NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
- NCERT Solution for English - Long Reading Text - Novels
- NCERT Solution for Interact in English - Main Course Book (MCB)
- NCERT Solution for Interact in English - Literature Reader
- NCERT Solution for English - Footprints Without Feet
- NCERT Solution for English - First Flight
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - Long Reading Text - Novels
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - Long Reading Text - Novels covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
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Chapter 1 Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Diary of a Young Girl is an autobiographical account by Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who lived during the Holocaust. This diary, also known as The Diary of Anne Frank, provides a deeply personal glimpse into her life while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The diary entries are written from Anne’s perspective, showcasing her thoughts, emotions, and observations during this difficult period.
The story begins with Anne receiving a diary on her 13th birthday. She names the diary "Kitty" and begins to pour her heart out to it. Shortly after her birthday, Anne’s family is forced to go into hiding as the Nazi persecution of Jews escalates. The Frank family, along with another family, the Van Daans, and later Mr. Dussel, a dentist, seek refuge in a hidden annex behind Mr. Frank’s office. The annex is small and cramped, leading to frequent conflicts and frustrations among its residents.
Anne describes the daily routines of hiding, the fear of being discovered, and the impact of the war on her family and friends. Her diary entries reflect her emotional growth, as she transitions from a carefree young girl to a mature, introspective teenager. She struggles with her identity, questions her beliefs, and grapples with feelings of isolation and frustration. Through her writing, she expresses her yearning for freedom, her aspirations, and her dreams for a better future.
The diary also sheds light on Anne’s relationship with her family, especially her complicated bond with her mother, whom she often finds difficult to connect with. She shares a close relationship with her father, Otto Frank, whom she respects and admires deeply. Her budding feelings for Peter Van Daan, a teenage boy in hiding with them, also add a layer of complexity to her emotions.
Anne’s entries are filled with her reflections on humanity, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. She writes about the importance of staying optimistic and finding joy in small moments, despite the grim reality around her. Anne’s diary serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the indomitable spirit of a young girl who dared to hope for a better world.
Sadly, Anne’s story ends on a tragic note. The annex is eventually discovered by the Nazis, and Anne, along with her family and fellow residents, is taken to concentration camps. Anne’s diary, however, was preserved by Miep Gies, a helper who provided food and support to the families in hiding. The diary was later published by her father, Otto Frank, the only survivor of the group, as a tribute to his daughter’s memory.
Diary of a Young Girl is a timeless piece of literature that offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of tolerance and empathy. Anne’s diary has inspired millions around the world, serving as a powerful reminder of the need for peace, understanding, and compassion.
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Chapter 2 The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
The Story of My Life is the autobiography of Helen Keller, an extraordinary woman who overcame the challenges of being both blind and deaf to achieve remarkable accomplishments. Written when Helen was just 22 years old, the book provides a deeply moving and inspiring account of her journey from darkness and silence to becoming a renowned author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities.
The story begins with Helen’s early childhood in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Born in 1880, Helen was a healthy child until the age of 19 months, when an illness (likely scarlet fever or meningitis) left her deaf and blind. Her early years were filled with frustration and isolation, as she struggled to communicate with the world around her. Unable to see, hear, or speak, Helen often expressed her frustration through temper tantrums, leaving her family feeling helpless.
Helen’s life took a transformative turn when Anne Sullivan, a young teacher from the Perkins School for the Blind, came into her life. Anne’s arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter for Helen. With patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of her pupil's needs, Anne began teaching Helen to communicate using the manual alphabet, spelling words into her hand. The breakthrough moment came when Helen understood the concept of "water" as Anne spelled it into her hand while running water over it. This realization unlocked a world of words and meanings for Helen, igniting her thirst for knowledge.
Helen describes her journey of learning and discovery with a sense of wonder and gratitude. Under Anne’s guidance, she learned to read Braille, write, and eventually speak. Helen’s education extended beyond academics; Anne taught her about nature, literature, history, and the beauty of human emotions. Helen’s determination and Anne’s perseverance enabled her to achieve feats that many thought impossible for a person with her disabilities.
The autobiography also explores Helen’s experiences at the Perkins School for the Blind, the Wright-Humason School for the Deaf, and Radcliffe College, where she became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. Helen’s academic journey was challenging, but her dedication to learning and Anne’s unwavering support helped her succeed. Helen faced numerous obstacles, including skepticism from others, but she overcame them with resilience and a positive attitude.
Helen’s story is not only about her personal achievements but also her empathy and desire to help others. She became an advocate for people with disabilities, using her experiences to raise awareness and inspire change. Helen’s writing reflects her love for nature, literature, and the human spirit. She expresses a deep appreciation for the world around her, despite her limitations.
The Story of My Life is a testament to the power of perseverance, courage, and the impact of a dedicated teacher. Helen Keller’s life story has inspired millions, proving that with determination and support, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her autobiography continues to be a source of inspiration for readers, encouraging them to embrace their own potential and make a positive impact on the world.
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Interact in English - Main Course Book (MCB)
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Interact in English - Main Course Book (MCB) covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
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Chapter 1 Health and Medicine
The chapter Health and Medicine discusses the importance of maintaining good health and highlights various issues related to physical and mental well-being. It covers topics like diseases, preventive measures, and advancements in medical science that have helped improve health care. The chapter encourages students to understand the value of a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, balanced diet, and hygiene, to prevent illnesses. It also introduces students to medical ethics and the responsibilities of healthcare professionals. Through exercises and discussions, students learn about the challenges of modern healthcare and how lifestyle choices affect health.
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Chapter 2 Education
Education emphasizes the significance of education in personal and societal development. This chapter explores different aspects of the education system, from traditional teaching methods to modern, technology-driven classrooms. It discusses the challenges in the current education system, such as unequal access, outdated curricula, and lack of resources. Through the chapter, students are encouraged to think about the importance of education in shaping character, fostering critical thinking, and creating a skilled workforce. The chapter also sheds light on global education trends and the need for reforms to make education more inclusive and effective.
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Chapter 3 Science
The chapter Science delves into the role of scientific knowledge and research in transforming society. It examines how scientific discoveries and technological innovations have revolutionized various fields, including medicine, communication, and transportation. The chapter encourages students to appreciate the impact of science on daily life and the progress of humanity. Students are also introduced to ethical considerations in science, such as environmental impact and ethical dilemmas in genetic engineering. By studying this chapter, students gain a broader perspective on the applications of science and the need for responsible and sustainable development.
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Chapter 4 Environment
In Environment, the focus is on raising awareness about environmental conservation and sustainable practices. The chapter discusses the impact of human activities on natural resources, pollution, climate change, global warming and biodiversity loss. It emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment for future generations and encourages students to adopt eco-friendly practices. Through this chapter, students learn about various environmental problems and the role of individuals, communities, and governments in addressing these issues. They are encouraged to think critically about their own ecological footprint and how small changes in behavior can contribute to environmental preservation.
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Chapter 5 Travel and Tourism
The chapter Travel and Tourism explores the cultural, economic, and social significance of tourism. It highlights how tourism promotes cultural exchange, provides employment opportunities, and contributes to the economy. However, the chapter also discusses the challenges associated with tourism, such as environmental degradation, cultural insensitivity, and exploitation. Through exercises and discussions, students learn about the concept of sustainable tourism, which focuses on minimizing negative impacts while maximizing the benefits of tourism for local communities. This chapter broadens students' understanding of tourism as a means of connecting people and promoting global understanding.
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Chapter 6 National Integration
National Integration emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony in a diverse country like India. The chapter discusses how national integration is essential for peace, stability, and progress. It explores the challenges to unity, such as regionalism, casteism, and religious differences. Through this chapter, students learn about the role of education, cultural exchange, and social initiatives in promoting national integration. The chapter encourages students to celebrate diversity, respect differences, and work towards building a more inclusive and cohesive society. It instills in students a sense of patriotism and responsibility towards their country.
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Interact in English - Literature Reader
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Interact in English - Literature Reader covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
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Chapter 1 Two Gentlemen of Verona by A.J. Cronin
This story by A.J. Cronin follows the lives of two young brothers, Nicola and Jacopo, in post-World War II Verona. They are street vendors, selling fruits and shining shoes to support their ill sister, Lucia, who is suffering from tuberculosis. Despite their struggles, the boys exhibit unwavering strength, determination, and a sense of duty towards their family. The story emphasizes themes of sacrifice, resilience, and familial love, leaving readers with a touching message about the power of compassion and dedication.
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Chapter 2 Mrs. Packletide's Tiger by Saki
Written by Saki (H.H. Munro), this humorous story revolves around Mrs. Packletide’s desire to hunt a tiger just to outshine her rival, Loona Bimberton. The story delves into themes of vanity, social competition, and human nature's tendency to seek attention. Saki uses wit and irony to showcase how Mrs. Packletide’s ambitious plan backfires, making it an amusing critique of superficial social status and one-upmanship.
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Chapter 3 The Letter Plot by Dhumaketu
In this story by Dhumaketu, the protagonist Ali, an old postman, waits every day at the post office for a letter from his daughter, Miriam. Over time, he becomes an emblem of patience and longing. The story underscores the importance of empathy, as the postmaster realizes the pain of waiting when he finds himself in a similar situation. This story highlights the value of human relationships and the importance of understanding the emotions behind communication.
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Chapter 4 A Shady Plot by Elsie Brown
Written by Elsie Brown, this light-hearted ghost story follows the life of John Hallock, a writer who encounters a ghost named Helen who assists him with his stories. The story humorously explores the theme of writer’s block, while also delving into the supernatural. With clever twists and turns, this story addresses how writers sometimes struggle to find inspiration and sheds light on the creative process.
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Chapter 5 Patol Babu, Film Star by Satyajit Ray
This story by Satyajit Ray is about Patol Babu, a middle-aged man who unexpectedly gets a chance to act in a film. Though it’s a minor role, he approaches it with dedication and professionalism. The story reflects themes of passion, self-respect, and the dignity of work. It teaches readers to respect even the smallest of opportunities and to find joy in one’s work, regardless of the scale.
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Chapter 6 Virtually True by Paul Stewart
Written by Paul Stewart, this science fiction story revolves around Michael, a boy who finds himself engaged in a series of virtual reality games. As he plays, he encounters Sebastian Shultz, a boy who is stuck in the virtual world due to an accident. Together, they navigate through various gaming scenarios to bring Sebastian back to reality. The story explores the fascinating relationship between technology and reality, questioning the boundaries of human experiences in a digital world.
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Chapter 7 The Frog and the Nightingale by Vikram Seth
This poem by Vikram Seth tells the story of a naive nightingale and a cunning frog. The frog manipulates the nightingale into performing for an audience, exploiting her talents for personal gain. Eventually, the nightingale loses her life due to the frog's relentless pressure. The poem critiques the exploitation of talent and the dangers of naivety, urging readers to be cautious and self-confident in the face of manipulators.
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Chapter 8 Mirror by Sylvia Plath
Written by Sylvia Plath, this poem presents the perspective of a mirror that reflects the truth without judgment. The mirror symbolizes objectivity, observing everything that it reflects without bias. As the poem progresses, it shifts to reflect the speaker’s feelings about aging. This introspective poem explores themes of self-identity, truth, and the human desire for validation, especially as one faces the reality of aging.
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Chapter 9 Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments (Sonnet 55) by William Shakespeare
This sonnet by William Shakespeare emphasizes the immortality of poetry in contrast to physical monuments that decay over time. Shakespeare asserts that while statues and buildings crumble, the written word endures, preserving memories and emotions for generations. The poem celebrates the timeless power of art and literature to capture human experiences beyond physical limitations.
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Chapter 10 Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley
This sonnet by Percy Bysshe Shelley reflects on the fleeting nature of power and glory. The poem describes a fallen statue in the desert, symbolizing the inevitable decay of all human accomplishments. Through this imagery, Shelley conveys the idea that time erodes everything, even the mightiest of rulers. The poem’s powerful message is a reminder of the transient nature of life and the futility of pride and arrogance.
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Chapter 11 The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s classic poem is a tale of a mariner who brings a curse upon himself and his crew by killing an albatross, a symbol of good fortune. The poem explores themes of sin, redemption, and the supernatural, as the mariner endures tremendous suffering to realize the sanctity of life. The narrative uses vivid imagery to convey its moral lessons and highlights the importance of respecting nature and seeking forgiveness.
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Chapter 12 Snake by D.H. Lawrence
In this poem, D.H. Lawrence recounts a personal encounter with a snake and reflects on the complex emotions it evokes. The poet is torn between admiration for the snake’s beauty and societal expectations to kill it, ultimately choosing compassion over fear. Through this encounter, the poem examines the internal struggle between natural instincts and learned behavior, emphasizing the importance of respecting all forms of life.
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Chapter 13 The Dear Departed by Stanlet
This one-act play by Stanley Houghton humorously critiques the values of a family that is more interested in their inheritance than mourning their supposedly deceased relative. The characters’ superficiality and greed are highlighted through their conversations and actions. The play reflects on themes of hypocrisy, selfishness, and the loss of genuine family values in a materialistic society.
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Chapter 14 Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
This excerpt from William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar highlights the betrayal of Julius Caesar by his trusted friend, Brutus, as well as other conspirators. The story explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the complex nature of political power. Through Mark Antony’s famous speech, Shakespeare demonstrates the power of persuasion and rhetoric, and the way emotions can sway public opinion.
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - Footprints Without Feet
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - Footprints Without Feet covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
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Chapter 1 A Triumph of Surgery
A Triumph of Surgery by James Herriot tells the story of a wealthy woman named Mrs. Pumphrey and her pet dog, Tricki. Tricki is overfed and pampered to the point that he becomes extremely unhealthy and overweight. Seeing Tricki’s poor condition, Dr. Herriot, a veterinarian, decides to take the dog to his clinic, claiming he needs surgery, but his actual intention is to get Tricki back in shape. At the clinic, Tricki undergoes a transformation by following a healthier routine, eating balanced meals, and playing with other dogs. Eventually, Tricki returns home fit and healthy, and Mrs. Pumphrey is overjoyed. The story emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle for both humans and animals.
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Chapter 2 The Thief's Story
The Thief’s Story by Ruskin Bond follows the life of a young thief named Hari Singh, who tries to rob a man named Anil. Hari Singh plans to steal from Anil, who is a simple and kind-hearted writer. Over time, Hari Singh builds a bond with Anil, who even teaches him to read and write. When Hari finally steals money from Anil, he feels guilty and returns the money, realizing the value of trust and kindness. Through this story, Ruskin Bond highlights how love, trust, and compassion can change even the most hardened individuals.
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Chapter 3 The Midnight Visitor
The Midnight Visitor by Robert Arthur revolves around a secret agent named Ausable, who is known for his wit and intelligence. One evening, Ausable is visited by a writer, Fowler, who expects a thrilling spy experience. However, they are confronted by Max, another spy, who tries to get information from Ausable at gunpoint. Using his quick thinking, Ausable invents a fake story about a balcony outside the window. Max, believing the story, tries to escape through the "balcony" and ends up falling to his death. The story emphasizes that intelligence and presence of mind can help in overcoming any difficult situation.
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Chapter 4 A Question of Trust
A Question of Trust by Victor Canning is about a man named Horace Danby, who is a respectable lockmaker but secretly a thief. Horace enjoys stealing once a year to buy rare books. During one of his robberies, he encounters a woman pretending to be the lady of the house. She tricks him into opening a safe and then escapes with the valuables. Later, Horace realizes he was fooled by another thief. This story explores themes of trust, deception, and irony, highlighting how even the cleverest of people can be outsmarted.
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Chapter 5 Footprints without Feet
Footprints Without Feet by H.G. Wells tells the story of Griffin, a brilliant scientist who discovers a way to make himself invisible. However, his newfound power brings him trouble, as he starts using his invisibility for criminal activities. Griffin’s actions lead to a series of conflicts, and he ultimately faces the consequences of his choices. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misusing scientific discoveries and highlights the ethical responsibilities of scientists.
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Chapter 6 The Making of a Scientist
The Making of a Scientist by Robert W. Peterson is the inspiring story of Richard Ebright, a young boy who grows up to become a successful scientist. The chapter traces Richard’s early curiosity about butterflies, which eventually leads to groundbreaking research in the field of genetics. His mother’s encouragement, his hard work, and his dedication to science play a significant role in shaping his career. The story highlights the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and a strong support system in achieving success.
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Chapter 7 The Necklace
The Necklace by Guy de Maupassant is a story of vanity, pride, and irony. It follows the life of Mathilde Loisel, a woman who dreams of wealth and luxury. She borrows a beautiful necklace to attend a fancy party, only to lose it afterward. Mathilde and her husband work for years to repay the debt for the replacement necklace, only to discover later that the original necklace was a fake and not worth the fortune they spent. The story teaches the importance of being content with one’s own life and warns about the dangers of materialism.
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Chapter 8 The Hack Driver
The Hack Driver by Sinclair Lewis revolves around a young lawyer who is sent to a village to serve a summons to a man named Oliver Lutkins. The young lawyer is assisted by a hack driver named Bill, who claims to know Lutkins. However, Bill cleverly deceives him and takes him on a wild chase around the town. Later, the lawyer finds out that Bill was actually Lutkins himself. The story highlights themes of deception, innocence, and the charm of rural life, showing how appearances can be deceptive.
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Chapter 9 Bholi
Bholi by K.A. Abbas is an emotional story about a girl named Bholi, who is considered "simple" due to her slow learning and speech impairment. Despite her family’s low expectations of her, Bholi’s teacher takes special interest in her, helping her to gain confidence and improve her speech. Eventually, Bholi becomes a courageous young woman who stands up for herself when her family arranges her marriage to an old man. This story emphasizes the importance of education, self-respect, and empowerment.
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Chapter 10 The Book that Saved the Earth
The Book That Saved the Earth by Claire Boiko is a humorous science-fiction story set in the 25th century. The story revolves around Martians who plan to invade Earth but are thwarted when they encounter a book of nursery rhymes. They mistakenly interpret the rhymes as Earth's secret weapons, leading them to abandon their invasion plan. This lighthearted story emphasizes the power of literature and imagination, showing how even simple things can have profound effects.
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - First Flight
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - First Flight covers all the questions given in the NCERT book. You can study and download these question and their solutions free from this page. These solutions are solved by our specialists at SaralStudy.com, that will assist all the students of respective boards, including CBSE, who follows NCERT; with tackling all the questions easily. We give chapter wise complete solutions for your straightforwardness.
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Chapter 1 A Letter to God
A Letter to God is the chapter written by G.L. Fuentes which depicts the firm faith of a poor and simple-minded farmer named Lencho in God. He was poor but a dedicated farmer. He was hoping for a decent harvest. To his dismay, a hailstorm came suddenly which fully destroyed all his crops and harvest.
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Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela - Long Walk to Freedom
This chapter is an extract from the autobiography of Nelson Mandela (born- 18 July, 1918), the first Black President of South Africa. Excerpts from “Long Walk to Freedom” include description of the inauguration ceremony, citations from his speech, his journey to being a freedom fighter, the struggle, along with a tribute to other freedom fighters and countless other people who fought for their freedom. In South Africa, a brutal practice named “apartheid” was followed. Apartheid refers to the discrimination between people on the basis of their race. It was one of the most brutal societies where dark-skinned people were deprived of their basic rights. This lesson gives us an overview as to how Nelson Mandela along with others, carved their way to a society where there will be no discrimination on the basis of their colour, caste, race, age or gender.
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Chapter 3 Two Stories about Flying
This story is about a young seagull, who was afraid of flying. Young seagull was full of pessimism. His parents and family members used to encourage him for his first flight but he doesn't have enough courage to fly. He was left alone by his family members for 24 hours and he ate nothing.
Young seagull who is afraid to fly because of distrust on its wings. All his younger siblings can fly fearlessly despite their shorter wings. On the other hand, the young bird cannot gather the courage to trust his wings.
The story “Black Aeroplane” is about a pilot who feels happy and contended to fly over a city that is sleeping (at the night time). He is flying from Paris to London. While taking his flight, he dreams about the long holiday with his family. He also fantasizes about the scrumptious breakfast he would have upon landing.
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Chapter 4 From the Diary of Anne Frank
From the Diary of Anne Frank is an excerpt from the famous diary of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who documented her life in hiding during World War II. In this chapter, Anne writes about her personal experiences, emotions, and relationships as she navigates the challenges of adolescence while being confined to a hidden annex with her family to escape the Nazis.
The entry begins with Anne sharing her feelings of loneliness and isolation. Though surrounded by her family and a few others, Anne feels misunderstood and struggles to find someone with whom she can openly share her thoughts. This sense of alienation prompts her to start writing a diary, which she names "Kitty." Through her diary, Anne expresses her innermost thoughts and desires, forming an emotional bond with it as a trusted confidante.
Anne also describes her experiences at school, her teachers, and her classmates. She is a lively and intelligent student, but often finds herself in trouble due to her outspoken nature. Anne’s diary captures the typical struggles of a teenager dealing with self-identity, friendship, and parental expectations, along with the added stress of living in hiding.
The chapter provides readers with a glimpse into Anne’s courageous spirit and her ability to find hope and meaning despite the horrors surrounding her. Her reflections resonate with readers, highlighting universal themes of resilience, courage, and the importance of self-expression. Anne’s diary remains a timeless testament to the human spirit and its ability to endure and hope, even in the face of adversity.
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Chapter 5 The Hundred Dresses - 1
The Hundred Dresses-1 is the story about a little Polish girl named Wanda Petronski who lives in America. In the story, it is seen that Wanda’s Classmates make fun of her, especially Peggy, and Madeline are always making fun of her. Wanda is a Polish immigrant studying with American students.
Her American Classmates make fun of her name because they find it strange and weird as compared to the easier and common American names. As Wanda belonged to a poor family, she always wore the same faded blue dress to school. She could be seen sitting alone and quiet in a corner of the Classroom. Wanda claimed that she had one hundred dresses and a pair of sixty shoes in her possession. But everyone made fun stating that if she had so many dresses, why would she wear the same pair to school every day?
Wanda was always teased and taunted by two of her Classmates, Peggy and Maddie, who were best friends to each other. These two girls were also the most famous ones in the school. And Wanda was simply a stranger to everyone.
The story is seen from the viewpoint of Maddie who was the main character behind the daily teasing. Peggy and Maddie would wait for Wanda before coming to school, even if they were late they would still wait for her. Maddie was also poor, just like Wanda, and did not like it when Peggy made fun of Wanda.
But she did not dare do anything as she feared that she could become another target of teasing. Maddie could not do anything when Peggy made fun of Wanda because she was also afraid that she might lose her best friend. Although Peggy did not want to hurt Wanda intentionally, yet she did tease her on purpose because she was very curious to find out why Wanda was lying about the hundred dresses.
On the day of the drawing competition, the truth about Wanda’s hundred dresses is revealed to everyone. In the room, there were one hundred paintings of one hundred beautiful dresses, each distinctly more attractive than the other. It is now clear that Wanda truly had a hundred dresses and all of them lined up in the Classroom. Peggy and Maddie just could not believe their eyes and were much ashamed about treating Wanda badly.
The story has the moral meaning to it-never mistreat anyone who appears to be different than others. Wanda’s story also teaches us that we should not make fun of unique differences about fellow human beings. We must accept everyone as they are.
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Chapter 6 The Hundred Dresses - 2
At the beginning of the lesson, all the students are seen present in Room no.13. In this room, all the wonderful paintings by Wanda Petronski have been displayed. Suddenly, Miss Mason receives a note from Wanda’s father.
To everyone’s surprise, it is revealed in letter that they are all leaving the town and moving to a big city where no one would judge them for their names. The letter leaves Miss Mason in utter shock and conveys her disappointment to the Class. Maddie seemed to be deeply affected by the letter, and she realizes that she should already ask for her forgiveness. So, Peggy and Maddie rush to Boggin Heights, where Wanda had lived, in the hope that the family hadn’t moved by then.
Sadly, to their utter dismay, they find that the house has been vacated and no one lived there anymore. Maddie was so sad that she couldn’t sleep at night anymore. She felt guilty for acting like a coward and not standing against the wrong.
That very day she decided to not tease anyone ever again. Later during the weekend, Maddie and Peggy decide to pen a letter to Wanda which would actually be a letter of apology but should sound like a friendly note interested to know Wanda’s experience in the new place. After waiting several weeks for her reply, finally, on the day of Christmas, they receive an announcement from Miss Mason about Wanda.
In her letter, Wanda wrote that she missed everyone and conveyed how she wished to give Maddie and Peggy one dress each as she has a whole new bunch of hundred dresses at her house. Both the girls were rejoiced to receive the letter and later found out that their faces were drawn along with the dresses by Wanda.
They realized that Wanda liked them. Maddie was so emotional at this realization that she had teary eyes with the thought of Wanda.
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Chapter 7 Glimpses of India
Glimpses of India is a collection of three fascinating stories that take readers on a journey across the diverse landscapes and cultures of India. Each story provides a unique perspective on different aspects of Indian heritage, traditions, and way of life.
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A Baker from Goa: This story, narrated by Lucio Rodrigues, explores the traditional occupation of bread-making in the state of Goa. The narrator reminisces about the time when Portuguese influence was strong in Goa, and bakers, known as "padeirs," played an important role in the community. Bread-making is an integral part of Goan culture, and the narrator fondly recalls the sounds, smells, and sights associated with the baker’s daily routine. The story captures the nostalgia of traditional Goan life and highlights the enduring significance of the baker’s craft in the local community.
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Coorg: Coorg, written by Lokesh Abrol, transports readers to the picturesque district of Coorg (Kodagu) in Karnataka. Known for its lush coffee plantations, dense forests, and scenic landscapes, Coorg is a land of natural beauty and cultural richness. The story describes the warm and hospitable people of Coorg, their martial traditions, and their respect for nature. Readers also learn about the region's history, its connection to the Kodava warriors, and its reputation as the "Scotland of India." The story captures the essence of Coorg's beauty and its distinctive cultural heritage.
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Tea from Assam: In this story by Arup Kumar Datta, readers are introduced to the tea gardens of Assam. The narrator, Rajvir, is on a train journey to Assam with his friend Pranjol, who is a native of the region. Rajvir is fascinated by the lush green tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see. Through Rajvir's observations, the story provides insights into the history of tea, its origins, and its journey to becoming one of the most popular beverages in the world. This narrative not only highlights Assam’s tea culture but also gives readers an understanding of the hard work that goes into tea cultivation.
Together, these stories celebrate India’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and traditional livelihoods, offering readers a rich tapestry of Indian life and values.
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Chapter 8 Mijbil the Otter
Mijbil the Otter by Gavin Maxwell is a lesson which moves around the experiences of the author after he pets an otter and gives the name Mijbil to him. It begins when the writer is travelling to a place called Basra, along with his friend. At one point, the author showed his interest to pet an otter. The author lost his pet dog and felt alone ever since the dog passed away. Therefore, he decided to pet an otter. His friend suggested he get an otter from the marshes. When they arrived at the destination, they discovered nothing else, only a letter from the friend’s mail. But the author still waited for the mail. When he received it, he went to the room only to find an otter packed. The otter has been sent to him with the help of the Arabs along with a message. The author names the otter as Mijbil and calls him Mij with love.
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Chapter 9 Madam Rides the Bus
Madam Rides the Bus is a heartwarming story by Vallikkannan about a young girl named Valli, who has an adventurous spirit and an insatiable curiosity about the world beyond her village. Valli, who is around eight years old, has a deep fascination with the bus that travels between her village and the nearby town. She dreams of taking a ride on it and eagerly observes the details of the bus journey, including the sights along the way.
One day, Valli secretly saves enough money to fulfill her dream and buys a ticket for a bus ride to the town. She is excited and filled with wonder as she experiences the joy of seeing the world outside her village for the first time. However, on her return journey, Valli encounters a sad sight that changes her perspective. She sees a dead cow on the road, which brings a somber reality to her otherwise joyful adventure.
Madam Rides the Bus is a touching story that captures the innocence and curiosity of childhood, while also introducing the young protagonist to the complexities of life. It highlights Valli’s courage, her desire for independence, and the profound impact of her experiences on her worldview.
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Chapter 10 The Sermon at Benares
The Sermon at Benares is an excerpt from a sermon delivered by Gautama Buddha, one of the most revered spiritual leaders in history. This chapter recounts the life and teachings of Buddha, focusing on his message of compassion, enlightenment, and understanding of suffering.
The story begins with Buddha's early life as Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who lived a life of luxury. Siddhartha was deeply affected by the sight of human suffering and renounced his royal life to seek the truth of existence. After years of meditation and self-discipline, he attained enlightenment and became Buddha, "The Enlightened One."
In his sermon at Benares, Buddha addresses the concept of suffering and the transient nature of life. He explains that sorrow is an inherent part of human existence and that one must accept the inevitability of change. By using the story of Kisa Gotami, a grieving mother seeking relief from the pain of losing her child, Buddha teaches the importance of detachment and inner peace. He emphasizes that understanding the impermanence of life can help people overcome suffering and attain spiritual liberation.
The Sermon at Benares provides valuable insights into the philosophy of Buddhism and its emphasis on compassion, acceptance, and the path to inner peace.
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Chapter 11 The Proposal
The Proposal, written by the Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, is a humorous one-act play that explores the theme of marriage, materialism, and human folly. The story revolves around three main characters: Ivan Lomov, a wealthy landowner; Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov, his neighbor; and Natalya Stepanovna, Chubukov’s daughter.
The play begins with Lomov visiting Chubukov’s house to propose marriage to Natalya. Chubukov is initially delighted, as Lomov is a wealthy match for his daughter. However, when Lomov and Natalya meet, they quickly get into an argument over a piece of disputed land called Oxen Meadows. The trivial disagreement escalates into a heated quarrel, and Lomov, who suffers from various ailments, is left exhausted.
Chubukov intervenes, and the quarrel momentarily subsides. However, when Lomov attempts to propose again, he and Natalya start arguing about their respective dogs. The situation spirals out of control, with both parties bickering incessantly. Eventually, Chubukov forces them to reconcile and persuades them to marry, despite their constant fighting.
The play ends with Lomov and Natalya begrudgingly accepting each other, though it is clear that their relationship will continue to be filled with petty disputes. The Proposal satirizes the trivial concerns that often dominate human relationships and underscores the absurdity of materialism and social status in marriage.