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ALTERNATIVE ENGLISH
2024
ALTERNATIVE ENGLISH OLD QUESTION PAPER SOLVED
GROUP – A
1. Give brief answers to any five of the following question in full sentence:
(a) Who is Miss Smith?
Ans: Miss smith was poor girls.
(b) With which dance form of Kamrupa was Yakuma Natum compared?
Ans: Yakuma Natum was compared with deodhani nritya of Kamrupa.
(c) Where did Hazarika buy his Rolleiflex camera?
Ans: Bhupen Hazarika had brought his Rolleiflex from home.
(d) What is vestry?
Ans: Vestry is room in a church where sacred vessels and vestments are kept or meetings are held.
(e) What was the only thing Foreman could write?
Ans: Foreman could write his name only.
(f) Whose arm searched for the perfect duck’s egg?
Ans: The wrestler’s arm searched for the perfect duck’s egg.
(g) Name the restaurant Rama worked in after his business was over.
Ans: After his business was over Rama worked in Restaurant Kohinoor.
(h) Who translated the Assamese story ‘Bina Kutir’ into English?
Ans: Bibhash Choudhury translated the story ‘Bina Kutir’ into English
(i) For which exam was the young man in ‘Bina Kutir’ preparing?
Ans: The young man in ‘Bina Kutir’ was preparing for the B.A. examination.
2. Answer any five of the following questions:
(a) How does Philip react towards Miss Smith?
Ans: He immediately understands the situation when he looks at the hat and coat lying on the floor. He wants to send Miss Smith out, as she belongs to a poor class.
(b) Write a short note on the significance of the title, ‘A Cup of Tea’.
Ans: The title A Cup of Tea by Katherine Mansfield is rich in symbolism and irony, reflecting the story’s exploration of class, generosity, and human nature. On the surface, a cup of tea represents a simple, universal gesture of hospitality and care. However, in the context of the story, it becomes a symbol of social disparity and the superficiality of the protagonist, Rosemary Fell’s, generosity. Rosemary’s decision to invite the impoverished Miss Smith for tea appears to be a kind and charitable act. Yet, it is driven more by her desire to feel magnanimous and indulge in a whimsical experience rather than genuine compassion. When her husband admires Miss Smith’s beauty, Rosemary’s insecurity and vanity overpower her initial benevolence, leading her to dismiss the girl abruptly. The title, therefore, is significant as it encapsulates the tension between the facade of generosity and the reality of selfish motives. It underscores the shallow nature of societal interactions and highlights the complex dynamics of class and privilege.
(c) Name the two places associated with Buddhism as mentioned by Dr. Hazarika.
Ans: The two places associated with Buddhism mentioned by Bhupen Hazarika in ‘The Voyage’ are Bodhgaya and Sarnath.
(d) What is the ‘lamentable ignorance’ discovered by the new vicar?
Ans: The newly appointed vicar is compelled to terminate Albert Foreman because he he cannot read and the newly appointed vicar did not take the risk of some accident that might happen owing to Foreman’s lamentable ignorance.
(e) Make a list of the regular customers visiting Rama’s Install.
Ans: The regular customers visiting Rama’s include the jutka drivers, the boot polish boy, the wrestler, the waifs, the blind beggar, the grass-selling women, the cinema crowd coming out after the evening show and the population swarming the pavement.
(f) Why did Rama say, ‘Gently, brother. I was once a hotel owner myself?
Ans: While working as a waiter in Kohinoor restaurant Rama was dealt with very rudely by some customers. He submissively gulped the insult but never forgot to inform them that once he himself was a hotel owner and this piece of reminiscence gave him great satisfaction.
(g) Who enquired about the monthly shipment of a product?
Ans: A couple enquired about the monthly shipment of a product.
(h) Present your impression of the neighborhood where Bina Kutir is located.
Ans: If we need to talk about the impressions on the neighbourhood where Bina Kutir is located, we see that it is strikingly opposite to the small Assam type single storey house was not only dilapidated and with no maintenance but also stood as an object that was fixed in time as the rest of the area had changed drastically with the coming of modernity, urbanism and commercialization into the city of Guwahati. This saw a transition of the area into a motley assembly of newly constructed concrete buildings whose iron rods popped out in all directions. The area not only housed residential houses but also had godowns, commercial spaces, shops; all of which the speaker saw as “monotonous, lifeless and staid”.
3. Give answer in any two of the following questions:
(a) Who, according to you, is the Martyr in ‘The Martyr’s Corner’?
Ans: According to me, Rama is the martyr in ‘The Martyur’s corner’. Although in conventional manners the spot had emerged out to the a ‘Martyr’s corner’, but ironically it was Rama only who paid the price by losing his business, i.e. means of livelihood.
(b) What was the new vicar’s talent?
Ans: The Vicar’s Talent by P.G. Wodehouse, was his exceptional ability to play the piano. He was especially skilled at playing popular tunes with great enthusiasm, and his musical talent became a highlight of his character in the story.
(c) How does Hazarika recount his feeling about being an Indian as he moves forward in his journey?
Ans: As Hazarika moves forward in his journey, he recounts his evolving sense of identity. He recounts that as he moves beyond India’s boundaries, he begins to see himself more as an Indian student rather than solely identifying with his Assamese or Bengali origin. The experience broadens his perspective and deepens his love for all of India, blurring the distinction between being an Assamese or an Indian. Hazarika’s journey helps him embrace a larger national identity and see himself as part of a diverse and united India.
(d) How does the narrator use the Cola-Cola bottle to facilitate the flight of his imagination in the story “Bina Kutir’?
Ans: The narrator uses the Coca-Cola bottle to facilitate his imagination, swift and interesting. To give the story more alive inspiration Coca-Cola has been used continuously in each and every step. It starts when the author goes to inspect the house where the shop-keeper offered him Coca-Cola. Again the speaker made a conversation with the shop-keeper where he advised the shop-keeper to keep a refrigerator to increase the demand of the drink. In the next visit the speaker saw two Punjabi men drinking Coca-Cola. He also took a sip of Coca-Cola. So, from the beginning to the ending of the story the author gave a vivid imagery by adding Coca-Cola.
4. Answer any two of the questions given below:
(a) Comment on the significance of the title of the story, ‘Bina Kutir’.
Ans: The narrator for his own imaginative purpose gave the title ‘Bina Kutir’ to the story. The word ‘Kutir’ implies that the house is small in size and is therefore seen as cottage. The protagonist of the story sets out in search of a rent house, but he discovers himself in an extraordinary situation in which he becomes aware of the existence of several curi- ous characters with diverse mentality. The owner of the house was a teacher. Being a studious person and a writer, he was of steady and firm nature. Out in the mission for a rented house, the protagonist takes Coca-Cola at a shop and comes to know from the shop boy the history of the house ‘Bina Kutir’ and the family of its owner.
(b) Describe, in detail, how Rama’s business was finished.
Ans: After the riot took place, the corner where the person was murdered was considered to be a holy place by the people. Rama was forced to leave his favorite place but the new place did not bring luck to Rama. He lost his selected customers because it was inconvenient for them to reach to him at his new place. His income reduced substantially and he had to return home with a bulk of leftover each day. His business and happiness were all ruined. He lost his reputation too when he tried to reuse his leftover because it made some of his customers sick. Ultimately Rama wound up his business and got to retire but soon his savings were too exhausted and ultimately he had to take up the job of a waiter in Kohinoor restaurant where he was dealt with very rudely by his guests. He submissively gulped the insult but never forgot to inform them that once he himself was a hotel owner and this piece of reminiscence gave him great satisfaction.
(c) Give a brief account of Bhupen Hazarika’s experience of visiting a Sri Lankan family home.
Ans: Hazarika’s experience of visiting a Sri Lankan family home was a unique one. He describes entering the drawing room of a modern Lankan family, where he found a piano and a Madonna painting by a European artist. The children were singing English songs, and Hazarika was surprised by the similarities between this Lankan home and his own experiences in Shillong. Despite being far away from Assam, Hazarika felt a sense of familiarity and connection, emphasizing the universality of certain cultural aspects.
(d) Describe the character development of Rosemary Fell throughout the story, ‘A Cup of Tea’.
Ans: Rosemary Fell is the main character in the story ‘A cup of Tea’. She is a wealthy and privileged woman who enjoys a comfortable lifestyle. She is described as attractive and fashionable, with a taste for luxury. She is also portrayed as impulsive. She is easily influenced by her emotions. She belongs to the upper strata of society and is well-informed about the latest happenings. Her readings of the great writers have made her an imaginative person with a touch of sensitivity.
(e) Does the verger regret his inability to read and write? Is it impacting his life anyway?
Ans: The verger said that the last vicar also knew that. He said that there would be no difference whether he knew or did not know about how to read and write. The verger said that he had gone into service when he was twelve years old. At first, the cook tried to teach him how to read and write. But the verger thought that he did not have the ability to learn it. He was also busy with things one after another and so he even had not time to do it. Edward said that he never felt the necessity of knowing how to read and write. He even says that trying to learn reading and writing is only a wastage of time.
5. Explain with reference to context any one of the following extracts:
(a) And suddenly it seemed to Rosemary such an adventure. It was like something out of a novel by Dostoevsky, this meeting in the dust.
Ans: The quoted lines are extracted from Katherine Mansfield’s short story’ A cup of Tea’.
Through the quoted lines the written symbolizes a seemingly simple act of hospitality and kindness.
One winter evening Rosemary unexpectedly meets a poor young girl named Miss Smith. The girl is storing and begging for the price of cup of tea to keep her warm. Rosemary is struck by the chance encounter with the girl. It appears to her as something out of a Dostoevsky novel. She romanticizes Miss Smith’s suffering as she believes that roboldy could be so poor that could not even afford a cup of the. She takes the girl with the intention of giving her a better life.
(b) He always said there was a great deal too much education in the world for is taste.
Ans: The quoted lines are extracted from william Somerset Maughnis short story ‘The Verger’
Through the quoted lines the author gives importance on acquiring education by an individual.
The new vicar came to the verger. Foreman one day in a state of amazement. He was shocked to learn that the verger of his parish could ‘neither read nor write. He was embarrassed by this fact and had felt compelled to share that NO with the church wardens. The verger replied that the old vicar knew that. He said it didn’t make any difference. He always said there was a great deal too much education in the world for is taste.
6. Give answers:
(a) Write the meaning of the words given below:
(i) Dazed.
Ans: Dazed means unable to think or react properly.
(ii) Fanciful.
Ans: Fanciful means over imaginative and unrealistic.
(iii) Deportment.
Ans: Deportment means the way a person stands and walks.
(iv) Gratis.
Ans: Grates means without charge.
(b) Write the antonym of the words given below:
(i) Glib.
Ans:The antonym of glib is thoughtful.
(ii) Odious.
Ans: The antonym of odious is delightful.
(c) Write the synonym of the words given below:
(i) Dilapidated.
Ans: The synonym of dilapidated is decayed.
(ii) Mesmerizing.
Ans: The synonym of mesmerizing is enthralling.
GROUP – B
(Poetry)
7. Answer any five of the following questions in full sentences:
(a) Who did the narrator of ‘Ozymandias of Egypt’ meet?
Ans: The narrator of ‘Ozymandias of Egypt’ met a traveller.
(b) Name the poet of ‘Because I could not stop for death’.
Ans: The poet of the poem ‘Because I could not Stop for Death’ is Emily Dickinson.
(c) At which moment did the speaker realize that he was in hell?
Ans: The speaker realized that he was in hell when the other soldier he encountered in the underworld smiled with a ‘deed smile’, revealing the true nature of their surround- ings.
(d) Who is Alexander Selkirk?
Ans: Alexander Selkirk was a Scottish sailor.
(e) “Society,______and love / Divinely bestow’d upon man.” (Fill in the gap)
Ans: “Society, friendship and love / Divinely bestow’d upon man.”
(f) Where is Innisfree located?
Ans: Innisfree is located within Lough Gill, located in the poet’s home country Sligo, Ireland near which he spent his sum- mers as a child.
(g) With what will the poet build the cabin in the isle?
Ans: The poet will build a small cabin with clay and wattles in Innisfree.
(h) For how many hours did it rain in ‘Night of the Scopon’.
Ans: It rained for ten hours in ‘Night of the Scorpion’.
8. Answer briefly any five of the questions given below:
(a) What does ‘wrinkled lip and sneer of cold command’ signify?
Ans: In the fragmented statue of Ozymandias sculptor successfully imprinted ‘the wrinkled up and sneer of cold command’. This expression on the face signifies the arrogance of the king and clearly shows how the king must have yielded a lot of power over his subjects. It also clearly exhibits how well the sculptor studied the passions and essence of the king’s personality.
(b) How do you assess the symbolism of the Carriage that Death brings for the poet?
Ans: The carriage in the poem is symbolic of the journey from life to death and the afterlife.
(c) What are Tipplet and Tulle?
Ans: Tippet” is an old-fashioned shawl or shoulder cape, and this one’s made of “tulle,” which is silky and thin like gossamer.
(d) Define war poetry. Give an example.
Ans: Poetry is a type of literature typically written in verse that uses figurative language, or language that can have different meanings from what is literally said, to give multiple shades of meaning to a word or a phrase. Examples of structured poetic forms include haikus, limericks, and sonnets.
(e) Explain ‘I’m the enemy you killed, my friend’.
Ans: ‘I am the enemy you killed, my friend’ are the words that are spoken to the poet by the soldier he had killed the day before, as he in turn walks down the slope towards hell. ‘For by my glee might many men have laughed, And of my weeping something had been left, Which must die now,’ he tells Owen of the wasted richness that his death entails.
(f) Highlight the emotional state of Alexander Selkirk in the poem.
Ans: In the poem ‘The Solitude of Alexander Selkirk’ the emotional state of Alexander Selkirk fluctuates between initial happiness at his solitary rule, desperation for human com- pany and eventual acceptance and contentment with his situation.
(g) What is the significance of the bee-loud glade?
Ans: The phrase ‘bee-loud glade’ represents the hive and honey bees humming all around. These honey bees form a glade.
(h) Mention any two wishes expressed by the presents to help the mother tolerate the pain.
Ans: To help the mother tolerate the pain of scorpion sting the peasant wished to chant prayers and perform rituals.
9. Answer any two of the following questions:
(a) What poetic device does Yeats use in the poem? Name three.
Ans: W.B. Yeats uses several poetic devices in his works to enhance the depth and meaning of his poetry.
Here are three commonly used poetic devices in Yeats’s poems:
(i) Symbolism: Yeats frequently employs symbols to convey deeper meanings. For example, the “gyre” in The Second Coming symbolizes historical cycles, and the “swan” in The Wild Swans at Coole represents beauty, love, and the passage of time.
(ii) Imagery: Vivid and evocative imagery is central to Yeats’s poetry. He uses detailed descriptions to appeal to the senses, such as the haunting and majestic images of “a rough beast” in The Second Coming or the serene swans in The Wild Swans at Coole.
(iii) Allusion: Yeats often references mythology, history, and literature in his poetry. For instance, in Sailing to Byzantium, he alludes to the ancient city of Byzantium to explore themes of eternity and artistic permanence.
(b) Summarize Selkirk’s view about solitude.
Ans: “The Solitude of Alexander Selkirk” by William Cowper reflects on the theme of isolation and the human need for companionship. The poem describes the loneliness and desolation experienced by Alexander Selkirk, a marooned sailor, emphasizing how solitude can lead to a profound sense of emptiness and longing for human connection. There was none to dispute over his rights. However, as time passes he begins to feel the overwhelming weight of isolation. He longs for the company of other human beings. He feels the absence of human interaction to be distressing. He begins to value the importance of society, friendship and love. Selkirk realizes that solitude, when prolonged, can become un- bearable and that human connection is essential for one’s well-being and happiness.
(c) How does ‘Strange Meeting’ challenge the traditional view of war as noble and heroic?
Ans: Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen indeed challenges the traditional view of war as noble and heroic, offering a stark and disillusioned perspective on the realities of warfare. The poem exposes the true horrors and futility of armed conflict. Owen’s portrayal of the soldiers as victims rather than heroes highlights the senselessness and waste of human life in war. The poem emphasizes the psychological and emotional toll war takes on individuals undermining the romanticized notions of bravery associated with warfare. Through the meeting of the two soldiers from opposite sides, the poem conveys a message of compassion, unity and the shared suffering of humanity. It ultimately challenges the glorification of war and advocates for peace.
(d) Is ‘Ozymandias of Egypt’ a proper sonnet? Srogue.
Ans: Yes, “Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley is a variant of a Petrarchan sonnet.
It consists of 14 lines, although it doesn’t have the same, simple rhyme scheme or punctuation that most sonnets have. Some line are split by full stops and the rhyme is irregular at times.
10. Answer any one of the following questions:
(a) What does the mother’s reaction to the scorpion’s sting suggest about her character?
Ans: The mother’s reaction to the scorpion’s sting reflects her selflessness, endurance, and deep maternal love. Despite the intense pain caused by the sting, her primary concern is for her children. Her prayers and hope that the scorpion’s poison might reduce her sins indicate her acceptance of suffering as a part of life, showcasing her resilience and spirituality.
(b) He always said there was a great dal too much education in the world for is taste.
Ans: This statement suggests a skeptical or dismissive attitude toward excessive formal education. It reflects the speaker’s belief that education, beyond a certain extent, might be unnecessary or even counterproductive. It also hints at a preference for practical knowledge or life experiences over theoretical learning.
(c) Explain with reference to the context: “O solitude! where are the charms That sages have seen in thy face?”
Ans: These lines are from William Cowper’s poem The Task. The speaker questions the traditional view of solitude being serene and enlightening, as endorsed by sages and philosophers. Instead, the speaker finds solitude lacking in charm and filled with loneliness. This highlights the disparity between idealized perceptions of solitude and the speaker’s personal experience, emphasizing the individual’s emotional and psychological state.
11. Give answer:
(a) Write the meaning of the words given below:
(i) Visage.
Ans: Visage means a person’s facial expression.
(ii) Recess.
Ans: Recess means the action of receding.
(iii) Titanic.
Ans: Titanic means having great magnitude or power.
(iv) Desolate.
Ans: Desolate means devoid of warmth, comfort or hope.
(b) Give antonyms of the following words:
(i) Slow.
Ans: The antonym of slow is fast.
(ii) Diabolic.
Ans: The antonym of diabolic is excellent.
(c) Give synonyms of the following words:
(i) Lantern.
Ans: The synonym of lantern is lamp.
(ii) Antique.
Ans: The synonym of antique is ancient.
GROUP – C
(Grammar)
12. Add question tage to any five of the following sentences:
(a) You like a lot of sugar in the milk,______.
Ans: You like a lot of sugar in the milk, don’t you?
(b) She does not speak Spanish,_______.
Ans: She does not speak Spanish, does she?
(c) Every dog has its day,_______.
Ans: Every dog has its day, hasn’t they?
(d) Don’t ignore your parents.
Ans: Don’t ignore your parents, will you?
(e) There will be a strike tomorrow.
Ans: There will be a strike tomorrow, won’t there?
(f) They will not come here soon.
Ans: They will not come here soon, will they?
(g) He hit me.
Ans: He hit me, didn’t he?
(h) Nobody came forward to help here.
Ans: Nobody came forward to help here, did they?
13. Correct the errors in there sentences and rewrite them: (any five)
(a) Don’t make noise.
Ans: Don’t make a noise.
(b) Furnitures were bought.
Ans: Furnitures was bought.
(c) She sings delightful.
Ans: She sings delightfully.
(d) He had a strong headache.
Ans: He had a severe headache.
(e) Hemingway is one of my favourite author.
Ans: Hemingway is one of my favourite authors.
(f) Whom, according to you, will the prize?
Ans: Who, according to you, will win the prize?
(g) He is much younger than me.
Ans: He is younger than.
(h) At last the detective founded the clue.
Ans: At last the detective found the clue.
GROUP – D
(Writing & Comprehension)
14. A Choose any one of topics listed below and write an essay on it:
(a) Your favourite Science Fiction Film.
Ans: The science fiction film genre has been around almost as long as movies have, but like the cinema it is still a fairly young art form. This genre came into existence shortly after the invention of the movie camera in 1888 and has continued for over one hundred years.Science fiction movies are movies which tell stories about the future, outer space, robots or alliances, Science fiction movies often use special effects to show images of alien worlds or other planets. I like to watch most of the science fiction films.My favourite science fiction film is ‘2001: A Space odyssey’. It is a landmark film in the history of cinema. It is a work of extraordinary imagination that has transcended film history to become something of a cultural marker. It is not an exaggeration to say that ‘2021: A peace odyssey’ single handedly reinvented the science fiction genre. The visuals music and theme of the film left an indelible mark on subsequent science fiction that is still evident today.2001: A space odyssey’ was an experiment in film form and content. It exploded the conventional narrative form, restructuring the conventions of the three act drama. The narrative was linear, but radically spanning owns and ending in a timeless realm, all without a conventional movie score. The film is noted for its scientifically accurate depiction of space flight, pioneerig special effects and ambiguous imagery.Beyond its technical prowess ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ is lauded for its commentary on bit themes, technology, extraterrestrial life, human evolution and more. It is also a great example of hard scientific film in that it eschews cool concepts in favour of being scientifically accurate, ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ is Standley Kufirck’s timeless masterpiece. Embarking on an epic space journey to Jupiter, Ok Dave Bowman and his team encounter the enigmatic supercomputer HAL, culminating in a gripping man versus-machine showdown. The film set the benchmark for all subsequent movies in the genre and consistently ranks among the top 10 movies ever made.
(b) Social Media & Society.
Ans: Social media has become a powerful force in modern society, influencing how people communicate, interact, and access information. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have connected individuals globally, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering relationships between people of diverse cultures and backgrounds. This connectivity has created online communities, allowing people to share ideas, experiences, and support one another. Social media has also been instrumental in driving social change, with movements like These platforms enable individuals to raise awareness, organize protests, and bring attention to important social issues. For businesses, social media has transformed marketing strategies, providing affordable and targeted advertising opportunities. Companies now engage directly with customers, building brand loyalty and enhancing customer satisfaction through real-time interactions. Social media also offers a platform for small businesses to compete with larger corporations, leveling the playing field in the digital marketplace.However, social media’s impact is not entirely positive.
The spread of misinformation and fake news is a significant concern, as false information can quickly reach a wide audience and cause harm. Additionally, the use of social media has been linked to mental health issues, particularly among young people. The pressure to present a perfect, curated image online can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Cyberbullying has also become a prevalent issue, with individuals using the anonymity of social media to harass others. In conclusion, while social media offers numerous benefits, including global connectivity and social change, it also presents challenges like misinformation and mental health concerns. Responsible use and regulation are essential to maximizing its positive impact on society.
(c) Benefits of G-20.
Ans: Benefits of G-20 are mentioned below:
(i) Global Economic Stability: The G-20 works to ensure financial stability by coordinating policies among major economies, addressing issues like economic crises, and promoting sustainable growth.
(ii) Inclusive Growth: The forum emphasizes reducing inequalities and supporting developing economies by addressing issues such as poverty, climate change, and digital divides.
(iii) Platform for Dialogue: It facilitates constructive dialogue among world leaders on critical issues, enabling collaborative problem-solving.
(iv) Policy Coordination: G-20 aligns monetary, fiscal, and trade policies across member nations to prevent conflicts and promote global economic harmony.
(v) Focus on Key Global Challenges: It addresses pressing global issues, including climate change, food security, health crises, and sustainable development.
(vi) Innovation and Digital Economy: The G-20 promotes innovation and technological advancements, focusing on building resilient digital economies and addressing cybersecurity concerns.
(vii) Strengthened Multilateralism: It complements the work of other international organizations like the UN, IMF, and WTO, strengthening multilateral cooperation.
(viii) Economic Opportunities: By promoting trade and investment, the G-20 boosts economic opportunities and job creation worldwide.
(ix) Crisis Management: The G-20 has been instrumental in managing global crises, such as the 2008 financial meltdown and COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring coordinated recovery efforts.
(x) Focus on Sustainable Development: It prioritizes achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing climate action, energy transitions, and inclusive development.
15. Read the following passage carefully:
Pupil: Oh, I do hope so, Sir I’m thirsty for knowledge. And then my parents too, they want most awfully for me to preserver in my studies. They would like me to specialize. They believe that nowadays a little general culture, however soundly taught, just doesn’t go fare enough.
Professor: Mademoiselle, you parents are perfectly right. You must continue your studies. I apologize for saying so, but it is really quite essential. Modern life has become very complex.
Pupil And so complicate! Of course, I’m lucky, my parents aren’t badly off. They’ll be able to help me in my work, so that I can take the highest degrees there are.
Professor: And you would like to apply for an interview.
Pupil: As soon as possible. To start working for my Doctor’s Degree It’s in three weeks.
Professor: Let’s see, now, if you’ll allow me to put the question you already have you school leaving certificate?
Pupil: Yes, Sir. For Arts and Science.
Professor: Oh, but yours well-developed for your age. and what Doctorate do you wish to read for? Material Science or normal philosophy?
Pupil: My parents would really prefer to read for all the Doctorates if you think it’s possible in such short a time.
Professor: All the Doctorates? You are a very courageous young lady. I really must cogratualate you most sincerely. Well, we’ll try, Mademoiselle, we’ll do our best for you. Besides, you are most knowledgeable already. And so young. too. Pupil Oh, Sir!
Professor: All right, then! We’ve hardly any time to lose. If you’ll forgive me,. if you’ll be so kind … perhaps we should make a start.
Pupil: Not at all, Sir. Please, don’t applogize. I’m anxious to start. [The maid comes in]
Professor: Well no, mademoiselle, what do you say to doing a little arithmetic… that is, if you don’t mind …
Pupil: Of course, Sir. Willingly. I could not ask for anything better.
Professor: It’s faily new science, a modern science strictly speaking I suppose one should call it a method rather than a science. … It is also a therapy. [To the maid] Maries, have you finished?
Maid: Yes, Sir I’ve found the plate I was looking for. I’m just going.
Professor: Hurry up, please, and go back to the kitchen.
Maid: Yes, Sir, I’m going. I beg pardon. Sir, but please be careful. Not too much excitement.
Professor: Don’t be so ridiculous. Marie, Nothing whatever to worry about.
Maid: But that’s what you always say.
Professor: Your insinuations are entirely without foundation. I’m perfectly capable of behaving myself. After all, I’m old enough.
Maid: That’s just it, Sir. You’d much better not start Mademoiselle off with arithmetic. It makes you tired and upsets you.
Professor: I’m too old for that now. And what business is it of yours anyway? It’s my concern and I know what I am doing. You’ve no right to be her, anyway.
Maid: Very well, Sir. But don’t you go telling me I didn’t warn you.
Professor: I’m not interested in your warnings, Marie.
16. Answer the following questions based on your reading and understanding:
(a) Outline, after the passages, the personality traits of the professor.
Ans: The personality traits of the professor are:
(i) He is perfectly capable of behaving himself.
(ii) He is sincerity and aware of his duties.
(iii) He is encouraging.
(b) What was the professor’s opinion on arithmetic?
Ans: According to the professor, arithmetic is fairly new science, a modern science. One should call it a method rather than a science. It is also a therapy.
(c) Why, do you think, the maid dissuaded the professor from teaching arithmetic?
Ans: The maid dissuasded the professor from teaching arithmetic. It is because she felt that it would make him tired and upset.
(d) Who is ‘Mademoiselle’ referred to in the passage?
Ans: Mademoiselle’ is referred to a pupil in the passage.
(e) Find a word in the passage which means ‘wise’ and another which means ‘a suggestion of something bad’.
Ans: The word that means ‘wise’ is ‘knowledgeable’, and the word that means ‘a suggestion of something bad’ is ‘insinuations’.
(f) Give the noun of ‘perseveres’ and adjective of ‘philosophy’.
Ans: The noun form of persevere is ‘perseverance’ and the adjective of philosophy is philosophic.
