Students rely on Class 9 English Extra Questions and Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 8 Follow That Dream Extra Questions and Answers to improve their grades.
Follow That Dream Extra Question Answer
Follow That Dream Class 9 Extra Question Answer
Follow That Dream Short Question Answer
Question 1.
The letter opens with the line ‘By all means follow that dream’. What situation or concern of Ming might have led her mother to begin the letter in this way?
Answer:
The letter opens with the line ‘By all means follow that dream’ because Ming must have written to her mother about a dream or career choice she wanted to pursue. She was likely unsure or seeking advice, so her mother began by encouraging and reassuring her to follow her passion confidently.
Question 2.
Greatness is contrasted with ordinariness in the beginning. Explain the idea conveyed through this comparison.
Answer:
Greatness is contrasted with ordinariness in the beginning to show that successful people become great because they work harder and make more sacrifices than others. The comparison explains that dreams alone are not enough; consistent effort and dedication are what truly separate achievers from ordinary people.
Question 3.
The phrase ‘single-minded and intensive pursuit’ suggests a particular attitude towards success. What does it imply about commitment?
Answer:
The phrase ‘single-minded and intensive pursuit’ implies complete focus and dedication towards achieving a dream. It suggests that a person must avoid distractions, stay committed for many years and keep working consistently with strong determination until the goal is successfully achieved.
Question 4.
The mother advises Ming to ‘count the cost’ before plunging into a dream. What kinds of costs does she expect Ming to consider?
Answer:
The mother advises Ming to ‘count the cost’ so she can think carefully about the effort, time and sacrifices needed to follow her dream. These costs include years of hard work, financial investment, patience and the willingness to face difficulties before achieving success.
Question 5.
The journey towards success is described as an ‘uphill road’. What understanding about real-life struggles does this metaphor provide?
Answer:
The journey towards success is described as an ‘uphill road’ to show that achieving dreams is difficult and requires continuous effort. It suggests that a person will face many challenges, struggles and moments of tiredness, but determination and love for the goal help them keep moving forward.
Question 6.
Why does the author mention different fields like sports, science, arts and business in one sentence?
Answer:
The author mentions different fields like sports, science, arts and business to show that dreams can belong to any area of interest. She wants Ming to understand that success is not limited to one career and dedication and hard work are required in every field.
Question 7.
The reference to the Academy Awards highlights an important truth about achievement. What lesson does this example communicate?
Answer:
The reference to the Academy Awards highlights an important truth about achievement that success is never achieved alone. Winners thank many people who supported them, showing that encouragement, guidance and teamwork play an important role in helping a person achieve their dreams.
Question 8.
The statement ‘for one winner, there is a group behind’ reveals a deeper meaning about success. Explain.
Answer:
The statement ‘for one winner, there is a group behind’ shows that success is never achieved alone. Many people such as family, friends and mentors support and encourage a person. Their help, guidance and belief play an important role in helping someone reach their goals and achieve success.
Question 9.
Many people ‘wish’ to achieve dreams but never move beyond wishful thinking. What behaviour does this observation criticise?
Answer:
Many people ‘wish’ to achieve dreams but never move beyond wishful thinking criticises the habit of dreaming without taking action. It points out that some people only imagine success but avoid hard work, risks and effort, so their dreams remain only wishes instead of becoming reality.
Question 10.
Why do some people choose security instead of pursuing their dreams, according to the letter?
Answer:
Some people choose security instead of pursuing their dreams because they prefer a stable and safe life. They may fear failure, risks or uncertainty.
A regular income and predictable future feel more comfortable than the challenges and sacrifices required to chase a dream.
Question 11.
The example of Raffles College students during World War II changes the tone of the letter. What reality about life does this incident highlight?
Answer:
The example of Raffles College students during World War II highlights that life can change suddenly due to unexpected events. It shows that even strong dreams may be interrupted by circumstances beyond a person’s control, forcing people to change their plans and accept new responsibilities.
Question 12.
The mention of students working to support siblings reflects a specific life value. Identify and explain it briefly.
Answer:
The mention of students working to support siblings reflects the value of responsibility and selflessness. It shows how some people sacrifice their own dreams to help their families. Their actions highlight the importance of duty, care and putting family needs before personal ambitions.
Question 13.
The mother says she is not putting a ‘wet blanket’ on Ming’s dreams. What message is she trying to balance here?
Answer:
The mother says she is not putting a ‘wet blanket’ on Ming’s dreams to show that she is not discouraging her daughter. At the same time, she wants Ming to be realistic and think carefully about the hard work, time and sacrifices needed to achieve success.
Question 14.
Why does the mother ask Ming to consider the years required to chase a dream before making a decision?
Answer:
The mother asks Ming to consider the years required to chase a dream so she can make a thoughtful and realistic decision.
She wants Ming to understand that success takes long-term dedication, patience and sacrifices, and that she should be fully prepared before committing herself to any dream.
Question 15.
The phrase ‘burning conviction coursing through your veins’ shows a powerful feeling. What decision should follow such a feeling?
Answer:
The phrase ‘burning conviction coursing through your veins’ suggests a strong and passionate belief in a dream.
After
feeling such deep conviction, the person should move forward confidently, take action and start working seriously towards achieving the dream without hesitation.
Follow That Dream Long Question Answer
Question 1.
The letter presents a balanced view of dreams and reality. Discuss how the mother encourages ambition while also preparing Ming for the challenges ahead.
Answer:
The letter presents a balanced view of dreams and reality by showing both encouragement and practical advice. The mother begins by strongly supporting Ming’s dream. She tells her to follow her passion and believe in her goals. This creates a hopeful and motivating tone.
At the same time, she prepares Ming for the challenges ahead. She explains that success requires years of hard work, sacrifice and patience. She reminds Ming to think about the effort, money and time needed before making a decision.
The mother also shares real-life examples of people whose dreams changed due to circumstances. This makes her advice realistic and relatable. In the end, she encourages Ming to follow her dream if her passion remains strong after considering all challenges.
Question 2.
The mother emphasises the role of long-term dedication in achieving excellence. Explain how the chapter highlights the importance of patience, commitment and sacrifice.
Answer:
The mother emphasises the role of long-term dedication by explaining that excellence cannot be achieved quickly. She says that reaching a world-class level in any field requires at least ten years of focused effort. This shows that success needs patience and continuous practice over a long period.
The chapter highlights commitment through the idea of ‘single-minded pursuit’. A person must stay focused and avoid distractions while working towards a dream. The mother also asks Ming to count the cost before beginning the journey.
Sacrifice is shown as an important part of success. Time, money and comfort may need to be given up. The difficult and ‘uphill’ journey shows that only determined people continue until they achieve their dreams.
Question 3.
You are the head boy/head girl. Write a speech for the morning assembly on ‘Follow Your Dream but Be Ready for Challenges’.
Answer:
Respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends, Good morning to everyone.
Today, I would like to speak on the topic ‘Follow Your Dream but Be Ready for Challenges’. Every one of us has a dream. Some want to become doctors, artists, athletes or scientists. Dreams give direction and purpose to our lives. They inspire us to work hard and believe in ourselves.
However, following a dream is not easy. The journey is often long and full of challenges. It requires patience, dedication and sacrifice. Sometimes we may feel tired, confused or even scared. But these difficulties make us stronger and help us grow.
We must remember that success does not happen overnight. It takes years of effort and support from family, teachers and friends. If we stay focused and keep trying, we can achieve our goals.
So, let us dream big, work hard and never give up. Thank you.
Question 4.
Real-life examples from World War II and family responsibilities add depth to the letter. Discuss how these examples make the advice more realistic and relatable.
Answer:
The real-life examples from World War II make the letter more realistic and serious. The mother talks about students who dreamed of studying at Raffles College. Their plans changed because of the Japanese invasion. This shows that life can change suddenly due to events beyond our control.
The example of students working to support their siblings shows the importance of responsibility. Some people had to give up their dreams to help their families. This teaches that duty and family needs can come before personal goals.
These examples make the advice practical and relatable. They show that dreams are important, but life situations can change plAnswer: This helps Ming understand that she must be ready for challenges and unexpected situations.
Question 5.
The mother repeatedly stresses the importance of counting the ‘cost’ of a dream. Analyse what these costs include and why understanding them is necessary before making life decisions.
Answer:
The mother repeatedly stresses the importance of counting the ‘cost’ of a dream to make Ming think carefully before making a decision. She explains that dreams need years of effort, patience and strong commitment. Success does not happen quickly or easily.
These costs include time, hard work and financial investment. A person may need to give up comfort, free time and other opportunities. There may also be challenges and failures along the way. The journey can be long and tiring.
Understanding these costs is important before choosing a dream. It helps a person prepare mentally and emotionally. When someone knows the difficulties in advance, they can stay strong and continue working without giving up easily.
Question 6.
The letter ends on a hopeful and emotional note. Explain how the conclusion reinforces the central message of the chapter and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Answer:
The letter ends on a hopeful and emotional note when the mother shares her own dream of publishing a book. This personal example makes her advice more real and believable. It shows that dreams can change and still bring happiness.
The final line, where she wishes that at least one of Ming’s dreams comes true, expresses love and care. It reminds the reader that the letter is not only about success but also about encouragement and support.
This ending reinforces the main message of the chapter. It leaves the reader with hope and motivation. The loving tone creates a warm feeling and makes the message memorable and inspiring.
Question 7.
Both ‘Follow That Dream’ and ‘The Pot Maker’ highlight the importance of passion and perseverance. How do Ming and Sentila show determination in pursuing their dreams despite challenges and resistance?
Answer:
Both chapters ‘Follow That Dream’ and ‘The Pot Maker’ show that dreams need courage and patience. In ‘Follow That Dream’, Ming is encouraged by her mother to follow her passion. She is reminded that dreams need hard work, sacrifice and strong determination. The mother also explains that life can create obstacles, but true passion helps people continue.
In ‘The Pot Maker’, Sentila dreams of becoming a pot maker like her mother. Her mother first refuses because the work is difficult and brings little income. Still, Sentila keeps observing potters and learning secretly. Her determination shows her deep love for the craft.
Both Ming and Sentila face resistance and challenges. However, strong passion, support and continuous effort help them move closer to achieving their dreams.
Follow That Dream Extract Based Questions and Answers
Extract 1
By all means follow that dream. Great men and women become great because they have a dream and they pursue it till it comes true. What differentiates greatness from the ordinary is how much effort and sacrifice people invest to realise their dream. To reach world-class standards in any field, one has to work single-mindedly and intensively for at least ten years. It begins with passion for a particular interest and grows into the conviction that it must be achieved.
I. What message does the author convey about achieving greatness? Support your answer with evidence from the extract.
Answer:
The author conveys that greatness is achieved through long-term dedication, hard work and sacrifice. The extract explains that reaching world-class standards requires at least ten years of focused effort, and success begins with passion that grows into strong conviction to achieve the dream.
II. Which of the following best explains the main idea of the extract?
A. Success comes easily when a person is naturally talented.
B. Greatness is achieved through passion, hard work and long-term dedication.
Answer:
B. Greatness is achieved through passion, hard work and long-term dedication.
III. What can be inferred about the role of passion in achieving success?
Answer:
Passion is the starting point of success; it grows into strong belief and motivates a person to work hard to achieve their dream.
IV. Read the following words from the extract.
(i) pursue
(ii) sacrifice
(iii) passion
(iv) conviction
(v) intensively
Select the option that correctly categorises the words into effort-related and emotion-related words.
| Options | Effort-related | Emotion-related |
| A | i, ii, v | iii, iv |
| B | iii, iv | i, ii, v |
| C | i, iii | ii, iv, v |
| D | ii, v | i, iii, iv |
Answer:
A
Extract 2
Count the cost in years of effort, financial investment and sacrifice. If the dream is still burning in your blood and you are ready to commit yourself to the task, plunge ahead. It could be in sports, science, arts, business or design. The road may be uphill most of the way and often you are buoyed up only by the knowledge that you are doing what you love best and are doing the right thing.
I. What does the phrase ‘burning in your blood’ convey?
(i) A temporary interest
(ii) A strong and passionate desire
(iii) Physical tiredness
(iv) Fear of failure
Choose the correct option.
A. i and iii
B. Only ii
C. ii and iv
D. Only iv
Answer:
B. Only ii
II. How does the expression ‘the road may be uphill’ help the reader understand the journey of following a dream?
Answer:
The given expression helps the reader understand that the journey of following a dream is difficult and full of challenges. The phrase suggests that a person will face struggles and obstacles, but must stay determined and continue working hard to achieve success.
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following.
The author mentions different fields like sports, science and arts to _________.
A. show that only certain careers require hard work.
B. show that dreams can belong to any field of interest.
Answer:
B. show that dreams can belong to any field of interest.
IV. What emotion is conveyed through the phrase ‘buoyed up by the knowledge that you are doing what you love best’?
Answer:
The phrase ‘buoyed up by the knowledge that you are doing what you love best’ conveys the emotion conveyed as encouragement and motivation.
Extract 3
When stamina is running out, the prospect of success will keep you on track. When you watch the Academy Awards for best actors, actresses and films, the winners always thank a host of people who formed their support network. So you see that for one winner, there is a group of people who stood by him or her. Success is rarely achieved alone and often depends on encouragement and help from others.
I. What helps a person stay on track when stamina is running out?
Answer:
When stamina is running out, the prospect of success helps a person stay on track. Thinking about the final achievement encourages a person to continue working hard even when they feel tired or discouraged during the journey.
II. Which of the following best explains the purpose of mentioning the Academy Awards?
A. To show that acting is the best career.
B. To highlight the importance of support in achieving success.
Answer:
B. The journey will be challenging and full of difficulties.
III. What can be inferred about the role of encouragement in difficult times?
Answer:
It can be inferred that encouragement plays an important role in difficult times. Support from others gives strength, boosts confidence and helps a person continue working towards their goals.
IV. Read the following words from the extract.
(i) stamina
(ii) success
(iii) support network
(iv) encouragement
(v) help
Select the option that correctly categorises the words into challenge-related and support-related words.
| Options | Challenge-related | Support-related |
| A | i | ii, iii, iv, v |
| B | ii, iii | i, iv, v |
| C | i, ii | iii, iv, v |
| D | iii, iv | i, ii, v |
A
Extract 4
It is good to be able to fulfil your dreams, but for many people dreams remain dreams. Almost everyone at one time or another has wistfully said, “I wish I could be this or the other,” yet they have never gone beyond wishful thinking. Some prefer to trade their dream for security. The comfort of a stable life sometimes becomes more important than the uncertainty of chasing a dream.
I. What does the phrase ‘wishful thinking’ convey?
(i) careful planning
(ii) hopeful desire without action
(iii) strong determination
(iv) practical decision making
Choose the correct option.
A. i and iii
B. Only ii
C. ii and iv
D. Only iv
Answer:
B. Only ii
II. How does the contrast between dreams and security help the reader understand people’s choices?
Answer:
The contrast between dreams and security shows that many people choose safety over risk. It helps readers understand that fear of uncertainty and the comfort of a stable life often stop people from chasing their dreams, even if they truly wish to achieve them.
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following.
People trade their dreams for security because they want to _________.
A. avoid risk and uncertainty.
B. achieve success quickly.
Answer:
A. avoid risk and uncertainty.
IV. What feeling is conveyed through the word ‘wistfully’ in the extract?
Answer:
The word ‘wistfully’ conveys a feeling of longing and gentle sadness about dreams that people wished to achieve but never pursued.
Extract 5
Circumstances often change lives unexpectedly. I know of people whose dream was to go to Raffles College, now the National University of Singapore. But the Japanese invasion during World War II changed their destiny forever. Their hopes were interrupted by events beyond their control, showing how life can suddenly alter carefully planned ambitions and dreams.
I. What happened to the hopes of the people mentioned in the extract?
Answer:
The hopes of the people were destroyed and interrupted due to Japanese invasion during world war II. Their dreams of studying at Raffles college could not be fulfilled because circumstances changed their lives unexpectedly.
II. Which of the following best explains the effect of the Japanese invasion mentioned in the extract?
A. It helped people achieve their dreams faster.
B. It changed people’s lives and interrupted their dreams.
Answer:
B. It changed people’s lives and interrupted their dreams.
III. What message does the author convey about planning for the future?
Answer:
The author conveys that while planning is important, life is unpredictable, and unexpected events can change goals and dreams suddenly.
IV. Read the following words from the extract.
(i) circumstances
(ii) destiny
(iii) interrupted
(iv) ambitions
(v) dreams
Select the option that correctly categorises the words into life situations and goals.
| Options | Life Situations | Goals |
| A | i, ii, iii | iv, v |
| B | iv, v | i, ii, iii |
| C | i, iv | ii, iii, v |
| D | ii, iii | i, iv, v |
Answer:
A
Extract 6
I know too of people who wished to finish secondary school but had to go out to work so that they could support their siblings through school. Responsibilities forced them to give up their own dreams. Life sometimes demands sacrifice and duty before personal ambition, and this reality must be understood while planning one’s future.
I. What does the phrase ‘give up their own dreams’ convey?
(i) achieving success quickly
(ii) sacrificing personal goals
(iii) losing interest in studies
(iv) making selfish choices
Choose the correct options.
A. i and iii
B. Only ii
C. ii and iv
D. Only iv
Answer:
B. Only ii
II. How does the extract highlight the role of responsibility in people’s lives?
Answer:
The extract shows that responsibility can make people sacrifice their own dreams to support their family. It highlights the importance of duty over personal ambition.
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following.
The people mentioned in the extract started working because they wanted to
A. achieve personal success early.
B. support their family members.
Answer:
B. support their family members.
IV. How does the extract connect dreams with duty?
Answer:
The extract connects dreams with duty by showing that family responsibilities sometimes come before personal ambitions, forcing people to sacrifice their dreams.
Extract 7
I am not going to put a wet blanket on your dreams, but you will have to consider the years you need to chase your dream. After all the obstacles are considered, if the burning conviction is still coursing through your veins, then go ahead and do something about it. Dreams deserve effort when the passion remains strong.
I. What should be considered before chasing a dream?
Answer:
The years of effort, hard work, sacrifice and challenges required to achieve the dream should be considered before chasing it.
II. Which of the following best explains the phrase ‘put a wet blanket on your dreams’?
A. Encourage dreams strongly
B. Discourage or reduce enthusiasm
Answer:
B. Discourage or reduce enthusiasm
III. What does ‘burning conviction’ suggest about a person’s feelings?
Answer:
‘Burning conviction’ suggests a strong and passionate belief in a dream that motivates a person to take action and work hard.
IV. Read the following words from the extract.
(i) dreams
(ii) obstacles
(iii) conviction
(iv) passion
(v) effort
Select the option that correctly categorises the words into challenges and motivation.
| Options | Challenges | Motivation |
| A | ii | i, iii, iv, v |
| B | i, iii, iv | ii, v |
| C | ii, v | i, iii, iv |
| D | i, ii | iii, iv, v |
Answer:
A
Extract 8
From my own experience, life itself may change a person’s dreams. These hopes and aspirations are no less than the original dreams of younger days. To fulfil them, you will need to negotiate a path through a maze of hurdles. The dream will take a much longer time to realise than expected.
I. What does the phrase ‘maze of hurdles’ convey?
(i) an easy and smooth journey
(ii) a complicated and challenging path
(iii) a short and quick process
(iv) a joyful experience
Choose the correct option.
A. i and iii
B. Only ii
C. ii and iv
D. Only iv
Answer:
B. Only ii
II. How does the extract highlight the changing nature of dreams?
Answer:
The extract highlights the changing nature of dreams by showing that life experiences can reshape a person’s goals. New dreams can be just as meaningful as childhood dreams, but they may take longer to achieve and require overcoming many challenges.
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following. The author says dreams may take longer to realise because they _________.
A. always lose importance with time.
B. require time to overcome challenges.
Answer:
B. require time to overcome challenges.
IV. What feeling is conveyed through the phrase ‘no less than the original dreams of younger days’?
Answer:
The phrase conveys respect and appreciation for dreams formed later in life, showing they are equally valuable and meaningful as childhood dreams.
Extract 9
The people who are participants in your dreamscape would be many more than you imagine. Every dream involves the support and encouragement of others. Success becomes meaningful when shared with those who helped along the journey.
I. What role do others play in a person’s dream journey?
Answer:
Others provide support, encouragement and guidance during the journey, helping a person stay motivated and overcome challenges while pursuing their dreams.
II. Which of the following best explains the idea of ‘participants in your dreamscape’?
A. People who compete with you
B. People who support and encourage you
Answer:
B. People who support and encourage you
III. What can be inferred about the importance of sharing success?
Answer:
Sharing success makes achievements more meaningful and shows gratitude to those who helped.
IV. Read the following words from the extract.
(i) participants
(ii) support
(iii) encouragement
(iv) success
(v) journey
Select the option that correctly categorises the words into people-related and achievement-related words.
| Options | People-related | Achievement-related |
| A | i, ii, iii | iv, v |
| B | iv, v | i, ii, iii |
| C | i, iv | ii, iii, v |
| D | ii, iii | i, iv, v |
Answer:
A
Extra Questions of Follow That Dream for Practice
Extract-Based Questions
Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Publishing this book is a dream I have chased in the last ten years. This was not the dream I had in my youth, but my original dream has changed over the years. I am really quite excited about it. So I wish that at least one of your dreams comes true.
Love, Mum.
I. What does the line ‘my original dream has changed over the years’ suggest?
(i) Dreams always fail.
(ii) Dreams can evolve with time.
(iii) Dreams remain the same forever.
(iv) Dreams are unimportant.
Choose the correct option.
A. i and iii
B. Only ii
C. ii and iv
D. Only iv
II. How does the mother’s personal example strengthen the message of the letter?
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following.
The mother says she is excited about publishing her book because she
A. finally achieved a dream she worked on for years.
B. wanted to change her daughter’s dream.
IV. What does the closing line ‘I wish that at least one of your dreams comes true’ conveys?
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Life changing dreams are presented as a natural process. How does this idea make the advice more realistic?
Question 2.
The phrase ‘maze of hurdles’ suggests a particular journey. What skills or qualities are needed to cross such a path?
Question 3.
Why does the mother mention that many people will be participants in one’s dreamscape?
Question 4.
The author’s own example of publishing a book serves a specific purpose. What lesson does this personal experience offer Ming?
Question 5.
Why does the letter end with the wish that ‘at least one of your dreams comes true’?
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
The example of Academy Award winners plays an important role in the letter. Analyse how this example strengthens the message about teamwork and support in achieving success.
Question 2.
Write a letter to a famous personality you admire, asking for advice on how to stay motivated while chasing your dream.
Question 3.
The chapter highlights the importance of support systems in achieving dreams. Explain how the idea of a ‘dreamscape’ shows the role of others in success.