Morning Star ICSE Total English Class 9 Solutions and Total English Class 9 Chapter 7 Agreement of the Verb with Its Subject, Stories, Summary Writing, Practice Paper 7 Answers Solutions make the process easier for students by providing all grammar-related topics.
Total English Class 9 ICSE Answers Chapter 7 Practice Paper 7
A. Agreement of the Verb with Its Subject
Assignment
Fill the blanks with the correct form of the words given in brackets:
1. There _______ (is/are) two mistakes in your essay.
Answer:
There are two mistakes in your essay.
2. The captain, with all his team members, _______ (were/was) awarded.
Answer:
The captain, with all his team members, was awarded.
3. Everyone of the troupe _______ (were/was) present.
Answer:
Everyone of the troupe was present.
4. Neither of my brothers _______ (have/has) any car.
Answer:
Neither of my brothers has any car.
5. Time and tide _______ (waits/wait) for no man.
Answer:
Time and tide wait for no man.
6. Fifty thousand rupees _______ (are/is) a big sum.
Answer:
Fifty thousand rupees ig a big sum.
7. None but the brave _______ (deserves/deserve) the fair.
Answer:
None but the brave deserve the fair.
8. Which of these books _______ (are/is) yours?
Answer:
Which of these books is yours?
9. The great leader and statesman _______ (are/is) dead.
Answer:
The great leader and statesman is dead.
10. Two and two _______ (make/makes) four.
Answer:
Two and two makes four.
11. The teacher, as well as her students, _______ (are/is) present.
Answer:
The teacher, as well as her students is present.
12. Three-fourths of the house _______ (were/was) constructed.
Answer:
Three-fourths of the house was constructed.
B. Stories
Assignment
Write short stories of your own on some of the topics given below:
The title of the story
Write a story (real or imaginary) based on one of the following titles:
(i) A Triumphant Return
(ii) The Trap
(iii) More Haste, Less Speed
Answer:
i. The Triumphant Return
She was a mare named Tara who acquired magical powers. But she always felt something was lacking though now she had everything- power, fame and money. She was held in awe by other ponies as she had magic. But she needed something more and then she finally knew; it was the respect of the people who had pushed her out, shunned her as a fake and humiliated her. She needed to show them.
It’s been ten years since the end of her first career as a fake magician pony, and she had long since accepted it. At first she blamed all, especially the mare that upstaged her and exposed her as a fraud. It was for the better though. Now she was known as a mare of myth: The Mist Mare. Wherever she went a magic mist followed. She was now a protector.
Every pony had heard of her now, and every pony respected her now…so why didn’t she care? The fame and glory were all she once cared about, but now it seemed like a hollow victory of a contest that didn’t exist. Throughout all the training, all the injuries she suffered, all the fights, she didn’t feel as if it mattered that they loved her.
She always appreciated it, but she could go without it. She contemplated the reason why, and finally found her answer. Now it was time to return to where it all began, where she would find the mare who had started her on this path. It was time to show her what she’d become. This would be: Tara’s Triumphant Return!
ii. The trap.
Everyday at school I would find that someone would eat my tiffin and put a thank you note in it. It was very annoying but intriguing too. So I decided to set a trap and catch the culprit.
It was a Saturday and I again had to go for my drama practice. I had prepared a strategy. I had smeared a transparent magical colour on my tiffin which would stick to the hands of the culprit and his palms would become an inky blue which could not be washed away. Only a special ointment was required to get them clean again.
I went for my practice, happy in the knowledge of the trap I had set.
And as expected when I came back the tiffin was empty. I asked everyone in class to show me their hands. And lo and behold, the fat new boy had inky blue hands. I had ragged him a lot when he had joined and this was maybe his revenge. Anyway we became friends and thereafter we shared our tiffins.
iii. More Haste, Less speed
Once upon a time, in a quaint little village nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, there lived a young rabbit named Rusty. Rusty was known for his boundless energy and enthusiasm. He was always in a hurry, hopping from one task to another with lightning speed. Whether it was gathering carrots from the vegetable patch or playing tag with his friends, Rusty was always in a rush.
One sunny morning, Rusty woke up with a newfound determination. He had heard about a legendary carrot patch deep in the forest, rumored to be the largest and most delicious patch in the land. Excited by the prospect of finding this treasure trove of carrots, Rusty set off immediately, without even stopping for breakfast.
As Rusty bounded through the forest, his excitement grew with each hop. He was sure that he was getting closer and closer to the legendary carrot patch. However, in his haste, Rusty failed to pay attention to where he was going. He didn’t notice the tangled roots snaking across the forest floor or the low-hanging branches swaying in the breeze.
Suddenly, with a loud thud, Rusty tripped over a protruding root and tumbled headlong into a thicket of brambles. As he struggled to free himself, Rusty realized that he was completely lost. The sun was beginning to set, and the forest was shrouded in darkness. Panicked and disoriented, Rusty realized the folly of his haste. If only he had taken the time to plan his journey properly and pay attention to his surroundings, he wouldn’t have ended varphi P in this predicament. With a heavy heart, Rusty resigned himself to spending the night in the forest.
As the night wore on, Rusty reflected on his impulsive nature. He realized that sometimes, being in too much of a hurry could lead to disaster. From that day on, Rusty vowed to take things slow and steady, savoring each moment and paying attention to the world around him.
The next morning, Rusty set off once again, this time with a newfound sense of patience and caution. And though it took him longer than he had anticipated, Rusty eventually found his way out of the forest and back home to his village.
From that day forth, Rusty became known as the wisest rabbit in the village, teaching his friends the valuable lesson that sometimes, more haste leads to less speed.
The plot of the story –
Write a story including all of the following in any order:
(a) a surprise marriage.
(b) a violent quarrel.
(c) Police intervention.
(d) a journey by scooter.
(e) a family reunion.
Answer:
I had just moved out. I was renting a furnished room from a lady my mother had found for me. What I did not know was that although I was paying for the room, my mother had her own key and was in constant communication with the homeowner. The homeowner had seen fit not to tell me, either.
I was invited back home for a family reunion. But when I arrived it was to find my bed destroyed. I don’t mean packed away or sold or something. My sister had thrown my mattress into a pool so I ‘could never return’. Here ensued a violent quarrel between the two of us and in anger my sister rushed out, took her scoter and sped away. When she did not return till evening, my mother became very upset and started scolding me. She was so worried that I had to ring up the police and ask for their intervention to find my sister as her phone was switched off. My mother was in tears and was sure something bad had happened.
At last the police were able to get my sister back. She was one smart person. Seeing that now things were in her favour she sheepishly told my mother that she had to tell something. And then she sprung the surprise -that she liked a boy and was planning to marry him. All hell broke loose with mother wavering between anger, surprise and then excitement that there was going to be a wedding soon.
So I was not in the best of moods when I had to go to sleep that night on the floor as I had been again relegated to the background.
The theme of the story –
Write an original story having as its main theme the worries of a family waiting for news of a missing relative.
Answer:
Above the din of jostling television crews and camera flashes, a shrill wailing could be heard from behind the guarded double doors of the Lido hotel’s second-story ballroom. More than 100 relatives of passengers of a plane that had crash landed on an island had been waiting in the room for more than 36 hours. The few that ventured into the media scrum outside wore expressions of anxiety and despair. Some huddled in corners in the hotel’s atrium, quietly crying.
At one point, a young man approached local journalists to ask for the latest news; he said that the airline badn’t told him anything. One journalist asked him if he was a family member. ‘Yes -nfy mother and sister are there,’ he replied, and burst into tears. ‘I knew they’d been planning to go for a holiday, especially after she lost her job and wanted something to cheer her up,’ Hamid said of his sister. ‘Everyone is sad. My house has become a place of mourning,’ he told the reporter.
But soon there was news that the passengers had been evacuated from the burning plane, some injured had been taken to the hospital but there was no one dead or fatally injured. Everyone heaved a sigh of relief and quietly followed the airport staff to the adjoining area where some light refreshments had been arranged for the worried family members.
Beginning of the story –
Write a short story of your own invention by continuing one of the following:
i. Half an hour after the car had been driven away, the garage owner made a startling discovery. He rushed to the telephone.
Answer:
Half an hour after the car had been driven away, the garage owner made a startling discovery. He rushed to the telephone to contact the customer whose car brakes he had not tightened, the screws of the brake pads were loose. The owner realized how grave a blunder he had committed. He had risked the life of an innocent man because of his absent-mindedness.
The day had not been good for him since early morning. He had not thought his quarrel with his wife would jeopardize their married life. His mind had been occupied with fearful and sad thoughts. In this state he had bungled the car repair. As he picked up his phone, the phone bell rang.
The voice in the phone said, “Hello, I am the man who just drove out of your garage half an hour ago. Unfortunately, my car has stalled again. I am approximately 15 kms away on the Golden Highway. Would you please come and fix it?” The garage owner heaved a sigh of relief and thanked God! No one had been injured because of his mistake! God had been kind.
ii. As I turned on the radio, the announcer said, “Cyclone, now affecting all districts, will continue throughout the day…..” I switched it off in despair.
Answer:
As I turned on the radio, the announcer said, “Cyclone, now affecting all districts, will
8 continue throughout the day….” I switched it off in despair. What is it like to go through a category 5 cyclone? I thought. I had never thought I would know the answer to this question and if I would ever, along with my family and many others, experience the strength of the wind in a house that shook as if it was Dorothy’s in the story of Wizard of Oz. Two fat kookaburras sat on our clothes line in the light hours before the rain began to pick up and wind started to move the palms into a flag of wind directions. We heard their ironic laughter a few more times in the afternoon.
Waiting – we seemed to wait for hours and hours. We just wanted it to be over. But we did not know how violent that storm was going to get. We couldn’t really see what it was doing in the dark, but boy could we hear it!
Before the cyclone, everyone was bunkering down, and saying on facebook- ‘See you on the other side of the cyclone’ I don’t think they really knew just how challenging it was going to become. Some of us rang a few close friends to wish them luck. I rang three of my friends. Initially the winds just became stronger slowly. It built slowly but then picked up momentum.
We felt like a giant hand shook our house, harder, and harder and harder. It was just like contractions that strengthen and strengthen as the birth of the eye of the storm nears. Only the mother of this storm was feral wind gusts, that lifted vehicles, peeled tin off the roofs and sheds, ias if it was one tremendous tin opener that descended from the sky and went on a rampage through our homes.
We felt like we were in a jumbo jet at times and our house was going to fly away. We could hear things banging and blowing, knocking into things. We heard the sound of the wind gremlins under the house, shifting and knocking things so that the cyclone hit us from the floor as well as above and sideways.
My father approached the cyclone scientifically, getting updates from his family on phone, who were consulting the official site and he then used the data to calculate which room we should be in. We had no electricity or iphones or that sort of stuff. He was calculating the direction of the wind and moving us in rooms accordingly. He also asked for updates on the cricket – to calm himself and my youngest brother, who loves cricket.
We were at the mercy of nature. Yet I realised that I had been more scared once when someone had tried to break into our home and they had knocked and banged on the doors and windows – a cyclone of human drunkenness or worse, intent on getting inside and hurling abuse at us. People are still, more scary to me than cyclones.
Our front doors opened and we felt a funnel of wind blow the back window. A window smashed in our bedroom but we weren’t in there, but we could hear it shatter. Going to the toilet was a real adventure. It was very spooky sounding in there, the worst sound in the house.
Nowhere felt safe as the cyclone built and built its strength. We prayed, checked our cyclone kit, comforted our pets – Misty, Chocolate, Calico, and Soot. The gardens looked like someone had just hurled everything randomly around in a violent fit of temper. And finally it ended as suddenly as it had begun.
We had made it through the cyclone, but the story doesn’t end here- we were soon to find that we had to search for a home as our home was destroyed.
C. Summary Writing
Assignment
Read the following passage and, in not more than 50 words of your own, summarise what events of the day were reviewed by Doctor Marcusson.
School Council Meeting
Doctor Marcusson sat at his desk and reviewed the events of the day. At the Council meeting it had been decided to go ahead with the introduction of stricter examination requirements and there was also an agreement that the boys and their parents would have to be informed as soon as possible.
He smiled ruefully, knowing fully well who would have done that unenviable task. One thing though, they’d decided that the pavilion which had been wrecked in the recent gales wouldn’t have to be rebuilt for a bit. At least money wouldn’t have to be found for that. And they seemed to be pleased enough with his report and the examination results.
So they jolly well should be, he thought to himself, considering the all-out effort that had been made. The boys had even complained of being slave-driven. Well, he supposed that was life. He considered his chat with Sir Walter after the meeting had broken up.
They’d made some useful decisions about what ought to be done in the advertising line and Sir Walter had reaily been most helpful in putting forward suggestions about influential parents who could be co-opted to serve on the various school committees. A good man, and an excellent chairman, Sir Walter.
“Well, that’s one thing to be thankful for,” he said aloud. “What is, dear?” asked a voice and Dr Marcusson realised with a shock of surprise that he wasn’t alone. He’d just been brought a cup of cocoa and the voice of gentle concern was his wife’s.
“Talking to myself. First sign of madness,” he said. “Oh, not the first sign dear,” she said gently.
Answer:
Doctor Marcusson reviewed the day’s events, including the decision to implement stricter exam requirements and inform students and parents. The wrecked pavilion wouldn’t need immediate rebuilding, saving money. Despite complaints from students about workload, results were satisfactory. He discussed advertising strategies with Sir Walter, feeling grateful for his help.
Tot al English Class 9 Practice Paper 7 Answers
D. Practice Paper – 7
Question 1
(Do not spend more than 30 minutes on this question.)
Write a composition ( 300 – 350 words) on any one of the following:
i. Write a short story to justify the theme: ‘We fail only when we fail to try,’
Answer:
In a peaceful hamlet embraced by gentle slopes, lived a boy named Aryan. He was curious about many things, but there was one thing he was scared to try – riding a bicycle.
Despite countless attempts by his friends and family to teach him, Aryan had never mus-tered the courage to mount a bicycle and pedal away. He would watch enviously as other children zipped past him, their laughter echoing in the distance.
One day, Aryan’s best friend, Rohan, decided to take matters into his own hands. He presented Aryan with a brand-new bicycle, determined to help him overcome his fear. “You’ll never know if you don’t try,” Rohan said with a reassuring smile.
Reluctantly, Aryan climbed onto the bicycle, his heart pounding with fear. With shaky hands and wobbly legs, he pushed off from the ground and began to pedal tentatively. At first, he faltered and stumbled, but with each attempt, he grew more determined.
Despite the falls and scrapes, Aryan refused to give up. He persisted, pushing himself to try again and again. And slowly but surely, he began to improve. His confidence grew with each successful turn of the pedals, until finally; he was riding the bicycle with ease.
As Aryan sailed down the village streets, the wind in his hair and a smile on his face, he realized the truth in the theme – “We fail only when we fail to try.” By overcoming his fear and refusing to give up, Aryan had unlocked a world of possibilities.
From that day on, Aryan approached life with a newfound sense of courage and determination. He no longer let fear hold him back from trying new things, knowing that with perseverance, anything was possible.
And as he rode off into the sunset, Aryan vowed to never stop trying, for he knew that it was only through trying that he would truly succeed.
ii. Narrate an incident when impatience and haste caused a lot of embarrassment to you.
Answer:
I remember one particular incident vividly when impatience and haste caused me a lot of embarrassment. It was during a school talent show, and I was eager to impress everyone with my singing skills.
As my turn approached, I felt a surge of excitement and nerves. When my name was called, I rushed onto the stage without properly adjusting the microphone or checking the sound levels. My impatience got the better of me, and I started singing before the music began.
To my horror, the music started a few seconds later, but it was too late. I was off-key and out of sync with the melody. The audience exchanged uncomfortable glances, and I could feel myself blushing with embarrassment.
Despite my best efforts to regain my composure, the damage was done. I stumbled through the song, my voice cracking and faltering with every note. It felt like an eternity before the song finally came to an end.
As I stepped off the stage, I was met with polite applause, but I could sense the disappointment and pity in their eyes. I wanted to disappear into the ground from the sheer embarrassment of it all.
Looking back, I realized that my impatience and haste had cost me the chance to showcase my talent effectively. If only I had taken a moment to calm my nerves and prepare properly, things might have turned out differently.
From that day on, I learned the importance of patience and thorough preparation. I vowed never to let my eagerness lead me to rush into things blindly again, especially when it came to performing in front of an audience.
iii. ‘Freedom comes with responsibility.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer:
While the statement “freedom comes with responsibility” holds merit, its application can be contentious. On one hand, responsibility is integral to maintaining a harmonious society and ensuring that individual freedoms do not encroach upon the rights and well-being of others. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between freedom and responsibility to avoid stifling personal autonomy and innovation.
Responsibility serves as a safeguard against the abuse of freedom. It requires individuals to consider the consequences of their actions and act in ways that promote the common good. For instance, the freedom of speech should be exercised responsibly to avoid spreading misinformation or inciting harm. Similarly, economic freedom entails the responsibility to contribute to the welfare of society through ethical business practices and fair employment.
Moreover, responsibility fosters accountability, which is essential for maintaining trust and stability within communities. When individuals acknowledge their obligations, they become reliable partners in collective endeavors, whether it’s upholding the rule of law, preserving the environment, or supporting marginalized groups. Without a sense of responsibility, freedom risks degenerating into chaos or tyranny, as selfish interests take precedence over the greater good.
However, excessive emphasis on responsibility can constrain individual liberties and stifle creativity. Imposing rigid standards of behavior may discourage risk-taking and innovation, hindering progress and societal development. Moreover, notions of responsibility are often subjective and culturally contingent, leading to conflicts over whose values and norms should prevail.
In conclusion, while freedom and responsibility are intertwined concepts, their relationship is complex and nuanced. Striking a balance between these principles is essential for fostering a society that upholds both individual liberties and collective well-being. It requires ongoing dialogue, compromise, and a recognition of the diverse perspectives and needs within society.
iv. You have been selected by your school for students exchange program with a school in Sydney (Australia). Under this program ten students and two teachers from your school are going to Sydney for two weeks. Describe your excitement on being selected in the group and the preparations to go to Australia.
Answer:
I couldn’t contain my excitement when I found out that I was selected for the student exchange program with a school in Sydney, Australia! It felt like a dream come true – an opportunity of a lifetime. The thought of exploring a new country, experiencing a different culture, and making new friends filled me with anticipation and joy.
As soon as the news broke, I immediately started planning and preparing for the trip. I spent hours researching about Sydney – its landmarks, attractions, and local customs. I even watched travel documentaries and read books about Australia to familiarize myself with its rich history and vibrant culture.
Aside from the excitement of exploring a new destination, I also felt a sense of responsibility. Representing my school and country abroad was a privilege, and I wanted to make sure I. made a positive impression. So, I diligently attended all the pre-departure meetings and workshops organized by the school to learn about travel safety, cultural etiquette, and other important information.
Packing for the trip was both exhilarating and challenging. I carefully selected my clothes, making sure to pack for various weather conditions. I also packed essentials like sunscreen, a travel adapter, and a camera to capture all the unforgettable moments.
In the days leading up to our departure, the anticipation only grew stronger. I couldn’t wait to embark on this incredible journey, to immerse myself in a new culture, and to create memories that would last a lifetime. As the day of our departure drew closer, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement, but above all, I felt grateful for this amazing opportunity to broaden my horizons and explore the world.
v. Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the picture and your composition.
Answer:
The picture evokes a sense of camaraderie and friendship among the four smiling girls. Their light-coloured suits, likely white with delicate patterns, coupled with dark-coloured dupattas, suggest traditional yet modern attire. The fact that three of the girls have covered their heads with their dupattas indicates a cultural aspect, possibly signifying respect or modesty.
The backdrop of the school, with its white-painted brick walls and visible blackboard, hints at the setting of the girls’ bond – perhaps they are classmates or close friends from school. The presence of the school adds depth to the story, implying a shared history and shared experiences within those walls.
The smiles on the girls’ faces convey a sense of joy and warmth, suggesting a strong bond of friendship. Their body language, with arms intertwined, further reinforces the closeness between them. It’s evident that these girls share a special connection, built on trust, support, and shared memories.
Perhaps the story could revolve around a significant event in their school life-a memorable achievement, an unexpected challenge, or simply a day filled with laughter and friendship. Through their shared experiences, the girls navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, relying on each other for strength and support.
Overall, the picture suggests a story of friendship, resilience, and the bonds that tie us together, even in the most ordinary of settings. It celebrates the beauty of female friendship and the power of companionship in navigating life’s journey.
Question 2.
(Do not spend more than 20 minutes on this question.)
Select any one of the following:
i. You wish to apply for an educational loan to meet the expenses of your studies abroad. Write a letter to the Manager of a local bank requesting him for an appointment to discuss the formalities for getting such a loan.
Answer:
The Manager
HDFC Bank
Kanpur
12th Feb, 2024
Sub: Request to sanction educational loan.
Dear Mr Verma,
My name is Meghna Sukhija, and I am writing to you to inquire about the process of obtaining an educational loan from HDFC Bank.
I am currently in the process of applying for higher education abroad, and I am in need of financial assistance to meet the expenses associated with my studies. After researching various financing options, I have identified HDFC as a reputable institution that offers educational loans to deserving students like myself.
I am particularly interested in discussing the formalities and requirements for applying for an educational loan with your esteemed bank. I believe that a personal meeting would allow me to gain a better understanding of the loan application process, including the documentation needed, the terms and conditions of the loan, and the repayment options available.
Therefore, I would like to request an appointment with you at your earliest convenience to discuss these matters further. I am available to meet at your office at a time that is convenient for you, preferably sometime within the next week.
Please let me know your availability so that we can schedule a meeting accordingly. I am eager to explore the possibility of obtaining an educational loan from HDFC and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this matter with you in person.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Meghna Sukhija
ii. Your cousin plays games on his/her mobile phone for two to three hours each day. Write a letter convincing him/her not to waste time in such idle pursuit and utilise this time playing some outdoor games.
Answer:
24
Surya Enclave
Mugalsarai
29th January 2023
Dear Mahir,
Hey! How’s it going? I was thinking about you lately and wanted to reach out.
I know you’re super into mobile games these days. While they can be fun for a bit, I’ve s noticed you spending a lot of time on them – maybe 2-3 hours a day? That’s a whole chunk of time!
Don’t get me wrong, taking breaks and having fun is important. But I was wondering if we could explore some other ways to spend that time together. Remember how much fun we used to have playing Cricket?
Here’s the thing: spending too much time glued to a screen can get tiring for your eyes and brain. Plus, there’s a whole world outside waiting to be explored! We could get some exercise, soak up some sunshine, and maybe even learn some new skills.
How about we challenge each other to spend less time on our phones and more time outdoors? We could try skating, volleyball, swimming or even come up with something new together! It would be a great way to blow off some steam, get active, and maybe even make some new memories.
Think about it! Plus, wouldn’t it be awesome to brag to everyone how much healthier and happier we are after our outdoor adventure challenge?
Let me know what you think! We could even plan our first “phone-free” adventure together.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
With love,
Rohan
Question 3.
i. Your school is organising an Inter-house Declamation Content. Write a notice to be put in your school informing the students and inviting them to participate in the contest.
Answer:
Cambridge International School
Notice
Inter-house Declamation Contest
May 1st. 2024
Get ready to unleash your oratory powers in our upcoming Inter-house Declamation Contest! Scheduled for May 15th at 10:00 AM in School Auditorium, this event invites students from grades 8th to 10th to participate. This year’s theme, “Empowering Voices: Inspiring Change,” encourages speakers to address topics that ignite passion and drive positive transformation. Registration is open until May 10th, with each house allowed 5 entries.
Prizes await top performers, including certificates and house points. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your public speaking skills and make a lasting impact. For more information, contact [Priya Malhotra/HOD English Department]. Let your voice be heard and join us in shaping a brighter tomorrow!
Priya Malhotra
HOD English Department
ii. Write an email to the Principal of a neighbouring school requesting him/her to send a team of three teachers to judge the event.
Answer:
To : [email protected]
Subject: Request for Judging Team for Inter-house Declamation Contest
Dear Sir,
I am writing to you on behalf of Cambridge International School regarding our upcoming Inter-house Declamation Contest, scheduled to take place on October 25.
As we prepare for this exciting event, we are seeking to ensure its success by inviting impartial and experienced judges to evaluate the performances of our talented students. With this in mind, we would be honoured if Holy Convent School could provide a team of three teachers to serve as judges for the contest.
We believe that the expertise and insight of your esteemed faculty members would greatly contribute to the fairness and credibility of the judging process. Their impartial evaluation would provide valuable feedback to our participants and help us in recognizing the most outstanding performances.
The contest will commence at 9:00 am and will be held at our school’s main auditorium. We kindly request that your judging team arrives at main auditorium by 8:50 am to ensure adequate time for, briefing and preparation before the event begins.
Please let us know at your earliest convenience if you would be able to accommodate our request. We understand the demands on your faculty’s time and greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide.
Thank you for considering our request. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with Holy Convent School and eagerly await your response.
Warm regards,
Nandini Sharma
HOD English Department
Question 4.
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
The word motel is derived from two words – motor and hotel. It had its origin in the early days of motoring; a traveller tired and weary after a day’s journey sought some shelter for the night in a farmer’s stable and was willing to pay a small fee for the accommodation. Today the roads of America are lined with motels, and millions use them every night. Often they run on both sides of a road leading into a town. But they are also found in isolated areas far away from any settlement.
There are many kinds of motels. Some of them are imitations of “English villages” with ” thatched roofs. Some are attractive log cabins of American origin. Some are set up in the style of Spanish estates, some look like Eskimo igloos. Motels can be simple shacks with bare floors and rudimentary furnishings, or luxurious places offering accommodation of the standard of a Five Star Hotel.
In the Far West, where they have reached their highest development, many are located around palm-clad swimming pools and have their own restaurants. Some have facilities for doing the traveller’s laundry while he sleeps, and servicing his car during the night. Most have attractive gardens with tables and chairs ? under trees, where the motorist spends a pleasant hour before going to bed.
In most States, roadside tourist camps are strictly supervised by the local authorities who ensure that high standards of cleanliness and comfort are maintained. The cabins themselves may be small: one-room affairs or four-room houses large enough to put up a whole family.
Some have kitchens with refrigerators and cooking pots and pAnswer: In the West, almost all are air-conditioned, so that they are fresh and cool when the temperature outside is rather high; and in the winter they are centrally heated. A great many offer television sets in every cabin.
Like other travellers, you can select a motel which is clean and quiet, and is provided with a shower-bath, good beds and comfortable furniture. The cost may vary between 30 for a single cabin and three times as much for a more elaborate one. The great advantage in a motel is freedom of movement. One pays the money on registering, drives to the door of one’s own cabin, unpacks just so much luggage as is needed for the night, and leaves early in the morning, if one wants to start the journey early. There are no hotel bellboys to tip, no waiting for the bill, no problem of where to leave the car.
i. For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
Question 1.
weary (line 2)
(a) sleepy
(b) bored
(c) tired
(d) stale
Answer:
(c) tired
Question 2.
rudimentary (line 10)
(a) primitive
(b) basic
(c) immature
(d) rude
Answer:
(b) basic
ii. Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word accessible?
(a) shelter
(b) leading
(c) isolated
(d) attractive
Answer:
(c) isolated
iii. Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
a. How did the motel originate? How can you conclude that the motels are popular today?
Answer:
The motel originated from the need for accommodation for tired travellers during the early days of motoring. The popularity of motels today is evident from the fact that millions use them every night.
b. How do some motels differ from others?
Answer:
Some motels differ in their architectural styles, such as imitations of English villages, log, cabins, Spanish estates, or Eskimo igloos.
c. In the West, which special facilities do some motels provide?
Answer:
In the West, some motels provide facilities such as palm-clad swimming pools, restaurants, laundry services, and car servicing during the night.
d. Which feature is common to most of the motels in the West? How is a high standard of cleanliness and comfort assured in motels?
Answer:
Most motels in the West have air-conditioning, attractive gardens, and television sets in every cabin. Local authorities strictly supervise roadside tourist camps to maintain high standards of cleanliness and comfort.
e. How is it possible to have the freedom of movement in a motel?
Answer:
In a motel, one can pay upon registration, park near the cabin, and leave early in the morning without any hassle, eliminating the need for tipping bellboys, waiting for bills, or worrying about parking.
iv. In not more than 50 words, summarise the comforts that are provided in motels.
Answer:
Motels offer various comforts, including different architectural styles, air-conditioning, attractive gardens, television sets, laundry facilities, and car servicing. They provide freedom of movement with easy registration, parking near the cabin, and no hassle of tipping or waiting for bills, ensuring a comfortable stay for travellers.
Question 5.
i. Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space.
Example: (0) resulting
Evidence of anthropogenic climate change – that is, climate change ……0……. (result) from human activities such as …1…. (burn) fossil fuels and deforestation – is around us. Since 2009, when the term Blue Carbon was coined, researchers and other experts have become interested in the processes of carbon …. 2 …. (remove) from the atmosphere as well. With carbon dioxide (CO2) responsible for most of the global …….3…… (heat), carbon particles are not only being released in …….4……. (extreme) large quantities, they have the ….5…. (able) to linger in the earth’s atmosphere for hundreds of years and warm it. Until the ….6…. (industry) revolution, the earth’s natural system had the capacity to maintain a stable level of atmospheric carbon. Today, the search is for ways to remove the ……7…… (trap) carbon from the air in order to keep the earth’s temperature from ….8…. (exceed) 1.5 degrees.
Answer:
Evidence of anthropogenic climate change – that is, climate change resulting from human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation – is around us. Since 2009, when the term Blue Carbon was coined, researchers and other experts have become interested in the processes of carbon removal from the atmosphere as well.
With carbon dioxide (CO2) responsible for most of the global warming, carbon particles are not only being released in extremely large quantities, they have the ablility to linger in the earth’s atmosphere for hundreds of years and warm it. Until the industrial revolution, the earth’s natural system had the capacity to maintain a stable level of atmospheric carbon. Today, the search is for ways to remove the trapped carbon from the air in order to keep the earth’s temperature from exceeding 1.5 degrees.
ii. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
a. The man was charged _______ theft.
Answer:
The man was charged with theft.
b. The enemy at the end had to give _______
Answer
The enemy at the end had to give up.
c. What are you looking _______?
Answer:
What are you looking for?
d. Will you entrust me _______ that responsibility?
Answer:
Will you entrust me with that responsibility?
e. Ashok is careless _______ his appearance.
Answer:
Ashok is careless about his appearance.
f. Do you agree _______ this proposal?
Answer:
Do you agree with this proposal?
g. The police searched _______ the culprit everywhere.
Answer:
The police searched for the culprit everywhere.
h. We should not look _______ upon the poor.
Answer:
We should not look down upon the poor.
iii. Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option.
Question 1.
He can go there. He has to tell his warden about it.
(a) He needs to tell his warden before going there.
(b) He have to tell his warden as he goes there.
(c) He has to tell his warden before he goes there.
(d) He had to tell his warden before he goes there.
Answer:
(c) He has to tell his warden before he goes there.
Question 2.
The girl is the cricket captain. She was here a little while ago.
(a) The girl, cricket captain, was here a little while ago.
(b) The girl, who was there a little while ago, is the cricket captain.
(c) The girl, who was here a little while ago, is the cricket captain.
(d) The girl was here a little while ago, who is the cricket captain.
Answer:
(c) The girl, who was here a little while ago, is the cricket captain.
Question 3.
The boy is still very weak. He must not play football yet.
(a) The boy is still not strong enough to play football.
(b) The boy is too weak as too play football.
(c) The boy is weak on to play football.
(d) The boy is yet weak to play football.
Answer:
(a) The boy is still not strong enough to play football.
Question 4.
You may succeed or not. I am not interested in it.
(a) Either you succeed or I am not interested in it.
(b) Since I am not interested you may succeed or not.
(c) I am not interested whether you succeed or not.
(d) I am interested if you succeed or not.
Answer:
(c) I am not interested whether you succeed or not.
iv. Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after 2 each sentence.
Question 1.
You remembered to sign the contract, did not you? (Begin with: You did not …)
(a) You did not remember signing the contract, did you?
(b) You did not forget but sign the contract, did you?
(c) You did not forget signing of the contract, did you?
(d) You did not forget to sign the contract, did you?
Answer:
(d) You did not forget to sign the contract, did you?
Question 2.
It looks as if Tarun has applied for the wrong course. (Begin with: Tarun seems…)
(a) Tarun seems to have applied with the wrong course.
(b) Tarun seems to have applied for the wrong course.
(c) Tarun seems to have applied to the wrong course.
(d) Tarun seems to have applied into the wrong course.
Answer:
(b) Tarun seems to have applied for the wrong course.
Question 3.
We have to study a third language up to Class VIII. (Use: compulsory)
(a) It is compulsory for studying third languages up to Class VIII by us.
(b) It is compulsory to study of a third language up to class VIII.
(c) It is compulsory to have studied a third language up to Class VIII.
(d) It is compulsory for us to study a third language up to Class VIII.
Answer:
(d) It is compulsory for us to study a third language up to Class VIII.
Question 4.
He said to me, “Are you going to the restaurant tonight?” (Begin with: He inquired.)
(a) He enquired if I was going to the restaurant tonight.
(b) He enquired from me of going to the restaurant tonight.
(c) He enquired whether I was going to the restaurant tonight.
(d) He enquired whether I was going to the restaurant that night.
Answer:
(a) He enquired if I was going to the restaurant tonight.
Question 5.
Ashok was left with a big fortune by his father. (Use: inherited)
(a) A big fortune was left by Ashok’s father from which he inherited.
(b) Ashok inherited a big fortune of his father.
(c) Ashok inherited the big fortune of his father.
(d) Ashok inherited a big fortune from his father.
Answer:
(d) Ashok inherited a big fortune from his father.
Question 6.
Nitin is very handsome but he is not very clever. (Begin with: Nitin is not as …)
(a) Nitin is not as clever as he is handsome.
(b) Nitin is neither clever nor handsome.
(c) Nitin is not as handsome to be clever.
(d) Nitin is not as clever to be handsome.
Answer:
(a) Nitin is not as clever as he is handsome.
Question 7.
We clapped as soon as the Chief Guest arrived. (Begin with: No sooner …)
(a) No sooner we clapped, the Chief Guest arrived.
(b) No sooner had the Chief Guest arrived than we clapped.
(c) No sooner did the Chief Guest arrived than we clapped.
(d) No sooner was the arrival of the Chief Guest than we clapped.
Answer:
(b)No sooner had the Chief Guest arrived than we clapped.
Question 8.
He is getting so absent-minded; he can not go on working much longer.
(Begin with: He is getting too …)
(a) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.
(b) He is getting toe absent-minded to work any longer.
(c) He is getting too absent-minded to work.
(d) He is getting too absent-minded since he is working much longer.
Answer:
(a) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.