Samacheer Kalvi Class 9 English Solutions Chapter 6 From Zero to Infinity

9th English Guide From Zero to Infinity InText Questions and Answers

Question 1. What was the reaction of the classmates to Ramanujan's question?
Answer: Ramanujan's classmates laughed at his question. They found it amusing and didn't understand its depth. This shows how his unique way of thinking was different from others.
In simple words: Ramanujan's classmates found his question funny and laughed.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing reactions, use descriptive words like "laughed," "surprised," or "confused" to convey the emotion clearly.

Question 2. What did the Indian mathematician Bhaskara prove?
Answer: The Indian mathematician Bhaskara proved that if you divide zero by zero, the result is infinity. This concept is important in advanced mathematics.
In simple words: Bhaskara, an Indian mathematician, showed that zero divided by zero equals infinity.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific contributions of historical figures, especially their key discoveries or proofs.

Question 3. Where did Ramanujan get "Loney's Trignometry" book from?
Answer: Ramanujan found and got the book "Loney's Trigonometry" from a college library. This book greatly influenced his mathematical journey.
In simple words: Ramanujan got the "Loney's Trigonometry" book from a college library.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to specific details like names of books or places, as they are often direct recall questions.

Question 4. Where did Ramanujan do his mathematical problems?
Answer: Ramanujan solved his mathematical problems on loose sheets of paper or using a slate. He then wrote down all his results in notebooks. This method allowed him to work quickly and capture his ideas.
In simple words: Ramanujan solved math problems on loose papers or slates, then wrote the answers in notebooks.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the methods and tools used by historical figures to understand their working style and context.

Question 5. What were the subjects neglected by Ramanujan in college?
Answer: In college, Ramanujan neglected subjects such as History, English, and Physiology. His strong focus was always on mathematics, sometimes at the expense of other subjects.
In simple words: Ramanujan did not pay much attention to History, English, and Physiology in college.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify specific examples that highlight a person's main interests or areas of neglect, as this reveals their focus.

Question 6. Which university granted him a fellowship of 75 a month?
Answer: The University of Madras granted Ramanujan a fellowship of Rs 75 each month. This support was crucial for him to continue his mathematical research.
In simple words: The University of Madras gave Ramanujan a fellowship of Rs 75 per month.

🎯 Exam Tip: Keep track of key financial details or sponsorships mentioned, as they often mark turning points in a person's life.

Question 7. What did Ramanujan sent to G.H. Hardy?
Answer: Ramanujan sent a letter to G.H. Hardy which contained 120 theorems and mathematical formulas. This letter introduced his extraordinary talent to the world.
In simple words: Ramanujan sent a letter with 120 theorems and formulas to G.H. Hardy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific numbers (like 120 theorems) are often key facts to remember for questions about achievements.

Question 8. Who discovered a rare mathematical genius in Ramanujan?
Answer: G.H. Hardy and his colleague, J.E. Littlewood, were the ones who recognized Ramanujan's rare mathematical genius. Their discovery helped bring Ramanujan's work to international attention.
In simple words: G.H. Hardy and J.E. Littlewood found Ramanujan to be a rare math genius.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the key people associated with important discoveries or events in the narrative.

A. Answer the following questions in a sentence or two Why did the students laugh at Ramanujan?

Question 1. Why did the students laugh at Ramanujan?
Answer: The students laughed at Ramanujan because he asked a silly question in class. He asked if no bananas were given to no one, would everyone still get one banana, which made the children laugh at him.
In simple words: Students laughed because Ramanujan asked a funny question about bananas in class.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining why something happened, state the action (laughed) and then the reason (silly question about bananas).

Question 2. Why did the teacher compliment Ramanujan?
Answer: The students laughed at Ramanujan because he asked if no banana was distributed among no one, would everyone get one banana. This was a deep mathematical question disguised as a simple one, leading to the compliment. The teacher complimented Ramanujan for his insightful, though unusual, question.
In simple words: The teacher praised Ramanujan because his banana question, though odd, showed deep thought.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the underlying reason for a teacher's praise; it's usually about insight or effort, not just a correct answer.

Question 3. What did Ramanujan do after reading the book on Trignometry?
Answer: After reading the book on Trigonometry, Ramanujan began his own independent research. He then developed many new mathematical theorems and formulas that were not present in the book itself, showing his great talent.
In simple words: After reading the Trigonometry book, Ramanujan started his own research and created many new math theories.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the immediate and subsequent actions after a significant event, like reading an important book.

Question 4. What disappointed Ramanujan's father?
Answer: Ramanujan's father was deeply disappointed because Ramanujan failed his first-year arts examination twice in college. This was a concern for his academic future and career.
In simple words: Ramanujan's father was sad because Ramanujan failed his college exams twice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note down specific reasons for character emotions, as they reveal important plot points or personality traits.

Question 5. How did Ramanujan manage his paper crisis?
Answer: Ramanujan needed about 2,000 sheets of paper every month for his calculations. To manage this paper crisis, he started using scraps of paper he found on the streets. Sometimes, he would even write over existing text using a red pen on blue-inked papers. This shows his dedication despite challenges.
In simple words: Ramanujan used street scraps and wrote over old papers to solve his problem of needing lots of paper for math.

🎯 Exam Tip: Details about how characters overcome difficulties highlight their resourcefulness and determination.

Question 6. Why was Ramanujan's application for jobs rejected?
Answer: Ramanujan showed his notebooks to people, explaining he knew mathematics and could do clerical work. However, no one could understand his advanced mathematical writings. Because of this lack of understanding, his applications for jobs were rejected. His genius was simply too far ahead of its time for typical job roles.
In simple words: Ramanujan's job applications were rejected because no one understood the complex math in his notebooks.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for reasons, provide a clear cause-and-effect relationship, like how his notebooks led to rejection.

Question 7. Why was Ramanujan sent back to India?
Answer: Ramanujan was sent back to India because he was suffering from Tuberculosis. At that time, it was an incurable disease that was slowly weakening him while he continued his research work in England. His health necessitated his return home.
In simple words: Ramanujan was sent back to India because he had Tuberculosis, which was a very serious illness then.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always state the direct cause for a significant event, such as an illness causing a return journey.

Additional Questions & Answers

Question 1. Where was Ramanujan sitting in the class?
Answer: Ramanujan was sitting in one corner of the classroom. This quiet spot might have allowed him to concentrate better on his own thoughts and mathematical ideas.
In simple words: Ramanujan sat in a corner of his classroom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Simple "where" questions require direct location answers. Adding a small detail like "quiet spot" can enrich the answer.

Question 2. Why did he raise his hand and stand up?
Answer: He raised his hand and stood up to ask a question to his teacher. This action shows his eagerness to clarify doubts or share a thought, even if it was unconventional.
In simple words: He raised his hand and stood up to ask a question to his teacher.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link actions (raising hand, standing up) to their direct purpose (asking a question).

Question 3. What was that the boys could not understand?
Answer: The boys in the class could not understand why the teacher complimented Ramanujan. They thought Ramanujan had asked an absurd question, so they were confused by the teacher's praise. This highlights the gap between Ramanujan's profound thinking and his classmates' understanding.
In simple words: The boys didn't understand why the teacher praised Ramanujan for his strange question.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the contrast in understanding between different characters (boys vs. teacher) to fully answer "what was not understood."

Question 4. How was Ramanujan either in his native Kumbakonam or Cambridge, throughout his life?
Answer: Throughout his life, whether in his hometown of Kumbakonam or in Cambridge, Ramanujan was always ahead of his mathematics teachers. His exceptional natural talent meant he often surpassed the knowledge of his instructors, a clear sign of his prodigy.
In simple words: Ramanujan was always smarter than his math teachers, both in his hometown and in Cambridge.

🎯 Exam Tip: When comparing different periods or places, highlight the consistent trait or characteristic being asked about.

Question 5. When and where was Ramanujan born?
Answer: Ramanujan was born on December 22, 1887, in Erode, which is in Tamil Nadu. Knowing his birth details helps place his story in history.
In simple words: Ramanujan was born on December 22, 1887, in Erode, Tamil Nadu.

🎯 Exam Tip: Birth dates and places are important biographical facts and should be memorized accurately.

Question 6. What was Ramanujan's father?
Answer: Ramanujan's father worked as a petty clerk in a cloth shop. This shows his humble family background, which made his later achievements even more remarkable.
In simple words: Ramanujan's father was a clerk in a cloth shop.

🎯 Exam Tip: Family background details often provide context for a character's struggles or motivations.

Question 7. How was Ramanujan from his early childhood?
Answer: From his very early childhood, it was clear that Ramanujan was a prodigy, meaning he had extraordinary natural talent. He showed exceptional intellectual abilities from a young age. This early brilliance hinted at his future mathematical genius.
In simple words: From a young age, Ramanujan was a prodigy, showing great talent.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use strong vocabulary like "prodigy" when describing exceptional talent and explain what it means in simple terms.

Question 8. Why did the senior students visit Ramanujan's dingy house?
Answer: Senior students visited Ramanujan's humble (dingy) house to get his help with their mathematics problems. This shows that even at a young age, his skills were recognized and sought after by older students who struggled with math difficulties.
In simple words: Older students went to Ramanujan's house to get help solving their math problems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the specific action (visiting) to the motivation (seeking help with difficulties).

Question 9. Which book triggered the mathematical genius in him?
Answer: The book titled "Synopsis of Elementary Results in Pure Applied Mathematics" by George Shoobridge Carr was what sparked Ramanujan's mathematical genius. This book provided him with foundational knowledge and inspired his own discoveries.
In simple words: The book "Synopsis of Elementary Results in Pure Applied Mathematics" by George Shoobridge Carr ignited his math genius.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks for a specific item (like a book), provide its full title and author if available.

Question 10. What happened to the three filled note books of Ramanujan later?
Answer: Ramanujan's three filled notebooks later became very famous. They were known as "Frayed Notebooks" and contained many of his extraordinary mathematical insights and discoveries. These notebooks are now considered a treasure trove of mathematical knowledge.
In simple words: Ramanujan's three notebooks became famous later and were called "Frayed Notebooks."

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the names and significance of artifacts like notebooks, as they are often important historical details.

Question 11. What scholarship was awarded to Ramanujan when he secured a first class in Mathematics in the matriculation examination?
Answer: When Ramanujan achieved a first class in Mathematics during his matriculation examination, he was awarded the Subramanian Scholarship. This scholarship was a recognition of his academic excellence in mathematics.
In simple words: Ramanujan received the Subramanian Scholarship for getting a first class in Math in his matriculation exam.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between different scholarships or awards and link them to the specific achievements that earned them.

Question 12. Who was impressed by Ramanujan's note books?
Answer: The Director of Madras Port Trust, Francis Spring, was highly impressed by Ramanujan's notebooks. His recognition was very important as it helped Ramanujan get a clerical job and continue his work.
In simple words: Francis Spring, the Director of Madras Port Trust, was impressed by Ramanujan's notebooks.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key figures who supported or recognized the main character, as their influence is often significant.

Question 13. What did the Director of Madras Port Trust give him?
Answer: The Director of Madras Port Trust gave Ramanujan a clerical job. This job offered a monthly salary of Rs 25, which provided him with much-needed financial stability. This support allowed him to focus more on his mathematical studies.
In simple words: The Director of Madras Port Trust gave Ramanujan a clerical job with a monthly salary of Rs 25.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the details of assistance provided, including the type of job and salary, as they highlight crucial support.

Question 14. Who initiated a move to provide Ramanujan with a research fellowship?
Answer: Some teachers and educationists who were interested in Mathematics started a movement to provide Ramanujan with a research fellowship. Their initiative recognized his potential and aimed to provide him with proper support for his advanced studies.
In simple words: Math teachers and educationists helped start a plan to get Ramanujan a research fellowship.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the groups or individuals who played a supportive role in a character's career or development.

Question 15. When did the University of Madras grant him a fellowship of Rs 75?
Answer: The University of Madras granted Ramanujan a fellowship of Rs 75 on May 1, 1913. This happened even though he did not have a qualifying degree, which shows the university recognized his exceptional talent despite formal academic requirements. This fellowship was a major step in his career.
In simple words: On May 1, 1913, the University of Madras gave Ramanujan a fellowship of Rs 75, even without a proper degree.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific dates and amounts, especially for grants or fellowships, are important details to remember.

Question 16. When did Ramanujan sail for Britain?
Answer: Ramanujan sailed for Britain on March 17, 1914. This journey marked a significant turning point in his life, allowing him to collaborate with G.H. Hardy and other prominent mathematicians.
In simple words: Ramanujan traveled to Britain by ship on March 17, 1914.

🎯 Exam Tip: Key dates for travel or major life changes are important to remember in a biographical context.

Question 17. How did Ramanujan play with numbers?
Answer: Ramanujan played with numbers in the same way a child plays with a toy. He explored numerical patterns and relationships with great joy and curiosity, making discoveries that amazed seasoned mathematicians. This playful approach shows his natural intuition for mathematics.
In simple words: Ramanujan played with numbers like a child plays with a toy, finding joy in exploring them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Metaphors or similes used to describe a character's behavior (like "child with a toy") often provide concise and vivid explanations.

Question 18. What was Ramanujan elected on February 28,1918?
Answer: On February 28, 1918, Ramanujan was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This was a prestigious honor, recognizing his significant contributions to mathematics.
In simple words: Ramanujan was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society on February 28, 1918.

🎯 Exam Tip: For achievement questions, remember the specific honor or title received along with the date.

Question 19. What did Ramanujan become in October 1918?
Answer: In October 1918, Ramanujan became the first Indian to be elected a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. This was another major recognition of his genius and an important milestone for Indian academics.
In simple words: In October 1918, Ramanujan became the first Indian Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note both the achievement and any "firsts" or unique aspects associated with it, like "first Indian."

Question 20. Name any two Ramanujan's achievements at Cambridge?
Answer: Two of Ramanujan's achievements at Cambridge include the Hardy-Ramanujan-Littlewood circle method in number theory, and Roger-Ramanujan's identities in the partition of integers. These contributions greatly advanced the field of mathematics.
In simple words: At Cambridge, Ramanujan helped develop the circle method in number theory and Roger-Ramanujan's identities.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for specific achievements, list distinct contributions or theories he developed.

B. Answer the following questions in about 80 – 100 words.

Question 1. Describe the life of Srinivasa Ramanujan in India.
Answer: Srinivasa Ramanujan was born in Erode, Tamil Nadu, on December 22, 1887. His father worked as a petty clerk in a cloth shop. From a very young age, Ramanujan showed he was a prodigy; he asked a question as a boy that mathematicians took centuries to answer. Throughout his life in his hometown of Kumbakonam, he was always ahead of his mathematics teachers. Senior students would visit his simple house to get help with their math problems. At age 13, Ramanujan got "Loney's Trigonometry" from a college library, which he mastered, starting his own research. He passed his matriculation exam with a first class in mathematics, earning the Subramanyan Scholarship. However, his father was disappointed when he failed his first-year arts examination twice. Ramanujan constantly scribbled numbers; some thought he had gone mad. He needed money for food and paper for calculations, so he used scraps of paper from the streets, sometimes writing over old ink. Luckily, Francis Spring, the Director of Madras Port Trust, was impressed by his notebooks and gave him a clerical job with a monthly salary of Rs 25. Later, some teachers and educationists helped him get a research fellowship, and the University of Madras granted him a fellowship of Rs 75, even though he lacked a qualifying degree. His early struggles highlight his intense dedication and genius despite challenging circumstances.
In simple words: Ramanujan, born in 1887, was a math genius from a poor family in India. He taught himself from a book, did his own research, and often helped older students. Even though he failed other subjects and faced financial issues, his talent was recognized by a director who gave him a job, and later by a university that gave him a fellowship.

🎯 Exam Tip: For biographical questions, cover key life events, challenges, and successes in chronological order, using simple and clear language.

Question 2. Narrate the association of Ramanujan with G.H. Hardy.
Answer: Ramanujan's association with G.H. Hardy began when he sent a letter to Hardy, a great mathematician at Cambridge University, containing 120 theorems and formulas. Hardy and his colleague, Littlewood, quickly recognized Ramanujan's rare mathematical genius. They then arranged for Ramanujan's travel and stay at Cambridge University. In England, Ramanujan, initially a stranger, found comfort in the company of Hardy and Littlewood, which helped him overcome many hardships. Hardy noticed that Ramanujan was an unsystematic mathematician, much like someone who understands the Pythagorean theorem without knowing what a congruent triangle is, mainly due to his lack of formal education. Despite this, his sheer genius led him to profound mathematical "truths." Ramanujan's achievements at Cambridge include his work on the Hardy-Ramanujan-Littlewood circle method in number theory and the Roger-Ramanujan's identities in the partition of integers. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society on February 28, 1918, and later became the first Indian Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, in October 1918. Unfortunately, he was sent back to India due to tuberculosis, an incurable disease at the time, but he continued to play with numbers even on his deathbed. Hardy often remarked that genius does what it must, and talent does what it can, acknowledging Ramanujan's unique approach and profound impact on mathematics.
In simple words: Ramanujan connected with G.H. Hardy by sending him math theorems. Hardy saw Ramanujan's genius and brought him to Cambridge. There, Ramanujan, though informally educated, made big math discoveries with Hardy. He earned important titles but had to return to India due to illness.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing relationships, highlight how each person influenced the other and the major events or achievements that resulted from their collaboration.

C. Match the words with correct Synonym and Antonym from the table.

Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions, carefully understand the meaning of each word to correctly identify its synonym and antonym. Practice with a wide range of vocabulary.

D. Listening:

Listen to the anecdote 'Two Geniuses' and narrate it in your own words.

'Two Geniuses'

The story tells about Einstein's great sense of humor. There was a young man, by name Einstein, with a growing reputation. He was invited by universities to explain his theories. A man called Hans was always his driver on these trips. Hans often told Einstein that it was a pleasure to drive a genius like him.

One evening, on their way to a remote university, Einstein told Hans that he wished he had not to give his lecture that night. He said that he was very tired. But he did not want to let his audience down.

Hans said that he didn't need to do so. Hans said that they would change places and he would give the lecture for Einstein. Hans had listened to it a dozen times. He didn't understand it but knew it by heart. Moreover, no one knew him at the university. Hans was sure that no one would find out. Eventually, Einstein agreed with Hans. But Einstein told Hans not to try to answer any questions, whatever he did.

They changed places, and at the university, Hans was greeted and led to the platform in a great hall crowded with professors and students. Einstein joined the audience and listened to Hans give his lecture perfectly and joined in the applause at the end.

Hans was about to get off the platform. Before that, a professor shouted from the audience. He wanted to ask a question. He said that it was very difficult but he requested him to answer it. Then he asked the very hard question for which Hans had no answer. He didn't understand what he was talking about.

E. Speaking

Divide the students into a group of five and conduct a group discussion on the topic: "Importance of mathematics in our everyday life". The teacher will act as a moderator.

Topic: Importance of Mathematics in Our Everyday Life

Moderator: Today we have gathered in five groups to discuss the topic "Importance of Mathematics in our Everyday life." We will start with group A.

Group A: Mathematics is a structured way of applying concepts. It helps people become systematic. Mathematics organizes our lives and prevents confusion. Certain good qualities, like strong reasoning, creativity, abstract thinking, problem-solving skills, and good communication, are developed through mathematics.

Group B: Mathematics is the origin of all creations, and the world cannot move even a little without it. Even tiny insects use mathematics in their daily lives to exist. There are countless examples of mathematical patterns in nature. A good mathematics curriculum helps in teaching and learning the subject effectively.

Group C: Experience shows that learning mathematics can be made easier and more enjoyable through mathematical activities and games.

Mathematics puzzles and riddles help young people become alert and open-minded, and they develop clear thinking.

It is very important to develop a clear understanding of math concepts in children right from primary school. Children should be praised for every correct attempt. Mistakes should be corrected immediately without any criticism.

Group D: The biggest difficulty in learning mathematics is not practicing enough. Students must solve many problems from different areas to understand the basic concepts well, and to gain speed and accuracy in solving them.

Another very good way to spread mathematical knowledge among children is through peer teaching. During this, they can clear their doubts about the topic by discussing them in a group.

Group E: The current time is all about developing skills and new ideas. The more mathematical our approach, the more successful we will be. Mathematics helps us think logically. It is a tool that makes our lives easier. We should appreciate the beauty of math and accept it with all our hearts.

Moderator: From our discussions, it is clear that mathematics is now an essential part of our lives. Whether we work in an office or spend most of our time at home, everyone uses mathematics every day. No matter where we are or what we are doing, mathematics is always there, whether we notice it or not. Let's look closely at how we use this universal subject in our daily lives.

F. Reading

Answer the following questions based on the given passage.

Question 1. What made John Shepherd Barron come up with the idea of ATM?
Answer: John Shepherd Barron got the idea for an ATM when he arrived at the bank one minute late and found the doors locked. This incident inspired him to create a machine where people could get cash anytime. He realized that a device allowing cash withdrawals would be very helpful.
In simple words: John Shepherd Barron thought of the ATM after he was locked out of his bank by just one minute.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering "what made" questions, clearly state the inciting event and the resulting idea or action.

Question 2. When and where was the first ATM installed?
Answer: The first ATM was installed on June 27, 1967. It was placed in Enfield, which is a suburb located in North London. This marked a new era in banking convenience.
In simple words: The first ATM was put in North London, Enfield, on June 27, 1967.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always provide specific dates and locations if they are mentioned in the passage, as examiners look for these details.

Question 3. Who was the first person to withdraw cash from the ATM?
Answer: The first person to withdraw cash from an ATM was Actor Reg Varney. He was a famous resident of Enfield, the town where the first ATM was set up. This event made him part of banking history.
In simple words: Actor Reg Varney was the first person to take cash out of the ATM.

🎯 Exam Tip: For "who" questions, state the person's name and any relevant description (like "actor" or "resident") given in the text.

Question 4. Why did Shepherd Barron reduce the PIN number from six digits to four?
Answer: Shepherd Barron reduced the PIN number from six digits to four because his wife, Caroline, complained that six digits were too many to remember easily. He wanted the system to be convenient for users. His wife's feedback helped simplify the banking process for everyone.
In simple words: Shepherd Barron made the PIN four digits long instead of six because his wife said six was too hard to remember.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the cause-and-effect relationship in "why" questions, clearly linking the reason to the action.

Question 5. Which theory of Ramanujan helps the ATMs to dispense cash?
Answer: The partition theory developed by Ramanujan helps ATMs dispense cash efficiently. This mathematical theory deals with different ways to break down a number into a sum of positive integers, which is useful for calculating change. It allows the machine to figure out the best combination of notes to give out.
In simple words: Ramanujan's partition theory helps ATMs give out the correct amount of cash.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific concept or theory mentioned in the text that directly answers the question.

G. Writing

Paragraph Writing:

Question 1. Write a paragraph of 100 - 120 words about a memorable anecdote/incident of your life. "A memorable incident in my life"
Answer: I remember a funny moment from when I was in class 8. I was not very interested in schoolwork. One November, our school had student teachers helping with various subjects, and we were often playing instead of studying. During a class, we decided to play 'Pen fighting game'. It was my turn to make a shot when a trainee teacher suddenly came behind me. She asked me, "Where do you live?" I was so focused on the game that I shouted, "I live in my house!" The whole class burst into laughter. After the game, I felt very embarrassed because I had been rude. I went to her room to say sorry, and she smiled kindly. That made me feel much better, and now I pay more attention in class. It was a good lesson in humility.
In simple words: I remember playing a pen fighting game in class 8. When a teacher asked me where I lived, I shouted, "I live in my house!" Everyone laughed. I felt embarrassed and apologized later. It taught me to be more attentive.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing personal anecdotes, use vivid but simple language, describe the emotional journey, and ensure a clear beginning, middle, and end to the story.

Question 2. Write a paragraph of 100 -120 words about your favourite personality. "My favourite personality"
Answer: Everyone has a favorite person, and so do I. My favorite personality is William Henry Bill Gates III, known to most as Bill Gates. He was born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington, United States. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in computer programming. Bill Gates was very good at Math and Science. Because of his excellent skills, he joined Lakeside, a special school. Most of his jobs involved computer software. He held the position of Technology Advisor at Microsoft Corporation. He is also the co-chairperson of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, an organization named after him and his sister. He holds a very important position as the Chairman of Corbis. Bill Gates and his partner, Paul Allen, built the world's biggest software company. Because of his great inventions and contributions, Gates has received many important awards. In 2012, he was the most powerful person globally. He and his wife received the Order of the Aztec Eagle for their charity work in health and education around the world. His dedication to technology and global issues makes him inspiring.
In simple words: My favorite person is Bill Gates. He was born in 1955 and showed early interest in computers. He co-founded Microsoft and is known for his charity work through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. He made a huge impact on the world with software and philanthropy.

🎯 Exam Tip: For essays about a favorite personality, focus on key achievements, character traits, and impact, using clear topic sentences for each new idea.

Grammar:

A. Complete the following sentences using appropriate connectors from the box.

Question 1. She felt cold .......................... she was wearing a winter coat.
Answer: although
In simple words: This word shows a contrast; she felt cold even though she had a coat.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Although" is used to introduce a statement that makes the main statement seem surprising.

Question 2. This restaurant has some of the best chefs in the town .......................... their service is excellent.
Answer: above all
In simple words: This phrase means "most importantly" or "more than anything else."

🎯 Exam Tip: "Above all" is used to emphasize the most important point among several.

Question 3. I'm not going to the party tonight .......................... I didn't get an invitation.
Answer: because
In simple words: This word explains the reason why something is happening or not happening.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Because" is a conjunction used to give a reason or cause for something.

Question 4. You can set the table .......................... I'll start making dinner.
Answer: meanwhile
In simple words: This word means "at the same time" or "during the same period."

🎯 Exam Tip: "Meanwhile" is used to indicate that two things are happening at the same time.

Question 5. I can play quite a few instruments .......................... the flute, the guitar and piano.
Answer: for instance
In simple words: This phrase means "for example" and is used to give specific examples.

🎯 Exam Tip: "For instance" helps clarify a general statement by providing specific examples.

Question 6. The store was out of chocolate chips; .......................... they would need to make different type of cookies.
Answer: moreover
In simple words: This word means "in addition" or "besides," adding more information.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Moreover" is used to add extra information that supports or expands on what has already been said.

Question 7. The stores are open daily .......................... Sundays.
Answer: except
In simple words: This word means "not including" or "apart from."

🎯 Exam Tip: "Except" is used to introduce an exclusion from a general statement.

Question 8. I'll stay .......................... you need me.
Answer: as long as
In simple words: This phrase means "for the period that" or "provided that."

🎯 Exam Tip: "As long as" sets a condition or duration for something.

Question 9. This detergent is highly concentrated and .......................... you will need to dilute.
Answer: therefore
In simple words: This word means "for that reason" or "consequently," showing a result.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Therefore" is used to show a logical conclusion or result.

Question 10. It was the thing he prized ..........................
Answer: thus
In simple words: This word means "as a result" or "in this way," indicating how something happened.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Thus" is often used in formal writing to introduce a consequence or a conclusion.

Active Voice and Passive Voice

Active Voice: The subject is the doer of the action.
Passive Voice: The subject is not the doer of the action.

B. Convert the following active sentences into passive sentences by supplying an appropriate passive verb form.

Question 1. She will not recognise us. / We .......................... by her.
(a) will not recognise
(b) will not being recognised
(c) will not be recognised
Answer: (c) will not be recognised
In simple words: In passive voice, the object "us" becomes the subject "we," and the verb changes to "will not be recognised" to show that someone else is doing the action to "us."

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that passive voice forms typically use a form of "to be" + the past participle of the main verb.

Question 2. They didn't invite me. but I went that way. / I .......................... but I went that way.
(a) wasn't invited
(b) wasn't being invited
(c) wasn't inviting
Answer: (a) wasn't invited
In simple words: The active sentence describes a past event. In passive voice, "me" becomes "I," and the past simple tense changes to "wasn't invited."

🎯 Exam Tip: For simple past tense in passive voice, use "was/were" + past participle.

Question 3. My grandfather built this house in 1943. / The table .......................... up for firewood.
(a) broke
(b) had broken
(c) was broken
Answer: (c) was broken
In simple words: In this passive sentence, the action of breaking is done to the table. "Was broken" correctly shows this past passive action.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always make sure the tense of the passive verb matches the tense of the active verb in the original sentence.

Question 4. She has won the first prize. / The first prize .......................... by her.
(a) has won
(b) has been won
(c) had been won
Answer: (b) has been won
In simple words: When converting present perfect active ("has won") to passive, we use "has been" plus the past participle.

🎯 Exam Tip: The passive form for present perfect tense is "has/have been + past participle."

Question 5. A friend of mine is repairing the car. / The car .......................... by a friend of mine.
(a) is repairing
(b) is repaired
(c) is being repaired
Answer: (c) is being repaired
In simple words: The present continuous active ("is repairing") changes to "is being repaired" in passive voice to show an ongoing action.

🎯 Exam Tip: For present continuous tense in passive voice, use "is/are being + past participle."

Question 6. Begin the work tomorrow. / Let the work .......................... tomorrow.
(a) be begun
(b) be begin
(c) is beginning
Answer: (a) be begun
In simple words: For imperative sentences (commands), the passive form often starts with "Let" followed by "be" and the past participle of the verb.

🎯 Exam Tip: Imperative passive structures typically use "Let + object + be + past participle."

Question 7. They speak English in New Zealand. / English .......................... in New Zealand.
(a) is speaking
(b) is spoken
(c) is being spoken
Answer: (b) is spoken
In simple words: In passive voice, the object "English" becomes the subject, and the simple present tense "speak" changes to "is spoken."

🎯 Exam Tip: For simple present tense in passive voice, use "is/are + past participle."

Question 8. His attitude shocked me. / I .......................... by his attitude.
(a) had shocked
(b) had been shocked
(c) was shocked
Answer: (c) was shocked
In simple words: The simple past active ("shocked") becomes "was shocked" in the passive voice, where "I" is the one who received the action.

🎯 Exam Tip: The passive form of a simple past tense verb is "was/were + past participle."

Question 9. She had already sent the parcel. / The parcel .......................... by her.
(a) has already been sent
(b) had already been sent
(c) was already sent
Answer: (b) had already been sent
In simple words: The past perfect active ("had already sent") becomes "had already been sent" in the passive voice, keeping the past perfect tense.

🎯 Exam Tip: The passive form for past perfect tense is "had been + past participle."

Question 10. Her silence worries me. / I .......................... her silence.
(a) am worrying by
(b) am worried by
(c) have worried by
Answer: (b) am worried by
In simple words: The present simple active ("worries me") becomes "I am worried by" in the passive voice, indicating that "I" am affected by her silence.

🎯 Exam Tip: For verbs of emotion or state, the passive voice often uses "be + past participle + by/at/with" to show the cause.

C. Match the following Active Voice sentences with Passive Voice.

Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: Practice identifying the subject, verb, and object in active sentences to correctly apply the passive voice transformation, paying close attention to tense consistency.

D. Change the following into passive voice.

Question 1. Stanley will inform you later.
Answer: You will be informed by Stanley later.
In simple words: The person who receives the information (you) becomes the main focus, and the action of informing is done by Stanley.

🎯 Exam Tip: For future simple active voice ("will + verb"), the passive form is "will be + past participle."

Question 2. People speak Portuguese in Brazil.
Answer: Portuguese is spoken by people in Brazil.
In simple words: The language (Portuguese) is the subject here, showing that it is the thing being spoken.

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

Question 3. My grandfather built this house in 1943.
Answer: This house was built in 1943 by my grandfather.
In simple words: The house becomes the main subject, showing that it was built by the grandfather in the past.

🎯 Exam Tip: For simple past tense active voice ("verb in past form"), the passive form is "was/were + past participle."

Question 4. Do not hurt the animals.
Answer: Let the animals not be hurt.
In simple words: This changes a command into a passive suggestion, focusing on the animals not being hurt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Imperative sentences in the passive voice often begin with "Let" followed by the object and "be + past participle."

Question 5. You must not drop litter in the streets.
Answer: Litter must not be dropped in the streets.
In simple words: The focus moves to "litter" as the thing that should not be dropped, rather than "you" doing the action.

🎯 Exam Tip: For modal verbs (like "must"), the passive structure is "modal verb + be + past participle."

Question 6. Carry it home.
Answer: You are asked to carry it home.
In simple words: This turns a command into a polite request in the passive voice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Imperative sentences can also be changed to passive by using "You are requested/asked to..."

Question 7. They are decorating the wall.
Answer: The wall is being decorated by them.
In simple words: The wall is now the subject, showing that it is currently receiving the action of being decorated.

🎯 Exam Tip: For present continuous active voice ("is/are + -ing form"), the passive form is "is/are being + past participle."

Question 8. He has already mended the TV set.
Answer: The TV set has already been mended by him.
In simple words: The TV set is the subject, showing that the mending has already been completed on it.

🎯 Exam Tip: For present perfect active voice ("has/have + past participle"), the passive form is "has/have been + past participle."

E. Project

Make a scrapbook of 'Famous Biographies' by collecting at least five biographies of famous scientists, mathematicians, inventors, artists etc., of your choice. You may also collect the pictures related to their achievements, inventions etc.