Class 8 › English › Poorvi Science and Curiosity Class 8 English · Poorvi · Chapter 5
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Unit 5 of Poorvi celebrates scientific curiosity, observation and discovery. Its main prose reading is “Feathered Friend” by Arthur C. Clarke, set on a space station under construction. A construction worker named Sven Olsen brings a small yellow canary, Claribel, to live among the crew, and the bird thrives in zero gravity, delighting everyone with her cheerful trills. One morning Claribel is found collapsed, claws in the air. The crew tries to revive her with oxygen and she briefly recovers, only to faint again. The narrator suddenly recalls how miners once carried canaries underground to warn them of poisonous gas, and realises the station’s air supply has gone wrong. He alerts the engineer, who discovers that the second alarm circuit had not yet been connected. The bird’s collapse becomes an early warning that saves the whole crew. The story shows how curiosity, observation and a little knowledge of the past can prevent disaster, and how even a small creature can play a vital role. The unit also includes the poem “Magnifying Glass”, about seeing the small wonders of the world up close, and a biography, “The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science”, honouring pioneering Indian women scientists. Together the readings inspire wonder, careful observation and a scientific way of thinking.
“ “Feathered Friend” A science-fiction story by Arthur C. Clarke set on a space station, where a canary warns the crew of bad air.
C Claribel The small yellow canary whose collapse acts as an early warning of a failing air supply, saving the crew.
S Sven Olsen The construction worker who brings Claribel aboard the space station and cares for her.
C Canary in a coal mine The old miners’ practice of using canaries to detect poisonous gas; the key idea that solves the story’s crisis.
“ “Magnifying Glass” (poem) A poem about looking closely at small things and discovering the hidden wonders of the natural world.
S Scientific curiosity The habit of observing, questioning and reasoning that runs through the whole unit.
Q1 Where is the story “Feathered Friend” set? Answer Q2 Who brought the canary aboard, and what was she called? Answer Q3 How did Claribel adapt to life in space? Answer Q4 What alarmed the crew one morning? Answer Q5 How did the narrator work out what was wrong? Answer Q6 Why had the air problem not triggered an alarm? Answer Q7 How did the canary end up saving the crew? Answer Q8 What real-world idea does the story rely on? Answer Q9 What is the poem “Magnifying Glass” about? Answer Q10 What is the overall message of Unit 5? Answer Q1 I Work in pairs and discuss the questions given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. Who can a ‘feathered’ friend be? Answer Q2 I Work in pairs and discuss the questions given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. Which ‘feathered’ friend do you like? Why? Answer Q3 I Work in pairs and discuss the questions given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. If you have a choice between a ‘feathered’ and a ‘furry’ friend, who would you choose? Why? Answer Q4 I Work in pairs and discuss the questions given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. Do you think a ‘feathered’ or a ‘furry’ friend can accompany astronauts to space? If yes, why? If no, why not? Answer Q5 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. official rule that controls how something is done: R _ G _ L _ T _ _ N Answer Q6 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. to not allow something: F _ R B _ D Answer Q7 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. join or blend to form a single entity: F _ S _ Answer Q8 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. suddenly: _ B R _ P T L Y Answer Q9 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 5. admit one’s mistake: C _ N F _ S S Answer Q10 II Complete the words given below by inserting vowels. Refer to their meanings given alongside. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 6. a person who advises what to eat to keep healthy: D_ _ T _ T _ _ N Answer Q1 I Answer the following questions briefly. 1. Why did the narrator think Sven had sneaked a bird aboard? What was Sven’s scientific reason? Answer Q2 I Answer the following questions briefly. 2. How did Claribel adjust to the new surroundings? Answer Q3 I Answer the following questions briefly. 3. What made the narrator mistake the musical whistle for a sound from the intercom? Answer Q4 I Answer the following questions briefly. 4. Do you think the presence of the canary would lead the spacers into trouble? If yes, why? If no, why not? Answer Q1 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. The alarm at the space station failed to work properly because they were not connected. Answer Q2 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. Claribel was brought to the space station for an official experiment on animal behaviour in space. Answer Q3 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. The canary’s suffering helped the crew discover a problem with the air purifier. Answer Q4 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. The air purifier froze because there was a rare eclipse. Answer Q5 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 5. Claribel could fly gracefully in the space station, performing loops in the air. Answer Q6 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 6. The space station crew was uninterested in Claribel and hardly noticed her presence after she was discovered. Answer Q7 I Identify whether the following statements from parts I and II are true or false. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 7. Claribel had fainted and had to be revived with oxygen supply. Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. Sven was one of our best construction men, and excelled at the tricky and specialised work of collecting assorted girders as they floated around in free fall, making them do the slow-motion, three-dimensional ballet that would get them into their right positions, and fusing the pieces together when they were precisely dovetailed into the intended pattern: it was a skilled and difficult job, for a space suit is not the most convenient of garbs in which to work. (i) What can be inferred about Sven’s abilities from his job description? A. He is good at following instructions but lacks creativity. B. He possesses a strong understanding of working in space. C. He struggles with the complexities of construction in space. D. He prefers working on simpler tasks rather than complex jobs. Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. Sven was one of our best construction men, and excelled at the tricky and specialised work of collecting assorted girders as they floated around in free fall, making them do the slow-motion, three-dimensional ballet that would get them into their right positions, and fusing the pieces together when they were precisely dovetailed into the intended pattern: it was a skilled and difficult job, for a space suit is not the most convenient of garbs in which to work. (ii) How can we conclude that Sven was working in zero gravity? Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. Sven was one of our best construction men, and excelled at the tricky and specialised work of collecting assorted girders as they floated around in free fall, making them do the slow-motion, three-dimensional ballet that would get them into their right positions, and fusing the pieces together when they were precisely dovetailed into the intended pattern: it was a skilled and difficult job, for a space suit is not the most convenient of garbs in which to work. (iii) Select the option that is correct for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R). (A): Sven’s job required him to make girders perform a ‘three-dimensional ballet’ in space. (R): Working in zero gravity allows objects to float, making precise positioning more challenging. A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). C. (A) is true, but (R) is false. D. (A) is false, but (R) is true. Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. Sven was one of our best construction men, and excelled at the tricky and specialised work of collecting assorted girders as they floated around in free fall, making them do the slow-motion, three-dimensional ballet that would get them into their right positions, and fusing the pieces together when they were precisely dovetailed into the intended pattern: it was a skilled and difficult job, for a space suit is not the most convenient of garbs in which to work. (iv) Replace the underlined word with a word similar in meaning from the extract. During the festival, people wore colourful outfits that represented their culture. Answer Q5 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “Jim!” There’s something wrong with the air! That’s why Claribel’s passed out. I’ve just remembered that miners used to carry canaries down to warn them of gas.” “Nonsense!” said Jim. “The alarms would have gone off. We’ve got duplicate circuits, operating independently.” “Er—the second alarm circuit isn’t connected up yet,” his assistant reminded him. That shook Jim; he left without a word, while we stood arguing and passing the oxygen bottle around like a pipe of peace. (i) Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. The narrator references canaries and miners in order to __________. (highlight the historical use of canaries as warning systems/explain the reason that caused Claribel to faint suddenly) Answer Q6 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “Jim!” There’s something wrong with the air! That’s why Claribel’s passed out. I’ve just remembered that miners used to carry canaries down to warn them of gas.” “Nonsense!” said Jim. “The alarms would have gone off. We’ve got duplicate circuits, operating independently.” “Er—the second alarm circuit isn’t connected up yet,” his assistant reminded him. That shook Jim; he left without a word, while we stood arguing and passing the oxygen bottle around like a pipe of peace. (ii) Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason. Jim initially dismisses the warning about the air because __________. Answer Q7 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “Jim!” There’s something wrong with the air! That’s why Claribel’s passed out. I’ve just remembered that miners used to carry canaries down to warn them of gas.” “Nonsense!” said Jim. “The alarms would have gone off. We’ve got duplicate circuits, operating independently.” “Er—the second alarm circuit isn’t connected up yet,” his assistant reminded him. That shook Jim; he left without a word, while we stood arguing and passing the oxygen bottle around like a pipe of peace. (iii) What does the phrase ‘shook Jim’ mean in the context of the information in the extract? Jim was _________. A. physically pushed by someone B. startled by unexpected information C. cold and needed to warm up D. trying to shake off sleepiness Answer Q8 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. “Jim!” There’s something wrong with the air! That’s why Claribel’s passed out. I’ve just remembered that miners used to carry canaries down to warn them of gas.” “Nonsense!” said Jim. “The alarms would have gone off. We’ve got duplicate circuits, operating independently.” “Er—the second alarm circuit isn’t connected up yet,” his assistant reminded him. That shook Jim; he left without a word, while we stood arguing and passing the oxygen bottle around like a pipe of peace. (iv) What does the crew’s action of passing the oxygen bottle around ‘like a pipe of peace’ suggest about their response to the situation? Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. What was the purpose of the alarm? What had caused its failure? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. How does the crew’s reaction to Claribel change over the course of the story? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. What does the last part of the story tell us about the significance of unusual ways of problem solving? Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. Justify the appropriateness of the title of the story. Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. ‘Without Claribel, we should soon have been slightly dead.’ What does this line suggest about uncertainty of life in space? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. Explain how has the writer presented science fiction with a touch of humour. Answer Q15 II Answer the following questions. 7. How would Sven reflect on his experience of almost losing Claribel and for saving the lives of the entire crew? Answer Q1 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. nagging vague delighted narrow sluggish hushed inexplicable sheepish 1. ________________ path Answer Q2 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 2. ________________ worry Answer Q3 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 3. ________________ plan Answer Q4 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 4. ________________ look Answer Q5 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 5. ________________ reason Answer Q6 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 6. ________________ traffic Answer Q7 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 7. ________________ voices Answer Q8 I Choose the appropriate adjectives from the box given below to match with the words 1–8 that follow. 8. _______________ expression Answer Q9 II The word ‘intercom’ is used in the text. It is called a merged word as it is made by combining the parts of two words—‘internal’ and ‘communication’. Merged words are made by combining two words. Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. Write the merged word and its meaning. One example has been done for you. Column 1 breakfast Column 2 lunch (i) brunch meal eaten between breakfast and lunch hours motor hotel (ii) Answer Q10 II Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. smoke fog (iii) Answer Q11 II Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. situation comedy (iv) Answer Q12 II Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. video log (v) Answer Q13 II Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. spoon fork (vi) Answer Q14 II Combine the words in Column 1 with the words in Column 2 to make merged words. web seminar (vii) Answer Q15 III Read the following sentence from the text and fill in the blank. It will mean that you’re being doubly safeguarded. In the given sentence, ‘will’ denotes __________ (past/present/future) time. Answer Q16 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 1. Our flight __________ (leave) at 10.00 a.m. tomorrow. Answer Q17 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 2. They __________ (finish) the project by the end of this week. Answer Q18 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 3. The weather forecast says it __________ (rain) later today. Answer Q19 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 4. We __________ (move) into our new house next month. Answer Q20 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 5. I __________ (start) my new hobby class next Monday. Answer Q21 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 6. She __________ (go) to the mall this afternoon. Answer Q22 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 7. The team __________ (have) a meeting at 3.00 p.m. tomorrow. Answer Q23 IV Fill in the blanks with the correct form (Simple Present, Present Progressive, ‘will’, or ‘going to’) to indicate future time. 8. I __________ (help) you with your homework after dinner. Answer Q24 V Fill in the blanks with the suitable forms of verbs given in brackets to express future time reference. By 2040, artificial intelligence 1. ________ (revolutionise) medical treatments. Answer Q25 V Fill in the blanks with the suitable forms of verbs given in brackets to express future time reference. Researchers 2.________ (develop) AI-powered diagnostic tools that 3. ________ (transform) healthcare by the end of this decade. Answer Q26 V Fill in the blanks with the suitable forms of verbs given in brackets to express future time reference. Next week, the International Science Congress 4. _______ (open) to showcase advancements in AI and robotics. Answer Q27 V Fill in the blanks with the suitable forms of verbs given in brackets to express future time reference. In the coming years, robots 5. _______ (assist) surgeons in performing complex operations. Answer Q28 V Fill in the blanks with the suitable forms of verbs given in brackets to express future time reference. Years ago, experts had predicted that AI would reshape our world, and now, as we approach the future, this 6. _______ (be) our new reality. Answer Q1 I You will listen to a conversation between Monika and Toby. Toby is a Martian and is stranded on Earth. He has become Monika’s friend. As you listen, put a tick mark against the correct statements and a cross against the wrong ones. 1. Toby misses his school. Answer Q2 I You will listen to a conversation between Monika and Toby. Toby is a Martian and is stranded on Earth. He has become Monika’s friend. As you listen, put a tick mark against the correct statements and a cross against the wrong ones. 2. Monika accepts Toby as her friend. Answer Q3 I You will listen to a conversation between Monika and Toby. Toby is a Martian and is stranded on Earth. He has become Monika’s friend. As you listen, put a tick mark against the correct statements and a cross against the wrong ones. 3. Monika asks Toby about one of his facial features. Answer Q4 I You will listen to a conversation between Monika and Toby. Toby is a Martian and is stranded on Earth. He has become Monika’s friend. As you listen, put a tick mark against the correct statements and a cross against the wrong ones. 4. Toby tells Monika that she had a banana for breakfast. Answer Q5 I You will listen to a conversation between Monika and Toby. Toby is a Martian and is stranded on Earth. He has become Monika’s friend. As you listen, put a tick mark against the correct statements and a cross against the wrong ones. 5. Toby shares that he can see much clearer with a closed eye. Answer Q6 II Listen to the conversation again and fill in the blanks with the exact words you hear. 1. Toby: I miss my _________________ and home. Answer Q7 II Listen to the conversation again and fill in the blanks with the exact words you hear. 2. Toby: Well, we _________________ don’t need to eat anything. We get our _________________ from the Sun. Answer Q8 II Listen to the conversation again and fill in the blanks with the exact words you hear. 3. Monika: Oh! Don’t you ever feel like having ice-creams and _________________! Answer Q9 II Listen to the conversation again and fill in the blanks with the exact words you hear. 4. Monika: Okay, tell me one thing. How are you able to see only with _________________ eye? Answer Q10 II Listen to the conversation again and fill in the blanks with the exact words you hear. 5. Toby: I can see beyond mountains and _________________, woods and even ____________. Answer Q1 I Read the following words from the text aloud and circle the letters that are not pronounced (silent letters). ballet (ba-lay) [ba pronounced as in bat] whistle (wi-sl) alarm (uh-laam) psychologist (sai-ko-luh-juhst) Now, read some more words with silent letters. As you read, circle the letters that are not pronounced. receipt debris pneumonia almond foreign island wreck aisle campaign fasten Answer Q2 II Work in pairs. Use the given situations to ask for and give suggestions. • You need to make a model of the solar system for the Science Exhibition but don’t know what materials to use. Ask your friend for suggestions. • You need to prepare for the inter-class quiz on the topic Chandrayaan-3. Ask your friend for advice on how to prepare. You may use the prompts given below. Asking for Advice: What should I do… ? How can I… ? etc. Giving Advice: I feel you should… etc. Answer Q1 I Complete the social media web given below with the uses of the internet. Now, write an article titled ‘The Importance of Internet’ with the help of the social media web. Points to remember: Heading/Title Name of the writer Paragraph 1: Give a general introduction to the topic. Paragraph 2: Explain the uses of the internet and why it is important. Give examples to support your view. Paragraph 3: End with a comment and leave the reader with a thoughtful idea or quote. Answer Q2 II Astronauts living in space stations have to do things differently. Read how they manage the routine tasks in the absence of gravity. You may find out more information about it from the internet. 1. Write: Astronauts use a special Space Pen... 2. Exercise: Astronauts use resistance exercise... 3. Eat: Astronauts eat preserved foods... 4. Sleep: Astronauts can sleep on a floor, wall, or ceiling... Answer Q1 I Work in pairs. Answer the questions that follow the pictures given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. What is common in all these pictures? Answer Q2 I Work in pairs. Answer the questions that follow the pictures given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 2. Select the pictures you are familiar with. Answer Q3 I Work in pairs. Answer the questions that follow the pictures given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 3. Why do you think the people in the pictures need to use a magnifying glass? Answer Q4 I Work in pairs. Answer the questions that follow the pictures given below. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 4. What other instruments magnify objects? Answer Q5 II If you have a magnifying glass, what would you like to use it for and why? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Answer Q1 I Complete the summary of the poem given below with suitable words from the poem. The poem describes the magic of seeing the world through a 1. __________. It reveals how tiny things like 2. __________ and 3. __________ can appear vast and complex. Even a 4. __________ of water can seem like a hive of 5. __________. The poet is impressed at how the spider spins its 6. __________ from its 7. __________. The poem ends with the idea that, through lenses, the 8. __________ could seem within reach. Answer Q2 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the brackets. 1. The main idea of the poem is the transformative power of __________ (wonders in nature/close observation) through the magnifying glass. Answer Q3 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the brackets. 2. The tone of the poem is __________ . (wonder and curiosity/peaceful and emotional) Answer Q4 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the brackets. 3. The poem has __________ stanzas with __________ lines in each stanza. Hence, it is a quatrain. (four; six/six; four) Answer Q5 II Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the brackets. 4. The rhyme scheme of the poem is __________. (ABCD; ABCB) Answer Q6 III Pick examples from the poem for the following poetic devices. 1. Simile Answer Q7 III Pick examples from the poem for the following poetic devices. 2. Alliteration Answer Q8 III Pick examples from the poem for the following poetic devices. 3. Metaphor Answer Q9 IV The poem is rich in visual imagery, painting vivid pictures of small, everyday things magnified into something grand. 1. In the line, ‘A myriad shells show in a scrap of chalk’, the magnifying glass reveals ______________________. Answer Q10 IV The poem is rich in visual imagery, painting vivid pictures of small, everyday things magnified into something grand. 2. In the line, ‘A forest—flowers and trees’ the poet uses the imagery of nature to emphasise ______________________. Answer Q11 V Complete the following sentences with a reason. 1. The poet uses exclamation marks in lines, ‘The tigerish claws he has!’, ‘With all those eyes!’ and ‘In an afternoon!’ because it ______________________. Answer Q12 V Complete the following sentences with a reason. 2. In the phrase, ‘Magic talk’ the poet uses personification to describe the magnifying glass because it ______________________. Answer Q13 V Complete the following sentences with a reason. 3. Each stanza follows a repetitive pattern of introducing a small or ordinary object and then describing the extraordinary details revealed through magnification. This is because it supports the theme of __________ as the speaker reveals ____________. Answer Q14 V Complete the following sentences with a reason. 4. In the final stanza the poet shifts from small, everyday objects being magnified to a celestial body like moon because __________. Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. With this round glass I can make Magic talk— A myriad shells show In a scrap of chalk; Of but an inch of moss A forest—flowers and trees; (i) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. The poet uses his magical powers to make the round glass powerful. Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. With this round glass I can make Magic talk— A myriad shells show In a scrap of chalk; Of but an inch of moss A forest—flowers and trees; (ii) Select the line from the extract that expresses the presence of intricate patterns in ordinary objects. Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. With this round glass I can make Magic talk— A myriad shells show In a scrap of chalk; Of but an inch of moss A forest—flowers and trees; (iii) What does the comparison of ‘an inch of moss’ to a ‘forest’ suggest about the speaker’s view of the world through the magnifying glass? Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. With this round glass I can make Magic talk— A myriad shells show In a scrap of chalk; Of but an inch of moss A forest—flowers and trees; (iv) How does the poet feel about the ability of the magnifying glass to reveal hidden wonders? A. Satisfied B. Fascinated C. Grateful D. Determined Answer Q5 II Answer the following questions. 1. What is the significance of the spider in the poem? Answer Q6 II Answer the following questions. 2. How might the speaker’s view of the natural world change if there was no use of a magnifying glass? Answer Q7 II Answer the following questions. 3. Why does the poem end with the idea of the moon being within reach? Answer Q8 II Answer the following questions. 4. What is the speaker’s attitude towards nature and the act of observation? Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 5. Which is your favourite part of the poem? Why? Answer Q1 I Fill in the blanks in the sentences with the words given in the box below. woven myriad deft stumble surpass marvellous With his 1. ____________ description, the author has written the story beautifully 2. ____________with fascinating details. When you read the story, you will surely enjoy the 3. ____________storytelling technique that attracts all kinds of readers. What makes the story interesting is the superb way of describing the 4. ____________emotions and feelings of the characters. The reader will 5. ____________upon the unexpected twists and turns that 6. ____________ all our understanding and make us wonder at the narrative power of the author. Answer Q2 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. Column 1 a swarm of (i) ships Answer Q3 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. 2. a constellation of (ii) soldiers Answer Q4 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. 3. a grove of (iii) dancers Answer Q5 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. 4. a troupe of (iv) locusts Answer Q6 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. 5. a battalion of (v) trees Answer Q7 II The collective noun ‘a hive of bees’, is used in the poem. Match the phrases in Column 1 with suitable words in Column 2 to make collective nouns. 6. a fleet of (vi) stars Answer Q8 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. You may refer to a dictionary. Column 1 1. apple of one’s eye (i) watch something or someone closely Answer Q9 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. 2. in the blink of an eye (ii) act as if you do not see or notice Answer Q10 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. 3. keep an eye on something or somebody (iii) something that happens very quickly Answer Q11 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. 4. turn a blind eye (iv) an overall look at something Answer Q12 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. 5. see eye to eye (v) a person who is very precious or important Answer Q13 III The poet uses the expression ‘eyeing the moon’ in the poem. Match the idiomatic expressions with ‘eye’ given in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. 6. bird’s-eye view (vi) agree with each other Answer Q14 IV The poet uses the adjective form ‘tigerish’ in the poem by adding the suffix -‘ish’ to the noun ‘tiger’. In the same way, we can make adjectives by adding the suffix -‘ish’ to some nouns. Choose the nouns to which you can add the suffix -‘ish’ to make adjectives. girl glass book silk boy water moon scrap Answer Q1 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 1. The father is surprised by the fact that India was involved in the invention of radio broadcasting and fibre optics. Answer Q2 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 2. The daughter appears indifferent when learning the origins of the USB port. Answer Q3 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 3. The father shows little interest in the information about the origin of snakes and ladders. Answer Q4 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 4. The father was simply confirming all the facts shared by the daughter. Answer Q5 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 5. The daughter expresses pride and admiration for India’s role in global inventions. Answer Q6 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. 6. The daughter is excited as she shares new discoveries about India’s contributions with her father. Answer Q7 I You will listen to a conversation between a father and daughter about lesser-known Indian inventions. As you listen, mark the four true statements from (1)–(6) given below. The four true statements are Answer Q1 II If you could travel to space, which planet would you like to visit? Why? What preparations would you like to make? Speak about any five things that you would like to take along. Answer Q2 III If you could invent something, what would you like to invent and how? Give reasons for the choice of your invention. Speak about your wonder invention. Answer Q1 I In a conversation, we communicate through dialogues. While writing a conversation, we need to ensure that the dialogues are engaging and serve a purpose. Points to remember: Mention where, when, and with whom the conversation is taking place. Identify the word choice and tone—formal or informal. Include key information, points of agreement and disagreement, etc. Use words in brackets to express emotions or actions, such as (joyfully) (sits down). You may use filler words like Uff, Er… , Ugh, etc. Deepa and Asma, members of the Science Club have a conversation to take a decision about making a model for an upcoming Science Fair. Create this conversation between Deepa and Asma. You may begin the conversation like this. Deepa: Hi Asma! Our Science teacher mentioned that you have a wonderful idea for the Science Fair project. Asma: (hesitatingly) Yes, I do. But I’m not sure if it is good enough. Deepa: (encouragingly) Don’t worry… Answer Q1 I Work in pairs. What qualities do you associate with a scientist? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Complete the word web given below. Qualities of a scientist Answer Q2 II Some pictures of women scientists are given below. What do you know about their work? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Answer Q1 I Arrange the following events from Bibha Chowdhuri’s life in the correct order of occurrence. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. 1. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) honoured her legacy by renaming a star in the constellation Leo—HD 86081—as ‘Bibha’. 2. She became the first woman faculty member at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). 3. Bibha Chowdhuri was born in pre-independent India. 4. The Government of India declared a chair professorship in Bibha’s name. 5. She joined the University of Manchester under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett. 6. She was nominated for a Nobel Prize by Erwin Schrödinger. Answer Q1 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. In 1945, Bibha’s academic journey took her to the University of Manchester. Under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett, she delved deeper into the field of cosmic rays. Her Ph.D. thesis on cosmic rays earned local recognition, with newspapers introducing her as ‘India’s New Woman Scientist—She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’. (i) Why is the mention of Patrick M.S. Blackett, a Nobel Laureate, significant in this extract? Answer Q2 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. In 1945, Bibha’s academic journey took her to the University of Manchester. Under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett, she delved deeper into the field of cosmic rays. Her Ph.D. thesis on cosmic rays earned local recognition, with newspapers introducing her as ‘India’s New Woman Scientist—She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’. (ii) What can be inferred about the public perception of women scientists in the 1940s from the title given to her by the press ‘India’s New Woman Scientist’? A. Women scientists were widely accepted and celebrated at that time. B. The world was still doubtful about the capabilities of women scientists. C. Women scientists were as common and renowned as men in the 1940s. D. Women were not allowed to study sciences or pursue scientific careers. Answer Q3 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. In 1945, Bibha’s academic journey took her to the University of Manchester. Under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett, she delved deeper into the field of cosmic rays. Her Ph.D. thesis on cosmic rays earned local recognition, with newspapers introducing her as ‘India’s New Woman Scientist—She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’. (iii) In the phrase ‘celebrated Nobel Laureate,’ the word ‘celebrated’ refers to all of the following EXCEPT someone who is A. famous and highly respected B. frequently seen in public C. renowned for their achievements D. well-regarded in their field Answer Q4 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 1. In 1945, Bibha’s academic journey took her to the University of Manchester. Under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett, she delved deeper into the field of cosmic rays. Her Ph.D. thesis on cosmic rays earned local recognition, with newspapers introducing her as ‘India’s New Woman Scientist—She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’. (iv) Complete the following sentence suitably. The phrase ‘She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’ suggests that __________. Answer Q5 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement—be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars—these women prove that the journey is well worth it. Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon–‘beam of light,’ will always guide the way. (i) What can be inferred about the challenges faced by women scientists today, as compared to Bibha Chowdhuri’s era? A. Women scientists no longer face any barriers. B. The challenges remain, but progress has been made. C. The struggles have become more difficult over time. D. The struggles are the same as they were for Chowdhuri. Answer Q6 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement—be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars—these women prove that the journey is well worth it. Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon–‘beam of light,’ will always guide the way. (ii) The phrase ‘Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on’ suggests that __________. Answer Q7 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement—be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars—these women prove that the journey is well worth it. Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon–‘beam of light,’ will always guide the way. (iii) Why is Bibha Chowdhuri referred to as a ‘beacon’ and a ‘beam of light’ in the extract? Answer Q8 I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow. 2. The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement—be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars—these women prove that the journey is well worth it. Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon–‘beam of light,’ will always guide the way. (iv) State whether the following sentence is a fact or an opinion. Bibha Chowdhuri was the beacon, the ‘beam of light’ whose story continues to inspire young women. Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. Why is Bibha Chowdhuri considered a pioneer in the field of science? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. What does Bibha Chowdhuri’s nomination by Erwin Schrödinger tell us about her abilities? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. Bibha Chowdhuri never worked for awards or recognition. Support this statement with evidence from the text. Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. How does the renaming of a star as ‘Bibha’ serve as both a literal and symbolic recognition of her contributions to science? Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. How do the roles of women in ISRO today reflect broader changes in societal attitudes towards women in STEM in India? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. What is the writer’s purpose of highlighting the contributions of Bibha Chowdhuri and other modern women scientists? Answer Q15 II Answer the following questions. 7. How might this text help shape people’s perception of the role of women in other traditionally male-dominated fields? Answer Q1 I Complete the crossword puzzle by filling in the antonyms from the clues given below in the table. You may refer to the text. Across 4. core 1. effortless 5. dependent 2. weakness 7. extinguish 3. neglect 8. terrestrial 6. trivial Down Answer Q2 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. physicist luminaries pioneers peers barriers persistence 1. They are considered to be the first people to start the online markets. Answer Q3 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. 2. A scientist who studies matter, energy, light, etc. Answer Q4 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. 3. Most of my friends are my classmates and are my age. Answer Q5 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. 4. We first welcomed all the famous and important people in folk song for the award ceremony. Answer Q6 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. 5. My brother finally succeeded in his business because of his continuous efforts and determination. Answer Q7 II Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below. 6. We should remove all the things that block our way in achieving success. Answer Q8 III The words ‘professorship’, ‘mentorship’, and ‘leadership’ are used in the text. These words are made by adding the suffix ‘-ship’ to the words ‘professor’, ‘mentor’ and ‘leader’. Similarly, we can make words by adding -ment and -hood to certain words. Now, make words by adding suitable suffixes -ship, -ment, and -hood to the words given below. One example has been done for you. achieve + ment = achievement 1. member + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q9 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 2. govern + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q10 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 3. partner + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q11 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 4. child + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q12 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 5. citizen + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q13 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 6. entertain + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q14 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 7. brother + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q15 III Make words by adding suitable suffixes. 8. agree + _______________ = _________________ Answer Q16 IV The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM—used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words. The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid. 1. National Aeronautics and Space Administration Answer Q17 IV The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM—used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words. The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid. 2. All India Institute of Medical Sciences Answer Q18 IV The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM—used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words. The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid. 3. Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy Answer Q19 IV The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM—used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words. The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid. 4. National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Answer Q20 IV The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM—used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words. The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid. 5. World Health Organization Answer Q21 V Now, complete the following news report with the passive form of verbs given in the box below. (Remember that the verb must agree with the subject.) Last year, significant advancements in medical science 1. __________ in leading medical journals when a new vaccine for malaria 2. __________. The vaccine 3. __________ through several clinical trials and results 4. _________ in those journals. During the trials, blood samples 5. __________ regularly from participants to monitor their immune response. The amount of antibodies produced 6. __________ carefully to assess the effectiveness of the vaccine. discover test measure publish record take Answer Q22 VI Read the following report of an experiment. Rewrite the report using passive verbs wherever necessary. I conducted an experiment to investigate the effects of light on plant growth. I placed various plants under different light conditions and measured their growth over several weeks. I recorded data daily to track the height of each plant. At the end of the experiment, I analysed the results and found that plants exposed to natural light grew significantly taller than those under artificial light. I concluded that sunlight plays a crucial role in plant development. I presented my findings to the class, highlighting the importance of light in enhancing photosynthesis and overall plant health. You may begin like this. An experiment was conducted… Answer Q23 VII Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given. Chandrayaan’s landing mission involves several key steps. First, the spacecraft 1.________ towards the Moon from the Earth. Then, it 2. ________ to enter the Moon’s orbit. After reaching the Moon’s orbit, the spacecraft’s path 3. ________ for landing. Next, the spacecraft 4. ________ as it nears the Moon’s surface. Finally, the rover 5.________ to explore the surface and collect valuable data. (i) A. launched B. were launched C. was launched D. is launched Answer Q24 VII Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given. (ii) A. position B. was positioned C. is positioned D. has positioned Answer Q25 VII Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given. (iii) A. adjusted B. was adjusted C. is adjusted D. were adjusted Answer Q26 VII Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given. (iv) A. slowed down B. was slowed down C. is slowed down D. were slowed down Answer Q27 VII Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given. (v) A. is released B. has released C. were released D. was released Answer Q1 I You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. 1. What is one of the key benefits of AI in the healthcare sector? (i) Helps doctors communicate faster with patients. (ii) Provides personalised treatments and faster diagnoses. (iii) Focuses on cosmetic surgeries to improve appearance. Answer Q2 I You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. 2. How did AI play a crucial role during the global pandemic? (i) AI robots monitored patient behaviour in hospitals. (ii) AI assisted in speeding up the discovery of new medicines. (iii) AI developed different types of vaccines by itself. Answer Q3 I You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. 3. What example was given regarding AI’s role in renewable energy? (i) AI is optimising the placement of wind turbines and solar panels in cities. (ii) AI is promoting alternative energy from wind turbines and solar panels. (iii) AI is improving the performance of wind turbines and solar panels. Answer Q4 I You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. 4. What does AI offer to teachers in the field of education? (i) Helps teachers assign grades more quickly. (ii) Allows teachers to communicate better with students. (iii) Helps teachers analyse student performance. Answer Q5 I You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. 5. What is one of the user-friendly features that AI is enhancing for people with disabilities? (i) Helps them find better jobs in the mainstream. (ii) Improves speech recognition and voice command technologies. (iii) Trains individuals to interact with robots. Answer Q1 I Form a group of five. Conduct a panel discussion on the topic, ‘Evaluating the Impact of Mobile Phones—Beneficial or Harmful’. Each student will take on one of the following roles. • Moderator (initiates and directs the flow of the discussion inviting the speakers to share their views on the subject; at the end sums up the points of discussion and thanks the members of the group) • Principal (opposed to—focus on discipline in school) • Teacher (in favour of—partially in favour, educational use with limitations) • Parent (opposed to—concerned about health and social effects on children) • Student (in favour of—highlighting the benefits like connectivity and learning) Answer Q1 I Your school recently hosted the Zonal Science Exhibition, in which teams of students from 25 schools participated enthusiastically. As the student editor, write a report on the exhibition to be published in your school magazine. Use the cues given below with your own ideas to compose this report. • Who was the organiser and who hosted the exhibition? • When (date and time) and where was it held? • Why was it held? • Who participated? • Who was the Chief Guest? • What were the competitions held? For example: Science Quiz, Science Models, etc. • What were the topics of models exhibited? Give details. • Which team got the trophy for best exhibit? • What were the observations of the Chief Guest and other visitors? Points to remember: 1. Write the report in past tense, passive voice, and third person. 2. Follow proper format with a headline, reporter’s name, and three paragraphs. Answer
Where is the story “Feathered Friend” by Arthur C. Clarke set?
A In a coal mine B On a sailing ship C In a mountain village D On a space station being built in orbit
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