Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 4: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar (Total English) solved which comprises Direct and Indirect Speech, Composition, and Notice and Email. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Video tutorial
Time and Tense
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: We have been students in this school for the last five years.
2. My brother _______________________________ recently _______________________________ (enter) the university.
Answer: My brother has recently entered the university.
3. Miriam _______________________________ (fast) since sunrise.
Answer: Miriam has been fasting since sunrise.
4. He _______________________________ (not visit) us since 1999.
Answer: He has not visited us since 1999.
5. We _______________________________ (do) a tense exercise for the last few minutes.
Answer: We have been doing a tense exercise for the last few minutes.
10. Now that I _______________________________ (finish) reading Oliver Twist, I shall read the Bible.
Answer: Now that I have finished reading Oliver Twist, I shall read the Bible.
Match the proverbial expressions to their meanings:
| Proverbial Expression | Meaning |
|---|---|
| to upset someone’s apple cart | to throw someone’s plans into disorder |
| to bell the cat | to do the most dangerous part of a suggested scheme |
| to play one’s last card | to take the last chance one has of achieving success |
| to be between the devil and the deep sea | to choose between two undesirable situations |
| to eat out of someone’s hand | to fall in meekly, with a person’s wishes |
| to lose face | to lose one’s good name and reputation |
| to play with fire | to meddle with matters that may lead to serious trouble |
| to play to the gallery | to behave in an exaggerated way to attract people’s attention |
| to do something by halves | to do a thing half-heartedly |
| to make one’s mark | to achieve fame or distinction |
Answer:
1. to upset someone’s apple cart: (d) to throw someone’s plans into disorder
2. to bell the cat: (h) to do the most dangerous part of a suggested scheme
3. to play one’s last card: (a) to take the last chance one has of achieving success
4. to be between the devil and the deep sea: (e) to choose between two undesirable situations
5. to eat out of someone’s hand: (j) to fall in meekly, with a person’s wishes
6. to lose face: (b) to lose one’s good name and reputation
7. to play with fire: (i) to meddle with matters that may lead to serious trouble
8. to play to the gallery: (f) to behave in an exaggerated way to attract people’s attention
9. to do something by halves: (c) to do a thing half-heartedly
10. to make one’s mark: (g) to achieve fame or distinction
Language is the most exciting tool of communication. We must choose the right word to produce the desired effect.
The word “got” is often used in such a general way that it has little real meaning. Write the following passage with each “got” replaced by a more exact word (you may make any other necessary changes):
I got up early this morning and quickly got dressed. I got straight down to breakfast and soon got ready for school. I got my bus, which got me to school in good time. I had a good day at school and got good marks for all my work. I got through the day feeling very pleased, and after school, got a bus back to my home, where I got my tea and then got down to do my homework.
Answer: I woke up early this morning and quickly dressed myself. I went straight down to breakfast and soon prepared for school. I caught my bus, which took me to school on time. I had a good day at school and received excellent marks for all my work. I completed the day feeling very pleased, and after school, boarded a bus back to my home, where I enjoyed my tea and then settled down to do my homework.
Write one word from the box in place of the italicised phrase in each of the following sentences:
| impassable, inimitable, incorrigible, incombustible, inaccessible, indelible, impotent, inaudible, inarticulate, incommunicative |
1. The antics of Raj Kapoor are not able to be imitated.
Answer: inimitable
2. The speaker was not able to express himself fluently.
Answer: inarticulate
3. The voice of the lecturer was so faint that it was not able to be heard.
Answer: inaudible
4. The incriminating evidence was not able to be burnt.
Answer: incombustible
5. The highway, blocked with snow, was not able to be traversed.
Answer: impassable
10. A hideout is a retreat, that, except to a few, not able to be got at.
Answer: inaccessible
An Approach to Comprehension
The suggestions given at the end of the following comprehension exercise should serve as guidelines while answering such questions.
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)
Answer: (a) Got afflicted with (disease)
2. Pecuniary (line 13)
Answer: (b) Monetary
ii. Which word, in the passage, means the opposite of the word compelled?
Answer: (c) Volunteered
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 that had previously bitten someone suffering from yellow fever.
b. According to the passage, who died in the process of proving the truth of the theory?
Answer: Dr Lazear died in the process of proving the truth of the theory.
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 for the experiment, knowing fully the risks involved, showing exemplary courage and dedication.
d. How did the commission prove that the disease was not contagious?
Answer: The commission proved the disease was not contagious by having three men sleep in an ill-ventilated room with clothing and furniture used by yellow fever patients, without any mosquitoes. None of them contracted the disease.
e. What is meant by “martyrs to scientific investigation”? Why were Dr Lazear and Dr Myers described as “martyrs to scientific investigation”?
Answer: “Martyrs to scientific investigation” refers to individuals who sacrificed their lives for the advancement of science. Dr Lazear and Dr Myers were described as such because they risked and lost their lives to uncover the cause of yellow fever.
iv. In not more than 50 words, state how the cause of yellow fever was discovered.
Answer: The Commission conducted two experiments. In the first, three soldiers sleeping in a mosquito-screened room containing goods used by yellow fever patients did not contract the disease. In the second, John Moran allowed himself to be bitten by mosquitoes and contracted yellow fever, proving that yellow fever is caused by mosquitoes.
Practice Paper 4
Question 1
Write a composition (300-350 words) on any one of the following:
(i) Write a short story of your invention by continuing the following: ‘I woke up to a cold dreamy morning and dived deep under the blanket…’
Answer: The Frost-Key Chronicles
I woke up to a cold dreamy morning and dived deep under the blanket, relishing the warmth and solace it offered. Yet, the tranquility was fleeting as a soft rustling sound reached my ears. At first, I thought it was the wind brushing against the trees outside my window, but the sound grew persistent, almost deliberate. Curiosity triumphed over comfort, and I peeked out of the blanket, my breath visible in the frosty air.
The source of the sound was surprising—a trail of leaves on my bedroom floor, forming an oddly perfect path leading to the window. The window was ajar, and the chilly morning breeze sent a shiver down my spine. As I tiptoed closer, I noticed something peculiar—tiny footprints, unlike anything I had ever seen. They weren’t human, nor were they animal. It was as if the frost itself had left a trace.
Intrigued and slightly nervous, I followed the trail. Outside, the world was enveloped in a serene mist, and the footprints continued across the garden. There, near the old oak tree, I found a small, shimmering object. It was a key, but not an ordinary one—it glowed faintly, its intricate design resembling delicate frost patterns.
I picked it up, and as my fingers closed around it, the world around me shifted. The garden faded, replaced by a landscape of silver and white. Towers of ice stretched into the sky, their surfaces reflecting light like diamonds. A whisper carried through the air, beckoning me to move forward.
Guided by an unseen force, I ventured into this ethereal realm, clutching the key tightly. The cold no longer bit at my skin; instead, it felt like a gentle embrace. I had no idea what lay ahead, but the sense of adventure was undeniable. That dreamy morning had transformed into a journey beyond my wildest imagination, one where the ordinary melted into the extraordinary.
(ii) Narrate the experience of looking after your friend’s pet. State the changes the pet brought in your life.
Answer: When my friend asked me to look after her golden retriever, Max, while she was away for a week, I hesitated. I had never been a pet person and wasn’t sure if I was up for the responsibility. However, her earnest plea left me with little choice, and soon enough, Max and I were cohabiting.
The first day was chaotic. Max seemed overly excited in his new surroundings, and I struggled to keep up with his boundless energy. Feeding him was straightforward enough, but taking him for a walk turned out to be a tug-of-war. He pulled me along enthusiastically, his tail wagging at every passer-by and stray bird. By the end of the day, I was exhausted and questioning my decision.
However, things began to change as the days went by. Max’s routine forced me into a structured schedule. Morning walks became a refreshing way to start the day, and I found myself appreciating the crisp air and the serenity of the park—a change from my usual rushed mornings. Max’s playful nature also brought unexpected joy. His excitement over simple things, like chasing a ball or rolling in the grass, was infectious. It reminded me to appreciate the little moments in life.
Spending time with Max also taught me patience. Training him to sit before meals or wait at the door tested my resolve, but the satisfaction of seeing him obey was immense. I even found myself talking to him about my day, his attentive gaze and occasional bark oddly comforting.
By the end of the week, Max had grown on me. His presence filled the house with warmth and laughter, making it feel less lonely. When my friend returned, I felt a pang of sadness handing him back. Max had not only been a companion but also a teacher, showing me the value of routine, patience, and living in the moment. Though I had never considered owning a pet before, I found myself seriously contemplating the idea.
(iii) ‘Fast food is essential for our fast-paced life.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer: Fast Food: A Convenient Necessity or a Harmful Habit?
Fast food has become a popular choice for many in today’s busy world. It offers quick, affordable meals that fit seamlessly into hectic schedules. However, the convenience it provides often masks its long-term downsides, which make it less of a necessity and more of a problem.
One major drawback of fast food is its poor nutritional value. These meals are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, leading to increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. While they may save time in the short term, the impact on health can result in more time and money spent managing illnesses later.
Additionally, the rise of fast food has affected eating habits and social interactions. Meals, which were once a time for families to connect and share wholesome, homemade dishes, have been replaced by quick, solitary eating. This shift has not only diminished the quality of nutrition but also weakened family bonds and traditions.
Fast food also contributes to environmental issues. The production and packaging often involve non-recyclable materials, adding to the growing problem of waste. The environmental cost of this convenience is significant and cannot be ignored.
While supporters argue that fast food suits a fast-paced lifestyle, healthier and equally convenient options are readily available. Pre-prepared meals from stores, fresh salads, or simple home-cooked dishes can offer a better balance between convenience and well-being.
Fast food may seem like a solution to save time, but its long-term effects on health, relationships, and the environment highlight the need for better alternatives. Making small adjustments in meal planning and preparation can provide a healthier, more sustainable way to cope with a busy life.
(iv) You had gone on a trekking expedition with a group of students from your school. Suddenly you slipped and fell. Describe the situation. How did you and your companions react? What did you learn from the experience?
Answer: Our trekking expedition to the misty hills was meant to be an adventure, but it turned into a moment of reflection when I unexpectedly slipped on a mossy rock. It was mid-morning, and we were navigating a narrow trail bordered by steep slopes and dense foliage. The air was cool, filled with the earthy scent of the forest. I was distracted, admiring the scenery, when my foot landed on a damp patch, and I lost my balance.
In an instant, I was sliding down a rocky incline. The world seemed to blur as I reached out desperately to grab anything to stop my fall. My heart raced, and I could hear the shouts of my friends above me. Fortunately, my descent was cut short by a thicket of bushes, leaving me scratched but otherwise unharmed.
The group sprang into action. Two of my classmates, who were further down the trail, climbed back to help me. Others formed a human chain to ensure I could be pulled up safely. Their quick thinking and teamwork were incredible. Even our teacher, who had been hiking ahead, rushed back to assist, bringing a first aid kit. Despite the shock and minor injuries, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the support and camaraderie.
The experience taught me several lessons. First, it reinforced the importance of staying focused and cautious in challenging situations. Nature, while beautiful, can be unpredictable and requires respect. Second, it showed me the value of teamwork. The way my friends united to help me left a lasting impression of how crucial it is to look out for one another. Finally, I learned the importance of preparation—good shoes, steady footing, and staying alert can make all the difference during outdoor activities.
As we continued the trek, my friends kept a close eye on me, joking to lighten the mood. Though shaken, I was determined to complete the journey. That day, I gained more than just an adventure story; I walked away with a deeper appreciation for teamwork, resilience, and the beauty of shared experiences.
(v) Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the picture and your composition.
Answer: The school holidays had finally arrived, and Arun and Meera were overjoyed. With no homework or schedules to follow, they spent their days wandering through the village, coming up with creative ways to keep themselves entertained. One afternoon, Arun found an old bicycle wheel discarded near the blacksmith’s workshop. It was rusted and bent, but to him, it held infinite possibilities.
With a stick in hand, he began rolling the wheel along the dusty village paths, racing it against the gentle breeze. Meera walked beside him, laughing at his determination to keep the wheel upright. Though she wasn’t participating directly, her joy mirrored his excitement.
As they meandered through the narrow lanes, they passed familiar sights: the tea stall where the elders gathered to discuss village affairs, the banyan tree where birds chirped tirelessly, and the small pond reflecting the afternoon sunlight. Villagers smiled at the sight of the two children and their innocent game, remembering their own carefree childhood days.
Arun and Meera soon reached their favorite spot—a small clearing near the riverbank. Arun challenged himself to see how far he could roll the wheel without letting it fall, while Meera cheered him on, her laughter echoing through the quiet surroundings. They played for hours, the simplicity of the activity filling their hearts with pure happiness.
That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky turned shades of pink and orange, they walked back home, the wheel still rolling beside them. Arun and Meera learned that day that joy doesn’t come from expensive toys or elaborate plans—it lies in the small, ordinary things, shared with those who matter the most. It was a memory they would carry forever, long after they outgrew their games.
Question 2
Select any one of the following:
(i) Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper expressing your concern on the rising incidents of road rage in your city.
Answer:
To,
The Editor,
The Daily Herald,
Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Subject: Concern Over Increasing Road Rage Incidents
Sir/Madam,
I wish to draw attention to the alarming rise in road rage incidents across our city, which poses a grave threat to public safety and harmony. It is deeply concerning to see an increase in such episodes, fueled by impatience, stress, and disregard for the law.
Just last week, a heated argument over a minor collision escalated into physical violence at the Sitabardi Square. Such situations not only disrupt traffic but also endanger the lives of those involved, including innocent bystanders. This growing trend reflects a lack of emotional control and highlights deficiencies in our civic sense.
Contributory factors include overcrowded roads, prolonged commutes, and inadequate traffic regulation. However, what stands out is the pressing need for improved conflict resolution mechanisms and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of aggressive driving and road rage are also essential.
I urge the authorities to consider implementing measures such as increased patrolling, stringent penalties for aggressive behavior, and compulsory anger management workshops for offenders. Additionally, as citizens, we must work towards fostering patience and understanding on our roads to ensure a safer commuting environment for everyone.
Your esteemed publication can play a pivotal role by highlighting this issue and mobilizing collective efforts to curb this menace.
Yours sincerely,
Rohit Iyer
Civil Lines, Nagpur
(ii) You stay at a hostel. Your entire family had come to see you off at the railway station. You were feeling sad but ended up being rude to your brother and now you regret it. Write a letter from your hostel to him apologising for your behaviour.
Answer:
Hostel No. 5,
Sunrise Academy,
Jayanagar, Bangalore.
19th November 2024
Dear Rahul,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I have been meaning to write to you ever since I got to the hostel, but today I could no longer delay expressing what has been weighing on my mind.
I want to sincerely apologize for my behavior at the railway station when all of you came to see me off. I know I was unnecessarily rude to you, and I deeply regret my actions. The truth is, I was feeling overwhelmed by the thought of parting with everyone and adjusting to a new environment. Sadly, I let my emotions get the better of me and took them out on you, which was entirely unfair.
You have always been such a caring brother, and it was wrong of me to act the way I did. I truly appreciate all the little things you do to support and encourage me, even if I sometimes fail to acknowledge them.
Please forgive me for that moment of insensitivity. I promise to work on controlling my emotions better in the future. Let’s catch up soon over a phone call, and I’d love to hear about what’s been happening at home.
Take care and give my regards to Mom and Dad.
Yours lovingly,
Aarav
Question 3
(i) The Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) of your colony is organising a ‘Free Eye Screening Camp’ for the residents of the area. Write a notice to be put up outside the RWA Office informing them about the camp and asking them to submit a form if they wish to participate in the camp.
Answer:
RESIDENTS’ WELFARE ASSOCIATION
NOTICE
Free Eye Screening Camp
The Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) is pleased to announce a Free Eye Screening Camp for all residents. This initiative aims to promote eye health and detect any early signs of vision problems. A team of qualified ophthalmologists will conduct the screenings.
- Date: November 25, 2024
- Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Venue: Community Hall, Green View Apartments
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive eye check-ups
- Free consultation and advice
- Referral services for further treatment (if required)
Residents interested in availing themselves of this opportunity are requested to collect and submit the participation form available at the RWA Office. The last date to submit the form is November 23, 2024.
For further information, please contact the RWA Office.
Secretary, RWA
Green View Apartments
(ii) Write an email to the Superintendent of an Eye hospital in your area requesting him/her to send a team of doctors to conduct the Eye Screening Camp.
Answer:
Subject: Request for Doctors for Eye Screening Camp
Dear Dr. Mehta,
I am writing on behalf of the Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA), Green View Apartments, to request your hospital’s assistance in conducting a Free Eye Screening Camp on November 25, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at our Community Hall.
We kindly request a team of ophthalmologists and necessary equipment to facilitate the screenings. The RWA will handle all logistical arrangements.
Please let us know if further details or formalities are required. We look forward to your support.
Best regards,
Rajesh Sharma
Secretary, RWA, Green View Apartments
Contact: 9XXXXXXX0
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
In the early morning (it was the second morning after my recovery) I awoke through an avenue of tumultuous dreams-dreams of guns and howling mobs-and became sensible of a hoarse shouting above me. I rubbed my eyes and lay listening to the noise, doubtful for a little while of my whereabouts. Then came a sudden pattering of bare feet, the sound of heavy objects being thrown about, a violent creaking and the rattling of chains. I heard the swish of the water as the ship was suddenly brought round, and a foamy yellow-green wave flew across the little round window and left it streaming. I jumped into my clothes and went on deck.
As I came up the ladder I saw the broad back and red hair of the captain.
“Overboard with them!” bawled the captain. “Overboard with them! We will have a clean ship soon.”
He stood in my way, so that I had perforce to tap his shoulder to come on deck.
“Hullo!” said he and then with a light coming into his eyes, “Why, it’s Mister… Mister?”
“Prendick,” said I.
He held out his hand towards the passage. “That way, Mister that way!” roared the captain.
“What do you mean?” I said.
“Overboard, Mister! We are cleaning the ship out, cleaning the whole blessed ship out; and overboard you go!”
I turned towards Montgomery. ‘But, Montgomery,” I appealed. He nodded his head hopelessly at the grey-haired man beside him, to indicate his powerlessness to help me.
Then began a curious three-cornered altercation. Alternately I appealed to one and another of the three men,-first Montgomery, then to his companion and finally to the captain to keep me aboard. Meanwhile the sailors progressed rapidly with the task of unshipping the packages. I did not then see the hands from the island that were receiving the packages, for the hull of the launch was hidden from me by the side of the ship. I could not resist an impulse to laugh at my miserable quandary. I perceived pretty clearly that I had not the stamina either to resist what the captain chose to do to expel me, or to force myself upon Montgomery and his companion. So I waited passively upon fate.
I was hauled, resisting weakly enough, to the gangway. A broadening gap of green water appeared under me, and I pushed back with all my strength to avoid falling headlong. A dingey had been towing behind; it was half full of water, had no oars, and no supplies of food. I refused to go aboard her, and flung myself full length on the deck. In the end, they swung me into her by a rope (for they had no stern ladder), and then they cut me adrift. At first I could scarcely believe what had happened. I crouched in the bottom of the dingey, stunned, and staring blankly at the vacant, oily sea. Then I realised that I was in a little hell of mine, now half swamped; and looking back I saw the ship getting smaller with the captain mocking at me. Abruptly the cruelty of this desertion became clear to me. I had no means of reaching the land unless I should chance to drift there. In a passion of despair, I prayed aloud to God.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. tumultuous (line 2)
(a) orderly (b) serene (c) confused (d) calm
Answer: (c) confused
2. quandary (line 28)
(a) dilemma (b) ease (c) solution (d) certainty
Answer: (a) dilemma
(ii) Which word, in the passage, means the opposite of the word unnecessarily?
(a) recovery (b) perforce (c) hopelessly (d) passively
Answer: (b) perforce
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) What sounds did the narrator hear when he woke up in the morning?
Answer: The narrator heard hoarse shouting, the pattering of bare feet, heavy objects being thrown, a violent creaking, rattling chains, and the swish of water as the ship turned.
(b) What did the captain of the ship tell the narrator to do?
Answer: The captain told the narrator that the ship was being cleaned out and ordered him to be thrown overboard.
(c) In which miserable quandary did the narrator find himself?
Answer: The narrator found himself in a helpless situation where he could neither resist the captain’s order to throw him overboard nor persuade Montgomery or his companion to help him stay on the ship.
(d) Why did the narrator refuse to go aboard the dingey?
Answer: The narrator refused to board the dingey because it was half full of water, lacked oars, and had no food supplies, making it unsafe and unsuitable for survival.
(e) What did the narrator realise when he was thrown in the dingey?
Answer: The narrator realised the full cruelty of his desertion as he was left adrift in a swamped dingey with no means of reaching land, relying solely on chance to survive.
(iv) In not more than 50 words, explain the narrator’s misfortune from the time he woke up in the ship till he was thrown into the dingey.
Answer: The narrator woke up to chaotic sounds and was ordered by the captain to be thrown overboard. Despite his futile appeals, he was forcibly placed in a dingey lacking oars and food. Adrift in the sea, he was abandoned with no means of survival, facing despair and isolation.
Question 5
(i) 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) are
Soil and water…0…. (be) the essential components to sustain life, including that of humans, on our planet. Soil is the medium on which all types of ….1…. (live) organisms …2…. (maintain). The Vedic civilisation ….3…. (hold) the soil in the ….4….. (high) regard as Mother Earth. The prayer to Prithvi, the Earth, ….5…. (invoke) in the Atharva Veda: “Let what I unearth from thee, O Earth, sprout and develop once more in a swift manner.” The ….6…. (venerate) of vegetation, trees, animals, and soils is exclusive to India. Consequently, it ….7….. (discourage) the ….8…. (apply) of harsh chemicals and pesticides.
Answer:
0. are
1. living
2. are maintained
3. held
4. highest
5. is invoked
6. veneration
7. discourage
8. application
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
(a) She apologised to you ___ her mistake.
Answer: for
(b) Skill comes ___ regular practice.
Answer: with
(c) The final decision rests ___ the Principal.
Answer: with
(d) This is the man I was referring ___.
Answer: to
(e) He abstains ___ smoking.
Answer: from
(f) We were caught ___ the storm.
Answer: in
(g) She was born ___ rich parents.
Answer: to
(h) We make curd ___ milk.
Answer: from
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option.
1. The thief escaped. It was dark.
(a) The thief escaped with darkness.
(b) The thief escaped because of being in darkness.
(c) The thief escaped out of darkness.
(d) The thief escaped under darkness.
Answer: (d) The thief escaped under darkness.
2. He worked hard. He wanted to get a scholarship.
(a) He worked hard to get a scholarship.
(b) He worked hard for want of a scholarship.
(c) He worked hard until he got a scholarship.
(d) He works hard for the scholarship.
Answer: (a) He worked hard to get a scholarship.
3. Neeta will come to the party. I am sure about this.
(a) I am sure about Neeta coming to the party.
(b) I am sure that Neeta will come to the party.
(c) I am sure for Neeta to come to the party.
(d) I am sure about Neeta to come at the party.
Answer: (b) I am sure that Neeta will come to the party.
4. Pull the chain. The train will stop.
(a) Pull the chain when the train will stop.
(b) The train will stop to pull the chain.
(c) The train will stop if you pull the chain.
(d) The train stops after pulling the chain.
Answer: (c) The train will stop if you pull the chain.
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
1. The pianist performed admirably on the stage. (Begin with: The pianist’s …)
(a) The pianist’s performance on the stage was admirable.
(b) The pianist’s admirably performed at the stage.
(c) The pianist’s admirable performance was on the stage.
(d) The pianist’s stage was admirable for the performance.
Answer: (a) The pianist’s performance on the stage was admirable.
2. She ate her lunch and then went to the library. (Begin with: Having …)
(a) Having to eat lunch, she goes to the library.
(b) Having to eat her lunch, then she went to the library.
(c) Having eaten her lunch, she went to the library.
(d) Having her lunch eaten, she went for the library.
Answer: (c) Having eaten her lunch, she went to the library.
3. Everyone wants to become rich. (Begin with: Who …)
(a) Who wants not to be rich?
(b) Who does not wants riches?
(c) Who does not want richness?
(d) Who does not want to become rich?
Answer: (d) Who does not want to become rich?
4. As soon as we received the good news, we began to celebrate. (Begin with: No sooner …)
(a) No sooner after receiving the good news we began to celebrate.
(b) No sooner did we receive the good news than we began to celebrate.
(c) No sooner good news was received than we began to celebrate.
(d) No sooner was the good news received did we began to celebrate.
Answer: (b) No sooner did we receive the good news than we began to celebrate.
5. We must listen to his music. (Begin with: His music …)
(a) His music must be listened to by us.
(b) His music listened to by us.
(c) His music must also be listened by us.
(d) His music is nonetheless listened by us.
Answer: (a) His music must be listened to by us.
8. The businessman has enemies but he has a bodyguard to protect him. (Begin with: The businessman has a bodyguard …)
(a) The businessman has a bodyguard as protection from enemies.
(b) The businessman has a bodyguard to protect himself from enemies.
(c) The businessman has a bodyguard to protect him from his enemies.
(d) The businessman has a bodyguard so as to protect him from enemies.
Answer: (c) The businessman has a bodyguard to protect him from his enemies.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger. He manages Online Free Notes and reads Victorian literature. His favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and he hopes to travel the world. Get in touch with him by sending him a friend request.
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