अकाल में सारस

 अकाल में सारस

हिंदी साहित्य के प्रमुख कवी श्री. केदारनाथ सिंह की एक सुन्दर कविता है 'अकाल में सारस' | यह कविता हमें बताती है कि अकाल न केवल मनुष्यों को बल्कि अन्य सभी प्राणियों को भी गंभीर रूप से प्रभावित करता है।

एक बूढ़ीया ने पानी की तलाश में शहर में आने वाले सारस पक्षियों को देखती है, और वह एक कटोरे में पानी भरकर उनके लिए जमीन पर रख देती है | लेकिन सारस पक्षी, जो किसी तालाब को तलाश में शहर का परिक्रमण करते रहे थे, उन्हें पानी से भरा हुआ वह छोटा कटोरा नहीं दिखा था। जैसे ही वे वापस उड़े, सारस पक्षियों ने नीचे के मनुष्यों को क्रोध और धया से देख रहे थे | उनके निगाहों की मतलब यह है कि प्रकृति के इस विनाश की असली जिम्मेदार मनुष्य है |

मेरे बच्चे को सिखाएं  

'सफल जीवन' विषय पर लघु लेख तैयार करें |

सफल जीवन

सफल जीवन हर किसी का सपना होता है | यदि हम एक सफल जीवन जीना चाहते हैं तो हमें कुछ चीजों को स्वीकार करना होगा और कुछ चीजों को छोड़ना होगा |  सत्य, धर्म और न्याय का ध्यान रखना , दूसरों का भला करना, मनुष्य, प्रकृति और अन्य सभी जीवित प्राणियों से प्यार करना आदि सफल जीवन पाने की अवश्य है | वैसे ही आलस्य को दूर करना, क्रोध और ईर्ष्या जैसी भावनाओं को दबाना आदि भी हम पालन करना चाहिए | इसी तरह, हमें अपनी क्षमताओं पर विश्वास करना चाहिए और अपनी राय पर अडिग रहना चाहिए | जो लोग इस तरह से अपना जीवन जीते हैं वे निश्चित रूप से सफल होते हैं |

डॉक्टर के नाम मज़दूर का पत्र

 'डॉक्टर के नाम मज़दूर का पत्र' कविता की आशय लिखें |

उत्तर :

डॉक्टर के नाम मज़दूर का पत्र

विख्यात जर्मन कवि बर्तोल्ड ब्रेख्त की एक सुंदर कविता है 'डॉक्टर के नाम मज़दूर का पत्र' | प्रस्तुत कविता में कवी दुनिया के सारे मजदूरों की दयनीय स्थिति का वर्णन करते हैं । बहुत ज्यादा काम और बहुत कम भोजन के कारण मजदूर कभी-कभी मरीज़ हो जाता है | जब मजदूर चिथड़ों में डॉक्टर के पास आता है तो डॉक्टर उसे वजन बढ़ाने के लिए कहते हैं | आम जनता के पैसों से बना मेडिकल कॉलेज में पढ़ाई किया डॉक्टर अपने काम को सेवा के बजाय पैसा कमाने के तरीके के रूप में देखता है | वास्तव में सभी लोग को पता है कि यह मज़दूर की बीमारी का कारण 'गरीबी' है | 

दोहे

1.  बड़ा हुआ तो क्या हुआ, जैसे पेड़ खजूर।

पंथी को छाया नाहिं, फल लागै अतिदूर।।

 इस दोहे का आशय लिखें  |

उत्तर :

यह दोहे हिंदी के आदरणीय कवी कबीरदास की है | इस दोहे में कबीरदास कहते हैं कि इस दोहे में कबीरदास कहते हैं कि खजूर के पड़ के समान बडा होने से कोई फायदा नहीं है। बहुत लंबा होने के कारण पथिक को छाया नहीं मिलती है और फल भी मिलना मुश्किल है। इसका मतलब यह है कि हम बड़े होकर भी दूसरों को कोई उपकार नहीं करते तो उस बडप्पन से किसी को कोई लाभ नहीं। कबीर के मत में दूसरों की भलाई करनेवाले ही सच्चे अर्थ में बडे होते हैं।

2. रहीम वे नर धन्य हैं, पर उपकारी अंग।

बाँटन पारे को लगे, ज्यों मेहंदी को रंग।।

 इस दोहे का आशय लिखें  |

उत्तर :

 यह दोहे हिंदी के लोकप्रिय कवि रहीम जी की है| इस दोहे से रहीस कहना चाहते हैं कि जो लोग दूसरों की भलाई करते हैं वे धन्य हैं |  जिसप्रकार मेहंदी बाँटनेवाले के अंग पर भी मेहंदी का रंग लगा जाता है उसी प्रकार परोपकारी का शरीर भी सुशोभित होता है। .

बात उस मंगलवार की

बात उस मंगलवार की

 1.डॉ. रमणी अटकुरी की चररत्रगत विशेषताओं पर टिप्पणी लिखें|

उत्तर : 

डॉ. रमणी अटकुरी

डॉ. रमणी अटकुरी एक सामुदाययक स्वास्य चिकित्सक है । वे गरीबों की सेवा के यलए अपना जीवन समर्पपत करनेवाली एक ईमानदार डॉक्टर हैं। वे अपने काम को कभी भी एक व्यापार नहीं मानतीं । वे इसे सेवेकार्य मानती है | उनके मत में एक डॉक्टर समाज की सेवा करना चाहिए | वे मरीजों के पास जाकर उनकी सेवा करनी चाहती है | गरीबी मरीजों को इलाज करने केलिए वे हर हफ्ते कई मुसीबतें सहकर ही जंगल में बसे बाह्मनी गाँव में एक क्लीनिक चलाती हैं। शहर के क्लीयनक की अपेक्षा जंगल का क्लीयनक उन्हें अच्छा लगता है। वे गरीब मरीजों से फीस भी नहीं लेते | डॉ. रमणी अटकुरी जैसी महिला समाज की बडी आवश्यक है ।

2. डॉ . रमणी अटकुरी को अभिनंदन करते हुए  एक पत्र तैयार करें |

उत्तर :

स्थान :

तारीख़ :

 आदरणीय डॉक्टरजी, 

 नमस्कार । मैं राकेश हूँ । मैं दिल्ली में रहता हूँ | कल मुझे आपकी डायरी 'बात उस मंगलवार की' पढने का अवसर मिला ।मुझे यह जानकर बहुत खुश हुआ कि आज इतना ईमानदार डॉक्टर मौजूद है | आप गरीब मरीज़ को बिना फीस के इलाज करती है | यह ज़रूर एक महत्वपूर्ण सेवा है |आज की दुनिया में आपके जैसा सेवा भाव रखनेवालों को देखना दुलतभ है। आप शहर के बडे-बडे अस्पतालों को छोडकर, बड़ी मुसीबतें सहकर जंगल के बीच में गरीब मरीज़ों को बिना फीस के चिकित्सा करती है | आपकी ये निःस्वार्थ सेवा के लिए बहुत-बहुत धन्यवाद |हो सके तो मैं एक बार आपसे मिलना चाहती हूँ। आपकी लंबी उम्र के यलए भगवान से प्राथतना करते हुए मैं इस पत्र समाप्त करता हूँ |

 भवदीय 

 [हस्ताक्षर]

 राकेश. टी

सेवा में

नाम

पता 

नंगे पैर

नंगे पैर 

1.  पोस्टमैन की डायरी 

उत्तर :

20 जून 2023

रविवार

 आज मेरे जीवन में सबसे अविस्मरणीय दिन था  | कल होली का दिन था | फिर भी, किसी ने मुझे उपहार नहीं दिया था | लेकिन आज का दिन बेबी नामक एक मासूम लड़की मेरे नंगे पैर को नए जूते दिया| मुझे एक ही समय पर ही दुख और खुशी हुआ | मेरा दुख की कारण यह है कि वह लड़की को एक पैर नहीं है | वह मैं कैसे दे सकूंगा?  यह सोचकर मुझे बहुत निराश हुआ | वास्तव में मैं ऐसा उपहार स्वीकार करने के योग्य नहीं हूँ | शर्म और दुख के कारण मुझे उसकी और देखने नहीं सकते | काम खत्म करने के बाद मैं सीधे बड़े बाबू के ऑफिस में गया और अपनी लाइन बदलने की उससे निवेदन किया | मैं जानता हूँ कि मेरा ये फैसला कभी भी सही नहीं था | हालाँकि, मुझे उसे सामना नहीं कर सकता | भगवान उस बच्चे को आशीर्वाद दें |

2. बेबी की डायरी

उत्तर :

15 जून 2023

 बुधवार

 आज मेरे जीवन में सबसे अविस्मरणीय दिन था | आज मैं जीवन का एक अच्छा निर्णय लिया | मेरे घर में अक्सर आने वाला बच्चों के चेहरेवाले वह नया पोस्टमैन हर दिन नंगे पैर से चलता है  | माँ ने बोली थी वह पोस्टमैन को नए जूते खरीदने को पैसा नहीं होगा | यह सुनकर मैं बहुत निराश हुआ | देखने को कितने अच्छे हैं उसके पैरों? उन पैरों में जूते भी होने तो वे और भी खूबसूरत लगेंगे | मैं उस पोस्टमैन को नंगा नहीं चलने देंगे! मैं उसके लिए नया जूता बनाऊंगा | मुझे कल हरीबा मोची को मिलना है | वे पोस्टमैन के लिए नये जूते अवश्य बनाएंगे | जब उसे नए जूते मिलेंगे तो वह जरूर  खुश होगा |

दीप जलाओ 

 'दीप जलाओ ' कविता पर टिप्पणी लिखें   |

उत्तर :

 दीप जलाओ 

 हिंदी के प्रमुख कवि श्री. त्रिलोचन के द्वारा लिखा हुआ एक सुंदर कविता है 'दीप जलाओ' | इस कविता से कवि हमसे बुराई, शत्रुता ,अहंकार, अन्याय, छल आदि बुरी भावनाएं को छोड़ने की कहते हैं। कवि के मत में ये सब मन के बंधन हैं | हम जरूर इनसे मुक्त करना चाहिए |

कवि कहते हैं कि स्नेह अतुल धन है | स्नेह गीतों को लहराकर हम्हें इस धरती को धन्य बनाए | कल तक के कर्मयोग को हम भूलें | जीवन रूपी फुल अपनी सुगंध फैलाएं | आकाश के छोटे-छोटे तारे भी अपने दुर्बल ज्योति पसारे | हम्हें अंदकार को हार नहीं सकते| लेकिन स्नेहा रूपी ज्वाला से  हम्हें सबके मन में खुशी बनाये सकते |इस कविता के माध्यम से कवि सभी से प्यार करने और हमेशा दूसरों के बीच खुशियाँ बांटने का एक अच्छा संदेश देता है।

गांधीजी गांधीजी कैसे बने 

1. "जीवन में सादगी का महत्व" विषय पर भाषण तैयार करें |

उत्तर :

 जीवन में सादगी का महत्व

माननीय अध्यक्ष, आदरणीय गुरुजनों और मेरे प्यारे दोस्तों,

नमस्कार...

'जीवन में सादगी की महत्व' विषय पर आपके सामने थोड़ा बोलने का अवसर पाकर मुझे बहुत खुशी हो रही है | आज के समाज में अमीर और गरीब के बीच की  अन्तर बढ़ती जा रही है | यहां अमीर लोग सभी सुख-सुविधाओं के साथ रहने समय देश की अधिकांश गरीब लोग बिना भोजन के भी मुसीबत में रहते हैं।इसलिए हमें फिजूलखर्ची और दिखावा हमेशा के लिए छोड़ना चाहिए  |

हमारे राष्ट्रपिता गांधीजी ने अपने जीवन से हमें सादगी की महत्व सिखाई | वे हमें बताते हैं कि "मेरा जीवन ही मेरा संदेश है"| भारत की अधिकांश लोग गरीबी में पडते देखकर , उन्होंने अपना सारा आडंबर छोड़ दिया | उसके बाद उन्होंने केवल एक धोती पहनना और केवल पेंसिल से लिखना शुरू कर दिया | इसके अलावा उन्होंने जैनधर्म के अपरिग्रह को स्वीकार किया था | जब हम सादगी से रहते हैं तो हमारे मन से बुरे विचार और अनावश्यक चिंताएँ दूर हो जाती हैं | जब अमीर व्यक्ति अपनी फिजूलखर्ची बंद करके गरीबों की मदद करते हैं तो समाज भी सुधरता है |इतना कहकर मैं अपनी बात समाप्त करता हूँ |

 धन्यवाद

2. . "सादगी का महत्व" विषय पर लखु - लेख तैयार करें |

उत्तर :

 सादगी का महत्व

आज के समाज में अमीर और गरीब के बीच की अन्तर बढ़ती जा रही है | यहां अमीर लोग सभी सुख-सुविधाओं के साथ रहने समय देश की अधिकांश गरीब लोग बिना भोजन के भी मुसीबत में रहते हैं।इसलिए हमें फिजूलखर्ची और दिखावा हमेशा के लिए छोड़ना चाहिए  |

हमारे राष्ट्रपिता गांधीजी ने अपने जीवन से हमें सादगी की महत्व सिखाई | वे हमें बताते हैं कि "मेरा जीवन ही मेरा संदेश है"| भारत की अधिकांश लोग गरीबी में पडते देखकर , उन्होंने अपना सारा आडंबर छोड़ दिया | उसके बाद उन्होंने केवल एक धोती पहनना और केवल पेंसिल से लिखना शुरू कर दिया | इसके अलावा उन्होंने जैनधर्म के अपरिग्रह को स्वीकार किया था | जब हम सादगी से रहते हैं तो हमारे मन से बुरे विचार और अनावश्यक चिंताएँ दूर हो जाती हैं | जब अमीर व्यक्ति अपनी फिजूलखर्ची बंद करके गरीबों की मदद करते हैं तो समाज भी सुधरता है |

जिस गली में मैं रहता हुँ 

1. दिल्ली के बड़े हकीम हडसन साहब ने अब आगे चिराग अली को मार डाला| इस घटना के बारे में एक समाचार तैयार करें|

उत्तर :

 अभागे भिश्ती हडसन को शिकार बन गया

दिल्ली : दिल्ली के बडे हकिम हडसन साहब ने चिराग अली नामक एक मासूम भीश्ती को मार डाला । कल सुबह, अली हमेशा की तरह सडक सींचने का काम करते समय हडसन साहब अपने घोडे पर वहाँ आया । लेकिन ईश्वर के गुण गाकर अपने काम में मग्न अली ने हडसन को सलाम करने की भूल गया । इससे नाराज़ होकर हडसन ने अपने तलवार से अली का पेट चीर डाला । बाद में उसकी लाश को दील्ली दरवाज़े पर टााँग दी गई ।

2. मिर्जा गलीब की डायरी के आधार पर  एक समाचार तैयार करें 

उत्तर :

  1857 का गदरः दिल्ली में ब्रिटिश नरहत्या 

11 मई 1857, दिल्ली : अंग्रेज़ों के निरंतर अत्याचार से दिल्ली की मुसीबत बढती जा रही है । वे सीधे-सादे लोगों की भी मारना करने लगे हैं । हज़ारों लोग अब इनके हाथों से मार डाले गए हैं । कई गरीबों के घर भी जला दिए । अब लोग दिल्ली में रहने से ही डरते हैं । इसके अलावा वहां पानी और खाने के भी बहुत दिक्कत रही है | दिल्ली के बड़ी हाकीम हडसन साहब को  हिंदुस्तानियों को खून करने में बहुत मजा आता है | मासूम भीश्ती चिराग अली, बादशाह बहादुर शाह सफर के दोनों बेटे और कई जैसे आदमियों को वे मारकर उनके लाश दिल्ली दरवाज़े पर लटका दिए थे | उन्होंने हजारों दिल्लीवालों को कैदखानों में बंद कर दिया है। वे लोग वहाँ अपने मौत का इंतजार कर रहे हैं |

3. हरिगोपाल तुफ्ते के मिर्जा ग़ालिब का पत्र लिखें |

6 अक्टूबर 1857

दिल्ली - 0

प्रिय तुफ्ता जी  

 कैसे हो तुम ? सोचता हुँ तुम ठीक हो | इधर बातें कुछ उलट है | अंग्रेज़ों के निरंतर अत्याचार से दिल्ली की मुसीबत बढती जा रही है । वे सीधे-सादे लोगों की भी मारना करने लगे हैं । हज़ारों लोग अब इनके हाथों से मार डाले गए हैं । कई गरीबों के घर भी जला दिए । अब लोग दिल्ली में रहने से ही डरते हैं । इसके अलावा वहां पानी और खाने के भी बहुत दिक्कत रही है |आपके भेजे पैसे और अनाज से मेरा परिवार का गुजारा चल रहा है | 

पिछले दिन अंग्रेजों ने मेरे साथ मेरे दोनों बच्चे और पड़ोसी वालों को गिरफ्तार किया गया और हमें कैंनल ब्राउन नामक एक अंग्रेज ऑफिसर के सामने पेश किया गया | मैंने उससे कहा था कि हम मासूम लोग हैं और कविता लिखनेवाला हैं| इसलिए वे हमें छोड़ दिया | दिल्ली के बड़ी हाकीम हडसन साहब को  हिंदुस्तानियों को खून करने में बहुत मजा आता है | मासूम भीश्ती चिराग अली, बादशाह बहादुर शाह सफर के दोनों बेटे और कई जैसे आदमियों को वे मारकर उनके लाश दिल्ली दरवाज़े पर लटका दिए थे | उन्होंने हजारों दिल्लीवालों को कैदखानों में बंद कर दिया है। वे लोग वहाँ अपने मौत का इंतजार कर रहे हैं | मुझे पता नहीं क्या करना है?

 खुदा आपकी भलाई करें, मेरी दुआओं में सदा आप रहेंगे । आपके परिवार को मेरा प्रणाम  । आपकी चिट्टी की प्रतीक्षा से मैं अपना पत्र समाप्त करता हुँ |

                                                                       प्यार से

                                                                       आपका मित्र

                                                                       गालिब  

सेवा में,

हरिगोपाल तुफ्ता 

 गांधी रोड

मेरठ - 02

बसंत मेरे गांव का

बसंत मेरे गांव का

1. फूलदेई त्यौहार के बारे में एक रपट तैयार करें |

उत्तर :

 फूलदेई त्यौहार

 फूलदेई बसंत का एक त्यौहार है | यह बच्चों का त्यौहार है | उत्तराखंड के हिमालयी अंचल में मनाया जाता है | उन दिनों बच्चे रिंगाल से बनी टोकरियों में फूल इकट्ठा करते हैं  | बच्चों की टोलियाँ सुबह-सुबह गाँव भर घूमकर सारे घरों की दहरीयों पर फूल सजाते हैं  | जिनके घरों में फूल सजाए जाते हैं वे बच्चों को चावल, दाल आदि देते हैं | दक्षिणा में मिली ये सामग्री पूरे इक्कीस दिन तक इकट्ठा की जाती है | अंतिम दिन, इकट्ठी की गई सामग्री से सामूहिक भोजन बनाया जाता है |

 इस आयोजन में बड़ों की भूमिका केवल सलाह देने तक सीमित होती है | बाकी सारे काम बच्चे करते हैं | उधर बच्चे फूलदेई के जश्न में शामिल होते हैं और इधर बड़े चैती गीत गाते हैं | फूलदेई की विदाई के साथ बसंत का यह उत्सव समाप्त हो जाता है |

2. फूलदेई  त्यौहार के बारे में एक पोस्टर तैयार करें |

उत्तर : 

ठाकुर का कुआँ

             ठाकुर का कुआँ 

 बोली – “यह पानी कैसे पिओगे? न जाने कौन जानवर मरा हैं। कुएँ से मैं दूसरा पानी लाए देती हूँ।” जोखू ने आश्चर्य से उसकी ओर देखा – “पानी कहाँ से लाएगी?” “ठाकुर और साहू के दो कुएँ तो हैं। क्या एक लोटा पानी न भरने देंगे?” “हाथ-पाँव तुड़वा आएगी और कुछ न होगा।” कहानी के अंश के आधार पर पटकथा का एक दृश्य लिखें।

उत्तर :

दृश्य : एक

स्थान : जोखू और गंगी का घर

समय : रात के आठ बजे है |

पात्र : जोखू (लगभग 40 साल का एक आदमी | उसने सिर्फ एक धोती पहना हुआ है |) ,  जोखू ( लगभग 35 साल की एक औरत| उसने साड़ी पहनी हुई है | )

दृश्य का विवरण : जोखू एक पलंग पर लेट जाता है | गंगी उसके पास खड़ी है | उसके हाथ में एक लोटा पानी है | जोखू पानी पीने की कोशिश करता है | 

जोखू : हरे, यह कैसा पानी है? बदबू के कारण पिया नहीं सकता | 

गंगी : बदबू!पर कैसी? यह पानी मुझे आज कुआँ से लाई है |

जोखू : गला सूखा जा रहा है | पर तू मुझे बदबू पानी पिलाए देती है |

गंगी : जरूर कोई जानवर कुएं में गिरकर मर गया होगा  | मैं जल्दी से दूसरा पानी लाऊंगा |

जोखू : दूसरा पानी कहाँ से लाएगी ?

गंगी : यहाँ ठाकुर और साहू के दो कुएँ तो है | क्या वे एक लोटा पानी न भरने देंगे ?

जोखू : वे तेरे हाथ -  पांव तोड़ेंगे | बैठ चुपके से  | मैं पानी नाक बंद करके पी लूँ |

2. "जाति प्रथा एक अभिशाप है" विषय पर एक लघु लेख तैयार करें  |

उत्तर :

जाति प्रथा एक अभिशाप है

 जाति प्रथा समाज की एक भयानक समस्या है | इसके कारण समाज में असमानता और विद्वेष बढ़ती जा रही है | जाति प्रथा की सबसे खतरनाक चीज़ ' छुआछूत' है |आज भी जाति के नाम पर निम्न वर्ग के लोगों को कई प्रकार की यातनाएं सहनी पड़ती है | उच्च जातियों के कुआँ से पानी लाना, मंदिर में प्रवेश करना, रास्ते में चलना आदि बातों को बुरा समझा जाता है |

 हिंदी के प्रमुख साहित्यकार प्रेमचंद ने लिखा हुआ कहानी 'ठाकुर का कुआं' जाति प्रथा के बारे में चर्चा करता है | इस कहानी के मुख्य पात्र जोगु और गंगी जाति प्रथा के शिकार है | नीच जाति में जन्म लेने के कारण उन्हें कुआँ से पानी लेने से भी मना किया है |

कई महान लोगों ने जाति व्यवस्था के उन्मूलन करने के लिए प्रयत्न किया था | हमारे देश में इसके खिलाफ कानून भी है | फिर भी, आज के समाज में जाति व्यवस्था स्पष्ट रूप से मौजूद है | आइए हम समाज की भलाई के लिए जाति प्रथा को खत्म करने के लिए मिलकर काम करें |

3.गंगी के चरित्र पर टिप्पणी लिखें  |

उत्तर :

 गंगी : एक साहसी महिला 

 हिंदी के प्रमुख कहानीकार श्री प्रेमचंद जी की विख्यात कहानी 'ठाकुर का कुआँ 'की मुख्य पात्र है 'गंगी' | वह एक साधारण गृहणी है  | गरीब परिवार की सदस्य है | वह निम्न जाति की है  | वह अपनी पति को बहुत प्यार करती है | उसके पति जोखु बीमार है | वह पानी के लिए तरसता है | लेकिन पीने के लिए केवल बदबूदार पानी है| गंगी को पता है कि खराब पानी पीने से बीमारी बढ़ जाएगी | इसीलिए वह बदबूदार पानी अपने पति को नहीं देती है | वह सारी पाबंदियों को तोड़कर , ठाकुर के कुआँ से पानी भर लाने का कोशिश करती है | यहाँ, हमें गंगी में अपने पति को बहुत प्यार रखने वाला औरत के अलावा एक विद्रोही दिलवाली औरत को भी दिखाई सकते हैं |

 इस कहानी में गंगी एक ही समय परिस्थितियों से विवश औरत, विद्रोह मन रखनेवाली नारी, एवं प्यार रखनेवाली ग्रहणी आदि का प्रतिनिधित्व करती है |

4. "जाति प्रथा एक अभिशाप है" विषय पर एक पोस्टर तैयार करें  |

उत्तर :

5. ऊंची नीची  जाति का बाँध एक सामाजिक कुरीति है  | "दुनिया एक, मानव एक" विषय पर एक पोस्टर तैयार करें  |

उत्तर :

6. जोखू की बीमारी के कारण गंगी बहुत दुखी है | गंगी की उस दिन की एक  डायरी लिखें |

उत्तर :

20 जून 2023

रविवार 

 आज मेरे जीवन को सबसे खराबी दिन है | मेरे पती बीमार है | उसकी प्यास बुझाने के लिए दिए गए पानी में बदबू था | कुआँ में जरूर कोई जानवर गिरकर मर गए होगा | खराब पानी पीने से उसकी बीमारी बढ़ जाएगी इलसलए मैंने यह गंदा पानी नहीं दिया | क्या करूं मैं ? आसपास में सिर्फ ठाकुर के कुआँ है | लेकिन वहाँ से पानी लाने को  अपने तरह निच जातियों को निषिद्ध है |  हे भगवन ! कब इस ऊाँच – नीच का भेदभाव दूर हो जाएगा ? मुझे किसी तरह से मेरे पति को जान बचाना चाहिए! मैं ठाकुर के कुआँ पर आऊंगा और एक लोटा का पानी भर दूंगा  | भगवान, मेरे रक्षा करो  |

7. ठाकु र के घर से जान बचाकर वापस आने के बाद गंगी और जोखू के बीच का बातचीत तैयार करें |

उत्तर :

गंगी : अरे, आप क्या कर रहे हैं ? क्यों यह गंदा पानी पी रहे हैं ?

जोखू :  कई देर तक तुझे इंतजार कर रहा था | अंत में,  प्यास रोक नहीं पाया तो कुछ पानी नाक बंद करके पीने की कोशिश किया |

गंगी : गराब पानी पीकर बीमारी बढ़ जाएगी | मैं कुछ पानी उबाल देकर दूँगी | 

जोखू :  तू मेरे बात न मानकर ठाकुर के कुआँ के पास गया है ना? क्या तुझे  पानी मिली?

गंगी : क्षमा करो | उस समय मैंने सिर्फ आपकी बिमारी की बारे में सोच रही थी | 

जोखू : ठीक है | पर तुम क्यों पानी  लाया नही? 

गंगी : कुआँ से पानी भरने समय ठाकुर  का दरवाजा खुल दिया | ठाकुर की आवाज सुनकर मैं वहाँ से भाग गया |

The Sower

 The Sower

Victor-Marie Hugo

Read the lines from the poem 'The Sower' and answer the questions that follow:

Sitting in a porch way cool,

Fades the ruddy sunlight fast,

Twilight hastens on to rule--

Working hours are wellnigh past

Shadows shoot across the lands;

But one sower lingers still,

Old, in rags, he patient stands,--

Looking on, I feel a thrill.

Black and high his silhouette

Dominates the furrows deep!

Now to sow the task is set,

Soon shall come a time to reap.

Marches he along the plain,

To and fro, and scatters wide

From his hands the precious grain;

Moody, I, to see him stride.

Darkness deepens. Gone the light.

Now his gestures to mine eyes

Are august; and strange--his height

Seems to touch the starry skies.

1. Who is the speaker here?

Answer : The poet / Victor Hugo

2. Who is the I referred to here?

Answer : The poet / Victor Hugo

3. Who is sitting in the porch way?

Answer : The poet / Victor Hugo

4. Whom the speaker is referred to here?

Answer : The sower

5. Where does the speaker/ poet sit?

Answer : In the porch way of his house.

6. What is the time mentioned here?

Answer : Evening

7. "But one sower lingers still" - What does the word 'lingers' suggests about the sower?

Answer : The line indicates that the sower is still working in his field even it is late evening. This shows that he is very dedicated and hard working person.

8. Pick out two pairs of rhyming words from the poem.

Answer : cool - rule

Fast - past

9. What is the rhyme scheme followed here?

Answer : ABAB

10 What does the poet feel?

Answer : Thrilled

11. Pick out a word from the second stanza that means 'piece of old cloth'.

Answer : rags

12. Pick out a word from the second stanza that means 'dark shape and outline of someone or something'.

Answer : silhouette

13. Why does the poet tell that the grain is precious?

Answer : In one sense, the grains grow as food in future for us. And in other sense, the grains will grow into crops and will make the sower rich

14. Why does the poet become moody or sad ?

Answer : The poet becomes sad by watching the sower struggling so much

15. Pick out visual images from the poem

Answer : porch way, ruddy sunlight, Shadows shoot across the lands, Black and high his silhouette, furrows deep, From his hands the precious grain, starry skies.

16. Pick out examples for alliteration.

Answer : Fades the ruddy sunlight fast /

Shadows shoot across / high his / sower lingers still/ his hands

Song of the Flower

Read the lines from the poem ' Song of a Dream' and answer the questions that follow  : 

I am a kind word uttered and repeated

By the voice of Nature;

I am a star fallen from the

Blue tent upon the green carpet.

I am the daughter of the elements

With whom Winter conceived;

To whom Spring gave birth; I was

Reared in the lap of Summer and I

Slept in the bed of Autumn.

At dawn I unite with the breeze

To announce the coming of light;

At eventide I join the birds

In bidding the light farewell.

 The plains are decorated with

 My beautiful colours, and the air

Is scented with my fragrance.

1. What do the expressions 'Blue tent' and 'Green carpet' imply?

Answer : Blue tent - The sky

Green carpet - The earth

2. Who is the speaker here?

Answer : The flower

3. Who is the 'I' referred to here?

Answer : The flower

4. What does the speaker / flower do at dawn?

Answer : The speaker (flower) unites with the breeze to announce the coming of light.

5. What does the speaker / flower do at dusk?

Answer : The speaker (flower) joins the birds in bidding the light farewell.

7. "I am the daughter of the elements /I am a kind word /I am a star" - Identify the figure of speech used in these lines.

Answer : Metaphor

8. Pick out an example for visual image from the lines.

Answer : Blue tent upon the green carpet.

9. Pick out an example for auditory image from the lines.

Answer : Voice of nature

10. Pick out the word used in the poem to indicate evening time.

Answer : eventide

11. How does the flower annonce the coming of the light?

Answer : by uniting with the breeze

12. When does the Earth become beautiful?

Answer : When the plains are decorated with beautiful colours of flowers.

13. Pick out and instance of olfactory image from the lines.

Answer : The air is scented with my fragrance.

14. Which seasons are mentioned in the first stanza?Answer : Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn.

15. How are the seasons related to the life of the flower?Answer : Winter conceived the flower, Spring gave birth to it, Summer reared it and in Autumn it dies or falls.

Read the lines from the poem ' Song of a Dream' and answer the questions that follow: 

As I embrace Slumber the eyes of

Night watch over me, and as I

Awaken I stare at the sun, which is

The only eye of the day.

I drink dew for wine, and hearken to

The voices of the birds, and dance

To the rhythmic swaying of the grass.

I am the lover's gift; I am the wedding wreath;

I am the memory of a moment of happiness;

I am the last gift of the living to the dead;

I am a part of joy and a part of sorrow.

But I look up high to see only the light,

And never look down to see my shadow.

This is wisdom which man must learn.

16. What are referred to hear as 'Eyes of

Night' and 'Eye of the day'?

Answer :  Eyes of Night- Stars

Eye of the day - Sun

17. Who watches the flower as it sleeps?

Answer : The eyes of the night / the stars

18. When does the eyes of night watch over the flower?

Answer: When the flower embraces slumber.

19. What does the flower drink?

Answer : Dew.

20. What does the flower listen to?

 Answer : The flower listens to the voices of the birds.

21.  “I am a part of joy and a part of sorrow”. How does the flower become a part of joy and sorrow?

Answer : Flower is used on both happy and sad occasions like wedding and death ceremonies. Thus it, becomes a part of joy and sorrow.

22. The flower considers itself as ‘the last gift of the living to the dead’ Why?

Answer : Because it is used as a wreath to be placed on a dead body.

23. “But I look up high to see only the light, And never look down to see my shadow” What does shadow and light stand for?

 Answer : ‘Light’ stands for the brighter side of life and ‘shadow’ stands for the past failures in life.

24. What is the flower's vision?

Ans: See only the light and never look down to see the shadow.

The Nightingale and the Rose

 1. Prepare a character sketch of the young student.

Answer :

The Young Student : A Sincere Lover

The young student is the central character of the short story 'The Nightingale and the Rose' written by the Irish writer Oscar Wild. In this story, he is portrayed as a romantic, sensitive and a passionate lover. He loves the daughter of the Professor very sincerely. She gives him an offer that she will dance with him if he gives her a red rose. But the boy becomes very much depressed as he cannot find the red rose. His studies doesn't make him a sensible person. He believes himself very wise, claiming that "all the secrets of philosophy" are his. Yet, he is unable to understand the Nightingale when she speaks to him because he only knows "the things that are written down in books." He cannot even recognise the real character of the girl. He thinks that she too loves him sincerely. The boy is a typical representative of new generation. He blindly loves the girl. As he gives the red rose to the girl, she rejects it by saying that the Chamberlain's nephew has sent her jewels and the rose will not match to her dress. Then finally the student realises that his lover is ungrateful and he becomes very angry towards her. He throws the flower to the street.His last dialogue - 'What a silly thing Love is' - gives us a clear picture of his hypocritical character.

2. Character Sketch of Nightingale

The Nightingale is a bird which had an important role in the short story 'The Nightingale and the Rose' written by the Irish writer Oscar Wild. In this story, the Nightingale is portrayed as a symbol of love, friendship and sacrifice. The bird lives in an Oak-tree near the Student's home.She makes everyone happy by her beautiful voice. She is passionate, helping minded, and idealistic and believes that love is the most powerful and noblest matter in the life. She is also very impulsive, as she is ready to sacrifice her life for the Student because she believes him to be a "true lover." She is also courageous and determined because she consciously takes the challenge of making a red rose by singing and giving her lifeblood even though she knows that she will lose her life. in short, we can say that the Nightingale is a martyr of true love.

3. The dejected Student goes to his room, overwhelmed with feelings and makes a diary entry. Write the likely diary entry of the student. 

Answer :

20 May 2023

Sunday

It was an unforgettable day in my life today. My heart is broken. What a unfortunate fate I got ! How cruel the professor’s daughter is ! I never thought she would be ungrateful to me! I trusted her very much. I blindly loved her. I did never expect that she would tell the red rose would not match with her dress. How could she tell that jewels cost far more than flowers? How much I loved her. What a silly thing love is! It's utterly worthless.  Can wealth and position be more valuable than a man’s love? I will never again trust a girl. This incident has taught me a good life lesson.

 

Rosa Parks Sat Still

1. Rosa Parks Sat Still - Summary / write up/ Newspaper Report

Answer :

Rosa Parks: The Iron Woman changes the law of America 

Montgomery: A bold black woman named Rosa Parks refused to move from her seat - and this transformed a million lives of America. The incident took place on 1st December 1955, as Rosa Parks was returning home after her tedious work in a bus. There were white people and Black people in the Bus. There was a rule at that time that in a bus if there is a vacant seat it would be of the white people. The Black people were not allowed to sit there. As Rosa was very tired of her work, she refused to move from her seat for a white man.This made the bus driver angry. He called the police and the police arrested Rosa Parks.

The black people of Montgomery decided to fight for Rosa Parks to come out of jail. They boycotted the buses. Without black passengers the buses ran almost empty and it caused to a huge loses to the bus company.  In the court, there were many people who argued for her rights.The judges of Supreme court found that segregation was unlawful and it was against the law of the country. Thus Rosa Park became "the Mother of Black Civil Rights Movement". This incident also changed millions minds of Americans.

2. Character sketch of Rosa Parks.

Answer :

Rosa Parks: The Iron Woman of America 

Rosa Parks is a civil rights activist in America. She is an ordinary working woman having much courage and wisdom.  She is the hero of the protest of Montgomery bus boycott. She is a loyal and obedient citizen also. She had never violated any rules of her country. But, she is against the law of segregation which prevailed in America at that time. According to this law, black men is denied many civil rights in public. They do not allow to sit in a bus when there is standing white passengers in it. Rosa's thoughts 'this law is not fair. If a rule is unfair, it ought to go. It ought not to be in the rulebook. Therefore, it ought not to be obeyed. If people go on obeying such a bad rule, it will stay in the book for ever. So someone should do something about it some day. I think that day has arrived’ gives us a clear picture of her personality. There is brave revolutionary in her spirit. She wants to fight against this injustice. She is not ready to leave her seat for a white passenger. She knows very well about the consequences of her action. She stands as firm as a rock in her decision before the police and the Court. Her determination and valour has transformed the million lives in America. She is considered as the mother of Black Civil Rights Movement.

3. Diary entry of Rosa Parks.

Answer :

2 December 1955

Saturday 

Yesterday was one of the most memorable days of my life.  I got on the bus as usual in the evening. I was very tired of my work on the day.  I paid my fare and sat the nearest vacant seat. Everything seemed quite natural as usual. But as the bus ready to move on many passengers got into the bus in hurry. Each time a white passenger climbed into the bus, a black passenger got up from a seat and moved away. The rule was very clear that black passengers had to give up their seats when white passengers came in. They had to get off the bus and go round to the back door.  Though I noticed that a white passenger stood at the door and looking at me, I didn't mind it. I decided not to leave my seat for him. Why should I get up? I’ve paid the same as the white passenger has paid. My ticket is not a cent cheaper than his, and I am more tired than he is. And he is neither old nor disabled. He is asking for this seat because he is a white. That can’t be right. But how could the driver start? Other passengers grew impatient. They gave me angry looks. But I sat still there. I made up my mind to protest against this unfair law. The driver brought the police in. The arrested me, said I had broken the law, and sent me to jail. I'm proud of my actions. I hope  there will be a change in this segregation in future. I hope I can instill energy and power in some more people to stand up for our rights.

The Light on, the Hills’,

 1. Character Sketch of the boy

Answer :

      The boy : A Gifted Painter 

The boy is the central character in the story.“ The Light on, the Hills’, written by Mrs Lucy Clifford. He is a caring, sensitive and responsible young man. He has a desire to paint a picture, however lacked the courage, confidence and was nervous to paint the picture. He has a younger sister and he loves her very much. He has strong feelings, about her. He receives encouragement from her sister for, painting and becomes a confident artist. He becomes totally upset with the death of his sister.  But gradually he regains his confidence. He seems to hear the voice of his dead sister which makes him more confident just like a strange power comes inside. Though he was diffident at the time of his sister's death, he then emerges as a great painter and draws his masterpiece. He is praised by the audience for his splendid picture.

2. Character Sketch of the girl

Answer :

The little girl plays an important role in the Short story ‘The Light on the Hills’ written by Mrs. Lucy Clifford. Though the girl is too young, she is portrayed as a very mature person with a positive outlook towards life. The girl encourages her brother to paint the picture saying, ‘it will make people happy to look at it’ She tries to build up his confidence by pointing out to him that ‘If you do your work with dedication and honesty, people will know how hard you have tried’. She is very bold and confident. She always tries to instill much courage and confidence in her brother also. She tells him that if he wants to do his best, then he has to do it for the people whom he loves. That will help him to move forward without any boredom. Though her imminent death weakens her elder brother, even her memories gives him immense confidence and courage. She is very live throughout the story even after her death. She shares a strong and loving relationship with her brother and remains as a constant source of inspiration even after her death. In short, she is such a strong and inspirational character.

3. The boy in the story ‘ The Light on the Hills’ was appreciated by everyone for his painting. Their appreciation reminded him of his sister. Later, he jotted down his feelings in his diary. Prepare the likely diary entry of the boy.

Answer :

20 May 2023

Sunday

It was an unforgettable day in my life today. My promise to my little sister has been fulfilled. Everybody came to congratulate me. I know it's all because of her. She gave me the confidence and guidance. Now, I miss her a lot. How happy she would be, if she were alive. She was the one who wished the most to see me successful. She is my inspiration. She lives in my heart like a strong soul even after her death. Her memories still give me immense courage to move on. As she said once, "it will make people happy to look at it’', I could see the happiness on the face of the people who came to see my picture today. Once, She had told me that if I want to do my best, then I have to do it for the people whom I love. So, I drew my picture for my beloved sister. All the appreciation and happiness I received today is dedicated to my sister.

4. The boy in the story ‘ The Light on the Hills’ is awarded the best painter award for his painting. At the award function, he delivers a speech on how his sister inspired him. Write the likely speech.

Answer :

Good morning ladies and gentlemen, 

 Today I am very happy to get a chance to be here and to deliver a few words before you. First of all, I put my heartfelt thanking to you for supporting me. On this proud moment, I remember my beloved little sister. She is the invisible power behind my success. Today I fulfilled my promise to her. She was the one who wished the most to see my success. Today you all came and gathered here to congratulate me. I know it's all because of her. She gave me the confidence and guidance. Now, I miss her a lot. How happy she would be, if she were alive. She was the one who wished the most to see me successful. She is my inspiration. She lives in my heart like a strong soul even after her death. Her memories still give me immense courage to move on. As she said once, "it will make people happy to look at it’', I could see the happiness on the face of the people who came to see my picture today. Once, She had told me that if I want to do my best, then I have to do it for the people whom I love. So, I drew my picture for my beloved sister. All the appreciation and happiness I received today is dedicated to my sister. I conclude my short words by giving my extream thanking to you all once again.

5. The boy finally came up with a wonderful painting appreciated by everyone. His little sister’s words were the real inspiration behind his achievement. Having heard of the achievement of the boy, you have decided to send a letter of appreciation to him. Write the letter.

Answer :

Love Dale

7th street

Calicut -07

20 May 2023

Dear John,

How're you? Hope you are doing well. I’m writing this letter to express my happiness on hearing about your achievement. Hearty congratulations! I read all the details of your art exhibition in the papers today. I could also see some photographs of you paintings. I must say they are simply marvellous! You're an inborn artist. I was really touched to learn about the wonderful way in which you were inspired by your sister. You are very lucky to have  such a sensible sister. She must be happy in heaven with your success. I am sure, you will become a popular painter in the world in the coming years. I wish you good luck in all your future works. I conclude my words by congratulating you once again. 

Yours Lovingly,

Jimmy 

(Sd/-)

Poetry by Pablo Neruda

                    The Wings of Creativity 

 The 'Poetry' is a well known poem written by the Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. The poem deals with the ecstatic experience of the poet embraced by the poetic creativity. Throughout the poem, the poet personifies the poetry as a human being. At the very beginning of the poem, the poet says that poetry arrived in search of him. But he did not know where it came from, or how or when. He did not hear any voices speaking to him. He says he was summoned from the branches of night. He states that poetry gave him an identity, and meaning to his life.

The poet feels that Something has started in his soul, like a fever, and he made his own way, deciphering the "fire of poetry." Then he wrote his first faint, substance-free line. Suddenly, the heavens opened before him and he could see everything in the planets like the shadows, fire, arrows and flowers etc.. It means that by the arrival of poetic inspiration, his imagination became boundless. 

Although he was a tiny being, by the touch of poetry, he was elevated to a world of ecstasy, felt of himself a pure part of the abyss and was set free to wheel with the stars. He describes the whole experience as his "heart breaking loose on the wind." 

The poet wrote the poem in 'free verse style. Its tone is passion or ecstasy . The lines ‘The poetry arrived in search of the poet and touched him’ give a clear picture of the use of personification. The words ‘Winter’ and ‘river’ makes a contrasting idea. Application of Alliteration can be seen in lines, “and something started in my soul, / fever or forgotten wings” and “planets,/palpitating plantations,”. The phrases like flowers, violent fires, the branches of night, the heavens, wings, planets, plantations are perfect examples for visual images.

The Scholarship Jacket"

1. "The Scholarship Jacket" describes how hard work and determination can bring success in life. In the light of the reading of the story, prepare a write-up on the topic " Strong Determination and the Hard Work is the Key to Success. "

Answer :

Determination and Hard Work is the Key to Success.

Martha was a Mexican girl. She was studying in eighth standard in a small school at Texas and was good at studies. The school had a tradition of, giving a beautiful gold and green Jacket to the class valedictorian, the student who had maintained the highest grades for eight years. Martha had straight A grade since the first grade. So she was eagerly awaiting to get the Jacket.

Her father was a farm labourer who couldn't earn enough money to feed eight children. So when she was six she was given to her grandparents to raise. She was called ‘bean pole’ and ‘string bean’ because she, was extremely thin. She couldn't participate in sports at school because there were registration fees and uniform costs ; so, even though she was athletic, she could never expect school sports Jacket. So, the scholarship Jacket, was her only hope.

She was happened to hear an argument, between her two teachers. Her maths teacher, Mr. Boone was forcing Mr. Schmidt, her history teacher to falsify Martha's grades. Martha realised that the school board had decided to give the award to another girl named Joann, whose father was a member in the school board. She realized that she was discriminated against on account, of being a Mexican. The principal called her to the office and informed her that school management had decided to charge fifteen dollars for the scholarship jacket. She was, heartbroken when she knew it. She told the principal that she would tell him after, discussing the matter with his grandpa. But Martha's grandfather opposed to give money for the Jacket. He said that if she paid for it, it would not be called as 'scholarship Jacket'. Martha was deeply hurt by the words of her grandpa.

Martha reported the opinion of her grandpa to the principal. As she was about to leave the room, principal told her that they would make an exception in her case. Martha was overjoyed to hear those words. She wanted to share her happiness with her grandpa and rushed home. She, knew that her history teacher was also a strong force behind this decision .  She hugged Mr. Schmidt and thanked him for his effort to get her scholarship. Her, firm belief made her the proud winner of scholarship jacket.

2. Character Sketch of Martha

Answer :

Martha : A Determined Girl

Martha is the central character in the short story "The Scholarship Jacket" written by the popular American writer Marta Salinas. She is a Mexican girl. She studies in eighth standard in a small school at Texas and is good at studies. The school has a tradition of, giving a beautiful gold and green Jacket to the class valedictorian, the student who has maintained the highest grades for eight years. Martha has straight A grade since the first grade. So she is eagerly awaiting to get the Jacket. Her father is a farm labourer who cannot earn enough money to feed eight children. So when she was six she was given to her grandparents to raise. She is called ‘bean pole’ and ‘string bean’ because she, is extremely thin. She cannot participate in sports at school because there are registration fees and uniform costs ; so, even though she is athletic, she can never expect school sports Jacket. So, the scholarship Jacket is her only hope.

Martha realises that the school board has decided to give the award to another girl named Joann. She also realises that she is discriminated against on account of being a Mexican. This makes her very sad. This incident proves that though she is bold enough, she is very sensitive also. As the principal calls her to the office and informes her that school management has decided to charge fifteen dollars for the scholarship jacket, She faces him very confidently by looking at his face though she is sad in mind. She reports boldly to the principal that her grandfather does not ready to give the money. Her, firm belief makes her the proud winner of scholarship jacket.

3. Character sketch of Grandfather

Answer :

Grandfather: A Sensible Person  

Martha’s grandfather is an important character in the short story "The Scholarship Jacket" written by the popular American writer Marta Salinas. He is a hardworking farmer who owns two-hundred acre ranch. He is a caring person who loves his granddaughter Martha very much. He is less emotional. So, he never expresses his love. His practical approach and matured words helps Martha to get the scholarship jacket. His only dialogue "Then if you pay for it, Martha, it's not a scholarship Jacket, is it? Tell your principal I will not pay the fifteen dollars.’ changes the whole plot of the story. His strong presence is an inspirational force to her. She gains confidence and motivation from him. He is the last resort of Martha . He teaches her how to handle a crisis. Though he is uneducated, he is a man of wisdom and straight forward.  He teaches Martha the values of life, dignity and self respect.

4. Speech of Martha:

Answer :

Respected teachers, distinguished guests, and my dear friends.

A warm good morning, to you all gathered here. I am so proud and happy to be here in this pleasant occasion., I am very much excited to deliver a few words about how I achieved the scholarship jacket. It was my cherished dream to achieve the scholarship jacket. I'm sure it is the result of my eight years hardwork and dedication. 

As a farm labourer, my father couldn't earn enough money to look after me. So, I live with my grandparents. They looked after me well and did everything for my studies.Hence, I can Undoubtedly say that my grandparents have a great role in my success. And of course, I can’t forget the role of my teachers and friends. Teachers taught and guided me well, and my friends gave me more support.

Here, I have a small advice for my friends and Juniors. If you dream anything in life, you have to work for it very hard. And if you try hard with all dedication, you can achieve anything. I wish you all can win such achievements in future. I would like to thank everyone who stood with me to achieve this award. Let me conclude my short speech.

Thank you and have a nice day

5. Martha, after receiving the scholarship jacket, writes a letter expressing her, immense gratitude to Mr.Schmidit for supporting her. Draft the likely letter.

Answer :

From,
Martha
Dream Villa
Lincoln Square
Texas - 03

20 May 2023

To,
Mr. Schmidt
Sky line Villa
7th Avenue
Texas - 07

Sir,

  I am writing this letter to express my sincere gratitude for your priceless effort in making me the winner of the Scholarship Jacket. I wish here to disclose a shocking reality that I had overheard your conversation with Mr. Boone. At that time I was going to the class room back to take my PE uniform. Actually it was a coincidence. I could realise that how sincere you are about my case. You are only one among my teachers who could understand the hard work that I had made to get the jacket. I am deeply express my thanking and love to you sir. May God bless you. I am concluding my letter. Expecting your favourable reply.

Yours faithfully,
Martha
(Sd/-)

6. Martha felt very sad when she overheard the argument between Mr Schmidt and Mr Boone in the story ‘The Scholarship Jacket’. What may be the diary entry of Martha?

Answer :

20 May 2023

Monday

It was an unforgettable day in my life today. All my dreams shattered like a glass wall. All my expectations are all gone to air. It happened as I reached outside the classroom to take my shorts for the PE. It was really a coincidence that  I overheard a heated argument between my teachers : Mr Schmidt and Mr Boone. It made me surprised that they were talking about me! Mr. Boone was forcing Mr. Schmidt to falsify my grades and thereby tried to make Joann the winner of the scholarship Jacket! He said that Joann’s father was a member of the Board. Oh! How could he reason like that? He also humiliated me by mentioning that 'I am a Mexican '. It really made me hurt. It's the rule that the scholarship jacket should be given to the class valedictorian who maintains highest grades for eight years. So, it's totally injustice. I am the only person who deserves the Jacket. Then why should they try to avoid me? Fortunately, Mr Schmidt was talking in favour of me. I’m thankful to Mr Schmidt for supporting me. Only God can help me in this crisis. May He find a way in favour of me.

7. You got a chance to have an interview with Martha after getting the Scholarship jacket. Prepare six questions that you may ask Martha her sucess.

Answer : 

 > How do you feel on receiving this award?

> What are your strengths and weaknesses?

> Who has inspired you in your life and why?

> How much effort did you put in to win this Jacket?

> What is your next goal?

> Whom do you want to dedicate this award?

The Danger of a Single Story

1. Prepare a write up based on "The Danger of a Single Story" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Answer :

        The Danger of a Single Story

 Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "The Danger of a Single Story" Ted Talk reveals the negative influences that a “single story” creates in human life. According to Adichie  the single stories are the results of one’s misunderstandings and lack of knowledge about others. Adichie asserts that media and literature often only tell one story of something or someone, which causes people to generalize and make assumptions about a group of people.

Adichie gives us some personal experiences to prove her argument about how single story becomes danger . She first talks about  her ‘single story’ about books and literature. In her childhood she read only British and American books. And of course, she wrote exactly the kinds of stories she was reading. All her characters were white, they played in the snow, ate apples and talked about the weather. She believed that were the only those types of stories to exist in literature. But later, when she discovered the books of some African writers, she realised that people like her with skin the color of chocolate, could aldo exist in literature. Hence African writers saved her from having a single story of what books are.

The second incident is a single story that Adichie made about her house-boy, Fide. Adichie's mother used to remind her that Fide's family was very poor and had nothing to eat. So, Adichie got a single story about them as how poor they were. But, her single story came to an end when she happened to see a beautiful basket of dyed raffia that Fide's brother had made. At first Adichie couldn't believe that anybody in Fide's family could make something. Their poverty was her single story of them.

 Adichie’s American roommate had a different version of single story about Africa. When she knew from Adichie that English was the official language in Nigeria she got exclaimed. In her perspective, Africa is a country and the people lived there were helpless and waiting to be saved by a kind white foreigner.  Similarly, her Professor said that her novel was not “authentically African” because her characters were educated, middle classed men, they drove cars and they were not starving!

Adichie concludes by saying that the single stories are not completely wrong, but they are incomplete. The single story creates stereotypes. They make one story become the only story.

2. Adichie went to Fide's house and was surprised to see the beautifully patterned basket made by his brother. She never thought that anybody in his family could actually make something. She jotted down her thoughts in her diary that night. Prepare the likely diary entry.

Answer :

 20 May 202

Sunday 

It was an unforgettable day in my life today. I visited Fide's house . Found a beautiful basket of dyed raffia that Fide's brother had made. Got surprised! I had a very foolish single story about Fide's family. It was their poverty. My mom would  say that Fide's family was very poor and they had nothing to eat. It had not occurred to me that anybody in his family coulda actually make something. So, his brother's creativity made me very much confused. Now I realized my mistake. Single story will lead us to great mistakes. Hence, I will never judge anything or anyone through one sided perspective. Anyway thank God, the visit to Fide's house taught me a good lesson. I'll never keep such foolish idea in my brain in future.

3. After reading Adichie's speech you decided to interview her. Prepare 6 questions you might ask her.

Answer :

> When did you start writing?

> What or who did inspire you to write?

> What is your greatest career coup?

> What book had the biggest impact on you? Why?

> What is the biggest challenge you have ever faced in life ?

> What gives you hope about the world today?

> What are your strengths and weaknesses?

The Jungle Air Crash

The Jungle Air Crash

1. Prepare a write up on "The Jungle Air Crash"

 “The Jungle Air Crash” is a beautiful narrative which describes the thrilling experience of Juliane Koepcke, a German biologist, who survived alone in the Peruvian rainforest for eleven and half day. The aircraft, Lansa Airlines flight 508 in which Julian with her mother  boarded to spend Christmas with her father in jungle hut, was crashed and exploded at a height of 3000 feet. Fortunately Julian alone was thrown herself out of the plane. She felt herself that she was turning over and over in the air. Then she lost consciousness. When she regained her consciousness, she realized that she was lying under a section of three seats turned upside down. There were no sign of her mother, other passengers, or of the plane. She spent the whole night lying under the seat half-asleep, in shock.

The next morning, she stood up slowly and began to walk. She picked up a long stick to avoid snakes, poisonous spiders and ants. Her parents had guided her that when lost in the jungle one should always look for streams, and then follow them to larger streams. On the third day, she heard vultures and found some airplane fuselage. As she walked along the river bank, she saw parrots, monkeys and humming birds, and many varieties of tiny orchids growing on tree trunks. She avoided delicious looking fruit because she knew that things that look beautiful are poisonous. She had a large wound on her foot and it caused unbearable pain by the bites of the insects. Sometimes she chose swimming because walking was much harder.

On the tenth day, she saw a boat moored on the river bank. And there was a path leading to a small hut. As she entered the hut, she saw a small outboard motor carefully wrapped in plastic, and a can of petrol. She didn't want to take a boat which belonged to someone else. So, she waited there for the arrival of the owners. After some time, there appeared three mestizo hunters — half white, half-Indians. They told her that they knew about the crash and one of them had actually been in a search plane which flew over the jungle after the accident. They washed her with salt water , put salve on her wounds and made fruit mash for her. But she couldn't eat it. Early next morning, they got their boat ready and took her to the jungle settlement of Tournavista. Then her wound was treated from a small dispensary there. They used a special medicine to clean out all the worms, and gave her an injection to counteract inflammation.

Eleven and a half days after the crash, she again boarded a plane, a small twin- engined machine that took her to the U.S. mission base of the Summer Institute of Linguistics near Pucallpa, where an American doctor looked after her. Her father arrived and informed about the death of her mother. Later, with the help of her directions, Searchers found the Electra scattered over 16 kilometres of jungle. The cause of the crash, and how Juliane got safely down, was unknown. One theory was that the plane exploded at 3,000 metres, that the fall of some pieces was cushioned by an enormous upward current of air in the storm.

4. Prepare a narrative of Julian Koepcke.

Answer :

The moments I saw Death

The aircraft, Lansa Airlines flight 508 in which I with my mother boarded to spend Christmas with my father in jungle hut, was crashed and exploded at a height of 3000 feet. Fortunately I alone was thrown herself out of the plane. I felt myself that I was turning over and over in the air. Then I lost consciousness. When I regained her consciousness, I realized that I was lying under a section of three seats turned upside down. There were no sign of my mother, other passengers, or of the plane. I spent the whole night lying under the seat half-asleep, in shock.

The next morning, I stood up slowly and began to walk. I picked up a long stick to avoid snakes, poisonous spiders and ants. My parents had guided me that when lost in the jungle one should always look for streams, and then follow them to larger streams. On the third day, I heard vultures and found some airplane fuselage. As I walked along the river bank, I saw parrots, monkeys and humming birds, and many varieties of tiny orchids growing on tree trunks. I avoided delicious looking fruit because I knew that things that look beautiful are poisonous. I had a large wound on my foot and it caused unbearable pain by the bites of the insects. Sometimes I chose swimming because walking was much harder.

On the tenth day, I saw a boat moored on the river bank. And there was a path leading to a small hut. As I entered the hut, I saw a small outboard motor carefully wrapped in plastic, and a can of petrol. I didn't want to take a boat which belonged to someone else. So, I waited there for the arrival of the owners. After some time, there appeared three mestizo hunters — half white, half-Indians. They told me that they knew about the crash and one of them had actually been in a search plane which flew over the jungle after the accident. They washed me with salt water , put salve on my wounds and made fruit mash for her. But I couldn't eat it. Early next morning, they got their boat ready and took me to the jungle settlement of Tournavista. Then my wound was treated from a small dispensary there. They used a special medicine to clean out all the worms, and gave me an injection to counteract inflammation.

Eleven and a half days after the crash, I again boarded a plane, a small twin- engined machine that took me to the U.S. mission base of the Summer Institute of Linguistics near Pucallpa, where an American doctor looked after me. My father arrived and informed about the death of my mother. Later, with the help of my directions, Searchers found the Electra scattered over 16 kilometres of jungle. The cause of the crash, and how I got safely down, was unknown. One theory was that the plane exploded at 3,000 metres, that the fall of some pieces was cushioned by an enormous upward current of air in the storm.

3. Prepare a news paper report of Julian's survival.

Answer :

        Supergirl Comes Back to Life

Pucalpa, January 5 : The aircraft, Lansa Airlines flight 508 was exploded at a height of 3000 feet just 30 minutes after the take off. All the 92 passengers except a 17 year old girl Juliane Koepcke were died on the spot. Julian lost her mother too in that accident. When the plane exploded she was thrown herself outside strapped to her seat. She had to spend eleven and half day in the dense forest. Finally she was rescued by the mestizo hunters who took her to Tournavista and then handed over to her father. Juliane was congratulated by people allover the world for her bravery and strong will power.

4. Prepare a Diary entry of Juliane after her escape.

Answer :

05 January 1972

Monday

It was an unforgettable moments in my life! How can I forget those horrible days and night that I spent in the jungle?  Anyway thank God, now I am safely back at home. It is really a miraculous escape. I never expect that I can see my father and friends again. I can't forget the horrifying experiences in the jungle. I never thought I could come out alive. God is so great!.I can't believe that I had to spend eleven and a half day in the dense forest. The mosquitoes,the crude jungle path,the broad river,the bleeding wound,all remain a nightmare .Finally I could see my family. But Oh I lost my mother,I wish she were alive. I am so thankful to the mestizo hunters who saved me. May God bless them also.

5. Prepare 6 Interview questions to interview Julian Koepcke.

Answer :

>  Where did you board the plane to Pucallpa with your mother?

> How many passengers were there in Lansa Airlines flight 508? 

> When did the plane from Lima take off to Pucallpa?

> How did you make out that the aircraft was in trouble?

> What were the reactions of the passengers when they realised about the danger?

> When did you realise that you were no longer inside the plane?

> Why did you remain lying under the seat belt all night after the crash?

> How could you manage to survive in the jungle? 

> Have you ever faced any dangerous situation in that jungle?

Listen To The Mountain

Listen To The Mountain 

1. Narayan and the villagers go to meet Sagar to discuss the hotel construction. Prepare, a conversation between them.

Answer :

Narayan : Good morning Mr. Sagar. I'm Narayan, the school headmaster.

Sagar      : Oh, yes. I remember you. Why are you here ?

Narayan : We have a serious matter to discuss with you.

Sagar     : Serious issue! What's your problem ?

Narayan :We want you to stop the construction of hotel here.

Sagar : How dare you demand me like this? We've money and power. You people will not do anything against us.

Narayan : We don’t allow anyone to destroy our village and the sacred Darmagiri mountain.

Sagar : But we are doing nothing to the mountain or your village. If we build the hotel, your village will become a famous tourist place.

Narayan : But, you cannot build a hotel there. Dharmagiri cannot hold a structure more than 30 feet. It is so dangerous.

Sagar :Are you kidding me? Dou you think, you village people have more knowledge than the engineers from big cities! Please leave us. We have to begin our duty.

2. Write a character sketch of Grandmother.

Answer :

      Grandmother : The Lover of Nature 

The grandmother is the central character of the play ‘Listen to the mountain’ written by the popular Indian writer Kavery Nambisan. Grandmother is a ninety year old woman,  physically weak, but mentally very strong . She was born and brought up in a small village on the slopes of Dharmagiri mountain. At the very beginning of the play, she introduces herself that she was born at the turn of the century when there were no motor cars, no aeroplanes, no television, no movies, and much less noise.

Grandmother is a sincere lover of nature. She is very anxious and sensitive about the creatures around her. She loves nature and believes that the river, trees, flowers, birds and animals are her friends.  The news of building a hotel in the mountain makes her upset . She thinks about the rabbits, the deer and partridge who are going to lose their homes. She asks who will listen to the river, the clean, beautiful, sweet watered river that will now turn foul with filth. And who will listen to the sorrow of Dharmagiri when it is massacred by roads and burdened with buildings. There will be a lot of  noise and  pollution. She also says that the mountains, the rivers, the trees and the animals, they all speak, just like people if we listen to them. She worries about future and told that tomorrow's world is the world of today's children and the hotel may create problem for them. Thus, we can say that grandmother is simple and rustic, yet she is an environmentalist.

3. The play 'listen to the mountain" tells us that careless exploitation of nature can lead to disasters. Prepare a writeup on the topic. "The causes and Effects of Natural Disasters."

Answer :

"The causes and Effects of Natural Disasters."

Our beautiful earth is going through many serious changes and challenges today. These changes are mainly due to natural disasters happening throughout time. When we talk about natural disasters, pollution, ozone depletion and global warming are the most common scenarios we witnessed.Growing industrialisation and exploitation of natural resources change the ecosystem to a dangerous level.

Apart from natural causes, human beings are mainly responsible for most of the calamities happening today. Our unscientific use of natural resources, exploitation, and greed for money ruins the green planet. Constructions on the hilly regions , reclamation of wetlands, excessive use of fossil fuels, deforestation, and mining, etc are the major reasons behind every disasters . Constructions on the hilly region cause landslides and earthquakes. Reclamation of wetlands causes floods and draughts. Deforestation and uncontrollable use of fuels cause the increasing of carbon gases which lead to global warming.

In order to save our planet from this grave threat of climate change and natural hazards, we should take some necessary actions collectively. It's not only a problem of any particular nation or an individual, but it's a problem of mankind. We only have one planet. So, we have to protect our mother earth. We should try to reduce the use of fossil fuels and carbon emissions. We should stop uncontrollable mining activities and constructions. We should protect our forests and wetlands. If we do not take a decisive action as soon as possible, big people with small hearts will perish our planet. Let's do something together for our mother nature.

4. Prepare a newspaper report of the landslide in Dharmagiri.

Answer :

 11 Died in Darmagiri Landslide

Darmagiri : Eleven people killed, including two children in the landslide took place on Darmagiri yesterday. Ten houses also buried beneath the landslide and many people got serious injuries.The landslide occurred in the afternoon when the construction of a multistoried hotel was going on. Eye witnesses say that there was a terrific roar like, rocks falling which lasted for 30 seconds. The injured were carried away on makeshift stretchers to the nearby hospitals. The tragedy is said to be the result of unscientific construction of, the hotel. It is believed that the Darmagiri cannot support a structure taller than 30 feet. The villagers told that they had already given warnings to Mr Dixit, the owner of the hotel and Mr. Sagar, the contractor about this. But they had not ready to hear the villagers. The government has ordered to stop all the constructions going on in the area and also, announced a compensation to the next of kin of those killed in the landslide with a sum of Rs 5 lakh as assistance and the injured will get 1 lak rupees. The government also appointed a commission to make an enquiry about the disaster.

5. Diary entry of Grandmother.

Answer :

20 May 2020

Sunday

It was an unforgettable day in my life! The news I received today deeply disturbs me. Finally the mountain spoke loud enough for everyone to hear. For our village, it was a tragedy. Ten houses buried beneath the landslide. Eleven people killed, including two children! I knew it all along. Nature always speaks if we care to listen. How can I forget this? What might have happened to the animals living there? Big people with small heart swallowed our beautiful village for their selfish gain. May god save us from future disasters. 

Song of the Rain

Song of the Rain

Read the following lines from the poem ' Song of the Rain' and answer the questions that follow:

 

I am dotted silver threads dropped from heaven

By the Gods. Nature then takes me, to adorn

Her fields and valleys.

 

I am beautiful pearls, plucked from the

Crown of Ishtar by the daughter of Dawn

To embellish the gardens.

 

When I cry, the hills laugh;

When I humble myself, the flowers rejoice;

When I bow, all things are elated.

The field and the cloud are lovers

 

And between them I am a messenger of mercy.

I quench the thirst of one;

I cure the ailment of the other.

 

1. Who is the 'I' referred to here?

Answer : The rain

2.Who is mentioned here as 'dotted silver threads dropped from heaven'?

Answer : The rain

3. Why does nature take the rain?

Answer : To adorn

her fields and valleys.

4.Who is mentioned here as daughter of dawn?

Answer : Sunrise

5. What is rain compared to?

Answer : Rain is compared to dotted silver threads dropped from heaven

by the Gods and beautiful pearls, plucked from the

Crown of Ishtar.

6. Pick out examples for metaphors.

Answers : I am dotted silver threads”, “I am beautiful pearls”, and “I am a messenger of mercy.”

7. Pick out instances for alliteration.

Answer : "pearls, plucked",  “daughter of Dawn”, and “messenger of mercy"

8. "When I cry, the hills laugh" - comment on the line.

Answer : It means how the hills and its livings are happy  when the rain falls down. The falling down of rain is considered here as crying.

9. Pick out visual images.

Answer : 'dotted silver threads', 'fields and valleys', 'beautiful pearls', and 'Crown of Ishtar'

10. Pick out auditory images.

Answer : ' When I cry', and 'hills laugh'

11. Who are the lovers mentioned here?

Answer : The field and cloud.

12. Who is the messenger of mercy between the field and cloud?

Answer : The rain

13. 'I quench the thirst of one' - Whose quench is mentioned here?

Answer : Field's

14. "I cure the ailment of the other"- Who is sick here?

Answer : The cloud

15. In what sense, are the cloud and the field being lovers?

Answer : The field is thirsty for being dried. So it is waiting for the rain. On the other hand, the cloud is sick with the weight of water droplets. So the cloud expects the rainfall to free itself. Thus both the field and cloud longs to meet. In that sense, they are considered as lovers and the rain becomes a messenger of mercy between the cloud and the field.

 

Read the following lines from the poem ' Song of the Rain' and answer the questions that follow:

 

The voice of thunder declares my arrival;

The rainbow announces my departure.

I am like earthly life, which begins at

The feet of the mad elements and ends

Under the upraised wings of death.

 

I emerge from the heart of the sea

Soar with the breeze. When I see a field in

Need, I descend and embrace the flowers and

The trees in a million little ways,

I touch gently at the windows with my

 

Soft fingers, and my announcement is a

Welcome song. All can hear, but only

The sensitive can understand.

16. Who announces the arrival of rain?

Answer : The voice of thunder

17. Who announces the departure of the rain?

Answer : The rainbow

18. Pick out the lines that indicate the rain is like a living thing.

Answer : I am like earthly life, which begins at

The feet of the mad elements and ends

Under the upraised wings of death.

19. Pick out an instance of simile from the above lines.

Answer : I am like earthly life.

20. Where does the rain emerge?

Answer : From the heart of the sea

21. Pick out an instance for personification used here.

Answer : I touch gently at the windows with my Soft fingers.

22. Pick out an instance fo alliteration from the lines.

Answer : windows with..

23. Pick out an instance for each visual and auditory images from the above lines.

Visual image : The Rainbow

Auditory image: The voice of thunder

 

24. Write a critical appreciation of the poem' Song of the Rain'.

                   Song of the Rain

                                     Khalil Gibran

'Song of the Rain' is a beautiful poem written by Khalil Gibran, the popular Lebanese poet. The poem deals with the heavenly beauty and divine quality of the rain. The rain itself is the speaker here. The rain says that it is a silver thread sent from heaven by God.  Nature uses the rain, to decorate her fields and valleys. The rain claims that it is the pearls plucked from the crown of ishtar, the goddess of love and fertility.

 When the rain cries, the hills will laugh.The flowers will rejoice at the arrival of the rain. It touches every window with its soft fingers. The heat of the atmosphere give birth to the rain, but in turn, it kills the heat. The rain is the sigh of the sea.

This is a free verse poem. The poem is divided into three , four and five line stanzas. The poem doesn't follow any rhyme scheme. The poet uses many poetic devices and imageries to adorn his poem. The phrases like 'I am dotted silver threads', 'I am beautiful pearls' are examples for metaphors. The expression 'I am like earthly life' gives an instance of simile. The words and phrases like 'fields and valleys', 'beautiful pearls', and 'Crown of Ishtar' are examples for visual images. The phrases 'when I cry', 'The hills laugh' and 'voice of thunder' are auditory images. 

 The phrases 'The hills laugh' and 'I touch gently at the windows with my soft fingers' reminds the use of personification. The phrases like 'dotted silver threads dropped', 'pearls, plucked', 'daughter of Dawn', and messenger of mercy are examples for alliteration. The Language used here is very simple and clear . As a whole, the poem is an excellent piece work.