Chapter 9: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar solved
Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 9: ICSE Class 9 English Language/Grammar (Total English) workbook solved which comprises Transformation of Sentences – Il, Picture Composition, Letters to Newspapers, Practice Paper – 9. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Transformation of Sentences-II
ASSIGNMENT
In each of the following items, sentence A is complete but sentence B is not. Complete sentence B each time, making it as similar in meaning as possible to sentence A. Make B one sentence, never two. No changes of any kind may be made to the printed parts of the B sentences.
1. A. Sunil must apologise or he will be dismissed.
B. Sunil must apologise so that ……………………………..
Answer: Sunil must apologise so that he will not be dismissed.
Explanation: This is a transformation of a compound sentence into a complex sentence. The word ‘or’ in sentence A shows an alternative, negative consequence. The phrase ‘so that’ in sentence B is used to show the purpose of an action. To keep the meaning the same, the purpose of apologising is to avoid being dismissed. Therefore, we add ‘he will not be dismissed’.
2. A. In spite of hard work she failed.
B. She worked hard …………………………………….
Answer: She worked hard but she failed.
Explanation: This transforms a simple sentence into a compound sentence. The phrase ‘In spite of’ shows a contrast between two ideas (working hard and failing). To create a compound sentence with the same meaning, we connect the two simple clauses (‘She worked hard’ and ‘she failed’) with a coordinating conjunction that shows contrast, like ‘but’ or ‘yet’.
3. A. My frock was not returned until it had been washed.
B. ……………………………………….. before it was returned.
Answer: My frock was washed before it was returned.
Explanation: The first sentence means that the action of washing happened first, and only then was the frock returned. The second sentence structure asks what happened before the return. The answer is that the washing happened first.
4. A. I have found the book that I had lost.
B. I had lost a book …………………………..
Answer: I had lost a book but I have found it.
Explanation: This converts a complex sentence to a compound sentence. Sentence A uses a relative clause (‘that I had lost’) to describe the book. To make it a compound sentence, we separate the two main ideas: “I had lost a book” and “I have found it”. The word ‘but’ is a good connector here because it contrasts the state of being lost with the state of being found.
5. A. This news is too good to be true.
B. This news ………………………….. cannot be true.
Answer: This news is so good that it cannot be true.
Explanation: The structure ‘too…to’ is a compact way of expressing a negative result. It can be expanded into the ‘so…that…not’ structure. For example, “He is too tired to walk” means “He is so tired that he cannot walk.” In this case, “too good to be true” means it is “so good that it cannot be true.”
6. A. To my great joy he stood first in the examination.
B. He stood first in the examination, therefore ……………………..
Answer: He stood first in the examination, therefore I was very joyful.
Explanation: The phrase ‘To my great joy’ in sentence A explains the result or effect of him standing first. The word ‘therefore’ in sentence B also introduces a result. We need to change the phrase ‘To my great joy’ into a full clause that expresses the same idea, such as ‘I was very joyful’ or ‘I was filled with great joy’.
7. A. Rajiv was opposed by all his friends, still he married that girl.
B. In spite of ………………………….
Answer: In spite of being opposed by all his friends, Rajiv married that girl.
Explanation: This transforms a compound sentence into a simple sentence. The word ‘still’ shows contrast. The phrase ‘in spite of’ also shows contrast but must be followed by a noun or a gerund phrase (a verb ending in ‘-ing’). We change the clause ‘Rajiv was opposed’ into the gerund phrase ‘being opposed’ to fit the new structure.
8. A. Unless you confess your guilt, you will be punished.
B. Confess your guilt so that ………………………….
Answer: Confess your guilt so that you will not be punished.
Explanation: ‘Unless’ means ‘if…not’. So, sentence A means “If you do not confess your guilt, you will be punished.” Sentence B asks for the purpose or reason for confessing. The reason to confess is to avoid punishment. The phrase ‘so that’ introduces this purpose.
9. A. Although the Major saw the danger, he did not raise an alarm.
B. The Major saw the danger ………………………….
Answer: The Major saw the danger, but he did not raise an alarm.
Explanation: This converts a complex sentence to a compound sentence. The word ‘Although’ shows a contrast. We can express the same contrast by connecting the two main clauses (‘The Major saw the danger’ and ‘he did not raise an alarm’) with a coordinating conjunction like ‘but’.
10. A. Besides passing the examinations well, he won the first prize.
B. He not only …………………………
Answer: He not only passed the examinations well but also won the first prize.
Explanation: The word ‘Besides’ means ‘in addition to’. The correlative conjunction ‘not only… but also’ is used to connect two related pieces of information to show they both happened. We list the two achievements using this structure.
11. A. Rekha will not resign unless she is compelled.
B. Rekha will resign only ………………………….
Answer: Rekha will resign only if she is compelled.
Explanation: The phrase ‘not…unless’ means that something will happen only under one specific condition. Sentence A means the only thing that will make Rekha resign is being compelled. Sentence B expresses this same idea in a positive way using the phrase ‘only if’.
12. A. When Shyam had finished his work, he went out to play.
B. Having ………………………………….
Answer: Having finished his work, Shyam went out to play.
Explanation: This converts a complex sentence to a simple sentence using a perfect participle. The phrase ‘Having finished’ shows that the first action (finishing work) was completed before the second action (going out to play) began. It’s a more concise way of saying “After he had finished his work.”.
Picture Composition
ASSIGNMENT
Study the picture given below. Write a story or description or an account of what the picture suggests to you.
Answer: The Day the Sky Burned
Our city had always lived in the shadow of the giant chemical plant. Its chimneys were like iron fingers pointing at the sky, constantly puffing out grey smoke that painted our sunsets a strange, hazy orange. We had grown used to the low hum from the factory, a sound that was the city’s very heartbeat. But on that Tuesday, the heartbeat stopped, and a roar took its place.
I was on my scooter, heading home from college, when a tremor shook the road. It wasn’t an earthquake; it was a deep, gut-wrenching blast that seemed to come from the heart of the plant. I stopped, along with everyone else on the road. We all turned to look. A monstrous, fiery cloud, the colour of blood and rust, was boiling into the sky, swallowing the familiar chimneys. It was terrifyingly beautiful, a deadly flower blooming over our city.
Panic erupted. People started shouting, motorcycles swerved, and a few cars tried to make a U-turn, creating instant chaos. I saw a man drop his helmet and just stare, his face pale with shock. Another rider near me was frantically trying to call someone, his voice trembling. The air grew thick with a sharp, acrid smell that stung my eyes and throat. The initial awe was replaced by a cold, creeping fear. This was not just smoke; it was poison.
That day, the sky burned, and a part of our city burned with it. The disaster became a scar on our landscape and in our memories. It was a brutal reminder of the price of progress and the fragility of the lives we lived in the shadow of those iron giants. We had always seen the factory as a symbol of prosperity; now, it was a monument to a tragedy we would never forget.
Letters to Newspapers
ASSIGNMENT
Attempt any one of the following:
(i) Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper on the impact of a flyover being built in your colony.
Answer:
12-B, Harmony Colony,
New Delhi – 110058.
17th October, 2023.
The Editor,
The Times of India,
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg,
New Delhi – 110002.
Subject: Hardships faced by residents due to flyover construction
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities to the severe problems being faced by the residents of Harmony Colony due to the ongoing construction of a new flyover.
While the flyover is a welcome project for easing future traffic, the current execution of the work has made our daily lives extremely difficult. The constant, deafening noise from heavy machinery continues late into the night, disrupting our peace. Clouds of dust and cement particles hang in the air, causing respiratory issues, especially among children and the elderly. Furthermore, the main road has been blocked, and the narrow service lanes are now choked with diverted traffic, leading to long jams and making it unsafe for pedestrians to even walk.
We understand that development projects cause some inconvenience, but we urge the authorities to implement measures to mitigate our suffering. Regular sprinkling of water would help control the dust pollution. The work timings should be restricted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to reduce noise pollution at night. Lastly, traffic police should be deployed to manage the flow of vehicles on the service lanes.
I hope that the authorities will take note of our plight and take immediate action to provide us with some relief.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Rohan Sharma
(A Concerned Resident)
(ii) Write a letter to your local newspaper giving your views on public transport.
15, Lajpat Nagar
New Delhi – 110024
15 October 2023
The Editor
The Times of India
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi – 110002
Subject: The Need for Better Public Transport
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your respected newspaper, I would like to express my views on the state of public transport in our city. Many citizens, including students and office workers, depend on buses and local trains for their daily commute. A good public transport system is very important for a large city like ours.
Unfortunately, the current system has many problems. The buses are almost always overcrowded, especially during peak hours. They are often irregular, forcing people to wait for a long time at bus stops. Many buses are not clean, and their physical condition is poor. These issues make daily travel very difficult and uncomfortable for everyone.
The authorities should take immediate steps to improve the situation. More buses should be added to the fleet to reduce crowding and increase frequency. A fixed timetable should be made public and followed strictly. Regular maintenance and cleaning of all public vehicles must be done.
A better public transport system will not only help daily commuters but also encourage more people to use it, which will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. I hope the concerned authorities will look into this matter and take the necessary action.
Yours faithfully,
Rohan Verma
(A concerned citizen)
(iii) Write a letter to a newspaper against the violence in films. You should also suggest what you expect to see in a film.
12-B, Lajpat Nagar
New Delhi – 110024
18 October 2023
The Editor
The Times of India
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi – 110002
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to express my concern over the increasing violence depicted in modern films. It has become a common trend for movies to feature graphic scenes of fighting and aggression, often presented as entertainment.
This constant exposure to violence, especially for young and impressionable minds, is worrying. It can make people less sensitive to aggression and suffering. When violence is shown as a way to solve problems or achieve goals, it can send the wrong message to society. Children may start to believe that such behaviour is normal or even admirable.
I believe filmmakers have a great opportunity to influence society in a positive way. Instead of focusing on violence, I would like to see films that tell stories of kindness, courage, and human connection. There are many tales of real-life heroes, community helpers, and ordinary people doing extraordinary things that can be made into engaging movies. Films can explore complex social issues without glorifying conflict. They can inspire us, make us think, and show the better side of human nature.
I hope that filmmakers and censor boards will consider the long-term impact of their work and promote content that builds a healthier society.
Yours faithfully,
A Concerned Citizen
Practice Paper – 9
Question 1:
(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 of your own that begins with: In my deep sleep, I heard a loud voice at the door.
Answer: At Two in the Morning
In my deep sleep, I heard a loud voice at the door. It was not a knock, but a frantic, muffled shout that sliced through the silence of the night. My heart leaped into my throat, and I sat bolt upright in bed, my senses on high alert. Who could be at my door at two in the morning? The voice came again, louder and more desperate this time, “Please! Somebody help!”
I recognized the voice. It was Mrs. Gable, my elderly neighbor from across the hall. Tossing my blanket aside, I crept towards the door, my mind racing through a dozen terrifying scenarios. I peered through the peephole. Mrs. Gable stood there, her face pale and streaked with tears, her hands clasped together in desperation. I quickly unlatched the door. “What is it, Mrs. Gable?” I asked, my voice trembling slightly.
“It’s George,” she sobbed, gesturing wildly towards her apartment. “He collapsed. He’s not breathing properly.” Without a second thought, I rushed into her apartment behind her. Mr. Gable was lying on the living room floor, his face ashen. While Mrs. Gable knelt beside him, I grabbed my phone and dialed for an ambulance, my voice steady as I relayed the address and the situation. The wait for the paramedics felt like an eternity, each second stretching into a minute of agonizing suspense.
The wail of the siren was the most relieving sound I had ever heard. The paramedics were professional and swift, taking over the situation with calm efficiency. As they wheeled Mr. Gable out on a stretcher, I put a comforting arm around Mrs. Gable, who was shaking uncontrollably. I stayed with her until her son arrived, making her a cup of tea and offering what little solace I could. The next morning, I learned that Mr. Gable had suffered a severe heart attack but was now in stable condition. That night’s terrifying event was a stark reminder of how fragile life is, but also of how a simple act of opening a door can make all the difference.
(ii) Narrate an account of a robbery attempt in your neighbourhood and the varied reactions and responses to it.
Answer: The Night Our Peace Was Broken
Our neighborhood, with its tree-lined streets and rows of identical houses, had always been a pocket of tranquility. We prided ourselves on our safety and the quiet, predictable rhythm of our lives. That sense of security was shattered last Tuesday evening. The target was Mr. Gupta’s general store, a small, friendly shop at the corner that had been serving the community for decades.
It was around 8 p.m. when two men on a motorcycle, their faces obscured by helmets, screeched to a halt outside the store. One of them, brandishing a knife, stormed in, demanding cash from the register. The immediate reaction was a wave of panic. A lady who was buying milk screamed and dropped her bag, the carton bursting on the floor. Mr. Gupta, though visibly shaken, tried to remain calm, his hands raised in surrender.
The responses from the onlookers outside were varied. Most people froze in fear, pulling their children close and backing away into the shadows of their homes. Mrs. Sharma, from the first floor flat opposite the store, had the presence of mind to immediately call the police, her voice a hushed, urgent whisper as she described the scene from her window. Meanwhile, young Sameer, who was returning from his cricket practice, saw the commotion and, without thinking, hurled his heavy cricket ball at the motorcycle, causing a loud thud that startled the robber inside.
The unexpected noise, coupled with the approaching sound of a police siren, was enough to make the thieves abandon their plan. They scrambled onto their motorcycle and sped away, empty-handed. In the aftermath, the entire neighborhood poured onto the street. Fear gave way to a mixture of anger and relief. People crowded around Mr. Gupta, ensuring he was alright. Sameer was hailed as a hero, though his parents were also scolding him for his recklessness. The incident, while terrifying, sparked a change. We formed a neighborhood watch group the very next day, determined to reclaim our peace and look out for one another more vigilantly than ever before.
(iii) ‘War should be avoided at all costs.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer: The Unbearable Cost of War
I firmly agree with the statement that war should be avoided at all costs. It represents the ultimate failure of human reason and diplomacy, unleashing a torrent of destruction from which no nation ever truly recovers. The pursuit of peace, through every available channel, must always be the primary objective of civilized societies.
The most immediate and devastating cost of war is human. It is measured in the lives of soldiers sent to the front lines and, increasingly, in the lives of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. Families are torn apart, children are orphaned, and entire generations are scarred by physical and psychological trauma. The images of refugees fleeing their homes, carrying with them only the memories of a life that no longer exists, are a powerful proof to the suffering that war inflicts. This human toll is a price too high for any political objective.
Beyond the loss of life, war cripples nations economically and socially. Vast sums of money that could be invested in education, healthcare, and infrastructure are diverted to fund weapons and military campaigns. Cities are reduced to rubble, economies collapse, and the progress of decades can be undone in a matter of months. The environment, too, becomes a silent victim, poisoned by munitions and destroyed by conflict. This path of destruction sets nations back for generations, breeding poverty and instability that can often lead to future conflicts.
While the right to self-defense is undeniable, resorting to armed conflict as a solution to disputes is a primitive and catastrophic choice. History has repeatedly shown that dialogue, negotiation, and international cooperation are far more effective and sustainable tools for resolving differences. Sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and mediation offer pathways to peace without the bloodshed and ruin of war. Therefore, every effort must be exhausted to find peaceful solutions, for the cost of war is always paid in human suffering and lost potential, a cost that we must strive, at all costs, to avoid.
(iv) Many people have a close relationship with their pets. How do you take care of your pet? Describe the relationship you have with your pet.
Answer: My Pet and I
I have a pet dog named Rocky. He is two years old and has been with us since he was a small puppy. From the very first day, he became an important part of our family. I share everything with him—my time, my games, and even my worries. Rocky is more than a pet; he is my best friend.
Taking care of Rocky is my daily routine. Every morning, I fill his bowl with food and fresh water. He enjoys biscuits and milk, but I also give him rice and vegetables so that he stays healthy. I make sure he never eats chocolate or anything harmful. In the evening, I take him out for a walk. He runs around happily, chasing butterflies or barking at other dogs. Sometimes I play fetch with him using a ball. These small activities keep him active and cheerful.
Rocky is very protective of our house. He barks at strangers but is gentle with family and friends. When I come back from school, he runs to the gate, wagging his tail. No matter how tired I am, his welcome makes me feel fresh and happy. At night, he sleeps near my bed, and I feel safe knowing he is close.
Our bond is very special. I talk to him when I feel sad, and though he cannot speak, his eyes and actions show that he understands me. He comforts me when I am upset and makes me laugh with his playful tricks. Spending time with Rocky teaches me patience, love, and responsibility.
For me, Rocky is not just a dog. He is family. Taking care of him is never a burden; it is something I enjoy. The love and loyalty he gives in return make our relationship strong and precious. I cannot imagine my life without him.
(e) Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you.
Answer: Evening Cricket with Family
Every evening, the sound of laughter filled the Sharma household. Ravi, a cheerful boy of twelve, loved cricket more than anything else. Once his homework was done, he would rush outside with his plastic bat. His friends gathered in the open space in front of his house, ready for another exciting match. The verandah of the house became the perfect gallery where his family sat to enjoy the game.
Mr. Sharma, his father, often played the role of the umpire. He enjoyed watching his son bat and sometimes teased him with strict decisions, making everyone laugh. Ravi’s mother and grandmother sat together, clapping at every good shot. His younger sister Ritu, though too small to play, was the loudest cheerleader. She brought water for the players and jumped with joy whenever Ravi hit the ball.
One such evening, the game began with great energy. Ravi’s friend Mohan was bowling fast. Ravi stood ready, eyes fixed on the ball, his hands gripping the bat tightly. Mohan ran in, bowled, and Ravi swung his bat with all his strength. The ball struck the wall and bounced back. His father laughed and called it a four, while his mother proudly declared that Ravi would one day play for the school team. Ravi’s face lit up with happiness as his friends clapped.
The match continued with shouts of “Out!” and “Six!” echoing in the lane. Even neighbors passing by stopped to watch the fun. The atmosphere was filled with smiles, excitement, and the simple joy of being together.
For Ravi, these matches were not just about cricket. They were about family, friendship, and the warmth of being surrounded by loved ones. Each evening became a memory, one that would stay with him long after the plastic bat was replaced with a real one. These small moments of joy made his childhood special and unforgettable.
Question 2:
(Do not spend more than 20 minutes on this question.)
Select any one of the following:
(i) You have come up with a method to quickly decompose kitchen waste to obtain compost. Write a letter to the Mayor of your city requesting an appointment to discuss the feasibility of your idea of making compost by other households in your colony.
Answer:
5/42, Green Park,
Mumbai – 400072.
17th October, 2023.
To
The Honourable Mayor,
Mumbai Municipal Corporation,
Mahapalika Marg,
Mumbai – 400001.
Subject: Request for an appointment to discuss a community composting initiative
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am a resident of Green Park, and I am writing to you today to propose a simple yet effective solution for managing household kitchen waste in our city.
As we all know, managing the sheer volume of daily garbage is a significant challenge. To address this at a micro-level, I have developed and successfully tested a method that allows for the quick and odour-free decomposition of kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost right at home. This method is inexpensive, requires minimal space, and can reduce the amount of wet waste sent to landfills by up to 60% per household.
I strongly believe that this initiative, if adopted by other households, could transform waste management in our city. It would not only ease the burden on our municipal services but also promote a culture of environmental responsibility and provide citizens with free, organic manure for their plants.
I would be grateful if you could grant me a brief appointment to present my idea in detail. I wish to discuss the feasibility of launching a pilot project in my colony to demonstrate its benefits and scalability.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to a positive response.
Yours sincerely,
Priya Singh
(ii) You had gone to a summer camp for two weeks. It was a survival training camp where you lived in a tent without any modern amenities. You went for long treks and learnt basic survival skills. Write a letter to your cousin telling him/her about your trip.
Answer:
Dear Rohan,
I hope this letter finds you in great spirits. I have just returned from my two-week summer camp, and I couldn’t wait to tell you all about it. It was an incredible adventure!
The camp was a survival training program set deep in the Himalayan foothills. For two weeks, we lived in basic tents without any modern amenities. Imagine, no electricity, no internet, and no running water! It was a complete detox from city life. The first couple of days were challenging, but soon I began to enjoy the simplicity and the quiet of the forest.
Our days were filled with rigorous activities. We went on long, strenuous treks that took us through dense forests, across gurgling streams, and up steep hillsides. The views were breathtaking. The most exciting part was learning basic survival skills. Our instructors taught us how to build a shelter from branches and leaves, find North using the stars, purify water, and even start a fire without matches. I felt like a true explorer!
This trip was not just a holiday; it was a learning experience that taught me resilience and self-reliance. It was tough, but I have come back with a newfound appreciation for nature and a lot more confidence in my own abilities. I think you would love it too. Perhaps we can plan to go together next year.
Do write back and tell me how you spent your holidays.
Yours lovingly,
Amit
Question 3:
(i) Your school is organising an inter-school fashion show where old clothes would be recycled to fashion wear. These clothes would be available for sale after the fashion show. Write a notice informing the students about the event and asking them to register their names for the fashion show.
Answer:
GREENWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOL, PUNE
NOTICE
17th October, 2023
INTER-SCHOOL FASHION SHOW: ‘RECYCLE-REWEAR’
This is to inform all students that our school is organising an Inter-School Fashion Show, ‘Recycle-Rewear’, on 5th November, 2023, in the school auditorium from 10:00 a.m. onwards. The theme of the event is sustainable fashion, where participants will showcase creative outfits made from recycled old clothes.
These unique creations will be available for sale after the show, with proceeds going to a local charity.
Students from Classes IX to XII who wish to participate as designers or models are requested to register their names with the undersigned by 25th October, 2023.
Anjali Verma
Cultural Secretary
(ii) Write an email to a leading fashion designer requesting him/her to be the judge at the fashion show, giving all the necessary details.
Answer:
To: ritu.kumar@email.com
Subject: Invitation to Judge Inter-School Fashion Show – ‘Recycle-Rewear’
Dear Ms. Kumar,
My name is Anjali Verma, and I am the Cultural Secretary of Greenwood Public School, Pune.
Our school is hosting an Inter-School Fashion Show, ‘Recycle-Rewear’, on 5th November, 2023, in our school auditorium. The event aims to promote sustainability and creativity among students by challenging them to design fashionable wear from old, discarded clothes.
Given your pioneering work in Indian fashion and your advocacy for sustainable practices, we would be deeply honoured if you would grace the event as our Chief Judge. Your presence and expertise would be an immense source of inspiration for all the young, aspiring designers. The event is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m.
We would be grateful if you could confirm your availability at your earliest convenience. We are happy to coordinate all logistical arrangements.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours sincerely,
Anjali Verma
Cultural Secretary
Greenwood Public School, Pune
Question 4:
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
The place was damp and there were great patches on the walls exactly like human faces. Then I began to search for one face that is represented there. At last I saw him. He was in a taxi driving east along Piccadilly. I turned and ran beside it for a little way and then saw an empty one coming. ‘Follow that taxi,’ I said and leaped in. The driver managed to keep it in sight and it took us to Charing Cross. I rushed on to the platform and found my man with two ladies and a little girl. They were going to France. I stayed there trying to get a word with him, but in vain. Other friends had joined the party and they moved to the train in one group.
I hastily purchased a ticket to Folkstone, but at Folkstone the man got on the ship and disappeared into a large private cabin. I took up my position opposite his cabin door and waited. He looked at me and moved towards the way to the upper deck. “Excuse me,” I stammered, “but do you mind giving me your card?” He seemed to be greatly surprised but slowly he took out his case and handed me his card.
Holding the card tight in my hand I read the card; it referred to Mr. Ormond Wall, with an address at Pittsburgh, U.S.A. I wrote to Pittsburgh; I wrote to American editors; I made friends with Americans in London: but all that I could find out was that he was a millionaire with English parents who had resided in London.
Thus the time went on until yesterday morning. Mr. Ormond Wall, the Pittsburgh millionaire, and party, motoring in Italy, were hit by a wagon and the car overturned. Mr. Wall’s condition was critical. The early editions of the papers were already out. I saw the headline, ‘American millionaire died in a Motor Accident.’
I went back to my room and sat on the bed looking with unseeing eyes at the face on the wall. And even as I looked, suddenly it completely disappeared. Later I found that Mr. Wall died of his injuries at what I take it to be that very moment.
There are three extraordinary things about the story. One is that it should be possible for a patch on the wall of a house in London not only to form the features of a gentleman in America but also to have a close association with his life. Science will not be able to explain that yet. Another one is that the gentleman’s name should bear some relation to the spot on which his features were being reproduced by some unknown agency. The third extraordinary thing about the veracity of the story is that I made it up about an hour ago.
(a) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. critical (line 20)
(a) incidental
(b) desperate
(c) serious
(d) stable
Answer: (c) serious
2. association (line 27)
(a) connection
(b) addition
(c) assonance
(d) attachment
Answer: (a) connection
(b) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word deception?
(a) stammered
(b) veracity
(c) hastily
(d) disappeared
Answer: (b) veracity
(c) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) Why did the narrator rush to Charing Cross?
Answer: The narrator rushed to Charing Cross because he was following a man in a taxi whose face he had earlier seen in a damp patch on a wall. The taxi took the man to the station, and the narrator followed to keep him in sight.
(b) What information did the narrator gather about the man whose card referred to him as ‘Mr. Ormond Wall’? Who were the source of this information?
Answer: The narrator gathered that Mr. Ormond Wall was a millionaire with English parents who had lived in London. The sources of this information were American editors and American friends the narrator made in London.
(c) What did the newspaper headlines state about the man?
Answer: The newspaper headline stated, ‘American millionaire died in a Motor Accident.’
(d) What did the narrator do after hearing about the millionaire’s death? Why do you think that the face on the wall disappeared?
Answer: After hearing about the millionaire’s death, the narrator went to his room and looked at the face on the wall. The face on the wall disappeared at the very moment Mr. Wall died, suggesting their supernatural connection was broken by his death.
(e) Give two instances to show that the story is humorous.
Answer: The first instance of humor is the pun in the name ‘Mr. Ormond Wall,’ as his face appeared on a wall. The second, and most significant, instance is the final sentence where the narrator reveals he fabricated the entire story, which provides a surprising and humorous twist.
(iv) What extraordinary things were mentioned by the narrator about his story? Which of the things mentioned came as a surprise to you? Answer in not more than fifty words.
Answer: The narrator mentioned several extraordinary things in his story. A damp patch on a wall in London could form the exact features of a man in America. The man’s name, Wall, was also linked to the location of the image, and finally, the entire story itself turned out to be a complete fabrication.
The most surprising part was the revelation that the narrator had invented the story just an hour before narrating it. This sudden twist shifts the tale from a seemingly supernatural mystery to a humorous tall tale, completely overturning the reader’s expectations.
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) Synchronised
….0…. (Synchronise) swimming or artistic swimming is a discipline in which competitors perform ….1…. (choreograph) routines, accompanied by music. The discipline ….2…. (be) a part of the Summer Olympics programme since 1984 and the World Aquatics Championships since its ….3…. (begin) in 1973.
….4…. (Know) as water ballet in its earliest days, artistic ….5…. (swim) has drawn from dance choreography, film-making principles and robust swimming techniques. Both sculls and eggbeater kicks are important techniques in the sport. Sculls are hand movements used to propel and support the body. They are especially critical when a swimmer is ….6…. (perform) upside down. Eggbeater kicks are a form of treading water that ….7…. (contribute) to the competitor’s stability. Swimmers wear rubber nose-clips to prevent water from entering their nose and ….8…. (protect) earplugs when performing. Performances are judged on execution, artistic impression and difficulty.
Answer:
1. Choreographed
2. has been
3. Beginning
4. Known
5. Swimming
6. Performing
7. Contributes
8. protect
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
(a) The caterpillar turned ______ a beautiful butterfly.
Answer: into
(b) She needed a few minutes to calm ______ after the heated argument.
Answer: down
(c) He will certainly get ______ the examination.
Answer: through
(d) He bore ______ the first prize in the competition.
Answer: away
(e) At the end of the month, I end up dipping ______ my savings.
Answer: into
(f) We can no longer put ______ with his insincerity.
Answer: up
(g) The Principal looked ______ the matter and punished the guilty.
Answer: into
(h) It would take ______ too much time to do this project.
Answer: up
iii. Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option
1. We have to water the plants. Otherwise they will die.
(a) Unless we water the plants, they will die.
(b) Unless we water the plants, they will not die.
(c) We have to water the plants, unless they will die.
(d) We have to water the plants unless they do not die.
Answer: (a) Unless we water the plants, they will die.
2. Neo has won the first prize. I am pleased to announce it.
(a) I am pleased to announce Neo’s first prize.
(b) I am pleased to announce Neo had the first prize.
(c) I am pleased to announce that Neo has to won the first prize.
(d) I am pleased to announce that Neo has won the first prize.
Answer: (d) I am pleased to announce that Neo has won the first prize.
3. You should work hard. Otherwise you may fail.
(a) If you do not work hard, you will be failing.
(b) For your not working hard, you will fail.
(c) If you do not work hard, you will fail.
(d) If you had worked hard, you will not fail.
Answer: (c) If you do not work hard, you will fail.
4. The fugitive may hide anywhere. The police will arrest him.
(a) Wherever the fugitive hide the police would arrest him.
(b) Wherever the fugitive hides the police will arrest him.
(c) Wherever the fugitive hides away, he will be arrested by the police.
(d) Wherever the fugitive may hide the police will arrest him.
Answer: (b) Wherever the fugitive hides the police will arrest him.
iv. Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
1. As soon as I arrived, I had a cup of tea. (Begin with: Upon …)
(a) Upon arrival I had a cup of tea.
(b) Upon arriving, I was having a cup of tea.
(c) Upon arriving I had a cup of tea.
(d) Upon my arriving, I had a cup of tea.
Answer: (a) Upon arrival I had a cup of tea.
2. Because of the harsh weather the ship could not sail. (Begin with: The harsh …)
(a) The harsh weather could not allow the ship to sail.
(b) The harsh weather prevented the ship to sail.
(c) The harsh weather prevented the ship not to sail.
(d) The harsh weather prevented the ship from sailing.
Answer: (d) The harsh weather prevented the ship from sailing.
3. “Have you reserved a seat?” I asked him. (Begin with: I asked him if …)
(a) I asked him if he would have reserved a seat?
(b) I asked him if he has reserved a seat?
(c) I asked him if he had reserved a seat.
(d) I asked him if he had to reserve a seat?
Answer: (c) I asked him if he had reserved a seat.
4. Gopi was left with a big fortune by her father. (Use: inherited)
(a) Gopi inherited a big fortune from her father.
(b) By her father a big fortune was inherited by Gopi.
(c) A big fortune was inherited by Gopi from his father.
(d) Gopi inherited from her father a big fortune.
Answer: (a) Gopi inherited a big fortune from her father.
5. Our secret plan has been discovered. (Begin with: Someone …)
(a) Someone discovered our secret plan.
(b) Someone has been discovering our secret plan.
(c) Someone had discover our secret plan.
(d) Someone has discovered our secret plan.
Answer: (d) Someone has discovered our secret plan.
6. She always made us laugh. (Rewrite with a question tag)
(a) She made us laugh, did she?
(b) She always made us laugh, didn’t she?
(c) She always laughed, didn’t she?
(d) She always made us laugh, did she?
Answer: (b) She always made us laugh, didn’t she?
7. Drinking contaminated water is dangerous (Begin with: It …)
(a) It is dangerous to drink contaminated water.
(b) It is dangerous drinking contaminated water.
(c) It is dangerous for drinking the contaminated water.
(d) It is dangerous drinking the contaminated water.
Answer: (a) It is dangerous to drink contaminated water.
8. My brother is so fond of video games that he cannot give them up. (Use: too)
(a) My brother is fond of video games too that he cannot give up.
(b) My brother is too fond of video games that he cannot give up.
(c) My brother is so fond of video games to give them up too.
(d) My brother is too fond of video games to give them up.
Answer: (d) My brother is too fond of video games to give them up.
Get notes of other classes and subjects
Leave a Reply