his neighbour within a month. The rich man became greatly worried and spent sleepless nights. He did not know how to safeguard his wealth round the clock. Suddenly he thought of a plan. He disposed of everything he had and with all that money, he bought a large, precious diamond. He sewed up the diamond in his turban. He proudly said to himself, "Now, there's no way. My poor neighbour can never secure my wealth. The words of the fortune-teller will prove false."
Answer: The rich man always wore his turban securely. One day, a strong wind blew his turban away. A monkey took it, jumping from tree to tree. The rich man ran after it but couldn't keep up. He found the turban near his house, but the diamond was gone. The monkey had searched for food in the turban and, while doing so, threw the diamond into the poor neighbour's house. After many days, the neighbour found the diamond, sold it, and became rich. Thus, the astrologer's prediction came true. The rich man learned that pride in wealth can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes.
In simple words: A rich man tried to hide his wealth from his poor neighbour after a fortune-teller's prediction. A monkey took his turban, and the diamond inside fell into the neighbour's house, making the neighbour rich and proving the prediction right.

🎯 Exam Tip: When completing a story, ensure the ending logically follows the setup and delivers a clear message or resolution.

Question 2. Four friends decided to go to a restaurant for dinner. They ordered an extra-large pizza with grated cheese and other choice toppings. The next 20 minutes seemed to be too long a time. Their eyes widened and their mouth watered, when the server brought the steaming hot pizza and placed it on the table. They could barely control the drool. Simultaneously, all the four hands pulled at a slice from the plate, their faces beaming with a victorious grin. Silence prevailed as they were absorbed in the taste of their favourite food. They relished every mouthful to the core and savoured the taste of each topping with a smile of approval. Soon, the plate was empty and clean with no trace. The boys dabbed their mouths and wiped their hands with tissues. Mission accomplished, they leaned back with immense joy and satisfaction not knowing, it would be short-lived. The waiter arrived with the bill. Joseph, who had brought the others to the restaurant for a treat casually slipped his hand into his pocket to get his wallet. He gave a soft shriek accompanied by an expression of dismay and utter disbelief. He exclaimed, “It's not there! Someone has pinched my wallet! What are we to do now?"
Answer: Joseph tried to convince the hotel manager about the stolen wallet. However, the manager refused to believe them and asked them to pay the bill. Joseph asked his friends to wait at the hotel while he went home, brought money, and paid the bill, bringing relief to everyone. This incident teaches us to be careful with our belongings, especially in public places. Even when you are with friends, personal responsibility for valuables is important.
In simple words: Joseph's wallet was stolen, and the restaurant manager demanded payment. Joseph went home to get money and paid the bill, learning a lesson about being careful.

🎯 Exam Tip: For narrative completions, focus on resolving the conflict presented and ensuring the characters' actions are consistent with the plot.

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

ஆசிரியரைப் பற்றி:

கிறிஸ்டியான் நீத்லிங் பெர்னார்டு (Christiaan Neethling Barnard) 1922ல் தென் ஆப்ரிக்காவில் ஓர் ஏழ்மையான பெற்றோருக்கு 4வது குழந்தையாகப் பிறந்தார். கல்வியில் அதிக நாட்டம் காட்டிய இவர், தனது சகோதரரை இதய நோயினால் (a cardiac ailment) இழந்த பிறகு மருத்துவம் (medicine) படிக்க தீர்மானித்தார். இவர் கல்வி உதவித்தொகை மூலமாக இதய அறுவை சிகிச்சையில் (cardiac surgery) மேற்படிப்பு பயின்றார்.

இதய அறுவை சிகிச்சை வல்லுநரான பெர்னார்டு, அக்காலத்தில் குணப்படுத்த இயலாத பிறவி மற்றும் சிக்கலான இதயக் கோளாறுகளில் கவனம் (focussed) செலுத்தினார். விலங்குகளிடம் இதயமாற்று அறுவை சிகிச்சை (heart transplantation) செய்து, பின்னர் 1967ல் உலகின் முதன்முதலில் மனிதர்களுக்கிடையே இதய மாற்று அறுவை சிகிச்சை செய்தார்.

இதனால் இவர் உலக அளவில் அடையாளங்காணப்பட்டு, இன்று வரை ஏற்றுக்கொள்ளக்கூடிய அறுவை சிகிச்சை உத்திகளை (techniques) வகுத்தார். இவர் 14 புத்தகங்களை எழுதியுள்ளார். இவரின் 235 அறிவியல் கட்டுரைகள், புகழ்பெற்ற பத்திரிக்கைகளில் பிரசுரமாகியுள்ளன. "ஒரே வாழ்க்கை ", “ஆரோக்கியமான இதயத்திற்கு 50 வழிகள்", "மிகச்சிறந்த மருந்து", மற்றும் "நம்பிக்கை ' என்பன இவர் எழுதிய புத்தகங்களுள் சில

இதய அறுவை சிகிச்சையில் முன்னோடியான இவர் கேப்டவுன் பல்கலைகழகத்தில் (University of Cape), மருத்துவத்துறையில் முனைவர் (Doctorate) பட்டம் பெற்றார்.

அதன் பிறகு உலகின் பல்வேறு பல்கலைக்கழகங்கள் இவருக்கு 11 கௌரவ டாக்டர் பட்டம் வழங்கின. இவர் 36 சர்வதேச விருதுகளைப் (International Awards) பெற்றுள்ளார். இவரின் கடைசி காலத்தில் இவர் "கிறிஸ்டியன் பெர்னார்டு அறக்கட்டளையை நிறுவி உலகம் முழுவதும் உள்ள பின்தங்கிய குழந்தைகளுக்கு (underprivileged) சேவை செய்யவும், அவர்களின் நிலையை உயர்த்த காரணமாகவும் இருந்தார். இவர் தனது 78ம் வயதில் 2001ல் மறைந்தார்.

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

பாடத்தைப் பற்றி:

"நாம் அனைவருக்கும் முதன் முதலில் இதய மாற்று அறுவை சிகிச்சை செய்த மருத்துவர் கிறிஸ்டியன் பெர்னான்ட் அறிவோம். இங்கே அவருடைய பேச்சின் சாரம்சம் கொடுக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது, இதில் வாழ்க்கையை குறித்து அவர் கொண்டிருந்த தோற்றத்தை மாற்றிய அவரது அனுபவத்தை விளக்குகிறார்".

கொடுக்கப்பட்ட பாடத்தில் ஒரு மருத்துவமனையில் செவிலியர் (Nurse) ஒருவர் காலைச் சிற்றுண்டி வண்டியை கவனிக்காமல் விட்டுவிட்டனர். ஆனால் கை துண்டிக்கப்பட்ட சிறுவனும் இயந்திர வல்லுநரும் அதை நகர்த்தி நோயாளிகளுக்கு உணவு பரிமாறுகின்றனர். இருவரும் நல்ல பாடத்தை போதிக்கின்றனர். இப்படி ஒரு வியத்தகு மாற்றத்தை உண்டு பண்ணியது என்ன என்பதை இங்கே கண்டரிவோம்.

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

In Celebration of Being Alive Summary in Tamil

ஒரு இதய சிகிச்சை நிபுணராக என்னுடைய வேலையின் (career - பணி) இறுதியை நெருங்க நெருங்க என் மக்கள் ஏன் வேதனைப்பட வேண்டும் என்பதை நோக்கி என் எண்ணங்கள் (thoughts) திரும்பின. இன்று இவ்வுலகில் அதிகப்படியான மக்கள் மிக கொடூரமாக (cruelly) வேதனைப்படுகிறார்கள்.

இந்த ஆண்டு பிறக்கக்கூடிய 125 மில்லியன் குழந்தைகளில், 12 மில்லியன் குழந்தைகள் தங்களது ஒரு வயதை அடைவதே கடினம் மற்றும் அடுத்த 6 மில்லியன் குழந்தைகளில் 5 வயதை எட்டுவதே இல்லை என்பது உங்களுக்கு தெரியுமா! மீதமுள்ளவர்களில் நிறைய பேர் மனம் (mental) அல்லது உடல் ஊனமுற்றவர்களாகவே (physical cripples) ஆகின்றனர்.

சில வருடங்களுக்கு முன் நான் சந்தித்த விபத்திலிருந்து எனக்கு இந்த இருண்ட எண்ணங்கள் (gloomy thoughts) தோன்றியிருக்கலாம் (stem). அருமையான உணவிற்கு பின் நான் என் மனைவியுடன் ஒரு நிமிடம் தெருவை தாண்டி சென்று கொண்டிருந்தேன். மறு நிமிடம் ஒரு கார் என்னை இடித்து (hit) என் மனைவியின் மீது தள்ளியது (knocked), அவளோ அடுத்த பாதையில் தூக்கி வீசப்பட்டு எதிரே வந்த காரினால் அடிப்பட்டாள் (struck).

அடுத்த சில நாட்கள் நான் மருத்துவமனையில் மிகுந்த மன வேதனையையும் (agony), பயத்தையும் (fear) மட்டும் அனுபவிக்கவில்லை கூடவே கோபத்தையும் (anger) உணர்ந்தேன். நானும் என் மனைவியும் ஏன் வேதனைப்பட வேண்டும் என என்னால் புரிந்து கொள்ள முடியவில்லை . என்னுடைய 11 விலா எலும்புகள் (ribs) உடைந்தன மற்றும் எனது நுரையீரலிலும் (lung) அடிபட்டு துளைகள் விழுந்தன. எனது மனைவியின் தோல்பட்டையும் நொறுங்கியது. ஏன் எங்களுக்கு இவ்வாறு நடக்க வேண்டும்? என மீண்டும் மீண்டும் நான் எனக்குள்ளே கேட்டுக்கொண்டேன்.

எல்லாவற்றிற்கும் மேலாக நான் எனது வேலையையும் பார்க்க வேண்டியதிருந்தது. என்னிடம் சிகிச்சை பெற நோயாளிகள் (patients) காத்து கொண்டிருந்தனர். எங்களின் சிறு வயது குழந்தைக்கு என் மனைவியின் அரவணைப்பு தேவைப்பட்டது. எனது தந்தை இப்போது உயிரோடிருந்தால் அவர் இவ்வாறு தான் கூறியிருப்பார். “மகனே, இது கடவுளின் விருப்பம், அவர் இவ்வாறு தான் உன்னை சோதிப்பார். சோதனைகளே உன்னை மேன்மையாக்கி, ஒரு சிறந்த மனிதனாக உன்னை உருவாக்கும் (ennobles)”

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

ஆனால், ஒரு மருத்துவராக வேர்வையால் நனைந்த படுக்கையில் (sweatsoaked bed) வலியால் துடித்துக் கொண்டும், மனம் நிறைய கடுந்துயராலும் நிரப்பப்பட்ட நோயாளிடம் எந்தவொரு பெருந்தன்மையையும் (noble) என்னால் காண இயலவில்லை. இரவில் மருத்துவமனையில் தனிமையில் படுக்கையில் அழுது கொண்டிருக்கும் குழந்தையிடமும் என்னால் எந்தவொரு பெருந்தன்மையையும் (nobility) காண இயலவில்லை.

அக்காலத்தில் அதிநவீன (sophisticated) இதய அறுவை சிகிச்சை முறைகள் கிடையாது. குழந்தைகள் வேதனையடைவதைக் கண்டுநான் மனமுடைந்து போயிருக்கிறேன். ஏனென்றால் அவர்கள் தங்களின் முழு நம்பிக்கையையும் (trust) மருத்துவர்கள் மற்றும் செவிலியர்கள் மீது வைப்பார்கள். நீங்கள் அவர்களுக்கு உதவுவீர்கள் என்று அவர்கள் நம்புவார்கள்.

உங்களால் முடியவில்லை என்றால் அவர்கள் தங்கள் விதியைக் கூட ஏற்றுக் கொள்ள (believe) மாட்டார்கள். உருவச்சிதைவு அடையக்கூடிய அறுவைச்சிகிச்சை (mutilating surgery) செய்த பிறகு கூட அவர்கள் குறைகூற மாட்டார்கள்.

பல வருடங்களுக்கு முன்னால் ஒரு நாள் காலையில் நான் கண்டதை கேட்டவுடன் நகரின் செஞ்சிலுவை (Red cross) சிறுவர் மருத்துவமனையில் மோட்டார் வாகன பந்தயம் (Grand Prix) என்றே அழைப்பேன். அந்நிகழ்வு வேதனையைக் குறித்து நான் எண்ணிவந்ததில், ஒரு உண்மையை நான் விட்டிருந்ததை குறித்து அது என் கண்களைத் திறந்தது. அது எனக்கு ஒரு பெரிய ஆறுதலாக (solace) இருந்தது.

அந்த காலை அங்கு என்ன நடந்தது என்றால், காலை உணவு தள்ளுவண்டியை (breakfast trolley) செவிலியர் எடுக்கவில்லை. அடுத்தகணமே அந்த தள்ளுவண்டியானது இரு துணிச்சலான (intrepid), தைரியமான ஓட்டுநர் மற்றும் இயந்திர வல்லுநரால் வழி நடத்தப்பட்டது.

இயந்திர வல்லுநரோ தலையை குனிந்தவாறு தள்ளுவண்டியை பின்புறமிருந்து விரைந்து தள்ளி அதற்கு இயந்திர சக்தியளித்தனர் (provided), அதே வேளையில் ஓட்டுநரோ, தள்ளுவண்டியின் முன்புறம் அமர்ந்து கொண்டு ஒருகையால் வண்டியைப் பிடித்து காலால் தரையை உரசி (scraping) தள்ளுவண்டியை ஓட்டினார்.

அவர்கள் தேர்ந்தெடுத்த வேடங்கள் மிக எளிது ஏனென்றால் இயந்திர வல்லுநரோ கண்ணிழந்தவன் (blind), ஓட்டுநரோ ஒரு கை (arm) மட்டுமே கொண்டவன்.

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

அன்று அவர்கள் ஒரு பெரிய நிகழ்ச்சியையே நடத்தினார்கள். மீதமிருந்த நோயாளிகளிடமிருந்து அவர்களுக்கு கிடைத்த உற்சாகத்தையும் (encouragement) சிரிப்பையும் பார்த்த போது இண்டியானா போலிஸில் (Indiana Polis) நடைபெறும் 500 கார்களின் ஓட்டப்பந்தயத்தை (race) விட இவர்களின் நிகழ்ச்சி மிகச்சிறந்தது என தோன்றியது. அவர்களை செவிலியர்கள் பிடித்து, திட்டி, படுக்கைக்கு திரும்ப அனுப்பும் வரை, அங்கு சிதறிய தட்டுகள் மற்றும் சில்வர் பாத்திரங்களின் இறுதிச் சுற்று (grand finale) நடந்தது.

அவ்விருவரைப் பற்றி நான் கூறுகிறேன். இயந்திர வல்லுநரோ 7 வயதானவன். ஒரு நாள் அவனது தாயும் தந்தையும் குடித்து விட்டு சண்டையில், அவனது தாய் விளக்கை (lantern) எடுத்து தந்தை மீது எறியும் போது அது தவறி குழந்தையின் தலை மற்றும் தோள் பகுதியின் மீது விழுந்தது. இதனால் அதிகப்படியான மூன்றாம் நிலை காயங்களால் அவனது மேலுடல் பாதிக்கப்பட்டது, அவனது இரண்டு கண்களும் பார்வை இழந்தன.

வாகன ஓட்டப்பந்தயத்தின் போது அவன் ஒரு நடமாடும், பயமூட்டும் (horror) பொருளாக, அதாவது உருக்குலைந்த (disfigured) முகத்தோடும், ஒரு நீண்ட சதை மடிப்பு கழுத்திலிருந்து தொங்கிய வண்ணமும் காணப்பட்டான்.

அவனது கழுத்தைச் சுற்றி காயம் ஆறிக்கொண்டிருந்த வேளையில், அவனுடைய கீழ்த்தாடை நரம்புத் திசுக்களினால் (tissue) இறுகப்பற்றிக் கொள்ளப்பட்டது. அவன் தனது தலையை உயர்த்தினால் (raise) மட்டுமே அவனால் தனது வாயைத் திறக்க முடியும். அந்த பந்தயம் முடிந்து நான் அவளை சந்தித்த போது "நாங்கள் வென்று விட்டோம். உங்களுக்கு தெரியுமா?" என்று சிரித்துக்கொண்டே கூறினான்.

அந்த தள்ளுவண்டியின் ஓட்டுநரை (trolley's driver) எனக்கு நன்றாக தெரியும். சில வருடங்களுக்கு முன்னால். அவன் இதயத்தில் இருந்த ஓட்டையை நான் வெற்றிகரமாக அடைத்தேன். அவன் எலும்பில் இருந்த வீரியமான (malignant tumour) கட்டியின் காரணமாக அவன் மறுபடியும் மருத்துவமனைக்கு அழைத்து வரப்பட்டான். பந்தயத்திற்கு சில நாட்கள் முன்னதாக அவனது தோள்பட்டையும், கையும் சிகிச்சையின் மூலம் வெட்டி எடுக்கப்பட்டது (amputated).

Samacheer Kalvi.Guide

அவன் குணமடைவதற்கான (recovery) நம்பிக்கை குறைவாகவே காணப்பட்டது. பந்தயத்திற்குப் பிறகு அவன் என்னிடம், தள்ளுவண்டியின் சக்கரங்கள் சரியாக எண்ணெய் இடப்படவில்லை என்றும், அவன் ஒரு சிறந்த ஓட்டுநர் என்றும், தான் இயந்திர வல்லுநரிடம் முழு நம்பிக்கை கொண்டிருந்ததாகவும் கூறினான்.

திடீரென, வாழ்க்கையை வாழ்வதற்கான ஒரு ஆழமான பாடத்தை (profound lesson) இவர்கள் இருவரும் எனக்கு கற்று கொடுத்ததாகவே உணர்ந்தேன் (realized). ஏனென்றால் வாழ்வது என்பது இனிமைக்காவோ, பொழுது போக்கிற்காகவோ, மனமகிழ்ச்சிக்காகவோ நாம் செய்யும் ஏதோ ஒன்று அல்ல, மாறாக மகிழ்ச்சி என்ற வார்த்தையின் உண்மையான உணர்வே ஆகும். வாழ்வதென்பது உயிரோடிருப்பதின் கொண்டாட்டமே (celebration).

நான் வேதனைப்படுவதை தவறான (wrong) முறையிலிருந்தே பார்த்து கொண்டிருந்தேன். நீங்கள் வேதனை அடைவதால் மட்டும் சிறந்த மனிதராக முடியாது. ஆனால் வேதனையை அனுபவித்து (experience) இருக்கிறீர்கள் என்றால் உங்களால் ஒரு சிறந்த மனிதனாக முடியும். இருளைப் பற்றி அறியாவிட்டால், நம்மால் ஒளியைப் பாராட்ட இயலாது.

கடுங்குளிரால் பாதிக்கப்படாமல் நம்மால் வெதுவெதுப்பை பாராட்ட இயலாது. நீங்கள் இழந்தது எதுவோ அது முக்கியமில்லை (important), உங்களிடம் மீதமிருப்பது (left) எதுவோ அதுவே மிக முக்கியம் என்று இச்சிறுவர்கள் எனக்கு உணர்த்தி விட்டார்கள்.