Class 8 › English › Poorvi Environment Class 8 English · Poorvi · Chapter 4
Summary Questions & answers Practise this chapter → Tap a card to open it full-screen — swipe through like a story.
Unit 4 of Poorvi focuses on nature, growth and our relationship with the environment. Its main prose reading is “The Cherry Tree” by Ruskin Bond. Six-year-old Rakesh, who lives with his grandfather on the outskirts of Mussoorie in the Himalayan foothills, plants a cherry seed after eating cherries from the bazaar. The soil is stony and the cold winds harsh, so the tiny sapling struggles. Over the years it is nibbled by a goat, cut by a grass-cutter’s scythe and battered by storms, yet it survives. With patient care and the passing seasons, the small seed slowly grows into a strong, beautiful cherry tree that bursts into pink blossom. Watching it, Rakesh feels the quiet wonder of having helped create something living and lasting. The story gently teaches patience, hope, perseverance and respect for nature. The unit is enriched with poetry and related readings, including Sarojini Naidu’s “Harvest Hymn”, in which farmers thank Surya, the sun, and the rain god for a good harvest, and “Waiting for the Rain”, about a farmer named Velu longing for rain for his crops. Together these texts connect human life with trees, sunlight, water and the cycles of the seasons, encouraging students to value and protect the natural world.
1 Rakesh buys cherries, saves the last seed, and plants it in a soft corner of Grandfather’s garden. 2 After winter passes, Rakesh discovers the seed has sprouted, and he begins to water and care for it. 3 The young cherry tree suffers damage from a goat and then from a woman’s scythe, but it keeps growing. 4 As Rakesh grows older, he watches the tree send new shoots, blossom, and welcome insects and birds. 5 The tree becomes tall and fruitful, and Grandfather and Rakesh enjoy its shade, beauty, and special presence. 6 At the end, Rakesh feels wonder and deep joy because they planted and grew the tree themselves. R Rakesh The young boy who plants and patiently cares for the cherry seed until it grows into a tree.
R Ruskin Bond The author of “The Cherry Tree”, famous for stories set in the Himalayan foothills around Mussoorie.
T The cherry tree The fragile seed that survives goats, scythes and storms to become a strong, blossoming tree—a symbol of perseverance.
“ “Harvest Hymn” (poem) A poem by Sarojini Naidu in which farmers thank Surya, the sun and the rain for the harvest.
“ “Waiting for the Rain” A reading about the farmer Velu, who anxiously waits for rain to save his crops.
T Theme – patience and nature The unit shows that growth in nature takes time, care and hope, and urges respect for the environment.
stunted
stopped from growing fully
outskirts
edge areas of a town
yielding
soft and giving way
haunches
bent legs while sitting
peered down
looked carefully downward
plodded
walked slowly and heavily
scrambled
moved quickly with difficulty
scythe
long curved grass-cutting tool
foliage
green leaves of plants
praying-mantis
a kind of insect
Q1 Who plants the cherry seed and where? Answer Q2 Why was it difficult for the cherry tree to grow there? Answer Q3 What dangers did the young cherry tree survive? Answer Q4 How does Rakesh feel as the tree grows? Answer Q5 What is the main message of “The Cherry Tree”? Answer Q6 What is Sarojini Naidu’s “Harvest Hymn” about? Answer Q7 Why do the farmers in the poem praise Surya? Answer Q8 What does the reading “Waiting for the Rain” describe? Answer Q9 How is human life connected to nature in this unit? Answer Q10 What values does Unit 4 encourage in students? Answer Q1 I Work in pairs and answer the questions that follow. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. Have you ever used a seed or a sapling to grow a plant? Answer Q2 I Work in pairs and answer the questions that follow. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. What kind of care did the plant need? Who helped you with it? Answer Q3 I Work in pairs and answer the questions that follow. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. How did you feel when you saw the plant grow? Answer Q4 II What kind of trees do people plant in their homes? Why is it important to plant trees? Answer Q5 III Name some fruit trees that grow in your region. What type of conditions help these fruit trees to grow? Answer Q1 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 1. Rakesh discovered that the small, well-rooted twig, had grown into a cherry tree. Answer Q2 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 2. Rakesh was sent to live with his grandfather in Mussoorie. Answer Q3 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 3. Rakesh pressed the cherry seed into the soft soil with his thumb. Answer Q4 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 4. The cherry tree grew quickly after the rains arrived early. Answer Q5 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 5. Rakesh bought a bunch of cherries and ate most of them. Answer Q6 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 6. A goat entered the garden and ate all the leaves of the young cherry tree. Answer Q7 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 7. Rakesh’s parents grew maize, rice, and barley in a village. (1) Answer Q8 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 8. Rakesh sprinkled water on the cherry tree and surrounded it with pebbles. Answer Q9 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 9. Grandfather told Rakesh that cherry trees were tough. Answer Q10 I Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 10. Rakesh kept rolling the last cherry seed in his mouth. Answer Q11 II Do you think the cherry tree would survive? Why do you think so? Answer Q1 I Complete the table given below based on your understanding of Part II of the story. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Cause: 1. A woman cut the cherry tree while cutting grass. Effect: (i) Grandfather scolded the woman. Answer Q2 I Complete the table given below based on your understanding of Part II of the story. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. Cause: (ii) [Rakesh went to his village to help his parents with planting, ploughing and sowing during monsoon] Effect: (ii) Rakesh was thinner but stronger when he came back. Answer Q3 I Complete the table given below based on your understanding of Part II of the story. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. A hairy caterpillar started eating the leaves of the cherry tree. (iii) Answer Q4 I Complete the table given below based on your understanding of Part II of the story. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. (iv) [When the sun came out Grandfather saw a pale pink blossom at the end of a branch] Effect: (iv) Rakesh and Grandfather gazed at the tree as though it was a miracle. Answer Q5 I Complete the table given below based on your understanding of Part II of the story. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 5. Rakesh tasted one of the small cherries during summer. (v) Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “Have a cherry, Grandfather,” he said, as soon as he saw his grandfather in the garden. Grandfather took one cherry and Rakesh promptly ate the other two. He kept the last seed in his mouth for some time, rolling it round and round on his tongue until all the tang had gone. Then he placed the seed on the palm of his hand and studied it. “Are cherry seeds lucky?” asked Rakesh. “Of course.” “Then I’ll keep it.” “Nothing is lucky if you put it away. If you want luck, you must put it to some use.” (i) Substitute the underlined phrase with a correct word from the extract. The Kho-kho captain changed her strategy quickly and without delay when a new player came in from the opposing team. Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “Have a cherry, Grandfather,” he said, as soon as he saw his grandfather in the garden. Grandfather took one cherry and Rakesh promptly ate the other two. He kept the last seed in his mouth for some time, rolling it round and round on his tongue until all the tang had gone. Then he placed the seed on the palm of his hand and studied it. “Are cherry seeds lucky?” asked Rakesh. “Of course.” “Then I’ll keep it.” “Nothing is lucky if you put it away. If you want luck, you must put it to some use.” (ii) What does Rakesh’s action of rolling the cherry seed in his mouth most likely suggest about his mood at that moment? A. He is feeling impatient and restless. B. He is enjoying the taste and the moment. C. He is bored and has nothing better to do. D. He is thoughtful and feeling playful. Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “Have a cherry, Grandfather,” he said, as soon as he saw his grandfather in the garden. Grandfather took one cherry and Rakesh promptly ate the other two. He kept the last seed in his mouth for some time, rolling it round and round on his tongue until all the tang had gone. Then he placed the seed on the palm of his hand and studied it. “Are cherry seeds lucky?” asked Rakesh. “Of course.” “Then I’ll keep it.” “Nothing is lucky if you put it away. If you want luck, you must put it to some use.” (iii) Complete the following sentence suitably with reference to Rakesh and his grandfather. Rakesh’s decision to plant the seed shows that ______________. (he respects and values his grandfather’s advice/he has a close bond with his grandfather and a willingness to learn from him) Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “Have a cherry, Grandfather,” he said, as soon as he saw his grandfather in the garden. Grandfather took one cherry and Rakesh promptly ate the other two. He kept the last seed in his mouth for some time, rolling it round and round on his tongue until all the tang had gone. Then he placed the seed on the palm of his hand and studied it. “Are cherry seeds lucky?” asked Rakesh. “Of course.” “Then I’ll keep it.” “Nothing is lucky if you put it away. If you want luck, you must put it to some use.” (iv) How does the grandfather’s advice reflect his view about luck and effort? Answer Q5 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. Winter came early. The cherry tree bent low with the weight of snow. Field-mice sought shelter in the roof of the cottage. The road from the valley was blocked, and for several days there was no newspaper, and this made Grandfather quite grumpy. His stories began to have unhappy endings. In February it was Rakesh’s birthday. He was nine—and the tree was four, but almost as tall as Rakesh. (i) Complete the following sentence suitably. The phrase ‘field-mice sought shelter in the roof of the cottage’ suggests that _____________. Answer Q6 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. Winter came early. The cherry tree bent low with the weight of snow. Field-mice sought shelter in the roof of the cottage. The road from the valley was blocked, and for several days there was no newspaper, and this made Grandfather quite grumpy. His stories began to have unhappy endings. In February it was Rakesh’s birthday. He was nine—and the tree was four, but almost as tall as Rakesh. (ii) What can be inferred about the cherry tree’s toughness from the line, ‘The cherry tree bent low with the weight of snow’? A. The weight of the tree was more than the snow. B. The tree could withstand harsh weather. C. The tree was growing close to the ground. D. The snow gave support to the tree. Answer Q7 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. Winter came early. The cherry tree bent low with the weight of snow. Field-mice sought shelter in the roof of the cottage. The road from the valley was blocked, and for several days there was no newspaper, and this made Grandfather quite grumpy. His stories began to have unhappy endings. In February it was Rakesh’s birthday. He was nine—and the tree was four, but almost as tall as Rakesh. (iii) How did the early winter affect Grandfather’s mood and storytelling? Answer Q8 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. Winter came early. The cherry tree bent low with the weight of snow. Field-mice sought shelter in the roof of the cottage. The road from the valley was blocked, and for several days there was no newspaper, and this made Grandfather quite grumpy. His stories began to have unhappy endings. In February it was Rakesh’s birthday. He was nine—and the tree was four, but almost as tall as Rakesh. (iv) Complete the sentence by choosing the correct option. The comparison of Rakesh’s age to the cherry tree’s age symbolises _______________. (the tree’s growth paralleling Rakesh’s own development/the tree standing as a dear one on Rakesh’s birthday) Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. Why did Rakesh’s parents send him to Mussoorie? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. Why did Rakesh let the praying-mantis remain on the branch of the cherry tree? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. How is life in the Himalayan foothills described in the story? Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. What might Rakesh mean when he says, “Is this what it feels to be God?” at the end of the story? Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. How does the writer describe the relationship between Rakesh and his grandfather? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. What can you infer about the connection between humans and nature based on the story? Answer Q15 II Answer the following questions. 7. Imagine Rakesh reflects on his wonderful experience of watching a seed being transformed into a full-grown cherry tree. Write how he must have felt. Answer Q1 I Each word list has one word that does not match with the other words. Identify the odd word. One example has been done for you. 2. plodded, galloped, scrambled, trudged Answer Q2 I Each word list has one word that does not match with the other words. Identify the odd word. One example has been done for you. 3. tender, delicate, soft, smooth Answer Q3 I Each word list has one word that does not match with the other words. Identify the odd word. One example has been done for you. 4. stared, peered, pecked, gazed Answer Q4 I Each word list has one word that does not match with the other words. Identify the odd word. One example has been done for you. 5. growing, blossoming, progressing, planting Answer Q5 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 1. tamarind Answer Q6 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 2. jaggery Answer Q7 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 3. neem leaves Answer Q8 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 4. paneer (cottage cheese) Answer Q9 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 5. lemon Answer Q10 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 6. pickle Answer Q11 II Choose the most suitable taste words given in the box below and write against the food items that follow. sweet sour tangy bitter spicy salty bland (tasteless) 7. a dish of vegetables Answer Q12 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 1. tender Answer Q13 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 2. sturdy Answer Q14 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 3. narrow Answer Q15 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 4. warmth Answer Q16 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 5. feasting Answer Q17 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 6. grumpy Answer Q18 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 7. sheltered Answer Q19 III Choose the correct antonyms for the textual words given below from the box. There are two extra words that you will not need. growing ordinary unprotected cheerful hard wide fasting shaky fussing coldness 8. special Answer Q20 IV Read the following lines from the text and underline all the verbs and identify the form of tense. 1. Rakesh was on his way home from school when he bought the cherries. 2. Rakesh was looking for Grandfather without finding him in any of his favourite places around the house. 3. Rakesh and Grandfather gazed at the tree as though it had performed a miracle. Now, fill in the blanks with the correct form of Simple Past, Past Progressive, or Past Perfect Tenses of the verbs given in brackets. (i) I was sitting (sit) with my grandparents in the garden, sharing the wonderful memories from my childhood. As we (ii) ______________ (talk), I (iii) ______________ (realise) how much wisdom they (iv) ______________ (impart) to me over the years. While I (v) ______________ (listen) to their stories for hours together, I (vi) ______________ (remember) the times we (vii) ______________ (spend) together planting flowers and learning about life. By the time I left, the sun (viii) ______________ (set), and I (ix) ______________ (feel) a deep sense of gratitude for the bond we (x) ______________ (nurture) through love, care, and countless memories. Answer Q21 V Study the punctuation marks in the following sentences from the text. Now, punctuate the following paragraph appropriately. every sunday roshni would visit her grandparents house on their farm come sit grandpa would say patting the bench on their porch roshni loved these moments where the world slowed down and stories flowed like magic grandma would bring tea her eyes twinkling with joy im excited to hear about your younger days the adventures the lessons and the memories roshni said eagerly grandpa smiled softly his wrinkled hands resting on the cane ah the old days… when everything was simple and happiness was all we had roshni could feel the warmth of those memories he sat in silence bound not by words but by a timeless bond Answer Q1 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 1. The mother encouraged her son to deliver a presentation on the Chipko Movement. Answer Q2 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 2. The son was surprised to know about the Appiko Movement. Answer Q3 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 3. The son agreed that the Chipko Movement was about people uniting to make an impact. Answer Q4 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 4. The mother expressed a desire to share more details about Saalumarada Thimakka. Answer Q5 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 5. The mother was curious to hear about Saalumarada Thimakka. Answer Q6 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 6. The mother and son were in disagreement about the work of Jadav Payeng. Answer Q7 I You will listen to a conversation between a son and his mother. As you listen, select four true statements from 1–7 given below. 7. The son found the information on Jadav Payeng wonderful. Answer Q1 I Work in pairs. Read aloud the following words from the text. Write the number of syllables in each word. Check your answers with your classmates and teacher. Now, read the words aloud again with the beats. Check if the number of syllables matches with the number of beats. mountains grandfather tender disturbed caterpillar Himalayan performed intention slope newspaper favourite Answer Q2 II Speak about Van Mahotsav Diwas and its significance. Before you speak in the class or assembly, prepare yourself on the following points: When is it celebrated? Who celebrates it? Why is it celebrated? How is it celebrated? What is the message it conveys? Answer Q1 Now, complete the article for a magazine on ‘Trees–Our Lifeline’. Use the words and phrases given in the box below. absorb carbon dioxide Moreover, our planet reduces pollution Additionally would stop existing ensures a better future climate control Trees–Our Lifeline To conclude If trees were not there (i) ________________ -by ________________ (write your name and class) Trees are essential for life on Earth. Without them, life as we know (ii) ________________. This is the reason why trees are our lifeline. Trees provide us with food, shelter, and even medicine. Trees (iii) ________________ and release oxygen, helping us breathe. This process also (iv) ________________ and keeps the environment clean. (v) ________________, trees give us fruits, nuts, and other foods. Trees also help in (vi) ________________ and prevention of soil erosion. (vii) ________________, the air would be polluted, and we would struggle to breathe. (viii) ________________ would be barren, lacking food, shelter, and life-giving greenery. (ix) ________________, trees are true friends. Protecting and planting trees (x) ________________ for everyone on Earth. Therefore, we must act now to protect and plant more trees, preserving Earth’s green lifeline for future generations. Answer Q1 I Did you know that the banyan tree is the National Tree of India? Our country has age-old banyan trees. Some of them are: 1. The Great Banyan, located in Shibpur, Howrah, near Kolkata. 2. Dodda Aalada Mara, located in Kethohalli village, near Bengaluru. 3. Thimmamma Marrimanu, in Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh. It was recorded as the largest tree specimen in the world in the Guinness Book of World Records in 1989. II Kailash Sankhala, ‘The Tiger Man of India’, was an Indian biologist and conservationist. He carried out a census of the tigers in India in 1971. Later, because of his studies, he was appointed the first director of Project Tiger—an initiative to prevent the extinction of the Indian Tiger. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992. Now, find more information about such Indian environmentalists and share with your classmates. Answer Q1 I Work in pairs and share your responses with your classmates and teacher. 1. India celebrates many harvest festivals. When is the harvest festival celebrated in your region and how is it celebrated? Answer Q2 I Work in pairs and share your responses with your classmates and teacher. 2. A hymn refers to a song of praise. (i) To whom do we offer a hymn? (ii) When and where do we sing a hymn? (iii) Why do we offer it? Answer Q3 II Some poets and authors use words that are no longer a part of common usage. Such words are called archaic words. Work in pairs. Read the sentences given below. Match the underlined archaic words in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. ‘Thou art my friend, and I trust thee. Thy kindness is great, and everything that is mine is thine.’ Column 1 Column 2 1. thou (i) yours 2. art (ii) you (object) 3. thee (iii) you (subject) 4. thy (iv) are 5. thine (v) your Answer Q4 III Work in pairs. Read the paragraph and select the correct meaning for each underlined word from the options given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Under the golden 1. radiance of the evening sun, the villagers gathered to pay 2. tribute to their 3. cherished elder, who had dedicated his life to their well-being. His wise 4. counsel had guided generations, steering them through challenges. Known for his 5. munificent spirit, he never hesitated to share his resources generously. 1. radiance : (i) glow (ii) brilliance 2. tribute : (i) respect (ii) gratitude 3. cherished : (i) preserved (ii) loved 4. counsel : (i) advice (ii) decision 5. munificent : (i) rich (ii) generous Answer Q1 I Write the stanza number for the main idea of each stanza given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. The speakers recognise the lord’s kindness and praise him for nourishing the field. Answer Q2 I Write the stanza number for the main idea of each stanza given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. The speakers praise the generosity of the creator of the universe who ensures a rich harvest. Answer Q3 I Write the stanza number for the main idea of each stanza given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. The speakers devote their lives and work as a mark of respect to the lord and seek his support, wisdom, and care. Answer Q4 I Write the stanza number for the main idea of each stanza given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. The speakers pay homage to the Earth and appreciate her role in supporting life, by dedicating their harvest. Answer Q5 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the appropriate words or phrases from within the brackets. 1. The setting of the poem is a rural landscape, possibly during a __________________________ (harvest/religious) festival. Answer Q6 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the appropriate words or phrases from within the brackets. 2. The tone of the poem is respectful and celebratory because it praises ___________________ (the men and women/nature and the Lord) with deep respect and gratitude. Answer Q7 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the appropriate words or phrases from within the brackets. 3. In the line ‘Thou art our Hands and our Heart and our Home’, the letter ‘h’ is capitalised in ‘Hands’, ‘Heart’ and ‘Home’ because ___________________. (it represents the hard work of farmers/God resides in them) Answer Q8 III Identify the poetic device used in the following lines from the poem. • Bright and munificent lord of the morn! • We bring thee our lives and our labours for tribute Answer Q9 IV Match the lines from the poem in Column 1 with their expressions in Column 2. Choose the appropriate poetic device from the box given below and write in Column 3. imagery alliteration simile metaphor personification Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 1. sweet and omnipotent mother (i) creates a clear description of the scene and appeals to the senses Answer Q10 IV Match the lines from the poem in Column 1 with their expressions in Column 2. Choose the appropriate poetic device from the box given below and write in Column 3. imagery alliteration simile metaphor personification Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 2. The wealth of our valleys, new-garnered and ripe (ii) implied comparison of growth and reaping with beginning and end of all life Answer Q11 IV Match the lines from the poem in Column 1 with their expressions in Column 2. Choose the appropriate poetic device from the box given below and write in Column 3. imagery alliteration simile metaphor personification Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 3. Thou art the Seed and the Scythe (iii) the earth is being given human-like qualities Answer Q12 V Certain words or phrases are repeated in the same line of the poem. For example, The gold of our fields and the gold of our fruit; Find more such repetitions from the poem. What is the poet’s purpose of using repetition in the poem? Answer Q13 VI The poem uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings. Match the symbols in Column 1 with the meanings they convey in Column 2. Column 1 Column 2 1. Prithvi (the Earth) (i) light, energy, life—representing the giver of warmth and prosperity 2. Surya (the Sun) (ii) mercy and nourishment—crucial for agriculture and sustenance 3. Varuna (Rain) (iii) fertile land, motherhood, nurturing— the source of all life Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. We bring thee our songs and our garlands for tribute, The gold of our fields and the gold of our fruit; O giver of mellowing radiance, we hail thee, We praise thee, O Surya, with cymbal and flute. (i) What does the act of bringing songs and garlands as tribute suggest about the people’s relationship with the divine? A. They fear the gods and wish to calm them in any way possible. B. They have a deep sense of reverence and gratitude towards the divine. C. They are forced to perform rituals without understanding the divine. D. They depend on the gods for their daily needs and activities. Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. We bring thee our songs and our garlands for tribute, The gold of our fields and the gold of our fruit; O giver of mellowing radiance, we hail thee, We praise thee, O Surya, with cymbal and flute. (ii) Complete the following sentence suitably. The word ‘gold’ in the phrases ‘the gold of our fields’ and ‘the gold of our fruit’ symbolises ________________. Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. We bring thee our songs and our garlands for tribute, The gold of our fields and the gold of our fruit; O giver of mellowing radiance, we hail thee, We praise thee, O Surya, with cymbal and flute. (iii) How does the description ‘O giver of mellowing radiance’ help us understand Surya’s role in the harvest? Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. We bring thee our songs and our garlands for tribute, The gold of our fields and the gold of our fruit; O giver of mellowing radiance, we hail thee, We praise thee, O Surya, with cymbal and flute. (iv) Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. The use of cymbal and flute signifies ________________. (joy and celebration/meditation and worship) Answer Q5 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. All Voices: Lord of the Universe, Lord of our being, Father eternal, ineffable Om! Thou art the Seed and the Scythe of our harvests, Thou art our Hands and our Heart and our Home. (i) In the phrase ‘Lord of our being,’ what does the word ‘being’ most likely refer to? A. Our physical body B. Our entire existence C. Our spiritual practices D. Our earthly possessions Answer Q6 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. All Voices: Lord of the Universe, Lord of our being, Father eternal, ineffable Om! Thou art the Seed and the Scythe of our harvests, Thou art our Hands and our Heart and our Home. (ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. The imagery of ‘the Seed and the Scythe’ symbolises the divine’s role as both the beginning (creation) and the end (harvest) of the agricultural cycle. Answer Q7 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. All Voices: Lord of the Universe, Lord of our being, Father eternal, ineffable Om! Thou art the Seed and the Scythe of our harvests, Thou art our Hands and our Heart and our Home. (iii) Identify the phrases from the extract that mean the following: A. The divine as a timeless, everlasting presence B. Beyond human comprehension or description Answer Q8 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. All Voices: Lord of the Universe, Lord of our being, Father eternal, ineffable Om! Thou art the Seed and the Scythe of our harvests, Thou art our Hands and our Heart and our Home. (iv) How do we know that these lines from the extract are spoken as a chorus? Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. Why do the farmers hail the God of rain? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. What is being referred to as ‘wealth of our valleys’? Why? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. State one reason why the women refer to the Earth as a ‘source of manifold gladness’. Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. Why does everyone in the poem offer their ‘labours for tribute’? Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. Why has the poet presented the poem as voices of men, women, and all voices? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. How does the poet create the joyous atmosphere of rural India at harvesting time? Answer Q15 II Answer the following questions. 7. Why is the poem presented as a hymn? Answer Q1 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 1. (i) A tool with a long handle with metal teeth for collecting hay or leaves. S __ C K L __ Answer Q2 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. 2. (ii) A small hand tool used for digging and making shallow furrows. S C __ T H __ Answer Q3 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. 3. (iii) A hand-held tool with a curved blade attached to a short handle. It is used for harvesting crops. P L __ __ G H Answer Q4 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. 4. (iv) A tool pulled by oxen. It is used for turning over the soil in the field so that seeds can be sown or planted. T R __ W __ L Answer Q5 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. 5. (v) A farm tool having a flat rectangular blade attached to a long wooden handle used for digging the soil. R __ K __ Answer Q6 I Match the pictures of the farming implements given in Column 1 with their use given in Column 2. Then, fill in the blanks in Column 3 to complete the name of the implement. 6. (vi) A hand-held tool with a long-curved blade attached to a long handle used for cutting tall grass. S P __ D __ Answer Q7 II Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words in the given sentences from the box below. Circle the words or phrases in the sentences that helped you to infer the meanings. One example has been done for you. generous help brightness indescribable kind 2. He was munificent towards the needy and donated a lot for their health care. synonym: ____________________ Answer Q8 II Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words in the given sentences from the box below. Circle the words or phrases in the sentences that helped you to infer the meanings. One example has been done for you. generous help brightness indescribable kind 3. When he lost his job, all his friends gave him succour by supporting him with money. synonym: ____________________ Answer Q9 II Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words in the given sentences from the box below. Circle the words or phrases in the sentences that helped you to infer the meanings. One example has been done for you. generous help brightness indescribable kind 4. When the sun’s rays came into the dark room, the whole room was full of radiance. synonym: ____________________ Answer Q10 II Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words in the given sentences from the box below. Circle the words or phrases in the sentences that helped you to infer the meanings. One example has been done for you. generous help brightness indescribable kind 5. The little girl was speechless with ineffable joy when she got her birthday gift from her aunt. synonym: ____________________ Answer Q11 III You have learnt about some archaic words. Some more archaic words are given below. Refer to a dictionary to find commonly used words which are similar in meaning. 1. morrow 2. hither 3. quoth 4. betwixt 5. yonder Answer Q1 I Listen to the talk about paddy cultivation. As you listen, number the events in the correct order in which they happen. (Transcript for teacher on page 203) 1. Transplanting of seedlings 2. Ploughing of soil 3. Threshing of grains 4. Puddling of land 5. Harvesting of paddy 6. Irrigating the field 7. Milling of rice Answer Q2 II Now, listen to the talk again. As you listen, choose the correct option to answer the questions that follow. 1. What is the main step in preparing the soil for cultivation of rice? (i) Ploughing the soil (ii) Clearing the soil (iii) Puddling the soil Answer Q3 II Now, listen to the talk again. As you listen, choose the correct option to answer the questions that follow. 2. How long does it take for rice seeds to grow into seedlings before being transplanted? (i) 2–3 weeks (ii) 4–5 weeks (iii) 6–7 weeks Answer Q4 II Now, listen to the talk again. As you listen, choose the correct option to answer the questions that follow. 3. Why is drying rice grains important after threshing? (i) To get rice seeds for plantation (ii) To separate the rice grains easily (iii) To store the rice grains for longer Answer Q1 I In English, some letters are not pronounced in certain words. For example, in words like ‘knife’, ‘knowledge’, and ‘know’, the first letter ‘k’ is not pronounced. Let us look at a few more such examples. • In the words given below the letter ‘n’ is silent when it appears with ‘m’ at the end of the word. hymn, column, autumn, solemn Now, say these words aloud. • In the words given below the letter ‘b’ is silent when it appears with ‘m’. womb, tomb, bomb, climb, comb Now, say these words aloud. Answer Q2 II In our country, harvest is celebrated with the preparation of delicious dishes. Work in groups and make a presentation on any popular dish made during the harvest festival in your region. Use the prompts given in the box to make your presentation. Make sure that all the members share their views. Include the following: • What is the dish called? Is it known by any other name in other parts of India? • What ingredients are used to make the dish? • How is the dish prepared? • How is the dish served? • What does the dish taste like? • What is the special ritual related to the preparation of this dish? • Describe any special memory associated with the preparation of this dish. Answer Q1 Your school wishes to express gratitude to the farmers who play an important role in providing us the food on our plates. Draft a creative slogan to be put up on the school notice board. Remember to focus on the main idea to be expressed use simple language be concise—express yourself in a few words You may write the slogan on a chart paper and decorate it. Answer Q1 Millets are a varied group of small-seeded grasses. They have more fibre and minerals than other cereals. Millets have been a part of the Indian cuisine for years. They have been rediscovered worldwide as superfoods. 1. Read the information on Pearl Millet given below. Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) Common name: Bajra 2. Work in groups of four and do the following activities. (i) Find out if millets are a part of your cuisine. (ii) Find recipes with millets and compile them into a booklet. (iii) Create a recipe of your choice. Answer Q2 II Songs related to harvest season form a part of our culture and heritage. Talk to the elders in your house and learn a song sung on a harvest festival. Share it with your classmates and teacher. Then, compile all the songs to create a songbook with the help of teacher. Answer Q1 I Have you ever waited for the rains? Why? Answer Q2 II How do you feel when it rains after a long time? Answer Q3 III Why do you think the farmers wait for the rains? Answer Q4 IV Discuss in groups what happens when you wait for something or someone for a long period of time. 1. How do you spend the waiting period? 2. What do you think about? 3. How do you feel? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Answer Q1 I Complete the table given below. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. What was Said Who Said What was Said Who Said 1. It doesn’t look encouraging. Velu to himself He looked up at the sky. 2. The rains came all these years without any such consultations… Velu 3. So many favourable conditions but still no rain. Answer Q2 II Do you think the old woman would help Velu? If yes, why? If no, why not? Answer Q3 III Will Velu’s wait continue or will it rain? Answer Q1 I Complete the following statements given below with suitable reasons. 1. Velu asked the old woman to stop smiling because _________________. Answer Q2 I Complete the following statements given below with suitable reasons. 2. Velu said that it was hard not being able to work since _________________. Answer Q3 I Complete the following statements given below with suitable reasons. 3. Velu was confused when the old lady said that the land needed rest because _________________. Answer Q4 I Complete the following statements given below with suitable reasons. 4. The old lady said that it was good for the land when it didn’t rain as _________________. Answer Q5 I Complete the following statements given below with suitable reasons. 5. Velu ran home laughing and happy because _________________. Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “...I can’t see how talking to astrologers will bring rain.” He decided to go to the weather office in the city and talk to someone. But the people at the weather office said they couldn’t really tell him when the sky would gather clouds and bring rain. “We are at a loss ourselves!” they exclaimed. “So many favourable conditions but still no rain. Very odd!” (i) What does the first line of the extract tell us about Velu’s beliefs? Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “...I can’t see how talking to astrologers will bring rain.” He decided to go to the weather office in the city and talk to someone. But the people at the weather office said they couldn’t really tell him when the sky would gather clouds and bring rain. “We are at a loss ourselves!” they exclaimed. “So many favourable conditions but still no rain. Very odd!” (ii) Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason. Velu is determined to seek information about the rain because ___________________. (he was at a loss of words/he wants to find a practical solution to the drought affecting his farm) Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “...I can’t see how talking to astrologers will bring rain.” He decided to go to the weather office in the city and talk to someone. But the people at the weather office said they couldn’t really tell him when the sky would gather clouds and bring rain. “We are at a loss ourselves!” they exclaimed. “So many favourable conditions but still no rain. Very odd!” (iii) Complete the table with reference to Velu’s weather office visit. Expectation (What I think will happen) Outcome (What actually happened) Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. “...I can’t see how talking to astrologers will bring rain.” He decided to go to the weather office in the city and talk to someone. But the people at the weather office said they couldn’t really tell him when the sky would gather clouds and bring rain. “We are at a loss ourselves!” they exclaimed. “So many favourable conditions but still no rain. Very odd!” (iv) Complete the following sentence with a suitable option. The absence of rain despite favourable conditions, shows ___________________. A. lack of astrological knowledge B. ineffectiveness of farmers like Velu C. delay in understanding the weather D. unpredictability of nature Answer Q5 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “The soil, the land, the earth... shouldn’t someone let the land rest a bit?” the old woman said, softly, smiling. “Rest? Let the land rest? I don’t understand,” Velu looked at her, a little puzzled. “Yes, my son, that is the difficulty. You don’t realise that the earth is old...” (i) The old woman’s advice was accompanied with a soft tone and a smile. What does that tell us about her? Answer Q6 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “The soil, the land, the earth... shouldn’t someone let the land rest a bit?” the old woman said, softly, smiling. “Rest? Let the land rest? I don’t understand,” Velu looked at her, a little puzzled. “Yes, my son, that is the difficulty. You don’t realise that the earth is old...” (ii) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given below. The old woman’s advice ___________ Velu, at that moment. A. failed to impress B. confused C. scared D. made sense to Answer Q7 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “The soil, the land, the earth... shouldn’t someone let the land rest a bit?” the old woman said, softly, smiling. “Rest? Let the land rest? I don’t understand,” Velu looked at her, a little puzzled. “Yes, my son, that is the difficulty. You don’t realise that the earth is old...” (iii) State one thing about the old woman when she referred to Velu as ‘my son’, while offering advice. Answer Q8 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “The soil, the land, the earth... shouldn’t someone let the land rest a bit?” the old woman said, softly, smiling. “Rest? Let the land rest? I don’t understand,” Velu looked at her, a little puzzled. “Yes, my son, that is the difficulty. You don’t realise that the earth is old...” (iv) Complete the following sentence with a suitable explanation. The ‘difficulty’ that the old woman mentions is due to the fact that ________________. Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. How does the old woman convey Nature’s wisdom to Velu? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. The writer says, ‘The fields lay untended…’ Why couldn’t the farmers tend to their fields in the absence of rain? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. Support the old woman’s perspective that the land needs rest just like people do. Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. What can be inferred about Velu’s character based on his reaction to the drought? Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. What does the story suggest about the life of farmers and their relationship with nature? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. How might the rest and care of land contribute to a balanced and sustainable ecosystem? Answer Q1 I Solve a crossword using picture and word clues. All clues are related to the words from the text that are connected to weather or agriculture. Down 1. gentle wind 2. 3. rumbling sound with rain 4. grains etc. grown in large quantity in fields 6. 7. Across 5. collected crops 8. 9. prepare and use land for crops 10. turn up the field soil 11. plant seed/s Answer Q2 II The text uses words like ‘piece,’ ‘weather,’ ‘son,’ and ‘rain’. These words are the same as other words that are spelt differently—peace, whether, sun, and reign. Words that are pronounced the same as other words but differ in meaning or in spelling are called homophones. Now, complete the paragraph by filling in the correct option of homophones given in the brackets. The farmer looked at the sky and wondered 1. ________________ (weather/whether) the clouds would finally bring rain. He sat down on the ground, breaking a small 2. ________________ (piece/peace) of roti for his meal. The 3. ________________ (plain/plane) fields stretched endlessly before him, completely dry. He thought about how he could 4. ________________ (sell/cell) his last sack of grain to buy some essentials for his family. Without the rains, it didn’t 5. ________________ (seam/seem) possible to grow another crop this season. Despite his worries, he smiled, knowing that every farmer hopes for the next 6. ________________ (rain/reign) by nature to bring life back to the land. Answer Q3 III Choose the correct meanings from the given options for the underlined words or phrases in the following sentences. 1. Being annoyed, she muttered something which nobody heard. (i) spoke in a low voice (ii) spoke slowly (iii) spoke angrily Answer Q4 III Choose the correct meanings from the given options for the underlined words or phrases in the following sentences. 2. At the new work place, Riya felt forlorn for a week. (i) upset and irritated (ii) angry and bitter (iii) sad and neglected Answer Q5 III Choose the correct meanings from the given options for the underlined words or phrases in the following sentences. 3. When all his friends had gone, he was at a loss because he did not know what to do. (i) confused (ii) shocked (iii) lonely Answer Q6 III Choose the correct meanings from the given options for the underlined words or phrases in the following sentences. 4. When the little child saw her father, her eyes sparkled. (i) glowed dimly (ii) showed joy (iii) opened wide Answer Q7 IV Match each word (adjective) in Column 1 with a word (noun) that collocates in Column 2. Write the adjective-noun collocation in Column 3. One example has been done for you. Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 1. favourable (i) country favourable weather 2. wrinkled (ii) activity 3. dejected (iii) weather 4. fragrant (iv) skin 5. ceaseless (v) garden 6. beloved (vi) expression Answer Q8 V Underline the verbs and identify the forms of tenses for the following sentences from the text. 1. Oh, it is hard not to be able to work... 2. …I am too old. 3. What are you smiling at, Amma? 4. But my son, that is what I am talking about. 5. The earth has worked for years, centuries… 6. I have worked hard and honestly. The forms of tenses in the given statements are Simple Present Tense (1 and 2), Present Progressive Tense (3 and 4) Present Perfect Tense (5 and 6). Now, fill in the blanks with the correct form of Simple Present, Present Progressive or Present Perfect tenses of the verbs given in brackets. Ravi (i) __________ (be) a farmer who (ii) __________ (practise) crop rotation on his land. Each season, he (iii) __________ (plant) different crops to maintain the soil’s health. This year, he (iv) __________ (grow) legumes, which help restore the nutrients in the soil. Over the years, Ravi (v) __________ (learn) that planting the same crop repeatedly (vi) __________ (deplete) the soil, making it less fertile. By rotating crops, he (vii) __________ (keep) the land productive and fertile. He (viii) __________ (see) a noticeable improvement in his yields since adopting this method. Now, Ravi (ix) __________ (share) his knowledge with other farmers, explaining how crop rotation(x) __________ (benefit) both the soil and their harvests. Answer Q9 VI Study the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text. Now, fill in the blanks by choosing the correct determiner from those given in the brackets. It was 1. ________ (a/an) rainy afternoon, and 2. ________ (a/the) sky was thick with dark clouds. Mala noticed a large puddle quickly forming in front of 3. ________ (her/their) house. Excited, she called for her brother to join her, knowing that both of them always loved playing in 4. ________ (a/the) rain. While jumping from 5. ________ (some/one) puddle to another, Mala spotted 6. ________ (few/a few) snails slowly creeping along the wet sidewalk and pointed them out to her brother. With 7. ________ (each/every) jump, the sound of both 8. ________ (her/their) squeals and laughter was heard through the soft patter of raindrops. Though they were fully drenched 9. ________ (either/neither) siblings minded it. It had been a perfect rainy day. Answer Q1 I Listen to the weather forecast. As you listen, fill in the blanks with the exact word you listen to. (Transcript for teacher on page 204) 1. Delhi will mostly have a ___________ sky with light rain. 2. Moderate rain is likely to happen in ___________. 3. Kolkata is likely to have a maximum temperature of around ___________ °C. 4. There is a chance of a ___________ in Chennai. 5. Bengaluru will have a ___________ temperature of 29 °C. 6. Taking an ___________ is advisable because of the weather conditions. Answer Q1 I Here is a tongue twister about ‘weather’. Practice saying it as fast as you can. Whether the weather be fine, or whether the weather be not, whether the weather be cold, or whether the weather be hot, we’ll weather the weather, whatever the weather, whether we like it or not. Answer Q2 II Rain has arrived after a long dry spell on the Earth. Imagine the Rain and the Earth have a conversation. Work in pairs and present the role-play. You may use the hints in the table given below. You may start the conversation in the following way. Rain: Greetings, Earth! It’s been a while since we’ve met. How have you been? Earth: Hello Rain! I am so glad to see you. To continue the conversation, use the hints given below. Answer Q1 I You have observed the difficulties faced by the people in your neighbourhood due to scarcity of water especially during the summer months. Write a letter to the Councillor of your Municipal ward, requesting her/him to set up a rain water harvesting unit. Provide suggestions to address the issue. Remember to use formal language keep sentences short and to the point state the purpose clearly and concisely give relevant details Format and Layout: Sender’s address Date The Municipal Councillor (Receiver’s designation and address) Subject: Request to Install a Rainwater Harvesting Unit in Ward No. 44 Dear Madam, Paragraph 1: Drawing attention to the problem Paragraph 2: Causes and Consequences Paragraph 3: Request and Suggestions Paragraph 4: Conclusion Yours sincerely, Signature of the sender (Sender’s full name in brackets) Body of the letter Answer Q1 I Rest is very important for us to function in a proper manner. Even the Earth needs rest. This is known as fallowing. Read the facts given below related to fallowing: • A fallow year refers to leaving the land without sowing for one, or several vegetative cycles. • This is done to allow the land to recover its nutrients and retain moisture. It also helps to avoid spreading of diseases and controlling pests. • The sustainable land management method has been applied for centuries, wherein a field is divided into two halves—one is planted with crops while the other remains unplanted. Then, the process is reversed in the following year. II Find out from your Vocational Education teacher about Agriculture as a vocation and other related vocations, such as horticulture, etc. III India’s rich tradition of meteorological knowledge includes indigenous forecasting systems, grounded in ancient wisdom. These provide sophisticated methods for predicting climate, calculating rainfall, and issuing early warnings. References to rain and weather are found in numerous ancient texts, including the Rigveda, Shrimad Bhagavad, Parashara Samhita, Panini’s Ashtadhyayi, and Meghmala. These texts offer insights into rainfall patterns and seasonal changes. IV Meteorological Services for Agriculture in India The primary objective of the Agricultural Meteorology Division, India Meteorological Department (IMD) is to minimise the impact of adverse weather on crops and to leverage crop-weather relationships to boost agricultural production. In addition to forecasts and advisories, several other weather related services are also provided. For detailed information, please visit: https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/servicesMetEnvironment.php Answer
Who is the author of the prose lesson “The Cherry Tree”?
A Donald J. Sobol B Ruskin Bond C Sarojini Naidu D Arthur C. Clarke
Flashcards & interactive practice 
6
2