NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour

NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour Solutions to each chapter is provided in the list so that you can easily browse through different chapters NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour Notes and select need one. NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour Question Answers Download PDF. NCERT Class 7 English Solutions.

NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour

Join Telegram channel

Follow us:

Also, you can read the NCERT book online in these sections Solutions by Expert Teachers as per Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Book guidelines. CBSE Class 7 English Solutions are part of All Subject Solutions. Here we have given NCERT Class 7 English Chapter 2 Wit and Humour Notes and Textbook for All Chapters, You can practice these here.

Wit and Humour

Chapter: 2

ANIMALS, BIRDS, AND DR. DOLITTLE

LET US DISCUSS

I. Complete the following sentence by selecting a suitable reason. 

The Cat’s-food-Man suggests to Doctor Dolittle that he should become an animal doctor because he believes that Dolittle ____________.

(i) Earns less fee by treating human patients.

(ii) Enjoys the company of animals as they speak less.

(iii) Dislikes spending time with human patients.

(iv) Knows more about animals than the local veterinarians.

Ans: (iv) Knows more about animals than the local veterinarians.

II. Fill in the blanks by choosing the suitable option given in the brackets.

Doctor Dolittle reacts to Polynesia’s information about animal languages with both excitement and ____________ (certainty/curiosity). He rushes to ___________ (write/memorise) the bird words she provides and is interested in learning more.

Ans: Doctor Dolittle reacts to Polynesia’s information about animal languages with both excitement and curiosity. He rushes to write the bird words she provides and is interested in learning more.

III. Do you think Doctor Dolittle would be famous as an animal doctor? If yes, why? If not, why not?

Ans: Yes, Doctor Dolittle would be famous as an animal doctor because he can actually understand and speak the language of animals, which no other vet can do. This rare ability would make him unique and highly sought after by people who care for animals.

I. What became a common sight in Puddleby after Doctor Dolittle started treating animals?

(i) Humans talking to farm animals.

(ii) Farm animals wearing glasses.

(iii) Farm animals learning bird language.

(iv) Birds riding atop farm animals.

Ans: (ii) Farm animals wearing glasses.

II. What challenges do you think Doctor Dolittle might face if more and more animals come to him for help?

Ans: Doctor Dolittle might face challenges such as overcrowding in his garden, difficulty in managing and organizing so many animals, lack of time for each patient, and the need for more space and resources to treat different kinds of animals. 

1. How might he overcome these challenges to ensure that he provides good treatment?

Ans: He could set up a proper system by building special doors for different animals, assigning specific times for each group, seeking help from animals like Polynesia who understand other creatures, and keeping a well-organized record of each patient. This would help him manage the large number of animals efficiently and provide better care.

III. Arrange the following events in correct order according to the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher.

Ans:   

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

1. “If I say, ‘Polly wants a cracker’, you understand me. But hear this: Ka ka oi-ee, fee-fee?”

“Good Gracious!” cried the Doctor. “What does that mean?”

“That means, ‘Is the porridge hot yet?’—in bird language.”

“My! You don’t say so!” said the Doctor. “You never talked that way to me before.”

“What would have been the good?” said Polynesia, dusting some cracker crumbs off her left wing. “You wouldn’t have understood me if I had.”

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing the correct option. In the line, “Good Gracious!” cried the Doctor, the expression ‘Good Gracious’ can be replaced by ______________!

(a) Bravo.

(b) Gosh.

(c) Alas.

(d) Hurray.

Ans: (b) Gosh.

(ii) Why had Polynesia never used bird language with the Doctor earlier?

Ans: Because the Doctor wouldn’t have understood her if she had spoken in bird language before. 

(iii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. 

Polynesia had been munching on a food item while talking to Doctor Dolittle.

Ans: True.

(iv) How did Doctor Dolittle feel according to the extract? 

(a) Anxious. 

(b) Surprised. 

(c) Angry. 

(d) Relaxed.

Ans: (b) Surprised.

2. “I would like a pair like yours,” said the horse—“only green. They’ll keep the Sun out of my eyes while I’m ploughing the field.”

“Certainly,” said the Doctor. “Green ones you shall have.”

“You know, the trouble is, Sir,” said the plough horse as the Doctor opened the front door to let him out—“the trouble is that anybody thinks he can doctor animals—just because the animals don’t complain. As a matter of fact, it takes a much cleverer man to be a really good animal doctor than it does to be a good people’s doctor.”

(i) Choose a word from the extract to complete the analogy. digging: flower bed:: ______________: field.

Ans: Ploughing.

(ii) Choose the correct word to complete the sentence. Doctor Dolittle’s attitude in the extract is ______________.

(a) Respectful.

(b) Sentimental.

(c) Understanding.

(d) Careful.

Ans: (c) Understanding.

(iii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. Based on the extract, we can conclude that doctors take animals for granted because ______________.

Ans: Animals don’t complain even when they are in pain or discomfort.

(iv) Do you agree with the concluding sentence of the extract? Why/why not?

Ans: Yes, because treating animals requires greater understanding and skill since they cannot explain their symptoms like humans do.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. How can we say that Polynesia was a good trainer of animal language?

Ans: Polynesia was a wise and intelligent parrot. She not only told Dr. Dolittle that animals have their own language, but also started teaching him that language patiently. It was with her help that Dr. Dolittle was able to learn the language of animals, which makes it clear that Polynesia was a skilled teacher.

2. Explain how Doctor Dolittle gave equal and individual attention to each animal who came to him for treatment.

Ans: Dr. Dolittle gave each animal the attention it needed. He built special doors for different species in his house and kept a large garden where the animals could comfortably wait for their turn. He spoke to each animal in its language, which made each one feel that they were being understood.

3. How does Doctor Dolittle’s readiness to follow the parrot’s advice highlight the importance of listening to different viewpoints?

Ans: When Doctor Dolittle followed the advice of Polynesia and started learning the language of animals, his life changed. He stepped in a new direction and achieved amazing success in animal medicine. This teaches us that sometimes the advice of others, even if they are not human, can give a new direction to life.

4. Which qualities of Doctor Dolittle made him famous among the animals? Explain with evidence from the text.

Ans: The most special thing about Doctor Dolittle was that he loved animals and understood their language. He would listen to every animal’s problem and provide proper treatment. He had made special arrangements for animals in his house and treated them with respect and sympathy. This is why he became so loved and famous among animals.

5. What changes do you think would happen in the world if people suddenly gained the ability like Doctor Dolittle, to understand and communicate with animals?

Ans: If humans can communicate with animals, they will be able to understand them better and will also be able to take care of them with more sensitivity.  Cruelty to animals will be reduced, their pain and needs will be understood. This will strengthen the relationship between humans and animals and will also help in protecting the environment.

I. Read the following words from the text. 

Cat’s-food-Man, bird language, flowerpots.

Are all the words that are combined to form another word written the same way?

Complete the following table correctly by choosing words from the box given below. An example has been done for you.

Ans: 

II. Create compound words from the table given below.

Ans:

Now, complete the paragraph with suitable compound words from the table. An example has been done for you. 

After being treated by Doctor Dolittle, the A. fun-loving dolphins danced playfully in his sanctuary. The B. _____________ chatter of monkeys echoed through the C. _____________, their ailments cured. D. ____________ eagles soared gracefully E. _____________ their health restored. F. _____________ among the G. _____________ chirped joyfully from the branches. All creatures were happy with Doctor Dolittle’s care. 

Ans: After being treated by Doctor Dolittle, the A. fun-loving dolphins danced playfully in his sanctuary. The B. high-flyers’ chatter of monkeys echoed through the C. never-ending canopies, their ailments cured. D. Early-riser eagles soared gracefully E. overhead, their health restored. F. Songbirds among the G. treetops chirped joyfully from the branches. All creatures were happy with Doctor Dolittle’s care.

III. Underline the names of animals that are hidden in the sentences given below. Clues are given within the brackets. An example has been done for you. 

1. Dr. Dolittle was eating oatmeal for his breakfast. (a farm animal).

Ans: Goat.

2. Old ladies began to bring him their pets. (an insect).

Ans: Bee.

3. The author sees the connection between humans and animals. (a farm animal).

Ans: Horse.

4. The three baby dinosaurs are from ice age. (field animal).

Ans: Hare.

5. The patients who came late didn’t know where to go. (ship of the desert).

Ans: Camel.

IV. Read the following sentence from the text. Study the highlighted words.

But that stupid man over the hill never even looked at my eyes.

The highlighted words spell and read the same backwards too.

Read the sentences below and identify the palindrome words and sentences.

1. Step on no pets.

Ans: Palindrome sentence: “Step on no pets”.

2. Naman saw a race car at the show.

Ans: Palindrome words: Naman, race car.

3. Nitin speaks in Malayalam.

Ans: Palindrome words: Nitin, Malayalam.

4. The engineer used a rotator to check the surface level.

Ans: Palindrome word: rotator.

5. The pilot relied on the radar to navigate safely.

Ans: Palindrome word: radar.

6. Eva can I see bees in a cave?

Ans: Palindrome sentence “Eva, can I see bees in a cave?”

Now, create your own palindrome and share it with your classmates and the teacher.

Ans: “Never odd or even.”

V. Underline the verbs and identify the tense form in the following sentences from the text.

1. He is asking you a question.

Ans: Verb: is asking.

Tense: Present Continuous.

2. Oh, there are plenty of animal doctors.

Ans: Verb: are.

Tense: Simple Present.

3. I am going blind in one eye.

Ans: Verb: am going.

Tense: Present Continuous.

4. … the trouble is that anybody thinks he can doctor animals.

Ans: Verbs: is, thinks, can doctor.

Tense: Simple Present.

VI. Read the following sentences from the text.

• That man’s (man has) got sense.

• Can’t you see that it has stopped raining?

In the first sentence the verbs, ‘has got’ denote an action that is relevant at the time of speaking.

In the second sentence, the verbs ‘has stopped’ denote an action that is recently completed.

Fill in the blanks using the correct form of verbs (present perfect) given within brackets.

Since becoming an animal doctor, Doctor Dolittle 1. _________ (learn) to communicate with all animals and birds. He 2. _________ (treat) countless farm animals and pets with care. The parrot, Polynesia, 3. _________ (teach) him bird-language, and he 4. _________ (write) books about his adventures. Many people 5. _________ (bring) their sick animals to his door. Over the years, Dolittle 6. _________ (become) renowned worldwide for his unique abilities.

Ans: Since becoming an animal doctor, Doctor Dolittle has learned to communicate with all animals and birds. He has treated countless farm animals and pets with care. The parrot, Polynesia, has taught him bird-language, and he has written books about his adventures. Many people have brought their sick animals to his door. Over the years, Dolittle has become renowned worldwide for his unique abilities.

I. You will listen to an announcement. As you listen, state whether the following statement is true or false. (Transcript for the teacher on pg. 88)

Dr. Dolittle’s new clinic presents an offer of free medicines. 

Ans: False.

II. You will listen to the announcement again. As you listen, complete the details given below with one or two exact words you hear.

1. The new clinic is located in the town of ____________.

Ans: Woodstock.

2. The address is 12, ____________ Lane.

Ans: Rose.

3. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from ____________ a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ans: 9 am.

4. Special timings for ____________ are on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ans: Birds.

5. Dr. Dolittle will ensure that animals get the ______________.

Ans: Best care.

6. All animals—horses, cows, ______________, wild animals, and others are welcome.

Ans: Pets.

A notice is a means of formal communication for a particular group of persons. It informs them about some important event, such as an invitation to a meeting, an announcement, to give instructions, make appeals, etc.

Write a notice in about 50 words about the Annual Health Check-up for students of Grades 6–8. Remind students to collect their health check-up cards from the class teacher. Include all other necessary details about date, time, and venue.

Complete the draft of the notice by using the words and phrases given in the box below.

Ans: Name of the School

NOTICE

12 July 20XX

Annual Health Check-up

This is to inform all the students of Grades 6–8 about the Annual Health Check-up.

Date: Thursday and Friday, 27 and 28 July 20XX

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Venue: Assembly Hall.

All students are requested to bring their health card for the check-up.

Please contact the undersigned for any queries.

Asma
In-charge

I. The word ‘goshala’ translates to ‘cowshed’ in English. It is a Sanskrit word that is made up of the words ‘go’, which means ‘cow’, and śālā, which means ‘shed’ or ‘hall’.

Plan a visit with the teacher to a ‘goshala’ and find out how the cows are looked after. 

II. Ayurveda is the oldest existing medical system in India. Animals received good medicinal care in ancient India. Indian medical treatises like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Harita Samhita contain references of care of animals. Find out names of different organisations that work for the welfare of animals with the help of the teacher. 

Ans: Several organizations work for animal welfare, including People For Animals (PFA), Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA), and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). 

III. What is the best way to take care of stray and abandoned animals?

(i) Provide food and water for the animal.

(ii) Take them to an animal shelter.

(iii) Adopt them by taking them home,

Give reasons for your responses.

Ans: The best way is combination of all three-feeding, getting help from shelters, and adopting if possible-is the most responsible and kind way to care for stray or abandoned animals. Feeding helps them survive, shelters offer safety and medical care, and adoption gives them a permanent, loving home.

I. Work in pairs. Identify the true statements. Check your answers with the teacher.

1. The poet says that she had never heard such an amusing song.

Ans: True.

2. The funny man was quite ill-mannered.

Ans: False.

3. The funny man wore two hats on his feet.

Ans: True.

4. The funny man hopped on his head to reach home.

Ans: True.

5. The funny man gave a rose to the poet.

Ans: False.

6. The funny man smiled at the poet.

Ans: True.

II. Identify the words from the poem based on the meanings given. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher.

1. a small seedless raisin – C __ R __ __ __ T.

Ans: Currant.

2. moved unsteadily – S __ __ G G __ __ __ D.

Ans: Staggered.

III. Complete the following sentences with a reason.

1. The tone of the poem is ___________ because ___________.

Ans: The tone of the poem is humorous because it describes a man doing absurd and silly things like wearing hats on his feet and hopping on his head.

2. The rhyme scheme of the poem is ___________; and it gives a ___________ quality to the poem.

Ans: The rhyme scheme of the poem is AABB ; and it gives a playful and rhythmic quality to the poem.

3. The poet has frequently repeated the word ‘funny’ in order to ___________.

Ans: The poet has frequently repeated the word ‘funny’ in order to emphasize the absurd and amusing nature of the man and the situation.

IV. Choose the correct answer from the options given in the brackets.

1. The poem uses vivid imagery to create a _______________ (humorous and nonsensical/ confusing but thought-provoking) scene. 

Ans: Humorous and nonsensical.

2. The structure of the poem is in ___________ (monologue/ dialogue) form. 

Ans: Monologue.

3. The phrases ‘sounding sight’ and ‘hopped home’ are examples of ___________. (alliteration/simile) 

Ans: Alliteration.

V. Rewrite the following line from the poem in the correct order.

1. But never had I seen before.

Such a funny sounding sight.

Ans: But I had never seen such a funny sounding sight before.

2. Why has the poet used phrases like ‘funny sounding sight’ and ‘funny feeling sound’ with reference to the funny man?

Ans: The poet uses phrases like ‘funny sounding sight’ and ‘funny feeling sound’ to show just how unusual and amusing the funny man really is. The playful and imaginative expressions help create a lighthearted, magical mood.

VI. Can you think of any real-world situations where people do similar things for fun, entertainment, or performance? Share with your classmates and the teacher.

Ans: Students do it yourself.

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 

1. He said, “Allow me to present

Your Highness with a rose.”

And taking out a currant bun

He held it to my nose.

I staggered back against the wall And then I answered, “Well!”

(i) Why does the funny man address the poet as ‘Your Highness’?

Ans: The funny man addresses the poet as ‘Your Highness’ in a humorous and exaggeratedly respectful way, pretending the poet is royalty. This mock formality adds a comic effect to the situation, highlighting the man’s playful and dramatic manner.

(ii) Choose a phrase from the extract which indicates a polite request.

Ans: “Allow me to present”.

(iii) Choose the option which shows a ‘currant bun’.

Ans: (b) Image 2.

(iv) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. When the poet says, ‘Well!’, it expresses surprise. This was so because ______________.

Ans: Because instead of offering a rose as he said, the funny man unexpectedly held out a currant bun to the poet’s nose, which was both confusing and amusing.

2. You never heard in all your life

Such a funny feeling sound.

“My friend, why do you wear two hats

Upon your feet?” I said.

He turned the other way about, 

And hopped home on his head.

(i) Choose the line from the extract which tells us that the sound was unique.

Ans: “You never heard in all your life / Such a funny feeling sound.”

(ii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.

The poet calls the funny man ‘my friend’ because ______________.

Ans: Because she is amused by his strange behavior and addresses him in a friendly, playful manner, even though he is quite odd.

(iii) What does the reaction of the funny man to the poet’s question tell us about him?

Ans: His behavior suggests he is more focused on fun and absurdity than on making sense.

(iv) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.

The last line of the extract makes the readers feel _______________.

(a) Dreamy.

(b) Impatient.

(c) Worried.

(d) Cheerful.

Ans: (d) Cheerful.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. Which character trait of the funny man was most appealing to you? Why?

Ans: I liked his polite and cheerful nature the most. He was wearing strange clothes, yet he greeted with a very loving smile. His modesty and innocence make him special.

2. The funny man does unusual things in the poem. How does it affect the overall mood of the poem?

Ans: His strange actions create a lovely combination of laughter and surprise in the poem. This atmosphere makes the poem light and entertaining, due to which the reader cannot stop smiling.

3. What alternative title would you suggest for the poem? Give reason(s) for your choice.

Ans: I would like to title this poem “Mazadar Milan”, because this is the story of a meeting with a person who may be strange in appearance and behavior, but his style touches the heart.

4. Why do you think the poet has included dialogues in the poem?

Ans: Dialogues make the poem more lively. It seems as if everything is happening in front of us. This makes the reader connect with the poem and enjoy the funny situation even more.

5. What does the poet wish to convey by highlighting the unusual behaviour of the funny man?

Ans: The poet wants to teach us that everyone has a different way of thinking and style. Instead of rejecting the strangeness of others, we should understand the innocence and uniqueness hidden in them. This is the beauty of life.

Read the following phrases from the poem.

• Walking down.

• Taking out.

• Sat down.

These are phrasal verbs.

I. Match the phrasal verbs in Column 1 with their correct meaning in Column 2.

Ans: 

Now, fill in the blanks with suitable phrasal verbs from the table given in I. You may change the tense of the verb, if required.

1. The new technology is set to _____________ traditional methods of communication.

Ans: Take over. 

2. I tried hard to ____________ what the writer wanted to say but was unsuccessful. 

Ans: Take in.

3. Arjun decided to ____________ painting as a hobby. 

Ans: Take up.

4. The smartphone quickly _____________ the sales in the market.

Ans: Took off. 

5. Sheela ____________ her father; they have the same smile.

Ans: Takes after.

II. Match the verbs in Column 1 with any suitable adverbs or prepositions in Column 2. Write their meanings in Column 3. An example has been done for you.

Ans: 

Now, frame sentences of your own using any five phrasal verbs. 

Ans: Look after: My sister will look after our pets while we are on vacation.

Run away: The thief tried to run away when the police arrived.

Put off: We had to put off the meeting due to unexpected weather conditions.

Break down: My car broke down on the way to work, and I had to call a mechanic.

Call off: The school trip was called off because of heavy rain.

III. Read the following words from the poem.

Walking, Staggered, Hopped.

The given words denote the different ways of walking. Arrange the words given in the box in increasing order of pace.

Ans: Stagger > Walk > Hop > Jog > Trot > Run > Sprint.

I. Work in pairs and discuss.

1. What does ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ mean?

Ans: ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ is a Sanskrit phrase which means “The guest is equivalent to God.”

2. Why is it important to be polite to guests?

Ans: Being polite to guests shows respect, hospitality, and good manners. It helps in building positive relationships and makes guests feel welcome and valued.

II. Choose the statements that display polite behaviour when you have guests at home.

(i) Offer the guests a glass of water.

(ii) Enquire about the well-being of the guests.

(iii) Ask the guests when they would leave.

(iv) Comment critically about the habits of guests.

(v) Accompany the guests to the door when they leave.

Ans: (i) Offer the guests a glass of water.

(ii) Enquire about the well-being of the guests.

(v) Accompany the guests to the door when they leave.

III. Sometimes you find that a few friends in class are rude while disagreeing with each other on certain issues. Work in groups. How would you deal with such a situation? Share at least three ways in which you can do this.

Ans: (i) Stay calm and listen.

(ii) Encourage respectful communication.

(iii) Mediate to find common ground.

I. Complete the table given below based on Scene I of the play. An example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher.

Ans: 

II. Do you think Mary will be able to follow her mother’s advice successfully when Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee visit? Why or why not?

Ans: Mary might try her best to follow her mother’s advice, but she may not be fully successful. While she clearly wants to help and is trying hard to remember the polite things to say, her humorous and overly literal nature might cause her to say something inappropriate by accident. Her eagerness to talk and make others laugh could lead to some funny blunders, especially if she misunderstands what is appropriate to say in front of important guests.

I. Rectify the false statements given below from Scene II of the play. An example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher.

1. Mrs. Harding states that they do not like London as it is not the same as Lanfield.

Ans: Rectification: Mrs. Harding states that they like Lanfield very much even though it is not the same as London.

2. Mrs. Harding was pleased to know that Mary was familiar with her children.

Ans: Rectification: Mrs. Harding was not pleased because she did not have any children, and Mary had mistaken someone else’s children as hers.

3. Mrs. Shaw shared that she liked Mrs. Best as she read a lot of newspapers.

Ans: Rectification: Mrs. Shaw shared that she liked Mrs. Best because she was a nice woman, not because she read a lot of newspapers.

4. Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Shaw agree that wearing a blue dress with a red coat is unfashionable.

Ans: Rectification: Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Shaw did not agree that wearing a blue dress with a red coat is unfashionable; in fact, Mrs. Shaw quickly said she liked blue dresses and red coats after Mary criticized them.

5. Mary shares that she finds the dog outside the window cute.

Ans: Rectification: Mary did not find the dog cute; she said it looked dirty, questioned why people keep dogs, and only then learned it belonged to Mrs. Harding.

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 

1. Mary : What are you going to talk about?

Mrs. shaw : I don’t know. All kinds of things. One day you’ll have to go to some of these houses yourself and talk to the people there.

Mary : I can talk now. I’ve been able to talk for a long time.

Mrs. shaw : Yes, that’s true. You always talk too much. But does anyone want to hear the things that you say?

Mary : I can talk very well when I like. I’ll stay with you today and talk to them when they come.

Mrs. shaw : Oh, I don’t think so. You can go out for a walk. It will be better if you do that. 

(i) What does Mrs. Shaw imply when she says, “One day you’ll have to go to some of these houses yourself and talk to the people there”? 

(a) She believes Mary should start learning about hosting guests then.

(b) She thinks Mary is ready to visit these houses independently.

(c) She wants Mary to develop social skills for the future.

(d) She hopes Mary will avoid these social interactions entirely.

Ans: (c) She wants Mary to develop social skills for the future.

(ii) Complete the following sentence with the correct option from the brackets.

Mrs. Shaw and Mary are discussing how to _______________. (have a polite conversation/ get to know people better) 

Ans: Mrs. Shaw and Mary are discussing how to have a polite conversation.

(iii) Why did Mary insist on staying with her mother when the guests arrived? 

Ans: Mary insisted on staying with her mother because she wanted to prove that she could talk well when needed.

(iv) Match the following character traits to the characters in the extract: 

(a) Eager.

(b) Inexperienced Mary.

(c) Cautious. 

Characters:

(a) Mary.

(b) Mrs. Shaw.

Ans: (a) Eager: Mary.

(b) Inexperienced: Mary.

(c) Cautious: Mrs. Shaw.

2. Mary : I saw Mrs. Cotter this afternoon. I met her in the street. No one sees her in the morning because she always stays in bed then. And she’s always asking the doctor to go to see her. I can’t understand women who stay in bed in the morning. And why must she always ask for the doctor? I’ve never been to a doctor in my life. 

Mrs. harding : I stay in bed in the morning myself. 

(i) Complete the following sentence suitably. 

Mary could spot Mrs. Cotter in the street because _________. 

Ans: Mary could spot Mrs. Cotter in the street because Mrs. Cotter usually stays in bed in the morning.

(ii) What does Mary’s comment about Mrs. Cotter staying in bed and calling the doctor suggest about her understanding?

(a) She is worried about why Mrs. Cotter stays in bed all morning.

(b) She is unable to understand why people need medical help.

(c) She thinks Mrs. Cotter is scared and lonely for staying in bed.

(d) She believes Mrs. Cotter is right to rest and take care of herself.

Ans: (b) She is unable to understand why people need medical help.

(iii) How can we say that Mary enjoyed good health?

Ans: Mary enjoyed good health as she mentioned she had never been to a doctor in her life.

(iv) Identify whether the following statement is true or false.

Mary might have unintentionally offended Mrs. Harding.

Ans: True.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. What does Mary’s comment about Mr. Best’s routine and profession reveal about her viewpoint on bankers and their way of life?

Ans: Mary’s comment shows that she has a narrow and dismissive view of bankers’ work and lifestyle. When she says “bankers can’t think,” it shows that she neither takes their work seriously nor respects it. It also reveals her lack of social understanding.

2. What can we infer about Mary’s understanding of polite conversation based on her interactions with the guests?

Ans: Mary’s interactions make it clear that she does not have a proper understanding of polite and cultured conversation. She tries to follow her mother’s advice, but sometimes she utters words that seem insensitive or rude. This shows that she does not yet know how to maintain balance in social interactions.

3. What do you think the repeated stage direction ‘no one speaks’ indicates about the atmosphere in the room when Mary speaks?

Ans: The repeated use of “No one speaks” indicates that the room is uncomfortable and tense. It shows that Mary’s comments make people quiet, making the atmosphere awkward and tense. This silence symbolizes embarrassment and discomfort.

4. How does Mary’s attitude towards the guests change throughout the play?

Ans: At the beginning, Mary seems prepared and excited to impress the guests. But as the play progresses, she begins to behave more careless and inattentively. She is clear in her words, but she does not understand that some things can hurt others. Her behavior seems childish.

5. What do Mrs. Harding’s and Mrs. Lee’s responses to Mary’s blunders during their visit reveal about their characters?

Ans: Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee’s reactions are very restrained and gentle. They do not get angry at Mary’s uncomfortable remarks, but handle the situation with patience and grace. This shows that they are mature, sensible and socially skilled women.

6. In what way does the play show the importance of knowing how to engage in polite conversation?

Ans: The play shows that polite and sensible conversation is very important in social life. Mary’s mistakes teach us that words spoken without thinking can hurt others and spoil good relationships. This play teaches us that being sensitive to others, choosing the right words, and conversing in a polite manner is an important life skill.

I. Study the following words taken from the text.

Humorous, Hilariously, Coming, Beautiful.

The given words are made by adding word endings like -ous, -ly, -ing, and -ful to the root words humour, hilarious, come, and beauty. Such word endings are called suffixes.

• Humour + -ous.

• Hilarious + -ly.

• Come + -ing.

• Beauty + -ful.

Now, divide the following words from the text as root words and suffixes. Check your answer with the teacher.

Ans:

1. Study the words in Column 1. Match the suffixes in Column 2 with their meanings or purpose in Column 3. Write a few examples for each in Column 4. Share your answers with the teacher.

Ans:

2. Fill in the blanks using words given in the brackets by adding suitable suffixes.

To communicate (i) ___________ (effective), choose your words and topics (ii) ___________ (wise). Avoid (iii) ___________ (discuss) things you don’t know much about or that could upset someone. Remember to be (iv) ___________ (respect) towards others, including yourself, and express your (v) ___________ (appreciate). Finally, always be (vi) ___________ (response) by replying promptly to communicate.

Ans: To communicate effectively, choose your words and topics wisely. Avoid discussing things you don’t know much about or that could upset someone. Remember to be respectful towards others, including yourself, and express your appreciation. Finally, always be responsive by replying promptly to communicate.

II. Read the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text. 

• But does anyone want to hear the things that you say?

• I can’t tell you everything.

Select the correct answer.

Is there a difference in the meanings of ‘say’ and ‘tell’? (Yes/ No)

• ‘Say’ focuses on the message and does not always require a listener. 

• ‘Tell’ focuses on who receives the message and always needs a listener.

Ans: Yes.

There is a difference in the meanings of ‘say’ and ‘tell’.

‘Say’ focuses on the message and does not always require a listener. Example: “She said something interesting.”

‘Tell’ focuses on who receives the message and always needs a listener. Example: “She told me a story.”

1. Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the sets of words given in the box below. Make changes in the verb forms (tense), if necessary.

(i) I _________ at the photo, but I didn’t _________ anyone familiar.

Ans: I looked at the photo, but I didn’t see anyone familiar.

(ii) I’d better go and _________ my mother from the station, and then _________ her home.

Ans: I’d better go and fetch my mother from the station, and then bring her home.

(iii) I need to _________ for my mathematics exam this weekend, so I hope to _________ new concepts along the way.

Ans: I need to study for my mathematics exam this weekend, so I hope to learn new concepts along the way.

(iv) I can _________ the music from my neighbour’s house, but I need to _________ to it carefully to understand the lyrics.

Ans: I can hear the music from my neighbour’s house, but I need to listen to it carefully to understand the lyrics.

(v) “Could I _________ to Mrs. Kalpana, who is going to _________ to us about gardening,” said Ritu.

Ans: “Could I speak to Mrs. Kalpana, who is going to talk to us about gardening,” said Ritu.

(vi) I _________ in a small town, but I often _________ with my relatives in the city.

Ans: I live in a small town, but I often stay with my relatives in the city.

III. Read the following sentences from the text and underline the verbs. 

• They lived in London before. 

• I met her in a shop and asked her to come. 

As you know, the verbs you have underlined are in simple past tense. (actions that happened in the past or distant past) Read the following sentence from the text and underline the verb. She has been staying with them for a while. 

The verb you have underlined is in present perfect continuous tense. 

1. Fill in the blanks using the verbs given in brackets in present continuous or present perfect continuous tense. 

The students (i) ______________ (organise) a play and setting up the stage. They (ii) ______________ (prepare) for weeks to make everything perfect. The performers (iii) ______________ (rehearse) every day, and their excitement (iv) ______________ (grow). The sound in-charge (v) ______________ (test) the microphones to check the sound quality. Everyone (vi) ______________ (work) hard, and now the place (vii) ______________ (buzz) with energy and excitement.

Ans: The students are organizing a play and setting up the stage. They have been preparing for weeks to make everything perfect. The performers have been rehearsing every day, and their excitement is growing. The sound in-charge is testing the microphones to check the sound quality. Everyone has been working hard, and now the place is buzzing with energy and excitement.

IV. Read the explanation about the kinds of sentences given in the table below.

1. Identify the kinds of sentences and punctuate them appropriately. 

(i) The meeting starts at 10.00 a.m. in the conference room.

Ans: The meeting starts at 10.00 a.m. in the conference room – Declarative sentence.

Corrected sentence: The meeting starts at 10.00 a.m. in the conference room.

(ii) What an exciting adventure it was.

Ans: What an exciting adventure it was – Exclamatory.

Corrected sentence: What an exciting adventure it was!

(iii) How did you solve the problem so quickly.

Ans: How did you solve the problem so quickly – Interrogative sentence.

Corrected sentence: How did you solve the problem so quickly?

(iv) What is the weather forecast today.

Ans: What is the weather forecast today – Interrogative sentence.

Corrected sentence: What is the weather forecast today?

(v) How beautiful is the rainbow?

Ans: How beautiful is the rainbow – Exclamatory sentence.

Corrected sentence: How beautiful the rainbow is!

(vi) Clean up your room before dinner.

Ans: Clean up your room before dinner – Imperative sentence.

Corrected sentence: Clean up your room before dinner.

(vii) The children are planning a surprise party for their mom.

Ans: The children are planning a surprise party for their mom – Declarative sentence.

Corrected sentence: The children are planning a surprise party for their mom.

(viii) Turn off the music.

Ans: Turn off the music – Imperative sentence.

Corrected sentence: Turn off the music.

Rewrite the play ‘Say the Right Thing’ as a short story, focusing on Mary’s interactions with her mother and the guests. 

• Ensure the story captures the main events, character emotions, and humorous moments effectively. 

• Use paragraphs to organise your story and include descriptive language to bring the characters and events to life. 

You may refer to the following hints:

• Begin with an introduction: describe Mary and Mrs. Shaw, their relationship and the setting of the story. 

• Explain Mrs. Shaw’s instructions to Mary before the guests arrive and Mary’s confidence in handling the situation. 

• Narrate the events when Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee visit, highlighting Mary’s remarks and the guests’ reactions. 

• Include key moments of humour and awkwardness to maintain the tone of the play. 

• Conclude by commenting on how the visit ended and Mary’s impact on the situation.

Ans: Say the Right Thing – A Short Story

Mary, an outspoken young girl, lived with her polite and composed mother, Mrs. Shaw, in London. Mary’s frankness often led to humorous situations, while Mrs. Shaw always tried to teach her the importance of saying the right thing.

One day, Mrs. Shaw prepared for a visit from Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee. Concerned about Mary’s unfiltered remarks, Mrs. Shaw suggested she go for a walk, but Mary insisted on staying to prove she could talk properly.

When the guests arrived, Mary’s attempts to converse led to several awkward moments. She confidently mentioned how Mrs. Cotter always stayed in bed and frequently called the doctor, not realizing Mrs. Harding also had similar habits. Later, Mary innocently criticized a man’s lifestyle, unaware that Mrs. Lee’s brother shared the same routine.

Despite the minor embarrassments, the visit ended on a positive note. Mrs. Shaw, though slightly embarrassed, couldn’t help but smile at Mary’s earnestness. Mary, proud of her efforts, believed she had handled the situation well, leaving her mother both amused and exasperated.

Parimol

Hi! my Name is Parimal Roy. I have completed my Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy (B.A.) from Silapathar General College. Currently, I am working as an HR Manager at Dev Library. It is a website that provides study materials for students from Class 3 to 12, including SCERT and NCERT notes. It also offers resources for BA, B.Com, B.Sc, and Computer Science, along with postgraduate notes. Besides study materials, the website has novels, eBooks, health and finance articles, biographies, quotes, and more.