Class 7 › English › Poorvi Chapter 4: Travel and Adventure Download revision card Share on WhatsAppTap a card to open it full-screen — swipe through like a story.
Try one from this chapter
Who is the watchman that Suraj befriends in 'The Tunnel'?
A Kishan Singh B Chandu C Sunder Singh D Anand
The story in shortUnit 4 of Poorvi is built around the spirit of travel, exploration and courage. The opening prose, 'The Tunnel' by Ruskin Bond, follows a curious village boy, Suraj, who walks out to a railway tunnel cut through the jungle and befriends Sunder Singh, the solitary watchman who tends it and signals the trains. Returning at night, the two hear a sawing sound that proves to be a leopard inside the tunnel; by shouting together and raising the lamp they frighten the animal away just before the night mail passes safely. The story celebrates an unlikely friendship and the watchman's calm courage and oneness with jungle life. The unit's poem, 'Travel' by Edna St. Vincent Millay, expresses an irresistible longing for journeys: the speaker hears trains by day and imagines their glowing embers by night, and feels she would board any train no matter where it is going. The third reading is the inspiring true account of Arunima Sinha, a national volleyball player who lost a leg in a train accident yet, guided by mountaineer Bachendri Pal, became the first Indian woman amputee to climb Mount Everest. Together the readings unite the thrill of adventure with the deeper courage, resilience and determination that real journeys demand.
The story in 6 beats1 Suraj goes to a jungle tunnel to watch the midday train roar out. 2 After the train passes, he walks through the dark tunnel and meets the watchman, Sunder Singh. 3 Sunder Singh tells Suraj about his work, the tunnel, and the leopard that visits the area. 4 The next evening, Suraj returns and hears that the leopard is inside the tunnel before the night train arrives. 5 Sunder Singh and Suraj drive the leopard out, and the night mail thunders safely through the tunnel. 6 Later, Suraj travels by train with his father and sees Sunder Singh’s lamp shining near the tunnel. The Tunnel (prose) — Suraj, Sunder Singh and the leopard Travel (poem) — Edna St. Vincent Millay and wanderlust Arunima Sinha (prose) — first Indian woman amputee on Everest Theme: travel, adventure, courage and resilience Literary devices: imagery and personification Characters & key ideasS Sunder Singh The brave, solitary tunnel watchman in 'The Tunnel' who lives at one with the jungle and helps frighten the leopard away.
S Suraj The curious village boy who befriends the watchman and shares the adventure with the leopard and the night mail.
W Wanderlust The strong longing to travel that drives the speaker of the poem 'Travel', who would board any train at all.
A Arunima Sinha The volleyball player who, after losing a leg, became the first Indian woman amputee to summit Mount Everest.
B Bachendri Pal The first Indian woman to climb Everest; she mentored Arunima and told her she had already conquered 'the Everest within'.
I Imagery Vivid sensory description (shimmering heat, shrieking whistles, red cinders on the sky) used in both the prose and the poem.
Word meanings · शब्दार्थshimmered
shined with moving light
railway embankment
raised wall carrying railway line
scrub-covered
covered with short bushes
cutting
narrow path cut through hill
plume of smoke
long thin cloud of smoke
contemplation
deep thought
reassure
make someone feel less worried
swishing
moving with brushing sound
swooped
moved quickly downward through air
trimming
adjusting the lamp wick
Board-style questionsQ1 Who are the two main characters in 'The Tunnel' and how do they meet? Answer Q2 What danger threatens the safe passage of the night mail? Answer Q3 How do Suraj and Sunder Singh drive the leopard away? Answer Q4 What does 'The Tunnel' show about Sunder Singh's character? Answer Q5 What is the main feeling expressed in the poem 'Travel'? Answer Q6 How does the speaker of 'Travel' sense trains she cannot see? Answer Q7 What accident changed Arunima Sinha's life? Answer Q8 What ambition did Arunima Sinha set for herself during recovery? Answer Q9 What did Bachendri Pal mean by saying Arunima had conquered 'the Everest within'? Answer Q10 What common theme connects the three readings in this unit? Answer Let us do these activities before we read.Q1 I What kind of an adventure activity would you like to be a part of? Now, choose the option(s) that best applies to you. 1. How would you like to spend your weekends? (i) Trying new activities (ii) Reading a book (iii) Spending time with friends (iv) Learning something new Answer Q2 2. Which of these places would you prefer to explore? (i) Dense forests and clear streams (ii) Magical lands with fairies (iii) Busy cities with interesting people (iv) Quiet places to think and create Answer Q3 3. Which one of these activities would you prefer to do? (i) Climbing a mountain or exploring a jungle (ii) Finding a hidden treasure or discovering a secret world (iii) Solving puzzles or guessing riddles with friends (iv) Making something creative or building a model Answer Q4 4. What do you think about teamwork? (i) I love leading the team. (ii) I enjoy working with others. (iii) I prefer sharing ideas with friends. (iv) I like working alone. Answer Q5 Based on your choices, which of the following do you think applies the best to you? Discuss with your classmates. • Bold Explorer • Imaginative Dreamer • Energetic Planner • Thoughtful Creator You may add to the list as per your choices. Answer Let us discussQ1 1. Suraj compares the train to a magical creature. Pick the phrases that convey the meaning. Answer Q2 2. Suraj knew that the train was close by because ____________________. Answer Q3 3. What did Suraj see inside the tunnel? Answer Q4 4. Select the correct option. What does Sunder Singh convey about the tunnel? He says that ____________________ (it is damp and sticky inside/he has lent it to the Government). Answer Q5 5. The watchman has created a system through which he informs the locomotive driver about any danger in the tunnel. The following flow chart shows this system. Refer to the text and complete the flow chart. Walks the length of the tunnel -> (i) _________ -> (ii) _________ -> Goes to take a nap ; Walks the length of the tunnel -> (i) _________ -> Danger found -> (iv) _________ ; Walks the length of the tunnel -> Night -> No danger found -> (v) _________ ; Walks the length of the tunnel -> Night -> (iii) _________ -> Waves his lamp to warn the locomotive driver Answer Let us discussQ1 1. Sunder Singh knew that the leopard was in the tunnel because ____________. Answer Q2 2. Why do you think Suraj was unable to do any shouting in the tunnel in the beginning? (i) He was afraid of the leopard. (ii) He didn’t want to disturb the leopard. (iii) He was trying to listen for the leopard. (iv) He didn’t really believe Sunder Singh. Answer Q3 3. What made the leopard disappear into the darkness? Answer Q4 4. How did Suraj know Sunder Singh was at the tunnel? Answer Q5 5. Why did Suraj’s father take him along to Delhi? Answer Let us think and reflectQ1 I Read the following lines and answer the questions that follow. 1. Suraj had to turn and look back at the opening to reassure himself that there was still daylight outside. Ahead of him, the tunnel’s other opening was just a small round circle of light. The tunnel was still full of smoke from the train, but it would be several hours before another train came through. Till then, the cutting belonged to the jungle again. Suraj didn’t stop, because there was nothing to do in the tunnel and nothing to see. He had simply wanted to walk through, so that he would know what the inside of a tunnel was really like. (i) Write whether the following statement is true or false. Suraj looked back at the opening of the tunnel to check if the train was coming. Answer Q2 I 1. (ii) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence given below. Suraj did not stop anywhere in the tunnel because _____________. A. there was nothing to see in the tunnel B. the tunnel was damp and sticky C. he was in a hurry to get out of the tunnel D. it was time for another train to come Answer Q3 I 1. (iii) What does the sentence ‘Till then, the cutting belonged to the jungle again’ mean? Answer Q4 I 1. (iv) Suraj wanted to know the inside of the tunnel. What character trait of Suraj is highlighted here? Answer Q5 I 2. “The train will soon be here,” said Suraj. “Yes, my friend. And if we don’t drive the leopard out of the tunnel, it will be run over and killed. I can’t let that happen.” “But won’t it attack us if we try to drive it out?” asked Suraj, beginning to share the watchman’s concern. “Not this leopard. It knows me well. We have seen each other many times. It has a weakness for goats and stray dogs, but it will not harm us. Even so, I’ll take my axe with me. You stay here, Suraj.” (i) What was the watchman’s concern? Answer Q6 I 2. (ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason. Sunder Singh was sure that the leopard in the tunnel would not attack him and Suraj because _____________. Answer Q7 I 2. (iii) Select the sentences that are true from those given below. A. Suraj wants to see the leopards in the jungle. B. Suraj is concerned about Sunder Singh’s safety. C. The leopard in the tunnel attacks goats and stray dogs. D. Sunder Singh wants to protect Suraj. E. Sunder Singh knows all about the animals in the jungle. Answer Q8 I 2. (iv) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. Sunder Singh decides to take his axe with him. This tells us that he was _____________. A. violent B. cautious C. bold D. afraid Answer Q9 II Answer the following questions. 1. What does Sunder Singh convey by saying that he has lent his tunnel to the Government? Answer Q10 II Answer the following questions. 2. According to Sunder Singh, “It is safer in the forest than in the town”. What example does Sunder Singh give to support his opinion? What does this tell us about him? Answer Q11 II Answer the following questions. 3. Sunder Singh has become part of the jungle life. Support the view with a suitable reason. Answer Q12 II Answer the following questions. 4. Sunder Singh and Suraj form an unlikely friendship. What draws them together? Answer Q13 II Answer the following questions. 5. Why is Sunder Singh referred to as a ‘firefly’? Answer Q14 II Answer the following questions. 6. Do you think Suraj is an adventure-loving boy? Give reasons. Answer Let us learnQ1 I Complete the following sentences using the suitable phrases from the text given in the box below. drifting smoke approaching engine sawing sound flickering lights 1. We could hear the ______________________ of the train long before it came into view at the station. Answer Q2 I Complete the following sentences using the suitable phrases from the text given in the box below. 2. The street was completely dark but the little boy walked to his house guided by the ______________________ from the houses. Answer Q3 I Complete the following sentences using the suitable phrases from the text given in the box below. 3. The ______________________ from the carpenter’s workshop grew louder every hour. Answer Q4 I Complete the following sentences using the suitable phrases from the text given in the box below. 4. From the balcony, she watched the ______________________ from her neighbour’s chimney float across the backyard. Answer Q5 II The text has many ‘sound words’. Some of these words are given in Column 1 and their meanings are given in Column 2. Match the words with their meanings. Column 1 1. creaking Column 2 (ii) making a long low sound when a door or wooden object moves or is moved Answer Q6 II The text has many ‘sound words’. Column 1 2. chatter Column 2 (iii) repeated series of short high sounds made by birds or monkeys Answer Q7 II The text has many ‘sound words’. Column 1 3. hissing Column 2 (i) making a noise like a long ‘s’ sound Answer Q8 II The text has many ‘sound words’. Column 1 4. rustle Column 2 (v) a soft low, dry sound made by the movement of things such as leaves, paper, etc. Answer Q9 II The text has many ‘sound words’. Column 1 5. puffing Column 2 (iv) blowing with short, quick blasts, as the wind Answer Q10 II Now, complete the sentences given below by filling in the blanks with the correct form of the sound words given in Column 1. 1. The steam engine reached the station __________________ black smoke into the sky. Answer Q11 II Now, complete the sentences given below by filling in the blanks with the correct form of the sound words given in Column 1. 2. Suddenly the snake raised its hood and made a __________________ noise. Answer Q12 II Now, complete the sentences given below by filling in the blanks with the correct form of the sound words given in Column 1. 3. When the wind blew, I heard the __________________ of the wooden roof. Answer Q13 II Now, complete the sentences given below by filling in the blanks with the correct form of the sound words given in Column 1. 4. He heard a __________________ of leaves behind him when he was walking in the woods. Answer Q14 II Now, complete the sentences given below by filling in the blanks with the correct form of the sound words given in Column 1. 5. I get disturbed by the continuous __________________ of the monkeys in the neighbourhood. Answer Q15 III Read what the watchman Sunder Singh did regularly at the tunnel as part of his duty. Notice the use of ‘would’. 1. Why is the word ‘would’ used here? (i) to make a polite request (ii) to express a desire (iii) to talk about a habit in the past Answer Q16 III 2. Complete the sentences using the verb in brackets with the correct form of ‘used to’ or ‘would’. When I was a child we used to live in a village near a forest. Back then, we (i) _____________ (grow) vegetables in our back garden. Every day we (ii) _____________ (get up) early and go for a walk. The weather in summer (iii) _____________ (be) really nice. There was a lake near the house and we (iv) _____________ (go) there every Sunday for a picnic. Winters (v) _____________ (be) rather cold. In the evenings, my father (vi) _____________ (tell) us incredible stories and we (vii) _____________ (listen) with admiration. Answer Q17 IV We use punctuation marks to make our writing clear. You already know how to use full stops and commas. Let us look at three more punctuation marks—brackets, semicolon, and colon. Now, use semicolons and colons to punctuate the following paragraph. We explored the busy by-lanes of Charminar, the heart of Hyderabad it was an exciting day. We wanted to do a few things buy bangles, taste biryani, and purchase pearl earrings, which are special to this area. As we walked through the lanes, we saw stalls selling spices, clothes, and jewellery the market was full of colours. We visited some famous spots Charminar, Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, and Chowmahalla Palace each place was beautiful. Answer Let us listenQ1 Listen to the audio recording and as you listen, mark your map with the route to take to find the treasure. To help you, the names of a few rooms in the museum are given below. Now listen to the audio and mark the various rooms. library auditorium weapon room art gallery musical instruments hall Answer Let us speakQ1 Anju is going on a trekking trip with her family during the summer vacation. They have reached the railway station. Anju calls the tour manager for directions to the trekking site. Work in pairs and have this conversation. Student A will play the role of Anju and mark the route on the map given below. Student B will play the role of the tour manager. Looking at the map, give directions to reach the trekking site from the railway station. You may use phrases like the ones in the box to help you. Answer Let us writeQ1 Write a descriptive paragraph about your experience of a train journey. Describe the sights, sounds, and feelings you experienced during the journey. Include details about the people around you, the scenery outside, and the atmosphere inside the train to make your paragraph vivid and engaging. You may use the following guidelines to help you create the paragraph. • Start with how the journey began: boarding the train, finding your seat, and the initial impressions. • Describe the sounds: the whistle of the train, the chatter of passengers, and the rhythmic clatter of wheels on the tracks. • Mention the sights: the changing scenery outside the window, the hustle and bustle inside the train, and any interesting moments. • Reflect on your feelings: Were you excited, relaxed, or curious? How did the journey make you feel overall? Answer Let us exploreQ1 I The Nation’s pride Atal Tunnel is 9.02 kilometres long. It runs under the Rohtang Pass. It was constructed on the Manali–Leh Highway under the challenging conditions of freezing temperatures in extremely difficult terrain. The Atal Tunnel has officially been certified by World Book of Records as the ‘World’s Longest Highway Tunnel above 10,000 Feet’! Answer Q2 II The history of Indian Railways spans over 165 years. On 16 April 1853, the first passenger train ran between Bori Bunder (Mumbai) and Thane, covering 34 kilometres. It was operated by three locomotives named Sahib, Sultan, and Sindh and had thirteen carriages. In 1864, the North received its first station, Delhi Junction, near Chandni Chowk. You may refer to the given link to know more about Indian Railways. Answer Let us do these activities before we read.Q1 I Complete the following word web on travel. Modes of Transport bus, Travel Reasons for Travel work, Adventure Activities exploring, Feelings joy, Destinations riverside, Challenges bad weather, Answer Q2 II You are going on a trip to an adventure camp with your classmates and teacher. 1. How will you travel to the adventure camp? 2. What things will you take along? 3. Why would you like to go there? 4. What are the activities you would like to do with your friends? 5. How much time will it take to complete your adventure trip? Answer Q3 III Discuss in pairs. What might be the reasons that people enjoy train journeys? Answer Let us discussQ1 I The main ideas of each stanza of the poem are given below. Write the number of the stanza against the matching main idea. 1. At night, the speaker imagines the train and hears its engine in the quiet. 2. The speaker feels a strong desire to take any train, no matter where it goes. 3. The speaker hears the train whistle during the day, even though the train is far away. Answer Q2 II Read the poem and underline the rhyming words in each stanza. Write the rhyming words from each stanza. An example has been done for you. 1. Stanza (i): away-day; 2. Stanza (ii): 3. Stanza (iii): Answer Q3 III Identify the rhyme scheme of the poem from the options given below. 1. AABB 2. ABCA 3. ABAB 4. ABBC Answer Q4 IV Identify the word in the poem that personifies the whistle of the train. Answer Q5 V Tone refers to the attitude the poet has about the poem. Which of these words can be used to describe the poet’s tone in this poem? serious excited curious worried thoughtful content enthusiastic critical joyful Answer Q6 VI Select the words that tell us what the train symbolises for the poet. 1. education 2. adventure 3. comfort 4. opportunities Answer Q7 VII Complete the following by choosing the correct option from those given in brackets. The poet repeats the line, ‘...there isn’t a train goes by,’ in all three stanzas to _______. (highlight the speaker’s fascination with the train/suggest that the area has many trains passing through) Answer Q8 VIII The poem contrasts the busy day with the stillness of the night. What is the common factor in these? Answer Q9 IX Imagery is a literary device that uses descriptive language to create mental pictures and appeal to the reader’s senses (sight, sound, smell, taste and touch). It makes the descriptions more relatable. Select the phrases from the poem that are examples of imagery. One example is given: day is loud. Answer Let us think and reflectQ1 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing... (i) Choose the suitable option to complete the following. The line ‘My heart is warm’ refers to a heart that is ___. A. filled with worries B. full of love C. feeling upset D. experiencing anger Answer Q2 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. (ii) What does the speaker say about her current friends? Answer Q3 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. (iii) What does the line ‘better friends I’ll not be knowing’ suggest about the speaker’s feelings toward their current friends? Answer Q4 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. (iv) Complete the following suitably. The tone of the speaker in these lines is ______. (grateful/content) Answer Q5 II Answer the following questions. 1. What does the phrase ‘cinders red on the sky’ tell us about the train at night? Answer Q6 II Answer the following questions. 2. What is the significance of the repeated references to the train’s whistle? Answer Q7 II Answer the following questions. 3. What does the line ‘no matter where it’s going’ reveal about the speaker’s attitude towards travel? Answer Q8 II Answer the following questions. 4. Do you think the poet actually sees and hears the train? Why or why not? Answer Let us learnQ1 I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1 and match them with what they indicate in Column 2. Column 1 1. miles away Column 2 (v) The distance of the train from the speaker Answer Q2 I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1 and match them with what they indicate in Column 2. Column 1 2. cinders red Column 2 (iv) The glow of the train’s sparks lighting up the night sky Answer Q3 I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1 and match them with what they indicate in Column 2. Column 1 3. heart is warm Column 2 (i) The speaker’s affection for their friends Answer Q4 I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1 and match them with what they indicate in Column 2. Column 1 4. day is loud Column 2 (iii) The busy and noisy atmosphere during the day Answer Q5 I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1 and match them with what they indicate in Column 2. Column 1 5. engine steaming Column 2 (ii) The fast and powerful movement of the train Answer Q6 I Now, use the expressions in Column 1 to fill in the following blanks correctly. 1. After meeting her old friend, her ______ with the joy of rekindled memories. Answer Q7 I Now, use the expressions in Column 1 to fill in the following blanks correctly. 2. As I arrived at the railway station I could hear the ______. Answer Q8 I Now, use the expressions in Column 1 to fill in the following blanks correctly. 3. The marketplace is bustling, and the ______ with the chatter of shoppers and vendors. Answer Q9 I Now, use the expressions in Column 1 to fill in the following blanks correctly. 4. The bonfire glowed brightly, throwing ______ into the dark night sky. Answer Q10 I Now, use the expressions in Column 1 to fill in the following blanks correctly. 5. The sound of a train could still be heard _____ as the evening grew quiet. Answer Q11 II The poet uses the word ‘shrieking’ to tell us about the sound of the train’s whistle. There are other words that tell us about different types of related sounds. Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 1. shouting loudly, often in anger or excitement Column 2 (iv) yelling Answer Q12 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 2. crying out in fear or excitement Column 2 (vii) screaming Answer Q13 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 3. crying loudly with grief or sorrow Column 2 (i) wailing Answer Q14 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 4. making a high-pitched, piercing sound Column 2 (iii) screeching Answer Q15 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 5. calling out loudly, often in a casual or informal way Column 2 (ii) hollering Answer Q16 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 6. crying softly in a low, broken voice Column 2 (v) whimpering Answer Q17 II Read the meanings of such words in Column 1 and match them with the words in Column 2. Column 1 7. crying loudly and uncontrollably Column 2 (vi) bawling Answer Q18 II Now, complete the following paragraph by using suitable words from Column 2. The street was filled with a variety of sounds. A shopkeeper was 1. ______ to attract customers, while a child nearby was 2. _______ at his friend to wait for him. From the other side of the road, a toddler was 3. ________ uncontrollably after dropping his ice cream, and his mother tried to calm him as he began 4. _________ softly. In the background, someone’s loud 5. _________ voice added to the bustling noise of the busy evening. Answer Let us listenQ1 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. As you listen, circle the information that is not correct. 1. The trip to the National Science Centre is organised on 15 September. Answer Q2 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 2. Students will start from school at 8.00 in the morning and return by 5.00 in the evening. Answer Q3 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 3. Refreshment will not be provided during the trip. Answer Q4 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 4. Students are permitted to carry a phone, a notebook, and a pen. Answer Q5 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 5. The permission slip is to be signed by the class teacher. Answer Q6 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 6. The permission slip is to be submitted to your class teacher by 10 September. Answer Q7 I Listen to this announcement made in the morning assembly about a school trip to the National Science Centre. 7. Mr. Mukherjee is the Adventure Club in-charge. Answer Q8 II Now, listen to the announcement again and rectify the sentences. Answer Let us speakQ1 When speaking in English, small differences in pronunciation can change the overall meaning of the words. One such difference is in the pronunciation of the consonant ‘c’. Work in pairs. Pronounce the given words aloud. Keep the rules of the soft and hard ‘c’ pronunciation in mind. cell cable race cake decide receive concert circle bicycle echo uncle Answer Let us writeQ1 I A diamante poem is a poem that is shaped like a diamond, which uses specific types of words like adjectives and –ing words. Let us now write a diamante poem that connects ‘reading’ and ‘adventure’. Reading the first topic ___________, ___________ two adjectives about reading ___________, ___________, ___________ three -ing words about reading _____________________________________ four nouns or a short phrase linking your topics ___________, ___________, ___________ three -ing words about adventure ___________, ___________ two adjectives about adventure Adventure the second topic Share your poem with your classmates and the teacher. Answer Q2 II We come across many interesting characters while travelling. They become interesting because of their actions, their behaviour, and manner of speaking. Describe one such character that you met. Follow these steps. 1. Choose the character. 2. Create a first draft of your description including the following details. (i) What is the name of the character? (ii) What does the character look like? (iii) What does the character do? (iv) What kind of person is she or he? (v) Include any line or incident from the text that you like the most. 3. Check your description for any spelling mistakes or errors. 4. Show your classmates your work and ask for suggestions. 5. Rewrite your description including all the changes and suggestions for improvement. Answer Let us exploreQ1 I The Mountain Railways of India are outstanding examples of hill railways and they are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Mountain Railways of India. These three railways are the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the Kalka–Shimla Railway. The Matheran Hill Railway and Kangra Valley Railway are on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are still fully operational as living examples of the ingenious engineering enterprise of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The owner of the three properties is the Railway Ministry of the Indian Government. In groups of four, find out more about these heritage trains and make a presentation in the class. Answer Q2 II As an excellent example of the ‘Make in India’ success story, the Indian Railways launched India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, Vande Bharat Express. It has become a symbol of India’s aspirations for modern, efficient, and comfortable rail travel. The first Vande Bharat Express train was flagged off on 15 February 2019, on the New Delhi–Kanpur–Allahabad–Varanasi route, running at a speed of 160 kilometres per hour. In groups of four, find out more about these heritage trains and make a presentation in the class. Answer Q3 III Some of the underwater rail tunnels are the Thames Tunnel in London, the Seikan Tunnel in Japan and the Channel Tunnel between England and France. India’s first underwater metro route in Kolkata started in March 2024. A part of this special metro line runs beneath the Hooghly River. Answer Q4 IV Which of these trains do you think would be adventurous to travel in ? Discuss among yourselves. Answer Let us do these activities before we read.Q1 I Identify the activities represented by the icons given below. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. Answer Q2 II Work in pairs and discuss the following questions. 1. Why do you think people undertake the activities identified above? 2. How would they prepare for these activities? 3. Which one of them do you find the most exciting? Why? Share your answers with the teacher. Answer Q3 III Work in pairs to complete the word web given below. Share the answers with the teacher. Qualities of a mountaineer Answer Let us discussQ1 I Read the statements given below and explain each statement in your words. 1. Arunima Sinha is considered a beacon of hope and resilience. Answer Q2 I Read the statements given below and explain each statement in your words. 2. Arunima decided to climb Mount Everest despite losing her leg. Answer Q3 I Read the statements given below and explain each statement in your words. 3. Bachendri Pal’s guidance was crucial in Arunima’s journey to the summit of Mount Everest. Answer Q4 I Read the statements given below and explain each statement in your words. 4. Arunima’s achievements go beyond just physical endurance. Answer Q5 I Read the statements given below and explain each statement in your words. 5. Arunima’s autobiography inspires readers around the world. Answer Let us think and reflectQ1 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. Bachendri Pal instilled confidence in Arunima and said, “My child, you decided to climb Mount Everest in these situations with a prosthetic leg—you have conquered the Everest within you; the world will realise it later.” On 21 May 2013, after 52 exhausting days, Arunima Sinha reached the summit of Mount Everest. Standing at the top of the world, she felt a surge of emotions—pride, relief, and an overwhelming sense of achievement. 1. Complete the sentence with a suitable reason. Bachendri Pal said that Arunima had conquered the Everest within her because ___________________. Answer Q2 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. How might Arunima have felt after what Bachendri Pal told her? Answer Q3 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. 3. Choose a phrase from the extract which shows that reaching the summit of Mount Everest was tiring. Answer Q4 I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. 4. Select the correct option to complete the sentence. After her success when Arunima felt ‘an overwhelming sense of achievement’, she would have most likely said, “___________________.” (i) I am confident of my abilities (ii) I will accomplish this soon (iii) I am excited to begin this climb (iv) I finally realised my dream Answer Q5 II Answer the following questions. 1. What did Arunima do in order to fulfill her ambition of conquering Mount Everest? Answer Q6 II Answer the following questions. 2. Arunima is a beacon of hope and resilience. Support this statement with evidence from the text. Answer Q7 II Answer the following questions. 3. Arunima’s autobiography is titled Born Again on the Mountain: A Story of Losing Everything and Finding It Back. Why do you think this title is appropriate? Answer Q8 II Answer the following questions. 4. Arunima says, “Failure is when we don’t have goals worthy enough.” What would be the most likely impact of this statement on readers? Answer Let us learnQ1 I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)–(v) and match them with their appropriate meanings given in the box below. 1. genuine, sincere efforts 2. strength of mind 3. periods of time filled with tiring and demanding activities 4. an incident or experience that significantly changes a person’s life 5. a source of inspiration or encouragement (i) Nisha was relieved when the final match was over after several exhausting days of practice. Answer Q2 I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)–(v) and match them with their appropriate meanings. (ii) Despite several failures, her heartfelt attempts to learn the guitar showed her determination and passion for music. Answer Q3 I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)–(v) and match them with their appropriate meanings. (iii) Moving to a new city was a life-altering event for Jagan, as it gave him the chance to make new friends and try different activities. Answer Q4 I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)–(v) and match them with their appropriate meanings. (iv) Competing in the marathon requires not just physical strength but also mental fortitude to stay focused and finish the race. Answer Q5 I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)–(v) and match them with their appropriate meanings. (v) The lighthouse served as a beacon of hope for the sailors lost at sea. Answer Q6 II Complete the following table by filling in the gaps with correct parts of speech mentioned. An example has been done for you. Nouns Adjectives Verbs (present) Adverbs determination determined determine determinedly relief relievedly inspiring inspire resistance resistantly success successful Answer Q7 III Study the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text. The highlighted words are articles. ‘A’ and ‘an’ are indefinite articles; ‘the’ is the definite article. 1. Fill in the blanks with ‘a’, ‘an’, ‘the’. Put an ‘x’ where no article is required. We planned (i) _______ adventurous trip to (ii) _______ remote island. (iii) _______ island was known for its beautiful landscapes and (iv) _______ diverse wildlife. On (v) _______ first day, we set out to explore (vi) _______ island’s dense jungle. (vii) _______ guide led us through (viii) _______ thick foliage and showed us (ix) _______ hidden waterfall. In (x) _______ evening, we gathered around (xi) _______ campfire to share stories and enjoy (xii) _______ meal we cooked. (xiii) _______ experience was truly unforgettable, and we felt (xiv) _______ connection with (xv) _______ nature. Answer Q8 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (i) We waited for a hour before the bus finally arrived. Answer Q9 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (ii) The guide insisted on an uniform jacket for the group’s safety during the trek. Answer Q10 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (iii) Mount K2 is a second highest peak in the world. Answer Q11 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (iv) A Ganga is a sacred river in India, known for its cultural importance. Answer Q12 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (v) Challenges are faced with courage and determination by a brave. Answer Q13 III 2. There is an error in each sentence that has been underlined. Correct the error in the following sentences. (vi) A North Star has guided travellers for centuries. Answer Let us listenQ1 You will listen to five speakers share their opinion about adventure sports. As you listen match the statements 1–8 with the speakers (i)–(v). There are three extra statements that you do not need. 1. Talks about having basic activities in adventure sports 2. Finds adventure sports thrilling and exciting 3. Praises the availability of a variety of activities 4. Expresses concern about the risks in adventure sports 5. Promotes trekking as a casual sport 6. Invites applications from first-timers 7. Focuses on the availability of training and supervision 8. Finds exposure to risks unnecessary Answer Let us speakQ1 In groups of four, select a role from 1–4 given below and speak about the views allotted to each. Use the prompts and vocabulary given. Take turns to express your opinions, agreement, and disagreement. Role-Specific Prompts 1. School Student: Talk about why you think Physical Education should be included in school activities. 2. Parent: Discuss your concerns or support for your child participating in Physical Education activities. 3. Physical Education Teacher: Share your experiences about Physical Education activities and why you think they are valuable. 4. Sports Camp Organiser: Explain how you ensure safety and why you believe sports are beneficial for participants. Prompts • In my opinion... • I believe that... • From my point of view... • I disagree with... • One reason for this is... • I agree with the idea that... • I disagree with the notion that... • I support this perspective because... • I find it hard to agree because... Vocabulary you may use precautions unique experiences fun safe enjoyable thrilling builds confidence concern explore overcome fear participate Answer Let us writeQ1 Read the various components of a formal letter from the box given below. complimentary close receiver’s address subject date introduction statement of request expression of interest salutation signature line sender’s address 1. Now, read the letter given below and write the matching components. Sender’s Address Date Receiver’s Address _________School Subject: Request to join Adventure Club Madam/Sir, I am Sreelakshmi, a student of Grade 7-C. I am interested in adventure activities like trekking, hiking, rope climbing, and exploring sites of natural beauty. I would love to be a part of the Adventure Club of the school and participate in the adventure activities organised. I request you to grant me permission to join the club. Yours sincerely, Sreelakshmi Answer Q2 2. Write a letter to the Principal of your school requesting her to organise an excursion to a nearby hill station for Grade 7 students of your school. Answer Let us exploreQ1 I Find out more information about the following adventure sports in our country and complete the table given below. Name Area Preferred Time of the Year Equipment Required snow skiing snow-covered hills skis, ski suit, trekking Spring, Autumn, Winter pole camping grassy areas tent, torch, river rafting all year round scuba diving scuba suit, mask, fins, Answer Q2 II Prepare an information booklet with fact sheets of five Indian mountaineers. Include the following information in the fact sheet. 1. name (and photograph, if available) 2. place of birth 5. training received 3. profession 6. sport known for (if any) 4. accomplishments—awards or honours Answer Explore interactivelyKey-term flashcards
Flip cards · mark known · keyboard ← → and Space
Meaning 1 / 6
The brave, solitary tunnel watchman in 'The Tunnel' who lives at one with the jungle and helps frighten the leopard away.
Tap to flip back
Keyboard: ← → to move · Space to flip