Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 2: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar (Total English) workbook solved which comprises Time and Tense – I, Beginning and Ending, An Approach to Comprehension, Practice Paper – 2. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Time and Tense
Assignment
Change the words in brackets to either the Present Perfect or the Present Perfect Continuous:
1. We ________ (be) students in this school for the last five years.
Answer: have been
Explanation: Imagine you started going to a school five years ago and you are still a student there. The action of “being” a student started in the past and is still true now. We use the Present Perfect tense (“have been”) to talk about a state or action that began in the past and continues to the present. Since “be” is a stative verb (a “state” verb), we don’t usually use it in the continuous form (“have been being”).
2. My brother ________ recently ________ (enter) the university.
Answer: has recently entered
Explanation: The word “recently” is a big clue! It tells us that something happened not very long ago. When we talk about an action that happened in the recent past, we use the Present Perfect tense (“has entered”). It connects the past event to the present time.
3. Miriam ________ (fast) since sunrise.
Answer: has been fasting
Explanation: Think about Miriam. She started fasting (not eating) when the sun came up, and she is still fasting right now. The action is ongoing and has been happening for a period of time. When an action starts in the past and continues up to the present moment, we use the Present Perfect Continuous tense (“has been fasting”) to show it’s a long, continuous activity.
4. He ________ (not visit) us since 1999.
Answer: has not visited
Explanation: This sentence talks about a whole period of time, from the year 1999 all the way to today. During this entire time, he did not come to see us. To talk about an action that has not happened over a period of time leading up to the present, we use the Present Perfect tense (“has not visited”).
5. We ________ (do) a tense exercise for the last few minutes.
Answer: have been doing
Explanation: The phrase “for the last few minutes” tells us that the action started a short time ago and is still happening right now. You are still working on the exercise. To show this ongoing action that started recently and is still in progress, we use the Present Perfect Continuous tense (“have been doing”).
6. I ________ (wait) for him since half past eight and I shall wait only for another five minutes.
Answer: have been waiting
Explanation: The person started waiting at 8:30, and at the moment of speaking, they are still waiting. The waiting is a continuous action that hasn’t stopped yet. When an action starts at a specific time in the past (“since half past eight”) and continues right up to the present, we use the Present Perfect Continuous tense (“have been waiting”) to emphasize the duration of the action.
7. The President ________ just ________ (announce) the good news.
Answer: has just announced
Explanation: The word “just” is a clue that the action happened a moment ago. The news came out very, very recently. When we talk about an action that was completed a very short time ago, we use the Present Perfect tense (“has just announced”).
8. He ________ already ________ (write) a letter to his father.
Answer: has already written
Explanation: The word “already” tells us that the action of writing the letter is finished. It happened sometime before this moment. We use the Present Perfect tense (“has already written”) to talk about a completed action that is relevant now (for example, the letter is now ready to be mailed).
9. He ________ (talk) for two hours and soon he will have to stop.
Answer: has been talking
Explanation: He started talking two hours ago, and he is still talking now. The action has been going on continuously for a period of time. To emphasize this long, continuous action that is still in progress, we use the Present Perfect Continuous tense (“has been talking”).
10. Now that I ________ (finish) reading Oliver Twist, I shall read the Bible.
Answer: have finished
Explanation: The action of reading the book is now complete. It’s done! Because this action is finished, a new action (reading the Bible) can begin. When a past action is completed and has a result in the present (the result is that you are now free to read something else), we use the Present Perfect tense (“have finished”).
Beginning and Ending
Assignment
Write an opening and a closing sentence for each of the following composition topics:
(i) Spare the rod and spoil the child.
- Opening Sentence: The age-old belief that physical discipline is necessary for raising a well-behaved child is a topic that continues to spark debate among parents and educators.
- Closing Sentence: Ultimately, building character through understanding and respect achieves far more than instilling fear through punishment.
(ii) A fatal train accident.
- Opening Sentence: The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels was the only sound that broke the silence of the misty morning.
- Closing Sentence: In the deafening silence that followed, all that remained were the haunting memories of a journey that was never completed.
(iii) Prevention is better than cure.
- Opening Sentence: It is a simple truth of life that taking steps to avoid a problem is always wiser than trying to fix it after it has happened.
- Closing Sentence: By focusing on proactive measures today, we can secure a healthier and more stable future for everyone.
(iv) Influence of the internet on school students.
- Opening Sentence: In today’s digital age, the internet has become an inseparable part of a student’s life, offering both immense opportunities and significant challenges.
- Closing Sentence: Therefore, guiding students to use this powerful tool responsibly is the key to unlocking its true educational potential.
(v) Popularity of fast food restaurants.
- Opening Sentence: Fast food restaurants have become a common sight in every city, drawing in crowds with the promise of quick, convenient, and affordable meals.
- Closing Sentence: While their convenience is undeniable, the long-term effects on public health call for a more mindful approach to our dining choices.
Comprehension Analysis
Read the following passage carefully and then answer in your own words the questions that follow. Before reading the suggested answers given at the end of the exercise, you should answer the questions yourself. Then compare your response with the suggested answers.
A commission of five, with Dr Walter Reed at its head, was appointed in 1900, in order to discover the cause of yellow fever. The commission was of the opinion that the mosquito theory could only be tested by actual experiment upon a human subject. Because of this opinion, one of the members of the commission Dr Lazear permitted himself to be bitten by a mosquito which had previously bitten a person suffering from yellow fever; with the result that he contracted the disease and died in a few days. He sacrificed his life for others and his devotion to his cause is recorded on a tablet created to his memory which reads: “With more than the courage and devotion of the soldier, he risked and lost his life to show how a fearful pestilence is communicated and how its ravages may be prevented.”
Later, two soldiers also volunteered their services for experimental purposes, though they knew the probable consequences of their decision. When both made it a stipulation that they should receive no pecuniary reward, Dr Reed touched his cap and said respectfully, ‘Gentlemen, I salute you.’ For one of the first experiments three brave men slept for twenty nights in a small ill-ventilated room screened from mosquitoes but containing furniture and clothing which had been in close contact with yellow fever patients. None of them contracted yellow fever. This proved that the disease was not contagious. In the next experiment, a room was divided by a wire screen, and mosquitoes which had bitten yellow fever patients were allowed to enter into the room only on one side of the screen. John J. Moran, one of the soldiers, entered this section for a few minutes and allowed these mosquitoes to bite him. He had an attack of yellow fever, while three soldiers on the other side, safe from mosquito bites, remained perfectly healthy. Then it was proved beyond doubt that the scourge of the tropics was conveyed by the agency of a mosquito.
The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine deputed in the same year Dr H.E. Durham and Dr Walter Myers to make a detailed study of yellow fever. Both decided to take the risks and do the work assigned to them. Myers died after contracting the disease, becoming a victim to his love of science and humanity. His death added another name to the roll of martyrs to scientific investigation. His courage and unselfish spirit led him to accept the invitation to take part in a most dangerous expedition, and he died that others might live.
One practical result of the discovery of the cause of yellow fever was that it made possible the construction of the Panama Canal, which had been abandoned as hopeless. It was not a hostile army or political difficulties that obstructed the progress of the work, not a mountain chain or desert waste, but an insect which raised a barrier of disease and death between endeavour and accomplishment.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. contracted (line 6)
A. got afflicted with (disease)
B. shrunk
C. made a contract
D. promised
Answer: A. got afflicted with (disease)
2. pecuniary (line 13)
A. honourable
B. monetary
C. momentary
D. governmental
Answer: B. monetary
(ii) Which word, in the passage, means the opposite of the word prohibited?
A. tested
B. permitted
C. volunteered
D. contracted
Answer: B. permitted
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) Briefly explain “the mosquito theory.”
Answer: According to the “mosquito theory,” a person can contract yellow fever by being bitten by a mosquito which had previously bitten a person suffering from yellow fever.
(b) According to the passage, who died in the process of proving the truth of the theory?
Answer: Dr. Lazear and Dr. Myers died in the process of investigating yellow fever. Dr. Lazear died after being bitten by an infected mosquito to test the theory, and Dr. Myers died while conducting a detailed study on the disease.
(c) For whom did Dr Reed say, “Gentlemen, I salute you”? Why?
Answer: Dr Reed said, “Gentlemen, I salute you” to the two soldiers who volunteered their services for experimental purposes. He said so because of the exemplary behaviour of the two soldiers, who volunteered for the experiment knowing fully the consequences of their decision and refused any monetary reward.
(d) How did the commission prove that the disease was not contagious?
Answer: The commission proved that the disease was not contagious by conducting an experiment in which three men slept in an ill-ventilated room for 20 nights. This room was screened from mosquitoes but contained furniture and clothing which had been in close contact with yellow fever patients. None of these three men contracted yellow fever.
(e) What is meant by “martyrs to scientific investigation”? Why are Dr Lazear and Dr Myers described as “martyrs to scientific investigation”?
Answer: “Martyrs to scientific investigation” refers to people who lay down their lives willingly for the cause of science. Dr Lazear and Dr Myers are described as such because they risked their lives to discover the cause of yellow fever, and both of them died after contracting the disease during their research.
(iv) In not more than 50 words, state how the cause of yellow fever was discovered.
Answer: The cause was discovered through two experiments. First, three soldiers slept in a mosquito-screened room with items from yellow fever patients and did not get sick. Then, a soldier named John allowed mosquitoes that had bitten sick patients to bite him, contracted fever, and proved it was caused by mosquitoes.
Practice Paper – 2
Question 1: Composition
(Do not spend more than 30 minutes on this question.)
Write a composition (300-350 words) on any one of the following:
(i) Write a story including all of the following, in any order: (i) waterlogging; (ii) car break down; and (iii) dark clouds.
Answer: The Storm on the Old Road
The journey began with the promise of a beautiful afternoon. I was driving along the old highway, a less-travelled route that wound through quiet fields and small villages. For the first hour, the sun was warm, and the sky was a perfect, clear blue. I felt a sense of peace as I left the city far behind. However, the weather began to shift with an unnerving speed. What started as a few harmless white puffs on the horizon soon merged and thickened, transforming into a vast, heavy blanket of dark clouds. The air grew still and humid, and a deep shadow fell over the landscape, making the greens of the fields look almost black. The sense of peace I had felt was replaced by a growing anxiety.
Then the rain started. It was not a gentle shower but a sudden, violent downpour. Fat drops of water hammered against the windshield, so fast and thick that the wipers could barely keep up. The road ahead became a shimmering, indistinct line. I gripped the steering wheel, slowing my speed to a crawl. The roar of the rain was deafening. Soon, I noticed that the road was not draining. Puddles grew into pools, and before I knew it, I was in the middle of a serious waterlogging situation. The water reached halfway up my tires, and I could feel the car struggling against its pull. With every metre I covered, my fear grew. I prayed that my small car would have the strength to push through to higher ground.
Just as I thought I saw a clearer patch of road ahead, the engine sputtered violently. It coughed once, then twice, and then, with a final groan, it fell silent. The car break down was complete. I turned the key in the ignition, but the only response was a weak clicking sound. A dead silence filled the car, a stark contrast to the storm raging outside. I was utterly stranded, trapped in my metal box in the middle of a rising flood, with no other cars in sight. The world outside was a chaotic mix of wind and water, and I felt completely alone and helpless, left to do nothing but wait for the storm’s fury to pass.
(ii) You participated in a radio quiz show. Narrate your journey from being a caller to becoming the winner of the quiz show.
Answer: My Unexpected Victory on Air
It was a completely ordinary Tuesday afternoon. I was at home, trying to finish some household chores while the radio played in the background. My favourite station, “Radio Beats,” was on, and the cheerful voice of RJ Sameer filled the room. He announced the start of their popular weekly quiz show, “Mind Marathon,” and invited listeners to call in. I had always enjoyed the show, often shouting answers at the radio, but I had never managed to get through the busy phone lines. On an impulse, I picked up my phone and dialled. I expected to hear a busy tone, but instead, it rang. To my shock, RJ Sameer himself answered, “Hello, caller! Welcome to Mind Marathon!”
My heart began to pound in my chest. I stammered my name, my voice sounding strange to my own ears. He asked a simple qualifying question about a recent film, which I luckily knew the answer to. With that, I was officially a contestant. The first few rounds were a mix of general knowledge, science, and history. I was nervous, but as I answered the first couple of questions correctly, a little bit of confidence began to build. I could hear other contestants making mistakes and getting eliminated. The pool of participants grew smaller and smaller, and with each round I survived, the excitement grew. It felt unreal to be a part of a show I had only ever listened to.
Finally, it was down to just two of us: a woman named Priya from Pune and me. The final round was a rapid-fire session where speed was everything. RJ Sameer explained that the first person to answer five questions correctly would be the winner. The tension was high. Priya was quick and answered the first two questions before I could even process them. I started to feel my chance slipping away, but I took a deep breath and focused. I managed to answer the next three questions correctly, levelling the score. We were tied at four points each, with the next question being the decider. “Which is the smallest bone in the human body?” he asked. Without thinking, I shouted, “The stapes, in the ear!” A moment of silence followed, then the sound of celebratory music filled the airwaves. I had won. My journey from being a random caller to the winner of the quiz show was complete, a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
(iii) ‘A single child is an unhappy child.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer: The Myth of the Unhappy Single Child
The statement that ‘a single child is an unhappy child’ is a widely held but deeply flawed generalization. This belief comes from an old-fashioned idea that a child’s happiness and development are entirely dependent on the presence of siblings. However, the happiness of a child is shaped by many factors, with the quality of their upbringing and the love they receive being far more important than the number of brothers or sisters they have. A single child is not automatically destined for a life of loneliness or unhappiness.
One of the main arguments against single children is that they are lonely. While they may not have a built-in playmate at home, this often encourages them to be more creative and independent. They learn to entertain themselves, developing rich inner worlds and strong imaginations. This independence can be a great asset in later life. Furthermore, because they do not have siblings, many single children are more motivated to seek out friendships outside the home. They often learn valuable social skills by making and keeping friends at school and in their communities, and these friendships can be just as deep and supportive as sibling bonds.
Another common criticism is that single children are selfish because they do not have to share their parents’ attention or their belongings. This, however, is a matter of parenting, not birth order. Responsible parents of single children are often very conscious of this stereotype and make a special effort to teach their child the values of sharing, empathy, and cooperation. They can learn these lessons just as effectively through interactions with cousins, friends, and classmates. In many cases, single children benefit from the undivided attention and resources of their parents, which can lead to a secure and enriching childhood. In conclusion, a child’s happiness is determined by a loving and supportive environment, not by the presence of siblings. To claim that all single children are unhappy is to ignore the diverse and positive experiences of millions of families around the world.
(iv) There was a strange incident that occurred when you were enjoying a dish at a roadside eatery. Describe what happened, how you reacted and what you learnt from the incident.
Answer: A Lesson in Humility
The evening air was cool, and the roadside eatery was alive with the sizzle of frying food and the chatter of its customers. I had found a small plastic stool and was happily digging into a plate of hot, spicy noodles, feeling content after a long day at work. People from all walks of life were gathered there, all enjoying a quick and tasty meal. It was a typical city evening, busy and full of life. As I was about to take another mouthful, I noticed a small boy standing quietly near my table. He could not have been more than eight years old. His clothes were dusty and torn, his hair was unkempt, and his bare feet were stained with dirt. He didn’t speak or make any gesture to beg for money. He just stood there, his large, dark eyes fixed on my plate of food with an intensity that spoke of real hunger.
My immediate reaction was one of irritation. I felt my personal space was being invaded, and I was annoyed that my peaceful meal was being interrupted. My first impulse was to wave him away, to tell him to go bother someone else. I hardened my expression, ready to dismiss him. But then I looked at him again. There was no defiance in his gaze, only a quiet and deep longing. He was not being a nuisance; he was just hungry. My annoyance began to fade, replaced by a growing sense of shame. Here I was, well-fed and comfortable, feeling bothered by the presence of a child who probably hadn’t eaten all day.
The conflict inside me lasted only a moment. I put down my fork and gestured to the empty stool opposite me. He hesitated, looking surprised, but then he slowly sat down. I pushed my plate towards him. He looked at me, a silent question in his eyes, and I nodded. He began to eat, quickly but not greedily. When he was finished, he gave me another small, silent nod, and then he was gone, disappearing back into the bustling street. I did not finish my meal that night. The incident had taught me a profound lesson about empathy and the simple act of sharing. I learned that kindness is a choice we make in a single moment, and that choosing compassion over comfort can be a truly humbling experience.
(v) Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you.
Answer: Golden Hour at the Court
The old basketball court behind the community hall was more than just a place to play; it was the heart of our evenings. Every day, as the afternoon sun began to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in soft shades of orange and purple, our small group of friends would gather there. The picture perfectly captures the spirit of those times. It shows a moment filled with energy, friendship, and the simple joy that comes from playing a game you love. The golden light of the setting sun floods the scene, making the ordinary concrete court feel like a grand stage for our small dramas.
In this frozen moment of action, my friend Sameer is in mid-air. His body is a dark shape against the bright sky, his focus entirely on the hoop as he goes for a layup. The basketball hangs in the air, a perfect sphere of possibility, just inches from its destination. Trying to stop him is Rohan, his hand stretched out in a desperate attempt to block the shot. Their friendly rivalry was a constant feature of our games, pushing both of them to be better players. Under the basket, David is positioned perfectly, ready to grab the rebound if the shot misses, his eyes tracking the ball’s path. I can almost imagine myself as the boy in the red shirt, watching from the sidelines, studying their moves, and waiting eagerly for my turn to prove myself.
This image is an account of our youth. The court was our escape, a place where the pressures of school and homework disappeared, replaced by the satisfying thump of a dribbled ball and the sound of friends cheering each other on. The beautiful sunset in the background is not just scenery; it represents the closing of another day spent together, strengthening our bonds. It suggests that while time moves on and we all grow older, the warmth of these memories, like the golden light in the picture, will remain. It is a snapshot of that precious time when life was as simple and as wonderful as a game of basketball with your best friends as the day came to a gentle end.
Question 2
(Do not spend more than 20 minutes on this question.)
Select any one ofthe following:
(i) Write a letter to the Municipal Commissioner drawing his/her attention to the open electricity boxes in your area and the danger they pose especially during the monsoon.
Answer:
24, Park Street
Kolkata – 700016
15th July, 2024
The Municipal Commissioner
Kolkata Municipal Corporation
5, S.N. Banerjee Road
Kolkata – 700013
Subject: Urgent attention required for open electricity boxes in Park Street area
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to you today as a concerned resident of the Park Street area to bring a serious issue to your immediate attention. For the past several weeks, a number of electricity distribution boxes in our locality have been left open and unattended. These boxes, with their exposed wires, are a constant hazard to the public, especially to the children who often play nearby.
The danger has increased greatly with the arrival of the monsoon. The recent spell of heavy rain has led to water accumulation around these boxes, creating a high risk of electrocution. We fear for the safety of pedestrians and residents who have to navigate these waterlogged streets. It is only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs if this negligence continues.
I kindly request you to look into this matter with the urgency it deserves and instruct the concerned department to secure all open electricity boxes in our area without any further delay. Your prompt action can prevent a potential tragedy.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Yours faithfully,
Rohan Sharma
(ii) Your uncle is a chef at a speciality restaurant and he showed you the behind-the-scene action at his restaurant. Write a letter thanking him for the wonderful experience you had. Tell him what piqued you the most. Mention whether you would follow his footsteps, giving reason for your decision.
12-B, Sunshine Apartments
Mumbai – 400058
20th July, 2024
My Dearest Uncle Raj,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to thank you so much for inviting me to your restaurant, ‘The Golden Spoon’, last Saturday. It was amazing to see how a professional kitchen works from the inside.
While the whole experience was new to me, the thing that interested me the most was the way your team worked together. The kitchen was so busy, yet everyone moved with such purpose and skill. It looked like a well-practiced performance. The way you managed everything so calmly in the middle of all that activity was very impressive. I never knew how much hard work and focus goes into making each dish perfect.
Seeing all of that has made me think about my own future. I have great respect for what you do, and I admire your passion for cooking. However, I do not think I will be following in your footsteps. I feel that the high-pressure work of a chef requires a special dedication that I might not have. My own interests are more towards writing.
Even so, that day gave me a new appreciation for the food we eat and the art of cooking. Thank you again for such a wonderful and memorable day.
With much love,
Aditya
Question 3
(i) Your school is organising a Scholars Cup for the students of Classes IX and X on the topic ‘Climate Change’. Write a notice for your school informing the students about the event and requesting them to submit their names for participating in the contest.
St. Xavier’s School, New Delhi
NOTICE
16th July, 2024
Scholars Cup on ‘Climate Change’
This is to inform all students of Classes IX and X that our school is organising a Scholars Cup on the topic ‘Climate Change’. The event aims to raise awareness and foster teamwork through a series of academic challenges. The competition will include debates, a written composition round, and a quiz.
Interested students are requested to submit their names to their respective class teachers on or before 25th July, 2024. Let us come together to learn and contribute to a better understanding of this important global issue.
(Signature)
Amit Singh
Head Boy
(ii) Write an email to the Principal of a neighbouring school informing him/her of the Scholars Cup and requesting him/her to send subject teachers to judge the participants.
To: principal.dpsrkpuram@email.com
From: principal.stxaviersdelhi@email.com
Subject: Invitation to Judge at Scholars Cup Competition
Dear Principal,
I hope this email finds you well.
Our school, St. Xavier’s, is hosting a ‘Scholars Cup’ for the students of Classes IX and X on the 5th of August, 2024. The central theme of this academic competition is ‘Climate Change’, and it will feature events like debating, essay writing, and a quiz competition.
We would be greatly honoured if you could send two of your experienced subject teachers, preferably from the Science or Social Studies department, to be a part of our judging panel for the event. Their expertise would be invaluable in assessing the participants and would also help in strengthening the relationship between our two schools.
We look forward to a positive response.
Thank you.
Warm regards,
Sunita Sharma
Principal
St. Xavier’s School, New Delhi
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
The buying of orchids always has in it a certain speculative flavour. There slowly unfolds before the delighted eyes of the happy purchaser, day after day, some new variety, some novel richness, or some subtler colouration or unexpected mimicry.
It was perhaps the hope of some such happy discovery that made Winter Wedderburn such a frequent attendant at these sales—that hope, and also, maybe, the fact that he had nothing else of the slightest interest to do in the world. He grew orchids, and had one ambitious little greenhouse.
“I have a fancy,” he said over his coffee to his cousin and housekeeper “that something is going to happen to me today. Today, Peters’ are going to sell a batch of plants from the Andamans and the Indies. I shall go up and see what they have. It may be I shall buy something good unawares.”
When Wedderburn returned after the purchase, he was in a state of mild excitement. He had made a rare purchase. “These are Vandas,” he said, “and a Dendrobe and some Palaeonophis.”
“I do not like the look of it,” said his housekeeper. “It has such an ugly shape.”
“It shall be put away in a pot tomorrow,” replied Wedderburn.
The next few days Wedderburn was singularly busy in his steamy little greenhouse, fussing about all the mysteries of the orchid cultivator. Several of the Vandas and the Dendrobium died under his care, but presently the strange orchid began to show signs of life. And at last the great thing happened. There was a new odour in the air, a rich, intensely sweet scent, that overpowered every other in that crowded steaming little greenhouse. He stopped before them in an ecstasy of admiration. He could see at once that the genus was altogether a new one. And the insufferable scent! Suddenly everything appeared unsteady. The bricks on the floor were dancing up and down. Then the white blossoms, the green leaves behind them, the whole greenhouse, seemed to sweep sideways, and then in a curve upward.
When Wedderburn did not join his cousin for the evening tea she went to the greenhouse and called his name. There was no reply. She noticed him lying, face upward, at the foot of the strange orchid. The tentacle-like aerial rootlets crowded together, a tangle of steely ropes and stretched tight, with their ends closely applied to his chin and neck and hands. She saw from under one of the exultant tentacles upon his cheek there trickled a little thread of blood. With an inarticulate cry she ran towards him, and tried to pull him away from the leech-like suckers. The overpowering scent of the blossom began to make her head reel. She left him and hastily opened the nearest door and the windows. She then tugged with renewed strength at Wedderburn’s motionless body and brought him into the open air. She tore the sucker rootlets one by one, and in another moment released him and dragged him away from the horror.
Wedderburn was white and bleeding from a dozen circular patches. He opened his eyes and seeing that he was troubled by his condition, she explained to him, “You fainted in the greenhouse.” “And the orchid?” he asked. “I will see to that,” she replied.
The next morning the strange orchid still lay there, black now and putrescent. But Wedderburn himself was bright and garrulous upstairs in the glory of his strange adventure.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided.
1. speculative
A. proven
B. conjectural
C. verified
D. substantiated
Answer: B. conjectural
2. fancy
A. guilty
B. passage
C. concept
D. belief
Answer: D. belief
(ii) Which word, in the passage, means the opposite of the word ‘liberated’?
Answer: entangled
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly:
(a) Why does the narrator say that ‘buying of orchids always has in it a certain speculative flavour?’
Answer: The narrator says this because a purchaser of orchids can never be certain about what they are buying. Day by day, the plant might reveal a new variety, a novel richness of colour, or an unexpected shape, making the purchase a gamble with a potentially delightful discovery.
(b) Why was Wedderburn a ‘frequent attendant’ at the sale of orchids?
Answer: Wedderburn was a frequent attendant at orchid sales because he hoped to make a happy discovery of a new and rare species. Additionally, he had nothing else of interest to do in his life.
(c) What ‘great thing’ happened when the new orchid showed signs of life?
Answer: When the new orchid showed signs of life, a rich and intensely sweet scent filled the air, overpowering every other smell in the greenhouse. Wedderburn realised that he had discovered a completely new genus of orchid.
(d) Why did Wedderburn not join his cousin for the regular evening tea?
Answer: Wedderburn did not join his cousin for tea because he had fainted and was lying unconscious on the floor of the greenhouse. He had been overcome by the powerful scent of the strange new orchid.
(e) What happened to Wedderburn after the strange orchid filled the greenhouse with a new odour?
Answer: After the new odour filled the greenhouse, Wedderburn felt a sense of admiration, but then everything appeared unsteady. He felt dizzy, saw the floor and plants as if they were dancing and sweeping sideways, and then he lost consciousness.
(iv) Describe how Wedderburn’s housekeeper released him from the grip of the strange orchid. Answer in not more than fifty words.
Answer: The housekeeper found Wedderburn lying unconscious with the orchid’s tentacle-like roots on his neck. Crying out, she ran to him and tried to pull him away from the leech-like suckers. She forcefully tore the rootlets away, releasing him from their grip and dragging him out of the greenhouse.
Question 5
Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space.
Example: (0) gathered
At Sera Nagla village in Banswara district, members of the Bheel community ….0…. (gather) around a few tables on which indigenous millet seeds….1…. (display). The seeds, brought by some women farmers, were taken in small amounts by others who needed them. The …2…. (participate) were encouraged to tell other farmers in their villages about what they ……. (learn) at the event and also share a few seeds with them..
At the end of the….4… (interact) assemblies, the farmers tooka pledge…5… (protect)and save indigenous seeds by…6…. (develop) the habit of …….. (use) them in theirregula, ….8…. (agriculture) practice.
(i) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets.
Answer:
- were displayed
- participants
- had learned / learnt
- interactive
- to protect
- developing
- using
- agricultural
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
(a) My brother surprised me by coming to school to pick me ______
Answer: up
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘pick up’ means to collect someone, typically in a vehicle.
(b) Before announcing his decision, he decided to read ______ the report.
Answer: over / through
Explanation: The phrasal verbs ‘read over’ or ‘read through’ mean to read something carefully from beginning to end to check for mistakes or to understand it.
(c) The cricket match was put ______ due to heavy rain.
Answer: off
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘put off’ means to postpone or cancel an event.
(d) This year the monsoon might set ______ earlier.
Answer: in
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘set in’ means to begin and seem likely to continue, often used for weather.
(e) After my father, I carried ______ the family business.
Answer: on
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘carry on’ means to continue doing something.
(f) My shoulder is paining, I think the doctor should look ______ it.
Answer: at
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘look at’ means to examine something.
(g) The students stood ______ when the principal entered the class room.
Answer: up
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘stand up’ means to rise to a standing position.
(h) He was showing ______ his new phone when it slipped from his hand.
Answer: off
Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘show off’ means to boastfully display one’s abilities or possessions.
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option.
1. You may succeed or not. She is not interested in it.
(a) She will not be interested if you succeed or not.
(b) She is not interested whether you have success or not.
(c) She is not interested whether you succeed or not.
(d) She is not interested, unless you succeed or not.
Answer: (c) She is not interested whether you succeed or not.
Explanation: The conjunction ‘whether’ is used to introduce a clause that expresses a doubt or a choice between alternatives. It correctly combines the two ideas into a single sentence.
2. You copied my essay. Do you deny this?
(a) Do you deny to have copied my essay?
(b) Do you denied copying my essay?
(c) Do you deny having copied my essay?
(d) Do you deny in copying my essay?
Answer: (c) Do you deny having copied my essay?
Explanation: The verb ‘deny’ is followed by a gerund (an ‘-ing’ verb form). ‘Having copied’ is the correct gerund form to refer to the past action of copying.
3. The typist was intelligent. We hired him.
(a) We hired the typist which was very intelligent.
(b) We hired the typist for his having been intelligent.
(c) We hired the typist as he was intelligent.
(d) We hired the typist for his being too intelligent.
Answer: (c) We hired the typist as he was intelligent.
Explanation: The subordinate conjunction ‘as’ is used here to mean ‘because’. It correctly links the reason for hiring the typist (his intelligence) to the main action.
4. The brakes could have failed. How would you have stopped the car then?
(a) How would you have stopped the car if the brakes could fail?
(b) How would you have stopped the car when the brakes had failed?
(c) How would you have stopped the car if the brakes had failed?
(d) How would have you stopped the car should the brakes had failed?
Answer: (c) How would you have stopped the car if the brakes had failed?
Explanation: This is a Type 3 conditional sentence, used for imagining a different past. The correct structure is ‘if + past perfect’ (had failed), followed by ‘would have + past participle’ (would have stopped).
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
1. Crossing the railway lines to get to the station is dangerous. (Begin with: It …)
(a) It is dangerous crossing the railway lines to get over to the station.
(b) It is dangerous too crossing the railway lines to get to the station.
(c) It is dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
(d) It is too dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
Answer: (c) It is dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
Explanation: The pronoun ‘It’ is used as an introductory subject, followed by the infinitive ‘to cross’. This structure is used to comment on an action.
2. He is getting so absent-minded that he cannot go on working much longer. (Begin with: He is getting too …)
(a) He is getting too absent-minded to get working for long.
(b) He is getting too absent-minded to go at working much longer.
(c) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.
(d) He is getting too absent-mind for going to work much longer.
Answer: (c) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.
Explanation: The structure ‘too + adjective + to + infinitive’ is used to show a negative result. ‘Too absent-minded’ means his absent-mindedness is excessive, preventing him from working.
3. If Uma apologises, she will be set free. (Begin with: Unless…)
(a) Unless Uma apologises, she will not be set free.
(b) Unless Uma does not apologise, she will not be set free.
(c) Unless Uma does not apologise, she would not be set free.
(d) Unless Uma apologises, she will be not set free.
Answer: (a) Unless Uma apologises, she will not be set free.
Explanation: ‘Unless’ means ‘if not’. The sentence ‘Unless Uma apologises’ means ‘If Uma does not apologise’, which correctly reflects the meaning of the original sentence.
4. Anand always repays whatever he borrows. (Begin with: Anand never …)
(a) Anand never fail to repay whatever he borrows.
(b) Anand never failed to repay whenever he borrows.
(c) Anand never fails to repay whatever he borrows.
(d) Anand never fail to repay whatever he borrowed.
Answer: (c) Anand never fails to repay whatever he borrows.
Explanation: ‘Never fails to’ is a double negative structure that creates a strong positive meaning, equivalent to ‘always’.
5. The honey bee is more diligent than all other creatures. (Use: most diligent)
(a) The honey bee is the most diligent than all other creatures.
(b) The honey bee is the most diligent of all creatures.
(c) The honey bee is the most diligent along all other creatures.
(d) The honey bee is the most diligent among other creatures.
Answer: (d) The honey bee is the most diligent among other creatures.
Explanation: This sentence correctly changes the comparative degree (‘more diligent’) to the superlative degree (‘most diligent’). ‘Among’ is appropriate for comparing one with a group.
6. They were not sure that it was you. (Use: doubtful)
(a) They are doubtful that it was you.
(b) They were doubtful that it was you.
(c) They were doubtful it is you.
(d) They were doubtful that it is you.
Answer: (b) They were doubtful that it was you.
Explanation: The adjective ‘doubtful’ correctly replaces the phrase ‘not sure’. The sentence maintains the past tense (‘were’) from the original sentence.
7. We propose to build a school in the hamlet. (Begin with: It is…)
(a) It is proposed by us to build a school in the hamlet.
(b) It is a proposal to build the school in the hamlet.
(c) It is proposed to built a school in the hamlet by them.
(d) It is proposed for building a school in the hamlet.
Answer: (a) It is proposed by us to build a school in the hamlet.
Explanation: This is the correct passive voice construction. The object of the active sentence (‘to build a school’) becomes part of the passive structure, and the subject (‘We’) becomes the agent (‘by us’).
8. “I will complete the task tomorrow” she promised. (Rewrite in Indirect speech)
(a) She promised that she would complete the task the following day.
(b) She promised that she would complete the task tomorrow.
(c) She promised to complete the task the next day.
(d) She promised that I would complete the task the following day.
Answer: (a) She promised that she would complete the task the following day.
Explanation: In indirect speech, ‘will’ changes to ‘would’, and ‘tomorrow’ changes to ‘the following day’. This option correctly applies both rules.
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