NCERT Solutions for Class 9 Hindi Chapter 1 – Do Bailon Ki Katha

NCERT Solutions Class 9 Hindi (क्षितिज)

पाठ 1 – दो बैलों की कथा (पुनर्लेखित उत्तर)

1. कांजीहौस में बंद पशुओं की गिनती क्यों की जाती होगी?

उत्तर:
कांजीहौस पशुओं को रखने का स्थान था, जहाँ आवारा जानवरों को पकड़कर रखा जाता था। वहाँ उनकी गिनती इसलिए होती थी ताकि कोई जानवर भाग न सके और उनकी देखभाल ठीक प्रकार से की जा सके।

2. छोटी लड़की को बैलों से प्रेम क्यों हो गया?

उत्तर:
छोटी लड़की की माँ नहीं थी और सौतेली माँ उसे मारती थी। गया भी बैलों से दिन भर काम करवाता और उन्हें ठीक से चारा नहीं देता था। लड़की को अपनी स्थिति बैलों जैसी लगी, इसलिए उसके मन में उनके प्रति करुणा और प्रेम उत्पन्न हो गया।

3. बैलों के माध्यम से कौन-कौन से नैतिक मूल्य प्रकट होते हैं?

उत्तर:
कहानी से ये नीति-संबंधी मूल्य सामने आते हैं—

अत्यधिक सहनशील और सीधा होना हमेशा उचित नहीं होता।
हर व्यक्ति को अपने अधिकारों के लिए आवाज़ उठानी चाहिए।
स्वतंत्रता का विशेष महत्व है और इसके लिए कष्ट सहना पड़ता है।
समाज के सम्पन्न लोगों को भी अन्याय के विरुद्ध साथ देना चाहिए।
एकता से शक्ति बढ़ती है।

4. प्रेमचंद ने गधे को ‘मूर्ख’ न मानकर किस नए अर्थ में प्रस्तुत किया है?

उत्तर:
सामान्य रूप से गधे को मूर्ख कहा जाता है, पर प्रेमचंद इसे गलत मानते हैं। गधा अपनी सहनशीलता और सीधे स्वभाव के कारण किसी को नुकसान नहीं पहुँचाता। अन्य पशु क्रोध में आकर हानि कर सकते हैं, पर गधा ऐसा नहीं करता। इस प्रकार लेखक उसे धैर्य और सरलता का प्रतीक बताते हैं।

5. किन घटनाओं से हीरा-मोती की गहरी मित्रता सिद्ध होती है?

उत्तर:
इन घटनाओं से उनकी मित्रता स्पष्ट होती है—

दोनों गाड़ी में एक-दूसरे का भार कम करने का प्रयास करते थे।
गया द्वारा हीरा को मारने पर मोती भाग खड़ा हुआ।
मोती पकड़ा गया तो हीरा भी स्वयं लौट आया।
दोनों साथ ही नाँद में मुँह डालते और निकालते थे।
कांजीहौस में भी दोनों ने एक-दूसरे का साथ नहीं छोड़ा।

6. “औरत जात पर सींग चलाना मना है” – इस कथन से प्रेमचंद का दृष्टिकोण स्पष्ट करें।

उत्तर:
इस कथन से स्पष्ट होता है कि प्रेमचंद स्त्रियों का सम्मान करते हैं। वे नारी को त्याग, ममता और सहनशीलता की मूर्ति मानते हैं। लेखक का मत है कि जब पशु भी नारी का आदर करते हैं, तो मनुष्य को भी स्त्री का सम्मान करना चाहिए।

7. किसान समाज में मनुष्य और पशु के संबंध कैसे दर्शाए गए हैं?

उत्तर:
किसान अपने पशुओं को परिवार के सदस्य की तरह मानते हैं। झूरी बैलों को बच्चों जैसा प्यार करता था। जब बैल अत्याचार सहकर उसके घर लौटे, तो झूरी बहुत प्रसन्न हुआ। इससे स्पष्ट होता है कि किसान पशुओं के साथ मानवीय व्यवहार करते हैं।

8. मोती के कथन के आधार पर उसकी विशेषताएँ लिखिए।

उत्तर:
मोती दयालु, परोपकारी और आशावादी है। वह अन्य पशुओं को बचाने के लिए दीवार तोड़ देता है। वह सच्चा मित्र है क्योंकि वह हीरा को अकेला नहीं छोड़ता। उसे ईश्वर पर विश्वास भी है।

9. आशय स्पष्ट कीजिए—

(क) मनुष्य श्रेष्ठ कहलाता है, फिर भी वह बैलों जैसी भावना नहीं समझ सकता।
उत्तर:
हीरा और मोती एक-दूसरे के मन की बात समझ लेते थे, जबकि मनुष्य ऐसा नहीं कर पाता। इससे बैलों की विशेष शक्ति का संकेत मिलता है।

(ख) एक रोटी से पेट नहीं भरा, पर मन तृप्त हुआ।
उत्तर:
लड़की द्वारा दी गई रोटी से उन्हें भोजन नहीं मिला, पर प्रेम मिला, जिससे उनका हृदय संतुष्ट हुआ।

10. गया ने सूखा भूसा क्यों दिया?

उत्तर:
(ग) वह हीरा-मोती के व्यवहार से नाराज़ था।

11. शोषण के विरुद्ध हीरा-मोती की प्रतिक्रिया पर विचार प्रकट कीजिए।

उत्तर:
हीरा और मोती अन्याय के विरुद्ध आवाज उठाते हैं। उन्हें मार और भूख सहनी पड़ती है, फिर भी वे विरोध करते हैं। मेरा विचार है कि उनका विरोध सही था क्योंकि चुप रहने से शोषण और बढ़ता।

12. क्या यह कहानी स्वतंत्रता संग्राम की ओर संकेत करती है?

उत्तर:
हाँ, यह कहानी स्वतंत्रता के महत्व को दर्शाती है। कठिनाइयों के बावजूद बैलों का अपने घर लौटना आज़ादी की लड़ाई का प्रतीक है।

13. निपात शब्द वाले वाक्य (उदाहरण)

ही –

वही उनका सहारा था।
यही उसका निर्णय था।
उसने काम ही किया।
वही मार्ग सही था।
वही उत्तर मिला।

भी –

वह भी आ गया।
मुझे भी जाना है।
वह भी दुखी था।
यह भी कठिन है।
उसने भी प्रयास किया।

14. वाक्य भेद

(क) मिश्र वाक्य – संज्ञा उपवाक्य
(ख) मिश्र वाक्य – विशेषण उपवाक्य
(ग) मिश्र वाक्य – संज्ञा उपवाक्य
(घ) मिश्र वाक्य – क्रियाविशेषण उपवाक्य
(ङ) मिश्र वाक्य – क्रियाविशेषण उपवाक्य

15. मुहावरे और वाक्य

जी-तोड़ मेहनत – उसने परीक्षा के लिए जी-तोड़ मेहनत की।
गम खा जाना – वह अपना दुख गम खा गया।
ईंट का जवाब पत्थर से देना – उसने अपमान का जवाब दृढ़ता से दिया।
दाँतों पसीना आना – भारी बोझ उठाने में दाँतों पसीना आ गया।
कोई कसर न छोड़ना – उसने जीतने में कोई कसर नहीं छोड़ी।

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 9 – The Bond of Love & The Snake Trying

NCERT Solutions – Class 9 English Chapter 9: The Bond of Love

Thinking About the Text

I. Match Headings with Paragraphs

Heading	Paragraph Number
An Orphaned Cub	3
Bruno’s Food-chart	6
An Accidental Case of Poisoning	8
Playful Baba	12
Pain of Separation	14
Joy of Reunion	16
A Request to the Zoo	18
An Island in the Courtyard	21

II. Short Questions

1. “I got him for her by accident.”

Who says this? The narrator
Who do ‘him’ and ‘her’ refer to? ‘Him’ is the baby sloth bear; ‘her’ is the narrator’s wife
What is the incident referred to? How the narrator accidentally brought the baby bear home

2. “He stood on his head in delight.”

Who does ‘he’ refer to? Bruno, the sloth bear
Why was he delighted? Bruno was sent to the zoo and was happy to see the narrator’s wife

3. “We all missed him greatly: but in a sense we were relieved.”

Who does ‘we all’ stand for? The narrator and his family – wife and son
Who did they miss? Bruno, the bear
Why did they feel relieved? Because it was becoming difficult to keep the bear at home due to his growing size

III. Long Questions (30–40 words)

1. On two occasions, Bruno ate/drank something harmful. What happened?

The first time, Bruno ate rat poison in the library and became paralyzed. He was taken to the vet. The second time, he drank nearly one gallon of old engine oil but suffered no ill effects.

2. Was Bruno loving and playful? Why was he sent away?

Bruno was a loving and playful pet, attached to the family and the Alsatian dogs. He had to be sent away because he grew too big to be kept at home.

3. How was the problem of what to do with Bruno finally solved?

Bruno was sent to a zoo but became weak and unhappy. The narrator’s wife fed him and requested the zoo to return him. They got Bruno back and created a special island for him.

Thinking About Language

I. Words with ie/ei

field; ingredients; height; mischievous; friends; eighty-seven; relieved; piece
believe; receive; weird; leisure; seize; weight; reign; foreign; grief; pierce

II. Words with Silent Letters

knock, wrestle, walk, wrong
knee, half, honest, daughter
hours, return, hornet, calm
could, sign, island, button

III. How to Look at an Index

French Revolution: 393, 404–405, 408, 427, 489
Third Estate: 404, 405
Food Security & Minimum Support Price: under “Famine Relief” – pages 43, 57, 87–88, 96–98, 116–117, 131–132
Bronchitis due to cigarette smoking: 223
Heart failure due to bronchitis: 82
Bronchitis in children: 178

IV. Narrative Present

Rewrite the passage in complete sentences:

The vet and I made a dash back to the car. Bruno was still floundering about on his stumps, but clearly weakening rapidly. He was vomiting and breathing heavily. His flanks were heaving, and his mouth was gaping.
The vet ordered, “Hold him, everybody!” Bruno squealed when 10 c.c. of the antidote was injected into his system without wasting a drop.
Ten minutes later, his condition was unchanged. Another 10 c.c. was injected. Ten minutes later, his breathing became less stertorous. Bruno could move his arms and legs, though he could not stand yet. Thirty minutes later, Bruno got up and had a great feed! He looked disdainfully, as if to say, “What’s barium carbonate to a big black bear like me?” Bruno was still eating.

V. Adverbs

1. Fill in adverbs ending in –ly:

(a) Rana does her homework neatly.
(b) It rains heavily in Mumbai in June.
(c) He does his work diligently.
(d) The dog serves his master obediently.

2. Choose suitable adverbs:

(a) We should never get down from a moving train.
(b) I was badly in need of support after my poor performance.
(c) Rita met with an accident. The doctor examined her immediately.

VI. Scrambled Story – The Ant and the Grasshopper

It was a cold winter’s day, and an ant was bringing out grains of corn she had gathered in summer. She wanted to dry them.
A hungry grasshopper saw her and said, “I am dying of hunger. When did you get the corn?”
The ant said, “I collected it in summer. What were you doing in summer? Why did you not store some corn?”
The grasshopper replied, “I was too busy.”
The ant asked again, “What were you doing?”
“I was singing all day,” answered the grasshopper.
The ant said, “If you sang all summer, you can dance all winter.”

Speaking Exercise

Topic: “Animals also feel the pleasure of love and the pain of separation.”
Students should prepare a presentation with examples from personal experience.

Writing Exercise

Topic 1: Pets have unique care and should be kept only by those who understand their needs. Argue for or against.
Topic 2: Debate on whether snake charmers should continue their profession, using information from research reports.

Poem: The Snake Trying

1. What is the snake trying to escape from?

The snake is trying to escape from the pursuing stick.

2. Is it harmful? Colour?

It is not harmful. The snake is green.

3. Words describing beauty:

beautiful, graceful, glides, small, green

4. Poet’s wish for the snake:

That humans should let it go and not kill it.

5. Where was the snake and where does it disappear?

Initially lying along the sand; disappears into ripples among green reeds.

6. Poisonous snakes (examples):

Cobra, Krait, Russell’s Viper, Saw Scaled Viper, King Cobra

7. How to know if a snake is harmful:

Research activity for students

8. Traditional snake handlers in India:

Research activity for students

Chapter Summary: The Bond of Love

Shows the strong bond between a family and a sloth bear, Bruno.
Highlights accidental adoption, playful antics, separation, and reunion.
Teaches love, responsibility, and empathy toward animals.

Poem Summary: The Snake Trying

Describes a harmless snake escaping danger.
Emphasizes respect for life and natural instincts.

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 8 – Reach for the Top & On Killing a Tree

Chapter 8: Reach for the Top (Prose)

Thinking about the Text

I. Short Answer Questions

Why was the holy man surprised when he blessed Santosh’s mother?
The holy man was surprised because Santosh’s grandmother asked for a daughter, not a son. At that time, it was unusual for families to wish for a girl.
Give an example showing Santosh’s unwillingness to accept anything unreasonable.
Even as a young girl, Santosh defied societal norms. She wore shorts instead of traditional Indian dresses and followed her own way rather than blindly accepting conventions.
Why was Santosh sent to the local school?
Although her family was wealthy, Santosh had to attend the local school because of traditional customs followed in the family.
When and why did Santosh move to Delhi?
At sixteen, Santosh moved to Delhi to pursue proper education, seeking opportunities that her local school could not provide.
Why did her parents agree to fund her schooling in Delhi?
Her parents agreed when Santosh assured them she would work part-time to cover some expenses. This showed her determination and clear goal of getting a proper education.

II. Paragraph Answers (30–40 words)

How did Santosh begin climbing mountains?
From her Kasturba Hostel room, Santosh watched villagers climbing the Aravalli Hills. Fascinated, she asked to join them, and they agreed. This small curiosity eventually sparked her love for mountaineering.
What incidents show her concern for team-mates during Everest?
During the 1992 Everest expedition, Santosh shared oxygen with Mohan Singh, saving his life. She also tried to assist a dying climber, showing her care and responsibility towards her team.
How did she show concern for the environment?
On returning from Everest in 1992, Santosh collected and brought down 500 kilograms of garbage left on the mountains, reflecting her environmental awareness.
What were her feelings at the summit?
Holding the Indian tricolor atop Everest, Santosh felt immense pride and joy. The moment of seeing her country’s flag on the world’s highest peak was unforgettable and spiritual.
Why is Santosh in the record books?
She became the youngest woman to climb Everest on her first attempt and the only woman to scale it twice, marking her as a record-holder in mountaineering history.

III. Complete the Statements

From her Kasturba Hostel room, Santosh used to watch villagers climbing hills and disappearing behind the slopes.
She wrote a letter of apology to her father because she enrolled at Uttarkashi without seeking his permission.
Her seniors admired her climbing skills, stamina, and mental strength, while fellow climbers loved her caring and cooperative attitude.

IV. Vocabulary from the Text

Word/Expression	Meaning
assumed	took to be true without proof
rational	sensible; based on reason
custom	usual way of doing things
urge	strong inner desire
resistance	power to endure without falling ill

Part II: Maria Sharapova & Santosh Yadav Comparison

Points of Comparison	Santosh Yadav	Maria Sharapova
Humble beginning	Born in Joniyawas, Haryana	Father worked hard to fund training
Parents’ approach	Sent to local school due to custom	Father supported her training
Willpower & desire	Determined to pursue education and climbing	Determined despite limited resources
Mental toughness	Demonstrated endurance and courage during Everest	Became mentally tough despite setbacks
Patriotism	Proudly held Indian flag atop Everest	Represents Russia, proud of her nationality

Thinking about Language

I. Identifying Clauses

Where other girls wore traditional dresses, Santosh preferred shorts. (Contrast)
She left home and got enrolled in Delhi. (After first action)
She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (When)
Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was sent to train in the USA. (When)

II. Sentence Rewriting

Grandfather told me about the old days when all books were printed on paper.
After finishing the book, perhaps you just throw it away.
He gave the little girl an apple and took the computer apart.
When you have nothing, it makes you very determined.
I never thought of quitting because I knew what I wanted.

III. Speaking Activity

Imagine being Santosh or Maria, speaking to motivate girls:

Good Morning Girls!
You have determination and willpower that will take you far. Always believe in yourself and chase your dreams. Never let difficulties or defeat discourage you. Keep striving and trust your abilities.

IV. Writing Activity

Compare top-ranked women players for your school magazine:
Do it yourself using the qualities: determination, perseverance, mental toughness, discipline, and focus.

Chapter 8 Poem: On Killing a Tree

Thinking about the Poem

Can a simple jab kill a tree?
No, because trees are nourished by years of sunlight, air, water, and nutrients. They regenerate unless removed completely.
How has the tree grown to full size?
By feeding on earth, absorbing sunlight, air, water, and nutrients. Keywords: absorbing, feeding, rising, consuming, sprouting.
Meaning of “bleeding bark”?
It represents the tree releasing sap when cut, similar to a human bleeding.
Meaning of “No” in third stanza:
It emphasizes that merely cutting the tree does not end its life.
Meaning of “anchoring earth” and “earth cave”:
The roots anchor the tree, holding it firmly. “Earth cave” shows the depth and support from the soil.
Meaning of “strength of the tree exposed”:
Pulling out the tree along with deep roots reveals its resilience.
What finally kills the tree?
Only uprooting it entirely and exposing it to sun and heat can finally kill it.

Summary of the Chapter & Poem

Reach for the Top: Inspires with stories of Santosh Yadav and Maria Sharapova, highlighting determination, courage, and patriotism.
On Killing a Tree: Teaches that nature is resilient and cannot be destroyed easily.

NCERT Solutions Class 9 English Chapter 7 – Packing & The Duck and the Kangaroo

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 7 – Packing & The Duck and the Kangaroo

Packing (Prose)

Thinking about the Text

I. Short Paragraph Answers (30–40 words)

Question 1. How many characters are there in the narrative? Name them.
Answer: The story features four characters: Jerome, the narrator; George; Harris; and Montmorency, the dog. Montmorency adds humor and mischief to the events, making the packing process chaotic and entertaining.

Question 2. Why did Jerome volunteer to do the packing?
Answer: Jerome volunteered because he believed he knew more about packing than anyone else. He wanted to control the process and boss over George and Harris, thinking he could organize the items efficiently.

Question 3. How did George and Harris react? Did Jerome like it?
Answer: George and Harris immediately accepted Jerome’s offer, but their relaxed attitude annoyed him. George lounged in the chair while Harris rested his legs on the table, leaving Jerome to manage all the work.

Question 4. What was Jerome’s real intention in volunteering?
Answer: Jerome’s true purpose was to supervise the packing himself and ensure George and Harris followed his orders, giving him authority over the task rather than merely helping.

Question 5. What did Harris say after the bag was packed? Why did he wait?
Answer: Harris asked, “Ain’t you going to put the boots in?” He deliberately waited until the bag was shut to irritate Jerome, knowing it would provoke him.

Question 6. What “horrible idea” occurred to Jerome?
Answer: Jerome suddenly worried that he might have forgotten to pack his toothbrush, a recurring concern he always faced whenever packing, though he never knew why he panicked over it.

Question 7. Where did Jerome find the toothbrush?
Answer: Jerome unpacked everything and shook the items individually, eventually discovering the toothbrush inside one of the boots he had packed.

Question 8. Why did Jerome have to reopen the bag?
Answer: Jerome reopened the bag because he accidentally packed his spectacles inside and needed to retrieve them before continuing with the rest of the packing.

Question 9. What did George and Harris offer to pack and why?
Answer: George and Harris offered to pack the hamper, suggesting that they could handle it while Jerome took a break. They wanted to avoid serious responsibility while still appearing helpful.

Question 10. Which of these are true about George and Harris’s packing?
Answer: The true statements are:

They started by breaking a cup.
They squashed a tomato.
They trod on the butter.
They misplaced things behind them and could not find them.
They stepped on other items during packing.

II. Montmorency’s Role and Personality

Question: What was Montmorency’s ambition? What do you think of him?
Answer: Montmorency aimed to get in the way, cause chaos, and be scolded. He enjoyed creating mischief by stepping on objects and confusing George and Harris. Montmorency is a playful, attention-seeking dog whose antics add humor and liveliness to the story.

III. Long Paragraph Answers (100–150 words)

Question 1: Who is the best and worst packer?
Answer: Jerome is the best packer because he knows how to arrange things, though he occasionally forgets items like his toothbrush or spectacles. George and Harris are the worst; they step on objects, misplace items, and ruin pies by placing heavy things on top. They create disorder and confusion in the room, showing no organizational skill. Jerome’s methodical approach contrasts sharply with George and Harris’s careless handling, highlighting his diligence and their comic irresponsibility.

Question 2: How did Montmorency contribute?
Answer: Montmorency’s goal was to interfere and provoke annoyance. He sat on objects, disturbed teaspoons, and pretended lemons were rats. He even got into the hamper and destroyed three items before Harris could stop him. His antics intensified the chaos, showing that even small, playful actions can have a large impact in a group activity.

Question 3: Identify humorous elements.
Answer: The story is humorous because of Jerome’s authoritative attitude, George and Harris’s incompetence, and Montmorency’s mischief. Jerome wants control but is constantly undermined. George steps on butter, which sticks to Harris, creating a comical mess. Montmorency pretends lemons are rats and disturbs everything, making the packing chaotic and entertaining for the reader.

Thinking about Language

I. Word Matching

A	B
Slaving	(viii) working hard
Chaos	(vi) complete confusion and disorder
Rummage	(v) search for something hurriedly or carelessly
Scrape out	(ii) remove something from inside using a sharp tool
Stumble over, tumble into	(vii) fall or step awkwardly
Accomplish	(iv) finish successfully, achieve
Uncanny	(iii) strange, mysterious, difficult to explain
(to have or get into) a row	(i) a quarrel or an argument

II. Paragraph Completion

During power cuts, when traffic lights go off, there is utter chaos at crossroads. Drivers add to the confusion by getting into a row over their right of way. Sometimes passers-by, seeing a few policemen slaving to regulate traffic, step in to help. This gives them a feeling of having accomplished something.

Instructions, Commands, and Directions

Examples:

Commands: Sit properly. Respect your elders.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do your homework regularly.
- Stand whenever a teacher enters.
- Don’t leave lunch unfinished.
- Don’t fight in school.
Directions: From Globe Chowk, turn right onto Street 21, first left to find a park, continue to street 36, house with two palm trees.
Exercise Instructions: Sit straight, palms near head, forefingers above eyebrows, hum while breathing (Bhramari Pranayam).

Proverbs:

Positive	Negative
Save for a rainy day	Don’t cry over spilt milk
Make hay while the sun shines	Don’t put the cart before the horse
Look before you leap	Don’t make a mountain out of a mole hill
Live and let live	Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
Keep your mouth shut, eyes open	Don’t bite off more than you can chew
Cross the stream where shallow	Don’t blow your own trumpet
Hope for best, prepare worst	Don’t judge a book by its cover

Writing Task – Packing Tips

Answer:
First pack heavy items not needed immediately. Then, arrange fragile items on top. Next, place soft goods around delicate items. Remember to label the bags. Don’t forget essentials like toothbrush or spectacles. Finally, double-check before closing the bags.

Speaking Task – “Had Better” Usage

You had better return the library book.
You had better bring your lunch tomorrow.
You had better get enough bus change.
You had better reveal the secret you found.
You had better not misplace your English textbook.

The Duck and the Kangaroo (Poem)

I. Poem Summary & Understanding

Uniforms Meaning: The poet refers to the different clothes humans wear. Beneath these uniforms, we are all the same.
Similarity: All humans breathe, walk on the same earth, and will lie in it one day.
Stanza 1 Features:
- No men are strange
- No countries foreign
- A single body breathes
- The land our brothers walk on
- Same earth in which all shall lie
Stanza 2 Features:
- Aware of sun, water, air
- Fed by peaceful harvests
- Hands similar to ours
- Labor like ours in lines
Hate & Wars: People are told to hate others by selfish leaders to create conflicts. We should resist such instructions. The poet emphasizes universal equality and peace.

II. Moral: Appreciate differences but recognize the fundamental human similarity.

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 6 – My Childhood & Poem No Men Are Foreign

Class 9 English Chapter 6 – My Childhood (NCERT Solutions)

Thinking about the Text

I. Answer these questions in one or two sentences each

Q1. Where was Abdul Kalam’s house?
Abdul Kalam’s house was located on Mosque Street in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu.

Q2. What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your answer.
Dinamani appears to be the name of a newspaper because Kalam mentions that he would try to find stories told by his brother-in-law in its headlines, which indicates it is a publication.

Q3. Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends? What did they later become?
Kalam’s school friends were Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. Ramanadha Sastry inherited the priesthood of Rameswaram temple, Aravindan started a transport business for pilgrims, and Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for Southern Railways.

Q4. How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages?
He earned his first wages by collecting bundles of newspapers thrown from a moving train along the Rameswaram–Dhanuskodi route and distributing them in town.

Q5. Had he earned any money before that? In what way?
Yes, before that he earned small amounts by collecting tamarind seeds and selling them at a local provision shop, earning around one anna a day.

II. Short Paragraph Answers (Approx. 30 words)

Q1. How does the author describe: (i) his father (ii) his mother (iii) himself?
(i) Abdul Kalam describes his father as a disciplined, honest man who avoided unnecessary luxuries, lacked formal education, but possessed deep wisdom and generosity.
(ii) His mother is depicted as a caring, supportive wife who provided for her family and welcomed outsiders with kindness.
(iii) He describes himself as a short, ordinary-looking boy born to tall and attractive parents, often feeling unremarkable compared to them.

Q2. What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents?
Kalam inherited honesty and self-discipline from his father, while his mother instilled in him faith in goodness and a compassionate, kind nature.

III. Detailed Paragraph Answers

Q1. Rameswaram Society and Social Groups

Kalam explains that Rameswaram society was rigidly divided into social groups, particularly Hindus and Muslims, often identifiable by clothing or customs. However, friendships and shared experiences often bridged these boundaries. For instance, Kalam’s mother and grandmother narrated stories from the Ramayana and Islamic teachings, while his Hindu friends attended local ceremonies together. People like Sivasubramania Iyer and Lakshamana Sastry actively worked to reduce differences, while others, such as the new school teacher and Sivasubramania Iyer’s wife, initially reinforced divisions. Two incidents illustrate this: when Lakshamana Sastry confronted a teacher for segregating Kalam in class, the teacher apologized and reformed; similarly, Sivasubramania Iyer’s careful inclusion of Kalam in meals eventually changed his wife’s perception, promoting acceptance and understanding. These examples show that with awareness and empathy, people can overcome social prejudices.

Q2. Abdul Kalam Leaving Rameswaram

Kalam wanted to leave Rameswaram to pursue better education at the district headquarters in Ramanathapuram. His father encouraged him, saying, “Abul! I know you have to go away to grow. Does the seagull not fly across the sun, alone and without a nest?” These words meant that his father understood that to progress in life, Kalam needed to move beyond home and comfort, emphasizing growth, independence, and the pursuit of knowledge. His father spoke this way because he wanted his son to embrace opportunities, even if it required leaving the familiar and facing challenges.

IV. Thinking About Language

Erupt, Surge, Trace, Undistinguished, Casualty

Erupt: “For reasons I have never been able to understand, a sudden demand for tamarind seeds erupted in the market.”
Surge: “Half a century later, I can still feel the surge of pride in earning my own money for the first time.”
Trace: “My brother-in-law Jallaluddin would tell me stories about the War which I would later attempt to trace in the headlines in Dinamani.”
Undistinguished: “I was one of many children — a short boy with rather undistinguished looks, born to tall and handsome parents.”
Casualty: “The first casualty came in the form of the suspension of the train halt at Rameswaram station.”

Q1. What can erupt or surge?
Volcanoes, emotions, or anger can erupt. Waves, prices, or crowds can surge. Examples include a volcano eruption or a sudden surge of pride or excitement.

Q2. Meaning of ‘trace’
Trace can mean to copy, outline, or find out. In the text, it refers to “finding out” the news stories in the newspaper.

Q3. Meaning of ‘undistinguished’
Undistinguished means ordinary or not remarkable, as opposed to distinguished, which implies special, notable, or distinct qualities.

Prefixes with un-/in-

inadequate, unacceptable, irregular, intolerant
undemanding, inactive, untrue, impermanent
unpatriotic, undisputed, inaccessible, incoherent
illogical, illegal, irresponsible, impossible

V. Passive Voice Practice

Examples:

The prizes were given away by the Principal in yesterday’s competition.
The labourers were paid on time, despite financial difficulties.
Vehicles were not allowed beyond this point on Republic Day.
Second-hand books are bought and sold on the pavement every Saturday.
Elections to the Lok Sabha are held every five years.
Our National Anthem was composed by Rabindranath Tagore.

VI. Verb Forms in Paragraphs

How Helmets Came to Be Used in Cricket
Nari Contractor, captain and opening batsman for India in the 1960s, toured the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados, Contractor was seriously injured and collapsed after being hit on the head by a bouncer. Helmets were not worn at that time. His skull was fractured, and the team was deeply concerned. He was rushed to the hospital, accompanied by Frank Worrell, West Indies captain, and blood was donated by local players. Thanks to prompt help, Contractor was saved. Today, helmets are routinely used in cricket to prevent such injuries.

Oil from Seeds
Vegetable oils are obtained from seeds and fruits of various plants worldwide, from sesame seeds to coconuts. Cotton, groundnuts, soybeans, and sunflower seeds produce oil. Olives are shaken from trees, gathered by hand, ground into paste, and pressed on mats to extract oil, which is used for cooking and dressing.

VII. Dictation: To Sir, With Love

From Rameswaram to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Abdul Kalam’s journey has been extraordinary. Speaking to Nona Walia on Teacher’s Day, he emphasizes that education fosters dignity and self-respect.

He recalls his first lesson in Standard V, when his teacher, Sri Sivasubramania Iyer, explained how birds fly. Kalam initially did not understand, but after observing sea birds on Rameswaram shore, he grasped the concept. This lesson inspired his lifelong interest in flight and technology, marking a turning point in his life.

VIII. Speaking Topics

Topic 1: Career Building Is the Only Goal of Education
Topic 2: Getting a Good Job Is More Important than Being a Good Human Being

Use these expressions:

Giving opinion: I think…, In my opinion…, It seems to me…
Others’ opinions: According to some…, Some others favour…
Asking opinions: What do you think about…?, Do you agree…?

IX. Writing

Life in Rameswaram in the 1940s
Life in Rameswaram in the 1940s was simple and orthodox. Most people were poor, hard-working, and deeply religious. Social hierarchies were rigid, yet traditions and festivals brought communities together. Change was met with caution, but kindness and cooperation were valued in daily life.

Class 9 English Chapter 6 Poem – No Men Are Foreign (NCERT Solutions)

Q1. “Beneath all uniforms…” What uniforms? How are we all the same?
The poet refers to the different clothes and uniforms people wear. Despite appearances, all humans share the same emotions, physical needs, and mortality, emphasizing equality across nations.

Q2. Five ways humans are alike (Stanza 1)

No men are strange
No countries are foreign
A single body breathes
The land our brothers walk upon
The same earth in which all shall lie

Q3. Common features (Stanza 2)
Humans share awareness of sun, air, and water; are nourished by peaceful harvests; have similar hands; and perform labor that mirrors one another’s efforts.

Q4. “…whenever we are told to hate our brothers…”
People are taught to hate others during wars or conflicts by selfish leaders for personal gains. The poet advises resisting such influence and recognizing the shared humanity of all people. There are no foreign lands or men; everyone is fundamentally alike.

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 5 The Snake and the Mirror

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 5

The Snake and the Mirror

Thinking About the Text

I. Discuss in pairs and answer each question below.

Question 1.

“The sound was a familiar one.” What sound did the doctor hear? What did he think it was? How many times did he hear it? When and why did the sounds stop?

Answer:
When the doctor entered his room, he heard a repeated noise coming from the roof. He believed it to be the movement of rats, as such sounds were common in that area. The noise was heard four times at different moments, including a dull thud later. The sounds stopped abruptly when the snake fell from the ceiling and appeared before him.

Question 2.

What two “important” and “earth-shaking” decisions did the doctor take while looking into the mirror?

Answer:
While admiring himself in the mirror, the doctor made two serious decisions. First, he decided that he would shave every day and grow a thin moustache to improve his appearance. Second, he resolved to maintain a pleasant and confident smile at all times to look attractive.

Question 3.

“I looked into the mirror and smiled.” Later he says, “I forgot my danger and smiled feebly at myself.” What do these two smiles show?

Answer:
When the doctor smiled initially, he was feeling proud of his looks and believed himself to be handsome. Later, when he smiled again, his expression reflected fear and helplessness. His thoughts changed because the snake had wrapped itself around his arm, making him realise his vulnerability.

II. Humour in the Story

Question 1.

Contrast between the doctor’s reality and his dreams.

Answer:
In reality, the doctor lived in a poorly furnished rented room and earned very little money. He owned only a few clothes and some cash. However, he imagined himself as a charming and successful man and planned to improve his appearance to look more impressive.

Question 2.

Contrast between the woman he wanted to marry and the woman he married.

Answer:
The doctor wished to marry a wealthy, overweight woman doctor so that she would not be able to chase him if needed. In reality, he married a thin and agile woman who could run very fast, which makes the situation humorous.

Question 3.

Contrast between his thoughts before and after the snake incident.

Answer:
Before seeing the snake, the doctor admired his reflection and felt confident. When the snake coiled around his arm, he remained motionless and terrified. His confidence vanished and he began to see himself as foolish and powerless.

Thinking About Language

I. Identify the statements

Answer:

(a) Afraid of the snake – 1, 3, 4, 5
(b) Proud of appearance – 6, 8
(c) Sense of humour – 9, 10
(d) No longer afraid – 2, 7

II. Expressions showing fear

Answer:

I was turned to stone.
I sat there holding my breath.
I sat there like a stone image in flesh.

III. Meanings of expressions

Answer:

Scared out of my wits – very frightened
Got a fright – suddenly frightened
Jumped out of his skin – shocked suddenly
Gave me a fright – made someone scared
Hair stand on end – extremely scared
Paralysed with fear – unable to move
Not moving a muscle – too scared to move

IV. Reported Questions

Answer:

Meena asked her friend whether his/her teacher would come that day.
David asked his colleague where he would go that summer.
He asked the boy why he was studying English.
She asked me when we were going to leave.
Pran asked me if I had finished reading the newspaper.
Seema asked her how long she had lived there.
Sheila asked the children if they were ready to do the work.

Dictation

Answer: Do it yourself.

Writing

Question 1.

Rewrite the story without humour.

Answer: Do it yourself.

Question 2.

Story based on the monkey and mirror.

Answer:
A monkey once found a mirror lying on the ground. Curious, it looked closely and discovered its reflection. It cleaned its face, admired itself, and made funny expressions. After spending time preening, it lost interest and jumped away, leaving the mirror behind.

Translation

Answer (Summary):
Translation A uses the past tense and longer sentences, while Translation B uses present tense with shorter sentences. Translation B feels more immediate and engaging, making it more enjoyable to read.

Poem: A Legend of the Northland

Thinking About the Poem

Question 1.

What does “Northland” refer to?

Answer:
Northland refers to cold northern regions such as Norway, Greenland, Canada, or Russia.

Question 2.

What did Saint Peter ask for? How did the lady react?

Answer:
Saint Peter asked the old woman for a piece of cake. She behaved selfishly and kept making the cake smaller, unwilling to share even a little.

Question 3.

How was she punished?

Answer:
Saint Peter punished her by turning her into a woodpecker for her selfish behaviour.

Question 4.

How does the woodpecker get food?

Answer:
The woodpecker drills into hard wood all day to find food.

Question 5.

Would the lady behave differently if she knew Saint Peter’s identity?

Answer:
Yes, she would have given him a generous portion to please him and gain blessings.

Question 6.

Is it a true story? What is its message?

Answer:
It is a legend. The poem teaches generosity and kindness.

Question 7.

Why is this poem called a legend?

Answer:
It is called a legend because it conveys a moral lesson through an imaginative story believed by people over time.

Question 8.

Story of the poem in ten sentences.

Answer:
Saint Peter once asked an old woman for food. She was greedy and refused to share. Angered by her selfishness, he turned her into a woodpecker. Since then, the bird drills wood for food, teaching humans the value of generosity.

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 4 A Truly Beautiful Mind (Beehive)

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English

Chapter 4 – A Truly Beautiful Mind

Thinking about the Text

Question 1

Here are some headings for paragraphs in the text. Write the number(s) of the paragraph(s) for each title against the heading.

Answer:

(i) Einstein’s equation – 9

(ii) Einstein meets his future wife – 7

(iii) The making of a violinist – 3

(iv) Mileva and Einstein’s mother – 10

(v) A letter that launched the arms race – 15

(vi) A desk drawer full of ideas – 8

(vii) Marriage and divorce – 11

Question 2

Who had these opinions about Einstein?

Answer:

(i) The people who felt that Einstein was boring were his childhood companions, as he did not enjoy common games and preferred to stay quiet.

(ii) The person who believed Einstein was foolish and would fail in life was his school headmaster, who disliked his questioning nature.

(iii) Einstein’s mother sometimes thought of him as strange because of his unusual habits and delayed speech.

Question 3

Explain the reasons for the following.

Answer:

(i) Einstein left the school in Munich permanently because the strict discipline of the school restricted his freedom. He strongly disliked rote learning and often clashed with his teachers.

(ii) Einstein wished to continue his studies in Switzerland as the education system there was more open-minded and encouraged independent thinking, unlike Munich.

(iii) Einstein found a companion in Mileva because she shared his views and supported his ideas. She understood his dislike for narrow-minded people and conservative thinking.

(iv) These incidents show that Einstein valued freedom, originality, and independent thought. He was unwilling to follow traditions blindly.

Question 4

What did Einstein call his desk drawer at the patent office? Why?

Answer:

Einstein referred to his desk drawer as the “bureau of theoretical physics” because he used it to secretly develop scientific ideas while working at the patent office.

Question 5

Why did Einstein write a letter to Franklin Roosevelt?

Answer:

Einstein wrote to Franklin Roosevelt to alert the American government about Germany’s progress in atomic research and the possible development of a powerful bomb.

Question 6

How did Einstein react to the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

Answer:

Einstein was deeply disturbed by the destruction caused by the atomic bombs. After this incident, he strongly supported global peace and urged nations to control the use of nuclear weapons.

Question 7

Why does the world remember Einstein as a “world citizen”?

Answer:

Einstein is remembered as a world citizen because he worked beyond national boundaries and actively promoted peace, democracy, and opposition to the arms race.

Question 8

Arrange the following events in chronological order.

Answer:

Einstein is born in Ulm
He studies at a school in Munich
His family moves to Milan
He leaves school due to strict discipline
He joins a university in Zurich
He works at a patent office
He publishes the special theory of relativity
He presents a new theory of gravity
He receives the Nobel Prize
He leaves Germany after Hitler’s rise
He writes to President Roosevelt
Einstein dies

Thinking about Language

I. Substitution of words

Answer:

faltered – became weak
at odds – in disagreement
proclaimed – declared
agitating – campaigning
for good – permanently
uproar – state of confusion
appealed – interested

II. Participial phrases

Answer:

Working continuously, the firefighters finally controlled the fire.
She watched the sunset, observing the colours blending gently.
The excited horse pawed the ground, neighing repeatedly.
Having boarded the wrong train, I reached Bangalore instead of Benaras.
Not bathing for two days, I felt an urgent need to freshen up.
The stone steps, being badly worn, needed replacement.
The actor received many letters, requesting his photograph.

Writing – Newspaper Report

Student Unearths Einstein Manuscript

21 August 2005:
An original handwritten manuscript of Albert Einstein was discovered at a university in the Netherlands.

The document was found by a student named Rowdy Boeynik while he was researching papers related to one of Einstein’s old friends.

The 16-page manuscript, dated 1924, includes Einstein’s work on atomic behaviour at extremely low temperatures, later known as Bose-Einstein Condensation.

The valuable manuscript will be preserved at Leyden University, where Einstein had earlier received the Nobel Prize.

Poem: The Lake Isle of Innisfree

Question 1

Describe Innisfree.

Answer:

Innisfree is a peaceful and natural place that provides calmness to the poet.

(i) He wishes to build a small hut, grow beans, and keep bees.

(ii) He hears gentle natural sounds and observes beautiful scenes, which bring him inner peace.

(iii) Even when far away, the sound of the lake remains alive in his heart.

Question 2

How does the poet contrast Innisfree with the place where he stands?

Answer:

The poet contrasts the calm beauty of Innisfree with the dull, grey, and noisy city environment, highlighting his longing for peace.

Question 3

Is Innisfree a place or a state of mind?

Answer:

Innisfree is both a real place and a mental escape. The poet misses the physical location as well as the peace it represents.

Question 4

What images do the words create?

Answer:

The expressions create pictures of buzzing bees, flying birds in the evening sky, and gentle waves of water, all symbolising tranquillity.

Question 5

Explain “peace comes dropping slow”.

Answer:

The poet suggests that peace arrives gradually, spreading softly from morning until it fills the surroundings with calmness.