Reading And Writing Skills Chapter 1 Reading And Writing Skills

Read the passage given below:

(1) The hopping kangaroo is a familiar sight in every snapshot relating to Australia. Member of the kangaroo family can be as small as a rat or as big as a man. Kangaroos are found mainly in Australia, Tasmania and New Guinea. Kangaroos which are big-footed marsupials that evolved in Australia use their short front legs like arms. The mansized kangaroos of Australia are capable of speeding up to 88 km/hr for short distances, their means of locomotion being their powerful hind legs, which carry them over the ground in jumps of 9 m or more at a time.

(2) Weighing around 70 kg they have an average lifespan of around six to eight years and a maximum lifetime of 20 years. When bothered by predators kangaroos often head for the water, standing submerged to the chest, and attempting to drown the attacker by holding him under water. Another defensive technique is to get their back to a tree and kick and their adversary with their clawed hind feet, sometimes with sufficient force to kill a man. Normally shy animals, they alert other kangaroos to danger by beating on the ground with their hand feet. This loud alarm signal carries over a long distance.

(3) The tail is important for kangaroos. It holds them in balance and supports them when they sit or fight against other kangaroos. The kangaroo uses its short legs as arms. With them it scratches itself, cleans its fur and holds branches when its eats leaves. Kangaroos are marsupials and the females carry newborns in a pouch in front of their abdomens. The babies are born small and climb up into the safety of the pouch. There for the next 225 days or so, they eat, sleep, and grow. Once they reach full development they leave the pouch. A young kangaroo that leaves the pouch is called a 'joey'. To keep from getting too hot the kangaroos take naps in the afternoon and do most of their gazing at night. But the best stay-cool secret of these creatures is the spit bath! Kangaroos drool and lick saliva all over their faces and bodies to cool down.

1.1 On the basis of your reading of the above passage, complete the following sentences with appropriate words/phrases.

a) When followed by predators kangaroos submerge __________ and __________.

b) The powerful hind legs help kangaroos to __________.

c) Kangaroos are mainly found in Australia and are __________.

d) They use their front legs to __________.

e) Kangaroos warn others of danger by __________.

f) The secret of kangaroos to stay cool is __________.

g) They use their tails to __________.

h) Before becoming 'joeys' the young ones stay in the __________ and __________.

Read the passage given below:

1. It is rare to find someone with a good technical and communication skills. You can get far ahead of your colleagues if you combine the two early in your career. People will judge, evaluate, promote or block you based on your communication skills. Since habits form by repeating both goods and bad forms of communication, learn to observe great communicators and adopt their styles and traits in written and verbal forms. The art of listening and learning from each and every interaction is another secret recipe. Develop the subconscious habit of listening to yourself as you speak and know when to pause.

2. Learning what not to say is probably more important than learning what to say. As your career develops, you will realize that the wise speak less. Speak when you have value to add, else refrain. Poorly constructed e-mails with grammatical errors are acceptable between friends, but they should be seriously avoided while communicating formally with your seniors. Avoid any communication in an emotional state when you might say things you will regret later. One unnecessary word uttered at the wrong time or place can ruin a relationship, career or even your life. Such is the power of words. If such a thing happens, you should immediately apologise, else it may haunt you for life.

3. Another problem to overcome is speaking too fast, since our minds are working faster than our speech, we are inclined to speak fast. This does not necessarily mean that the person hearing it will get it any faster. On the contrary, it is always the reverse. So slow down, think before you speak. 'When I get ready to speak to people,' Abraham Lincoln said, 'I spend two-thirds of the time thinking what they want to hear and one-third thinking what I want to say.' Adding humour and wit is also essential. But realize that not all jokes are funny and observe certain boundaries. Never say anything that could offend. Remember you are not a comedian who must offend as many people as you can to be witty.

2.1 Answer the following question briefly.

a. Why is it necessary to have good communication skills?
b. How can communication skills be developed?
c. What according to the writer should be avoided while communicating?
d. Why should you be careful when you tend to be humorous?

2.2 Choose the most appropriate meanings of the given words from the options provided.

a. evaluate
(i) estimate
(ii) assume
(iii) punish
(iv) evolve

b. trait
(i) treaty
(ii) trail
(iii) quality
(iv) liberty

c. utter
(i) flatter
(ii) speak
(iii) rot
(iv) unique

d. haunt
(i) hunt
(ii) chant
(iii) trouble
(iv) avoid

The tourism industry can bring valuable income to the country. Using your ideas along with ideas from the MCB unit, Travel and Tourism, write a letter to the editor of a popular daily on how the government and the public can boost the development of this industry. Write the letter in 100-120 words. You are Rama/Ram, 4 Rani Road, Ranchi.

The youth of different states should be given a chance to meet one another through national meets and other programmes. Taking ideas from the MCB unit, National Integration and your own ideas write an article in 100-120 words on the topic, Youth and National Integration You are Ram/Rama.

Write a short story in 150-200 words on the basis of the hints provided.
Ratan was in Goa on a school trip. The teacher asked everyone to play and remain on the seashore..............
                        

Write a short story in 150-200 words on the basis of the hints provided.
Hari drove fast. He was already late for office. He had got up late and it was his first day of work.......

Read the passage given below:

(1) The hopping kangaroo is a familiar sight in every snapshot relating to Australia. Member of the kangaroo family can be as small as a rat or as big as a man. Kangaroos are found mainly in Australia, Tasmania and New Guinea. Kangaroos which are big-footed marsupials that evolved in Australia use their short front legs like arms. The man-sized kangaroos of Australia are capable of speeding up to 88 km/hr for short distances, their means of locomotion being their powerful hind legs, which carry them over the ground in jumps of 9 m or more at a time.

(2) Weighing around 70 kg they have an average lifespan of around six to eight years and a maximum lifetime of 20 years. When bothered by predators kangaroos often head for the water, standing submerged to the chest, and attempting to drown the attacker by holding him under water. Another defensive technique is to get their back to a tree and kick and their adversary with their clawed hind feet, sometimes with sufficient force to kill a man. Normally shy animals, they alert other kangaroos to danger by beating on the ground with their hand feet. This loud alarm signal carries over a long distance.

(3) The tail is important for kangaroos. It holds them in balance and supports them when they sit or fight against other kangaroos. The kangaroo uses its short legs as arms. With them, it scratches itself, cleans its fur and holds branches when its eats leaves. Kangaroos are marsupials and the females carry newborns in a pouch in front of their abdomens. The babies are born small and climb up into the safety of the pouch. There for the next 225 days or so, they eat, sleep, and grow. Once they reach full development they leave the pouch. A young kangaroo that leaves the pouch is called a 'joey'. To keep from getting too hot the kangaroos take naps in the afternoon and do most of their gazing at night. But the best stay-cool secret of these creatures is the spit bath! Kangaroos drool and lick saliva all over their faces and bodies to cool down.

1.1 On the basis of your reading of the above passage, complete the following sentences with appropriate words/phrases.

a) When followed by predators kangaroos submerge __________ and __________.

b) The powerful hind legs help kangaroos to __________.

c) Kangaroos are mainly found in Australia and are __________.

d) They use their front legs to __________.

e) Kangaroos warn others of danger by __________.

f) The secret of kangaroos to stay cool is __________.

g) They use their tails to __________.

h) Before becoming 'joeys' the young ones stay in the __________ and __________.

Read the passage given below:

1. It is rare to find someone with a good technical and communication skills. You can get far ahead of your colleagues if you combine the two early in your career. People will judge, evaluate, promote or block you based on your communication skills. Since habits form by repeating both good and bad forms of communication, learn to observe great communicators and adopt their styles and traits’ in written and verbal forms. The art of listening and learning from each and every interaction is another secret recipe. Develop the subconscious habit of listening to yourself as you speak and know when to pause.

2. Learning what not to say is probably more important than learning what to say. As your career develops, you will realise that the wise speak less. Speak when you have value to add, else refrain. Poorly constructed e-mails with grammatical errors are acceptable between friends, but they should be seriously avoided while communicating formally with your seniors. Avoid any communication in an emotional state when you might say things you will regret later. One unnecessary word uttered at the wrong time or place can ruin a relationship, career or even your life. Such is the power of words. If such a thing happens, you should immediately apologise; else it may haunt you for life.

3. Another problem to overcome is speaking too fast since our minds are working faster than our speech, we are inclined to speak fast. This does not necessarily mean that the person hearing it will get it any faster. On the contrary, it is always the reverse. So slow down, think before you speak. 'When I get ready to speak to people,' Abraham Lincoln said, 'I spend two-thirds of the time thinking what they want to hear and one-third thinking what I want to say.' Adding humour and wit is also essential. But realise that not all jokes are funny and observe certain boundaries. Never say anything that could offend. Remember you are not a comedian who must offend as many people as you can to be witty.

2.1 Answer the following question briefly.

a. Why is it necessary to have good communication skills?
b. How can communication skills be developed?
c. What according to the writer should be avoided while communicating?
d. Why should you be careful when you tend to be humorous?

2.2 Choose the most appropriate meanings of the given words from the options provided.

a. evaluate

(i) estimate
(ii) assume
(iii) punish
(iv) evolve

b. trait

(i) treaty
(ii) trail
(iii) quality
(iv) liberty

c. utter

(i) flatter
(ii) speak
(iii) rot
(iv) unique

d. haunt

(i) hunt
(ii) chant
(iii) trouble
(iv) avoid

The tourism industry can bring valuable income to the country. Using your ideas along with ideas from the MCB unit, Travel and Tourism, write a letter to the editor of a popular daily on how the government and the public can boost the development of this industry. Write the letter in 100-120 words. You are Rama/Ram, 4 Rani Road, Ranchi.

The youth of different states should be given a chance to meet one another through national meets and other programmes. Taking ideas from the MCB unit, National Integration and your own ideas write an article in 100-120 words on the topic, Youth and National Integration You are Ram/Rama.

Write a short story in 150-200 words on the basis of the hints provided.

Ratan was in Goa on a school trip. The teacher asked everyone to play and remain on the seashore..............

Write a short story in 150-200 words on the basis of the hints provided.

Hari drove fast. He was already late for office. He had got up late and it was his first day of work.......

Read the passage given below: 

The Perfect Dog
1. In the summer of 1967, when I was 10 years old, my father caved into my persistent pleas and took me to get my own dog. Together we drove in the family station wagon far into the Michigan countryside to a farm run by a rough-hewn women and her ancient mother. The farm produced just one commodity-dog. Dogs of every imaginable size and  shape and age and temperament. They had only two things in common: each was a mongrel of unknown and distinct ancestry, and each was free to a good home.

2. I quickly decided the older dogs were somebody else's charity case. I immediately raced to the puppy cage. 'You want to pick one that's not timid,' my father coached. 'Try rattling the cage and see which ones aren't afraid.'

3. I grabbed the chain-link gate and yanked on it with a loud clang. The dozen or so puppies reeled backward, collapsing on top of one another in a squiggling heap of fur. Just one remained. He was gold with a white blaze on his chest, and he charged at the gate, yapping fearlessly. He jumped up and excitedly licked my fingers through the fencing. It was love at first sight.

4. I brought him home in a cardboard box and named him Shaun. He was one of those dogs that gives dogs a good name. He effortlessly mastered every command I taught him and was naturally well behaved. I could drop a crust on the floor and he would not touch it until I gave the okay.

5. Relatives would visit for the weekend and returned home determined to buy a dog of their own, so impressed were they with Shaun-or 'Saint Shaun,' as I came to call him. Born with the curse of an uncertain lineage, he was one of the tens of thousands of unwanted dogs in America. Yet by some stroke of almost providential good fortune, he became wanted. He came into my life and I into his-and in the process, he gave me the childhood every kid deserves.

6. The love affair lasted fourteen years, and by the time he died I was no longer the little boy who had brought him along on that summer day. I was a man, out of college and working across the state in my first real job. Saint Shaun had stayed behind when I moved on. It was where he belonged. My parents, by then retired, called to break the news to me. My mother would later tell me, 'In fifty years of marriage, I've only seen your father cry twice. “The first time was when we lost Mary Ann'-my sister, who was stillborn. 'The second time was the day Shaun died.'

7. Saint Shaun of my childhood. He was perfect dog. At least that's how I will always remember him. It was Shaun who set the standard by which I would judge all other dogs to come.

(Marley and Me by John Groan)

1.1 Complete the following statements:
(a) The dog farm was run by .................... .
(b) The author did not want an old dog because.................... .
(c) He fell in love with the dog the moment the latter.................... .
(d) Shaun became so obedient that he.................... until the author allowed him.
(e) After visiting them their relatives wanted.................... .
(f) When Shaun died even.................... .

1.2 Find words from the passage which mean the same as the following:
(a) urgent request (para 1)
(b) falling (para 3)

Read the following passage:
It's Beginning to Bite
In these trying times, when buying ordinary food stuff can burn a hole in your pockets, comes the news that can actually help us save some hard cash when we go out to shop the next time. According to a Stanford University study, the first of its kind in the world, there is no evidence to suggest that there are more nutritional benefits from expensive organic food than those grown by conventional methods. The researchers add that there is no difference in protein and fat content between organic and conventional milk and the vitamin count is similar in both types. The only benefit is that organic foods are not contaminated with pesticides but then before you chew on the plate of organic okra with roti made from organic wheat, they are not 100% pesticide free either. In India, organic food has been growing at 20-22% and the export market is valued at Rs. 1,000 crore. Obviously, the study is not good news for that sector and for people who are big on organic food.

In India, eating organic food is more of a style statement than due to health worries because the stuff is expensive. But people who can, do indulge in not only organic vegetables but even organic eggs laid by 'happy hens', who are allowed to roam around freely whereas 'unhappy hens' are kept in coops. Then there are companies that have installed music channels in their cowsheds and the milk from those sheds are sold at a marked up price since it has more nutritional value because the animals are happy thanks to lilting 24×7 music. We don't know yet any farmer using music to improve his crop quality, but then you never know: plants are known to respond to music.

Why such pickiness about food? These days, the huge number of TV shows and articles that we see and read on food provide bread and butter for the specialist. But instead of decoding food, its sources and what has gone into growing it, isn't it much better to enjoy what's on the plate?
(Adapted from The Hindustan Times)

2.1 Complete the statements given below by choosing the correct options from those that follow:
(a) According to a Stanford University study, organic food in relation to conventional food is________.
  (i) less nutritious
  (ii) more nutritious
  (iii) very conventional
  (iv) as nutritious
(b) The study will not be welcomed by _________.
  (i) farmers of conventional food
  (ii) makers of pesticides
  (iii) all sectors
  (iv) exporters of organic food
(c) We can save some hard cash by _________.
  (i) buying organic food
  (ii) not buying organic food
  (iii) going to the shop
  (iv) not buying food with pesticides
(d) Music channels are installed in the cowshed because the _________.
  (i) cows then give more milk
  (ii) milk is sold at a higher price
  (iii) milk becomes more pure
  (iv) workers becomes happy
(e) In the second paragraph, the author's attitude to the people who eat food sourced from 'happy' animals is that he _________.
  (i) is happy with them
  (ii) is unhappy with them
  (iii) is laughing at them
  (iv) wants crops to be grown similarly
(f) One benefit of organic food is that __________.
  (i) it is fashionable to eat
  (ii) only rich people can afford it
  (iii) it is less contaminated with pesticides
  (iv) even poor people can afford it
(g) The word 'contaminated' means ________.
  (i) adulterated
  (ii) for adults
  (iii) containing
  (iv) not healthy

Imagine you are Gitika. Road the following conversation and write a suitable message for your mother in 50-60 words:
Ankita  : Hi, didi ! I'm Ankita on the line. Is aunty at home?
Gitika   : No, she has gone to visit my grandparents. Is there any problem?
Ankita: No, I just wanted to inform her that we have a special havan tomorrow at 9 a.m. at our place. My mother has specially invited all of you.
Gitika   : Okay, Thanks! I'll inform her and we will definitely come.

Your maid has 4 children ‒ 3 daughters and 1 son. All her daughters work as maids to earn money, while the son goes to a school and gets everything he desires. You feel pity for the girls and sad at the way our society treats girls. Write a diary entry in 50‒60 words.

Last year your school appointed a new T.G.T. who came to teach you English in class 9. You are very impressed with her. Write a description of your T.G.T. (English) in about 100 words. You may use the clues given below:
• qualification, college/university
• personality
• attitude towards students
• manner of teaching
• problem solving
• course punctuality
• weak students

Your city was inundated by the recent rains causing extensive waterlogging, traffic snarls and ugly jams. The life of the common man was completely disrupted. You have decided to write an email to the editor of a local daily describing the condition of the city. Make suggestions for improvement. As Renu/Rohit, write this email in 120-150 words.

You are Amit/Anita, Head Boy/Head Girl of your school. You have been asked by your principal to deliver a speech in the morning assembly on 'Importance of Punctuality in a student's life'. Write your speech in about 120 words.

Read the passage given below:

The Perfect Dog

1. In the summer of 1967, when I was 10 years old, my father caved into my persistent pleas and took me to get my own dog. Together we drove in the family station wagon far into the Michigan countryside to a farm run by a rough-hewn women and her ancient mother. The farm produced just one commodity-dog. Dogs of every imaginable size and shape and age and temperament. They had only two things in common: each was a mongrel of unknown and distinct ancestry, and each was free to a good home.

2. I quickly decided the older dogs were somebody else's charity case. I immediately raced to the puppy cage. 'You want to pick one that's not timid,' my father coached. 'Try rattling the cage and see which ones aren't afraid.'

3. I grabbed the chain-link gate and yanked on it with a loud clang. The dozen or so puppies reeled backward, collapsing on top of one another in a squiggling heap of fur. Just one remained. He was gold with a white blaze on his chest, and he charged at the gate, yapping fearlessly. He jumped up and excitedly licked my fingers through the fencing. It was love at first sight.

4. I brought him home in a cardboard box and named him Shaun. He was one of those dogs that gives dogs a good name. He effortlessly mastered every command I taught him and was naturally well behaved. I could drop a crust on the floor and he would not touch it until I gave the okay.

5. Relatives would visit for the weekend and returned home determined to buy a dog of their own, so impressed were they with Shaun-or 'Saint Shaun,' as I came to call him. Born with the curse of an uncertain lineage, he was one of the tens of thousands of unwanted dogs in America. Yet by some stroke of almost providential good fortune, he became wanted. He came into my life and I into his and in the process, he gave me the childhood every kid deserves.

6. The love affair lasted fourteen years, and by the time he died I was no longer the little boy who had brought him along on that summer day. I was a man, out of college and working across the state in my first real job. Saint Shaun had stayed behind when I moved on. It was where he belonged. My parents, by then retired, called to break the news to me. My mother would later tell me, 'In fifty years of marriage, I've only seen your father cry twice.” The first time was when we lost Mary Ann'-my sister, who was stillborn. 'The second time was the day Shaun died.'

7. Saint Shaun of my childhood, He was perfect dog. At least that's how I will always remember him. It was Shaun who set the standard by which I would judge all other dogs to come.
(Marley and Me by John Groan)

1.1 Complete the following statements:

(a) The dog farm was run by .................... .

(b) The author did not want an old dog because.................... .

(c) He fell in love with the dog the moment the latter.................... .

(d) Shaun became so obedient that he.................... until the author allowed him.

(e) After visiting them their relatives wanted.................... .

(f) When Shaun died even.................... .

1.2 Find words from the passage which mean the same as the following:

(a) urgent request (para 1)
(b) falling (para 3)

Read the following passage:

It's Beginning to Bite
In these trying times, when buying ordinary foodstuff can burn a hole in your pockets, comes the news that can actually help us save some hard cash when we go out to shop the next time. According to a Stanford University study, the first of its kind in the world, there is no evidence to suggest that there are more nutritional benefits from expensive organic food than those grown by conventional methods. The researchers add that there is no difference in protein and fat content between organic and conventional milk and the vitamin count is similar in both types. The only benefit is that organic foods are not contaminated with pesticides but then before you chew on the plate of organic okra with roti made from organic wheat, they are not 100% pesticide free either. In India, organic food has been growing at 20-22% and the export market is valued at Rs. 1,000 crores. Obviously, the study is not good news for that sector and for people who are big on organic food.

In India, eating organic food is more of a style statement than due to health worries because the stuff is expensive. But people who can, do indulge in not only organic vegetables but even organic eggs laid by 'happy hens', who are allowed to roam around freely whereas 'unhappy hens' are kept in coops. Then there are companies that have installed music channels in their cowsheds and the milk from those sheds are sold at a marked up price since it has more nutritional value because the animals are happy thanks to lilting 24×7 music. We don't know yet any farmer using music to improve his crop quality, but then you never know: plants are known to respond to music.

Why such pickiness about food? These days, the huge number of TV shows and articles that we see and read on food provide bread and butter for the specialist. But instead of decoding food, its sources and what has gone into growing it, isn't it much better to enjoy what's on the plate?

(Adapted from The Hindustan Times)

2.1 Complete the statements given below by choosing the correct options from those that follow:

(a) According to a Stanford University study, organic food in relation to conventional food is________.
(i) less nutritious
(ii) more nutritious
(iii) very conventional
(iv) as nutritious

(b) The study will not be welcomed by _________.
(i) farmers of conventional food
(ii) makers of pesticides
(iii) all sectors
(iv) exporters of organic food

(c) We can save some hard cash by _________.
(i) buying organic food
(ii) not buying organic food
(iii) going to the shop
(iv) not buying food with pesticides

(d) Music channels are installed in the cowshed because of the _________.
(i) cows then give more milk
(ii) milk is sold at a higher price
(iii) milk becomes more pure
(iv) workers becomes happy

(e) In the second paragraph, the author's attitude to the people who eat food sourced from 'happy' animals is that he _________.
(i) is happy with them
(ii) is unhappy with them
(iii) is laughing at them
(iv) wants crops to be grown similarly

(f) One benefit of organic food is that __________.
(i) it is fashionable to eat
(ii) only rich people can afford it
(iii) it is less contaminated with pesticides
(iv) even poor people can afford it

(g) The word 'contaminated' means ________.
(i) adulterated
(ii) for adults
(iii) containing
(iv) not healthy

You are Geet / Geeta, Head Boy / Head Girl, Vanskriti School, Shimla. Your school is going to organize a trip to Leh-Ladakh during the summer vacation. Write a notice in 50‒60 words for the school notice board giving the details of the trip. Imagine all the details.

You are Sumit, a student of class X. Your father has been transferred to another city resulting in a change of school for you. You have been attending your new school for a week now. Write a diary entry in 50‒60 words on your thoughts and feelings about your old school and new school.

Given below are notes on the life of Ustad Rahi Khan. Write a biographical sketch of his in about 100 words:

Born – March 21st, 1926 in Sitapur, U.P.
His ancestors – famous musicians
At the age six – moved to Varanasi
Received training – under Ustad Amir Ali Khan – a sitar player
Started performing at the age of 14
Performed in India and abroad
Awarded Padam Shri in 1967
Established a music school at Varanasi
Died – August 21st, 2004
One of the best examples of Hindu–Muslim Unity

You are Ankita. You recently attended a seminar on 'Effective Listening Skills' and found it to be of great value. Write an email to your friend, Anita, in 120–150 words, giving details of the seminar and sharing what you learnt in the seminar. You can use the points given below:

* Venue and participants

* Listening is as important as speaking.

* Listening – a tool in good communication.

* Builds concentration

* Important for a student

Write an article in about 120 words on 'River pollution.' You may use the clues given below:

* rivers, biggest source of water

* victims of pollution

* industrial waste

* city waste drained into them

* religious ceremonies–idol immersion

* garlands and flowers

* ashes after cremation poured into rivers

Complete the paragraph given below by filling in each of the blanks with one word only with the help of options that follow:

While peeling the sweet lime and oranges (a)....................careful so that the segments are not mashed. The lettuce leaves are (b)....................into pieces. They are kept in ice-cold water (c)....................ten minutes.

(a) (i) was (ii) is (iii) be (iv) will

(b) (i) broken (ii) break (iii) breaks (iv) broke

(c) (i) with (ii) for (iii) on (iv) during

Read the following passage carefully:                                                           
“Mum!” I shouted. “Are you okay?” I saw her little tent shuddering in the gale and listened closely for her response. Her voice was almost casual, “Oh, yes, I’m fine” That‘s my mother. It was the first night of our cycling trip through the interior of Iceland – a region so remote and inhospitable that for centuries, according to legend, it was abandoned. The weather was decidedly hurricane-like, but Mum wasn’t concerned. Months ago, I told her about my plan to pedal across Iceland. “It will be really difficult,” I said. “The roads are unpaved and often washed out, and the wind is blowing constantly – sometimes so hard that it pushes you off the road.” There was silence for a moment. Then she asked, “Can I come?” “Sure,” I replied. “But like the rest of us, you have to train to do two 160 kilometres a day back-toback,” “Wow,” she said, “I could never do that,” I had more faith in my mother’s physical abilities than she did. I’d seen her raise six children and put in long hours doing physical labour on our small farm. “Sure you can,” I told her, “Start tomorrow.” What really concerned me was what I perceived to be her frustrating humility: I thought her too self-deprecating about her attractiveness just because she had not completed college. I felt she underestimated her attractiveness just because she was not the type to wear make-up or fancy clothes. As I had grown into adulthood, the life I’d chosen seemed light-years away from Mum’s quiet existence, still caring for her children and her children’s children. Sometimes, on a visit home, I’d describe some recent trip I’d taken, and her blue eyes would shine with interest.
So, I couldn’t help thinking this trek might revitalise Mum, who had started to slow down in her 50s. It might spice up what I saw as her humdrum life. And it might be a boost to her tentative and retiring persona. Mum trained furiously, months in advance. As the trip roster was pared down to Mum, my good friend Allen and me, she stood as the most dedicated. Soon she was riding 80–100 kilometres per day, and was as strong a rider as Allen or I.

1.1 Based on your reading of the passage, complete the following sentences.
(a) The narrator describes the roads across Iceland as …………..
(b) The narrator had faith in his mother’s physical abilities as ……………
(c) The training to take the adventure trip on cycle included …………..
(d) In his adulthood, the narrator realised that his life was ………..
(e) Descriptions of his trips always …………
(f) The narrator was sure that the trip would ………….
(g) The narrator and his friend were sure about Mum’s preparation when ………..

1.2 Find words from the passage that mean the same as the following.
(a) noticed/become aware of
(b) to give new life
(c) hesitant/not certain

Read the following passage carefully:
From the danger of losing one leg due to a knee injury to winning an Olympic bronze medal, Yogeshwar Dutt has come a long way. The freestyle wrestler’s story is one of passion for the sport and his perseverance and solid determination in realising his dream. Thanks to him, Bhainswal Kalan, a village some 20 kilometres away from Sonepat in Haryana, has become very popular now. Yogeshwar has qualities of a champion, and virtues like humility, respect for others and extending a helping hand to the needy, which make him even more endearing. His dream of winning an Olympic medal was not fulfilled in Beijing in 2008. Going through the injuries was a difficult period for him. The Mittal Champions Trust helped him when he had the knee injury. His intense desire to win a medal worked as a healing agent to all has injuries, he trained hard and God listened to his prayers. After 2008, his sole target was the 2012 Olympics. He wanted to participate in more and more competitions, but he was pulled down by injuries in 2009 and that robbed him of nearly one year. After that, he could not reduce his weight too often to take part in various events. All the time the Olympics was there in his mind. Even when he was injured he thought of winning an Olympic medal. His back injury was a problem, but he got over it. His friends and family backed him a lot. His brother and friends shared his responsibilities and allowed him to focus on wrestling with a free mind.

Based on your reading of the passage, choose the right answers from the given options to complete the following sentences.
(a) A quality necessary for a champion is …...............
i. perseverance
ii. determination
iii. passion
iv. each of the above

(b) Yogeshwar Dutt lost almost a year in 2009 because of ….................
i. injuries
ii. worship
iii. loss of weight
iv. the villagers

(c) The problem that did not trouble Yogeshwar was ….............. injury.
i. eye
ii. knee
iii. back
iv. head

(d) Even during his long and lonely stays abroad, ………… kept him motivated.
i. his parents
ii. the thought of the Olympic medal
iii. his injuries
iv. the thought of his responsibilities

(e) Yogeshwar Dutt was able to give his best as ……………….
i. he did not have to think of his responsibilities
ii. he participated in the Olympic games
iii. he was sure to get a medal
iv. he had an intense desire to win a medal

Read the following passage carefully:
We sat in silence in the dark of the night as the large head appeared from the large foliage. The female was young, healthy and alert. Seconds later, she walked confidently to the edge of a waterhole followed by not one, not two but three beautiful young cubs. Like works of art on display, all four tigers bent low at the waterhole that had been created for them and for the myriad creatures that shared their troubled kingdom. The Goshri tigers had come visiting and we watched them with rapt attention on our closed-circuit TV screens, in the conservation retreat of Harsh and Poonam Dhanwatey, a husband and wife team whose life had been dedicated to the protection of tigers in and around Maharashtra’s Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Their son Nikhil carefully positioned the cameras and cabled them 40 meters from their conservation retreat, near the waterhole which had turned into a magnet for every conceivable animal found in the Tiger Reserve itself. We were making preparations to set up one of the first Community Conservation Reserves in Central India.
Originally into business, the Dhanwateys changed tracks midstream by shutting down a thriving interior design business in response to just one meeting they had with Dr Ullas Karanth and Valmik Thapar, two of India’s finest tiger people, in Nagpur. In their own words, “From admirers of wildlife, we become passionate defenders and we launched our non- governmental organization called Tiger Research and Conservation Trust (TRACT).”
The Dhanwateys lived for years in a small hut which was their field camp near the famous Tadoba Lake and they discovered the secrets of the forest in the best way possible, by walking its trails, and generally learning all they could about the magical mix of life that comprised this tropical, dry deciduous forest.

Based on your reading of the passage, choose the right answers from the given options to complete the following sentences.

(a) Before taking up the cause of tigers, the Dhanwateys were …………
i. working in a non-governmental organisation
ii. in the textile business
iii. working with Dr Karanth
iv. managing an interior design business

(b) The waterhole is referred to as a magnet because ………………
i. a magnet was placed there
ii. all the animals were attracted to it
iii. cameras had magnets
iv. water was not available

(c) The narrator had gone to the Tiger Reserve to ………………
i. kill tigers
ii. set up a Tiger Reserve
iii. set up the first Community Conservation Reserve
iv. employ Nikhil in the Tiger Reserve

(d) The meeting with Dr Ullas Karanth and Valmik Thapar changed the lives of …………
i. Nikhil
ii. the Dhanwateys
iii. the narrator
iv. TRACT

(e) The activities in which the champions of TRACT are not involved are ……….
i. killing of tigers in that area
ii. discovering the secrets of the forests
iii. walking the trails of tigers
iv. living in the deciduous forests

Your school is celebrating grandparents’ day next week. Write a notice in 50–60 words to put up on the school notice board informing students of the celebration and requesting them to be present with their grandparents. You are Samir/Suman, Head Boy/Head Girl ABC Senior Secondary School, Delhi.                                                                       

You are Mahesh. You have been asked to meet the passport officer urgently to clarify certain details regarding the renewal of your passport. Write a message in 50–60 words for your mother who was not at home informing her of the matter and also telling her that you would be late in reaching home.   

Given below are details of an eminent environmentalist. Use the information to form a biographical sketch of Aruna Saxena in 80–100 words.                                              

Aruna Saxena – born in 1978 – education – M.A. in Environmental Science – achievements – actively involved in Green Revolution Movement – won her worldwide recognition – published a collection of poems, ‘Singing Birds’ – awards – won the national award for creating environmental awareness – other interests – painting, writing poetry – position held – President of Rotary Club of Marwar in 2007, President of the Poetry Club in 2009.

You are Sanchita/Sachin, 15, Mall Road, Delhi. Write a letter in 120–150 words to a friend telling him about the award ceremony for felicitating the toppers of your school.                    

Develop the following into a readable story in 120–150 words:
It was dark when we got down from the train. The place was totally strange to us. Gopi who had promised to be at the station was nowhere in sight…………….

Students these days are not careful with their pocket money and spend it lavishly. Write a speech in 120–150 words to be delivered in the morning assembly about the importance of saving in one’s life.                                                                                       

Read the passage given below and complete the statements that follow by choosing the most appropriate options from those given:
Jailbirds sing they say. And Subhadra Khosla, the youngest freedom fighter to be imprisoned at 13, was no exception. The only difference was that singing taught her the power of non-violence. Now, 80, Khosla recounted her days in jail. She was locked in jail with her mother for over a year. 'One day, we decided to put one chair on top of another till we managed to take off the Union Jack and unfurl the national flag.' The inmates of the jail found themselves facing a firing squad. 'There were orders to shoot us. We didn't know what else to do. So we started singing,' said Khosla. Their voice had its impact.
'The guards were Indians too. They started crying and said they couldn't fire at us. That was our first win,' a thrilled Khosla recalled. Khosla's father was a doctor and her brother, Krishna Kant, later on, became India's Vice-President. Khosla was picketing at Anarkali Bazar in Lahore in 1942 when she and her siblings were arrested. 'It was unfair.
We were all children after all. But the British wanted to destroy families like ours. We fought for this freedom. But we still have to go beyond.'

(a) The inmates of the jail had to face the firing squad because Khosla and her mother …..................
(i) unfurled the national flag
(ii) burned the Union Jack
(iii) unfurled the Union Jack
(iv) put one chair over a table 

(b) The Khoslas expressed their protest by …............
(i) crying
(ii) singing
(iii) shouting
(iv) running away 

(c) The British arrested the children to …...........
(i) teach them a lesson
(ii) listen to the songs
(iii) destroy their families
(iv) take them to Britain 

(d) The Khoslas showed the British the power of …............
(i) singing
(ii) money
(iii) violence
(iv) non-violence 

(e) The word, 'impact' means …........... 
(i) disgust
(ii) effect
(iii) gain
(iv) affect

Read the passage given below and complete the statements that follow by choosing the most appropriate options from those given:
Some reptiles are expert mimics, but they do it for a serious reason − to save their lives. The harmless milk snake has the banded appearance of the poisonous coral snake. In areas where they live together, this mimicry happens. The non-poisonous Mexican king snake looks like the coral snake, when young. A harmless snake may look like a poisonous snake. This is Batesian mimicry. So, enemies mistake the harmless reptile for the poisonous one and leave it alone. Blind legless lizards that live under the ground trick the enemies by displaying their tail. The underside of their tails is usually red or yellow in colour and looks like an open mouth. The enemy attacks the tail, mistaking it for the head. The tail can withstand injury better than the head, and the life of the lizard is saved. When the enemy attacks lizards, they break off their tail. The tail jumps about on the ground, confusing the enemy, and helps the lizard to make good its escape.

(a) The milk snake and coral snake resemble in their…..............
(i) drinking of milk
(ii) banded appearance
(iii) poison fangs
(iv) outlook

(b) 'Batesian mimicry' helps the ….................
(i) reptiles to do mimicry
(ii) harmless reptiles to escape
(iii) poisonous reptiles to escape
(iv) reptiles to sleep

(c) the enemy of the blind legless lizards attacks its …................. mistaking it for…..............
(i) tail, head
(ii) head, tail
(iii) tail, mouth
(iv) mouth, red

(d) When the tail of a lizard breaks off, it …................
(i) saves its head from being cut
(ii) excites the lizard
(iii) makes the enemy happy
(iv) confuses its enemy

(e) The red or yellow structure which looks like an open mouth is the ….................
(i) tail
(ii) limb
(iii) scales
(iv) head

Read the poem given below and answer the questions that follow:
Here comes the elephant
Swaying along
With his cargo of children
All singing a song:
To the tinkle of laughter
He goes on his way
And his cargo of children
Have crowned him with may.
His legs are in leather
And padded his toes:
He can root up an oak
With a whisk of his nose;
With a wave of his trunk
And a turn of his chin
He can pull down a house,
Or pick up a pin.
Beneath his grey forehead
A little eye peers:
Of what is he thinking
Between those wide ears?
What does he feel?
If he wished to tease,
He could twirl his keeper
Over the trees:
If he were not kind,
He could play cup and ball
With Robert and Helen
And Uncle Paul:
But that grey forehead,
Those crinkled ears
Have learned to be kind
In a hundred years:
And so with the children
He goes on his way
To the tinkle of laughter
and crowded with may.

(a) Where are the children?

(b) How can the elephant tease its keeper?

(c) Which characteristic trait of the elephant enables him to be with the children?

(d) What does the poet say about the elephant's strength?

(e) How does the poet describe the elephant's legs?

Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:

Neem is very commonly seen in India. The entire tree i.e. the bark, leaves and flowers have a lot of medicinal value as it helps in curing various diseases. The leaves and the bark of this tree are very effective in controlling infections, deworming and in disinfecting and healing wounds. The fresh leaves can be used by extracting the juice or a paste of the leaves can be taken along with a small piece of jaggery. In case of wounds a few leaves can be boiled in water and then this water when at tolerable temperature, can be used to wash the wounds. Two drops of neem oil can be used for applying on the wound. Neem also helps in relieving itch in case of allergic rashes. Neem water can be used in case of allergic reactions. The paste of neem seeds can be applied on the scalp and washed off after 10 minutes of application. It also helps in eliminating dandruff, boils on the scalp and also prevents hair fall. Neem is very useful in jaundice. The juice can be given along with honey. Neem is very useful in case of fever. Fresh leaves can be taken with tulsi leaves or with honey. Neem water can be used to soak the feet in case of cracks on dry feet. Neem leaf powder is used for preserving grains and pulses. Neem is of special importance on New Year's Day as a symbol of good health and longevity.

(a) What is the medicinal value of neem?
(b) What is the paste of neem seeds used for?
(c) How does neem help grains and pulses?
(d) What is neem a symbol of?
(e) Which word in the passage is the adjectival form of 'tolerate'?

Your school celebrated ‘Teacher’s Day’ on September 5^th. Write a short paragraph describing how you celebrated it giving all the relevant details in about 80 words.

In the tension-ridden world of today, it is very important that we live a healthy life with nutritious food and proper exercise. Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper in about 120 words on how a healthy mind in a healthy body can bring about peace and happiness in life. You are Ram/Rama, 15 Pant Nagar, Agra.                                                       

You are Ankit/Ankita. You visited the Arctic region as part of an expedition. The melting of the ice-caps and the rising water level alarmed you and made you realise the intensity of global warming. On your return, you decided to write an article for a youth magazine on your concerns regarding the effects of global warming. Write the article in about 150 words.

Read the following passage carefully:
I learned to handle money at a very young age. But most children become adults with little or no financial literacy. Here are four ways to make children understand money.

The first way is to set good examples. Children must understand by example that money comes from hard work and that it must not be wasted. I grew up seeing my parents work hard, earn more and save sensibly — and like Dad I have never run into debt.

Secondly, we must teach basic money management at home, because that’s never taught at school. Many parents don’t discuss money with their children, one reason why there is financial illiteracy among adults. Most experts feel it’s best to give an allowance, depending on the child’s age and how much the parent feels is right. By the time I was in high school my Dad told me about his small investments — fixed deposits, gold and property. Today I know that he was “allocating his assets to spread the risk.”

Children also learn money management by working part — time jobs — teenagers can work part time in advertising, malls and restaurants. These jobs provide the joy of their very first earnings: they’ll also learn the dignity of labour. Today, many youngsters are deep in credit - card debt, and parents are partly to blame; for not teaching them that borrowing money, costs money which can ruin you. Make children understand that the craving for more and more which their friends might have is not wise or appropriate behaviour.

Answer by choosing the most suitable options :
(a) Setting a good example for children helps in :
(i) Understanding by examples.
(ii) Knowing that money comes from hard work.
(iii) Not wasting money.
(iv)  Observing that working hard and saving avoids debt.

(b) ‘Financial literacy’ means:
(i) Handling money at a young age.
(ii) Childhood interpretation of money.
(iii) Money management by working, saving and increase of assets.
(iv) Working in part-time jobs and earning for the first time.

(c) Basic money management can be taught at home by:
(i) Discussing money at home.
(ii) Giving an allowance
(iii) Talking about investments in various areas such as property and
      gold.
(iv) All of the above.

(d) Allocating assets to spread the risk means:
(i) investing in many ventures.
(ii) savings in bank deposits and certificates.
(iii) investing widely in assets.
(iv) small investments in gold, property and fixed deposits.

(e) Young adults get caught in debt traps because:
(i) their parents didn’t make them financially literate.
(ii) they didn’t work part-time.
(iii) high rates of interest.
(iv) craving for too much and living beyond their means.    

Read the following passage carefully:
Long ago, in a big forest, there were many trees. Among the cluster of trees, there was a very tall pine tree. He was so tall that he could talk to the stars in the sky. He could easily look over the heads of the other trees. One day late in the evening, the pine tree saw a girl approaching him. He could see her only because of his height. The little girl was in tears. The pine tree bent as much as he could and asked her: “What is the matter? Why are you crying ?” The little girl, still sobbing, replied, “ I was gathering flowers for the Christmas garland and I have lost my way. “ The pine tree said to the little girl, “ It is late in the evening. It will not be possible for you to return to your house, which is at the other end of the forest. Sleep for the night at this place. “ The pine tree pointed out to an open cave like place under him. The little girl was frightened of wild animals. The girl quickly crept into the cave-like place. The pine tree was happy and pleased with himself. He stood like a soldier guarding the place. He was pleased with himself for doing this duty. After some time, the pine tree heard the wolves coming that way. 

(a) The little girl was crying as _________.
(i) she had a habit of doing so.
(ii) she had lost her garland.
(iii) she was afraid of the wild animals.
(iv) she could not trace the way back her home in the forest.

(b) The pine tree could see the little girl because _________.
(i) he had a desire to develop friendship with her.
(ii) the stars informed him about the little girl.
(iii) he heard the sobbing of the girl.
(iv) he was the tallest tree in the forest.

(c) The little girl spent the night in the cave-like place as _________.
(i) she was directed by the pine tree to do so.
(ii) she wanted to see the hidden animals inside it.
(iii) the weather outside was very cold.
(iv) the cave-like place was covered with tree trunk.

(d) The pine tree was happy with himself because he __________.
(i) was proud of his height.
(ii) had got a chance to do his duty.
(iii) could locate the girl who had lost her way in the forest.
(iv) succeeded in commanding the stars.

(e) The meaning of the word `crept’ is _________.
(i) walked
(ii) pushed
(iii) crawled
(iv) pulled

Read the following poem carefully:                                         
The Leader
Patient and steady with all he must bear,
Ready to meet every challenge with care,
Easy in manner, yet solid as steel,
Strong in his faith, refreshingly real,
Isn’t afraid to propose what is bold,
Doesn’t conform to the usual mould,
Eyes that have foresight, for hindsight won’t do,
Never backs down when he sees what is true,
Tells it all straight, and means it all too.

Going forward and knowing he’s right,
Even when doubted for why he would fight,
Over and over he makes his case clear
Reaching to touch the ones who won’t hear.
Growing in strength, he won’t be unnerved,
Ever assuring he’ll stand by his word.
Wanting the world to join his firm stand,
Bracing for war, but praying for peace,
Using his power so evil will cease:
So much a leader and worthy of trust,
Here stands a man who will do what he must.

On the basis of your reading of the above poem, complete the following
statements:
(1) This poem is about the qualities a ____________ should possess.
(2) ‘Doesn’t conform to the usual mould’ suggests that the person being
      described has qualities ___________.
(3) The leader would fight bravely but at the same time pray for ___________.
(4) Using his power so evil will cease: Here ‘cease’ means to ___________.
(5) A true leader is a man who can be ___________.

                                ASIATIC BLACK BEAR
The commercial trade in bear parts especially the gall bladder, which is used in
traditional Chinese medicine-poses a major threat to the Asiatic black bear.
Besides poaching, there is loss of habitat and increased confrontation with man.
Only a small proportion of the bear population in the country is within protected
areas. Since bears move to different habitats and elevations depending on the
season, they come into conflict with humans. S. Sathyakumar, Head of the
Department of Endangered Species at the Wildlife Institute of India, says that
“bears become increasingly territorial during their breeding season in summer
and tend to attack whatever resources are available”. Cases of mauling also tend
to increase making human-bear conflict common, especially in mountainous
regions. Most of the bears found in India spread across the hill states of Jammu
and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and North East. A comprehensive
count of Asiatic bears in India is not available but estimates put their number at
anywhere between 6000 and 7000. However, their numbers can fall if poaching
continues and the habitat shrinks further.

On the basis of your reading of the above passage, complete the following
sentences. Write the answers in your answer sheet against the correct blank
numbers.
(1) Asiatic bear is usually hunted for ___________.
(2) Major threat is posed to this bear by ___________.
(3) Cases of mauling tend to increase during their breeding season because
___________.
(4) Bears are usually found in India in ___________
(5) The word in the passage which means’ dying out’/ at risk is ___________.

You have been served with the following notes on ‘Kashmir’. Develop a paragraph in about 80 words on “Kashmir; the Paradise of India” using all these notes.                                                                                              

                                                 Kashmir

You are Shailendra living at H.N. 390 Sector 14, Gurgaon. Write a letter to your friend living at M-13 Greater Kailash New Delhi, describing your return journey from your ancestral village and the fantastic memories of village life that you still cherish. (120 words)                                                          

The pictures given below are of mobile phones made by different companies getting popularity among all age groups at the same time troubling them. Write a speech giving negative as well as positive aspects of cell phones. (150 words)

“Mum!” I shouted. “Are you okay?” I saw her little tent shuddering in the gale and listened closely for her response. Her voice was almost casual: “Oh, yes, I’m fine.” That’s my mother. It was the first night of our cycling trip through the interior of Iceland − a region so remote and inhospitable that for centuries, according to legend, it was abandoned. The weather was decidedly hurricane-like, but Mum wasn’t concerned. Months ago, I told her about my plan to pedal across Iceland. “It will be really difficult,” I said. “The roads are unpaved and often washed out, and the wind is blowing constantly − sometimes so hard that it pushes you off the road.” There was silence for a moment. Then she asked, “Can I come?” “Sure,” I replied. “But like the rest of us, you have to train to do two 160 kilometers a day back-to-back,” “Wow,” she said, “I could never do that,” I had more faith in my mother’s physical abilities than she did. I’d seen her raise six children and put in long hours doing physical labor on our small farm. “Sure you can,” I told her, “Start tomorrow.” What really concerned me was what I perceived to be her frustrating humility: I thought her too self − deprecating about her intellect just because she had not completed college. I felt she underestimated her attractiveness just because she was not the type to wear make-up or fancy clothes. As I had grown into adulthood, the life I’d chosen seemed light-years away from Mum’s quiet existence, still caring for her children and her children’s children. Sometimes, on a visit home, I’d describe some recent trip I’d taken, and her blue eyes would shine with interest. So I couldn’t help thinking this trek might revitalize Mum, who had started to slow down in her 50s. It might spice up what I saw as her humdrum life. And it might be a boost to her tentative and retiring persona. Mum trained furiously, months in advance. As the trip roster was pared down to Mum, my good friend Allen and me, she stood as the most dedicated. Soon she was riding 80-100 kilometers per day, and was as strong a rider as Allen or I.

1.1 Based on your reading of the passage, complete the following sentences.

(a) The narrator describes the roads across Iceland as ……….

(b) The narrator had faith in his mother’s physical abilities as ………...

(c) The training to take the adventure trip on cycle included …………….

(d) In his adulthood the narrator realized that his life was…………..

(e) Descriptions of his trips always ……………

(f) The narrator was sure that the trip would ………..

(g) The narrator and his friend were sure about Mum’s preparation when …………


1.2 Find words from the passage that mean the same as the following. 

(a) noticed/became aware of
(b) to give new life
(c) hesitance/not certain

Read the following passage carefully.

From the danger of losing one leg due to a knee injury to winning an Olympic bronze medal, Yogeshwar Dutt has come a long way. The freestyle wrestler’s story is one of passion for the sport and his perseverance and solid determination in realising his dream. Thanks to him, Bhainswal Kalan, a village, some 20 kilometres away from Sonepat in Haryana, has become very popular now. Yogeshwar has qualities of a champion and virtues like humility, respect for others and extending a helping hand to the needy, which make him even more endearing. His dream of winning an Olympic medal was not fulfilled in Beijing in 2008. Going through the injuries was a difficult period for him. The Mittal Champions Trust helped him when he had the knee injury after the Beijing Olympics. He had a problem in seeing due to injury. His intense desire to win a medal worked as a healing agent to all his injuries. He trained hard and God listened to his prayers. After 2008, his sole target was the 2012 Olympics. He wanted to Participate in more and more competitions, but he was pulled down by injuries in 2009 and that robbed him of nearly one year. After that, he could not reduce his weight too often to take part in various events. All the time the Olympics was there in his mind. Even when he was injured he thought of winning an Olympic medal. His back injury was a problem but he got over it. His friends and family backed him a lot. His brother and friends shared his responsibilities and allowed him to focus on wrestling with a free mind.

Based on your reading of the passage, choose the right answer from the given options to complete the following sentences.

(a) A quality necessary for a champion is ………

(i) perseverance
(ii) determination
(iii) passion
(iv) each one of the above

(b) Yogeshwar Dutt lost almost a year in 2009 because of ………..

(i) injuries
(ii) worship
(iii) loss of weight
(iv) the villagers

(c) The problem that did not trouble Yogeshwar was ………. injury.

(i) eye
(ii) knee
(iii) back
(iv) head

(d) Even during his long and lonely stays abroad ……. kept him motivated.

(i) his parents
(ii) the thought of the Olympic medal
(iii) his injuries
(iv) the thought of his responsibilities

(e) Yogeshwar Dutt was able to give his best as …………

(i) he did not have to think of his responsibilities
(ii) he participated in the Olympic games
(iii) he was sure to get a medal
(iv) he had an intense desire to win a medal

We sat in silence in the dark of the night as the large head appeared from the large foliage. The female was young, healthy and alert. Seconds later, she walked confidently to the edge of a waterhole followed by not one, not two, but three beautiful young cubs. Like works of art on display, all four tigers bent low at the waterhole that had been created for them and for the myriad creatures that shared their troubled kingdom. The Goshri tigers had come visiting and we watched them with rapt attention on our closed − circuit TV screens, in the conservation retreat of Harsh and Poonam Dhanwatey, a husband and wife team whose life had been dedicated to the protection of tigers in and around Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. Their son Nikhil carefully positioned the cameras and cabled them 40 meter from their conservation retreat, near the waterhole that had turned into a magnet for every conceivable animal found in the Tiger Reserve itself. We were making preparations to set up one of the first Community Conservation Reserves in Central India. Originally into business, the Dhanwateys changed tracks midstream by shutting down a thriving interior design business in response to just one meeting they had with Dr. Ullas Karanth and Valmik Thapar, two of India’s finest tiger people, in Nagpur. In their own words: “From admirers of wildlife we became passionate defenders and we launched our non-governmental organization called Tiger Research and Conservation Trust (TRACT).” The Dhanwateys lived for years in a small hut that was their field camp near the famous Tadoba Lake and they discovered the secrets of the forest in the best way possible, by walking its trails, and generally learning all they could about the magical mix of life that comprised this tropical, dry deciduous forest.
Based on your reading of the passage, choose the right answer from the given options to complete the following sentences.

(a) Before taking up the cause of tigers the Dhanwateys were………

(i) working in a non-governmental organization
(ii) in the textile business
(iii) working with Dr. Karanth
(iv) managing an interior design business

(b) The waterhole is referred to as a magnet because ……

(i) a magnet was placed there
(ii) all the animals were attracted to it
(iii) cameras had magnets
(iv) water was not available

(c) The narrator had gone to the Tiger Reserve to ………

(i) kill tigers
(ii) set up a Tiger Reserve
(iii) set up the first Community Conservation Reserve
(iv) employ Nikhil in the Tiger Reserve

(d) The meeting with Dr. Ullas Karanth and Valmik Thapar changed the lives of …… 

(i) Nikhil
(ii) the Dhanwateys
(iii) the narrator
(iv) TRACT

(e) The activities in which the champions of TRACT are not involved are …….

(i) killing of tigers in that area
(ii) discovering the secrets of the forests
(iii) Walking the trails of tigers
(iv) living in the deciduous forests

Your school is celebrating grandparents’ day next week. Write a notice in 50-60 words to be put up on the school notice board informing students of the celebration and requesting them to be present with their grandparents. You are Samir/Suman, Head Boy/Head Girl ABC Sen. Sec. School, Delhi.

You are Mahesh. You have been asked to meet the passport officer urgently to clarify certain details regarding renewal of your passport. Write a message in 50-60 words for your mother who was not at home informing her of the matter and also telling her that you would be late in reaching home.

Given below are details of an eminent environmentalist. Use the information to form a biographical sketch of Aruna Saxena in 80-100 words.

Aruna Saxena − born in 1978 − education − M.A. in Environmental Science
− achievements − actively involved in Green Revolution Movement − won her worldwide recognition − published a collection of poems, ‘Singing Birds’ − awards − won the national award for creating environmental awareness − other interests − painting, writing poetry −
− positions held − President of Rotary Club of Marwar in 2007, President of the Poetry Club in 2009

You happened to witness a film being shot in your locality. Write a letter in 120-150 words to a friend describing your experience. You are Rani/Raman, 15, Vinay Nagar, Ooty.

At the party, Lalitha was thrilled to notice that sitting in a corner all alone, was her friend whom she had not met for a long time.................... Complete the story in 120-150 words in any suitable way.

Inspite of laws banning child labour, children are still made to work. As President of the Residents' Association, make a speech in 120-150 words to be delivered at the Association's meeting about why it is still happening. Seek their co-operation to stop this practice.

Choose the appropriate options from the ones given below to complete the following passage:

As a young boy I (a) ……….. to play on the ground near my home. At the (b) ……… end of the ground was a library. I had often seen people walk in and out of it (c) ………… books in their hands. One evening I walked in and politely asked the librarian (d) ……..…a book.

(a) (i) was (ii) used (iii) are (iv) had

(b) (i) far (ii) near (iii) off (iv) hind

(c) (i) carried (ii) carrying(iii) carries (iv) carry

(d) (i) for (ii) him (iii) about (iv) to

Read the passage given below and complete the statements that follow by choosing the most appropriate options from those given.
Jailbirds sing they say. And Subhadra Khosla, the youngest freedom fighter to be imprisoned at 13, was no exception. The only difference was that singing taught her the power of non-violence. Now, 80, Khosla recounted her days in jail. She was locked in jail with her mother for over a year. 'One day, we decided to put one chair on top of another till we managed to take off the Union Jack and unfurl the national flag.' The inmates of the jail found themselves facing a firing squad. 'There were orders to shoot us. We didn't know what else to do. So we started singing,' said Khosla. Their voice had its impact.
'The guards were Indians too. They started crying and said they couldn't fire at us. That was our first win,' a thrilled Khosla recalled. Khosla's father was a doctor and her brother, Krishna Kant later on became India's Vice-President. Khosla was picketing at Anarkali Bazar in Lahore in 1942 when she and her siblings were arrested. 'It was unfair.
We were all children after all. But the British wanted to destroy families like ours. We fought for this freedom. But we still have to go beyond.'

(a) The inmates of the jail had to face the firing squad because Khosla and her mother …...................
(i) unfurled the national flag
(ii) burned the Union Jack
(iii) unfurled the Union Jack
(iv) put one chair over a table

(b) The Khoslas expressed their protest by …............
(i) crying
(ii) singing
(iii) shouting
(iv) running away

(c) The British arrested the children to …............
(i) teach them a lesson
(ii) listen to the songs
(iii) destroy their families
(iv) take them to Britain

(d) The Khoslas showed the British the power of ….........
(i) singing
(ii) money
(iii) violence
(iv) non-violence

(e) The word, 'impact' means …............
(i) disgust
(ii) effect
(iii) gain
(iv) affect

Read the passage given below and complete the statements that follow by choosing the most appropriate options from those given.    

Some reptiles are expert mimics, but they do it for a serious reason − to save their lives. The harmless milk snake has the banded appearance of the poisonous coral snake. In areas where they live together, this mimicry happens. The non-poisonous Mexican king snake looks like the coral snake, when young. A harmless snake may look like a poisonous snake. This is Batesian mimicry. So, enemies mistake the harmless reptile for the poisonous one, and leave it alone. Blind legless lizards that live under the ground trick the enemies by displaying their tail. The underside of their tails is usually red or yellow in colour, and looks like an open mouth. The enemy attacks the tail, mistaking it for the head. The tail can withstand injury better than the head, and the life of the lizard is saved. When the enemy attacks lizards, they break off their tail. The tail jumps about on the ground, confusing the enemy, and helps the lizard to make good its escape.

(a) The milk snake and coral snake resemble in their .................
(i) drinking of milk
(ii) banded appearance
(iii) poison fangs
(iv) outlook

(b) 'Batesian mimicry' helps the ...................
(i) reptiles to do mimicry
(ii) harmless reptiles to escape
(iii) poisonous reptiles to escape
(iv) reptiles to sleep

(c) the enemy of the blind legless lizards attacks its ............ mistaking it for...........
(i) tail, head
(ii) head, tail
(iii) tail, mouth
(iv) mouth, red

(d) When the tail of a lizard breaks off, it.............
(i) saves its head from being cut
(ii) excites the lizard
(iii) makes the enemy happy
(iv) confuses its enemy

(e) The red or yellow structure which looks like an open mouth is the ….................
(i) tail
(ii) limb
iii) scales
(iv) head

Read the poem given below and answer the questions that follow:

Here comes the elephant

Swaying along

With his cargo of children

All singing a song:

To the tinkle of laughter

He goes on his way

And his cargo of children

Have crowned him with may.

His legs are in leather

And padded his toes:

He can root up an oak

With a whisk of his nose;

With a wave of his trunk

(a) Where are the children?
(b) How can the elephant tease its keeper?
(c) Which characteristic trait of the elephant enables him to be with the children?
(d) What does the poet say about the elephant's strength?
(e) How does the poet describe the elephant's legs?

Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers.
They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of
human life where computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading
fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man's daily life as a
telephone or a calculator.

Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning.
They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated
facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide
information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This whole process by which machines
can be used to work for us has been called 'automation'. In the future, 'automation' may
enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automationSome years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could 'think'. There is no possibility that human beings will be 'controlled by machines'. Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or 'rule the world' by making decisions of their own.

Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough
to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable
information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios.
For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car
drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible

to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common
language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

a) What is the greatest advancement in modern technology? 

b) What are complicated works computers capable of doing? 

c) Write one use of computers.

d) Explain automation. 

e) Why can't computers lead independent lives or rule the world? 

f) How would computers as translating machines help people? 

g) What was the prediction of Sir Leon about computers in the future? 

h) How can computers help people going on holiday? 

Read the passage given below.

1. Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control.

2. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word 'impossible' was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster.

3. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors one's personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. As a result, they are unable to foresee future developments. Hence, a great risk of failure.

4. Then there is the question: how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, 'I was wrong'.

5. Overconfidence is a flaw characterising people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach.

6. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned.

7. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise, it becomes very dangerous.

2.1 Answer the following questions:

(a) Why does a person become overconfident?

(b) What does overconfidence generally lead people into?

(c) How can one manage overconfidence?

(d) What kind of person does 'modesty' make you?

2.2 Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the options that follow:

(a) Misadventure (Para 3)

(i) Mishap
(ii) Unlucky
(iii) Unhappy
(iv) Unpleasant

(b) Endangering (Para 3)

(i) Reckless
(ii)Imperil
(iii) Risky
(iv) Threatening

(c) Assess (Para 5)

(i) Assemble
(ii) Acquire
(iii) Evaluate
(iv) Accept

(d) Objective (Para 4)

(i) Obedient
(ii)Servile
(iii) Honest
(iv) Impartial

You feel that the 'Clean India Campaign' has not been as effective as you thought it should have been. As Ankit/Ankita, write an article in 100-120 words discussing the reasons for this. Also, highlight the measures that a common man and a student can take to make it a success.

Complete the following paragraph by filling in the blanks with the help of the
given options :

Reading a novel or short story (a) _________ second language could dramatically (b)
_______________physiological responses to emotions such __________(c) smiling.

(a) (i) of        (ii) in            (iii) from      (iv) at

(b) (i) reduce (ii) reduces   (iii) reduced (iv) reducing

(c) (i) like      (ii) similar to (iii) as         (iv) alike

The following paragraph has not been edited. There is one error in each line.
Write the error and its correction as shown in the example.

Error Correction

One day a wonderful plate full in gold    e.g    in            of

fell from Heaven into a courtyard of   (a) _________ ___________

a temple at Benaras; so on the         (b) _________ ___________

plate these words were inscribe.       (c) __________ ___________

'A gift from Heaven to he who          (d) __________ ___________

loves better'. The priests at on ce     (e) __________ ___________

made a announcement that every     (f) __________ ____________

-day at noon, all which would like     (g) _________ __________

to claimed the plate should come.     (h) _________ __________

Rearrange the following words and phrases into meaningful sentences. The first one has been done as an example.

detective I below / go / written / through the / story

Go through the detective story written below.

(a) can be / two / blamed I persons / the murder / for

(b) to the/ there are / culprit / may clues / real / pointing ,

(c) - the / find / murderer / who / real I out / is cy

Read the passage given below.

Then all the windows of the grey wooden house (Miss Hilton used to live here. She expired last week.), were thrown open, a thing I had never seen before.

At the end of the day a sign was nailed on the mango tree : FOR SALE.

Nobody in the street knew Miss Hilton. While she lived, her front gate was always locked and no one ever saw her leave or saw anybody go in. So even if you wanted to, you couldn’t feel sorry and say that you missed Miss Hilton.

When I think of her house I see just two colours. Grey and green. The green of the mango tree, the grey of the house and the grey of the high iron fence that prevented you from getting at the mangoes.

If your cricket ball fell in Miss Hilton’s courtyard you never got it back. It wasn’t the mango season when Miss Hilton died. But we got back about ten or twelve of our cricket balls.

The house was sold and we were prepared to dislike the new owners even before they came. I think we were a little worried. Already we had one resident of the street who kept on complaining about us to our parents. He complained that we played cricket on the pavement; and if we were not playing cricket he complained that we were making too much noise anyway.

One afternoon when I came back from school Pal said, “Is a man and a woman. She pretty pretty, but he ugly like hell”. I didn’t see much. The front gate was open, but the windows were shut again. I heard a dog barking in an angry way.

One thing was settled pretty quickly. Whoever these people were they would never be the sort of people to complain that we were making noise and disturbing their sleep.

A lot of noise came from the house that night. The radio was going at full volume until midnight when the radio station closed down. The dog was barking and the man was shouting. I didn’t hear the woman.

On the basis of your understanding of the above passage complete the following statements:

(a) Nobody went into Miss Hilton’s house because her front ___________ .

(b) Her house had only two colours, (i) ______ and (ii) _______.

(c) High iron fence did not let the boys get ____________.

(d) They never got it back if their ______ fell into her courtyard.

(e) The boys were ready to dislike the __________ .

(f) One resident of the street always ___________ .

(g) New owners of Miss Hilton’s house were (i) ___________ and (ii) __________ .

(h) A man was shouting, a dog was barking, only ____________ .

Read the passage given below:

During our growing up years we as children were taught–both at home and school–to worship the photos and idols of the gods of our respective religions. When we grow a little older, we were to read holy books like The Bhagwad Gita, Bible and Quran; we were told that there are a lot of life lessons to be learnt from these holy books. We were then introduced to stories from our mythologies which taught us about ethics and morality–what is good and what is bad. I also learnt to be respectful towards my parents who made my life comfortable with their hard work and love and care, and my teachers who guided me to become a good student and a responsible citizen.

Much later in life, I realised that though we learn much from our respective holy books, there is a lot to learn from our surroundings. This realisation dawned upon me when I learnt to enquire and explore. Everything around us–the sun, the moon, the stars, rain, rivers, stones, rocks, birds, plants and animals–teach us many valuable life lessons.

No wonder that besides the scriptures in many cultures nature is also worshipped. The message that we get is to save our environment and maintain ecological balance. People are taught to live in harmony with nature and recognise that there is God in all aspects of nature.

Nature is a great teacher. A river never stops flowing. If it finds an obstacle in its way in the form of a heavy rock, the river water fights to remove it from its path or finds an alternative path to move ahead. This teaches us to be progressive in life, and keep the fighting spirit alive.

Snakes are worshipped as they eat insects in the field that can hurt our crops, thus protecting the grains for us. In fact, whatever we worship is our helper and makes our lives easy for us. There are many such examples in nature, but we are not ready to learn a lesson. Overcome with greed, we are destroying nature. As a result we face natural disasters like drought, flood and landslides. We don’t know that nature is angry with us. However, it is never too late to learn. If we learn to respect nature the quality of our life will improve.

2.1 Answer briefly the following questions:

(a) What are we taught in our childhood and growing up years?

(b) Why should we respect our parents and teachers?

(c) What message do we get when we worship nature?

(d) How does a river face an obstacle that comes in its way?

2.2 Choose meanings of the words given below with the help of options that follow:

(e) guided:

(i)answered

(ii)advised

(iii)fought

(iv)polished

(f) explore:

(i)search

(ii)frequent

(iii)describe

(iv)request

(g) valuable:

(i)proper

(ii)desirable

(iii)available

(iv)useful

(h) harmony:

(i) beauty

(ii)friendship

(iii)discomfort

(iv)honesty

There is a busy road in front of your school. A large number of students have to cross the road while going back home. They run a
great risk. Write a letter in 100-120 words to the Editor, Navjiwan Times, Agra drawing attention of the concerned authorities to the problem. Make a request to mark a zebra crossing and to put traffic lights in front of your school. You are Amit/Anita, Class X, New Age Public School, Ram Nagar, Agra.

Write an article in 100-150 words on ‘Importance of Morning Walk.’ You are Amit/Anita. Use the following clues:

• makes you rise early
• fresh air
• blood rushes through your body
• energy for the day
• hungry for breakfast
• good for studies
• all day active

Write a story in 150-200 words based on the following outline:

two cats - hungry - a loaf of bread - can’t divide – each greedy - wants more - a clever monkey - offered to help – bit by bit - ate the bread – his fee - bread finished - cats foolish - still hungry.

Complete the story in 150-200 words which begins as thefollowing :

It was a family picnic. The picnic spot was the bank of a river ........ ........ ........

Complete the paragraph given below by filling in the blanks with the help of options that follow:

I met a smart young person (a) _____________ wanted a ‘selfie’ (b) ____________ me. So we (c) ___________ on top of a boundary wall.

(a) (i) which
(ii) who
(iii) whose
(iv) whom

(b) (i) with
(ii) on
(iii) for
(iv) to

(c) (i) sit
(ii) sits
(iii) sat
(iv) sitting

The following paragraph has not been edited. There is one error in each line. Write the error and its correction as shown in the example.

                                                                               Error   Correction

A saint walks the streets of Kolkata.          e.g.    walks      walked

It can happen only at India. It                   (a)   ______     ______

is time that us realised our                        (b)   ______     ______

strength. We are greater people. We          (c)   ______     ______

have so much religious leaders.                 (d)   ______     ______

Rearrange the words / phrases given below to form meaningful sentences.

(a) beautiful / Masha / dog / is a / young.
(b) praised / she / be / to / likes.
(c) policemen / group / works / of / with a / she

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

What does the author tell us about the financial condition of
her parents ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

What is the most treasured value of the author’s family ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

Give an example to show that the author’s parents were very
hospitable.

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

What kind of girl was the author ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

How do you know that the author’s parents discriminated  between sons and daughters ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

Why do the mountain people consider themselves to be born mountaineers ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

Why would the author invite foreign mountaineers to her house ?

I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity andself respect–the most treasured family value till today. At the sametime my parents alsopractised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives – whether it is in my home, in society oratthework place. I was the third child in the family–girl, boy, girl,girl and boy in that order–and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me ? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.

Why were foreigners drawn to the Himalayas ?

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

What strategy do animals like deer, antelopes etc adopt to drive away the panther ?

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

How do the panther and the game animals (deer, antelopes etc) react to open spaces ?

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

What effect does the loud noise made by birds and animals have on the panther ?

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

How does the panther kill its prey ?

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the
options that follow :
shrill (Para 1)

• rude

• high

• offensive

• terrible

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the
options that follow :
deliberately (Para 2)

• immediately

• cleverly

• intentionally

• naughtyly

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the
options that follow :
condemnation (Para 3)

• disapproval

• dismissal

• revenge

• annonanyce

One would imagine that at the very sight of the panther, deer, antelopes, and its other preys would just run for their lives. Nothing of the sort. They all stand their ground and make such a loud noise that the panther is left with no other choice except to leave quietly. I have seen a tiny chital babe standing in the middle of an opening in the forest, stamping its feet on the ground and shooing away a tiger. With the white of its erect tail showing, it kept up its shrill call until the tiger made itself scarce. No tiger in its senses would attempt to catch such an impertinent brat, just as you would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing away in your verandah. While the panther sticks to cover and hugs the edge of the forest, the game animals, on the other hand, like to assemble right out in open vast grazing grounds. Open spaces which the panther carefully avoids, are what the game animals deliberately seek. It is difficult to describe the pandemonium kicked up by various animals when they spot or suspect a panther around. The chital strikes a shrill note, the kakar emits a deafening bark and the sambar rings a bell. The peacock on its perch, the jungle fowl on the ground, and the monkey on treetops, all join in the chorus of condemnation of the panther. They curse the panther in their own inimitable language. The resulting confusion of sounds is so irritating to the sharp ears of the panther that it is left with no other option except to go away. The panther has thus to deal with its ever alert and watchful associates who show no mercy and expect none. It is a fight between finesse and flight between clever attack and skillful defence. Contrary to the common belief, the panther never springs upon its prey. It stalks as close to its victim as it can manage, and then makes the final dash by rushing at it at a lightning speed.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the
options that follow :
associates (Para 4)

• rivals

• neighbours

• superiors

• partners

Visiting new places and meeting new people enhance our understanding and knowledge besides being a source of great pleasure. Write an article in 100-120 words on ‘Travel, a Source of Knowledge and Pleasure.’ You are Gopal/Govindi.

Write a story in 150-200 words with the help of hints given
below : 
While strolling in the park near my house, I spotted a cobra. panicked but stood there like a statue. Frightening thoughts were arising in my mind and then .......................

Complete the following paragraph by filling in the blanks with the
help of the given options : 
The naughty children walked (a) _______________ flower beds, climbed the fruit trees (b) __________ plucked unripe fruits and they (c) ___________ pits on the garden path.
(a) (i) over (ii) in (iii) on (iv) across
(b) (i) but (ii) and (iii) therefore (iv) since
(c) (i) dig (ii) digging (iii) digs (iv) dug

The following paragraph has not been edited. There is one error in
each marked line. Write the error and its correction as shown in the
example.

Her duties for the day were over. e.g. for - of
She had scrub the floor of the kitchen, (a) ............ ............
washed the vessels and put them on a (b) ............ ............
shining row on an wooden shelf, returned (c) ............ ............
the short scrubbing broom to it’s corner (d) ............ ............
and closed the kitchen window.

Rearrange the following words / phrases to form meaningful sentences. The first one has been done as an example.
part / Kilimanjaro National Park / of / is / the / Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park.

dormant volcano / a / in / Mount Kilimanjaro / Tanzania / is

Rearrange the following words / phrases to form meaningful sentences. The first one has been done as an example.
part / Kilimanjaro National Park / of / is / the / Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park.

highest / Africa / it is / mountain / in / the

Rearrange the following words / phrases to form meaningful sentences. The first one has been done as an example.
part / Kilimanjaro National Park / of / is / the / Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park.

has been / many / it / the subject of / studies / scientific

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be  “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

What is the greatest advancement in modern technology?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

What complicated works are computers capable of doing?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Write one use of computers.

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Explain automation?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.
 
Why can’t computers lead independent lives or rule the world?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

How would computers as translating machines help people?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

What was the prediction of Sir Leon about computers in future?

One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life where
computers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

How can computers help people going on holiday?

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous. One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Why does a person become overconfident?

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous. One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

What does overconfidence generally lead people into?

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous. One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

How can one manage overconfidence?

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous. One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

What kind of person does ‘modesty’ make you?

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous.
One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the options that follow :
Misadventure (para 3)

• mishap

• unlucky

• unhappy

• unpleasant

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous.
One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the options that follow :
Endangering (para 3)

• Reckless

• Imperil

• Risky

• Threatening

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous.
One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the options that follow
Assess (para 5)

• Assemble 

• Acquire

• Evaluate

• Accept

Why does a person become overconfident? The reason lies in over assessment of his capabilities. Sometimes people over assess their competence and jump into situations that are beyond their control. Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of France would say that the word ‘impossible’ was common only amongst fools. The overconfident Napoleon invaded Russia in the winter of 1812. This proved to be a big disaster. Overconfidence generally leads people into misadventures, endangering their chances in life. It is wisely said that any achievement is a result of two factors-one’s personal planning and support from the external world. People, take into account only their planning, generally ignoring external factors. They become unable to foresee future developments. Hence, the great risk of failure. Then there is the question : how can one manage overconfidence? The formula is very simple. Before taking a decision discuss the matter with other informed people with an objective mind and when it is proved that you are about to go off the path, accept reality and say without delay, “I was wrong.” Overconfidence is a flaw characterizing people who lack the virtue of modesty. Modesty makes you a realist; you become a person who is cut down to size. People of this kind become very cautious; before taking an action they assess the whole situation. They adopt a realistic approach. Overconfident people live within their own thoughts. They know themselves but they are unaware of others. Living inside their own cell they are unable to make use of the experiences of others. This kind of habit is highly damaging to all concerned. There is a saying that the young man sees the rule and the old man sees the exception, with a slight change, I would like to say that the overconfident person sees the rule and the confident person sees the exception. Overconfident people are always at risk. It is said that taking risk is good but it must be well calculated otherwise it becomes very dangerous.
One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are widely used in industries and in universities. Now there is hardly any sphere of human life wherecomputers have not been pressed into service of man. We are heading fast towards the day when a computer will be as much part of man’s daily life as a telephone or a calculator. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put to varied uses. For instance, they can provide information on the best way to prevent traffic jams. This vwhole process by which machines can be used to work for us has been called ‘automation.’ In the future automation may enable human beings to enjoy more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound to have important social consequences. Some years ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think.’ There is no possibility that human beings will be “controlled by machines.” Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions from human beings to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives or “rule the world” by making decisions of their own. Sir Leon said that in future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry in the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged into a national network and be used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions. Car drivers can be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk to each other without any difficulty or to read foreign publications.

Find meanings of the words given below with the help of the options that follow :
Objective (para 4)

• Obedient

• Servile

• Honest

• Impartial

Many children feel tempted to break rules in school. They find pleasure in doing so. Write an article in 100-120 words discussing reasons for it. Suggest measures to make children respect rules. You are Arun/Aruna.