CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 32 Longer Compositions
1) Long compositions are generally those compositions in which the length of the written material would be more than 100 words. These compositions are much more challenging because ideas need to be planned and organised in some specific order. We shall deal with the following types :
- Reports
- Processes
- Diary entries
- Stories
- Articles/Essays
1. Writing Reports
2) What is a report? It is essentially a prepared talk or a written composition about a particular subject. Among the common things we read everyday are the newspaper reports about happenings in different parts of the country or world. But that is not all. Reports may be written or read about many other things like:
- A newspaper report
- A function held in your school
- A report about an accident/happening that you have witnessed
- Report about an enquiry or survey
What are the unique features of a report?
- A report should be factual, i.e., it should contain only facts and the writer should not add any information from his own side.
- It should be written in third person, i.e., avoid use of pronouns like I, me or you.
- It should be written in indirect/reported speech, often words spoken by a speaker are transformed into indirect speech.
- It is generally written in the past tense.
- The language should be neutral. It should not try to influence the readers’ opinion.
- Strong adjectives or figurative language/ornamental language is avoided.
- Nowhere should the writer impose his views or make any conclusions.
Here are few samples of reports. Read them.
Example 1. Newspaper report — A report about an accident/incident.
Bus Mows Down Two Schoolchildren
By Local Correspondent
Delhi, June 23rd : In what may be called another ghastly accident, two school boys Ashish and Binu were brutally mowed down by a blueline bus operating in the Trilok Puri area. The boys who were on their way back home from school were walking down the road when a speeding bus, which had swerved from the opposite side, ran over the two boys. The boys died instantly.
The crowd on the busy road immediately reacted and prevented the bus driver from making his escape. The angry mob pulled him out and beat him brutally. He is languishing in a hospital. Meanwhile, an FIR has been lodged with the local police station. The bus has been impounded and the driver’s licence too has been confiscated. The SP Traffic has ordered an enquiry against the driver and the owner of the bus.
The parents of the two boys are inconsolable.
Notice how the information is organised:
- The heading is phrasal and not a complete sentence.
- The reporter’s name or designation is given below.
- The date and place of the accident is mentioned first.
- The report is organised in different paragraphs.
- The first paragraph tells briefly what has happened.
- Later paragraphs describe how the accident took place and what followed.
- The last paragraph describes the reaction of the parents and the action which is intended to be taken.
- The entire description is factual, in the third person and in passive voice.
Example 2. A function held in your school – Inauguration of School Auditorium—a report for the school magazine.
School Auditorium Inaugurated By Home Minister
Last week the school auditorium was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Shri L.K Advani, Hon’ble Home Minister, Government of India. The function was attended by 2000 parents and local VIPs. The Chief Guest reached the school punctually at 5 p.m., where he was welcomed with bouquets and a proper salute by the scouts and guides and then escorted to the main entrance of the hall. He formally inaugurated the auditorium by lighting the traditional lamp, unveiling the statue of the founder father of the school, late Shri Ratan Lalji Thakur and putting a floral garland round his neck.
After this brief ceremony, everybody moved into the auditorium where the Principal formally welcomed the Chief Guest. This was followed by a ballet entitled ‘Sita Ka Tyag’ put up by the children of the school. At the end of the programme, the Chief Guest gave away awards and scholarships to deserving students.
In his address, the Hon’ble Minister congratulated the students who were honoured and the school parents on the acquisition of such a beautiful and modem auditorium and hoped that this would motivate students and teachers to organise not just cultural programmes but also use it for seminars and conferences and provide a healthy platform for inter-school interaction. He lauded the efforts made by the management to provide its students with the best infrastructure and said he hoped students would live up to the ideal of their founder fathers by following their example of bringing excellence in everything they did.
The Head Boy later proposed the vote of thanks and the ceremony came to a close.
Report by
Gunita Thakur
XI-C
Notice how the following information is conveyed:
- A catchy headline.
- When was the occasion?
- Why was it celebrated?
- Name of the reporter
- What was the occasion?
- Where was it celebrated?
- How was it celebrated (all details)?
Example 3. Report about a survey :
Maruti Udyog carried out a survey last month to find out what an average middle-class man would consider as most important while selecting a car.
About 10,000 randomly chosen men and women were given a questionnaire to complete.
On analysis of the results, it was found that 100% people wanted a car with all safety measures. 90% people preferred a small car because it was economical and easy to manoeuvre on small streets and busy roads. Almost all preferred a car with diesel engine and heavier steel body. 50% people felt that the leg space should be increased and there should be more luggage space. Surprisingly, white still remains a popular colour with a vast majority. When asked if they would buy a bigger car if the prices were brought down, 60% people said ‘no’ . The main reason was that the small car was easy to manipulate on busy roads.
Notice how this report is given :
- There is no catchy headline (because it is intended for limited people).
- The purpose of the survey is defined at the beginning.
- How the survey was conducted.
- What were the findings?
- Only facts are stated. (Notice how figures and percentages are given due emphasis to make the report authentic.)
Exercise-1
Now write the following reports
Question 1. Yesterday, a fire broke out in the busy Sadar Bazaar area. More than 1000 shops were gutted. There has been a heavy loss of life and property. You are a correspondent with a National Daily. Imagine other details and complete the report.
Answer:
Fire Breaks Out in Sadar Bazaar, Massive Destruction Reported New Delhi, [Date]: A devastating fire erupted in the bustling Sadar Bazaar yesterday evening, reducing over 1,000 shops to ashes. The blaze, suspected to have started from an electrical short circuit, spread rapidly due to narrow lanes and inflammable goods.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as shopkeepers scrambled to save their merchandise. Firefighters battled the flames for six hours before bringing it under control. Tragically, at least 12 people lost their lives, while dozens suffered burns and smoke inhalation. The estimated loss of property exceeds ₹50 crores.
Question 2. Many years have passed since the township of Bhuj got ravaged by a severe earthquake. Majority of the people are still hoping to get help from the government. At many places, the debris is yet to be cleared. Write an eyewitness account of the plight of the town. (Make up any other details that you would like to insert.)
Answer:
Bhuj Earthquake: Years Later, Hope and Rubble Remain
Bhuj, [Date]: Two decades after the catastrophic earthquake that claimed over 20,000 lives, Bhuj still bears scars of the disaster. Debris piles linger in neglected corners, and many survivors await promised government aid.
In the old town, families live in makeshift shelters near their collapsed homes. “We were assured rehabilitation, but nothing came,” says Ramesh Patel, a daily wage worker. The municipal corporation cites fund shortages for delayed reconstruction.
Despite the gloom, some resilience shines. A few rebuilt neighborhoods bustle with life, and new schools stand where ruins once lay. But for most, recovery remains a distant dream.
Question 3. You are a journalist with the Times of India. You were at a gas filling station when you saw armed robbers who fired at the Manager and ran away with a bag full of money. Write a detailed report for your newspaper.
Answer:
Armed Robbers Loot Gas Station, Manager Injured
Mumbai, [Date]: In a brazen daylight heist, three masked robbers stormed a petrol pump in Andheri today, firing at the manager before fleeing with ₹8 lakhs in cash.
The incident occurred around 11 AM when the assailants, armed with pistols, threatened staff and customers. Manager Arvind Mehta, 42, sustained a bullet wound in the leg and is stable. CCTV footage shows the robbers escaping on a bike.
Police have launched a manhunt. “We’re analyzing fingerprints and vehicle details,” said DCP Rajesh Kumar. Regulars at the station expressed shock at the audacious crime.
Question 4. In a remote township of Samastipur, farmers starved due to poor facilities for irrigation and no means of employment till a few years ago. Today the village is thriving due to the efforts of the Jan Kalyan NGO which took over the village and brought in the agro forestry project. Write a report about the project and how the villagers are leading a prosperous life.
Answer:
From Starvation to Prosperity: Samastipur’s Agro-Forestry Miracle
Samastipur, [Date]: Once plagued by drought and unemployment, the remote village of Samastipur is now a model of sustainability, thanks to the Jan Kalyan NGO’s agro-forestry initiative.
Launched five years ago, the project trains farmers to intercrop timber trees with vegetables, ensuring year-round income. Over 200 families now earn ₹25,000 monthly, up from ₹3,000 earlier. “We no longer fear hunger,” says farmer Sunita Devi, showing her thriving papaya orchard.
The NGO also built irrigation canals and a cooperative market. With plans to expand, Samastipur’s success story is inspiring neighboring villages.
Agro-Forestry Transforms Samastipur: From Poverty to Prosperity
Samastipur, [Date]: Once struggling with drought and unemployment, the remote village of Samastipur has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the Jan Kalyan NGO’s agro-forestry project.
Before the intervention, farmers faced crop failures due to poor irrigation and lacked alternative income sources. Today, the village thrives as farmers intercrop timber trees with vegetables, ensuring year-round yields. The NGO introduced modern techniques, built irrigation canals, and established a cooperative market.
Villagers like Sunita Devi, who once earned barely ₹3,000 monthly, now make over ₹25,000. “We have food security and savings,” she says. The project’s success has inspired neighboring villages to adopt similar models.
Question 5. A health check-up camp was organised in your school last week. The check-up revealed certain startling facts. More than 50% students were found to be anaemic, 90% students suffered from weak eyesight and were underweight. Doctors said it was due to bad food habits and lack of nutritious food. Write a report about the camp for a newspaper.
Answer:
School Health Camp Reveals Alarming Nutritional Deficiencies
[Your School Name], [Date]: A health camp organized last week at [School Name] uncovered shocking health trends among students. Over 50% were anaemic, 90% had weak eyesight, and most were underweight.
Doctors attributed these issues to poor diets—excessive junk food and skipped meals. “Many students lack essential nutrients like iron and vitamins,” said Dr. Sharma.
The camp included BMI checks, haemoglobin tests, and nutrition workshops. Parents were advised to prioritize balanced meals. The school plans quarterly health camps to monitor progress.
Question 6. Recently your school celebrated a Book Week. During this week, many competitions were held such as book reviews, book discussions, meeting with authors, film shows based on books. Write a report about this Book Week for your school magazine mentioning how it proved to be useful.
Answer:
Book Week Ignites Reading Passion at [School Name]
[Your School Name], [Date]: Last week’s Book Week celebration brought literature to life with competitions, author interactions, and film adaptations.
Highlights included:
Book reviews where students analyzed classics.
Author meet with [Author Name], who shared writing tips.
Film screenings of adaptations like Harry Potter.
“The event rekindled my love for reading,” said Class X’s Riya. Teachers noted increased library visits post-event.
Question 7. Last week there was a film festival in which special movies that could interest children were screened. Free passes were distributed by the NIE. Write a report about this film festival and how it has been educative.
Answer:
Children’s Film Festival: Entertainment with Education New Delhi, [Date]: The recent NIE-sponsored film festival delighted young audiences with movies blending fun and learning.
Free passes gave students access to films like Taare Zameen Par and The Jungle Book. Post-screening discussions highlighted themes like empathy and environmental care. “I learned more here than in class,” said 12-year-old Arjun.
The festival’s success has prompted calls for annual editions.
Question 8. During the summer vacations your school organised a 10-day trip to Kulu-Manali. You were taken to different places which included two days trekking in the Rohtang Pass area. Write a report for your school magazine.
Answer:
Adventure and Scenery: School Trip to Kulu-Manali
[Your School Name], [Date]: A 10-day summer trip to Kulu-Manali offered 50 students breathtaking landscapes and thrilling treks.
The itinerary included:
Rohrang Pass trek, where students camped under stars.
Visits to Hidimba Temple and Solang Valley.
Bonfire sessions with folk dances.
“The trek taught us teamwork,” said Class IX’s Aditya. The trip concluded with certificates and unforgettable memories.
Question 9. In a survey conducted to find out literacy levels in different regions of India, the following data were collected. Write a report of the survey :
- Northern region—60%
- Eastern region -40%
- Southern region—90%
- Western region—80%
Answer:
Survey Exposes Literacy Disparities Across India
New Delhi, [Date]: A nationwide literacy survey revealed stark regional gaps:
Kerala (94%) leads, while Bihar (62%) lags.
Urban areas (85%) outperform rural zones (70%).
Female literacy remains 15% lower than males in 8 states.
Experts urge targeted schemes for underserved regions.
Question 10. A survey was conducted to find out how students like to enjoy life after school. The following chart shows details of student preferences. Study it and write a report:
Answer:
Student Lifestyle Survey Reveals Varied After-School Preferences A recent survey conducted among students to understand their after-school leisure preferences has yielded interesting insights into modern youth habits. The findings highlight a diverse range of activities that students engage in to unwind after classes.
Key Findings:
30% of students prefer watching movies, indicating a strong interest in entertainment and storytelling.
Another 30% enjoy surfing the internet, reflecting the growing influence of digital media in their daily lives.
20% favor eating out at fast-food chains like McDonald’s, suggesting a preference for social dining experiences.
The remaining 20% opt for strolling, showcasing an appreciation for outdoor relaxation and physical activity.
Analysis:
The survey reveals a balanced mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with a notable inclination toward screen-based entertainment (movies and internet). While some students seek social interactions through food outings, others prefer solitary or low-key activities like walking.
Conclusion:
The data underscores the importance of catering to diverse student interests in after-school programs. Schools and parents may consider organizing movie nights, digital literacy workshops, or outdoor walks to align with these preferences.
2. Process Writing
Process writing is almost similar to report writing because it is also a factual description. It is written in indirect speech, and is impersonal in tone. Since it deals with steps on how to do things one has to focus on sequence markers (words that describe sequences and connectors).
Read this report written by James on how petals ofa flower get water.
How do the petals of a flower get water? To find the answer we conducted the following experiment. Two glass jars were filled with water and in each jar three drops of red food
colouring were dropped.
With a sharp knife we cut off the end of the stem of a carnation flower. This was done to keep the air from sealing the end of the stem. In the second jar were placed petals of a carnation flower. The jars were left overnight. Next day it was observed that the flower which had the stem in the water showed tiny streaks of colour. Then the flower with the stem in the water was taken out and a thin slice was cut out of the stem. A hand lens would show coloured particles.
From this it was concluded that the coloured water was carried up to the petals through the stem. The stems have tiny tubes through which the water is transported.
Exercise-2
Now write the following processes
Question 1. Tell your younger brother how to polish a shoe.
Answer:
How to Polish Shoes (for younger brother)
You’ll need: shoe polish, soft cloth, brush, damp rag
Wipe shoes with damp rag to remove dirt
Apply small amount of polish with cloth
Rub in circles all over shoe
Let dry for 2 minutes
Buff with clean cloth until shiny
Repeat for extra shine!
Tip: Do this every week to keep shoes looking new!
Question 2. Find out from your mother how to make a cup of tea and describe it in a letter to a penfriend of yours.
Answer:
How to Make Tea (letter to penfriend)
Dear [Friend’s Name],
Mom taught me to make perfect tea:
Boil 1 cup water in pan
Add 1 teaspoon tea leaves
Simmer 2 minutes
Pour in 1/4 cup milk
Add sugar (1 tsp or to taste)
Strain into cup
Secret: Add ginger for special flavor!
Your tea-loving friend,
[Your Name]
Question 3. In your home science class you have been asked to describe how to wash clothes. Write the process.
Answer:
How to Wash Clothes
Sort clothes by color (whites/darks)
Fill bucket with water and detergent
Soak clothes 10 minutes
Scrub stains with brush
Rinse 2-3 times in clean water
Wring out water
Hang in sun to dry
Remember: Delicate clothes need gentle washing!
Question 4. Kanika’s mother is leaving for office in a hurry. She has to leave instructions for her daughter Vini on how to make an omelette so that she can have her breakfast. Write out the process.
Answer:
Omelette Instructions for Vini
Sweetie, here’s how to make breakfast:
Crack 2 eggs in bowl
Add pinch of salt, pepper
Beat with fork until mixed
Heat little oil in pan
Pour eggs in pan
When edges cook, add cheese (if you want)
Fold in half with spatula
Cook 1 more minute
Eat with toast!
Love, Mom
Question 5. Look at the picture given below. Explain the process how water is purified, stored and finally distributed to homes.
Answer:
Water Treatment Process
Collection: Water comes from river to plant
Settling Tank: Dirt sinks to bottom
Filtration: Water passes through sand layers
Chlorination: Chemicals kill germs
Storage: Clean water kept in tall tanks
Pipes: Water sent to homes/schools
Why important? Makes water safe to drink!
Each set of instructions:
Uses simple language
Has numbered steps
Includes helpful tips
Is about 100 words
3. Diary Writing
A diary entry is like a letter which one writes to one’s own self. It is a private document meant only for the owner. People write diaries about what they feel about events happening around them or anything unusual. They are free and frank reactions to a situation. A diary can be maintained by both a child or an adult.
Read the following example :
26 February, 20_
Hyderabad.
Dear Diary,
I have still not recovered from the shock of the two bomb blasts that took place in our city two days ago. How can we go on killing innocent people for the sake of so called ‘revenge’. How can terrorists get away with killing people, destroying property? Why is our government always late in safe guarding the lives of its citizens? Why blame the government – what are we, the sufferers, doing about it? I’m fortunate that my area was not touched – but tell me what can I do? Why is God so cruel?
I feel so helpless and can only pray
Exercise-3
Question 1. You saw a very amusing play today. Write a diary entry about what you enjoyed.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Amusing Play
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
Today I watched the funniest play, The Miser! The actor playing the greedy old man had us in stitches—he kept hiding coins in his coat and tripping over his own feet. The best part was when he mistook a dog for a thief! My cheeks still hurt from laughing. Theater truly brings stories to life. Can’t wait for the next show!
—[Your Name]
Question 2. You discovered that Anita, who you considered a good friend, has been backbiting you. Record your feelings in your diary.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Betrayal by a Friend
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
Discovered today that Anita, whom I trusted, has been spreading lies about me. It stings—like a paper cut you don’t see coming. We shared secrets, lunches, even my favorite book. Was it all fake? I’m torn between confronting her or walking away. Trust feels fragile now.
—[Your Name]
Question 3. You recently saw pictures of poachers killing elephants in the wildlife sanctuary Jim Corbett National Park. Record your feelings in your diary.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Poaching in Jim Corbett
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
Saw horrific images of poached elephants in Jim Corbett today. One tusker lay lifeless, its trunk curled as if begging for mercy. How can humans be so cruel? These majestic creatures deserve protection, not bullets. I’ve decided to donate to wildlife NGOs. Even small actions count.
—[Your Name]
Question 4. You recently saw two of your best friends quarrel over a trivial matter. Write a diary entry describing your feelings.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Friends Quarreling
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
Riya and Ayaan fought over whose turn it was to pay for pizza today. They yelled, then gave each other the silent treatment. It’s silly—they’ve been friends since kindergarten! I tried mediating, but ego won. Hope they patch up soon. Friendships are too precious for petty fights.
—[Your Name]
Question 5. You won the first prize in an inter-school debate on “Environment Pollution”. Record your feelings in your diary.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Debate Victory
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
I WON the inter-school debate on pollution! My argument on plastic waste struck a chord—even the judges nodded. When they announced my name, my legs wobbled like jelly. Mom cried happy tears. This trophy isn’t just mine; it’s for Mother Earth. Next stop: Climate action club!
—[Your Name]
Question 6. You saw a video report on the havoc caused in Badrinath / Kedamath by fury of nature. Record your feelings in your diary.
Answer:
Diary Entry – Natural Disaster in Badrinath
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear Diary,
A video showed Badrinath’s devastation—landslides buried roads, temples cracked like eggshells. Families sat on rubble, clutching what little remained. Nature’s fury is terrifying, but human resilience moves me more. Volunteering at a relief camp next weekend. Even a little help can rebuild hope.
—[Your Name]