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11 Eng Mercy Guide
11 Eng Mercy Guide
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MERCURY
ENGLISH
Unsurpassed Excellence
AS PER PUBLIC EXAM QUESTION PAPER
STANDARD XI
F OR ONLINE CLASSES
Salient Features
Prose, Poetry and Supplementary
Answers for all Textual Questions
Additional questions and answers
Summary for all lessons
All questions based on Public Exam Question paper
Exhaustive coverage of Non Textual Topics
Public Exam Question papers with answers. (2019 / 2020)
By
G.V. CHANDRASEKHARAN, M.A., M.Ed., M.Phil.
Edited by
V. BHOOPALAN, M.A., M.Ed., M.Phil.,
P. MAYDHINI, M.A., M.Ed., M.Phil.,
mercy Publications
Educational Publishers
43, Bunder Street, Chennai - 600 001
For Orders : 97100 02490 / 70102 31425 / 99415 16187
Price : Rs. 250. 00
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FOREWORD
Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.
- Benjamin Franklin
This Mercury English guide has been prepared to make the students involve
themselves in the learning process. It has been prepared in accordance with the
latest guidelines and the Question Pattern set by the Department of Education,
Govt. of Tamil Nadu.
The book is divided into 2 parts. The first part contains Prose, Poetry and
Supplementary Reader. It has summaries, short questions, paragraph questions
from the text. Additional Questions and answers are provided under each lesson.
The Second part contains the important textual and non-textual questions. The
Questions and answers in Part I and Part II are provided as per the model Question
Paper which has a maximum marks of 90. based on the Model paper to help
the students score maximum marks in the examination. Numerous examples are
given to enhance the language skills.
Further all types of non textual questions are covered in this book. The
authors have meticulously prepared this book with great dedication. We hope
this book will be very useful to students.
We express our sincere thanks to Mr. G. V. Chandrasekharan the author
and our sincere gratitude to the editors Mr. V. Bhoopalan and P. Maydhini for
editing and pruning the entire work meticulously. We appeal to the teachers and
students to offer their valuable suggestions and criticism for furthur enrichment
of this book.
- Publisher
Prose - Forgetting 80
IV
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PROSE
1. THE PORTRAIT OF A LADY
- Khushwant Singh
About the author
Kushwanth Singh is an Indian novelist and lawyer. He studied at St.
Stephen’s College, Delhi and King’s College, London. He joined IFS
in 1947. He is best known for his secularism, sarcasm and love for
poetry. He served as the editor for many magazines. He was awarded
Padma Bhushan in 1974. He also got Padma Vibhushan and Sahitya
Academy awards. His brilliant works include, the Mark of Vishnu.
Train to Pakistan, We Indians and Death at my Doorstep.
Summary
In this short story, the author brings out the bond between him and his loving grand
mother. His grand mother was old. She had a wrinkled face. His grand father’s photo hung in
the room. The author could not remember how she looked when she was young. She had been
short and slightly bent. She was always chanting inaudible prayers. She got him ready for
school when he was young. She accompanied him to the school. The school was attached to
a temple. She spent her time singing bhajans or reading scriptures in the temple and returned
with him to home While returning from school, she used to feed stale chappathis to stray dogs.
When his parents settled in the city, she had to go there. There she began to feed the
sparrows. She did not like the English lessons taught in the school. When the author went
to University, the relationship was almost snapped. But she came to the station to bid him
farewell. One day after evening singing, she fell ill. She knew her end was near. She lay
peacefully in the bed praying and died. As a mark of respect, the sparrows refused to eat the
bread served to them. She was cremated peacefully.
Warm up - Nuclear Family or Joint Family
Based on the visuals given above, give five words / phrases each to describe these two
family types.
Nuclear family Joint family
Only parents and children Youngsters shy Individual attention on
away, age long children less
tradition
Small basic social unit Parents, grand Extension of nuclear
parents and others family
more daily more more responsibility Problems shared
routines, attention on for wage earners
emotionally secure children
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6 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Glossary
mantlepiece - shelf projecting from the wall above a fireplace
absurd - inconsistent / illogical
fables - tales / stories
hobbled - walked unsteadily
puckered - wrinkled
expanse - wide area
monotonous - unchanging / boring
snapped - cut
I
seclusion - isolation
A
bedlam - noisy confusion
N
perched - sat / rested
N
rebukes - scoldings
E
dilapidated - damaged
H
pallor - an unhealthy pale appearance
C
shroud - cloth used to wrap a dead person
realise - to understand or become aware of
-
Synonyms
S
N
Wrinkled - wizened mantel piece - Shelf projecting from the wall
absurd - illogical fables - stories
IO
I
Choose the correct synonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
A
1. That seemed quite absurd and undignified on her part.
N
a) logical b) true c) illogical d) fact
N
2. She hobbled about the house in spotless white dress.
E
a) walked steadily b) walked unsteadily c) walked straight d) walked fast
H
3. Her silver locks were scattered, untidily over her pale, puckered face.
C
a) gathered b) collected c) wrinkled d) broken
4. She was like the winter landscape in the mountains an expanse of pure white serenity.
-
a) widespread b) shrink c) small S d) hot
N
5. She said her morning prayer in a monotonous sing - song while she bathed me.
IO
rebukes.
C
11. A peaceful pallor spread on her face and we knew that she was dead.
E
12. Laid her on the ground and covered her with a red shroud.
a) cloth b) flower c) box d) leaves
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. c) illogical 2. b) walked unsteadily 3. c) wrinkled 4. a) widespread
5. c) boring 6. a) cut 7. b) isolation 8. b) noise 9. a) sat
10. a) trivial 11. b) pale 12. a) cloth
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8 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Antonyms
omitted × included old × new
pretty × ugly young × old
believe × doubt hard × soft
above × below loose × tight
long × short covered × open
revolt × harmony / peace often × seldom
absurd × sensible / wise dignified × undignified
short × long terrible × wonderful
I
never × always beautiful × ugly
A
stoop × straighten scattered × gathered
N
tidy × untidy audible × inaudible
N
constant × inconstant / changeable expanse × small space / shrink
E
pure × impure peace × war
contentment × discontentment together × imbalanced / parted
H
rebuke × praise sagging × draw up
C
protest × acceptance monotony × variability / change
love × hate tiny × large
-
thick × thin stale × fresh / new
attached × detached S chorus × single
N
continue × discontinue little × big
IO
I
3. She hobbled about the house in spotless white dress.
A
a) walked unsteadily b) walked steadily c) ran d) cleaned
N
4. The common link of friendship was snapped.
N
a) joined b) cut c) forced d) removed
E
5. My grandmother accepted her seclusion with resignation.
H
a) unison b) isolation c) formation d) allusion
C
6. Her happiest moments were with the sparrows whom she fed longer with frivolous
rebukes.
-
a) serious b) mild c) soft d) friendly
S
7. For several hours she thumped the sagging skins of the dilapidated drum.
N
a) broken b) damage c) strong d) old
IO
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
B
PU
Textual Questions
C
1. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences based on your understanding of the
R
story.
E
The grandfather had a big turban and loose fitting clothes. His white beard extended to
his chest. he looked 100 years old.
b. Why was the author left with his grandmother in the village?
The author’s parents went to live in the city. So, he was left with his grand mother
c. Where did the author study in his childhood?
During his childhood, the author studied in a school attached to a temple.
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10 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
him to study.
A
N
g. What was the happiest time of the day for grandmother?
The happiest time of the day for the grandmother was the time, she had spent with the
N
sparrows feeding them. She was happy when they sat on her lap, shoulders and head.
E
Additional Questions
H
C
1. What was the turning point in their friendship? How did it affect the writer?
Narrator’s parents asked him to come to city along with his grandmother. That was
-
the turning point in their friendship. He began to read English. The grandmother did not
accompany him to school. There were no temples around. There were no dogs to feed.
S
N
2. Was the grandmother happy with what he had learnt in the school?
IO
The grandmother was not happy at what he was taught. The English words, law of gravity,
the Archemedis principle etc., were taught to him. Education with out religion and morals did
not make her happy. No prayers were taught to him.
T
A
anyone. She sat by the wheel from sunrise to sunset spinning it and reciting prayers.
L
4. How did she receive the narrator when he returned from abroad?
The narrator returned after five years. The grandmother met him at the railway station.
B
She clasped him in her arms, reciting her prayers. She had no time for words.
PU
to sing and beat an old drum. She overstrained herself and became ill.
C
The author’s grandmother was short, fat and slightly bent. Her face was full of wrinkles.
She walked unsteadily. She was always chanting prayers silently. She looked like a winter
M
d. The grandmother appreciated the value of education. Give instances in support of your answer.
Initially she was depressed that prayer was not taught in the school. But she appreciated
the value of education. When the author decided to go abroad, she was not sentimental. She
even came to leave him at the station. She kissed him on his forehead and bade farewell.
e. The grandmother was strong - minded. Justify.
The grandmother was very old. But she was self - reliant. She looked after the author, when
his parents had left for the city. She did not believe in the value of science and dance practice.
She couldn’t think of education with out religion and morals. She accepted the importance of
education and encouraged the author when he had left abroad for higher education. She spent
her time happily feeding sparrows.
f. How did the grandmother spend the last few hours of her life?
I
A
The grandmother fell ill. She knew her end was near. She wanted to pray and not to waste
time talking to others. She lay peacefully in the bed praying and telling her beads. A peaceful
N
pallor spread on her face and she was dead.
N
3. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100 - 150 words each.
E
a) The grandmother played a vital role in the author’s formative years. Give your own example
H
of how elders have a positive influence on the younger generation. Include examples from the
C
story also.
Joint Family :
-
At present, the joint family system is on the way out. In olden days, the children had the
S
company of elders, especially grand parents at home. They had a lot of experience in bringing
N
up children. They used to inculcate good habits in them during the formative years. They
IO
could put them on the right track with both affection and discipline. Discipline, prayers, basic
and functional literacy were taught by the grand parents. Chidren used to learn values from
them with love and devotion.
T
A
Author’s grandmother :
The author’s grandmother used to sing prayer songs, while getting him ready for school.
IC
b) As young Khushwant Singh, write a letter to your parents describing your daily routine
expressing your thoughts and feelings about staying in the village.
B
Date : 15.7.20
PU
From
Kushwanth Singh
Y
xxxxxx
C
xxxxx
R
Dear father,
E
I am doing well here. Grandma is looking after me very affectionately and carefully. I am
pleased to write to you on how I spend my time here.
M
Everyday, Grandma wakes me up early in the morning and gets me ready for the school.
She sings prayers while doing my work. Her idea is that I should learn prayers. I like her voice
and so listen to the prayer songs. I know many of them. She lives like a model for me. She
has great love for living things. She feeds the sparrows and feels happy. They sit on her body
and head. She accompanies me to school. While I am taught lessons by the priest, she would
stay in the temple and read the scriptures. On way back, she would feed the dogs. I am happy
at this daily ritual.
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12 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I admire her for her strong determination despite her age though. I am not totally in
agreement with grandma’s devotion to God.
I am fortunate to have been left in the care of such an affectionate and lovely grandma.
Convey my regards to mother. Hope to meet you soon.
Yours lovingly,
Kushwanth Singh
c) Animals are capable of empathy. Substantiate this statement with examples from the story as
well as your own experiences.
Animals’ empathy :
I
Empathy means the ability to understand the feelings of others. Even animals do possess
A
the quality. We can often see animals even in the wild showing concern for other animals.
I have seen a lioness attacking an innocent small deer. Suddenly a Baboon appeared on the
N
scene, frustrated the lioness and with the help of other animals of its tribe drove away the
N
lioness and saved the deer. I was happy to see it. On another occasion, a group of wild elephants
E
were seen trying to help an elephant calf to come out of a ditch and finally saving it. A number
H
of examples can be cited to show the empathy of animals. Even men could learn from them.
C
Author’s grandmother :
This story reveals such an emphathic concern. The author’s grandmother used to feel
-
happy, feeding the sparrows. It was the happiest moment for her when they sat on her lap,
body and even on her head. When she was dead, all the sparrows gathered in the room. The
S
birds unusually remained silent throughtout the day. The author’s mom threw some pieces of
N
bread. But they refused to eat anything. They remained silent and flew away after grandma’s
IO
body was taken out. This incident shows the great amount of empathy the poor creatures had.
Man has to learn empathy from them.
T
Additional Questions
A
IC
grandma. The grandma was an old woman with a wrinkled face, but she was very pretty. She
was short and slightly bent. She hobbled about the house with one hand resting on her waist.
B
Grandma’s routine : Grandma used to get the author ready to school. She used to accompany
PU
him to the school. She would spend her time at the temple reading scriptures and return along
with the author.
Y
Grandma’s conviction : She was a God - fearing woman. She used to chant prayers silently
all the time. She was empathetic towards all living things. She used to offer chapathi pieces to
C
the dogs and bread pieces to the sparrows. She did not like English schools as moral values and
R
religious instruction were not provided there. But she was not against higher education. She
wanted the author to study abroad. She was peaceful in her death. Even the sparrows showed
E
their respect to her, by being quiet. The crumbs of bread provided to them were untouched.
M
After grandmother was taken to the cremation ground, the sparrows never returned.
Conclusion : The author’s grandma is a typical village woman with ethical values. She had
a lot of sympathy for all living creatures. She is a lovable woman.
e. Compare and contrast the village life and urban life of the author’s grandma.
Introduction : The
grandma brought up the author in a village. She used to get him ready
for school. She was always chanting prayers while at work. She would accompany him to
school which was attached to a temple. The teachers taught prayers to children. She used to
spend the time reading scriptures in the temple.
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PROSE - The Portrait of a Lady 13
Her routine : She used to feed the dogs on her way back from school. She inculcated both
devotion to God and empathy to all living things, in the author’s mind.
The city life : When the author and his grandmother were shifted to the city, there was
not much change in her routine. In the city, moral values and religious instruction were not
provided there in the school. She did not like the English lessons much. But she had respect
for higher education. Grandma accepted the gap that had developed between her and the
author. She confined herself to spinning, feeding the sparrows and praying.
Conclusion : The city life did not have much impact on the grandma. She continued her
spinning and praying. She accepted her seclusion.
Vocabulary
a) Read the following words and choose the correct antonyms from the options given:
I
A
Words Options
N
1 moist a. marshy b. arid c. slimy d. sultry
N
2 frivolous a. serious b. sad c. furious d. happy
E
3 omitted a. isolated b. rejected c. contracted d. included
H
4 protest a. promote b. apprehend c. accept d. project
5 serenity a. simplicity b. anxiety c. absurdity d. stupidity
C
6 scattered a. sprinkled b. multiplied c. gathered d. covered
-
7 monotonous a. interesting b. tiresome S c. fragrant d. satisfying
N
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
Ans : 1. b. arid, 2. a. serious, 3. d. included, 4. c. accept, 5. b. anxiety,
IO
6. c. gathered, 7. a. interesting
Additional
T
A
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
Ans : 1. b) old 2. c) seldom 3. a) impure 4. a) fresh 5. b) always
Y
b) Fill in the blanks choosing the appropriate compound words from those given in the box:
C
Reeta hurried along the road, dressed in her __(1)__ new dress towards the bus stop.
R
Before __(2)__, she had to reach the house of her __(3)__. But the first __(4)__ of her travel
E
was slow due to traffic jam. Her __(5)__ would be regarded with joy. She was __(6)__ herself
to reach the place. When she finally stepped into the __(7)__, she was received with a big hug
M
by her kind aunt. She was in time to join the __(8)__ at the village, for a __(9)__.
singsong overstraining spotless gentlefolk grandmother
courtyard sunset half an hour homecoming
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. spotless 2. sunset 3. grandmother 4. half an hour 5. homecoming
6. overstraining 7. courtyard 8. gentlefolk 9. singsong
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14 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
c) Match the words in Column A with their pairs in Column B to form compound words and write
them in Column C.
A B B A B B
mantel lashes mantel piece toll piece toll gate
eye wheel eye lashes door proof door knob
water gate water proof spinning hive spinning wheel
bee knob bee hive
d) Frame meaningful sentences of your own using the following expression from the story. Use a
dictionary if required.
I
A
i) the thought was almost revolting - It was hard to believe.
Ramesh lives in absolute poverty today. That he was a millionare a decade ago is a
N
thought which was almost revolting to my mind.
N
ii) an expanse of pure white serenity - Calm and peaceful
E
The Himalayas during winter appears like an expanse of pure white senerity with its
H
ice - capped peaks.
C
iii) a turning point - a change in life
Ramu joined an English medium school in the city. It was the turning point in his life
-
which paved the way for his studies abroad.
S
iv) accepted her seclusion with resignation - getting accustomed to the situation and accepting
N
the reality
IO
The leader was arrested on corruption charges and imprisoned. He accepted his
seclusion with resignation.
T
In the above sentence, the word ‘inaudible’ is formed by adding the prefix in - to the root
/ base word ‘audible’. A prefix is a letter or a group of letters which is added to the beginning
PU
of a root word in order to modify it. Usually the new word formed is the opposite of the given
word.
Y
In the above sentence, we also come across the word ‘constantly.’ Here the suffix - ly is
added to the root word ‘constant’.
C
A suffix is a letter or a group of letters added to the end of a root word. By adding suffixes,
R
the grammatical function of the word changes. Words that are derived or formed from the
E
I
f) Homophones : Fill in the blanks with suitable homophones :
A
i) brake / break : a. The car skidded to a halt when I applied the brake.
N
b. We have a short break between the sessions.
N
ii) waste / waist : a. We should never misuse or waste natural resources.
E
b. Shivani wears a belt around her waist.
H
iii) principle / principal : a. Both these machines work on the same principle.
b. Oxygen is the principal element present in the earth’s crust.
C
iv) bread / bred : a. I like to have toasted bread for breakfast.
-
b. Turtles should be bred in a healthy environment.
v) lesson / lessen
S
: a. Finally, the manager learnt a lesson the hard way.
N
b. This medicine will lessen your pain.
IO
vi) pale / pail : a. The child looks very sick and pale.
b. I need a pail of water to wash these cups.
T
Additional
1. Everyone appreciated our __(1)__ for his __(2)__. (principal, principle)
Y
2. I was in the third __(1)__ when she told her __(2)__. (story, storey)
R
7. Last __(1)__ he did not attend school as he was __(2)__. (weak, week)
Ans : week, weak
8. Do you __(1)__ this place? He said __(2)__. (no, know)
Ans : know, no
9. The most __(1)__ scientists are warning of __(2)__ danger due to global warming.
(eminent, imminent)
Ans : eminent, imminent
10. I don’t know __(1)__ the __(2)__ permits us to travel. (weather, whether)
I
Ans : whether, weather
A
Listening Activity
N
N
Read the following statements and the given options. Now, listen to your teacher read aloud a
passage or play it on a recorder. You may listen to it again if required, to help you choose the
E
right options.
H
Paragraph Refer Text Book Page No : 198
C
Questions :
-
i) According to Napolean ‘Good mothers make good _____’.
a) housewives b) jobs
S
c) nations d) ideas
N
ii) Mothers exhibit _____ love.
IO
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
PU
Speaking Activity
C
a) Work in pairs and arrive at five points that bring out the benefits and challenges of living in
R
either a nuclear family of a joint family. Share your views with your class.
E
M
I
b) Build a conversation of eight to ten sets of exchange, with your grandmother discussing the
A
incidents that happened in your school that day.
N
Grand mother : Hello Ramu, when did you return from school?
N
Me : Only now Grandma, How are you?
E
Grand mother : I am fine. What did you do in school today?
: Grandma, we had competitions at school.
H
Me
Grand mother : What were they.
C
Me : Both literary and sports.
-
Grand mother : Did you participate in them?
Me : Yes Grandma. I participated in the recitation of ‘The Bhagavad Gita’ I
S
recited the sloka which you chant everyday.
N
Grand mother : Oh! that’s fine.
IO
Grand mother
: I also participated in the running race.
A
Me
Grand mother : That’s good. You should be good in sports too.
IC
Grand mother
: Grandma! I wanted to share my happiness with you. Please bless me.
B
Me
Grand mother : God bless you my child. Win more laurels in future.
PU
Family is not an individual affair. Family consists of parents, children, grandparents etc.
Every family can be a happy family if each and every member contributes to its happiness.
R
Parents are the main stay. They should plan and spend time for family. Mother will have to
E
If grandparents are living with the family, the mother and father should take care of them
and treat them with love and respect. Grandparents should also help the members with their
adjustment.
They can take care of children, inculcate good habits in them and create a bond with all
the members of the family. Children must study well, help mother in her work and make them
happy with their studies. Man is a social animal. With cooperation and love, the family can
remain a happy family.
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18 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Reading
Laughing Therapy
Answer the following :
a. How does laughter help one to cope with stress?
Laughter provides full scale support for the muscles and releases a rush of stress bursting
endorphines. The laughter will have a positive effect and helps one to cope with stress.
b. Which word in the text (para 2) means the same as ‘dedicated’?
‘Committed means ‘dedicated’.
I
c. Why do you think voluntary laughter provides the same physiological as well as psychological
A
benefits as spontaneous laughter?
N
Laughter Yoga is based on the belief that voluntary laughter and spontaneous laughter
have same benefits. Body cannot distinguish between spontaneous and voluntary laughter.
N
Anything that makes one laugh will have the same positive effect.
E
d. ‘Laughter is the best medicine’. Explain.
H
Scientific studies have proved that laughter has benefits like cardiovascular health and
C
mood. It is good for patients suffering from depression. It plays a crucial role in social bonding.
So laughter is the best medicine.
-
e. Given below is a set of activities. Which of these are followed in the ‘Laughter Yoga’ technique?
sitting on the ground with legs crossed body movements S clapping
N
closed eyes breathing exercises chanting
IO
Stretching, chanting, clapping, eye contact, body movements and breathing exercises are
A
When in group, the members will become closer and have care and concern for each other.
They share their problems, concerns and social matters, thereby a social bond is created.
B
PU
Grammar
Articles and Determiners (Types of Determiners)
Y
a, an, the this, that, these, those my, your, his, her, its, our, your, their
R
a. Read the paragraph below and fill in the blanks using ‘a, an’ or ‘the’
It is said that __(1)__ computer is __(2)__ electronic extention of the human brain.
Therefore, in principle, __(3)__ computer can do all those activities which __(4)__ human
brain can do. Today computers are found to be __(5)__ most useful devices as knowledge
providers. Another important field of application of computers is __(6)__ development of
robots. __(7)__ internet has brought __(8)__ drastic change in communication systems.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. the, 2. an, 3. a, 4. the, 5. the, 6. the, 7. the, 8. a
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PROSE - The Portrait of a Lady 19
b. In the following paragraph, insert ‘a,an’ or ‘the’ wherever necessary and rewrite the sentences.
In our family, we have planned to take __(1)__ children to __(2)__ zoo __(3)__ next
Sunday. __(4)__ van has been arranged and we are sure to have __(5)__ comfortable journey.
Zoo is __(6)__ interesting place for __(7)__ children who enjoy watching __(8)__ animals
and want to know more about them. Even __(9)__ youngsters love to visit __(10)__ zoo.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. the, 2. a, 3. the, 4. A, 5. a, 6. an, 7. the, 8. the 9. the, 10. a.
c. Fill in the blanks with appropriate determiners. (Articles have been included)
Once the emperor gave a bag of seeds to his council of ministers and said that he would
give them six months’ time to grow the seeds. Whoever does a good job will be made the __
I
(1)__ emperor of that empire. __(2)__ the ministers took their task seriously. After six months
A
__(3)__ ministers had small plants in the pots. A __(4)__ had very large plants. __(5)__ had
N
medium sized plants. The emperor entered the hall. He was __(6)__ amused to see __(7)__
plants. He called the __(8)__ minister and asked him what he did with the seeds. __(9)__
N
minister explained the process he adopted to make __(10)__ plant grow. The emperor called
E
__(11)__ the other ministers to explain what they did. Only __(12)__ minister had come
H
with an empty pot. They laughed loudly at the foolishness of this minister. But the Emperor
applauded him and made him the __(13)__ Emperor. Do you know why? He had given them
C
boiled seeds which will not grow. Only __(14)__ minister was honest.
-
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. next 2. All 3. some 4. few S
5. Some 6. much 7. those
N
8. first 9. The 10. the 11. all 12. one 13. next 14. one.
IO
i. They came early but there was _____ (little / a little) work to do.
A
ii. Anand invited _____ (few / a few) friends for the birthday party.
iii. The teacher gave _____ (all / every) student a separate topic for the assignment.
IC
iv. _____ (Most of / Many) the water overflowed from the tank.
L
vii. Adhi had taken _____ (much / many) photos during the programme.
PU
viii._____ (Some / Few) girls who attended the class informed the others about the test.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
Y
i. little ii. a few iii. every iv. Most of v. friends vi. no vii. many viii. Some
C
Tenses
R
a. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verbs in brackets and read the completed
E
passage aloud.
M
The people of India, as a whole, __(1)__ (be) warm - hearted and hospitable. Any
calamity in any part of the world immediately __(2)__ (arise) their charity and generosity and
a committee __(3)__ (be) promptly __(4)__ (set) up to collect funds to help the distressed.
The most endearing quality in them __(5)__ (be) the respect they show for the work done in
any capacity. They __(6)__ (believe) in what we __(7)__ (call) the dignity of labour.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. are 2. will arise 3. will be 4. set 5. is 6. believe 7. call
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20 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
b. Now, use the verbs given in brackets in the following sentences in their correct forms.
1. I (like) to spend time with my friend, whenever I (be) free.
2. He (is) likely to miss the train. He (run) up to the station.
3. At the moment they (wait) at the bus stop. But I (not know) their plans for the journey.
4. They firmly (believe) in the existence of God.
5. We (hear) a lot of noise because the new vacant buildings (transmit) sound.
6. She always (make) excuses for coming late.
7. The Prime Minister (leave) for America to meet the delegates tomorrow.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. like, am 2. is, has run 3. are waiting, do not know 4. believe
I
A
5. hear, transmit 6. makes 7. will leave
N
c. You are a commentator for a 5000 metre running race. Use simple present and present
N
continuous tenses and complete the commentary from the beginning to the end of the race.
E
Read the completed passage aloud.
H
The 5000 metre race is about to begin. Lined up at the starting point, from left to right,
are John of Great Britain, Peter of Nigeria and Jeeva of India. The runners are warming up for
C
the great event. Now they __(1)__ (take) their positions on the track. They __(2)__ (be) all
ready for the start. There __(3)__ (go) the starter’s gun! Yes, the race has begun. John __(4)__
-
(lead) with Jeeva __(5)__ (follow) him closely.
S
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
N
1. are taking 2. are 3. goes 4. is leading 5. following
IO
d. Read the extract from Kayal’s diary entry regarding her Nepal Trek, and fill in the blanks with
T
Day 1 : We __(1)__ (leave) Anna International Airport in Chennai two days ago catching
IC
Day 2 : It __(1)__ (rain) when we reached Pokhara, Nepal’s second largest city, and
PU
saw the snowy peaks of the Himalayas for the first time. We __(2)__ (reach)
Pokhara after a hair raising six-hour bus journey along very narrow roads with
a lot of hairpin bends. The bus __(3)__ (be) so full that one person had to share
Y
Day 3 : We __(1)__ (begin) our trek at last. We are at about 900 metres and the weather
is warm and humid. For lunch, we had chips and yak cheese sandwiches. I
E
didn’t like them very much. I’m thrilled that we __(2)__ (pitch) tents for our
M
Day 5 : We met a lot of children on our trek through the villages. They __(1)__ (play)
in the pool of muddy rain water as we left the place. We have already climbed
2,400 metres. Up here, it never __(2)__ (rain) and there are no trees. It __(3)__
(be) windy and dusty and I am always thirsty.
Ans : 1. were playing, 2. rains, 3. is.
Day 6 : Yesterday we __(1)__ (go) up to the mountainside of the township of Mukthinath,
at 3,600 metres. The thin air with less oxygen there __(2)__ (leave) us breathless.
We __(3)__ (feel) that we couldn’t go any further. We __(4)__ (drink) a lot of
extra fluids to prevent altitude sickness.
Ans : 1. went, 2. had left, 3. felt, 4. drank
Day 7 : We turned around today and started to descend to Jomosom. As we went down,
the oxygen filled our blood again and we seemed to __(1)__ (fly) instead of
I
walking.
A
Ans : be flying
N
Day 8 : We went back to Pokhara in a small plane yesterday. It was exciting when
we __(1)__ (fly) between the mountain peaks. We arrived in Kathmandu this
N
afternoon and we __(2)__ (spend) our last few hours in shopping. We leave for
E
Chennai tomorrow. We’ve had a trip of a lifetime. Ans : 1. flew, 2. will spend
H
e. In the following passage, circle the verbs in simple present tense and underline the verbs in
C
simple past. The first one has been done for you.
i. Unless one is upright there is no use in being a charming fellow. Sometimes it is better to be
-
honest than attractive. These are the great truths of modern life which Shyam never realised. He
S
never said an ill - natured word in his life. He was always polite and spoke softly to everybody.
N
ii. That night he strolled into the Palette Club about eleven o’clock and found Trevor sitting by
IO
himself in the long room. “Well, Alan, did you get the picture finish all right?” he said, as he
lit his cigarette. “Finished and framed, my boy!” answered Trevor, “and by -the - bye, you
T
have made a conquest. That old model you saw is quite devoted to you. I had to tell him all
A
about you - who you are, where you live, what your income is what prospects you have.”
IC
iii. “And now tell me how Laura is. The old model was quite interested in her.” “You don’t
mean to say you talked to him about her?” said Hughie. “Certainly I did. He knows all about
L
the relentless colonel, the lovely Laura, and the Y 10,000.” “You told that old beggar all my
private affairs?” cried Hughie, looking very red and angry. “My dear Alan,” cried Hughie,
B
f. Fill in the blanks using past perfect tense forms of the verbs :
i. I _____ never _____(see) such a beautiful sunrise before I came here.
Y
ii. We were not able to stay overnight as we _____ not_____ (reserve) the tickets in
C
advance.
R
iv. Mariappan knew Pudukottai so well because he ______ (live) there for five years.
v. Yusuf understood the problem because he _____ (experience) the situation earlier.
M
vi. Catherine did not have any cash because she _____ (lose) her purse.
vii. My father _____ (be) to Mumbai once before.
viii.The cat _____ (chase) the bird before it flew out of the yard.
ix. Edith __(visit) several doctors before she found out what the problem was with her
knee.
x. If we ___(call) the manager ahead, we would not have needed to wait so long for a
table.
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22 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
______________________________Answers______________________________________
i. had never seen ii. had, reserved iii. had been iv. had lived
v . had experienced vi. had lost vii. had been viii. had been chasing
ix. had visited x. had called
Additional
Use the correct tense form of the verb given in the bracket.
1. I _____ (teach), if I had time.
2. Water _____ (boil) at 100ºC.
3. If I _____ (be) to Agra, I _____ (have visit) the Taj Mahal.
I
4. If I _____ (win) a lottery, I _____ (buy) a car.
A
5. If the rain _____ (stop), they _____ (play) cricket.
N
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
N
1. would teach 2. boils 3. had been to, would have visited
E
4. won, would 5. had stopped, would have played.
H
g. Read the following news report and underline the past perfect tense form of the verb and
C
circle the simple past tense form of the verb.
India Beat Pakistan to win Blind Cricket World Cup
-
Chasing a huge target of 308 runs, India romped home in the penultimate over of the
S
match to defeat Pakistan and win the Blind Cricket World Cup. India started off their chase
N
in a cracking manner, but had lost two quick wickets. Sunil Ramesh rose to the occasion as
IO
he played a great knock to help India beat Pakistan and had scored 93 runs. Earlier, India
won the toss and had decided to bowl first. Pakistan amassed a huge score of 307 for eight
T
in 40 overs. Their openers had given them a brisk start which the later batsman capitalized
A
on.
IC
h. Read the following extract and fill in the spaces with the right form of verbs and complete the
passage. The first one is done for you.
L
i. The poet stops to hear the maiden singing while she __(1)__ (cut) and __(2)__ (bind)
B
the grain. The song of the lady __(3)__ (fascinate) the poet, who __(4)__ (stand)
PU
there to listen to the song. The girl __(5)__ (sing) a sad song.
Ans : 1. is cutting, 2. binding, 3. fascinates, 4. stands, 5. is singing.
ii. During the monsoon, a tender slightly warm breeze __(1)__ (blow) on a cloudless
Y
afternoon. A sort of fragrance __(2)__ (rise) from the wet grass and trees in the
C
sunlight. It __(3)__ (seem) as if the warm breath of the exhausted earth __(4)__ (fall)
against one’s skin. A sweet voiced bird somewhere __(5)__ (chirp) repeatedly.
R
i. Read the news item that appeared in a daily and fill in the blanks with suitable forms of the
M
j. Read the following passage and correct errors you come across.
1. Rajan slowly settle down in his retired life. His pension plus what his wife bring from
the household work she does helped them to meet their requirements. Life is easy
until one Sunday. His granddaughter Madhu come crying. The clay doll in her hand
had broken into two. Rajan pacify her and promise to mend it. This small repair work
become the founding stone of a very prosperous venture into making clay dolls which
earn him great respect.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1 . had settled 2. had brought 3. did 4. had been 5. came
6. pacified 7. promised 8. had become 9. earned
I
A
2. Games and sports helps in recreation. Soccer, cricket, lawn tennis or wrestling is
N
eagerly watched by millions of fans all over a world. It helps one get a temporary
relief from the tensions of a day. The dedication displayed by all player in the field
N
indicates the mental and spiritual development of the player.
E
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
H
1. help 2. are 3. the 4. the 5. players 6. players.
C
Writing
-
a. Notice.
i. S
Prepare a notice to be displayed on the notice - board of your school for the students of
N
class 11, informing them about the educational tour that has been arranged for them the
IO
next month.
Notice
T
Vellore.
IC
conducted for 3 days from 3rd Aug. to 6th Aug. 2020. Bangalore, Mysore and Ooty
B
will be covered in the tour. Students who wish to join the tour have to pay Rs. 1000
PU
on or before 31st July, 2020 in the school office. A consent letter from the parent has
to be produced. For any queries, contact the Tour Organiser.
- By order -
Y
ii. Write a notice about the inauguration of a laughter club in your school.
C
Notice
R
Nagapattinam,
Inauguration of Laughter Club,
This is to inform all the students that a Laughter Club will be inaugurated
in the school on 20th September at 3 pm in the school auditorium. Dr. Sathish
Kumar has consented to inaugurate the club and deliver the inaugural address.
All students are requested to attend the meeting without fail.
Head Master
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24 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
b. Message.
You are the sports Captain of your school. Write a message to the Physical Director requesting
him to be present during the football team selection scheduled for tomorrow.
15th January 2021
Sir,
I am to humbly inform you that the selection of the football team for our school will be
held at our school at 3pm on 16th January 2021. I request you to be present during the selection
and offer your advice. I look forward for your valuable presence.
Yours sincerely,
I
XXXX
A
Sports Captain.
N
To
N
The Physical Director
E
c. Do you exercise regularly? If you do, which of these following activities do you prefer? Discuss
H
and share with your partner a few lines about your preference.
a) walking b) working out in a gym c) swimming d) cycling
C
I prefer walking : Walking is the best exercise for any person. There is a park near my
-
house with a path around for walking. It is full of trees and flower plants. I walk regularly
for 45 minutes everyday in the morning from 5.30 am. During that time, air is fresh and the
S
environment is pleasant. Walking reduces stress and controls sugar level in blood. A lot of
N
calories are used and I am able to keep my body fit due to walking.
IO
Task Additional
T
3. Is there anyone who ___ help me? 4. My father ___ play cricket in his college.
5. You ___ not walk on grass. 6. How ___ you call me names?
L
9. I ___ wake up at 5am when I was a child. 10. I hope she ___ succeed.
PU
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1 . should 2. must 3. can 4. used to 5. should
6. dare 7. should 8. should 9. used to 10. will.
Y
C
R
E
M
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POETRY
1. ONCE UPON A TIME
- Gabriel Okara
About the author
Gabriel Okara is a Nigerian poet and novelist. His poem ‘The Call
of the River Nun’ won the best award at the Nigerian Festival.
He was honoured with the Common wealth Poetry Award. His
poem transits from everyday reality to delightful moments and
I
A
moves back to reality, making a full circle. He infused African
N
thought, folklore and imagery into his writings. His frst novel
N
‘The Voice’ was outstanding. He published a collection of poems.
E
Summary
H
In this poem, the poet condemns the falsehood and hypocrisy exhibited by people in
C
daily life. People have different masks on their faces for different occasions and lead a life of
duplicity. In this poem, a father describes to his son how false and fake the life is. He wants to
-
relearn genuine things from his son to live a life of innocence and happiness.
S
People now laugh without their heart in it. There is no warmth in the laugh. The laugh
N
and hand shake earlier was done with hearts. But now they are hypocritical and don’t mean
IO
what they say. When people say ‘come again’. There is no sincerety. You will be entertained
once or twice and later humiliated. The father says that he has learnt to wear different masks
T
for different situations like office, street and cocktail face. His smile is like that in a portrait.
A
It is lifeless. Thus humans have learnt to change their expressions according to the situation
IC
for social acceptance. None of them is genuine. When people say good-bye, they mean good
- riddance. They say ‘glad to meet you’ without really being glad.
L
So the father says that the entire life is fake and full of hypocricy. He wants to relearn the
B
Warm up :
a. Guess what friendly words these two gentlemen exchange when shaking hands.
Y
C
R
E
M
1. Hello Good Morning 2. Good morning 3. How do you do. 4. I’m Fine.
5. Welcome to our place. 6. Thank you
25
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26 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
b. The children in the picture are watching an exciting sporting event, where their school team
is winning. Suggest suitable utterances reflecting their feelings :
excellent lovely
aah
hoorah yippee nk God
Tha
I
A
N
N
E
Ans : 1. Hoorah 2. Aah 3. Lovely 4. Yippee 5. Excellent 6. Thank God.
H
c. Given a chance, any adult would wish to become a child again for many reasons. Fill the boxes
C
with some of what you imagine could be the reasons.
-
e.g. I need not worry I need not rush to I can play any
I can be free
about project deadlines. work
S time
N
I can wear my pyjamas I need not worry I don’t need to I can get solace
IO
Glossary
IC
laugh with their teeth - to fake a laugh, laugh without associated emotions
ice-block -cold eyes - eyes lacking a feeling of warmth or endearing expression
L
search behind my shadow - people are hypocritical and they don’t mean what they say
B
while their left hands search my - evaluating the narrator’s worth and power
PU
I. Based on your understanding the poem, answer the following questions in a sentence or two.
M
I
A
g) What pleasantries does the poet use to fake cordiality?
N
The pleasantries with fake cordiality used by the poet are, “Glad to meet you”, without
being glad and, “It’s been nice talking to you”, after being bored.
N
h) What does he desire to unlearn and relearn?
E
The poet desires to unlearn the fake, hypocritic and deceptive way of life learnt as an
H
adult. He desires to relearn from his son the genuine and hearty laugh.
C
i) How is the poet’s laugh reflected in the mirror?
The poet’s laugh reflects only his teeth in the mirror and not his heart. They appear as the
-
fangs of a snake. S
N
j) What does the poet long for?
The poet longs to laugh with his heart as he did while he was a child. He does not like
IO
The child could laugh with its heart. The actions of the child are genuine, pleasant,
heartfelt and sincere.
IC
2. Fill in the blanks choosing the words from the box given and complete the summary of the
L
poem.
The poet Okara in this narrative monologue painfully condemns the (a) _____ displayed
B
by adults, both in their words and actions. Here, a father laments to his son about the negative
PU
changes that creep into the attitude and behaviour of humans, when they grow into (b) _____.
He says that people used to be (c) _____ when they laugh and the honesty would be reflected
in their eyes. But, people of modern times laugh (d) _____. Their handshakes used to be warm
Y
and happy conveying a sense of togetherness, but nowadays the handshakes have become a
C
mere (e) _____. He warns his son that people are not trust - worthy and have become so selfish
that they are concerned only about their own (f) _____ benefits.
R
People utter words of welcome and exchange (g) _____, but those words come only
E
from the tip of their tongues and not from the depth of their hearts. Humans have learnt the
M
art of changing their (h) _____ expressions according to situations merely to ensure social
acceptance. They wear (i) _____ and exhibit multiple faces. The narrator admits that he
has also changed into a hypocrite. However, he tells his son that though he (j) _____ his
expressions, he does all these against his will. He says he wants to become a (k) _____ again
and laugh genuinely. He wants to (l) _____ the unreal things and (m) _____ how to laugh as
he had done once upon a time. When he laughs before the (n) _____, he sees no expression.
His teeth are bare like that of the (o) _____ of a snake. So, he asks his son to show him how
to laugh the way he used to laugh, when he was a kid like him.
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28 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
To laugh heartfully, and the warmth or endearing expression is found in the eyes.
A
ii. shake hands without hearts
N
Hand shake is a gesture of expressing happiness at the meet. The above expression
N
means that the hand shake is not heartful. It is only a formality.
E
iii. like a fixed portrait smile
H
A genuine smile expresses happiness in the eyes and the warmth is felt. The above
C
expression means that the smile is lifeless and dry like a fixed smile found on a
portrait.
-
iv. hands search my empty pockets
It means an act of evaluating one’s worth. S
N
v. to unlearn all these muting things.
IO
All the fake, false and hypocritic behaviour is learnt by man. The above expression
means that he wants to give up all the above superficial and deceptive habits.
T
B. Read the lines given below and answer the questions that follow :
A
Metaphor.
R
Additional Questions
Read the lines given below and answer the questions.
21. “Feel at home,” “come again.”
They say ______.
a) Who are ‘they’?
‘They’ refers to the host.
b) Do ‘they’ really mean it?
No, they have said it as a formality.
1. There was time indeed
I
They used to shake hands
A
With their hearts
N
But that’s gone.
N
a) Who are they?
E
They refers to the adults in the past.
H
b) How was the shake hand?
C
The shake hand was full of warmth.
c) ‘That’s gone’ - Explain.
-
There is no warmth in the shake hands of the adults today.
S
2. And I have learned too
N
to laugh with only my teeth
IO
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Once Upon A Time’ by the Nigerian
poet Gabriel Okara.
Context : The poet recalls how people interacted with fellow humans with real feelings.
Explanation : The poet laments the loss of genuine warmth and feelings in social
interactions in modern times. He recalls with pain how the older generation expressed their
love and warmth through their eyes. Their laughter originated from their eyes (i.e.) gateways
of their hearts. As adults they have only fake smiles and fake laugh.
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30 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Like dresses...
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Once Upon A Time’ by the Nigerian
poet Gabriel Okara.
N
Context : The poet explains how shamelessly he has joined the people in wearing masks
N
for different social occasions.
E
Explanation : Adults today wear different expressions on their face for different occasions
H
like for the home, for the street, for the host and for the party. They change their faces as they
change their dress for different occasions.
C
iv) I want to be what I used to be.
-
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Once Upon A Time’ by the Nigerian
poet Gabriel Okara.
S
Context : The poet expresses desire to regain his childhood innocence.
N
Explanation : The poet regrets that he is living with hypocrisy, falsehood and duplicity.
IO
He expresses his desire to relearn the genuine smile of childhood from his son. He wants to
regain warmth and love.
T
Additional
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Once Upon a Time’ written by Gabriel
B
Okara.
PU
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Once Upon a Time’ by Gabriel Okara.
Context : The poet describes the hypocritic ways of today’s adults.
E
Explanation : Today’s adults have different emotions for different occasions. There is no
M
warmth in their smile. It looks pale like the fixed smile in a portrait. They have a ready made
mask of a smile suited for all occasions.
3. Today ‘Glad to meet you’ without being glad;
and to say, ‘It’s been nice talking to
you’, after being bored.
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Once Upon a Time’ written by Gabriel
Okara.
Context : The poet describes the hypocritic behaviour of todays adults.
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POEM - Once Upon a Time 31
Explanation : Today’s men are dangerously hypocritic. They can say ‘glad to meet you’
without being glad. They can also say, It’s been nice talking to some one even if they are bored
with him.
4. Show me how I used to laugh
and smile once upon a time.
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Once Upon a Time’ by Gabriel Okara.
Context : The poet longs for the lost innocence and warmth of his childhood.
Explanation : The narrator has become hypocritic like others. He does not like it. He
recalls how he had genuine innocence and warmth during his childhood. He wants to relearn
from his young son, to laugh heartily with warmth.
I
4. Answer the following questions in about 100 - 150 words each.
A
i. Explain the things the poet has learnt when he grew into an adult.
N
Falsehood by adults :
N
The poet condemns the falsehood displayed by adults both in work and actions. Lot of
E
negative changes have crept in their behaviour.
H
Fake actions :
C
People used to laugh with warmth. Now the poet has learnt to laugh with his teeth. It
looked like a snake’s fangs. The hand shake is not so warm as it used to be. He learnt to shake
-
hand without a heart.While shaking hands, he also thinks of exploiting the wealth and position
S
of the person. There is no sincerety in the invitation ‘come again’. If it is for the third time,
N
the door is shut on the visitor. Man has learnt to wear different expressions on his face for
different occasions. As he changes his dress for different events, he wears masks for different
IO
social occasions and locations. When he says ‘good bye’, he means good riddance. ‘Glad to
meet you’ is said with no gladness. It’s been ‘nice talking with you’, is said after really being
T
bored. The adult has learnt all these fake manners and hypocrisy. A person conceals his real
A
ii. This poem is nothing but a criticism of modern life. Justify this statement.
L
condemns the falsity displayed by adults both in words and actions. He laments that negative
PU
changes have crept into human behaviour. The modern man is not able to laugh honestly as he
did as a child. His laugh is fake. The warmth and endearing nature of the handshake is gone.
Nowadays they are a mere formality. Even a handshake is an occasion to exploit the wealth
Y
and power of the person. Words of welcome have lost their meaning. There is no depth in the
C
words. . They don’t mean what they say. Humans have learnt the art of changing expressions
R
The Admission :
M
He admits that he has become a hypocrite. Having first hand experience of hypocricy, the
poet criticises modern life sans feelings.
iii. ‘Face is the index of the mind’. Does this adage concur with the views of the poet?
The Adage :
The adage ‘Face is the index of the mind’ does not suit the views expressed in the poem.
Man has learnt to be a hypocrite. He is able to hide his feelings inside. He has mastered the
art of faking words, actions and smiles to suit the occasion.
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32 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
iv. How does Gabriel Okara criticise the modern life in his poem “Once upon a Time”?
The falsehood :
N
In this poem, the poet condemns the falsehood and hypocrisy exhibited by people in daily
N
life. People have different masks on their faces for different occasions. They lead a life of
E
duplicity. In this poem, a father decries to his son how false and fake the life is. He wants to
H
relearn genuine things from his son to live a life of innocent happiness.
The contrast :
C
People now laugh without their heart in it. There is no warmth in the laugh. The laugh and
-
handshake earlier was done with hearts. Now, they are hypocritical. They don’t mean what
they say. When people say ‘come again’, there is no sincerety. You will be entertained once or
S
twice. The thirdtime, the door will be slammed on the face. The father says that he has learnt
N
to wear different masks for different situations like office, street, host cocktail. His smile
IO
is like that in a portrait. It is lifeless. Thus humans have learnt to change their expressions
according to the situation for social acceptance. None of them is genuine. When people say
T
good-bye, they mean good - riddance. They say ‘glad to meet you’ without really being glad.
A
Father’s wish :
IC
So the father says that the entire life is fake and full of hypocricy. He wants to relearn the
genuine childhood laugh from his son.
L
5. Listening Activity : First read the questions given below. Next, listen to an excerpt from a
B
poem read out by your teacher or played in a recorder. Note how a child admires and praises
PU
the abilities of his / her father. Then tick the right answers from the options given
Poem Refer Text Book Page No : 198.
i) When the _____ needs to be repaired, they have to hire a man.
Y
iii) It is certain that the father would restore the _____ of the family members.
M
SUPPLEMENTRY
1. AFTER TWENTY YEARS
by O. Henry
About the author
O. Henry is a popular American short - story writer. His original
name is William Sydney Porter. His stories are well known
throughout the world. They are known for the unexpected twists
in the end. They are also written in simple language and full of
clever word play. He wrote stories for The New York World Sunday
I
A
Magazine. His short story, ‘After Twenty Years’ was frst published
in the year 1905. It was included in the 1906 anthology. Other
N
popular short stories include, ‘The Gift of the Magi’, ‘The Cop and
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the Anthem’, ‘The Ransom of Red Chief’, ‘A Retrieved Reformation
E
and The Third Ingredient’.
H
Summary
C
The story is about two best friends Bob and Jimmy Wells. They had to part ways to chase
their dreams. They return to keep an appointment they had made twenty years ago. The two
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friends parted ways near Big Joe Brady’s restaurant at 10 pm on a night. They were raised in
S
New York just like two brothers. Bob went to the West, Jimmy stayed in New York. They lost
N
track of each other after some years.
IO
Bob was waiting for Jimmy after twenty years at the appointed time and place. He told
his story to a policeman who was on his duty at the time. The policeman noticed Bob’s face
T
when he lighted his cigar. He moved away from Bob. After sometime a person came to Bob
A
enquiring him if he was Bob. Bob was happy to meet Jimmy Wells. At the corner drug store,
IC
in the brilliant light, Bob realised that it was not Jimmy his friend, with whom he was talking
all the time. He could confirm that it was not Jimmy by his looking at nose. Then the other
L
person gave a letter to Bob, written by Jimmy. Jimmy was at the appointed place. He noticed
B
the facial features of Bob when he lighted the Cigar. He found that Bob had become the most
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wanted criminal in Chicago. He could not arrest him by himself. So, he sent a plainclothesman
to do the job.
1. Warm up : a. What do you expect your close friends to do for you ?
Y
C Co
R
nso
E
le
lp Sha ms
ble
pro
Joint study, Share Books & others,
Share Books
est Jo
& others int
gg Advice, rescue.
Su stu
dy
e
e
scu
vic
Re
Ad
33
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34 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
time strengthens friendship ? Share your reasons with your class.
‘Familiarity breeds contempt’ is a proverb which can be applied to many situations.
N
Experience shows that it is true in most cases. However it does not apply to friendship. On
N
the other hand, familiarity with friends works the other way and strengthens the friendship.
E
Good friendship is compared to the shadows in the afternoon. The shadows lengthen with
H
the passage of time. We may lose sight of shadows but they do reappear. When a friendship is
started, it is the union of two unknown people. Frequent interactions help each to understand
C
the other. Gradually friends learn their likes and dislikes, attitude and nature. Familiarity also
helps each to adjust with the other person. One accepts the other with all his faults. One tries
-
to focus on good things in a friend and strengthens them. So, incase of friendship, the proverb
S
cannot be applied as with passage of time, the friendship gets strengthened.
N
Glossary
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habitual - regular
A
nigh - almost
twirling - twisting and spinning around
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intricate - complicated
- physically strong
L
stalwart
swagger - walk in a confident way
B
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e) What used to be there in the place of that shop twenty years ago ?
A
There used to be a restaurant by name Big Joe’s Brady’s restaurant where the store stood
N
now.
N
f) Describe the man awaiting the arrival of his friend.
The man was pale. He had a square jawed face with keen eyes. He also had a little white
E
scar near his right eyebrow. He had a large diamond for his scarf pin.
H
g) Why did the friends part ways ?
C
Bob wanted to go to the West to chase his ambition. Jimmy wanted to remain in New
York. So they parted ways.
-
S
h) When and how did Bob realize that the tall man was not his friend ?
N
Bob walked with the tall man. At the corner near the drug store in the brilliant lights, he
looked at the face of the tall man. He realized that he was not his friend. Jimmy had a Roman
IO
The tall man was a plainclothes man. He was sent by Jimmy to arrest Bob.
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Jimmy.
B
2. State whether the following statements are right or wrong by marking ‘X’ in the corresponding
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boxes.
a) The cop suddenly slowed his walk, when he heard the barking of dogs. X
b) The friends grew up together in the city of New York. p
Y
f) Bob wanted to stay for half an hour more than the appointed time. p
E
h) Bob realised that the tall man was not Jimmy Wells from the shape of his nose. p
3. What does each of the following mean in the story ? Choose the right option :
a) on the beat :
i) moving around hitting everyone with a stick
ii) on duty walking around the assigned area
iii) marching with heart throbbing fast
Ans : ii) on duty walking around the assigned area
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36 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
b) a guardian of peace :
i) a watchman ii) a holy man iii) a policeman
Ans : iii) a policeman
c) corresponded :
i) discussed over phone ii) interacted through body language
iii) c ommunicated by exchanging letters
Ans : iii) communicated by exchanging letters
d) arm in arm :
i) with arms linked together ii) with weapons in hands
I
iii) w
ith handcuffs on wrists
A
Ans : i) with arms linked together
N
e) plainclothes man :
N
i) a man who wears simple clothes for grand occasions
E
ii) a policeman in civilian clothes while on duty
H
iii) a cine artist in ordinary costumes
ii) a policeman in civilian clothes while on duty
C
Ans :
4. Answer the following questions in three or four sentences each :
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a) What did Bob share with the cop about their friendship ?
S
Bob shared the incidents in their life twenty years ago. Both were raised like two brothers.
N
Bob was younger than Jimmy. They parted ways to make a living. Bob went to the West.
IO
b) What are the strengths and weaknesses of Jimmy Wells from Bob’s point of view?
A
According to Bob, Jimmy liked New York. He did not want to leave New York. He was
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the truest, staunchest old chap. He would never forget their friendship. He was a plodder.
c) Was Bob hopeful of his friend’s arrival ? How do you know ?
L
Bob was hopeful of his friend’s arrival. Jimmy was the truest and staunchest person. He
B
d) How did the cop come to understand that Bob had been successful in the West?
The Cop looked at Bob’s facial features when he lighted his cigar. He saw his scarf pin
Y
was a large diamond. His watch lid was set with diamonds. So he understood that Bob had
been successful.
C
R
e) Bob’s life in the West was not a bed of roses. Give reasons.
Bob’s life in the West was not a bed of roses. He had to compete with some of the sharpest
E
I
Jimmy was honest and he became a policeman with a moderate income. Bob remembered
A
his friend as he could say that the tall man was not Jimmy, by looking at his nose.
N
Jimmy was honest and dutiful. At the same time, he had love for his friend. He could not
arrest Bob by himself. So he had sent a plainclothes man to do the job. Thus, he lived upto his
N
job honestly. He conveyed his real feelings in a note through the plain clothesman.
E
b) ‘Means should justify the end’. Explain this adage with reference to O. Henry’s story ‘After
H
Twenty Years’.
C
Introduction :
Means should always justify the end. The end is not important, the means should be
-
fair and acceptable by law. In this story, the two friends Bob and Jimmy parted seeking their
livelihood in different places. Jimmy preferred to stay in New York and seek his living. He
S
became a policeman and honestly followed his work. Though he got moderate income, he was
N
happy. But Bob went to the West to seek his fortune. When they met after twenty years, Bob
IO
seemed very successful. In the cigar light, the policeman could see Bob’s watch, with its lid
set with small diamonds. His scarf - pin was a large diamond. This reveals that Bob was very
T
Chicago. This reveals that Bob earned his wealth by unfair means and he was wanted by the
police. His riches could not save him from being arrested. One has to pay the price for the
L
ill-gotten wealth.
B
It shows that means is more important than the end. It does not matter if one remains
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poor following fair means of living. If the means of income is unfair, one is certain to land in
trouble.
c) ‘Tell me who your friends are and I shall tell you who you are’. How will you explain this
Y
Introduction :
One’s attitude and character can be guessed by learning about one’s friends. But this
R
cannot be said to be true in case of Bob and Jimmy. Jimmy was the truest and the most honest
E
person. Bob his friend, does not possess the same character as Jimmy. They parted ways to
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seek living in different places. Jimmy became a policeman and earned moderately. But Bob
went to the West and was successful in earning a lot of money. But he broke law to make his
fortune. So, he was arrested.
The Separation :
Twenty years of separation has changed the basic character of Bob. He had become a
notorious criminal wanted by chicago police. So, it cannot be said that the true colour of the
person can be guessed by the character of his friend. The separation of friends for twenty
years has changed Bob from an ordinary person to a criminal.
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38 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
d) To your shock, you find out that your close friend is indulging in some wrong activity. Will you
avoid him / her or try to correct him / her ? Give reasons for your answer.
Introduction :
Friendship is not for merely entertaining each. It is said, “a friend, philosopher and guide.”
A true friend is one who advises, reprimands and tries to mend the ways of the other person
if needed.
My duty :
If I find my close friend indulging in wrong activity, I would certainly not avoid him. I will
consider it my foremost duty to try and correct him. I will try to explain him the consequences
of his wrong doings. I will explain how they would affect him and his future. I will persuade
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A
him to view how his actions would disgrace his parents.
N
I will find out under whose influence he was indulging in wrong activities. I will try my
best to wean him away from that influence. If all my attempts to correct him fail, I would be
N
left with no other option than to avoid him.
E
Conclusion :
H
I remember one of my friends who was attracted by horse races and began to bet on them.
C
He had lost a lot of money. When I learnt that, I tried my best to correct him. I succeeded in
dissuading him from betting on horses. It is the duty of a true friend to take care of the other
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and help him overcome his wrong practices.
S
e) What would you have done in this situation, if you were Jimmy Wells ? Substantiate your
N
reason.
IO
as he did. A police man is a guardian of peace. It is his duty to arrest a culprit. While doing
A
one’s duty, there is no place for friendship, however close he might be. Jimmy was meeting
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his friend Bob after twenty years. Jimmy was loyal to his profession. Unfortunately, his friend
Bob had turned into a criminal.
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Honest to profession :
B
It was the duty of the policeman to uphold the rule of law. It was his responsibility to
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arrest the culprit. Since he happened to be his close friend, he could not himself arrest him.
As he was an honest and a dutiful policeman, he had asked a plainclothes man to do the work.
Jimmy had acted in the right manner. I would have acted in the same manner as he did.
Y
C
Unit test
R
Part - I
Answer all the questions 10 × 1 = 10
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. She said her morning prayer in a monotonous sing - song while she bathed me.
a) happy b) beautiful c) boring d) mono
2. Her happiest movements were with her sparrows whom she fed longer and with
frivolous rebukes.
a) trivial b) noticed c) listened d) rough
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SUPPLEMENTARY - After Twenty Years 39
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
3. My grandmother accepted her seclusion with resignation.
a) unison b) isolation c) formation d) allusion
4. We protested. But she ignored our protests.
a) not cared b) took notice c) not listen d) turned deaf
5. Choose the appropriate word to make a compound word with ‘toll’.
a) plaza b) late c) proof d) wheel
6. Frame a meaningful sentence of your own using the following expression from the
story.
frivolous rebukes
7. Form a derivative by adding the right suffix to the word ‘patient’.
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A
a) - ly b) - ios c) - able d) - ance
8. Choose the correct article.
N
_____ computer can do all those activities which the human brain can do.
N
a) A b) An c) The d) On
E
9. Replace the underlined word with a phrasal verb.
H
The magazine targetted the teenagers.
C
a) aimed at b) ran into c) back off d) account for
10. Fill in the blank using correct tense form of the verb :
-
I _____ (read) the novel when I was in my primary school.
a) have read b) am reading
S
c) had read d) have been reading
N
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Part - II
Section - 1
T
Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
A
I
A
Section - 1
N
Explain any one of the following with reference to the context : 1×3=3
18. Once upon a time, son
N
They used to laugh with their eyes;
E
19. With all their confirming smiles
H
Like a fixed portrait smile.
C
20. I want to be what I used to be.
Section - 2
-
Answer any one of the following: 1×3=3
S
21. Why did the grandmother accompany the author to school?
N
22. What was the happiest time of the day for grandmother?
IO
24. Prepare a notice to be displayed on the notice - board of your school for the students
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of class 11, informing them about the educational tour that has been arranged for
them next month.
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25. You are the sports captain of your school. Write a message to the Physical Director
requesting him to be present during the football team selection scheduled for
B
tomorrow.
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26. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verbs in brackets.
The people of India, as a whole, __(1)__ (be) warm - hearted and hospitable. Any
calamity in any part of the world immediately __(2)__ (arise) their charity and
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generosity and a committee __(3)__ (be) promptly __(4)__ (set) up to collect funds
C
to help the distressed. The most endearing quality in them __(5)__ (be) the respect
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they show for the work done in any capacity. They believe in what we __(6)__ (call)
the dignity of labour.
E
M
Part - IV
Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words: (any one) 1×5=5
27. The poem “Once Upon a Time” is nothing but a criticism of modern life. Justify this
statement.
28. Compare and contrast the character of Jimmy Wells and Bob with suitable references
from the story to support your view.
29. The grandmother played a vital role in the author’s formative years. Give your own
example of how elders have a positive influence on the younger generation. Include
examples from the story also.
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PROSE
2. THE QUEEN OF BOXING
M.C. Mary Kom
About the author
Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom is a boxer and the winner of fve
World Boxing Championships and an Olympic Bronze in 2012. As
a school girl, she used to play various games. Mary Kom took up
boxing inspired by Dingko Singh who won a gold in Asian games
in 1998. Her frst win was a silver medal in USA in 2001. She is the
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only woman boxer to have won a medal in each of the six World
A
Championships. She was honoured with the Padma Shri and the
Padma Bhushan for her wonderful achievements in the feld of
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sports. She wrote her autobiography ‘Unbreakable’ in 2013.
N
Summary
E
Mary Kom came from a poor family. She took interest in boxing and pursued the same
H
with great difficulty. She participated in the Women Boxing Championship in USA in 2001
C
and won a silver medal. She found the life at USA very harsh due to the new environment.
The greatest disadvantage for her was loss of appetite. She lost weight also. Just before finals,
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she weighed only 46 kg. This cost her the dream of winning gold. Coaches comforted her as
she was the only one in the Indian team to win a medal.
S
N
During her career she travelled a lot and she liked chinese food. She was given a warm
IO
reception at Delhi on her return. Back in Imphal, she was showered with praise. She was given
the traditional shawl. She expressed her desire to win the gold for the country. She was also
T
given some prize money after her win. It helped her to end her financial problems temporarily.
She needed a government job to support her married life. After her second world championship
A
gold, Manipur government gave her a Sub-Inspector’s job in 2005. She continued her sports
IC
career even after her marriage. The job permitted her to stay out for practice and to travel for
contests.She retained the third World Women’s Boxing Championship.
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She had a good run from 2001 to 2004. After wedding, she won a gold in the third and
B
She won a hat - trick of world championship wins and was christened ‘Queen of Boxing’
and ‘Magnificent Mary’.
Warm up
Y
C
We use various sports equipment to play different indoor and outdoor games. Now, associate
the following sports equipment with their corresponding sports or games.
R
E
spear, racket, pawns, puck, stump, bow & arrow, club, oar, striker, sabre, dice, baton.
M
Have you won any medals? What are the levels to be accomplished to become an international
sportsperson?
I have not won any medal. To become an international sportsperson one has to contest
and win zonal, state and national level sports.
What is your favourite sport? Do you play any sport?
Cricket is my favourite sport. I play cricket.
In India, the number of women pursuing careers in sports is considerably less, when compared
to men. What do you think are the reasons? Discuss with a partner and share the ideas with
the class.
I
In India, less number of women pursue sports as a career compared to men. There are
A
various reasons for this. Women are coming to the forefront in employment, leadership,
N
politics and enterpreneurship only recently.
N
Sports needs a dedicated life and it should be pursued as the only goal. Indian women cannot
risk their career and married life for the sake of sports. In villages, there is no encouragement
E
for girl students for sports leave alone education. The family traditions put restrictions on girls
H
to take up sports. Coaching and pursuing a sports career is a costly affair. Many cannot afford
C
it. These reasons contribute to the state of less number of women pursuing sports career. If
opportunity cost is met and sponsors support them, many girls will take up sports and rock
-
the world.
S
Regardless of the challenges faced, some women have achieved great success in the field of
N
sports. Here is a list of Indian women celebrities who are accomplished in the field of sports
IO
and games. Match their names with the sports or games they are associated with, by drawing
lines. One has been done for you as an example.
T
Glossary
princely - very large
jet lag - a tired and unpleasant feeling a person experiences, following a long flight
through different time zones
appetite - hunger
lauded - appreciated
conviction - firm faith or belief
sate - satisfy
palate - sense of taste
felicitation - congratulatory address
adulation - appreciation
I
A
etched - imprinted
- guess
N
speculation
haul - taking a collection
N
1. Antonyms
E
Now find and write the antonyms for the words in Box A from the set of words in Box B.
H
C
A B
amateur professional Professional leader eccentric
-
compulsory optional respective elusive
S cheap
traditional modern unnecessary supportive ancillary
N
IO
Synonyms
B
I
Write synonyms for the following words and use them in sentences.
A
1. adulation - appreciation / The hero was received with great adulation.
N
2. conviction - firm belief / Gandhiji preached with great conviction.
N
3. etched - imprinted / The image of the king was etched on the coins.
E
4. felicitation - congratulatory words / The winning team was felicitated by the government.
H
5. haul - taking a collection / The bowler had a large haul of wickets.
6. lauded - appreciated / He was lauded for his efforts to bring success to the team.
C
7. princely - large / The palace has princely halls and rooms.
-
8. speculation - guess / The scientist told his speculation about the future of the galaxy.
S
9. vanished - disappeared / Under magic spell, a hat vanished and a hare appeared.
N
10. Inferior - lower in status / No person is inferior to others in any manner.
IO
Choose the correct synonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. With this princely sum, and a little more that had been collected, I left for the US.
T
4. What I took away from this championship was the conviction that I could take on any
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boxer.
a) belief / firm faith b) disbelief c) faithless d) diffidence
5. There was a victory ride across town and a felicitation programme was held.
Y
7. The fight and all that followed are clearly etched in my memory.
M
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. a) large sum 2. c) hunger 3. d) comforted 4. a) belief / firm faith
5. a) congratulation 6. b) appreciation 7. a) imprinted 8. b) take a collection
9. a) to be remembered 10. c) especially
Antonyms
selected × rejected international × national
amateur × professional upset × pleasant
worried × happy expensive × cheap
princely × miserely relieved × burdened
I
empty × full cold × hot
A
beautiful × ugly confined × free
N
little × large pleasant × unpleasant
N
enormously × small nice × rough
E
forward × backward compulsory × optional
H
fortunate × unfortunate lucky × unlucky
C
enough × scarce opponent × ally
comfortable × uncomfortable quickly × slowly
-
vanished × appeared lost S × found
hopeful × desperate unbeatable × beatable
N
defeated × won inferior × superior
IO
Write antonyms for the following words and use them in sentences.
1. accustomed × not used to / The tribal man is not used to English medicine.
2. confined × open / The meeting was conducted in an open place.
3. consoled × upset / He was upset with the results.
4. felicitated × blamed / The manager was blamed for his inept handling of the situation.
5. inferior × superior / His work is superior to mine.
6. retained × dismissed / He was dismissed from the party for indiscipline.
7. Vanished × appeared / The sun appeared behind the clouds.
8. complex × simple / The problem is simple.
I
9. steady × occasional / He received occasional calls from his mother.
A
10. scattered × gathered / Children gathered pebbles on the sea shore.
N
Choose the correct antonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
N
1. With this princely sum, and a little more that was collected, I left for the US.
E
a) paltry b) hugesum c) large d) great
H
2. I was fortunate, but some of the team mates were not so lucky.
a) lucky b) unfortunate c) unlucky d) gifted
C
3. RSC is applicable if the referee feels one of the boxers is inferior to others.
-
a) interior b) exterior c) superior d) insincere
S
4. But the coaches were kind they consoled me and lauded me.
N
a) appreciated b) praised c) encouraged d) scolded
IO
5. What I took away from this championship was the conviction that I could win.
a) disbelief b) faith c) belief d) determination
T
8. The Manipur government offered me the post of S.I. which I accepted in 2005.
B
2. Based on your reading of the text, answer the following questions in two to three sentences
each.
a) How did Mary Kom manage to get financial support for her trip to the USA?
Mary Kom’s father managed Rs. 2000 for her trip. Two MPs donated Rs. 8000 together.
Thus she had managed Rs. 10,000 for her trip.
b) Why did Mary Kom think that she should not return empty - handed?
Mary Kom remembered the financial support and moral support she received from people.
So, she thought that she could not return empty handed.
c) What was her first impression of America?
For her, the USA was cold and beautiful, the snowing was pleasing. The people were very
I
nice.
A
d) Why did she call herself ‘lucky’?
N
After a long journey, she had jet lag. Others had a match on that day. She did not have
N
one. She could take rest and get ready. So, she felt she was lucky.
E
e) According to Mary Kom, what was the reason for her losing in the finals?
H
She lost her appetite and lost weight before the finals. This was the reason for her losing
the finals.
C
f) What made her feel confident about the competitive players? Explain.
-
During the first world championship match, she gained the confidence that she could face
anybody in the ring. S
N
g) What difficulty did she experience while eating Chinese food?
IO
She enjoyed Chinese food. But she found it difficult to use the chop sticks. She tried using
her hands to eat.
T
She was given a warm welcome at Delhi airport. In Imphal, a victory march was taken.
IC
People and leaders showered praises on her. She was presented with a traditional shawl.
i) What did she consider her greatest achievement ? Why?
L
The first international medal, a silver at Pennsylvania was considered by her as her
B
greatest achievment. It brought fame and recognition for her. She gained the confidence that
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1. Why did Mary Kom think that the event would change her life?
C
Mary Kom went on to reach the finals though her teammates lost one match after the
other. She felt that the boxers were not unbeatable as she had thought earlier. She was hopeful
R
of winning the gold. This confidence made her feel that the event would change her life.
E
2. What were Mary Kom’s thoughts when she touched down in India?
M
Mary Kom won the silver medal in Pennsylvania. She was given a rousing reception in
India. She vowed that she would bring back gold the next time. She knew that she was good
enough for it.
3. How did she disprove the doubts of others about her medals after her marriage?
Others doubted if her medal winning would continue after her marriage. But Mary Kom
won gold both in the third and fourth Women’s Championship in 2005 and 2006, both after
her marriage. Thus she disproved the doubts of her critics.
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48 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
4. Why does she consider her fourth title in 2006 as the most memorable?
Mary Kom won the World Title in 2006 retaining her title in the event held at Delhi. She
considers that win as the most memorable one, because it was won at home.
3. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 100 - 150 words each.
a) Describe Mary Kom’s personal experiences during her first International Championship match
from the time of selection to winning the medal.
Mary’s struggle : Mary Kom was selected in the 48kg category for the International Boxing
Association World Women Championship in Pennsylvania, USA in 2001. Her father arranged
only Rs. 2000 for her trip. She was worried about the expenses. She was able to meet two MPs
and get Rs. 8000. With the Rs.10,000 on hand, she was happy to leave for USA. She did not
I
want to return empty - handed.
A
Her first encounter : For the first time, she had travelled a long distance but she was
N
pleased with Pennsylvania. It was cold, beautiful and snowy there. The people were nice. She
N
went straight to the sporting arena. She was tired and was suffering from jet lag. But she was
lucky not to have any match on that day. She could take rest. She won her opponents easily.
E
She went on to reach the finals. She was confident of winning the gold.
H
The final match : But the greatest disadvantage for her was her loss of appetite. She lost
C
weight before the finals. This was probably the reason that shattered her dream of winning the
gold. She lost the finals to Hula Sahin of Italy. She had to be satisfied with the silver. But that
-
was by no means, a mean achievement.
S
b) Lack of adequate financial resources and sponsorships often affect sportspersons. How is this
N
evident from Mary Kom’s life?
IO
Need for coaching : Sponsorships should be offered to them to pursue their career without
IC
any interruption. A lot of coaching is also needed to prepare them to compete at International
level.
L
Mary’s case : This is evident from Mary Kom’s life. She was selected to participate at
B
the International event at USA. But she had to struggle to gather funds even to reach USA.
Finally, people had to come together to send her to USA. She struggled to get adjusted to
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the new environment. This became a disadvantage for her and she had to miss the gold. If
she could stay in USA, well in advance, the result would have been different. Her financial
constraint deprived her the opportunity.
Y
c) Why was Mary Kom named the ‘Queen of Boxing’ and ‘Magnificient Mary’?
C
Mary Kom was selected to participate in the International event for Boxing at USA.
E
She struggled to reach there but won the silver medal. On her return she was given a warm
reception at Delhi. She got a job as a police officer. Her medal hunt continued even after her
M
marriage.
Medal hunt :
She retained the Third World Women’s Boxing Championship in Russia in 2005. She had
a gold in the Third and Fourth World Women’s Boxing Championships in 2005 and 2006.
There were other international level championships in Taiwan, Vietnam, Denmark and so on.
The Hat trick :
She considers her first silver medal as her great achievement. With the hat-trick of world
championship wins, she was christened, ‘Queen of Boxing’ and ‘Magnificient Mary’.
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PROSE - The Queen of Boxing 49
I
Conclusion : She has to her credit a great number of awards including the Arjuna award.
A
She fought her way to victory, with confidence and perseverence. She was rightly christened
N
as the ‘Queen of Boxing’.
N
Vocabulary
E
A. Abbreviations : Note the abbreviation used in the following sentence taken from the
H
lesson ‘The Queen of Boxing’. “In the quarter-final, I defeated Nadia Hokmi of Poland by
RSC”. Here, the expansion of RSC is Referee Stopped Contest. Look at the other abbreviations
C
used in the lesson.
-
Abbreviation
S
An abbreviation is a short form of a word obtained by using the first letters of the words
N
or by dropping some letters of the words.
IO
Write the expanded forms of the following abbreviation we commonly come across in our daily
A
life.
IC
I
A
5. ILO - International Labour Organisation
6. ISRO - Indian Space Research Organisation
N
7. LASER - Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
N
8. AIDS - Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome
E
9. TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
H
10. ATM - Automated Teller Machine
11. BBC - British Broadcasting Corporation
C
12. CPU - Central Processing Unit.
-
13. AAI - Airport Authority of India
14. BC - Before Christ, Backward Class
15. BDS S
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
N
16. B.E. - Bachelor of Engineering
IO
I
54. ICC - International Cricket Council
A
55. IMF - International Monetary Fund
N
56. IOB - Indian Overseas Bank
N
57. IPC - Indian Penal Code
58. IPO - Indian Postal Order
E
59. IPS - Indian Police Service
H
60. ISBN - International Standard Book Number
C
61. ISI - Indian Standard Institute
62. IST - Indian Standard Time
-
63. JEE - Joint Entrance Examination
64. KPO - S
Knowledge Process Outsourcing
N
65. LAC - Line of Actual Control
66. LIC - Life Insurance Corporation of India
IO
I
101. TB - Tuberculosis
A
102. TV - Television
N
103. UAE - United Arab Emirates
104. UNO - United Nations Organisation
N
105. UPS - Uninterrupted Power Supply
E
106. UPSC - Union Public Service Commission
H
107. VAO - Village Administrative Officer
C
108. VC - Vice Chancellor
109. VIP - Very Important Person
-
110. WTO - World Trade Organisation
111. WWW - World Wide Web
S
N
Acronym
IO
An acronym is formed using the first letters of a group of words to form a word that can
be pronounced as a word
T
Now form opposites of the words given below by prefixing ‘un’, ‘in’, ‘dis’, ‘ir’, ‘il appropriately.
-fortunate, -respect, -rational, -direct, -comfortable, -regular, -active, -agree, -obedient, -
continue, -decent, - legitimate, -regular, - aware, -finite, - necessary.
Unfortunate, disrespect, irrational, indirect, uncomfortable, irregular, inactive, disagree,
disobedient, discontinue, indecent, illegitimate, irregular, unaware, infinite, unnecessary.
C. Idioms related to sports
The world of sports has given us many idiomatic expressions like ‘blow-by-blow’. Read
the description of each of the idioms given below. Then match these idioms with their meaning
given in the box.
i) throw in the towel : Wet towels are kept near a boxing ring to wipe the sweat of boxers
between rounds. When a boxer was getting badly beaten, his manager would throw a
I
towel in the ring to end the fight.
A
Ans : to give up
N
ii) in our corner : In a boxing match, the corners are the two opposite angles of a boxing
N
ring where the boxers rest between rounds.
Ans : on your side in an argument or dispute
E
iii) on the ropes : Boxing rings are typically enclosed by four ropes. As a boxer when
H
your opponent has forced you against the ropes with his/her attack, you are in trouble.
C
Ans : state of near collapse or defeat
iv) below the belt : Hits below the beltline are generally considered illegal in boxing.
-
Ans : unfair or unsporting behaviour
S
v) square off : facing each other at the beginning of a match.
N
Ans : prepare for a conflict.
IO
Additional
T
A B Ans A B Ans
IC
Listening Activity
R
Read the questions based on the running commentary of a cricket match. Then, listen to the
E
running commentary of the match read out by your teacher or played on the recorder and tick
M
I
A
Speaking Activity
N
In groups of five, discuss the following topic taking examples from Mary Kom’s life.
N
Athletes cannot run with money in their pockets. They must run with hope in their heart and
E
dreams in their head.
H
My view : I whole heartedly support the view that athletes must have hope in their heart
C
and dreams in the head rather than money in their pockets. Ultimately, it is the dedication
towards achieving the dream of winning a title prevails and the hope gives encourgagement.
-
Athlete’s criteria : At the outset, let me say that an athlete is driven by a strong desire to win
S
and his efforts and hard work help him to reach the goal. Money is needed for getting ready
N
to face the challenge, but that is not the only criterion. I should like to draw your attention to
the circumstances in which Mary Kom travelled to USA to participate in the championship.
IO
But her poor financial status did not affect her win in the games. In my opinion, an athlete
should give priority to training, hope and persevarance to reach the goal, the needs of money
T
Reading
IC
i) Represent the other paragraphs in visual form of your choice. (flow chart, mind - map, Pie -
L
chart etc.)
Paragraph Refer Text Book Page No : 41
B
Kabbadi
PU
ii) Paragraph - 2
Two teams 7 players
Y
Hadudu in Bangladesh
Kabbadi or Chedugudu in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Telanpave. Kabbadi in Kerala &
Telengana.
Given below is the visual presentation of the first paragraph.
Kabbadi
Origin:
Tamilnadu
National Sport of
I
Bangladesh
A
N
ii) Choose the correct option.
N
1. A contact sport usually involves a _____ contact between players.
E
a) violent b) gentle c) physical
H
Ans : c) physical
C
2. Kabbadi is a game played between _____.
a) seven teams of two players b) two teams of seven players
-
c) four teams of seven players S
Ans : b) two teams of seven players
N
3. A single _____
IO
A raider runs into the opposing team, tags out as many defenders as possible and returns.
Points are scored for each player tagged.
B
PU
A player can be revived when he is out of the game, for each point scored by their team
C
from a tag.
R
4. Kabbadi is called by different names in different parts of India. Do you know how Pallankuzhi
E
Pallankuzhi is called as Vamana guntalu in Andhra Pradesh, Kuzhipara in Kerala and Ali
guli mane in Karnataka.
Grammar
Modal Auxiliaries
Modal auxiliaries are also called helping verbs. They indicate modalities, attitudes or
feelings like ability, possibility, permission, obligation, compulsion etc.
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56 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A. Choose the correct word to complete the following sentences.
A
1. We are not completely sure but Kishore _____ come back tomorrow.
N
2. When Koushik was a child, he _____ play in the street.
N
3. _____ I have some more juice, please?
E
4. We _____ not paint this room now
5. I _____ rather request you to check my exercise before giving it to the teacher.
H
6. _____ I use your mobile phone? It’s an emergency.
C
7. In schools, students _____ wear uniforms. It is compulsory.
8. The voyagers _____ drop anchor at the unknown island.
-
9. Thou _____ love your neighbour.
S
10. The Manager _____ not excuse you, if you fail to complete your assignment today.
N
11. Helen jotted down the important points lest she _____ forget it.
IO
16. My brother _____ go abroad to pursue his higher studies next year.
17. It’s not that urgent. You _____ take your own time.
L
20. I _____ not believe my eyes. Is Santhosh the one who is standing over there?
21. Dinesh _____ be the richest person in the village. He has just bought two luxury cars.
22. Nirmala _____ write perfectly when she was seven.
Y
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
C
8. did not 9. shall 10. will 11. would 12. must 13. will 14. would
E
15. should 16. will 17. can 18. need 19. May 20. can 21. could
M
22. used to
B. Practice your modal verbs. Look at these signs and write down the rules, regulations or advice
they convey using the modal verbs given below.
can - could - may - might - must - ought - to - shall - should - will - would.
Danger falling material - Falling material can hurt you. Walk cautiously
Safety first no Loitering - No loitering in this area; you must not tresspass
Caution: slippery floor - Slippery floor, you must walk carefully.
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PROSE - The Queen of Boxing 57
I
I thought I will go to British Museum today to read the treatment for some slight ailment
A
of which I had a touch. I __(1)__ read all I wanted to read and then felt I __(2)__ begin to
N
study diseases. I started to generally turn the leaves idly.
I came to typhoid fever, read the symptoms and discoverd I __(3)__ (be) having it for
N
months without knowing it. Cholera, I had severe complications. Diphtheria, I __(4)__ have
E
been born with. I was relieved to find that Bright’s disease, I had only in a modified form as
H
so far as that was concerned, I __(5)__ live for years. The only disease I __(6)__ conclude
I had not got was a housemaid’s knee. I sat and pondered. I tried to feel my heart. I __(7)__
C
(not feel) my heart. I walked into the reading room as a happy healthy man but crawled out
as a decrepit wreck.
-
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
S
1. have 2. should 3. was, 4.should 5. will 6. should 7. did
N
IO
Additional
Choose the correct Modal Verb and complete the sentence.
T
Prepositions
A preposition is a word used to link nouns, pronouns or phrases to other words within a
sentence. Prepositions are usually short words and they are placed before the nouns.
Look at the following sentences.
i) The English language is vital in the medical field.
I
A
ii) He climbed up the stairs to get into the terrace.
Note that the words in bold letters in the above sentences link the two parts of the sentence.
N
These words are called Prepositions.
N
Look at some more examples of Prepositions and Prepositional phrases.
E
on, off, up, in, out, above, below, over, under, to, from, with, without, before, after, at,
H
during, according to, ahead of, a part of, from, as far as, in spite of, owing to, in addition to,
C
in case of, in front of, but for, on account of, on behalf of, with reference to etc.
Sometimes, a sentence can end with a preposition. Read the sentences given below.
-
This seat is not very comfortable to sit in.
My father gave me some pictures to look at. S
N
Was it worth waiting for?
IO
The preposition ‘in’. ‘at’ and ‘for’ occur at the end of the sentence and it is acceptable in
usage.
T
i) In case _____ difficulty, you should refer _____ a dictionary and then respond _____
IC
the questions.
Ans : of, to, to
L
ii) The clothes that he has put _____ are very impressive. He is going _____ his
B
B. Complete the following paragraph by filling in the blanks with suitable prepositions and read
R
Mr. Beek of New Jersey has invented a floating life - preserver, which gives complete
M
protection __(1)__ people who have been shipwrecked. The upper section is large enough
__(2)__ the wearer to be able to move his head and arms __(3)__, and a month’s supply
__(4)__ food and drinking water can also be stored __(5)__ it. The cover can be closed in
rough weather, and the wearer can see __(6)__ the window in the front, and breathe __(7)__
a curved pipe. The life preserver is made __(8)__ water proof cloth attached __(9)__ circular
metal tubes, which protect the wearer __(10)__ sharp rocks and hungry fish.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. to 2. for 3. around 4. of 5. in
6. through 7. with 8. of 9. to 10. from
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PROSE - The Queen of Boxing 59
Additional
I
A
1. You must go _____ (for / by) the advice of your parents.
N
2. They continued the match _____ (after, for) the rain had stopped.
N
3. The principal called all the teachers _____ (in / for) a meeting.
E
4. I went _____ (in / to) the library yesterday.
H
5. We reached here _____ (in / to) time to catch the train.
C
6. The train was late _____ (for / by) two hours.
7. _____ (Due / For) to illness, he did not go to school.
-
8. You must not go _____ (by / against) your parents wishes.
S
N
9. He is poor, _____ (so / but) he is honest.
IO
12. He was happy _____ (on account of / inspite of) his poverty.
A
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
L
D. Do you know what happened to the Titanic, the largest ship to sail then? She hit an iceberg and
sank into the Atlantic Ocean. Now choose the right word and complete the paragraph. Read
Y
The wreck __(1)__ (up / of) the RMS Titanic lies __(2)__ (in / at) a depth of __(3)__ (about
R
/ above) 12,500 feet about 370 miles south east __(4)__ (of / off) the coast of Newfoundland.
E
It lies __(5)__ (in / on) two main pieces about a third __(6)__ (of / off) a mile apart. The bow
M
is still largely recognizable __(7)__ (with / within) many preserved interiors, despite the
damage it sustained hitting the sea floor. A debris field __(8)__ (of / for) the wreck contains
thousands __(9)__ (on / of) items spilled __(10)__ (from / of) the ship as it sank. She sank
__(11)__ (in / at) the year 1912.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. of 2. at 3. about 4. off 5. in 6. of 7. with 8. of 9. of 10. from 11. in.
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60 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
N R U N
14 15
T T H R O U G H
I
A
16
I B E Y O N D U
N
17 18 19
L I K E A B O U T O F
N
20
E
B Y S V
H
21 22
I N T O E O P P O S I T E
C
23 24
W I T H I N D R
-
25 26
N I A B O V E
27 28
S 29
N
U S I N C E E F O R
IO
30
N I D F P R
31
D D O A L O N G
T
A
32
B E T W E E N R S M
IC
33
R B E N E A T H
L
Across
B
9. The cat climbed ___ the tree. (2) 10. My story is shorter ___ yours. (4)
11. Cats are ___ dogs. (6) 13. Put the cookie ___ the jar. (2)
Y
14. Let’s walk ___ the park. (7) 16. The vegetables were planted ___ the apple
tree. (6)
C
17. Banu sings ___ a bird. (4) 18. My stroy is ___ my pets. (5)
R
19. Subash is the president ___our class. (2) 20. We live ___ the river. (2)
E
21. Let’s walk ___ class together. (4) 22. The bank is ___ the park. (8)
M
23. We live ___ the city limits. (6) 25. I saw John waving ___ the crowd. (5)
28. I am more cautious ___ the fall. (5) 29. I have a present ___ you. (3)
31. We strolled ___ the river. (5) 32. He ran ___ us. (7)
33. The leaves had collected ___ the trees. (7)
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
2. Against 7. onto 9. up 10. than 11. unlike 13. in 14. through
16. beyond 17. like 18. about 19. of 20. by 21. into 22. opposite
23. within 25. above 28. since 29. for 31. along 32. between 33. beneath
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PROSE - The Queen of Boxing 61
Down
1. I put the book ___ the table. (4) 2. Please meet me ___ the cafe. (4)
3. Dessert will be served ___ dinner. (5) 4. My house is ___ the school. (4)
5. We walked ___ the store. (2) 6. No eating ___ class. (6)
8. The book fell ___ my desk. (3) 11. I will not leave__the speech is finished.(5)
12. The store is open everyday __Sunday.(3) 15. The dog is ___ the house. (7)
16. The cat is hiding ___ my bed. (5) 19. The cat jumped ___ the dog. (4)
20. He is hiding ___ the bookcase. (6) 22. Dinner is ___ the table. (2)
24. I put my hands ___ my pockets. (6) 26. We will eat ___ the play. (6)
27. The cat is sleeping ___ the cot. (5) 29. This letter is ___ my aunt. (4)
I
30. We ran ___ the other kids. (4)
A
_______________________________________Answers_________________________________
N
1. upon 2. at 3. after 4. near 5. to 6. during 8. off
11. until 12. but 15. outside 16. beyond 19. over 20. behind 22. on
N
24. inside 26. before 27. under 29. from 30. past
E
H
B. Summarising
C
Summarising is to briefly sum up the various points given in the notes made from the
original passage. It is a retrieval of information from the notes made. Hence, while writing it,
-
one need not go back to the original passage but refer only to the notes made. A first draft will
help us to write a fair summary. S
N
Task : On the basis of your understanding of the given sample, make notes of the following
text and write a summary in about 75 words.
IO
1. Generational gap.
a. lack of native games b. No indoor games now c. Kabbadi, Goli extinct
IC
2. Traditional games.
a . designed to improve skills b. money paid now to centres
B
e. eye co-ordination
3. Value of games
Y
Summary
E
M
Traditional Games
There is a lack of traditional games and Indoor games now. Old games pass on ancestral
knowledge and also sharpen our observation. They are designed to improve skills. At present,
money is paid to play games. Traditional games are learning aids. Sensory skills and motor
skills are improved when they are played. While playing or seeing eye co-ordination develops.
There is more value in traditional games. They are environment friendly. They are suitable for
all ages and teach us culture and history. It is heartening that many modern games have their
origin in traditional games.
www.Kalviseithi.Net
62 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
C. Debate is an essential skill and your class room is the best place to practice this skill. Your
teacher will now divide the class into two groups and organize a debate on the topic “Fast
food tastes better than nutritious food”. The following points may help you to participate
and speak in a debate. One group will speak FOR the motion and the other group will speak
AGAINST the motion. Now prepare a speech for the debate.
I
new and delicious dishes served in fast food centres.
A
Against : Before arguing against fast foods, let us have a look at the argument put forth.
N
There is no comparison between fast food and nutrious food. First of all, the hygiene has to be
N
taken care of. New and colourful dishes are not better than home - made nutritious food. The
source of oil is a health hazard. Getting addicted to fast foods drives children and youth to bad
E
food habits and health hazards. There is no good food like home - made food.
H
You may consider using the following expressions.
C
We strongly believe that _____.
Before I come to my own argument, let us have a look at what my opposition _____.
-
I see your point, but I think _____
I’m afraid I can’t quite agree with your point _____ S
N
I would like to point out that _____.
IO
D. Writing an article.
T
Writing creative, unique, professional and fruitful articles is rewarding if one perfects the art.
This is a vast field that includes magazine articles, website content articles, blogs, journals
A
Task : Read and understand the data presented in the pie - chart below on factors affecting
health, and write an article for your school magazine highlighting the fact that it’s our lifestyle
L
that determines how healthy we remain. Write your article in about 150 words. Give a suitable
B
title too.
PU
habits, nutritous food and work for the body. They were healthy
C
and could do their work without any difficulty. They had less Medical
number of visits to doctor.
R
facilities
10%
New food habits : At present, a lot of change has crept in the Lifestyle 10%
E
Smoking
kind of food eaten, and irregular food habits due to various reasons. Environment Obesity
M
Strees
Chronic ailments like blood - pressure and blood sugar have
19%
Diet & nutrition
POEM
2. CONFESSIONS OF A BORN SPECTATOR
by Ogden Nash
About the author
Frederic Ogden Nash was an American poet well
known for his light verse. He was declared the country’s
best known producer of humourous poetry. His poems
have unconventional rhyming schemes. His light verse
earned him a place on a postage stamp.
I
A
N
Summary
N
The poet believes that a spectator can be as enthusiastic as a player.
E
When children grow up, one may become a jockey and the other may like hockey and
H
others boxing. The poet is happy though he is not one of them. He admires the athelets who
work hard. They dress well and also get injured. The poet is weak and shy, but likes others’
C
feats.
He pleases his ego by swapping himself with sprinters who break their spines and who
-
ride the horses. But zealous athelets are rough and they have no concern for others’ feelings.
S
When players are injured on the field with snapped knees and cracked wrists, doctors are
N
called in to treat them. The poet admires their physique.
IO
The poet would drink to celebrate the athletes’ win and dine with them. But he would
never like to compete with them. He would buy expensive tickets to watch the games with
joy. But he would never be an athlete.
T
A
Warm up
IC
Not everybody loves to play and participate in games, sports and other extra - curricular
activities. Some of us wish to be mere spectators. List out the activities in which you like to
L
Activities
PU
Glossary
E
I
A
1. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in a sentence or
two.
N
a) Why does the poet feel glad that he does not play any game ?
N
The poet does not like to be a jockey or a hockey player or a boxer. He is happy that he is
E
not a player. He is weak and shy.
H
b) Do you think the narrator is heroic ? Why?
C
No. The narrator is not heroic. He is weak and shy. He wants to be a mere spectator.
-
c) The poet is satisfied just watching the heroic deeds of others. What could be the reason?
S
He is weak and shy in spirits. So he enjoys the heroic deeds of others.
N
d) The poet does not wish to exchange position with the runners. Why ?
IO
The runners may injure their knees and spines. So he does not like to be a runner.
T
e) Are the athelets conscious of the feelings of others ? Why do you say so ?
A
No, the athletes are not conscious of the feelings of others because they are zealous and
IC
rough.
f) Why would the referee ask whether there was a doctor in the stands? What stands is he
L
referring to?
B
The presence of a doctor in the stands is essential because sometimes the players in the
PU
field get injury in their knees and wrists. They have to be treated.The spectators sit and view
the match from ‘the stands’.
Y
g) Why does the poet prefer to buy ticket worth their weight in radium ? Bring out the significance
of the metal referred to here.
C
The poet prefers to buy tickets even if they are as costly as radium. He would watch their
R
game and dine with them. Radium can glow by itself. Similarly the winning players shine in
E
their victory.
M
2. Read the poem again and complete the summary using the words given in the box.
In the poem, ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator’, Ogden Nash talks about how people
choose different sports in their lives or decide to become athletes. While admiring the talents
of athletes and sportsman, the poet (i) _____ that he is glad that he is neither a sportsman nor
an athlete. Children have different (ii) _____ and wish to play various games. Each child has
in mind something in particular, but the narrator is (iii) _____ he is not one of the players.
Though the narrator (iv) _____ the talent of all athletes, he derives satisfaction from watching
them, but does not wish to (v) _____ places with them.
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POEM - Confessions of a Born Spectator 65
He also sometimes regrets that (vi) _____ athletes play rough games without caring for
the feelings of their sporting rivals. He feels that good sense and caution win over ego. The
narrator wholeheartedly offers (vii) _____ the modest (viii) _____ of athletes. Ultimately, the
narrator is (ix) _____ that he himself is not an athlete.
thanksgiving, exchange, glad, confesses, physiques, zealous, satisfied, aims, admires
Ans : i. confesses ii. aims iii. satisfied iv. admires v. exchange
vi. zealous vii. thanksgiving viii. physiques ix. happy
3. Read the poem and answer the questions in a short paragraph of 8 - 10 sentences each.
a) How does the poet establish the victory of common sense over ego ?
Every person cannot become an athlete. The poet is weak and shy in spirits. He cannot
I
withstand the rigours of play. He is afraid of the possible injuries to players. The players are
A
zealous. They have no consideration for others’ feelings. Just to satisfy his ego, the poet may
N
become an athlete. Common sense prevails over his zeal. So, he derives pleasure by being
N
just a spectator. He derives vicarious pleasure. He derives joy by watching what an athlete
E
achieves after so much strain. So, the poet proves that it is the common sense that triumphs
over ego as far as the poet’s nature is concerned.
H
C
b) The poet does not wish to exchange places with the athletes. How does he justify his view?
The poet has a weak and shy spirit. He feels that he cannot become an athlete. The
-
athletes, players, boxers, sprinters toil on the field and sometimes get injured. The poet’s
S
shyness keeps him away from competing with the athletes. He is able to enjoy the game as a
N
spectator and also celebrate their win and dine with them. He derives harmless pleasure as a
spectator. He gets the players joy just by limbs watching. He doesn’t have to lose his limbs in
IO
the rough games. He cannot be unconcerned about the feelings of others like the rude players.
T
c) According to the poet what contributes most to the injuries sustained by the athletes?
A
During the play and competition, athletes get injured in many ways. A runner may be
IC
knocked down by another. He may sustain injuries in his bones and spine. In a boxing ring,
due to rough and twisted fists, the boxers may be injured in their eyes. They may sustain
L
knee and wrist injuries. The zealousy and the rough attitude of the athletes contribute to the
sufferings of fellow players.
B
PU
4. Read the given lines and answer the question that follow in a sentence or two ;
a. With all my heart I do admire
Athletes who sweat for fun or hire
Y
I
The literary device used is ONOMATOPOEIA. It is the use of words which sound
A
like what they mean snap the knee and crack the wrist. The words sound like their
N
meaning.
N
Additional Questions
E
1. My limp and bashful spirit feeds
H
On other people’s heroic deeds.
C
a) How is the spirit of the speaker?
The speaker’s spirits are weak, they are reluctant.
-
b) How does he satisfy his ego?
He enjoys the heroic feats of others. S
N
2. Cracking vertebrae and spines
IO
In the running race, one player knocks down the other. So his vertebrae and spine are
A
broken.
IC
The poetic device employed is onomatopoeia. ‘Snaps’ and ‘cracks’ give sounds which
M
5. A. Explain the following with reference to the context in a paragraph of about 50 - 60 words
each :
i. I am just glad as glad can be
That I am not them, that they are not me.........
Reference : These lines are from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator’ by ‘Ogden
Nash’
Context : The poet expresses his happiness for not becoming an athlete.
Explanation : Children may grow to be a jockey or a hockey player or a boxer. The poet
does not like to be any of them. So, he is happy.
ii. They do not even in their dealings
I
A
Consider one another’s feelings............
N
Reference : These lines are from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator’ by ‘Ogden
Nash’
N
Context : The poet describes the blind zealousy of the competing athletes.
E
H
Explanation : The athletes have no concern for the feelings of others. They are zealous and
bent on winning. This contributes to the injuries to their peers or to themselves.
C
iii. Athelets, I’ll drink to you,
-
Or eat with you
Or anything except compete with you.......
S
N
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator’ by
IO
‘Ogden Nash’
Context : The poet expresses his satisfaction by being a mere spectator than a competetor.
T
Explanation : The poet says that he would buy a ticket to witness the games and celebrate
A
the winning by drinking and dining with them. But he never likes to be an athlete and a
IC
competetor.
L
Additional ERC
B
Ogden Nash.
C
Context : The poet explains his own timid nature which doesn’t suit an athlete.
R
Explanation : The poet’s spirits are weak. He is shy and reluctant to become an athlete. So
he enjoys the heroic feats of others and satisfies himself. He is happy to be a born spectator.
E
M
I
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator” by
A
Ogden Nash.
N
Context : The poet whole heartdly gives thanks to those who have modest of physiques
among athletes.
N
Explanation : Very strong athletes play rough games and break the limbs of competitors.
E
Doctor’s need to be called to provide them first aid. Athletes who have modest of physiques
H
will play smart and not rough. They will not hurt peers. So, the poet gives his thanks to them.
C
5. And reassure myself anew
That you are not me and I’m not you.
-
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator” by
Ogden Nash. S
N
Context : The poet enjoys being a spectator and stays out of harm
IO
Explanation : Being weak and shy in spirits, the poet wants to be only a spectator. He does
not want to be a compitetor. In these lines, he reassures himself that he shall never become an
T
athlete.
A
B. Read the poem and complete the table with suitable rhyming words :
IC
e.g. enter center admire hire deeds please these demands stands
feeds
L
Jockey hockey pomp romp score floor fist wrist radium stadium
B
i) For his most modest physique ....... : Alliterated words in - most, modest.
ii) They do not ever in their dealings..... : Alliterated words - They, their.
D. Find out the rhyme scheme of the given stanza :
Y
2. She represented India at the 9th South Asian Sports Federation Games in _____.
a) 2001 b) 2002 c) 2004
3. In 2006, she won a Gold medal in the _____.
a) Commonwealth Games b) Olympic Games c) Asian Games
4. She became a world champion in the 50m Rifle Prone game held in _____.
a) Germany b) Russia c) India
5. Tejaswini was the first Indian woman shooter to win a _____ medal at the World
Championship in the 50m Rifle Prone game.
a) gold b) silver c) bronze
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
I
Ans : 1. a) shooter 2. c) 2004 3. a) Commonwealth Games 4. a) Germany 5. a) gold
A
N
7. Speaking Activity
N
Work with your partner. Discuss and share your ideas with the class.
E
a. Tell the class about your ambition in life and the way you are working towards achieving your
H
goal.
C
My ambition
My ambition is to become a doctor. I like the doctor’s profession very much. The service
-
to humanity and help to the needy is my desire. The doctor’s profession is a noble work. I
S
want to dedicate myself to the service of the mankind. There are many poor people who are
N
in need of proper medical attention especially in villages.
IO
I am in the final year of my study. I want to go for my practice only in a village. I will
establish a small nursing centre in the village and treat the poor freely. I am confident of
T
and are ready to help me in all respects. My father has promised me to give the financial help
needed for establishing a small nursing centre in the village. I am also planning to approach
IC
banks for assistance. I will seek the help of my friends too, to reach my goal.
L
b. Your friend competes with you in academics and sports. Think of the situation wherein you
PU
would not be affected by his / her victory and the ways in which you would encourage your
friend to succeed.
Healthy Competition
Y
Healthy competition in both academics and sports is always welcome. In both the fields
C
the competition becomes a source of inspiration and helps improve one’s performance.
R
In sports, the spirit of participation and best effort matters more than the winning. The
same applies to academics too.
E
My friend and I share a similar situation. The rank is always between us, only in academics.
M
In sports too, we share the same honour. We participated in a sports event. We toiled hard and
put in best practice to win the event. My friend won it. I was happy at his winning. I realised
that my friend was superior to me. He had the skill to finish the event meticulously. At that
time, I decided to make him more skilful. I decided to help him learn more techniques to win
the event in the ensuing major sports meet. I took him to a sports centre. A coach helped him
acquire the needed skills and tips. I achieved my ambition. My friend won the sports event. I
felt happy that I could encourage a deserving athlete.
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70 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
8. Answer the following questions in a short paragraph of about 100 - 150 words each. You may
add your own ideas to support your point of view :
a. Why do accidents usually happen in the playground ? Give your own examples and explain.
Accidents in the play ground :
There are various reasons for accidents to happen in the playground. Some accidents
happen unexpectedly. While we were playing cricket in our school it happened. While I was
batting, the opponent bowler bowled a fast delivery. The ball hit the pitch. It bounced at me
and injured my chin suddenly. I immediately went off the field and got treated for the injury.
I
Zealous attitude :
A
Accidents also happen in the playground due to the Zealous attitude of some players.
N
Tempers run high when the spirit of competition crosses the limit. The desire of winning by
N
any method reflects in the rough behaviour of some players. Such a thing had happened in a
E
hockey match. To defeat the opponent team, a player in the defending team used the hockey
H
stick indiscriminately and hit at the legs of the players. They were injured seriously. A similar
incident happened in a cricket match. The bowler bowled fast deliveries aiming at the heads
C
of the batsmen. A few deliveries hit them and they were injured. So accidents happen either
-
due to human error or human jealousy.
S
b. Everybody is special and everybody is a hero. Each one has a story to tell. In the light of this
N
observation, present your views.
IO
Everyone is unique. One is different from another person in a way that is distinct. Does it
make you special? Yes - as special as anyone else is in relation to another person. But everyone
T
A
is not special for others, only for themselves. They are the centre of their own universe. Every
person, who has lived long enough, has a special story to tell about himself. If you are willing
IC
to ask, willing to listen and genuinely interested to know every soul is unique. It just takes
L
time for some to realize their strengths early in life and put it to use. A few may never realize
B
their potential. Introspection and receptivity may help. But one should have the urge to do
PU
something. It is even possible to acquire extra strength while pursuing the goal.
c. Would you like to exchange your place with someone else ? Why / Why not ?
Y
Cinema’s Influence :
C
the dress, hair style and mannerisms of their favourite heroes. They influence the character
E
and thinking of a majority of youth. But one should have a limitation in allowing the influence
M
of cinema. The reel life cannot be identified with the real life.
My view :
I also view cinemas. I too have a few heroes for whom I have liking and admiration. But
I never imagined to exchange myself with them. I am aware how too much of involvement
in cinemas would affect my education. I would never entertain the idea of choosing acting
as my career. I am satisfied with the happiness that I derive by seeing a film. It is just for
entertainment and relaxation.
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POEM - Confessions of a Born Spectator 71
d. What sort of encouragement should an athlete in India be given ? Give a few suggestions.
Youth in India: India is a country with a large population. It has lakhs of skilled youth. But
in the field of sports and games, India is yet to make a deep mark. Indian athletes win medals
now and then. But there is still scope of improving its tally in the International arena.
Sports in India : It remains a fact that athletes do not get the required support and
encourgagement. In other countries, we find dedicated departments in the Government
exclusively to train and coach upcoming athletes. Talent is spotted when the children are
young. Intensive training and coaching is provided to them in special sports schools.
What is needed :
In our country, we lack such spirit. The State and Central Governments should come
I
forward and have dedicated ministries to encourage athletes. Training should start from the
A
young age. Financial support should be given to the talented children to pursue athletics as
N
a career. Parents should be encouraged to support children who are interested in athletics.
N
Poverty and uncertain future is a discouraging factor in developing athletics. Government
E
must take it as a challenge to produce great athletes.
H
e. You are the School Pupil Leader. Mention some qualities that can be drawn from the field of
C
sports to improve your leadership skills.
-
Field of sports :
S
The field of sports is a great treasure of management skills. One can improve his or
N
her leadership skills by continuous practice. Acquiring the management skills and tips from
IO
Identification of talent and skills is an important factor which can be learnt. The captain
A
of a team leads others knowing the special skills and abilities of the members of his team.
IC
He employs them strategically to get the best out of them. Time management and appropriate
timely decision making is another pertinent skill required. Cooperation and encouragement of
L
players, boosts the competence and confidence of the team mates. Healthy social interaction
B
among the team members outside the field adds to the efficiency of the team.
PU
Skills to be learnt :
A School Pupil Leader will be able to lead by example. He will encourage others. This
Y
skill is provided by the field of sports. Self - sacrifice, team spirit, team work, discipline,
respect for the leader and such qualities can be learnt from the field of sports.
C
R
E
M
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SUPPLEMENTARY
2. A SHOT IN THE DARK
- Saki
About the author
Hector Hugh Munro, with pen name Saki was a British
writer. His writings are witty, mischievous and macabre
stories which satirize Edwardian Society and Culture. He
is a master of short story comparable to O. Henry. He also
I
A
wrote a full length play ‘The Watched Pot’.
N
N
Summary
E
This is an amusing story that describes how a man who considered himself smart and
H
very observant finds that he had mistaken the genuine plea of a stranded youth.
C
Philip Sletherby aspired to become a politician. He was travelling to Bill Manor the
countryside to meet his new friend Mrs. Saltpen - Jago, an influential lady. In the train, his
-
companion was a young man. He was searching his belongings frantically for something. He
S
had forgotten his purse while sealing a cover. He introduced himself to Philip as the son of
Mrs. Saltpen whom he was intending to meet. He told him that the crest of the family was a
N
demi-lion holding a cross - cross let in its paw. He requested Philip to lend him two or three
IO
pounds for his expenses. He also said that his mother had dark brown hair as his. Philip
doubted him as he met Mrs. Saltpen who had blonde hair. So he refused to lend him money
T
At the destination, Philip was taken by the K.C. in a car which had the crest on it as
described by the youth. During the conversation, he learnt that before appearing as a blonde,
IC
Mrs Saltpen had dark brown hair. Philip realised that he had mistaken the youth for a cheat.
He was the son of Mrs. Saltpen. He was shocked. He found his political career slipping
L
Warm up
PU
Glossary
embarked - boarded
espied - caught sight of
ineffectually - in vain
72
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SUPPLEMENTARY - A Shot in the Dark 73
I
chaise - horse - drawn carriage
A
expounded - explained
N
volubility - fluency, talkativeness
N
blonde - pale yellow hair
E
Honoria - a woman of reputation
H
mater - mother
courant - animal represented in the act of running
C
1. Answer the following questions in about 30 - 50 words each :
-
a) Why did Philip Sletherby visit Brill Manor ?
S
Philip Sletherby was an aspiring politician. He visited Brill Manor to meet Mrs. Saltpen
N
- Jago an influential lady. He intended to seek her support for his plans contest elections as an
IO
M.P.
b) How would Sletherby gain from his friendship with Honoria Saltpen - Jago ?
T
If Philip could secure the goodwill of Mrs. Saltpen, he might count on her nominating
A
him for the Parliament. Her support was needed for his plans.
IC
he had wanted. As he could not find it, he was cursing and muttering out of frustration.
B
Bertie had forgotten his purse with his family crest while sealing a cover. He had no
money to pay for his weekend bill, for his travel and for the cab.
e) ‘There was a tinge of coldness in his voice’ Why ?
Y
Philip found a discrepancy about the crest in Bertie’s words and about his mother’s hair
C
colour. He grew suspicious about the young man. So, his voice was cold and hostile.
R
The family of Saltpen could use two crests. One was a “demi - lion holding a cross - cross
M
I
with :
A
Philip Sletherby was travelling by train to Brill Manor.
N
a. The young man introduced himself as Bertie, the son of Saltpen Jago.
b. Bertie needed three pounds desparately and asked Sletherby to lend it to him.
N
c. All the time Sletherby was gazing at the door panel of the car, on which were the two
E
crests - a demi-lion and greyhound courant.
H
d. He was received by Claude People. K.C., who had kept on talking about various
C
things.
e. Bertie had left his purse behind, after sealing an envelope with the crest on the purse.
-
f. Bertie stated that it was the Jago crest. He further added that his mother’s hair was
dark brown similar to his.
S
N
g. While describing the appearance of Honario Saltpen - Jago K.C. referred to her
altered hairstyle.
IO
h. Sletherby realized that Bertie had not lied to him, but that he had mistaken him for a
fraud.
T
j. Sletherby sat dumbstruck on learning that Mrs. Honario Saltpen Jago had changed
IC
l. His companion in the train was a young man who was searching something frantically.
B
m. Suspecting foul play, Sletherby did not give him any money, as he knew Mrs. Saltpen
PU
a. The young man introduced himself as Bertie, the son of Saltpen Jago.
C
e. Bertie had left his purse behind, after sealing an envelope with the crest on the purse.
R
f. Bertie stated that it was the Jago crest. He further added that his mother’s hair was
E
g. While describing the appearance of Honario Saltpen - Jago K.C. referred to her
altered hairstyle.
j. Sletherby sat dumbstruck on learning that Mrs. Honario Saltpen Jago had changed
her dark brown hair to a blonde, just five weeks ago.
h. Sletherby realized that Bertie had not lied to him, but that he had mistaken him for a
fraud.
Paragraph :
Philip sletherby was travelling train to Brill Manor. His companion in the train was a
young man who was searching something frantically. The young man introduced himself as
Bertie, the son of Saltpen-Jago. Bertie had left his purse behind, after sealing an envelope
with the crest on the purse. Bertie stated that it was the Jago crest. He further added that his
mother’s hair was dark brown similar to his. He explained that the Saltpen crest was that of a
I
demi-lion. Sletherby pointed out to him that his mother’s letter had a greyhound courant crest.
A
Bertie needed three pounds desparately and asked Sletherby to lend it to him. Suspecting foul
N
play, Sletherby did not give him any money, as he knew Mrs. Saltpen - Jago was a blonde.
N
He was received by Claude People. K.C., who had kept on talking about various things. All
the time Sletherby was gazing at the door panel of the car, on which were the two crests - a
E
demi -lion and greyhound courant. While describing the appearance of Honario Saltpen - Jago
H
K.C. referred to her altered hairstyle. Sletherby sat dumbstruck on learning that Mrs. Honario
Salpen - Jago had changed her dark brown hair to a blonde, just five weeks ago. Sletherby
C
realized that Bertie had not lied to him, but that he had mistaken him for a fraud.
-
3. Explain the following phrases selected from the story in your own words and make sentences
using these phrases : S
N
a. on approval :Official permission or agreement.
The department has got the approval of the Parliament to implement the project.
IO
He used his credit card to pay the bill and forgot to get it back. He behaved like a
IC
When the beggar asked him for alms, he refused with a tinge of coldness.
B
e. making up for lost time : to work extra time to complete the delayed task.
PU
He could not attend school for a month due to illness and he is attending extra coaching
classes to make up for lost time.
4. Answer the following question in about 100 words each :
Y
A young man Bertie son of Mrs. Saltpen - Jago boarded a train. He had dark hair and fresh
E
complexion and he was bound on a village trip. He was engaged in frantically searching for
M
some elusive object. He dug out many things but was not satisfied. He was searching for his
purse. He cursed himself loudly.
Request to Sletherby :
He heard the conversation of Sletherby and understood that he was travelling to meet
his mother Mrs. Saltpen - Jago a rich and influential lady. Before boarding the train, he took
out his purse with his family crest on it to seal a letter. He forgot to take the purse. He had to
pay his weekend bills and for the cab. He described that his mother had dark long hair. Their
family used two crests. He requested Sletherby to lend two or three pounds.
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76 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Sletherby’s observation :
Though initially Sletherby agreed, he got suspicious about the lad. He observed the
discrepancy of the crest and the lady’s hair. When he had met the lady she appeared a blonde.
So he refused to lend money to the young lad taking him to to be a cheat. The young boy was
disappointed.
Realization : Later Sletherby realised that he mistook the young boy for a fraud. He failed
to accept he was the son of the lady whom he wanted to meet.
b. One has to be cautious and not be carried away by stories. How did Sletherby exhibit caution?
Sletherby’s excessive caution :
I
In modern times, people do make money in dubious ways. They spin stories to cheat
A
others. One should not be carried away by such stories and part with money. Sletherby
N
considered himself smart. He was very observant. He made up this mind to be penny - wise.
N
He was on a trip to the countryside to meet Mrs. Saltpen - Jago an influential lady, to seek
E
her support for his political ambitions. When he met her earlier, she appeared a blonde. He
H
remembered that the crest of the family vividly. It was a greyhound in a running posture from
her letter to him. He had seen it in her letter.
C
Bertie’s request :
-
An young lad, his co - passenger was frantically searching for some object. He could not
S
find it. It was a purse with his family’s crest a “demi-lion”. The boy understood that Sletherby
N
was going to meet his mother. So, he requested him to lend three pounds for his expenses.
IO
Sletherby’s observation:
Sletherby was very cautious. He noticed the discrepancy about the crest in Bertie’s words.
T
He also found that the lad’s statement that his mother had long, dark hair was false. Sletherby
A
met her as a blonde recently. So he grew suspicious and exhibited great caution. He decided
IC
not to believe the young man’s story. But, Bertie was really the son of Mrs. Saltpen - Jago.
Sletherby was penny - wise but pound foolish.
L
Sletherby’s confidence :
PU
Sletherby considered himself smart and very observant. He was an aspiring politician. He
was on his way to meet Mrs. Saltpen - Jago. She was an influential lady who could push his
political career in the right track. During the train journey, a young man was his co - traveller.
Y
The youngman was very disturbed. He was fiercely searching for an elusive object. He was
C
the son of Mrs. Saltpen. His family used two crests. The young boy had forgotten to carry the
R
purse with the crest. He needed money to pay weekend bills and for transport.
E
Bertie’s request :
M
He introduced himself as the son of Mrs. Saltpen. Sletherby was intending to meet her.
He urged him to lend three pounds to meet his needs. He said his mother had dark long hair
and used the crest with ‘demi - lion’. Sletherby felt suspicious about the young man. When he
met Mrs. Saltpen, she was decidedly a blonde. Her letter also had a different crest. He thought
the youngman was a cheat and refused to lend him money.
Sletherby’s judgement :
But in the end he realised that Mrs. Saltpen had dyed her hair only recently. He also learnt
that the family used two kinds of crests. Thus his judgement turned out to be a wrong one.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - A Shot in the Dark 77
d. As Sletherby, would you apologize to Bertie for your rude behaviour ? Give reasons.
Sletherby’s wrong judgement :
Sletherby’s behaviour towards Bertie cannot be accepted. He considered himself smart
and very observant. He suspected Bertie to be a cheat. He refused to lend him money. In the
end, he was shocked to learn that his judgement was wrong. Bertie was honest and really
needed help.
Sletherby’s observation :
His judgement was based on two factors. He found a discrepancy in the crest. Secondly,
the description of Mrs.Saltpen’s hair raised suspicion in his mind. Mrs. Saltpen changed to a
blonde five weeks ago. But her son had met her six months ago. Sletherby knew about only
one crest, but the family used two.
I
A
If I were.........:
If I were to be in Sletherby’s position, I would have regretted for my rude behaviour and
N
for misjudging Bertie to be a fraud. The honest young man who was telling the truth would
N
have been hurt much. I would not have hesitated to apologise to Bertie for my rude behaviour
E
and misjudgement.
H
e. ‘Seeing is believing’. How is this humorously disproved in this story ? Bring out the irony in the
situation.
C
The adage :
-
‘Seeing is believing’ - One can believe only if one sees something. It may not be true
S
on all occasions. If the eyes are duped, then what one believes cannot be true. In this story,
Sletherby was a witness to some incidents. He was travelling to meet Mrs. Saltpen who was
N
a blonde, when he had met her last. He received a letter from her with one of the crests on the
IO
letter.
Sletherby’s belief :
T
He believed in these two things he had seen. But originally Mrs. Saltpen had long dark hair
A
some time back as described by her son Bertie. The family used two crests, which Sletherby
IC
Both the observations turned out to be false as the incidents happened in a time gap. His
B
judgement was wrong. He realised it in the end. Though Sletherby believed in what he had
PU
seen, they turned out to be wrong. The saying ‘Seeing is believing’ is disproved in this case.
Unit test
Y
Part - I
E
M
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
3. I was presented with a traditional shawl.
a) modern b) ancient c) costly d) colourful
4. The other teams had already completed their weight in, which is compulsory for all
players.
a) necessary b) obligatory c) voluntary d) mandatory
5. Choose the correct expansion of - GST
a) Goods and Service Trade b) Goods and Savings Term
c) Goods and Service Tax d) Good Social Tax
6. Find the correct meaning of the idiom.
I
A
He is beating about the bush, while he is expected to be brief and straight forward.
a) give long explanation b) going around the bush
N
c) being brief d) avoid main topic
N
7. Form a derivative by adding the right prefix to the word ‘treat’.
E
a) ill - b) dis - c) ir - d) un -
H
8. Choose the correct word to complete the following sentence.
C
We are not completely sure but Kishore _____ come back tomorrow.
a) can b) will c) should d) may
-
9. Choose the correct modal verb and complete the sentence.
My grandmother _____ tell stories when I was young. S
N
a) shall b) used to c) was
IO
10. Fill in the blanks in the following sentence, using the appropriate preposition.
You must go _____ the advice of your parents.
T
a) but b) for c) by d) to
A
Part - II
IC
Section - 1
L
Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
B
Section - 1
Explain any one of the following with reference to the context : 1×3=3
18. I am just glad as glad can be
That I am not them, that they are not me.........
I
19. Athelets, I’ll drink to you,
A
Or eat with you
N
Or anything except compete with you......
N
20. You would think my ego it would please
To swap positions with one of these.
E
H
Section - 2
C
Answer any one of the following briefly : 1×3=3
21. Why did Mary Kom think that she should not return empty - handed?
-
22. What did she consider her greatest achievement ? Why?
S
23. Why does she consider her fourth title in 2006 as the most memorable?
N
Section - 3
IO
Reading - 10%
IC
20%
25%
Watching T.V. - 20%
L
25. Build a dialogue of minimum 3 exchanges between you and your friend about
R
Part - IV
Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words: (any one) 1×5=5
27. Why was Mary Kom named the ‘Queen of Boxing’ and ‘Magnificient Mary’?
28. Compare and contrast the character of Jimmy Wells and Bob with suitable references
from the story to support your view.
29. The poet does not wish to exchange places with the athletes. How does he justify his
view?
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PROSE
3. FORGETTING
Robert Lynd
About the author
Robert Wilson Lynd is an Irish writer and one of the greatest
essayists. He began his career as a journalist. He wrote a number
of articles for newspapers. His pseudonym is ‘Y Y’. His essays are on
I
interesting topics, humourous, delightfull, ironical and satirical.
A
He was awarded the Doctorate degree by Queen’s University. He
N
was also honoured by the Royal Society of Literature.
N
Summary
E
In this essay, Robert Lynd takes a humourous look at the effects of forgetfulness. Modern
H
man remembers many things like telephone numbers, addresses and many others. His memory
C
is crowded. Everyone remembers to do the right thing. On certain occasions, man’s memory
may be affected like while taking medicines. It could be a selective amnesia. Posting letters
-
is another common incident of forgetfulness. Leaving articles in trains, cabs and buses is also
common. Another most common thing is forgetting the umbrella. Sportsmen may forget their
S
articles when they think of their victories. Young ones have left their bats, balls and gloves
N
in train. But a man of perfect remembrance need not be an intelligent or a successful person
IO
always. It is believed that statesman with less memory are more successful.
In general, men are born with efficient memory.
T
Warm up
A
IC
Take this five-minute memory test. The teacher will read out a series of 30 words,one
PU
by one. Some of them will be repeated. Whenever you hear a word for the first time, write
‘N’ (for new) in the corresponding box and when you hear a repeated word write ‘R’. After
completing this task, check your results. Compare it with your friends and see where you
Y
stand.
C
1 N 11 21
R
2 12 22
E
3 13 23
M
4 14 24
5 15 25
6 16 26
7 17 27
8 18 28
9 19 29
10 20 30
80
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PROSE - Forgetting 81
I
use of mnemonics helps.
A
Now discuss with your partner and think of some practical ideas to overcome forgetfulness, in
N
your day - to - day activities.
N
e.g. setting an alarm Ask some one to give a call
E
identify with Ask elders to remind
H
some object Repeatedly remind to self.
C
C. Discuss and share your views with the class on the following.
-
Is forgetfulness a result of carelessness or preoccupation?
S
Forgetfulness is a result of carelessness. This is partly true. If you have devotion and
N
dedication towards a cause, you can overcome forgetfulness.
IO
Preoccupation may induce forgetfulness. When you are preoccupied with more important
and serious matters, the lesser one is most likely to be forgetten. ‘A stitch in time saves nine’
T
applies in overcoming forgetfulness. Everything needs to be done in time and not postponed.
A
Glossary
L
antipathy
- huge sums of money
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fortunes
reluctant - unwilling
delinquent - a young person who is regularly involved in wrongdoing
Y
prosaic - dull
E
Synonyms
Write synonyms for the following words.
Astonished - surprised common - familiar
efficiency - skill memory - power to remember
vintages - wine of high quality crowded - clumsy
provincial - narrow minded vile - wicked
scarce - not enough / shortage seldom - rarely
methodical - orderly / systematic reminder - cause to remember
antipathy - strong dislike prospect - likelihood
delight - happiness fortune - huge sum of money
I
A
reluctant - unwilling weary - tired
N
adventurous - risky attempt embarassing - feeling ashamed
evidence - proof guilt - fault
N
delinquent - a young wrong doer frequently - many times
E
dare - to face bravely destination - goal / place to reach
H
consider - think carefully about vision - planning mentally
C
exploits - daring acts abstracted - lacking concentration
prosaic - dull anglers - fishermen
-
utopia - imagined perfect place tribute - compliment
intensity - great force
S
glorious - great
N
virtue - good quality mediocre - ordinary
IO
Write synonyms for the following words and use them in sentences.
E
10. mediocre - ordinary / The mediocre story of the film was not well received by people.
11. methodical - organised / The function was conducted in a methodical fashion.
12. prevent - stop / The striking workers were prevented from meeting the Manager.
13. quivering - shivering / The bird was quivering in cold.
14. reluctant - unwilling / He was reluctant to take up the job.
15. weary - tired / He felt weary after the days work.
Choose the correct synonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. Many people who read it have been astonished at the absent mindedness of others.
a) calm b) expect c) love d) surprised
2. He had a vile meal during the summer.
a) gentle b) kind c) bad d) nice
I
A
3. It is only a methodical man, who can always remember to take the medicines.
N
a) disorganised b) confusing c) chaotic d) orderly
4. It is because of their antipathy that people forget to take medicines.
N
a) like b) dislike c) pathetic d) allopathy
E
5. Chemists make their fortunes out of the medicines people forget.
H
a) huge sum b) fortunate c) fortress d) business
C
6. I am always reluctant to trust a departing visitor.
a) anxious b) eager c) unwilling d) willing
-
7. I am compelled to produce an evidence of my guilt.
a) proof b) better
Sc) residence d) incidence
N
8. They are abstracted from the world outside them.
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his sport.
A
11. Men with fallible memories have sometimes tried to make out a case for superiority.
B
14. She arrived home, anticipating with angry relish the white face and quivering lips.
a) shivering b) loving c) smiling d) biting
R
15. What was her vexation, when just before lunch her husband came smiling.
E
16. It is the efficiency rather than the inefficiency of human memory that compels my wonder.
a) irritation b) inability c) inferiority d) ability
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. d) surprised 2. c) bad 3. d) orderly 4. b) dislike
5. a) huge sum 6. c) unwilling 7. a) proof 8. b) lack concentration
9. b) praise 10. a) ordinary 11. b) make mistake 12. a) strange
13.c) angry 14. a) shivering 15. c) irritation 16. d) ability
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84 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Antonyms
Write antonyms for the following words and use them in sentences.
lost × found sale × purchase
available × unavailable trust × distrust
common × special / uncommon efficiency × inefficiency
compels × persuades modern × ancient
good × bad remembers × forgets
crowded × unoccupied / void vile × pleasant
ordinary × special cheerfully × sorrowfully
shut × open front × back
I
A
scarcely × often, abundantly right × wrong
seldom × frequently / often before × after
N
upstairs × downstairs admitted × denied
N
less × more usual × unusual
E
perfect × imperfect methodical × disorganised
H
easiest × most difficult regular × irregular
C
antipathy × liking devotee × adversary / enemy
willingly × unwillingly prospect × awardee / unlikelihood
-
widely × narrowly delights × sorrow
fortune × misfortune
S
reluctant × eager
N
important × unimportant ruly × unruly
weary × active adventurous × careful
IO
Write antonyms for the following words and use them in sentences.
1. antipathy × liking I like to see horror films.
2. audacious × shy He is a shy person.
3. eccentric × normal, common He lacks common sense.
4. fallible × perfect No man is perfect.
5. frequently × rarely He rarely goes to films.
6. glorious × shameful The team had a shameful defeat.
7. indignant × calm He always keeps his calm.
8. mediocre × extraordinary The child has an extraordinary memory.
9. prevent × allow The accident was allowed to happen due to negligence.
I
10. relish × dislike I dislike spicy food.
A
11. reluctant × willing He was willing to work in night shifts.
N
12. scarcely × abundantly Rice is abundantly available in South India.
N
13. seldom × often He often comes late to school.
E
14. tribute × blame He was blamed for all the happenings.
H
15. virtue × vice / evil Poverty is the root cause for all evil.
C
Choose the correct antonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. Absentmindeness is common.
-
a) uncommon b) usual c) particular d) never
S
2. His memory is crowded with the names of actors and actresses.
N
a) full b) mobbed c) dense d) empty
IO
3. The ordinary man seldom forgets to turn off the lights when not needed.
a) hardly b) never c) often d) rarely
T
6. The very prospect of a new and widely advertised cure all delights me.
B
9. The poet may forget to post a letter, because his mind is filled with matter more glorious.
R
10. Men with fallible memories have sometimes tried to make out a case for their superiority.
M
14. Indignant at her husband’s behaviour, she decided to teach him a lesson.
a) annoyed b) angry c) upset d) happy
15. The institution of the family could not survive in any great modern city.
a) endure b) exist c) die d) withstand
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) uncommon 2. d) empty 3. c) often 4. d) disorganized
5. c) liking 6. d) unlikelyhood 7. c) eager 8. d) attentive
9. a) bad 10. b) perfect 11. d) common 12. c) idiot
13. d) unexciting 14. d) happy 15. c) die
I
A
1. Based on your understanding of the essay, answer the following questions in one or two
N
sentences each.
N
a) What does Lynd actually wonder at?
Lynd wonders at the efficiency of human memory.
E
H
b) Name a few things that a person remembers easily?
A person remembers telephone numbers, addresses, appointments for lunch and dinner.
C
He remembers almost everything he is expected to remember.
-
c) How do psychologists interpret forgetfulness?
S
Psychologists tell that people forget things because they wish to forget them. It may be
N
due to antipathy.
IO
e) What does the author mean when he says the letter in his pocket leads an unadventurous life?
A
The letter in the author’s pocket leads an unadventurous life because it is a proof of his
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guilt and he has to answer many embarassing questions for his forgetfulness to post it.
f) What are the articles the writer forgets most often?
L
The author forgets books, walking sticks and umbrellas most often.
B
Sportsmen are referred to as citizens of ‘dreamland’. Their minds are filled with the
imagination of the games played and titles won. They forget their articles.
h) What is common about the ‘angler’ and the ‘poet’?
Y
The angler’s forgetfulness is a tribute to his enjoyment and great catch of fish. Similarly
C
2. Based on your reading, answer the following questions in two or four sentences each.
E
a) What made people wonder about the absent - mindedness of their fellow beings?
M
The large number of lost items by travellers make people wonder at the absent - mindedness
of people.
b) What are our memories filled with?
Our memories are filled with telephone numbers, addresses of friends and dates of
vintages. It is also filled with names of actors, sportsperson and dinner details.
c) When does human memory work with less than its usual capacity?
Memory works with less than its capacity while remembering to take medicines and
posting letters.
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PROSE - Forgetting 87
d) Why, according to Lynd, should taking medicines be one of the easiest actions to remember?
Medicines are taken usually before, during or after meals. So the meal itself should be
a reminder for taking medicines. So the author says taking medicines should be one of the
easiest to remember.
e) How do the chemists make fortunes out of the medicines people forget to take?
People do have medicines in their pockets but forget them. So they have to buy the
medicines again. This helps chemists to make fortune.
f) The list of articles lost in trains suggest that sportsmen have worse memories than their
ordinary serious - minded fellows. Why does Lynd say this?
A number of sports articles are forgotten by sportsmen. They remember their games,
recall their errors and are filled with pleasant memories of victories. So they forget the lesser
I
things, the sports goods.
A
N
g) What kind of absent - mindedness is regarded as a virtue by Lynd?
Anglers forget their fishing rod, while enjoying their sport. Similarly, the poet may forget
N
to post a letter, since it is a mediocre thing. Such absent - mindedness appears to be a virtue
E
for the author.
H
h) Narrate the plight of the baby on its day out.
C
A father takes his baby out in a perambulator. He is tempted by the sunny morning. He
leaves the perambulator outside. He enters the bar, takes some drinks. He forgets the baby and
-
goes home. His wife finds the baby and takes it home. She expects her husband to feel guilty
S
and take steps to trace the baby. To her surprise, her husband has never remembered anything
N
about the baby. He is normal as usual. He causally asks after lunch.
IO
Additional Questions
T
Human memory begins to work when the foetus is just 20 weeks old in the mother’s
womb.
IC
Man does not forget a single item of his clothing when dressing. Everyone will close the
front door when leaving the house. Ordinary men seldom forget to turn off the lights before
B
going to bed.
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3. “Any one who asks me to post a letter is a poor judge of my character”. Why does the narrator
say so?
Y
The narrator has the letter in his hand. He walks past the pillar post box, without posting
it. Then he puts it in his pocket and totally forgets it. So he says that his character is poorly
C
judged.
R
The narrator says that people with perfect memory are seldom intelligent. But great
M
writers and music composers have exceptional memory. Poets have better memory than stock
brokers. He says memory is half the substance of their art.
5. Why does he say that statesmen have bad memory?
When two statesmen recall the same event, two different versions of great men emerge.
Each one will say that the other is wrong. The speeches and autobiographies are challenged,
which suggests that their memory is bad. He goes to say that the world has not produced
statesmen with memory and intellect combined.
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88 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
Dear friend,
N
At the outset I thank you for being kind enough to lend your cricket bat. I am happy to
inform you that your branded bat was very useful to me. I could score the highest number of
N
runs in the match. It helped our team to win the match. All credit goes to your bat.
E
But I am remorseful of a mistake. I forgot to carry back the cricket bat from the hotel room.
H
I am extremely sorry for my forgetfulness. I recall that you were reluctant to part with your
C
lucky bat. You loved it so much. But you have been kind enough to let me use it. I express my
deep sorrow for not returning the bat to you. I apologize to you for my irresponsible action.
-
I hope you will take it in the right spirit. However I spoke to the Hotel Management, where I
S
had left the bat. I requested them to send the bat by parcel to me if they found it. I hope I will
N
get it back. Anyhow please accept my heartfelt apology and be magnanimous to excuse me.
IO
XXXXXXX
A
To
Mr. Rahul,
L
b) Kahlil Gibran states ‘Forgetfulness is a form of freedom.’ Write an article for your school
magazine, linking your ideas logically and giving appropriate examples.
Y
The advantage of a bad memory is that one enjoys several times the same good things
R
for the first time. In this context, Kahlil Gibran’s quote, ‘Forgetfulness is a form of freedom’
holds good. However, forgetting how to get back home or where you live could be early signs
E
of a serious health problem. Forgetfulness has an advantage if one has the ability to forcibly
M
forget certain things. Forgetfulness helps us to get over grief easily and sooner. The brain
cannot be a store house of all unwanted knowledge and incidents.
Forgetfulness a freedom :
Forgetfulness gives the freedom to leave behind unpleasant memories So it is said,
‘Blessed are the forgetful’. Leaves and flowers will fall and decay. If only we clear the decay
of the past, we can enjoy the beauty of the new flowers. Likewise we must clear the murkiness
of the past bad experiences from our mind. Forget what ought to be forgotton. We can embrace
life with renewed vigour. In this sense, forgetfulness liberates us.
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PROSE - Forgetting 89
c) Will you sympathise or ridicule someone who is intensely forgetful? Write an essay justifying
your point of veiw.
Sympathise the forgetful : I will only sympathise a person who is intensely forgetful. It has
to be ascertained if forgetfulness is due to a health problem or a psychological issue. If it is a
problem of health condition, necessary medical advice can be given. If forgetfulness happens
as a matter of habit, such a person has to be sympathised.
Redicule offends : If he is ridiculed, he will get offended. The depression may drive him
to any end. There are many ways to get over one’s forgetfulness. I will try to counsel him
and give tips to keep important things in his memory. A visit to a psychiatrist may be helpful.
Confidence should be created in him. He can train his mind to remember the most wanted
things. After all forgetfulness is a gift of God. Nobody is forgotten when it is convenient to
I
remember him.
A
Additional Question
N
N
d) Is forgetfulness a Boon or a Bane.
E
It is a blessing :
H
Something that is upsetting is best forgotten. It is a blessing if it no longer springs back
to one’s mind. The relationship becomes just a bitter sweet memory and part of one’s past.
C
Age and memory :
-
As one ages, memory also declines. Worrying at declining memory will make conditions
S
worse. Forgetting may increase tension and stress. It is best to be cool. One can think of the
N
people who suffer greater problems, since they could not forget.
IO
Forgetting is a concern :
Forgetting is a concern in life. It is the outward sign of memory loss. It is associated
with mental declining and ageing. But forgetting is also important. Psychologists say that
T
overloaded by your emotions. This may collapse the whole thing. It is also revealed that a
IC
perfect memory is a curse. It may cause confusion and boredom without any thrill. Curiously
people forget taking medicines. This increases the fortune of druggists. The author infers that
L
Memory plays a vital role in learning. Many people purposefully try to forget things. But
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Forgetting :
C
In this essay, Robert Lynd takes a humourous look at the effects of forgetfulness. Modern
man remembers many things like telephone numbers, addresses and many others. His memory
R
is crowded. Everyone remembers to do the right thing. On certain occasions, man’s memory
E
may be affected. Remembering hurtful incidents will ruin one’s happiness. Forgetting to post
M
letters is another common incident of forgetfulness. Leaving articles in trains, cabs and buses
is also common. Another most common thing is forgetting the umbrella. Sportsmen may
forget their articles when they think of their victories.
Lynd’s view :
But a man of perfect remembrance need not be an intelligent or a successful person
always. It is believed that statesmen with less memory are more successful.
In general, men are born with efficient memory.
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90 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Vocabulary
A. Homonyms and Heteronyms
Homonyms are two or more words that have same pronunciation but different meanings.
They are of two types :
i. Homographs : Homographs are words with same spelling and same sound but different
in meanings.
e. g: park - a piece of public land for recreation / park - to leave a vehicle in a
particular place.
bat - a sport equipment for hitting the ball / bat - a mammal.
ii. Homophones : Homophones are two or more words with the same sound but with
I
different spellings and meanings.
A
e.g. dear - a loved one / deer - a wild animal
N
Heteronyms also known as heterophones are two or more words with same spelling
N
but different sounds and meanings.
e.g. lead - a metal / lead - guide, minute - a period of time / minute - very small
E
H
Complete the sentences by choosing a suitable word from those given in the brackets.
i) Nobody can say __(1)__ there will be an improvement in the __(2)__. (whether /
C
weather)
ii) Your ring is __(1)__. Do not __(2)__ it. (loose / lose)
-
iii) We found a __(1)__ of biscuits in the old man’s shirt __(2)__. (pocket / packet)
S
iv) When the pole vaulter cleared 28 __(1)__, it was declared a record __(2)__. (feet /
N
feat)
IO
v) Explain the __(1)__. Cut your __(2)__ according to your cloth. (coat / quote)
vi) The stranger __(1)__ for a few minutes before he __(2)__ my house. (paused / passed)
T
vii) The __(1)__ dancer turned __(2)__ after the final performance. (weary/ wiry)
A
viii) The chain that I presented to my sister was not made of gold; it was just __(1)__.
I am suffering from a sense of __(2)__. (guilt / gilt)
IC
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
i. whether, weather ii. loose, lose iii. packet, pocket iv. feet, feat
L
v. quote, coat vi. paused, passed vii. wiry, weary viii. gilt, guilt
B
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Additional
1. The _____ emperor went _____ to conquer the world. (forth, fourth)
Y
2. The _____ items are sold from a _____ van. (stationery, stationary)
C
3. Nirmala’s _____ daughter has _____ to the new situation. (adapted, adopted)
4. Army _____ do not take much care of their _____ problems. (personal, personnel)
R
5. Your writing should be _____ to become _____ for the job. (legible, eligible)
E
6. He wanted _____. He went to a spiritual guru for a _____ of advice. (piece, peace)
M
7. The flowers are full of _____. It is _____ to nights snow fall. (due, dew)
8. I have not _____ such a beautiful _____ ever. (scene, seen)
9. If your body is _____, it cannot _____ the cold. (bear, bare)
10. The police officer tried to _____ answers from the culprit about his _____ actions.
(illicit, elicit)
11. I had great _____ when a _____ of glass cut my toe. (pain, pane)
12. He fell down and the entire _____ he was carrying spilled over the _____ (floor,
flour)
13. She was _____ on a Sunday. It has to be _____ in mind. (born, borne)
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PROSE - Forgetting 91
14. In a _____ voice he was describing the _____ of his plan. (course, coarse)
15. He started his _____ in an airlines _____company. (carrier, career)
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. fourth, forth 2. stationery, stationary 3. adopted, adapted 4. personnel, personal
5. legible, eligible 6. peace, piece 7. dew, due 8. seen, scene
9. bare, bear 10. elicit, illicit 11. pain, pane 12. flour, floor
13. born, borne 14. coarse, course 15. career, carrier
Form meaningful sentences using the given words to bring out at least two different meanings.
1. train, 2. tear, 3. wind, 4. light, 5. file, 6. bear
1. The train arrived late. - He is a trained teacher.
I
2. The child tears the paper into many pieces.- Tears were seen in her eyes.
A
3. The wind is blowing fast. - Please wind up the speech.
N
4. The light went off. - Carry light luggage.
N
5. He filed a case in the court. - The file could not be found.
E
6. Please bear the delay. - The bear ran into the forest.
H
B. Clipped words.
We came across the word ‘perambulator’ in the last paragraph of the story. The word
C
‘perambulator’ can also be expressed as ‘pram’ in short. The word ‘perambulator’ is an
unclipped word and the word ‘pram’ is a clipped word.
-
What are clipped words? S
Clipped words are words that are formed by dropping one or more syllables from longer
N
words without changing the meaning. Clipping is forming new words by shortening long
IO
Now, write the clipped and unclipped form of the given words and complete the table.
A
IC
unclipped words clipped words Ans unclipped words clipped words Ans
M
C. ‘Certain psychologists tell us that we forget things because we wish to forget them.’ Who is a
psychologist?
One who studies the human mind and behaviour is a psychologist.
Now, refer to a dictionary and match the professions with their relevant job descriptions.
A B Answers
I
climate
A
studies the matter that constitutes
N
3 entomologist studies insects
the Earth
N
studies artefacts and
4 archaeologist studies earthquakes
E
physical remains
H
studies functioning of
5 sociologist studies reptiles and amphibians human
C
society
-
studies functioning of human studies the matter that
6 geologist
society S constitutes the Earth
N
studies artefacts and physical studies languages and their
IO
7 linguist
remains structure
T
Fill in the blanks choosing the words from the box. Refer to a dictionary if required. One has
been done for you.
thespian, sadist, polyglot, ambidextrous, philanthropist, misanthrope, bibliophile,
Y
e.g. My brother buys a load of books at the book fair every year. He is a great lover of
books and has a huge collection at home. He is a _____ (bibliophile)
R
i. Peter always refuses alcohol, when it is offered to him at parties and takes a soft drink
E
instead. He says he always has and always will abstain from alcohol and it is a matter
M
v. Antony has the amazing ability to use both the hands, equally well. He can write,
draw and perform various other tasks with equal speed and efficiency with his left as
well as his right hand. Antony is _____. (ambidextrous)
vi. Due to some disturbing incidents in her childhood, Neetu grew into a reclusive adult.
She tends to keep aloof and avoids all kinds of social activities. Neetu is a _____.
(misanthrope)
vii. Tharini acts as an interpreter at meetings between statesmen from different countries.
She is also a much sought - after tour guide, as she is well-versed and fluent in
multiple languages. Tharini is a _____. (polyglot)
viii.My grandparents are in their nineties. I am glad that this _____ couple is active,
cheerful and in good health. (nonagenarian)
ix. Richard Burton was a gifted theatre artist. He donned several roles with ease and is
I
especially famous for the Shakespearean parts he played on stage. Mr. Burton is a
A
born _____.(thespian)
N
x. The Chairman of this concern seems to derive pleasure from inflicting pain on others.
He humiliates and hurts his subordinates for no reason. He is a real _____(sadist)
N
E
Spot the word
H
Seldom, admitted, methodical, reality, virtue, vile, indignant, relish, fact following words:
C
Y V P I N X T F I Y L M I J I G D W K R
-
H O X J W F K R L W I A Q M Z Y H H M X
F A N T A S Y R E J S S
R D M C Q E S N C
N
T M C X A U E E Y L H A T E E P D E F F
IO
O H Z V C D T Q V J A F I N A E E D Q N
T
U F H C R L D D X D O O G N F N N G C G
A
L B I O R O F M G Q A E X I N Z I A F D
IC
V L S C O N F C L T Q H E E M Y E L M T
L
R I U G T O N O P T M D W C Q J D E G C
B
D K L Y Z I L D L H Q G Q I D L E G T O
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E F D L R T O D E K B V M V A S P H M V
L N X T M C C N A E V I R R A F R W S F
Y
C
I X M N H I H F S E N C L J P A K R O P
R
G M N E X F C A C K Y S F G U O T J Y N
E
H M P U X P Q I D K C Q J I Q F C F G U
M
T O A Q J H V D Q Z R D I F N T X O I I
E W P E L X Q N J E X S Y B K E W A W O
D I N R B U M Z H U V H V D J N X O D G
U C H A P H A Z A R D D I A V Q N I F S
W W D N W X J D K L I O L Q H H Q D X U
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94 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
i) Edison travelled to New Jersey by ___. Ans : train
A
ii) The station master enquired Edison if ___. Ans : he had left anything behind
N
iii) Edison raced back to the car, when he saw ___. Ans : the face of his bride
N
iv) Albert Einstein was working in ___. Ans : Princeton University
E
v) One day, when he was going back home, he ___. Ans : forgot his home address
H
vi) Einstein asked the cab driver if he knew ___. Ans : Einstein’s home
C
vii) The driver was so good that he ___. Ans : refused to charge him for the service.
Speaking Activity
-
S
Work with a partner and take turns to share your views and suggestions with the class.
N
i) You are travelling in train. When the Train Ticket Examiner enters your compartment, much to
IO
your shock, you realize you have forgotten to bring your train ticket. How will you handle the
situation.
T
Ticket less travel is punishable. When I realize that I have forgotten to bring my ticket on
A
seeing a TTE, it will be a shock. I will try to find if I have any other proof of having bought
a ticket. In the absence of such thing, I will explain my position to the TTE. I will try to
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convince him that I had really bought a ticket. It’s OK if he is convinced. Otherwise I will
be left with no other option than to pay the fine for not having a valid ticket. I will curse my
L
ii) You forget to wish your best friend on his / her birthday. He gets very angry. How will you try
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to pacify him / her? Construct a dialogue of about 4 to 5 exchanges and enact a role play?
Me : Hello Ramesh. Good morning.
Y
Me
: Then what?
R
Ramesh
Me : Ramesh I am really sorry. I forgot to wish you on your birthday.
E
I
A
Blessed are the forgetful, for they get the better even of their blunders.
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iv) Is there a link between intelligence and absent - mindedness? Share your views on this subject.
N
Forgetfulness might mean that you are actually a genius. According to science, smart
people often forget, unnecessary things. The brain simply dumps old information. Science
E
indicates that the brain forgets irrelevant details. It focusses on the stuff that will help us
H
making right decisions. It is concluded that ability to jettison certain memories is vital to
C
tuning our decision making process.
Albert Elinsten, one of the greatest scientists of all time, was considered absent - minded.
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Science also revealed that forgetting is actually a key part of learning. The purpose of
S
‘memory’ is not to remember facts. It should aid in making intelligent decisions by retaining
N
only valuable information. So the brain is not malfunctioning when it forgets something. But
IO
it may have been actively trying to ditch unpleasant memory. Thus, it can focus on something
more important.
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Reading
A
IC
Jeeno, a robotic dog was an all rounder who could cook, clean and fight. So it was different
B
ii) What precaution should one take while writing Science fiction stories?
Science fiction stories should draw some parallels or association from the emotions and
desires of the present humankind.
Y
C
Grammar
We use the active form to say what the subject does.
For example : I speak English everyday.
We use the passive form to say what happens to people and things - to say what is done
to them. For example - English is spoken by me everyday.
Read the following sentences. Give reasons for the use of Passive construction.
I
A
ii) Waste is collected from the garbage when the doer of the action is irrelevant.
N
containers on the streets.
N
iii) Ground level ozone and fine when a general truth is being stated
particles are released in the air.
E
iv) Smog is formed purely by air while writing reports and scientific research
H
pollution papers
C
Ans :
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i) The cave paintings of Ajantha were while writing reports and scientific research
made in the Gupta period
S
papers
N
ii) Waste is collected from the garbage when the doer of the action in unknown.
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iv) Smog is formed purely by air when the doer of the action is irrelevant.
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pollution
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1. Mohammed follows the rules. Ans : The rules are followed by Mohammed.
2. Mohan has completed the course. Ans : The course has been completed by Mohan.
R
3. Magdalene is singing the prayer. Ans : The prayer is being sung by Magdalene.
E
4. Who wrote this complaint? Ans : By whom was this complaint written?
M
5. May God bless you with happiness! Ans : May you be blessed by God with
happiness.
6. A house is being constructed by them. Ans : They are constructing a house.
7. Let the door not be slammed. Ans : Don’t slam the door.
8. The team was trained by the coach. Ans : The coach trained the team.
C. Make sentences using the passive forms of the verbs.
1. Tagore / award / Nobel prize
Ans : Tagore was awarded the Nobel Prize.
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PROSE - Forgetting 97
Additional
1. One thousand connections / give / in / May.
I
Ans : One thousand connections will be given in May.
A
2. This dam / build / in 1960.
N
Ans : This dam was built in 1960.
3. Financial aid / give / to people / next month.
N
Ans : Financial aid will be given to people next month.
E
4. Gas stoves / distribute / to people / last month.
H
Ans : Gas stoves were distributed to people last month.
C
5. Trees / cut down / last week.
Ans : Trees were cut down last week.
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6. Metals / replace / plastics.
Ans : Metals are replaced by plastics. S
N
7. The experiments / have / be / stop / due to power failure.
IO
D. Look at the newspaper items given below. Use the information in the headlines to complete
the sentence.
PU
About _____ at the Dindigul bus terminus here today when two buses collided.
M
I
A
ii) Add two teaspoons of tea leaves and ½ a cup of milk.
iii) Cover the vessel with a lid.
N
iv) Filter the tea and pour in cups.
N
v) Add 2 teaspoons of sugar and stir it.
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vi) Serve hot.
H
1. Complete the passage by filling the blanks with the passive forms of the verbs.
C
The water should be boiled in a vessel. Then tea leaves and milk __(1)__ to the water.
The vessel __(2)__ with a lid. The tea __(3)__ and __(4)__ into the cups. Sugar __(5)__ and
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__(6)__. The tea __(7)__ hot.
S
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
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1. should be added 2. should be closed 3. should be boiled 4. poured
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2. Here is a recipe to make choloate cake in a pressure cooker. Rewrite the instructions in
A
passive voice. The first one has been done for you.
IC
Ingredients :
1 cup
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flour
¼ cup cocoa powder 1 ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ cup water ½ tsp vannilla
B
2 eggs ¼ cup butter ¾ cup castor sugar 1/8 tsp salt essence
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Method:
i) First sift the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder in a making bowl.
Y
ii) Add butter, sugar, salt, water and vanilla and beat the ingredients using a whisk.
C
iii) Add the eggs and beat the batter until it is smooth.
iv) Transfer the batter into the baking tin.
R
v) Heat the pressure cooker, covered with the lid but without the pressure, for 3-4
E
minutes on high heat. Then place the cake tin in the empty cooker (Do not add water
M
in the cooker).
vi) Close the lid (without the pressure) lower the flame and let it cook for about 30
minutes.
Ans : The flour, cocoa powder and baking powder are first sifted in a mixing bowl. Butter,
sugar, salt, water and vanilla are added and the ingredients are beaten using a whisk. Eggs are
added and the batter is beaten until it is smooth. Batter is transferred into the baking tin. The
pressure cooker is covered with a lid and heated without pressure for 3 - 4 minutes on high
heat. Then the cake tin is placed in the empty cooker. Let water not be added in the cooker.
The lid is closed without pressure, the flame is lowered and it is cooked for about 30 minutes.
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PROSE - Forgetting 99
3. Write the process of wrapping a Christmas gift in a paragraph in passive form, with the help of
the pictures given below.
I
1) Place the gift in a rectangular box. This makes it far easier to wrap than oddly -
A
shaped items.
N
2) Measure amount of paper needed. Place gift paper on box, wrap loose end up and
N
over, and make a cut.
3) Place gift paper face down and centred on the box. Bring first edge up and tape in
E
place onto the box, then bring other side up and tape in place.
H
4) Fold the sides in against the edges of the box, and crease the diagonal flaps you’ve
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created.
5) Fold top edge down, and tape to box. Then fold bottom edge up and tape.
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6) Add a gift tag, bow and ribbon to really class up your christmas gift and impress your
recipients. S
N
Ans : The Gift is placed in a rectangular box. It is made far easier to wrap than oddly
shaped items. The amount of paper needed is measured. Gift paper is placed on box, wrapped
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loose end up and over, a cut is made. Gift paper is placed face down and centred on the box.
First edge is brought up and taped in place on to box, then the other side is brought up and
T
taped in against the edges of the box, and the diagnal flaps created by you are creased. The
A
top edge is folded down and taped to box. Then bottom edge is folded up and taped. A gift
tag, bow and ribbon are added to let your Christmas gift be classed up and your recipients be
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impressed.
L
When you write a sentence you must make sure that the subject and the verb agree.
PU
Subject - Verb agreement is the correspondence of a verb with its subject in person and
number. The basic rule states that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural
subject takes a plural verb.
Y
Always Plural:
C
Always Singular :
after ‘one of, a kind of, a type of’
units of measurement and mathematical expressions
when the subject has two singular nouns joined by ‘or’
nouns connected with each of, each one, either of, neither of, someone, something,
anybody, anything, no one, nothing, everybody, everything.
names of subjects: mathematics, politics, civics, economics, physics etc.
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100 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
10. Either of these (is, are) suitable. is
A
B) Correct the following passage.
N
Where does the deer and the antelope play? One place is Yellowstone National Park. It
were created in 1872. Parts of the park is in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. The park are a safe
N
place for many animals . Bears, moosem buffalo, deer and antelop lives there. Beavers, otters,
E
fish and eagles also enjoys the park. For them, Yellowstone be ‘home sweet home’.
H
Ans : Where do the deer and the antelope play? The place is Yellowstone National Park. It
was created in 1872. Some parts of the park are in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. The park is
C
a safe place for many animals . Bears, moosem buffaloes, deer and antelops live there. Beavers,
otters, fish and eagles also enjoy the park. For them, Yellowstone is ‘home sweet home’.
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Writing
S
N
Biographical sketch
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A biographical sketch is a brief summary of a person’s life and his achievements. It should
include a description of the person’s physical appearance, education, work, achievement and
other salient personal traits. The main focus of a biographical sketch is to portray the person
T
in an admirable way.
A
3. Highlight his / her education and work. 4. Mention his / her special contribution.
B
- author - Indian writing in English completed education 1930 - teacher - Swami and Friends
C
- first novel - 1935 - narrative of adventures of schoolboys - most of his stories - set in
fictitious town - Malgudi - themes - peculiar human relationships - clash of modern and
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ancient traditions - style - graceful - humourous - elegant - simpel - 34 novels - prose version
E
a. Given below are hints about a renowned British science fiction writer Aruthur C. Clarke. Write
a biographical sketch on the author in not more than 80 - 100 words based on the information
given below.
I
Society, Highest Civil Honour of Sri Lanka - ‘Sri Lankabhimanya
A
2005’
N
Titles Clarke, Robert Heinlein and Isaac Asimov - ‘Big Three’ of Science
Fiction, ‘The Prophet of the Space Age’
N
Famous Works Childhood’s End, 2001: A Sapce Odyssey, Rendezvous with Rana
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Arthur C. Clarke, the renowned British Science Fiction Writer was born on 16th Dec
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1917, in England. He was a novelist, television host, inventor and film screen writer. His
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wrote under the pen names Charles Willis and E.G.O. Brien.
The genre of his writings include science fiction, television series and film screen play.
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He has a host of awards and honours for his great writings. Kalinga Prize an award given
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by UNESCO for popularising Science was awarded to him in 1961. He has also won Hugo
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Chairman of the Interplanetary Society. Sri Lanka honoured him with the country’s Highest
Civil Honour - ‘Sri Lankabhimanya’ in 2005. He has to his credit various titles like Clarke,
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Robert Heinlein and Isaac Asimov the ‘Big three’ of science fiction. The prophet of the Space
age was also authored by him.
T
His famous works include childhood’s end, 2001: A Space Odyssey and Rendezvous with
A
Rana.
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Report Writing
A report is written for a clear purpose.
L
The next step is to organize the collected information and put it together in an outline.
Proper planning will be easier to write a report.
Y
While collecting facts and writing a report, remember to check and include the following
R
complications.
M
Read the following report by Dinesh on the 50th Annual Day of his school.
Report Golden Jubilee Celebration - V.R.Dinesh Kumar
11 March, 2018.
th
On 10th March, 2020, a colourful and memorable Golden Jubilee Annual Day event was
organized in our school. This event was held in the auditorium of our school. Many eminent
personalities and educationists graced the occasion. The District Collector, who was the Chief
Guest, inaugurated the function. It began with a prayer, hailing the Goddess of knowledge and
wisdom. This was followed by a colourful welcome dance by the students of kindergarden.
The Prinicipal welcomed the gathering, after which all the invitees were felicitated. The
cultural programme, which followed, was a truly mesmerizing show. The cultural programme
I
included items such as singing, dancing, poetry recitation, skits, mimicry and mono act shows.
A
The audience sat enthralled by the show. In his address, the Chief Guest praised the efforts
of the students and teachers alike. This was followed by prize distribution to teachers and
N
students, for their achievements. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed
N
by the School Pupil Leader.
E
a) You have recently attended a seminar on ‘Science and Literature’ in which writers presented
H
papers on Science Fiction and Literature and focused on the creativity of young writers. Write
C
a short report about it for a leading newspaper in about 100 - 120 words.
Report - Seminar on Science and Literature
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Dated : 10th June, 2020
S
On 10th March 2020, a seminar was conducted at the college hall on ‘Science and
N
Literature’. A number of renowned writers participated in it and presented papers on science
IO
fiction and literature. The writers focussed on the creativity of young writers. The seminar
was presided over by the HOD of the Science Department. He spoke about the importance
T
of creative writing. He advised how science fiction could be made interesting for readers.
A
The writers came from different walks of life. Some of them were professors and some were
journalists. Many students from the college also presented papers.
IC
At the end of the seminar, a jury of three members selected three papers for awards. The
seminar ended with the National Anthem.
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B
b) You are the School Pupil Leader. Your school organised an Inter - School Sports event at Nehru
Stadium. Write a report on the special events conducted in 100 - 120 words for the school
PU
souvenir.
Report - Inter School Sports
Y
Our school organised an inter school sports event on 5th March, 2018 at Nehru Stadium.
Many schools in the city participated in it. The Chief Educational Officer opened the sports
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meet. Heads of different schools and officers from the Department attended the meet. The
E
event was held from 7am to 5pm. Various sports events were conducted. Winners were
M
awarded the medals as and when the event had ended as in the Olympic games. Lunch and
snacks were provided to all the participants. Track events were conducted on the newly laid
synthetic track.
At the end the overall championship was awarded to the team with the maximum
points. Our Headmaster in his valedictory address thanked all the Heads of schools for their
cooperation. He praised all the participants for their skill and discipline. The meet ended with
the National Anthem.
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POEM
3. LINES WRITTEN IN THE EARLY SPRING
William Wordsworth
About the author
William Wordsworth is known as a Nature Poet as his poems
are all about Nature. He was a major English Romantic
poet who launched the Romantic Age in English Literature
along with T.S.Coleridge. He was Britain’s poet Laureate till
his death. Some of his popular poems include Dafodils,
I
A
The Solitary Reaper, To the Cuckoo. His poems create
pleasantness in mind as we read them.
N
N
Summary
E
The poet was reclining in a grove. He had both pleasant and sad thoughts in his mind. He
could associate himself with nature. When he looked at the flowers and twigs, they appeared
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to enjoy themselves in nature breathing air happily. The birds hopped around him. They
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enjoyed themselves oblivious of his presence. But he was saddened by the thought, that man
was exploiting nature. The atmosphere was pleasant all around with flowers and breeze and
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everything seemed to be happy. One can’t help being happy in such a jocund company. But he
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compares nature with human beings. Man was waging wars and destroying nature and lives of
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fellow humans. He lamended “What man has made of Man”. God created nature for all, only
to enjoy and be peaceful and pleasant.
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1. Warm up :
T
Do you go for leisurely walks ? If you are a city - dweller, what or who would you expect to see
A
on your way ?
IC
I go for a leisurely walk in the early mornings. I reside in a city and walk along the beach.
I find birds warming up, small flower plants with morning dew on them. I meet many other
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The scene in a village in the early morning is very pleasant. Birds chirp in their nests
and flower plants wave their heads. Small streams make sounds as they flow. These scenes
contribute to the beauty of nature. Farmers and their oxen with bells around their necks add
colour to nature.
Y
C
Glossary
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sate
recline - lean back in a position of rest
M
1. Find words from the poem that convey the following ideas.
a. Connected together - blended notes.
b. spread over the surface of the ground in a straggling manner - trailed its wreath.
c. make out or understand - measure
d. slender woody shoots growing from branches or stems of trees. - twigs
2. Complete the summary of the poem by filling in the blanks with the words given below.
The poet, in a relaxed state of mind, is sitting in a (1) _____. He reflects on how his
mood brings (2) _____ thoughts, which are inevitably followed by (3) ______ ones. He
feels connected to all of nature, and senses an inherent joy in all (4) _____. He has faith in
I
the fact that all the primroses and periwinkles around him (5) _____ the air they breathe. He
A
feels that every bird in the grove moves with (6) _____. As the twigs catch the breezy air,
N
they do so with the same pleasure (7) _____ all life on earth. This joy of nature seems to be
heaven - sent. Nature’s holy plan is to offer joy and peace to all forms of life on Earth. The
N
poet’s pleasant train of thought slowly leads to the sad reflection of how mankind alone has
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wrought sorrow and (8) _____ upon itself. He firmly believes that man is meant to spend his
H
days blissfully taking part in the vitality and joy surrounding him in (9) _____. He therefore
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concludes rhetorically, emphasizing that he has good reason to (10) _____ the distress, man
unnecessasry brings upon himself.
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creations abundance savour pleasant suffering
grove lament pervading sorrowful ecstasy S
N
Ans : 1. grove 2. pleasant 3. sorrowful 4. creations 5. savour
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3. Read the lines given below and answer the questions that follow :
A
The poet noticed that the twigs were spreading their leaves as if to catch the breezy
air.
E
M
Additional
1. I heard a thousand blended notes
While in a grove I sate reclined.
a) Where is the speaker seated?
The speaker is seated in a grove.
b) What does ‘blended notes’ mean?
It means mixture of sounds of various birds.
c) What is a grove?
Grove is a small area of land with a group of trees.
2. To her fair works did Nature link
The human soul that through me ran.
I
a) What did the nature link with?
A
The nature linked its works with the human soul.
N
b) What are nature’s fair works?
N
Nature’s fair works are its flowers, rivers and all parts of nature. They are happy and
radiate happiness.
E
3. But the least motion which they made
H
It seem’d a thrill of pleasure
C
a) Who made the least motion?
The birds around the poet made the least motion.
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b) How did the poet feel about them?
S
The poet felt that the birds were happy and the thought thrilled him.
N
4. Have I not reason to lament
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Man has lost his link with the nature. Man was squandering nature and waging wars.
c) What does the second line mean?
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4. Explain the following lines with reference to the context in about 4 to 5 sentences each :
PU
‘William Wordsworth’.
Context : The poet says this when memories of human atrocities spoiled his happy mood.
C
Explanation : When the poet was reclining in a grove, he was in a sweet mood. The
R
environment brought both pleasant and sad thoughts to his mind. He was referring to the
E
nature and Man. Man caused misery in the lives of fellow humans and nature.
M
I
A
1. And much it grieved my heart to think
N
What man has made of man.
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Lines written in Early Spring’ by
N
William Wordsworth.
E
Context : The poet says that man has deviated from nature and destroys nature and man.
H
Explanation : Man is acting against the will of nature. He is indulging in wars and violence.
C
This thought made the poet sad.
2. And its my faith that every flower
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Enjoys the air it breathes.
S
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Lines written in Early Spring’ by
N
William Wordsworth.
IO
Context : The poet says this while observing the ecstasy of plants and birds.
Explanation : The poet sees beautiful flowers in the grove, and the periwinkle forming
T
wreaths. He feels that every part of nature is happy. Like humans, the flowers relish every puff
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Lines written in Early Spring’ by
B
William Wordsworth.
PU
Context : The poet talks about the birds hopping around him.
Explanation : The birds around the poet hopped. Their gentle movement thrilled the poet.
Y
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Lines written in Early Spring’ by
William Wordsworth.
M
Context : He says that Nature reflects God’s holy plan of being happy.
Explanation : God created nature and it was the holy plan of God. He wanted everyone to
be happy. He laments that man is working against God’s holy plan.
5. A. Read the following sets of lines and identify the figures of speech used in each extract:
a. To her works did Nature link
The Human Soul that through me ran.
Ans : Personification. - Nature personified - soul personified.
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POEM - Lines Written in the Early Spring 107
I
6. Based on your reading of the poem answer the following questions in a sentence or two each:
A
a. How does the poet feel when he is enjoying the beauty of nature ?
N
When the poet is enjoying the beauty of nature, sad thoughts also come to his mind.
N
b. Does nature affect a person’s thoughts and feelings ? Explain.
E
Nature links its beautiful works to the human soul. So it affects the thoughts of the mind.
H
c. How do people bring grief and sorrow to one another ?
C
People bring distress to nature and to other men by their irresponsible acts.
d. Why does the poet think that the birds were happy ?
-
The birds hopped around and played. Though the poet could not measure their minds, the
S
least motion they made was thrilling. So he thought they were happy.
N
e. The poet finds joy in the various objects of nature. Explain.
IO
The poet finds joy even at the sight of twigs. They were waving their leaves enjoying the
breeze. The birds and flowers were also happy.
T
A
f. Bring out the poet’s thoughts, while comparing nature with human behaviour?
God created nature for all to enjoy peacefully. But man by his irresponsible behaviour
IC
has brought distress and sorrow to nature and to fellow men. This thought deeply disturbed
the poet.
L
B
I
The striking contrast between nature and humanity induces melancholy. Man can be a
A
part of nature and rational, in control of himself and in control of his surroundings. Nature
N
is full of pleasure. But man has lost his link with nature. He has begun to destroy nature and
thereby peace and pleasantness on the Earth.
N
E
Man has made of man :
Nature has linked its fair works to human soul. Nature represents the embodiment of
H
God. Nature and mankind are not different. They are the part of the same universe. The belief
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of joy being with nature is divine. The connection of man with nature is the holy plan of God.
But man’s actions are directed against the pleasantness of nature. The basic reason is that man
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has grown jealous and selfish. Man has become cruel to man and cruel to nature. It is the basic
reason for all the problems on the earth. S
N
9. Listening Activity.
IO
Some phrases have been left out in the poem below. First, read the poem. Then, fill in the
missing words on listening to the reading or the recording of it in full. You may listen again, if
T
required.
A
To Autumn
L
I
season for flowers at Ooty. I wandered on the hills and in the botanical garden. What a scene
A
it was! The rose garden was full of beautiful roses in different colours. When I entered the
N
garden, the flowers were in full bloom and a very pleasant fragrance surrounded me. The
N
different colours of roses attracted me. The entire garden was looking like a painted picture.
The garden was well maintained and the flowers were grown in an orderly manner. It was
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a beautiful sight. During that season, the hillock was full of clouds. I witnessed the passing
H
clouds from Doddabetta, the highest peak. The clouds passed around me touching me. It was
C
a memorable experience for me. I felt like a child in the lap of the mother nature. Her clouds,
greenery, fragrance and beauty charmed me.
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b. Work in groups of 4 - 6. Discuss how you would preserve the environment and protect Nature.
S
One or two representatives may share your ideas with the class.
N
Threat to environment : There is an urgent need to preserve the environment. Due to
IO
industrialisation, pollution has increased in all spheres. Many animal and aqua species are
facing extinction. As a result of global warming, glaciers are disappearing. Man’s zealousy
for comfort has denuded forests resulting in floods and cyclones. It is imperative to take steps
T
Preserving Nature : Afforestation should be taken up on a large scale. Water bodies and
IC
rivers should be protected from being polluted and destroyed. To prevent extinction of species
of rare animals, stringent measures have to be taken to punish poachers and hunters. Parks
L
should be created and protected to house animals. To conserve water, rain water harvesting
B
must be made mandatory for all. Awareness should be created about the danger to nature by
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human activity. A people’s movement can be started to preserve environment and hand over a
healthy Earth to the future generations.
11. Answer the following in a paragraph of 100 - 150 words each.
Y
Nature has all the ingredients to nurture the inhabitants of Earth, all living things. Water
E
being the elixir of life, rivers can supply water for drinking and irrigation. Holy rivers like the
Ganges have medicinal water to give strength and health. Forests have millions of medicinal
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herbs. Fresh and unpolluted air contributes to healthy living. Flowers and trees give pleasant
feelings. Animal species help maintain the ecological balance. Unpolluted oceans help aqua
life grow.
Purpose of Nature :
This is for this purpose nature is created. It can nurture humans like a mother in a family.
So we call it Mother Nature. Human activity is hurting mother nature, who nurtures humans.
It should be stopped or else the humanity itself will face extinction.
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110 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
2. When humanity fails to live in harmony with Nature, its effects are felt around the world. Why
and how ?
Man and Nature :
Man is a social animal. He is a part of nature. The nature is meant for peaceful living and
pleasant experience. It should be shared by man along with other living things. That is what
is meant by living in harmony. Nature and man are inseparable. Man has no right to destroy
any part of nature. But man is polluting rivers, destroying forests and killing wildlife. He has
no right to disturb the ecological balance and diminish the pleasant and harmonious nature of
its inhabitants. Man should not destroy his link with nature. Man cannot be cruel to man or
to nature.
Preserve Nature :
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A
If man fails to live in harmony with nature, natural calamities will occur frequently.
Denuding forests results in floods. Global warming which is the result of industrialisation
N
affects glaciers and oceans. Water pollution affects both the health of people and aqua life.
N
Polluted air also affects the health of people. Man cannot escape the consequences of his mad
actions in destroying nature. He has to live as he was expected to, in order to preserve the
E
earth for future generations.
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3. Write a letter to the Councillor of your Ward, explaining why a park is necessary in your
C
locality.
Dated :27.08.2020
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Chennai
From S
N
XXXXXXX
IO
XXXXXX
XXXXX.
T
To
A
The Councillor,
IC
Ward No .............
Ripon Building,
L
Sir,
PU
I, wish to bring to your notice that I live in a Ambedkhar colony. About thousand
families are living here. It’s a mixture of rich, poor, labourers and office - goers. There are
many vacant lands lying unused in our area. There is the danger of those valuable spaces
Y
being encroached upon. They can be put to best use. The roads are congested and there is a
large volume of traffic. It results in pollution of air. There are not many trees in the area. Those
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who wish to breathe fresh air in the mornings are sadly disappointed.
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So I request you to convert the vacant land in the middle of the locality into a park. It will
E
help all people, old and young. They can breathe some fresh air and relax during the leisure
time. It will be of a great help to all.
M
SUPPLEMENTARY
3. THE FIRST PATIENT (PLAY)
- C.V.Burgess
About the author
Christopher Victor Burges is a humorous playwright.
His situational humour intensifes the emotions of the
characters in the play. There are usually many characters
in his plays. ‘Short Plays for Large Classes’, ‘Teach yourself
I
Speech Training’ are some of his famous works.
A
N
N
Summary
E
The short play is very humourous. The entire play is enacted in the waiting room in a
H
Dentist’s clinic. Eight men and eight women and a couple of children are waiting to meet the
C
Dentist. The first patient enters the surgery room. The nurse comes out and takes a hammer
with her into the surgery room. Sounds of hammering are heard. The patients are scared.
-
The nurse comes out and takes a hacksaw inside. Sawing sounds are heard. Patients become
S
panicky. Next the nurse takes in a couple of pliers. Out of fear, one after the other, all the
N
patients except an eccentric lady, who had an album of photos, and Mrs. Joe leave.
IO
The writer introduces the twist with humour at the end. The first patient comes out. His
wife enquires him, how he withstood the rude method of treatment with the use of hammer,
T
hacksaw and pliers. The patient replies that they were used to break open a wooden box for
A
the key.
IC
Warm up
Given below is a list of tools and equipments. Associate them with the appropriate profession
L
Plough, hammer, oven, thermometer, voltmeter, wood, chisel, seed, drill, voltage,.
PU
detector, cutting boards, stone picker, spatula, cultivator, nail puller, wire, strippers,
framing square, fork, flashlight.
Y
Glossary
groaning - crying in pain ice - lollies - flavoured ice or ice cream on a stick
dreadful - extremely bad weeny tug - small pull
gas - anaesthesia scream - shout in pain
ferrying - carrying queer - strange
agony - severe pain writhing - twisting the body from side to side
sulking - being sad and silent blurred - hazy, not clear
111
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112 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
1. Complete the summary of the play, choosing the appropriate words from the list given below
the passage.
A number of patients wait at the (i) _____ of a Dentist’s clinic. Everybody is tense at
the thought of a painful (2) _____ being extracted. One of the women is bent on showing
everyone her (3) _____. After the arrival of the Dentist, Joe, the first (4) _____ is called in.
Sometime later, the nurse comes out and goes in with a (5) _____. Everyone is (6) _____ at
this, imagining Joe being subjected to a lot of hammering in the process of his tooth being
pulled out. Once again the nurse comes out to fetch a large pair of (7) _____ and later on she
takes in a (8) _____. A little boy confesses that he pretended to have (9) _____, because he did
not wish to go to school. The loud (10) _____ and screeching from within the room makes
everyone leave the (11) _____. Finally there are only two women in the waiting room, one
I
A
of them being Joe’s wife. She weeps (12) _____ about her husband. But Joe comes out and
explains that he had shifted his (13) _____ to the evening and had been given some pills for
N
the pain. After they leave, the Dentist, comes out and locates the key of his tool (14) _____.
N
He had been trying to open it using the hammer, the pliers and the hacksaw only in vain. The
E
woman with the photographs is surprised to see that the (15) _____ had moved quickly and
she was the next patient to go in.
H
C
hammer patient hacksaw cabinet frightened
queue worried waiting room pliers tooth
-
photographs clinic toothache sawing appointment
S
N
1. waiting room 2. tooth 3. photographs 4. patient 5. hammer
IO
11. clinic 12. worried 13. appointment 14. cabinet 15. queue
A
IC
2. Based on your understanding of the play, complete the Graphic Organiser (GO) suitably.
Sittings : Characters :
L
Women - 1 to 8
PU
Author : C V. Burgess
C
Patients are scared that hammer and saw are Hammer, hacksaw taken into the surgery
E
used to extract teeth. It turns out that they room. Patients scared at the rude method
M
were used to open a wooden rack for the key. of tooth extraction.
3. Based on your understanding of the play, answer the following questions in about three or four
sentences each.
a) Who were the patients waiting for ?
Eight men, eight women and two children were the patients waiting for the Dentist.
b) How did Woman 5 spend her time in the waiting hall ?
Woman 5 spent her time in the waiting hall, showing her photo album to all others. She
was explaining the occasion of photos.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The First Patient (Play) 113
I
f) Bring out the people’s reaction to the noises from the surgery.
A
The waiting patients heard the sounds of the hammer and saw and interpreted them to be
N
sounds of removing the teeth. They were scared at the rude method of tooth extraction
N
g) Why did they sympathize with the first patient ?
E
They pitied the first patient, who they had supposed, was put to great pain by using the
H
rude instruments for treatment.
C
h) Why did Woman 1 panic more than the others ?
Woman 1 was the wife of the first patient Joe who was inside. Looking at the instruments
-
carried by the nurse, she was worried that Joe would not withstand the pain. She imagined
that he was writhing in pain. S
N
i) Woman 5 was not aware of what was happening. Why ?
IO
Woman 5 was all the while engrossed in her photos. She was showing them to others
forcibly. So she was not aware of the happenings around.
T
Out of fear of pain due to the rude treatment, all patients left the clinic one after the other.
IC
The patients looked at the weird instruments being carried into the surgery. They imagined
B
them to be used for extracting teeth. They left the clinic out of fear at the pain, they may suffer.
PU
The dentist had misplaced the key of the tool cabinet. So, he was trying to open the tool
kit with the hammer, hacksaw and pliers. It was misconstrued that they were being used on
C
the patient.
R
E
Vocabulary
M
No. A B Answers
1 one who specializes in lung problems gynaecologist pulmonologist
2 one who specializes in skin problems gastroenterologist dermatologist
3 one who treats diseases specific to women dermatologist gynaecologist
4 one who treats kidney diseases neurologist nephrologist
one who treats diseases and
5 pulmonologist neurologist
disorders of the nervous system
6 one who treats stomach disorders cardiologist gastroenterologist
7 one who treats vision problems nephrologist ophthalmologist
I
A
8 one who specializes in critical infants otolaryngologist neonatologist
N
9 one who treats heart problems ophthalmologist cardiologist
N
one who treats the problems of ear, nose,
10 neonatologist otolaryngologist
tongue
E
H
Listening
C
Read the following statements. Now, listen to the talk on the importance of humour and
laughter for good physical and mental health. You may listen to the text again if required, to
-
help you choose the correct option.
For paragraph refer Text Book Page No : 200. S
N
i) Humour has the power to motivate and _____ stress and pain.
IO
iii) The _____ is stocked with books, comics, funny posters, audiotapes and videos.
a) waiting room b) humour room c) ICU d) reception
IC
iv) One can plan to use humour yet rely on _____ opportunities to employ it.
a) late b) better c) future d) spontaneous
L
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
i. c) reduce ii. a) accepted iii. b) humour room iv. d) spontaneous v.a) living
Y
Speaking
C
Complete the following dialogue between a doctor and a patient with ten sets of utterances
R
for the following situation in which a person goes to a doctor for treatment. The doctor wishes
E
to give him / her an injection. The person is scared. The doctor convinces the patient and
administers the injection. Now, in pairs enact the dialogue in the classroom.
M
Doctor : You see. Your fever is dangerous. It cannot be cured with tablets. An injection
is a must.
Patient : Doctor I cannot bear the pain.
Doctor : Don’t worry. There will not be any pain. You must have it for immediate cure.
I will give the injection, without giving any pain to you.
Patient : Ok Doctor. Give me an injection please let it be painless.
Doctor : Ok. Don’t worry.
5. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 80 - 100 words each.
i) Based on your understanding of the play, explain how a mistaken understanding of events
can lead to confusion. How has the author used this unexpected combination of events in the
I
situation to create humour ?
A
Confusion and panic : Mistaken understanding of events can lead to a lot of confusion. The
N
play explains how if events are misconstrued, it may lead to a lot of confusion and panic. The
author has handled the situation cleverly and brought a humorous end to the confusion.
N
Weird tools : Many patients were waiting to meet a Dentist. One patient was in the surgery.
E
The nurse carried peculiar tools not connected with dentistry, inside the room. They were viz
H
a hammer, a hacksaw and a pair of pliers. The sounds of hammering, sawing coming from
C
the surgery, make the patients waiting outside panicky. They were afraid of the rude method
of treatment and the pain involved. Out of fear of pain, almost all of them except two ladies,
-
leave without meeting the dentist.
The Climax : S
N
The patient inside, comes out and explains that the hammer, hacksaw and pliers were
used to open a wooden box as the dentist had misplaced the key. Thus the author brings a
IO
ii) Have you ever found yourself in such a situation? Discuss in groups and act out such a situation.
A
Once I took my younger sister studying in Ist standard to her school. I saw some young
children coming out of the classroom weeping. The teacher came out and carried a scale
IC
inside classroom. I found some more children coming out crying. The teacher came out and
took a long cane inside. I heard sounds of screeching. I wondered how the small children
L
I went in to talk to the Principal. I found that the teacher was trying to open the window
PU
screen which was jammed. Since the scale was not long enough, she took the long cane. The
weeping of children was not connected to it. They were newly admitted and were searching
for their parents who were outside. I misread the events and felt embarrassed.
Y
C
Unit test
R
Part - I
Answer all the questions 10 × 1 = 10
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. It is only a methodical man, who can always remember to take the medicines.
a) disorganised b) confusing c) chaotic d) orderly
2. Indignant at her busband’s behaviour, she decided to teach him a lesson.
a) calm b) loving c) angry d) peaceful
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116 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
3. I am always reluctant to trust a departing visitor.
a) diffident b) opposed c) eager d) discouraged
4. Men with fallible memories have sometimes tried to make out a case for their
superiority.
a) careless b) imperfect c) weak d) certain
5. Choose the clipped form of ‘Vegetableburger’
a) vegburger b) vegetableger c) vegger d) veggie
6. Choose the right definition for the given term ‘geologist.
a) studies functioning of human society b) studies birds
I
A
c) studies earthquake
d) studies the matter that constitues the Earth
N
7. Form a derivative by adding the right prefix to the word ‘legal’.
N
a) il - b) mis - c) ir - d) un -
E
8. Choose the correct verb and complete the following sentence.
H
Our team _____ the best at present.
C
a) was b) were c) is d) all
9. Choose the correct modal verb and complete the sentence.
-
A good teacher _____ make even boring lessons interesting.
a) can b) could
S
c) will d) would
N
10. Choose the right definition of the word ‘Aerophobia’.
IO
Section - 1
IC
Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
11. If this belief from heaven be sent,
L
Section - 1
Explain any one of the following with reference to the context : 1×3=3
18. Have I not reason to lament.
What Man has made of Man ?
19. In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts
I
A
Bring sad thoughts to the mind.
N
20. If this belief from heaven be sent
If such be Nature’s holy plan.
N
E
Section - 2
H
Answer any one of the following briefly : 1×3=3
C
21. When does human memory work with less than its usual capacity?
22. How do the chemists make fortunes out of the medicines people forget to take?
-
23. What does the author mean when he says the letter in his pocket leads an unadventurous
life? S
N
Section - 3
IO
25. You are the School Pupil Leader. Your school organised an Inter - School Sports
A
event at Nehru Stadium. Write a report on the special events conducted in 100 - 120
IC
the box.
B
Swami and Friends - first novel - 1935 - narrative of adventures of schoolboys - most
of his stories - set in fictitious town - Malgudi - themes - peculiar human relationships
Y
Part - IV
E
27. You have borrowed a branded cicket bat from your reluctant friend for an outstation
match. After returning home you realize you have absent - mindedely left it in the
hotel room. Write a letter of apology and regret to your friend.
28. ‘Nature can nurture’. Describe how this process happens.
29. Based on your understanding of the play, ‘The First Patient’ explain how a mistaken
understanding of events can lead to confusion. How has the author used this
unexpected combination of events in the situation to create humour ?
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PROSE
4. TIGHT CORNERS
Edward Verrall Lucas
About the author
Edward Verrall Lucas was an English humourist, essayist, playwright,
biographer, publisher, poet, novelist, short story writer and editor.
Born in London, he began to write. He turned to journalism and
I
worked on newspapers. He wrote the biography of Bernard Barton.
A
Later he was asked to edit the works of Charles Lamb. He joined
N
Punch, a humorous magazine, in 1904. He remained there till his
N
death. He was a prolifc writer most celebrated for his short essays.
E
He also produced verses, novels and plays.
H
Summary
C
Lucas narrates the story of how he was rescued from humiliation at an auction house, by
a sudden stroke of luck.
-
The author was persuaded by his friend to look into the sale - room of an auction house.
S
They were selling Barbizon pictures and getting large amounts. The author wanted to bid for
N
fun. He had no trouble until some one else made a higher bid. After sometime a picture was
putup at a bid of 4000 guineas. On a sudden impulse, the narrator added 50 more and it became
IO
the highest bid. The picture was declared sold to the author. But he had only 63 pounds. He
was thinking of ways to borrow, but could not get anything. He was in a tight corner. But luck
T
was on his side. One person offered 50 pounds to him to withdraw his claim for the picture.
A
Being shrewd, the narrator wanted 100 pounds to relinquish his claim. He received a cheque
IC
for 100 pounds to his great relief and joy. The picture was given to the man. Thus the narrator
was saved from humiliation.
L
Glossary
B
St. James’ Street, King Street - Well - known commercial streets in London
bloatocrat - a fat and rich person of high station - a term coined
by E. V. Lucas by blending the words ‘bloated’ and
Y
‘aristocrat’
C
smothered - suppressed
M
Warm up
Many of us have unused, old but valuable items at home. If we wish to get rid of them,
we can sell them at an auction. Items like paintings, jewels, household articles, vehicles, even
houses can be auctioned.
The flowchart below will help you understand how an auction is conducted.
Enter the sale - room where the The payment is made by
items are displayed for sale. cheque or any other approved
mode of payment and the
article is considered sold.
I
The highest bidder finally goes
A
to the clerk and hands over the
Get a card with a registration
card
N
number from the staff
N
The highest price is announced
E
The auctioneer opens by
quoting a price for each thrice.
article
H
C
Each buyer holds up his / The deal is closed with the
her card and states a price highest bidding / price.
-
which is higher than the
opening price.
S
N
The auction continues
with each bidder quoting a
IO
Synonyms
A
baseness
remote - far away dazed - stunned
E
I
party.
A
3. dazed - confused - The driver was in a dazed state.
N
4. displayed - exhibited - She displayed all her jewels to others.
N
5. gradual - slow - He rose up in life gradually.
E
6. humiliate - disgrace - He was humiliated at the meeting by others.
H
7. husky - coarse - The dealer spoke in a husky voice.
C
8. modest - humble - Ram has modest behaviour.
9. persuaded - lead to do - Rahim was persuaded to take up the job.
-
10. rectified - corrected - The manager rectified the mistakes in the draft.
11. pondering - think deeply -
S
The dismissed leader was pondering over his next move.
N
12. inquiring - questioining - The student has an inquiring mind.
IO
Choose the correct synonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. The talk was running on the critical situations in which we had found ourselves.
T
8. But how near the surface and ready, even in the best of us, is worldly guile.
M
Antonyms
Write antonyms for the following words.
critical × stable found × lost
adventurous × cautious enough × scarce
tight × loose physical × mental / abstract
always × never surely × doubtful
old × new afterwards × beforehand
persuade × dissuade selling × buying
full × empty tremendous × ordinary
little × large regular × irregular
I
borrow × lend electrified × boring
A
higher × lower previous × next
N
modesty × boastfulness / pride gradual × sudden
N
often × seldom safely × dangerously
sooner × later sensational × dull
E
excitement × boredom terrible × pleasant
H
silence × sound / noise inquiringly × disinterestedly
C
first × last generally × specifically
-
surprise × expectation horror × pleasure / beauty
realized × unrealized offered
S × withdrew
N
congealed × melted / separated curious × indifferent
purchaser × seller genuine × fake
IO
2. humiliate × praise - The singer was praised for his great performance.
R
Choose the correct antonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. He persuaded me to look into the room.
a) induced b) encouraged c) dissuaded d) forced
2. They had all been modestly started at fifty guineas.
a) humbly b) proudly c) purely d) simply
3. There was no sound but a curious smothered noise.
a) inquiring b) peeping c) searching d) indifferent
4. I pulled myself together sufficiently to hand my card.
a) insufficiently b) enough c) abundant d) fully
I
5. The staff looked so prosperous and unsympathetic.
A
a) poor b) affluent c) moneyed d) pretty
N
6. A genuine mistake of such a kind would have been rectified at once.
N
a) real b) original c) true d) fake
7. He rammed his handkerchief in his mouth and disappeared.
E
a) hidden b) appeared c) concealed d) went away
H
8. And then the unexpected happened.
C
a) expected b) sudden c) wanted d) unknown
9. He became grave at once on seeing the cheque.
-
a) serious b) gloomy c) grim d) cheerful
10. It is indelibly branded. S
N
a) unremovable b) removably c) unrubbed d) unclear
IO
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
A
a) Describe the activity that was going on in the sale-room at King Street.
Barbizan pictures were sold through avetion in the sale - room and they fetched a lot of
money.
Y
b) What can you say about the author’s attitude when he high-handedly participated in the
C
auction?
R
The attitude of the author in participating in the auction for fun without money is an
E
irresponsible act.
M
I
The author wanted to confess his poverty. He had done a lot of bidding. So, the staff
A
might not believe him.
N
j) Why did the friend desert the narrator, a second time?
N
The friend found the narrator in a helpless position. In order to laugh aloud alone, he
E
deserted the narrator a second time.
H
k) How does the narrator describe the man who approached him?
C
The man who approached the narrator looked like a messenger of Gods with a green
apron. He spoke in a husky Cockney tone.
-
l) S
How does the Narrator show presence of mind in the sudden turn of events?
N
The narrator used the situation to escape from the humiliation. He asked the mediator if
50 guineas was the most he could offer. The mediator said that there was no harm trying a
IO
little more. Suddenly the author said that he would take a hundred .
T
m) The narrator would not forget two things about his friend. What are they?
A
The narrator would not forget how his friend had persuaded him to enter the auction
IC
room. He would remember how he was left alone to face the tight corner. It was imprinted in
his heart in letters of fire.
L
Additional
B
One man had been caught by the tide and escaped by the skin of teeth. Another man while
sitting on an elephant was attacked by a tiger. Another man was on the top storey of a building
Y
when it had caught fire. These are the physical tight corners.
C
Bloatocrat is the blended word for bloated + Aristocrat. It refers to the narrator, who
ventured to participate in the bid with just 63 pounds. He pretended to be rich.
E
M
5. What thoughts did cross the author’s mind when he was in the tight corner?
The author had only sixty - three pounds. He had to pay four thousand and fifty guineas for
the picture. He began to think of his relatives from whom he could borrow. He was wondering
if the money lenders would lend him money on note of hand. He also thought of confessing
his poverty to the staff and have the picture put up again.
1. Choose the most appropriate answer for the following questions.
a) ‘Tight Corner’ means a _____.
i) difficult situation ii) crowded corner
iii) stragic incident iv) fierce fight
I
b) Barbizon refers to a _____.
A
i) kind of paint ii) type of architecture
N
iii) region in Britain iv) French school of painters
N
c) The narrator visited the sale-room as he _____.
E
i) wished to see an auction ii) had a painting to sell
H
iii) was persuaded by his friend iv) wanted to buy a painting
C
d) The narrator had been a safe contributor at the auction, as _____.
i) there were bidders quoting higher prices ii) he had a sound financial background
-
iii) his friend had lent him money iv) he did not make any bidding
e) “And I got it”. Here ‘it’ refers to the _____. S
N
i) picture he wanted to buy ii) money he asked for
IO
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
A
a) What is a tight corner? What happens when one finds oneself in a tight corner?
‘Tight Corner’ means to be in a difficult and awkward situation. When one is in a tight
corner, he will find it difficult to escape from it.
Y
It may be possible to escape from a physical tight corner. Mental tight corners are tougher.
R
The narrator visited Christie’s just to look into the auction room.
d) The narrator heard his own voice saying, ‘and fifty’. What does this suggest?
The narrator used to add fifty to every bidding. The offer prize of a picture was 4000
pounds. Involuntarily, he said fifty more than the last bidder. Nobody raised the bid beyond
4050 guineas. This suggested the author had to buy the painting.
e) What was the narrator’s financial condition?
The narrator had only 63 pounds in his bank account.
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PROSE - Tight Corners 125
f) The narrator could not pretend to have made a mistake in bidding. Why?
The narrator was consciously bidding all the time. He escaped as others had bid more
than him. So he could not pretend to have made a mistake.
g) What could have been the best way for the narrator, to get himself out of the tight corner?
The best way could have been to confess his poverty and apologize for his misadventure.
But such a mistake should have been stopped earlier. It was very late to make amends.
h) Why did the narrator feel he could have welcomed a firing party?
The narrator was angry with his friend for deserting him when he was in a tight corner.
So he thought he could have welcomed a firing party.
I
i) What was the bidder’s offer to the narrator?
A
The bidder offered fifty guineas more than the price bid, to the narrator.
N
j) How did the narrator take advantage of the situation?
N
The bidder was ready to pay the narrator fifty guineas for his bid. Seeing a way out, he
E
wanted to make best use of the opportunity. The narrator asked for hundred guineas and he
H
got it too.
C
3. Form a meaningful summary of the lesson by rewriting the numbers in the correct sequence:
a) The narrator had only 63 pounds with him and did not know how to manage the
-
situation. S
b) The narrator thought of all his relations from whom he could borrow.
N
c) Unfortunately he had made the highest bid.
IO
d) The narrator entered Christie’s as his friend persuaded him to visit the sale-room.
e) Every time someone else made a higher bid and the narrator was not caught.
T
f) The narrator on a sudden impulse added 50 more guineas, to the amount offered.
A
g) His friend joined him then but left immediately unable to control his laughter.
IC
j) After sometime a picture was put up and a bid for 4000 guineas was raised.
k) A sudden stroke of luck befell the narrator when he heard that the gent who had
made the bid of 4000 guineas would offer him the additional 50 guineas and buy the
Y
picture.
C
m) The picture was given away to the other bidder and the narrator was saved from
humiliation.
E
n) His friend had left the place roaring with laughter at the narrator’s predicament.
M
o) The narrator was quite happy at the offer but demanded 100 guineas instead of the 50.
Now there was no need for him to make any payment.
Correct sequences :
d) The narrator entered Christie’s as his friend persuaded him to visit the sale-room.
l) The narrator kept bidding just for fun.
e) Every time someone else made a higher bid and the narrator was not caught.
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126 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
j) After sometime a picture was put up and a bid for 4000 guineas was raised.
f) The narrator on a sudden impulse added 50 more guineas, to the amount offered.
c) Unfortunately he had made the highest bid.
i) The picture was declared sold to the narrator.
a) The narrator had only 63 pounds with him and did not know how to manage the
situation.
g) His friend joined him then but left immediately unable to control his laughter.
b) The narrator thought of all his relations from whom he could borrow.
h) He even thought of borrowing from moneylenders and considered the possibility of
I
confessing the truth to the staff at Christie’s.
A
n) His friend had left the place roaring with laughter at the narrator’s predicament.
N
k) A sudden stroke of luck befell the narrator when he heard that the gent who had
N
made the bid of 4000 guineas would offer him the additional 50 guineas and buy the
E
picture.
H
o) The narrator was quite happy at the offer but demanded 100 guineas instead of the 50.
C
Now there was no need for him to make any payment.
m) The picture was given away to the other bidder and the narrator was saved from
-
humiliation.
S
Paragraph The narrator entered Christie’s as his friend persuaded him to visit the sale-
N
room. The narrator kept bidding just for fun. Every time someone else made a higher bid and
IO
the narrator was not caught. After sometime a picture was put up and a bid for 4000 guineas
was raised. The narrator on a sudden impulse added 50 more guineas, to the amount offered.
T
Unfortunately, he had made the highest bid. The picture was declared sold to the narrator.
A
The narrator had only 63 pounds with him and did not know how to manage the situation.
IC
His friend joined him then but left immediately unable to control his laughter. The narrator
thought of all his relations from whom he could borrow. He even thought of borrowing from
L
moneylenders and considered the possibility of confessing the truth to the staff at Christie’s.
B
His friend had left the place roaring with laughter at the narrator’s predicament. A sudden
PU
stroke of luck befell the narrator when he heard that the gent who had made the bid of 4000
guineas would offer him the additional 50 guineas and buy the picture. The narrator was quite
happy at the offer but demanded 100 guineas instead of the 50. Now there was no need for
Y
him to make any payment. The picture was given away to the other bidder and the narrator
C
a) Narrate the circumstances that led the narrator to getting into a tight corner, by his own folly.
M
Own folly:
His own folly had pushed him into a tight corner. But fortunately luck fell on him. A
dealer offered 50 guineas for giving up his claim for the picture. The narrator asked for 100
and got it. This saved him from great humiliation.
b) Trace the thoughts that went on in the mind of the narrator when picture after picture was
put up and sold at the auction.
Bid for fun :
The narrator was persuaded by his friend to go into an auction sale - room. The place was
auctioning Barbizon pictures. They were getting tremendous sums for them. This induced him
to participate in the bidding just for fun. He had very little money and he was not serious about
the deal. He wanted to bid without involving in the deal. He ignored his friend’s warning. He
I
thought he would not be caught as he was taking only a calculated risk.
A
N
Caught in his own game :
He was sure that there was someone who would bid more than his. After a long time a
N
picture was put up. A dealer electrified the room by starting the bidding at a very high figure
E
of 4000. The narrator, involuntarily by habit, bid fifty more. He was caught in his own trap.
H
His was the highest bid. The narrator was confident that as usual someone would bid more
than his. Since it did not happen he was caught.
C
c) Explain how the narrator got out of the tight coner that he was in.
-
Bid for fun : The narrator was persuaded by his friend to go into a sale - room. He
S
participated in the bidding just for fun adding fifty to each bid. He escaped without involving
N
in any deal as there was always some one to bid more than his. This fun involuntarily led him
IO
to bid fifty more than 4000 guineas. His bidding was the highest. He was caught in his own
game, as he had no money to pay.
T
Luck befalls : He was contemplating many ways to get out of the tight corner. He thought
of giving a promissory note, borrowing from others or confessing his poverty to the staff.
A
Luckily for him, the dealer came to him and offered fifty guineas to him for giving up his
IC
claim for the picture. With presence of mind, he demanded hundred guineas and got it. So the
narrator got out of the tight corner merely by the stroke of luck.
L
d) As the narrator, make a diary entry about the tight corner you faced at Christie’s and how you
B
8. I thought of various ways of getting out of the situation by giving a bond, or borrowing
and even confessing my poverty.
9. Luck smiled at me.
10. The dealer came and offered fifty more for the picture.
11. I was smart enough to make use of the situation.
12. I asked for hundred and he gave.
13. Picture was given to him and I breathed freedom as I got out of the tight corner.
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128 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Vocabulary
i) Auction House Puzzler
You have come across many terms associated with an auction, in the lesson. Now solve the
crossword puzzle with words from the lesson. Make use of the clues given.
2 B 4A
3
C A R D
1D T 3
R C
A B H
I
1 I O R
A U C T N E E
A
B Z I
N
4B I O S
D
N
G N T
E
2A P R O N I
H
Y E
C
Across Down Ans Across Down
-
1. conducts auction 1. painter 1 . 1. Daubigny
2. a protective garment 2. school of painting S Auctioneer 2. Barbizon
N
3. strip with numbers 3. auction house 2. Apron 3. Christe
IO
4. Bid
A
ii) Idioms : An idiom is an expression in English with a special meaning of its own.
IC
Idioms do not give the literal meaning of the individual words used in them.
You come across the idiom ‘by the skin of one’s teeth’ in the lesson. It means ‘a narrow
L
escape’.
B
A) Here are some more idioms taken from the lesson. Find out their meanings and use them in
sentences of your own.
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return home.
2. shot his bolt : to exhaust one’s resources too early.
C
They were asking for more ideas, but he had shot his bolt and could not give any.
R
I
A
c) We use a variety of idioms in our daily life to describe various situations. Describe the narrator’s
situation in your own words, making use of some of the new idioms you have just learnt.
N
The narrator was persuaded by his friend to go into an auction room. He began to bid
N
for fun and escaped as there was some one to bid higher than his. When a picture was bid by
E
a dealer for 4000, involuntarily the narrator added 50. Unfortunately his was the highest bid
and he was caught in his own game. Since he had no money, he was back to the wall. His friend
H
just hung him out to dry. He left laughing at the plight of his friend. The narrator was trying to
C
clutch at straws to escape from the tight corner. Luck smiled at him. The dealer offered to pay
50 extra and wanted the picture. The smart narrator demanded 100 and got it. He was saved by
-
the bell and escaped humiliation.
S
iii) Phrasal verbs : Use the following phrasal verbs in sentences of your own. The first one has been
N
done for you.
IO
stand
i) up - Your statement will not stand up as proof in the court of law.
T
look
i) into - The collector promised to look into the complaint.
L
run
i) over - Five children were run over by the bus.
ii) away - Don’t run away from problems.
Y
Put
R
2. Call :
off : The striking workers called off their agitation.
on : I called on my friend in Chennai but he was not there.
up : I will call you up when we are in town.
3. Give :
away : The chief guest gave away the prizes.
back : One should give back to the society what it had given him.
in : My father didn’t want me go to USA but he finally gave in.
4. Hang
on : Hang on while I wear my shoes.
I
A
up : He said goodnight before he hang up the phone.
out : I don’t want to attend the party. I will hang out in my house.
N
5. Keep
N
from : We kept our relationship from our parents.
E
Out : Keep out the dog from the living room.
H
up : Keep up your performance.
C
6. look
after : Children should look after their old parents.
-
for : I am looking for a good dress.
out : Look out for mistakes in your answers.
S
N
7. Take
IO
8. Turn
IC
A. Listen to the announcement made by your teacher and answer the questions that follow.
PU
Speaking Activity
a) Work with a partner. Your friend has lost her books just before the annual examination and she
is upset. How will you help her? Take up roles and enact the situation.
Me : Hello, Priya, how are you?
Priya : Seema, I am in a depressed state now.
Me : Why? What is the problem?
Priya : I lost all my books. You know the exams are approaching.
Me : I am sorry Priya. Don’t worry.
Priya : How can I prepare for the exam?
Me : Why do you worry and spoil your mood? I am here to help.
I
Priya : Ok. thank you.
A
Me : I have prepared notes for all the subjects. I have text books too.
N
Priya : Is it? Can you help me?
N
Me : It’s my duty Priya. I will lend my notes to you. They will be very useful. I have
E
already studied them. I can lend them to you.
H
Priya : Thank you Seema. Now I got confidence.
Me : Come on. Take them now and read. You will face the exam without any problem.
C
Priya : Thank you. Thank you so much Seema.
-
b) You have recently shifted to a new locality. You cannot find your way back, after school. Your
S
uncle spots you and takes you home. Narrate the incident to the class.
N
Dear friends,
IO
I want to share with you a bad experience I had. You are aware that we have shifted our
house to a new locality two days ago. Yesterday I went out of the new house for purchasing
some items. Somehow I lost my way. I did not remember the address of the new house. I was
T
worried and was going round and round the streets. Fortunately my uncle who was returning
A
from office spotted me. I told him that I had lost my way to new house. He took me home on
IC
As a friend of the narrator I had persuaded him to go into the sale - room. It is my
B
responsibility to be with him till the end. He was inspired by the auction and the large amounts
PU
the pictures had fetched. He began to participate in the auction for fun. He got off initially
because there were someone to bid higher than him. He could enjoy bidding without getting
into the deal. I warned him not to do that. But he ignored my warning thinking that he would
Y
not run any risk. When a picture was put at a high bid of 4000, involuntarily he bid 50 above.
Unfortunately it was the highest bid. So, he was caught in his own game and he had to pay
C
huge amount when the sale was declared in his name. He had no money. I would have gone to
R
his rescue to save him from humiliation. I would have borrowed money from my friends and
E
other sources at my disposal and would have paid the money and saved him from humiliation.
I would have considered it as my moral responsibility, since I had taken him inside.
M
Reading
Note-taking
It is very essential for everyone to know how to take notes while listening. This is a skill
involving listening and writing. Notes are commonly taken during an oral discussion at a
meeting, or a lecture (notes of a meeting are usually called minutes), in order to keep track of
what was said, what happened or what decisions were taken.
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132 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
As and when your teacher teaches, take notes and jot them down for future reference.
Given below are steps for effective note - taking.
Step - 1 : Take and keep notes in a large, loose - leaf notebooks; use only one side of the
paper.
Step - 2 : Sit close to the source, if you can. There are fewer distractions and it is easier to
hear, see and attend to important details.
Step - 3 : Be selective; don’t try to write down everything you hear, for that is not possible
always.
Step - 4 : Write legibly and use abbreviations.
I
Step - 5 : Identify general ideas and listen for cues.
A
Read the following passage and answer the questions that follows:
N
The Stationmaster’s supreme sacrifice by Sanchari Pal (Adapted)
N
For paragraph Refer Text Book Page No : 114 & 115
E
i) Why was the accident at Union Carbide unparalleled in the world’s industrial history?
H
The accident at Union Carbide was unparalleled in the world’s industrial history because
C
more than 600,000 people were exposed to the deadly gas that left thousands dead.
-
ii) How was Dastagir affected by the poisonous gas?
S
Dastagir did not know that poisonous gas was engulfing the station and that many had
N
died. He left himself exposed to the poisonous fumes while helping others. He developed
throat infection and died after 19 years of suffering.
IO
The station superintendent Dhurve had heard about the deadly gas and had immediately
A
tried stopping the movement of trains passing through Bhopal, before collapsing in his office.
IC
flagged off the jam packed Gorakpur - Kanpur Express early from the gas filled station to save
B
vi) Find words from the passage which mean the opposite of the following.
C
I
Unreal or improbable situation now or in the future.
A
If you had studied, you would have passed the exam.
N
Third
If I hadn’t been sick, I would have gone to your party.
N
Conditional
Past Perfect + Would have + Past Participle
E
Uses : The person imagining a different past.
H
Unreal or improbable situation now or in the future.
C
i) Complete the following with appropriate conditional clauses:
-
a) We will miss our train, _____ b) Jayashree would travel to France, _____
Ans : if we walk slow
S
Ans : if she was selected
N
c) People get sun - burnt, _____ d) Vicky would have passed, _____
IO
Additional
B
I
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
A
1 . had won 2. would have 3. would have travelled 4. stayed
N
5. wanted 6. would buy 7. saw 8. would buy
N
9. could have had 10. will do 11. needed 12. would take
13. will donate 14. will give 15. won 16. would help
E
H
iii) Fill in the blanks in the following dialogue :
C
Gopal : What’s wrong. Muthu? You look terrible!
Muthu : Well, you __(1)__ (look) terrible today, too, if you __(2)__ (have) a day like
-
mine yesterday. My car slid into a tree, because the roads were slippery.
Gopal
S
: Oh! I was driving on the slippery roads yesterday, and I didn’t have such trouble.
N
What happened?
IO
Muthu : Well, I think if I __(3)__ (drive not) so fast, I __(4)__ (slide, not) into the tree.
Gopal : Slippery roads and speed don’t mix. If drivers __(5)__ (speed) on wet roads,
T
Muthu : I know. But I have one more problem. I didn’t have my driver’s license with
IC
me. If I __(6)__(have) it, I __(7)__ (have to, not) pay an extra fine in the court
next week.
L
Muthu : Well, I lost my wallet some days ago. It slipped out of my pocket, while I was
riding the bus to work.
PU
Gopal : Oh, Muthu! If you __(8)__ (take, not) that bus, you __(9)__(lost, not) your
wallet. If you __(10)__ (lose, not) your wallet, you __(11)__ (have) your
Y
driver’s license with you when you hit the tree. If you __(12)__ (have) your
driver’s license with you, you __(13)__ (have to pay, not) a big fine when you
C
go to court next week. And of course, if you __(14)__ (drive, not) too fast, you
R
__(15)__ (run into, not) a tree, and you __(16)__ (be, not) in this mess now. If I
E
__(17)__(be) you, I __(18)__(take) it easy for a while and just __(19)__ (stay)
home where you are safe.
M
Muthu : I have a super idea! Why don’t I go with you? I can share the driving. I’m a
great driver!
Gopal : Oh, Muthu! I can’t believe it.
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. would have looked 2. had 3. had not driven
4. would not have slid 5. speed 6. had
7. would not have to. 8. had not taken 9. would not have lost
10. had not lost 11. would have had 12. had
13. would not have to pay 14. had not driven 15. would not have run into
16. would not have been 17. were 18. would take
19. stayed 20. have 21. will fly
22. will take 23. to drive 24. will be
I
A
N
Framing questions
The interrogative pronouns who, what, whom, whose, which and the interrogative adverbs
N
where, when, why and how are used to frame information questions.
E
Polar questions are also known as ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions. They are called so, because the
H
answers to these questions will always begin with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Such questions are framed
using primary auxiliaries and secondary auxiliries.
C
A. Seema goes to a hotel for lunch. The waiter explains to her the different items available
-
at that time. Here is the conversation between them. Complete the dialogue. You may use
modals to frame questions. S
Could I get something to eat immediately?
N
Seema :
Waiter : Yes Ma’am. We have __(1)__
IO
Seema : __(2)__
: Yes Ma’am. It is available.
T
Waiter
: __(3)__
A
Seema
Waiter : It should not take long. __(4)__
IC
Waiter : Sorry Ma’am we don’t have Ice creams served here. But you can get it in the
PU
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
C
1. all dishes 2. Is Idli available? 3. Shall it take long? 4. Do you want coffee?
R
3. Was Mr. Umar watching movie with his wife when the thief broke in the house?
No, he was outside the house.
4. What was Mr. Umar doing in the kitchen?
Mr. Umar was drinking water in the kitchen.
Frame suitable questions for the following statements.
1. Mr. Umar was at home when the event occurred.
Ques : Where was Mr. Umar when the event occurred?
2. Yes, Mr. Umar saw the thief entering the neighbour’s house.
Ques : Did Mr. Umar see the thief entering the neighbour’s house?
I
A
3. Mrs. Umar was watching the movie while her husband was drinking water.
Ques : What was Mrs. Umar doing while her husband was drinking water?
N
N
4. The thief broke into the house while they were watching a movie.
Ques : When did the thief break into the house?
E
1. Question Tags :
H
A Question tags is a short question added at the end of a statement. It is generally used
C
when asking for agreement or confimation.
The tag is formed with the auxiliary verb in the statement and the subject. A positive
-
statement takes a negative tag, while a negative statement takes a positive tag. If the sentence
S
contains a main verb, then the question tag uses an appropriate form of ‘do’ verb. An appropriate
N
pronoun of the subject is added to the verb to form the tag. The sentence ends with a comma,
followed by a tag which ends with a question mark.
IO
Lawrence saw the snake sliding into the hole, didn’t he?
IC
The intonation (the rise and fall of the voice in speaking) of the tag determines the
B
Rising intonation
Look at this sentence and the tag.
Madhav doesn’t speak Telugu, does he?
Y
If the information of the tag goes up, it means we are not sure if Madhav speaks Telugu
C
speaks Telugu.
M
7. Before long, a fleet of electric autonomous vehicles (AVs) could drive people to their
destinations, _____
8. These shared AVs will run at higher utilization rates, _____
9. They can substantially reduce the cost of mobility and congestion, _____
10. These should not be thought of as luxury but as necessity, _____
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
1. aren’t they? 2. don’t they? 3. shouldn’t it be? 4. isn’t there? 5. won’t it?
6. doesn’t it? 7. couldn’t they? 8. won’t they? 9. can’t they? 10. should these?
Additional
1. These are your sandals, _____ 2. You wanted that, _____
Ans : aren’t they? Ans : didn’t you?
I
A
3. He is coming to night, _____ 4. You are coming with us, _____
Ans : isn’t he? Ans : aren’t you?
N
5. Rena leaves to night, _____. 6. You wanted to come with me, _____
N
Ans : doesn’t she? Ans : didn’t you?
E
7. She never informed us, _____ 8. He did not call us, _____
H
Ans : did she? Ans : did he?
9. She does not live here, _____ 10. I am right, _____
C
Ans : does she? Ans : aren’t I?
11. Let’s go for a walk, 12. He has a daughter, _____
-
Ans : shall we? Ans : hasn’t he? S
13. Julia visited you yesterday, _____ 14. Don’t forget, _____
N
Ans : didn’t she? Ans : will you?
IO
15. Shut up, _____ 16. Don’t break the glass _____
Ans : can’t you? Ans : will you?
T
17. You never say what you are doing, _____ 18. Ravi wants to be an actor, _____
A
19. There were not any issues, _____ 20. Move a bit, _____
Ans : were there? Ans : will you?
L
B. Add appropriate question tags and role play the dialogue with your friend.
B
Jeyanth : Hello, Anish! It’s your Physics exam today, isn’t it?
PU
Anish : Yes. They have set a very long paper. Yet, I managed to finish the paper
haven’t they?
Jeyanth : True : My Maths paper too was very long. I couldn’t finish it, could you?
Y
Jeyanth : Ok. Actually, my question paper was very easy. wasn’t yours?
Anish : Mine wasn’t easy. I made a silly mistake, was yours?
R
Anish : The story comprehension was very easy. I am sure to score more than ten
M
marks out of fifteen. I wrote it very well. There wouldn’t be any mistake,
did you make any?
Jeyanth : For me, my letter - writing was the best. I didn’t make a single mistake. was
yours?
Anish : Ok. I’ve got lots to study for tomorrow’s exam, haven’t you? yes it was.
Jeyanth : Me too. So, see you later. All the best, bye.
Anish : Thank you. Wish you the same, bye.
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138 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Writing
A) Read the information in the table below and answer the following questions.
I
A
6 Cyclone 2008 Tamil Nadu
N
7 Floods 2009 Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka
N
8 Cyclone 2011 Tamil Nadu / Cuddalore
E
9 Flash floods June 2013 Uttarkhand
H
10 Cyclone Oct. 2013 Coastline of Orissa & Jharkhand
C
11 Floods Dec. 2013 Tamil Nadu / Chennai
-
12 Cyclone Dec.2016 Tamil Nadu / Chennai
S
N
1. What kind of natural disasters have occurred before 2005?
Earthquake, Tsunami and floods have occurred before 2005.
IO
Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are the states often affected by disasters.
4. List out the disasters that are common in North India.
L
The year 2008 has seen most number of disasters in different parts of the country.
C
B. Study the pie-chart carefully and answer the questions that follow.
R
Mandarin 12.44%
E
Spanish 4.85%
M
English 4.83%
Arabic 3.25%
Hindi 2.68%
Bengali 2.66% Other 60.17%
Portuguese 2.62%
Russian 2.12%
Japenese 1.80%
German 1.33%
Javanese 1.25%
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PROSE - Tight Corners 139
I
A
According to the pie-chart generally 60.17% speak many languages. Mandarin is spoken
by a majority of people. English is spoken by 4.83% of people. Next comes Arabic. Among
N
the Indian languages, Hindi is spoken by most of the people. Bengali comes next to Hindi.
N
Hindi also figures in the top five languages of the world. Some of the languages are spoken by
E
2% to 3% of people in the world. In conclusion quite a large number of people speak different
languages.
H
Dialogue writing
C
Originating from dialogos, the Greek word for conversation, the term dialogue refers to a
verbal conversation between two or more people. In a written work, dialogue is one way that
-
a writer can communicate clearly instead of merely reporting. When writing a dialogue, it is
S
important to adhere to specific grammar rules. Conversational English can be a little difficult.
N
While knowing proper sentence, structure and correct grammar is extremely important.
IO
Conversational English is how you will interact with other English speakers.
Read the dialogue between two friends on pollution and complete the following story board
T
4
2
1 3
I
A
Kathir Cafe
Kathir Cafe
9
N
6
5
N
8 10
7
E
H
Now read the dialogue between two friends on reading an interesting novel.
C
Muthu : Hello Avinash, how are you?
Avinash : I am fine. How about you?
-
Muthu : I am fine too. What’s the book that you are reading? It seems you are deeply
absorbed in it.
S
N
Avinash : Yes. I have already read the book once. Now, it is my second reading. The
IO
Muthu : Yes, I know, I have read his “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” That is also a very
interesting novel. It tells the story of a man who lives a dual life. What’s this
IC
book about?
: The book is about a treasure hunting expedition. The hero is a thirteen-year
L
Avinash
old boy named Jim Hawkins.
B
Avinash : The author keeps the readers spellbound with the twists and turns in the plot.
The adventures, brave deeds and the horrors and terrors of the struggle keep
the readers engaged and absorbed.
Y
Muthu : Excellent! Please lend me the book after you finish reading it. Bye for now.
C
Avinash : Sure, I shall give it to you tomorrow. Good bye. See you again.
R
I
Seeman : Hello, Rahim How are you?
A
Rahim : I am thinking of water scarcity in our area.
N
Seeman : What do you think as the reason for this?
N
Rahim : Well, because there were no rains.
E
Seeman : Yes. How can there be rains when the forests are denuded?
H
Rahim : Well said. We cannot have rain without forests and trees.
C
Seeman : We have a great responsibility. We have to plant as many trees as possible.
Rahim : Tree planting must be taken on a war footing. Along with the government and
-
the NGOs all the people also should involve themselves in the tree planting
‘Yagna’. S
N
Seeman : Trees also produce oxygen and they prevent floods. Unless more and more
trees are planted and forests developed, the future generation will not be in a
IO
and keep the earth safe and habitable for our children.
A
Seeman : Let us join together and bring awareness among the public about the need for
IC
planting trees.
Rahim : Yes. We shall.
L
B
Ram :
Shyam : I am reading the newspaper.
Ram : Fine! Yours is a good habit.
Y
Shyam : Yes. Reading newspapers must be a regular habit for all, especially the students.
C
Ram : Reading newspapers has a lot of benefits. The basic use is to be aware of the
R
I
can follow the stock market. Traders can find a lot of information.
A
Srikanth : You have forgotten, how net is useful for online trading.
N
Bharath : You are right. Now a days, a lot of business is done online. The merchandise
N
like flipkart, amazon have become giant traders online.
E
Srikanth : It is true that Internet has become a part of our life. We cannot live without
H
it.
: Yes, it is true.
C
Bharath
v) Between a father and a son on choice of a career.
-
Father : Hello Naresh, are your exams over?
Son : Yes Dad, they ended yesterday. S
N
Father : How have you fared?
IO
Son : I have written all the exams very well. I expect to get distinction without doubt.
Father : That’s fine. What are your plans after the results are out?
T
Son
Father : Why are you interested in Commerce rather than Engineering?
IC
Father : OK. as you wish. Apply in advance for B.Com course in any reputed college.
B
Son : Ok dad. I will take steps. My desire is to become a CA and follow my profession
independently.
PU
Father : I learnt that commerce and related subjects are more popular and the study shall
give a job. Ok. It’s a good choice.
Y
I
A
Ajay : Sure, come on let us go.
N
Vijay : At what time do you get up usually?
N
Ajay : I get up at 4 am usually. I have developed the habit from my childhood.
E
Vijay : That’s good. Early rising is a very good habit. An early riser has a lot of advantages.
H
He can start his work early and complete that in time.
Ajay : True. When you complete your work in time, you have a lot of leisure. You can
C
plan for next days work.
-
Vijay : Further, it reduces tension and last minute huddle. Early rising also helps you to
do some exercises. S
N
Ajay : Yes, the morning times are good for walking in fresh air and doing exercises.
IO
Vijay : And also early morning is the best time for reading and doing meditation. One
should never miss the mornings.
T
Ajay : Ok. Let us enjoy the early morning in some useful work.
A
Vijay : Ok.
IC
Mahesh : Yes. I saw it. What an exciting match it was! One could never have missed it.
B
Suresh : Yes. There was suspense till the end if India would win it.
PU
Mahesh : Of course. But I was confident that India would win the match.
Suresh : What is the reason for your confidence?
Y
Mahesh : You see. Dhoni and Yuvraj were at the crease in the fifteen over. You know,
C
Mahesh : The pair figured in 10 matches and had won in all of them hitting the required
M
runs. They could maintain a scoring average more than what was needed for
a win.
Suresh : Yes I read it. Anyway we are happy that our team has won the match.
Mahesh : Definitely. It was a great win. All the team members need a lot of praise for
their team effort and winning the series.
Suresh : Let’s celebrate the win. They brought great respect to our country.
Mahesh : Yes. Surely.
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144 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
is not only a duty but it is also part of good manners.
Akash : Good planning will help you to be punctual. It is the soul of business and a
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cardinal virtue. Further, it is an essestial virtue for teachers, because they are
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the role models for the students.
E
Prakash : To work with people as a good mechanism, punctuality is very important.
H
Akash : I can certainly say that if you make yourself to be punctual you have a chance
C
to succeed.
Prakash : In the social sphere, the best way to make a good impression about yourself is
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to show punctuality.
Akash : Ok. Let us be punctual at all times. S
N
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Paul : Great indeed. It is the highest point on the hills. Did you not feel the clouds,
passing around you, touching you?
Y
John : It was a pleasant experience. When I looked through the telescope there, the
C
John
through tunnels and on very high bridges.
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POETRY
4. MACAVITY - THE MYSTERY CAT
- T.S. Eliot
About the author
Thomas Stearns Eliot was an essayist, a critic, a playwright of the
twentieth century. He graduated from Harvard University and
then left for France and the Sorbonne to study philosophy. He
returned to Harvard and deepened his knowledge by reading
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Indian philosophy and studying Sanskrit. His popular poems
A
include ‘The Wasteland’, ‘Ash Wednesday’, ‘Journey of the Magi’.
T.S.Eliot won the order of merit and received the Nobel Prize for
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Literature in the year 1948.
N
E
Summary
H
‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ is a humourous poem. The poet T.S.Eliot describes the
mysterious qualities of a vile cat. He is a master criminal. He commits a crime at any possible
C
opportunity. He leaves no evidence after committing a crime because he cannot be found at
the place of crime. Even the Scotland yard is unable to arrest him. He breaks the human law
-
and the law of gravity. He is tall and thin with sunken eyes. He is a devil in the guise of a cat.
S
He appears respectable but his actions disprove it. Macavity loots the larder and breaks the
N
green house glass. But he is not found there but a mile away. He cleverly makes up an alibi
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every time he plots a crime. All the notorious cats are nothing but the agents of Macavity, the
Napolean of crime.
T
Warm up
A
A. A French proverb goes thus : “The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry.’
IC
You may have observed that all animals possess a number of unique qualities. Fill in the
columns with words and phrases associated with each of the following animals.
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B. People admire some of these animal qualities. What are they? Have you noticed some of them
E
The dog
The dog is a domestic animal and a pet. It is known for its faithfulness. It is always
faithful to its master. It guards the house and helps its master.
I was always taught to be always faithful from my childhood. I have learnt it from my
dog. This quality helps me to do my duty with dedication and selflessness. I earned the name
as an honest person from my boss and my friends. I am proud to be faithful to all those
connected with me.
145
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146 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Glossary
defy - to resist or to challenge
bafflement - total confusion
Scotland Yard - the headquarters of London Metropolitan Police Service
Flying Squad - a police force ready to plunge into action
levitation - the action of rising and floating in air
fakir - a holy person who lives on alms and has the power to levitate
ginger - alert and cautious
fiend - demon
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feline - cat
A
depravity - evil quality
N
larder - cupboard for storing food
N
rifle - ransack to steal
- a Pekinese dog
E
Peke
stifle - to suppress someone from acting
H
trellis - wooden bar used as a support for creeper
C
Admiralty - a Government Department that administered the British Navy
- cunningness
-
deceitfulness
suavity - confidence and sophistication
S
- a claim of evidence that one was elsewhere when a crime was
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alibi
committed
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Mungojerrie and
Griddlebone - fictional characters specialised in petty thefts and mischief in T.S.
T
A. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in a sentence or
two.
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the scene.
C
Macavity breaks every human law and also the law of gravity.
E
The powers of Levitation is floating in air. Such powers of the cat would make the Fakir
stare in wonder.
v) Describe Macavity’s appearance.
Macavity is very tall and thin and has sunken eyes. He has a thoughtful brow and
uncombed whiskers.
vi) Where can you encounter Macavity?
Macavity can be seen in a by - street or in the square. But it escapes from there after
committing the crime.
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POEM - Macavity - The Mystery Cat 147
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x) Mention any two qualities of Macavity?
A
Macavity is deceitful. He can surprise even a Fakir by his levitation. He is the Napolean
N
of crime.
N
xi) Which two characters does the poet refer to as examples of wicked cats?
E
The poet refers to Mungojerrie and Griddlebone, two fictional characters specialised in
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petty thefts and mischief. They are found in T.S.Eliots book ‘Old Possom’s Book of Practical
C
Cats’.
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xii) Why is Macavity called the ‘Napolean of Crime?’
S
‘Napolean of crime’ is the commanding leader of criminals. Macavity is called so because
N
all cats are his agents and he just controls their operations.
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B. Read the poem once again and complete the summary using the words given in the box.
T
‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ is a humorous poem, where the poet T.S.Eliot describes the
A
mysterious (a) _____ of a shrewd vile cat. He commits a crime at every possible opportunity.
He is an elusive master (b) _____ who leaves no evidence after he commits a crime. Even
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the Scotland Yard, the London (c) _____ agency is unable to arrest him. The Flying Squad
L
is (d) _____because every time they rush to the crime spot to seize Macavity, he is not there.
B
He breaks the human law as well as the law of (e) _____. He baffles even a (f) _____ with
his powers of levitation. Macavity appears tall and thin with (g) _____ eyes. He is always
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preoccupied with some serious (h) _____. His coat is dusty and his (i) _____ are unkempt.
Macavity is a (j) _____ in the guise of a cat. He appears to be outwardly (k) _____ but his
Y
actions disprove it. Macavity loots the (l) _____, ransacks the jewel - case, and breaks the (m)
C
_____ glass but wonder of wonders he is not to be found anywhere there. He is always a mile
R
away from the scene of crime, happily relaxing or doing difficult (n) _____ sums. He is clever
at making up an (o) _____ every time he plots a crime. All the notorious cats are nothing but
E
C. Read the poem and answer the following in a short paragraph of 8 to 10 sentences each.
i. What are the mysterious ways in which Macavity acts?
Macavity is a mysterious cat. He commits a crime without leaving any trace about his
involvement. Even the Scotland Yard cannot arrest him. He is tall and thin with sunken eyes.
He loots the larder and breaks the greenhouse glass. He breaks the human law and the law of
gravity. He is always deceitful. All cats are the agents of Macavity. He is miles away from the
scene of crime after committing a serious crime. He relaxes happily doing complicated sums.
He is clever at making up an alibi every time he plots a crime. He can baffle even a Fakir with
its powers of levitation.
ii. Give an account of Macavity’s destructive mischief.
I
Macavity is a mysterious cat. He can defy any law. Even the Scotland Yard cannot arrest
A
him. He leaves no alibi for its crime. He is tall and thin with sunken eyes. He appears gentle
N
but is a devil inside. He loots the larder, and the jewel case. He breaks the green house glass.
N
He is known for his deceitfulness and suavity. He is miles away from the scene of crime after
committing it. He is found licking his thumb and doing complicated division sums. He is the
E
Napolean of crime and all cats are his agents.
H
iii. Describe the appearance and qualities of Macavity.
C
Macavity is a mysterious cat. He is a master of crimes and can defy any law. Even the
Scotland Yard cannot prove his crime and arrest him. He commits the crime and escapes to
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a far off place. He is tall and thin and has sunken eyes. His coat is dusty and his whiskers
S
are uncombed. His brow is thoughtfully raised, his head highly domed. He is outwardly
N
respectable. But he is a devil in the guise of a cat. His crimes include breaking the greenhouse
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glass, looting the larder of the jewel case and drinking the milk. He is most deceiful and
suave. He is the Napolean of Crime.
T
D. Read the given lines and answer the questions that follow.
A
He is called the ‘Hidden paw’ as he is the master criminal who can defy the law.
I
Monster of depravity means, the wicked king of all evil quality. The cat has all evil
A
qualities that one can think of.
N
v) And his footprints are not found in any
N
file of Scotland Yard’s.
E
a) What seems to be a challenge for the Scotland Yard?
H
The challenge for the Scotland Yard is to arrest the cat. They are unable to arrest the
C
cat since he is not at the scene of crime. He flees the scene after committing the crime.
b) Why do they need his footprints?
-
They need his footprints to fix the crime and take him into custody.
S
N
vi) ‘It must have been Macavity!’ but he’s a
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mile away.
a) What is Macavity blamed for?
T
Macavity is blamed for being responsible for the loss of various documents in the
Foreign office. But he is not at the scene of crime.
A
b) Where is he ?
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Additional Questions
E
I
His coat is dusty from neglect, his whiskers are uncombed.
A
a) How is the cat described?
N
The cat’s brow shows that he is very thoughful. It has a dusty coat and uncombed
N
whiskers.
E
b) Why is his coat dusty?
H
His coat is dusty due to neglect.
C
c) How are its whiskers?
The whiskers are not combed.
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4. You may meet him in a by- street
You may see him in the square S
N
But when the crime is discovered
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The cat commits the crime and escapes from the scene.
L
a) What is a larder?
‘Larder’ is a cupboard for storing food.
b) Who loots it and who rifles the jewel case?
Y
The Mystery Cat, Macavity loots the cupboard for food. He also rifles the jewel box.
C
a) What is an alibi?
E
Alibi is a claim of evidence that one was elsewhere when the crime was committed.
M
Context : The poet describes a mysterious cat. While explaining his qualities he refers to
the above power.
Explanation : Macavity, the mysterious cat has the power of levitation. It is capable of
rising and floating in air. His action surprises even the fakir who has such power.
ii) And when you think he’s half asleep, he’s always wide awake
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem “Macavity - The Mystery Cat” by T. S.
Eliot.
Context : The poet describes the pretentious behaviour of Macavity in this line.
Explanation : Macavity, the mysterious cat is a devil in a cat’s shape. He appears to be half
asleep, but he is always wide awake and alert.
I
iii) And his footprints are not found in any file of Scotland Yard’s
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ by T. S.
N
Eliot.
N
Context : The poet describes the cunningness and skill of the mysterious and wicked cat.
E
Explanation : The mystery cat commits various crimes. He loots the larder. He damages
H
the greenhouse glass. But nowhere, he leaves his imprints. The Scotland Yard cannot fix the
C
crime on the cat.
iv) There may be a scrap of paper in the hall or on the stair.
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But it’s useless to investigate.... S
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ by T. S.
N
Eliot.
IO
Context : The poet describes the acts of the mischievous cat in these lines.
Explanation : The mischievous cat Macavity ransacks the Foreign office and throws all
T
records all over in the hall and on the stairs. But it is useless to investigate since the presence
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ by T. S.
Eliot.
B
Context : The poet describes the professional qualities of the mystery cat, Macavity. He
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alibi and have spare alibis. He proves that he was away when the crime was committed. Thus,
C
he escapes punishment.
R
Additional ERC
E
I
A
by T.S.Eliot.
Context : The poet describes the quantum of damage Macavity caused to the government
N
by his criminal activities.
N
Explanation : The cat indulges in various criminal activities. He ransacks the Foreign
E
office and the admirality which administrates the British Navy. All important documents and
H
papers are strewn around every where. Investigators can’t connect the spread of documents
to Macavity.
C
4. You’ll be sure to find him resting or licking of his thumbs
-
Or engaged in doing complicated long division sums.
S
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ written
N
by T.S.Eliot.
Context : The poet describes ability of Macavity to stay away from the reach of police
IO
pretending to be innocent.
Explanation : The mysterious cat ransacks the Foreign office and all important documents
T
are strewn around everywhere. But, the cat is not at the scene of crime, but in a far - off place.
A
He is seen resting and licking its thumbs or he is engaged in doing complicated division sums.
IC
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ written
PU
by T.S.Eliot.
Context : The poet describes how Macavity masterminds all evil operations through
notorious cats.
Y
Explanation : The cat commits very serious crimes and escapes from the scene of crime.
C
So he could not be arrested. In this connection, the poet says that there are cats whose wicked
R
deeds are widely known. He cites Mugojerrie and Griddlebone who were specialised in thefts.
They are from his own book. They are controlled by Macavity.
E
F. Eliot has used many figures of speech to present the poem to the readers in an interesting way.
He has attributed human qualities to a cat in this poem.
i) Identify the literary devices used in the following lines:
a) He sways his head from side to side, with movements like a snake.
There are two literary devices used here.
Personification : The cat is treated like a human being.
In the second line, ‘Simile’ is used to compare the movement of the cat with the movement
of the snake.
b) They say he cheats at cards.
‘He’ refers to the cat. The device used is personification.
I
ii) Give four instances where the poet has used alliteration in the poem.
A
Macavity, Macavity, There is no one like Macavity
N
For he is a friend in future.
N
And his foot prints are not found in any file of Scotland Yard’s.
Or when the milk is missing
E
Cats whose wicked deeds widely known.
H
iii) What is the rhyme scheme used in the poem?
C
“ab, ab” is the rhyme scheme used in the poem.
-
iv) Pick out all the pairs of rhyming words used in the poem.
S
Paw, law - despair, there - Macavity, gravity - Stare, there- air, there - thin, in - domed,
N
uncombed - snake, awake - square, there- cards, yards - rifled, stifled - astray, way - say, away
- thumbs, sums - time, crime - spare, there - known, griddlebone.
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G. Listening Activity.
T
Limericks : Poetry is of different forms and types. One among them is the Limerick. Limerick
A
is a light, humorous verse form of five lines. The lines 1, 2 and 5 are of three feet and lines 3
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out aloud by your teacher or played on the recorder. As you enjoy the absurb fun, complete
B
the verse with what you hear. You may listen to them again, if required.
I A wonderful bird is the Pelican.
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to go to and fro,
he reversed it and went fro and to.
III There once was a cute little bunny,
Who I thought was sweet and funny.
He ate all the carrots,
And looked at the parrots,
And that was my cute little bunny.
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154 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I A wonderful bird is the (i) _____. His beak can hold more than his (ii) _____ can. He
can hold in his beak Enough food for a (iii) _____! But I’ll be darned if I know how the
Peli-can?
Ans : i) Pelican ii) belly iii) week
II There once was a (iv) _____ at the zoo who always had something to do when it (v)
_____ him, you know, To go to and fro, He (vi) _____ it and went fro and to.
Ans : iv) bear v) bored vi) reversed
III There once was a (vii) _____ little bunny Who I thought was sweet and (viii) _____ He
ate all the carrots, And looked at the (ix) _____ And that was my cute little (x) _____.
Ans : vii) cute viii) funny ix) parrots x) bunny
I
A
H. Speaking Activity.
N
Work with a partner. Read the following questions and share your views with the class. Have
N
you heard of the phrase ‘cat’s paw? The meaning is similar to that of ‘firing from the other’s
shoulder’. ‘Cat’s paw’ refer’s to a person who is used unwittingly or unwillingly by another
E
person to accomplish his own purpose.
H
a. This phrase originates from the fable “The Monkey and the Cat’. Explain how Macavity
C
contradicts the phrase ‘cat’s paw’.
‘Cat paw’ refers to a person who is used by another person to accomplish his own purpose.’
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But in this poem Macavity contradicts this phrase. Macavity does not allow others to
S
use it. On the otherhand, he commits a crime and flees the scene of crime. The Macavity is
N
intelligent and mischievous. He commits a crime without being caught. Even the Scotland
IO
Yard could not fix him in any crime. So the above phrase does not apply to Macavity.
b. ‘When the mouse laughs at the cat, there is a hole nearby’. Explain the meaning of this
T
When the mouse laughs at the cat, there is a hole nearby. Usually the mouse is afraid of
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the cat. It never dares stand before a cat. At the faintest sign of a cat’s arrival, the mouse will
escape. But when the mouse is near a hole, it can dare the cat, and escape into the hole. The
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phrase refers to a coward who boasts of bravery, if there is a chance for him to escape without
B
being hurt.
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c. Compose your own limericks on an elephant, a peacock and a butterfly. Read it out to your
class.
Elephant Butterfly
Y
He snored his chest went up and sunk. Happy mind with no burden.
R
And all the animals left. Waiting for one very close
M
He got up and put in water its trunk. Beautiful butterfly was their loved one.
Peacock
I once saw a peacock.
Full of majesty was its walk
Golden green was its colour
Looking like a bunch of flower.
It was eating buds in full stock.
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SUPPLEMENTARY
4. WITH THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephen Leacock
About the author
Stephen P.H. Butler Leacock was a Canadian teacher, Political
Scientist, Writer and Humourist. He studied at Toronto University.
He was the best known English speaking humourist in the world. He
is known for his light humour along with criticism of people’s follies.
Some of his brilliant writings include, ‘Arcadian Adventures’’, ‘The
I
Dawn of Canadian History’, ‘Moonbeams from the Larger Lunacy’,
A
‘The Unsolved Riddle of Social Justice’, ‘My Discovery of England’.
N
Summary
N
The story is about the experience of a customer, who visits a studio to take a photo of
E
himself by a professional photographer. His experience turns out to be painfully memorable.
H
The author went to the photo studio of a professional photographer to take a photo of
himself. He wanted a photo of his likneness to be left behind. He liked his kith and kin to keep
C
it when he was gone. He was asked to wait for an hour. While waiting, the author read many
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old magazines. The photographer asked the author to come in and sit infront of a camera. He
said the face was quite wrong. He came over took his head and twisted sideways. He twisted
S
his face too. He did not like the author’s head. The ears were bad for him. He made all kinds
N
of comments about the features of the author. Finally he took the photo when the frustrated
IO
author got up in despair and frustration. In the photo, the eyebrows were removed to be
retouched. The photo did not look like that of the author. He was dejected. Out of anger at the
photographer’s over indulgence, he asked the photographer to keep the photo for himself. He
T
1. Warm up
IC
Photographs are taken during functions in family like marriage, birthday, a get together
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etc. They are also taken while on a tour to a new place with family and friends. Official
functions in schools, colleges and other public and private places are also occasions when
photographs are taken.
Y
Birthday parties Family functions Tourist places Academic functions Prize distributions
C
Photographs serve very important purposes apart from fun and frolic. They can be
E
preserved as treasure for future. It will be a great experience to see our own photographs
of yesteryears. The family members living and dead can be identified by children. They are
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Glossary
drooping - bending unwarrantable - illegal, wrongful
pursuits - quest frantic - mad
grave - serious boundless - limitless
ceased - stopped triffle - bit
staggering - shaking animation - excitement
beckoned - called withering scorn - disapproving hatred
depict - show, give a picture of reconcile - to comfort and heal
I
superficies - surface / outer face emboss - cause to bulge out
A
bauble - a thing of no value severely - harshly
N
1. Based on your understanding of the story, answer the following questions in two or three
N
sentences each :
E
a) Why did the author go to the photo studio ?
H
The author went to the photo studio to take a photograph of himself.
C
b) Describe the photographer ?
-
The photographer was a drooping man in gray suit, with the dim eye of a natural scientist.
S
N
c) Bring out the significance of what Leacock was reading at the photographer’s.
IO
Leacock was reading old copies of “Ladies Companion”, “Girls Magazine” and the
“Infants Journal”. He felt that he was breaking into the privacy of the photographer.
T
The photographer went behind the machine. He drew a little black cloth over himself. He
IC
spent some time quietly. So, the author thought that he was praying.
L
The cotton sheets obstructing light were removed. The window panes were hit with a
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The photographer was not pleased with the shape of the head, ears, nose, face of the
C
author. He took a long time to adjust the posture of the author before taking a photo.
R
The photographer found fault with the facial features of the author. He openly stated that
M
I
A
The photographer thought that he had taken the best photo of the author. He made a lot
of corrections to it. He was satisfied with his work. So he was proud to receive Leacock and
N
show his technically sound work.
N
n) What was the only similarity between Leacock’s real face and his photograph ?
E
The only similarly between Leacock’s real face and his photograph was his ears. The
H
photographer was willing to change that also to the distress of the author.
C
2. Based on your understanding of the lesson, complete the sentences given below to make a
-
summary of the story ‘With the Photographer’ in a paragraph.
a) S
The narrator went to the photographer to _____.
N
Ans : take a photograph of himself
IO
Ans : the Ladies Companion, the Girls Magazine and the Infants Journal.
IC
I
and came out with a nod of disapproval.
A
Photographer’s dissatisfaction : The photographer said that Leacock’s face was quite wrong.
N
He came and twisted the head, hands and the face of Leacock for a correct posture. He was
not satisfied with the facial features of Leacock. The poet, having lived with the same face
N
for forty years, got frustrated by the adverse remarks of the photographer. In a fit of anger, he
E
started rising from the chair. The photographer clicked his camera and felt elated for capturing
his face in a moment of animation.
H
Worthless bauble : When Leacock visited the studio on saturday. He wanted to see the
C
proof. He had a great shock. The photograph never resembled the features of Leacock, except
his ears. The photographer retouched the features. Leacock was angry. He said angrily to the
-
photographer to keep the photograph with him after doing what all he wanted. His friends
may value it, but for him it was a worthless bauble.
S
N
2. “To me it is but a worthless bauble.” Why did the photographer’s professional handiwork
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to reject it and asked the photographer to keep it for himself. But for him it was worthless
A
bauble.
IC
At the studio : Leacock was asked to wait for an hour. Later, he was called in and was
seated infront of a camera. When he viewed Leacock, he was not happy with Leacock’s head.
L
Later, he said he was not happy with his mouth, face, hands etc. He took a photograph at last
catching the features in a moment of animation.
B
Worthless bauble : When Leacock went to the studio to look at the proof, he was shocked.
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The photograph never resembled his face. Every feature on the face, like eyes, eyebrows,
mouth were all retouched and it was entirely different from the real face of Leacock except
his ears.
Y
He became very angry and frustrated. He told the photographer to do whatever he wanted
C
with the photograph and keep it for himself and his friends, who might value it. But for him
it was a worthless bauble.
R
E
Unit test
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Part - I
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. He persuaded me to look into the sale - room.
a) dissuaded b) motivated c) discouraged d) stopped
2. A genuine mistake of such a kind would have been rectified at once.
a) fake b) deceitful c) authentic d) duplicate
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SUPPLEMENTARY - With the Photographer 159
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
3. He rammed his handkerchief in his mouth and disappeared.
a) hidden b) appeared c) concealed d) went away
4. The staff looked so affluent and unsympathetic.
a) rich b) wealthy c) poor d) luxurious
5. Choose the suitable meaning for the idiom used in the sentence.
I go to the cinema once in a blue moon.
a) rarely b) frequently c) certainly d) often
6. Replace the underlined phrasal verb with a single word.
Always backup important data on your computer.
a) delete b) save c) organise d) forward
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7. Add an appropriate question tag to the following sentence.
A
Cities are increasingly becoming urbanised,
N
a) aren’t they? b) don’t they? c) will they? d) do they?
N
8. Complete the following sentence choosing the most appropriate quasi modal verb.
_____ I ask a question?
E
a) Can b) Could c) May d) Shall
H
9. Complete the following sentence choosing the most appropriate link word.
C
Police arrived _____ the thief was trying to break into a house.
a) before b) though c) while d) either
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10. Complete the following with an appropriate conditional clause.
S
We will miss the train _____.
N
a) if we walk slow b) if we walked slow
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Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
11. Macavity’s a Mystery Cat: he’s called
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monster of depravity!
a) How is the cat described in this line?
b) Explain the phrase ‘monster of depravity’.
Y
mile away.
R
b) Where is he ?
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Section - 2
Answer any two of the following: 2×2=4
14. Match the following with their meaning.
A B
1. back to the wall 1. sign of something going wrong
2. Saved by the bell 2. in serious difficulty.
3. help at the last minute.
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160 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
Section - 1
N
Explain any one of the following with reference to the context : 1×3=3
18. His powers of levitation would make a fakir stare
N
19. And his footprints are not found in any file of Scotland Yard’s
E
20. He’s the bafflement of scotland yard,
H
The flying squad’s despair
C
Section - 2
-
Answer any one of the following briefly : 1×3=3
21. Why was the author sure he would not be caught?
S
N
22. What kind of excuses did the narrator think he could make?
IO
23. What are the physical tight corners explained in the lesson?
Section - 3
T
Profit Questions
L
20
60
% b) What was the profit in 2007?
PU
07
20 % c) What is the difference between the minimum and
30
maximum profit?
20 0%
1
05
Y
PROSE
5. THE CONVOCATION ADDRESS
Dr. Arignar Annadurai
About the author
Dr. Annadurai popularly called as Arignar Anna was an Indian
politician who served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu during 1967
- 69. He was a great orator and writer in Tamil. Jawaharlal Nehru hailed
him as one of the greatest parliamentarians. He has published several
novels, short stories and plays. He was awarded the Chubb Fellowship at
I
A
Yale University. He was the frst Non-Amercian to receive it.
N
Summary
N
This is a convocation address given by Dr. C.N.Annadurai former Chief Minister of Tamil
E
Nadu at the Annamalai University in 1967.
H
The speaker reiterated some cardinal priniciples offered by educationists. In the past,
during the feudal days scholars were in secluded spheres. Today the role of the University has
C
been enlarged to reach to the common man. He refers to Dr. S.Radhakrishnan who had said
that Universities can develop, the true spirit of democracy, appreciation of others view point
-
and adjustment through discussion.
S
The speaker says that the graduates are indebted to the society which pays for their
N
education. He wants them to repay to the society for future generations. It is in the form of
IO
service to the people. In the process, they may face hurdles. But a stream of people endowed
with the spirit of service have served in the past with credit. He says he was confident that the
T
Warm up
IC
A. Work in pairs. Look at the mind map below and add a few other features of democracy you can
think of. Share your answers with the class.
L
Freedom of Speech
Fundamental Right
Y
Right to Education
C
R
B. Given below is a list of items or features you find in a good school. Study the list and classify
E
I
because of the society of which all the above are a part. So the students who come out of
A
schools and Universities have a responsibility to return to the society at least a part of what
N
they had received from it.
N
Enistein, the greatest scientist of all times, had the same idea. He asserted that he was
indebted to the society for all he had received from it. One need not return money to the
E
society. It can be done by rendering service.
H
NGOs and old boys associations can be utilised for this purpose. They can contribute,
C
provide amenities and infrastructure to the institutions. They can give awards for the best
student, create endowments and scholarships for the deserving and poor students. There are
-
umpteen ways for them to return to the society what they had got from it.
Glossary S
N
- granted a title, degree, benefit, or right
IO
conferred
reiterate - say or do again
enunciated - spoke clearly, proclaimed
T
repositories - storehouses
IC
emissaries - ambassadors
eschewed - have nothing to do with
L
inherent - inborn
R
tillers
toilers - workers, people who perform hard physical labour
replenish - refill
despondent - depressed, frustrated
sermons - speeches on moral subjects
endowed - gifted
crusade - campaign for a good cause
inheritors - successors
lustre - glow of reflected light
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PROSE - The Convocation Address 163
Synonyms
facilities - comforts vocational - career
goal - aim infrastructure - basic facilities
resources - supply of materials mobilize - gather
unsung - not honoured contribute - help for some cause
embark - begin something motivation - prompt / induce
cradled - supported gently nurtured - bring up
bloom - produce flowers / be healthy spread - occupy large area
apt - most suited unique - special
confer - give / award deliver - fulfil
convocation - graduation ceremony pleasure - happiness
I
- wealthy appropriate - correct / suitable
A
prosperous
conscious - knowingly / be aware reiterate - emphsise / repeat
N
cardinal - most important enunciated - declared
N
annotations - add explanatory notes regret - feel sorry
E
ruggedness - toughness repository - store house
H
emissary - deputies prominent - important
equip - supply what is needed eschewed - avoided
C
autocracy - government by one ruler feudal - about middle ages, old
- decorate royalty - kingly / nobility
-
adorn
gilded - a thin coat of gold mansion
S - palace
- expert confront - resist with force / face
N
eminent
secluded - isolated spheres - area
IO
alley
solace - comfort in distress afflicted - to trouble
E
I
A
3. despondent - depressed / The farmers were despondent due to abject poverty.
N
4. emissary - deputy / The Prime Minister’s emissaries met the delegation of the chinese
minister.
N
5. endowed - gifted / He endowed all his wealth for the cause of education.
E
6. inherent - inborn / Kindness is inherent in him.
H
7. luster - glow of reflected light / The diamonds have an attractive lustre.
C
8. perseverance - continued effort / He successed due to his perseverance.
9. reiterate - say again / The Prime Minister reiterated his committment to development.
-
10. replenish - refill / Rain water harvest will replenish the ground water.
S
11. repository - store house / A library is a repository of knowledge.
N
12. solace - comfort / He got solace from his friends in times of sorrow.
IO
Choose the correct synonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. The society has cradled and nurtured every graduate to bloom and spread his wings.
T
A
4. But only reiterate some of the cardinal principles enunciated by those who offered their
PU
advice.
a) take back b) restate / repeat c) keep calm d) step back
Y
5. Universities are the repositories of knowledge and the nursing ground for the emissaries
of thought.
C
6. Nor were eminent scholars asked to face the problems confronting the masses.
E
________________________________________Answers________________________________
1. d) brought up 2. d) one and only 3. c) suitable 4. b) restate / repeat
5. a) store room 6. b) opposing / facing 7. d) hidden 8. d) determination
9. d) danger 10. d) refill
Antonyms
development × deterioration demand × grant / offer
hardwork × lazy unsung × praise / honour
taken × given qualified × unqualified
service × disservice / damage always × never
motivate × discourage nurture × neglect / deprive
I
spread × stagnation / suppression apt × incorrect / unsuitable
A
gains × losses unique × common
N
confer × remove deliver × hold / retain
N
pleasure × sorrow happy × unhappy
E
bright × dark prosperous × poor
appropriate × inappropriate before × after
H
conscious × unconscious limitation × extension
C
relief × burden original × duplicate
-
special × ordinary reiterate × take back
expert × commoner common × uncommon
S
regret × satisfaction / happiness rudggedness × smoothness
N
certainty × uncertainty wisdom × ignorance
IO
I
A
new × old outcome × groundwork
sweet × bitter opportune × inopportune
N
cooperation × non cooperation supreme × poor / inferior
N
easy × difficult unaware × aware
E
begin × end win × lose
H
dim × light determination× disinterest / doubt
C
unpleasant × pleasant differing × concurring
patient × impatient tyranny × kindness
-
robust × unhealthy optimism × pessimism
discourage × encourage
S forced × voluntary
N
comfort × discomfort continue × discontinue
IO
Choose the correct antonym for the underlined words in the sentences below.
E
a) applicable b) correct
c) deserved d) inappropriate
2. The fact that I am conscious of my own limitations gives me a sense of relief.
a) assured b) certain c) observing d) unconscious
3. ....but only reiterate some of the cardinal principles enunciated by others.
a) recheck b) renew c) repeat d) take back
4. Whatever the regrets some might have, it is his point of view that matters.
a) annoyance b) bitterness c) worry d) happiness
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PROSE - The Convocation Address 167
I
9. Faith in himself and in others and confidence in his inherent ability to shoulder the
A
responsiblities.
N
a) built in b) acquired c) natural d) inner
N
10. We can develop the true spirit of democracy, appreciation of others point of view.
E
a) gratitude b) tribute c) recognition d) disregard
H
11. Men who did not enjoy the privilege, men who willingly submit themselves to discomfort.
a) advantage b) chance c) benefit d) disadvantage
C
12. Unless you replenish it richly, coming generations will find only an empty coffer.
-
a) furnish b) use up c) provide d) refill
S
13. Society has got a right to expect an adequate return from you.
N
a) fair b) suitable c) sufficient d) inadequate / insuf-
ficient
IO
14. I admit that the environment is such that even people with optimism will be discouraged
a) assurance b) confidence c) hopeful d) pessimism
T
15. You are bound to win, for you are adequately equipped.
A
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. d) inappropriate 2. d) unconscious 3. d) take back.
L
1. What does the speaker try to convey in the beginning of his speech?
R
The speaker says that he would not give new ideas. He would reiterate the cardinal
E
2. How can a University trim and train, guide and lead a person to function better in society?
The function of the University is now enlarged. It has to take into account the commonness
and trim and train the students. It needs patience and perseverance, faith and confidence.
3. According to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, Universities ensure the democratic way of life for the
future generations. How?
According to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, Universities can develop the true spirit of democracy.
It enables appreciation of others’ view point and adjustment through discussion.
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168 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
2. Why are Universities necessary for a society?
A
Universities are the repositories of knowledge. They equip more individuals to serve the
N
society to make it better. They distribute knowledge to the common man.
N
3. What was the role of scholars and poets in olden days?
E
In olden days, scholars and poets worked in secluded spheres in palaces of Lords and
H
Nobles. Their service was not meant for the common man.
C
4. In what ways have Universities improved the society?
The Universities have taken the common man as the origin. He is the potential ruler. The
-
University fashions out of him an individual fitted with the task of making the democracy
S
fruitful and effective. They teach the spirit of democracy.
N
5. Universities develop broadmindness. How does Dr. Radhakrishnan drive home this idea?
IO
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan says that the Universities can develop the true spirit of democracy.
They can instill appreciation of others’ point of view and adjustment of differences through
T
discussions. The struggles of the past are also recalled. They turn out responsible citizens.
A
The youngsters should repay their debt to the community by serving the tillers, toilers and
contribute to the growth of the society. They should light up the dark life of the poor.
L
A graduate can serve the society and confer rich benefits on humanity deriving inspiration
PU
from a host of crusaders of the past. They should try to light up the dark lives of the poor.
Sacrifice and service motto are needed for it.
B. Based on your understanding, answer the following questions in three or four sentences each.
Y
C
1. ‘Wisdom was meant for the mansion, not for the market place’ What does this statement
signify?
R
During the feudal days in the past, scholars and poets were content to work in secluded
E
spheres for the sake of palaces and rulers. They were not available for the common man.
M
2. According to the speaker, how should Universitites mould the students of the present day?
Universities take the common man as the origin. Taking into account the commonness of
student they should be groomed. They should trim and train the students to develop patience,
perseverance, faith and confidence to shoulder all responsibilities.
3. How does Arignar Anna highlight the duties and responsibilities of graduates to the society?
Arignar Anna says that education increases the graduate’s responsibility to society, apart
from their individual advancement. They have to serve the society in toning it up and bringing
light into the dark alleys, solace to the afflicted and give new life to everyone.
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PROSE - The Convocation Address 169
4. Students are instilled with some of the essential values and skills by the Universitites.
Enumerate them.
Universities instill certain essential values in graduates. They are viz responsibility to
society, service to the society, toning it up, bringing light to dark alleys, sunshine into dingy
places, solace to the afflicted.
5. What are the hindrances a graduate faces in his/her way?
There are many difficulties faced by a graduate while serving the society. The world
disturbs the determination. He also faces unpleasant practices against the inculcated ones, self
seekers and discouragement on all sides.
Additional Questions
I
1. What does the Purananuru song convey?
A
The Purananuru song conveys the philosophy of Tamilians. It celebrates the selfless spirit
N
and courage of people. They served the society by sharing everything they had.
N
2. How can be resources mobilised?
E
Resources are needed for development of infrastructure, education, health etc. They can
H
be mobilised by human effort which comes from different sections of the society.
C
3. How can the graduates give back to the society?
It is our duty to give back to the society, what we have taken from it. When students
-
embark on a career, an element of service should be there. The society has nurtured them.
S
N
4. How does the Universities train the youth?
IO
The Universities kindle sweet hopes. They demand patience and perserverance, faith and
confidence in the inherent ability of the youth. They want them to shoulder responsiblities.
T
5. According to the speaker, what should be the concern for the graduates?
A
The immediate concern for every individual is to acquire the means for a decent living.
IC
But that is not the sole objective. They should try to give back to the society what it had given
them. They should replenish it, to be used by future generations.
L
A stream of men and women endowed with the spirit of service have been carrying the
PU
crusade and have conferred rich benefits on humanity. The speaker says the graduates are
inheritors of the great legacy of Purananuru, which tells of the sacrifices of the past generation.
7. Where did the earliest democracy in the world begin?
Y
The earliest democracy in the world began in Athens, in 510 BC. All the adults who held
C
C. Answer the following questions, based on your understanding of the speech of Dr. Arignar
E
Annadurai, adding your own ideas, in a paragraph of about 100 - 150 words.
M
1. How do Universities mould students apart from imparting academic education to them?
Scholars of the past and the present :
During feudal days in the past scholars and poets lived a life of seclusion in palaces and
Durbars. Their wisdom did not reach the people. In modern days, everything is common
man centric. The Universities play an important role in moulding the future generation of
the country. Apart form giving academic information, they teach democratic values and
responsibilities of citizens.
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170 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
2. Common men contribute to the maintenance of institutions of higher education. Explain this
A
statement.
N
Today’s Universities :
N
The Universities of the present day are not only centres of learning but also play an
E
important role in moulding the character of the future generation of citizens. While in the
past during feudal days, the wisdom of the scholars and poets was confined to palaces and the
H
king’s courts. Now the Universities have the common man as its centre. Universities are open
C
to all who seek knowledge. Apart from education, they also inculate the spirit of democracy,
discussion to adjust to differences, respecting others’ views. These are all essential for the
-
strengthening of a democracy.
Youth’s indebtedness :
S
N
The Universities are funded by the government. The necessary funds are provided
IO
from the money collected as tax from the common man. So indirectly the common man, the
farmer, the toiler are contributing for the education of the youth. So, the graduates have a
T
great responsibility to return the gratitude to the society and the community. It need not be in
the form of money. But it could be service to humanity by all possible means. As responsible
A
3. How does the speaker highlight the importance of giving back to the society?
L
community. He has to give back to it what it has given him. The same idea is expressed by the
PU
speaker in his convocation address to the graduates. The Universities are not only centres of
learning, but they responsibly mould the minds of the youth. They impart education, having
the common man as its centre. The Universities are funded by the government.
Y
Youth’s duty :
C
The government gives funds to the institution from the money collected from the common
R
man as tax. Peasants and labourers have contributed to the education of the youth. The speaker
E
says that the youth are indebted to the society for the education they had obtained. So it is their
duty to give back to the community, what they had got from it. It need not be in the form of
M
money, but in the form of service to humanity in every manner to lift the status of their life.
That is the investment made for the future generations. This cycle goes on. So the speaker
highlights the importance of giving back to society what it has given to you.
4. You were one of the fresh graduates at the convocation function of the University. You had the
rare privilege of listening to the enlightening speech of Dr. Arignar Anna. Write a letter to your
friend describing the core ideas of his speech and the impact of the speech to you.
Chennai,
15 May 2020.
th
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PROSE - The Convocation Address 171
Dear Praveen,
You are aware that I have just completed my degree course. I was awarded my degree
at the convocation held in our University. The convocation address was given by our Chief
Mininster Dr. C.N.Annadurai. I had the privilege to listen to a great and enlightening speech.
I am enthused to share my great experience with you. The speaker drove his message straight
into the hearts of the graduates. He dealt on the importance of Universities which are imparting
education, with the common man at its centre. He also quoted Dr. S.Radhakrishnan who had
said that Universities, teach the principles and spirit of democracy, appreciation of others’ view
point, adjustment to the differences with others. These are essential things for a democracy
to survive and excel. He also made an important observation about the indebtedness of the
youth to the society. The community which has funded the education of the youth, needs to be
given back, what they had received. It has to be replenished for the future generations. This
I
observation really made me think deeply about my service to the socitey. I am happy to share
A
with you the enlighting speech of Dr. Anna Duari. Regards to all there.
N
Address on the envelope Yours
N
To xxxxxxx
E
Mr. Praveen,
H
42, West Mada Street,
Madurai - 625 001.
C
Additional Question
-
5. Write a gist of Dr. Anndurai’s convocation address.
S
Dr. Annadurai former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu delivered the convocation address at
N
the Annamalai University in 1967.
IO
In his address, he said that he was representing the common man. The Universities are
repositories of knowledge. Unlike during feudal days where the scholars were secluded and
T
worked for the royalty, the present day Universities function with the common man as its centre.
A
The aim is to spread knowledge to all giving equal opportunity. He refers to Dr. Radhakrishnan
who had said that the universitites can develop the spirit of democracy, appreciation of other’s
IC
views and adjustment of differences through discussion. In Universities we can recall all the
struggles of the past and realise the challenges.
L
He touched upon an important aspect of the youth’s responsibility. The society consisting
B
of the tiller and toiler, has funded the education of the youth indirectly. As Albert Einstein
PU
had said, the educated youth should return to the society, what it has given them. It need not
be in the form of money. But it could be in the form of service to the common man to bring
sunshine into the lives of the poor.
Y
In the process, they may face a lot of challenges, discouragement and hurdles, but in a
C
stead fast manner the youth should return their gratitude to the society.
R
Vocabulary
E
1 2 3 1. common man
2. citizen
Democracy
3. common man - ruler
4. appreciation of other’s views
4 5
5. adjustment of differences
6
6. discussion
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172 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
clinical orthopaedic dividend operations fertile Carnatic
A
diagnostics industries keyboard hacker desktop vocal
N
N
cultivation organic unplugged disease harvest livestock
E
mother-board investment internet proxy recycle bin orchestra
H
trade hip-hop uprooting guitar cure contracts
C
-
1. Music Carnatic keyboard vocal guitar hip-hop orchestra
2. Agriculture fertile organic harvest
S livestock cultivation
N
recycle bin uprooting hacker desktop proxy unplugged
IO
3. Computer
mother-board internet
T
Read the following sentence taken from the speech of Dr. Annadurai.
B
‘It has to take into account the commonness but to trim and train, guide and lead him.....”
PU
Notice the use of the words trim, train, guide and lead. Some words can be used in
different contexts, so as to bring out their various meanings.
Do you want a trim? (noun)
Y
Now choose the appropriate words to complete the sentences. The first one is done for you.
R
I
It is a fine piece of literature. - Noun
A
5. love : Love for humanity is a virtue. - Noun
N
Mother loves her children selflessly. - Verb
N
6. help : He cried for help when a thief came to him. - Noun
E
We should help those who are in need. - Verb
H
7. Address : Write the correct address on the letter. - Noun
The Minister addressed the students. - Verb
C
8. like : Children like sweets. - Verb
-
His likes and dislikes are very different. - Noun
9. clear : There is clarity in his speech. - Noun S
N
Please clear the room of dust. - Verb
IO
E. Words that define a belief, attitude, theory, etc, that is referred to by a word ends with the
A
suffix ‘ism’. Here is a sentence from the speech of Dr. Annadurai; ‘I admit that the environment
IC
is such that even people with robust optimism will be discouraged and forced to take to the
path of ease and comfort.
L
The meaning of the word ‘optimism’ is ‘the hopeful feeling that all is going to turn out well’.
B
3 the doctrine that your country’s interest’s are superior egocentrism nationalism
C
4 feminism amateurism
money
E
5 criticism idealism
pursued
6 a serious examination and judgement of something amateurism criticism
7 habitual failure to be present at work barbarism absenteeism
8 a doctrine that advocates equal rights for women idealism feminism
9 concern for your own interests and welfare heroism egocentrism
10 exceptional courage when facing danger absenteeism heroism
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174 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Listening
Listen to the information about Vishalini and complete her profile with suitable words /
phrases.
Paragraph Refer Text Book No : 201
Vishalini, hailing from __(1)__ in Tamil Nadu is __(2)__ years old. She is endowed with
an outstanding __(3)__ and __(4)__ skills. Her IQ is __(5)__, higher than the previous score
of __(6)__. She has been the __(7)__ Speaker in International conferences. At the Google
India Summit, she was honoured as The Youngest __(8)__. She is the recipient of __(9)__
International awards. This child prodigy is considered a __(10)__ girl.
I
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
A
1. Tirunelveli 2. 11 3. computer 4. analytical 5. 225
N
6. 210 7. Keynote 8. Google Speaker 9. five 10. wonder
N
Speaking
E
H
Prepare a formal five minute speech on the topic ‘The Importance of Education’ and deliver it
C
at your School Assembly.
‘The Importance of Education’
-
Good morning Sirs. I am Raghavendra studying XI std in this school. I have great pleasure
S
to have the opportunity to speak a few words in this August Assembly. ‘The Importance of
N
Education’ is the topic, I am going to speak on.
IO
Education does not merely mean the bookish knowledge that is imparted to students in the
classroom. It is an important tool for everyone to succeed in life and get something different.
T
Knowledge gained throughout the education period enables every individual to be confident
A
about life. Education completely changes our mind and personality and helps us to attain
the positive attitudes. Every parent tells his kid about the importance of education to make
IC
their minds turn towards better study. School education plays a great role in everyone’s life.
It is there that the foundation of a responsible citizen is laid. Primary education prepares the
L
base, secondary education prepares the path for further study. Higher education prepares the
B
ultimate path of the future. In a competitive world, it is a must for all to have good education.
PU
It makes us strong mentally, socially, intellectually. It increass our knowledge level, technical
skill and provides a good position in the job.
In a nut shell, we can conclude that education is of paramount need to all. It is the collective
Y
responsibility of both the government and parents to provide free and quality education to all
C
children. A school closes a jail. To create disciplined and law - abiding citizens, we need to
R
educate all.
I take this opportunity to thank our Principal for giving a chance to speak a few words. I
E
3. According to Tagore, when will India get the opportunity to win the gift of freedom?
According to Tagore, freedom cannot come through charity. People should win it before
owning it. For that, India should prove that she is morally superior to its ruler, the British.
4. How does Tagore acknowledge Gandhi’s noble work?
Gandhiji led India in the true path of conquest, purged feebleness. He followed the path
of nonviolence.
5. Find words from the passage which mean the same as the following.
a) a malevolent desire for revenge (para 1) - Passive resistance
b) tactful (para 2) - Diplomatic
c) despise (para 3) - Scoff
I
A
6. Find words from the passage which are antonyms of the following.
N
a) artificially (para 1) × naturally
N
b) strength (para 2) × feebleness
E
Reported Speech
H
We can narrate spoken words in two ways - Direct and Indirect speech. Direct speech
C
repeat the exact words of the speaker. Reported speech conveys something that was said in
the past.
-
When the reporting verb is in the present tense, we don’t make changes in the tense.
S
e.g. Uma says, “I like chocolates.”
N
This can be reported as, Uma says that she likes chocolates.
IO
Study the following table to learn how the tenses change when the reporting verb is in the
T
past tense.
A
(The word ‘said’ can be replaced by one which expresses a more precise shade of meaning
: explained, declared, agreed, conveyed, told, argued etc.)
IC
chess.”
PU
Madhu said, “I was Madhu said that she had been walking
Past Continuous
walking along the street. along the street.
E
M
I
help me.” her.
A
The librarian said to the students, “Speak The librarian instructed the students to
N
softly.” speak softly.
N
Raj said to Sukumar, “Please drop me at Raj requested Sukumar to drop him at the
E
the station tonight.” station that night.”
H
Here’s a table of some more conversions.
C
Direct Form Reported Form
now then / at that time
-
today that day
S
N
yesterday the day before / the previous day
last night the night before / the previous night
IO
Real life situations offer innumerable opportunities to report what others have said. Read the
IC
Yazhini : I am fine. Congrats. I heard that you have scored very good marks in the
B
Adhira : Yes. I would like to start my own law firm and defend the innocent.
R
Yazhini : Do you know that it calls for a lot of tolerance and hard work?
E
Adhira : Yes. I know that it is not going to be easy but I like challenges.
M
stated that she would like to start her own law firm and defend the innocent. Yazhini further
asked if she knew that it called for a lot of tolerance and hardwork. Adhira acknowledged that
it was not going to be easy but she liked challenges. Yazhini encouraged her to go ahead and
study well and wished that she would succeed. Adhira thanked her for the wishes.
A. Report the following dialogue.
Prabhu : What are you doing here, Kiran? I haven’t seen you for a few months.
Kiran : I have just come back from my native town Virudhunagar.
Prabhu : Did you enjoy your vacation?
Kiran : Yes. I love the place. It is a clean and busy town.
Prabhu : Where did you go and what did you see?
I
Kiran : I went to Courtallam falls in Tenkasi.
A
Prabhu : Share some pictures of your trip.
N
Kiran : Sure. See you later.
N
Prabhu asked Kiran what he was doing there and said that he had not seen him for a few
E
months. Kiran replied that he had just come back from his native town Virudhunagar. Prabhu
enquired him if he had enjoyed his vacation. Kiran replied in the affimative and said that he
H
loved the place and added that it was a clean and busy town. Prabhu asked where he had gone
C
and what he had seen. Kiran replied that he had gone to Courtallam falls in Tenkasi. Prabhu
asked him to share some pictures of his trip. Kiran assured and said that he would see him
-
later.
S
B. Virat Kohli, the Man of the match and Man of the Series in the one-day International series
N
between India and South Africa, February 2018, had this to say during the post match
IO
presentation. India won the match by 8 wickets and won the series by 5 - 1, a historic win
against South Africa in their home soil.
T
“It was a day I felt really good. Last game, I was not in the right kind of mindset. This
IC
is a beautiful place to bat under lights. That’s the idea behind bowling first. I like setting up
for the short ball. It was a blessing in disguise, and they kept bowling short. I think the pitch
L
got better to bat on under lights. It has been a roller coaster till now. People who are close to
B
me deserve a lot of credit. Obviously, you want to lead from the front, and that’s a wonderful
feeling. I have got eight or nine years left in my career and I want to make the most of every
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day. It’s a blessing that I am healthy and getting to captain my country. They have shown great
character - especially the two young spinners. The way the series went augurs well for us.
We’re looking forward to the T20s. The tour is not over yet. After losing the Test series, I was
Y
talking to you. I am here talking to you after winning the ODI series.”
C
Ans : It was a day he had felt really good. Last game, he had not been in the right kind
R
of mindset. That was a beautiful place to bat under lights. That was the idea behind bowling
E
first. He liked setting up for the short ball. It had been a blessing in disguise and they had been
M
keeping bowling short. He thought the pitch had got better to bat on under lights. It had been
a roller coster till then. People who were close to him deserved a lot of credit obviously he
wanted to lead from the front, that was a wonderful feeling. He had got eight or nine years
left in his career and he wanted to make the most of every day. It was a blessing that he was
healthy and getting to captain his country. They had shown great character - especially the
two young spinners. The way the series had gone augured well for them. They were looking
forward to the T20s. The tour was not over yet. After losing the test series, he had been talking
to them. He was there talking to them after winning the ODI series.
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178 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
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Ans : The striking workers said, “We demand an increase in salary. We ask for the
A
withdrawal of all cases. We continue the strike if the demands are not met.” The
N
manager said, “Caloff the strike and come for a discussion. I agree to listen to your
demands.”
N
E
Writing
H
a) E-mail
Samuel Johnson sat on a rickety chair, surrounded by a ‘chaos of borrowed books’ out of
C
which he complied his famous Dictionary.
James Murray worked in a little shed in his garden, surrounded by mountains of paper
-
slips that would one day become the Oxford English Dictionary.
S
With the pervasive impact of computers and internet in all walks of life, the written word
N
has undergone a quantum of change from the printed page into cyber-space.
IO
E-mail is a less formal method of communicating but has replaced the conventional letter,
A
as a means of communication. In using e-mail, you still represent your organization, affiliation,
unit and area. E-mails can be forwarded to a number of people without your knowledge, so
IC
one should consider it as an unsealed letter. Write briefly, as it saves time for the writer as well
as the receiver.
L
in the computer.
C
iii) The communication should resemble a message / formal / informal letter, depending
on the purpose and the receiver.
R
To : [email protected]
E
A sample E-mail
Cc: [email protected], [email protected]
M
a) Write an email to your uncle thanking him for the gift that he had sent from abroad.
To : [email protected]
Subject : Thanking for gift
Dear Uncle,
I am extremely happy that you have sent a valuable gift from Singapore for my
birthday. I thank you for your valuable gift and look forward to meet you. With love.
Naresh. Chennai.
b) Write an e-mail to a charitable trust requesting for a scholarship.
To : [email protected]
Subject : Request for scholarship
I
A
Respected Sir,
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I have passed XII std public exam with 94% of marks. I want to pursue my education
and wish to join B.Com course. I am from a very poor family and cannot afford to pay
N
fees. I request you to kindly grant me scholarship to join college and do my degree.
E
I am attaching copies of my mark sheets and all other testimonials. Please help me
H
to pursue my studies. Regards.
C
Rajaratnam. G. Chennai
Attachments - 4
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b) Formal letters. S
N
You have already learnt the various kinds of letters and the essential features of a good
letter.
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Let us now recall the layout and the various parts of a formal letters.
The parts of a formal letter.
T
Use a courteous, positive and professional tone. Maintain a respectful, constructive tone.
B
State your purpose clearly and briefly. State the purpose of your writing in the first or
second sentence of the letter.
Include all necessary information. Provide all the information your reader needs to
Y
Mohamed Yusuf is the Student Secretary of the Literary Club of your school. Read the following
R
letter that he writes to a bookseller requesting him to supply some books for his school library.
The Student Secretary,
E
Nagercoil,
PIN - 629 002.
January 10, 2021.
The Manager,
Puthaga Ulagam,
Palayamkottai,
Tirunelveli.
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180 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Dear Sir,
I would like to place the following order for our school library. Kindly send the books
by the 28th of this month. Please ensure that the books are in good condition and are neatly
packed.
List of Books
1. Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, Sixth Edition, OUP, 2018 - 5 copies
2. History of English Literature by William J Long - 2 copies
3. Intermediate English Grammar by Raymon Murphy - 2 copies
4. A History of the English Language by A.C.Baugh - 2 copies
5. Complete Works of Rabindranath Tagore, Shanti Publishers - 3 copies
I
A
Kindly send particulars of your bank account for immediate online payment.
N
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
N
Md. Yusuf
E
Secretary,
H
Literary Club
C
Countersigned
The Headmaster
-
Address on the envelope
The Manager, S
N
Puthaga Ulagam,
IO
Palayamkottai,
Thirunelveli - 627 001.
T
A
Tasks
IC
1. Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper about the need to wear seat belts while driving.
From March 15, 2021,
L
xxxxxxx Chennai.
B
xxxxxx
PU
To
The Editor,
Y
‘The Hindu’
C
Anna Salai,
R
Sir,
M
To
The Editor,
‘The Hindu’
Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 002.
2. Write a letter to the commissioner of the corporation complaining about the sanitary conditions
of the streets in your locality.
From 15 March, 2021,
xxxxxxx Chennai.
xxxxxx
To
I
The Commissioner,
A
Chennai Corporation,
N
Chennai - 600 003.
N
Sir,
E
Sub : Insanitary canditions in our locality - complaint reg.
I wish to bring to your notice about the insanitary conditions prevailing in our locality.
H
Our locality has about 500 houses. They are not served by underground drainage system.
C
Waste water from houses is let into a canal. During the recent rains, the canal water got mixed
with rain water and the streets were full of stagnant water. It is causing health problem in the
-
locality.
S
I request you to kindly take immediate steps to clear the streets of the drainage water.
N
Thanking you.
IO
Yours faithfully,
xxxxxxx
T
To
A
The Commissioner,
IC
Corporation of Chennai
Chennai - 600 003.
L
3. Write a letter to a sports company ordering sports items for the Physical Education Department
B
of your school.
PU
xxx School,
C
Chennai
To
R
Sir,
Sub : Order - Sports goods - regd.
We need the following sports items for our school Physical Education Department.
S. No Name Nos S. No Name Nos
1 Cricket bat 4 2 Cricket Net 1
3 Footballs 4 4 Hockey sticks 6
5 Carrom board (large) 2
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182 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Kindly send the items and forward the bill to school. Please ensure the goods are in good
condition. Payment will be made by cheque.
Thanking you.
Yours faithfully,
To xxxxxxx
M/s. Karim Sports Store,
Chennai 600 005.
4. Write a letter to the Chief Reservation Supervisor of Railways requesting him to grant
concession for your educational tour.
From April 30, 2021,
I
A
xxxxxxx Chennai.
School Pupil Leader,
N
XXXX School,
N
Chennai.
E
To
H
The Chief Reservation Supervisor of Railways,
Chennai - 600 003.
C
Sir,
Sub : Request for students concession for tour - regarding.
-
I wish to inform you that forty students of our school have proposed to go on an educational
S
tour to Mysore. I am furnishing the details of our proposed journey.
N
Chennai to Mysore - Mysore Express on 24.05.2021
IO
No. of students 40
Class : Second sleeper.
T
No. of students 40
IC
Thanking you.
PU
Yours faithfully,
Address on the envelope xxxxxxx
To
Y
Chennai Central,
R
5. Write a letter to the curator of the museum seeking permission for a school visit.
From 15th January, 2021,
M
xxxxxxx Chennai.
School Pupil Leader,
XXXX School,
Chennai.
To
The Curator,
Government Museum,
Chennai 600 005.
www.Kalviseithi.Net
PROSE - The Convocation Address 183
Sir,
Sub : Seeking permission to visit the Museum - regd.
I wish to inform you that 30 students of our school wish to visit the museum. I request
you to kindly permit us to visit the museum on 25th March. We will be glad if you can provide
a guide to us to explain the artefacts in the museum. Please allow concession for us for entry.
Looking forward for your favourable reply.
Thanking you.
Yours faithfully,
Address on the envelope xxxxxxx
To
I
The Curator,
A
Government Museum,
N
Egmore, Chennai - 600 005.
N
A letter of application, also known as cover letter, is a job application document sent with
your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience.
E
The letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are a
H
qualified candidate for the job you are applying for. Effective application letters explain the
C
reasons for your interest in the specific organization and highlight your most relevant skills
or experiences.
-
The format S
N
Name,
IO
Address
City, State, PIN Code,
T
Phone number
A
Email Address
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Date
Employer
L
Name
B
Title
PU
Company
Address
Y
Salutation
R
The body of your application letter enables the employer know what position you are
applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow
up. See below the divisions of the body of the letter into paragraphs.
First Paragraph
The first paragraph of your letter should include information on the purpose of writing.
Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the job listing. You might conclude
by briefly saying why you think you are an ideal candidate for the job.
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184 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Second Paragraph
The next section of your application letter should describe what you have to offer the
employer.
It can be a single paragraph, or you can break it up into a couple of paragraphs. If the
section gets lengthy, you may use bullet points to break up the text. Remember, you are
interpreting your resume, not repeating it. Specify how your qualifications match the job you
are applying for. In this portion of the letter, make your case strong for your candidacy. Use
specific examples.
Final Paragraph
Conclude your application letter by thanking the employer in advance for considering
I
you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up.
A
Complimentary Close.
N
Sincerely,
N
Sd/-
E
Signature
H
(NAME)
C
a) Respond to the following advertisements.
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Wanted 100 part-time Graphic Artists.
S
Experienced in Photoshop and Design
N
Salary negotiable, Apply to : MM Graphics,
IO
xxxxxxx Chennai.
IC
xxxxxxx
xxxxxxx
L
xxxxxxx
B
To
PU
The Advertiser,
M.M.Graphics,
Y
Triplicane,
C
Sir,
Sub : Application for the post of Graphic Artist - regarding.
E
I am pleased to apply for the post of part time Graphic Artist in your esteem concern.
I am applying with the confidence that I am suited for the enlisted job. I am a graduate in
Photoshop and Design Engineering.
I have three years experience in Graphic Designing. I am aged 27 years with good
communication skills. I am prepared to work as part time designer. I will be happy to accept
any decent salary offered by you. I am enclosing my detailed resume for your persual. I assure
you to perform my work to the best satisfaction of my superiors.
Waiting for your favourable response.
www.Kalviseithi.Net
PROSE - The Convocation Address 185
Thanking you.
Yours faithfully,
xxxxxxx.
To
The Advertisor,
M.M.Graphics,
Triplicane, Chennai - 600 005.
Female IELTS Teachers Required
Postgraduates in English with a minimum of 3 years experience
Must be bold and confiding
I
A
Good salary, transport and food allowance
provided. Apply to :
N
ARV Institute of Languages
N
149B, Bose Road, Coimbatore.
E
Ph : 98400 xxxxx
H
Email - [email protected]
C
From 15th February, 2021,
-
xxxxxxx Chennai.
xxxxxxx S
N
xxxxxxx
IO
To
M/s. ARV Institute of Languages,
T
Sir,
IC
English Literature. I have worked as a trainer in English for four years in Chennai. I am
B
I come from a family of police officers. I am a bold and independent woman ready to take
up any challenging career. I request you to kindly give me an opportunity to prove my mettle.
I am ready to accept any decent salary offered by you. I will be thankful to you for your
Y
transport and food allowance. I am enclosing my detailed resume for your perusal.
C
To xxxxxxx.
M
POETRY
5. EVEREST IS NOT THE ONLY PEAK
- Kulothungan
I
and essays which earned him the Thiruvalluvar award. He also
A
won the Sahitya Academy award in 1988. His works deal with
N
themes that refect the gamut of human progress and efort.
N
E
Summary
H
The poem deals with human virtues. It says that destination is not important but the
journey towards it. Whatever be the position held, it should be treated with respect and pride.
C
Duty should be performed with devotion.
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Humans may have a few small virtues but they should feel proud and perform the duty
S
with deep devotion. Defeat is hated and excessive humblness is not followed. We don’t stoop
to win. The deserving people and virtuous deeds are praised. We follow a path of dignity and
N
honour. We don’t kneel down for favours that is our pride . The poet says that the Everest
IO
is not the only peak. Every small hillock has a peak. And every position held by humans
is honourable. Dignity does not depend on the position held, but in the manner it is held.
T
Competence and merit are always respected. Man’s property is honour and dignity.
A
Warm up.
IC
M e d i c a l
R
I
Glossary
A
N
virtues - good qualities
devotion - a loyal commitment towards a particular activity
N
repel - hate or detest
E
cringing - behaving in an excessively humble or servile way
H
adore - worship someone
C
nourish - to help the growth and development of someone
summit - the highest point of a hill or a mountain peak
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stoop - yield or submit, to descend from dignity
S
competence - the ability to do something efficiently
N
merit - the quality of being particularly good or worthy
IO
A. Based on your understanding of the poem answer the following questions in a sentence or two
each :
T
A
i. Which line is repeated in the poem ? What is the effect by this repetition?
The line ‘We are proud and feel so tall’ is repeated in the poem. The repetition insists that
IC
man can feel proud in what he does, however small it might be.
L
The ‘deserving ones’ are those who hold their positions with dignity and serve with
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devotion.
iii. Which quality does the speaker wish to nourish ? What is his mission ?
The speaker wishes to nourish the quality of nourishing the world. His mission is to help
Y
I
We should carry out our duties with true devotion.
A
2) Defeat we repel, courage our fort;
N
a) How do we react to defeat ?
N
We hate defeat.
E
b) Which is considered as our stronghold?
H
Courage is considered as our strong hold.
C
3) We are proud of the position we
-
hold; humble as we are,
a) What is the speaker proud of ? S
N
The speaker is proud of his position.
IO
service.
A
a) Who is proud?
Man with certain virtues is proud.
b) What does the second line mean?
The poet says that man has few and small virtues. But they are valuable. So he can
feel proud and tall.
2. To seek gain we adore none
a) What virtue is referred to here?
Man does not sacrifice his self - respect and adore people to seek favours.
b) Do you agree that this is a virtue?
Yes. Currying favour is not a good habit. Not to praise an unworthy person to seek
favour is a great virtue.
I
3. We deem it our duty and mission in life.
A
To bless and praise the deserving one
N
a) What is the duty of a virtuous man?
N
It is the duty of a virtuous man to praise a deserving person.
E
b) How can you call it a virtue?
H
One cannot easily come forward to praise a deserving person. Ego stands ahead. So
praising the deserved is a great virtue. It encourages the person to do more good to
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others.
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4. Ours is a path of dignity and honour
A life that knows no keeling or bending S
N
a) What virtues are referred to here?
Dignity, not to surrender to might are referred to here.
IO
Man should not kneel down or bend before the mighty people, out of fear or for
favours. That is how a man of dignity behaves.
A
Whatever be the position held by man it should be held with pride, whatever be the
position, the work should be done with devotion and dedication.
Y
Additional ERC
Explain the following with reference to the context.
1. Never shall we fail in what we commit
Shall nourish the one that nourish the world.
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Everest is not the only Peak’ written
by Kulothungan.
Context : The poet describes the greatness of human virtues.
Explanation : Man keeps his word. He encourages the person who serves the society.
Service to humanity is his essential virtue.
I
2. A life that knows no keeling and bending
A
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Everest is not the Only Peak’ written
N
by Kulothungan.
N
Context : The poet enumerates the virtues of a common man.
E
Explanation : Man has self - respect. He never bends or kneels before might. He seeks no
H
favours. Such a person is respected in the society.
3. The height you reach is not that we care
C
He, who does not stoop, is a king we adore
-
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Everest is not the Only Peak’ written
by Kulothungan.
S
N
Context : The poet describes the essential virtues of a common man.
IO
Explanation : The heighest position, a man has reached in life, is not important. The way it
is reached is more important. If it is reached without stooping and without losing dignity, such
T
a person will be honoured and adored. Lay people worry more about the means than the ends.
A
by Kulothungan.
B
Context : The poet describes how self - reliant people help the development of the society.
PU
Explanation : People who reach great height in their life, standing on their traits as
competence and merit, are respected most. Those two virtues are like a ladder for human race
to progress.
Y
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Everest is not the Only Peak’ written
by Kulothungan.
R
Context : The poet describes how poor people could be rich in possession of priceless
E
values.
M
Explanation : One should be proud of the position held by him, however small it might
be. One should also live with dignity while performing his duty. One can hold on to pride and
dignity irrespective of social standing.
C. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of 100 - 150 words.
1. In what way is every hillock similar to Everest.
Human virtues : The poet speaks about human virtues which make him proud and dignified.
He reiterates that the position held by man is not important. How it was reached and held is
really important.
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POEM - Everest is not the Only Peak 191
Man’s duty : Human virtue is to do the duty with deep devotion. Even in face of defeat
one should be courageous and should never bow before others for gains. Man’s aim should
be to help someone to grow and develop. One should feel proud about the way one lives with
dignity and honour. Every position held by man is equally valuable. Not the height but the
manner in which was reached it is more important. Man should respect competence and merit
as they are the ladders for the rise of mankind.
He says that man should be proud to possess these valuable human virtues.
2. The poem does not focus on the destination but the journey towards it. Discuss.
Man’s position : The main emphasis in the poem is not on the high position held by man,
but on the manner in which it is reached. A virtuous man can feel proud of his destination if
I
the path followed by him is one of honour and dignity. It is not a virtue to bend before might
A
or stoop to conquer. The effort to reach the goal should be with deep devotion. In the process,
N
we hate defeat, but have courage.
N
The main aim : The main aim should be to help others to grow and develop. One should
E
feel proud about the way one lives in the path of dignity and honour, without compromising
self respect. Learn to respect competence and merit, which help man to rise above.
H
If the above virtues are held in high esteem, the destination does not matter. The path to
C
it must be of great dignity and honour.
-
D. Creative Activity
S
Compose a poem of at least eight lines on ‘Success’. Begin the poem with the lines given
N
below. Share your poem with the class and post a copy on the notice board.
IO
The words associated with ‘Success’ are “hard work, perseverance, merit, devotion,
dedication, aim, planning, effort”.
T
A
Success
IC
I
A
learn to find new ways and correct our mistakes.
N
Success will not remain constant. There is no end to achievements but challenges
will grow. Similarly failure is not permanent. Success follows failure. But courage and
N
perserverance are two indispensable qualities needed to attain success. Courage when one
E
faces defeat and challenges, gives confidence to pursue and win at last. Success is not possible
H
without perseverance. Try, Try and Try again. You will win at last is the adage. As you pursue,
C
you can correct your mistakes and employ new techniques and ultimately taste success.
-
c) Successful people neither brood over the past nor worry about the future.
S
Past is history, even God cannot change it. Future is mystery, no one knows what will
N
be tomorrow. So a successful person will reject both past and future. He will depend on the
IO
present. He believes that he would reap tomorrow the consequences of today. So he will work
hard today to reap benefits tomorrow.
T
Past cannot be changed. But it teaches us how to work today. It is useful to learn from
A
our mistakes and mend our ways. It is not wise to dream about future without working in the
IC
present. So a successful person shuns both the past and the future.
L
B
PU
Y
C
R
E
M
www.Kalviseithi.Net
SUPPLEMENTARY
5. THE SINGING LESSON
-Katherine Mansfield
About the author
Katherine Mansfeld Murray was a New Zealand short
story writer. She left New Zealand at the age of 19 and
settled in the UK. She became a friend of D.H.Lawrence
and Virginia Woolf. She wrote many poems. ‘Bliss’ and
‘The Garden Party’ were collections of short stories
I
written by her.
A
N
Summary
N
The story is about the changing moods of a teacher filled with dismay. She undergoes
a change in her attitude, after her problem in life is solved. Miss Meadows, a music teacher
E
was on her way to the music class. Usually smiling and pleasant looking Miss Meadows was
H
totally disturbed by a letter written by her fiance. He had written that he felt strongly that their
C
marriage would be a mistake. He felt it was a disgust. Miss. Meadows was not in her elements
due to the letter. She remained gloomy. She thought of running away from the school. She was
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obviously worried about the disagree she would face. She gave music lession on a lament.
She wanted young girls to express deep sorrow. The girls understood that music miss was in
S
a foul mood. They were literally in tears. Her mood changed after she received a telegram
N
by her fiance asking her to forget about the letter written in madness. Being relieved of the
IO
perceived disagree, she regained her usual cheerful self. She feels happy and returns to the
class with vigour and good cheer. Suddenly, she wanted the children to sing a joyful song. The
children couldn’t understand the sudden swing of mood in their miss. But they couldn’t cope
T
with the abrupt transition in ‘emotion’. She was distressed worrying about the reaction of the
A
Warm up :
What are all the factors that influence our moods?
L
Happiness, sorrow, disappointment, failure, victory, success are some factors that
B
Suggest some ways by which we can maintain a calm temperament under all circumstances.
M
Glossary
baton - a thin stick used by a conductor of a music orchestra
drawl - slow, lazy way of talking
tangles - a confused mass, twisted
grimace - expression of disgust on a person’s face
accompaniments - music played to support an instrument, voice or group
contralto - the lowest female voice
forte - a musical tone played loudly
crescendo - a gradual increase in the loudness of a sound
I
aisle - a passage between rows of seats
A
fiance - a man to whom one is engaged to be married
N
doleful - sorrowful
N
A. Based on your understanding of the story, answer the following questions in about 30 to 50
words each.
E
H
1. What was the knife that Miss Meadows carried with her ?
Despair - cold and sharp despair buried deep in her heart was the knife carried by Miss
C
Meadows.
-
2. What kind of relationship existed between Miss Meadows and the Science Mistress?
S
The relationship between Miss Meadows and the Science Mistress was one of hatred.
N
Miss Meadows was grim and the Science Mistress mocked at her.
IO
be a mistake. He added that he was disgusted at the idea of marrying her. So, she was upset
A
and dejected.
IC
4. How would Miss Meadows usually treat Mary ? How did her behaviour towards the girl change
that day?
L
Usually when Mary offered a beautiful yellow chrysanthemum, Miss Meadows would
take it up and tuck into her belt with a smile. But due to her grim mood, Miss Meadows
B
5. Why had Miss Meadows chosen ‘A Lament’ as the lesson that particular day ?
Miss Meadows received a letter from her fiance calling off the marriage. She was heart -
Y
broken. So, she chose ‘A lament’ as the lesson in line with her sad mood.
C
Miss Meadows was a strict music teacher. The lesson selected by her with every note a
sigh, a sob, a groan of mourning brought agony to the girls. They began to blow their noses.
E
M
7. Bring out the substance of the letter from Basil’s letter to Miss Meadows.
In his letter Basil stated that it would be mistake to marry her. He was disgusted at the
idea of settling in life with her.
8. Why did Miss Wyatt summon Miss Meadows to her room ?
Miss Wyatt summoned Miss Meadows to her room, to show Basil’s telegram to her.
9. How did Miss Meadows express her joy, when she returned to the music class ?
Miss Meadows picked up the yellow chrysanthemum, held it to her lips to hide her smile.
She chose a joyful and warm song for her class.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Singing Lesson 195
10. Briefly explain the cause of Miss Meadows’ joy at the end.
Basil rejected marriage with her and he felt disgusted in marrying her. Later, in his
telegram he asked her to ignore his letter written in madness. The change of Basil’s heart
made her happy.
A. Vocabulary
Look at the following words from the story. They all refer to different paces of walking. Find
out their meanings and use the words in meaningful sentences of your own.
a) trod : To walk in a specified way.
The policemen trod the parade ground thumping the ground.
b) fluttered : Moving hurriedly.
The school children flutter their way while going to school.
I
A
c) hurried : To walk quickly.
N
People were hurrying to the station to catch the train.
d) skipped : move with a bouncing step.
N
Skipping is a good exercise.
E
e) strode : walk with long steps.
H
Morning walkers strode their way briskly.
C
f) sped : walking very fast.
The thief sped away with the booty.
-
B. Complete the mind map given below and write a brief summary of the story in your own
S
words.
N
IO
1. Miss Meadows was upset over _____ Ans : a letter from Basil
E
3. She taxes the students making them _____. sing a tragic song
4. She thinks of the letter from _____. Basil
5. Basil seems to have _____. possessed
6. The girls sense her change _____. in attitude
7. Suddenly she is called by _____. Miss Wyatt the Headmistress
8. The Headmistress gives her a telegram
which asks her to forget _____. the letter written in madness.
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196 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Summary
The story is about the changing moods of a teacher in a day. She is filled with dismay.
She undergoes a change in her attitude, after her problem in life is solved. Miss Meadows a
music teacher was on herway to the music class. Usually smiling and pleasant looking Ms.
Meadows was totally disturbed by a letter written by her fiance. He had written that he felt
strongly that their marriage would be a mistake. He felt it was a disgust. Ms. Meadows was
not in her elements due to the letter. She remained gloomy. Suddenly her mood changed after
she received a telegram by her fiance asking her to forget about the letter written in madness.
She felt happy and returned to the class with vigour and good cheer.
C. Based on your reading, answer the following in a paragraph about 150 words each :
I
A
1. Trace the mood of Miss Meadows before and after receiving the telegram. How did it affect her
class ?
N
N
(or)
E
Miss Meadows, a music teacher - gets a letter - feels upset - Fiance not interested - reflects
her gloom on students - changes the happy song to a sad one - Headmistress calls - delivers a
H
Telegram - Fiance agrees to wedding - Meadows happy - changes the song again to a cheerful
C
one.
Miss Meadows was a thirty year old music teacher of age thirty.
-
Miss. Meadows’ agony :
She was a pleasant and happy person. She was polite and used to accept the beautiful yellow
S
chrysanthemum from Mary with a smile. She would tuck it in her belt and greet her. She
N
was engaged to Basil. One day, she got a letter from Basil calling off his marriage with her.
IO
Ms. Meadows was disturbed and felt gloomy. She did not greet the science teacher. In line
with her gloomy mood, she chose ‘The Lament’ song for her class. She ignored the yellow
T
chrysanthemum offered by Mary. Mary’s eyes were a filled with tears. The hostile treatment
A
of the favourite pupil sent seismic waves in the class. Unable to bear the grief of the song,
many girls started blowing their noses.
IC
The change in mood : Later, Miss Meadows got a telegram from Basil apologising for his
letter. He had asked her to ignore it as it was written in madness. On reading the telegram,
L
Ms. Meadows regained her cheerful mood. She was very happy. She chose a joyful song for
B
the class. She accepted the yellow chrysanthemum, put it on her lips to hide her smile. She
PU
started singing with vigour and good cheer. But the children found the transition from grief to
joy difficult to emulate.
Y
2. ‘The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude’. Relate this to a real
life experience you have had. Share your thoughts in class.
C
Good or bad day : It is true that attitude can make or mar a situation. The day cannot be
R
It was the day when my marksheet was issued while I was studying in the school. I got
M
less marks and on seeing the list my father was angry. He was under stress due to his office
issues. He scolded me with utmost anger. I was depressed. I cancelled my outing with my
friends, which I had planned earlier. I could not concentrate on my hobbies. My gloomy mood
continued till the evening.
The changed mood : My father returned from his office and was in a jovial mood. He
took me into his arms and regretted for shouting at me in the morning. He consoled me and
asked me to work hard and score more marks in the next exam. I was moved by my father’s
affection. All the gloom of the morning had gone. I was happy and spent the evening in a
happy mood and with vigour and good cheer.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Singing Lesson 197
3. You are busy getting ready for school. You receive a WhatsApp message from your best friend,
saying that he / she is very upset over the fight you had yesterday and doesn’t want to talk to
you anymore. This distresses you as she sounds very firm. However, today is a big day at school
with two tests lined up. What will be your state of mind? How will you handle this situation?
Fights with friends is common. They forget the fight and resume friendship as usual after
sometime. If I get a message that my friend took the previousday’s fight with me seriously, I
would certainly be disappointed and dejected. Ordinarily, I would have approached him and
sorted out the differences.
Today is important in view of two tests at school. So, I would drive away the thoughts of
the episode from my mind. I will concentrate on my exam. Once they are over, I would talk to
my friend and try to mend the situation. The exams are important for him too. So I would not
I
like to waste time in talking to him. I would postpone my meeting to the next day. Besides,
A
time heals things.
N
III. Read the passage and answer the questions.
N
1. With despair - cold, sharp despair - buried deep in her heart like a wicked knife, Miss
E
Meadows, in cap and gown and carrying a little baton, trod the cold corridors that led to
H
the music hall. Girls of all ages, rosy from the air, and bubbling over with that gleeful
excitement that comes from running to school on a fine autumn morning, hurried, skipped
C
fluttered by; from the hollow classrooms came a quick drumming of voices; a bell rang;
a voice like a bird cried, “Muriel.” And then there came from the staircase a tremendous
-
knock-knock-knocking. Someone had dropped her dumbbells.
S
The Science Mistress stopped Miss Meadows.
N
“Good morning,” she cried, in her sweet, affected drawl. “Isn’t it cold? It might be winter.”
IO
Miss Meadows, hugging the knife, started in hatred at the Science Mistress. Everything
about her was sweet, pale, like honey. You would not have been surprised to see a bee
T
“You look frozen,” said she. Her blue eyes opened wide; there came a mocking light in
them. (Had she noticed anything?)
B
“Oh, not quite as bad as that,” said Miss Meadows, and she gave the Science Mistress, in
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2. What do you infer about Miss Meadows and the Science Mistress relationship?
E
The relationship between Miss Meadows and the Science Mistress is one of hatred.
M
2. Basil! Miss Meadows stalked over to the piano. And Mary Beazley, who was waiting
for this moment, bent forward; her curls fell over her cheeks while she breathed, “Good
morning, Miss Meadows,” and she motioned towards rather than handed to her mistress
a beautiful yellow chrysanthemum. This little ritual of the flower had been gone through
for ages and ages, quite a term and a half. It was as much part of the lesson as opening the
piano. But this morning, instead of taking it up, instead of tucking it into her belt while
she learnt over Mary and said, “Thank you, Mary. How very nice! Turn to page thirty -
two,” what was Mary’s horror when Miss Meadows totally ignored the chrysanthemum,
made no reply to her greeting, but said in a voice of ice, “Page forruteen, please, and mark
the accents well.”
I
Questions :
A
1. Who is Basil?
N
Basil is the fiance of Miss Meadows.
N
2. What is the ritual?
E
Mary would offer an yellow chrysanthemum to Miss Meadows before the start of
H
class.
C
3. What would Miss Meadows do usually?
Miss Meadows would receive the flower with a smile and tuck it in her belt.
-
4. What was the change in Miss Meadows?
S
Miss Meadows ignored Mary. She did not accept the flower. She did not return her
N
greeting.
IO
3. Good Heavens, what could be more tragic than that lament! Every note was a sigh, a
A
sob, a groan of awful mournfulness. Miss Meadows lifted her arms in the wide gown and
IC
began counducting with both hands. - “I feel more and more strongly that our marriage
would be a mistake-”she beat. And the voices cried: “Fleetly! Ah, Fleetly.” What could
L
have possessed him to write such a letter! What could have led up to it! It came out of
B
nothing. His last letter had been all about a fumed - oak bookcase he had bought for “our”
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books, and a “natty little hall-stand” he had seen, “a very neat affair with a carved owl on
a bracket, holding three hat-brushes in its claws. “How she had smiled at that! So like a
man to think one needed three hat-brushes! “From the Listening Ear,” sang the voices.
Y
Questions :
C
Basil, Miss Meadow’s fiance felt that their marriage would be a mistake.
3. What thoughts tormented Miss Meadows as she was giving music practice?
The thoughts of Basil’s change of feelings towards her tormented Miss Meadows.
The happy past memories and unhappy twist haunted her mind.
4. Describe Miss Meadow’s thoughts at that time.
She thought that Basil would have been possessed to write such a letter.
5. What was the last letter about?
The last letter was about oak - book case and natty little hallstand Basil had bought.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Singing Lesson 199
4. “Once again,” said Miss Meadows. “But this time in parts. Still without expression.”
“Fast! Ah, too Fast.” With the gloom of the contraltos added, one could scarcely help
shuddering. “Fade the Roses of Pleasure.” Last time he had come to see her, Basil had
worn a rose in his buttonhole. How handsome he had looked in that bright blue suit, with
that dark red rose! And he knew it, too. He couldn’t help knowing it. First he stroked his
hair, then his moustache; his teeth gleamed when he smiled.
“The headmaster’s wife keeps on asking me to dinner. It’s a perfect nuisance. I never get
an evening to myself in that place.”
“But can’t you refuse?”
“Oh, well, it doesn’t do for a man in my position to be unpopular.”
I
Questions :
A
1. How was Mrs. Meadow’s mood affected?
N
Miss Meadows became gloomy and sad.
N
2. Describe Basil in Miss Meadows words.
E
Basil wore a dark blue suit with a rose in the buttonhole. He stroked his hair and
moustache.
H
3. How did he feel about the invitation for dinner by the wife of the headmistress?
C
He felt the invitation as a perfect nuisance.
-
4. Why couldn’t he refuse?
S
He could not become unpopular as a man of status, by refusing the invitation.
N
5. Why did Miss Meadows choose ‘lament’ song?
IO
In line with her sad mood, Miss Meadows chose ‘lament’ a sad song.
5. Again the two light taps; she lifted her arms again. “Fast!” --- and the idea of settling
T
down fills me with nothing but disgust- “Disgust was what he had written. That was as
A
good as to say their engagement was definitely broken off. Broken off! Their engagement!
IC
People had been surprised enough that she had got engaged. The Science Mistress would
not believe it at first. But nobody had been as surprised as she. She was thirty. Basil was
L
twenty - five. It had been a miracle, simply a miracle, to hear him say, as they walked
home from church that very dark night, “You know, somehow or other, I’ve got fond of
B
you.” And he had taken hold of the end of her ostrich feather boa. “Passes away from the
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Listening Ear.”
Questions :
Y
6. Basil! He had committed suicide, decided Miss Meadows. Her hand flew out, but Miss
Wyatt held the telegram back a moment. “I hope it’s not bad news,” she said, so more than
kindly. And Miss Meadows tore it open.
“Pay no attention to letter, must have been mad, bought hat-stand today Basil,” she read.
She couldn’t take her eyes off the telegram.
“Oh, just one minute, Miss Meadows,” said Miss Waytt. “I must say I don’t approve of
my teachers having telegrams sent to them in school hours, unless in case of very bad
news, such as death,” explained Miss Wyatt, “or a very serious accident, or something to
that effect. Good news, Miss Meadows, will always keep, you know.”
On the wings of hope, of love, of joy, Miss Meadows sped back to the music hall, up the
I
steps, over to the piano.
A
Questions :
N
1. How did Miss Meadows react when she was told that she had a telegram from Basil?
N
When she learnt that she had a telegram from Basil, Miss Meadows thought that he
E
would have committed suicide.
H
2. Say briefly what the telegram contained.
In the telegram, Basil asked Miss Meadows to forget the letter written by him in
C
madness.
-
3. What was Miss Wyatt’s view about telegrams?
S
Miss Wyatt did not approve telegrams being sent during class hours, unless there was
N
an emergency like death.
IO
Basil’s change of heart about marrying her changed her gloomy mood to one of
delight.
IC
Unit test
L
Part - I
Answer all the questions 10 × 1 = 10
Y
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. But only reiterate some of the cardinal principles enunciated by those who offered
C
their advice.
R
2. Unless you replenish it richly, coming generations will find only an empty coffer
M
I
A
a) run b) walk c) sleep d) leap
N
Part - II
N
Section - 1
E
Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
H
11. He, who does not stoop, is a king we adore,
C
We bow before competence and merit;
a) Who is adored as a king ?
-
b) What is the figure of speech used in the first line ?
S
12. Everest is not the only peak
N
Every hillock has a summit to boast.
IO
Section - 2
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pleaded that it was not his fault; he was ready to pay a hundred rupees to repair the
damaged cycle. The cyclist refused the money and insisted that the police be called.
C
Bank Manager : Sure, Get the application form and fill it up.
16. Match the following with their meaning.
A B
1. guitar 1. Agriculture
2. desktop 2. Computer
3. Harvest 3. Music
4. Commerce
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202 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Section - 1
Explain any one of the following with reference to the context : 1×3=3
18. Never shall we fail in what we commit
Shall nourish the one that nourish the world.
19. In dignity and pride no one need to be poor.
I
20. A life that knows no kneeling and bending
A
N
Section - 2
N
Answer any one of the following briefly : 1×3=3
E
21. According to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, Universities ensure the democratic way of life
H
for the future generations. How?
22. How can a graduate give back to his / her society?
C
23. ‘Wisdom was meant for the mansion, not for the market place’ What does this
-
statement signify?
Section - 3 S
N
IO
Resume to [email protected]
26. Write an email to your uncle thanking him for the gift that he had sent from abroad.
Y
Part - IV
C
Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words: (any one) 1×5=5
R
27. How does the speaker highlight the importance of giving back to the society?
E
Miss Meadows, a music teacher - gets a letter - feels upset - Fiance not interested in
marriage - reflects her gloom on students - Practice in “lament” - Headmistress calls
- delivers a Telegram - Fiance agrees to wedding - Meadows happy - changes the sad
song to a cheerful one.
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PROSE
6.THE ACCIDENTAL TOURIST
Bill Bryson
About the author
William McGuire Bryson is an Anglo - American author of
books on travels, the English language, Science and other
non-fction topics. He was born in the US, but he was a resident
of UK for a long time. He served as the Chancellor of Durham
I
University from 2005 to 2011. His books include “notes from a
A
small island.” A short History of nearly everything.
N
Summary
N
This is an amusing story about the frustrations of a globe trotter. The narrator describes
E
his experience on a tour. He used to search for the lavatory and end on the wrong side of a
H
self - locking door. He used to ask for his room number at the hotel. Once he was flying to
England with his family. He had a frequent flier’s card which was in his bag. When he tried
C
to open the bag, the zip got jammed. He struggled to open it. When it was forcibly done, the
side of the bag suddenly flew up and all the contents of the bag flew into different places. He
-
damaged his finger in the process. S
On another occasion, he leaned over in a flight to tie a shoelace, just when someone in the
N
seat ahead sent his seat back into recline, and the narrater was caught in between. It was only
IO
by clawing the leg of a neighbour he managed to get himself relieved. On another occasion,
he had a bad experience. He was writing his thoughts in a book, sucking his pen and talking
T
to a lady by his side. When he retired to the lavatory, he found that the pen had leaked and his
A
mouth, gums, teeth were filled with scrub resistant blue ink.
IC
He used to close the car door with a part of his coat left outside. His family members
would take extra care while travelling with him, giving him no occasion to do such things. But
when he went alone, he would not drink, eat, or lean and never put anything in his mouth. He
L
used to forget to ask the airlines for the air miles and lost the chance of getting discount. His
B
Warm up
Often on formal occasions, we admire friends and strangers who appear elegant, who
Y
are pleasant to converse with and who conduct themselves gracefully. At times, we also see
C
people who are awkward, nervous and doubtful about their next move.
R
Recall a few examples of awkward actions that can cause discomfort or disturbance to
others like spilling a cup of hot drink on someone nearby.
E
1. Hitting the dining table and spilling all the items on others.
M
I
A
bons mots - (French) witty remarks
N
suave - polite and sophisticated
- valued
N
venerable
Bill - William (the letter W is changed to B and William is called Bill)
E
H
Synonyms
admire - to respect highly stranger - unknown person
C
elegant - graceful / smart pleasant - happy
-
en famille - as a family nervous - frightened / tense
outstanding - exceptionally good
S
evident - apparent / obvious
N
pretty - beautiful beyond - outside the range
IO
I
A
2. I wonder at the number of things that people do without any evident difficulty.
N
a) secret b) unknown c) unsure d) obvious
3. I had recently joined the British Airways frequent flyer programme.
N
a) irregular b) rare c) occasional d) recurrent
E
4. _____ was extravagantly ejected over an area about the size of a tennis court.
H
a) moderate b) saving c) stingy d) lavishly
C
5. I amused her for perhaps 20 minutes.
-
a) bored b) entertained c) hurt d) depressed
6. I amused her for 20 minutes with a scattering of urbane wits.
S
N
a) collect b) gather
c) preserve d) distributing / spreading
IO
Antonyms
E
I
A
discover × conceal / hide justified × unjustified
panic × calm / security exasperation × pleasure
N
believe × disbelieve helplessly × independent / strong
N
freed × imprisoned / retained worst × best
E
important × unimportant attractive × ugly / repulsive
H
amused × bored scatter × gather
C
urbane × uncivilised retired × active, employed
discovered × hidden, lost resistant × obedient / permit
-
several × a few remain × depart, leave
understand × misunderstand trust
S × distrust
N
suave × awkward / clumsy rise × fall
IO
Write antonyms for the following words and use them in a sentence.
1. abruptly × slowly / The old man climbed the steps slowly.
B
I
A
a) distribute b) diverge c) spread d) gathering
10. It would remain so for several days.
N
a) different b) separate c) many d) few
N
11. As if I just experienced an extremely localised event.
E
a) acutely b) intensely c) severly d) mildly
H
12. I have accumulated only about 212 miles divided between twenty three airlines.
C
a) acquire b) concentrate c) procure d) dispersed
13. It was at this point that my wife looked at me with an expression of wonder - not anger or
-
exasperation.
a) irritation b) calmness
S
c) vexation d) annoyance
N
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
IO
13. b) calmness
A
IC
Bryson was searching for a card in the bag. The zip got jammed. When it was forcibly
B
opened, all the contents were strewn around on another occasion. His head got jammed when
PU
he leaned to tie his shoelace. On another occasion, when he had his pen sucking in his mouth,
the ink got deported on his teeth, gums, lips etc.
2. What were the contents of the Bryson’s bag?
Y
The bag contained newspaper cuttings, tobacco, magazines, passport, English money and
C
films.
R
When the bag was forcefully opened, the sorted documents came raining down. Many
coins bounced to a variety noise and the tobacco box rolled crazilly.
M
4. Why did the author’s concern over tobacco shift to his finger?
The author’s concern was that he had to pay more tax for having tobacco in his bag in
UK. But his focus shifted to his finger on seeing blood.
5. What happened to Bryson when he leaned to tie his shoelace?
When Bryson leaned to tie his shoelace the person in the seat ahead reclined and the
author’s head was pinned in a crash position.
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208 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
9. How would staying away from liquid mischief benefit Bryson?
N
Staying away from liquid mischief helped Bryson to cut down on the laundry bills.
N
10. Why did the clerk say that Bryson was not entitled to flyer miles?
E
Bryson’s ‘flier’ card contained a different intial. So the clerk said that he was not entitled
to flyer miles.
H
C
B. Answer the following questions in about three to four sentences each:
1. Why doesn’t Bryson seem to be able to do easily what others seem to? Give a few reasons.
-
Bryson is easily confused. He used to go in search of lavatory in a cinema and would end
S
in an alley. He is also used to ask for his room number sitting at the desk in the hotel.
N
2. What was the reaction of Bryson’s wife to his antics?
IO
Bryson’s wife would look at him with wonder without anger or exasperation. She could
not believe him to do that.
T
A
Bryson while travelling on a plane leaned to tie his shoelace. At the sametime, the person
ahead of him reclined and the author’s head was caught in a crushing position. On another
L
occasion, while writing notes on a plane, he was sucking his pen which was leaking. He found
that his lips, mouth, gums became blue with the ink. The ink was indelibe for a long time.
B
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Additional Questions
1. What is the author’s particular speciality?
Y
The particular speciality of the author is that his absent - mindedness. He returns to hotel
desks two or three times a day. Yet, he asks for his room number every time.
C
R
gum, ice cream, cough syrup and motor oil. The trousers got stained.
M
3. At the end how did the author behave while travelling alone?
The author learnt a lesson. When he travelled alone, he did not eat, drink or lean over to
tie his shoelace and never put his pen anywhere near his mouth.
4. Though he was a frequent flier, he accumulated only few air miles. Why?
The author was a frequent flier. But he forgot to ask for the air miles, while checking in
or the airlines manager did not record it. Or he was informed that he was not eligible. So he
did not have many air miles to his credit.
www.Kalviseithi.Net
PROSE - The Accidental Tourist 209
C. Based on your understanding of the text, answer the following question in a paragraph of
about 100 - 150 words.
1. “To this day, I don’t know how I did it” - What does ‘it’ refer to? (and )
2. ‘.......But, when it’s my own - well, I think hysterics are fully justified’ - How?
Bryson’s confusion :
Bryson had a numerous funny incidents during his travels. He used to be a confused
person always. He used to go in search of a lavatory in a cinema hall and end up on the wrong
side of a self - locking door. The funniest thing had happened when he was flying to England
for a week. He remembered that he had the frequent flyer card. It was in his bag. The zip of
the bag got jammed. So he pulled it with all his might . The side of the bag flew open spilling
all its contents.
I
Cascade of contents :
A
There was a cascade of all the contents of the bag strewn all over on the floor. His tobacco
N
tin flew around. Hundreds of carefully sorted documents came raining down. His foremost
concern was to catch the running tobacco box. The moment he noticed his bleeding finger,
N
he screamed “my finger.” He had gashed his finger in the zip which began to bleed profusely.
E
He did not like blood flowing generally. When he himself was bleeding, he said that hysterics
H
were fully justified. For such a confused person, the hysterics were justifiable.
C
3. Bring out the pun in the title ‘The Accidental Tourist’ (one who happens to travel by accident
or one who meets with accidents often on his or her trips!).
-
The title :
S
The title of the story of Bryson’s confusion during travel, ‘The Accidental Tourist’ is one
N
having pun of word ‘Accident’.
The title may mean, ‘a tourist by accident, or a tourist’s accident during journey’
IO
Accident in flight :
T
The second meaning is apt for the title. Bryson, a frequent flyer had many accidents
during his journey. Once he opened the jammed zip of his bag forcibly. All the contents got
A
spilled all around. His finger, caught in the zip began to bleed. On another occasion, when he
IC
leaned to tie his shoelace, the person ahead reclined in his seat and the author’s head went into
crushing position. Once he was writing notes. At that time, he was sitting beside an attractive
L
woman. He engaged in an interesting talk with her. Meanwhile, he started sucking his pen. It
leaked and his chin, mouth, teeth and gums were painted with ink.
B
Such ‘accidents’ are taken into account and punning on the word ‘accident’, the title is
PU
done?
C
Common confusion :
Confusion is a common thing for all. It occurs when the mind is not concentrating on
R
what is being done by the body. Some actions are done involuntarily. They are like searching
E
for a wash room, driving a vehicle on an accustomed road, reading without knowing what
M
was being read. Such actions are done without the synchronisation of thoughts and mind and
may end in confusion.
Training of Mind :
Mind can be trained to overcome such shortcomings. One should develop the habit of
detailed planning before doing anything however small it might be. On constant practice
and following the mind in a captive state, the actions can be controlled. Concentration can
be obtained by meditation and the control of the senses can be practised. There is nothing
impossible for man, if every action is done with a little consciousness and determination.
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210 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
5. As a fellow passenger of Bill Bryson on the flight, make a diary entry describing his clumsy
behaviour during the trip and the inconveniences caused to others as a result of his nervousness.
Bryson was seated by my side. He leaned to tie his shoelace. At the same time the person
in the front seat reclined and Bryson was in a helpless crash position. Bryson clawed my leg
and I helped him to come out safely.
Bryson was writing notes, sucking his pen. He was engaged in a conversation with an
attractive lady sitting by his side. His pen began to leak. His mouth, chin, tongue, teeth and
gums were filled with the scrub resistant ink.
His co - travellers were embarrassed. He went to the washroom and found out how his
leaking pen made his face look awkward.
I
Bryson’s wife and children took extra care while flying with him. They took all precautions
A
that the food items were not strewn all around.
N
Bryson’s accidents create both embarrassment and humour to others.
N
Additional Question
E
6. Justify the title : ‘The Accidental Tourist’.
H
The author was a frequent flyer. He met with a number of funny accidents during his
C
flights. While going in search of a toilet, he used to end up on the worng side of the door.
While on a trip to England, he had his flier card in the bag. He tried to forcibly open the
-
zammed zip. As the bag tore open, all the contents were strewn around. His finger had gashed
and began to bleed.
S
N
On another occasion, while he bent down to tie his shoelace, the passenger in the front
IO
members were very careful while flying with him. He could not get flier miles because of
A
All the above incidents prove that the author had a numerous accidents during his flights
and the title ‘The Accidental Tourist’ is very apt.
L
Vocabulary
B
PU
f) bonafide - / / - genuine
M
B. Refer to the dictionary and find out the meanings of the following foreign words / phrases. Use
them in sentences of your own:
1. bon voyage - have a nice trip
My family members wished bon voyage to me when I had left for Singapore.
2. intoto - in all
The manager rejected the worker’s demand ‘intoto’.
3. liaison - contact
Prasad was appointed as the liaison officer for the company.
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PROSE - The Accidental Tourist 211
I
9. Par excellence - best example
A
Words are symbols par excellence.
N
10. in camera - in private
N
Judges assess the merits of such claims in camera.
E
11. Status quo - the existing state of affairs
H
The judge ordered status quo for the civil case.
12. magnum opus - most important work
C
Ford founded the factory and it is considered his magnum opus.
-
13. in cognito - have the identity concealed
S
In order to find the truth, you have to be in cognito.
N
14. deja vu - a feeling that have already experienced
IO
Additional
R
E
1 Bonafide genuine
M
I
A
17 ex - parte One sided
N
18 impasse dead lock
N
19 mala fide in bad faith
E
20 modus operandi way of doing a thing
H
Here is a list of some words borrowed from Indian languages and have been included in the
C
Dictionary of English. Add more words to the table.
-
veranda Hindi a roofed platform along the outside of a house
bungalow Hindi S
a house in the Bengal style
N
chutney Hindi a ground or mashed relish
IO
Look at the list of idioms given below. Find their meanings from a dictionary. Read the
C
sentences that follow and replace the words in italics with the appropriate idioms, making
R
d) At the interview, when questions were fired at me rapidly, I forgot everything and got
into a panic mode.
e) I love thrillers and this book is right up my alley.
Additional
1. Back to square one : To go back to the beginning.
2. Beating around the bush : Avoiding the main point.
3. Cry over spilt milk : to worry about things that had already happened.
4. Cry wolf : To call help when not needed.
5. Burning mid night oil : To work late into night.
6. Every cloud has a silver lining - be optimistic
I
7. Once in a blue moon : Very rarely.
A
8. Take with a grain of salt : not to take too seriously
N
9. A blessing in disguise : Something good not recognised
10. Rome was not built in a day : For any task it takes time to do.
N
E
Listening Activity
H
Listen to the dialogue read out by the teacher or to the recorded version and answer the
C
questions that follow:
For dialogue, Refer Text Book Page No : 202
-
i) _____was one of the places visited by Mahesh.
a) Srilanka b) Goa c) Kasi S d) Cochin
N
ii) The Art Museum at Trivandram is called _____.
IO
iv) Mahesh had been to the _____ Lake Wild Life Sanctury.
a) Chidambaram b) Pulicat c) Kovalam d) Periyar
IC
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
i. d) Cochin ii. c) Chitralayam iii. a) Quilon iv. d) Periyar v. c) Venice
PU
Speaking Activity
Y
C
a) Build a dialogue of 8 - 10 exchanges between your friend and yourself, on the following
situation:
R
You were to board a train to Delhi. By mistake you got into the wrong train and fought
E
for your seat there. On realising your mistake, you left the train shamefaced, after creating a
M
Me : I am not concerned about it. Please vacate the seat for me.
Friend : You are talking too much.
Me : Will you please keep quiet and leave. Otherwise, I will call the TTE.
Friend : No problem. Check your ticket properly.
Me : Check the ticket. Is it not the Delhi bound train?
Friend : Mister. You are mistaken. You boarded the wrong train This train goes to
Chennai.
Me : (Shamefully) I am extremely sorry for all this. Please excuse me.
Friend : It’s ok.
I
b) Speak to the class for a minute, as to how one should conduct oneself on formal occasions.
A
(You could talk about table-manners especially while eating, general appearance, manner of
N
speaking, etc.)
First let us see how to have table manners. While you are in a hotel or at home, dining
N
time is the best time, when one should feel relaxed and happy. We should wait for all the items
E
to be served to all. Eat without spilling items on you, on others or on the table. Avoid talking
H
too much while eating. Eat slowly and enjoy the dishes. Don’t comment on the taste in a rude
manner. Complete your meal and wait for others to complete before you leave the table.
C
Regarding the appearance one should take all care to appear in appropriate dress for the
occasion. Keep it tidy and well ironed. Avoid gaudy colors and keep the dress neat.
-
While speaking, preventing others from talking, avoiding others talk is not good manners.
S
Speaking is not a one sided affair. When you wish others to understand what you say, speak
N
slowly. When the listerners want any clarification, allow them to speak, listen to them and
IO
try to understand their view point. Speaking and listening should go together. Repeating a
particular point too often will be boring and unwanted. You cannot have captive listeners if
the speech is not interesting.
T
A
Reading
IC
Translation is the process of expressing the sense of a written text to another language
i.e. converting from one language to another without changing the meaning.
PU
The ability to translate is both a skill and an art. Translation can be done from the language
being learned (here it is English) into the mother tongue or from the mother tongue into
Y
English.
C
Narration
M
2. Caesar, who was 11 years old was the sole survivor among the dogs of Mumbai Police
who took part in bomb detection operations during the terrorist attack on Mumbai
that began on November 26, 2008. He died of heart attack at a farm in Virar where he
and his three canine buddies had been sent after retirement. During the terror attack
in Mumbai, Caesar saved several lives when he sniffed out the hand grenades left by
the terrorists at the busy CST Railway Station.
3. Caesar was also a part of the search team at Nariman House, where terrorists were
holed up for three days. Earlier he was also pressed into service for bomb search
operation after the 2006 serial train blasts and July 2017 blast in Mumbai. The Mumbai
police officials also tweeted their grief saying, “Services of retired members of Dog
Squad during 26/11 will be unforgettable. We will remember our heroes forever.”
Answer the following questions
I
A
1) Labrador retriever was covered with tricolour. What does this signify?
N
Caesar, the Labrador retriever, died of heart attack. It was put into bomb detection and it
saved a number of people. In memory of its service, it was honoured with a state funeral. So
N
the body was covered with tricolour.
E
2) How did Caesar save several lives at the CST railway station?
H
During the terror attack in Mumbai on 26/11, Caesar saved several lives when he sniffed
C
out the hand grenades left by the terrorists at the busy CST Railway Station.
3) Which word in the passage (para - 3) means the same as ‘forced’.
-
Pressed into service is the same word as ‘forced’. S
N
4) “Services of retired members of Dog Squad during 26/11 will be unforgettable”. Mention
three services rendered by Ceasar.
IO
Caesar was pressed into service for bomb detection operations during the terrorist attack
on Mumbai in November 2008. Caesar saved a number of lives by sniffing out grenades left
T
by terrorists at the CST Railway Station. It was also used for bomb search operation after the
A
5) Caesar is a Labrador breed of dogs. Name a few other native breeds that are used by the police
force.
L
The police force uses different kinds of breeds of dogs in its operation. They are Doberman
B
pinseher, Labrador Retriever, Belgian Sheep Dog, Blood hound, German Shepherd.
PU
6) Try to rewrite the news item in your mother tongue without losing the spirit and flavour of the
text. Give a suitable title to the translated version.
Y
ñ£ïèó‚ è£õ™¶¬ø ݬíò¼‹, èî£ï£òèˆ î°FJ™ ñóíñ¬ì‰î ܉î ‚°ˆ îñ¶ ‘†i†’Þ™,
M
Grammar
a. Transformation of sentences.
Sentences can be of three types - Simple, Compound, Complex. A simple sentence has
one independent clause (A clause is a group of words with a subject and a verb). A compound
I
A
sentence joins two or more number of independent clauses. A complex sentence has one
independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.
N
Subordinate conjunctions such as ‘because, since, although, when, while, where, which,
N
that, after etc.’ are used to connect Independent Clauses with the Dependent Clauses in
E
Complex sentences.
H
Coordinate conjunctions such as ‘but, and, or, yet, so etc.’ are used to connect the
Independent Clauses in Compound sentences.
C
Now complete the following.
-
1. Dinesh and Prabhu wanted to meet Varsha at the bus stop. They went to the bus stop.
(Change into a compound sentence)
S
Ans : Dinesh and Prabhu wanted to meet Varsha at the bus stop, so they went to the
N
bus stop.
IO
2. Varsha reached the railway station. She was waiting for them there. (Change into a
compound sentence)
T
Ans : Varsha reached the railway station and was waiting for them there.
A
3. While she waited at the train station, Varsha realized that the train was late. (Change
IC
4. Dinesh and Prabhu left the bus stop. Varsha rang them.(Change into a complex
sentence)
B
Ans : Dinesh and Prabhu had left the bus stop when Varsha rang them.
PU
5. The trio met at the station. Varsha left for Madurai. (Change into a complex sentence)
Ans : After the trio met at the station, Varsha left for Madurai.
Y
Additional
C
1. Though she was poor, she was happy (into compound sentence)
R
I
He is old and he cannot walk.
A
13. He told me a story. It was about a giant. (into simple)
N
He told me the story of a giant.
14. Though he was poor, he was honest. (into simple)
N
Inspite of being poor, he was honest.
E
15. The thief saw the police and ran away. (into complex)
H
When the thief saw the police, he ran away.
16. As there was heavy rain, the match was cancelled. (into compound)
C
There was heavy rain, so the match was cancelled.
-
17. Take an umbrella. It may rain. (into simple)
Incase of rain, take an umbrella. S
N
18. I speak the truth. I am not afraid of it. (into simple)
I am not afraid to speak the truth.
IO
21. The questions being easy, all students have passed. (into compound)
The questions are easy, so all students have passed.
L
22. Though I hurried to the station, I could not catch the train. (into compound)
B
23. The sum is very difficult. I cannot understand it. (into simple)
The sum is too difficult for me to understand.
24. I stand for justice. The whole world knows it. (into complex)
Y
b. This paragraph has only simple sentences. Combine them into compound and complex
sentences. The first one is done for you.
R
One day, Ajay and Tijo went to the canal. They wanted to catch some fish. Some people
E
were playing nearby. They chose a better place. They took out the fishing rods. Suddenly there
M
was a loud splash. They also heard a loud scream. Both Ajay and Tijo looked up. They saw
something moving in the water. They saw a hand waving. Someone had fallen in the water. It
was Yusuf. He had jumped into the water. He wanted to swim.
Ans : One day, Ajay and Tijo went to the canal to catch some fish. As some people were
playing nearby they chose a better place. When they took out the fishing rods there was a
sudden loud splash. They also heard a loud scream. When Both Ajay and Tijo looked up, they
saw something moving in the water. Someone had fallen in the water and was waving hand.
It was Yusuf who had jumped in the water and he wanted to swim.
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218 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Writing
A
Narrative Writing
N
There are many ways of expressing our thoughts and ideas in an interesting manner. One
N
way is to present them as a narration. In this section we shall learn how to develop a proverb
E
and a news headline into a story - paragraph.
H
Introduction / Beginning
C
Describe the setting (where?, when?)
Introduce the character (who?)
-
Explain the situation.
S
N
Events / Middle
IO
Solution / Ending
A
An example : Expand the Proverb ‘A bad workman always blames his tools’ into a story-
paragraph. Notice the beginning, middle and the ending. Begin with the meaning of the
proverb.
Y
The meaning of this proverb is that our success does not depend on what kind of tools
R
we have but how we use them. Here is a story to elucidate the meaning. Raj and Ravi were
E
farmers. They owned a pair of oxen each with which they ploughed their lands. Raj put in
M
hard work while Ravi hardly worked. Raj worked all day long, aimed at getting a good yield
and took good care of his oxen, fully understanding their needs. Ravi, on the other hand, was
very lazy and miserly. He never fed his oxen well but exploited them to the maximum.
As a true friend, Raj advised Ravi and sometimes even admonished him for his treatment
of the animals. Ravi paid little heed to Raj’s words. He soon bought a tractor to plough his
land and chased the oxen away. Raj brought home the animals and took care of them too,
though he could not afford it. The monsoon soon arrived and it was time for cultivation. Raj’s
land was well - ploughed and ready for cultivation - thanks to his oxen.
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PROSE - The Accidental Tourist 219
Ravi in his miserly fashion had not maintained his tractor well and it kept giving him
trouble. As a result, he could not get his field ready for cultivation on time. He lamented and
blamed it all on bad luck not realizing that it was he who was responsible for his miserable
state. Ravi not only lost out on a good yield because of his laziness, but also spent a huge
sum of money to repair his tractor due to poor maintenance. Despite having better equipment,
Ravi was unable to get the best results. But, Raj was a good workmen and hence was able to
succeed with the limited resources he had. It is true a bad workman blames his tools.
Now write a short story to explain these proverbs.
1. Actions speak louder than Words.
This proverb means that our actions convey more, than the words we speak. It means
demonstration is better than speech. Actions give a clear picture about what we are trying to
I
say in a short period of time.
A
Neena was a girl of fifteen, she was a kind girl. She always followed her teacher’s advice
N
that one must always lend a helping hand to needy ones.
N
One morning while going to school on bicycle, she saw a blindman struggling to cross
E
the road. She parked her cycle aside and tried to stop the vehicles and helped the blindman
H
to cross the road safely. The drivers were touched by the helping move of the girl. The blind
man thanked her.
C
The teacher explained the incident to the students in the class and asked them to applaud
-
her. She told the class how Neena’s action was speaking louder than merely talking about
helping others. S
N
2. Despair gives courage to a Coward.
IO
Most of the time, we do not realize the talent that is within us. Certain situations help to
bring out these special qualities to the fore. A drowning man tries to hold on to even a straw.
T
Even a coward can be turned into a brave warrior in a life threatening situation. A small
boy was walking on the street. Some stray dogs came behind him and began to bark. The
A
boy was timid in nature, so out of fear he bagan to run. The dogs too ran behind him barking.
IC
There were none to help him. He could not run any further. He became desparate and wanted
to browbeat the dogs to escape. He turned back and took a small stick which was on the road
L
and threatened to beat the dogs which were running behind him. The barking dogs were taken
B
aback. They stopped barking and ran back in fear that the boy would beat them.
PU
The boy grew in confidence. Desparation emboldened him to fight the dogs.
Develop the following hints into a paragraph.
Two kings - ruled neighbouring kingdoms. King Arya - great warrior - looked after -
Y
subjects - very well - People loved him - looking - their safety and welfare - all his subjects
C
- very happy - healthy life - King Vaishal on the other hand - very lazy man - spent his time
R
Powerful Sultan attacked - with his strong army - King Arya’s army - alert - ready -
M
preparedness - enemy - more powerful - love for King even women and children - come to the
war front - fight - protect their King - a different story - King Vaishal - impending war - people
started fleeing - King all by himself - not interested to protect - King - did nothing for their
welfare.
King Vaishal - realized his foolishness - too late - defeated in the war and fled for his life
- King Arya - defeated the Sultan - People to live in peace - King Arya - welfare of his people
at heart at all times - subjects - returned his love - loyal and supportive - during testing times.
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220 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
people. All the people, women and children came out to take part in the war to protect their
king. Kings Vaishal’s was a different story; his people began to flee the battle field in fear.
N
They had no love for the king and did not like to protect him. He was defeated in the war.
N
King Arya defeated the Sultan. His people were able to live in peace. The king had their
E
welfare in his heart always. People returned their love for him during testing times.
H
Writing a Curriculam Vitae
C
Do you know what a Resume or a Curriculam Vitae is? Have you seen one or written one?
-
A resume is a document used by a person to present his educational backgrounds and
S
professional skills. You have less than a minute to convince your employer that you deserve
N
an interview. so your resume must summarise your accomplishments, your education, your
work experience and reflect your strengths.
IO
strength.
A
2. Should begin with the applicant’s identification like name, address, e-mail etc.
IC
5. Should include a reverse chronological order, starting with the current experience.
B
Mobile - 9444100000
R
E-mail : [email protected]
E
Profile
Good knowledge of computers
Analytical, good at problem solving and excellent in maintaining interpersonal relationship.
Good communication skills.
Educational Qualification
M.Sc (Maths) First Class with distinction.
B.Sc (Maths) First Class
12th with aggregate 85% from GHSS, Nagercoil in 2012
10th with aggregate 91% from GHSS, Nagercoil in 2010.
Software Skills
I
A
Operating Systems Windows all, Linux, Microsoft Office.
N
Hardware Skills
Assembling of PC
N
Networking & Troubleshooting PC
E
H
Projects Undertaken
Statistics and Survey
C
Extra Curricular Activities
-
NSS Volunteer and School Student Secretary
Basket ball District player S
N
Strengths
IO
Personal Details :
A
Sex : Male
Marital Status : Single
L
Declaration
I hearby declare that the above cited information is true to the best of my knowledge and
belief. If given a chance, I shall prove myself.
Y
Sd/-
C
Vinodh . R
R
Write a CV for the post of DTP operator at ABC Publishing House, and send it to
Task :
E
To
The ABC Publishing House,
Post Box No. 2345, Chennai.
E-mail sent to [email protected]
Vinodh. R
Mobile - 97910 82654 / E-mail : [email protected]
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222 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
Educational Qualification
M.Sc (Computer Science) First Class with distinction.
N
12th with aggregate 85% from GHSS, Chennai - 12
N
10th with aggregate 91% from GHSS, Chennai -12.
E
Software Skills
H
Operating Systems Windows all, Linux, Microsoft Office.
C
Hardware Skills
-
Assembling of PC, Networking & Troubleshooting PC
Extra Curricular Activities
S
N
NSS Volunteer and School Student Secretary, Cricket
IO
Strengths
Hardworking and punctual, Positive attitude and open minded.
T
Personal Details :
A
Sex : Male
Marital Status : Married
L
Declaration
PU
I hearby declare that the above furnished information is true to the best of my knowledge
and belief. I will prove myself an asset for the company, if I am given an opportunity.
Y
XXXXXX
C
Signature
R
To
E
POETRY
6.HOLLOW CROWN
- William Shakespeare
About the author
William Shakespeare, an English poet and playwright is the
greatest writer in English language. He was born and brought up
at Stratford - upon-Avon. He wrote about 37 plays, 154 sonnets
and few other verses. He was the National Poet of England.
I
He was nicknamed the Bard of Avon. Ben Jonson wrote of him
A
‘Shakespeare is not of an age, but for all time’.
N
N
Summary
E
The extract of this poem is from Shakespeare’s play King Richard the Second. Richard
H
the second was the emperor of England from 1367 to 1399. He was deposed by his cousin,
Henry Bolingbroke, who crowned himself as king Henry the Fourth. Richard was sent to
C
prison where he died in captivity.
-
This poem is known as The “Hollow Crown”. King Richard came face to face with the
real situation. He is reminded of the power of Death. S
N
He wants to talk of graves, epitaphs and death. We cannot call anything as our own,
except the death. Man needs only a small barren earth in the end. He wants to talk about
IO
the sad stories of kings who had died in various ways. Some were slain in war. Some were
haunted by ghosts. Some were poisoned by their wives. All these killings took place just for
T
the sake of the hollow crown. The crown is empty in the middle and so the power is not solid
A
or strong or permanent. Death is portrayed as a Court Jester. He grants the mortal kings the
IC
temporary license to monarchise. The flesh walls of the body which look as impregnable as
brass walls are demolished by sharp pin called death. Death is very powerful. He adds that he
too needs bread to live, feels want, tastes grief and needed friends. He does not differ from
L
other common men. So he does not want him to be called as ‘King’, as he is only a human.
B
PU
Warm up
a. Work with a partner and take this short quiz to find out how well informed you are about
history.
Y
I have heard of the Ist World War, the Second World War, The Great American War of
R
I have also heard of the Battle of Panipat. Battle of Stalingrad, Battle for Burma.
M
I
A
Hitler.
N
Glossary
N
epitaph - short pieces of writing inscribed on tombstones in memory of the dead
E
executors - persons who put someone’s terms of will into effect
H
bequeath - pass on something to the next generation by means of a will
C
deposed - removed from office or power
slain - killed
-
antic - someone who draws attention through silly or funny acts
scoffing - expressing mockery S
N
grinning - smiling wildly
IO
Pick out the phrase that suggests that King Richard was sorrowful.
‘Talk of graves’ suggests he was sorrowful.
L
Why does the king suggest that it is now time for his will to be executed?
B
King Richard was certain that, as he was deposed, his cousin who conquered him would
PU
put him to death soon. So he suggests that his will might be executed.
What is the only thing we bequeath to our descendants?
Y
Richard says that the deposed bodies were the only thing, we could bequeath to our
C
descendants. In his case all his power and properties were grabbed by his cousin.
R
Additional Questions
1. How many plays did Shakespeare write?
Shakespeare wrote about 37 plays.
2. How are the plays categorized?
Shakespeare’s plays are categorized as tragedies, comedies and histories.
3. How is Shakespeare’s name unique?
Shakespeare has taken his mother Arden’s family name as his. He is one of the few
celebrities who took their mother’s name.
4. What is the historical background of the play King Richard the Second from which this extract
is taken?
I
King Richard was the emperor of England from 1367 to 1399. He was deposed by his
A
cousin Bolingbroke and sent to prison where he died.
N
5. What is the name by which the ‘speech’ of Richard the second known as?
N
This speech by Richard the Second is known as the “Hollow Crown” speech in literary
E
circles.
H
A. Fill in the blanks using the words given in the box to complete the summary of the poem:
C
King Richard the Second had surrendered to his (a) _____ cousin, Bollingbroke. He
experienced deep distress at the horror of his circumstances. In that deseparate situation, he
-
speaks of (b) _____, (c) _____, (d) _____ and other things connected with death. He spoke of
how people leave nothing behind and can call nothing their own, except for the small patch of
S
(e) _____, where they will be buried. King Richard yielded to dejection and talked of all the
N
different ways in which defeated kings suffer how some had been deposed, (f) _____ in war,
IO
over the shoulder of every ruler, who mocks kings by allowing them to think their human
A
flesh, was like (i) _____ brass. However, Death penetrates through the castle walls, silently
and unnoticed like a sharp (j) _____, thus bidding (k) _____ to him and all his pride forever.
IC
Finally, Richard appealed to his soldiers not to mock his mere flesh and blood by showing (l)
______ and respect to him. He added that he too needed bread to live, felt want, tasted (m)
L
_____ and needed (n) _____. He concluded thus, urging his men not to call him a (o) _____
B
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
a. rebellious b.graves c. worms d.epitaphs e.barren-earth
C
B. The words used by Shakespeare find a place in present day conversations also. Here are a few
examples of how these poetic, standardized English words could be used by common people
in their regular speech.
a. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the box and complete the statements suitable:
bequeath, antics, monarchise, impregnable, hollow
1. Shravan never keeps his promises. His friends know that his words are _____.
2. The spectators died laughing at the _____ of the clown.
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226 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
3. The business woman wished to _____ all her riches to an orphanage, after her death.
4. The fortress was _____ and could not be conquered by the enemies.
5. Alexander the Great, wished to conquer many lands and _____ the entire world.
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. hollow 2. antics 3. bequeath 4. impregnable 5. monarchise
b. Complete the passage given below, with suitable words from the box:
Lima, a (a) _____ and (b) _____ woman, kept (c) _____ at her colleagues and went on
taxing them with hard labour. Though they were (d) _____ to her, she being their head, they
were offended and filled with (e) _____. It so happened, that Lima was (f) _____ from her
I
high position due to a serious blunder she had committed. Lima, having lost all her (g) _____
A
and glory, realized how arrogant she had been. She gave up her pride and with (h) _____
N
sought an apology from everyone. She thus turned over a new leaf and bid (i) _____ to them.
N
farewell ceremonious deposed reverence vain
E
pomp conceited sorrow scoffing
H
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
C
a. ceremonious b.conceited c. scoffing d.vain e.sorrow
f. deposed g.pomp h. reverence i. farewell
-
S
C. From your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions briefly in a sentence or
N
two.
IO
1. What do the three words, ‘graves, worms and epitaphs’, refer to?
The words, graves, worms and epitaphs refer to death and afterwards.
T
Bolingbroke is the cousin of Richard the Second. He deposes him and crowns himself as
King Henry the Fourth. He becomes the monarch. He is a foe of Richard.
B
PU
The crown of rulers stands for the power and pomp of the king. As it is hollow, the power
C
6. What hides within the crown and laughs at the King’s grandeur?
E
Death sits within the hollow crown and like a jester laughs at the king. He mocks at his
power and pomp which are only temporary.
M
I
A
a) What does the words in the first line denote?
N
The words graves, worms and epitaphs refer to death.
N
b) How are ‘dust’ and ‘rainy eyes’ used in the line?
‘Dust’ is compared to paper and ‘rainy eyes’ to writing instruments.
E
2. Our lands, our lives, and all are Bolingbroke’s
H
And nothing can we call our own but death
C
a) Who was Bolingbroke.
-
Bolingbroke was King Richard’s cousin.
S
b) Why does the speaker say that lands lives and all are Bolingbroke’s?
N
Bolingbroke, the cousin of Richard deposed him as king. So Richard says that all the
IO
The speaker says that only death is his own and nothing else.
A
The speaker says that he owns a small model of the barren earth. It means the grave.
B
The barren - earth serves as paste and covers to the bodies, when they are buried.
4. How some have been deposed some slain in war
Y
The deposed kings were killed in war, or haunted by ghosts or killed otherwise.
M
I
7. For you have but mistook me all this while
A
a) Who is the speaker and to whom are these words addressed?
N
King Richard says these words to his men.
N
b) What did they mistake?
E
They thought that the king’s body and power were permanent and showed respect to
H
him.
C
24. “And nothing can we call our own but death
And that small can we call our own but death”.
-
a) Pick out the rhyming words in these lines.
S
N
Death, earth are rhyming words.
IO
D. Explain the following lines with reference to the context in about 5 to 8 lines:
A
Reference : These lines are taken from William Shakespeare’s ‘The Hollow Crown’ from
B
Context : King Richard the second is forced to abdicate in favour of Bolingbroke. He says
these words to his loyal courtiers in despair.
Explanation : Bolingbroke defeated Richard the King. The king says that everything
Y
belongs to Bolingbroke, all his power, lives and kingdom. In a state of realization he says,
C
I
Reference : These lines are taken the poem ‘The Hollow Crown’ an extract from the play
A
‘Richard the second’ by William Shakespeare.
N
Context : King Richard the Second after losing his kingdom understands how he is similar
N
to his common subjects.
E
Explanation : The defeated king does not like to be called as king by his men. He is
philosophic saying everything is temporary except death.
H
He needs bread like others, he feels many wants, he has grief and needs friends as any
C
other common man. So he asks them not to call him king.
-
Additional ERC S
1. Let’s talk of graves of worms and epitaphs
N
Make dust our paper and with rainy eyes.
IO
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘The Hollow Crown’ an extract from
Shakespeare’s play ‘Richard the Second’.
T
Context : King Richard, while awaiting death and disgrace, says these words.
A
Explanation : The deposed king talks of death. Here ‘dust’ is compared to paper and ‘rainy
IC
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘The Hollow Crown’ an extract from
Shakespeare’s play ‘Richard the Second’.
Context : King Richard was deposed by his cousin Bolingbroke. He realizes that he is left
Y
Explanation : As he was deposed, he had lost all his land and lives to Bolingbroke. He says
R
I
A
feel want. Taste grief, need friends
N
Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘The Hollow Crown’ an extract from
N
Shakespeare’s play ‘Richard the Second’.
E
Context : The deposed king realizes that the dethroned king is nothing more than an
ordinary citizen.
H
Explanation : He tells his men not to revere his perishable body and call him a king. He
C
was a common man with wants, grief and in need of friends.
-
E. Speaking Activity
S
Working with your partner, discuss the following adages and share your views with the class.
N
You may need to give your ideas and justify your point of view. Remember to take turns while
IO
War is one of the greatest evils human beings can inflict upon one another. Curiously war
IC
is waged to prevent greater wars. A state may go to war. War produces outrage, humiliation
and fury ofpeople. War destroys everything. War is ruination.
L
Einstein said that ‘War cannot be humanized. It can only be abolished. It is said that
B
mankind must put an end to war, or war will put an end to mankind.
PU
Peace is a precious gift. It must be promoted and protected. War begets war, violence
begets violence. Kalam has said, ‘War is never a lasting solution for any problem’.
Today the least thing the world leaders want is a war that may destroy the whole foundation
Y
of civilization. The calamities the war brings are endless and painful. We should understand
C
This saying is always true. A person who has great responsibilities such as a king, is
M
constantly worried and therefore does not sleep soundly. But there are some who think that
crowned kings lead an uneasy life because they are surrounded by constant dangers. All the
wealth and comfort enjoyed by a man having power and responsibility, cannot bring peace to
him. A man of power becomes suspicious and doubtful. If the rulers shun dictatorial attitude
and share responsibilities with experienced men, the problem can be solved. Conscience tells
us what to do and what not to do, and he who follows the dictates of his conscience has no
burden on his mind. Some amount of humility may relieve the burden. The selfish man should
perhaps be the least happy.
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POEM - The Hollow Crown 231
It is not necessary to avoid power, responsibility, and even wealth. But we should accept
them as a kind of sacred trust and fulfil the obligations they lay on us in a spirit of humility
and selflessness.
F. Poetic Devices
Personification
When human traits are given to non human or inanimate objects.
Interrogation
When a question is asked not for the sake of getting an answer, but to express a point
emphatically.
I
Metaphor
A
When two unlike objects or things having some common qualities are compared.
N
Rhetorical Question
N
When a question is formed to make a point rather than to elicit an answer.
E
Internal Rhyme
H
When rhyming words are used within a single line.
C
a. Read the poem once again carefully and identify the figure of speech that has been used in
each of the following lines from the poem.
-
i) “Let’s talk of graves, of worms and epitaphs; S
Make dust our paper, and with rainy eyes
N
Write sorrow on the bosom of the earth.”
IO
Metaphor.
T
Interrogation
iii) “Keeps Death his
L
Personification
PU
Internal Rhyme
vi) “Bores through his castle wall, and farewell king!”
R
Personification.
E
M
G. Based on your reading of King Richard’s speech, answer the following questions in about 100
- 150 words each. You may add your own ideas if required to present and justify your point of
view.
1. What are the causes for King Richard’s grief?
The Emperor:
King Richard was the crowned king of England from 1377 to 1399. He was deposed
by his cousin Bolingbroke, who crowned himself as King Henry the Fourth. King Richard
was sent to prison and he died there. In this extract known as the ‘Hollow Crown’ speech,
Richard is reminded of the power of death which overshadows everything and renders the
kings powerless.
I
A
Richard’s grief :
N
Richard says that it is time to ask the executors to implement their will. All the lands and
lives were taken by the deposer. He is left with only the body and it needed just a small piece
N
of barren land to be buried. He remembers kings who were slain, poisoned and murdered in
E
the past. The crown is hollow in the middle and death sitting there mocks at the king’s power
H
which is temporary. Human body is not impregnable. Death puts an end to it in no time. He
does not like to be called a king. He needed bread, has grief and wants. He also needs friends
C
as any other common man.
-
2. How are eternal truths and wisdom brought to the reader in the ‘Hollow Crown’.?
Richard the king :
S
N
King Richard who was the crowned king of England for 22 years was deposed by his
IO
cousin. He was sent to prison, where he died. Richard speaks, what is called the ‘Hollow
Crown’, speech about the ultimate end of men brought by death.
T
The eternal truth is that for a person who is born, death is a certainity. There is nothing
else in the world which is permanent and certain except death. Death lays its hand equally on
IC
all, the poor, the rich, the common man and the king. In the small interval between birth and
death, man thinks life is permanent. The kings thinks that their power, pomp, strength and
L
Philosophy of life :
PU
But that is not, so - the king’s crown is hollow in the middle. Death occupies that place and
mocks at the king’s power which it can take away at any time. Man’s body is not impregnable.
Finally it needs only a small barren land for its burial. These are the truths of life that are
Y
3. Death has been cited in many ways in this monologue. Identify the poetic devices used in
R
those references.
E
In this extract, King Richard who was deposed by his cousin Bolingbroke, speaks about
M
death, the ultimate end for all men. It is the only certainity in a man’s life.
Death means graves, worms and epitaphs. This internal rhyme explains death as inevitable.
And yet not so - for what can we bequeath, save our deposed bodies to the ground? The
rhetorical question reiterates death.
Personification is liberally used in the poem to ‘treat’ ‘death’ as a person. “Keeps death his
court and there the antics sit”.
“Bores through his castle wall, and farewell the king”
“Scoffing his state and grinning at his pomp”
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POEM - The Hollow Crown 233
I
crown of a king and mock at his power which is temporary. Victors are not remembered for
A
long. Only the vanquished would be remembered for the reasons they were deposed. History
N
may learn from their mistakes. This feeling is expressed in the words
N
‘And fell the sad stories of the death of kings
How some have been deposed. Some slain in war.
E
H
Some haunted by the Ghosts they have deposed
Some poisoned by their wives, some sleeping killed.’
C
Victory not permanent :
-
All the kings who were murdered in different ways are still remembered. The victory of
S
a king is not permanent. So he is not remembered. The king is also a common man “When
N
vanquished, he needs bread like other, has grief, needs friends.” So the vanquished are
IO
remembered for the pomp, they had once, and now dead or thrown to the status of a common
man.
T
The extract :
IC
The extract of this poem is from Shakespeare’s play “King Richard the Second.” Richard
the Second was the Emperor of England from 1377 to 1399. He was deposed by his cousin,
L
Henry Bolingbroke, who crowned himself as King Henry the Fourth. Richard was sent to
B
Power of death :
C
He wants to talk of graves, epitaphs and death. We cannot call anything as our own, except
R
death. Man needs only a small barren earth in the end. He wants to talk about the sad death
E
stories of kings. Some were slain in war. Some were haunted by ghosts and were poisoned by
M
their wives. Everything was done for the hollow crown. The crown is empty in the middle.
So, the power is not solid or strong or permanent. Death is portrayed as a Court jester who
grants the mortal kings the temporary license to monarchise. The impregnable flesh walls of
the body are demolished by death. What appears to be a brass castle is punctured by a sharp
pin called death. Death is very powerful. He adds that he too needs bread to live, feels want,
tastes grief and needs friends. He does not differ from other common men. So, he does not
want himself to be called as ‘King’, as he is only a human.
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SUPPLEMENTARY
6. THE NEVER - NEVER NEST (PLAY)
- Cedric Mount
I
Lullaby’. His one act plays are easy to perform. They are
A
witty, satirical and insightful. They expose the shams of
N
contemporary society and admonish the guilty.
N
Summary
E
This short one act play discloses the theme of purchases on instalments. Such purchases
H
are both a boon and bane to the people belonging to the middle class.
C
Aunt Jane visits the house of Jack and Jill. They have a moderate income of six pounds.
But they live a very comfortable and luxurious life beyond their earnings. They own a house
-
with pretty furniture, car, fridge, radiogram and such modern amenities. Jane presented two
S
hundred pounds as wedding gift to them. She wonders if it was two thousand pounds, going
N
by the lavish living of the couple. Jane learns that they have bought the house and all other
IO
household articles on hire purchase. They pay a monthly instalment of eight pounds, while
their income is only six pounds. They raise loans to pay the instalments and the family is
thriving on continuous loans. Jill pays the tenpound gift from her aunt to the doctor to own
T
their baby. No item in the house is paid in full to be called their own.
A
Warm up.
IC
A. What are the essentials one needs to lead a comfortable life? Fill in the empty bubbles with
L
some of them.
B
Smart M
Y
all
phone
C
R
E
M
B. List six gadgets that you want to purchase. Write them according to your priorities and state
the reasons.
S. S. Reasons
Gadgets Reasons Gadgets
No No
1 I pad To see films on net 4 TV to view programmes
2 Smart phone to talk to friends 5 Radio to listen to music
3 Piano to play music 6 Bluetooth speaker to listen to music
234
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Never Never Nest ( Play ) 235
I
cosy - comfortable
A
instalment - one of the parts into which a debt is divided when payment is made at
N
intervals
N
absurd - ridiculously unreasonable and meaningless
- intend to do something
E
propose
realise - to understand or become aware of
H
thingummies - small articles the names of which are not remembered
C
motto - a short sentence or phrase that expresses a rule guiding the behaviour of a
particular person or group
-
endorse - to make over to another S
tartar - a person of irritable temper
N
possessed - completely controlled by an evil spirit
IO
2. Aunt Jane seemed to think that there was a mistake in the wedding present she had given
Jack. Why?
L
Aunt Jane gave two hundred pounds to Jack as wedding present. But looking at the
amenities in Jack’s house, she wondered if she had given two thousand pounds as present.
B
PU
3. What would make Jack the owner instead of being the tenant?
If Jack could buy the house on hire purchase, he would become the owner instead of
being a tenant.
Y
Jack and Jill were paying more than eight pounds as monthly instalment, with their
R
5. How did Jack manage to pay seven pounds eighty and eighty pence out of six pounds?
M
Jack borrowed the rest of the money for payments from the thrift and Providence Trust
Corporation. They paid that money too in instalments.
6. What advice did Aunt Jane offer the couple?
Aunt Jane advised the couple not to borrow but purchase cash down as she did.
7. For what purpose did Aunt Jane wish to use the cheque given by Aunt Jane?
Aunt Jane wanted the couple to pay off one bill in full, so that atleast that one thing
belonged them.
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236 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
8. ‘Just one more instalment and BABY’s REALLY OURS!’ This tells us that the couple _____.
Jill is yet to pay the medical bill for the doctor who helped her deliver the baby. One more
instalment is pending. Jill feels that the baby will be hers only if she pays the last instalment
of ten pounds.
B. Answer the following questions in about a paragraph of 100 - 150 words each :
1. Why is there a double negative in the little : The Never - Never Nest? Elucidate with reasons
from the play.
Life in parts :Jack earned six pounds a month. Jack and Jill were attracted by the comforts
of modern living. They bought a house on hire purchase. They also equipped the house with
I
all modern amenities like the fridge, radiogram, furniture and a car, all on hire purchase.
A
Their monthly instalments amounted to more than eight pounds. For the extra money for the
N
installments, they borrowed from the Thrift Corporation and paid back to them on instalments.
N
As such they were in a vicious cycle of debts.
E
The title : None of the purchases made by them could ever become their own, until they
H
had paid all the instalments. They appear to be never in a position to clear all debts and
C
become the owners. So the title ‘Never - Never Nest’ with a double negative suggests that
their Nest could never be their own. One day they may be turned out of their home too.
-
2. Bring out the humorous elements in the play.
The title : S
The play ‘Never - Never Nest’ describes the ambitions of middle class people
N
and their debt trap due to hire purchase of materials. But it has a few humorous moments.
IO
Hire purchase : Jack and Jill live in a cosy house with all amenities purchased on hire,
the installments totalling above their income. Inspite of being in debt, they feel proud of
T
the comforts they have. Jill wants to listen to the Radiogram even while she is cooking. All
A
the amenities make Aunt Jane think if she has given two thousand pounds as gift instead of
IC
two hundred pounds. The couple feels that it is uneconomic to pay rent year after year. Why
tenant? be a owner, they thought. Even without owning a car they are enjoying it. Aunt Jane
L
was frustrated and does not like to sit on the furniture which does not belong to them. She
B
gives a cheque for ten pounds asking them to pay atleast one bill in full to own the article.
PU
Unfortunately, Jill had to pay it to the Doctor to own their own baby. Jill sighs as she has
to pay one more instalment to claim her baby as her own.
Y
3. How does the play “The Never - Never Nest” expose the harsh reality of modern living?
The desire to have modern living with all comfort and household articles
C
Modern living :
sends most of the middle class families into a whirlpool of debt. Hire purchase schemes
R
introduced by traders have become both a boon and bane for many families.
E
Hire purchase : People are attracted by the comfort of modern living. This weakness is
M
exploited by the hire purchase vendors. People have to pay nearly double the cost of an article
if bought on hire. If more than one article is bought, the instalments eat into their income and
they will be forced to raise loans to pay the instalments and are caught in the whirlpool of
debt.
The Advice : As far as possible, cash down purchases are advantageous. Apart from getting
more discount, cash purchase removes the burden of paying every month. A little control
over desires and proper management of income and expenditure saves the families from the
unnecessary burden and worry.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Never Never Nest ( Play ) 237
4. Jill said that they owned the steering wheel of a car, one of the tyres, two of the cylinders and
leg of the sofa. What does this convey ?
Hire purchase : Hire purchase schemes are both boon and bane to certain families. Any
article purchased on hire, continues to be owned by the trader, until all the instalments are
paid. In this play, Jack and Jill lived with their meagre income of six pounds. The total of
instalments is more than their income.
Jack’s view : Jack says that they have paid only some instalments, and the articles cannot
become their own until the loan is cleared. So he says jocularly that they owned wheel of the
car, one tyre, one leg of the sofa etc. He means that all of them were bought on hire and they
were not the owners of the articles in full.
I
C. Listening Activity
A
Listen to the passage read out aloud by the teacher or played on a recorder and answer the
N
questions that follow :
N
Paragraph Refer Text Book Page No : 202
E
Questions :
H
i. The speaker says that our income is suffficient to meet our needs. Is it true or false ?
C
ii. EMI is the only _____ for people who buy very expensive things.
a) consolation b) setback c) option d) debt
-
iii. One is able to buy costly things with _____ power offered by EMI.
S
a) physical b) withstanding c) honorary d) monetary
N
iv. If people fail to pay EMIs, they may be subjected to _____.
IO
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
IC
D. Speaking Activity.
B
Based on your understanding of the play “The Never - Never Nest”, organise a classroom
PU
debate on the topic: ‘Is Equated Monthly Instalment Scheme - a boon or bane to middle - class
families?’
Y
EMI Scheme is a boon : People earning less cannot buy the articles needed for their
comfortable living by paying cash down. The amenities have become necessities nowadays.
C
We cannot think of a house without a fridge, smart TV, furniture and in some cases two or four
R
wheelers. They need a life time to save money to buy all of them by paying cash. It is almost
E
impossible. The EMI scheme comes handy for them to buy the needed articles by paying in
M
instalments.
EMI Scheme is a bane : People may wish to have modern amenities. If they can plan
properly, they can save money and buy the articles needed. On the other hand, if they go for
hire purchase, they have to pay extra money as interest. If more articles are bought together,
paying instalments will become difficult and they may be thrown into a vicious cycle of
debt. EMI schemes also induce people to buy articles not needed by them. Competetion and
jealously also encourage people to go for hire purchase.
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238 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
E. Writing Task.
Aunt Jane was shocked to see the life of Jack and Jill during her visit to their place. Put
yourself in the place of Aunt Jane and write a letter to the couple advising them not to spend
beyond their means. Make more suggestions to enable them lead a debt - free life.
Chennai,
15th August 2020.
Dear Jack and Jill,
I was happy to visit your house. But I was shocked to see your life beyond your means. I
am aware of your meagre income. I never expected you to be living in such a grand manner. I
I
am not jealous of you. I want to make a few suggestions to you as your friend and wellwisher.
A
I found that you were enjoying modern living with all the household articles including
N
the house. But you never owned anything, everything was on hire and you could not have the
N
happiness of ownership. Cash down purchases relieve you from the debt burden. You can buy
E
only when you need and have money for the same.
H
My sincere advise to you is that you should not live beyond your means. You will throw
C
yourself into a debt trap from which you cannot come out at all. Make savings a regular
habit. Plan your purchases in advance. Buy them only when they are needed most and when
-
you have cash for buying them. You may control your desire for a lavish living which is not
S
affordable to families like ours. Remember many responsibilities await you in future. You
N
should save for the rainy day.
IO
Yours lovingly,
Aunt Jane.
T
1. Aunt Jane : Charming! Charming! Such a cosy little room! And such a pretty
IC
furniture
Jack (modestly): We like it, you know, handy place to sit in and listen to the Radiogram.
L
Aunt Jane : Oh, have you got a Radiogram as well as a car and a piano?
B
Jack : Why, of course, Aunt Jane. You simply must have a radio set
PU
nowadays.
Jill : And it’s so nice for me when Jack’s away at business. I even make
Y
him move it into the kitchen, so that I can listen to it while I cook.
C
Jack : Sit down, Aunt Jane, you must be tired - and we’ve shown you
R
everything now.
E
Aunt Jane : I think it’s wonderful, my dears. The furniture - and the car -
and the piano - and the refrigerator and the radio - what’s it - it’s
wonderful, really wonderful!
Questions :
1. How was the house and furniture?
The house was cosy and the furniture was pretty.
2. How is the radio useful to them?
Jill can listen to it while cooking.
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SUPPLEMENTARY - The Never Never Nest ( Play ) 239
I
A
Aunt Jane : Well, that’s all right. But I still don’t altogether understand. This
house (relieved) - it’s very lovely - but doesn’t it cost a great deal
N
for rent?
N
Jack : Rent? Oh, no, we don’t pay rent.
E
Aunt Jane : But, Jack, if you don’t pay rent, you’ll get turned out - into the
H
street. And that would never do. You’ve Jill and the baby to think
C
of now, you know.
Jack : No, no, Aunt Jane. You misunderstood me. We don’t pay rent
-
because the house is ours. S
Aunt Jane : YOURS?
N
Jill : Why, yes; you just pay ten pounds and it’s yours.
IO
Questions :
L
If they did not pay the rent, they would be turned out.
R
They purchased the house by paying ten pounds as initial amount. The rest of the
M
3. Aunt Jane : Jack! I’ve just thought of something. That car - is it yours?
Jill : Of course it’s ours.
Jack : Well, no, Not exactly all.
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240 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Questions :
A
1. How much of the car did they own?
N
They owned the wheel, one tyre and two cylinders of the car.
N
2. What did he mean by his statement?
E
They did not pay the instalments in full for the car. So they owned only a part of the
H
vehicle.
C
3. Did Aunt Jane appreciate it?
No. Aunt Jane did not appreciate this.
-
4. How did Jill defend his action?
S
Even without buying car, Jill was able to have the pleasure of motoring.
N
5. How did they pay the rest?
IO
4. Aunt Jane : Well. I’m not going to sit on Mr. Sage’s part for anyone. (She
A
stands up.) Now, tell me, how much do all these instalments come
to?
IC
Jack : Well, actually - (He takes out his pocket - book and consults it)
L
Jack : Oh, that’s easy. You see, all you have to do is to borrow the rest of
C
the money for the payments from the Thrift and Providence Trust
R
Corporation.
E
Jill : They’re only too glad to loan you any amount you like, on note of
hand alone.
M
I
same. (She opens her handbag.) Now look, here’s a little cheque I
A
was meaning to give you, anyway. (She hands it to Jill.) Suppose
N
you take it and pay off just one of your bills - so that you can say
N
one thing at least really belongs to you.
E
Jill : Er-thank you. Aunt Jane. It’s very nice of you. (awkwardly)
H
Aunt Jane : There! Now I must be going. (patting her arm)
C
Jack : I’ll see you to the bus, anyway.
Jill : Good-bye, Aunt Jane - and thanks to much for the present.
-
Aunt Jane : Good - bye, my dear. (She and Jack go out. Jill looks at the cheque
S
and (kissing her) exclaims ‘Ten pounds!’ Then she hurries to the
N
table, addresses an envelop, endorses the cheque and slips it inside
IO
with a bill which she takes from the bag and seals the envelope.
Then she rings the bell. In a moment the NURSE comes in with the
T
Questions :
IC
belong to them.
C
I
Jack : I’m not angry! But why waste good money on the doctor? Doctors
A
don’t expect to get paid anyway.
N
Jill : But - but you don’t understand -
N
Jack : Understand what?
E
Jill : Just one more instalment and BABY’S REALLY OURS!
H
Questions:
C
1. How did Jack feel about Jane?
Jack thought that Aunt Jane was irritating.
-
2. How did he plan to use the amount?
S
N
He wanted to pay two instalments for the car with that money.
IO
Unit test
PU
Part - I
Y
C
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. _____ was extravagantly ejected over an area about the size of a tennis court.
R
I
c) me / mora / ble d) me / mo / ra / ble
A
9. Choose the correct singular number for ‘Vertices’
N
a) vertex b) verti c) vertice d) vert
N
10. Choose the correct combination for the compound word. ‘Power supply’
E
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb
H
c) Adjective + Noun d) Adjective + Verb
C
Part - II Section - 1
-
Read the following sets of poetic lines and anwer any one from it: 1×2=2
11. Let’s talk of graves, of worms, and epitaphs
S
N
Make dust our paper and with rainy eyes.
IO
12. Keeps Death his court, and these the antic sits
IC
Section - 2
R
14. Dinesh and Prabhu wanted to meet Varsha at the bus stop. They went to the bus stop.
M
Section - 2
I
A
Answer any one of the following briefly : 1×3=3
N
21. Give a few instances of Bryson’s confused acts.
N
22. What happened to Bryson when he leaned to tie his shoelace?
E
23. What was Bryson’s worst accident on a plane?
H
Section - 3
C
Any one of the following questions: 1×3=3
-
24. Develop the Hints.
S
Four bulls always grazed together - lion comes - all fight together - the lion defeated
N
- goes back - bulls fight among themselves - graze separately - lion comes - kills the
IO
26. Develop a dialogue between a Headmaster and a student seeking Transfer Certificate.
IC
Part - IV
L
Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words: (any one) 1×5=5
B
27. Bring out the pun in the title ‘The Accidental Tourist’ (one who happens to travel by
PU
accident or one who meets with accidents often on his or her trips!).
28. What are the causes for King Richard’s grief?
Y
29. Why is there a double negative in the little : The Never - Never Nest? Elucidate with
reasons from the play.
C
R
E
M
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I
6 Question Tags 255
A
N
7 Replace the underline word with Phrasal Verb 256
N
8 Prefix 258
E
9 Prepositions 260
H
10 Clipped words 261
C
11 Replace the Phrasal Verb with Single Word 263
-
12 Relative Pronoun S 266
N
13 Report the Dialogue 268
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14 If Clause 273
T
19 289
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23 Confusables 315
E
M
24 Homophones 316
25 Modal / Quasi Modal 318
26 Modal Verb 319
27 Link words 319
28 Identify the Semantic Field 322
245
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246 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Common Idioms
A
35 Articles 342
N
36 Syllabification 343
N
345
E
37 Appropriate syllabification of the given word
H
38 Replace British English with American English 346
C
39 Sentence Pattern 348
-
40 Singular form 351
41 Plural form S 351
N
42 352
IO
44 354
A
358
B
52 367
E
E-mail ID
M
I
3. LPG
A
a) Liquid Petroleum Gas b) Liquefied Petroleum Gas
N
c) Licenced Petrol Gas d) Liquid Petrol Gas
N
4. CPU
E
a) Central Processing Unit b) Centralised Process Unit
H
c) Central Power Unit d) Central Power Union
5. CBSE
C
a) Central Board of Secondary Education
-
b) Centralised Board of Secondary Education
c) Central Board for Senior Education S
d) Central Bereau of Senior Education
N
6. IIM
IO
7. ATM
a) Automatic Telling Man b) Automatic Teller Man
IC
8. ILO
a) Indian Labour Organisation b) International Labour Organisation
B
9. IIT
a) International Institute of Technology b) International Indian Technology
Y
10. RRB
a) Railway Regional Board b) Railway Recruitment Board
R
11. TNPSC
M
I
c) United Nations Organisation d) United National Organisation
A
16. BPO
N
a) Bombay Process Organisation b) Business Process Organisation
N
c) Business Process Outsourcing d) Business Primary Outsourcing
E
17. CLRI
H
a) Central Law Research Institute b) Central Law Recognisation Institute
C
c) Central Leather Research of India d) Central Leather Research Institute
-
18. BBC
a) Bombay Boardcasting Council
S
b) British Broadcasting Corporation
N
c) Bombay Boardcasting Corporation d) British Broadcasting Council
IO
21. “HDTV.”
a) High Definition Television b) Heavy Dielectric Television
Y
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. c) University Grants Commission 2. b) Indian Space Research Organisation
R
2. Compound Word
Choose the word from the options given to form a compound word.
1. toll
a) plaza b) late c) proof d) wheel
2. post
a) wheel b) king c) man d) sun
3. sun
a) light b) king c) strike d) ream
4. rain
a) queen b) fall c) big d) seat
5. day
I
A
a) dream b) fall c) big d) seat
6. school
N
a) meat b) meet c) girl d) clever
N
7. sun
E
a) rise b) silk c) right d) run
H
8. clever
a) pot b) spot c) boy d) sin
C
9. over
-
a) ride b) bike c) sun d) night
10. bus S
N
a) stop b) skill c) level d) might
11. black
IO
13. duty
IC
15. break
PU
17. ear
C
18. hand
a) bag b) feed c) sink d) drink
E
19. hair
M
23. white
a) rash b) trash c) bash d) wash
24. over
a) place b) time c) lime d) neat
25. back
a) ground b) round c) sin d) pet
26. off
a) ring b) on c) spring d) bring
27. up
a) load b) down c) in d) off
I
A
28. call
a) meet b) taxi c) time d) board
N
29. bath
N
a) room b) clean c) less d) most
E
30. give
H
a) up b) off c) beg d) take
C
31. ‘mantel’.
a) cover b) cloth c) picture d) piece
-
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) plaza - tollplaza
S
2. c) man - postman 3. a) light - sunlight
N
4. b) fall - rainfall 5. a) dream - daydream 6. c) girl - schoolgirl
IO
3. Suffix
Y
I
A
22. port - a) -ion b) -ous c) -ly d) -able
N
23. brute - a) -al b) -er c) -an d) -ly
N
24. post - a) -an b) -al c) -er d) -ly
25. gold - a) -ly b) -er c) -en d) -ty
E
H
26. wood - a) -ly b) -en c) -ty d) -er
27. class - a) -ify b) -ity c) -ism d) -ly
C
28. poet - a) -ic b) -ir c) -in d) -ly
-
29. product - a) -ir b) -ly c) -ive d) -ity
30. month - a) -ir b) -ity
S c) -ly d) -ness
N
31. nerve - a) -less b) -ness c) -ous d) -ity
IO
__________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) baggage 2. b) postage 3. b) arrival 4. d) defence
5 . d) insistance 6. b) freedom 7. c) kingdom 8. d) driver
9. a) writer 10. b) brotherhood 11. a) childhood 12. c) capitalism
13. d) socialism 14. b) brutally 15. b) disappointment 16. a) happiness
17. c) usefully 18. b) robbery 19. c) friendship 20. d) membership
21. a) expression 22. d) portable 23. a) brutal 24. b) postal
25. c) golden 26. b) wooden 27. a) classify 28. a) poetic
29. c) productive 30. c) monthly 31. c) nervous 32. a) cloudy
33. d) rainy 34. b) harden 35. b) shortly 36. a) beautify
I
A
37. d) identification 38. d) calmly 39. c) downward 40. d) clockwise
N
41. a) forgetful 42. c) useful 43. b) statement 44. c) creation
45. b) government 46. d) contentment 47. a) heaviness 48. a) permission
N
49. a) burial 50. c) employee 51. d) - ity (regularity)
E
H
4. Meaning of Foreign phrases
C
Choose the meaning of the foreign phrase.
1. The student requested the principal to issue a bonafide certificate.
-
a) genuine b) original c) conduct d) pass
2. He set out for a tour of Europe en famille S
N
a) with his family b) without his family c) urgently d) to meet his family
IO
12. They have established a prima facie evidence against the rapist.
a) important evidence b) on the first look
c) after enquiry d) after the arrest
13. The Parliament was adjourned sine - die
a) without specifying a date b) suddenly
c) permanently d) temporarily
14. The committee did not discuss the matter as it was subjudice.
a) court cancelled it b) under court’s consideration
c) prevented by court d) judge was not present
15. The fighting parties accepted for a via media solution
a) a middle course b) through media c) mediocre d) medium
I
A
16. The ruling government should respect Vox populi
a) popular people b) the voice of people
N
c) population d) rich people
N
17. Choose the meaning of the foreign word in the sentences.
E
Nalini is a bonafide student of the Madras University.
H
a) confident b) punctual c) brilliant d) genuine
C
18. Choose the meaning of the foreign word in the sentences.
Talking business at dinner is a “faux pas” in France.
-
a) genuine b) social blunder c) summary d) secret
S
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
N
1. a) genuine 2. a) with his family
IO
1. Acrophobia
C
2. Cynophobia
E
3. Aerophobia
a) fear of climbing b) fear of flying c) fear of bathing d) fear of swimming
4. Carcinophobia
a) fear of cancer b) fear of fever c) fear of casino d) fear of love
5. Glossophobia
a) fear of drinking b) fear of writing
c) fear of glasses d) fear of public speaking
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254 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
6. Monophobia
a) fear of being alone b) fear of friendship
c) fear of man d) fear of women
7. Ornithophobia
a) fear of snacks b) fear of ducks c) fear of birds d) fear of fish
8. Aquaphobia
a) fear of snow b) fear of oil c) fear of water d) fear of ice
9. Haemophobia
a) fear of skin b) fear of blood c) fear of wounds d) fear of medicines
I
10. Theophobia
A
a) fear of God b) fear of mountains c) fear of men d) fear of women
N
11. Philophobia
N
a) fear of hatred b) fear of love c) fear of friendship d) fear of marriage
E
12. Pyrophobia
H
a) fear of seas b) fear of water c) fear of mountains d) fear of fire
13. Anthomania
C
a) craze for water b) love for flowers c) craze for ice d) craze for drinks
-
14. Automania
a) love for motor vehicles b)
S
love for trains
N
c) love for airplanes d) love for cycles
IO
15. Graphomania
a) love for mathematics b) love for reading
T
16. Hydromania
IC
17. Melomania
B
a) love for music b) love for dance c) love for actions d) love for friendship
PU
18. Metromania
a) love for writing poetry b) love for metros
c) love for trains d) love for prose
Y
19. Plutomania
C
a) love for wealth b) love for milk c) love for food d) love for photos
R
20. Kleptomania
E
21. Bibliomania
a) love for travelling b) love for writing
c) love for reading d) love for The Bible
22. Dinomania
a) love for dancing b) love for singing c) love for acting d) love for teaching
23. Pathologist
a) one who studies diseases b) one who studies insects
c) one who studies earthquake d) one who studies birds
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 255
24. “Photophobia”.
a) Fear of rain b) Fear of flight c) Fear of light d) Fear of pictures
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) fear of heights 2. c) fear of dogs 3. b) fear of flying
4. a) fear of cancer 5. d) fear of public speaking 6. a) fear of being alone
7. c) fear of birds 8. c) fear of water 9. b) fear of blood
10. a) fear of God 11. b) fear of love 12. d) fear of fire
13. b) love for flowers 14. a) love for motor vehicles 15. c) love for writing
16. d) love for water 17. a) love for music 18. a) love for writing poetry
19. a) love for wealth 20. b) love to steal 21. c) love for reading
22. a) love for dancing 23. a) one who studies diseases 24. c) Fear of light
I
A
N
6. Question Tags
N
Add appropriate question tags to the following sentences.
E
1. Cities are increasingly becoming urbanised, _____
H
a) weren’t they? b) don’t they? c) will they? d) do they?
C
2. They experiment with ways to improve air quality, _____
a) don’t they? b) do they? c) did they? d) will they?
-
3. They were listening to the radio, _____
a) were they? S
b) weren’t they? c) do they? d) don’t they?
N
4. You participate in races every year, _____
IO
I
2. They seldom meet nowadays,
A
3. There is hardly any flower in the desert,
N
4. You won’t listen to me,
N
5. She said nothing,
E
6. She has not paid the fees yet,
H
7. They never told lies,
8. She can hardly walk,
C
9. She did not like sweets,
-
10. They do not like movies,
11. I won’t tolerate this,
S
N
12. Water birds are rarely seen now,
13. No student was absent today,
IO
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. does she? 2. do they? 3. is there? 4. will you? 5. did she?
IC
6. has she? 7. did they? 8. can she? 9. did she? 10. do they?
11. will I? 12. are they? 13. was any? 14. does he? 15. can you?
L
B
I
A
a) look out b) carry out c) bring in d) carry on
14. The bridge collapsed due to poor construction.
N
a) caved in b) caved out c) gave in d) gave out
N
15. The army surrounded the terrorists in the building.
E
a) came about b) closed out c) closed in d) count on
H
16. You can rely on their support.
C
a) count on b) count up c) bear with d) bear out
17. The telephone was disconnected as the bill was not paid.
-
a) cut off b) cut out c) fasten up
S d) cut back
18. They shared the profit among themselves.
N
a) cut back b) ate up c) divided up d) did away
IO
30. They have to explain for all the money that had gone missing.
a) break up b) aim at c) account for d) bring back
31. Replace the underlined word with a phrasal verb.
I couldn’t understand what you meant.
a) break out b) find out c) iron out d) figure out
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) aimed at 2. c) back off 3. d) back up 4. b) blew up
5. a) broke down 6. b) break out 7. c) bring back 8. b) blew away
9. c) brings in 10. a) bring up 11. c) called off 12. a) called on
I
13. d) carry on 14. a) caved in 15. c) closed in 16. a) count on
A
17. a) cut off 18. c) divided up 19. b) gave way 20. d) hold on
N
21. a) kept on 22. b) opt for 23. a) pulled down 24. c) put off
N
25. c) put up 26. b) looking up 27. d) stepped up 28. b) turn up
29. a) stood up 30. c) account for 31. d) figure out
E
H
8. Prefix
C
Form a new word by adding a prefix to the words.
-
1. treat - a) ill- b) dis- c) ir- d) un-
2. dignified - a) il- b) in- S c) un- d) mis-
N
3. tidily - a) il- b) in- c) un- d) it-
IO
I
36. adventures - a) dis- b) mis- c) in- d) un-
A
37. interest - a) in- b) dis- c) mis- d) un-
N
38. possible - a) ir- b) in- c) im- d) rl-
N
39. justified - a) ir- b) mis- c) in- d) un-
E
40. imaginary - a) un- b) in- c) ir- d) il-
H
41. desirable - a) ir- b) il- c) in- d) un-
C
42. fallible - a) un- b) in- c) dis- d) mis-
43. behave - a) dis- b) mis- c) in- d) un-
-
44. appear - a) dis- b) mis- S c) un- d) in-
45. sympathetic - a) ir- b) in- c) un- d) it-
N
46. active - a) dis- b) mis- c) un- d) in-
IO
I
77. vision - a) trans- b) tele- c) ultra- d) up-
A
78. atlantic - a) semi- b) up- c) trans- d) under-
N
79. sound - a) ultra- b) semi- c) sub- d) trans-
N
80. hill - a) semi- b) up- c) ultra- d) sub-
E
81. Polite - a) im - b) non - c) un - d) anti -
H
82. audible - a) in b) re c) un d) de
C
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) illtreat 2. c) undignified 3. c) untidily 4. b) discontentment
-
5. c) unattached 6. d) uncomfortable 7. c) discontinued 8. b) unhappy
9. b) disbelieve S
10. a) disapproval 11. d) uncommon 12. b) undecided
N
13. b) indifferent 14. a) mismanage 15. b) inexpensive 16. c) displease
IO
9. Prepositions
1. I went _____ my friends _____ a cinema yesterday.
2. We stood _____ queue _____ an hour to buy our tickets.
3. It was difficult _____ watch the movie _____ our knees twisted.
4. She works _____ 11’O clock _____ the night if needed.
5. The wise crow picked _____ some pebbles and put them _____ the jar.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 261
6. A thirsty crow was searching _____ water everywhere _____ last, it found a water
pot in a house.
7. Water came _____. The crow drank the water and flew _____ happily.
8. No study _____ English can be complete _____ a reference to a dictionary.
9. A _____ useful one is the Collins Dictionary _____ Idioms.
10. It has more than 3000 idioms _____ make the meaning clear and _____ show.
11. You know how _____ use the idiom, each idiom is provided _____ a sample sentence.
12. Books are the treasure _____ mankind and the habit _____ reading is a good one.
13. He who is _____ the habit _____ reading should buy books for himself.
14. Borrowed books do not give _____ much pleasure _____ the bought ones.
15. It was _____ 26 December 2004, a terrible tsunami hit _____ the coastal land.
I
A
16. It has left _____ dead _____ wink of an eye.
17. Today there are a number _____ schools and colleges _____ the country.
N
18. To ensure education _____ all downtrodden, seats are reserved _____ them.
N
19. _____ the constitution, education is made compulsory _____ everyone.
E
20. The successful functioning _____ the democracy depends _____ the level of
H
education.
C
21. Every human being is born _____ certain basic rights _____ as life.
22. These rights are granted _____ the constitution irrespective _____ caste and creed.
-
23. Freedom _____ speech is enshrined _____ the constitution.
S
24. In case _____ difficulty, you should refer _____ a dictionary.
N
25. The angry champion broke the crystal cup _____ million pieces.
IO
11. to, with 12. of, of 13. in, of 14. so, as 15. on, along
16. many, at 17. of, in 18. to, for 19. In, for 20. of, upon
L
21. with, such 22.by, of 23. of, in 24. of, to 25. a) into
B
2. motorwayhotel
R
3. documentarydrama
M
7. medicalclaim
a) medicalaim b) medclaim c) mediclaim d) medaim
8. skylaboratory
a) skylab b) skyratory c) slaboratory d) skylabor
9. camerarecorder
a) camcorder b) camerorder c) camrec d) camorder
10. helicopter
a) helicop b) heliter c) copter d) hepter
11. demonstration
I
a) demon b) monster c) demo d) station
A
12. dormitory
N
a) dormy b) dory c) dorm d) dormit
N
13. Influenza
E
a) flu b) Inflo c) fluenzo d) Influ
H
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) Vegburger 2. b) motel 3. c) docudrama 4. d) medicare 5. a) hitech
C
6. b) smog 7. c) mediclaim 8. a) skylab 9. a) camcorder 10. c) copter
11. c) Demo 12. c) dorm 13. a) flu
-
S
N
Unclip the following words
IO
1. fan
a. fancy b. fanat c. fanatic d. fans
T
2. flu
A
3. fridge
a. refrigerator b. fridger c. fraudulent d. abridged
L
4. ad
B
5. bike
a. biker b. motorbike c. biken d. bikering
6. cent
Y
7. champ
R
9. exam
a. expose b. exams c. experiment d. examination
10. gas
a. gasoline b. gases c. gasstage d. gaseous
11. gym
a. gympter b. gymkhana c. gymnasium d. gymo
12. lab
a. labrador b. laboratory c. labour d. laborious
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 263
13. mart
a. market b. mall c. marketer d. marketting
14. memo
a. memento b. memory c. memorise d. memorandum
15. mike
a. miketest b. microphone c. mimicry d. meckey
16. miss
a. mistress b. missing c. mister d. monster
17. phone
a. telephone b. mobile phone c. phonetic d. phony
18. plane
I
a. planefly b. aeroplane c. planning d. planter
A
19. prof
N
a. profit b. profession c. professor d. profess
N
20. teen
E
a. teenager b. tenth c. teener d. tantamount
H
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. c.fanatic 2. a. influenza 3. a. refrigerator 4. d. advertisement
C
5. b. motorbike 6. c. centum 7. a. champion 8. b. doctor
9. d. examination 10.a. gasoline 11. c. gymnasium 12. b. laboratory
-
13. a. market 14. d. memorandum 15. b. microphone 16. a. mistress
S
17. a. telephone 18. b. aeroplane 19. c. professor 20. a. teenager
N
IO
1. They had to account for all the money that had gone missing.
A
I
a) discuss b) mention c) cancel d) remove
A
16. Tension is building up at the borders.
N
a) cooling b) decreasing c) increasing d) stopping
17. The opposition called for his resignation
N
a) expected b) requested c) advised d) demanded
E
18. This situation calls for drastic measures.
H
a) suitable b) requires c) advises d) requests
C
19. The concert was called off as the singer was ill.
a) continued b) canceled c) postponed d) paused
-
20. I called on my friend in Bangalore.
a) called b) visited S
c) spoke d) fought to
N
21. Carry on with your work quietly.
IO
27. You can count on them. They will surely help you.
C
I
A
a) continue b) stop c) complete d) discuss
39. The dam gave way when the floods rose
N
a) filled b) stood c) brokek d) emptied
N
40. I will go for Samsung A/C.
E
a) select b) dislike c) purchase d) recommend
H
41. The robbers told the clerk to hand over all the money.
C
a) take b) distribute c) pack d) give
42. Could you hold on for a minute? I will be free in a moment.
-
a) go b) stop c) wait d) come
43. He kept on trying and passed in the end.
S
N
a) continued b) stopped c) waited d) worked
IO
I
a) stopped b) arrived c) departed d) landed
A
60. She did not turn up for the interview.
N
a) appear b) disappear c) win d) select
N
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
E
1 . a) explain 2. c) affect 3. b) targets 4. d) retreat
H
5. b) save 6. c) scolded 7. a) influence 8. b) killed
9. d) exploded 10. c) stopped 11. b) start 12. a) return
C
13. c) produce 14. a) earn 15. b) mention 16. c) increasing
-
17. d) demanded 18. b) requires 19. b) cancelled 20. b) visit
21. c) continue 22. b) collapsed
S
23. d) relaxing 24. a) remove d
N
25. c) surrounded 26. b) happen 27. a) rely 28. b) add
IO
4. She met Sangeetha _____ asked her to pass on this book to you.
R
7. Thank you very much for the dictionary _____ you sent through Gopi.
8. The servant _____ he had trusted completely turned out to be a thief.
9. The stage on _____ they were dancing suddenly collapsed in Savera Hotel.
10. This is Jayaseela _____ daughters are well settled in America.
11. The lorry crashed into a queue of people of _____ three were killed on the spot.
12. The streets of Beijing were crowded with refugees many of _____ were old , hungry
and weak.
13. You must listen to _____ your teacher says.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 267
14. The blaring mikes _____ filled the neighbourhood with devotional songs kept most
of us awake.
15. The lady _____ jewels have been stolen is hospitalized.
16. She has a sister _____ is working in HP as a software engineer .
17. We admire people _____ practise what they preach.
18. The book _____ you have borrowed is over due.
19. Those _____ aspire for success must work hard.
20. Those _____ lost their investment in Thiruvalluvar Chit Company registered their
protest in a strange way.
21. The tree _____ is young should never be felled for political reasons.
22. She has a book on Bill Gates _____ might interest you.
I
23. Monisha got a laptop _____ costs Rs. 40,000/-
A
24. The man _____ married one hundred women was arrested.
N
25. This is the village _____ I lived for 15 years.
N
26. He is yet to find the job _____ he has been looking for.
E
27. The doctor did _____ was best for the old man.
H
28. Akbar promised his wife to take anything _____ she valued most.
29. He _____ is greedy is never happy.
C
30. He _____ is contented leads a happy life.
-
31. You must refrain from doing anything _____ is unlawful.
S
32. He found _____ three men were hiding in the backyard.
N
33. Monisha is working in Infosys _____ she did her project.
IO
37. Monisha is the girl _____ mother got the best teacher award recently.
38. The food _____ he ate in Taskhant was perhaps poisoned.
IC
43. She did whatever she could but _____ wasn’t much.
44. This is the scooter _____ my brother sold.
Y
46. This is the hotel _____ the Swiss tourist lost her luggage.
47. Gopalakrishnan is an artist _____ has organised an exhibition of his paintings in
R
Egmore.
E
48. He is the Finance Minister _____ economic reforms have yielded good results.
M
49. He is the Prime Minister _____ nuclear deal with US has invited trouble for the
Central Government.
50. Could I return the book _____ is over due tomorrow?
51. My dad likes sweets _____ are sugar-free.
52. Soligas seek the forgiveness of the tree _____ they intend to cut.
53. This is Mr. Neeravi _____ did his M.Sc in American College.
54. She spoke to the widow of Major Saravanan _____ was killed in Kargil War.
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268 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
55. Vairamuthu is a popular tamil poet _____ is known world over by Tamils.
56. Cricket lovers are appreciative of Kumble _____ won the world record for taking the
highest number of wickets.
57. This is the watch _____ Jothi presented to me.
58. This is the IT company in _____ Maragatham’s grand daughters work.
59. Try to grow _____ you are planted.
60. The man _____ goes abroad in search of happiness shall not find it.
61. The books _____ are bought are often not read.
a) that b) what c) who d) whose
I
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
A
1. who 2. that 3. which 4. who
N
5. what 6. what 7. that 8. whom/who
9. which 10. whose 11. whom 12. whom
N
13. what 14. which 15. whose 16. who
E
17. who 18. that 19. who 20. who
H
21. that 22. that 23. that 24. who
C
25. where 26. that/which 27. what 28. that
29. who 30. who 31. that/which 32. that
-
33. where 34. who 35. that 36. what
37. whose 38. that S
39. that 40. that
N
41. that 42. what 43. that 44. that / which
IO
61. a) that
L
Student : Sir, my mother was ill. I had to take her to the hospital.
Teacher : Oh! Take your seat.
Student : Thank you sir.
Y
Ans : The teacher asked the student why he was late. The student replied that his mother had
C
been ill and that he had to take her to the hospital. The teacher asked him to take the seat and he
R
thanked him.
E
Tourist guide : You can drive along the East Coat Road. The road is smooth and
free from traffic jams and in about 90 minutes you will reach
Mahabalipuram.
Tourist : Oh! That’s fine. Thank you.
Ans: The tourist enquired the tourist guide how he could reach Mahabalipuram. The tourist
guide replied that he could drive along the East Coast Road and added further that the road was
smooth and free from traffic jams and he would reach Mahabalipuram in about 90 minutes. The
tourist thanked the tourist guide.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 269
I
A
the fare for two tickets (ie.) ten rupees and collected the tickets.
N
5. Tourist : Hi, I’m Syndney Carton. I’m from Australia. I’d like to know something
N
about Mahabalipuram from a tourist’s point of view.
E
Guide : With pleasure, Mr. Sydney. The Pallava Kings erected the Five Rathas and
it is worth seeing.
H
Ans: The tourist introduced himself as Sydney Carton from Australia. He expressed his wish
C
to know something about Mahabalipuram from a tourist’s point of view. The guide cheerfully
replied that Five Rathas was erected by Pallava Kings and added that it was worth seeing.
-
6. Anil : Hello Atul, How are you?
S
N
Atul : Fine Anil. What brings you here?
IO
Anil : I have just come to see you. It is a long time since we met.
Atul : Thank you. Let us have tea.
T
Ans: Anil greeted Atul and asked about his health. Atul replied that he was fine and enquired
A
what brought him there. Atul replied that he had come there just to see him and added further that
it had been long since they had met. Atul thanked him for the visit and suggested that they had tea.
IC
7. Gopal : Good morning Sir. I’m Gopal, a former student of this school. I want
L
Head Master : Give me your application. Please come tomorrow and collect your T.C.
PU
school. He added that he wanted his Transfer Certificate. The Headmaster asked him to give the
C
application and requested him to collect it the following day. Gopal asked the Headmaster if he
could get it that day. The Headmaster expressed his regrets saying that it was impossible as the
R
I
Ans: The student asked the clerk when he could meet the Principal. The clerk replied that he
A
could meet him during lunch break or after 4.30 p.m. The student thanked him.
N
N
11. Old Student : Good morning Sir. I am Raju, an old student of this school. I want
E
my Transfer Certificate, Sir.
H.M : Give me your application. Today is Monday. Please come on
H
Wednesday and get your T.C.
C
Ans : The old student greeted the H.M. and introduced himself as Raju and said that he
wanted his T.C. The Headmaster asked him to give him his application. He also said that, that day
-
was monday and asked him to come on Wednesday and collect his TC.
S
N
12. Rekha : What would you like to have? A hot coffee or juice?
IO
Raja : My friend met with an accident and I am going to see him in the
hospital.
L
Ans : Ravi asked Raja why he looked so sad that day. Raja replied that his friend had met with
B
an accident and added that he was going to see him in the hospital.
PU
Mathan : I have just come to see you. It is long since we’ve met.
C
Ans : Mathan greeted Rahul and asked how he was. Rahul replied that he was fine and asked
E
what brought him there. Mathan said that he had just come to see him since it was long since they
M
had met. Rahul thanked him and suggested they had coffee.
I
Ans : Teacher asked Ravi where his notebook was. Ravi replied that he had lost his notebook
A
the previous day. The teacher said that he would have to buy a new notebook and complete his
N
work. Ravi assured that he would submit his notebook the nextday.
N
18. Lawyer : Do you have sisters?
E
Client : No Sir, We’re two brothers only.
H
Lawyer : Then it has to be shared equally between two.
C
Ans : The lawyer asked the client if he had sisters. The client replied in the negative and said
that they were two brothers only. The lawyer confirmed that it had to be shared equally between
-
two.
S
N
19. Father : Don’t watch T.V. during examination time.
IO
Varun : Sorry Daddy. Today, they are telecasting our school programme.
Father : O.K. I’ll watch the programme with you.
T
Ans : The father advised Varun not to watch TV during examination time. Varun regretted that,
that day they were telecasting their school programme. Father agreed to watch the programme
A
with him.
IC
Ans : Nithya asked the receptionist if he could tell him where Mr. Kailash was admitted.
Receptionist informed that he was in Ward No. 10. When Nithya enquired where Ward No. 10
was, the receptionist said that it was in the second floor and that she could use the lift.
Y
C
Ans : The teacher asked Mala why she was absent the previous day. Mala replied that she
M
had gone to the temple. The teacher accepting the reason asked her to complete the assignment
he had given.
Conditional Clause
A. Fill in the conditional clause appropriately.
1. He did not study well. He did not pass in the examination. (combine using ‘if’)
Ans : If he did not study well, he would not pass in the examination.
2. The boy did mischief. He was punished. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : The boy who did mischief, was punished.
3. They are the people. They bought the house. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : They are the people who bought the house.
4. Here are cells. The cells show abnormality. (combine using relative clause)
I
Ans : Here are the some cells which show abnormality.
A
5. This is the man. He takes his responsibilities seriously. (combine using relative
N
clause)
N
Ans : This is the man who takes his responsibilities seriously.
6. John is an Engineer. I work with him. (combine using relative clause)
E
Ans : John is an Engineer with whom I work.
H
7. This woman came and spoke to me. I had never met her. (combine using relative
C
clause)
Ans : The woman whom I had never met came and spoke to me.
-
8. The girl is standing there. She is the world champion. (combine using relative clause)
S
Ans : The girl who is standing there is the world champion.
N
9. The restaurant is nice. I had dinner there. (combine using relative clause)
IO
11. The apple is sweet. It is lying on the table. (combine using relative clause)
IC
13. He is the man. His bike is stolen. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : He is the man whose bike is stolen.
PU
14. This is the house. I was born here. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : This is the house where I was born.
Y
15. Most of the guests came. She invited them. (combine using relative clause)
C
14. If Clause
B. Fill in the conditional clause appropriately :
1. If you _____ (help) me with the dishes, I _____ (help) you with your work.
Ans : If you help me with the dishes, I will help you with your work.
2. If he is _____ (late), we _____ (have go) to with him.
Ans : If he is late, we will have to go with him.
3. If I _____ (have) enough money, I _____ (go) to Japan.
Ans : If I have enough money, I will go to Japan.
4. If I _____ (know) her name, I _____ (tell) him.
I
Ans : If I knew her name, I would tell him.
A
5. If we _____ (win) this match, we _____ (qualify) for finals.
N
Ans : If we won this match, we would qualify for finals.
N
6. If I _____ (were) a bird, I _____ (will) fly.
E
Ans : If I were a bird, I would fly.
H
7. If you _____ (warn) me, I _____ (have not) told him.
C
Ans : If you had warned me, I would not have not told him.
8. If you ____ (study) harder, you _____ (would have) passed.
-
Ans : If you had studied harder, you would have passed.
S
9. If you _____ (study) harder, you _____ (fail not) in the exam.
N
Ans : If you had studied harder, you would not have failed in the exam.
IO
11. If you _____ (take) an umbrella, you _____ (have not) get wet.
IC
Ans : If you had taken an umbrella, you would not have got wet.
12. If you _____ (go) to bed, you _____ (get, not) tired.
L
Ans : If you had gone to bed, you would not have got tired.
B
13. I think if I _____ (drive not) so fast, I _____ (slide, not) into the tree.
PU
Ans : I think if I had not driven so fast, I would not have slid into the tree.
Study the pie - chart and answer the questions given below:
R
1. Questions
Passed
20%
E
400 Marks
30% of the students have scored above 400 marks.
a
%
50%
c) How many have failed?
10% of the students have failed.
10 led
%
i
Fa
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274 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
2. Questions
a) Which course has the highest takers?
10 % ics
s
% e
Commerce course has the highest takers of 42%.
Phy
4 2 erc
mm b) What is the difference in percentage between the admissions
Co
Computer
Science to Physics and English literature ?
18 ture
ra h 30 %
The admission in Physics and English Literature differ by
8%.
Litenglis
%
E
I
3. Questions
A
Tax Payers
a) Compared to the tax payers who pays more, the employer or
N
the individual?
The individual pays more than the employer.
N
ls
ual i d ua
ivid ion i v
Ind tibut Ind 40% b) Who pays the major share ?
E
n
Co & yer
plo ion
Em tribut The individual pays the major share.
H
o n
Em 30
C
c) Whose contribution nears that of the individual ?
pl
oy
C
er
%
contribution.
-
4. Abundance Questions
S
a) Which Energy is in abundance?
N
Oil energy is in abundance.
IO
y
erg b) Nuclear and Hydro Energy together is _____ Oil Energy.
Oil lE
n
&
s
Oi a) equal to b) less than c) more than d) double
T
E 5%
c) Oil and Gas Energy together contribute to _____ %
N
6
eu & ro
cl
Ans : a) 65%
L
5. Profit Questions
B
15
The year 2005 had the lowest profit.
20 % b) What was the profit in 2007?
60
In 2007, the profit was 30%
Y
7
200 % c) What is the difference between the minimum and maximum
30
C
profit?
20 0%
1
05
profit is 50%.
E
6. Questions
M
Popular Course
8. Questions
I
Math a) What does the graph represent ?
A
Science
The graph represents the number of books in different
subjects.
N
English
N
Math subject has the largest number of books.
E
Tamil
H
Number of Books Tamil subjects need improvement.
C
9. Preferred by Students Questions
-
a) Which Schools are the most preferred?
Govt.
S
Govt. schools are the most preferred.
N
Schools
45% b) Which schools do students prefer next to Govt. schools ?
IO
Aided
Schools Least
Students prefer Aided Schools after Govt. schools.
after Govt. ICSE
c) What stream of education is the least attractive ?
T
School Schools
40% 15%
ICSE Schools have the least enrolment.
A
IC
Books
45%
books.
PU
Science
20%
Biography b) Which section has the least number of books?
History
20%
Books
The biograph section has the least number of books.
Y
15%
c) Which sections have the equal number of books ?
C
11. Study the Pie - chart and answer the questions that follow :
E
Questions :
a) What is the most sought after entertainment activity in the apartment?
Mobile phone.
b) Name the activity preferred by the least number of people.
Reading.
c) Which activity is chosen by half the number of people who use mobile phones?
Outdoor games.
16. Frame the Dialogue
I
Frame the dialogue with a minimum of ten exchanges for a given situation.
A
1. Student and Librarian to borrow a book :
N
Student : Excuse me, Sir. May I come in?
N
Librarian : Yes. Please come in.
E
Student : I want to take some books.
H
Librarian : You can borrow only one book at a time.
Student : I want Kalam’s, ‘Wings of fire’
C
Librarian : Let me check.
-
Student : Is it available?
Librarian : Yes, it is in the 3rd row.
S
N
Student : Shall I take it?
IO
Librarian : Return the old book that you have borrowed and then take this.
Student : Here it is the old one. “Sheakespeare’s plays”
T
I
Shanthi : You are right. Over exposure causes brain tumour, genetic damage and may
A
cause other diseases.
N
Preethi : It is hazardous to children and pregnant woman.
N
Shanthi : Though there are merits, there are demerits too. So, we should use the mobile
E
carefully.
H
4. Two friends about pollution.
C
Anu : Hi Vijai, how are you? You look worried!
Vijai : Yes. I am worried about pollution.
-
Anu : Environmental pollution is not only dangerous to the Earth but for us too.
Vijai :
S
What do you think, is going to happen, next?
N
Anu : Pollution is a serious problem. It causes imbalances in eco system.
IO
Vijai : Yes. Now ice is melting and the level of the oceans is on the rise.
A
Anu : It people work together, we can arrest some of the ill - effects of pollution.
B
Srimathi : As I would like to join the medicine course, I will get admitted into a
R
Divya : Your plan is excellent. By being a Doctor, you can serve the society and
M
the nation.
Srimathi : Yes. You are right. Then, what is your plan?
Divya : I want to become a teacher. I like that profession.
Srimathi : It is a very fine idea. It is a noble profession. Our country needs dedicated
teachers. They are the builders of the nation. I am happy that you have
chosen such a noble career.
Divya : Thank you.
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278 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Patient : No Doctor. I feel tired and go to bed.
A
Doctor : You are run down. You need a lot of rest. All your problems are due to
N
exhaustion.
N
Patient : What should I do now doctor?
E
Doctor : I will give you vitamin tablets and a tonic. Ues them for a month. You will
H
be alright.
C
Patient : Thank you, Doctor.
7. Shopkeeper and Customer.
-
Shopkeeper : Good afternoon Sir, What can I do for you?
Customer : I need a pair of shoes. S
N
Shopkeeper : What’s the size you need?
IO
Customer : Eight.
Shopkeeper : Do you want Black or Brown?
T
I
A
Shopkeeper : Good morning. What can I do for you?
N
Customer : I want to buy a mobile phone.
Shopkeeper : Which brand do you prefer?
N
Customer : I want Redmi phone.
E
Shopkeeper : Ok. Sir. Here are the different models.
H
Customer : Can I have a mobile with a good camera?
C
Shopkeeper : There are two models. Here they are.
-
Customer : What is the cost?
Shopkeeper : Rs. 8000 the other Rs. 10,000 S
N
Customer : Can you allow any discount?
IO
Shopkeeper : No sir. The prices are fixed after allowing the discount.
Customer : Ok. I will go for the cheaper one.
T
Conductor : No, this bus will not go there. It stops at the Bus Stand.
M
I
A
Patient : Do I need an injection Doctor?
Doctor : No need. You will be alright with the tablets.
N
Patient : Thank you Doctor.
N
12. Headmaster and Student for Testimonial.
E
Student : May I come in Sir?
H
Headmaster : Yes. come in.
C
Student : I am an old student of our school. I passed XII std
Headmaster : Good. What do you need?
-
Student : I want to join College Sir.
Headmaster : Which degree do you want to pursue? S
N
Student : I want to join in B.Com course.
IO
Headmaster : Well. Submit a requisition letter in the office and collect the testimonial
A
tomorrow.
IC
Ramesh : I am fine too. Would you please tell me about the need for Tree plantation?
Suresh : Trees are our saviours. They give us oxygen, food and fruit.
Ramesh : What other uses are there?
Y
Suresh : They bear a great impact on environment. Also trees save us from the other
C
natural disasters.
Ramesh : What should we do then?
R
Suresh : Welcome.
14. A Nurse and a Visitor.
Visitor : Good morning Sister.
Nurse : Good morning. How can I help you?
Visitor : My friend met with an accident. He was admitted here.
Nurse : What is his name?
Visitor : Suresh.
Nurse : When was he admitted here?
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 281
I
Customer : I bought a flask last week. It is not working well.
A
Manager : What is the problem?
N
Customer : It’s not retaining heat.
N
Manager : Let me see - Do you have the bill?
E
Customer : Yes, here it is.
H
Manager : Ok. I shall I send it for service.
Customer : No sir. I want it replaced.
C
Manager : Please wait. I will find out.
-
Customer : Ok.
Manager S
: Fine. We will replace it with a new one. Here it is. You can have.
N
Customer : Thank you.
IO
I
A
Father : Who has arranged it?
Son : Our school has arranged the excursion Dad.
N
Father : What are the places you will visit?
N
Son : Dad we will visit Bangalore and Mysore.
E
Father : Good. How many students will be there in the group?
H
Son : About 40 Dad. The expenses will cover everything. Please give me Dad.
Father : Ok. Take the money. Be careful while on tour. Have a nice time.
C
Son : Thank you, Dad.
-
19. Mother and Daughter - First day in school.
Mother
S
: Swathi. How was your first day in school?
N
Daughter : It’s nice, Mom.
IO
Daughter : Yes. Mom. My teacher was good. She taught us very well. I really liked it.
Mother : Good. What about your games?
IC
20. Build a dialogue of minimum 3 exchanges between a fruit vendor and a customer.
Customer : What is the cost of 1 dozen of apples?
Y
Fruit Vendor : I can give you 2 dozens for Rs. 150 each.
M
I
Telephone Engineer : Good morning. __(a)__
A
Customer : My telephone is not functioning since the last week.
N
Telephone Engineer : __(b)__
N
Customer : I reside at Velu Street.
E
Telephone Engineer : I will register the complaint.
H
Customer : __(c)__
Telephone Engineer : No. It cannot be repaired today. It will be done tomorrow.
C
Customer : Thank you.
-
Ans : a) What is the matter?
b) Where do you reside? S
N
c) Can you repair the phone today?
IO
ii. Soak the dress and let the adhesive to become wet and dilute.
iii. Use a dull knife to slowly scratch the glue without damaging the cloth.
L
v. Then again use the dull knife and patiently remove the stains.
PU
I
5. To make Idlis.
A
i. Rinse Rice and Black gram with water.
N
ii. Soak them in water and keep them for 6 hours.
N
iii. Add rice flow to the battered dhall.
iv. Allow it to ferment the whole night.
E
v. Keep the idly cooker on stove and pour the idli mix in the idli plates.
H
vi. Steam cook the mix for ten minutes.
C
vii. Remove the cooked Idlis and serve it hot with Chutney.
-
6. Iron clothes with electric Iron.
i. Get the ironing table ready.
ii. Plug in the electric Iron. S
N
iii. Sprinkle water on the clothes to be ironed.
IO
iv. When the Iron is heated to the optimum, press and move it on the cloth one by one.
v. After pressing the cloth on all parts fold it carefully and press the iron on it again.
T
7. To Bind a book.
IC
v. Paste strong paper and join the carboard and the first and last pages securely to the
card board.
vi. Keep it under a weight to press the book for four hours.
Y
i. Approach the bank and enquire about the details for securing loan.
R
ii. Visit the bank and hand over the admission card from the college and other documents
E
called for.
iii. Present the fees bill amount to be paid.
M
iv. After scrutiny, the bank will issue a D.D. in favour of the college for the required
amount.
v. Collect the DD and hand it over to the college and get a receipt.
9. To Book Train Tickets.
i. Approach the nearest Railway Booking Office.
ii. Collect the reservation form.
iii. Enquire if seats are available on the day of your journey.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 285
iv. Fill in the reservation form with the correct details and hand it over to the booking
clerk.
v. He will check the availability and will book the tickets.
vi. Find out the amount to be paid and pay to the clerk.
vii. Collect the reserved ticket and check it.
10. To prepare Lemon juice.
i. Cut two lemons and keep ready.
ii. Take two cups of cold water.
iii. Squeeze the juice from the cut lemons into a glass and add two spoonfuls of sugar.
iv. Add cold water to the juice and mix well.
v. Filter the juice and remove the lemon seeds and serve the juice cold.
I
A
11. To send E-mail.
i. Switch on the system.
N
ii. Click the net icon for search engine.
N
iii. When the window opens go to gmail and click ‘compose’
E
iv. When the window opens, type the e-mail address correctly.
H
v. Write the relevant word in ‘subject’ column.
C
vi. Type the message you need to send.
vii. If there are any attachments to be sent click ‘Add files’ - browse and click the relevant
-
file.
viii. When the attachment has been added click send. S
N
xi. You will get a message ‘message sent’.
IO
Approach a Bank.
A
Fill it.
Produce 3 copies of photographs and address proof.
L
I
a) family b) house c) friends d) education
A
11. Actions speak louder than _____.
N
a) words b) wars c) speech d) films
N
12. Barking dogs _____ bite.
a) never b) often c) always d) seldom
E
13. Don’t shine in borrowed _____.
H
a) feathers b) dress c) jewellery d) money
C
14. _____ your coat according to your cloth.
a) Buy b) Cut c) Sell d) Choose
-
15. Death is _____
a) fearsome b) difficult Sc) certain d) sorrow
N
16. Don’t count your chicken before they are _____.
IO
I
A
a) say b) preach c) think d) tell
34. _____ was not built in a day.
N
a) Temple b) India c) Rome d) World
N
35. Silence is _____.
E
a) golden b) silver c) best d) virtue
H
36. Speech is _____.
C
a) virtue b) knowledge c) silver d) golden
37. Soon learnt, soon _____.
-
a) forgotten b) remembered c) used d) discussed
38. _____ waters run deep.
S
N
a) Shallow b) Still c) Blue d) Ocean
IO
I
a) human b) divine c) inhuman d) foolish
A
55. Well begun is _____ done.
N
a) full b) half c) little d) all
N
56. Seeing is _____.
a) thinking b) truth c) essential d) believing
E
57. As you _____, so shall you reap.
H
a) feed b) sow c) think d) work
C
58. ______ is the best policy.
a) Truth b) Service c) Love d) Honesty
-
59. Birds of same feather _____ together.
a) live b) fly S c) flock d) eat
N
60. Many a _____ makes an ocean.
IO
I
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
A
1. c) Haste 2. b) heart 3. a) late 4. c) gold 5. a) power
N
6. b) two 7. c) man 8. a) water 9. b) moss 10. c) friends
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11. a) words 12. d) seldom 13. a) feathers 14. b) Cut 15. c) certain
16. a) hatched 17. a) noise 18. b) nods 19. d) teacher 20. b) Necessity
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21. b) Fortune 22. a) none 23. c) wealth 24. b) milk 25. d) leap
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26. a) shines 27. c) disposes 28. d) Manners 29. c) money 30. b) island
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31. a) sword 32. b) perfect 33. b) preach 34. c) Rome 35. a) golden
36. c) silver 37. a) forgotten 38. b) Still 39. c) iron 40. d) child
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41. b) kettle 42. c) human 43. d) spoil S 44. a) strength 45. a) worm
46. b) Truth 47. a) Discretion 48. a) want 49. c) Rome 50. c) opens
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51. c) will 52. d) Work 53. a) Failures 54. b) divine 55. b) half
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56. d) believing 57. b) sow 58. d) Honesty 59. c) flock 60. d) drop
61. b) Brevity 62. a) nine 63. b) Beggars 64. d) spade 65. c) steady
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66. c) end 67. a) words 68. b) step 69. a) Godliness 70. b) feeds
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Read the following passage and make notes and write the summary of the following :
1. What will the historians of the future say? They will record that India produced a
great leader, Gandhiji, and he taught people to work together. He taught them to break down
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the walls which separated the people from one another. He taught them to uplift the Harijans
because it was his desire that everyone, irrespective of his caste, creed or religion, should
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enjoy equal rights and be free. The people of India rose as one man from the Himalayas to
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Kanyakumari, threw off some of the burdens from their backs and under the leadership of
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the great Gandhiji moved forward and won Independence. After centuries, India’s star rose
in the horizon. Its voice was heard in the Councils of the world, because it was the real voice
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of India. And then these very people of India who had shown courage and determination, fell
into a dream and into carelessness and quarrelled among themselves. Sometimes they fought
in the name of religion, sometimes in the name of caste or language or state. We should not
lose ourselves in wrong directions. We cannot allow our country to fall. Let not this priceless
treasure of our freedom slip through our hands because of our weakness.
Notes :
Historians say - Gandhi great leader - People work together - break walls of separation
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290 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
- uplift the backward - unity - world forums heard India - fight among religions - not allow
freedom - to slip away - because of weakness.
Summary
Rough copy :
Gandhiji - A Great Leader
Historians say India produced a great leader Gandhiji. He taught people to work together
and breakdown the walls that separate them. He worked for uplift of Harijans - Equal rights
for all was his aim. People moved forward and won Independence. India’s voice was heard in
world forums. The same people fell into carelessness and are quarrelling among themselves.
We cannot allow this. Let not the freedom slip away.
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A
Fair copy :
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Gandhiji and After
India produced a great leader, Gandhiji. He taught the people to be united, cutting off
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all walls that divided the society. He worked for the uplift of the down trodden. India won
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freedom under his leadership. The voice of India was heard in World Forums. India was
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recognised as a great country.
C
But the very people who showed strength and determination began to fight among
themselves in the name of caste and religion. We should not allow ourselves to go in the
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wrong direction and allow the country to fall.We should not allow the hard won freedom to
slip away.
S
N
2. In every country people imagine that they are the best and the cleverest and the others
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are not so good as they are. The Englishman thinks that he and his country are the best; the
French man is very proud of France and everything French. The Germans and the Italians
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think no less of their countries; and many Indians imagine that India is in many ways the
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greatest country in the world. This is wrong. Everybody wants to think well of himself and
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his country. But really there is no person who has not got only good or only bad qualities.
In the same way there is no country which is fully good and partly bad. We must take the
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good wherever we find it and try to remove the bad. Wherever it may be. We are, of course,
most concerned with our own country, India. Unhappily, it is in a bad way today. Most of our
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people are poor and hungry. They have no joy in their lives. We have to find out how we can
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make them happier. We have to see what is good in our ways and customs and try to keep it,
and whatever is bad, we have to throw away. If we find anything good in other countries we
should certainly take it.
Y
-Jawaharlal Nehru
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Notes :
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Every country men think - they are the best - The Englishman, the French are proud of
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their countries - The Germans and Italians think no less - Indians too - But there is no one who
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is perfect - No country is fully good or bad - only good should be taken - People are hungry -
we should see what is good and bad - If something good is found, it has to be taken.
Summary
Rough copy :
Country - Good and Bad
People of any country would think their country is the best. Whether it is an Englishman,
the French or the German and Indians too. This is a wrong concept, we cannot find a person
who has no bad qualities at all. Similarly the countries too - Take the good from wherever it
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 291
is found. Most of our people are hungry. We should find ways to make them happier, retain
good and remove the bad.
Fair copy :
My Country - The Best
Every person in the world whether an Englishman, the French, German and Indian would
think his country is the best. This is a wrong concept. We cannot find a man who has neither
bad nor good qualities. Both are there even in countries too. We find both good and bad. We
have to take the good from where ever it is found. Out duty is to drive away hunger from
the people of India. Retain good customs and keep away those which affect our unity and
harmony.
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3. Did you ever hear the story of Newton and his little dog. Diamond? One day, when
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he was fifty years old, and had been hard at work for more than twenty years studying a very
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difficult subject, he went out of his room, leaving his little dog asleep before the fire. On the
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table lay a heap of written papers, containing all the facts which Newton had found out during
these twenty years. When his master was gone, up rose little Diamond, jumped upon the table,
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and overthrew the lighted candle. The papers at once caught fire.
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Just as they were all burnt, Newton opened the door and saw the labours of twenty years
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were reduced to a heap of ashes. There stood little Diamond who had done all the mischief.
Almost any other man would have punished the dog. But Newton patted him on the head as
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kindly as usual, although grief was at his heart.
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“Oh! Diamond, Diamond,” cried he. “You little know the mischief you have done!”
N
Notes :
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Story of Newton - his dog Diamond - put hardwork of twenty years on table - valuable
papers - Diamond jumped on table - over threw lighted candle - papers caught fire - all burnt
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- Newton all his effort gone - There stood Diamond - Any other person - punish the dog - He
A
Summary
Rough copy :
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Newton worked for twenty years and put the papers containing the notes of his hardwork
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on the table. He was away and his dog over threw the lighted candle and burnt all the papers.
Newton came in and saw his twenty years hardwork turned into ash. He was not angry
with the dog. He patted it and said, “You little know the mischief you did.”
Y
Fair copy :
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Newton worked for twenty years and prepared papers of his hard work and placed them
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on a table. In his absence, his dog Diamond jumped on them and over threw the lighted
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4. Clean water supply is essential for good health and cleanliness in the home. Often, the
only source of drinking water is polluted. More than seventy percent of rural households have
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292 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
no safe drinking water. Their supplies are often carried some distance from a river, pond or
well or a community pump or tap. Carrying water takes time and if necessary, it is rationed
carefully.
Several diseases are spread by polluted water. These include diarrhea, cholera and typhoid.
Families using water from uncovered ponds or wells are likely to suffer more frequently from
all these infections than those whose water comes from protected sites. An adequate supply of
water is also needed for personal cleanliness and general hygiene in the home. Health workers
should encourage the provision of good household water supplies as much as possible.
If there is no tap, the main water container in the house must be kept clean, covered and
free from debris. Overnight storage in the earthenware vessels reduces the number of bacteria
in the water. Nevertheless, it is important that any water given to infants is first boiled. After
I
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boiling, it should be left covered in the same container until it is cool enough to drink.
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Notes :
Clean water - essential - water polluted - no safe drinking water - water kept at home
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for long - diseases are spread - water from uncovered ponds or wells - infections - water taps
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needed - water tank to be clear - free from debris - use boiled water - use the same container
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to cool it.
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Summary
Rough copy :
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Clean Water
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Cleanliness and clean water are essential for health. Many house holds have no safe water
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to drink. Only untreated water from ponds and wells is supplied. Several diseases are spread
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through water; people will suffer more frequently. A lot of water is needed for cleaning. Keep
water tank closed if no water is there. Use boiled water for children
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Fair copy :
A
Clean Water
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Clean water is essential for good health. Often, people drink water from polluted sources.
Water is stored in houses. Several diseases are spread by water. If polluted water is used a lot
of infections will affect people. If there is no tap, the water tank must be kept clean and closed.
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Water given to infants should be boiled and cooled in the same vessel.
B
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5. One of the most baffling, puzzling and intriguing mysteries that has bewildered the
world so far, is the famous Bermuda Triangle. No other mystery is so well known, yet so little
is known about it.
Y
Situated in the Western Atlantic, it has seemingly swallowed up hundreds of ships and
thousands of human beings. Yet, no scientist has been able to detect the reason for it being a
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death trap, and more so why is its victims have left so little evidence of their unpredicted and
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The dangerous Bermuda lies between Florida and Puerto Rico. In the beginning, the
sudden and unexpected disappearance of the ships and human beings was considered to be
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just coincidental. But gradually, the number of victims increased so unexpectedly that people
became curious to know the reason. And they could not arrive at any conclusion. The victims
had not left any evidence behind. The case became interesting and the scientists took it as a
challenge.
Every possible imaginable theory has been put forward. Some observers think that it may
be due to the extreme gravitational and magnetic deviation that radios fail and compasses
provide wrong readings. Others suppose that extra-ordinary modern machinery of the lost
Atlantic Civilisation is still functioning and that Bermuda Triangle is the base of it. Overlooking
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 293
all scientific explanations, the third group proposes that the triangle may be hunting ground
for predatory visitors from outer space.
There is no end to hypotheses and suppositions. But they have failed to satisfy the
rationality of the human mind. The question arises then; What is the truth about the triangle?
Notes :
Mystery - Bermuda Triangle - Western Atlantic - swallowed hundreds of ships and people
- the reasons of death trap not detected - no evidence Florida and Puerto Rico - beginning the
deaths - thought coincidental - later no reason found - No evidence left - challenge some say
gravitational force - majestic deviation - hunting ground - for predators from outser space - no
end to speculation - what is the truth?
Summary
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Rough copy :
A
Bermuda Triangle
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Bermuda Triangle is mysterious. Many aircrafts, ships have disappeared in it. The place
lies in the Atlantic ocean between Florida and Pueto Rico. First, the disappearance was thought
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as coincidence. No evidence was left behind.
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Some think that it is great gravitational force, others think it is extraordinary modern
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predatory of aliens. There is no end to hypotheses. Rationalists turn down all this. They say
it is spurious.
C
Fair copy :
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The Bermuda Triangle
S
The Bermuda Triangle is situated between Florida and Pueto Rico. It is the most
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mysterious thing in the world. A large number of airplanes, ships and people disappeared in its
waters leaving no evidence. Theories like gravitational pull, extraordinary modern machinery,
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hunting ground for alien predators are in vogue, but the truth remains elusive.
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6. In 1951, a white tiger cub was captured in the forests of Rewa state, in Rajasthan.
A
Before this, no one had reported the existence of white tigers, but today, they can be seen in
many zoos around the world. They attract a lot of visitors, specially children, because of their
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unusual appearance. Many people think that the white tiger belongs to a different species
which has a bright orange-colour coat with black stripes, but in fact they belong to the same
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species. Sometimes, a pair of ordinary tigers will produce white cubs. This is a rare event and
B
happens only one in approximately 10,000 births. The white colour of the offspring is due to
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around 600 white tigers in the world. White tigers have always been extremely rare in the
world and have only been spotted in India. The reason why they are so rare is that the white
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colour makes for poor camouflage when the tiger is hunting or hiding.
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Notes :
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White tiger in Rewa - Now many in zoos now - they belong to different species -
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approximate - 10000 births - due to some charges in genes - pink noses - white fur - chocolate
coloured stripes - blue eyes - 600 in the world - extremely rare - spotted in India - a poor
camouflage.
Summary
Rough copy :
White Tiger
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294 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
A white tiger cub was captured in Rewa in Rajasthan. There are many in 2008 now they
belong to different species. There are about 10000 births due to some changes in genes. They
have pink noses, white fur, chocolate coloured stripes and blue eyes. There are about 600
white tigers in the world now. They are extremely rare and spotted in India. Its colour is a
poor camouflage.
Fair copy :
White Tiger
White Tiger is a rare species. It was spotted in Rewa in 1951. Now there are many in
zoos. It is attractive with white fur, blue eyes, orange coat. It’s white colour is due to some
changes in the genes of the parents. They have pink noses and chocolate coloured stripes.
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There are around 600 white tigers now in the world. They are extremely rare and spotted in
A
India. The white colour makes poor camouflage while hunting.
N
7. Raja Ravi Varma who is described as the Father of Indian Painting achieved recognition
N
for his depiction of scenes from the Hindu epics. He was born in the royal family of Killimanoor,
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which is 75 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram. He showed talent as an artist at a very
H
young age and received the patronage of the Maharaja of Travancore, who arranged for his
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training under the palace painter, Ramaswamy Naidu. He was later taught oil painting by the
British painter, Theodore Jenson. The power and forceful expression of European painting
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fascinated Ravi Varma. His own painting shows the influences of the European painters of his
time.
S
N
Ravi Varma became famous after he had won an award for an exhibition of his paintings
in Vienna in 1873. He travelled throughout India in search of themes. He is particularly noted
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for his paintings depicting episodes from the story of ‘Dushyanta’. Ravi Varma’s representation
of mythological characters has become a part of the Indian imagination. If one has to imagine,
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for example, what Sita or Rama one can refer to in Ravi Varma’s paintings. He was and still
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is criticised for being too showy and sentimental in his style of painting. However his work
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remains very popular in India. In recent years some of his paintings have been bought by art
collectors at fabulous prices.
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Notes :
B
Ravi Varma - father of painting - scenes from hindu epics - born in Trivandrum - child
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popular.
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Summary
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Rough copy :
E
Ravi Varma
Raja Ravi Varma, born in Trivandrum is described as father of Indian painting. He
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was a child artist. He received patronage from the Travancore Maharaj. He was inspired by
European paintings. He became famous after his winning at Vienna in 1873. He is noted
for his paintings of mythological characters from the Mahabharatha. The episodes of Nala
Damayanthi - Dushyanta - Sakunthala are famous. They are full of imagination. If any one
imagined the characters would turn to his paintings. His work remains popular in India
Fair copy :
Ravi Varma - Eternal artist
Raja Ravi Varma is famous for his paintings of characters from Mahabharatha and
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 295
Hindu mythology. He was born in 1873 in Trivandrum. He was a child artist patronized by
Travancore Maharaj. He learnt paintings in England. He became famous after winning awards
for paintings in 1873. He is noted for his paintings on the episodes of Nala Damayanthi and
‘Dushyanta and Sakunthala’. If one has to imagine the mythological characters, one would
turn to Ravi Varma’s paintings.His work remains very popular in India.
8. Our atmosphere is a tiny layer of gas around our planet Earth. This gaseous outring is
called Green House Effect.
About half of all solar energy that reaches the earth is infrared radiation. The other half
hitting the Earth is heat. Later it is reflected back into space as waves of infrared radiation. The
transformation of solar radiation into infrared radiation is crucial because infrared radiation
can be absorbed by the atmosphere. The atmospheric temperature depends on the amount of
I
energy it absorbs and this, in turn, on its composition.
A
Nitrogen, Oxygen and Argon make up 98 percent of the atmosphere. They do not contribute
N
to the Green House Effect since they do not absorb infrared radiation. The remaining two
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percent is composed of water vapour, carbon dioxide, ozone, methane, nitrous oxide and
E
chloroflurocarbons. They absorb heat and increase atmospheric temperature, amount of carbon
H
dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. Bacteria and plants slowly turn CO2 into oxygen and
it is reduced to about 0.038 percent currently.
C
Green House gases absorb the warmth of the sun and heat up the Earth. This process is
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called Green House Effect. We enjoy an average temperature of 14ºC degree celsius because
of these gases. Otherwise it would be a chilly - 18 degree celsius.
S
N
A major temperature change is rapidly taking place now. Humanity’s industrial Green
House gas emissions are responsible for this. As a result, these Green House gases which
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Notes :
Atmosphere - tiny layer - solar energy - radiation - heat reflected back to space - solar
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radiation to infrared radiation - crucial can be absorbed - Nitrogen and other gases 98% - No
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Green House Effect - 2 % water carbon dioxide, ozone etc. They absorb heat - atmospheric
temperature - Bacteria turned CO2 into oxygen. Green house gases - absorb heat - called Green
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House Effect - Aurapid - temperature change - Industrial Green house gases - responsible -
B
Summary
Rough copy :
Y
Atmosphere is a tiny layer of gas around the Earth. Half the solar energy reflected back
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from the Earth as infrared radiation absorbed by atmosphere. It is crucial. Nitrogen and other
gases constitute 98% of atmosphere. The remaining 2% is CO2 and other gases. CO2 and
E
other gases absorb heat and increase the atmosphere temperature. Green House gases absorb
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the heat of sun and heat up the earth. This process is called Green House Effect. Average
14ºC is due to this. Otherwise it would be chill –18ºC. Now there is major change, industrial
gas emissions are responsible. As a result green house gases which serve as life saves have
became the life threats.
Fair copy :
Green House Gases
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296 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Atmosphere is a thin layer of gases around earth. It consists 98% Nitrogen and 2%
Carbondioxide and other gases, The heat from the sun is reflected to the atmosphere by half.
Carbondioxide and gases absorb the heat which is in the form of infrared radiation. That heat
warms the earth. Due to industrial houses, the content of CO2 in atmosphere is increased.
So the heat absorption has also increased. So the amount of heat absorbed by the gas has
increased resulting in increased heat of earth. So the life saver has become a life threat.
9. Success in life depends largely on good health. Keep your body fit and by cleanliness,
fresh air, regular habits and suitable recreation, make yourself strong to play the game and to
do it in every sense of the word. Avoid anything that will sap your strength. Smoking in youth
stunts the body and clouds the brain. Be temperate in all things and beware of drinks. It is a
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deadly enemy of health and efficiency.
A
Above all, remember that your character is a priceless possession. Therefore keep it
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untarnished. Be truthful in all things, courteous and considerate to every body, fair to your
rivals, kind and helpful to all who are weak and suffering and do not be afraid to have the
N
courage to stand for what is good, pure and noble. Avoid gambling in any form; it is a mean
E
game, trying to get something for nothing at other people’s expense.
H
Make provision for hard times. In your leisure hours, avoid mere idling. Fill such hours
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with interesting hobbies, good books and with companionships and associations calculated to
exercise over you an influence for good. To a large extent you will be known by the company
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you keep.
Notes :
S
N
Good health - fit body - cleanliness - regular habits - make strong - Avoid that saps your
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Summary
IC
Rough copy :
Good habits - Good Health
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Success depends on good health. Fit body - cleanliness, regular exercise make you
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strong - smoking stunts the body, drinks are bad for health. Above all, character is a priceless
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possession. Truthful, courteous behaviour, fair to rivals are good habits. Don’t be afraid to
stand against evil. Spending leisure usefully, reading books, interesting hobbies, with good
friends will be good. You will be known by friends you to keep.
Y
Fair copy :
C
Good health leads to success. Keep body fit, clean, fresh by recreation and exercise.
Smoking and alcohol sap your energy. But character is a priceless possession. Be truthful,
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honest, courteous to all. Help those who are suffering and have the courage to stand for
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good. Leisure time should be spent in reading, good hobbies and friends. They influence your
thoughts. You are known by the company you keep.
10. Malnutrition is an impairment of health either from a deficiency or excess or imbalance
of nutrients. Malnutrition is a condition when one or two nutrients are less or more in excess
in the body. This again manifests in disorders and discomforts. Severe malnutrition in certain
phases of life can do irreparable damage to the body. Physical, mental and intellectual well-
being in a person is affected due to malnourishment. Emotional upset and intellectual dwarfism
create personality problems in later life. Impaired functional ability and deficient structural
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 297
integrity result from malnutrition. Marasmus, Kwashiorkar, Scurvy, Rickets, Beri - Beri and
Anaemia result from the deficiencies of proteins, calories and vitamins. Malnutrition creates
lasting effect on the growth and development of a person. Permanent retardation of the Central
Nervous System occurs due to protein caloric malnutrition in early life. Thus nutrients from
food sources enable one to keep fit and maintain health. They provide energy which gives
the capacity to work. Food also supplies vitamins and minerals which protect our organs and
regulate their functions and other physiological processes.
Notes :
Malnutrition an impairment - when one or two nutrients are less - disorders and discomforts
- irreparable damage to body - physical, mental - affected - emotional upset - scurvy, rickets -
anaemia result - lasting effect on growth - retardation - nervous system affected - give energy
- capacity to work - supply vitamins.
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A
Summary
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Rough copy :
N
Malnutrition
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Malnutrition is an impairment of health. It is a condition when a few nutrients are in
excess or low. It can do irreparable damage to the body. Physical, mental, intellectual well
H
being is affected. They lead to personality problems, various diseases like Scurvy, Beri-
C
Beri and Anaemia may set in. It creates a lasting effect on growth. Nervous system may be
affected. Nutritents form food sources to keep fit.
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Fair copy : S
N
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is an impairment of health. It is a condition when a few nutrients are either
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in excess or low in our food. It can do irreparable damage to the body. Physical, mental and
intellectual strength is also affected. This leads to personality problems and various diseases
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like anaemia may set in. It affects a lasting effect on growth. Food supplies vitamins and
A
11. The Chinese were the first to make gun powder, invent the magnetic compass and
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introduce to the world the art of making paper. About 2000 years ago, the Chinese made gun
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powder by mixing sulphur and saltpetre. The mixture exploded when set on fire. The Chinese
were the first to find out the fact that a narrow magnet floating in a bowl of water would always
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point to the North. This discovery led to the invention of magnetic compass. The device helped
the sailors to find out the direction when they were out of sight of land. The Chinese also
invented the art of making paper during the 2nd Century. Soon, the art of making paper using
Y
vegetable pulp reached Arabia, Spain and Europe. In course of time, paper factories came into
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existence. The fourth invention of the Chinese was the art of printing. Before this invention,
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books were written by hand. The Chinese invented the art of printing with movable types. With
E
this invention, reading and learning became easy to common people as they were able to print
books in large numbers.
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Notes :
Chinese made :
Gun powder - magnetic compass - paper, found out magnet points to North - helped sailors.
Making paper :
Made from wood pulp - reached Arabia, Spain, Europe - paper factories invented.
Printing :
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298 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
a great boon - written by hand before - movable types - reading and learning became easy
- books in all language.
Rough copy :
Chinese invented gun powder and the magnetic compass. They found out that the magnetic
needle always pointed to North. It helped the sailors.
They made paper from wood pulp. It was followed by other countries. Then paper factories
were invented. It was a great boon for reading and learning.
Fair copy :
The Printing Press
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The Chinese made gun powder and magnetic compass. It helped sailors. Making paper was
A
a very useful contribution by them. Paper was produced from wood and vegetable pulp. It spread
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to other continents.The printing press invented by them was a great boon to humanity. Reading
and learning became easy with printing of books. Books were handwritten earlier.
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E
20. Advertisement and respond Resume / Bio - data
H
1. Respond to the following advertisement considering yourself fulfilling the conditions specified.
C
Responding to advertisements for jobs is a special skill. It is an occupational skill. The
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communicative skills you develop over a period of two years in the Higher Secondary
School are expected to equip you to pursue higher studies (if you wish to) or join the job
S
market. Presenting all your accomplishments in a letter seeking a job requires meticulous
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care and organising ability. Please read the following sample letters and evolve your own
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style of communication.
Aachi Masala
T
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requires
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Sales Officers for the Zonal Offices in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
The candidate should be a graduates and have experience in promoting
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xxxxxxxxxxx
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14.10.2020
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From
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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To
Post Box No. 102,
The Hindu,
Chennai – 600 002.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 299
Sir,
Sub : Application for the post of Sales Officer –reg.
Ref : Your advertisement dated 12.10.2020 in “The Hindu”.
With reference to your advertisement dated 12.10.2020 in “The Hindu”, I wish to apply for
the post of Sales Officer in your reputed company. I have furnished my bio-data below for your
kind perusal and favourable consideration.
Bio - Data
Name : xxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Date of birth : 18.4.1990
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Address for communication : 18, Sivan Koil St,
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yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
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yyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Languages known : Tamil, Malayalam, English, and Hindi.
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Educational qualification : BSc., Chemistry 80% in Loyola College, Chennai.
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Experience : 3 years, worked as a Sales Executive for “Maammis” Food
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Private Ltd” at Coimbatore.
If I am offered the Sales Officer’s post, I shall perform my duties to the utmost satisfaction
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of the Management.
S
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Reference: The Sales Manager,
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Yours faithfully
A
xxxxxxxxxxx
Address on the envelope
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To
Post Box No. 102,
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The Hindu,
B
Chennai -600002.
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2. Respond to the following advertisement considering yourself fulfilling the conditions specified
(Write xxx for your name and yyy for you address)
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(
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( Applications are invited for the post of a
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(
( Security Officer (
R
( in a multinational company (
( from men with a degree in any subject and a ‘C’ (
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( certificate in NCC (
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From
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
yyyyyyyyyyyyyy
yyyyyyyyyyyyy
To
Box No.123,
C/o. The Hindu,
Chennai – 600 002.
Sir,
Sub: Applying for the post of a Security Officer - reg.
I
Ref: Your Advertisement in “The Hindu” dated 27.3.2021
A
N
With reference to your advertisement in “The Hindu”, I would like to apply for the post of
N
security officer in your reputed concern. I have furnished my curriculum vitae below for your
kind perusal and favourable consideration.
E
H
Curriculum Vitae
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1. Name : xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
-
2. Address : 18, Mullai St
yyyyyyyyyyyyyy
yyyyyyyyyyyyyyy S
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3. Languages known : Tamil and English
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4. Academic qualification :
T
NCC experience
B
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young talents to ensure the safety of the company round the clock. Looking forward to receiving
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Yours sincerely,
E
xxxxxx
M
Wanted
Sales Officer.
Young and dynamic graduate for
Marketing Aroma Chemicals in Souther Region.
Send your bio-data detailing
Your experience to
Madha Chemical Industries Pvt. Ltd.
A-140, Sindhur Industrial Area, Phase-II, New Delhi-21
e-mail: [email protected]; Fax : 91-11-26386485
From
[email protected]
I
A
To
N
Info@ madava. com
N
Sub: Applying for the post of a Sales Officer - reg.
E
Sir,
H
With reference to your advertisement in the Deccan Chronicle dated 27.3.2021, I wish
C
to apply for the post of Sales Officer. I have attached my bio-data for your kind perusal and
favourable consideration
-
Yours sincerely,
S xxxxxxxxxxxx
N
Send attachment . Bio-data of xxx (When opened)
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1. Name : xxx
T
4. Academic qualifications:
L
5. Other qualification:
R
2019 80%
New Delhi Management
Bharathidasan University, Trichy Diploma in Communication 2020 75%
6. Experience if any
Company Position Emoluments
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302 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
xxxxxxxx
A
4. Respond to the following advertisement considering yourself fulfilling the conditions specified
N
(Write xxx for your name and yyy for you address)
N
E
Wanted Salesman
H
The applicant should be a graduate
with minimum three years experience in Textiles.
C
Apply with Curriculum Vitae to
-
Kamala Pvt. Ltd.,
S
54, South Park Street,
Venkatapuram, Ambattur,
N
Chennai - 600 053
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yyyyyyyyyyyyyy
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From
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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yyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
B
yyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.
To
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Sir,
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Bio -Data
Name : xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Father’s Name : Mr. Rajendran
Age and date of birth : 23 years 15-9-1997
Sex : Male
Marital Status : Single
Educational Qualification : B.Sc., (Maths)
Physics and Statistics ancillaries.
University : Madras University
Year of passing : March 2016
I
Marks : 65%
A
Other qualification : Java, C++ in computer.
N
Experience : Worked as Salesman in ‘Praveena’’ textiles Chennai for four
N
years.
Salary Expected : Negotiable
E
Joining time : one week.
H
Address for communication : yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
C
yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
-
S
I declare that all the above information is true to the best of my knowledge.
N
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Manager (Personnel)
A
Venkatapuram, Ambattur,
Chennai – 600 053.
L
B
5. Respond to the following advertisement considering yourself fulfilling the conditions specified:
Wanted
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Response to Advertisement
1st October, 2018
From
xxxxxxxx
yyyyyyyy
To
The Advertiser,
www.Kalviseithi.Net
304 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
xxxxxxxxxxxxx
A
Encl. Resume
N
Resume of xxxxx
N
Name : xxxxxx
E
Father : xxxxxx
H
Date of Birth : 01.07.1990
C
Age : 30 years
Qualification : B.Com. from University of Madras with distinction.
-
Technical Qualification : C, C++ in Computers
Additional Qualification : Trained in Tally S
N
Languages known : English, Tamil,
IO
yyyyy
IC
The Advertiser,
B
address]
C
Wanted
R
English Teacher - Post graduate with Computer knowledge, and good communication
E
To
The Advertiser,
Post Box No. 1998,
C/o. The Hindu,
Chennai - 600 002.
Sir,
Sub : Application for the post of PG teacher in English - reg.
Ref : Your advertisement in “The Hindu” dated 28.08.18.
With reference to your above advertisement calling for English PG teachers, I wish to apply.
I am a PG in English with a Diploma in Communication Skills. I have three years of experience
as a teacher in English.
I
I am young and energetic to take up the responsibility and render dedicated service. Please
A
find my resume attached herewith.
N
I wish to receive a favourable reply.
N
Thank you,
E
Yours faithfully,
XXXXX
H
C
Resume
Name : XXXXX
-
Address : XXXXX
Date of Birth : 05.07.1994, Age : 26 years
S
N
Qualification : i. M.A. English Literature, Madras University, A+ grade.
IO
Thank you.
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Yours faithfully,
XXXXX
Y
45. Read the following advertisement and prepare a bio-data considering yourself fulfilling the
conditions mentioned.
C
[Write XXXXX for your name and YYYY for your address]
R
WANTED
E
Qualified nurses for a multi - speciality hospital, Attractive salary, Flexible working hours,
M
Chennai.
15.10.2018
From
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To
The Advertiser,
Post Box No. 3210,
C/o The Times of India,
I
A
Chennai – 600 002.
Sir,
N
With reference to your ad. I would like to apply for the position of Nurse. I have enclosed
N
my bio - data for your persual and kind consideration. I assure you dedicated service if given a
E
chance.
H
Thank you.
C
Yours faithfully,
XXXXX.
-
Bio - Data
S
N
Name : xxxxxxxxxxxxx
IO
Age : 27
A
Sex : Female
IC
yyyyyyyyyyy
yyyyyyy.
Salary expected : Any decent salary
Y
Write a paragraph
1. Global Terrorism / Fight against Terrorism
The world today is witnessing a rise of terrorist activities in different parts of the world.
A number of groups, owing allegiance to some political ideology or some particular
religious beliefs, have chosen the path of violence and terror to achieve their objects.
These are vested interests, fundamentalists or fanatics having no sanctity for life. They believe
in the power of gun.
Some fight for land, some fight to spread their religion or faith. They defy public opinion
and refuse to see reason. They do not hesitate to commit most heinous crimes. They do murder
of innocent citizens, children, women, looting the public, burning, kidnapping, hijacking
planes and creating terror.
I
A
Terrorism is not confined to one part. It is a global problem. All countries should join
together to fight terrorism of any nature. The terrorists should never be given asylum anywhere.
N
They should be taught that they have no place on the Earth. Only then, the menace can be
N
controlled to some extent.
E
2. Goal of My life
H
Life without a noble aim is like a rudderless ship. But, to choose a goal is quite an uphill
C
task. Different people have different ambitions according to their tastes and aptitude. Every
person has an ambition.
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My aim is to serve my country. There are many ways to serve the country. As a first step,
S
I would become on ideal citizen. I shall never become corrupt. I shall always be just and fair
N
to others. I shall always keep the interests of the community before my personal interest. With
this concept, I can reform atleast some people.
IO
I would like to be a doctor to serve the nation. I would devote all my energies in helping
my countrymen. My aim would not be earning money. No person in isolation can serve the
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nation. So I would join with like minded people to jointly serve the country.
A
Cleanliness is next to Godliness. The problem of air, noise and water pollution is assuming
serious proportions. Increasing Industrialisation is playing havoc on the environment. Industrial
B
gases, smoke and other gases are polluting the air in a big way. Apart from industries, the
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density of traffic is also contributing to air pollution. The permissible limits of noise pollution
has exceded in cities like Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai.
Y
Air pollution is responsible for T.B., Skin allergy, eye ailment and even cancer. River
waters have been polluted largely because of discharge of untreated industrial wastes and
C
municipal sullage. All these have destroyed the self purification system of the rivers.
R
threatens life more than any other pollution today. The ultimate victim of pollution of anykind
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is man himself. After hundred years, man may not have pure air to breath, pure water to drink,
pure Earth to live. The world as a whole should join together to arrest pollution of all kinds -
to make the Earth fit to live for future generations.
4. Child Labour
Child labour is a crime against humanity. Children are working when they are supposed
to read and play. The sad thing is that they work under difficult conditions. Everyone is
responsible for this crime. The attitude in society and the perceptions have not changed.
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308 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Children are found working at dhabas, restaurants and as domestic help. In fire works and
beedi factories they work under dangerous conditions. They are often infected with various
kinds of diseases and face danger to life. Moreover, they are not paid adequately and work
for longer hours. There are about 50 million child labourers according to an estimate. We also
come across child labourers employed in agriculture.
The immediate cause for child labour in India is poverty. Poverty prevents the children
from going to school. The dropouts among the students during elementary education is
very high. Primary education to the children is of fundamental importance to growth and
development of a child. It has not been implemented properly and fully.
The government, Non Governmental Organisations and various institutions can help
I
towards making child labour becomes extinct, which can be done only by implementation of
A
compulsory primary education.
N
5. Use of Internet
N
This is the age of information, infotech and computers. Information is now a multi billion
E
dollar business resulting in computer proliferation worldwide. Information super highway or
internet has revolutionlised the life and IT. By being hooked you can have access to anything
H
anywhere in the world. Internet is a melting pot of so many technologies which provide
C
multimedia information facilities at low cost and great speed. Internet offers a wealth of
opportunities and advantages. It promises a brave new world.
-
On the dark side it also gives, scope for pornography, electronic crimes, cyber crimes
S
etc. It has to be checked. Children and young students should be permitted to use the net
N
under adult supervision. If the internet is used in the ethical way, it can be of great use to the
humanity. Recent SAARC conference was held through video conferencing. Prime Minister
IO
Newspaper is the greatest and the most useful gift received by man with the invention of
A
printing press. A newspaper keeps a man busy and in touch with the world. It is a powerful
IC
mass media and a mighty force. It is a vehicle of thought. It propogates ideas, philosophies,
comments, criticism of government and people. It is a powerful organ of public opinion.
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Newspapers have become a part and parcel of our daily life. They provide knowledge
B
and tell about discoveries and inventions. Businessmen advertisements, market reports and
information about religion, sports, weather, art, music and many are found in them. The
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newspapers bring us the views of great thinkers and philosophers. It moulds and reflects the
public opinion.
In brief, newspapers are highly useful to the people, in general. The students should make
Y
it a regular habit to read newspapers, both for knowledge and for information and improving
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7. Advantages of Science
E
Modern age is the age of Science. Science has blessed us with many comforts. The fairy
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tales of yesterday have became true now. Every aspect of life has an imprint of Science.
Science has bestowed on us the gift of electricity. It glows our house, cooks our food, cools
us in summer and warms us in winter. Wherever we cast our eyes, we notice the triumphs of
science.
Science has conquered time and distance. Different countries have been brought closer to
one another and the globe seems to have shrunk. Recreation, entertainment, radio, television
and sterio are all inventions in Science, which provide a lot of comfort and happiness to us.
Science has helped man to put up with deadly diseases. It has also proved equally helpful in
agriculture.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 309
The service of Science cannot be forgotten even in the field of Engineering and Technology.
Huge dams and bridges have been built. In short, we can say that wherever we may cast our
eyes, we notice the triumphs and contributions of Science.
8. Computers - Modern man’s Intelligent Machine
In this age of science and technology, humanity is witnessing an explosion of knowledge.
Computer is one of the latest inventions of man. Every developed country in the world is
equipped with computers. It has become an inseparable part in man’s life.
In our country, computerisation of important sectors like defence, energy, railways, steel,
mining, airlines has already been taken up.
Although the use of computers has phenominally grown, it has some fundamental
limitations. It cannot exercise judgement or commonsense. It has to be meticulously instructed.
It is also alleged that the privacy of people is being threatened by computers. Use of computers
I
A
have opened the gates of unemployment in various sectors.
Inspite of various irritants and demerits, computers have revolutionalised the day to day
N
life of humans.
N
The explosion of information is available at the click of a mouse. Mans growth owes a
E
lot to the computer. Online booking of railway and plane tickets and purchasing things online
H
through Amazon or Flipcard or order food through Swiggy are possible now.
C
9. Place of Women in Society today.
The position and status of women in society has been changing from time to time. In the
-
past, women were worshipped. They were held in high esteem. Our national leaders started
S
movements for the emanicipation of women. They were given the rightful place in all spheres
N
of life. Discrimination on the basis of sex became a matter of the past.
IO
As a result, the woman freed herself the four walls from the cfonfines of she started
marching ahead. She has left man far behind in many fields. We have women legislators ,
T
ministers, doctors, lawyers and officers. They have shed their complexes and are marching
A
A modern girl is not dumb like a cow now. She competes with boys in every sphere. Her
self confidence has grown. She is not cowed down by poverty. She wants to enjoy life like the
L
rich. A woman in the past had to depend on her parents, husband, children at different phases
of her life. But now she is independent, thanks to education of women.
B
She is full of freedom. Freedom is good, but unfettered freedom leads to problems. She
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A library is the heart and soul of an educational institution. A library is nothing but a
C
collection of books, magazines and papers. It is a temple of knowledge and a boon to the
R
people. It widens the knowledge of the students. Poor students can make use of the library. It
inspires the students to develop the habit of reading.
E
A reader can be in touch with the new discoveries, inventions. A library not only preserves
M
knowledge, but also spreads it. Preservation of knowledge and passing it on to the future
generations is essential for the growth of a country. In a library, we get an opportunity to sit
among the greatest authors. Robert Southey said that books are his never failing friends with
whom he conversed day by day.
Thus a library is useful to students, research scholars, writers and professionals. Libraries
contain the essence of our civilization and culture. Hence, they should be maintained in the
best possible manner.
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310 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
in deeds, not in years. Life is real and earnest. We must take it seriously. Real salvation lies in
A
work. Work alone is real worship.
N
12. Vocational Education
N
Vocational Education has many advantages. It helps a person choose his career early in
E
life and formally train for it. This increases the productive capacity of a country. This also
H
saves wastage. Persons who are not fit for an academic career, will not crowd the corridors of
C
Universities. Persons with low marks and lower understanding need not waste the exchequer
funds.
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Although vocational education has its advantages, we ought to proceed with caution. It
S
is the theoretical education that develops the mind. No one can do well unless he has certain
N
basic intelligence honed and vision broadened.
IO
themselves work out their own potential. Measures are afoot now to recognize wavelength as
A
the means and the end of production. If there is no man power planning, furstration, rebellion
B
In India, it is the shortage of the capital equipment or other necessary resources that
contribute to the problem. Agriculture is our main stay. But it is seasonal. So rural unemployment
is on the rise. Small Scale Industries are not developed well to provide employment to skilled
Y
In urban areas, unemployment among industrial labourers and educated middle class is
R
very high. Urbanisation has resulted in migration of rural youth to urban centres. The rate
of growth of industries in urban areas, is not keeping pace with the increasing number of
E
Exploitation of forests, to meet the ever increasing needs of population have resulted in a
great loss to the country soil erosion, floods and infrequent rainfalls have made agriculture a
big gamble.
Advantages of vegetation is that it amelionates the climatic conditions. It maintainans
stream flow. It conserves of soil and eco system. Forests have the sound absorbing effect.
They provide indirect protection against noise.
The people living in villages need fuel for their cooking, timber for their houses. Forests
role in preserving soil erosion, stabilizing sand dunes, protecting catchment areas and
providing fodder and shade for cattle cannot be ignored.
Extensive implementation of social forestry will go a long way to improve the climatic
conditions, environment, building resources and provide employment to thousands. Greater
I
investment in forestry, formation of separate social forestry departments, banning of export of
A
wood, control of pests will help conserve forests.
N
15. Crime against Women
N
Crime against women has been on the increase. It has much to do with the existing low
E
status of women. The violence is physical, mental, emotional, domestic and public. Various
H
measures as education, economic independence are taken. Yet they have not been succeeded in
preventing crimes against women.The range of crime against women is wide including rape,
C
wife beating, bride burning, child marriage, prostitution, sexual harassment etc. Destroying
the female foetus is on the increase. To stop this menace, the government has banned sex
-
determination tests. S
The causes for increasing crime against women can be attributed to the low status of
N
women. Women are considered as weaker sex. They become easy targets and victims during
IO
conflicting situations between two families or two communities. Women are habituated to
suffer in silence in homes and outside.
T
This attitude has to change drastically, against women to ensure that violence against
A
them does not take place. The laws have to be implemented strictly against the violators or
perpetrators of violence. Education of women is the foremost priority. We have to provide
IC
conditions to make them strong. Teach them self - defence. This which can help effectively
to solve the problem of violence against women. Developed nations which have resources to
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shift to green technology don’tn show much interest. Developing countries are short of funds
B
storms, cyclones etc. These Green House gases cause global warming and rise in Earth’s
C
A lot of imbalance has been created in nature by human activities resulting in floods,
E
storms etc. There are droughts and famines causing untold misery, death and destruction.
Both villages and urban centres are increasingly facing water shortage.
M
Water harvesting is recommended. The problem of over exploitation and pollution of our
water resources is really grave. It is predicted that within the next 30 years most of the people
will face moderate to severe water crisis, if remedial measures are not taken.
We need to have greater respect for the Earth and its environment. Our efforts to check
the global warming should include both preventive and curative measures. Long and short
term strategies to overcome pollution should also be implemented. Unskilled labourers suffer
a great deal. One machine replaces ten unskilled labourers. Earlier, hundred labourers were
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312 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
involved in deepening a pond. Now one earth moving vehicle does the whole job in a matter
of three days.
17. Man and Machine
In the absence of machines, work was done manually. After the invention of machines,
man made his life very comfortable. Daily chores like washing, cleaning, grinding, sweeping
were all done manually. These works were made easier after the invention of machines. Man
got accustomed to them that he could not pass a day without using them and became helpless
in their absence.
The machines are very useful and essential in the present day of speed. We can do the work
easier and better and also faster. It is not far from truth if we say that man has become a servant
I
to machines. Invention of certain machines has contributed to the growth of civilisation and
A
growth. The printing machine is one of the greatest inventions which has helped preservation
N
and distribution of knowledge worldwide. At present electronic machines have become a part
N
of man’s life. Machines have made man’s life easier and useful.
E
18. Discipline
H
Discipline is implicit obedience of the commands of a superior authority and acceptance
of punishment with a smile. If there is no discipline in life, there is anarchy. Life will become
C
disordered. Discipline reigns everywhere in nature. The Earth, the Planets, the Moon, the
Stars move around the Sun according to certain specific rules. If any of them violates the rule,
-
we cannot imagine what would happen. Even animals are disciplined.
S
The home is the first place where we should learn discipline from our parents. This trait
N
continues during study in educational institutions. Student phase is the most important stage
IO
in a man’s life. It lays the foundation for the future. The playground is another place where
we learn discipline.
T
In society, there is a great need for discipline. If individuals are permitted to do whatever
A
they want to do, or what they like, society will break up and civilization and progress will be
IC
destroyed. Lack of discipline among youth of the country may endanger national security.
19. My Idea of Happy Life.
L
Everyone wishes to live a happy life. But only few can tell what is happiness and how to
B
be happy. In my opinion, a happy life means that life which is free from cares and worries.
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This kind of life cannot be obtained through money. Only by habit of mind, such happiness
can be acquired.
Desire is the cause of worry. So if one wishes to be happy, one should be away from
Y
desires. A great writer has said that a person whose desires are not fulfilled will be unhappy.
C
At the same time, one whose desires are fulfilled will also be unhappy, because there is no
end to his desires.
R
However money is essential for living. I will be content if I get money that is just needed
E
to get on with life. I want to possess material only those that I need for myself. I know that
M
materials cannot give happiness. The more things I have, the more I desire to have. So my
priority will be to control desires.
Thus we see that a happy man is one who has enough to eat, has good health, contended
to lead a truthful life honestly, with faith in God. I wish to lead such a life.
20. National Integration
India is a multiracial, multi - religious country. It is a secular country where the people
of all religions live in harmony. They can worship without any hindrance to others, subject to
law and order. India has geographic variety. India is the best example of ‘Unity in Diversity’.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 313
Hundreds of languages are spoken in India. Hundreds of cultures are followed. Various castes
are there with different customs, rituals and practices.
Unfortunately, communal disturbances are on the increase nowadays. The gullible and
innocent people of the country being exploited of their religious fervour by vested interests.
Acts of violence, loot, murder are forced on the innocent people. The result is untold misery
to people for no fault of theirs.
An awakening and love of the country should be brought among the common people. The
illiterate and gullible people must be educated to understand that there is an imperative need
to live in harmony with others, lest the country will disintegrate.
21. Stephen Hawking
Stephen William Hawking was an English Theoritical Physist, Cosmologist, Author and
I
Director of Research at the centre of Theoritical Cosmology at the Cambridge University. He
A
was the first to set out a theory of Cosmology. It was a union of the general theory of relativity
N
and quantum mechanics.
N
He was a Fellow of the Royal Society and reciepient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
E
Hawkings had a rare early onset of motor neurone disease. It gradually paralysed him
over the decades. Even after the loss of his speech, he was still able to communicate through
H
a speech generating device. He died on 14th March 2018 at the age of 76. He is regarded as
C
one of the most brilliant theoritical physicists since Einstein.
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22. The Commonwealth Games
S
The Commonwealth Games are an International multi-sport event involving athelets
N
from the Commonwealth of Nations. The event was first held in 1930, and has taken place
every four years since then, except during the World War in 1942 and 1946.
IO
CGF, the Commonwealth Games Federation oversees and controls the programme and
selects the city for the games. Apart from many Olympic sports, the games also include
T
sports that are played predominantly in the Commonwealth countries. There are 53 member
A
The 2018 Commonwealth Games were held in Gold Coast, Australia from April 4th
to 15th. There were 275 events and 71 nations participated with 4426 competitors. India
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competed at the 2018 CWG. It was India’s 18th appearance. With 26 gold medals and a
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total of 66 medals, India finished 3rd in the tournament. It was India’s best position since the
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2010 games. It was a proud moment for India. P.V.Sindhu was the flag bearer for the opening
ceremony.
Write a paragraph of 150 words on the advantages and disadvantages of “Online Shopping”
Y
Nowadays many people prefer to shop online because of its numerous benefits. However,
C
the practice has disadvantages as well as advantages. It has both negative and positive aspects.
R
Advantages :
E
I
2. I received a lots of information. - I received a lot of information.
A
3. I am one of the best student in the class. - I am one of the best students in the class.
N
4. He run fast to catch the train. - He runs fast to catch the train.
N
5. Children should listened to their parents. - Children should listen to their parents.
E
6. I love listening music. - I love listening to music.
H
7. A born in 1966. - A was born in 1966.
8. Are you agree with me. - Do you agree with me?
C
9. I am not very good for cooking. - I am not very good at cooking.
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10. After class, students go to home. - After the class, students go home.
11. Probably he like play chess.
S
- Probably he likes to play chess.
N
12. I go everyday to school. - I go to school everyday.
IO
19. She prefers coffee than tea. - She prefers coffee to tea.
B
21. If you study well, you would pass. - If you study well, you will pass.
22. My dad is angry at me. - My dad is angry with me.
Y
24. Two and two makes four. - Two and two make four.
25. I cannot able to solve this. - I cannot solve this. (or) I am unable to
R
solve this
E
35. Neither of the boys are good. - Neither of the boys is good.
36. He has finished his meals. - He has finished his meal.
37. I bought a HMT watch. - I bought an HMT watch.
38. We discussed about the matter. - We discussed the matter.
39. She goes to school by foot. - She goes to school on foot.
40. She goes to college in car. - She goes to college by car.
41. He is confident on her success. - He is confident of her success.
42. Guilty must be punished. - The guilty must be punished.
43. I purchased furnitures from the shop. - I purchased furniture from the shop.
44. If they contacted me, I will help them. - If they contacted me, I would help them.
I
45. If you study well, you would pass. - If you study well, you will pass.
A
46. We read Bhagavadgita every day. - We read the Bhagavad Gita every day.
N
47. If I were a bird, I will fly. - If I were a bird, I would fly.
N
48. The principal with all the teachers were present.
E
The principal with all the teachers was present.
H
49. The three children divided the property between them.
C
The three children divided the property among them.
50. If you had run fast, you would catch the train.
-
If you had run fast, you would have caught the train. S
51. The colour of the curtains are very bright.
N
The colour of the curtains is very bright.
IO
2. In this shop they _____ the latest _____ phones. (cell, sell)
E
3. The plants are wet _____ to last nights _____. (dew, due)
M
4. I went to the _____ mill and later visited the _____ shop. (flower, flour)
5. If you sit _____ you cannot _____ the speech. (hear, here)
6. It takes one _____ for _____ car to reach the city. (our, hour)
7. The teacher asked, do you _____ the answer, the student said_____. (no, know)
8. I want to _____ my friend at the _____ shop. (meat, meet)
9. You _____ the lesson, if it is _____ you will get good marks. (right, write)
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316 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
10. His eye _____ is poor, he cannot visit his _____. (site, sight)
11. My _____ wakes up before the _____ rises. (sun, son)
12. Indian sportsmen have ____ gold medals ___ each in the games they participated. (one,
won)
13. We used to _____ cotton clothes when, we _____ playing, (were, wear)
14. Read this _____ by a doctor, it will _____ your depression. (lessen, lesson)
15. We respect our _____ for his _____. (principle, principal)
16. Sita has _____ a child who has _____ to the new place. (adopted, adapted)
17. He injured his _____ and it is yet to _____. (heal, heel)
I
18. Let us _____ that we shall not become a _____ to selfishness. (prey, pray)
A
19. The _____which I have _____ was very beautiful. (seen, scene)
N
20. The workers worked the _____ night to plug the _____ in the wall. (hole, whole)
N
21. There was no _____ for the cat till a _____ of bread was given to it. (piece, peace)
E
22. You are not _____ to talk _____ (aloud, allowed)
H
23. I attended the _____ meeting but I was _____ at the speeches. (bored, board)
24. He was very _____, he was asked to take rest for a _____. (week, weak)
C
25. As you _____ _____ you reap. (so, sow)
-
26. We went to _____ the _____ at sunrise. (sea, see)
S
27. The child _____ the ball _____ the window. (through, threw)
N
28. He _____ himself too often. He was punished for his _____. (absence, absents)
IO
29. The editor forgot to _____ the phone number in the _____. (ad, add)
30. He is the legal _____ of the king. His _____ is blond. (hair, heir)
T
31. He was taken to the _____ since the judge refused to _____ his death sentence. (alter,
A
altar)
IC
32. The Parliament has given its _____ for the Prince’s _____ to the throne. (ascent, assent)
33. An _____ register is maintained for the _____ who look after the patients. (attendants,
L
attendance)
B
__________________________________Answers______________________________________
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13. wear, were 14. lesson, lessen 15. principal, principle 16. adopted, adapted
C
17. heel, heal 18. pray, prey 19. scene, seen 20. whole, hole
R
21. peace, piece 22. allowed, aloud 23. board, bored 24. weak, week
E
25. sow, so 26. see, sea 27. threw, through 28. absents, absence
M
29. add, ad 30. heir, hair 31. altar, alter 32. assent, ascent
33. attendance, attendants
24. Homophones
1. There is a group which fears he would _____ to be democratic and _____ power for
himself. (seize/cease)
Ans: There is a group which fears he would cease to be democratic and seize power
for himself.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 317
I
7. They _____ two more persons to ____the flour to make 500 chapathis. (knead / need)
A
Ans: They need two more persons to knead the flour to make 500 chapathis.
N
8. It _____ that the cinema hall is bursting at the _____. (seams/seems )
N
Ans: It seems that the cinema hall is bursting at the seams.
E
9. When there was a _____ people _____ to cities. (fled / flood )
H
Ans: When there was a flood, people fled to cities.
10. Antony knew that nobody would give him any _____ if there was _____ in his speech
C
about Caesar. (praise / prize )
-
Ans: Antony knew that nobody would give him any prize if there was praise in his
speech about Caesar. S
N
11. The girl who had a lot of _____ in her hair told _____ about her credentials(lies / lice)
Ans: The girl who had a lot of lice in her hair told lies about her credentials.
IO
12. _____ politicians _____ away the public money. (while / vile )
Ans: Vile politicians while away the public money.
T
13. Unable to find her little brother in the _____ of seats in the gallerys he burst into
A
Ans: Unable to find her little brother in the tiers of seats in the gallery, she burst into
tears.
L
15. The people asked the political leaders _____ they _____ before the election was
announced. (were/where)
Ans: The people asked the political leaders where they were before the election was
Y
announced.
C
17. Keerthana told her _____ mate that she is the _____ representative of her dance
troupe. (sole / soul)
M
Ans: Keerthana told her soul mate that she is the sole representative of her dance
troupe.
18. Even while performing the funeral _____ the sons quarreled over their property
_____. (rights / rites )
Ans: Even while performing the funeral rites the sons quarreled over their property
rights.
19. Nobody can _____ the _____ plates because there is a video camera fixed near the
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318 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
Ans: They are unable to rise after hardwork because they eat only rice.
24. Have you ever _____ such a beautiful _____? (scene, seen)
N
Have you ever seen such a beautiful scene?
N
25. Catching a six _____ snake without any equipment is a rare _____ (feat / feet)
E
Ans: Catching a six feet snake without any equipment is a rare feat.
H
26. She decided to ___ no time when the doctor said her ___ was dangerously big.
C
(waist / waste)
Ans: She decided to waste no time when the doctor said her waist was dangerously
-
big
27. Fill in the blanks with the suitable word. S
N
The _____ of a horse is its _____ attraction. (main / mane)
IO
Supply suitable modal / quasi modal verb for the following sentences :
1. My grand mother _____ tell stories. (used to)
B
I
A
26. How _____ you disobey my words? (use a quasi modal verb)]
N
How dare you disobey my words?
27. He _____ prefer to take some rest. (quasi modal)
N
Ans: may
E
H
26. Modal Verb
C
1. A good teacher _____ make even boring lessons interesting (can/will)
Ans: will
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2. Eve teasers _____ be severely punished. (will/should)
S
Ans: will
N
3. I _____ like to hear you play the flute.
IO
Ans: would
4. You _____ not write on the wall.
T
Ans: should
A
Ans: would
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Ans: would
C
10. What is done _____ not be undone. (use the modal verb)
R
5. Check your school bag and time-table _____ you leave for school.
6. Everything was fine _____ Mr. Karuppaiah joined as Principal.
7. You should wait here _____ your mother comes back from her office.
8. _____ you get over your inhibitions, you will be a successful speaker.
9. Contact me _____ you hear from Tharun.
10. Tell me _____ you get any information from Sangeetha.
11. I respected her _____ I saw her.
12. Lots of things have happened _____ we met.
13. James could not walk _____ he was very tired.
14. _____ you don’t have Adobe PageMaker, you can’t open that file.
I
15. I’ll leave early _____ I can catch the train.
A
16. He works hard _____ he may be able to save money to buy a car.
N
17. The company sends e-mail greetings to all its employees _____ they start the year
N
in good spirit.
18. The hostel room was _____ small _____ four boys found it very difficult to share it.
E
19. The old lady was _____ tired _____ she collapsed on the road.
H
20. It is _____ a tiny desk _____ I can’t keep all my books.
C
21. You will catch the bus _____ you leave now.
22. He speaks _____ he were a millionaire.
-
23. She speaks _____ she were born with a silver spoon in her mouth.
S
24. You can use my camera _____ you don’t mishandle it.
N
25. He tried to learn _____ possible just one day before the final examination.
IO
28. She appeared for many competitive examinations _____ she passed in none of them.
A
32. Marie Curie continued to work hard _____ she was suffering from cancer.
B
34. _____ Train Ticket Examiners, thousands of farmers travel to Rameswaram from
Bihar every year without tickets.
35. _____ Hindi is an easy language, some do not want to learn it.
Y
38. _____ she tries hard, she can’t stop using abusive language.
E
49. Those _____ live in glass houses should not throw stones.
50. She did not know _____ to accept or reject the marriage proposal.
51. Those _____ are corrupt cannot escape the law for long.
52. _____ her father is a politician, she is very humble.
53. _____ he is careful, he cannot avoid further accidents.
54. No sooner the boss entered the cabin _____ the employees started talking.
55. No sooner did the child see her mother _____ she ran to her.
56. _____ you have any problem, please call me.
57. _____ the price of gold has spiralled up so fast, the craze for gold has not come down.
58. _____ you work hard, you will succeed.
59. Midas was very rich _____ he was very unhappy.
I
60. The instructions are so clear _____ even a child can understand them.
A
61. _____ the chief guest entered the auditorium, all rose to their feet.
N
62. Solve all the exercises in this book _____ you can improve your English.
63. The cute tiny tots gave bouquets to the VIPs _____ they reached the dias.
N
64. She is older _____ she looks.
E
65. _____ it rained, the private schools in Chennai were open.
H
66. _____ it was raining, we postponed our picnic.
C
67. _____ she is old, she is very brisk and active.
68. _____ he was very hungry, Oliver Twist asked for more.
-
69. _____ the doctor did his best, the old man passed away.
S
70. I respect him _____ he is a dedicated person.
N
71. Enemies cannot defeat you _____ you stay united.
IO
72. _____ Sangeetha had brought only four idlis, she shared them happily with all her
friends.
T
74. _____ it was very cold children loved to play with water.
IC
75. _____ they were poor, they were hardworking and honest.
76. Tell me _____ you broke your neighbour’s scale?
L
79. It is long _____ they have issued quality wheat in the ration shop.
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82. _____ she did not submit her assignments in time, the teacher scolder her.
83. Follow the instructions while installing a computer _____ you do some mistakes in
C
configuring it.
R
85. _____ the weather forecast was frightening, some fishermen ventured into the deeps
M
to catch fish.
86. _____ the cat is away, the mice are at play.
87. I’ll help you _____ I’m very tired.
88. _____ he had my phone number, he did not contact me.
89. I reached on time, _____ I missed my train.
90. _____ (he) being rich, he is humble.
91. _____ Venkat had only one sandwich, he shared it with his friend
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322 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
21. provided 22. as if 23. as though 24. as long as
25. as much as 26. Although 27. Though 28. though
N
29. Though 30. Though 31. Though 32. even though
N
33. inspite of 34. Despite 35. Though 36. wherever
E
37. whatever 38. Although 39. Although 40. Though
H
41. despite 42. what 43. when 44. so that
C
45. As 46. so that 47. lest 48. neither.. nor
49. who 50. either 51. who 52. Though
-
53. Unless 54. than 55. than 56. If
57. Though 58. If
S
59. yet 60. that
N
61. As soon as 62. in order that 63. as soon as 64. than
IO
d) Due to heavy rains, the cricket match was called off in Melbourne.
M
e) The film ‘Tara Zameen Par” has become a national celebrity in a month’s time.
[Law, Education, Communication, Weather, Media, Literature, Sport]
Ans: a) Literature b) Education c) Law d) Sports e) Media
a) The farmers are not happy with the procurement prices of paddy.
b) The opposition leader blamed the ruling party for the spiraling of prices of essential
commodities.
c) The doctor advised her to take only fruits, milk and bread.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 323
a) EDU-SAT helps Universities offer country wide classrooms using satellite technology.
b) The waterways of India need to be exploited fully.
c) Indian scientists are trying to find out a vaccine for HIV.
d) The Trojan virus has corrupted a few files in my teacher’s computer.
e) The Indian team surprised Ricky Ponting by taking a few early wickets in the first ten
overs.
[Astronomy, Medicine, Communication, Computer, Sports, Law, Transport ]
I
A
Ans : a) Communication b) Transport c) Medicine d) Computer e) Sport
N
a) All the IX std students joined the Eco club in our school.
N
b) The sky watchers’ club has arranged for a trip to Kavalur Observatory.
E
c) The Hovercraft travels fast both on land and water.
H
d) The Government Pleader wanted the judge to punish the erring institutes.
C
e) The MLA spoke against inflation in the Legislative Assembly
[Sports, Astronomy, Transport, Politics, Environment]
-
Ans : a) Environment b) Astronomy c) Transport d) Law e) Politics
S
N
a) Bopanna played well in the Bangalore National Open Tennis Tournament.
IO
b) Though the lawyer argued very well, the judge gave the verdict against the terrorist.
c) One doctor is trying to find medicine against ageing.
T
b) Sethu project in the Palk Strait faces stiff opposition from Hindu fundamentalists.
PU
a) Sania Mirza refused to play the National Open Tennis because of an allegation against
her.
b) The twinkle of stars has inspired even cave men.
c) Newton found the gravitational force from the fall of an apple.
d) Travel by bus has become cheap in Tamil Nadu.
e) My blood was tested in the lab.
[Astronomy, Science, Sports, Medicine, Law and Commerce, Transport]
Ans : a) Sport b) Astronomy c) Science d) Transport e) Medicine
I
b) Many lorries collided against one another due to poor visibility caused by dense fog
A
in America.
N
c) Though Indian rupee is growing in value, export business is facing a grim prospect
due to devaluation of American dollar.
N
d) There will be computer aided learning through out Tamilnadu in all Government
E
schools.
H
e) Halley’s comet was a feast to one’s eyes.
C
[Weather, Medicine, Science, Astronomy, Transport, Commerce, Education]
Ans : a) Science b) Weather c) Commerce d) Education e) Astronomy
-
a) Shree Shanth was in his element and took the last wicket in 20-20 World Cup.
S
b) The spiraling of oil prices has put communists on a war path against their ruling
N
partner.
IO
arrested.
A
PU
a. All the the Eco club in our school organized a camp on Covid - 19 awareness.
b. The sky watchers’ club has arranged for a trip to planatorium.
c. The bullet train travels fast.
d. The Government Pleader wanted the judge to punish the erring institutes.
e. The MLA spoke against inflation in the Legislative Assembly
[Sports, Astronomy, Transport, Politics, Environment]
Ans : a) Environment b) Astronomy c) Transport d) Law e) Politics
I
a) Balanced diet is good for health.
A
b) Sethu project causes carnoversies.
N
c) The Hindu Tamil is a good news paper.
N
d) It is usually chill in Kodaikanal.
E
e) India launched Mangalyan in 2014.
H
[Law, Space, Nutrition and Dietics, Politics, Computer, Media, Weather ]
C
Ans : a) Nutrition and Dietetics b) Politics c) Media d) Weather e) Space
-
S
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
N
1. Birds, of course fly with the help of their wings. They have very light frames. Their bones
are also light. Moreover, they have air sacs which make them even lighter. Their muscles
IO
are quite strong in comparison to their body weight. They have a streamlined body which
enables them to fly swiftly because air offers less resistance to streamlined objects. With
T
the help of these muscles, they can easily fly with their wings. When a bird flaps its
A
wings, it pushes the air down with its wings and rises above. Our bodies are heavier than
IC
those of birds. As such we would need enormously big wings. Again we do not have any
air sacs and our muscles are not comparatively that strong. Hence we cannot flap the
L
artificial wings.The birds with lighter bodies can fly more easily while the heavy birds
face difficulties while flying. For example, the cock and peacock cannot fly very high.
B
There are also birds like Ostrich and Penguin which are even heavier. They cannot fly
PU
at all. They can simply run. Thus we too cannot fly like birds even if we attach artificial
wings to our arms. Even though scientists tried to build machines with flapping wings,
they could not be successful in making man fly like a bird. This was so because human
Y
They have wings. Their frame is light. Their bones are light. Air sacs make their bodies
M
lighter.
ii. Why does air not resist birds in flight?
The birds have streamlined body. So, air does not resist it during flight.
iii. How does a bird fly?
When a bird flaps its wings, it pushes the air down with its wings and rises above.
iv. Why can’t a man fly?
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326 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Man’s body is heavy. His muscles are not strong compared to birds. There are no air sacs
to lighten the body weight. So, man cannot fly even with artificial wings.
v. Name some flightless birds.
Ostrich and Penguins are flightless birds.
2. Bread is a popular food in almost all the countries of the world. Its ingredients vary from
country to country. In most of the countries, however, bread is made from wheat or rye
flour. In some other places it is also made from rice, barley, potatoes, peas and beans.
According to the recorded history, the making of bread was started around 3000 B.C. in
Egypt. Yeast was also discovered there only. Nowadays the common bread is made from
I
dough prepared by kneading flour with water. A little yeast, sugar and salt are added to
A
it. The yeast causes the dough to rise by forming bubbles of carbon dioxide gas in the
N
dough. The dough is then formed into the shape of a loaf and baked in a loaf tin in the
N
oven. In the process of baking the gaseous bubbles burst resulting in small pores inside
the bread. It is mainly the yeast which gives the bread its taste and flavour. You can see
E
these pores very easily in any bread piece. Cakes also have pores in them, but they are
H
produced by the baking soda and not by the yeast. Baking soda, which is the mixture
C
of tartaric acid and sodium bicarbonate, is used in the preparation of cakes. When this
mixture is added to the dough and baked, carbon dioxide is produced. The bubbles of this
-
gas burst on baking causing small pores.
Questions and Answers:
S
N
i. What is bread made from?
IO
Yeast causes the dough to rise by forming bubbles of carbon dioxide gas in the dough.
PU
3. Dew drops are formed due to condensation of water vapours. Air around us contains
water vapours which we call as moisture or humidity. Hot air contains more moisture as
R
compared to cold air. During the night when the hot air comes into contact with some
E
cold surface, water vapour present in it condenses on the cold surface in the form of
M
droplets. These tiny drops of water are called dew drops. The process of dew formation is
more when the sky is clear and less when it is cloudy. When the sky is clear and the trees
and plants are cooler at nights, there is more evaporation of water and hence more dew
formation. But when it is cloudy, trees and plants do not get cool in the night and hence
there is less dew formation. As the sun rises high in the sky, these dew drops evaporate
into air.
Questions and Answers:
i. How are dew drops formed?
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 327
I
Hot air contains a lot of moisture.
A
N
4. The Dodo was a victim of human interference. It was a huge, flightless pigeon which lived
N
on the island on Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. Visiting sailors killed many Dodos for
E
food. And the cats, pigs and monkeys which the sailors brought with them destroyed the
dodos’ eggs. By 1681 all the dodos were dead – the dodo had become an extinct species.
H
Since then the Great Auk, the Passenger Pigeon and many other birds have also become
C
extinct as a result of human influence. Birds are also hunted as a sport by some people,
but increasingly they are being protected by laws throughout the world. However, around
-
the Mediterranean, millions of migrating birds are shot or trapped by hunters each year.
S
The rapid growth of the human population and the huge demand for natural materials
N
have resulted in the destruction of many of the places where birds live. Marshes are
IO
drained to make farmland, forests are cleared for timber or for space to build or to grow
crops, deserts increase in size because of over-grazing of pasture land by domesticated
T
animals. Even global warming caused by human pollution will affect bird population.
A
They lived in large numbers in the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean.
iii. Who added to the misery of Dodos?
The animals brought by sailors added to the misery of Dodos.
Y
5. Badgers are shy, nocturnal creatures. All kinds of badgers are good diggers, using the
long claws on their forelimbs to dig out food or make burrows called sets. European
badgers usually live in groups of up to 12 animals in sets, which may be occupied for
many generations. An ancient set may contain over 100 metres of tunnels, and a large
number of entrance holes and living and sleeping chambers. They also use their sets to
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328 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
escape predators, such as humans. Badgers are generally peaceable creatures. In spite of
their powerful teeth they feed mostly on small prey and plants. Their eyesight is poor, but
they have excellent senses of hearing and smell. Badgers have special glands under their
tails and with these they mark or ‘musk’ familiar objects. Young badgers even musk each
other as well as their playthings, and some species with unpleasant-smelling musk use it
for defence.
Questions and Answers:
i. When can one see badgers? Why?
One can see badgers only at nights because they are nocturnal creatures.
I
ii. Where do Badgers live?
A
They live in burrows.
N
iii. How do Badgers dig their sets?
N
Using long claws on their forelimbs, they burrow their sets.
E
H
iv. In what other ways do sets help Badgers?
Sets help badgers to escape from human predators.
C
v. How do Badgers manage with poor eye sight?
-
They have excellent sense of hearing and smell.
S
6. Bats eat a huge number of night-flying insects, including beetles, moths and flies such as
N
mosquitoes many of which are pests. Some tropical bats feed on larger prey, including
IO
other kinds of bats, small creatures such as mice and frogs, and even fish. Other bats of
warm countries feed on nectar and many of these are important pollinators. Some other
T
kinds eat fruit and may do damage in orchards. When they are not active, bats conserve
A
their resources by letting their temperature drop. In seasons when food is scarce bats that
IC
live in cool parts of the world hibernate, but a few species migrate to regions of plenty.
Three kinds of South American bat are called Vampires, because they feed only on fresh
L
blood. One species preys on large birds. The others hunts for sleeping mammals which
B
can include humans. Vampires are lights and agile, so their prey does not notice them as
they look for a place where there is little protection from fur of feathers. Using two very
PU
sharp incisor teeth, they make a scoop-like cut, which bleeds a great deal. The bat does not
suck the blood, but laps it up. A vampire bat does not take much blood at a single meal,
Y
but where there are lots of them, domestic animals may suffer greatly. More important
than blood loss is the fact that vampire bats may carry diseases, including rabies. Bats are
C
hunted by a few birds and mammals and at least one kind of snake, but human beings are
R
their main enemy. There are still large populations of many kinds of bats, but some are
E
They are called vampires because they feed only on fresh blood.
iv. Why do preys of vampires not notice them?
Vampires are light and agile. So, preys of vampires do not notice them.
v. How do vampires attack their prey and feed on blood?
Using two sharp incisor teeth, the vampires make a scoop like cut. They lap up the blood
of the victim.
7. Most of the trees and plants shed their leaves during autumn and new leaves sprout on
them during spring. After the defoliation they appear quite barren. The tree which shed
leaves every year are called ‘Deciduous trees’. However, there are other trees which do
I
A
not shed all their leaves at one time, and thus always appear green. Such trees are called
Evergreen trees. Do you know why this happens so? In fact, all the trees shed leaves. But
N
the leaves of the trees which undergo defoliation every year live only for one year. On
N
the other hand, leaves of the evergreen trees last for two to three years. As soon as a leaf
E
withers, it falls down. Among the well-known evergreen trees are pines and firs. Besides
H
these, there are many other trees which always remain green. The Italian Cypress found
in Europe is one such tree. The Olive plant also comes under the category of evergreen
C
plants. Its oil is very useful for us. The Magnolia plants are used for decoration because
-
their white flowers are very beautiful and do not have defoliation. Perfumes are extracted
S
from the evergreen plants of the Rosemary. The Juniper plants, having short and bitter
N
leaves which are found in North Britain, are famous for their greenness. In addition to
these, other evergreen plants and trees are myrtle of Britain, Oleander of North Africa,
IO
Oak tree, Ivy creeper, Orange tree and tall palm tree. The tea plant also comes under the
category of the evergreen plants.
T
decoration.
R
They have short bitter leaves. They are famous for their greenness.
M
8. I have always been attracted by people of unusual habits. By this, I do not imply hippies
and drop-outs or anyone of that band of unhappy people for whom modern society is too
sick and uncivilized to bear. No, I mean those quiet, orderly people, living apparently
blameless lives, who enrich their humdrum existences by adopting odd quirks and
passions, unlikely routines or harmless manias for useless objects. Like the Secretary I
had, who collected earwigs, though what she did with them I never knew. I believe that
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330 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
she loved them because they were small and thin like herself and had a way of scuttling
about in very much the same way she did. Life, I am sure, would be very much poorer
without such people in it. Sometimes, I feel I am lacking in personality, since I have none
of these strange habits, unless you count the fact that I never eat eggs unless they are
boiled in milk.
Questions and Answers:
i. What attracted the author?
The people with strange habits attracted the author.
ii. According to the author, who are the people who have unusual habits?
I
Ordinary quiet people leading faultless lives have passions or mania for useless objects.
A
They resort to odd quirks to possess them.
N
iii. What did the author’s Secretary collect?
N
The author’s Secretary collected ear twigs.
E
iv. Why did she love them, according to the author?
H
She loved them perhaps because they were thin like her. They had a way of scuttling
C
about in very much the same way she did.
v. Do you think that the author has any strange habit? If so, what is it?
-
Yes, I think it is strange to eat only those eggs which are cooked in milk. The author had
this eccentricity about him. S
N
9. Most penguins build their nests on the ground. They carry pebbles and plants from the
IO
beach and use them to build their nests. Often they steal pebbles from each other, if they
get the chance. Penguins usually lay two eggs and both parents crouch over the eggs to
T
keep them warm. Emperor penguins lay their eggs in the middle of winter. This is so
A
that the chicks will arrive early in the spring. An Emperor penguin lays only one egg.
IC
A father penguin takes this in front of his body and rests it on his feet. The chick sits
against his warm body until it is old enough to stand the cold. Even so, many chicks die
L
of cold before the spring comes. Penguins are good parents; while one is looking after
the chicks, the other brings food. It brings back fish and other small animals and when it
B
has chewed them a little, the chick pushes its head into the parent’s mouth to reach for the
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food. Later when the chicks are older, both the parents come out to feed together. All the
chicks stay together in one place where they keep themselves warm and safe from other
animals. Big birds will attack small penguins, but they do not often attack them if they
Y
10. India suffered for the first time, a heavy toll of life (over 9,000) and property (worth over
2000 crores of rupees) in its coastal states in the South as well as in the Andaman and
Nicobar Islands in the year 2004, due to the Tsunami. India would soon initiate steps to
join the 26 other countries which form a network to warn one another about Tsunamis.
The International Tsunami Warning System, set up in 1960 and located near Honolulu,
I
A
Hawai, would help India get advance information on when and where the Tsunami would
hit, at least two hours in advance. However, the Union Minister of State for Science and
N
Technology, stated subsequently that India has no such plans. Instead, India has decided
N
to procure a sea floor pressure recording system worth Rs. 125 crores from the USA,
E
which would send warning signals about approaching Tsunamis.
H
Questions and Answers:
C
i. When and where was the International Tsunami Warning System set up?
The International Tsunami Warning System was set up in 1960 and located near Honolulu
-
hawai. S
N
ii. How badly did the Tsunami affect India in 2004?
IO
More than 9000 people died. 2000 crore worth of property was lost as a result of Tsunami
devastation in 2004 in India.
T
iv. What would be the cost of the Sea Floor Pressure Recording System?
L
The cost of Sea Floor Pressure Recording System would be Rs. 125 crores.
B
11. The attempt to keep one’s treasures in a specially protected place, away from all harm,
C
is natural to all creatures. Human beings developed the ‘safe’ over a long period of time
after much trial and error. A safe has now come to mean any large room or box which is
R
used to keep valuables secure.The earliest examples of safes are from the medieval ages
E
in Europe. These safes were made of hard wood and bound with strips of hammered
M
iron for strength and decoration. They were artistic rather than secure. Cast iron safes
began to be made in England in early nineteenth century. Soon after this, safes began to
be constructed with thicker materials. More people began to buy safes because ‘with a
growth in trade and industry, people had more valuables which they needed to protect.
In 1856, a very famous burglary called the Cornhill burglary took place in England and
the demand for burglar-proof safes increased. In 1860, a patent was taken out by a safe
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332 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
manufacturer called Samuel Charwood for a new, improved safe. The conical holes in the
locking system made it impossible to be drilled through because the drill would get stuck
in the soft alloy. The interesting thing is that it is still in demand because it is the only
drill-proof safe known.
Questions and Answers:
i. What is a safe?
A safe is any large room or box used for keeping valuables secure.
ii. How were the earliest safes made?
I
The earliest safes were made of hard wood and bound with strips of hammered iron for
A
strength and decoration.
N
iii. What was the result of growth in trade and industry?
N
As a result of growth in trade and industry, people had earned valuables.
E
iv. Why was there an increase in demand for burglar-proof safes?
H
In 1856, a very famous burglary called Cornhill burglary took place in England. As a
C
result, the demand of burglar - proof safes increased.
-
v. What is special about Samuel Charwood’s safe?
S
Charwood’’s safe had conical holes in the locking system preventing drilling of the safe
N
by burglars.
IO
12. Today we don’t think of a cartoon as being associated with great art, but at one time it
was. During the period of Italian Renaissance, the term ‘cartoon’ meant the first sketch
T
in actual size of a large work of art, such as a mural (wall painting). When newspapers
A
and magazines began to use drawings to illustrate news and editorial opinion and to
IC
provide amusement, these drawings came to be known as cartoons. In the days before
the newspaper, artists like Hogarth, Daumier and Rawlandson made a series of drawings
L
single character. They were the ancestors of present day cartoons and comic strips. In
PU
the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, there were a number of magazines which
specialised in cartoons. In Paris, there was one called ‘Charivari’ and in London there
was the famous ‘Punch’. Nowadays movies based on cartoon characters are also made.
Y
Movies featuring Tom and Jerry, Dennis the Menace, Tarzan, Mickey Mouse and Donald
C
Cartoons were used in newspapers to illustrate news and editorial opinion and to provide
amusement.
ii. In what sense did the Italians use the term ‘cartoon’ during the Renaissance period?
During the Renaissance period, the Italians used cartoons as the first sketch of a large and
work of art like a wall painting.
iii. Who were the pioneers of the present-day cartoons and comic strips?
Artists like Hogarth, Daumier and Rawlandson were the pioneers of present day cartoons.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 333
iv. Name the two magazines mentioned in the passage which specialised in cartoons.
‘Chavivari’ and ‘Punch’ are the two magazines which specialised in cartoons.
v. Name one famous cartoon character you are familiar with.
Micky Mouse is a popular cartoon character.
13. So he crept downstairs and opened the front door quite softly, and went out into the
garden. But when the children saw him they were so frightened that they all ran away,
and the garden became winter again. Only the little boy did not run, for his eyes were so
full of tears that he did not see the giant coming. And the giant stole up behind him and
took him gently in his hand, and put him up on the tree. And the tree broke at once into
I
blossom, and the birds came and sang on it, and the little boy stretched out his two arms
A
and flung them round the giant’s neck, and kissed him. And the other children, when they
N
learnt that the giant was not wicked any longer, came running back, and with them came
the spring. “It is your garden now, little children,” said the giant , and he took a great axe
N
and knocked down the wall. And when the people were going to market at twelve o’clock
E
they found the giant playing with the children in the most beautiful garden they had ever
H
seen. All day long they played, and in the evening they came to the giant to bid him good-
C
bye.
Questions and Answers:
-
i. Why did most of the children run away? S
N
Most of the children were frightened of the giant. So, they ran away.
IO
ii. How did the trees respond to the retreat of boys from the garden?
They put on the mantle of winter again.
T
iii. Why did the little boy not join the other boys?
A
His eyes were too full of tears to notice the giant. So, he did not join the other boys.
IC
He lifted him and gently placed him on one of the branches of the tree.
B
14. One winter morning, he looked out of his window as he was dressing . He did not hate
the winter now, for he knew that it was merely the spring asleep, and that the flowers were
C
resting.Suddenly he rubbed his eyes in wonder, and looked and looked. It certainly was a
R
marvelous sight. In the farthest corner of the garden was a tree quite covered with lovely
E
white blossoms. Its branches were all golden, and sliver fruit hung down from them, and
M
underneath it stood the little boy he had loved. Downstairs ran the giant in great joy, and
out into the garden. He hastened across the grass, and came near the child. And when he
came quite close, his face grew red with anger, and he said, “Who hath dared to wound
thee?” For on the palms of the child’s hands were the prints of two nails, and the prints of
two nails were on his little feet.
“Who hath dared to wound thee?” cried the giant,” tell me, that I may take my big sword
and slay him.”
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334 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
“Nay!” answered the child, “but these are the wounds of love.”
“Who art thou?” said the giant, and a strange awe fell on him, and he knelt before the
little child.
And the child smiled on the Giant, and said to him, “You let me play once in your garden,
today you shall come with me to my garden, which is Paradise.”
And when the children ran in that afternoon, they found the giant lying dead under the
tree, all covered with white blossoms.
Questions and Answers:
i. Why did the giant not hate the winter any more?
I
A
The giant learnt that it was merely spring asleep. So, he did not hate the winter any more.
N
ii. What marvellous sight did the giant see one winter morning?
N
He saw the tree in the corner of his garden turn golden with silver fruits. It had white
E
blossoms.
H
iii. Who was under that beautiful tree?
C
The little boy, who kissed the giant, was under the tree
iv. Why did the giant become angry?
-
The giant saw nail marks on the palms and feet of the little boy. So he became angry.
S
N
v. How did the little boy offer to repay the giant’s kindness?
IO
you are going to work. “How can I,” said the Camel, “with this humph on my back?”
A
“That’s made a-purpose,” said the Djinn, “all because you missed those three days. You
will be able to work now for three days without eating, because you can live on your
IC
humph, and don’t you ever say I never did anything for you. Come out of the Desert and
go to the Three, and behave. Humph Yourself!”
L
And the Camel humphed himself, humph and all, and went away to join the Three. And
B
from that day to this the Camel always wears a humph (we call it ‘hump’ now, not to hurt
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his feelings); but he has never yet caught up with the three days that he missed at the
beginning of the world, and he has never yet learned how to behave.
Questions and Answers:
Y
16. The term plutocracy is generally used to describe these two distinct concepts : one of
historical nature and one of a modern political nature. The former indicates the political
control of the state by an oligarchy of the wealthy. Examples of such plutocracies include
the Roman Republic, some city-states in Ancient Greece, the civilization of Carthage,
the Italian city-states / merchant republics of Venice, Florence, Genoa, and pre - WWI
Empire of Japan Zaibatsus. Before the Equal Voting Rights Movement managed to end
it in the early 20th century, many countries used a system where rich persons had more
votes than poor. A factory owner may, for instance, have had 2000 votes while a worker
had one or if they were very poor no right to vote at all. Even artificial persons such as
companies had voting rights. Most western democracies permit partisan organizations
to raise funds for politicians, and political parties frequently accept significant donations
from various individuals (either directly or through corporations or advocacy groups)
I
i) What does the word ‘partisan’ mean?
A
a) A person close to the political party
N
b) Showing too much support to a particular person or a group
N
c) An organization being run by the son of party president
d) An organization that gives funds to the party
E
Ans : b) Showing too much support to a particular person or a group
H
ii) Which word in the passage mean “important”.
C
Ans : Significant
iii) State whether the following statement is True or False.
-
The poor were denied the right to vote. - True. S
iv) Name any two plutocratic countries.
N
Ans : Roman Republic & Ancient Greece.
IO
17. After the meal, the way we place our eating tools, our knives, forks, spoons or chopsticks
is also culturally defined. In Australia, when we finish eating the main course, we put the
T
knife and fork across the middle of the plate parallel to each other with the handles facing
A
towards us. When we are resting during the meal, we place the knife and fork across each
IC
other in the middle of the plate. In China, the chopsticks are placed crossways across
the top of the plate with the handles facing towards the right. In Indonesia, some people
L
place the fork and spoon like the Australians do but not all. Indonesia is a multi-cultural
B
Table manners are important because it reveals our culture and makes the dining room a
R
pleasant place.
E
c) What do you know about the table manners observed by the Australians?
M
Australians put the knife and fork across the middle plate parallel to each other with
handles facing towards the person.
d) How do the Chinese practice their table manners?
Chinese place chopsticks crossways across the top of the plate, with handles facing
towards the right.
e) Explain the Indonesian culture.
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336 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
a) Verb + Adjective b) Noun + Verb c) Noun + Adjective d) Verb + Noun
A
4. Washing machine
N
a) Gerund + Noun b) Noun + Gerund c) Verb + Gerund d) Gerund + Verb
N
5. Playground
E
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Verb + Adjective d) Adjective + Verb
6. Power supply
H
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Adjective + Noun d) Adjective + Verb
C
7. Timetable
-
a) Adjective + Noun b) Noun + Noun c) Verb + Noun d) Verb + Adjective
8. Cricket bat
S
N
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Noun + Noun d) Verb + Adjective
IO
9. Leaking pen
a) Gerund + Noun b) Noun + Gerund c) Verb + Noun d) Verb + Gerund
T
15. Checkpost
R
16. Moonlight
M
I
25. Toothpaste
A
a) Noun + Verb b) Noun + Noun c) Noun + Adjective d) Noun + Gerund
N
26. Passport
N
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Verb + Adjective d) Noun + Adjective
E
27. Watchman
H
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Verb + Adjective d) Adjective + Verb
28. Salt water
C
a) Verb + Noun b) Noun + Verb c) Noun + Noun d) Noun + Adjective
-
29. Tasty meal
a) Noun + Noun S
b) Adjective + Noun c) Verb + Verb d) Verb + Adjective
N
30. Train journey
IO
1. Noun + Verb
1. a) sunrise b) postman c) blackboard d) washing machine
2. a) swimmingpool b) race car c) carrace d) white wash
3. a) gold rush b) colour wash c) gas stove d) foot ball
4. a) post box b) house warming c) train ticket d) house hold
5. a) tight corner b) flower show c) full tank d) empty river
6. a) clear sky b) house fly c) home made d) rainy day
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338 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
2. Verb + Noun
I
1. a) hot soup b) ground stall c) playground d) best student
A
2. a) demand draft b) race horse c) setting sun d) hot sun
N
3. a) red flag b) rainy day c) gas chamber d) dustbin
N
4. a) white wash b) empty talk c) house warming d) flower show
E
5. a) child play b) car race c) playground d) pen drive
H
6. a) keep left b) sunrise c) narrow steet d) walk straight
7. a) nationalised bank b) clean paper c) snow white d) loving son
C
8. a) playground b) post man c) gold trust d) carrace
-
9. a) pen drive b) sunset c) child play d) stop clock
10. a) call taxi b) flower show
S
c) man made d) ground level
N
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. c) playground 2. a) demand draft 3. d) dustbin 4. b) empty talk
IO
3. Adjective + Verb
IC
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. b) dry clean 2. a) white wash 3. d) deep cut 4. a) long play
M
4. Noun + Adjective
1. a) snow white b) cell phone c) civil right d) dirt bike
2. a) grass root b) french fry c) mouth full d) help dash
3. a) junk food b) house page c) hot dog d) parrot green
4. a) loud noise b) knee deep c) light bulb d) life jacket
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 339
I
5. Adjective + Noun
A
1. a) airmail b) green house c) after thought d) afternoon
N
2. a) software b) anywhere c) airlive d) anybody
3. a) back yard b) back fire c) redshot d) bed room
N
4. a) by product b) Black board c) birthday d) blue print
E
5. a) electric light b) bench mark c) boy friend d) butter milk
H
6. a) cock pit b) camp fire c) chalk box d) free trade
C
7. a) hot water b) desk top c) clean up d) country side
8. a) loud speaker b) day light c) drive way d) door bell
-
9. a) eyeball b) eyelid c) low key d) fire proof
10. a) flow chart b) finger print S
c) foot ball d) old boy
N
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
IO
6. Noun + Noun
1. a) apple tree b) highway c) headset d) headache
L
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
M
7. Preposition + Noun
1. a) ship wreck b) red head c) after life d) snow flake
2. a) spot light b) snow storm c) some how d) back ground
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340 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
5. b) under dog 6. a) out patient 7. d) over lap 8. a) under ground
A
9. b) upstairs 10. c) over night
N
N
32. Correct Word for the given Definition
E
Choose the correct word for the given definition.
H
1. The process of listening to an audio file and writing what has been said verbatim.
C
a) Translation b) Transcription c) Narration d) Transliteration
2. A piece of narrative writing in which the writer recapitulates his travel experience.
-
a) Travelogue b) Travalator c) Autobiography d) Travelite
S
3. The means of communication which reaches out to millions of people all over the
N
word.
IO
5. Learn whatever you want to learn at your own pace, place and time.
A
a) Cliche b) Article
B
7. An abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounced as a
word.
a) Simile b) Metaphor c) Acronym d) Abbreviation
Y
10. In poetry the repetition of consonant sounds in the beginning of words in a line.
a) Rhyme b) Alliteration c) Hyperbole d) Rhyme Scheme
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. d) Transliteration 2. a) Travelogue 3. d) Mass Media
4. b) Cliche 5. a) Self directed Learning 6. c) Eponymous words
7. c) Acronym 8. a) Personification 9. d) Gap Fillers 10. b) Alliteration
Choose the suitable meaning for the idiom used in the sentence.
1. He was arrested and put in jail. Adding insult to injury his property was attached.
a) worsen an already unfavourable situation
b) insulting the police
c) causing injuries d) badly treated
2. He is beating about the bush, while he is expected to be brief and straight forward.
a) give long explanation b) going around the bush
c) being brief d) avoid main topic
3. He missed the train and felt sorry. But it was a blessing in disguise for him as the train
met with an accident.
a) to go in a new dress b) blessed with favour
I
c) favour not recognised first d) to cover your face
A
4. He did well in the interview and was selected by two reputed companies. He is caught
N
between two stools.
N
a) not interested b) happy to choose c) easy to choose d) difficult to choose
E
5. You incurred loss last year. Why cryover spilit milk when things are getting right now?
H
a) take steps to gain b) think of present status
c) complain of past loss d) recover from loss
C
6. He invested huge money in shares and counting his chicken before they are hatched.
-
a) depend on something hoped b) uncertain if it will happen
c) certain to happy S
d) likely to happen
N
7. They finally saw eye to eye on the business deal
IO
11. They really cut corners when they built this bathroom. The shower is leaking.
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15. You always speak of the importance of charity, but never do anything Actions speak
louder than words.
a) words are important b) words greater than actions
c) actions are important d) actions greater than words
16. The ancestral property became an apple of discord among the brothers.
a) cutting the cards b) causing in health c) causing trouble d) making friends
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342 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
17. I gave my car to a new machanic for repair. I hope he delivers the goods.
a) do what is expected b) deliver in time
c) repair cheaply d) repair in time
18. Choose the meaning of the idiom “Back to the wall”
a) In serious difficulty b) abandoning one who is in difficulty
c) try any method to overcome a crisis d) sign of something going wrong
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
1. a) worsen an already unfavourable situation 2. d) avoid main topic
3. c) favour not recognised first 4. d) difficult to choose
5. c) complain of past loss 6. a) depend on something hoped
I
A
7. c) agree 8. a) rarely
9. b) easy 10. a) reveal a secret
N
11. b) done badly 12. c) good luck
N
13. a) easy 14. a) very precious
E
15. d) actions greater than words 16. c) causing trouble
H
17. a) do what is expected 18. a) in serious difficulty
C
34. Common Idoms
-
1. to rise against – to revolt
2. to have a hand – involved S
N
3. for the good of – for the benefit of
IO
4. to be made of – consist of
5. to bear with – to tolerate
T
8. put on – to wear
9. out of doors – to stay outside the home.
L
Answers
M
I
18. If Antony had the power, he would put a tongue to the wounds of Caesar.
A
35. Articles
N
Fill in with articles.
N
1. _____ computer can do all those activities which _____ human brain can do.
E
2. He is _____honest worker. _____ boss likes him most.
H
3. The king liked _____ garden. It was ______ beautiful garden.
C
4. Caesar was ______ honourable king. He was killed by ______ conspirators.
5. English is ______ International language. It is spoken by people all over _____
-
world.
S
6. Rahim studied in _____ University. He has ______ M.A. degree.
N
7. She is _____ European. She has _____ U.S. passport.
8. Where there is _____ will, there is _____ way.
IO
11. Honesty is _____ best policy. _____ honest man is always respected.
A
16. Have you seen _____ one rupee note? It is _____ smallest denomination.
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21. I visited _____ Himalayas last year. It was _____ great visit.
R
22. _____ Taj Mahal is a wonderful building. It was built by _____ Mughal King.
E
23. I gave him _____ book he wanted. It was _____ drama by Shakespeare.
24. I met _____ beggar who was dumb. _____ beggar asked for alms.
M
22. The, a 23. the, a 24. a, the 25. A, the 26. The, an
36. Syllabification
1. Choose the di syllabic word.
1. a) issue b) internal c) mutiny d) heroic
2. a) magical b) daughter c) energy d) luxury
3. a) remedy b) Indian c) thousand d) legacy
4. a) element b) another c) century d) reversed
5. a) platform b) popular c) imagine d) visitor
6. a) modify b) concern c) creator d) internal
I
7. a) scramble b) interval c) dramatic d) exercise
A
8. a) resident b) battered c) religion d) attitude
N
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
N
1 - a) issue 2 - b) daughter 3 - c) thousand 4 - d) reversed
E
5 - a) platform 6 - b) concern 7 - a) scramble 8 - b) battered
H
2. Choose the Tri syllabi words.
C
1. a) interval b) scramble c) dispute d) thousand
-
2. a) scramble b) magical c) concern d) winked
3. a) issue b) every c) Indian d) women
S
N
4. a) moral b) donkey c) silent d) luxury
5. a) heroic b) master c) narrow d) beggar
IO
I
17 - c) experience 18 - d) generation 19 - a) experience 20 - b) illiterate
A
N
4. Choose the words having five syllables.
N
1. a) accomodation b) locality c) enormity d) security
E
2. a) military b) association c) equality d) morality
H
3. a) efficacy b) atrocity c) futility d) classification
4. a) determination b) memorable c) publicity d) dominated
C
5. a) kilometer b) examination c) immediate d) inherited
-
6. a) espicially b) cultivator c) incredble d) imagination
7. a) experience b) ambassador c) multimedia
S d) implementation
8. a) investigation b) interested c) particular d) irrelevent
N
9. a) metropolis b) justification c) astrologer d) ultimately
IO
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
C
1. platform
a) plat / form b) p / lat / form c) pala / t / fo / rm d) p / lat / form
2. interval
a) In / ter / val b) int / er / val c) in / te / rval d) int / erva / l
3. heroic
a) her / o / ic b) he / ro / ic c) hero - ic d) he / r / oi / c
4. another
a) a / no / ther b) an / other c) a / not / ther d) an / o / th / er
5. memorable
a) memo / ra / ble b) mem / o / ra / ble c) me / mora / ble d) me / mo / ra / ble
I
A
6. dominated
a) mo / mi / na / ted b) domino / at / ed c) dom / i / nat / ed d) dom / ino / at / ed
N
7. university
N
a) uni / ver / sity b) u / ni / ver / si / ty c) univ / er / sity d) uni / vers / ity
E
8. occupation
H
a) o / ccu / pa / tion b) occu / pa / tion c) oc /cu / pa / tion d) oc / cup / ation
9. eagerly
C
a) eager / ly b) ea / ger / ly c) ea / gerl / y d) e / ager / ly
-
10. artisan
a) ar / ti / san b) art / i / san
S
c) art / is / an d) ar t / isan
N
11. cultivation
IO
13. dominated
a) domin / a / ted b) do / mi / na / ted c) dom / i /nat / ed d) do / min / ated
IC
14. scramble
a) scram / ble b) scr / am / able c) scra / m / ble d) scram / able
L
15. qualification
B
I
14. We are on a holiday. - vacation
A
15. Use torch if it is dark. - flashlight
N
16. The autumn did not visit the garden. - fall
N
17. Your trousers are looking good. - pants
E
18. This car runs on petrol. - gasolene
H
19. There is a long queue before the booking office. - line
C
20. There is a large place for carpark. - parking lot
21. Chennai has many flyovers. - over pass
-
22. The jug is leaking. - pitcher
S
N
23. Use the main road to reach quickly. - highway
IO
I
47. off-licence liquor store 48. pub bar
A
49. shop store 50. workshop/garage shop
N
51. anti clockwise counter clockwise 52. dynamic car alternator
N
53. engaged busy 54. lady bird lady bug
55. mobile phone cell phone 56. candle wax parafin
E
57. paraffin kerosene 58. ring call
H
59. draughts checkers 60. aerial antenna
C
61. answer phone answering machine 62. bin garbage bags
63. blower the telephone 64. brush broom
-
65. carrier bag shopping bag 66. cooker oven
67. cot crib S
68. currency bill
N
69. fuel stop period 70. anesthetist anesthesiologists
IO
85. fly over over pass 86. hire car rental car
B
89. corn flour corn starch 90. jacket potato baked potato
91. mince ground meat 92. tinned canned
93. autumn fall 94. bill check
Y
I
A
145. prison penitentiary 146. stupid dumb
147. coffin casket 148. timber lumber
N
149. water tap faucet 150. time table schedule
N
151. dressing table dresser 152. cyclist cycler
E
153. public school private school 154. taxi cab
H
155. terminus terminal 156. care taker janitor
157. rubbish garbage 158. read study
C
-
39. Sentence Pattern
1. We / won / the match. S
N
S V O
2. Everyday / Mother Teresa / watched / the lepers / suffering / in the streets.
IO
A S V O C A
3. You / returned / the book.
T
S V O
A
S V A
5. She / became / an Engineer / in 2004.
L
S V C A
B
S V O
7. God / gives / us / knowledge.
Y
S V IO DO
8. Prathiba Patel / was elected / President of India / at Delhi / in 2007.
C
S V O C A
R
A S V O
M
A S V O
14. She / bought / a toy / in Spencer plaza / yesterday.
S V O C A
15. Kalpana / is / a doctor.
S V C
16. They / made / Yuvan / a musician / recently.
S V O C A
17. The Principal / gave / Anitha / a scholarship.
S V IO DO
18. She / was / happy.
I
S V C
A
19. Last week / she / got / Meena / a car.
N
A S V IO DO
N
20. I / wrote / a play.
E
S V O
H
21. Generally / he / is / punctual.
A S V C
C
22. Ram / is / a mechanic.
-
S V C
23. Meena / gave / Monisha / a diamond necklace.
S
N
S V IO DO
24. The president / arrives / tomorrow.
IO
S V A
25. Suresh / is / a carpenter.
T
S V C
A
S V A
27. Mrs. Girija / was made / the Commissioner of the Municipality / recently.
L
S V C A
B
28. Yesterday / the priest / named / the girl / Sunitha / in the temple.
PU
A S V O C A
29. Every week / he / writes / letters.
A S V O
Y
A S V C
R
A S V VO O C A
33. One day / I / saw / a saint.
A S V O
34. Every day / he / worships / God.
A S V O
35. They / sent / the dishonest servant / out.
S V O A
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 351
I
A S V O
A
42. Next year / she / will buy / her mother / a flat.
N
A S V IO DO
N
43. Last year / they / gave / us / a memento.
E
A S V IO DO
H
44. One day / I / saw / a saint.
C
A S V O
45. Every day / he / worships / God.
-
A S V O
46. Usually / she / gets / angry. S
N
A S V C
IO
47. Ramnath Govid / was elected / the President of India / at Delhi / in 2017.
S V O C A
T
S V IO DO
49. She / works / in Pune.
IC
S V A
L
1. Vertices
E
2. Indices
a) Indice b) Index c) Indi d) Indo
3. Scissors
a) scissor b) scissores c) scissors d) sciss
4. Pants
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352 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
a) syllabus b) syllabuses c) syllabum d) syllabic
A
9. oases
N
a) oasescs b) oasis c) oasin d) ocean
N
10. data
E
a) datas b) dates c) date d) datum
H
11. cacti
C
a) cactus b) cact c) cactum d) cactis
-
12. diagnoses
a) diagnise b) diagnosis
S c) diagnol d) diagnals
N
__________________________________Answers__________________________________
IO
1. Index _____
B
2. Alumnus
a) Alumni b) Alumnes c) Alumneses d) Alums
Y
3. Analysis
C
4. Phenomenon
E
5. Criterion
a) Criteria b) Creterium c) Criteries d) Crites
6. Mouse
a) mouses b) mice c) mices d) mous
7. Bacterium
a) Bacteria b) Bacteriums c) Bacterias d) Bacteriem
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 353
8. Focus
a) focusis b) focuses c) focusem d) foci
9. Nucleus
a) nuclesus b) nucleuses c) nuclei d) nucleum
10. Thesis
a) theses b) thesies c) thesium d) thesos
11. datum.
a) datas b) dates c) date d) data
______________________________________Answers__________________________________
I
1. a) Indices 2. a) Alumni 3. d) Analyses 4. b) Phenomena 5. a) Criteria
A
6. b) mice 7. a) Bacteria 8. d) foci 9. c) nuclei 10. a) theses
N
11. d) data
N
E
42. Direct Speech & Indirect Speech
H
Change into Direct Speech.
1. The tourist exclaimed that it was a very great piece of art.
C
Ans : The tourist said, “What a piece of art is this!” (or) “What a piece of art it is!”
-
2. The student told the teacher that he came to college because his parents forced him to go.
S
Ans : The student said to the teacher, “I come to college because my parents force me to
N
go.”
IO
3. The clerk told the man that the tickets were not available for the evening show.
Ans : The clerk said to the man, “The tickets are not available for the evening show.”
T
4. The patient told the doctor that he had a severe pain in the stomach.
A
Ans : The patient said to the doctor, “I have a severe pain in the stomach.”
IC
6. The tourist exclaimed that the Taj Mahal was a very wonderful building.
B
Ans : The tourist said, “What a wonderful building the Taj Mahal is!”
PU
9. They said they were attending the marriage and that they would leave the next day.
R
Ans : They told, “We are attending the marriage. We will leave tomorrow.”
E
10. The teacher asked Rahim, why he had not submitted the assignment.
M
Ans : The teacher said to Rahim, “Why didn’t you submit the assignment?”
11. I told my teacher I had forgotten my note book and that I would bring it the next day.
Ans : I said to my teacher, “I have forgotten my note book. I will bring it tomorrow.”
12. Peter told James where would he be the next day incase he had to meet him.
Ans : Peter said to James, “Where will you be tomorrow, in case I have to meet you.”
13. Anil told Anuj that he had just come to see him and that it was long since they had met.
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354 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Ans : Anil said to Anuj, “I have just come to see you. It is long since we have met.”
14. The student told the Manager that he was a student and asked if he could open an account
there.
Ans : The student said to the Manager, “Sir, I am a student. Can I open an account here?”
15. The teacher asked him to complete the homework and then enter the class.
Ans : The teacher said to him, “Complete the home work and then enter the class.”
I
Rewrite as directed. (into a complex sentence)
A
1. Rajan saw a tiger and ran away.
N
Ans : When Rajan saw a tiger, he ran away.
N
2. Barking dogs do not bite.
E
Ans : Dogs which bark, do not bite.
H
3. He tried his best but, he could not pass the exam.
C
Ans : Though he tried his best, he could not pass the exam.
4. On hearing the joke, everyone laughed.
-
Ans : Everyone laughed, when they heard the joke.
5. He is rich, but he is not happy. S
N
Ans : Though he is rich, he is not happy.
IO
Ans : He must work hard and make up for the lost time
5. The teacher punished him for disobdience.
Ans : The boy was disobedient and so the teacher punished him.
6. I am certain you have made a mistake.
Ans : You have made a mistake and I am certain of this.
7. Since he could not afford to buy his college books, he usually studied in the library.
Ans : He could not afford to buy his college books, therefore he usually studied in the
library.
I
A
Ans : In the event of not making haste, you will miss the train.
N
2. I happened to see a man who was blind.
N
Ans : I happened to see a blind man.
3. He finished his exercise and put away his books.
E
Ans : Having finished his exercise, he put away his books.
H
4. We must eat or we cannot live.
C
Ans : We must eat to live.
-
5. Tell me where you live.
Ans : Tell me your address. S
N
6. I have no advice that I can offer you.
IO
Rewrite as directed.
1. He did not study well. He did not pass in the examination. (combine using ‘if’)
Y
Ans : If he did not study well, he would not pass in the examination.
C
2. The boy did mischief. He was punished. (combine using relative clause)
R
3. They are the people. They bought the house. (combine using relative clause)
M
7. This woman came and spoke to me. I had never met her. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : The woman whom I had never met came and spoke to me.
8. The girl is standing there. She is the world champion. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : The girl who is standing there is the world champion.
9. The restaurant is nice. I had dinner there. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : The restaurant where I had dinner is nice.
10. I need the book. It is on the table. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : The book that I need is on the table.
11. The apple is sweet. It is lying on the table. (combine using relative clause)
I
Ans : The apple which is lying on the table is sweet.
A
12. I know the man. He lives near the school. (combine using relative clause)
N
Ans : I know the man who lives near the school.
N
13. He is the man. His bike is stolen. (combine using relative clause)
Ans : He is the man whose bike is stolen.
E
14. This is the house. I was born there. (combine using relative clause)
H
Ans : This is the house where I was born.
C
15. Most of the guests came. She invited them. (combine using relative clause)
-
Ans : Most of the guests whom she invited, came.
45. Passive Voice S
N
Change into passive voice of the following sentences :
IO
Ans : A poem has been written by Gopi. He was appreciated by the Principal.
IC
Ans : Children are liked by Sita. They were given sweets by her.
5. The students arranged an exhibition. The Collector inaugurated it.
PU
Ans : An exhibition was arranged by the students. It was inaugurated by the Collector.
6. India won the cricket match. The Minister congratulated the team.
Y
Ans : The cricket match was won by India. The team was congratulated by the minister.
7. I have seen the pictures. Ravi Varma painted them.
C
Ans : The pictures have been seen by me. They were painted by Ravi Varma.
R
9. Johnson compiled a dictionary. People all over the world use it.
Ans : A dictionary was compiled by Johnson. It is used by people all over the world.
10. Stanley had built a reservoir. The farmers are using it for agriculture.
Ans : A reservoir had been built by Stanley. It is being used by the farmers for
agriculture.
11. The Government was building a flyover. People welcomed it.
Ans : A flyover was being built by the Government. It was welcomed by the people.
12. I will read the poem. The teacher will congratulate me.
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 357
Ans : The poem will be read by me. I will be congratulated by the teacher.
13. The policeman saw the thief. He caught him redhanded.
Ans : The thief was seen by the policeman. He was caught redhanded by him.
14. Rain brings water. People use water for drinking.
Ans : Water is brought by rain. Water is used by people for drinking.
15. Scientists discovered Plastics. Plastics have replaced metals.
Ans : Plastics were discovered by scientists. Metals have been replaced by Plastics.
16. He has committed a mistake. The teacher punished him.
Ans : A mistake has been committed by him. He was punished by the teacher.
17. He reads novels. Great novelists wrote them.
Ans : Novels are read by him. They were written by great novelists.
I
18. He won a prize. His mother appreciated him.
A
Ans : A prize was won by him. He was appreciated by his mother.
N
19. Children like sweets. Parle produces them.
N
Ans : Sweets are liked by children. They are produced by Parle.
E
20. I wrote a letter. I will post it tomorrow.
Ans : A letter was written by me. It will be posted by me tomorrow.
H
21. Vani wrote a letter to the editor. She posted it yesterday.
C
Ans : A letter to the editor was written by Vani. It was posted by her yesterday.
-
46. Use given words (Noun, Verb, Adjective and Adverb)
Use the word as Noun, Verb, Adjective and Adverb.
S
N
1. Accept - His proposal was accepted. - verb
IO
I
10. Continue - The Department decided to continue with the present syllabus. - Verb
A
There is no continuity in his speech. - Noun
N
He hit three sixes continuously. - Adverb
N
There is continuous rain for the last one hour. - Adjective
E
11. Damage - A lot of damage is done to the crops. - Noun
H
The crops are damaged heavily. - Verb
C
The system was brought in a damaged condition. - Adjective
12. Decide - I have decided to join the Engineering course. - Verb
-
My decision to join Engineering is supported by my parents. - Noun
S
India has got a decisive lead in the match. - Adjective
N
13. Delight - He was delighted when he got distinction. - Verb
IO
15. Encourage- The teacher encouraged the students to study well. - Verb
Shivaji is known for his courage. - Noun
Alexandar was a courageous emperor. - Adjective
Y
I
A
He succeeded in convincing his parents. - Verb
N
John had a successful career as a doctor. - Adjective
N
He completed all his projects successfully. - Adverb
E
22. Break - We have lunch break for only 30 minutes. - Noun
H
Don’t break the glassware while you play. - Verb
C
23. Sound - Excess sound damages the ears. - Noun
The Manager sounded his staff about the impending charges. - Verb
-
This new born is highly soundable. - Adjective S
24. Free - Free gifts are given to those who buy for more than Rs. 1000. - Noun
N
The convicts were freed as there was no evidence against them. - Verb
IO
1. Study the following bar graph and write three sentences on your inferences about the data.
B
2. As the state has given free bus pass, 400 students take
government bus to school.
3. Very few students are dropped at the school by car.
Y
C
R
E
M
2. Study the following bar graph which gives details of vehicles passing through GST road between
6 am to 6 pm. Write three sentences on your inference.
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360 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Legend
Two wheelers
1. A large numbers of two wheelers ply the
10000
9000
Lorries road both in the morning and evening hours.
8000
Buses
2. Very minimum buses are available between
7000
6000
12 to 3 pm.
5000 3. Buses help in transporting large number
4000
3000
of passengers during the whole day except
2000 lean hours of the day.
1000
I
3. Study the following bar graph which gives details of expenditure of Mr. Ibrahim’s family. Write
A
three sentences on your inference.
N
Mr. Ibrahim’s monthly expenditure
N
20000
18000 1. Mr. Ibrahim has a large family and spends
most of this earning to feed his family.
E
16000
H
12000
10000
only to food.
C
3. He is able to invest only about 10% of
8000
6000
4000 his whole earning for the education of his
-
2000 children.
Food Rent Education Phone E.B
S
Bill Bill
N
4. Study following bar graph and write three sentences on your inferences about the data.
IO
100
90
expenditure.
A
70
40
30 3. Balan’s family is spending more than what
B
20
is earned. Their financial health is not very
PU
10
sound.
Kumar James Balan
5. Study the following bar graph which gives datails of fluctation in petrol prices in the last four
Y
100
satisfactory level.
E
90
80 2. In January 2020, there was a dip in petrol prices.
M
70
60 3. After February 2020, the price shot upto 78
50
rupees a litre which is high compared to the
dip in procurement prices of crude oil.
40
30
20
10
I
Take right on Gandhi Road.
A
Walk beyond signal on to Gandhi Road extention.
N
Signal Gandhi Road
X Extn.
Take left.
N
You are here
It will lead to the Railway Station.
E
Shopping Mall
H
C
3. Give directions to reach Bus Stop.
-
Walk straight.
You are here 2nd Street
S
Take right at 2nd street junction.
N
Bank Proceed beyond Park.
IO
Park
You will reach the Bus Stop.
T
Bus Stop
A
Walk straight.
L
Signal
100 Feet Road
You will find Grand Hotel
Arya Bhavan
Opposite to Arya Bhavan.
Y
Walk straight.
E
Shopping Mall
X
School
You are here Shopping Mall.
Walk straight.
Second Street
Indian
Bank Police Station
I
Walk straight.
A
School Cinema Theatre Take right walk beyond signal and park on the
N
road.
l
na
N
Sig
Park Shopping Mall You will find the Cinema Theatre opposite to
E
You are here
Shopping Mall.
H
Med Plus
C
8. Give directions to reach Football Stadium.
-
Walk straight.
Foot Ball GNT
S
Take left at the Junction.
Gold
N
Stadium Palace Bus stop
Proceed furthur beyond GNT and Signal.
IO
Signal
BATA
You will find the Football Stadium on your
right.
T
Show
A
Marraige
Walk straight.
B
Hall
Govt.
Take left on Rajaji Road.
PU
School
Walk beyond bus stop and cross the junction
Rajaji Road
on left and again on right.
Bus
You will find the Marriage Hall on right.
Y
stop
Commissioner
Office
C
Walk straight.
M
your left.
High
School
Park
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 363
I
right time to make full use of the opportunity.
A
4. Waste not want not :
N
This proverb is applicable at all times. If we waste the resources we have to suffer.
N
National resources, especially water is depleting. Wastage should be stopped to help the future
E
generations.
H
5. Pen is mightier than the sword :
C
Writers can influence the opinion of the people. If all the people are well informed, the
mighty cannot withstand the anger of the enlightened public. The proverb says that writings
-
are stronger than physical strength of the rulers.
6. Actions speak louder than words : S
N
What one does is more important than what one speaks. People listen to your words
and may forget, but if you put your words to action, you will be hailed. Preaching without
IO
practising is of no use.
T
This proverb tells that one should not wait for an opportunity to come. One should work
hard to achieve success. If you begin to work hard, you will gain confidence. It helps you
IC
A highly educated genius may appear simple by his looks and dress.
PU
that person or thing more, when you see them or it again. The proverbs meaning is directly
conveyed. This is opposite of the proverb “Familarity breeds comtempt”.
C
You must begin something if you wish to complete it. Something that takes a long time to
E
finish begins with one step. Start, work with perseverance to reach the goal.
M
I
A
16. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you :
You should never make some one angry or hurt, who is helping you and paying for you.
N
It will be called ingratitude which is a serious sin.
N
17. Don’t judge a book by its cover :
E
Appearance is always deceptive. So any person or thing should not be judged by the
H
outside appearance. You should peep into his personality to understand the worth or character.
C
18. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today :
This proverb is very important for all, especially for students. Postponement of work will
-
end in lethargy and failure. If you can do something today, do it. Don’t wait until tomorrow.
You may miss the bus.
S
N
19. Fortune favours the brave :
IO
People who are brave and who take risks are more successful than people who do things
safely at home, because even failures teach lessons. One should bravely face the situation to
win it.
T
A
if the mission fails. One should ready himself to face the worst situation. Only then, one will
not be cowed down by disappointments.
L
It is scientifically proved that laughter cures many diseases. When you are in a difficult
PU
situation, laughing can make it easier to get through that situation. Laughter makes the mood
lighter.
22. Practice makes perfect :
Y
True in case of sportsmen and students. The more you do something, the better you will
C
become at it. Constant practice removes your faults and you will become perfect.
R
It is literally true. People who wake up early or who get to the places early have a better
chance of success. If you go late, you will meet only emptiness.
M
Notice
Students are informed that our School Science Club will be inaugurated on 20th
July 2020 at 3 pm in our school auditorium. Dr. Venkat will inaugurate the club and
deliver the address. All students are required to attend the same without fail.
Thank you,
Satish,
Secretary,
I
Science Club.
A
2. You are Raghav. Sports secretary of your school. Order sports goods for your school by email.
N
To : [email protected]
E
Sub : Ordering sports goods
H
Dear Sir,
C
Please send the following sports goods for our school and forward the bill to our
school with details of your bank a/c. Money will be transferred to your a/c on receipt
-
of the goods.
1. Cricket bats - 4
S
N
2. Cricket balls - 10
IO
3. Stumps - 8.
Raghav
T
Sports Secretary.
A
3. You are Sharmila. President of Science Club. Send a notice about a Seminar.
IC
Notice
L
Students are informed that a Seminar on ‘Pollution and Prevention’ will be conducted
in our school on 20th March 2018 from 10 am to 3 pm at our School Seminar Hall.
B
Students who wish to present the paper on the above subject are required to enrol
PU
themselves on or before 5th March 2018. They can meet the President for any clarification.
Sharmila,
Y
President,
Science Club.
C
R
4. You are Radhika. Draft a mail to Padma about the biosketch you have collected.
E
From : [email protected]
M
To : [email protected]
Sub : Bio-sketch of Madam Curie attached.
Dear Padma,
You asked to mail the bio-sketch I gathered on Madam Curie. Please find the attached
information. Hope it would serve your purpose. Convey my kisses to your little sister Rohini.
Your loving friend,
P. Radhika
www.Kalviseithi.Net
366 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
Sridhar
A
SPL
N
51. Reshuffle the Jumbled Words
N
Reshuffle the jumbled words and write meaningful sentences. (Retain the 1st part)
E
1. a) One / finish / work / early / can / go / and / a / for walk / one’s.
H
b) I love / because / the / I / can / time / spend / shopping / and / weekend / be / myself.
C
c) Music / lives / our / an / place / important / has / in.
d) Good books / in / home / every / and / up / the / lamp / magazines / and / light / of /
-
knowledge.
S
e) Reshma / next / year / for / a / holiday / to / come / hopes / back / to / Disneyland / the
N
Answers : a) One can finish one’s work early and go for a walk.
IO
d) Good books and magazines light up the lamp of knowledge in every home.
A
e) Reshma hopes to come back to the Disneyland for a holiday next year.
2. a) The / grave / baby / mother / her / apple / red / a
IC
I
A
b) Science / man / weapons / also / given / warfare / has / deadly / of
c) Good / the / and / others / win / respect / love / of / manners
N
d) A soft / away / and / many / saves / pit / turns / fall / anger / from / a / us / anwer.
N
e) Even / respectful / person / is / who / like / a / strangers.
E
Answers : a) We live in the age of science.
H
b) Science has also given man deadly weapons of warfare.
C
c) Good manners win the love and respect of others.
d) A soft answer turns away anger and saves us from many a pit fall.
-
e) Even strangers like a person who is respectful.
6. a) The / violently / ship / the / rocked / storm S
N
b) He / hat / coconut / head / fiber / of / his / made / a / an / word
IO
d) I have / to / system / access / account / my / the / week / this / use / four / to / tried / timer
C
I
A
b) Forests / in / danger / of / greed / our / because / only / are
N
c) Some / present / unknown / me / to / there / were / guests / who
N
d) This / so / little / cannot / anyone / satisfy / I / that / is / amount
e) Everyone / life / plant / breathes / of / animal / his / that
E
H
Answers : a) King ordered his ministers to bring the wisest men in the country.
b) Forests are in danger only because of our greed.
C
c) Some guests who were present there were unknown to me.
-
d) This amount is so little that I cannot satisfy anyone.
S
e) Everyone that has life animal or plant breathes.
N
10. a) I / station / time / their / had / left / the / but / in / the / reached
IO
d) Their / exciting / was / down / top / of / the / slide / to / trick / most / hill / a
A
e) Most / met / think / strange / but / believe / I / is / he / him / who / people / he / shy / just
IC
/ is / that
Answers : a) I reached the station in time but the train had left.
L
c) Water goes from the ocean, lakes, and rivers into the air.
PU
d) Their most exciting trick was to slide down the top of a hill.
e) Most people who meet him think that he is strange but I believe he is just shy.
52. E-mail ID
Y
C
1. You are the principal. Draft a email to [email protected] to invite him to inaugurate the
School Science Club.
R
To : [email protected].
E
Cc : [email protected]
M
2. You are the Sports Secretary. Draft a email to [email protected] inviting him to distribute
prizes.
To : [email protected]
Cc : [email protected]
Subject : Sports day - Prize distribution - invite
Dear Sir,
We feel honoured to invite you to our school to distribute prizes to the winners of
the events at our School Annual Sports Meet. The ceremony is fixed on 25th August
2020 at 3 pm at our school. We are thrilled to be honoured by your presence.
Sports Secretary,
ABC School.
I
3. You are Sreeram. Draft a email to [email protected] requesting to publish your articles on
A
‘banning plastics’.
N
To : [email protected]
N
Cc : [email protected]
E
Subject : request - publish article
H
Dear Sir,
C
I am enclosing an article written by me on the ‘Banning of Plastics and Protecting
Environment. I request you to kindly publish the same in the columns of your paper for
-
the benefit of our readers. S With regards,
N
Sreeram.
IO
4. You are Raghav. Draft a email to your friend inviting him to spend holidays with you.
T
To : [email protected]
A
Dear Raghav,
How are you? Hope you have written the exams well. I invite you to come to our
L
city to spend the holidays with us. I have planned to make our stay memorable by
B
With love,
Raghv.
Y
5. You are Seetha. Draft a email to your friend [email protected] inviting her for your brother’s
C
marriage.
R
To : [email protected]
E
Dear Rani,
I hope you are fine. I am happy to inform you that my brother’s marriage will
be held on 25th August 2020 between 7am and 9am at KPN Kalyana Maaligai at
Thiruverkadu. I request you to kindly attend the marriage Please inform the same to
your parents and bring them too.
With love,
Seetha.
6. You are Abhinay. HR at HP. Draft email to Priyanka, Preethi, Priya to attend an interview.
I
To : [email protected]
A
Cc : [email protected], [email protected]
N
Dear Madam,
N
You are informed that you have been short listed for the job applied by you. You
E
are required to attend an interview on 30th August 2020 at 3 pm. at out Regional Office,
Chetpet, Chennai. You are required to bring all your testimonials.
H
With Regards,
C
Abhinay,
HRD, HP.
-
S
7. You are Abdul. Draft a email to your uncle thanking him for the birthday present.
N
To : [email protected]
IO
I am very thankful to you for your valuable gift you have sent on my birthday. The
A
scientific calculator is very useful to me. I once again thank you for your valuable gift.
IC
Adbul.
B
PU
8. You are Keerthana. Draft a email to your friend Pallavi congratulating her on winning the
trophy.
To : [email protected]
Y
Subject : Congratulations
C
Dear Pallu,
R
I am very happy to learn that you have been awarded the champion trophy at the
zonal sports meet. I am not surprised at all, as I was confident that you would win it
E
because you had put heart and soul in your efforts. My hearty congratulations to you
M
With love,
Keerthana.
9. You are Raghav. Sports Secretary of your school. Order sports goods for your school by email.
[email protected].
To : [email protected]
Sub : Ordering sports goods
Dear Sirs,
www.Kalviseithi.Net
Non - Textual Questions & Answers 371
Please send the following sports goods for our school and forward the bill to our
school with details of your bank a/c. Money will be transferred to your a/c on
receipt of the goods.
1. Cricket bats - 4
2. Cricket balls - 10
3. Stumps - 9.
Raghav
Sports Secretary.
I
The cultural fest 2018 was celebrated in our school in the last week of August along with
A
the school day. The school auditorium was well decorated for the event. The Collector was the
N
chief guest. He was received by our Principal. The meeting started with the invocation. Our
N
Principal welcomed the chief guest and honoured him with a shawl.
The chief guest delivered the key note address. He advised the students to study well and
E
score high marks in the exam. There were cultural events presented by our school students.
H
The audience enjoyed them.
C
The meeting ended with the rendition of the National Anthem.
2. Write a report on the blood donation camp conducted in the school.
-
The Lions Club of our locality conducted a blood donation camp in our school on Friday
S
from 7 am to 5 pm. The event was advertised well in advance. There were many people
N
who came forward to donate blood. The school authorities made all arrangements for the
IO
same. 50 students of our school volunteered their service. Posters on need for blood donation,
awareness of ‘No’ sideeffects of blood donation were displayed in the camp. About 15 doctors
and nurses came from the Govt. hospital. Nearly 300 men and women came forward to donate
T
A private truck carrying Iron rods and a Government bus were involved in the accident. Iron
B
loaded truck which was coming in the wrong direction rammed into the bus travelling from
PU
Chennai to Madurai. It was carrying 40 passengers, who were all asleep while the accident
took place. In the impact, the bus was overturned. Seven passengers including two women died
on the spot and twenty five passengers were injured. The injured passengers were admitted in
the nearby hospital and they were treated. The Government announced a compensation of Rs.
Y
1 lakh for the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. The causes of the accidents are being
C
enquired into.
R
The Government has embarked on an environmental project. The forest department has
M
conducted a mass tree plantation on the outskirts of Chennai on Sunday. Nearly 10 hectares of
land was selected for mass plantation. The event was inaugurated by the Minister for Forests.
Many people from the Lion’s Club and students participated in it. The NGOs arranged for the
saplings.
Nearly 2000 saplings were planted in the well refurbished land. The NGO has taken the
responsiblity to nurture the forest. A fence and a borewell were readied to keep the saplings
grow safely.
The initiative was welcomed by all the people.
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372 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A huge marathon run was conducted on Sunday near the Marina. The theme was on the
A
‘Ill effects of using Plastics’.
N
Nearly 10 thousand citizens including women, children and students participated. They
N
ran from the Madras University building to the Light House on the Marina. Many of them
carried placards explaining the ill uses of plastics and slogans dissuading people from using
E
plastics. The marathon was inaugurated by the Collector of Madras. It was a grand spectacle.
H
Children and school students participated in it with great enthusiasm. At the end of the run, a
C
pledge was taken by all to avoid plastics on all occasions.
7. Write a report on your first day in your school.
-
It was my first day in the new school. My school has a large building around a vacant
S
quadrangle.The day started with the first bell and all the students came in rows and stood in the
N
specified place. The physical education teacher conducted the assembly. Our Principal hoisted
IO
the National Flag. He spoke about discipline, school rules and welcomed all the students on
the first day. After the assembly was over, students in rows went back to their class rooms in a
T
disciplined way. Later the day’s work started as per the time schedule. We had a lunch break
for 45 minutes. After the evening session, students dispersed at the ringing of the final bell.
A
Gaja Cyclone - hits Tamil Nadu South - three districts affected - heavy rain 36 cm two
B
days - wind speed 100 kmph - damage to crops - coconut trees - people evacuated shelters -
food supplied - rehabilitation.
PU
Gaja Cyclone
Gaja cyclone has hit Tamil Nadu South coast yesterday. Winds at a speed of 100 kms
Y
damaged coconut trees and crops. The districts received heavy rain while the cyclone crossed
C
the coast. About 34 cm of rain lashed the places flooding many areas. The people living in
low lying areas were evacuated in advance as a precautionary measure. The Government
R
arranged shelters for the affected people. Food and water was served to them. Medicines were
E
also supplied. The government has taken rehabilitation steps on a war footing. All the roads
M
are being cleared of the fallen trees. Damaged electric poles are being repaired. The loss of
property and crops was estimated. The compensation given and the loss incurred by the tree
growing farmers did not match. Government alone can’t make good the loss. Donors need to
pitch in to rebuild their lives.
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
Date : 20.07.2020
Dear Father,
I am happy here and studying well. Our school has arranged for us an excursion for
three days to Bangalore, Mysore and Ooty. I want to join the excursion. Kindly permit me to
participate in it. Please be kind enough to send me Rs. 1000/- towards the expenses. Please
convey my regards to mother.
Yours lovingly,
N.Ram
I
Address on the envelope
A
To
N
Mr. S. Dhanyan,
N
XXXXXXXX
E
XXXXXXX
H
XXXXXX
C
2. Write a letter to your friend requesting him to attend the birthday party.
S. Raju
-
XXXXXXXX
S XXXXXXX
N
XXXXXX
IO
Date : 07.02.2021
Dear Anush,
T
How are you? I am to happy to inform you that my birthday will be celebrated next
A
Sunday. My parents have arranged a grand party on that occasion. I have invited all our
friends for the party. I request you also to attend the function without fail. I will be expecting
IC
your arrival
Yours lovingly,
L
S. Raju
B
To
Mr. K. Anush
Y
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
C
XXXXXX
R
3. Write a letter to your friend congratulating him her for getting the first rank.
E
N. Malini
M
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
Date : 01.04.2019
Dear Reshmi,
I am fine and am very happy to learn that you got the first rank in the exam. I am certain that
your hard work and perseverance have resulted in your scaling the great height. Please accept
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374 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
my hearty congratulations. I wish you all the best. Please keep it up in all your endeavours.
Yours lovingly,
N. Malini
Address on the envelope
To
Ms.K. Reshmi
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
I
4. Write a letter to friend inviting from to participate in the temple function.
A
Place : Chennai,
N
N. Thambi
N
XXXXXXXX
E
XXXXXXX
H
XXXXXX
Date : 09.02.2021.
C
Dear Raghav,
-
I am fine and wish to hear the same from you. I am happy to inform you that the annual
utsavams of the famous temple in our village will be conducted for a week starting from
S
Sunday next. It will be a great spectacle and fun. I want you to participate in the celebrations.
N
Please come and join us
IO
To
IC
Mr. B. Raghav
XXXXXXXX
L
XXXXXXX
B
XXXXXX
PU
5. Write a letter to your uncle thanking him for his birthday present .
K. Usha
Y
XXXXXXXX
C
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
R
Date : 02.03.2020
E
Dear Uncle,
M
I am fine. I am very happy that you have sent a very valuable present, an IPad for my
birthday. I liked it very much. I thank you for your gift. However I missed your presence
at the function. I needed your blessing. Once again I thank you for your valuable gift. My
regards to Aunt.
Yours lovingly,
K. Usha
Address on the envelope
Mr. B. Aravind
www.Kalviseithi.Net
Non - Textual Questions & Answers 375
YYYYYYYY
YYYYYYY
YYYYYY.
6. Write a letter to your friend describing a picnic spot you have visited.
K. Bala
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
Date : 06.08.2020.
Dear Srihari,
I am happy to write to you about the fun and happiness I had while I visited Ooty last
I
A
week. I along with my family went on a tour of Ooty last week. We visited the Botanical
garden. Dodabetta and the Pykara falls. It was very fine. We also saw the Rose garden and
N
exhibition. It was indeed a memorable tour. I wish that you too visit the place. It is worth
N
seeing.
E
Yours lovingly,
H
K. Bala
Address on the envelope
C
R. Srihari
-
YYYYYYYY
YYYYYYY S
YYYYYY.
N
IO
XXXXXXX
A
XXXXXX
IC
Date : 11.03.2019.
Dear brother,
L
How are you and our parents? I hope your examinations are fast approaching. I heard
B
from your friends that you are spending more time in sports and at the computer games. I want
PU
to tell you that academics is more important than anything. Valuable time lost now cannot be
regained again. I advise you to concentrate more on your studies. It is our duty to make our
parents happy and proud by securing the highest marks in the exam. That is the only gift they
Y
expect from us and we have to fulfil it. I want to hear from you that you have done it.
C
Yours lovingly,
K. Parthiban
R
Mr.K. Raja
M
YYYYYYYY
YYYYYYY
YYYYYY.
8. Write a letter to your friend inviting her to spend the summer holidays with you.
K. Kala
XXXXXXXX
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376 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
Date : 01.06.2020
Dear Meena,
How are you and how have you fared in the exam? I am sure you have summer holidays
from next week. I invite you to come to Chennai and spend the holidays with our family.
We have planned to visit Mahabalipuram and Kancheepuram during holidays. I will be very
happy to have your company during my visits. So please come and spend the vacation with us
Yours lovingly,
K. Kala
I
A
Address on the envelope
Ms. M. Meena
N
YYYYYYYY
N
YYYYYYY
E
Mumbai.
H
9. Write a letter to your friend inviting him for your sister’s marriage.
C
S. Jagan
-
XXXXXXXX
S XXXXXXX
N
Coimbatore.
IO
Date : 06.07.2020
Dear Raghu,
T
I am fine and wish to hear the same from you. I am very happy to inform you that my
A
sister’s marriage will take place next sunday at Tirumala. We have made all arrangements for
a grand function. I request you to attend the marriage with your family without fail. I will be
IC
Yours lovingly,
B
S. Jagan
PU
YYYYYYY
C
Chennai.
R
10. Write a letter to your grandfather asking him to take care of his health.
E
K. Kathir
M
XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX
Date : 05.02.2019
Dear grandfather,
I am studying well here. I learnt that you were ill. I am very sorry to hear that. Please take
care of your health. Already you have diabetes and blood pressure. Please take the medicines
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 377
regularly. Don’t strain yourself. But go on a walk in the mornings to keep fit. I will come there
immediately after my exams are over. Please take care grandpa.
Your lovingly,
K. Kathir
Address on the envelope
To
M. Mohan
YYYYYYYY
YYYYYYY
Mumbai.
I
A
Official Letters
N
1. Write a letter to your principal requesting him to issue a conduct certificate.
N
Date : 12.2.2019
E
From
S. Ramesh
H
XXXXXXX
C
XXXXXX.
-
To
The Principal, S
N
Govt. Hr. Sec. School,
Chennai - 600 012
IO
Respected Sir,
T
I am a student in XII std and have passed with good marks in April 2018. I am seeking
admission in a college. I need a conduct certificate from you for that purpose. I request you to
IC
Yours obediently,
B
S. Ramesh.
PU
2. Write a letter to the Inspector of Police about the theft of your bike.
Place: Chennai,
Y
Date : 13.4.2019.
From
C
A. Raman
R
XXXXXXX
E
XXXXXX.
M
To
The Inspector of Police,
Anna Nagar Police Station,
Chennai - 600 040
Sir,
Sub : Theft of motor bike - report reg.
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378 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I wish to submit that my motorbike was stolen yesterday night. I parked my Hero Honda
bike outside the Saravana Bhavan at Anna Nagar yesterday night at 8.30 pm. It was stolen. Its
Regn No. is TN02....... Its colour is white.
I request you to kindly take steps to trace my stolen bike.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
A. Raman.
Address on the envelope
To
The Inspector of Police,
I
A
Anna Nagar Police Station,
Chennai - 600 040
N
3. Write a letter to the Commissioner, Corporation of Chennai, complaining about poor lights in
N
your area.
E
Place : Chennai,
H
Date : 12.2.2019.
C
From
H. Nazeer
-
XXXXXXX
XXXXXX. S
N
To
IO
The Commissioner,
Corporation of Chennai,
T
Sir,
IC
streets in our area are poorly lit. The aged people and children find it difficult to use them
B
during night. Further a few chain snatching incidents were reported from the area due to poor
PU
lighting.
I request you to kindly take steps immediately to provide more street lights in our area.
Thank you.
Y
Yours faithfully,
C
H. Nazeer
R
To
M
The Commissioner,
Corporation of Chennai,
Chennai - 600 003
4. Write a letter to ‘The Hindu’ about loud speaker nuisance in your area.
Place : Chennai,
Date : 10.4.2019.
From
R. Leela
www.Kalviseithi.Net
Non - Textual Questions & Answers 379
XXXXXXX
Chennai.
To
The Editor,
The Hindu,
Chennai - 600 002
Sir,
Sub : Loud speaker nuisance - report reg.
I live in the above locality where there are many students and aged people living. Of late,
the loud speaker nuisance has become unbearable. Both religious and other places around, use
loud speakers throughout the day at very high decibels. The sound is unbearable. Students find
I
A
it very difficult to concentrate on their studies and the old people find it difficult to manage.
N
I request you to kindly publish this report in your paper, to enable the concerned authorities
to take suitable action.
N
Thank you.
E
Yours faithfully,
H
R. Leela
C
on behalf the people in the area
Address on the envelope
-
To
The Editor,
S
N
The Hindu,
IO
Place : Chennai,
A
Date : 9.1.2019.
IC
From
V. Rajesh
L
XXXXXXX
B
Chennai.
PU
To
The Post Master,
GPO, Chennai - 600 002.
Y
Sir,
C
I am to inform you that my friend Murugan had sent me a parcel containing a cell phone
last week. I have not yet received the parcel. I request you to kindly take steps to trace the
E
parcel and arrange to deliver it to me. I hope you will oblige and do the needful
M
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
V. Rajesh.
Address on the envelope
The Post Master,
GPO,
Chennai - 600 002.
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380 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
6. Write a letter to the councillor complaining about the irregular supply of water.
Place : Chennai,
Date : 20.2.2019.
From
N. Kannan
XXXXXXX
Chennai.
To
The Councillor,
Ward No.55,
I
A
Corporation of Chennai,
N
Chennai - 600 003.
Sir,
N
Sub : Irregular supply of water complaint - reg.
E
I want to submit that I live at the above address along with about 50 families in the street.
H
Water is not supplied in our street regularly, while all other streets get regular supply. We do
C
not get water in our taps regularly.
I request you to kindly take steps to identify the problem and arrange for regular supply
-
of water. All those living in the street are put to a great hardship. We are suffering a lot. Please
take immediate steps to supply water regularly.
Thank you. S
N
Yours faithfully,
IO
N. Kannan
Address on the envelope
T
To
A
The Councillor,
IC
Ward No.55,
Corporation of Chennai,
L
7. Write a letter to the Manager of bank seeking details for getting an education loan.
PU
Place : Chennai,
Date : 20.07.2020.
Y
From
S. Raghavan
C
XXXXXXX
R
Chennai.
E
To
M
The Manager,
State Bank of India,
Mannady,
Chennai - 600 001
Sir,
Sub : Educational loan - information - requested - reg.
I wish to inform you that I have passed XII std with good marks and I secured admission
in an Engineering College. I am from a poor family and need financial assistance to pursue my
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Non - Textual Questions & Answers 381
education. I request you to kindly provide the necessary information to secure an educational
loan from your bank. I am enclosing the certificates in support of my claims.
Please do the needful to give loan for my studies.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
S. Raghavan
Encl : aa
Address on the envelope
To
The Manager,
State Bank of India,
I
Mannady,
A
Chennai - 600 001
N
8. Write a letter to the Station Master to reserve tickets for a batch of students.
N
Place : Chennai,
E
Date : 10.4.2018.
H
From
C
S. Malar
XXXXXXX
-
Chennai.
To S
N
The Station Master,
IO
Chennai Central,
Chennai - 600 003
T
Sir,
A
I want to inform you that forty students of our school have planned to visit Mysore during
holidays. I request you to kindly reserve tickets as detailed below.
L
Thank you.
C
Yours faithfully,
S. Malar.
R
To
M
From
L. Latha
XXXXXXX
Chennai.
To
The Manager,
Indian Cement Factory,
Trichy - 620005.
Sir,
Sub : Permission for Industrial visit - requested - regd.
I
A
I wish to inform you that forty students of our school wish to visit your factory to learn
about the production of cement. We want to visit the factory on 25th July. I request you to
N
give us permission to visit the factory. I assure you to abide by the rules and regulations of
N
your company.
E
Hoping to get a favourable reply.
H
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
C
Address on the envelope L.Latha.
-
To
The Manager,
S
N
Indian Cement Factory,
IO
Trichy - 620005.
10. To the Manager of a Book Company ordering for books.
T
Date : 5.4.2018
A
From
IC
P. Bhavani
XXXXXXX, Chennai.
L
To
B
The Manager,
PU
Sir,
C
We will be pleased if you can supply the following books for our school.
E
I
A
They build a nation’s pillars deep
N
And lift them to the sky.
N
Question and answers :
E
i) Who can make the nation strong ?
H
Only man can make the nation great and strong.
C
ii) What do men defend?
They defend truth and honour.
-
iii) What do brave men do ? S
N
Brave men work hard while others sleep.
IO
Then hide your mats, and put your meat upon the top-most shelf.
R
Just let me know, for though he’s bad, as bad as he can be,
I wouldn’t change the dog for all the treasures of the sea!
- E. Lewis
Question and answers :
i) How is the dog ?
The dog is raggy and shaggy.
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384 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
A
3. I want to climb the highest tree
Study stars and their mystery
N
I want to touch the clouds above
N
Find someone I can talk to, now!
E
I want to be a designer-
H
Make dreams that just don’t disappear
C
I want to be an artist too-
Paint pictures of me and you
-
There are lots of things on this Earth
New ideas that are taking birth
S
N
But before I discover what I want to be
IO
The poet wants to climb the highest tree to study the stars and their mystery.
IC
He wants to be a designer.
PU
I
A
He was waiting for his father’s word to leave the burning ship.
N
v) Was his father alive ?
N
No, his father was dead.
E
5. The fire of God’s love
H
burns away impurities
C
and leaves our soul’s gold.
Only He can see
-
Beneath our humanity
to judge our true worth.
S
N
God’s eternal care
IO
and paid her heed, when she told you not to cut down forest trees.
but you did not see the wisdom of her pleas,
and now the taps are dry.
Question and answers :
i) Why are taps dry now ?
Man failed to plant trees. As a result rains failed Now, taps are dry.
ii) What steps are taken to distribute water ?
Water rationing is done to minimise usage of water.
iii) How did man fail in his duty ?
I
A
Man should have controlled his greed and saved the trees.
N
iv) What was the advise given to man ?
N
Man was advised not to cut down forests.
E
v) Did man heed the advise ? What is the result?
H
Man did not heed the advise. As a result there is no water now.
C
7. I took a piece of plastic clay
And idly fashioned it, one day,
-
And as my fingers pressed it, still
It moved and yielded to my will S
N
I came again, when days were passed
IO
iv) How was the clay when he returned after some days ?
C
Yes, the clay retained the form of statue. He could not change the form anymore.
M
I
A
iv) How was the weather ?
N
The weather was sunshiny.
N
v) Were both the girl and the bird shivering ?
E
No, they were not shivering, because it was sunny weather.
H
9. The world in glooms and splendour passed by.
C
And thou in the midst of it with grows that gloom.
A creature of that old distorted dream.
-
That makes the sound of life an evil cry. S
N
Good men perform just deals, and brave man die.
And win not honour such as gold can give while the vain multitudes
IO
-Archibald Lampman
Question and answers :
Y
The world is full of people who are brave and those who struggle for their daily bread.
R
All the multitude of people have been taught wrong values. They do not have proper clothing
or home.
10. Hope is the bright thing light which keeps darkeness at bay
Hope is the gently cold breeze on a hot summer day
Hope is to remain positive when going gets tough
Hope is seeking more when others think you had enough
Hope is dreaming of tomorrow
Hope is simmering under sorrow
I
Hope is the sparkle of tears in ours eyes
A
Hope is a beautiful thing, beautiful things never die.
N
Question and answers :
N
i) To what is hope compared ?
E
Hope is compared to bright light and gentle breeze.
H
ii) How does hope help in tough times ?
C
Hope helps to remain positive during tough times.
-
iii) Fill in the blanks.
Hope is _____ of tomorrow.
S
N
Ans : dreaming
IO
Yes, I agree. Hope helps men to continue with struggles and succeed in life.
IC
56. Paraphrase
L
happy. After it had gone out, he kept the window open expecting the firefly to come again.
2. I ask for a moment’s indulgence to sit by thy side
The work that I have in hand I will finish afterwards
Away from the sight of thy face my heart knows no rest or respite,
And my work becomes on endless toil in shoreless sea of toil
Today the summer has come at my window
With its sighs and manner; and the bees are
playing their minstrels at the court of the flowery grave
Now it is time to quit, face to face with thee
to sing dedication of life in this silent and overflowing leisure.
- Tagore
I
A
Paraphrase
N
Leisure
The poet asks God to give him a little time. For this he would postpone his work. The
N
poet was restless and he was not happy. His work seemed endless like a shoreless ocean. He
E
could feel the heat of summer. He could see the bees flying around and revisiting the flowers
to gather honey. He feels that it is time to sing a song of dedication of his life at leisure to his
H
deceased love.
C
3. Boy, in a faded blue pullover,
-
Poor boy, thin smiling boy,
Ran down the road shouting S
N
Singing, flinging his arm wide,
IO
did not claim it as he felt that the boy better had it.
I
A
If you can’t be a lotus then just be a bass-
N
But the liveliest bass in the lake.
N
Paraphrase
E
Bunyan tree
H
The poet tells the readers not to be sad because of their position in life. Though one
cannot be a banyan tree on top of the hill, one can still be the best scrub. One can atleast be a
C
bush if not a tree. If one can’t be a bush one can be a grass or a lotus. Even if one can’t be a
lotus, one can just be a liveliest bass in the lake.
-
5. I lay in sorrow, deep distressed;
My grief a proud man heard; S
N
His looks were cold, he gave me gold,
IO
Is heavenly sympathy.
R
Paraphrase
E
Sorrow
M
The poet was in sorrow when a proud man passed his way. The proud man helped the
poet by giving a gold coin but did not give a kind word. The poet thanked him and returned
the gold. A poor man also helped him when he was in grief. He gave him bread and took care
of him till he was cured. The poet feels that it was easy for him to pay back the gold, but not
the love of the poor man.
I
7. When life is getting hard for me,
A
I climb up my favourite tree
N
and look down on the world below
N
where grass is green and flowers grow.
I start to feel good sitting there,
E
secure within my branchy chair.
H
Up high, the things that made me frown
C
looks way too small to bring me down.
-
The sky’s more blue; the sun’s more bright
and all my dark clouds turn out white S
N
when I climb up my favourite tree.
Oh, what a friend he is to me!
IO
Paraphrase
T
Favourite tree
Whenever the poet feels his life as complicated, he climbs up her favourite tree and feels
A
good. From that high position the unpleasant things seem too small to bring her down. The
IC
sun and sky are bright when she is up on the tree. The tree becomes a good friend of her.
8. The athletes had come from all over the country
L
To run for the gold, for the silver and the bronze
B
Paraphrase
E
Athletes
The atheletes had come from all over the country. They run for gold, silver, bronze medals.
M
They had undergone a lot of training. The hundred yard race was about to begin. There were
nine resolved atheletes, standing on the line poised for the gunshot.
I
She wanted to fly until she reached a foreign place.
A
N
10. Oh! anger is un ugly thing
N
And spoils the fairest face
E
It cometh like a rainy cloud
H
Upon a sunny place
One angry moment often does
C
What we repent for years
-
It works the wrong we ne’er make right
By sorrows or by tears
S
N
The hand of peace is frank and warm
IO
Paraphrase
Anger
IC
Anger comes like a rainy cloud. One angry moment can create agony for life time. The
wrong caused by anger can never be made right. Unlike anger, peace is gentle and kind. One
L
1. Two brothers - wood cutters - elder honest - younger greedy - elder brother - cutting wood -
axe falls in pond - a fairy appears - gives golden axe - he tells - not his - fairy rewards - honesty
Y
- gives golden axe - younger brother - greedy - wantenly drops axe - fairy appears - brings
golden axe - he greedily sayshis - fairy punishes - loses his axe.
C
Honesty Rewarded
R
There were two brothers. They were wood cutters.The elder brother was honest while
E
the younger was greedy. One day when the elder brother was cutting wood, his axe fell in
M
the pond. Then a fairy appeared before him. He requested the fairy to bring back his axe. The
fairy brought a golden axe. He said that it was not his and that he had only an iron axe. The
fairy appreciated his honesty and gifted the golden axe to him. The younger brother wanted to
try his luck. He deliberately dropped his axe in the pond. When the fairy brought the golden
axe, he greedily said that it was his. The fairy said he was dishonest and disappeared. He lost
his axe due to greed.
Moral : Honesty is always rewarded.
2. Four bulls always grazed together - lion comes - all fight together - the lion defeated - goes
back - bulls fight among themselves - graze separately - lion comes - kills the bulls - one after
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other.
Unity is Strength
There were four bulls. They were friendly and they always grazed together. Once a lion
came to kill them. The four bulls fought together with the lion. The lion could not defeat them
and went away. Later the four bulls fought among themselves and began to graze separately.
The lion got an opportunity to kill the bulls as they were alone. It fought with each bull and
killed them one after the other. The bulls were killed because they were divided.
Moral : Unity is always a great strength.
3. Two best friends - walking together - forest - sunset - suddenly a bear appears - one friend runs
- climbs tree - the other - cannot climb - lie down - pretends dead - bear smells boy - thinks
dead - goes away - the friends - enquires what the bear said - he replies - not to trust selfish
I
friend.
A
The bear and Two Friends
N
There were two best friends. They were walking in a forest on an evening. Suddenly, a
N
bear appeared before them. One was selfish. He deserted his friend, ran away and climbed a
E
tree to save himself. The other boy did not know climbing trees. He lay down on ground and
pretended to be dead. The bear came sniffed at him and went away. The other friend came
H
down and asked his friend what the bear had told him. He replied that the bear told him not
C
to trust a dishonest friend.
Moral : A friend in need is a friend indeed.
-
4. Ant and dove friends - live near a pond - dove on tree - ant falls in water - dove helps - drops a
S
leaf - ant catches hold - goes safe to bank - one day a hunter comes - aims arrow on dove - ant
N
bites his leg - hunter loses aim - dove flies away escapes.
IO
There was an ant and a dove who were good friends. They lived near a pond. The dove
A
lived on the tree. One day the ant fell in the pond. The dove dropped a leaf in the pond. The
IC
ant climbed on the leaf and came back safely to the shore. One day, a hunter came to kill the
dove. He aimed an arrow at the dove. The ant bit the leg of the hunter. He lost his aim and the
L
dove flew to safety. Thus the ant helped its friend dove to fly safely.
B
5. Fox - hungry - search of food - came upon a farmer’s wall - a large tree- full of grapes - fox
jumped up - high in air - to catch grapes but missed - tried to few more times - but missed - fox
Y
A fox was very hungry. It went in search of food. Its stomach was rumbling with hunger.
E
It found the house of a farmer with a high wall. There was a grape tree on the wall full of
M
grapes. The purple fruit were juicy and wanting to be eaten. The hungry fox jumped up high in
air to reach the tree. It missed. It tried a number of times and but missed everytime. It finally
decided to go home muttering. ‘The grapes were sour anyway’.
Moral : It is easy to hate what you can’t have.
6. Midas - greedy man - meets a fairy - her hair caught in tree - helps her - a wish in return - All
I touch - become gold - fairy grants wish - Happy - goes home - touches stones - become gold
393
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394 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
- touches daughter - becomes gold statue - sits to eat - touches food - becomes gold - worried
- spent the rest - of life - searching for fairy - to take away the wish.
I
A
Moral : Greed will always lead to downfall. / Covet all lose all.
N
N
E
H
C
-
S
N
IO
T
A
IC
L
B
PU
Y
C
R
E
M
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Public Exam Question Papers 395
Instructions : (1) Check the question paper for fairness of printing. If there is any lack
of fairness, inform the Hall Supervisor immediately.
(2) Use Blue or Black ink to write and underline.
Part - I
I
I. Answer all the questions. 20 × 1 = 20
A
N
Choose the correct synonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
1. _____ and I do claim to represent him in all his ruggedness.
N
a) toughness b) weakness c) brightness d) seriousness
E
2. The greatest disadvantage for me was loss of appetite.
H
a) hope b) memory c) alertness d) hunger
C
3. _____ that we regard a man who does not possess it as eccentric.
a) modern b) weary c) normal d) weird
-
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
S
4. Her happiest moments were with her sparrows whom she fed with frivolous rebukes.
N
a) serious b) harmless c) funny d) decent
IO
8. Choose the suitable option to pair it with the word ‘mantel’ to form a compound
PU
word.
a) cover b) cloth c) picture d) piece
9. Form a derivative by adding the right suffix to the word ‘regular’.
Y
11. Choose the right definition for the given term “Photophobia”.
M
I
18. Substitute the underlined word with the appropriate polite alternative.
A
The gentleman in the black suit is a barber.
N
a) hair clipper b) hair remover c) hair splitter d) hair dresser
N
19. Substitute the phrasal verb in the sentence with a single word.
Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.
E
a) continue b) finish c) halt d) postpone
H
20. Fill in the blank with a suitable relative pronoun.
C
The books _____ are bought are often not read.
a) that b) what c) who d) whose
-
Part - II
S
N
II. Answer any seven of the following : 7 × 2 = 14
IO
i) Read the following sets of poetic lines and answer any four of the following :
21. “Feel at home,” “come again.”
T
a) Who is “he”?
b) Mention the figure of speech used here.
25. “In dignity and pride no one need to be poor.”
a) What are the two things mentioned here as our strength?
b) Is the tone of the line positive or negative?
26. “For you have but mistook me all this while _____”
a) How is the speaker mistaken by the people?
b) Write the words in alliteration.
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Public Exam Question Papers 397
I
A
III. Answer any seven of the following : 7 × 3 = 21
N
i) Explain any two of the following with reference to the context. 2×3=6
N
31. “The birds around me hopp’d and play’d
E
Their thoughts I cannot measure.”
32 “How can you say to me, I am a King?”
H
33. “I am just glad as glad can be
C
That I am not them, that they are not me.”
-
ii) Answer any two of the following briefly. 2×3=6
S
34. How do the chemists make fortunes out of the medicine people forget to take?
N
35. Why did Mary Kom think she should not return empty - handed?
IO
36. What is the differenc between a physical and mental tight corner?
iii) Answer any three of the following : 3×3=9
T
37. Study the Pie - chart and answer the questions that follow :
A
Questions :
C
C) Which activity is chosen by half the number of people who use mobile phones?
M
38. Build a dialogue of minimum 3 exchanges between a fruit vendor and a customer.
39. Describe the process of opening a bank account.
40. Complete the proverbs using the words given below.
Waste not, _____ not. (fight, want, earn)
b. _____ waters run deep. (still, flowing, stagnant)
c. One _____ doesn’t make a garland. (pearl, bead, flower)
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398 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
Part - IV
IV. Answer the following : 7 × 5 = 35
41. Answer in a paragrph on any one of the following in about 150 words.
a) What does Robert Lynd try to convey in his essay on ‘Forgetting’?
b) How do Universities mould students, besides imparting academic education to them?
42. Answer in a paragraph on any one of the following in about 150 words.
a) Write an appreciation of the poem “The Hollow Crown”.
b) How does Gabriel Okara criticise the modern life in his poem “Once upon a Time”?
I
43. Write a paragraph (150 words) by developing for the following hints.
A
Miss Meadows, a music teacher - gets a letter - feels upset - Fiance not interested -
reflects her gloom on students - changes the happy song to a sad one - Headmistress calls
N
- delivers a Telegram - Finance agrees to wedding - Meadows happy - changes the song
N
again to a cheerful one.
E
(or)
H
Leacock - goes to a studio - The photographer dislikes Leacock’s face - passes several
C
comments - Leacock gets irritated the photo - taken - wants to see the proof - visits the
studio again - The photo is edited - help of technology - Leacock upset over the changes
-
- calls it worthless - leaves in anger.
44. Write a summary or make notes of the following passage.
S
N
The Chinese were the first to make gun powder, invent the magnetic compass and introduce
IO
to the world the art of making paper. About 2000 years ago, the Chinese made gun powder by
mixing sulphur and saltpetre. The mixture exploded when set on fire. The Chinese were the first
T
to find out the fact that a narrow magnet floating in a bowl of water would always point to the
North. This discovery led to the invention of magnetic compass. The device helped the sailors
A
to find out the direction when they were out of sight of land. The Chinese also invented the art
IC
of making paper during the 2nd Century. Soon, the art of making paper using vegetable pulp
reached Arabia, Spain and Europe. In course of time, paper factories came into existence. The
L
fourth invention of the Chinese was the art of printing. Before this invention, books were written
B
by hand. The Chinese invented the art of printing with movable types. With this invention,
reading and learning became easy to common people as they were able to print books in large
PU
numbers.
45. Read the following advertisement and prepare a bio-data considering yourself fulfilling the
Y
conditions mentioned.
C
[Write XXXXX for your name and YYYY for your address]
R
WANTED
E
Qualified nurses for a multi - speciality hospital, Attractive salary, Flexible working
hours, Age below 30.
M
Apply to
Post Box No : 3210
C/o. The Times of India
Chennai - 600 002.
(or)
Write a paragraph of 150 words on the advantages and disadvantages of “Online
Shopping”
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Public Exam Question Papers 399
46. (i) Read the following sentences, spot the errors and rewrite the sentences
correctly.
a. The colour of the curtains are very bright.
b. I saw an uniformed soldier hiding behind the wall.
c. Nobody knows why was he killed.
d. My older brother is living abroad.
e. They are discussing about their picnic.
ii) Fill in the blanks suitably.
a) Have you ever _____ such a beautiful _____? (scene, seen)
b) How _____ you disobey my words? (use a quasi modal verb)
I
A
c) What is done _____ not be undone. (use the modal verb)
N
d) Take an umbrella with you _____ you will get wet. (use a suitable link word)
N
47. Identify each of the following sentences with the fields given below.
E
a) In a democracy, we have the right to criticise anyone.
H
b) The price of vegetables shot up suddenly.
C
c) The passenger sat down to check his e-mails.
d) It was thrilling neck and neck finish.
-
e) The programme will be telecast next week. S
(Commerce, Sports, Literature, Computer, Politics, Media, Agriculture)
N
(or)
IO
Read the following passage and answer the questions in your own words :
T
After the meal, the way we place our eating tools, our knives, forks, spoons or chopsticks is
A
also culturally defined. In Australia, when we finish eating the main course, we put the knife and
IC
fork across the middle of the plate parallel to each other with the handles facing towards us. When
we are resting during the meal, we place the knife and fork across each other in the middle of the
L
plate. In China, the chopsticks to crossways across the top of the plate with the handles facing
B
towards the right. In Indonesia, some people place the fork and spoon like the Australians do
PU
but not all. Indonesia is a multi-cultural society, so there may be a number of customs practised
within the country.
Questions :
Y
c) What do you know about the table manners observed by the Australians?
E
I
5. b) joyful
A
6. b) denied
N
7. a) High Definition Television
N
8. d) piece (mantel piece)
E
9. d) - ity (regularity)
10. d) genuine
H
11. c) Fear of light
C
12. d) didn’t they
13. d) figure out
-
14. a) im (impolite)
15. b) psychologist S
N
16. a) into
IO
17. c) dorm
18. d) hair dresser
T
19. d) postpone
A
20. a) that
IC
Part - II / Section - 1
i) Read the following sets of poetic lines and answer any four of the following : 4×2=8
L
b) Personification.
25. a) Dignity and Pride are the two things mentioned.
E
26. a) The speaker, King Richard is mistaken by people that his body and power are
permanent.
b) Words in alliteration : all, while; but, mistook.
Section - 2
Answer any three of the following questions : 3×2=6
27. The conductor asked the passenger where he wanted to go. The passenger replied that
he was going to Coimbatore and requested him to give him a ticket.
28. If Tom didn’t know Spanish, he would not get the job.
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Public Exam Question Papers 401
I
32. Reference : These lines are taken the poem ‘The Hollow Crown’ an extract from
A
the play ‘Richard the second’ by William Shakespeare.
N
Context : King Richard the second was defeated by Bolingbroke and he says
these words to his men.
N
Explanation : The defeated king does not like to be called as king by his men. He is
E
philosophic. He says that everything is temporary except death.
H
He needs bread like others, he feels many wants, he has grief and needs
C
friends as any other common man. So he asks them not to call him
king.
-
33. Reference : These lines are from the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator’ by
‘Ogden Nash’ S
N
Context : The poet describes the zealousy of the competing athletes.
Explanation : The athletes are zealous and they have no concern for others. The poet
IO
Section - 2
A
34. People do have medicines in their pockets but forget them. So they have to buy the
medicines again. This helps chemists to make fortune.
L
35. Mary Kom thought that she could not return empty - handed after all the efforts that
B
36. It may be possible to escape from a physical tight corner. Mental tight corners are
tighter and it’s almost impossible to face it and escape.
Section - 3
Y
C
I
A
Part - IV
N
Answer the following questions: 7 × 5 = 35
N
Answer in a paragraph of about 150 words.
E
41. Forgetting :
H
In this essay, Robert Lynd takes a humourous look at the effects of forgetfulness. Modern
C
man remembers many things like telephone numbers, addresses and many others. His memory
is crowded. Everyone remembers to do the right thing. On certain occasions, man’s memory
-
may be affected like while taking medicines. Posting letters is another common incident
S
of forgetfulness. Leaving articles in trains, cabs and buses is also common. Another most
N
common thing is forgetting the umbrella. Sportsmen may forget their articles when they think
IO
of their victories.
T
Lynd’s view :
A
(or)
B
During feudal days in the past, scholars and poets lived a life of seclusion in palaces and
Durbars. Their wisdom did not reach the people. In modern days, everything is commonman
centric especially in a democracy. The Universities play an important role in moulding
Y
the future generation of the country. Apart from giving academic information, they teach
C
The graduates are indebted to the society as the Universities are managed by the money
M
got as taxes from the common man. The graduates need not return the money to the community
but involve themselves in serving the society in all respects. The Universities develop the
true spirit of democracy, appreciation of others’ views and adjustment of differences through
discussion. But it is not as easy as it is said, to serve the society.
Hurdles to service :
The environment, self seekers, disturbances to determination, widely differing practices
and many other hurdles are faced by graduates in their effort to serve the community. They
should single mindedly pursue their goal with perseverance.
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Public Exam Question Papers 403
I
death. Man needs only a small barren earth in the end. He wants to talk about the sad stories
A
of kings who were slain in war, or were haunted by ghosts or were poisoned by their wives,
N
everything for the hollow crown. The crown is empty in the middle and so the power is not
N
solid or strong or permanent. Death is portrayed as a Court Jester who grants the mortal kings
E
the temporary license to monarchise. The impregnable flesh walls of the body are demolished
by death. Death is very powerful. He adds that he too needs bread to live, feels want, tastes
H
grief and needed friends. He does not differ from other common men. So he does not want
C
him to be called as ‘King’, as he is only a human.
-
(or)
The falsehood : S
N
In this poem, the poet condemns the falsehood and hypocrisy exhibited by people in
IO
daily life. People have different masks on their faces for different occasions and lead a life of
duplicity. In this poem, a father describes to his son how false and fake the life is. He wants
T
The contrast :
IC
People now laugh without their heart in it. There is no warmth in the laugh. The laugh
and handshake earlier was done with hearts but now they are hypocritical and don’t mean
L
what they say. When people say ‘come again’, there is no sincerety. You will be entertained
B
once or twice and later rejected. The father says that he has learnt to wear different masks
PU
for different situations like office, street, host cocktail. His smile is like that in a portrait. It is
lifeless. Thus humans have learnt to change their expressions according to the situation for
social acceptance. None of them are genuine. When people say good-bye, they mean good -
Y
Father’s wish :
R
So the father says that the entire life is fake and full of hypocricy. He wants to relearn the
E
I
was disappointed at the photo and he was totally disgusted so as to reject it and asked the
A
photographer to keep it for himself. But for him it was worthless bauble.
N
At the studio :
N
Leacock was asked to wait for an hour. Later, he was called in and was seated infront of a
E
camera. When he viewed Leacock, he was not happy with Leacock’s head. Later, he said that
he was not happy with his mouth, face, hands etc. He took a photograph at last, catching the
H
features in a moment of animation.
C
Worthless bauble :
-
When Leacock went to the studio to look at the proof, he was shocked. The photograph
S
never resembled his face. Every feature on the face, like eyes, eyebrows, mouth were all
N
retouched and it was entirely different from the real face of Leacock except his ears. He
became very angry and frustrated. He told the photographer to do whatever he wanted with
IO
the photograph and keep it for himself and his friends, who might value it. But for him it was
a worthless bauble.
T
A
Chinese made :
L
Gun powder - magnetic compass - paper, found out magnet points to North - helped sailors.
B
Making paper :
PU
Made from wood pulp - reached Arabia, Spain, Europe - paper factories invented.
Printing :
a great boon - written by hand before - movable types - reading and learning became easy
Y
Rough copy :
R
Chinese invented gun powder and the magnetic compass. They found out that the magnetic
E
They made paper from wood pulp. It was followed by other countries. Then paper factories
were invented. It was a great boon for reading and learning.
Fair copy :
The Printing Press
The Chinese made gun powder and magnetic compass. It helped sailors. Making paper was
a very useful contribution by them. Paper was produced from wood and vegetable pulp. It spread
to other continents.The printing press invented by them was a great boon to humanity. Reading
and learning became easy with printing of books. Books were handwritten earlier.
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45. Chennai.
15.10.2018
From
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To
The Advertiser,
Post Box No. 3210,
C/o The Times of India,
I
Chennai – 600 002.
A
Sir,
N
With reference to your ad. I would like to apply for the position of Nurse. I have enclosed
N
my bio - data for your persual and kind consideration. I assure you dedicated service if given a
chance.
E
Thank you.
H
Yours faithfully,
C
XXXXX.
-
Bio - Data
Name : xxxxxxxxxxxxx
S
N
Father’s name : aaaaaa
IO
Sex : Female
A
yyyyyyyyyyy
PU
yyyyyyy.
Salary expected : Any decent salary
Y
Declaration
I declare that all the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge. I
assure you to serve with dedication and compassion.
XXXXX
Chennai.
(or)
405
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406 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
“Online Shopping”
Nowadays many people prefer to shop online because of its numerous benefits. However,
the practice has disadvantages as well as advantages. It has both negative and positive aspects.
Advantages :
Buyers save more time. Price, product details can be surfed on the net.
Price is usually lower than shop price. Wide choice of online stores.
Reviews about products available for guidance.
Disadvantages :
Delay in delivery. Lack of significant discount.
I
Lack of touch and feel of product. No interactivity.
A
Frauds - loss of money. Substandard products may be sent.
N
N
46. a. The colour of the curtains is very bright.
E
b. I saw a uniformed soldier hiding behind the wall.
H
c. Nobody knows why he was killed.
d. My elder brother is living abroad.
C
e. They are discussing about the picnic. (or)
-
Fill in the blanks correctly.
S
a) Have you ever seen such a beautiful scene?
N
b) How dare you disobey my words?
IO
(or)
a) The way one places eating tools after the meal reveals one’s culture.
L
b) Table manners are important because it reveals our culture and makes the dining
B
c) Australians put the knife and fork across the middle plate parallel to each other with
handles facing towards the person.
d) Chinese place chopsticks crossways across the top of the plate, with handles facing
Y
Instructions : (1) Check the question paper for fairness of printing. If there is any lack
of fairness, inform the Hall Supervisor immediately.
(2) Use only Blue or Black ink to write and underline.
Part - I
I
A
I. Answer all the questions. 20 × 1 = 20
N
Choose the appropriate synonyms of the underlined words in the following sentences.
N
1. ...... we treated it like the fables of the prophets she used to tell us.
a) tales b) theories c) sayings
E
d) experiences
2. ..... either he has a memory like sieve or is an audacious perverter of the truth.
H
a) great b) bold c) strong d) perfect
C
3. I shall _____ only reiterate some of the cardinal principles.
a) accept b) express c) repeat d) adopt
-
S
Choose the correct antonyms for the underlined words from the options given.
N
4. The discrepancy about the crests put me on my guard _____.
a) originality b) similarity c) functionality d) triviality
IO
6. But how near the surface and ready _____ is worldly guile!
a) hardship b) peace c) honesty d) pleasure
IC
7. Choose the word that can be added after ‘good’ to form a compound word.
a) sense b) time c) form d) will
L
8. Form a new word by adding a suitable prefix to the base - word ‘animate’.
B
a) de __ b) un __ c) in __ d) re __
PU
11. A person who is capable of using both hands with equal ease is an _____.
E
14. Replace the underlined word in the sentence with the suitable phrasal verb.
The actor rehearsed his dialogues quickly before going to the stage.
a) ran around b) ran away c) ran up d) ran over
15. Replace the phrasal verb in the sentence with the suitable single word.
The bike blew up as soon as it hit the median.
a) capsized b) stopped c) exploded d) rolled
16. Choose the correct meaning of the foreign word in the following sentence.
The Chairman was very hesitant in giving carte blanche to the Manager in regard to
appointment of staff.
a) terms and conditions laid down to continue something
I
b) full freedom and power to do something
A
c) certain restrictions placed to attempt something.
N
d) complete support extended to perform something.
17. Choose the right meaning of the idiomatic expression in the sentence below.
N
Innocent people are being taken for a ride by the cunning people.
E
a) uplifted b) safeguarded c) discouraged d) deceived
H
18. Fill in the blank with the suitable phrase preposition.
C
Education must aim at teaching ethical and moral values _____ imparting knowledge.
a) in place of b) in exchange for c) in addition to d) in accordance with
-
19. Choose the word that has been spelt correctly.
a) restaurant b) restorent
S
c) resturant d) restuorent
N
20. Fill in the blank with the right word.
A peaceful _____ spread on her face and we knew that she was dead.
IO
Part - II / Section - 1
A
Read the following sets of poetic lines and answer any four of the following : 4×2=8
21. “But that’s gone, son
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a) Who is a ‘jockey’ ?
C
I
A
(Change into a simple sentence)
30. The farmers usually harvest the mango fruits only in the month of May.
N
(Change the voice).
N
Part - III / Section - 1
E
H
Explain any two of the following with reference to the context. 2×3=6
31. “I have also learned to say “Goodbye”
C
When I mean “Good - riddance”
32 “We deem it our duty and mission in life,
-
To bless and praise the deserving ones.” S
33. “He’s broken every human law, he breaks the law of gravity.”
N
Section - 2
IO
35. How does E. V. Lucas describe the man who approached him with an offer ?
A
36. What was the role of scholars and poets in olden days ?
IC
Section - 3
L
37. Study the following bar graph which gives the details of the Annual Income and
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Expenditure of three families in Chennai. Write three sentences on your inference about
the data :
Y
C
R
E
M
38. Describe the process of cleaning the tarnished brass items at home.
39. Prepare a notice announcing suspension of water supply in a residential apartment
complex on account of maintenance work. Give suitable details and instructions to the
residents.
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410 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
40. Complete each of the following proverbs with the right option.
a. Every cloud has a _____ lining. (golden / blackish / silver)
b. Time and _____ wait for no man. (tide / chance / place)
c. Don’t cast pearls before the _____. (witch / swine / baron)
Part - IV
Answer the following questions: 7 × 5 = 35
41. Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words.
a) How does Robert Lynd analyse the various reasons for forgetfulness in humans ?
I
(or)
A
b) Give an account of Bill Bryson’s awkward behaviour during his trip to England.
N
42. Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words.
N
a) How does Ogden Nash try to explain that he is very happy being a mere spectator?
(or)
E
b) How does King Richard explain the power of Death to his followers through his
H
monologue
C
43. Write a paragraph of about 150 words by developing the following hints.
a) Two friends - made a pact - meet after twenty years - Bob arrived - spoke to policeman
-
on beat - tall man came - claimed to be Jimmy Wells - Bob realised - not his friend -
S
policeman in plainclothes - arrested Bob, a noted criminal - policeman on beat - real
N
Jimmy Wells - hesitated to arrest friend - sent another with a note.
IO
(or)
b) Miss Meadows - music teacher - received letter - fiance’ - upset with message -
T
The first one is informational function which helps us deliver messages, describe things
and give our listeners new information. This function can be illustrated as an example
R
We need this function whenever we want to express our feelings and impressions.
M
With this function, we can understand the personality of the speaker and his or her
emotions. The third is the directive function of a language. This function is used to
induce certain actions or reactions. The examples of such a function are commands
and requests. This is a function of social control and interpersonal interaction. Here,
the reaction of the listener is more important than the thoughts expressed by the
speaker. The next function of a language is the aesthetic function. Here, the words
and sentences are considered as linguistics artefacts. In this funtion, the beauty of
words and phrases is more important than the usefulness of information. The fifth and
final function of a language is the phatic function. The only purpose of this function
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Public Exam Question Papers 411
I
a. We saw a few girls playing in the park today morning.
A
b. The interior decoration in all the rooms are awesome.
N
c. My mother rarely goes out without an umbrella, doesn’t she?
N
d. Though I have done my interview well, I was not selected.
E
e. Some parents keep their children with control.
H
(or)
C
b) Fill in the blanks as instructed.
i) The _____ little girl did not realise how her hair got so _____. (knotty / naughty)
-
ii) As the shops _____ (close), we could not buy anything for the children.
(Use the correct verb form) S
N
iii) The team performed _____ task in an excellent manner.
IO
47. a) Read the following passage and answer the questions in your own words
IC
The night sky makes a very interesting study. To an astronomer or a sailor, the position
of the stars is a serious, professional study. Many of the stars are known by their names. Each
L
has a distinctive appearance. The sky on a moonlit night is the poet’s delight. The sky on
a dark night may appear somewhat sinister to some, but to Shelley, the poet, it is the star -
B
spangled black dress of a woman. When the sky is covered with clouds without any stars, it
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wears a grim appearance. To a child, the sky at night, is a mystery and to the mature, it is an
endless object of study.
Questions :
Y
v) How does a child differ from a matured adult, when it beholds the sky at night ?
(or)
b) Construct a dialogue between two friends discussing, their life in hostel, in not less
than five exchanges.
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412 MERCURY ENGLISH - XI
I
9. a) Champion 10. d) situation + comedy
A
11. b) ambidexter 12. a) distinguished
N
13. d) Board of Control for Cricket in India 14. d) ran over
N
15. c) exploded 16. b) full freedom and power to do something
E
17. d) deceived 18. c) in addition to
19. a) restaurant 20. c) pallor
H
C
Part - II / Section - 1
Read the following sets of poetic lines and answer any four of the following : 4×2=8
-
21. a) The warmth and love in a handshake is gone.
S
b) Adults today shake hands without warm and sincerety. The handshake is
N
deceptive. It is used to exploit the other man.
IO
24. a) The police need the foot prints of the cat Macavity to book it for its crime.
b) foot, found, file all in alliteration.
L
28. Sneha has a box full of toys which she wants to donate to an orphange.
E
30. The mango fruits are usually harvested by the farmness only in the month of May.
Part - III / Section - 1
Explain any two of the following with reference to the context. 2×3=6
31. Reference : These lines are taken from the poem ‘Once Upon a Time’ by Gabriel
Okara.
Context : The father describes to his son about the fake attitude of today’s adults.
Explanation : The father had also learnt to say ‘Good bye’ to other’s when he actually
meant ‘good riddance’ in his heart.
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Public Exam Question Papers 413
32 Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Everest is Not the Only Peak’ by
Kulothungan.
Context : The poet deals with human virtues in this poem.
Explanation : A virtuous man is duty bound to bless and praise a deserving person.
Ego stands ahead to praise others. So praising the deserved is a great
virtue.
33. Reference : These lines are taken from the poem, ‘Macavity - The Mystery Cat’ by
T.S.Eliot.
Context : The poet describes the criminal acts of a mischevous cat Macavity.
Explanation : The cat committs various mischevous acts against all human laws. It
has also the power of levitation, the power of rising and floating in air.
I
This power is against the law of gravitation.
A
Section - 2
N
Answer any two of the following briefly. 2×3=6
N
34. Onler, friend of Mary invited a few students and elders who went to the member of
E
parliament to seek their help. He helped to get an amount of eight thousand rupees
H
for Mary to go to America.
C
35. The man who approached E. V. Lucas with an offer was like a messenger from the
high Gods wearing a green baize apron and spoke in husky cockey tone.
-
36. In olden days scholars and poets worked in secluded spheres in palaces of Lords and
S
Nobles. Their service was not meant for the common man.
N
Section - 3
IO
5. Sprinkle salt over the items and wipe them down using a damp rag.
6. Finally clean them with a dry soft cloth.
Y
39.
C
Notice
R
Dated : 10.03.2020
To The Residents, residing in the Skylark Apartments, A, B, C blocks.
E
The residents are informed that water supply to the complexes A, B and C will
M
Part - IV
Answer the following questions: 7 × 5 = 35
41. Answer the following in a paragraph of about 150 words.
a) Introduction :
Robert Lynd analyses the fundamental reasons for forgetfulness in humans. He expounds
on the main cause of forgetting.
Generally forgetful :
There are certain things about which people are generally forgetful. The reason is not
weakness of memory, but often we forget things in our daily life. Forgetting is a boon as well
I
as a curse. People forget to take medicines which people forget easily. People also forget their
A
umbrellas, walking sticks and articles on trains.
N
The reason :
N
There are some matters where the memory works with less than its usual perfection. We
E
forget things because we wish to forget them. It may be lack of interest to remember. Sports
H
persons imagine their wins and forget their articles. People with falliable memory have been
superior. Poets and artists need good memory.
C
Conclusion :
-
Forgetfulness is also a boon. It gives us to erase all bad and negative incidents from our
S
mind. It cannot be taken casually if it is a physical disorder.
N
(or)
IO
b) Bryson was flying to England with his wife. At the Boston airport he wanted to show
his frequent flier card to the authorities. His card was in the bag.
T
When he tried to open the bag the zip was jammed. So he opened it forcibly. The zip
gave way and all the contents of the bag were strewn around on the floor.
A
Hundred carefully sorted documents came raining down. The tobacco tin rolled
IC
crazily across, pouring out the contents. He discovered that he had gashed his finger
and it was bleeding profusely.
L
42. Ogden Nash in his poem describes himself as one who prefers to view all kinds
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of sports, but he never dreams of participating in any of these sports events in the
ground. He is scared of being injured during these games as even the champions are
often wounded and need attention.
Y
He admires the talents of the athletes and confesses that he is glad that he is neither
C
with them. He regrets the zealously among the players which result in accidents. He
also says that the ego can be won by good sense and caution.
M
I
A
They return to keep an appointment they had made twenty years ago. The two friends
parted ways near a restaurant at 10 pm on a night. They were raised in New York just
N
like two brothers. Bob went to the West, Jimmy stayed in New York. They lost track
N
of each other after some years.
E
Bob was waiting for Jimmy after twenty years at the appointed time and place. He
told his story to a policeman who was on his duty at the time. The policeman noticed
H
Bob’s face when he lighted his cigar. He moved away from Bob. After sometime a
C
person came to Bob enquiring him if he was Bob. Bob was happy to meet Jimmy
Wells. At the corner drug store, in the brilliant light, Bob realised that it was not
-
Jimmy his friend, with whom he was talking all the time. He could confirm that it was
S
not Jimmy by looking at his nose. Then the other person gave a letter to Bob, written
N
by Jimmy. Jimmy was at the appointed place and noticed Bob when he lighted the
IO
Cigar and found that Bob was the most wanted man in Chicago for his fraudulent
life. He could not arrest him by himself, so he went away and sent a plainclothes man
to do the job.
T
(or)
A
b) Miss. Meadows’ agony : Miss Meadows was a music teacher of age thirty. She was a
IC
pleasant and happy person. She was polite and used to accept the beautiful yellow
chrysanthemum from Mary with a smile, tuck it in her belt and greet her. She was
L
engaged to Basil. One day, she got a letter from Basil rejecting his marriage with her.
B
Ms. Meadows was disturbed and felt gloomy. She did not greet the science teacher. In
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line with her gloomy mood, she chose ‘The Lament’ song for her class. She ignored
the yellow chrysanthemum offered by Mary.
The change in mood : Later, Miss Meadows got a telegram from Basil regretting for
Y
his letter and he had asked her to ignore it as it was written in madness. On reading
the telegram, Ms. Meadows was totally changed. She was very happy. She chose a
C
beautiful lovely song for the class. She accepted the yellow chrysanthemum, put it on
R
her lips to hide her smile. She returned to the class with vigour and good cheer.
E
44. a) Notes
M
I
personality of the speaker. The third is directive - which helps to command or request. Social
A
control plays a major part.
N
The fourth is aesthetic. Here like beauty of the words is more important than the content.
N
The fifth is phatic function - It helps to begin or to continue a conversation.
E
Fair draft :
H
Language - a tool of communication
C
Language invented by man is the most important tool of communication. We have a
purpose, to express, to ask for help, to share our feelings.
-
There are five functions of language. First one is informational - which helps to deliver
messages and give information. S
N
The second one is expressive - It helps to express our ideas.
IO
The third is directive - It helps to command or order things. It is used for social control.
The fourth is aesthetic. Here the beauty of the words is more important than the content.
T
(or)
IC
Preparation of soil is the first step. The surface of earth should be dug, top soil should be
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mixed with manure and water. I plan a vegetable garden. Hedges are prepared for different
vegetables.The plants should be placed in the small holes that are dug and watered. Weeds
should be removed.
Y
Gardening makes me happy. Moving around the garden is an exercise. The garden is also
C
beneficial as it provides us with vegetables and flowers. I consider my hobby as a pastime and
R
take great interest in maintaining the garden. It gives the immense pleasure to spend time in
my garden.
E
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To
Sridhar,
XXXX
XXX.