CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 15 Structure Of Sentences

1. We have learnt that a sentence is a group of words that makes complete sense. We have also learnt that every sentence consists of two parts—(1) the Subject, and (2) the Predicate.

The Subject denotes the person or thing about which something is said.
The Predicate is what is said about the person or thing denoted by the Subject.

When the Subject of a sentence consists of several words, there is always one word in it that is more important than the other words. This chief word is called the Subject-word or Simple Subject.

Thus, in the sentence – The hungry lion roars, the Noun lion is the subject word.

The Subject

The Subject is always a Noun, or a word or a group of words that does the work ofa Noun; as,

Examples

1. Birds fly.
2. He works hard
3. The poor are with us.
4. Swimming is a good exercise
5. To err is human.
6. To find fault is easy.

It will be noticed that

In sentence 1, the Subject is a Noun;

In sentence 2, the Subject is a Pronoun;

In sentence 3, the Subject is an Adjective used as a Norm;

In sentence 4, the Subject is a Gerund.

In sentence 5, the Subject is an Infinitive;

In sentence 6, the Subject is a group of words doing the work of a Noun.

Enlargement Of The Subject

Sometimes the subject-word is qualified by an Adjective, or some word or group of words that does the work of an Adjective. This is called its Enlargement or Attribute, as,

Example:

1. Lazy boys fail.
2. Barking dogs seldom bite.
3. Raman’s brother is a doctor.
4. His father is not here.
5. Bali, my brother, has passed.
6. A desire to succeed is necessary
7. Boys of bad character are shunned
8. The Predicate

It will be noticed that —

In sentence 1, the attribute is an adjective;

In sentence 2, the attribute is a participle;

In sentence 3, the attribute is a noun in the possessive case;

In sentence 4, the attribute is a possessive adjective;

In sentence 5, the attribute is a noun in apposition;

In sentence 6, the attribute is a gerundial infinitive;

In sentence 7, the Attribute is a group of words doing the work of an Adjective.

We have seen that the Predicate may consist of one word or several words. When it consists of one word, that word is always a Verb.

When it consists of several words, the essential word in the Predicate is always a Verb. Thus, in the sentence below — Harry is a lazy boy, the word is is the Verb.

Extension Of The Predicate

Just as the subject-word may be qualified by an Adjective or a word or a group of words doing the work of an Adjective, in the same way the Verb in the Predicate may be qualified by an Adverb or a word or a group of words doing the work of an Adverb, called its Extension or Adverbial Qualification; as,

1. The bulbul sings sweetly.
2. She went home.
3. He rose early next morning.
4. The teacher spoke angrily.
5. The sun having risen, we started

It will be noticed that —

In sentence 1, the Extension is an Adverb;

In sentence 2, the Extension is an Adverbial Object;

In sentence 3, the Extension is an Adverb Phrase.

In sentence 4, the Extension is a group of words doing the work of an Adverb;

In sentence 5, the Extension is an Absolute Phrase.

The Object

When the Verb in the Predicate is a Transitive Verb, it requires an Object to complete its sense.

For example, if we say—‘Birds build’, we do not make complete sense. You want to know what the birds build. The Verb build requires an Object, such as nests, to make complete sense.

Now, examine the Predicates in the following sentences —

Examples:

1. Cats catch mice.
2. He knowns here
3. The rich people should help the poor.
4. The foolish crow tried to sing.
5. The brave Rajputs loved fighting.
6. I do not know how to swim.

It will be noticed that —

In sentence 1, the Object is a Noun;

In sentence 2, the Object is a Pronoun;

In sentence 3, the Object is an Adjective used as a Noun;

In sentence 4, the Object is an Infinitive;

In sentence 5, the Object is a Gerund or Verbal Noun;

In sentence 6, the Object is a group of words doing the work of a Noun.

Enlargement Of The Object

An Object-word may have, like the Subject-word, an Attribute; as,

Examples:

1. We plucked red roses.
2. I met Raman’s father
3. He hurt his finger.
4. The policemen caught the wandering beggars.
5. All boys love Bali, the captain of our team.
6. She has money to spend.
7. The teacher found the boys making a noise.

It will be noticed that —

In sentence 1, the Enlargement of the Object is an Adjective;

In sentence 2, the Enlargement of the Object is a Noun in the Possessive Case;

In sentence 3, the Enlargement is a Possessive Adjective ;

In sentence 4, the Enlargement is a Participle;

In sentence 5, the Enlargement is a Noun in Apposition.

In sentence 6, the Enlargement is an Infinitive;

In sentence 7, the Enlargement is a group of words doing the work of an Adjective.

Direct And Indirect Objects

Sometimes the Transitive Verb in the Predicate takes two Objects—one Object shows the person for whom something is done, or to whom something is said or given; the other Object shows what is done, said, or given to the person.

The Object showing the person for whom something is done, or to whom something is said or given, is called the Indirect Object. The Object showing what is done, said, or given to the person is called the Direct Object.

Now, examine the predicates in the following sentences—

Examples:

1. The teacher gave Harry a prize.
2. He told us a story.
3. He showed Mary a picture.

The Complement

When the verb in the predicate is an Intransitive Verb, it can make complete sense by itself. But sometimes the verb in the predicate is an Intransitive Verb that requires an additional word or words to complete its meaning, as in, The sky grew dark.

If we merely say ‘The sky grew’, the words do not make complete sense. Grew is an Intransitive Verb, and requires some word (e.g., dark) to complete its meaning.

Such a verb is called a Verb of Incomplete Predication. What is required to complete the Predicate is called a Complement. A Complement that refers to the Subject of the Verb is called a Subjective Complement.

Now, examine the predicates in the following sentences —

1. Advani is a doctor.
2. It is I.
3. The Earth is round.
4. The woman seems worried.
5. Your brother is here.
6. This house is to let.
7. This book is of great use.

It will be noticed that —

In sentence 1, the Complement is a Noun;

In sentence 2, the Complement is a Pronoun;

In sentence 3, the Complement is an Adjective;

In sentence 4, the Complement is a Participle ;

In sentence 5, the Complement is an Adverb;

In sentence 6, the Complement is an Infinitive;

In sentence 7, the Complement is a group of words doing the work of an Adjective.

Certain Transitive Verbs require, besides the Object, an additional word or words to complete their meaning; as,

The people made him king.

Here, the Pronoun him is the Object of the Transitive Verb made which requires the word king to make the sense complete.

The Complement (king) here refers to the Object him. It is, therefore, called the Objective Complement.

Now, examine the Predicates in the following sentences —

Examples:

1. We called her Pinky.
2. The police found him guilty.
3. We heard the lion roaring.
4. This will make her repent.
5. These words filled her with shame.

Exercise -1

Arrange the group of words in their proper order to make sense

Question 1. In time, a stitch, nine, saves
Answer: A stitch in time saves nine.

Question 2. Now, airmen are crossing the Atlantic, airmen, quite regularly
Answer: Airmen are now crossing the Atlantic quite regularly.

Question 3. We used, years ago, instead of electric lamps, oil lamps
Answer: Years ago, we used oil lamps instead of electric lamps.

Question 4. Plenty of money, from kind friends, he was supplied with
Answer: He was supplied with plenty of money by kind friends.

Question 5. Unanimously elected him captain of the team, the boys
Answer: The boys unanimously elected him captain of the team.

Question 6. Our mother, this interesting story, one wintry night, told us
Answer: One winter night, the mother told us this interesting story.

Question 7. At the end of the road, a beautiful statue, you will find, made of marble
Answer: At the end of the road, you will find a beautiful statue made of marble

Question 8. How to do it, again and again, they showed him
Answer: They showed him how to do it again and again.

Question 9. The arctic ocean, airmen, very often, yet, have not crossed
Answer: Airmen have not yet crossed the Arctic Ocean very often.

Question 10. A large number of foreigners, in the park, yesterday, saw, taking photographs
Answer: Yesterday, they saw a large number of foreigners taking photographs in the park.

Exercise -2

Underline the verbs in the sentences given in Exercise 1. Then make a chart of the sentences as shown in the example. One is done for you.

Answer: 

Exercise 3

Underline the Indirect object and circle the Direct object in each sentence-

Question 1. The teacher asked us to sing a song.
Answer:

Indirect Object: us
Direct Object: (to sing a song)

Question 2. I apologised to Rohan for my mistake.
Answer:

Indirect Object: Rohan (object of preposition “to”)
Direct Object: (my mistake)

Question 3. Please give this book to him.
Answer:

Direct Object: (this book)
Indirect Object: him

Question 4. The leader proposed that we follow his plan.
Answer:

Direct Object: (that we should follow his plan)
(No indirect object in this sentence)

Question 5. She told me that the film was terrible.
Answer:

Indirect Object: me
Direct Object: (that the film was terrible)

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 23 Combination Of Sentences

Two or more Simple Sentences can be joined to form one Single Sentence by using Conjunctions. Study the following examples:

Exercise -1

Join each of the following pairs of simple Sentences into a single sentence

1. By using the Conjunction and:

Question 1. My brother got a prize. My sister got a prize.
Answer: My brother got a prize, and my sister got a prize.

Question 2. Mary is a clever girl. Pinky is a clever girl.
Answer: Mary is a clever girl, and Pinky is a clever girl.

Question 3. The sun rises in the east. The sun sets in the west.
Answer: The sun rises in the east, and it sets in the west.

Question 4. I can speak English. I can write English.
Answer: I can speak English, and I can write English.

Question 5. God made the country. Man made the town.
Answer: God made the country, and man made the town.

2. By using the Conjunction as well as :

Question 1. Tom passed. Peter passed.
Answer: Tom passed, as well as Peter.

Question 2. Sheila was to blame. Lily was to blame.
Answer: Sheila was to blame, as well as Lily.

Question 3. She sings. She plays the harmonium.
Answer: She sings, as well as plays the harmonium.

Question 4. We should obey our parents. We should honour them.
Answer: We should obey our parents, as well as honour them.

Question 5. The little child was fast asleep. Its mother was fast asleep.
Answer: The little child was fast asleep, as well as its mother.

3. By using the Conjunction not only…but also :

Question 1. He lost his ticket. He lost his luggage.
Answer: He lost not only his ticket but also his luggage.

Question 2. He was fined. He was sent to prison.
Answer: He was not only fined but also sent to prison.

Question 3. Bali is mischievous. He is cruel.
Answer: Bali is not only mischievous but also cruel.

Question 4. She told a lie. She deceived us.
Answer: She not only told a lie but also deceived us.

Question 5. His enemies declared him to be guilty. His best friends declared him to be guilty
Answer: Not only his enemies but also his best friends declared him guilty.

4. By using the Conjunction or :

Question 1. Do you like tennis? Do you like badminton?
Answer: Do you like tennis or badminton?

Question 2. She must weep. She will die.
Answer: She must stop, or she will die.

Question 3. Do your work honestly. Leave my service.
Answer: Do your work honestly, or leave my service.

Question 4. You must obey the rules. You must leave the school.
Answer: You must obey the rules, or you must leave the school.

Question 5. You must tell the truth. You will be punished.
Answer: You must tell the truth, or you will be punished.

5. By using the Conjunction either… or :

Question 1. The king must attend the ceremony. The queen must attend the ceremony.
Answer: Either the king or the queen must attend the ceremony.

Question 2. You can write with a pencil. You can write in ink.
Answer: You can write either with a pencil or in ink.

Question 3. You should go there at once. Your brother should go there at once.
Answer: Either you or your brother should go there at once.

Question 4. He has made a mistake. His brother has made a mistake.
Answer: Either he or his brother has made a mistake.

Question 5. Make your purchase. Get out of my shop.
Answer: Either make your purchase or get out of my shop.

5. By using the Conjunction neither… nor :

Question 1. He has no gold. He has no silver.
Answer: He has neither gold nor silver.

Question 2. She cannot read English. She cannot write English.
Answer: She can neither read nor write English.

Question 3. Do not be a borrower. Do not be a lender.
Answer: Be neither a borrower nor a lender.

Question 4. He does not love her. He does not hate her.
Answer: He neither loves nor hates her.

Question 5. He did not admit it. He did not deny it.
Answer: He neither admitted nor denied it.

6. By using the Conjunction else or otherwise :

Question 1. You must work hard. You will not pass.
Answer: You must work hard, otherwise you will not pass.

Question 2. Walk quickly. You will miss the train.
Answer: Walk quickly, else you will miss the train.

Question 3. Give her water immediately. She will die.
Answer: Give her water immediately, otherwise she will die.

Question 4. Do your work properly. You will be dismissed.
Answer: Do your work properly, or else you will be dismissed.

Question 5. We must do our homework. The teacher will punish us.
Answer: We must do our homework, otherwise the teacher will punish us.

2. Study the following examples carefully

Exercise 2

Join each of the following pairs of simple Sentences into a single sentence

1. By using the Conjunction but :

Question 1. I called on you. You were not at home.
Answer: I called on you, but you were not at home.

Question 2. The days are hot. The nights are cold.
Answer: The days are hot, but the nights are cold.

Question 3. He was a good speaker. He was a bad writer.
Answer: He was a good speaker, but he was a bad writer.

Question 4. She writes slowly. She writes neatly.
Answer: He writes slowly, but she writes neatly.

Question 5. He has passed. His sister has failed
Answer: He has passed, but his sister has failed.

2. By using the conjunctions though, although, still, or yet :

Question 1. He has got a prize. He is not satisfied.
Answer: Though he has got a prize, he is not satisfied.

Question 2. He is very rich. He is not content.
Answer: He is very rich, yet he is not content.

Question 3. He is sixty years old. He works very hard.
Answer: Although he is sixty years old, he works very hard.

Question 4. My uncle has great wealth. He is not happy.
Answer: My uncle has great wealth, but still, he is not happy.

Question 5. Bali is very poor. He does not work at all.
Answer: Though Bali is very poor, he does not work at all.

Question 6. Hari worked hard. He could not succeed.
Answer: Hari worked hard, yet he could not succeed.

Question 7. My uncle is very rich. He is not proud of his wealth.
Answer: Although my uncle is very rich, he is not proud of his wealth.

Question 8. Hari is very strong. He is not courageous.
Answer: Hari is very strong, but still, he is not courageous.

Question 9. He may deceive me. I trust him.
Answer: Though he may deceive me, I trust him.

Question 10. The poor man was very weak. He did a lot of work.
Answer: The poor man was very weak, yet he did a lot of work.

3. By using the Conjunction therefore or so :

Question 1. I have caught a cold. I shall stay at home.
Answer: I have caught a cold, so I shall stay at home.

Question 2. He was late. He could not catch the train.
Answer: He was late, therefore, he could not catch the train.

Question 3. He was found guilty. He was hanged.
Answer: He was found guilty, so he was hanged.

Question 4. I had a severe headache. I could not attend school yesterday.
Answer: I had a severe headache, therefore I could not attend school yesterday.

Question 5. He was ill. He could not attend the meeting.
Answer: He was ill, so he could not attend the meeting.

3. Study the following examples carefully

Exercise 3

Join each of the following pairs of simple Sentences into a single sentence

Question 1. He could scarcely stand. He was very tired.
Answer: He could scarcely stand because he was very tired.

Question 2. The meeting was over. All the people went home.
Answer: When the meeting was over, all the people went home.

Question 3. He was hanged. He had committed murder.
Answer: He was hanged because he had committed murder.

Question 4. The thief saw the policeman coming. He immediately ran away.
Answer: As soon as the thief saw the policeman coming, he immediately ran away.

Question 5. He tried his best. He failed the test.
Answer: Although he tried his best, he failed the test.

Question 6. He is very rich. He is not happy.
Answer: He is very rich, yet he is not happy.

Question 7. He worked hard. His purpose was to get a scholarship.
Answer: He worked hard to get a scholarship.

Question 8. I am intelligent. My brother is more intelligent.
Answer: I am intelligent, but my brother is more intelligent.

Question 9. His brother loves him. He loves his brother more.
Answer: His brother loves him, but he loves his brother more.

Question 10. Rama works hard. His brother works equally hard.
Answer: Rama works hard, and his brother works equally hard.

Question 11. He is patient. You are not equally patient.
Answer: He is patient, but you are not equally patient.

Question 12. All will respect you. You must be honest.
Answer: All will respect you if you are honest.

Question 13. You must work hard. You will never succeed.
Answer: Unless you work hard, you will never succeed.

Question 14. He heard the news. He began to weep.
Answer: On hearing the news, he began to weep.

Question 15. You will never pass. You must work hard.
Answer: You will never pass unless you work hard.

4. Study the following examples carefully:

Exercise-4

Join each of the following pairs of simple Sentences into a single sentence:—

Question 1. I remember the house. I was born there.
Answer: I remember the house where I was born.

Question 2. Here is the pen. You were looking for it.
Answer: Here is the pen that you were looking for.

Question 3. These are the boys. Their parents are dead.
Answer: These are the boys whose parents are dead.

Question 4. Jack gets the first prize. He deserves it.
Answer: Jack gets the first prize, which he deserves.

Question 5. This is the place. The accident occurred here.
Answer: This is the place where the accident occurred.

Question 6. She is Mrs Kaul. Her daughter is an actress.
Answer: She is Mrs. Kaul, whose daughter is an actress.

Question 7. We have found the book. We lost it yesterday.
Answer: We have found the book that) We lost yesterday.

Question 8. The villagers are very lazy. You praised them so much.
Answer: The villagers, whom you praised so much, are very lazy.

Question 9. My mother will always be grateful to you. You helped
her.
Answer: My mother, whom you helped, will always be grateful to you.

Question 10. The old man is my uncle. You have bought his house.
Answer: The old man, whose house you have bought, is my uncle.

5. Study the following examples carefully

Exercise 5

Join each of the following pairs of simple Sentences into a single sentence

Question 1. He went to Agra. He wished to see the Taj Mahal.
Answer: He went to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.

Question 2. She felt tired. She laid her work aside.
Answer: Feeling tired, she laid her work aside.

Question 3. He failed in the first attempt. He made no further attempt.
Answer: Having failed in the first attempt, he made no further attempt.

Question 4. The police arrived. The thieves ran away.
Answer: When the police arrived, the thieves ran away.

Question 5. The bank was closed. We could not get any money.
Answer: Since the bank was closed, we could not get any money.

Question 6. She has eight children. She must look after them.
Answer: With eight children to look after, she is always busy.

Question 7. The lecture was over. We returned home.
Answer: After the lecture was over, we returned home.

Question 8. He finished his work. He went out for a walk.
Answer: After finishing his work, he went out for a walk.

Question 9. Ashoka ruled over India. He was a good and noble king.
Answer: Ashoka, who ruled over India, was a good and noble king.

Question 10. He was ill last month. He was unable to attend school.
Answer: Due to his illness last month, he was unable to attend school.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 22 Conditional Clauses

1. Look at the sentence given below: If you get up at four in the morning, you will see the beautiful sunrise. The sentence has two clauses. If you get up at four in the morning is the conditional clause. You will see the beautiful sunrise. It is the main clause.

2. There are four types of conditional clauses. There is a different pair of tenses in each pair type.

1. When we use an adverbial clause beginning with if to describe general truths or scientific facts. The pattern is:

Simple present, — simple present

Example: If you persevere, you can acquire any knowledge.

If the condition is fairly likely or probable, we use the  simple present tense in the adverbial clause and a modal + base form of the verb in the main clause (future tense)

Examples:

1. If I have time, I shall meet you.
2. We will arrest him if he continues to defy us.
3. The boy might work harder if you give him a raise.
4. If you go during visiting hours, you can meet him.
5. If you want to slim down, you should exercise daily.
6. If you want to avoid pain, you must eat a proper diet.
7. In the if clause, we can use simple present, present continuous, or the present perfect tense.

Examples:

1. If you meet me at the station, I will give you the book.
2. If you are going to the market, please take a basket with you.
3. If you have completed your work, you can go home.

3. The unlikely (improbable) conditional

1. If I were a millionaire, I would buy this island. (but I am not a millionaire)
2. If I were you, I would buy this house. (But I am not you.)
3. If I win the lottery, I will be rich and famous.
4. (But it is unlikely that I will win a lottery.)

4. Double Future: This form is used for cooperation or a request.

Examples:

1. If you find the purse, I will reward you.
2. If he washes the clothes, I will press them.

In some cases, it is replaced by should, had, or were.

Examples:

1. Were he to see you now (should he see you now), he would be shocked.
2. Had you worked harder, you would have succeeded in your test.
3. Should he hear the news of your failure, he would be shocked.

Exercise 1

Tick the option which correctly completes the sentence. In some cases, more than one or all might be correct:—

Question 1. If it rains,

1. The First Test Match will be cancelled.
2. The First Test Match would be cancelled.
3. The First Test Match ought to be cancelled.

Answer: 1. The First Test Match will be cancelled.

Question 2. When water freezes,

1. It Turns Into Ice.
2. It Should Turn Into Ice
3. It Would Turn Into Ice.

Answer: 1. It turns into ice.

Question 3. If I have time,

1. I shall go to the Book Fair.
2. I might go to the Book Fair.
3. I would go to the book fair

Answer:

I shall go to the Book Fair.
I might go to the Book Fair.

Question 4. If Hari meets Sameer,

1. He must remind him to meet me.
2. Remind him to meet me.
3. He ought to remind him to meet me.

Answer:

He must remind him to meet me.
He ought to remind him to meet me.

Question 5. If you will perform at my party,

1. I will give you a big remuneration.
2. I might give you a big remuneration.
3. I must give you a big remuneration.

Answer: I will give you a big remuneration.

Question 6. If I weren’t so busy,

1. I would have gone to the exhibition.
2. I would go to the exhibition.
3. I should visit the exhibition.

Answer: I would have gone to the exhibition

Question 7. If I were you,

1. I would never refuse Rohan’s offer.
2. I would never have refused Rohan’s offer.
3. I will never refuse Rohan’s offer.

Answer: I would never refuse Rohan’s offer.

Question 8. If he had admitted his mistake,

1. We may have forgiven him.
2. We would forgive him.
3. We may have forgiven him.

Answer: We would forgive him.

Question 9. If I had money,

1. I might buy a new car.
2. I shall buy a new car.
3. You Should Exercise daily

Answer: 1. I might buy a new car.

Question 10. If you want to keep fit,

1. Take exercise daily,
2. You must take some exercise daily.
3. You must take some exercise daily.

Answer: 1. Take exercise daily.
You must take some exercise daily.

Exercise 2

State what type of conditional clause is used in the following sentences (universal truth, likely or probable, improbable, imaginary):—

Question 1. If you heat ice, it melts._______
Answer: Universal truth (Zero Conditional)

Question 2. If I win the lottery, I will buy a new house.____
Answer: Likely or probable (First Conditional)

Question 3. If I were a ghost, I would scare people.______
Answer: Imaginary (Second Conditional)

Question 4. If you had asked me to do it, I would have done it._____
Answer: Unlikely or improbable (Third Conditional)

Question 5. If I find anything wrong, I shall inform you._____
Answer: Likely or probable (First Conditional)

Exercise 3

Certain phrases are given in two boxes. Combine them to make an ‘If’ sentence

Answer:

1. If you do not park here, you will be fined.
2. If my parents agree, I will go abroad for studies.
3. If you are satisfied, he will be included in the team.
4. If you regulate your diet, you will be cured of indigestion.
5. If your plans failed, do not blame us.

Exercise 4. Remove the following sentences and use (had, should, unless, or were). Make the necessary changes

Question 1. If I had not rung him up, he would not have come to my party.Had_______________________________
Answer: Had I not rung him up, he would not have come to my party.

Question 2. If he does not satisfy you with this work, we will not employ him. Unless______________________________
Answer: Unless he satisfies you with this work, we will not employ him.

Question 3. If I meet him tomorrow, I will inform him of your visit.
Should_______________________________
Answer: Should I meet him tomorrow, I will inform him of your visit

Question 4. If you had worked hard, you would not have been rejected today.
Had_______________________________
Answer: Had you worked hard, you would not have been rejected today

Question 5. If the patient feels pain, you should give him this injection.
Unless______________________________
Answer: Do not give him this injection unless the patient feels pain.

Question 6. If you go to the top of the building, you will see the fireworks.
______________________________
Answer: Should you go to the top of the building, you will see the fireworks.

Question 7. If I were the monitor, I would keep the class quiet.
______________________________
Answer: If I were the monitor, I would keep the class quiet.

Question 8. If poaching is not stopped, tigers will soon become extinct.
______________________________
Answer: Unless poaching is stopped, tigers will soon become extinct.

Question 9. If there is not enough food, many animals will die.
______________________________
Answer: Unless there is enough food, many animals will die.

Question 10. If I have the time, I shall go to the party.
______________________________
Answer: Should I have the time, I shall go to the party.

CBSE Class 8 English Revision Test 2

1. Underline the Finite verbs and circle the Non-finite verbs in the passage given below. Almost the whole village stopped to watch the big boat being built at some point or the other. No one else owned such a large boat or even worked on one.

Perhaps they were jealous and that was why no one had a good word for it. They did not want to believe it would do well at sea. But they, in a way, were proud too. Building a big boat like this in their village was an achievement.

Finite verbs: stopped, owned, were, was, had, did, want, would do, were, was

Non-finite verbs: to watch, being built, worked, believe, Building

2. Fill in the correct form of the Infinitives-

Question 1. I am going__________________(work) overtime today.
Answer: To work

Question 2. He seems___________________(lose) his patience with the workers.
Answer: To have lost

Question 3._________________(honest), I do not like his paintings at all.
Answer: To be honest

Question 4. Alka was ___________________(hope) the prize.
Answer: Hoping

Question 5. The boy has _______________(eat) his food, tell him ____________(finish) it soon please.
Answer: To eat; to finish

3. Fill in the blanks with the ‘ing ’ form of the verbs given in brackets. Write G for Gerunds and P for Participles in the space given for the new words you have made:

Question 1. I heard the phone________________(ring) but it stopped before I could pick it up.(_________)
Answer: ringing (P)

Question 2. I was thrilled to see Bhutia make the__________________(win) Goal in the (win) goal in the final of the football match.(_________)
Answer: winning (P)

Question 3. _______________(travel round the world is a great experience.(_________)
Answer: Traveling (G)

Question 4. The food looked so delicious, I could not help _____________(taste) it (_________)
Answer: tasting (G)

Question 5. He was tried of _____________ (sit in the lawn for long hours.(_________)
Answer: sitting (G)

Question 6. I really would like___________(meet the great chess master, Vishwanathan Anand.(_________)
Answer: meeting (G)

Question 7. He did not like ___________(live) in Delhi, and wanted to go back to Shimla.
Answer: living (G)

Question 8. The best way of___________(explore) any country is by land.(________)
Answer: exploring (G)

Question 9. He will have to give up_____________(sing). His Voice Is getting worse and worse.(_________)
Answer: singing; getting (G, P)

4. Change the following sentences in the passive form of the Verbs. Follow the instructions given in the brackets. One is done for you

Question 1. The damaged property was compensated for by the government (compensate/use Simple Past tense)
Answer: The damaged property was compensated for by the government.

Question 2. Somebody________________ the invitation cards by tomorrow, (post/use Simple Future Tense)
Answer: The invitation cards will be posted by somebody by tomorrow.

Question 3. Sombody _____________already ____________the police(Inform/Use past perfect tense)
Answer: The police had already been informed by somebody.

Question 4. These houses _________ by the end of this month (demolish/use future perfect Tense
Answer: These houses will have been demolished by the end of this month.

Question 5. All the laws of the country ______________(Obey/use a modal)
Answer: All the laws of the country must be obeyed.

Question 6. The school timetable____________(revise/use Present Continuous tense)
Answer: The school timetable is being revised.

Question 7. The Old Employees_________by the company (Retire/use past continous tense)
Answer: The old employees were being retired by the company.

Question 8. A new tax on petrol_____________by the control (announce/use present perfect tense)
Answer: A new tax on petrol has been announced by the Government.

Question 9. Please maintain silence. (Change into a request in the Passive form)
Answer: Silence is requested to be maintained.

Question 10. Your son should manage your business now. (Begin with ‘let’)
Answer: Let your business be managed by your son now.

5. Change the following passage in the Passive We have opened a new toy shop in the biggest mall of our city. Mothers come in large numbers to our shop. They bring their children with them.

The salesmen find it hard to handle the children. But we make a big sale every day, specially on holidays.

Answer: A new toy shop has been opened by us in the biggest mall of our city. Mothers come in large numbers to our shop. Their children are brought with them by the mothers. The children are found hard to handle by the salesmen. But a big sale is made every day by us, especially on holidays.

6. Use the Passive form of the verbs in the Future Perfect Tense to change the following passage:—

Our house will be renovated by October. After October you will find it a completely changed place. There will be new furniture, new curtains, new carpets in every room. The kitchen will be transformed into a modern modular kitchen.

7. Habitat Centre is staging a play titled “A Comedy of Errors They have made some rules for the audience. Change the rules into passive voice:—

1. All guests should be in their seats by 6 o’clock sharp.
Answer: All guests are expected to be seated by 6 o’clock sharp.

2. Guests should not bring any eatables, cameras, or big bags with them.
Answer: Eatables, cameras, or big bags are not to be brought by guests.

3. Children under ten cannot watch the play.
Answer: The play cannot be watched by children under ten

4. You should switch off your mobile.
Answer: Mobile phones should be switched off.

5. Guests will maintain silence during the play.
Answer: Silence must be maintained during the play by guests.

8. Change the degree of the following sentences as indicated:—

1. No city is as interesting as Mumbai. (Change to Superlative degree)
Answer:

Superlative Degree:

Mumbai is the most interesting city.

2. It is by far the most expensive city in India. (Change to Comparative degree)
Answer:

Comparative Degree:

It is more expensive than any other city in India.

3. Life in Mumbai is busier and noisier than in any other city. (Change to Positive degree)
Answer:

Positive Degree:

No other city is as busy and noisy as Mumbai.

4. Some of the richest business magnates live in Mumbai. (Change to Comparative degree)
Answer:

Comparative Degree:

Some business magnates are richer than those living in other cities.

5. Her handwriting is worse than mine. (Change to Superlative)
Answer:

Superlative Degree:

Her handwriting is the worst (of all).

9. Fill in the blanks with Adverbs in Comparative or Superlative forms:

1. When Mrs Bose reached home, two_________ hours later than usual, she found the house quiet.
Answer: later; unusually

2. Manohar was ___________Unwell, so That He Could Not Eat Anything.
Answer: So

3. We enjoyed the movie very much, it was ____________Interesting One.
Answer: The most

4. He walked __________to reach the stadium in time 
Answer: Quickly

5. The teacher was____________ Irritated at the strange behaviour of the class.
Answer: Extremely

10. Combine the following sentences without using the Conjunction and or but

1. It may be so. I cannot tell.
Answer: It may be so; I cannot tell.

2. Mother has gone to the market. Please call again later.
Answer: Since Mother has gone to the market, please call again later.

3. It was raining. We stayed indoors.
Answer: Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.

4. Would you like to eat a pizza? Do you prefer a hamburger?
Answer: Would you like to eat a pizza, or do you prefer a hamburger?

5. You have not visited us. We came to live here nearly two months ago.
Answer: You have not visited us since we came to live here nearly two months ago.

6. She reached home. She realised that she had left her mobile in her office.
Answer: On reaching home, she realised that she had left her mobile in her office.

11. Fill in the blanks with proper Prepositions :

It is the first mild day ______April. The field ave bright ______ starry yellow daffodils. The first swallow, flashes his blue stain ________the fields_________a joyous twitter and _________ a pause he darts ___________and of the pond. how the swallow revels ___________his freedom! he has travelled 6,000 miles From The dry Deserts _______ Africa _________egland. One Night he rested ___________ a Zulu’s mud hut, another _________ an Oasis a third _______ a Moroccan Mosque. The Whole journey is accomplished _________a fortnight! England may be colder than the Land he left behind, but he knows April Brings promise __________ sunshine. Six thousand miles. ___________the cape _________My tool shed! this is the fourth Spring _________ which the same bird has Returnbed _________make His Home _________me.

Answer:

1. Of
2. With
3. Over
4. With
5. After
6. To
7. Fro
8. In
9. Of
10. To
11. In
12. At
13. In
14. In
15. Of
16. From
17. To
18. In
19. To
20. With

12. Use the following Phrasal Verbs in sentences of your own:

1. Keep on
2. Keep off
3. keep up
4. Put off
5. Put on
6. Put up with

13. Fill in the blanks with a suitable word from the box. One is done for you:—

Hike, too, harder, routes, but defined, more

Haritha and Yogesh were looking for a hike that was different from usual commercial ones. The wanted a get away that did not invole rooms along the ________ it was difficult, for the _________ remote They were, the __________it was to get ibnformation abnout them most hikes are along well __________ rourttes __________they both did not want the rountes which were ____________ well travelled.

Answer:

1. hike
2. Routes
3. Harder
4. Too
5. Defined
6. But
7. More

CBSE Class 8 English Revision Test 1

1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:—

Up the River Hudson in North America are the Catskill Mountains. In a certain village at the foot of these mountains, there lived long ago a man named Rip Van Winkle. He was a simple and good-natured person, a very kind neighbour and a great favourite among all the good wives of the village. Whenever there was a squabble in the family of Rip, the women in the village always took his side and laid all the blame on Dame Van Winkle.

The children of the village too would shout with joy whenever they saw him. He helped at thensports, made playthings for them, taught to fly kites and shoot marbles and told them long stories of ghosts, witches and Indians.

Rip had no love for labour, if it would bring him profit. He would sit for a whole day on a wet rock and fish without a murmur, even though he did not catch a single fish. He would carry a light gun on his shoulder for hours together and shoot only a few squirrels or wild pigeons.

He would never refuse to assist a neighbour even in roughest toil. The women of the village often employed him to run their errands and to do little jobs for them. In a word, Rip was ready to attend to anybody’s business but his own. He was, however, one of those men who take the world easy. He would eat coarse bread or fine, whichever could be got with least thought or trouble. And he would rather starve on a penny than work for a pound.

Question 1. Find five proper nouns in the passage.

Answer:

1. Hudson
2. Catskill Mountains
3. Rip Van Winkle
4. Dame Van Winkle
5. Indians

Question 2. Find 10 common nouns. (There are even more!)

Answer:

1. village
2. man
3. neighbour
4. wives
5. children
6. sports
7. playthings
8. kites
9. marbles
10. ghosts

3. Turn the following words into abstract nouns.

Question 1. refuse

Answer: refuse → refusal

Question 2. assist

Answer: assist → assistance

Question 3. starve

Answer: starve → starvation

4.

Question 1. Find in the first two paragraphs four Personal Pronouns.

Answer:

Personal Pronouns (first two paragraphs):

1. He (Rip Van Winkle)
2. They (the children)
3. Him (Rip)
4. Their (the children’s)

Question 2. In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs find three Possessive Adjectives.

Answer:

Possessive Adjectives (2nd & 3rd paragraphs):

1. His (e.g., “his shoulder”)
2. Their (e.g., “their sports”)
3. His (e.g., “his own business”)

Question 3. One Demonstrative three Quantifiers (Determiners).

Answer:

Demonstrative & Quantifiers:

1. Demonstrative: “those men” (3rd paragraph)
2. Quantifiers: “a few squirrels,” “little jobs,” “anybody’s business”

Question 4. Give the Comparative and Superlative forms of rough and little.

Answer:

Comparative & Superlative Forms:

rough → rougher (comparative), roughest (superlative)

little → littler (comparative, though rarely used), least (superlative)

Question 5. Change the sentences in the 3rd paragraph “Rip had no love for labour_______________ wild pigeons” into Simple Present Tense.

Answer:

“Rip has no love for labour if it brings him profit. He sits for a whole day on a wet rock and fishes without a murmur, even though he does not catch a single fish. He carries a light gun on his shoulder for hours together and shoots only a few squirrels or wild pigeons.”

Question 6. He helped them at their sports, made play things for them, taught to fly kites and shoot marbles and told them long stories of ghosts, witches and Indians.
Change the bold verbs to Future Continuous Tense and rewrite the sentence.
Begin: He will be helping them._______________

Answer:

“He will be helping them at their sports, will be making playthings for them, will be teaching them to fly kites and shoot marbles, and will be telling them long stories of ghosts, witches, and Indians.”

Question 7. “He told them long stories.” Change the sentence by including an emphasising pronoun in it.

Answer:

“He himself told them long stories.”

2. Fill in the blanks with suitable modals in the following dialogue

Son: Father, (1)___________ I borrow your car for the day?

Father: No, (2) ______. Why do you want it?

Son: I(3)_________ take my friends on a picnic in my car. I had promised them.

I (4)____________ bring my car.

Father: You (5)________ not have made the promise without asking me first. You (6)______ remember your manners, son.

Son: Sorry, Father. I (7)___________ not do so in future. Please, Father, do allow me.

I (8)__________ to leave soon, (9)________ I?

Father : O.K. You (10)________ take the car but remember in future I__________ (11). not allow you to do so.

Son: Thank you, Father. You (12)_________ not worry. I have learnt my lesson.

Answer :

1. may
2. you can’t.
3. must
4. would
5. should
6. must
7. will
8. have
9. may I
10. can
11. will
12. need

3. Read the following phrases :

You can rewrite them in many ways by changing the modals. Study the example and then do the exercise.

She may be late tonight.

Changes

(1) She can / could be late tonight.

(2) She must not be late tonight.

(3) She ought not to be late tonight.

(4) She will be late tonight.

(5) Will she be late tonight?

(6) She needn’t be late tonight.

(7) She should not be late tonight.

Now, change the following phrases and make three new sentences

1. Everyone must obey the law.

1. Everyone has to obey the law.
2. Everyone should obey the law. (Mild advice)
3. Everyone ought to obey the law.

2. Can I do anything for you?

1. Could I do anything for you?
2. May I do anything for you?
3. Shall I do anything for you?

3. My car needs repairing.

1. My car must be repaired.
2. My car should be repaired.
3. My car ought to be repaired.

4. You should drink more water.

1. You must drink more water.
2. You ought to drink more water.
3. You could drink more water.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 14 Phrasal Verbs

1) Phrasal Verb is basically a main verb + a preposition or adverb, for example, pick up, put down.

At times, the meaning of the phrasal verbs is not so clear, for example,

Example: He would like to give up smoking.

‘Give up’ is a phrasal verb, but the meaning is not obvious. It is not possible to understand what it means just by understanding the words ‘give’ and ‘up’. In this context ‘give up’ means stop. Similarly, there are several other phrasal verbs that have a special meaning. A phrasal verb consists of a verb and one or two additional particles, for example, look for, put up with.

There are four basic types of Phrasal Verbs. These are as follows :

2) Type 1 : Verb + Adverb

The Verb and Adverb cannot be separated in Phrasal Verbs of this category.

Example: break down = stop working

The car broke down and we had to wait.

With the meaning you cannot say break something down or break down something. There is no passive form with Type 1 phrasal verbs.

In Type 1 phrasal verbs, the adverb and not the verb is usually stressed upon. The car broke down and we had to wait.

3) Type 2 : Verb + Adverb + Object

Verb + Object + Adverb

The Verb and the Adverb can be separated.

If the object is a noun, the adverb can come before or after the noun.

If the object is a pronoun, for example, it, the adverb must come after the object.

Examples:

• put off = to postpone
• We must put off the meeting for another week.
• We must put the meeting off for another week.
• We must put it off for another week.

In Type 2 phrasal verbs, the adverb and not the verb is usually stressed upon. We must put it off for another week.

4) Type 3 : Verb + Preposition + Object.

The Preposition cannot be separated from the Verb.

Examples: take after = be similar to older relative

He takes after his father. He takes after him.

5) Type 4 : Verb + Adverb + Preposition + Object

Phrasal verbs in this category have two particles. They cannot be separated from the verb.

Examples:

• put up with = tolerate
• I can’t put up with his behaviour any more.
• I can’t put up with it any more.

In Type 4 phrasal verbs, the stress usually falls on the first particle. I can’t put up with it any more.

Exercise-1

Join the following verbs and particles together to form phrasal verbs. One has been done for you:

Answer:

Exercise-2

Complete the answer to these questions with the help of phrasal verbs. One has been done for you:

Question 1. Ali: What shall I do with this form?

Answer: Sunil: Just fill it in and send it to the address at the top.

Question 2. Rehan: Is Sonia a fast runner?

Answer: Kabir: Oh, yes. Nobody else can keep Up

Question 3. Ayub: Why didn’t you buy a dictionary?

Answer: Zeenat: The bookshop has run Out

Question 4. Mohan: Did you believe Javed’s story?

Answer: Aamir: No, I knew he must have made it up

Question 5. Rahim: Did Salma play with her cousins when they came to stay?

Answer: Ravi: Oh yes. She got Alone  very small.

Exercise-3

Select one phrasal verb from the list given in the box to replace a word or a phrase in each sentence:

cut short, take off, turn back, start out, keep on

Question 1. The plane left on time.

Answer: The plane took off on time.

Question 2. We began our trip early in the morning.

Answer: We started out early in the morning.

Question 3. We wanted to interrupt our trip in Nepal.

Answer: We wanted to cut short our trip in Nepal.

Question 4. There was a thunderstorm but the plane continued flying.

Answer: There was a thunderstorm, but the plane kept on flying.

Question 5. But soon the pilot decided to return to Tokyo.

Answer: But soon the pilot decided to turn back to Tokyo.

Exercise-4

Fill in the blank spaces with one of the following phrases. Pay attention to the tense form of the verb:

Look forward to, catch up with, get away with, make up for, put up with, look down on, live up to, get on with, do away with, keep up with

Question 1. The new Minister wanted ____________ to all the old rules and start with a clear slate.

Answer: The new Minister wanted do away with to all the old rules and start with a clear slate.

Question 2. It was difficult to __________ the high standards demanded by the School Principal.

Answer: It was difficult to live up to the high standards demanded by the School Principal.

Question 3. I have been ill for a long time, I will have to work and ___________ the lost time.

Answer: I have been ill for a long time, I will have to work and make up for the lost time.

Question 4. I must go home now, I have to ________ a lot of pending work.

Answer: I must go home now, I have to get on with a lot of pending work.

Question 5. I am ________ to a visit from my friend who has been away for a long time.

Answer: I am looking forward to to a visit from my friend who has been away for a long time.

Question 6. Please walk slowly, I can’t ___________ you.

Answer: Please walk slowly, I can’t keep up with you.

Question 7. Ramesh cannot be allowed to ____________ breaking rules of the school; he ought to be punished.

Answer: Ramesh cannot be allowed to get away with breaking rules of the school; he ought to be punished.

Question 8. I must _____________ my rude behaviour and apologise to my sister.

Answer: I must make up for my rude behaviour and apologise to my sister.

Question 9. Only an arrogant man will ______________ the people who are poor and illiterate.

Answer: Only an arrogant man will look down on the people who are poor and illiterate.

Question 10. My father refused to ________________ the nonsense and fired the servant.

Answer: My father refused to put up with the nonsense and fired the servant.

Exercise-5

Replace the bold words in the sentences with the correct form of verbs given in the box. One is done for you:

at a loss, find out, look back on, own up, as a rule, set off, turn down, carry on, at times, bag and baggage

Question 1. I am sure we will all remember this holiday for a long time.

Answer: I am sure we will all look back on this holiday for a long time.

Question 2. Unless Ramesh confesses, the mystery will remain unsolved.

Answer: Unless Ramesh owns up, the mystery will remain unsolved.

Question 3. They cannot continue with the construction unless the labour cooperates.

Answer: They cannot carry on with the construction unless the labour cooperates.

Question 4. The master soon discovered what his servant was up to.

Answer: The master soon found out what his servant was up to.

Question 5. Before you refuse this offer, consider it very carefully.

Answer: Before you turn down this offer, consider it very carefully.

Question 6. They started on their journey with great hopes and enthusiasm.

Answer: They set off on their journey with great hopes and enthusiasm.

Question 7. I am quite puzzled and cannot explain his behaviour.

Answer: I am quite at a bus and cannot explain his behaviour.

Question 8. He occasionally loses his temper and becomes violent.

Answer: He at times loses his temper and becomes violent.

Question 9. He was ordered to leave, leaving nothing behind.

Answer: He was ordered to leave bag and baggage, leaving nothing behind.

Question 10. A sensible man, usually, cares much for public opinion.

Answer: A sensible man, as a rule, cares much for public opinion.

CBSE Class 8 English Model Paper 4

1) Give One Word for The Following. One Is Done for You :—

Question 1. Liked by most of the people.        Popular

Question 2. To march into someone else’s kingdom       I _ _ _ d _

Answer: Invade

Question 3. Unable to read or write                      I _ _ _ i _ _ _t _

Answer: Illiterate

Question 4. A hundred years                C _ _ _ u _ _

Answer: Century

Question 5. A person who arrives exactly at the time given         P _ _ _ t _ _ l

Answer: Punctual

2)Fill In The Blanks With Words Opposite In Meaning To These Written In Bold :—

Question 1. Everyone prefers children who are ________________ to those who are rude.

Answer: Everyone prefers children who are polite to those who are rude.

Question 2. I know the beginning, but not the ___________ of the story.

Answer: I know the beginning, but not the end of the story.

Question 3. India’s imports exceed her __________.

Answer: India’s imports exceed her exports.

Question 4. Her ___________ was as unexpected as her arrival.

Answer: Her departure was as unexpected as her arrival.

Question 5. Whether we win or ____________, we must always play fair.

Answer: Whether we win or lose, we must always play fair.

3) Add The Prefixes Given In The Box To Make New Words:—

mis,  anti,  bi,  in,  trans,  un,  semi,  dis

Question 1. ______________ final

Answer: Semi final

Question 2. ______________ limited

Answer: Un limited

Question 3. ______________ India

Answer: Trans India

Question 4. ______________ weekly

Answer: Bi weekly

Question 5. ______________ cover

Answer: Dis cover

Question 6. ______________ Yamuna

Answer: Anti Yamuna

Question 7. ______________ deed

Answer: Mis deed

Question 8. ______________ fortune

Answer: Mis fortune

4) Add Suffixes From The Box To Make New Words:—

ship,  ion,  ly,  tion,  ment,  less,  ness,  ty,  ing,  ful

Question 1. Depressed ________________

Answer: Depression

Question 2. Govern ________________

Answer: Government

Question 3. Friend ________________

Answer: Friendship

Question 4. Harm ________________

Answer: Harmful / harmless

Question 5. Employer ________________

Answer: Employment

Question 6. Time ________________

Answer: Timely / timeless

Question 7. Bone ________________

Answer: Boneless

Question 8. Responsible ________________

Answer: Responsibility

Question 9. Attend ________________

Answer: Attention

Question 10. Lazy ________________

Answer: Laziness

5) Make Compound Words By Matching Words In Column A With Those Of Column B :—

Answer:

6) Tick (✓) the correct spelling

Question 1. occured, occurred, ocuirred

Answer: Occurred ✓

Question 2. believe, beleive, beleeve

Answer: Believe ✓

Question 3. confidance, confidense, confidence

Answer: Confidence ✓

Question 4. arithmatic, arethmatic, arithmetic

Answer: Arithmetic ✓

Question 5. transister, transistor, transistar

Answer: Transistor ✓

Question 6. naighbur, neighbour, neeghbour

Answer: Neighbour ✓

Question 7. resemblence resemblunce, resemblance

Answer: Resemblance ✓

Question 8. benefited, benefitted, benifitted

Answer: Benefited ✓

Question 9. quarelled, quarrelled, quareled

Answer: Quarrelled ✓

Question 10. neece, niece, neice

Answer: Niece ✓

7) Use The Following Idioms In Sentences Of Your Own :

1. Fits and starts
2. Heart and soul
3. Spick and span
4. In black and white

Answer:

1. Fits and starts
   “He completed the project in fits and starts, working intensely for a few days and then ignoring it for weeks.”
2. Heart and soul
   “She put her heart and soul into the music performance, leaving the audience spellbound.”
3. Spick and span
   “After hours of cleaning, the house was spick and span, with not a speck of dust in sight.”
4. In black and white
   “The contract terms were laid out in black and white, so there was no room for misunderstanding.”

8) Fill In The Blanks With Correct Idiomatic Pairs. Choose From The Box Given Below.

by hook or by crook, short and sweet, by and large, through and through, little by little

Question 1. I can see ______________ his deeds, he is not to be trusted.

Answer: I can see through and through his deeds, he is not to be trusted.

Question 2. ____________ the company grew in strength and soon became the leader in the field of transport.

Answer: Little by little the company grew in strength and soon became the leader in the field of transport.

Question 3. We Indians _____________ are peaceful people and do not believe in violence.

Answer: We Indians by and large are peaceful people and do not believe in violence.

Question 4. He wants to be the leader of the party __________.

Answer: He wants to be the leader of the party by hook or by crook.

Question 5. The PM’s speech on Republic Day was to the point and __________.

Answer: The PM’s speech on Republic Day was to the point and short and sweet

9) Fill In The Blanks With Prepositions

Question 1. She was very proud __________ her beauty.

Answer: She was very proud of her beauty.

Question 2. He was rewarded _________ a gold medal and a cheque of one lakh for his services ___________ the bank.

Answer: He was rewarded with a gold medal and a cheque of one lakh for his services with the bank.

Question 3. Who rules ______ England?

Answer: Who rules over England?

Question 4. Are you acquainted _________ her?

Answer: Are you acquainted with her?

Question 5. The race will take place __________ Monday.

Answer: The race will take place on Monday.

Question 6. I have been waiting for him ____________ ten past six.

Answer: I have been waiting for him since ten past six.

Question 7. There is no hope ____________ Australia winning the first Test Match in Chennai.

Answer: There is no hope of Australia winning the first Test Match in Chennai.

Question 8. I am fed ________ with waiting for the Mp to arrive.

Answer: I am fed up with waiting for the Mp to arrive.

Question 9. I did it _____________ my own.

Answer: I did it on my own.

Question 10. She is ___________ least fifty years old.

Answer: She is at least fifty years old.

Question 11. She took the book _________ her ________ mistake.

Answer: She took the book from her by mistake.

Question 12. Please wait, I will see you __________ a movement.

Answer: Please wait, I will see you in a movement.

Question 13. Was he standing __________ of the picture?

Answer: Was he standing out of the picture?

Question 14. They were flying ____________ the clouds.

Answer: They were flying above the clouds.

Question 15. No one saw her getting out _____________ the car.

Answer: No one saw her getting out of the car.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 35 Comprehension Passages

1) Solved Passage-1

Read The Following Passage Carefully.

Soon after one in the afternoon, Tom was dressed for dinner. He was grandly dressed and taken to a decorated apartment, where a table was set for one. The furniture was of gold and the room was half filled with noble servers. A chaplain said grace and the Earl of Berkeley tied a napkin round Tom’s neck. There was a taster, who tasted everything, before it was sent to the prince. The Lord Chief Butler was there, standing behind Tom’s chair, watching the conduct of Lord Great Steward and the Lord Head Cook, who stood near. Tom did not know that he had three hundred and eighty four servants—all of them were not in that room, of course!

All those that were present were well drilled to remember that the prince was temporarily mad and to be careful to show no surprise at his behaviour. Very soon Tom acted strangely but those present did not laugh—they only felt sad.

Tom ate with his fingers and no one smiled or even seemed to observe it. He examined his napkins with great curiosity. It was a very delicate and beautiful fabric. He asked it to be removed lest he should spoil it.

It was taken away without a protest and very courteously. Tom looked at the turnips and the lettuce and asked what they were. Was he supposed to eat them? (They had been recently introduced in England from Holland and were very expensive.) When he finished his dessert, he filled his pockets with nuts, but nobody seemed to be disturbed by it. Tom was disturbed because this was the only time he was allowed to do something with his own hands during the meal. He was sure he had done a most improper and unprincely thing!

When his meal ended, a lord came and held before him a broad, shallow, golden dish, with rose water in it to clean his mouth and fingers with. Another lord stood with a napkin for Tom to wipe his mouth and fingers. Tom gazed at the dish for a moment with a puzzled look, then raised it and took a sip. Then he returned it to the waiting lord saying he did not like it very much! He now requested to be taken to his private chamber and was finally left alone. He then thought of the nuts he had brought away from dinner. He enjoyed himself for the first time since he had become a prince, cracking nuts. There was no crowd to watch him, no one to pester him with unwanted service.

Let us leave him, enjoying his nuts!

Adapted from
(The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain)

Points to Remember

1. Read the passage twice to understand the theme and the main idea given in the passage.
2. After reading and understanding it, read the questions based on the passage and search for their answers in the passage.
3. Go through the questions and answers again.
4. Now write down the answers in your own words.
5. Do not give your own opinion or comments.
6. Use the sentence as used in the passage.
7. Answers should be clear, to the point and relevant. Revise your own answers. Give yourself a self-check.

The subject of the passage is a royal dinner eaten by a person called Tom, who is treated so grandly for the first time.

Now answer the following questions :

1. (1) Explain the meaning of following words :

1. Chaplain
2. Grace
3. Pester
4. Unwanted
5. Fabric

Answer:

1. Chaplain — a priest.
2. Grace — a short prayer offered as thanksgiving before a meal.
3. Pester — annoy.
4. Unwanted — not desired, undesirable
5. Fabric — clothing material.

(2) Find words in the passage which mean the opposite of the following.

1. Permanently
2. Rudely
3. Proper
4. Princely
5. Public

Answer:

1. Permanently — temporarily
2. Rudely — courteously
3. Proper — improper
4. Princely — unprincely
5. Public — private

2. Answer briefly:

1. Describe the room which Tom entered.
2. What did Tom not know?
3. Why all those present did not laugh at what Tom did?
4. Describe three things which Tom did, which seemed not to disturb all the people present.
5. Why was Tom sure he had done a most improper and unprincely thing?
6. Which do you think is the biggest blunder made by Tom?
7. Why do you think Tom made so many mistakes?

Answer:

1. The room was beautifully decorated, had furniture made of gold and was almost filled with lords, nobles and servers.
2. Tom did not know that he had under him three hundred and eighty four servants, as they were not all present in the room.
3. They did not laugh, because they were specially told not to do so as the prince had become mad for a short period.
4. Tom ate with his fingers, he asked his napkin to be removed in case he spoilt it. He did not know what a turnip and the lettuce was, and asked if he was supposed to eat them!
5. Tom thought so because the only time he used his own hands during the entire dinner, was to pick up the nuts which he put in his pockets.
6. I think the funniest thing he did was to take a sip of the water in which he was supposed to clean his fingers!
7. Tom made all those blunders because he was not the real prince.

2) Solved Passage-2

“Suppose we change the subject,” the March Hare interrupted. “I vote the young lady tell us a story.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know one,” said Alice rather alarmed at the proposal.

“Then the Dormouse shall,” they both cried. “Wake up Dormouse!” And they pinched it on both sides at once. The Dormouse slowly opened his eyes. “I wasn’t asleep,” he said in a hoarse, feeble voice. “I heard every word you were saying.” “Tell us a story,” said the March Hare. “Yes, please do,” pleaded Alice. “And be quick about it,” added the Hatter, “Or you’ll be asleep again before it is done.”

“Once upon a time there were three little sisters,” the Dormouse began in a great hurry, “and their names were Elsie, Lacie, and Tillie, and they lived at the bottom of a well.”

“What did they live on?” said Alice, who always took a great interest in questions of eating and drinking. “They lived on treacle,” said the Dormouse, after thinking a minute or two. “They couldn’t have done that, you know,” Alice gently remarked, “for they would have been ill.”

“So they were,” said the Dormouse, “Very ill.”

Alice tried a little to fancy to herself what such as extraordinary way of living would be like, but it puzzled her too much, so she went on. “But why did they live at the bottom of a well?” “Take some more tea,” the March said to Alice very earnestly, “I’ve had nothing yet,” Alice replied in an offended tone, “So I can’t take more.” “You mean you can’t take less,” said the Hare; “for it is very easy to take more than nothing.”

Question 1. Answer the following questions :

1. How many people are present in the passage given above? Name them.

Answer:

There are 4 people present:

1. March Hare
2. Alice
3. Dormouse
4. The Hatter

2. Which proposal alarmed Alice?

Answer: She was asked suddenly by the March Hare to tell a story.

3. Which two things in the story told by Dormouse are rather absurd?

Answer: In Dormouse’s story, the three sisters lived at the bottom of a well and ate nothing but treacle. Treacle is a golden sweet syrup.

4. Why was Alice offended by March Hare’s remark?

Answer: March Hare asked Alice to have more tea when she hadn’t taken any so far.

5. Explain the last two remarks by Alice and the Hatter in your own words.

Answer: Alice protested against the word “more”. You take more if you have already taken some. Hatter thought you can easily take more even if you had nothing. You cannot take less than nothing.

Question 2. Explain the meaning of the following words :

1. Proposal
2. Hoarse
3. Pleaded
4. Alarmed
5. Offended

Answer:

1. Proposal — suggestion
2. Hoarse — sounding rough and unpleasant
3. Pleaded — requested, begged
4. Alarmed — afraid that dangerous or unpleasant thing might happen.
5. Offended — annoyed

Question 3. The entire passage is in the form of a dialogue. It is written in direct speech. Turn the first speech by the March Hare and Alice’s answer into Reported Speech.

Answer:

March Hare interrupted the conversation going on before and suggested that they changed the subject. He also voted that the young lady told them a story. Alice was alarmed at the proposal and declared that she did not know any story.

Exersise-1

Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow:—

Geeta works in a shop selling gramophone records. One afternoon a middle-aged woman came in, sat on a stool in front of the counter, and smiled at her brightly. I want a record, dear, ’ she began. ‘One I heard on the radio this morning. ’

‘What was the record called?’ Geeta asked, without much hope. The woman shook her head. I don’t remember. I should know it if I heard it, though. Perhaps if you play me a few records, I shall be able to pick it out.

I have hundreds of records in stock, ’ Geeta pointed out. ‘It would take a very long time to play you even a little of each. Could you hum it to me?’

The woman shook her head again. I can’t even sing the National Anthem in tune. We should only get into a complete muddle ifI were to start humming. ’ She looked quite depressed, as if this reminder of her own lack of musical ability were the last straw. Then suddenly her face brightened.

‘I’ve just remembered something, ’she said. ‘It comes from a play. There’s a girl who speaks very badly, if you see what I mean. But after a time she learns to talk well. Something about what do you call it? Phonetics. ’

This was enough for Geeta. ‘If you ask me, it’s from “My Fair Lady”, ’she said.

‘That’s it, dear. If you’d thought of it sooner, we wouldn’t have wasted so much time. I suppose you are new to the job. ’

Question 1. State whether the following statements are true or false :

1. A sad looking young woman came to Geeta’s shop.

Answer: False

2. Geeta played about twenty records for her.

Answer: False

3. The woman knew she had no musical ability.

Answer: True

4. The woman hummed a tune for Geeta.

Answer: False

5. She was very sorry for having caused so much trouble.

Answer: False

Question 2. Answer the following questions briefly :

1. Was the woman’s order to Geeta clear, precise and fair?

Answer: No, she couldn’t remember the record’s name or hum the tune, making it vague and time-consuming.

2. What request did she make to Geeta?

Answer: She asked Geeta to play multiple records so she could identify the one she heard on the radio.

3. “She looked quite depressed.” Why?

Answer: She felt disheartened realizing her lack of musical ability made it harder to describe the record.

4. Do you think the customer’s last remark was justified? Why/Why not?

Answer: Do you think the customer’s last remark was justified? Why/Why not?

Question 3. Find words in the passage which mean the same as the following :

1. A confused state

Answer: A confused state → “muddle”

2. Disappointed

Answer: Disappointed → “depressed”

3. Science of speech sounds

Answer: Science of speech sounds → “phonetics”

4. Sing with closed lips.

Answer: Sing with closed lips → “humming”

Question 4. Give your opinion of the customer in 20 words.

Answer: 

Opinion of the customer (in 20 words):

The customer was vague, unapologetic, and inconsiderate, expecting Geeta to solve her problem without clear information.

Question 5. Give a title to this passage and state why you have chosen it.

Answer: 

Title and Justification:

Title: “The Forgetful Customer”
Reason: The passage revolves around a customer who forgets the record’s name but expects Geeta to identify it, causing frustration.

Exersise-2

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:—

The reader, by now, will be quite familiar with Parsi Rustomjis name. He first became co-worker and then client. I won his confidence to such an extent that he sought and followed my advice in private domestic matters.

The friend once got into a very bad scrape. Though he kept me informed of most of his affairs, he had studiously kept back one thing. He was a large importer of goods and resorted to smuggling. But he was at the best terms with the customs officials. So no one suspected him.

But theft like quick-silver won ’t be suppressed. Rustomji came to me post-haste and told, ‘Bhai, I have deceived you. My guilt has been discovered. I have smuggled and I am doomed; you alone may be able to save me from this predicament. ” I calmed him, “To save or not to save you is in His hands. I can but try to save you by means of confession. ”

Enquiry revealed that smuggling had been going on for a long time. I told Rustomji that the case should not be taken to the court. It rests with the customs officer to prosecute you or let you go. Rustomji ’s name and fame were at stake, so he said, “I am entirely in your hand. ”

I met the customs officer and apprised him of the whole affair. He said, “You know, I must be guided by the Attorney General and I would advise you to use all your persuasion with him. ”

I entered into a correspondence with the Attorney General. He appreciated my complete frankness. He finally said, “I see you will never take a no for an answer. ”

The case was settled by a compromise. He was to pay a penalty equal to twice the amount he had confessed to have smuggled. Rustomji reduced to writing the facts of the whole case, got the paperframed and hung it up in his office to serve as a perpetual reminder to his heirs and fellow merchants.

The friends of Rustomji warned me not to be taken in by this transitory contrition. When I told Rustomji about this warning he said: ‘What would be my fate if I deceived you?’

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (adapted)

Question 1. Answer the following questions briefly :

1. What was Gandhiji’s profession at the time of the incident?

Answer: Gandhiji was a lawyer (as he handled legal advice and negotiations for Rustomji).

2. No one suspected Rustomji for smuggling because __________.

Answer: He was on good terms with customs officials, so they never checked his imports closely.

3. Was Gandhiji able to win the confidence of the Attorney General? How?

Answer: Yes, by being fully frank in his correspondence and persistently negotiating a fair compromise.

4. What did Rustomji do as a penance for his illegal activities?

Answer: He wrote a confession, framed it, and hung it in his office as a warning to others.

5. How did Rustomji reply to the warnings given to Gandhiji?

Answer: He asked, “What would be my fate if I deceived you?”, implying he wouldn’t betray Gandhiji’s trust.

Question 2. Find words in the passage which mean the same as the ones given below.

• Mischief (para 2) ___________
• Turned to (para 2) ___________
• Informed (para 5) ___________
• Constant (para 7) ___________
• Repentence (para 8) ___________

Answer: 

Question 3. Give a title to this passage and give a reason why you have chosen it.

Answer: Title: “Redemption Through Truth: Gandhiji and the Smuggler’s Penance”

Reason: The passage highlights Gandhiji’s role in guiding Rustomji to confess and reform, emphasizing truth, accountability, and moral redemption.

Exersise-3

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:—

When we visited the volcano, it was in a state of eruption. We stood near the summit on an irregular plane; it was heaped up with stones and cinders and enormous rocks, which had been hurled from the volcano in terrible confusion. From the summit, volumes of smoke and fountains of liquid fire poured forth continuously. The smoke, now white, now an impenetrable black, was accompanied by a deep roar. Fiery stones rained down, and the molten lava moved on with a horrible sound, devouring everything in its path.

We approached the lower end of these lava rivers, where its speed was retarded by a reduced slope. Its dark exterior surface broke up as it moved, and betrayed the liquid fire beneath. By daylight, the fire was only just visible, but its presence was indicated by the white smoke and the tremulous motion of the air above.

1. Choose the correct answer.

Question (1) Where did the author and his party stand?

1. On top of the volcano
2. Very close to the top of the volcano
3. At the foot of the volcano
4. In front of the volcano

Answer: 2. Very close to the top of the volcano

Question (2) What had been thrown out by the Volcano?

1. Stones, burnt-out coal, and rocks
2. Stones, burnt wood and burnt charcoal
3. Hot metal pieces and huge rocks
4. Hot, molten metal

Answer: 1. Stones, burnt-out coal and rocks

Question (3) What colour was the smoke?

1. It was black
2. It was white
3. It was grey
4. It changed colour, once it looked white, then black

Answer: 4. It changed colour, once it looked white, then black

Question (4) What did the hot stones and lava do?

1. It destroyed everything that came in its way
2. It brought to life dead plants
3. It removed all instructions on the way
4. It killed many people

Answer: 1. It destroyed everything that came in its way

Question (5) Why did the river of lava flow at a lesser speed lower down?

1. Because the slope was steep
2. Because the slope was gradual
3. Because the lava was thicker there
4. Because there were many boulders

Answer: 2. Because the slope was gradual

Question 2. Match each of the words/phrases in column A with its synonym in column B:

Answer:

Question 3. Complete the following sentences by choosing the correct word from the box :

Devoured     betrayed           confusion     enormous     indicated

1. At a recent BCCI meeting in Mumbai, inspite ofa big crowd, there was no ____________.

Answer: At a recent BCCI meeting in Mumbai, in spite of a big crowd, there was no confusion.

2. The presence of the fire was __________ by the smoke coming out of the fourth floor.

Answer: The presence of the fire was indicated by the smoke coming out of the fourth floor.

3. The terrorist was caught ________ by the people he trusted.

Answer: The terrorist was caught betrayed by the people he trusted.

4. The fury of the nature in Badrinath has __________ thousands of lives and rendered even more people homeless.

Answer: The fury of nature in Badrinath has devoured thousands of lives and rendered even more people homeless.

5. The task was ___________ yet the Indian cricket team succeeded in winning the Trophy.

Answer: The task was enormous, yet the Indian cricket team succeeded in winning the Trophy.

Exercise-4

Read the following poem by Rabindranath Tagore and answer the questions that follow:—

I cannot Remember My Mother
I cannot remember my mother
Only sometimes in the midst of my play
a tune seems to hover over my playthings,
the tune of some song that she used to
hum while rocking my cradle.
I cannot remember my mother
but when in the early autumn morning
the smell of the shiuli flowers float in the air
the scent of the morning service in the temple
comes to me as the scent of my mother.
I cannot remember my mother
Only when from my bedroom window I send
my eyes into the blue distant sky,
Ifeel that the stillness of my mothers gaze on my face
has spread all over the sky.

Question 1. The poet cannot remember his mother because ___________

Answer: She passed away when he was very young, leaving only fragmented sensory memories (songs, scents, gaze).

Question 2. The poet means by “a tune seems to hover over my playthings” that ____________

Answer: His mother’s lullabies linger in his subconscious, resurfacing faintly during play.

Question 3. The significance of shiuli flowers is, ___________ and ____________

Answer:

1. They evoke memories of his mother’s presence during morning temple rituals.
2. Their fragrance symbolizes the poet’s emotional connection to her.

Question 4. Looking at the distant blue sky the poet feels that _________

Answer: His mother’s loving gaze envelops him, merging with the vast, tranquil sky.

Question 5. The repetition of the first line expresses the poet’s feeling of:

1. Loss
2. Regret
3. Nostalgia.

Answer: 3. Nostalgia (a bittersweet longing for the past).

Question 6. The image of the absent mother created by the poet is of a mother who _______

Answer: Was gentle, nurturing, and deeply affectionate, leaving traces in nature’s beauty.

Question 7. Find a word in the poem which means the same as the following:

1. To move about, but keep near (stanza 1) __________
2. A smell, usually pleasing (stanza 2) __________
3. Without motion (stanza 3) __________
4. Far away (stanza 3) ________
5. A long intent look (stanza 3) _________
6. Far away (stanza 3) __________
7. A long intent look (stanza 3) _____________

Answer:

1. To move about, but keep near (stanza 1), hover
2. A smell, usually pleasing (stanza 2), scent
3. Without motion (stanza 3) stillness
4. Far away (stanza 3), stillness
5. A long intent look (stanza 3) gaze
6. Far away (stanza 3) Distant
7. A long intent look (stanza 3) gazed

Exersise-5

Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions that follow:—

Cats

1. Attacking from ambush, an African lion charges a band of antelopes and strikes one down with a single sledge hammer blow of its paw. Padding silently through the Indian jungle, a Bengal Tiger stalks an unsuspecting deer. Crouched on a limb, a South American jaguar tenses its muscles, then springs at a passing tapir.
2. Like all members of the cat family, these three big cats are expert trackers and hunters. They must be if they are to eat. They belong to the order of the carnivore— the meat-eating mammals.
3. Cats vary in size from beasts smaller than the domestic tabby to Siberian tigers weighing 270 kilograms (600 pounds) or more. Their coats come in many colours and many striking patterns.
4. No matter where they live, no matter what their size and appearance, all cats are alike in many ways. All have bodies adapted for hunting and killing. All are highly specialised beasts of prey.
5. The male lion is known as the king of beasts because of his dignified appearance, his deep roar, and his regal looking mane. The female with their tawny, black-striped orange coats, are perhaps the most striking and beautiful of all the cats. Tigers appear to be leaner and more lithe than lions. Now lions are found only in Africa, with the exception of a few that still survive in the Girforests of Western India. Tigers chiefly inhabit the forests of Asia, the largest tigers found in Siberia and the smallest inhabiting Malaysia.

Question 1. How does an African lion kill its prey?

Answer: The lion ambushes its prey and delivers a powerful, single blow with its paw to strike down the target (e.g., antelope).

Question 2. What is the difference in the way a Bengal tiger attacks its prey?

Answer: Unlike the lion’s ambush, the Bengal tiger silently stalks its prey (e.g., deer) in the jungle before attacking.

Question 3. In what way all the species of cats are alike each other?

Answer: 

All cats share:

• Bodies adapted for hunting/killing (sharp claws, stealth, strength).
• Classification as carnivores (meat-eaters).
• Specialization as beasts of prey.

Question 4. Give the most striking features of :

1. The male lion :
2. A tiger :

Answer:

1. Dignified appearance, deep roar, and regal mane.
2. Lean, lithe body; black-striped orange coat; largest species in Siberia.

Question 5. Find words in the passage which mean the opposite of the words given below :

1. Suspicious (para 1) _____________________________
2. Herbivora (para 2) _____________________________
3. Novice (para 2) _____________________________
4. Die (para 5) _____________________________
5. Male (para 5) _____________________________

Answer:

1. Suspicious (para 1) suspicious
2. Herbivora (para 2) herbivore
3. Novice (para 2) novice
4. Die (para 5) die
5. Male (para 5) male

Question 6. Find the words in the passage which mean the same as the words given below :

1. A projecting part of the body, e.g., Arm or leg (para 1) ___________
2. Remarkable, impressive (para 3) ________________
3. Majestic (para 5) ________________
4. Supple, agile (para 5) ________________
5. Long hair (para 5) ________________

Answer:

1. A projecting part of the body, e.g., Arm or leg (para 1) projecting body part (arm/leg)
2. Remarkable, impressive (para 3) remarkable, impressive
3. Majestic (para 5) majestic
4. Supple, agile (para 5) supple, agile
5. Long hair (para 5) long hair

Exercise-6

Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions that follow:—

When the car had gone and they were left standing alone, staring at the suddenly quiet house, they saw who it was who was to stay on at Mon Repos — a thin elderly man with a white beard and spectacles on his nose. He did not notice them at all for he had a pair of binoculars glued to his eyes and was staring intently into the trees. The girls stared at the trees, too, wondering what he was looking at. There seemed to be nothing there but then they heard a rustle and an ashy grey and russet bird flew out, trailing a long russet tail behind it as it came out of the foliage and around to the back of the house. The man lowered his binoculars with a sigh and drew out a book from his pocket and began to scribble in it.

Lila and her sisters tiptoed around the corner and into the kitchen so as not to disturb him. “What is he doing?” they whispered as they quietly washed the dishes that had been left behind in the sink.

“Who knows? ” Lila shrugged. “He is here to study something, ” the sahib said. “Study what — the birds?’’asked Bela, and Kamal laughed at the idea, it was so ridiculous. “Any way, he won ’t notice us at all — we just have to cook his meals and call him to come and eat them, ” said Lila.

That was what they did. Now that they had not their mother to look after, or Hari or their father, they quietly cooked and marketed and swept and washed for the strange gentleman who never spoke to them, only glanced through his spectacles at the food when they called him for his meals and disappeared for the whole day sometimes, carrying his binoculars over his shoulder and a bag full of books and pencils. Sometimes they ran into him as he stumbled about the marsh, splashing through the mud and reeds, or sitting very quietly on a stone under the trees, staring intently at everything — except people.

He seemed hardly to notice that there were any people in Thul, they did not appear to interest him at all. But he was polite and quiet and gave no trouble at all since he had neither complaints nor demands and so they did not mind his oddities or even giggle at them much except, once when he stepped backwards off the log into the creek with a splash and they had to run to help him up and to retrieve his bag and papers and spread them out on the veranda to dry. Then they noticed that his papers were covered with careful pencil sketches of birds. They were wonderstruck.

“See, he is studying the birds, ” whispered Bela as they knelt on the veranda tiles, carefully separating the wet sheets and spreading them out in the sun.

The strange gentleman came out of his room in dry clothes and stood watching them worriedly. Then, “Thank you, ” he said gratefully and took some money out of his pocket to give Bela and Kamal. “For sweets, ” he said in a mumble, and hurried away in embarrassment.

He looked just as embarrassed when he paid Lila her salary at the end of the month and she whisked out of sight as quickly as possible, then ran round the house and across the creek to their hut, laughing with joy. It was wonderful to earn money. There was enough now to stock their kitchen with rice and tea and sugar, and Lila went every week to the hospital in Alibagh by bus to take some to their father who bought extra milk and fruits for their mother with it. The money made everything possible and Lila hoped the gentleman would stay on and on so that she could continue to earn money.

“But no one stops in the monsoon, ” Kamal said. “Everyone goes away when the monsoon comes. Only we stay. ”

Question 1. Answer the following questions briefly:

1. Name the village in which the story is set. What is the name of the house in which the girls worked?

Answer:

1. Village: Thul
2. House: Mon Repos

2. Who was the new occupant of the house? Why did the girls think he was strange?

Answer:

• Occupant: A thin, elderly man with a white beard, spectacles, and binoculars.
• Reason for strangeness: He ignored people, spent days observing birds/marsh, and rarely spoke.

3. Give two reasons why Lila and her sisters did not laugh at the strange behaviour of their new employer.

Answer:

• He was polite and undemanding, causing no trouble.
• His oddities were harmless (e.g., studying birds, stepping into the creek accidentally).

4. When did the girls realise that their employer really studied the birds?

Answer:

When they saw his pencil sketches of birds after rescuing his wet papers from the creek.

5. Their employer looked embarrassed twice while dealing with the girls. When and why? What does it tell you about him?

Answer:

1. When: After falling into the creek, he thanked them and gave money “for sweets.”
2. Why: Paying Lila her salary made him awkward.
3. Reveals: He was shy, socially inept, but kind and grateful.

Question 2. Which words in the passage mean the same as :

1. Absurd: ___________________
2. Strangeness, peculiar: ___________________
3. Struck with astonishment: ___________________
4. Damage: ___________________

Answer:

1. Absurd: absurd
2. Strangeness, peculiar:  strangeness, peculiar
3. Struck with astonishment:  struck with astonishment
4. Damage: recover 

Question 3. Change the conversation between Lila and her sisters from Direct to Indirect Speech:—

Begin from: “What is he doing?” _______________ till “call him to come and eat them,” said Lila

Answer:

Original (Direct):

“What is he doing?” they whispered… “Who knows?” Lila shrugged. “He is here to study something,” she said. “Study what — the birds?” asked Bela… “Anyway, he won’t notice us at all — we just have to cook his meals and call him to come and eat them,” said Lila.

Indirect Speech:

They whispered what he was doing. Lila shrugged and replied that she didn’t know, adding that he was there to study something. Bela asked if he was studying the birds. Lila said that he wouldn’t notice them at all and they only had to cook his meals and call him to eat.

Question 4. Make sentences of your own of the following words. Do not use them in the same way as used in the passage.

Notice, whisked, mind

Answer:

• Notice: The teacher asked the class to notice the subtle changes in the experiment.
• Whisked: She whisked the eggs vigorously to make fluffy omelets.
• Mind: Do you mind if I open the window?

Exercise-7

Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions that follow:—

The saving of certain wild animals from extinction has for many been a problem for zoologists and other specialists, but more recently the problem has became so acute, and has received so much publicity, that most people are now concerned about it. This may at first seem strange because one of the most satisfying developments of the last few years has been the passing of strict laws to protect wild animals and the consequent decline in the hunting of big game for sport. Why is it, then, that some rare wild animals are still threatened with extinction and even some of the less rare ones are rapidly declining in number?

One reason is the ‘march of civilisation. ’ When an area is wholly cleared of vegetation to make room for new towns, factory sites or hydroelectric plants, the natural home of several is destroyed. The displaced animals must either migrate to another area or perish. Even the clearing of land for a road or an airfield may involve ‘pushing back’ the jungle, and the smaller the area in which wild animals compete for a living, the smaller the number that can hope to survive. Civilisation brings, too, swift and easy transport and so assists those who are determined to break the various protective laws. Thieves can elude the game wardens, shoot an elephant for its tusks, a rhinoceros for its horn, or a deer for its meat, and be miles away from the site of the crime before the dead or dying victim is even discovered.

It is sad to reflect that civilisation which can bring so many benefits to people who have previously known only hunger and misery, brings also facilities for the heartless criminals who, for material gain, will slaughter some harmless animals and threaten the disappearance of its kind from the earth forever.

Question 1. Three words are given below. Give the meaning of each word as used in the passage. One word answers or short phrases will be accepted.

1. developments
2. consequent
3. reflect

Answer:

1. Progress or changes (e.g., strict laws for animal protection).
2. Resulting (e.g., decline in hunting due to laws).
3. To think deeply (e.g., on the irony of civilisation’s impact).

Question 2. Answer the following questions briefly and in your own words.

1. “This may at first seem strange.” To what does the word ‘this’ refer?

Answer: Public concern about animal extinction despite strict anti-hunting laws.

2. Why does the author think ‘this’ may seem strange?

Answer: Because laws should logically reduce extinction threats, yet animals are still declining.

3. How does modem transport threaten the survival of wild animals?

Answer: It enables poachers to quickly escape after illegal hunting (e.g., killing elephants for tusks).

4. Using a single sentence for each, give the meaning of:

1. ‘pushing back’ the jungle
2. Compete for a living

Answer: 

1. ‘Pushing back’ the jungle: Clearing natural habitats for human infrastructure (roads, towns).
2. Compete for a living: Animals struggling to survive in shrinking habitats with limited resources.

5. What is the sad reflection that the author makes in the last paragraph of the passage?

Answer: Civilisation aids both human progress and heartless wildlife crimes, endangering species.

6. How can the thieves escape being caught after killing an animal?

Answer: They use fast transport to flee before authorities discover the crime.

7. What is the choice left before animals who are displaced from their homes?

Answer: Migrate to new areas or die.

Question 3. Find words in the passage which mean the same as :

1. Reducing
2. Helps
3. Live
4. Cruel

Answer:

1. Decline (para 1)
2. Assists (para 3)
3. Survive (para 2)
4. Heartless (para 4)

Question 4. Give a title to this passage and state why you have chosen it.

Answer:

“Civilisation’s Double-Edged Sword: Progress vs. Wildlife Extinction”

Reason: The passage contrasts civilisation’s benefits (laws, development) with its role in habitat destruction and poaching.

Exercise-8

Read the following poem and answer the questions that follow

One Night
As I lie on my bed and look outside
Through the window on my right
I stare and admire the beauty
And calmness of the night
Which seems perfectly right
And it feels as if all my goals
are within sight.
I appreciate the speeding winds
which are making the trees sway
And just when I say to myself
“Oh! What a day!’
The fragrance of that air mixed
with traces off reshness and change
Help me to bring to life all my dreams.
And before I know, it already starts to rain
And just then I say to myself
Now, nothing will be the same,
“It’s time for much needed change.”
The first drops of water that fall on my face
seem like a perfect embrace
It completely rejuvenates all my senses
Awakens and energises my soul
After which I am all set to face the world
I celebrate all the good and bad
Things that happen to me today
And regret about what went astray
Although regretting doesn ’t make much sense.
And it’s much later that I realise
what it meant
Even in that wrong years ago
was a hidden right
And maybe because of that I am
Where I am tonight.
Then I take one deep breath
And put all my thoughts to rest
And simply hope for the best.

Question 1. Find words in the passage which mean the same as the following.

1. To value
2. Sweet smell
3. Doing something enjoyable
4. To feel sorry for something
5. Gone wrong

Answer:

1. Appreciate (line 7)
2. Fragrance (line 10)
3. Celebrate (line 17)
4. Regret (line 19)
5. Astray (line 19)

Question 2. Fill in the blanks

The poet, lying in bed at night felt at _________ and thought he could easily achieve _____________. He was just going to say that it was a ______________ it started ______________. The Poet is _______ and _____________ by the rain and he feels as if ___________ by the rain. He remembers the ____________ and __________ things that occurred that day and something that went __________. putting _________ aside, the poet, that everything will turn out to be ____________ in the end.

Answer:

The poet, lying in bed at night felt at ‘peace’ and thought he could easily achieve ‘his goals’ when it started ‘raining’. He was just going to say that it was a ‘perfect day’ but was interrupted by the rain and feels as if ‘reinvigorated’ by the rain. He remembers the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ things that occurred that day and something that went ‘astray’. Putting ‘regrets’ aside, the poet ‘hopes’ that everything will turn out to be ‘right’ in the end.

Question 3. Explain the phrases (1) perfectly right (2) within sight (3) set to face, in your own words.

Answer:

(1) Perfectly right: The night feels harmonious and ideal, as if everything is in balance.

(2) Within sight: The poet feels his goals are achievable and clearly visible (metaphorically near).

(3) Set to face: Prepared or energized to confront life’s challenges.

Question 4. Do you think the title is appropriate? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer:

Title Appropriateness:

Yes, “One Night” is fitting because:

Focus on a Single Moment: The poem captures reflections and transformations during one night.

Symbolism: The night represents introspection, change (rain), and hope.

Universal Appeal: Everyone relates to nights of deep thought and realization.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 33 Essays And Articles

1) Points to Remember :

1. A good essay must have a good introduction and a good conclusion.
2. It should be divided into various paragraphs of reasonable length. Each paragraph must deal with one idea which is connected with the main idea.
3. The body of the essay must have at least 3 paragraphs dealing with 3 different ideas.

2) Steps needed to compose an essay :

1. From the topics given to you, choose the one you have enough subject matter to write.
2. Collect material which is relevant to the subject.
3. Organise your ideas.
4. Ideas must be arranged in logical order. There should be flow and sequence in your paragraphs.
5. Use the right words and expressions to make your essay interesting and readable. There should be no repetition. Try to enrich your vocabulary.
6. Try to write a first draft on your notebook. Edit it to make a selfcheck for spelling, punctuations and grammatical errors.
7. Then write the final draft.

3)

1. Picture Compositions

The object of picture composition is to learn the art of writing essays with the help of a picture. You can write a story based on the picture, an account or a factual description. But your essay has to be connected with the picture given.

Example:

Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what the picture suggests to you. There has to be a clear connection between the picture and the composition.

Oh, how happy we are when Diwali comes! The bazaars are full of so many things to please everyone. There are sweet shops loaded with all kinds of mouth-watering sweets. Women crowd around clothes and jewellery shops. The pious buy new images of Gods and Goddesses. But the shops that are visited by maximum number of children are the shops that sell crackers.

The happiest person is the shopkeeper who sells firecrackers. He boasts of atom bombs, rockets and ‘Anars’ which are bigger and more powerful than last years. He assures his customers that his crackers would make the biggest noise and are the longest lasting ones.

No one cares for the the problems these crackers create. Every year there is news of children burnt by them. Many suffer serious injuries. Fire crackers burst without consideration of those around us, cause fire and many shops are gutted on Diwali. People suffer a great loss. And what of pollution? Already the big cities are full of noise pollution and air pollution. Diwali adds to their woes. Why can’t we use the hard earned money for a better cause than just burning it?

Exercised-1

Study carefully the following pictures and write a description or an account or a story of what the pictures suggest to you. There should be a clear connection between the pictures and your composition.

Question 1.

Answer:

The picture shows a lively scene from the Annual Sports Day 2008 at a school. A group of students is seen participating in a race while an enthusiastic crowd, including teachers, parents, and special guests, watches from the stands. In the foreground, four young children in sports uniforms stand beside a teacher who is guiding them, possibly preparing them for their event. A table is neatly arranged with shiny trophies and a flower vase, ready for the winners. A podium marked 1, 2, and 3 stands nearby, waiting for the champions. The event is filled with excitement, discipline, and a strong sense of sportsmanship. However, there is a spelling mistake in the banner—the word “ANUAL” should be corrected to “ANNUAL”.

Question 2.

Answer:

The picture shows a tragic road accident involving a truck and two motorcyclists. A large truck loaded with heavy sacks is speeding around a corner, and it has hit two people on a scooter. The riders have fallen to the ground, and their vehicle is crushed under the truck’s front wheels. The truck driver looks shocked and alarmed. The accident seems to have taken place in a city area, as buildings and pedestrians can be seen in the background. This picture highlights the dangers of careless driving and the importance of following traffic rules to prevent such terrible incidents.

Question 3. 

Answer:

The picture shows a joyful scene from Annual Prize Day 2008 at a school. Children are receiving trophies on stage from a teacher or chief guest while two staff members sit at a table in the background, possibly announcing the winners. A young girl is being handed a prize on stage while other students wait for their turn. Several children in the audience are clapping and smiling, and some prize-winners are already off the stage, proudly holding their trophies. The atmosphere is festive and filled with pride, celebrating the students’ hard work and achievements.

Question 4. 

Answer:

The picture shows a happy and proud moment during the Annual Prize Day 2008 celebration at a school. On the stage, a teacher or chief guest is presenting a trophy to a young girl for her achievement, while two other teachers are seated behind a table, managing the event. Other students who have already received their prizes are seen smiling and holding their trophies as they walk off the stage. In the audience, children are clapping and cheering for their friends, creating a joyful and encouraging atmosphere. The scene reflects the excitement and recognition that come with celebrating students’ hard work and success.

2. Descriptive And Narrative Essays

A Visit to a Zoo

The first animal I saw was a lion. As he stood with his head held up, with his long mane flowing along his neck, and his tail swinging to and fro, he looked very grand and royal—really the King of Beasts. I also saw tigers, leopards, and panthers. Their sharp teeth and flashing eyes sent a shiver through my body.

The monkeys were very funny. They played with one another and jumped from one branch of a tree to another. They took cakes and fruit from our hands. But one monkey was very bad-tempered. Putting his hands out through the bars, he snatched the cap off the head of a poor villager, and tore it to pieces with his teeth.

Then I saw a large pond with alligators, crocodiles and tortoises in it. I also saw red, green, blue, and yellow fishes darting to and fro in the water.

I was greatly delighted to see the birds. Some were big, others were small; they had various colours. Their bright feathers charmed the eye. Their sweet notes pleased the ear. Sparrows chirped; the other birds seemed to have a chorus; they filled the air with their merry notes.

I was about to leave the zoo when I saw three peacocks dancing merrily in the garden nearby. With their long graceful necks, coloured crests and gorgeous plumes spread out in the shape of a fan, they were so pretty to look at. In the evening, I returned home, having spent a pleasant day at the zoo.

A Picnic You Enjoyed

Last Wednesday our Headmaster gave us a holiday because our school had shown brilliant results in the High School Examination. The day was cloudy and a pleasant breeze was blowing. Peter, Tom and I were thinking of visiting the zoo in the afternoon, when Ashok suggested that we should have a picnic by the river. All of us welcomed the idea. We went to the bazaar and bought some fruit, cakes and sweetmeats as well as some milk for tea.

We set off on our bicycles in high spirits, each carrying a basket. We took the main road. The green fields of wheat and other crops, waving in the breeze, stretched far away on either side. Some farmers were seen cutting crops and binding them into sheaves. How delightful it was to get away from the noisy streets and the smoky town!

At last we reached the river. The water flowed quietly. We came upon a grassy spot under a large banyan tree. We placed out baskets and kettles there; but we had hardly placed them there when one of the baskets rolled down the slope into the river. So we had to go without our sandwiches. We were now hungry. Peter and I went to gather some dry sticks. Peter lit a fire and placed the kettle on it. But one of the bricks slipped. However, he soon lit the fire again and prepared tea for all of us. Rashid opened the baskets. O, what a delicious feast it was! I have never tasted one like that since. We had a hearty lunch of sweetmeats, pastry, cakes, tea, apples, bananas and oranges. We made merry for hours. We sang, danced, and narrated jokes.

In the afternoon we hired a boat and started rowing downstream. Ashok and I took the oars. Tom was in a jolly mood. He began to sing songs and rock the boat about. All of a sudden, he fell into the water rolling over the side of the boat. The next minute we were all in the water, struggling for our very lives. Ashok and I could swim. But Tom was nowhere to be seen! We all wondered where he was. But just then, we saw his head rise above the surface of the water. We swam up to him, caught hold of his clothes before he went down again, and pulled him out safe to the shore.

So it all ended well. Though frightened, we were hungry. We ate all the sweets and fruit that were left over. We returned home late in the evening. We were all thankful to God that the picnic had ended happily after all.

Your Favourite Hero in History: Ashoka

My favourite hero in history is Ashoka the Great. Many kings have lived and died; nobody remembers them at all but Ashoka’s name will live forever.

Ashoka was a kind ruler. All his life was spent in thinking about the welfare of his subjects. He himself attended to even the minutest details of his administration. His only desire was to make his subjects happy. His subjects could meet him at any time, and in any place; even his private place was open to them at all times. He had trees planted on either side of the roads; he had wells dug by the roadside; he had rest houses and hospitals built for both men and women as well as animals. He, therefore came to be known as Ashoka the Great. He was a wise and righteous ruler, and was truly the Father of his people.

Ashoka waged only one war, and that too, early in his reign. He saw the horror of it; he vowed never to go to war again. He said, “I have seen the horror of victory; I shall not draw the sword again except to defend my country against an invasion. My old dreams are broken and dead, but today I begin a new dream. Instead of the fear of wars I will give my people safety; instead of war, I will give them peace.” And he kept his promise. His reign was a reign of peace. He gave his people lasting peace, and made such laws for them as were just, wise and fair.

Ashoka became a Buddhist, and sent out bands of missionaries all over the country to preach Buddhism. He is famous for the pillars he set up in all parts of his kingdom, pillars inscribed with his edicts. His aim in life was to establish in the hearts of his people Dharma or Righteousness. The chief principles of this Dharma were—reverence to superiors, kindness to all including animals; and truthfulness in thought, in word, and in deed. He banned the killing of animals altogether, either for sport or meat-eating.

Ashoka was more of a saint than a ruler. He was saint because his main desire was to make his subjects virtuous, noble and wise. He cared for their souls as well as for their bodies. What greater tribute can free India pay to the memory of this great and good king than this, namely that the Indian National Flag bears upon it the Dharma Chakra of Ashoka’s Lion Capital at Samath and that the Government’s National Seal is also based on it!

The Rainy Season

In India, the rainy season begins in the month of June or July. From the middle of July to the end of September we have most of the rains. The monsoon winds blow from the south-west during July, August and September, and bring rains with them.

Before the monsoon breaks, it is very hot and dry. But when the rains start, cool breezes begin to blow. Dark clouds, heavy with rain, gather in the sky. The life-giving rain pours down. It thunders and it lightens. The winds blow stronger and stronger and the rains fall in torrents for hours together; the whole countryside looks like a lake.

Rivers and streams are sometimes flooded. Cattle are swept away, houses fall down, and standing crops are destroyed. But if the rainfall is normal, it is a blessing for the farmers. They then plough their fields and sow the seeds. Within a short time the fields are covered with rich crops.

It is the dullest part of the year so far as business goes. All business comes to a standstill when there is a heavy rainfall. The streets become muddy and the roads get slippery. All outdoor work is suspended. Houses and lanes are full of dirty smells. The roofs often begin to leak. Sometimes malaria breaks out and people are laid low with fever.

Yet the season is not without its advantages. The temperature comes down. The air gets cool and pure. Com, vegetables and other foodstuffs become cheap. The weather becomes pleasant and people work harder. The farmer expects a rich crop and is full of joy. The earth becomes wet and soft. The grass grows and the trees spread out their green branches. All are glad; for if the monsoon fails, famine follows.

A Cricket Match

The other day, I went to see a very fine cricket match between the Gymkhana Club and the North Zone. A large crowd had gathered to watch the match in the National Park. The captain of Gymkhana team won the toss; so the Gymkhana team went in first to bat and the North Zone team took the field.

The two batsmen who went in first to bat, we soon saw, were not good players. One of them was bowled out very soon.

The score then stood at only ten. The next player who went in to bat was very careful. He did not care much for runs. He simply ‘blocked’ most of the time. In this way he tired the bowlers out. The bowling was strong, but he played a steady game. He was not able to make even a single run for the first ten minutes. But the other player was a good bat. He hit the ball well and hard whenever he got it. But he soon paid for it. The bowler sent him a slow ball. He hit it hard and was caught out.

The next four men played out very quickly—two were bowled out, the other two were caught out. The score stood at fifty. We thought that the Gymkhana team would soon be all out. However, their captain made a stand. With the help of his steady partner, he was able to pull up the score to eighty. He played very cautiously, but before he could make more runs, he was run out. The other player went down one after another before the fast bowling. The whole team was out for 95 runs.

The North Zone team made rather a weak start. Their first wicket fell in about five minutes, when the score stood at only five. They lost courage when their second player followed at the next ball. However, their captain cheered them up. He played a steady game. He made runs and won the match.

A Village Fair

Madhopur was celebrating “Basant Panchmi,” the festival of spring. Villagers in hordes were turning up for the fair held in a great ‘maidan’ on the outkirts of the little village. They were walking, they were riding in bullockcarts, even on donkeys. Everyone seemed happy, women were singing and little children were dancing all the way.

You passed the small mud huts, fields of yellow golden mustard fields, you passed the small stream to reach the fair ground. Everywhere there was a golden glow—yellow being the colour of spring. Men, women and children were dressed in yellow—yellow ‘pugrees’ yellow ‘Lehangas’, yellow bangles and of course the yellow marigolds. Remember, the brightest colour in nature is not red but yellow!

As you closed in on the fair ground the noise was deafening—cries of sweetmeat sellers, the flower sellers, the merry-go-rounds with squealing children in it, the cries of people sitting in the giant wheels were ear shattering. If your mouth watered to see the multicoloured sweets—‘Barfis’, ‘Halwas’, and of course the yellow ‘Jalebis’, your eyes were captured by the multicoloured balloons, the Gulmohars and Marigolds. You were fascinated by the juggler performing incredible feats.

But the fair had another objective also, which was not so obvious. The villagers had come to sell and trade their products. In one comer you could see secret deals were being made for the sale of cattle. The entire transaction was being done under a sheet where parties bargained by holding fingers! Not a word was said aloud, only a nod or a jerk of the head. Village handicrafts were sold by women—bamboos woven into various shapes as baskets, little purses with mirrors, skirts woven at home, even bed covers with gay bold prints. For men there were ‘dhotis’, little mufflers, colourful kurtas. The most popular business was going at the bangle shops, full of ‘bindis’, tasseled strings to tie your hair (Parandas).

There were spices of all kinds, household tools, and Indian scents (‘Itars’). Every shop was crowded, people jostling each other in a good humoured manner. The happiest were the children allowed to have their fill of toys, sweets and other gifts. Indeed a village fair is an event one should attend. It gives such a vivid picture of village life—her simple joys and crafts.

Exercise-2

Question 1. Describe any match (hockey, football, cricket, table tennis) you have witnessed in your school.

Answer:

School Football Match
The inter-house final had our entire school gathered on the field. The score was 1-1 when Rohan from Blue House dribbled past three defenders. As he shot, time seemed to freeze – the ball hit the crossbar, then the goalkeeper’s back, and trickled over the line! Our deafening cheers startled birds from nearby trees. That last-minute goal became legendary, proving persistence beats perfection.

Question 2. You witnessed an accident near your house. Describe how it happened and who was hurt. Did anyone help the injured people? Did the police help? Who took the injured to the hospital? What did you do and how did you help?

Answer:

Road Accident Witness
Near my society gate, a speeding scooter hit a cyclist making a U-turn. The cyclist (Mr. Sharma, our math tutor) fractured his wrist, while the scooter boy scraped his knees. I called 100 while neighbors brought water and towels. Surprisingly, PCR vans arrived in 8 minutes – one officer redirected traffic while another called the ambulance. I helped collect Mr. Sharma’s scattered books, recognizing his daughter’s homework I’d failed last week.

Question 3. Narrate an incident which happened during a train journey and which was very humorous.

Answer:

Humorous Train Incident
On the Rajdhani Express, a confused American tourist kept bowing and saying “Arigato” to the TTE, convinced it meant “thank you” in Hindi. The TTE played along, replying “You’re welcome” in heavily accented Japanese. The whole compartment erupted when a Japanese passenger finally explained the mix-up, with the tourist turning tomato-red but laughing loudest of all.

Question 4. Which season do you like and why?

Answer:

Favorite Season – Winter
I adore Delhi’s winters (December-January) when the air smells of roasted peanuts and the sun feels like a warm hug. Layers of sweaters transform everyone into colorful marshmallows. Best part? No alarms – foggy mornings mean spontaneous school delays! Plus, winter weddings where dancing keeps you warmer than any heater.

Question 5. I hate watching Sas-bahu soaps on the T.V.

Answer:

TV Soap Rant
Sas-bahu dramas are emotional torture! Every episode features the same fake eyelashes, unnecessary background music, and overacting that could shatter glass. Yesterday’s plot? A mother-in-law hid her daughter-in-law’s passport… because the flight was at 3 pm and lunch wasn’t served. I’d rather watch paint dry – at least that’s honest about being boring.

Question 6. A weekly market.

Answer:

Weekly Market Scene
Our Tuesday bazaar is chaos perfected. Vendors hawk “100% pure” honey (beside plastic toys), while aunties haggle over onions like Wall Street traders. The real entertainment? The fortune-telling parrot that picks cards – last week it “predicted” three different futures for Mrs. Khanna depending on how many peanuts she offered.

Question 7. The colony I live in

Answer:

My Colony
Greenwood Society is a microcosm of India. Retired Colonel Singh walks his Labrador at 6 am sharp, while teenagers sneak cigarettes near the broken fence. The highlight? Our multicultural Diwali – Gujarati dhoklas, Punjabi jalebis, and Bengali lighting displays, all enjoyed under Tamil neighbors’ fairy lights.

Question 8. My first journey in a plane.

Answer:

First Flight Experience
My white-knuckle grip on the armrest alarmed the air hostess. When the plane accelerated, I screamed thinking we were crashing – only to realize it was normal takeoff! The elderly Bengali man beside me chuckled and said, “Better than Howrah local, no?” The aerial view of tea-stained clouds made the embarrassment worthwhile.

Question 9. Oh! What a horrible experience!

Answer:

Horrible Experience
The “5-star” hotel’s elevator got stuck between floors during my cousin’s wedding. Twelve of us – including the bride in full regalia – were trapped for 90 minutes with a flickering light and a nervous salesman humming “Stairway to Heaven”. The firemen’s ladder rescue gave guests an unexpected show of the groom’s underwear as he climbed out

Question 10. The country you would like to visit.

Answer:

Dream Destination – Japan
I dream of visiting Japan to experience its beautiful contradictions – neon cities beside zen gardens, bullet trains passing ancient temples. The appeal? Vending machine hot meals that taste homemade, polite crows that bow, and Studio Ghibli magic brought to life. Most of all, I want to try authentic ramen where the broth has been perfected over generations.

3. Argumentative Essays

In argumentative essays you argue either for or against a subject. You may support or oppose an idea or ideas strongly.

Example: Computers will Replace Books

Against

One, I cannot believe all the big claims made on behalf of the computers. A computer can never and will never replace a book. A computer cannot give the same joy, which reading a book ourselves can give us. We will form our own opinions about a book and not be influenced by computers.

A computer cannot open new schools and colleges to educate more and more people. If everyone could study from computers there would not be a mad rush to admit children in schools. A computer can never replace a teacher or your book. You have to read to know more. A computer can tell us only that much which is fed into it. It cannot answer all our questions, clear all our doubts.

A book is your own. There is a simple joy in owning it. You can look at the pictures again and again and read your favourite stories again and again. You do not have to depend on electricity, help of your family members and permission to use it! Books will remain forever.

Exercise-3

Write either for or against the following topics :

Question 1. Television is a hazard to children’s health and growth.

Answer:

Television is a hazard to children’s health and growth.
While television can be educational in moderation, excessive screen time poses serious risks to children. Prolonged viewing contributes to obesity due to sedentary behavior, disrupts sleep patterns, and may impair cognitive development. Many shows also expose children to inappropriate content or unrealistic stereotypes. Parents should enforce strict limits and encourage outdoor play, reading, and family interactions instead.

Question 2. India is a better country to live than any other country in the world.

Answer:

India is a better country to live in than any other country in the world.
India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and strong family values make it uniquely vibrant. From snowy Himalayas to tropical beaches, it offers unparalleled geographic variety. While challenges like pollution exist, India’s warmth, affordable living, and spiritual depth create a fulfilling life. However, “better” is subjective—every country has strengths tailored to different lifestyles.

Question 3. Is it better to live in a colony or an independent house?

Answer:

Is it better to live in a colony or an independent house?
Colonies offer security, community, and shared amenities (parks, maintenance), ideal for families and social individuals. Independent houses provide privacy, customization freedom, and no society rules—perfect for those valuing solitude. The choice depends on priorities: convenience (colony) vs. autonomy (house).

Question 4. Cinema entertains and educates.

Answer:

Cinema entertains and educates.
Films like 3 Idiots critique education systems, while Pad Man raises health awareness. Historical dramas (Bhagat Singh) inspire patriotism, and documentaries highlight social issues. However, mindless entertainment dominates—the key is curating meaningful content that balances fun with learning.

Question 5. Admission in school should be compulsory for all.

Answer:

Admission in school should be compulsory for all.
Education is a fundamental right and vital for national progress. Compulsory schooling reduces child labor, empowers marginalized groups, and fosters critical thinking. However, infrastructure gaps in rural areas must be addressed first to ensure quality education for every child.

Question 6. Girls should not be allowed to take up jobs in the army.

Answer:

Girls should not be allowed to take up jobs in the army.
This outdated view ignores women’s proven capabilities in combat and leadership. Officers like Captain Tania Shergill have shattered stereotypes. Physical standards are gender-neutral, and diverse perspectives strengthen forces. Equality in duty and opportunity benefits the entire nation.

4. Imaginative Essays

In imaginative essays the writer imagines the feelings events of someone else and describes it in his own words.

Sample 1

If I Met Aladdin’s Genie for a Day!

How lucky Aladdin was! He had a genie to fulfil all his dreams. With his help he became a fabulously rich man, married a princess and lived happily ever after! Suppose, just suppose, I also meet a genie! I can, so don’t laugh! Everything and anything is possible in this world. I would not ask the genie to make me rich or find a beautiful princess for me. I have better things to do in life.

The first thing I will ask the genie will be to make me a very, very intelligent boy, a better genius than Einstein. I would never feel small in class again, I will astonish all my teachers with my knowledge and ready answers.

My second wish will be that the genie takes me round the world. I would go through space— without space suits or shuttles. I’ll visit the Moon, Planet Mars and stun the world with new scientific information I will collect. The teachers who think I’m a dud in science, will be amazed, or thunderstruck with my knowledge.

My last wish will be to discover the secrets of all diseases. Why should we humans suffer so much! I will find one single cure for all diseases! I want everyone to lead a happy, adventurous healthy life. I don’t like to see sad faces around me. But please, will somebody find the genie for me!

Exercise-4

Write the following essays

Question 1. If I were an astronaut on Mars!

Answer:

If I Were an Astronaut on Mars!
As my boots crunched the rust-colored Martian soil, I’d plant the Indian flag beside Olympus Mons, the tallest volcano in the solar system. With Earth a pale blue dot in the sky, I’d conduct experiments to discover microbial life in the Valles Marineris canyon. At sunset (which appears blue here!), I’d send a holographic postcard home: “Wish you were here—the neighbors are really quiet!”

Question 2. If I could be Mahendra Singh Dhoni for a day

Answer:

If I Could Be MS Dhoni for a Day
Waking up as “Captain Cool,” I’d stroll into Wankhede Stadium to lead Chennai Super Kings. After hitting the winning six, I’d reveal the secret behind that helicopter shot to young fans. Best part? Press conferences where I’d answer every question with my signature enigmatic smile and a “Well, obviously…”

Question 3. If I were as good a singer as Lata Mangeshkar!

Answer:

If I Were as Good a Singer as Lata Mangeshkar!
I’d host a midnight concert at the Taj Mahal, where my rendition of Lag Jaa Gale would make the Yamuna River pause its flow. Bollywood composers would queue outside my home with blank checkbooks, while AI music apps would crash trying to replicate my taans.

Question 4. If I were crowned “Miss Universe”

Answer:

If I Were Crowned “Miss Universe”
During my acceptance speech, I’d swap the usual platitudes for a call to action: “This crown funds 10,000 girls’ STEM scholarships!” Backstage, I’d challenge stereotypes by arm-wrestling the host (and winning), then send the tiara to space to symbolize limitless aspirations.

Question 5. A day in your life as an actor

Answer:

A Day in My Life as an Actor
5 AM: Prosthetic makeup for my role as a 90-year-old scientist.
Noon: Forget lines during a romantic scene—co-star laughs so hard we need 15 retakes.
7 PM: Paparazzi chase me for “scandalous” photos… of me eating golgappas with extra spice.
Midnight: Oscars speech rehearsal in the shower (with a shampoo bottle as my trophy).

Question 6. If I could be a submarine and find out the secrets of the sea

Answer:

If I Could Be a Submarine
I’d dive to the Mariana Trench to interview anglerfish about their bioluminescent dating scene. After discovering Atlantis (it’s just a very elaborate coral prank), I’d blast Under the Sea from my sonar to annoy grumpy squids.

Question 7. If I were a toy maker

Answer:

If I Were a Toy Maker
My workshop would craft empathy dolls that whisper kindness affirmations, and puzzle boxes that teach quantum physics through origami. The star product? A teddy bear with GPS to ensure no child ever loses their friend again.

Question 8. If there were no serials on T.V.!

Answer:

If There Were No Serials on TV!
Families might actually talk to each other! News channels would invent dramatic headlines like Spoiled Milk Crisis: Nation Weeps Over Chai. Meanwhile, I’d pitch a show where actors silently read books—the ultimate plot twist.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 34 Letter Writing

1) Letters are of three kinds :

1. Informal or Personal Letters: They are written to relatives, friends and acquaintances.

2. Formal or Business Letters: They are written to business houses, firms, principals of institutions, officials, and to people who we don’t know personally. In these letters, the language is polite, simple and clear. They are short and to the point.

3. Social letters and Notes of Invitation: These letters can be both personal or official according to the occasion. They include invitations, letters of congratulations, condolences and letters of thanks.

2)

1. Informal Letters

The Hall
Dehradun
4 August, 20 ______
Dear Arshiya,

This is just a note to say thank you for the lovely day I spent with you yesterday. It was really difficult to go back to studies after such a pleasant time. Your mother is a fabulous cook (No wonder, you can never reduce!) — delicious food, good company and what a splendid garden! It was really nice to meet your parents, they are really warm-hearted and loving. Would you like to come over next week? You could spend the next weekend with my family and we can go trekking in the hills if the weather permits. My parents are looking forward to meeting you.

Thanks once again for yesterday.

Your loving friend,
Salma

Exercise-1

Question 1. You are Munish living in Bengaluru. Your penfriend from New Jersey, USA is visiting India next week. He has sent you a letter asking you about places to visit in Bengaluru, where to stay and what to buy as souvenirs. Write a letter giving him all the details.

Answer:

Letter to Penfriend Visiting Bengaluru
12, MG Road
Bengaluru – 560001
10th May 2024

Dear Alex,

Thrilled to hear about your visit! Here’s your Bengaluru guide:

Places to Visit:

Cubbon Park (Lush greenery, perfect for morning walks)

ISKCON Temple (Spiritual haven with stunning architecture)

Innovation Film City (Fun interactive exhibits)

Nandi Hills (Sunrise views worth the early drive)

Stay Options:

Budget: Treebo Trend Inn (Near MG Road)

Luxury: Taj West End (Heritage property with pools)

Souvenirs:

Mysore silk sarees

Sandalwood carvings

Filter coffee powder (Must-take!)

Can’t wait to show you around! Confirm your flight details soon.

Warmly,
Munich

Question 2. You are Avinash. You saw “Taare Zameen Par” and was very impressed by the movie. Write a letter to your friend asking him to watch this movie. Tell him why you liked it.

Answer:

Letter Recommending “Taare Zameen Par”
45, Patel Nagar
Delhi – 110008
10th May 2024

Dear Rohan,

You must watch Taare Zameen Par! This movie moved me to tears—it’s about a dyslexic child, Ishaan, whose art teacher (Aamir Khan) helps him shine. The scene where Ishaan’s painting wins the competition made me realize how every child is special. The songs (Maa) are soul-stirring too.

Let’s watch it together this weekend—I’ll bring tissues!

Your movie buff friend,
Avinash

Question 3. You are delighted by the Indian cricket team winning the “Border-Gavaskar Trophy” and crushing Australia. Write a letter to your friend, who lives in Dubai, telling him the highlights of the game and what you thought of the Australian players.

Answer:

Letter About Cricket Victory
7, Cricket Lane
Mumbai – 400020
10th May 2024

Dear Arjun,

INDIA WON THE BORDER-GAVASKAR TROPHY!  Our spinners crushed Australia—Ashwin’s 6-wicket haul was legendary! Smith fought hard (his 110 was classy), but Pujara’s gritty 90 sealed the deal. The MCG crowd’s stunned silence when Jadeja hit the winning six was priceless!

Wish you’d seen it live—next match, let’s video-call during the innings break!

Cheers,
Rahul

Question 4. Your brother is extremely disappointed at not being elected the school captain. Write a letter of encouragement to him and ask him to move on and try for better things in life.

Answer:

Letter to Disappointed Brother
3, Sunshine Apartments
Chennai – 600005
10th May 2024

Dear Vikram,

I heard about the election results. Remember—even Dhoni was rejected early in his career! Leadership isn’t just a title; it’s how you inspire others daily. Your basketball team still looks up to you, and your science project could win nationals.

Let’s brainstorm new goals over ice cream tonight.

Proudly yours,
Priya

Question 5. You failed to meet your friend at the airport, and he left India without meeting you. Write a letter of apology to him explaining why you couldn’t meet him.

Answer:

Apology Letter to Friend
22, Skyline Towers
Hyderabad – 500030
10th May 2024

Dear Aditya,

I’m heartbroken about missing you at the airport! My car broke down en route, and by the time I arranged a cab, your flight had departed. I even made your favorite gulab jamuns (now frozen for next time).

Let’s plan a video call Sunday—I’ll send souvenirs to Dubai to make it up!

Guiltily,
Neha

Question 6. Your grandfather celebrates his 90th birthday next week. Write a letter to him expressing your joy and love for him.

Answer:

Birthday Letter to Grandfather
15, Heritage Villa
Kolkata – 700090
10th May 2024

Dear Grandpa,

Happy 90th! Your stories of Partition survival, your secret rasgulla recipe, and how you still beat me at chess—these are my treasures. Today, we’ll crown you “Best Dadaji Ever” with a homemade medal.

Thank you for being my time machine to history and my compass for life.

Forever your mini-me,
Aryan

3)

2. Formal Letters

Business Letters, Invitations and Applications: You have already learnt about them in Class 7. For a quick revision, there is a sample of each given below.

Business

69, Mall Avenue
SHIMLA
29th October, 20_
The Sales Manager
J.C. Larson Company
Chandigarh

Sub: Delivery of furniture ordered

Sir,

We had ordered some furniture from your company a month back. You had promised to deliver the order by the first of October. We are still waiting for our new furniture to arrive. You have not responded to our phone calls. Please expedite the delivery or we will have to take some serious action. I am sending you the copy of the receipt.

Yours truly,
K. Gopal

4)

3. Invitations (Formal)

Shri and Smt Anant Haksar request the pleasure of Shri and Shrimati Vijay Sood’s company at dinner on Saturday, 15th April, at 8 o’clock.
26 B Mall Avenue
DELHI

Reply to the above :

Shri and Shrimati Vijay Sood have great pleasure in accepting the kind invitation of Shri and Shrimati Anant Haksar to dinner on 15th April, at 8 o’clock.

28 D Lebarnaum Apartments.
Gurgaon.

Exercise-2

Question 1. You are Seema Bharatiya. You wish to place an order for a copy of the book ‘It was Five Minutes Past Midnight’ written by Dominique Lappierre, with Messrs UBS Publishers and Distributors, Ansari Road, Delhi. Write a letter requesting them to mail you a copy by VPP.

Answer:

Order Letter for Book (VPP Request)
Seema Bharatiya
14, Green Park Extension
New Delhi – 110016
10th May 2024

The Manager
Messrs UBS Publishers and Distributors
Ansari Road, Delhi – 110002

Subject: Request for Book Delivery via VPP

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to order a copy of ‘It was Five Minutes Past Midnight’ by Dominique Lapierre. Kindly send the book to my address above via Value Payable Post (VPP) at the earliest.

Please confirm the total cost including delivery charges. I have attached the order form for your reference.

Looking forward to your prompt response.

Yours sincerely,
Seema Bharatiya

Question 2. You and your friends are doing a project on “How Glass is Made”. You wish to visit the glass factory which is close to your town. Write a letter to the Manager, Mr Vithal Bhai, seeking permission to allow your group to visit the factory at a date and time suitable to him.

Answer:

Permission Letter for Factory Visit
Group Leader
Class 10-B, Sunshine Public School
Vadodara – 390020
10th May 2024

Mr. Vinil Bhai (Manager)
Gujarat Glass Works
Near Makarpura Industrial Area
Vadodara – 390010

Subject: Request for Educational Visit to Glass Factory

Dear Mr. Bhai,

We are a group of 15 students working on a project “How Glass is Made”. We request permission to visit your factory to observe the glass manufacturing process.

Kindly let us know a suitable date and time for the visit. We are available on weekdays after 2 PM.

Thank you for considering our request.

Yours faithfully,
Rahul Mehta
(On behalf of Class 10-B)

Question 3. You had ordered some books from Messrs Sita Prakashan. On receipt of the package you find that the books are not the same as ordered by you. Write a letter of complaint asking them to replace the books.

Answer:

Complaint Letter for Wrong Book Delivery
Priya Malhotra
D-203, Silver Oak Apartments
Mumbai – 400050
10th May 2024

The Customer Service Manager
Messrs Sita Prakashan
Karol Bagh, Delhi – 110005

Subject: Complaint Regarding Incorrect Book Delivery

Dear Sir/Madam,

I had ordered ‘The Secret Garden’ (Order No. SP-7892), but received ‘The Hidden Palace’ instead. Kindly arrange for a replacement or refund at the earliest.

Attached are copies of my order confirmation and invoice for reference. Please confirm the resolution process.

Awaiting your prompt action.

Sincerely,
Priya Malhotra

Question 4. You are Prem Butalia. You and your friends are interested in going for a sightseeing trip to Goa. Write a letter to Messrs Joy Travels who conduct package toms asking them to give you details of the tour.

Answer:

Inquiry Letter for Goa Tour Package
Prem Butalia
27, Palm Beach Road
Chennai – 600028
10th May 2024

The Tour Coordinator
Messrs Joy Travels
MG Road, Goa – 403001

Subject: Inquiry About Goa Sightseeing Tour

Dear Sir/Madam,

My friends and I (group of 8) wish to book a 5-day Goa tour in June. Kindly share details regarding:

Itinerary (Beaches, forts, activities)

Accommodation options (Budget to mid-range)

Package cost (Inclusions/exclusions)

Payment terms

We prefer departures from Chennai. Please email the brochure to [email protected].

Thank you for your assistance.

Yours truly,
Prem Butalia

Question 5. You are Saurav Gangadhar. You wish to order a pair of football shoes from a shop, Modem Sports located in Karol Bagh. Write a letter to the proprietor asking him to send you the pair of shoes. Give him details, such as size, brand, colour and the mode of despatch.

Answer:

Order Letter for Football Shoes
Saurav Gangadhar
12, Sports Colony
Pune – 411030
10th May 2024

The Proprietor
Modern Sports
Karol Bagh, Delhi – 110005

Subject: Order for Football Shoes

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to order a pair of Nike Mercurial Vapor football shoes with the following specifications:

Size: UK 9

Color: Electric Green/Black

Model: 2024 Edition

Kindly confirm the price including shipping charges to Pune. I prefer delivery via DTDC Courier (cash on delivery). Please process the order at the earliest.

Looking forward to your confirmation.

Yours sincerely,
Saurav Gangadhar

Question 6. Mrs Sandra Mathews has invited all her office colleagues for a New Year Eve dinner at her house. Draft a suitable invitation on her behalf.

Answer:

New Year Eve Dinner Invitation
Mrs. Sandra Mathews
45, Rosewood Apartments
Bengaluru – 560001

Invitation

New Year’s Eve Dinner
“Ring in 2025 with Joy!”

Date: 31st December 2024
Time: 8:00 PM onwards
Venue: My Residence (Address above)
RSVP: Sandra – 98765XXXXX by 25th December

Dress Code: Sparkling & Festive

Looking forward to celebrating with you!

Question 7. Mr & Mrs Khan’s son is returning from the USA after completing his MBA from the Harvard Business College. They wish to invite their friends to dinner at Hotel Taj in honour of his return. Write the invitation on their behalf.

Answer:

Dinner Invitation for Son’s Return
Mr. & Mrs. Khan
7, Hill View Road
Mumbai – 400050

Invitation

“A Celebration of Homecoming”

Join us to welcome our son, Ayaan, back from Harvard Business School!

Date: 15th June 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: Hotel Taj, Apollo Bunder, Mumbai
RSVP: Mrs. Khan – 98989XXXXX

Your presence will make the evening special!

Question 8. Mr & Mrs Ranade wish to acknowledge and accept the invitation given to them by Mr & Mrs Khan (Exercise 7 above). Write their informal reply.

Answer:

Informal Reply to Invitation
Mr. & Mrs. Ranade
23, Marine Drive
Mumbai – 400020
10th May 2024

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Khan,

We’re thrilled to accept your invitation for Ayaan’s homecoming dinner on 15th June! Can’t wait to hear about his Harvard adventures. Do let us know if we can bring anything.

Warm regards,
Sunita & Rajesh Ranade

Question 9. You are the Vice-Head Boy of your school studying in Class XI. Your class has organised a farewell dinner for Class XII students in the school auditorium. Write an informal invitation for them.

Answer:

Farewell Dinner Invitation (Informal)
Vice-Head Boy, Class XI
Delhi Public School
New Delhi – 110075

Invitation

“Cheers to Memories!”

Dear Class XII Seniors,

We’re hosting a farewell dinner for you!

Date: 20th March 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: School Auditorium
Dress Code: Semi-Formal

Come hungry—there’s a surprise performance!

Your juniors

5)

4. Applications

The Principal
New Era School
New Delhi,
20th October, 20 _________

Application for leave

Sir,

This is to inform you that I am down with malaria. Doctor has advised me one week’s complete rest. Please grant me leave from 20th October till 28th October, 20 _________. the doctor’s certificate.

Thanking you,
Yours Obediently
Suman Bhalla
Class VIII B

Applications are also formal letters. These can be of different types, e.g., application for leave, application for fee concession, application for job, etc. Whereas the first two applications resemble the format of any other formal letters, the third type, viz., applications for jobs have a different format and style.

An application for a job can be written in two ways :

1. An application where all essential details (also called biodata) are incorporated in the body of the main letter itself.
2. An application where the details (biodata) are attached separately in a covering letter.

Note: Biodata is the same as ‘Resume’ or ‘Curriculum Vitae’ (CV)

Biodata consists of the following information :

• Personal Information :
• Name
• Father’s name
• Age or date of birth
• Address
• Telephone number

Educational Qualification :

• School Board exam and result
• Graduate level education with subjects (and result—optional)
• Post-graduate level education with subjects (and result—optional)

Professional Qualification :

• Any degree or diploma or vocational course attended which has relevance to your job (e.g. B.Ed., NIT, diploma in any computer course, etc.)

Work Experience :

Give details of posts held in firms/companies/institutions where you have worked earlier stating the duration of your tenure.

• Last salary drawn
• Salary expected
• Hobbies and interests
• References

Give details such as present status and address of a person who knows you well and who can stand testimony to your behaviour and may speak in your favour just in case the new organisation wishes to collect information about your past.

6) Now study the two applications below :

You have seen an advertisement for a Sales Person in a Fast Food Restaurant. Write a letter, applying for the job giving details of your qualifications.

Example 1

16 Fort Road
Lucknow
16th August, 20_
Modern Fast Food Restaurant
16-A Friend’s Colony, New Delhi

Subject : Application for the Post of a Salesperson.

Dear Sir,

With reference to your advertisement in the Times of India (Dated 14th August, 20. I would like to apply for the post. I am a 22-year-old graduate from Delhi University. I can speak English and Hindi fluently and know a few other Indian languages also (Punjabi, Bengali and Urdu). I am a tall, healthy boy with a very persuasive manner with customers. I have worked for a few months with a fast food restaurant in Lucknow.

I will serve to the best of my ability in your organisation if I am given a chance.
I hope you will consider my application favourably.
I am enclosing my bio-data for your perusal.

Yours faithfully,
Gopal Tandon.

Enclosed:

BIODATA

1. Name : Gopal Tandon
2. Father’s Name : Sh. B. N. Tandon.
3. Date of Birth
4. Address
5. Educational Qualification :
   1. Senior Secondary Exam., CBSE Board, La Martineire School, Lucknow. Secured
      First Division with two distinctions (English, Social Studies) in 2012.
   2. B. A. (Pass), Hansraj College, Delhi University with 58% in 2015.
6. Work Experience: Worked for four months as a sales person in “Tasty Bite,” a fast food restaurant in Lucknow. (Manager’s certificate attached.)
7. Salary drawn: Rs 5000 p.m. with perks.
8. Salary expected: Rs 8000 p.m.
9. Participation in Activities: Have participated in cultural shows in school and college.

Example 2

16 Fort Road
Lucknow
29th June, 20 __________.
The Principal
Ever Green School
Gomti Nagar, Lucknow

Subject: Application for the Post of PGT Maths

Sir,

With reference to your advertisement in the Times of India (dated 20th June, 20. .) I want to apply for the post of PGT Maths. I have a first class degree in M.A. (Maths), Lucknow University and I am a gold medalist. I have been working as PGT Maths in St. Mary’s School, Gorakhpur. We have recently shifted to Lucknow. I have teaching experience of 10 years. I have excellent references and am good in various sports. I am enclosing my Biodata. I hope you will consider my application. If selected, I shall try my best to work to your satisfaction.

Thanking you,
Yours faithfully,
R. K. Singh.

Exercise-3

Now read the situations and draft suitable applications for jobs:—

Question 1. You are Anil. You have done your M.Sc. in Maths from Delhi University and have also done your B.Ed from CIE, Delhi. You have seen an advertisement of G.D. Hansraj School in the ‘Hindustan Times’, dated 12 December, 2013 asking for PGT Maths. Apply in response to the advertisement.

Answer:

Application for PGT Mathematics Position

Anil Sharma
[Your Address]
[City, PIN Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Contact Number]
[Date: DD/MM/YYYY]

The Principal
G.D. Hansraj School
[School Address]
[City, PIN Code]

Subject: Application for PGT Mathematics Position

Dear Sir/Madam,

With reference to your advertisement in Hindustan Times dated 12th December 2013, I wish to apply for the position of PGT Mathematics at your esteemed institution.

I hold an M.Sc. in Mathematics from Delhi University and a B.Ed. from CIE, Delhi, qualifying me with both subject expertise and pedagogical training. During my teaching experience at [Previous School Name/Internship], I developed innovative methods to make abstract concepts engaging, resulting in a 15% improvement in student performance.

Key strengths that I bring to your school:

Proven ability to simplify complex mathematical theories

Experience preparing students for competitive exams

Proficiency in using technology for interactive learning

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your institution’s vision. My resume is enclosed for your reference.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your positive response.

Yours sincerely,
Anil Sharma

Enclosure: Resume

Question 2. You are Sushila. You come across the following advertisement (HT, 24th Aug., 2016): “Wanted good looking models. Male / Female for print ads for winter designer wears”. Write within five days with suitable photographs to Manager, New Designer Wears, 5-16, Lajpat Nagar IV, New Delhi.

Answer:

Application for Modeling Position
Sushila Verma
[Your Address]
[City, PIN Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Contact Number]
[Date]

The Manager
New Designer Wears
5-16, Lajpat Nagar IV
New Delhi – 110024

Subject: Application for Winter Wear Modeling Opportunity

Dear Sir/Madam,

In response to your advertisement in Hindustan Times (24th August 2016), I wish to apply as a model for your winter designer wear collection.

As an experienced model with a portfolio in lifestyle photography (attached), I bring:

Height: 5’9″ with photogenic features

Experience in print campaigns for Woolmark and Raymond

Ability to showcase garments with versatile expressions

I have attached my portfolio and measurements for your review. Available for test shoots at your convenience.

Looking forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,
Sushila Verma

Enclosures: Portfolio, Measurements Sheet

Question 3. You are Sushma Sareen. You have just completed your B.Com from Chennai. You come across an advertisement in a local newspaper about a Correspondence Course offered by Vivekananda Institute of Education and Research. Write an application seeking admission to the course in Banking Laws.

Answer:

Application for Telephone Operator
Meena Butalia
[Your Address]
New Delhi – 1100XX
[Date]

The Manager
MTNL Exchange
21, Mathura Road
New Delhi – 110001

Subject: Application for Telephone Operator Position

Dear Sir/Madam,

I wish to apply for the Telephone Operator position at your exchange. My qualifications include:

Diploma in Telecom Operations (IGNOU, 2015)

1-year experience at Airtel Call Center (Delhi)

Fluency in English/Hindi/Punjabi

Typing speed: 45 WPM

I excel in handling high call volumes with patience and technical accuracy. My former employer rated me “Best Customer Service Agent” for Q3 2015.

Attached are my certificates. Available for interview anytime.

Sincerely,
Meena Butalia

Question 4. You are Meena Butalia. Write an application to The Manager, MTNL Exchange, 21 Mathura Road, New Delhi for the post of a Telephone Operator.

Answer:

Application for Banking Laws Course
Sushma Sareen
[Your Address]
Chennai – 6000XX
[Date]

The Director
Vivekananda Institute of Education and Research
[Institute Address]
Chennai

Subject: Admission to Banking Laws Correspondence Course

Dear Sir/Madam,

I recently completed B.Com from [Your College] and seek admission to your Banking Laws course (advertised in The Hindu on [Date]).

This program aligns with my goal to specialize in financial compliance. I possess:

Strong foundation in commercial laws (scored 78% in B.Com)

Basic knowledge of RBI regulations from internships

Kindly share details regarding:

Course duration/fee structure

Study material dispatch timeline

Examination pattern

Enclosed are my marksheets. Eager to contribute to your institute’s legacy.

Yours faithfully,
Sushma Sareen

Question 5. Messrs Mehrason’s Superstores are looking for smart, graduate girls and boys who are fluent in English to serve in their stores as counter boys and girls. They have announced a handsome salary. You are Preeti Raghvan. Write an application for the job.

Answer:

Application for Superstore Counter Staff
Preeti Raghavan
[Your Address]
[City, PIN]
[Date]

The HR Manager
Messrs Mehrason’s Superstores
[Store Address]

Subject: Application for Counter Staff Position

Dear Sir/Madam,

As a recent graduate (B.A. English, Delhi University) fluent in English/Hindi/Tamil, I apply for the counter staff role per your advertisement.

My strengths:

Retail internship at More Megastore (handled billing/inventory)

Awarded “Most Polite Staff” by customers

Tech-savvy (operates POS systems)

I thrive in fast-paced environments and would love to contribute to your team’s efficiency.

Available for interview at your convenience.

Sincerely,
Preeti Raghavan

Question 6. You are Pawan Walia. You are working in Parihar Exports. You need one month’s leave as your sister’s marriage has been fixed and you have to go to your hometown Meerut to make arrangements for the wedding. Write an application asking for leave.

Answer:

Application for One Month Leave

Parihar Exports
[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Manager
Parihar Exports
[Company Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Application for One Month Leave

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally request a leave of one month, from [start date] to [end date], as my sister’s wedding has been scheduled during this time. I need to travel to my hometown, Meerut, to assist with the preparations and arrangements for the ceremony.

I assure you that I will complete all pending tasks before my leave begins and will be available for any urgent matters via email, if required. I kindly request your approval for the same.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely,
Pawan Walia
[Your Designation]
[Contact Information]

Question 7. You are Sonia. You are working with Wari Stores as their Floor Manager. You are on leave r but you have fallen sick and will not be able to resume duties on the date scheduled. Write a letter to the Manager, Wari Stores, explaining your reasons for not being able to join on time. Request him to extend your leave by another 15 days.

Answer:

Letter Requesting Leave Extension

Wari Stores
[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Manager
Wari Stores
[Company Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Request for Leave Extension

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to inform you that due to an unexpected illness, I will be unable to resume my duties as scheduled on [original return date]. My doctor has advised me to take complete rest for another 15 days.

I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused and kindly request you to extend my leave until [new return date]. I will ensure a smooth transition of my responsibilities upon my return.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,
Sonia
Floor Manager
[Contact Information]

Question 8. You are Mimi. You have just completed your Graduation. Write an application to the Director, Young Women’s Christian Association asking them to enrol you for their next six month Travel and Tourism Course.

Answer:

Application for Enrollment in Travel and Tourism Course

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Director
Young Women’s Christian Association
[Institution Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Application for Enrollment in Travel and Tourism Course

Dear Madam/Sir,

I am Mimi, a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree]. I am writing to express my interest in enrolling in your six-month Travel and Tourism Course, scheduled to begin on [start date].

I am eager to enhance my skills in this field and believe your esteemed institution will provide the perfect platform for my career growth. Kindly let me know the enrollment procedure and any required documents.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,
Mimi
[Contact Information]

7)

5. Letters To The Editor

If you read a newspaper or a magazine you would notice that there is a definite space for letters received from the general public. Though Editors of newspapers and magazines receive letters in thousands, only a few get printed. Editors choose these letters on the basis of general interest and readability.

People like writing letters to newpapers because they can express their opinion on certain burning issues of national or international importance or even to get their complaints redressed. However, one must remember that such letters should be short and to the point.

Letters to newspapers are generally addressed to ‘The Editor’. The proper form of salutation is Sir, and not Dear Sir. The formal close is Yours truly.

Example

The Editor,
The Hindustan Times,
New Delhi.
2nd January, 20 __________

Sub: Reckless Driving

Sir,

It is high time that proper steps are taken to put a stop to the reckless driving of motor-cars in the narrow streets of our thickly populated town. Only yesterday, a poor old beggar very narrowly escaped from being run over by a motor-car going at full speed. He was crossing the street when a car came dashing along at a speed of ninety kilometres an hour. Such reckless driving causes fatal accidents to women and children trying to cross the roads.

It is true that regulations regarding the speed limit do exist. But unless the police are strict in enforcing them, what do the drivers care about these regulations? The police seem to take little or no notice of offenders. And so, motor-car accidents are almost a daily occurrence.

I hope that the public, who are the worst sufferers, will bring pressure to bear upon the police and municipal authorities to put a stop to reckless driving before we have any more deaths due to accidents.

I remain,
Yours truly,
An ‘Observer’

Exercise-4

Write the following letters to the Editor of a national newspaper:—

Question 1. You are Varun. You are quite concerned about the bad conditions of roads in your locality. You have been writing to the local authorities about it but no action has been taken so far. Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper highlighting the plight of the residents due to the bad conditions of the roads and the callous attitude of the local authorities.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Poor Road Conditions

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Neglected Roads and Indifferent Authorities

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to bring attention to the deplorable condition of roads in our locality, [Area Name]. Despite repeated complaints to the local municipal authorities, no repairs have been undertaken, causing immense inconvenience to residents. Potholes, waterlogging, and broken pavements have made commuting hazardous, especially for the elderly and children.

The apathy of the concerned officials is shocking. I urge the authorities to take immediate action and request media support to highlight this issue so that accountability is enforced.

Yours sincerely,
Varun
[Contact Information]

Question 2. You are Sabina. Every time you stop at the red light crossing, you find a number of beggars who swarm around the cars begging for alms. You have also noticed that recently the number of child beggars is increasing. Write a letter to the Editor highlighting the evils of beggary and suggesting some positive measures to check children from begging.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Menace of Child Begging

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Rising Menace of Child Begging at Traffic Signals

Dear Sir/Madam,

Every day, at red light crossings, I witness an increasing number of child beggars swarming vehicles. This not only endangers their lives but also reflects societal failure in protecting vulnerable children. Many are likely forced into begging by organized rackets.

Strict enforcement of anti-begging laws, rehabilitation programs, and public awareness campaigns are needed. Citizens must report such cases, and NGOs should work with authorities to rescue and educate these children.

Yours sincerely,
Sabina
[Contact Information]

Question 3. The disaster at Badrinath and Kedamath has shocked the nation with stories still pouring in about the missing and the dead. You are Abhinav / Asha. You are concerned as a student, and want to help in some way. Write a letter to the Editor, Times of India, stating your opinion. Suggest that it is high time that citizens learn to do things on their own rather than sit and criticise the Government.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Disaster Response in Uttarakhand

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
Times of India
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Time for Civic Action Over Blame Games

Dear Sir/Madam,

The tragedy in Badrinath and Kedarnath has left the nation grieving. While criticism of government response is easy, we must ask: What can we do? Citizens should volunteer, donate, or support relief efforts instead of waiting for authorities.

Disaster preparedness workshops, community aid groups, and responsible tourism must be prioritized. Let’s turn empathy into action.

Yours sincerely,
Abhinav / Asha
[Contact Information]

Question 4. Most holy places in our country are very vulnerable places for pickpockets or kidnappers to play their dirty tricks on unsuspecting pilgrims. You are saddened to see this deplorable side of human character. Write a letter to the Editor of a National Daily stating your views.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Crime at Holy Places

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[National Daily Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Safeguarding Pilgrims from Exploitation

Dear Sir/Madam,

It is disheartening to see holy places becoming hotspots for pickpockets and kidnappers targeting pilgrims. These criminals exploit devotees’ trust, tarnishing the sanctity of such sites.

Increased police patrolling, CCTV surveillance, and public vigilance committees can deter such activities. Media must spotlight this issue to push for stricter measures.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 5. Recently, you were travelling in a bus in which a number of college boys and girls were travelling too. You noticed that some bullies did not buy any ticket. The conductor was scared to ask them to buy the tickets. You were very angry to see this. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper highlighting this incident and giving some effective solutions for the problem.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Bus Ticket Evasion

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Bullying and Ticketless Travel in Public Transport

Dear Sir/Madam,

Recently, I witnessed college students intimidating a bus conductor to avoid buying tickets. Such entitlement fosters indiscipline and revenue loss for transport agencies.

Solutions include:

Undercover checks by transport officials.

Student ID mandates for concessional passes.

Awareness campaigns in colleges.

Let’s uphold civic responsibility.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 6. The TV and the Computer have been blamed for reduced book reading habits among children. You feel that there are still better ways to motivate students to read books. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper suggesting ways in which parents and teachers can promote reading habits amongst children.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Promoting Reading Habits Among Children

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Reviving the Joy of Reading Among Children

Dear Sir/Madam,

While TV and computers are often blamed for declining reading habits, the solution lies not in restriction but in motivation. Parents and teachers can play a pivotal role in cultivating a love for books by:

Setting an Example: Children imitate adults. When they see parents/teachers reading, they are more likely to develop an interest.

Creating Reading Spaces: A cozy reading corner at home or a “book nook” in classrooms can make reading inviting.

Interactive Storytelling: Teachers can make literature engaging through dramatized readings or book discussions.

Library Visits: Regular trips to libraries can expose children to diverse genres.

Reward Systems: Small incentives for finishing books can encourage consistent reading.

Let’s shift focus from blaming technology to creating a culture where books are celebrated.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 7. You live in a small town which does not have even a public park. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper highlighting the need of a park.

Answer:

Letter to the Editor – Need for a Public Park

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Urgent Need for a Public Park in [Town Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

Our town, [Town Name], lacks even a single public park, depriving residents—especially children and seniors—of a space for recreation, exercise, and community bonding. Open green spaces are essential for mental well-being and environmental balance.

I urge the local authorities to:

Identify unused land for park development.

Involve residents in planning to include walking tracks, play areas, and seating.

Ensure maintenance through community partnerships.

A park would transform our town’s quality of life. I hope this letter draws attention to this pressing need.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

8)

6. Miscellaneous Letters

Exercise-5

Attempt the following letters:

Question 1. You are Krishna, living in Ajmer. You have recently seen a movie (film). Write a letter to your brother describing how you enjoyed the movie. You may touch upon the following points—

1. When did you see the movie?
2. Who else accompanied you?
3. What was the theme of the movie?
4. How did you enjoy yourself at the movie?
5. What did you learn from it?

Answer:

Letter to Brother About a Movie Experience

[Your Address]
Ajmer
[Date]

Dear [Brother’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I recently watched a fantastic movie and couldn’t wait to share my experience with you!

I saw the movie last Sunday at the PVR cinema in Ajmer. My friends Rohan and Priya accompanied me, and we had a great time together. The movie was [Movie Name], a thrilling adventure film about [briefly describe the theme, e.g., “a group of friends discovering hidden treasure”].

The visuals were stunning, and the storyline kept us hooked till the end. We enjoyed popcorn and cold drinks during the interval, which made the experience even more fun! The movie also taught me valuable lessons about [mention what you learned, e.g., “teamwork and perseverance”].

I wish you had been there with us. Let’s plan to watch a movie together when you visit next!

With love,
Krishna

Question 2. You are Shiva. Your school is organising an educational tour. Write a letter to your father requesting him to allow you to go on the tour and to send you money. You may touch upon the following points:-

1. The dates of the tour
2. The places to be visited
3. Your interest
4. The amount of money needed
5. Request and thanks

Answer:

Letter to Father Requesting Permission for Educational Tour

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

Dear Papa,

I hope you and Mom are in good health. My school is organizing an educational tour, and I am very excited about it. I am writing to seek your permission to join the tour and request you to send me the required money.

The tour is scheduled from [Start Date] to [End Date]. We will be visiting [mention places, e.g., “Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur”], where we’ll explore historical monuments like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. This trip will be a great learning opportunity, and I am particularly interested in [mention your interest, e.g., “learning about India’s rich history”].

The total cost of the tour is [Amount], which includes travel, accommodation, and meals. I promise to manage the money wisely and follow all instructions carefully.

Please let me know if I can join. Thank you for your support!

Your loving son,
Shiva

Question 3. Write a letter to your younger brother, advising him to read newspapers. Tell him why newspapers are necessary for education; how they bring not only news but opinions on social, economic and political subjects also.

Answer:

Letter to Younger Brother Advising Newspaper Reading

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

Dear [Brother’s Name],

I hope you are doing well in your studies. I wanted to share something important with you—the habit of reading newspapers daily.

Newspapers are not just about news; they are a treasure of knowledge. They keep us updated on current events and provide valuable opinions on social, economic, and political issues. This helps in developing critical thinking and broadening our perspective, which is essential for education and personal growth.

Make it a routine to read at least the headlines and editorials. You’ll notice how it improves your general knowledge and language skills. Trust me, this small habit will benefit you greatly in the long run.

Your loving brother,
[Your Name]

Question 4. Write a letter to the Headmaster of your school asking for leave due to illness.

Answer:

Application to Headmaster for Sick Leave

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Headmaster
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, State]

Subject: Application for Sick Leave

Respected Sir,

I am [Your Name], a student of Class [X] in your school. I am suffering from [mention illness, e.g., fever and cold] and have been advised complete rest by the doctor for [number of days] days.

Kindly grant me leave from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I will make sure to catch up on missed lessons once I recover.

Yours obediently,
[Your Name]
[Roll Number/Class]

Question 5. Write a letter to the Health Officer of your district requesting him to take immediate steps against the spread of cholera in your village.

Answer:

Letter to Health Officer About Cholera Outbreak

[Your Address]
[Village Name]
[District]
[Date]

To,
The Health Officer
[District Name]
[Office Address]

Subject: Urgent Action Needed Against Cholera Spread

Respected Sir,

I am writing to bring to your notice the recent outbreak of cholera in our village, [Village Name]. Several residents have fallen ill, and the situation is worsening due to contaminated water and poor sanitation.

I request you to take immediate steps, such as:

Arranging medical camps for treatment.

Conducting water purification drives.

Spreading awareness about hygiene practices.

Your prompt action will save lives.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 6. Write a letter to the Superintendent of Police complaining about the behaviour of a policeman on patrol duty.

Answer:

Complaint Letter to Superintendent of Police

[Your Address]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Superintendent of Police
[District Name]
[Police Headquarters Address]

Subject: Complaint Against Misbehavior of a Policeman

Respected Sir,

I wish to bring to your notice the rude and unprofessional behavior of a policeman on patrol duty in [Area Name] on [Date]. The officer [describe incident, e.g., “used abusive language and threatened bystanders without reason”].

Such conduct tarnishes the image of the police force. I request you to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.

Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 7. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper complaining of the frequent break-down of electricity in your locality.

Answer:

Letter to Editor Complaining About Frequent Power Cuts

[Your Address]
[Locality Name]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]

Subject: Frequent Power Cuts in [Locality Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

The residents of [Locality Name] have been suffering due to frequent and prolonged power cuts, especially during [mention time, e.g., peak summer]. This disrupts daily life, work, and studies.

We urge the electricity department to resolve this issue urgently and ensure regular power supply.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information]

Question 8. Write a letter to the manager of a local mill seeking his permission to visit the mill. Give the number of students and the date on which you propose to visit.

Answer:

Letter to Mill Manager Seeking Permission for Visit

[Your Address]
[School/College Name]
[City, State]
[Date]

To,
The Manager
[Mill Name]
[Mill Address]

Subject: Request for Permission to Visit the Mill

Respected Sir,

We are [number of students] students from [School/College Name], interested in learning about industrial processes. We request permission to visit your mill on [Proposed Date] for an educational tour.

Kindly confirm the availability and any guidelines we need to follow.

Thanking you,
[Your Name]
[Designation/Teacher Incharge]
[Contact Information]