ARTICLE WRITING


What is article writing?

Ans: Article writing is a creative writing.It is a kind of spot composition, where the writer must have arrangement of thought & ability to compose systematically. Article writing, in many a case similar to that of essay writing.
Still, both are different in features.




Sample Articles writing topics::
1) Use of Mobile Phone in Daily Life.
2) Terrorism or Menace of Terrorism
3) Global warming
4) Environment Pollution
4)The Menace of Corruption 
5) Games & Sports 



Answer:


1) Use of Mobile Phone in Daily Life 



Answer: A Mobile phone is an electronic device. It is basically used for communication purposes. Through it we send and receive messages. In today's life it is an integral part of everybody's daily routine.

         Today mobile phone is a  source of storage of data.In fact, it's a all in one handy  storage and also a multipurpose device for everyone.Its at the same time, a calculator, calendar, torch light, TV, Tape recorder, Audio player and what not.
           
        Now a days mobile phones are everywhere and with everyone. Wheatehr in office, market place, hospital, shopping mall, everywhere mobile phones are  carried by almost everyone. 

        Howwvwer with the advent of smart phones, mobile phones have now got new meaning. They are not only means of communication, but also source of information and entertainment.

    Mbile phones help us a lot in our daily life. With the internet enabled mobile phone, we can hire a cab, pay various bills, transfer money, click pictures and take videos etc. Overall, mobile phones are much helpful to save our time and money.

     It must be added that mobile phones are not free from demerits. The under age students should not use multi-media mobile phones. Moreover spending much time in mobile phones emit harmful radiations leading to various diseases.




2) Terrorism or the Menace of Terrorism:


   One of the various threats to the life and property in today's life is terrorism.The act of terrorism is committed by some politically exploited or trackless unemployed youths. The ultimate purpose of terrorism is destruction of human lives and property. 

     Terrorism may be classified into two; positive terrorism and negative terrorism. Sometimes positive terrorism is indulged by politically motivated unemployed youths. Such terrorism has certain objectives. On the other hand, negative terrorism is mainly meant for chaos and  disorder in the society.
    
   Before  our country attained independence, there was positive terrorism. For example, the Indian partiots took to extreme ways to root out the british empire from India. But at present, terrorism is social evil in the sence that it has multi-faceted aspects. In many cases, now terror acts are politically motovated in exchange of money. In fact, terror activities have variety of names and works as well from country to country.

   Overall, terrorism is a social menace.It has ruined coumtless families in our country. National and international laws have been implemented to root it out  but hardly succeeded. Hence, we hope that the entire world would get freedom from terrorism.



3) GLOBAL WARMING


    The rise in the temperature of the  earth's surface as a result of green house efffect is called global warming. It is a global crisis today. 

       As far as the causes of global warming are concerned the following points are to be considered:

A. Deforestation and industrial emission results to an increase of greenhouse gases.
B. The greenhouse gases absorbs atmospheric heat and it increases the intensity of the heat.
C.Increase in the radside vehile and emission of carbon monoxide adds fuel to the globlem of global warming.

     Impact of global warming is widespread. To be frank, the planet earth is burning today.Some major effects of global warming are as follows:

       Climate change: the entire climate across the globe has changed to a great extent today. Even prediction or weather updates in advance many a time fails. Flesh flood, landslide, storm or earthquake destroy lives and property n a great dal.

     Sea level rise: melting of ice sheets in Anterctika, mountain glacier melting, grenland ice sheet melting are common phenomena now a days.

     PREVENTION OF GLOBAL WARMING

 The problem of global warming can be controlled more or less with the help of following steps-
     A) Implementation of law: The govt. Of every country should make law and execute them strictly.
    Besides this, the common masses should take all necessary steps for reduction of thermal power, boost up plantation of trees, adopt reuse, recycle and reduce methos.



4) ENVIRONMENT POLLUTION


  Pollution means introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause adverse effect or change. However, environment menas our sorroundings.When different pollutants affect the environment than it is called environment pollution.

      However, environment pollution is a serious threat to pollution of today's world. This is growing worldwide problem. It is an oncontrollable menace or terror since human beings themselves are respomsible for degradation of environment. Man has spoilt the planet through their destructive activities. It is true that man made pollutants have already polutd the air that we breath, the soil that we use, the water that we drink or use.These three types of elements are full of pollution toda, which we call soil pollution, water pollution and ari pollution respectively. 

   However, air polluton is caused by various harmful gases or smoke emitted by industies, factories, vehicles etc.

   Similarly, water pollution is mainly caused by industrial wastes, insecticides and presticides applied to the soil and later go to the law areas in the form of water.

     Soil pollution is the result of acid rain, polluted water and verious fertilizers used in the fields for better production.

  Another form of pollution is noise or sound  pollution. It's the result of onroad vehicles, power generators, commercial mikes and religious chants for long time. This form of pollution harm people mentally and psychologically.

   Thus, we may sum up that pollution of any form has made our lives more difficult.



5) GAMES AND SPORTS


 Games and sports is an integral part of student life. It is important for children and young people in every walks of life. It includes all outdoor and indoor games for both boys and girls.

In the past, particularly in Greece, games and sports was a necessary part of education. Even today, in developed countries games and sports is a compulsory part of school and college curriculum.

There are various types of games and sports. Apart from physical activities like athletics, football, cricket, hocky, volllyball, basketball, tennis, badminton many others are there. Gymnastics, long jump, high jump etc are important.

The importance of games and sports can never be underestimated. First of all, it is a kind of physical exercise. Also it gives us sound body as well as mind in the long  run. Students learn various life skills like facing challenges, management, mutual understanding, decision taking ability etc. It provides the students with sound sleep, positive attitude and knowledge of both victory and defeat. 

Thus games and sports help the young generation to a great extent.

Poster Designing: Solved Examples for HS 2nd Year (AHSEC)


 

 Poster Designing

A Poster is a powerful visual tool used to spread awareness, make announcements, or promote social issues. In the Higher Secondary (HS) 2nd Year English syllabus, poster designing is a short-answer writing task that tests your creativity and ability to communicate a message effectively.



Key Features of a Good Poster:


To score full marks in your exam, keep these points in mind:

  • The Layout: Always draw a rectangular box using a pencil and ruler.

  • The Heading: Use a catchy title or slogan in BOLD CAPITAL LETTERS.

  • Visual Appeal: Use different font sizes to highlight important information.

  • Content: Keep it brief. Use bullet points for "Causes," "Effects," or "Instructions."

  • Authority: Always mention the issuing authority at the bottom (e.g., Issued by: Guwahati Traffic Police).

  • Slogans: Include short, rhyming, or impactful phrases like "Save Water, Save Earth" or "No Helmet, No Ride."



1. Q. Design a poster for the 'International Day Against Drug Abuse' to create awareness among the youth.



Answer:

SAY NO TO DRUGS, YES TO LIFE!

Drugs Lead to:


* Physical Decay


* Mental Stress


* Family Ruin


* Death

CHOOSE HEALTH, NOT HARM
Remember: Your future is in your hands. Don't let it go up in smoke!

Issued in public interest by:


Social Welfare Department, Govt. of Assam




2. Q. Draft a poster to be issued by the Guwahati Traffic Police to create awareness about road safety.



Answer:

DRIVE SAFE — ARRIVE SAFE

Follow these Golden Rules:


* Always wear a Helmet/Seatbelt.


* Do NOT use mobile phones while driving.


* Never Drink and Drive.


* Stick to the Speed Limit.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER!

Issued by:


Guwahati Traffic Police




3. Q. Design an attractive poster for a 'Blood Donation Camp' to be organized in your college.

Answer:

BE A HERO — DONATE BLOOD
Give the Gift of Life!

Date: 25th May 2026


Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM


Venue: College Auditorium

Benefits:


* One unit can save 3 lives.


* It's safe and healthy.


* Free Health Check-up for donors.

Organizer:


Red Cross Society, [Your College Name] Unit




4. Q. Prepare a poster to create awareness about 'Saving Water' and its conservation.


Answer:

    
SAVE WATER — SAVE THE EARTH
Every Drop Counts!

What You Can Do:


* Turn off taps when not in use.


* Fix leaking pipes immediately.


* Adopt Rainwater Harvesting.


* Don't waste water while washing cars.

NO WATER = NO LIFE

Issued by:


Water Resources Department, Assam



5. Q. Design a poster to create awareness about the importance of wearing helmets while riding.



Answer:

WEAR A HELMET — SAVE YOUR LIFE!
Protect Your Head, Protect Your Future

Why Wear a Helmet?


* It protects you from fatal head injuries.


* It ensures a safe journey for you and your family.


* It's not just a rule, it's a Life-Saver.


* It protects your eyes from dust and wind.




7. Q. Design a poster to encourage people to plant more trees to save the environment.



Answer:

PLANT A TREE — PLANT A HOPE!
Nature's Best Friend is a Tree

Why Plant Trees?


* They provide Oxygen and fresh air.


* They help in reducing global warming.


* They prevent soil erosion and floods.


* They are the natural home for birds and animals.

DON'T MAKE TREES A HISTORY, MAKE THEM THE FUTURE!

Issued in public interest by:


Department of Environment & Forests, Assam

Formal and Informal Letter Writing: 10+ Solved Exercises for HS Students


LETTER WRITING 

What is letter writing-

  Letter writing is a type of composition. It may be called spot composition also. Letter writing is an art.




Types of letter

   Basically there are three types of letter fo far school students are concerned. They are Formal or official letter, Informal or personal letter and Business letter.


WHAT IS FORMAL LETTER--


Formal letter is official letter. There may be diverse formal letters relating to school, college, office, administrative departments, banks, police station, post office etc.


WHAT IS INFORMAL LETTER-


All personal letters are called informal letter. Such letters are written to family members, friends, relatives etc. The pattern of writing informal letter is quite different from formal letters.
, beg to state

WHAT IS BUSINESS LETTER -

Business letters are those which are related business order, parcel etc. These letters are sent to dealers, workshops, whole seller etc.






                       FORMAL LETTER SOLVED--



Exercise-1.Write a letter to the Head master of your school seeking better library facilities.



Answer-

To,
The Head Master
Kamrup, Assam
Date- 10/12/2022

Subject- Prayer for better library facility.

Sir,

  With profound respect I, on behalf of the common students of our school, beg to state that we are in need of a better library facility at our school. We need thsi since during off periods or leisure time we have nothing to do at all. also whatever small library we do have, is not sufficient for us. We are in need of a well furnished library with latest books, journals, dictionaries, encyclopedia etc.

  We humbly pray for your kind attention to the matter a prompt action as well. We shall be waiting for your positive response.

Regards
  
                                                                                                                             Faithfully yours
                                                                                                                                     Xyz 
 




EXERCISE-2: Write a letter to the Post Master of your local post office regarding the loss of your parcel.



Answer-

To,
The Post Master,
XYZ post office,
Namrup, Assam


Subject_- Regarding loss of parcel.

Sir,
  I have the honour to state that my parcel bearing no- N?A -234/2025 lost recently while under your custody. I sent it to my brother who lives in Delhi for ten years. My brother also enquired of the parcel in the local Post office but of no use. 
   
  Hence, I would like to request to look into the matter and all possible measure to solve the problem.

Regards

                                                                                                                             Faithfully yours
                                                                                                                                   Mr. D.Das




EXERCISE-3. Write a letter to the Editor of an English daily narrating the problem of frequent theft at your locality.

Answer-

To,

 The Editor,
The Assam Tribune
Chandmari, Guwahati, Assam.

Date-10/10/2024

Sir,

   I shall be highly obliged if you allow me a little space in your esteemed daily to narrate the problem of frequent theft at our locality for a couple of months. It has been almost six months that the common people of our locality can not sleep or go out at night due to the problem of theft. Every other house of our native area is affected by this problem. Many people have already lost their valuable gods including jewelers, TV sets, cash etc. A number of cases have been registered but the real culprit has not been detected till now. Police patrolling at night is a common phenomenon, but of no use. A delegation of senior citizen met the local MLA and the DC, still the result is not satisfactory. 

  I, therefore, urge you publish this letter in your esteemed daily so that the concerned higher authority of the govt take a look at the seriousness of the problem and take some necessary action. I hope you would respond to this request for the greater interests of our locality.


                                              Yours etc

                                                Mr.XYZ





               INFORMAL LETTER SOLVED --



EXERCISE-4: Write a letter to your friend narrating how you would spend the next winter vacation.


Answer-

                                         

                        God is Great
                                                                                                                                Date- 2/2/25
                                                Exam: Hall

 
Dear..XYZ, 

            Hope you are well with your parents and only sister Rita. I am very well here with my hostel friends. I am glad to tell you that our annual examination is going to finish on 15the December. After the exam. I shall go home to spend one month of winter vacation.

               I feel pleased to tell that I have prepared a special programme schedule for the upcoming winter vacation. During the first ten days I would go to Goa with my parents. Then I shall spend one week with my grandparents in my native village. Finally I shall spend the rest of the days in the name of gardening at our residence.

              I look forward to know about your plan for the next vacation. Hope that you would keep writiNG.      
                                                    Mr. XYZ                                                                 Your loving
   TO.
   Mr, X
C./O-- Mr.ABC
Kamrul. (Assam)                               
                                          

 





EXERCISE-5:  Write a letter to your friend telling him or her about your hobby.


Answer-

                              God is Good

Dear XYZ                                                                                                                        Exam: Hall
                                                      Date:1/2/25

         I am glad to receive your letter yesterday. It was really a pleasant surprise for me after a long time. Hope that you are well. I am also doing well here.

           In your recent letter you asked me about my hobby. I am writing a few words on it. To be frank, my hobby is gardening. I spend my leisure time working in my garden where both flower saplings, trees etc co-exist with a number of vegetable plants. I find gardening a fascinating experience keeps me aware of seasonal changes. In fact, I dedicate my heart and soul into it.


         Nothing more for today. Hope to meet you after annual examination. 


                                                       Yours ever
                                                            ABC
To-- Mr.  Xyz
C/o-- MNC
P/o--Kamrup
Assam.




EXERCISE-6: write a letter to the Editor of an English daily about a bad piece of road at your locality.


Answer-


To,
   The Editor,
    The Assam Tribune
    Chandmari, Guwahati

      Date-10 june'2025


Sir,
   I shall be highly obliged if you allow me a little space in your esteemed newspaper to narrate the problem of bad or deplorable road condition at different parts of our locality. The common people of this area have been suffering from this problem for almost ten months. The problem has been made serious by the frequently passing loaded tractors, dumper trucks and other heavy vehicles during rainy season.

      The road condition is so serious that at any moment fatal accidents may occur. Considering this issue we approached the local administration but of no use..

       Hence, I urge you to publish this news in your daily so that the concerned govt. authority may take a look into the problem and take some urgent measures.

                                                                                                                                             Your's etc
                                              


EXERCISE-7: Write a letter to the Editor of an English daily about the frequent power cuts (load shedding) in your area during study hours.


Answer:


To, 

The Editor,

 The Assam Tribune, 

Chandmari, Guwahati.


Date: 14th May 2026


Sir,

    Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of the concerned authorities toward the problem of frequent load shedding in our locality.

    For the past few weeks, our area has been suffering from irregular power supply. The situation becomes worst during the evening hours, which is the prime time for students to study. As the Higher Secondary final examinations are approaching, this constant power failure is causing a great loss to our academic preparation. Despite several complaints to the local ASEB (Assam State Electricity Board) office, no permanent solution has been provided yet.

    Therefore, I request the higher authorities to look into the matter and ensure a steady power supply, especially during the night, for the sake of the student community.


                                                          Yours etc., 

                                                          ABC                                          




EXERCISE-8: Write a letter to the Editor of an English daily expressing your concern over the rising prices of essential commodities.



Answer:


To, 

 The Editor, 

The Sentinel, 

Guwahati, Assam.


Date: 15th May 2026


Sir,

    I shall be highly obliged if you allow me a little space in your esteemed newspaper to highlight the burning issue of the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities.

    The common people are currently facing immense hardship due to the daily increase in the prices of basic items like cooking oil, pulses, LPG, and petrol. For middle-class and low-income families, it has become nearly impossible to manage the monthly household budget. Artificial scarcity created by some dishonest traders and hoarders has further worsened the situation.

    I hope the government and the Food and Civil Supplies Department will take immediate steps to check the price hike and take strict action against black marketers to provide relief to the general public.

   

                                                   Yours. Etc

                                                                                                    

                                                                                                           


Class 10 English: A Question of Trust Important Questions and MCQs



ABOUT THE LESSON:

 The story revolves around Horace Danby, a 50-year-old lockmaker who is generally considered a good and honest citizen. However, he has a secret: once a year, he robs a safe to fund his expensive hobby of buying rare and expensive books.

The plot kicks in when he targets Shotover Grange. While attempting the heist, he is interrupted by a sophisticated "Young Lady in Red" who pretends to be the mistress of the house. She tricks Horace into opening the safe for her, leading to his eventual arrest.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Victor Canning (1911–1986) was a prolific British author renowned for his mastery of suspense and thriller novels. Best known for his clever plot twists and ironic endings, Canning wrote over sixty books, including the famous Mr. Finchley series and The Rainbird Pattern, which was later adapted into a film by Alfred Hitchcock. His writing often explores the themes of deception and human nature, as seen in "A Question of Trust," making him one of the most popular storytellers of the mid-20th century.



Read and Find Out (Page 20)

Q1. What does Horace Danby like to collect?

Ans: Horace Danby is a man of expensive tastes. He loves to collect rare and costly books. To fund this hobby, he robs one safe every year, which provides him with enough money to buy the books he loves through a secret agent.


Q2. Why does he steal every year? 

Ans: Horace is not a typical thief who steals for greed or necessity. He steals specifically to satisfy his passion for high-end books. By robbing one safe annually, he manages to gather enough funds to sustain himself and acquire the expensive literary collection he desires without having to work extra for it.



Read and Find Out (Page 22)

Q1. Who is speaking to Horace Danby? 

Ans: A young, charming woman dressed in red is speaking to Horace Danby. She carries herself with such confidence and authority that Horace mistakes her for the mistress of the house or a member of the family living at Shotover Grange. In reality, she is another thief who is much cleverer than him.


Q2. Who is the real culprit in the story? 

Ans: The "Young Lady in Red" is the real culprit. While Horace Danby intended to rob the safe, it was she who successfully manipulated him into opening it for her. She walked away with the jewels while Horace took all the blame and was eventually arrested by the police, proving that she was the more skillful criminal.


Think About It (Page 25)

Q1. Did you begin to suspect, before the end of the story, that the lady was not the person Horace Danby took her to be? If so, at what point?

Ans: Yes, there are subtle hints throughout the encounter. A suspicious reader might notice that she was unusually calm upon finding a burglar in the house. Instead of calling the police immediately, she focused on her "broken" jewelry and the forgotten safe combination. Her ease with the household dog, Sherry, and her authoritative yet casual behavior were designed to mirror a mistress, but her demand for Horace to break the safe—effectively doing the "dirty work" for her—was the biggest red flag.


Q2. What are the subtle ways in which the lady manages to deceive Horace Danby into thinking she is the lady of the house? Why did Horace not suspect that something was wrong?

Ans: The lady used several clever tactics to deceive him:

  • Confidence and Poise: She walked in and tidied the ornaments on the mantlepiece as if she owned them.

  • Authority: She spoke with a firm but kind voice, even scolding the dog.

  • Appearance: Being dressed in red and looking sophisticated made her look like a guest or a resident. Horace did not suspect her because he was blinded by fear. He was so terrified of going to prison that his only thought was to please her so she wouldn't call the police. His hay fever and the stress of the moment clouded his natural caution.


Q3. “Horace Danby was good and respectable — but not completely honest.” Why do you think this description is apt for Horace?

Ans: This description is perfect because Horace lived a double life. To society, he was a successful, 50-year-old lockmaker who was "good and respectable." However, he wasn't "completely honest" because he committed a major robbery once every year. He wasn't a professional criminal who stole for a living, but a man who stole to satisfy his private obsession for rare books. He didn't want to hurt anyone, but he still broke the law.


Q4. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner, but still he faltered. Where did he go wrong and why?

Ans: Despite studying the wiring, the paths, and the garden of Shotover Grange for two weeks, Horace failed in two major areas:

  1. The Human Element: He researched the house but didn't know the actual faces of the owners.

  2. Carelessness: In his rush to please the lady and escape, he opened the safe without wearing his gloves. This left his fingerprints all over the room, leading directly to his arrest.



Talk About It (Page 25)

Q1. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner but still he faltered. Where did he go wrong and why? Ans: Horace's failure was not in his technical planning, but in his emotional reaction. He was a meticulous planner regarding the house’s layout, but he failed to account for the "human element." When the young lady appeared, his fear of prison overwhelmed his logic. He was so desperate to please her and escape that he became careless, opening the safe with bare hands and leaving his fingerprints everywhere. His anxiety made him overlook the fact that a true "mistress of the house" wouldn't need a burglar to open her own safe.


Q2. Do you think Horace Danby was unfairly punished, or did he deserve what he got?

Ans: While Horace is a likable character because he isn't violent and has a quirky hobby, he is still a thief. Legally, he deserved to be arrested because he intended to commit a robbery. However, there is a sense of ironic justice in the story. He was tricked by a fellow criminal, proving that there is no "honor among thieves." He was punished not just for his crime, but for his misplaced trust in someone who was just as dishonest as he was.


Q3. Do you think the saying “Honor among thieves” is actually followed? 

Ans: The story strongly suggests that the idea of "honor among thieves" is a myth. Horace Danby believed in this code and expected the lady to keep her word because she appeared to be a fellow professional. However, the lady in red had no such loyalty; she used Horace as a tool to get the jewels and then let him take the fall. The ending shows that in the world of crime, it is every person for themselves.



Important Short Answer Questions (2 Marks Each)

  1. Why was Horace Danby considered a good citizen but not an honest one?

    • Ans: Horace was a 50-year-old respected lockmaker who lived a quiet life. However, he wasn't completely honest because he robbed one safe every year to fund his expensive hobby of buying rare books.

  2. How did Horace prepare for the robbery at Shotover Grange?

    • Ans: He studied the house for two weeks, looking at its rooms, electric wiring, paths, and garden. He even found out where the family was (London) and where the servants had gone for a movie.

  3. What was the "real" passion of Horace Danby?

    • Ans: His real passion was collecting rare and expensive books. He loved them so much that he was willing to commit one robbery a year just to afford his secret literary collection.

  4. Why did Horace mistake the young lady for the mistress of the house?

    • Ans: She acted with extreme confidence, dressed elegantly in red, scolded the dog familiarly, and even tidied the ornaments on the mantelpiece. Her calm authority convinced Horace she belonged there.

  5. What "trick" did the lady in red use to get the jewels without breaking the safe herself?

    • Ans: She claimed she had forgotten the numbers to the safe and needed the jewels for a party that night. She promised to let Horace go if he opened the safe for her, which he did gladly.

  6. How did Horace's hay fever help in his eventual arrest?

    • Ans: The smell of flowers in the room triggered his hay fever, causing him to sneeze repeatedly. This made him distracted and nervous, leading him to open the safe without wearing his gloves.

  7. Why didn't the dog, Sherry, bark when Horace entered the house?

    • Ans: Horace knew how to handle dogs. He calmed Sherry by calling him by his right name and showing him love, following the rule that dogs don't bother you if you show them affection.

  8. What was the "irony" at the end of the story?

    • Ans: The irony is that Horace, a professional thief who planned everything meticulously, was tricked by another thief. He ended up in prison for a robbery where he didn't even get to keep the jewels.

  9. What does Horace Danby think of the phrase "honor among thieves" now?

    • Ans: Horace now gets very angry when anyone mentions "honor among thieves." He realized through his experience that thieves do not actually respect each other and will betray one another for their own gain.

  10. Why did the police arrest Horace Danby two days later?

    • Ans: Although the lady had the jewels, Horace had opened the safe with his bare hands. His fingerprints were found all over the room, and the police easily traced them back to him.




Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)


1. How old was Horace Danby? (A) About 40 (B) About 50 (C) About 30 (D) About 60 Correct

 Answer: (B) About 50


2. What did Horace love to collect? (A) Paintings (B) Rare and costly books (C) Gold coins (D) Stamps 

Correct Answer: (B) Rare and costly books


3. What was the name of the dog at Shotover Grange? (A) Tommy (B) Sherry (C) Bruno (D) Moti

  Correct Answer: (B) Sherry


4. Who was the real culprit in the story? (A) Horace Danby (B) The lady in red (C) The housekeeper (D) The owner 

Correct Answer: (B) The lady in red


5. Where was Horace after he was arrested? (A) Hospital (B) School (C) Assistant Librarian in prison (D) Abroad 

Correct Answer: (C) Assistant Librarian in prison




Class 10 English: Animals, question Answer, MCQ and Summary


 

ABOUT THE POET:

Walt Whitman was a pioneering American poet known as the "Father of Free Verse." Born in 1819, he broke traditional poetic rules to write in a natural, rhythmic style. His most famous work, Leaves of Grass, celebrates nature and the human spirit. In the poem "Animals," Whitman expresses his admiration for the placid and self-contained nature of animals. He critiques human society for its greed, restlessness, and obsession with material things. The poet believes animals have kept the basic "tokens" of goodness that humans have lost. His work reflects a deep desire to return to a simpler, more honest way of living. Ultimately, Whitman uses his poetry to encourage a reconnection with the natural world and its inherent peace.


ABOUT THE POEM:

In the poem "Animals," Walt Whitman expresses his deep desire to leave the human world and live among animals, whom he finds far more peaceful and self-contained. He admires them because they do not sweat or whine about their condition, nor do they lie awake in the dark weeping for their sins. Unlike humans, animals are not obsessed with owning material things and do not show false respect by kneeling to others of their kind. The poet observes that animals maintain the basic virtues of kindness, honesty, and innocence—qualities that humans seem to have carelessly dropped long ago. By comparing the two, Whitman highlights the artificiality of human society and celebrates the simple, dignified existence of the animal kingdom.


Thinking about the Text: Questions and Answers



Q1 Notice the use of the word turn in the first line "I think I could turn and live with animals" What is the poet turning from? 

Answer The poet is turning away from the human world. He wants to leave the complicated, artificial, and stressful life of human beings behind to live a simpler and more peaceful life among animals.



Q2 Mention three things that humans do and animals don’t. 

Answer According to the poem, three things humans do that animals don't are: 1 Humans sweat and whine about their condition (complain about their lives) 2 Humans lie awake at night and weep for their sins 3 Humans make the poet sick by discussing their duty to God



Q3 Do humans kneel to other humans who lived thousands of years ago? Discuss this in relation to the poem. 

Answer Yes, humans kneel to their ancestors or religious figures who lived thousands of years ago to show respect or out of religious duty. In the poem, Whitman notes that animals do not do this. They treat everyone as equals and do not show false respect or hierarchy by kneeling to others of their kind.



Q4 What are the tokens that the poet says he may have dropped long ago and which the animals have kept for him? Discuss this briefly. 

Answer The "tokens" represent the basic natural virtues like innocence, kindness, honesty, and self-containment. The poet believes that humans once possessed these qualities but lost them through their "negligence" and the pursuit of civilization and greed. Animals, however, have naturally preserved these traits, which is why the poet feels a deep connection with them.



Short Answer Questions (1 Mark Each)


Q.1 What is the poet’s wish in the poem? 

Answer The poet wishes to turn away from human society and live among animals.


Q.2 Why does the poet feel more at home with animals?

Answer He feels at home with them because they are calm, self-contained, and satisfied.


Q.3 What does the phrase "make me sick" refer to in the poem? 

Answer It refers to the poet's disgust when humans boringly discuss their "duty to God."


Q.4 Do animals complain about their condition? 

Answer No, animals never sweat or whine about their condition like humans do.


Q.5 What "mania" are humans suffering from according to Whitman? 

Answer Humans suffer from the "mania of owning things" (materialism).


Q.6 How do animals treat their ancestors? 

Answer Animals do not kneel to their ancestors or show any signs of social hierarchy.


Q.7 What does the poet mean by the word "tokens"?

Answer "Tokens" refer to natural human virtues like innocence, simplicity, and contentment.


Q.8 Does any animal feel "unhappy" over the whole earth? 

Answer No, the poet states that not one animal is respectable or unhappy over the whole earth.


Q.9 How did humans lose their "tokens" of goodness? 

Answer Humans lost them through negligence and by moving away from their natural state over time.


Q.10 What is the main theme of the poem "Animals"?

Answer The main theme is the superiority of animals' simple, virtuous life over the complex and greedy life of humans.



Short Answer Questions (2 Marks Each)

Q1 Why does the poet want to "turn and live with animals"? 

Answer The poet is dissatisfied with the human world, which he finds artificial, greedy, and full of anxiety. He wants to "turn" because he finds animals to be calm, self-contained, and peaceful. Unlike humans, they do not complicate their lives with social status or materialism, which attracts the poet to their company.


Q2 What does Whitman mean when he says animals do not "sweat and whine about their condition"? 

Answer This phrase means that animals accept their lives as they are without complaining. Humans often "sweat" (work anxiously) and "whine" (complain) about their problems, failures, or poverty. Animals, however, live in the present moment and remain satisfied with what they have, showing no sign of mental or emotional distress.


Q3 Explain the line: "Not one is dissatisfied, not one is demented with the mania of owning things." 

Answer The poet highlights that animals are free from the "mania" or madness of materialism. Humans are never satisfied and always crave more wealth and possessions. In contrast, animals do not care about owning property or luxury; their lack of greed keeps them mentally healthy and satisfied with their natural surroundings.


Q4 How does the poet contrast the "duty to God" between humans and animals? 

Answer Humans often engage in long, hypocritical discussions about their religious duties and sins, which the poet says "makes him sick." Animals do not have any religion or "duty to God"; they live naturally and honestly. Their life itself is a form of purity, as they do not need to perform rituals to prove their goodness.


Q5 What is the significance of "tokens" in the poem? 

Answer "Tokens" represent the innate human virtues such as innocence, kindness, and simplicity. The poet suggests that humans originally possessed these qualities but "dropped" them as they became "civilized" and greedy. He is amazed to see that animals still carry these "tokens," reminding him of the natural goodness that humans have unfortunately lost.



MCQ-ANSWER

1 Who is the poet of the poem Animals?

  • A Robert Frost

  • B Leslie Norris

  • C Walt Whitman

  • D Robin Klein Answer: C

2 What is the meaning of the word Placid in the poem?

  • A Angry

  • B Calm and peaceful

  • C Greedy

  • D Clumsy Answer: B

3 What do humans do that makes the poet feel sick?

  • A They ignore him

  • B They cry for help

  • C They discuss their duty to God

  • D They work too hard Answer: C

4 According to the poet which mania do humans suffer from?

  • A Mania of talking

  • B Mania of sleeping

  • C Mania of owning things

  • D Mania of traveling Answer: C

5 Why does the poet want to live with animals?

  • A Because they are wild

  • B Because they are fast

  • C Because they are calm and self-contained

  • D Because they are beautiful Answer: C

6 What does the poet mean by the line Not one is respectable?

  • A Animals have no manners

  • B Animals are rude

  • C Animals do not have a social hierarchy or false ego

  • D Animals are dangerous Answer: C

7 How do animals react to their sins?

  • A They pray all night

  • B They confess to others

  • C They do not lie awake and weep for them

  • D They ignore everyone Answer: C

8 What did humans do with the tokens of goodness?

  • A They kept them safe

  • B They dropped them negligently

  • C They sold them

  • D They gave them to animals Answer: B

The Adventures of Toto Class 9 English: Question Answers & Summary


 

About the Lesson: The Adventures of Toto


"The Adventures of Toto" is a humorous and engaging short story written by the famous Indian author Ruskin Bond. It is a staple of the Class 9 English (Moments) syllabus. The story revolves around a mischievous baby monkey named Toto, who is bought by the narrator’s Grandfather for five rupees from a tonga-driver. Grandfather is an animal lover and maintains a private zoo at home, but Toto proves to be quite a handful!



About the Author: Ruskin Bond

Ruskin Bond (born 19 May 1934) is an iconic Indian author of British descent who has played a pioneering role in the growth of children's literature in India. Known for his simple, lucid, and engaging prose, his stories often reflect his deep love for nature and life in the Himalayan foothills.


Textual Question & Answers


1. How does Toto come to grandfather’s private zoo?

Answer: Grandfather bought Toto from a tonga-driver for the sum of five rupees. The tonga-driver used to keep the little red monkey tied to a feeding trough, where he looked out of place. Grandfather, who had a private zoo, decided that the little fellow would be a great addition to his collection.


2. “Toto was a pretty monkey.” In what sense is Toto pretty?

Answer: Toto had bright eyes that sparkled with mischief beneath deep-set eyebrows. His teeth, which were a pearly white, were often displayed in a smile that frightened the life out of elderly Anglo-Indian ladies. His hands looked dried-up as though they had been pickled in the sun for many years. However, his fingers were quick and wicked, and his tail served as a third hand, adding to his "pretty" appearance.


3. Why does grandfather take Toto to Saharanpur and how? Why does the ticket collector insist on calling Toto a dog?

Answer: Grandfather took Toto to Saharanpur because he was too mischievous to be left alone with the other animals in the private zoo. He was carried in a big black canvas kit-bag. The ticket collector insisted on calling Toto a dog because there was no separate category in his rulebook for monkeys. Since Toto was a four-legged animal, the collector classified him as a dog to charge the three-rupee fare.



4. How does Toto take a bath? Where has he learnt to do this? How does Toto almost boil himself alive?

Answer: Toto would cunningly test the temperature of the water with his hand, then gradually step into the bath, first one foot, then the other, until he was in the water up to his neck. He had learnt this by watching the narrator. One day, he saw a large kitchen kettle left on the fire to boil for tea. Finding the water warm enough for a bath, he got in. As the water began to boil, he kept hopping up and down until Grandmother arrived and hauled him out, half-boiled.


5. Why does the author say, “Toto was not the sort of pet we could keep for long”?

Answer: Despite his cleverness, Toto was extremely destructive. He frequently tore clothes, shredded curtains, broke dishes, and ruined expensive wallpaper. The family was not well-to-do enough to afford the frequent loss of household items. Realizing that Toto's mischievous nature was causing too much trouble and financial loss, Grandfather eventually sold him back to the tonga-driver.




Very Short Answer Type Questions (1 Mark )


1. Who is the author of the story ‘The Adventures of Toto’

Answer: Ruskin Bond.


2. From whom did the Grandfather buy Toto?

Answer: A tonga-driver.


3. What was the purchase price of Toto?

Answer: Five rupees.


4. Why was Toto’s presence kept a secret from Grandmother?

Answer: Because she always fussed when Grandfather brought home a new bird or animal.


5. What color was Toto?

Answer: Bright red.


6. Where was Toto transferred after his initial stay in the narrator's bedroom?

Answer: To a big cage in the servants' quarters where other pets lived.


7. Name two other pets mentioned in Grandfather’s private zoo.

Answer: A tortoise, a pair of rabbits, a tame squirrel, and a goat.


8. Where did Grandfather have to go to collect his pension?

Answer: Saharanpur.


9. What kind of bag was used to carry Toto to Saharanpur?

Answer: A big black canvas kit-bag.


10. What did the ticket collector classify Toto as?

Answer: A dog.


1. How much fare did Grandfather pay for Toto at the railway station?

Answer: Three rupees.


12. What was the name of the family donkey?

Answer: Nana.


13. Why did Toto and Nana never become friends?

Answer: Because Toto bit Nana's long ears with his sharp teeth.


14. What dish did Toto try to eat before throwing the plate from a tree?

Answer: Pullao.


15. For how much did Grandfather finally sell Toto back to the tonga-driver?

Answer: Three rupees.



Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)


1. Who bought Toto from a tonga-driver? A) The Narrator B) Grandmother C) Grandfather D) The Ticket Collector 

Answer: C) Grandfather


2. What was the price at which Toto was bought? A) Three rupees B) Five rupees C) Seven rupees D) Ten rupees 

Answer: B) Five rupees


3. Why was Toto’s presence kept a secret in the house? A) He was very expensive B) He was dangerous C) Grandmother didn't like new pets D) The narrator was afraid of him 

Answer: C) Grandmother didn't like new pets


4. Where was Toto hidden on his first day? A) In a cage B) In a stable C) In a small closet in the narrator’s room D) In the garden 

Answer: C) In a small closet in the narrator’s room


5. What did Toto do to the narrator's school blazer? A) He wore it B) He hid it C) He tore it into shreds D) He threw it out the window 

Answer: C) He tore it into shreds


6. Which animal was NOT a part of Grandfather's private zoo? A) A tortoise B) A donkey C) A pair of rabbits D) A tiger

Answer: D) A tiger


7. Where did Grandfather have to go to collect his pension? A) Dehradun B) Saharanpur C) Lucknow D) Delhi 

Answer: B) Saharanpur


8. How did Toto travel to Saharanpur? A) In a cage B) In a black canvas kit-bag C) On Grandfather's shoulder D) In a basket

Answer: B) In a black canvas kit-bag


9. The ticket collector classified Toto as a: A) Monkey B) Dog C) Cat D) Human 

Answer: B) Dog


10. What was the name of the family donkey? A) Nana B) Toto C) Bruno D) Sheru

Answer: A) Nana


11. How did Toto almost boil himself alive? A) By jumping into a hot tub B) By sitting in a kettle on the fire C) By playing with matches D) By jumping into a soup bowl

Answer: B) By sitting in a kettle on the fire


12. What was Toto’s favorite treat during cold winter evenings? A) A bowl of pullao B) A large bowl of warm water for a bath C) Bananas D) Biscuits 

Answer: B) A large bowl of warm water for a bath


13. What did Toto throw at Grandmother when she screamed? A) A glass of water B) A plate C) A chair D) A shoe 

Answer: B) A plate


14. Where did Toto sit to eat the pullao? A) On the dining table B) In the branches of the jackfruit tree C) Under the bed D) On the roof 

Answer: B) In the branches of the jackfruit tree


15. At what price did Grandfather finally sell Toto back to the tonga-driver? A) Five rupees B) Two rupees C) Three rupees D) One rupee 

Answer: C) Three rupees