ENGLISH CORE

CLASS – XI

SECTION - A

READING COMPREHENSION

Very short answer +/ Short answer and MCQ type questions:

Two unseen passages (including poems) with a variety of questions including 04 marks for

vocabulary such as word formation and inferring meaning. The total range of the 2 passages

including a poem or a stanza, should be around 900-1000 words.

1. 550-600 words in length (for note-making and summarising)

2. 350-400 words in length (to test comprehension, interpretation and inference). An unseen

poem of about 28-35 lines. The passages could be of any one of the following types:

� Factual passages, e.g., illustrations, description, reports

� Discursive passages involving opinion, e.g., argumentative, persuasive

� Literary passages e.g. extracts from fiction, biography, autobiography, travelogue, etc.

In the case of a poem, the text may be shorter than the prescribed word limit.

SECTION B

WRITING SKILLS AND GRAMMAR

WRITING

� Short Answer Questions: Based on notice/ poster/ advertisement

� Long Answer Questions: Letters based on verbal/visual input. It would cover all types of

letters. Letter types may include:

(a) business or official letters (for making enquiries, registering complaints, asking for and

giving information, placing orders and sending replies)

(b) letters to the editor (giving suggestions/opinions on an issue)

(c) application for a job with a bio-data or resumé

(d) letter to the school or college authorities, regarding admissions, school issues, requirements

/suitability of courses, etc.

� Very Long Answer Question: Composition in the form of article, speech, report writing

or a narrative

GRAMMAR

Different grammatical structures in meaningful contexts will be tested. Item types will include

gap filling, sentence re-ordering, dialogue completion and sentence transformation. The grammar

syllabus will include determiners, tenses, clauses, modals and Change of Voice. These grammar

areas will be tested using the following short answer type and MCQ type questions.

� Error Correction, editing tasks

� Re - ordering of sentences,

� Transformation of sentences

SECTION C

LITERATURE AND LONG READING TEXTS/NOVELS

Questions to test comprehension at different levels: literal, inferential and evaluative

1. Hornbill: Textbook published by NCERT, New Delhi

2. Snapshots: Supplementary Reader published by NCERT, New Delhi

The following have been deleted:

Textbooks - Name of the lessons deleted

Hornbill 1. Landscape of the Soul

2. The Adventure

3. Silk Road

4. The Laburnum Top (Poetry)

Snapshots 5. The Ghat of the only World

� Very Short Answer Questions - Based on an extract from poetry to test reference to

context comprehension and appreciation.

� Short Answer Questions - Based on prose, poetry and plays from both the texts.

� Long Answer Question - Based on prescribed texts to test global comprehension and

extrapolation beyond the texts to bring out the key messages and values.

� Long Answer Questions - Based on theme, plot, incidents or events from the prescribed

novels.

� Long Answer Question - Based on understanding appreciation, analysis and

interpretation of the characters. Note: Values-based questions may be given as long

answers in the writing or literature sections.

Long Reading Texts/Novels

Author i) The Canterville Ghost Oscar Wilde

ii) Up from Slavery Booker T. Washington

NOTE MAKING & SUMMARY

Cardinal Rules of Note Making

� Notes are to be prepared using POINTS ONLY. Never use complete sentences.

� Provide a suitable title for the notes and the summary. The title should not exceed more than 5

words.

� The topic of discussion in each paragraph is the main point and the ideas elaborating on it are the

sub-points.

� The minimum number of main points for the passage should be 3.

� There should be minimum 4 sub-points for each main point.

� Make sure that all the important points in the passage has been covered while preparing the notes.

� Use proper indentations for the notes. A systematic pattern is to be followed for the indentations

such as if you adopt numerical then consistently use only numerical for the notes. If its alphabet

indentation, then be consistent in using alphabets only.

� Use minimum 4 abbreviations in the notes. Abbreviations can be either recognizable / universally

accepted or they can be created by the student. Symbols and figures may also be used as

abbreviations.

� A key has to be provided at the end of the notes for the abbreviations titled ‘Key to

Abbreviations’.

Split-up of marks for Note Making

Content Area Marks Allotted

Notes 3

Title 1

Abbreviations (minimum 4) 1

Total 5

SUMMARY

The important points in the notes are written as meaningful sentences to form the summary. The

word limit is 80.

Split-up of marks for Summary

Content – 2; Expression – 1; Total – 3

Passage for Note Making (Solved)

Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Every girl dreams of becoming a princess and living in a castle. The closest we can get to that

these days is vacationing in one of the numerous palace hotels that dot our historical country.

They are a symbol of our glorious past and give us a taste of the regal lifestyle of the royalty in

India.

Most of these palace hotels are situate in Rajasthan, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Bikaner – they

all boast huge forts, colourful palaces and the luxurious lifestyle of the royals. Even though

monarchy is extinct in India, descendants of the Maharajas and Maharanis of the past still try to

maintain their way of life. Their heirloom jewellery, traditional clothes and the feasts produces in

the royal kitchens can still take you back in time. The palaces that the living blue bloods call

home are now converted to heritage hotels.

Samode Palace in Jaipur is one of these old palaces that have been standing tall for almost five

centuries. It’s lit up façade at night forms an iconic image of what an Indian royal palace looked

like. The 24 suites and 19 rooms have their own old world charm the hand painted hallways,

colourful mosaics, all archways and high ceilings make your stay a memorable experience.

Exploring the age old corridors could take you on a trip through the history of royal India.

You will feel like you have travelled back in time machine If you decide to vacation at the

Neemrana Fort Palace in Alwar. This large property is divided into seven wings. You need not

venture out of this hotel as you can spend your whole vacation her and have beautiful photos to

take home. An appointment at the in-house ayurvedic spa can help you truly relax and enjoy

your vacation.

Jaipur, the pink city should get the title of the ‘palace city’ as most of these luxurious abodes are

located here. One of the world’s finest heritage hotels, the Rambagh Palace Hotel is located here.

The Taj Group has respectfully restored this palace to its formal glory as can be witnessed in its

airy courtyards, gurgling fountains, beautiful verandas and warm hospitality. Taj Rambagh

Palace is fondly called the jewel of Jaipur and truly deserves this honour. Just a stroll in the 47-

acre garden is enough to soak in the grandeur of the past.

On the basis of your reading of the passage, make notes on it usinf headings and sub-heaidngs in

a format you consider suitable. Use recognizable abbreviations wherever necessary. Also supply

a suitable title to the passage.

The Palaces of Rajasthan

1. Introduction

1.1 Becoming a princess, living in a palace – every girl’s dream

1.2 closest to the dream – vactng in a palace

1.2.1 symbol of glrs past

1.2.2 taste of regal lifestyle

2 Palaces of Rajasthan

2.1 Rajasthan – numerous, colourful palaces

2.2 Huge forts, & luxurious lifestyle

2.3 Royal descendants – lifestyle maintained even today

2.4 Major palaces – converted to heritage hotels.

3 Samode Palace

3.1 located in Jaipur

3.2 5 centrs old

3.3 Lit up façade - iconic image of royalty

3.4 Interior magnificent

3.4.1 24 suites, 19 rooms – old world charm

3.4.2 corridors – trip through history of India

3.5 stay a memorable experience.

4. Neemrana Palace

4.1 located at Alwar

4.2 divided into 7 rooms

4.3 in-house ayvdc spa – relaxing and enjoyable

5. Pink City, Jaipur

5.1 palace city – many luxurious abodes

5.2 Rambagh palace – world’s finest heritage hotels

5.2.1 respectfully restored by Taj Group

5.2.2 warm hospitality

Key to Abbreviations Vactng Vacationing

Glrs Glorious

& And

Centrs Centuries

Ayvdc Ayurvedic

SUMMARY

Palaces are symbols of a glorious past and give a taste of regal lifestyle. Rajasthan has numerous,

colourful palaces with huge forts and luxurious lifestyle. Many major palaces have been

converted to heritage hotels. The Samode Palace of Jaipur has a magnificent interior with 24

suites and 19 rooms of age old charm. Neemrana Palace located at Alwar has 7 rooms and an in-

house ayurvedic spa which is relaxing and enjoyable. The Pink City Jaipur has many luxurious

abodes. Rambagh palace is one of India’s finest heritage hotels owned by Taj Group and offers

warm hospitality.

SECTION B – WRITING SKILLS

This section tests the writing skills of the students in various areas. The questions and allotment

of marks are as follows.

One short answer question of not more than 50 words e.g. notice, advertisements, drafting

posters, writing formal and informal invitations and replies.

Letter based on verbal input.

Very Long Answer Question: The question type includes a report / article / speech based on

verbal or visual input.

TYPE 4 QUESTIONS

This section contains short answer compositions

• Notice

• Posters

• Advertisements – classified and commercial

• Invitations – formal and informal

• Reply to invitations

NOTICE

A notice is normally printed information meant for a select group and displayed at prominent

places. The following instructions are to be remembered while preparing a notice.

� Since it contains formal information, the tone and style should be formal and

factual.

� Use formal and simple language.

� Make it brief and to the point.

� The word limit is 50 words. Adhere to it.

� The notice should be put in a box.

� Mention the name and place of the issuing authority which could be a school,

organization or office.

� Write the title ‘NOTICE’ at the top centre.

� Write the date of issuing the notice to the left of the box.

� Give a suitable sub-title. (It should mention the purpose of the notice)

� Clearly specify the target group for whom the notice is meant.

� In the content part, mention all the relevant details such as venue, date and time.

Conclude the notice with the name and designation of the person issuing the

notice.

NAME OF THE ISSUING AUTHORITY, PLACE

NOTICE

Date with month in words

Sub-title (Reason for the notice)

Content - Mandatory points – target group, name of the program, venue and

time. Provide additional details which may / may not be given with the

question.

If announcing an event, give the last date for registration and the person with

whom the registration is to be done. If the matter involves participation in

some event, need for the consent letter of the parent should be mentioned

compulsorily.

Name of the person issuing the notice

Designation

SOLVED EXAMPLE

You are Varun / Vinitha Sharma, Activity Secretary of St. Mark’s School, Kohlapur. Your

school is organizing an inter-school drama competition for which you need volunteers from

Class XI who are willing to stay back and assist the teachers in the preparation. Put up a notice to

inform the students of the same.

ST MARK’S SCHOOL, KOHLAPUR

NOTICE

xx July 2015

Volunteers for Inter-school Competition

Attention Class XI students! Our school is organizing an inter-school

drama competition ‘Set The Stage on Fire’ on xx August 2015. We need

volunteers who are willing to stay back and assist the teachers for the

preparation for 2 days prior to and after the competition. Students who are

willing should register their names with the undersigned on or before xx

July 2015. Consent letter of the parents is mandatory.

Varun / Vinitha Sharma

Activity Secretary

ADVERTISEMENTS

Advertisements are basically information or announcements made through a public medium and

meant for a mass audience. They may be giving information about a particular product or could

be asking for or offering services, buying or selling properties or providing information about

missing persons, pets etc.

Based on the presentation of facts, advertisements are broadly classified into two – Commercial

or Display and Classified.

COMMERCIAL OR DISPLAY ADVERTISEMENT

They are drafted for commercial purposes. They are meant to inform the public about a business,

a product or service type. They are expected to create a visual impact and hence should be

visually appealing and attention-grabbing.

Main features of a commercial ad are

� Must be attractive with catchy slogans / headlines or punch lines.

� Visuals or sketches are mandatory.

� Different fond sizes and styles can be used.

� The facts or details of the product advertised must be stated clearly and briefly.

� Name and address of the advertiser should be clearly specified.

� Special offers and discounts should be mentioned.

SOLVED EXAMPLE

You have recently opened a store called ‘All for Kids’. Draft an advertisement for the same

offering attractive discounts.

THE ONE STOP SHOP FOR KIDS ITEMS

ATTRACTIVE DISCOUNTS ON ALL ITEMS

SURPRISE GIFTS AND PLENTY MORE

AT CENTRE SQUARE MALL

MG ROAD

ERNAKULAM

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

These are meant for a target audience and places in separate sections of the newspapers based on

their subject matter.

Main features:-

� Should be brief and to the point.

� Use formal, factual, concise and simple language.

� Complete sentences to be avoided. Necessary details should be given in points

using commas.

� Category to be clearly stated at the top. (eg. Real estate, Situations vacant,

Situations wanted etc.)

Important

INTERNATIONAL

BRANDS

SPECIAL

PLAY AREA

FOR KIDS

The first one or two words of the advertisements may be written in capital letters.

The contact details of the advertiser are mandatory.

Kinds of Classified Advertisements

1. Situation Vacant/Wanted 2. Lost and found 3. Sale and purchase 4. Accommodation

wanted 5. Educational 6. Placement services 7. Matrimonial 8. To-Let 9. Tuitions 10.

Packers and Movers 11. Kennel 12. Travels and Tours 13. Public Appeal

FORMATS FOR VARIOUS CLASSFIED ADS

SITUATION VACANT

WANTED for (write the name of the organisation) a / an / write the number of

vacancies, mention the post advertised, qualification / experience required.

Mention any additional requirements (age, male/female, any skills that are

needed) . Pay scale (salary negotiable / salary commensurate with experience /

salary best in the industry) mode of applying (apply with complete bio data

within (specify the last date of application) / walk in for interview) contact

address and / or phone number.

SITUATION WANTED***

Begin with mentioning the qualification (mechanical engineer / retired army

officer etc), from (mention the place of education) age, male/female with

experience (no. of years with the place of former employment, eg. 5 years in

a multinational), post handled last, seeks employment in (mention your

preference). Mention any additional qualifications that you have. Expected

salary and perks( specify the exact amount). Contact address / or number.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

HOUSE / PLOT (mention the nature of the property) for sale, at (mention

location with full details) if it’s a building, mention the size ( ___sq.ft),

spacious, 2 or 3 bhk (3 bedrooms, hall, kitchen), fully/ partially furnished,

(details of surroundings) well-maintained compound, car parking facilities,

proximity to school and hospital and bus stop, best location. Contact details.

TO-LET

AVAILABLE for rent at (mention the complete address of the place for rent),

(mention sq.ft. area for both buildings and plots) if building mention no. of

rooms, floors (For flats and multi-storied buildings), (other attractions) with all

amenities, parking area. Well-ventilated and modern construction, 24-hour

water and power supply, back-up generator, lift facility (For flats and multi-

storied buildings), suggestions for possible uses eg. Excellent for office,

restaurants, shops. contact details

FOR RENT

WANTED for rent, mention what type of room with sq.ft. area, purpose for

which you need it, any special possible features required like 24-hour power

and water supply for hotels and electronic appliance showrooms, proximity to

city centre preferable, contact details.

(Mention the name of the vehicle) FOR SALE

(name of the vehicle with colour) eg. MERCEDES BENZ, white, for sale,

2004 (any year can be written) model, A/c or non A/c, (no. of kilometres run,

any number may be used) eg. 45,000km, (ownership details) single ownership,

(mention special features and accessories) original parts, stereo-fitted, Pioneer

sound system, GPRS, new tyres, designer seat covers, excellent condition.

Price negotiable / non-negotiable (if non-negotiable then write the expected

price) Contact details.

Household goods for sale

FOR IMMEDIATE SALE, (mention item for sale with brand name- Dell

computer inspiron series, LG Washing machine, fully automatic) period of

purchase (Bought last March) condition (Both in excellent condition. (reason

for selling) owner shifting residence / owner going abroad, (asking price) price

negotiable) Contact details

_______ MISSING

(opening statement) BOY / GIRL / ANIMAL (mention the species, breed eg.

Labrador Dog, cat), name, age, details of appearance, if human details of dress

worn at the time of disappearance. Missing since (time) from (place of

missing). Speaks (name the languages) any additional information, if animal

answers to ____ (name of the animal) Informer will be suitably rewarded.

Inform: contact details

LOST /FOUND _____

LOST / FOUND on (mention the day) object description, where and when

was it found / lost. Rightful owner may claim the (name the object) with right

identification and details of content (for briefcase). If lost, mention the

identification marks. Contact :

TOURS AND TRAVELS

(opening statement) ATTRACTIVE PACKAGE available for (mention the

destination) trip for (no. of days), (details of package) breakfast and dinner

inclusive, stay at 3-star hotels, sightseeing included. (cost) Rs.____ per

person. (special attractions / offers). Eg. Special discount for first 15 bookings.

Contact details.

Name the course offered (eg Aerobic Classes)

(Duration of course) THREE WEEK / ONE YEAR / SIX MONTH course in

(nature of course) aerobic exercises for (mention the age group for whom the

course is meant). (qualification of tutors) training by experts. Timings

(mention separate timings for boys and girls) on weekdays / weekends. (last

date) , course fee , last date for registration----------. Contact details

________ FOR SALE

Name the breed of the animal in capitals for sale, mention the parentage (pure

breed parents), details of male / female. Contact details

*** Ads placed by individuals wishing to find employment.

SOLVED EXAMPLE

(1) The Bayers Pharmacs Company needs a secretary to the Managing Director for

immediate appointment. Draft a suitable advertisement for all major dailies. Supply all

the necessary details.

SITUATION VACANT

WANTED for Bayers Pharmacs Company a secretary to the Managing

Director for immediate appointment, excellent communication and

correspondence skills in English, pleasing personality, persons with prior

experience preferred, should be able to work independently and coordinate

between various sections of the company. Salary negotiable. Mail your cv

within two weeks to Personnel Manager, Bayer Pharmacs Company,

Mysore.

(2) You are Ajay Shivam of 29, Cave Road, Hyderabad. You have 4 years of experience as a

French instructor with an international school aboard. You now wish to settle in your

home city. Draft an advertisement for the classified columns stating your qualification

and experience.

SITUATION WANTED

M.A. (French), male, educated in UK, 4 years experience as a French

instructor in an international school abroad, seeks a teaching position in

and around Hyderabad. Is proficient in instrumental music and dramatics.

Expected salary Rs 40,000/- p.m. contact: Ajay Shivam of 29, Cave Road,

Hyderabad.

(3) You are Mohit / Mohini of 13/134, M Block, Highrise Apartments, Kochi. You wish to

sell your flat as you are moving to Delhi. Draft and advertisement for the same providing

all the necessary details.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

FLAT for sale, at Fort Kochi, spacious, 2nd

floor, 3BHK, partially

furnished, centrally located, close to school, car parking facilities, 24 hr

water and power supply, suitable for commercial purposes also.

Reasonable price. Contact: Mohit / Mohini of 13/134, M Block, Highrise

Apartments, Kochi

(4) You wish to rent out the ground floor of your house. Draft an advertisement for the

same. Provide all the necessary details. You are Suresh / Surekha, River Dale, Panaji,

Goa.

TO-LET

AVAILABLE for rent, ground floor of a house at Cramer Street, Panaji,

800 sq.ft., 2 BHK, all amenities and own parking space, well -ventilated

and modern construction, 24-hour water and power supply, suitable for

house as well as office space. Rent negotiable. Contact: Suresh / Surekha,

River Dale, Panaji, Goa.

(5) You need storage space for the new construction company that you have launched.

Prepare an advertisement seeking storage space for rent. You are Arun, Foundations

Constructions, Pune.

FOR RENT

WANTED for rent, storage space for construction material, preferably on

the ground floor, 2500 sq. ft area, leak-proof building, with good security

facilities, should be easily accessible for four-wheel vehicles, proximity to

city centre preferable, contact: Arun, Foundations Constructions, Pune.

(6) You wish to sell your Maruti Alto car. Draft an advertisement toward this purpose for the

classified columns of the news paper.

MARUTI ALTO FOR SALE

MARUTI ALTO, black for sale, 2010 model, A/c, 10,000 kms run, 45,000km,

single ownership, (mention special features and accessories) original parts,

stereo-fitted, new tyres, designer seat covers, excellent condition. Price

negotiable Contact : 9997644530

(7) You wish to sell your dining room table with a set of 8 chairs. Prepare an advertisement

for the same.

Household goods for sale

FOR IMMEDIATE SALE, glass-top dining room table with 8 ladder-back

chairs, original teak wood, bought December 2012, excellent condition, owner

going abroad, price negotiable Contact: Govind, 7745321139

(8) Your pet dog has gone missing. Draft a advertisement for the missing columns of the

local daily giving all the relevant details.

DOG MISSING

GOLDEN retriever missing, answers to the name of Ruby, 5 years old , golden

yellow colour, has a white patch behind right year. Missing since 9am,

Monday from Children’s Park, M G Road. Informer will be suitably rewarded.

Inform: Thanish, 21, Skyline Apartments, MG Road, Kochi.

(9) You are Aneesh. You lost your property documents near the North over-bridge,

Coromandel Street, Chennai. Draft an advertisement for the same.

LOST DOCUMENTS

LOST last (Monday documents of property located at Chennai North, lost near

North Over bridge, Coromandel Street. Wrapped in newspaper and put inside a

red plastic cover. Informer would be suitably compensated. Contact: Aneesh,

xxxxxxxxx

(10) You are operating Mehar Travels and are organizing a 15-day tour of the holy

cities of North India. Draft an advertisement for the same.

TOURS AND TRAVELS

ATTRACTIVE PACKAGE available for the holy cities of North India covering

5 states, for 15 days, excellent travel facilities, breakfast and dinner inclusive,

stay at 3-star hotels, sightseeing included. Rs.15,000 per person. Special

discount for the first 15 bookings. Contact: Mehar Travels, Secretariat Road,

Trivandrum.

(11) You are starting a 3-month course in oil and glass painting at your residence 254,

Navdurga, Ahmadabad. Draft an advertisement with all the relevant details.

PAINITNG CLASS

THREE MONTH week-end course in oil and glass painting for all age groups,

training by experts. All materials would be provided. Classes for females from

9 am to 12. Noon, for males from 4 pm to 6 pm. Last day for registration – 3rd

July 2015. For details contact: Aravind, 254, NAvdurga, Ahmadabad.

(12) You wish to sell your pet puppies. Draft an advertisement with all the relevant

details.

LABRADORS FOR SALE

LABRADOR puppies, 4 for sale, 8 weeks old, pure breed parents, 3 males and

1 female. KCI registered. Contact details

POSTERS

Posters can be described as a combination of advertisement, notice and invitation. The

purpose of a poster is also to impart some sort of information in an eye-catching and

appealing manner. The general intention of a poster is to create awareness about some

issues of public interest or to inform the public of some event.

Layout of a poster

� Should be visually attractive.

� Should contain some catchy / creative title or jingle.

� Visuals are mandatory.

� Fonts of different sizes and types may be used.

� For an event, time, date and venue of occurrence are to be mentioned.

� The theme should be clear.

� The name of the issuing authority must be clearly mentioned.

FORMAT

For an event

PURPOSE (drama, exhibition, workshop etc)

slogans

Visual

Date, time, venue

Entry fees / tickets)

Contact address

For an issue

Title (if it is to promote social theme)

Visuals

Slogans

Issuing authority (very important)

SOLVED EXAMPLES

(1) Design a poster to create awareness on using helmets by two-wheelers.

� Use them even for short rides.

� Secure the chin straps every time.

BE SENSIBLE, BE SAFE

LIFE IS PRECIOUS, GUARD IT

Issued in public interest by:

the Motor Vehicles Department,

Government of Kerala

(2) Draft a poster to inform the students of the book week celebrations in your school.

THE BOOK WEEK CELEBRATIONS

From 20 July to 24 July, 2015

Competitions Galore!!!

Mountains of Prizes

LET’S CELEBRTAE THE JOY OF READING…

INVITATIONS AND REPLIES – FORMAL AND INFORMAL

Invitations are again sources of information issued to a select group of people to inform

of them of some celebrations or other public functions.

They may not

be

fashionable,

but they keep

you safe.

Invitations are of two types – formal and informal.

Marking Scheme – Content – 2 marks; Expression + grammatical accuracy – 2 marks

FORMAL INVITATIONS AND REPLIES

Formal invitations are generally send out in the printed format.

� They are written in third person.

� All the relevant information to be given in a clear and precise manner.

� Verb form to be used – Simple Present Tense

� The abbreviation RSVP (French : repondez s’il vous plait ) i.e. ‘please reply’ is

written below on the left with name(s)/address & phone number of the host(s)

FORMAT

Mr & Mrs. (name of the host)

request the pleasure of your company

on the occasion of

(name the occasion)

Date, time

In

Venue

(special instruction, if any)

In case of a public function,

The Principal, Staff and Students

of

name of institution

request the pleasure of your company

on the occasion

of

(name the occasion) of the school

Date, time

in

venue

Name of Chief Guest

Designation

Has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest.

SOLVED EXAMPLES

(1) Mr. and Mrs. Shekar are organizing a welcome home party for their son Rajat. Prepare

the invitation in not more than 50 words.

Mr. and Mrs. Shekar

Request the pleasure of your company

On the occasion of

The Home Coming

Of their son

Rajat Shekar

At 6.30 pm

On 31st July, 2015

At their residence

R.S.V.P.

0478 – 2221456

(2) Draft an invitation for the investiture ceremony of your school.

The Staff & Students

Of

Navy Children School, Kochi

Request your esteemed presence

For the

Investiture Ceremony

At 1000 hrs

On 22 July, 2015

At the Sagarika

The Navy Chief of Staff

Has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest

Please occupy your seats by 0945 hrs.

REPLY TO FORMAL INVITATIONS

While writing a reply to a formal letter, the following points are to be remembered.

� The reply is to be written in formal language in third person.

� Address and date needn’t be mentioned.

� The reply should start with expression of gratitude.

ACCEPTANCE

(name of the sender)Mr./Ms._____ expresses their sincere

gratitude to / thanks Mr. & Mrs. ____ (name of the host)

for their kind invitation which he / she is delighted to

accept.

REJECTION

(name of the sender) Mr./Mrs._____ expresses their

sincere gratitude to / thanks Mr. & Mrs.____ for their kind

invitation but regrets his/her inability to accept the same

(reason for not attending) due to a prior engagement.

INFORMAL INVITATIONS AND REPLIES

� Written in the first person.

� Sender’s address with date to be mentioned, receiver’s address not required.

� The language is informal and casual.

� Salutation is dear + name.

FORMAT

Sender’s address (without name)

Date with month in words

My dear / Dear (name)

I / We have much pleasure in inviting you to the (name the occasion), at (time) on

(date) at (venue). We very much hope that you will be able to come.

Yours sincerely

Name

REPLY TO INFORMAL INVITATION

ACCEPTANCE

Sender’s address

Date with month in words

Salutation (Dear name)

(acknowledging the invitation) Many thanks for inviting me to the (name the

occasion). (acceptance) I shall be delighted to attend the function.

Yours truly

Name

REJECTION

Sender’s address

Date with month in words

Salutation (Dear___)

(acknowledging the invitation) Thank you for your kind invitation. However, I am

sorry to say that I shall not be able to attend the function as I shall be out of station

that week / I have an unavoidable engagement that day. My prayers will be there

with you.

With warmest regards,

Yours sincerely

name

LETTERS

Formal letters pertaining to the following types have been included in the syllabus.

(a) business or official letters (for making enquiries, registering complaints, asking for and

giving information, placing orders and sending replies

(b) Letters to the editor (giving suggestions on an issue)

(c) Application for a job.

Please note:

Marks are not awarded if only format is written.

Either modern or traditional format to be used. Mixing up of format is not acceptable.

Points to be remembered

� Formal and polite language to be used.

� Be clear and specific, brief and to the point.

� Decorum of language has to be maintained even when writing a letter of complaint.

Use firm but polite language to express your views.

� While writing letters to the editor, DO NOT ask the editor to solve the problems.

� Avoid using contractions like haven’t, won’t etc.

� Use short sentences to express your point.

� Marks are not awarded if only format is given.

� Modern layout for format is to be used. Mixing up of traditional and modern format is

not acceptable.

� In job applications, Curriculum-vitae or CV /Bio-data / Resume should be included as

a separate part after the complimentary close.

� In letters to the editor the preferred complimentary close is ‘Yours truly’.

INFORMAL LETTERS

Format-

Sender’s address (without name)

Date with month in words.

Salutation

Content

Complimentary close

Sign

SOLVED EXAMPLE

You are Aniket / Anitha. You had recently visited your friend Sidharth in Darjeeling during the

winter break and had spent a week with him. Write a letter to him thanking him for the

wonderful time that you had with him.

83 / 221, F Block

Rose Apartments

Hyderabad

5th

February 2015

Hi Sidhu

Let me tell you first itself, my soul is still with you in Darjeeling and its definitely going to take

another couple of weeks before I settle down to my studies. My Mom is very annoyed with me,

but I am helpless. You can hardly blame me when I had such a wonderful time there. She refuses

to understand, but you know how mothers can be! Sidhu, I really have to thank you for giving

the time of my life with you.

My friends were literally green with envy when I showed them the photographs of my gliding

down the snow. I will never forget the feeling of wet snow against my face when you threw that

snow ball at me. And your mother’s cooking is simply amazing. Everyone here was shocked to

see the amount of weight that I had put on in just one week!

Darjeeling is just superb, isn’t it? And you made it so very special for me. Thank you once again

Sidhu. Convey my very special thanks to uncle and aunt for all they did for me there. And don’t

forget that you are coming here for the next autumn break, ok? I have planned whole lot things

for us to enjoy.

So do write to me once your exams get over.

Bye for now

Luv

(Sign)

FORMAL LETTER

Format –

Sender’s Address (preferably without name)

Date (with month in words)

Receiver’s address (with designation of the receiver)

Subject: (limit the words to maximum 5 or 6)

Salutation

Content: Introduction

Body

Conclusion

Thank you

Complimentary Clause

Signatory

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Letter to the Editor

(1) You are Tarun / Thanisha Ghosh, 21 / 158, J Block, Apple Apartments, New Street,

Hyderabad. Write a letter to the editor of a prominent daily, expressing your views on the

growing menace of stray dogs in your city.

21 / 158, J Block

Apple Apartments

New Street

Hyderabad

30th

June 2015

The Editor

The Hindu

Hyderabad

Sub: The Growing menace of stray dogs.

Sir

I am a resident of New Street. I wish to draw the attention of the authorities to the growing

menace of stray dogs in Hyderabad.

The number of stray dogs in the city has increased drastically in the recent months. The situation

is such that it has become highly dangerous for pedestrians to use the footpaths. Literally every

day we come across reports of stray dog attacks in the newspapers. The victims usually are old

people and children. It was only last week that a young baby was killed by a dog in an adjacent

street.

The corporation has hardly taken any action in spite of repeated complaints. The insufficient

supply of anti-rabies injections also adds to the gravity of the situation. The corporation can take

up neutralization drives to control the multiplying of stray dogs. Government can build dog

shelters to keep the dogs away from the streets. The hospitals should also be equipped with the

necessary medications required to treat the victims.

I hope you would publish this letter through the esteemed columns of your paper so that a

solution could be found to this issue.

Thank you

Truly yours

(Tarun / Thanisha Ghosh)

Placing Orders

(2) St. Anne’s Public School, Gurgaon is upgrading to senior secondary. As the librarian

place order with M/s G V Publications, New Delhi for reference books for the senior

secondary classes. You are Anish / Anusha Shankar.

St. Anne’s Public School

Gurgaon

2nd

July 2015

M/s G V Publications,

New Delhi

Sub: Order for reference books for the senior secondary classes.

Sir

The school has been recently upgraded to the senior secondary level. Hence we would like to

place an order for the following reference books for the library.

Sl. No. Title of the book Publisher Quantity

1. ABC of Physics (Class XII) XYZ Publications 5

2. ABC of Physics (Class XI) XYZ Publications 5

3. Comprehensive Writing Tasks Higgins Company 6

4. Textbook for Accountancy NCERT 10

The books are to be send to the school within 10 days of the receipt of this order. The advance

payment of 20% would be paid when the acceptance of order is confirmed with the remaining

payment to be done at the time of delivery. We hope you would give us a discount of 20% on the

printed prices.

Hoping for an immediate response from you.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

(Anish / Anusha Shankar)

Letter of Complaint

(3) You are Ishant / Ishika Prem, House No. 23, Rose Lane, Surat. You had recently bought a

water purifier for your home from M/s Natioanl Cooling Systems, Surat. The purifier has

not been functioning properly for the last two weeks. Wirte a letter to the Manager,

Customer Care complaining about the malfunctioning unit and seeking redressel for the

problem.

House No. 23,

Rose Lane,

Surat

23rd

May 2015

M/s National Cooling Systems,

Surat

Sub: Complaint about water purifier

Sir

I wish to bring to your notice that I had purchased a ‘Total Purity’ water purifier from your

esteemed self on 4th

April, 2015 with bill no. TS – 235/ CD which is not functioning properly.

The purifier did function well for the initial 4 weeks. But then it developed leakage of water.

This was followed by heavy noise and dark coloured particles floating around in the filtered

water. At times, the machine also gives off electric shock. It’s highly inconvenient as the

leakage has been causing unnecessary loss of water at this time of water shortage, not to mention

the time consumed to clean it up.

It has been confirmed that there is no fault with the electric circuit in the house. Hence I request

you to do take the necessary steps to either repair the system at the earliest or replace the water

purifier as it still is under warranty period.

Hoping you would oblige with my request at the earliest.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

(Ishant / Ishika Prem)

Letter of Enquiry

(4) You are Varun / Veena Vyas, the Class Representative of Class XI, Modern Public

School, Trichy. The school is planning to conduct an educational tour to Kolkata during

the autumn break. Write a letter to General Manager, Southern Railway, for details of

travel arrangements.

Class Xi Representative

Modern Public School

Trichy

19th

June 2015

General Manager

Southern Railway

Chennai

Sub: Request for details of travel arrangements to Kolkata.

Sir

The school is planning to conduct an educational tour to Kolkata during the autumn break. It

would be a 6-day programme from 20th

October to 25th

October, 2015. The group would consisit

of 40 students and 3 teachers.

We would like to know about the train services that are available to Kolkata for Chennai and for

the return journey on the said dates. We would also like to know the estimated time taken to

cover the distance as well as the fare to make the necessary arrangements at our end. Kindly

inform us about the eligible students’ concession that can be availed for the tour.

We request you to send the details at the earliest to mps@gmail.com to enable us to paln in

advance.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

(Varun / Veena Vyas)

Curriculum Vitae / Resume / Bio data

Format

Sender’s address

Date with month in words

Receiver’s address with designation

Subject : Application to the post of _______________.

Respected Sir / Madam

I wish to apply to the post of ______ as advertised by you through the ‘mention the news

paper’ dated - 1st para.

Para 2 – self-introduction – I am a Post Graduate / graduate and is at present working as a

_______ (mention the post) with _______(name of the company). I have an experience of

_____ years as _____ (mention the post). (if fresher – I have successfully complete my

_____ (course) from _____ (mention the university) and am awaiting employment)

I have been forced to quit my present job as my parents are residing in (name the city).

They are aged and need my care / I have been forced to quit my present job as my children

have secured admission for future studies in (name the city) and I need to be close to them.

I assure you that if I am selected, I will serve the institution to the best of my ability. I am

enclosing my bio-data for your kind consideration.

I hope for a positive response from you.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

Sign

(name)

RESUME

Name :

Father’s name :

Address :

Age / Date of birth :

Educational qualification

Name of

examination

Board /

University

Subjects Year of

passing

Percentage of

marks

Professional experience (mention the place that you are working at present, then go down in

decreasing order in which you have worked) : (i)write the post, in (name the institution)

from 20xx onwards.

(ii) post in (mention the firm) from _____ to ______ for _____ years.

Personal details

Languages known :

Hobbies and interests:

Special Achievements:

References (i) (optional)

(ii)

SOLVED EXAMPLE

(5) You are Taneen / Vinaya Shah. Prepare a bio data to apply to the post of Vice Principal at

the Model Public School, Ahmadabad. Supply all the necessary details.

54, Rose Villa

Princess Lane

Street 23

Delhi

15th

March 2015

The Principal

Modern Public School

Ahmadabad

Sub: Application to the post of Vice Principal

Sir / Madam

I wish to apply to the post of Vice Principal in your esteemed institution as per the

advertisement placed by you in the Times of India dated 14th

March 2015.

I am a Post Graduate in Commerce and Education from the Jawaharlal Nehru University and

am currently working as Head Master / Mistress at the St. John’s Public School, New Delhi. I

have an experience of 10 years at the school. I have been compelled to change my present job

as my parents are residing in Ahmadabad and need my need my care.

I have successfully executed various responsibilities of both scholastic and soc-scholastic

nature at my school. I assure you that if I am selected, I will serve the institution to the best

of my ability. I am enclosing my bio-data for your kind consideration.

I hope for a positive response from you at he earliest.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

Sign

(name)

RESUME

Name : Taneen Singh

Father’s name : Swaroop Singh

Address : 54, Rose Villa

Princess Lane

Street 23

Delhi

E-mail id : tannen_singh@gmail.com

Age / Date of birth: 40, 25th

October, 1975

Educational qualification

Name of

examination

Board /

University

Year of

passing

Percentage of

marks

Class 12 CBSE May 1992 92%

B.Com JNU June 1995 87%

M.Com JNU June 1997 85%

B.Ed JNU August 1998 85%

M.Ed JNU August 2000 70%

Professional experience :

(i) Head Master at the St. John’s Public School, New Delhi from 2006 onwards

(ii) PGT (Accountancy) at BVS Public School, New Delhi from 2000 to 2006 for 6 years

Personal details

Languages known: English, French, Hindi, Punjabi

Hobbies and interests: Reading, Music, Dramatics

Special achievements: Head of Department (Commerce)

Trained the students for various inter-school drama competitions,

Trained the students for debate competitions

Organized and conducted workshops in Accountancy

References (i) Principal

St.John’s Public School

New Delhi

(ii) Dean, Department of Commerce

JNU

Please Note:

� It’s mandatory that both the covering letter and resume are to be written.

� Only the resume without the covering letter will be considered as an invalid answer.

FACTUAL / PROCESS DESCRIPTION

Factual or Process Description refers to the narrative describing a place, process, person or an

object. The information is to be provided in sequential order. The description should be vivid and

interesting to avoid monotony.

Points to be remembered

� Provide a suitable title.

� Give the descriptions in a logical order.

� Keep the language simple.

� Split up the task into minimum two paragraphs.

� Always conclude by giving your personal impressions.

� Use suitable connectors such as first, then, after that, finally etc.

.

Some of the common topics that could be included in factual description with the required details

to be provided are listed out below.

� Place or a building – name, location, shape or dimension, colour, design, number of

stories, the use of the building, sights, type of people who visit there, history, importance,

atmosphere, parking availability, your personal impressions about the place, any other

relevant details.

� Person – name, relationship with you, social status, profession, physical appearance,

characteristics of the person, others’ opinion about the person, any other relevant details.

� Object or thing – name, make, shape, model or year of manufacture, dimensions, capacity,

details of operating, cost, use, availability, any other relevant points.

� Visits or travels – place, date and occasion for visit, places visited, number of people in

the group, description of the place, atmosphere, details of natural beauty, interesting

encounters there, problems faced (if any), details of travel, personal impressions,

conclusion (suggestion on whether worthy of visit or not)

NEWS PAPER / MAGAZINE REPORT

A report is basically a record of events that has happened in the immediate past. The Class XII

syllabus deals with the preparation of newspaper reports for accidents or events or reports for the

school magazine for some school based event. The normal word limit for a report is 125 words.

Points to be remembered

� Use practical and businesslike manner

� Be concise. Give only the relevant details and leave out unnecessary elaboration.

� Divide into paragraphs in the order of priority.

� Write in past tense.

� Use the third person to describe the events even though you were an eye witness to the

event.

� For a report meant for the school magazine, a lightly less formal tone may be used.

Personal impressions could be added to make it more interesting.

Format – Accidents

HEADLINE (in 4 to 5 words, no complete sentence, use simple present tense)

By-line (author’s name)

Place, date with month in words: (lead paragraph) mention what, where, when, why and how.

The day, date and time of the day when the incident occurred. The place where the incident

happened. Reasons why the incident happened. ----- para 1

Para 2 – give the details of how it happened. Narrate the incident in the order in which they

occurred. In case of injury, what has been done with the injured.

Para 3 – eyewitness accounts are to be provided. Include some quotes from eyewitness’

accounts. Do not mention the name of the eye witness.

Para 4 – describe the actions carried out by the police and the future course of actions that

will be taken.

Inauguration

HEADLINE (in 4 to 5 words, no complete sentence, use simple present tense)

By-line (author’s name)

Place, date with month in words – Para 1 – what is the occasion, who is 31rganizing it, date

when it was conducted, where was it held, who was the chief guest

Para 2 – details like the dignitaries who were present, the comments made by the chief guest

Para 3 – what all were carried out as part of the programme, comments by the public.

Para 4 – till when is it going on, if entry fee is there, your comments about the programme.

SOLVED EXAMPLES

You are the Staff Reporter for the New Indian Express. You have been asked to report on an

accident where a bus lost control and hit a car killing 3 people. Write the report giving all the

relevant details.

BUS HITS CAR, 3 DEAD

Staff Reporter

Kochi, 23rd

June: A KSRTC bus travelling from Alleppey to Trissur rammed into a car killing 3

people on the spot, yesterday at Vytilla junction at the early hours of the morning.

In an attempt to overtake the lorry in front of it, the bus lost control leading to a head-on collision

with the car which was coming in the opposite direction. All the passengers in the car were killed

at the spot. The passengers of the bus who had suffered minor injuries were given first aid at the

nearby hospital.

An eye witness said that the bus driver was at fault as he was trying to overtake at a spot where

there was no space for moving forward.

The night patrol van which was parked nearby immediately arrived on the spot and directed the

rescue operations. The bus driver was arrested on the spot. An enquiry has been initiated. This

area has been witnessing numerous accidents primarily due to overtaking and the lack of speed

breakers.

You are Aniketh / Anitha Pooran, student editor for your school magazine, write a report for

your school magazine on the Book Week Celebrations in the School.

CELEBRATING THE JOY OF READING

Aniketh / Anitha Pooran

Patna, 15th

January: “Reading is one of the greatest gifts that you can give to yourself”. Thus

spoke the legendary writer, Ruskin Bond who inaugurated the Book Week Celebrations of Green

Valley Public School, Patna on 6th

January.

The Book Week Celebrations was a weeklong affair with the school going all out to promote the

fast disappearing art of reading. The event saw a host of dignitaries associated with the world of

writing visiting the school. Various functions such as literary quiz, book exhibitions, crossword

competitions, reading competitions and many others were conducted for the students as well as

parents.

The parents were extremely appreciative of the efforts made by the school to promote reading.

‘Such programs are definitely going to improve the reading skill of the students’ said Bharat

Sharma, parent. The students too actively participated in the various activities.

The celebrations lasted from 6th

January and concluded on 10th

January in a grand finale which

was attended by Chetan Bhagat, the popular English fiction writer.

SPEECH

A SPEECH is a formal talk that is delivered to an audience. Depending on the nature of the

audience, the tone of the speech can be either formal or informal.

Points to be remembered.

� Begin with a formal address to the chief guest, other dignitaries and the audience.

� A conversational tone would make it more interesting. Use questions, and expressions

where you seek the audience’s opinion such as I am sure that you would agree with me,

haven’t you also felt that, I feel that you too have felt that etc.

� Make your introduction interesting with story or an anecdote or some statistical date that

could be shocking.

� Spell out your topic clearly to the audience.

� Give evidences in support of your claims to give it credibility.

� Make your conclusion equally interesting.

� Title is not required for the speech.

� Use short sentences.

� Use simple yet powerful language.

� Remember to thank the audience at the conclusion.

SOLVED EXAMPLE

You have been asked to deliver a speech in the morning assembly on ‘Effective English

Communication’. Prepare the speech in not more than 200 words.

Good morning respected Principal Madam, dear teachers and beloved friends

A recent news item in the front pages of literally all the major newspapers said that a survey

conducted by an international agency in some of the major engineering colleges of India revealed

that 6 out of every 10 engineering student in India cannot speak or write even a single sentence

in simple grammatically correct English.

Yes, you may argue on the need to know a foreign language when we have so many Indian

languages which are more important and should be learnt being an Indian. But I am sure that you

would agree that English is the universal official language of Science, Commerce, business and

technology and so its mandatory that we know it. In a country like India, where we have

different languages in different states, English is the unifying force.

Moreover, the engineering students of today are the technocrats of tomorrow. When they go out

into the world, the companies that would want to recruit them would also be testing their

communication skills. Friends, do you think any of the companies would want to employ these

students in their companies when they cannot express themselves adequately?

So make use of every opportunity to practice your language skills. Speak only in English in

school and to your friends. Be an active participant in competitions where writing skills are

needed. Reading also helps to improve your language and vocabulary very much.

Remember, school is the one place where you can learn the skills of communication. And please

don’t miss out on the opportunity as effective communication is a necessary tool that would

decide your future.

Thank you for your patient listening.

DEBATE

Debate is a recent introduction in the English syllabus. Here the student is given the option of

choosing any one version of the given topic and expressing his / her views on it.

Points to be remembered

� Begin with addressing the audience.

� State clearly whether you support or oppose the issue in question.

� Give clear cut and convincing arguments for why you feel that your version is correct.

� Use polite but firm language while expressing your views.

� Ensure that you do not speak for or against the topic. This may lead to marks being

deducted for expression.

SECTION C

Grammar

Different grammatical structures in meaningful contexts will be tested.

Item types include gap filling, sentence re-ordering, dialogue completion and sentence

transformation.

The grammar syllabus includes

� Parts of Speech

� Determiners

(i) Articles

(ii) Possessives

(iii) Demonstratives

(iv) Numbers (cardinal – one, two, three… and ordinal – first, second, third…)

(v) Miscellaneous : any, many, few, little, more, several

� tenses, clauses

� modals and their usage

� Clause

� Pronouns and their uses

� Question Tags

� Phrases and clauses

� Reported speech

� Voice.

These grammar areas will be tested using the following test types.

� Error Correction

� Editing Task

� Re - Ordering of Sentences

LITERATURE & LONG READING TEXT

HORNBILL

THE PORTRAIT OF A LADY

KHUSHWANT SINGH

Synopsis

Description of the author’s grandmother (a) Terribly old

(b) Short, fat and slightly bent

(c) Praying with a rosary

(d) Taking care of the author

(e) Compassionate nature – feeding dogs and sparrows

(f) Accompanied him to school.

Three stages Village

City

University

When he went abroad, she was not sentimental, nor on his return.

The last moments were spent in prayer.

Even the sparrows hared the grief of the family in their bereavement by ignoring the bread

crumbs.

Main Questions (i) Why did she not like the city school?

They taught western Science, Maths and English. She could not help him. Music was

taught which she believed was not meant for gentle folk but for beggars and harlots.

There was no teaching of God and scriptures.

(ii) Give a portrait of the grandmother.

Physical features – short, fat and slightly bent

Habits – praying, helping and compassionate

An expanse of white serenity breathing peace and contentment

A strong willed woman; not sentimental; not afraid of dying.

(iii) How does the author emphasize ageing?

(iv) Grandmother could only have lot and lots of grandchildren; criss-cross of wrinkles;

saturated old age.

WE’RE NOT AFRAID TO DIE IF WE ARE ALL TOGETHER

Synopsis

Gordon Cook and family – Mary, wife, Suzanne and Jonathan, children – were duplicating a

circumnavigation of the world, done earlier by Captian James Cook, 200 years ago. They were

voyaging in their boat Wavewalker. Near the South Seas at Cape Town they had the maximum

trouble and danger.

• Huge waves and storm

• Near shattering and capsizing of Wavewalker.

• Gordom Cook struck against the steering wheel.

• Sue had bumps on her head.

The children’s optimism acted and the catalyst and they reached Ille Amsterdam, a Fench

scientific base, even when the adults were losing hope.

Main Questions (i) Describe the stages of the journey.

– an auspicious start

- no dangers, smooth sea

– avourable weather

Later dangers

- Enormous waves

- Near capsizing of Wavewalker.

(ii) What are the lessons learnt from this chapter?

- Spirit of adventure

- Direct experience

- Desire to overcome obstacles

- Optimism

- Determination not to give up any challenge.

DISCOVERING TUT: THE SAGE CONTINUES

Synopsis Howard Carter discovered Tut’s tomb in 1922. There was a curse on the tomb – death or

misfortune would call upon those who disturbed his sleep. People resented the excavations.

Thieves were interested in the gold associated with Tut.

With the help of modern scientific advancements, Tut’s body was examined. His front ribs and

breast bone were missing. Many people suggested accident or murder behind the death of the

teenage king. An autopsy pointed out the cause of death as due to malaria.

Ancient Egyptians believed in life after death and resurrection. Funeral practicw3s were unique

and funerary treasures were in plenty, the Egyptians wanted their Pharaohs to return in royal

splendour.

Main questions (i) Describe some of the medical advancements and sceitnific developments of the modern

era.

– radiology, post mortems, CT scan, MRI etc.

(ii) Throw light on the ancient Egyptian customs and beliefs.

-belief in after life

- resurrection

- stree on gold and ricehs

(iii) Why was Amnhotep IV described as ‘wacky’?

- Changes his name

- -transferred the capital to Amarna

- Destroyed the images of Amun and damaged his temples.

THE AILING PLANET: THE ROLE OF THE GREEN

MOVEMENT

Synopsis The earth is afflicted with many problems like depletion of natural resources, over fishing,

decimation of forests, over population, pollution etc. The sufferings are caused by mankind

mostly. Humans endowed with wisdom and discretion must find measures to save the earth, as

Gandhiji reminded the world has enough to satisfy everyone’s need, but not everyone’s greed.

One agency that started the green revolution was the green movement in New Zealand. Later

Green Peace endeavours to clean up sea and oceans. Nani Palkiwalla urges mankind to fend for

itself and be responsible caretakers of the word.

Questions

(i) Enlist the problems affection the earth.

- Over population

- Deterioration of biological systems – forests, fisheries, grasslands and croplands.

- Pollution

- Shortage of firewood

- Illiteracy, unemployment.

(ii) Define sustainable development.

-use of resources for development that gives room for future generation to meet with

their needs.

(iii) Emphasize the importance of environment cleanliness.

- pollution will decrease oxygen level

- deforestation adds to the rise in the level of carbon dioxide

- for the safety of eth coming generations.

THE BROWNING VERSION

Synopsis The story is set in a school background. Mr. Crocker-Harris is a strict teacher. The young

teacher Frank is curious to know about Harris. Harris is the only teacher who follows the

school rules of the head teacher announcing the form results. He insists on all assignments

being completed for promotion and reinforces on his strict discipline. Though not a sadist, he

does not like others to like him; he is compared to a hard nut shriveled up who does not

express his feelings.

Questions Analyze the characters of Frank, Taplow and Crocker Harris.

Frank

- young teacher

- jealous of Harris

- inquisitive about knowing the negative qualities of Harris.

- Unhealthy teacher student – teacher relstionship.

Taplow

- Obedient student

- Feelings of dislike towards Harris

- Falls in Frank’s trap of disclosing about Harris

Mr. Crocker-Harris

- Strict, not a sadist

- Adheres to the rules of the school

- Dislikes others liking him

- Not very punctual

- Wants all things completed for promotion, not even exempting a day’s work.

POETRY

A PHOTOGRAPH

SHIRLEY TOULSON

Synopsis The poetess Shirley Toulson recollects the memories of her mother’s past, especially the sea

holiday she had with her cousins Betty and Dolly. The mother’s laughter was lost; the poet lost

her mother who died very young. The sea has remained constant. Man is mortal whereas the

sea is immortal (terribly transient feet of humans)

Poetic device Oxymoron :ease of loss (contradiction of ideas)

Main Questions

(i) What is the eternal truth disclosed by the poem?

Man is mortal and nature intransient.

(ii) Describe the three stages in the poem.

- Sea holiday, happy childhood of poet’s mother

- The joyous recollection of the past by the mother

- Loss of mother and the sadness for the poet.

VOICE OF THE RAIN

WALT WHITMAN

Synopsis Walt Whitman describes the water cycle and what the rain does for mankind and the earth. The

poet asks the rain who it is and the rain gives him an answer which he translates. The rain

beautifies and purifies the earth and causes the trees / plants to bloom / fructify. It will shower on

us whether we like it or not.

Main questions (i) What are the main functions of the rain?

- Beautifies and purifies the earth

- Removes the dust particles

(ii) Give the pairs of contrasts found in the poem.

- Recked and unrecked

- Day and night

- Changes and yet the same

(iii) Why does the poet translate what the rain has told him?

The rain cannot articulate in a formal language. The poet interprets what seems to be the rain’s

reply to his question. It describes what the poet thinks of the rain including the water cycle –

vapour from the water bodies, vague clouds and drops of rain which is a constant process.

CHILDHOOD

Synopsis A few thoughts on childhood:

(i) Where it is gone

(a) When he is past 11 years.

(b) When he understands the hypocrisy of adults – they preach love but act without

love

(c) When he finds Heaves and Hell are imaginary.

(d) When he realizes his minds and thoughts are his own.

(ii) Where it can be seen again

- On the face of an infant.

Main Questions (i) Describe the stanzas with their main theme.

(ii) What are your views on childhood? Do you agree with the poet?

FATHER TO SON

Synopsis - A father’s grief over his son’s distance from him.

- Generation gap

- The line showing father’s helplessness and frustration eg. We are strangers, I

don’t know what he likes, the land is all his, though I have sown the seed there,

stretches his hand out for a new beginning.

Poetic devices Metaphor – the land is his, the seed I have sown

Simile – like a prodigal son

Main Questions

(i) Express the father’s agitated and worried mind.

- Anger grown from grief

- I wish him as a prodigal

(ii) How can there be better relationship between parents and their children?

- Talking to them

- Having meals together

- Discussions of problems, career options, selection of bride / groom

- Maximum transparency in dealings among members of a family.

- Mutual help / understanding

Any other pertinent suggestions also.

SNAPSHOTS

THE SUMMER OF THE BEAUTIFUL WHITE HORSE

WILLIAM SAROYAN

Synopsis

The story discusses the concept of truth amidst the most abject poverty. The protagonists are two

boys Aram and Mourad who belong to the Garoghlanian tribe who are renowned for their

honesty. One fine morning, when Aram looks out through the window, he sees his cousin

Mourad with a beautiful white horse and it is a sight which was very difficult for him to believe.

The whole of the Garoghlonian family were extremely poor and therefore it was not possible for

Mourad to buy that horse. So it would mean that Mourad had stolen that horse. But that was also

not possible, because the Garoghlonian family was also very much famous for their honesty and

therefore Mourad could not steal that horse either. Aram is invited for a ride. But Mourad refuses

to reveal anything more about the horse. Soon it is understood that the horse is stolen and

Mourad has been hiding the horse in the barn of a deserted vineyard owned by a farmer named

Fetvajian. Aram argues to himself that stealing a horse for a ride was not the same thing as

stealing something else, such as money. If one was so much crazy about horses the way Mourad

and he himself were, it was not stealing at all. It would not become stealing until they offer to

sell the horse and he was sure that it would be the last thing they would ever be doing.

Later on when he arrives at his house, Aram comes to know that the horse belonged to a farmer

named John Byro who was complaining about his stolen horse. A few days later when they were

riding the horse, they come across John Byro. The farmer examines the horse closely and

comments that he could swear that the horse was his very horse which had been stolen from him

many weeks before if he did not know about their parents. He adds that the fame of their family

for honesty was very well known to him and therefore he would prefer to believe that the horse

could be the twin of his stolen horse. A few days later John Byro gets his horse back

mysteriously. He visits Aram’s house and tells his mother and Uncle Khosrove that he did not

know what to think about the whole matter. It was because the horse was stronger than ever and

was better tempered too and therefore he thanked God.

Additional Questions

(i) Why was it difficult for Aram to believe the sight of his cousin Mourad with the

beautiful white horse?

(ii) What were the two things for which the Garoghlonian family was famous?

(iii) Where had Mourad been hiding the horse?

(iv) What did the farmer John Byro tell the two boys when one day they accidentally met

him with his horse in their custody?

(v) What changes had come over the horse when Byro got it back?

(vi) What points were put forward by Aram in defense of Mourad’s act of stealing the

horse?

(vii) Why was Aram unwilling to return the horse so soon?

(viii) Why did the two boys ultimately return the horse all of a sudden although they had

planned to keep it at least for six months?

(ix) Write a brief note on the Garoghlanian tribe.

(x) What are moral lessons that the story put forward?

(xi) Compare and contrast the character of Aram and Mourad.

(xii) Describe Aram’s horse-riding lesson.

THE ADDRESS

MARGA MINCO

Synopsis

The story narrates the misery and frustrations faced by people who are displaces by war and are

helpless to fight against it. The narrator of the lesson had been forced to leave her house and flee

as a result of the Word War II. The rest of her family is all dead. She has come back in search of

her belongings which had been taken away by Mrs. Dorling from her mother at the start of the

war. But Mrs. Dorling pretends to not remember her even though she is wearing the cardigan that

once belonged to the narrator’s mother. The narrator is forced to leave even without entering the

house. The second time the narrator goes to Mrs. Dorling’s house she is taken inside the house

by Mrs. Dorling’s daughter. When the door of the living room is opened to her, she is horrified

by whatever she sees inside the room. The room was full of all their belongings which had been

taken away by Mrs. Dorling at the beginning of the war. She feels she ‘knew’ the room because

it was full of all her belongings and as the room was not theirs but was a different room and the

things were kept in a different manner she felt she ‘did not’ know the room. The narrator returns

without claiming her belongings. She says that the objects which are linked in our memory

immediately lose their value when they are seen after some time in strange surroundings. All her

belongings, the silver cutlery, the clothes etc. has lost their charm when they were seen in Mrs.

Dorling’s house. She knew that if taken back they would again seem strange in her new small

rented room.

Additional Questions

(i) “I was in a room I knew and did not know.” Why does the narrator say that she was

in a room which she knew and yet she did not know?

(ii) Why does the narrator come back without claiming her belongings?

(iii) What change did the narrator notice in her rooms when she was home for a few days?

(iv) Why did the narrator resolve to forget the address, No 46, Marconi Street?

(v) Justification of the title of the lesson.

(vi) The lesson can be divided into Pre-War and Post-War times. What hardships do you

think the narrator underwent during these times?

RANGA’S MARRIAGE

MASTI VENKATESHA IYENGAR

Synopsis

Hosahalli is the village of the narrator. Its beauty enchants one and all. It is situated in the lap of

nature. Its natural beauty enthralls the readers forever. The village accountant's son Ranga has

just returned to the village after the completion of his studies at Bangalore. The village

accountant was the first one who had enough courage to send his son to Bangalore to study.

English was a priceless commodity to the villagers. Hence Ranga's home coming was a great

event to them. On seeing Ranga, the narrator decided that the time was right for him to get

married. But Ranga’s ideas about marriage had changed after the exposure he had had of the city.

He wanted to wait to get married so that his bride would be a more mature girl and would be able

to understand him better. But the narrator was adamant that he would get Ranga married. He

arranges for Ranga to visit his house when Ratna, the girl who he wished Ranga to marry, is

visiting him. Ranga is smitten on seeing Ratna. Thus the reluctant Ranga’s marriage takes place.

Additional Questions

(i) Ranga’s home coming was an important event for the villagers. Give reasons.

(ii) Do you think that Ratna is a victim of the arranged marriage system? Give reasons.

(iii) Describe the pictorial sketch of the Hosahalli village.

(iv) Elaborate on the attitude of the villagers towards English.

(v) Describe the social atmosphere portrayed by the story.

ALBERT EINSTEIN AT SCHOOL

PATRICK PRINGLE

Synopsis

The narrative discusses the childhood of Albert Einstein, the famous physicist. This biographical

piece first presents Albert’s disagreement with his history teacher. When the teacher asks him in

what year the Prussians had defeated the French at Waterloo, Albert flatly replies that he did not

know and this leads to a heated exchange between them. In Albert’s opinion, there is no point in

learning dates which could be checked in a book by anyone. But he would be rather interested to

know why those soldiers were trying to kill each other. This made his teacher go mad with anger

and he scolded Albert viciously and asked him to stay back after school for an extra period.

Albert wanted to get away from the school where he was studying. The atmosphere was one of

slum violence in the place where he stayed. His landlady used to beat her children regularly and

every Saturday her husband came drunk and beat her. So he wanted to go to Milan to get

admission in an Italian college or institute. However it was his father’s wish that Albert get a

diploma in that school. He felt that his father would send him back if he leaves. A medical

certificate certifying that he could not continue in school because of health reasons could

convince his father. His friend Yuri agrees to make the arrangements for the certificate. The

doctor received Albert cordially and listened to his problem in a friendly manner. He even agreed

that Albert was really in a state of nervous breakdown otherwise he would not have come to him

for a certificate in that line. Before Albert could get an appointment with the head teacher to

show him the medical certificate which certified him that he needed to be away from the school

at least for six months because of nervous breakdown, the head teacher himself summoned him

to his room and informed that he was being expelled from the school. According to the head

teacher, Albert was guilty of refusing to learn and not allowing others learn and of being in

constant rebellion at school with his teachers.

Additional Questions

(i) Describe the exchanges between Albert Einstein and the history teacher. What

characteristics of Einstein’s nature are highlighted by this exchange?

(ii) Describe the circumstances leading to Albert getting a medical certificate issued

declaring him unfit to continue school.

(iii) What according to the head teacher were Albert’s faults?

(iv) Why did Albert need a medical certificate so badly?

(v) What was the doctor’s reaction when Albert visited him?

(vi) Describe how Albert’s friend Yuri and cousin Elsa help him.

(vii) Why did Albert feel his medical certificate was burning a hole in his pocket?

(viii) What was the atmosphere in Albert’s place of lodging which used to trouble him so

much?

(ix) Compare the Mathematics teacher Koch’s opinion about Albert’s mathematical

ability with that of the History teacher towards him. What does this reveal about

Albert’s character?

MOTHER’S DAY

J. B. PRIESTLEY

Synopsis

The job of a mother in a family is actually a twenty four hour job and the mother does not have

the luxury of even enjoying any weekend, any holiday. When she refuses to assert herself, the

rest of the family tends to take her for granted and treats her like an unpaid servant. This is the

concept of the play. Mrs. Pearson’s two grown-up children Cyril and Doris Pearson and her

husband George Pearson always take the work that Mrs. Pearson does at home for granted and

gives absolutely no credit to her. They want her to be at their beck and call. Ultimately Mrs.

Fitzgerald, the feisty lady from the neighbourhood comes up with the idea of changing bodies

and personality with Mrs. Pearson to change the attitude of the family members. Mrs. Pearson

first takes on her daughter Doris whom she scolds for her erratic behaviour. She comments that

Doris’s boyfriend Charlie Spence is buck-toothed and half-witted and she would not like to be

seen dead with a fellow like Charlie Spence. Next she takes on Cyril whom she scolds

scathingly for preparing to go out for late night parties and for indulging in various addictions.

Then she attends to her husband who has acquired very bad name in his club where he spends

most of his time. Mrs. Pearson’s behaviour is puzzling for the three confused family members.

The three ultimately are made to be aware of Mrs. Pearson’s actual status in her home. They

promise to reform themselves. Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald change back their bodies.

Additional Questions

(i) What is Mrs. Fitzgerald’s opinion about Charley Spence?

(ii) What is Doris’ idea what might have happened that made their mother behave so

strangely?

(iii) What does Mrs. Pearson tell George Pearson what people’s conception about him in

the Club is?

(iv) What is Cyril’s prime fault according to Mrs. Pearson?

(v) What are the issues that the play, ‘Mother’s Day’ highlights?

(vi) How does Mrs. Pearson reform her spoilt family members?

(vii) Give the character sketches of Doris, Cyril and George Pearson.

BIRTH

A. J. CRONIN

Synopsis

The story ‘Birth’ is a comment on what a doctor should really be as a doctor and a human being.

Dr. Andrew is an exceptionally dutiful and kind and passionate human being. One day he is

returning from a party lost in his thoughts. Both his mind and body feel tired. But as he reaches

his home, he sees Joe Morgan waiting there for him. Joe and Susan Morgan are expecting the

birth of their first child after 20 years of marriage. It was Dr. Andrew who had been handling the

case. Andrew had assured the couple of no complication and safe delivery of the baby. All others

in Morgan’s family were anxious. Susan’s mother-in-law informs Andrew about Susan’s wish to

go through labour pain without anesthesia in case it would hurt the baby. But Andrew goes on

with anesthesia. A still baby is born. After the birth, Andrew is faced with the dilemma whether

to attend to the still born baby in order to try to resuscitate it or to turn his attention to the

motherwho was in a desperate state of health because of loss of blood and labour pain. Once the

mother is sleeping peacefully, he turns to the baby. Andrew finds that the baby has turned white

and it could mean only one thing: asphyxia which is suffocation or unconscious condition caused

by lack of oxygen and excess of carbon dioxide in the blood, accompanied by paleness of the

skin, weak pulse, and loss of reflexes. Therefore, he realizes that there is no point in trying to

resuscitate the baby in the traditional manner. So he first lays the baby upon a blanket and begins

the special methods of respiration. Thus he pours hot and cold water in two basins and frantically

pushes the baby into the water of both the basins alternately for almost half an hour. But no

breath emerged from the baby and a sense of desperation and defeat set in his mind. Still he

wanted to put in another last effort. So this time, he rubs the baby with a rough towel and then he

crushes and releases the little chest with both his hands, trying to get breath into that lax body.

And after this, the miracle happens and the tiny chest of the baby gives a heave and then another

and then another and Andrew was victorious as the baby is finally revived.

Additional Questions

(i) Why was Joe and Susan Morgan’s case special for Andrew?

(ii) What did Andrew guess could be cause of the baby being still born?

(iii) What was the dilemma that Andrew faced after the baby was born?

(iv) What is your impression about Dr. Andrew as a doctor and a human being?

(v) Describe the methods employed my Andrew to help the child.

(vi) “I have done something real at last.” Comment.

THE TALE OF MELON CITY

VIKRAM SETH

Synopsis

Once a king ordered an arch to be built in the main thoroughfare of the kingdom. Once it was

completed, when the king walked under it, his crown was knocked down. So it was decided to

identify the culprit for the same and hang him. The final conclusion was that the king itself was

responsible as he had ordered a change in the dimensions of the arch. A noose was made ready to

hang the culprit. Again only the king’s eight was found compatible with the height of the noose.

Thus the king was hanged. When the question arose about his successor, it was decided to take

the opinion of the wisest man in the country. He suggested that the first one to enter the main

gate should be crowned as the king. This credit went to a melon and thus the melon was crowned

the king.

Additional Questions

(i) How did the king react when the people responsible for tumbling the king’s crown

started blaming each other?

(ii) Ultimately, who was held responsible in the matter of fixing the charges for insulting

the crown?

(iii) Describe the different twists and turns of the story.

LONG READING TEXT - NOVEL

THE CANTERVILLE GHOST

OSCAR WILDE

The story of The Canterville Ghost begins with the plot where an American Ambassador wishes

to settle down in England. Mr. Otis is a representative character of American culture who wants

to believe only in the present, mirroring a practical, pragmatic and capitalist point of view in

every sphere of life. On the other hand, Lord Canterville and Mrs. Umney belong to the

European culture and they are determined to safeguard their traditions and customs faithfully.

The writer has used gentle humour to point out the human foibles that make human beings

superstitious, blind followers of culture and narrow minded.

Chapter I

When the American, Mr Otis, bought Canterville Castle, everyone told him that this was very

foolish, as the place was haunted. But Mr Otis answered, “I come from a modern country, where

we have everything that money can buy. And if there were such a thing as a ghost in Europe, we

would have it at home in one of our museums.”

A few weeks later, on a lovely July evening, Mr Otis, his wife and their children, Washington,

Virginia and the twins, went down to their new home. When they entered the avenue of

Canterville Castle, the sky suddenly became dark and a spooky stillness was in the air.

Mrs Umney, the housekeeper, led them into the library of the castle, where they sat down and

began to look around. Suddenly, Mrs Otis saw a red stain on the floor just by the fireplace and

said to Mrs Umney, “I am afraid something has been spilt there.”

“Yes, madam,” said the old housekeeper in a low voice, “blood has been spilt on that spot.”

“How terrible,” said Mrs Otis; “I don't want any blood-stains in my sitting-room. It must be

removed at once.”

The old woman smiled and answered, “It is the blood of Lady Eleanore de Canterville, who was

murdered on that spot by her husband, Sir Simon de Canterville, in 1575. Sir Simon disappeared

seven years later. His body has never been found, but his ghost still haunts the Castle. The

blood-stain is a tourist attraction now and it cannot be removed.”

“That is all nonsense,” said Washington, the eldest son of the Otis family, “stain remover will

clean it up in no time,” and he took a bottle of stain remover out of his pocket and cleaned the

spot. But as soon as the blood-stain had disappeared, a terrible flash of lightning lit up the room

and a fearful peal of thunder made the whole building shake.

Chapter - II

There was a horrible storm that night, but apart from that nothing scary happened. The next

morning, however, when the family came down to breakfast, they found the terrible stain of

blood once again on the floor. Washington cleaned it a second time, but the second morning it

appeared again. The third morning it was there, too, although the library had been locked up at

night by Mr Otis himself.

The following night, all doubts about the existence of the ghost were finally removed forever.

At eleven o'clock the family went to bed and some time after, Mr Otis was awakened by a

strange noise in the corridor, outside his room. It sounded like the clank of metal, and it came

nearer every moment. Mr Otis got up and looked at the time. It was exactly one o'clock. So Mr

Otis put on his slippers, went to the door and opened it. There, right in front of him, stood the

ghost - his eyes were as red as burning coals; long grey hair fell over his shoulders and from his

wrists and ankles hung heavy chains.

“My dear Sir,” said Mr Otis, “you must oil those chains. It's impossible to sleep with such a

noise going on outside the bedrooms. I have therefore brought you this bottle of lubricator, and I

will be happy to supply you with more if you require it.” With these words Mr Otis laid the

bottle down, closed his door and went back to bed.

Shocked, the Canterville ghost stood quite motionless for a moment, but then he growled

angrily. Just at this moment, the twins appeared on the corridor and threw a large pillow at him!

The ghost hastily escaped through the wall, and the house became quiet again.

When the ghost reached his small secret chamber, he took a deep breath. No ghosts in history

had ever been treated in this manner!

Chapter – III

The ghost did not appear for the rest of the week. The only strange thing that happened was the

blood-stain, which they found on the library-floor every morning. It was also quite strange that

the colour of the stain changed from time to time. Some mornings it was red, then brown or

purple, or even green. These changes amused the family very much, and bets on the colour were

made every evening. The only person who did not enter into the joke was Virginia. For some

unexplained reason, she was rather annoyed at the sight of the blood-stain, and nearly cried the

morning it was green.

The second appearance of the ghost was on Sunday night. Shortly after the family had gone to

bed they heard a fearful crash in the hall. A suit of armour had fallen on the floor and in a chair

sat the Canterville ghost and rubbed his knees, which seemed to hurt. When the twins started

shooting peas at him with their pea-shooters, the ghost stood up with an angry growl and passed

through them like a mist. He also blew out the candle, leaving them all in total darkness. On top

of the stairs the ghost turned around and, in order to frighten the Otis boys, laughed his most

horrible laugh. Just then, a door opened and Mrs Otis came out of her bedroom. “I am afraid you

are not well,” she said, “I have therefore brought you this bottle of medicine.” The ghost looked

at her furiously, and then he disappeared.

When he reached his room, he was completely exhausted. This American family was extremely

annoying. But what annoyed him most was, that he had not been able to wear the suit of armour.

The weight of it had made him fall and hurt his knees.

For some days after this the ghost only left his room to renew the blood-stain. However, on

Friday, the 17th of August, he tried to frighten the Otis family again. At half-past ten the family

went to bed. For some time the ghost heard the twins laugh, but at a quarter past eleven all was

still. So, at midnight he left his secret chamber and glided through the corridors, when suddenly,

behind one corner, a horrible ghost stood right in front of him. As the Canterville ghost had

never seen another ghost before, he was terribly frightened. He quickly hurried back to his

room. But then he thought that he should go and and speak to the other ghost. After all, two

ghosts were better than one, and his new friend might help him to frighten the twins. However,

when he came back to the spot, he found that this 'other ghost' was not real, but only a white

sheet which the twins had hung there to play a trick on him. Very upset the Canterville ghost

went back to his chamber.

Chapter – IV

For five days, the ghost did not leave his room. He was very weak and tired and his nerves were

completely shattered. He also gave up the point of the blood-stain on the library floor. If the Otis

family did not want it, they clearly did not deserve it. Whenever the Canterville ghost roamed

the house now, he was careful to have oiled his chains and not to make a sound. However, the

twins still played their tricks on him. They stretched strings across the corridor, over which he

tripped in the dark, and once he slipped on a butter-slide, which the twins had constructed for

him on the staircase. This so annoyed the ghost, that he decided to teach the twins a lesson and

give them the fright of their lives.

All day long the ghost had prepared this grand event and at a quarter past one at night he finally

glided out of his room and crept down the corridor. When he reached the twins' bedroom, he

found the door slightly open. In order to frighten the boys enormously, he flung the door wide

open, when a heavy jug of water fell right down on him, wetting him to the skin. The twins

burst out in shrieks of laughter and the ghost fled.

He now gave up all hope of ever frightening this rude American family and, as he was very

afraid of the twins, from now on he crept around the house as quietly as possible. One night, it

was on the 19th of September, he went downstairs to see if there were any traces left of the

blood-stain. It was about a quarter past two in the morning, and he thought that everyone was

fast asleep, when suddenly from a dark corner two figures came running at him who waved their

arms wildly above their heads and shouted “BOO!” in his ear. Full of panic, which under the

circumstances was only natural, the ghost hurried back to his room.

After this he was not seen again at night. His feelings were so wounded that he just did not

appear anymore.

Chapter – V

One day, Virginia was walking along the corridor, when she saw a person in one of the rooms

and went in. To her surprise, it was the Canterville ghost himself and he looked really sad.

“I am so sorry for you,” she said, “but my brothers are going back to Eton tomorrow, and then,

if you behave yourself, no one will annoy you.”

“It is absurd asking me to behave myself,” the ghost answered, “I must rattle my chains, and

groan through keyholes, and walk about at night. It is my only reason for existing.”

“It is no reason at all for existing, and you know you have been very nasty. Mrs Umney told us

that you had killed your wife.”

“Well, I quite admit it,” said the ghost, “but my wife was not very nice, you know, and she

knew nothing about cookery. However, it is all over now, and I don't think it was very nice of

her brothers to starve me to death.”

“Starve you to death? Oh, Mr Ghost, I mean Sir Simon, are you hungry? I have a sandwich in

my case. Would you like it?”

“No, thank you, I never eat anything now; but it is very kind of you. You are much nicer than

the rest of your rude, dishonest family.”

“Stop!” cried Virginia, stamping her foot, “it is you who are rude, and as for dishonesty, you

stole the paints out of my box to renew that ridiculous blood-stain in the library. First you took

all my reds and I couldn't do any more sunsets, then you took the green and the yellow. Finally I

had nothing left but blue and white, and I could only do moonlight scenes, which are not at all

easy to paint.”

Having said this, Virginia turned around to leave the room.

“Please don't go, Miss Virginia,” the ghost cried; “I am so unhappy and I really don't know what

to do. I want to go to sleep and I cannot. I have not slept for three hundred years, and I am so

tired.”

“Poor, poor Ghost,” she murmured; “have you no place where you can sleep?”

“Well, I know a place where I could sleep – it's the Garden of Death, the churchyard. But only if

you weep for me and my sins and pray with me for my soul, the Angel of Death will have mercy

on me.”

When Virginia promised to help the ghost and pray for him, he rose from his seat, took her hand

and kissed it thankfully. Then he led her across the room. Virginia saw the wall slowly fading

away like a mist, and a bitter cold wind was around them. “Quick, quick,” cried the ghost, “or it

will be too late.” Then the wall closed behind them, and the chamber was empty.

Chapter – VI

About ten minutes later, the bell rang for dinner, and, as Virginia did not come down, Mrs Otis

sent up one of the servants. After a little time he returned and said that he could not find Miss

Virginia anywhere. So, the whole family started looking for her.

The hours passed, but they could find no trace of Virginia. So, after dinner, Mr Otis ordered

them all to bed, saying that nothing more could be done that night, and that he would contact

Scotland Yard in the morning. Just when everybody was about to leave the dining-room, the

clock struck midnight, and when the last stroke sounded, a secret door opened in the wall and in

that door stood Virginia with a little box in her hand. Everybody ran up to her.

“Good heavens! child, where have you been?” said Mr Otis, rather angrily, as he thought she

had been playing a trick on them.

“Papa,” said Virginia quietly, “I have been with the ghost. He is dead, and you must come and

see him. He had been very nasty, but he was really sorry for all that he had done, and he gave

me this box of beautiful jewels before he died.”

Then she led the others down a narrow secret corridor to a little low room. There the family

found the skeleton of Sir Simon, who had been starved to death by his wife's brothers. Virginia

knelt down beside the skeleton, and, folding her little hands together, began to pray silently.

Meanwhile, one of the twins was looking out of the window in the little room and suddenly

said, “Look! The old almond-tree has blossoms.”

“Then God has forgiven him,” said Virginia and stood up.

Chapter – VII

Four days later, a funeral started from Canterville Castle. In a quiet corner of the churchyard, Sir

Simon's skeleton was buried. When the ceremony was over, Virginia stepped forward and laid a

large cross made of white and pink almond-blossoms on the coffin.

The next morning, Mr Otis talked to Sir Simon's descendant, Sir Canterville, about the jewels

the ghost had given to Virginia. Their value was so great that Mr Otis had scruples about

allowing his daughter to keep them. But Sir Canterville shook his hand and said, “My dear Sir,

your charming little daughter saved my ancestor's soul. The jewels are hers.”

The jewels were admired by everyone when, in the spring of 1890, Virginia married the Duke of

Cheshire. After their honeymoon, Virginia and her husband went down to Canterville Castle and

on the day after their arrival they walked over to the churchyard. Virginia had brought some

lovely roses, which she strewed upon the grave, and after they had stood by it for some time her

husband took her hand.

“You have never told me what happened to you when you were locked up with the ghost.”

“Please don't ask me, I cannot tell you,” she said, “but I owe Sir Simon a great deal. He made

me see what Life is, and what Death signifies, and why Love is stronger than both.”

Questions

(i) The Canterville Ghost is study in contrast. Justify the statement.

(ii) Describe the universal message of the story.

(iii) How does the writer justify that the place is haunted?

(iv) What are the attempts made by the Ghost to terrorize the Otis family?

(v) Describe the behavior of each character in the story with the Ghost.

(vi) It was the ghost who was haunted by the American family. Explain the statement

indicating instances from the novel.

(vii) Describe the character of Virginia in the novel.

(viii) The activities of the ghost are at the same time horrifying and amusing. Support the

statement with help from relevant instances from the novel.

(ix) Why did the American Republican Minister, Mr. Otis purchase the Canterville Chase

despite knowing it to be haunted?

(x) Mention the plans made by the ghost to frighten the Otis family.

(xi) Write a detailed note on the tricks played by the twins on the ghost.

(xii) Explain the role played by supernatural elements apart from the ghost in the novel.

(xiii) How did the ghost help Virginia ‘to see the significance of life and death, and why

love is stranger’?

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