Plus Two

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two Zoology Chapter Wise Previous Questions and Answers Chapter 1 Human Reproduction.

Kerala Plus Two Zoology Chapter Wise Previous Questions Chapter 1 Human Reproduction

Question 1.
Given below is the diagrammataic representation of human blastocyst. Observe the diagram and answer the following questions: (MARCH-2010)

a) Identify A and B
b) Write the functions of A and B.
Answer:
a) A – Inner cell mass, B – Trophoblast
b) A – Differentiate into embryo germ layers/gastrula B – Attachment to endometrium / form different embryonic membranes/ placenta formation/ nutritional supply.

Question 2.
When the urine sample of a lady is tested, presence of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is detected. (MARCH-2010)
a) What does the presence of HCG indicate?
b) Which is the source of HCG?
Answer:
a) Pregnancy
b) Placenta

Question 3.
The graph shown below shows the levels of LH and FSH at various stages of menstrual cycle. (MAY-2010)

a) Name the source of LH and FSH.
b) The level of LH is maximum during the middle day of the cycle. Mention its effect.
c) Note the function of LH in males.
Answer:
a) Pituitary gland
b) Helps for ovulation
c) Stimulates the synthesis of horrnones (androgens)

Question 4.

The above graph shows the level of ovarian hormones in a normally menstruacing woman during the follicular phase. (MARCH-2011)
a) Name ‘a’ and ‘b’
b) Mention the role of pituitary hormones in maintaining this condition.
c) Reconstruct the graph for Luteal phase.
Answer:
a) i) Estrogens
ii) Progesterone
b) FSH / Follicle stimulating Hormone, LH / Luteinizing Hormone
OR
Gonadotropins
One function each of FSH and LH.
c)

Question 5.
Some stages of the embryonic development are given below. Observe these diagrams and answer the questions. (MAY-2011)

a) What is A & B?
b) Name thetwo types of cells found in the blastocyst.
c) Which layer of blastocyst is attached to the endometrium? And name that process.
Answer:
a) A – Blastomere B – Morula
b) Trophoblast and inner cell mass
c) Trophoblast, Implantation

Question 6.
Observe the diagram provided (Do not copy the picture) (MARCH-2012)

a) Label A and B
b) On which day of menstrual cycle Graafian follicle rupture.
c) Name the process induces the rupture of Graafian follicle.
d) Write the name and function of the structure forming inside the ovary after the rupture of Graafian follicle.
Answer:
a) A – Primary follicle B – Tertiary follicle
b) 14th day
c) The rupture of Graafian follicle and the release of ovum is called ovulation.
d) The corpus luteum secretes large amounts of progesterone which helps in the maintenance of the endometrium.

Question 7.
The following statements compares the process of oogenesis and spermatogenesis. Which one is not true?  (MAY-2012)
a) Production of ovum ceases at certain age, but sperm production continues even in old men.
b) Oogenesis begins in the embryonic stages, but spermatogenesis starts at the onset of puberty.
c) Meiotic arrest occurs both in Oogenesis and spermatogenesis.
d) Polar bodies are formed in oogenesis.
Answer:
a) Replication
b) Transcription
c) Translation
d) Reverse transcription

Question 8.
The diagram represents a process of gametogenesis. Closely observe it and answer the following  (MARCH-2013)

Is it spermatogenesis or Oogenesis?
What does the smaller shaded circle represent? Write down two significance of production of the same.
Answer:
a) oogenesis
b) polar bodies
c) Retention of cytoplasm in ovum Maintaining one functional haploid ovum

Question 9.
Though one ovum is produced from a primary oocyte it can result into a male or female child after fertilization. But in the case of spermatocyte though 4 sperms are produced only two of them can result to a female child after fertilization”. Justify.  (MARCH-2013)
Answer:
Two types of sperms are produced one with x chromosomes and other withy chromosome. Sperm with x chromosome after fertilization results in the formation of female baby

Question 10.
Sterilization and IUDS are effective birth control measures, but lactational amenorrhea may not be so effective.  (MAY-2013)
a) How the sterilization procedure of males differ from that of females in preventing pregnancy?
b) Which part of the female reproductive organ is utilized for the IUD procedure? How this procedure prevents pregnancy?
c) Why the lactational amenorrhea is not so effective?
Answer:
a) In males the sterilization method is called vasectomy but in females it is called Tubectomy
b) uterus, lUDs suppresses sperm motility and fertilizing capacity of sperm or they make uterus unsuitable for implantation.
c) During intense lactation, menstrual cycle does not occur. Therefore the chance of conception is almost nil. But the method is effective only upto six months following delivery

Question 11.
Observe the diagram, and answer the questions: (MARCH-2013)
a) Identify A and B.
b) What is the function of C ?
c) In which of the marked part reduction division takes place? What is the significance of it?

Answer:
a) A – Spermatozoa, B-Primary spermatocyte
b) Sertoli cells provide nutrition to the germ cells.
c) Primary spermatocyte, chromosome number reduced to half

Question 12.
Diagram of a mammalian sperm’is given. Label the parts marked. (MAY-2014)

Answer:
A – Acrosome
B – Nucleus containing chromosomal material

Question 13.
Schematic representation of gametogenesis is given below. Identify A. Write one difference between A& B. (MARCH-2015)

Answer:
A) Spermatogenesis – It results 4 spermatozoa
B) Oogenesis – It results one ovum and polar body

Question 14.
1) In which part of the human reproductive system the following events occur? (MARCH-2015)
a) Fertilisation
b) Implantation
2) Diagram of a human biastocyst is given below. Identify A & B.

Answer:
a) ampullary-isthmicjunction
b) Endometrium of the uterus
A – inner cell mass
B – trophoblast

Question 15.
Choose the odd one from the following and write the common feature of others; (MAY-2015)
a) Estrogen
b) Androgen
c) Relaxin
d) Progesterone
Answer:
Androgen.
Others are ovarian hormones.

Question 16.
Complete the flow chart showing spermatogenesis by filling A and B and answer the questions: (MAY-2015)

a) What is the chromosome number of primary spermatocyte
b) What is the significance of reduction division in spermatocyte?
Answer:
A- Spermatogonia
B- Spermatids
a) Primary spermatocyte-Diploid number, in man it is 23 pair, spermatids-haploid number, in man it is 23
b) Reduction division helps to reduce chromosome number as half in gametes (haploid).
It helps keep chromosome number species as constant for many generations.

Question 17.
Match the columns A and B: (MARCH-2016)

Answer:

Question 18.
The process of fusion of a sperm with ovum is called _______. (MAY-2016)
Answer:
Fertilisation

Question 19.
Match columns A and B.  (MAY-2016)

Answer:

Question 20.
LH and FSH are gonadotrophins. Distinguish their roles in males and females.  (MARCH-2017)
Answer:
LH acts at the Leydig cells and stimulates synthesis and secretion of androgens.
Androgens stimulate the process of spermato-genesis.
FSH acts on the Sertoli cells and stimulates secretion of some factors which help in the process of spermiogenesis.
Female Rapid secretion of LH leading to rupture of Graafian follicle and release ovum (ovulation). FSHhelpsinthe growth and development of ovarian follicle.

Question 21.
Human female possess 44 + XX chromosome number. The chromosome number of secondary oocyte is  (MAY-2017)
a) 44 + X
b) 22 + X
c) 44 +XX
d) 22 +XX
Answer:
b) 22 + X

Question 22.
Observe the diagram and answer the questions:  (MAY-2017)

a) Identify A and B
b) Write the function of B.
Answer:
a) A – peri vitelline space
B- zona pellucida
b) Prevent the entry of further sperms after fertilization

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two English Textbook Answers Unit 3 Challenges of Life Text Book Questions and Answers, Summary, Notes.

Kerala Plus Two English Textbook Challenges of Life Questions and Answers Unit 3

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”

– Mahatma Gandhi

Challenges of Life About The Unit

Teenage is the period of dreams and hopes, enthusiasm and adventure. It is the most appropriate time to develop different views of life and to understand the challenges of the world. In this unit we will see the lives and attitudes of people who have made contributions to the society in their own ways. Definitions of success have changed. Success is not about just making money. It is about pursuing excellence to make a difference in the society. The unit introduces the concept of ‘entrepreneurship’ and emphasizes the dignity of labour.

The Unit has an interview with a young entrepreneur, a personal story and a poem. Irfan Alam tells us how concepts of business can be used for a social cause successfully. ‘Didi’ tells us how a 19-year old girl mad a difference in the slums of Mumbai. The ‘Stammer’tells us how something looks different when viewed from a different point.

Let’s Begin

Look at the following cartoon strip, Can you build a story on them?

Question 1.
Use your imagination to develop a story in the above comic strip. Make sure to give your story a beginning, a climax (turning point) and an ending. You can add details about the setting of the story (time and place) and the characters (name, profession, personality traits etc.) Discuss your ideas with your partner and modify your story. Now narrate the story to your class. Have fun!
Answer:
Gopal worked as a chef in a restaurant. He prepared delicious meals for the customers and people came to the restaurant to enjoy Gopal’s food. He was a happy with a loving wife and a darling daughter.

It was Monday the 10th of May 2014. As usual Gopal went to his restaurant to do his work. He was summoned to the office of the Manager. Gopal got the shock of his life when his manager told him that he was fired from his job as he got another trained chef in his place. Gopal did not wait to argue with the rude manager, who dismissed him from service without any notice or any valid reason.

With a sad heart Gopal was walking back home thinking what he would to make a living. He was passing by the local bus stop. There were many people waiting for the bus. Suddenly he saw a bird sitting on an electric wire with a straw in her beaks. It was trying to build a nest. An idea suddenly occurred to him: “Why don’t I begin a restaurant here?” There was an empty shop nearby which he could get on rent. The problem was money.

He went home and told his wife what happened. She was an understanding wife. She immediately took out her bangles and told him to pawn them to get money to start a small restaurant. He was reluctant to take the bangles. But she insisted. He went to the local financiers and got a loan. With the loan, he started “Gopal’s Food Comer” near the bus stop. Gopal’s Food Comer became very popular within days. Soon he got the bangles back and bought a couple more for his wife. The Food Corner soon developed into a big restaurant with a lot tables and chairs for customers. Even as Gopal is sitting on the Manager’s chair, he has not forgotten his past.

Question 2.
Comment on the following quotes:
Answer:
a) “If plan A didn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters! Stay cool!”
This is a very positive and optimistic quote. Sometimes people feel very disappointed when their plan fails. They feel sad and disappointed as if the whole world has crashed. The quote tells us that if a plan has failed there are other plans you can pursue. There can be plan A, plan B, plan C, etc. A is just one letter in the alphabet. There are 25 more! So be cool and don’t get worried.

b) If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to help build theirs. ”
All people, especially the youths, have dreams. But often we are afraid to build them for fear of failure. That is why many educated people look for government jobs because they feel secure there. But if you are intelligent and adventurous try to build your own dream. Bill Gates and Mukesh Ambani had big dreams. They hired people to build their dream. So instead of working for others to realize their dreams, be courageous and be an entrepreneur, building your own dreams.

Question 3.
Can you find more quotes on success? Collect them and write them on the chart to display in the classroom.
Answer:

• Where there is a will there is away.
• Rome was not built in a day.
• No pain, no gain.
• Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
• Success favours the lion-hearted.
• Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that matters.

Read And Reflect

Question 1.
Most of the teenagers dream big. Some of them pursue their dreams, choosing a different path from others. They plan their own route of life. Success is for those who think big and act differently.

Question 2.
Have you heard about ‘entrepreneurship’. Meet an entrepreneur who changed the lives of many people through his innovative enterprise. Here is an interview with him.

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two English Textbook Answers Unit 2 Chapter 3 The Hour of Truth Text Book Questions and Answers, Summary, Notes.

Kerala Plus Two English Textbook The Hour of Truth Questions and Answers Unit 2 Chapter 3 (One Act Play)

Think And Write

Question 1.
Why was Mr Gresham arrested?
Answer:
Mr Gresham was arrested because he misappropriated the money of the bank.

Question 2.
Why didn ’t Baldwin explain his position to the papers?
Answer:
Baldwin did not explain His position to the papers because he did not think it necessary to tell them.

Question 3.
What was the change in the attitude of the members of the family when they came to know the amount of the bribe?
Answer:
The amount of the bribe was huge, 100,000 dollars. When the family members came to know the amount was such a huge one, they were all looking for excuses to make Baldwin do as Gresham wanted him to do. So far they were all honest people. But when the big temptation came, they were willing to compromise their principles.

Question 4.
How did Baldwin react to the opinion of his family?
Answer:
He told them that by accepting the bribe he would be doing a dishonourable thing. Even if outsiders may not know about it, the four of them will know. And once a dishonourable thing is done how can they be sure that they will be honest with each other? If he takes the money he will be a sham, a liar, a hypocrite and a thief. If he does a bad act it will stink to the Almighty Heaven.

Question 5.
Was Baldwin disloyal to Mr Grisham? Quote the relevant sentences to support your answer.
Answer:
He was not disloyal to Mr Gresham. Supporting somebody’s misdeed is not part of loyalty. Baldwin told Gresham he would not lie. Gresham “was not surprised. He’s known me for thirty-five years, and, well anybody who’s known me forthirty five year does not expect me to haggle with my conscience.” Baldwin further says, “He is desperate – he does not know what he is doing – or he wouldn’t have offered the money.”

Activity I (Analysis)

Question 1.
Pick out the striking dialogues of the play, as the samples given below, and try to deliver them in front of the whole class. Now write down the implied meaning of the dialogues in the column.

Striking Expressions	speaker	What does he/she mean?
1. Your father will do his duty, John, no matter what comes of it.	Martha	She says her husband Baldwin is an upright man.
2. People have been saying things.	Join	He means the unpleasant news about Baldwin’s suspected rote in the misappropriation of money.

Answer:

Striking Expressions	speaker	What does he/she mean?
1. Your father will do his duty, John, no matter what comes of it.	Martha	She says her husband Baldwin is an upright man.
2. People have been saying things.	Join	He means the unpleasant news about Baldwin’s suspected rote in the misappropriation of money.
3. But you let your name rest under a cloud meanwhile.	Martha	She is telling Baldwin that by not telling what happened he is letting others suspect him.
4. I will go to my grave clean.	Baldwin	He says he wants to die without committing any sin knowingly.
5. It is going to be a nasty mess if they put John Gresham in jail.	John	It will be very bad if they send John Gresham to jail because he has the same name.
6. Gresham had a prettier name for it	Baldwin	When Gresham offered 100,000 he did not call it bribe but he said he was paying that much because he had been underpaying Baldwin for so many years.
7. We have seen our soul naked, and they stink to Almighty Heaven.	Baldwin	By asking him to accept the bribe they are showing their true colours and God will not like it, as it is a sin.

Activity II: (Write-up)

The opening part of the play tells us about:

• The problem confronted by the characters
• The weather
• The mental condition of the characters

The play ends with:

• The appreciation of the protagonist
• The arrival of Marshall
• The revelation of Gresham’s confession

Question 2.
Now, prepare a write up on the opening and ending of the play:
Answer:
The play opens very beautifully with a fine description of the weather which is hot and sultry. We see the Baldwin family anxiously waiting for the return of its head. It obviously shows there is some trouble. Martha, Evie and John are worried why Baldwin has not returned home. Through this opening, the readers are made ready to receive some bad news that will bring in suspense and mystery.

The play ends settling all the questions that were raised in the beginning and through the events of the story. The good man is rewarded. Marshall, the President of the Third National, a huge prestigious bank comes with an offer of a good position for Baldwin. Baldwin feels happy that he does not have give evidence against his friend Graham as he has confessed his guilt. There is all round happiness. With his new job, the Baldwin family can have better days. Honesty is the best policy.

Activity III (Character sketch)

Question 3.
Read the notes on p. 66and16. Here is the character sketch of Baldwin.
Answer:
Robert Baldwin is the protagonist of this play. He lives in a trim little cottage with his wife Martha and his son John and daughter Evie. He is working as the governor of a bank owned by John Gresham. His salary is very low, 60 dollars a week. His son John earns only 30 dollars a week. With this limited income they live reasonably happily.

Suddenly there is a problem in their lives. John Gresham has misappropriated bank money and he is in jail. The bank is closed and Baldwin will have no job. Only Baldwin is the witness for the misappropriation. If he gives his true testimony, John Gresham will definitely go to jail for a long period. Baldwin is honest and he has taught his family the importance of honesty.

When Baldwin returns home after the arrest of John Gresham, his wife and children rush to him to know the latest news. Initially his wife and the children tell him that he should say the truth during the trial even if it means jail term for Gresham. But when they come to know that Gresham has offered him a bribe of 100,000 dollars just to say ‘I don’t remember’ when some incriminating questions are asked in the court, they change their stance. They try to find out all kinds of loopholes to make Baldwin accept the bribe. Martha, John and Evie do their best to make Baldwih’dhange his mind. But he asserts that he wants to go to his grave clean.

He does love Gresham. He even named his son after him. Even now he remembers how he worked with him for so long. They were boys together. They worked side by side. All this is true, but he is not willing to tell a lie to save his friend and employer even when he is offered a colossal sum of 100,000 dollars.

Baldwin’s honesty is repaid abundantly. Even Gresham is proud of him and he recommends him to Mr Marshall, the President of the Third International. At the end of the play we see Marshall coming to the house of Baldwin and offering him a job at the Third International. We see Baldwin crying in the end. He must have been crying for two reasons – his friend Gresham has confessed his guilt and he will surely be punished. Secondly he is shedding tears of joy in gratitude to God who has amply repaid his honesty. Honesty, Baldwin proves, beyond an iota of doubt, is the best policy.

Activity IV (Group Discussion)

Question 4.
What according to you are the reasons for corruption?
Answer:

• Insincerity
• Extravagant family
• Lack of commitment to society
• Greed
• Insatiable love for worldly pleasures
• Thinking that one will live for ever
• Lack of faith in the after life
• Immorality

Question 5.
What are the evil effects of corruption?
Answer:

• Services are not provided in time
• Prevents/blocks development
• Inequality in society
• Poverty, disease and ignorance can’t be eradicated
• Makes people lazy as they look for short-cuts to make money
• Diligence and hard work are not valued
• Brings immorality in the society
• Values are thrown to the wind
• Money becomes god

Make a Group Discussion on the Topic: Corruption Curtails the Development of the Country.
Use the above ideas to conduct a fine GD (Group Discussion).

Activity V (Compering)

Question 6.
Think that you are selected to introduce the actors of die play ‘The Hour of Truth’to the audience. Prepare a script.
Answer:
These are the main characters:
a) Baldwin is the protagonist (hero) of the play. He is a family man who values honesty before anything else. Even a 100,000 bribe for just saying “I don’t remember’ can’t buy him. In spite of pressures from his wife, son and daughter he sticks to his principle. He wants to go to his grave clean! An exceptional man!

b) Martha is the wife of Baldwin. She is proud of her honest husband. But the bribe of 100,000 dollars to her husband makes her ready to give up her principles. She looks for loopholes to take the money without any guilty feeling: She is a worldly woman who can’t resist the twinkle of money.

c) John is the 27-year old son of Baldwin and Martha. He earns just 30 dollars a week. Initially he supports the truth. But the lure of money makes him forget his morals. Telling a simple lie for 100,000 dollars is not a sin!

d) Evie is the daughter of Baldwin and Martha. She is proud of her honest father and loves him dearly. She wants him to stick to the truth. But on hearing about the offer of 100,000 dollars for a small lie, her morality is shaken to the roots. Normal for a young girl from a not-so-rich family.

Activity VI (Readers’ Theatre)

Reader’s theatre is a vocal rendering of the script of a play. There are no stage settings, costumes or actions involved in it. The script of the play is read out with proper voice modulation. It is used to improve listening and reading skills.
Assume the various roles in the play and present the Readers’ theatre of “The Hour of Truth’ in the class.
This is to be practically done by the students.

Activity VII (Language practice)

A. Tense:
Question 7.
Read the passage given on p. 68 of the Text.

a. Fill in the blanks choosing the right option from the brackets.
Answers:

• Started
• Built
• Wasn’t selling
• Occupied
• Read
• Was waiting
• Noticed
• Was playing
• Was approaching
• Ran
• Grabbed
• Offered
• Left
• Went

b. Fill in the blanks using the correct tense forms of the verbs in brackets.
Answer:

1. Sekhar was now with the Xanadu, a government publication. He joined it a year ago. Since then he has been publishing articles on various subjects. Next week he will write on the importance of being honest in public life.
2. I reached the school a little late this morning. My friend was waiting for me there. He said that he had been waiting there for half an hour.
3. Yesterday, they went home only after they had finished their work. But today they just decided that they would not work after five o’clock.

B. Reported Speech

Question 8.
Read the notes and examples given on below:
[am, is, are – was, were, do/does – did, will – would, can – could, have, has – had, want/like/know/go etc. – wanted/liked/knew/went, etc.]

[The past simple (did/saw/knew, etc.) can usually stay the same in reported speech, or you can change it to the past perfect
(had done/had seen / had known, etc.)]

e.g. Direct : Tom said, “I woke up feeling ill, so I didn’t go to work.

Report The Following:
“You aren’t worried, are you?” Tony asked.
“Noway, man,” Felix laughed out loud. “Ijustthink it’s cooler if we split right here. After the fight, we can get it together again like nothing ever happened.”
Answer:
Tony asked Felix whether he was worried. Felix laughed it off saying he wasn’t. He thought it would be better if they split right there. After the fight they could get together again as if nothing had ever happened.

b. Complete the following passage: (The words in the Direct speech are listed below:)
1. “Take the first turning to the left.”
2. “Keep straight till you reach the main road.”
3. “You will see the post office facing you.”
4. “How far is it?”
5. “It’s about half a mile at the most.”
Answer:
I was walking down the road the other day when a man stopped me and asked the way to the nearest post office. I told him to take the first turning to the left, and keep straight till he reaches the main road, where he would see the post office facing him on the opposite side of the road. He asked me how far it was and I told him it was about half a mile at the most. He thanked me and walked off.

C. The Passive

Question 9.
Read the notes on the Passive given on below:

It is remarkable how rapidly the country is developing. Progress (1) ………….. (make) everywhere. In the town, old houses (2) ………….. (pull down) and fine new blocks of flats (3) ………….. (put up) in their place. Large factories (4) ……………… (build) within easy reach of the town. In these, only the most modern machinery (5) ……………. (install). Good highways (6) ………………… (construct) to connect one town with another. In the countryside, too, a great deal (7) ………… (do) to increase agricultural production through new techniques. Irrigation schemes (8) ……………… (introduce) everywhere. In the south, large areas of land, which were once desert (9) ……………… extensively …………………… (cultivate). It is a pleasure to see how much (10) ……………… (achieve) through planning and hard work.

a. Complete the following passage:
Answer:
(Here you can choose between the simple present and the present continuous tense.)
It is remarkable how rapidly the country is developing. Progress is (being) made everywhere. In the town, old houses are (being) pulled down and new blocks of flats are (being) put up in their place. Large factories are (being) built within easy reach of the town. In these, only the most modern machinery is (being) installed. Good highways are (being)/have been constructed to connect one with another. In the countryside, too, a great deal has/ is to be done to increase agricultural production through new techniques. Irrigation schemes have/are to be introduced everywhere. In the south, large areas of land, which were once desert, have/are extensively been/being cultivated. It is a pleasure to see how much has been (is being) achieved through planning and hard work.

b. Rewrite the following newspaper report, using the passive forms of the verbs underlined:
Answer;

Daring Raid at Local Hotel

The Manager of the Ridgeway Hotel was held at gunpoint by thieves last night during a daring raid in which nearly Rs. 50,000 was taken from the hotel safe. Several of the bedrooms also were broken into and articles of value were removed.

The thieves made their escape through the kitchen, where several pieces of equipment were damaged. The chef was injured when he tried to stop them and he was left lying unconscious on the floor. The thieves were arrested early this morning.

Activity VIII (Let’s edit)

Question 10.
Given blow is a letter mailed by the winner of the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament (Amigo Brothers) in response to the show cause notice sent by the Secretary of the Sports Authority.

There are a few errors in it Identify them. Now, re¬write the letter with necessary corrections.
(Hint The errors are in the following areas: spelling, tense, word order, redundancy)
Answer:
102 W,7mAve.
E.Manhattan, NY
15 August 2005 ‘
The Secretary
Sports Authority
845, 3n, Ave., NY

Sir,
Sub: Not Receiving Medal at the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament
Ref: Your Show Cause Notice dated 8 August 2005

I really regret the inconvenience I caused during the valedictory function of the Tournament. I do believe that in a game a contestant should fight well with true sportsman spirit rather than fight for a medal. I also believe that the value of a medal is not greater than the bond between human relationships. Please remember that my opponent was by closest friend.

I know that I won the match only because of my friend. He frightened me throughout the game. But in the last few minutes I faced only mild punches from him. He wanted me to win the match.

In the circumstances I may kindly be exempted from any disciplinary action.

Yours truly,

Sd/-
(Felix Vargas)

The Hour of Truth (One-act play) Edumate Questions and Answers

Question 1.
Mr. John Gresham, who is under police custody, sends Robert Baldwin a message expressing his wish to meet Robert as early as possible. Complete the message.
The message begins like this:
Hi Robert,
I am going through the worst time of my life …………….
Answer:
Hi Robert,
t am going through the worst time of my life. As you know I am accused of misappropriation of bank money and I am in jail. I want to see you as early as you can make it. Our meeting is a life and death issue for me. So do not hesitate to come. I want to talk to you some very personal and urgent matters.

Your delay in coming would cost me my liberty and you your job in the bank. So do come immediately and don’t delay.

With love,
John

Question 2.
John Gresham offered hundred thousand dollars to Robert Baldwin. But he rejected it. Later he told his family ‘I’ll go to my grave clean!’ What trait of Baldwin’s character is evident here?
Answer:
The trait of character evident here is his honesty. He does not want to take a bribe, however big it is, and tell a lie. He wants to die as a man of integrity and truth.

Question 3.
On the eve of John’s arrest, Robert Baldwin sent him an e-mail persuading him to close down the bank. Draft the e-mail for Robert Baldwin.
Answer:
johngresham@hotmail.com

Sub: Closing down the Bank

dear john,
I have got some definite information that the police will come and arrest you soon. Somebody has complained against you and accused you of misappropriating bank money. I was going through the records and I find there are many discrepancies which we can’t explain to the police, if they come to the bank to investigate the matter. So in the best interest of all, I strongly recommend that you close down the bank. Keeping it open will bring you more troubles. With more time in our hands we can see how we can settle the things in a proper way.

I hope you will take my suggestion seriously and close the bank down.

Robert

Question 4.
Robert Baldwin decides to join Third National. He writes a letter to Mr. Marshall expressing his willingness to join Third National. Write the likely letter.
Answer:
Robert Baldwin
II /47 Kennedy Street
Washington DC
November?, 2016

Mr. Marshal Smith
President, Third National
Lincoln Street
Washington DC

Dear Sir,
Sub: Willingness to join Third National
Thank you for your offer letter TN/Est/Per/143 dated
November 5,2016.1 am willing to take up the job.
I request you to give me a period of 2 weeks to settle certain matters with which I am busy at the moment.
I will be able to join on November 23.

Thank you!

Yours faithfully,
(Robert Baldwin)

Question 5.
Read the excerpt from the play ‘The Hour-of Truth.’
Evie : And Mr. Gresham hasn’t done anything really wrong.
John : It’s a technicality, that’s what it is. Nobody loses a cent. Nobody wants to see him punished.
Do you agree with Evie and John? Substantiate your views in a paragraph.
Answer:
I don’t agree with Evie and John. Both of them know Mr. Gresham has misappropriated bank money. If Robert Baldwin, their father, simply says three words during the trial of Gresham, he is promised a bribe of a colossal sum of 100,000 dollars. Forthe poor family, this is a huge sum. If that money comes to the family, Evie and John can do some of the things they want to do, but were unable to do because of the lack of money. So they are making excuses to make their father accept the bribe.

Evie says Mr. Gresham has not done anything really wrong as if she is the judge! John dismisses the misdeed of Gresham by calling it a mere technicality. Moreover he says nobody will lose a cent and nobody wants Gresham to be punished. So his logic is there is nothing wrong if his father takes the 100,000 dollars offered to him. These young children are talking like some modern lawyers who twist the truth for their advantage. They don’t mind twisting the truth if the payment is good.

Question 6.
Evie and John Baldwin are the true representatives of the modern world where money moulds choices. In the light of the reading of The Hour of Truth’ express your opinion on the above statement.
Answer:
Money Moulds Choices
Evie and John are definitely true representatives of the modem world where money moulds the choices. Both of them knew very well that Mr. Gresham has misappropriated bank money. When they come to know that if their father, Robert Baldwin, simply says three words “I don’t know” during the trial of Gresham, he is promised a bribe of a colossal sum of 100,000 dollars, they want their father to say those three words and collect the money. For the poor family like Evie’s and John’s, this is a huge sum. If that money comes to the family, Evie and John can do some of the things they want to do, but were unable to do because of the lack of money. So they are making excuses to make their father accept the bribe.

Evie says Mr. Gresham has not done anything really wrong as if site is the judge! John dismisses the misdeed of Gresham by calling it a mere technicality. Moreover he says nobody will lose a cent and nobody wants Gresham to be punished. So his logic is there is nothing wrong if his father takes the 100,000 dollars offered to him. These young children are talking like some modem lawyers who twist the truth for their advantage. They don’t mind twisting the truth if the payment is good.

This is the typical attitude of the modern world. Honesty, integrity and truth have no meaning to most of the modern people who can simply close their eyes to truth if it is beneficial to them. Forthe modem people addicted to the consumer culture, money is God. They are prepared to sacrifice anything – their conscience, soul and spirit – for money. Mammon is the modem god and people do not even feel shame to worship him in the open! They have forgotten the old ditty: “If you lose wealth, you lose nothing; if you lose health, you lose something; but if you lose character, you lose everything!”

Question 7.
The employees of John Gresham under the leadership of Donovan, the assistant cashier, decides to take all possible steps to put John Gresham behind the bars forthe wrong he has done. On behalf of Donovan, draft a letter of complaint to the Chief of Police highlighting the need to curtail such illegal activities in future.
Answer:
Donovan C.
Secretary, Employees Union
John Gresham Banking Co.
Washington DC
7 November 2016
The Chief of Police
Police Headquarters
Washington DC

Sir,
Sub: Misappropriation of Bank Money by John Gresham
As the representative of the Employees of John Gresham, I want to bring to your notice the misappropriation of Bank money by Mr. Gresham. He has misappropriated a very huge amount causing the crash of the Bank. Currently he is in jail awaiting trial.

Mr. Robert Baldwin is the governor of the Bank. As far as we know he is an upright person who will do nothing against his conscience. So, the sole culprit is John Gresham.

Banking is an industry built on faith and John Gresham has done great damage to that faith. We all lost our jobs and we are in trouble. We request you to take strict measures against John Gresham and recoverthe misappropriated amount from him. He should be given such severe punishment so that it will be deterrent to the people who want to cheat people.

Hoping you will take immediate action,

Yours faithfully,
Donovan C.
(Secretary)

Question 8
Mr. Tom, an incredibly accomplished and successful businessman, while addressing young professionals, once said:
“It’s absolutely essential to think freely. I’ve seen people very busy who never really seem to do any thing.” If you think, you’ll realize that it’s impossible to concentrate on fifty different things at a time. It’s high time we take things seriously and make sure to give that activity your full attention. To be precise, you need to make money by doing something that has already been proven successful.

Replace the italicized portion choosing appropriate idiomatic expressions from the options given below, (get down to business, smooth sailing .think out of box, in a nutshell, glimpse Into the future, in a beehive)
Answer:
Idioms
think freely-think out of the box
very busy – in beehive
take things seriously – get down to business
to be precise – in a nutshell

Question 9
The following are some of the key points noted down by a reporter who was assigned the task of reporting the John Gresham-bank crash case.

• Wrecking of the bank
• Mr. John Gresham found guilty
• Mr. Gresham arrested
• Robert Baldwin-only witness
• The trial begins in twenty four hours
• The bank closed down

Based on the points, prepare a report of the incident. Give a catchy title to the report.
Answer:
Bank Crashes – Misappropriation Alleged
Washington DC: The John Gresham Bank has crashed. Its owner John Gresham is arrested and is in jail. The Bank is closed and sealed. Customers are panicky not knowing what has happened.

On contacting the governor of the Bank Mr. Robert Baldwin, he said he knew nothing about the misappropriation. If anything has happened, as alleged, he does not know anything about it. He is only the governor of the bank and major business is transacted by the owner Mr. Gresham himself.

We also contacted Mr. Donovan. He is the Asstt. Cashier of the bank and he has been working there for the last 8 years. He was as surprised as we were about the crash of the bank. He said he had planned to work in the bank all his life because he had considered the bank an excellent one. He even got married on the strength of his job here. He was now more worried than even the customers!

The police say that John Gresham has taken away huge sums from the Bank and deposited them in the numbered Swiss Bank accounts. He was planning to run away with his family to Switzerland and live there comfortably with his misappropriated money.

The trial of the case will begin in 24 hours.

Question 10
Your school is staging the one act play The Hour of Truth.’As the director of the play, you are asked to introduce the play to the audience. Prepare the script for introduction.
(Hints: theme, message, relevance of the play in the present day world etc.)
Answer:
Respected Principal, teachers and friends,

You are going to see a one-act play titled The Hour of Truth’ by Percival Wilde. In the play we see how money moulds minds in the modern world. Robert Baldwin is the governor of the John Grisham Bank. His wife is Martha and he has two children Evie and John. His salary is just 60 dollars a week. Robert is a man of honesty and he has taught his family of the importance of being honest.

John Gresham misappropriates bank money and he is in jail. The bank crashes. Robert is asked to meet John urgently in the jail. John offers him a bribe of 100,000 dollars to say “I don’t remember” in the court when the case comes to trial. By saying those words, Robert will save John from punishment.

Robert comes home and talks about the offer to his wife and children. The three of them suddenly start thinking of ways to get the 100,000 dollars. They give suggestions to Robert. Will Robert take their suggestions and accept the money from John and say in the court “I don’t remember” when the judge asks him about the misappropriation?

I will not tell you the answer now. See it on stage! Have a nice time watching the play!

Question 11.
Go through the excerpt taken from The Hour of Truth’
John : They’re going to punish Gresham, aren’t they?
Baldwin : I’m afraid so.
John : What for?
Baldwin : For misappropriating the fund of the bank.
John : Oh, I know that. But what crime has he committed?
Report this conversation from Martha’s point of view.
Answer:
John asked Baldwin whether they were going to punish Gresham.
Baldwin replied that he was afraid so.
John again asked what it was for.
Baldwin replied that it was for misappropriating the fund of the bank.
John commented that he knew that and asked but what crime he had committed.

Question 12.
When Mr. Marshall enters the scene and speaks about Gresham’s confession Martha, Robert’s wife feels extremely proud of her husband. She speaks volubly on the ideal qualities of Robert Baldwin.
My husband: …………………………………………………………………… Now, complete it for her.
(Hints: Principles Robert stood for, his self-confidence, uncompromising attitude, commitment towards the family etc.)
Answer:
My husband Robert is a gem of a person. Without hesitation, I can say that he is a synonym for honesty. He has practiced it all his life and he has been trying to instill it into our two children and also me. His salary is very small. He gets only $60 a week but he will never think of increasing his income by questionable means. He is a man of self-confidence and he is sure of himself. He has an uncompromising attitude. He is highly committed to his family and he spends a lot of prime time with us.

My husband neither drinks nor smokes nor gambles. He could have easily taken the money offered by John Gresham and we could have lived a more comfortable life. In fact Evie, John and even I tried to persuade him that saying “I don’t remember” in the court is not a big sin at all and he should say it and get the money promised to him by John Gresham. He loves John Gresham and that is why he named our son John. But neither his love for Gresham nor his desire to give his family better comforts would persuade him to take a bribe. That is my husband and I am proud of him.

The Hour of Truth (One-act play) About The Author

– Percival Wilde – (1887-1953)

Percival Wilde (1887-1953) was known for his plays and detective stories. This play is from the volume entitled “A Question of Morality and Other Plays”. It is a striking psychological study on the corrupting influence of money on people.

The Hour of Truth (One-act play) Summary in English

The Scene: At Baldwin’s
It is a hot and sultry Sunday afternoon. The sun overhead and the baked clay underfoot are merciless. In the distance, lowering clouds promise rain. At the Baldwin family, the people are awaiting the return of Baldwin.

John, Baldwin’s son, is an average youth of 27. He is smoking a pipe as if today is not anything different from the other days. His mother is knitting without much progress. Evie is trying to conceal her nervousness.

There is a tense pause. Nobody wants to break the silence. For the tenth time, in ten minutes, Evie goes to the window and look? oyt along the road.

Martha says that he should have come by now. She hopes he has not forgotten his umbrella as usual. She thinks it might rain and asks Evie about it. Without waiting for an answer Martha goes to the window and looks out anxiously. She says the sky is dark. Suddenly she starts because there was a flash of lightning.

Page 51: John moves to a nearby centre-table and knocks the ashes out of his pipe. His mother turns to him. She asks him to go to his father’s room and see that the windows are closed. John goes.

Evie tries to get the attention of her mother. She asks her why Mr. Gresham wanted her father. Has he done anything wrong? Martha says he has done nothing wrong. Mr. Gresham wanted to talk to him. Evie wants to know what is the thing that Mr. Gresham wanted to talk about. Mr Gresham has been arrested and they are going to try him the following day. Why does he want her father?

Martha says he is going to give evidence. Evie wants to know since her father is going to give evidence against Mr Gresham why does he want to see her father. Martha says she does not know. Robert does not say much about his business affairs. She did not know there was anything wrong with the bank until she saw it in the newspapers. Robert did not tell her to draw her money out. By doing that it would not be loyal to Mr. Gresham. But she withdrew the money against his wishes because she suspected something.

Evie wants to know if her father had anything to do with the wrecking of the bank. Did he know what was going oh. The papers are saying bad thing about him. Martha says they haven’t been fairto him.

Page 52: Evie says the papers said that he must have been a fool not to know that. Only he and Gresham could have known it. Then why didn’t he stop it? Martha says he was acting under Gresham’s orders. Evie wanted to know why her father should follow Gresham’s orders. Martha believes Robert never did a wrong thing in his life. He did not know he was wrong. He found it by accident. He found out what Gresham was doing. Evie wants to know how she knows all this.

Martha says she does not know it,for saw. But she suspects it. She is sure that Robert has not done anything Evie sees herfather coming. Martha asks Evie to stay where she is. She would like to talk to her husband first. John and Evie look at each other. John wonders what Gresham had to tell him. He looks through the window and sees it has started raining. John suddenly opens the door and greets his father. Baldwin comes in followed by Martha. He shakes hands with John and kisses Evie.

Page 54: Martha asks Robert if his shoes are wet. Baldwin says he took the car and so he is not wet. He goes to a chair and sits. John asks his father to tell them something about the problem. Baldwin pretends he did not understand. John says that people have been talking rotten things about his father. He could not contradict them. Baldwin asks why he could not. John says he did not know. Baldwin says but he knows his father. He says it was only a day before the smash-up he found out what Gresham was doing. He then asked Gresham to put all the money he had taken away back into the bank. But he said he could not. Then he told him to close the bank. But Gresham did not want to do that. But he made him do it. He was very angry. But Baldwin had the upper hand.

Evie says the papers did not mention those things. Baldwin says it was not necessary to tell them. Martha says by not telling the truth Robert is allowing people to doubt him.

Page 55: Baldwin says it will be cleared the following day. Gresham wanted to see him. The trial begins in 24 hours. He is the only witness against Gresham. He asked him to tell the court that he had an attack of poor memory. If he tells all the things he knows Gresham will go to jail. No power on earth can save him. Therefore he wants him to forget a little – the essential things. He told him when they question him he should say “I don’t remember.” They can’t prove whether he remembers or not. John thinks it would be a lie.

Baldwin says it is a lie. But it is done every day. And they could not touch him and they cant convict Gresham. Martha was angry at Gresham’s daring to ask her husband to tell a lie. Evie wants to know what her father’s reply to Gresham was. Baldwin asks John what would he have said if such a- request was made to him. John says he would have told him to go to the devil. Baldwin says he did the same thing. But he did not use the words John used. He is an old friend. But Gresham knew what he meant. Evie wants to know what was Gresham’s reaction.

Page 56: Baldwin says Gresham was not surprised. He had known him for 35 years. Anybody who knew him that long won’t expect him to tell a lie. If it was somebody else he would have hit him on the face. But Gresham and he were boys together and they worked side by side. He has been working for him since he started business. He is desperate now. He does not know what he is doing. He offered him money.

John was surprised to hear that. Baldwin says he was offered 100,000 dollars. But he has only a few years to live and he wants to die clean. Gresham had put aside that money for him without anybody knowing it. He says it is out of his private fortune and not from the depositors’ money. It makes no difference.

Evie could not believe that her father was offered 100,000 dollars. Baldwin says he could get that money simply by saying one word ‘Yes’, or for nodding his head or even a look of the eyes. John wants to know whether Gresham meant what he said. Baldwin says his word is good. He never lied to him. He unlocked his drawer and showed him the 100,000 in cash. Baldwin examined them and found the bills (notes) were genuine. Evie enquires for that amount if her father has to simply say ‘I don’t remember’. Baldwin says yes.

Page 57: Baldwin says those three words would choke him if he tried to speak them. For some others it would be easy. If he told a lie all of his past would rise up and hit him in the face. It would mean he had been a living lie. He wouldn’t be then the honourable man he was thought to be. When John Gresham offered him money, he was angry. But Gresham showed no surprise which was a compliment to Baldwin. John says it was a compliment that cost him 100,00 dollars.

Martha wants to know if the depositors would lose much. Baldwin says they won’t lose a’cent. Evie felt the papers said a different story. Baldwin says they printed something without knowing the truth. They were simply guessing. He said he wanted Gresham to say the position regarding the depositors’ money. It will come out the following day.

John wanted to know why he did not say the truth to the papers before. They had been asking him. Baldwin says nothing forced him to give an answer. Baldwin thinks Gresham will be punished for misappropriating funds. John wonders what crime Gresham has committed. Evie thinks if nobody loses anything there is no crime.

Page 58: Baldwin says they can’t let Gresham go free. He is too conspicuous. John wants to know whether it is right. Baldwin says his opinion does not matter. But he is sorry for Gresham. John thinks it is a technicality. Since nobody loses a cent, why should Gresham be punished! Evie wants to know if it is too bad if her father lets Gresham off. Baldwin says he wants to let Gresham off, but he is not the judge. Evie says he is the only witness against Gresham. John supports her. He further says that it is bad if they put John Gresham in jail because his father named him John Gresham.

Martha wants clarification. She wants Baldwin to repeat what Gresham told him. Baldwin says Gresham told him to get him off tomorrow. Martha wants to know if he can do that. Baldwin says yes, by answering ‘I don’t remember1 when they ask him dangerous questions.

Page 58: Martha wants to know if he remembers everything. Baldwin says yes. John wants to know if he remembers everything. Baldwin says yes because he has notes also. John then wants to know if he will remember things without those notes. He thinks he will have to rely on the notes. Baldwin says everybody else does the same thing. John then says that means if he says ‘I don’t remember’ it won’t be far from the truth. Martha also thinks that Gresham is not asking too much from Baldwin. Baldwin is surprised to see Martha encouraging him to say ‘I don’t remember’.

Martha says she is as honorable as her husband. She thinks it is not right to send an old friend to jail. When their son John was baptized Gresham stood sponsor for him and they were very proud. Does Robert remember what he said that day when they were returning home from Church? He had said, “Martha, may our son always live up to the name which we have given him.”Baldwin says he dimly remembers it.

Page 60: Martha says it would be very sad if their son’s name should come to grief through him (Robert). Robert wants to know if Martha is telling him to accept the bribe money Gresham offered. Evie wants to know why he calls it bribe money. Robert says Gresham called it with a prettier name. He said he had underpaid him all those years. He said the 100,000 represented the difference between what he had paid and what actually he deserved.

Martha says Gresham was right. Robert had worked sincerely for him all those years. Robert said that Gresham felt that if he had paid him what he should have, Robert would have more than 100,000 by now. John agrees with the logic of Gresham. Baldwin says he never asked him to raise his salary. When he raised it, it was on his own accord. He asks Evie for her opinion.

Evie says what people would think if her father goes to the stand to give witness and they put John Gresham in jail. Robert says they will think he has done his duty. Evie says that when the depositors find out that they have not lost any money, they will not want Gresham to go to jail. They will feel sorry for him. Baldwin agrees.

Page 61: John says people will not be happy with the man who caused Gresham to go to jail. Martha supports John and says people will say that Robert did not help an old friend. John says that when Robert pulls out the notes in court, Gresham will surely go to jail. Evie feels that Gresham has not done anything wrong. John says it is a mere technicality. Nobody loses a cent. Nobody wants Gresham punished. Evie says only her father wants Gresham punished. John wants to know how his father can send the man, whose name he has given to his son, to jail. Martha says she believes in mercy and Gresham has always been good to Robert. Martha also reminds him that he is out of work as the bank is closed.

Baldwin says he will find a position somewhere. John says that if Gresham does not go to jail he will start his business again and he will offer Robert a partnership. The 100,000 could be put in business. Moreover Gresham will remain grateful to Robert.

Page 62: Martha says 100,000 dolars would mean a lot to them. If Robert does not find a job soon, John, their son, will have to support them. John says he gets only 30 dollars a week and that would not be much for the family. Evie begins to weep. John tells his father that he has said nothing to the papers. If he says nothing more tomorrow, it will be simply sticking to his friend. He has done a lot for him and he has to reciprocate.

Baldwin tries to look at each one. They all turn their eyes away. Do they want him to take the money? He wants an answer, yes or no, from at least one of them. He could not go into partnership with Gresham. Martha asks him why. He says people would not trust him. John then says he could go into business with someone else. 100,000 is a lot of money.

Baldwin walks to the window. He says he never thought such a day would come. Whatever they say taking money from Gresham is a dishonorable thing. He asks all of them to admit it. John says nobody will hear of it. Baldwin says but they will know it among themselves. Whatever they are to the world, they should be honest with each other. He looks at each one. He lifts Martha’s head and looks into her eyes. He shudders. He calls them Shams, Liars, Hypocrites and Thieves. He is not better than any of them. They have seen their souls naked. He asks for an answer from them.

Page 63: Martha says it is not wrong. Baldwin says it is not right. John repeats that 100,000 dollars is a lot of money. John thinks he refused the money because he was afraid what they would say. Baldwin agrees. John says nobody will know it. Baldwin says except the 4 of them. John sees someone coming. Martha asks who it is. John says it is Marshall. The door bell rings, a maid enters and goes out through the other. She re-enters and says someone wants to see Robert. She hands him a card. It is Marshall. Martha wants to know if he is the President of the Third National. Baldwin says yes and wonders why he has come there. The maid asks him if he should send the visitor in. Baldwin asks her to send him in. The maid goes out.

Page 64: Martha crosses to him quickly and tells him to be careful of what he says. He is to go on the stand tomorrow. Baldwin says yes. Marshall enters the rom. He asks them if they are spending the afternoon indoors. He shakes hands with Mrs. Baldwin. Martha says they were just going out and calls Evie. Marshall says they don’t have to go out because of him. He tells that he has come to tell Baldwin that if he wants to work with the Third National, he will be given a position.

Baldwin is shocked. He asks Marshall if it is really true. Marshall says it is true. He had gone to see Gresham that afternoon. He told him about the offer he had made. “But he knew no amount of money would make you do something you thought wrong. He paid you the best compliment. Instead of making you testify against him, he confessed.” Baldwin sinks into a chair saying, ‘Confessed!’ Marshall continues and says he told him the whole story. He then turns to Martha and tells her that every man will be telling her how highly he honours and respects her husband. How sincere he was! Martha holds Marshall’s hand and asks him to stop praising as Baldwin is crying.

The Hour of Truth (One-act play) Summary in Malayalam

The Hour of Truth Glossary

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two English Textbook Answers Unit 2 Chapter 2 Amigo Brothers Text Book Questions and Answers, Summary, Notes.

Kerala Plus Two English Textbook Amigo Brothers Questions and Answers Unit 2 Chapter 2 (Story)

Read And Respond

Question 1.
What is special about the friendship between Antonio and Felix?
Answer:
Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas were both 17. They were so together in friendship that they felt like brothers. They had known each other from childhood. They grew up in the same building on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

Question 2.
How did they work to achieve their dream?
Answer:
They both had a dream – becoming a light-weight champion of the world. Whenever they got a chance they exercised, sometimes at the Boy’s Club and sometimes at the gym. They would run every day morning, wearing sweat shirts and short towels around their necks. They had a collection of Fight magazines. They also kept the torn tickets of all the boxing matches they had gone to see. They also had some clippings of their own.

Question 3.
What was the wall rising between them?
Answer:
They both had a dream – becoming a light-weight champion of the world. They both practised hard. They were told that they were to meet each other in the division finals scheduled for the 7th of August. That was 2 weeks away. The winner would represent the Boy’s Club in the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament. Th&’flieaftS’ ofriy on* of -them would go to the Tournament. This was the wall rising between them.

Question 4.
Felix decides to go to Aunt Lucy. Why?
Answer:
Both Felix and Antonio have come to know that they have to fight an elimination bout and only the winner would go to take part in the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament. So farthey have been running together and working out together. Now they have to have a plan of their own to defeat his rival in the bout. So they thought it was better that they separated. That is why Felix decides to go to Aunt Lucy.

Question 5.
Compare the thoughts and feelings of amigo brothers on the eve of their fight
Answer:
The evening before the big fight, Antonio made his way to the roof of his building. He tried not to think of Felix. He thought he had made up his mind. He would knock out Felix early and quickly so that he does not get hurt by a long fight. Felix decided to watch a movie in an effort to keep Antonio’s face away from his mind and fists. The film was The Champion’, acted by Kirk Douglas. The champion was getting beaten. Felix got a shock. He imagined himself in the ring, blasting Antonio against the ropes.

Question 6.
Both Antonio and Felix wanted to win in the first round. What might be the reason?
Answer:
Both Antonio and Felix wanted to win in the first round because they both wanted to win, and, at the same time they did not want to hurt each other by extending the fight into three full rounds.

Question 7.
The amigo brothers were popular as boxers. How do you know?
Answer:
They were popular as boxers. We know that from the fact that large posters about the fight were plastered all over the walls. The fight created great interest in the neighbourhood. Both the boys were liked and respected and each had his own loyal fans.

Question 8.
Do you think that the amigo brothers fought Fiercely in the first and second rounds? What makes you think so?
Answer:
Yes, I do. The amigo brothers fought fiercely in the first and second rounds. In the first round we see Antonio countering the attack of Felix with three lefts that snapped Felix’s head back, sending a mild shock coursing through him. Again we see Antonio crashing two lefts to Felix’s head which made his right ear ring. In the second round we see neither fighter giving an inch. We see Antonio getting a short right on his chin, turning his legs to jelly. We see Felix grunting like a bull throwing wild punches at Antonio from every direction. So both were trying to win by hitting the other as hard as they could.

Question 9.
Who, do you think, will win in the end?
Answer:
Both will win. Neither of them fell to the canvas and the referee and the two trainers had to pry Felix and Antonio apart. In fact their friendship won.

Question 10.
The amigo brothers rushed at each other after the final bout. Why? What does this tell us about their relationship?
Answer:
The amigo brothers rushed at each other afterthe final bout because they were proud of each other. They knew they would always be champions to each other. This tells us that their friendship is very strong and indestructible.

Think And Write

Question 1.
There are lots of similarities and differences between Antonio and Felix. List them.
Answer:
Similarities: They both are young boys of 17. They both are Puerto Ricans. They both want to become a light weight champion of the world. They both work out hard. They both run in the mornings. They both live in the same building on the Lower East side of Manhattan. They love each other very much. Neither of them wants the other to be hurt, although they both want to win.

Differences: Antonio was fair, lean and lanky. Felix was dark, short and husky. Antonio’s hair was always falling over his eyes, while Felix wore his black hair in an Afro style. Felix weigtiecfl 34 pounds, but Antonio weighed 133 pounds.

Question 2.
Antonio and Felix are intimate friends. Do you keep such intimacy with yourfriends? Describe your best friend.
Answer:
I have some intimate friends. Raj is my best friend. Raj is 18. He is fair, lean and tall. He comes from a rich family, but he is very humble. In the class he is very quiet, but outside he becomes very talkative. He is intelligent and works very hard. He wants to become an engineer, specializing in Computer Science. He likes chicken biriyani very much. He loves cricket and Hindi films. His hero in cricket is Dhoni and Virat Kohli. In films he likes Salman Khan. Among the heroines he likes Karina Kapoor and Deepik Padukone.

Question 3.
What is the main conflict in the story?
Answer:
The main conflict in the story is that of ambition. Both Antonio and Felix want to be champions. But only one of them can be a champion. So they decide to fight it out. In the end they realize that both are equally determined and equally strong.

Question 4.
The crowd was enthusiastic in the beginning. Why did people get worried in the end?
Answer:
The crowd was enthusiastic in the beginning. Large posters about the fight were plastered all overthe walls. The fight created great interest in the neighbourhood. Both the boys were liked and respected and each had his own loyal fans. As they gave each other punches the crowd was enthusiastic and loudly cheered them. But in the 3rd round the fight almost became a life and death affair. Both were punching each other so hard that even the referee got worried. They did not stop the fight even when the bell rang repeatedly and this made the people worried.

Question 5.
Nodreams can be realized without effort How far is this true in the case of Antonio and Felix?
Answer:
No dreams can be realized without effort. This is true in the case of Antonio and Felix. They both continued working hard till the last day of the fight. They even decided to go their separate ways till the fight was over. In the fight also they did not spare the opponent because he was his friend. They tried their best to win. No pain, no gain. There is a saying in English: The finest pearls are found in the deepest part of the ocean. Only those who make genuine efforts can get these pearls.

Activity I: (Write-up)

Question 1.
The box given below contains information about Antonio and Felix. Add more points to it
Answer:

• Felt themselves to be brothers
• Slept, ate, rapped and dreamt positive
• Both were young boys of 17
• Both were Puerto Ricans
• Both wanted to become a light weight champion of the world
• Both worked out hard
• Both ran in the mornings
• They lived in the same building on the Lower East side of Manhattan.
• They love each other very much.
• They did not want the other to be hurt
• Both were strong, one weighing 134 pounds and other 133.

Activity II (Making Announcements)

Question 2.
The following announcement was made by the announcer before the competition began: “Ladies and Gentlemen, now is the moment we have all been waiting for-the main event between two fine young Puerto Rican fighters… ”

Imagine yourself to be the announcer of the sports day in your school. Write the script of the announcement that you would make for any one event
Answer:
“Respected teachers, parents, boys and girls, now is the moment we all have been waiting for- the 400 Metres Relay Race. The fourteams are ready at their various spots. Look at their colours-orange, green, yellow and white. The batons are also of the same colour as their dresses. Soon the whistle will go and you will see the fastest runners of the school competing for the prize. Be ready for a breathtaking finish. I can see the referee ready to whistle. Okay… May the best team win!”

Activity III (Newspaper report)

Question 3.
Imagine that you are a newspaper reporter and you witness the contest between the amigo brothers ad note down the points which you would like to include in your report.
Answer:

• Venue – Tompkins Square Park
• Time-Afternoon
• Contestants – Antonio Cruz & Felix Vargas
• Park begins to fill up even earlier
• Fighters enter
• Crowd explodes with a roar
• Antonio & Felix bow gracefully and raise their arms in acknowledgment
• The announcement with the respective weights of the contestants
• Referee giving instructions
• Ground
• 2nd round
• 3rd round
• Final bell. Fighting does not stop. People get worried.
• The referee and the trainers separate the contestants
• The contestant embrace
• The announcement but the contestants had left, arm in arm, declaring their strong bond of friendship -amigo brothers!

Question 4.
Now prepare a newspaper report to be mailed to your editor.
Answer:
The fight between Antonio Cruz & Felix Vargas was scheduled to take place in Tompkins Square Park. The time was afternoon. Even before the scheduled fight, the Park begins to fill up because the fighters were much liked by the people around! There was expectation in all the faces to see a very good fight. The fighters enter and the crowd explodes with a roar. Antonio & Felix bow gracefully and raise their arms in acknowledgement to welcome they received from the crowd.

The announcer makes the announcement telling that the contest is between Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas, two fine Puerto Ricans. Felix Vargas weighs 134 pounds and his rival Antonio Cruz weighs 133 pounds. The winner will represent the Boy’s Club in the tournament of champions, the Golden Gloves. There will be no draw. The Referee now gives instructions telling them it should be a clean fight. In the first round both the contestants do their best to outwit the other. But both are equally strong. In the second round also the same things happen. Punches fly back and forth, but none is floored. Each punch is applauded thunderously by the crowd.

Now comes the third round. Each contestant wants to win. They punch each other very hard. Nobody falls to the canvas. The final bell rings. But the fight continues. The bell rings again and again. But there is no stopping to the fighting. People started getting worried. It looked as if they are witnessing a do or die fight and not a contest. There is utter silence. Then the referee and the trainers separate the contestants.

Now the contestants embrace. They have forgotten they were fighting like bulls up to a moment ago. The announcer makes an announcement. He is trying to name the winner and he looks around. But both Felix and Antonio had left like good old friends, arm in arm, declaring their strong bond of friendship. They proved themselves to be real amigo brothers! May their tribes increase!

Activity IV (Debate)

Question 5.
“The announcer turned to point to the winner and found himself alone. Arm in arm, the champions had already left the ring.”
The winner in the boxing competition left without receiving the prize. This is against the rules and regulations of a game. Do you agree to this opinion?

Now use these points to conduct a debate and assess your performance in the format.
My performance:
My fluency:
Relevance of points presented:
Could I establish my points?:
My body language:
The best performer (in my opinion):
His/her merits:
Answer:
If vou agree. Why? Write down your points below:

• Going away without receiving the prize is against the rules and regulations.
• Every competition has rules and regulations. The participants should obey them.
• If you break the rules, the competitions can’t be done properly.
• The competitors came to the competition knowing fully well only one could win as it was an elimination contest. Then why go away without taking the prize?
• If Felix and Antonio loved each other so much they should not have agreed to take part in the competition in public.
• They both had tried hard to defeat the other. So why doesn’t the winner collect his prize?

If you disagree, write down the reasons:

• Actually, nobody had won in the contest. The referee and the two trainers had to separate the contestants.
• Anybody has a right to refuse a prize.
• By taking the prize before the large crowd the winner must have made the other person sad.
• They both considered themselves as champions.
• Taking part in a contest does not force anyone to accept the prize.
• Their friendship was more valuable to them than the prize.
• They did their best and that is their prize.

Activity V (Book review)

Question 6.
Read the book review
Now, list the features of the review.

• Author
• Impression about the book

Answer:
Now, list the features of the review:

• Author – Arthur Conan Doyle
• Book – The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
• Number of Investigations -12
• The hero and his assistant – Sherlock Holmes and Watson
• The narrator of the incidents – Watson
• The ways Watson and Holmes solve mysteries and catch the culprits
• The suspense and mystery in the stories
• How little details which people often ignore prove useful in criminal investigations.
• Involvement of the reader in solving the mysteries
• Highly readable stories
• World-wide acceptance

Question 7.
Read the memoir ‘My greatest Olympic Prize’ by Jesse Owens and prepare a review of it.
Answer:

A Review Of My Greatest Olympic Prize By Jesse Owens

It is 1936. American Jesse Owens seems sure to win the long jump competition in the Olympic Games. The previous year he had jumped 26 feet, 8 1/4 inches, a record that would stand for 25 years.

As he walks to the long-jump pit, however, Owens sees a tall, blue eyed, blond German taking practice jumps in the 26-foot range. Owens feels nervous. He is acutely aware of the Nazis desire to prove ‘Aryan superiority.’And as a black son of a share cropper, he knows what it is like to feel inferior.

Oh his first jump, Owens inadvertently leaps from several inches beyond the takeoff board. Rattled, he fouls on his second attempt, too. One more foul and he will be eliminated.

At this point, the tall German introduces himself as Luz Long. “You should be able to qualify with your eyes closed!” he says to Owens, referring to his upcoming two jumps.

For the next few moments, the African American and the white model of Nazi manhood chat together. Then Long makes a suggestion. Since the qualifying distance is only 23 feet, 51/2inches, why not make a mark several inches before the takeoff board and jump from there, just to play it safe? Owens does and qualifies easily.

In the finals, Owens sets an Olympic record and earns the second of four gold medals. But who is the first person to congratulate him? Luz Long in full view of Adolf Hitler. Owens never again sees Long, who is later killed in World Warll.

“You could meltdown all the medals and cups I have,’ Owens later wrote, and they wouldn’t be a plating on the 24-carat friendship I felt for Luz Long.’ That congratulations from Luz Long was the greatest Olympic Prize for Jesse Owens.

The story is full of thrills. It is written in simple language. It has suspense of the highest kind. We feel proud that Jesse Owens blasted the myth of Aryan superiority propounded by Hitler and his cohorts.,

Activity VI (Homonyms)

Question 8.
Homonyms are multiple meaning words. They have the same spelling and the same pronunciation but have different meanings.

The word ‘trunks’ has different meanings. See the various sentences given below:
light, duck, pound, hunch, fair, gear
Answer:
Trunks =
i) shorts worn for sports
ii) The main part of a tree (tree-trunk)
iii) The space in the back of the car where we keep things
iv) The body of the elephant with which it lifts things box

Question 9.
Look at the following words. Find out at least two different meanings for these words and use them in sentences to make the meanings clear.
Answer:
a) Light:
i) the thing that makes things visible: There is no light in this room; I can’t see anything properly,
ii) not heavy – This table is very light; it may break easily.

b) Duck:
i) a water bird-There are some ducks in this pond.
ii) to avoid: He tried to punch me on my nose; but I ducked and so I was not hit.

C) Pound:
i) a measurement of weight : Felix weighed 134 pounds.
ii) To beat hard, to make into powder form: Many people like pounded yam very much.

d) Hunch:
i) feeling: I have a hunch that he will come today.
ii) A camel has a hunch on its back.

e) Fair:
i) not dark: Mariamma is a fair girt.
ii) good — Ne has a fair amount of money in the bank.

f) Gear:
i) A toothed wheel for adjusting speed: My car has 6 gears.
ii) Equipment or apparatus : A teacher’s gear consists of books and chalk.

Question 10.
The story ‘Amigo Brothers’ has many words related to boxing. Now look at the following games /sports. Find out as many words related to these games as possible. ‘
Answer:
Cricket: Bat, ball, wicket, run, batsman, bowler, runs, boundary, sixer, all-rounder, fielder, pads, leg before wicket, duck, century, no-ball, free-hit, appeal, umpire, all-out, innings.

Football: Attacker, back-pass, bicycle kick, Confederation, comer-kick, cross, defender, free kick, dribble, FIFA, foul, goal-area, goal line, goal mouth, goal keeper, header, in-swinger, kick-off, offside, out-swinger, penalty, pitch, shot, striker, yellow card, referee.

Chess: bishop, capture, castle, check, checkmate, chessboard, chessman, gambit, grandmaster, king, knight, man, mate, pawn, queen, retreat, rook, square, stalemate.

Swimming: swimming caps, swimming pool, swimming baths, swimming trunks, swimming costume, bikini, diving, backstroke, breaststroke.

Basketball: basket, court, ball, dribble, penalty, score, foul, NBA, offence, defence, speed, between the legs, behind the back, spin.

Hockey: goals, goalpost, net, ball, hockey-stick, shorts, shin-guards, gloves, face-guards, forward, half¬backs, full backs, goal keeper, pass-back, bully, tie.

III. Read And Reflect

Question 1.
In the following play we see a hero who is really true to his self and conscience. He struggles to keep to his truthful ways of life. He proves that truth will prevail in the end.

Amigo Brothers (Story) Edumate Questions and Answers

Question 1.
The conversation given below is part of an interview that Antonio and Felix gave to a reporter. What would be the reported version of the conversation?
Reporter : Has the fight affected your friendship?
Antonio : Never. We never take fighting into our hearts.
Reporter : Who, in your opinion is the winner of the fight?
Felix : That question doesn’t bother us. Both of us are winners.
Answer:
The reporter asked Antonio whether the fight had affected their friendship.
Antonio denied and added that they never took fighting into their hearts.
The reporter then asked who in their opinion the winner of the fight was.
Felix replied that the question did not bother them and both of them were winners.

Question 2.
You have witnessed the fight between the Amigo brothers and have been quite impressed by the way it ended. Prepare a write-up about the climax of the fight.
Answer:
The referee wanted the fight to be clean. In the first round Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas do their best to outwit the other. But both are equally strong. In the second round also the same thing happens. Punches fly back and forth, but none is floored. Each punch is thunderously applauded by the crowd. Now comes the third round. Each contestant wants to win. They punch each other very hard. Nobody falls to the canvas. The final bell rings. But the fight continues. The bell rings again and again. But there is no stopping to the fighting. People start getting worried. It looks as if they are witnessing a do ordie fight and not a contest. There is utter silence. Then the referee and the trainer separate the two contestants.

Now the contestants embrace. They have forgotten that they were fighting like bulls until a moment ago.

The announcer makes an announcement. He is trying to name the winner and he looks around. But both Antonio and Felix had left like good old friends, arm in arm, declaring their strong bond of friendship. They proved themselves to be tfuly amigo bothers!

Question 3.
You might have got sincere friends whom you treasure more than anything else. Write a paragraph about your intimate friend.
Answer:
The sincerest friend I have is Joe. My parents are poor but Joe comes from a rich family. He helped me in all possible ways. He used to buy more note books than he needed and give me a few. He shared his texts with me. The same he did with pens. He brought lunch for two, telling his mother that he felt very hungry after the morning lessons. Like that we reached Class XII. Fortunately I had a good memory and I remembered whatever was taught in the class. I helped Joe explaining difficult things to him. Occasionally he took me to his house and allowed me to use all the amenities he had at home. He played games with me and always told me to have big dreams and work hard for realizing my dreams. He gave me biographies of Abdul Kalam and Abraham Lincoln and asked me to make them my role models. He was sure that I would make it in my life. I am following his advice and I am working hard.

I pray God to help my friend and me to fulfil our dreams. I will never forget Joe all my life.

Question 4.
Two days afterthe fight between Antonio and Felix, they receive a letter from the secretary of the Golden Gloves Championship informing that both have been selected for the tournament. Prepare the letter.
Answer:
Golden Gloves Championship
Lower East Side
New York City
Ref. No. GGC/l/13
August 9, 2016
Antonio Cruz & Felix Vargas Boxers’ Gymnasium New York City

Dear Mr. Cruz and Mr. Vargas,
Sub: Selection for the Golden Gloves Tournament We got a report from the referee of Division Finals Bout of August 7. He wrote about your friendship how hard you fought to win, but at the same time you did not want the other to lose. Such a thing is unheard of in the history of the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament.

Giving due respect to your close friendship, we are making an exception this year and we are selecting both of you for the Golden Gloves Championship. This is a tribute to your friendship. Keep it up and Best wishes.

Yours sincerely,
Sd/-

Mubarak Musa
Secretary

Question 5.
Moved by the Amigo Brother’s story of intimacy read from the newspaper you write a letter to Felix and Antonio congratulating them. Prepare the letter.
Answer:
Asha Sridhar
Standard XII
Crescent Public School
Chalakudy
8 August 2016

Dear Felix and Antonio,
Congrats Amigo Brothers! You really deserve that name! You have proved that friendship is greater than winning any competition.

You may not know me. I am a student from Kerala, India. I happened to read the story of your fight in the Division Finals and I was greatly impressed.

I am sure that the Golden Gloves Championship Authorities will take note of your intimacy and select both of you forthe Tournament.

Keep up your spirits, Amigos! I am really inspired by your spirit. I pray God to help you to achieve your dreams. I wish you all the best in life!

Yours sincerely,
Asha

Question 6.
Imagine yourself to be the announcer/commentator of the boxing match between Antonio and Felix. Write the script of the announcement that could be used before the match.
Answer:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
You are welcome to the Tompkins Square Park for the Division Finals. We have fine weather and I assure you that you will have an exciting time here. You have already seen some .earlier bouts. This is going to be the Bout of the Day!

The moment you have been anxiously waiting for has finally come. Two fine young Puerto Ricans fighters are ready to fight and win. On my left is Felix Vargas. He weighs 134 pounds. On my right is his rival in the fight Antonio Cruz. Cruz weighs 133 pounds. The winner will represent the Boys’ Club in the Tournament of Champions, the Golden Gloves. There will be no draw.

Gi ve Felix and Antonio a big round of applause. They | are going to thrill you in the coming moments! Felix, are you ready? Antonio, you too ready? The referee will blow the whistle now, to start the bout.

As in any bout, may the better man win!

Question 7.
After reading the story ‘Amigo Brothers’, certain students opined that boxing is a cruel game. But you have a different view. So your friends decide to conduct a debate on the topic ‘Boxing is a cruel game arousing animal instincts.’ What would be the possible arguments of your friends who support the topic. Write three points.
Answer:
Boxing makes us forget the importance of cooperation, sympathy and love and we are blinded only by one instinct-win anyhow!

Boxing brings physical suffering to both the winner and also loser.

By constantly practising, the boxer develops an unhealthy competitive spirit; he is ready to inflict pain, both mental and physical, even on his family members, because he becomes callous to others’ feelings.

Question 8.
“They remain uncompromising in fight, and in love as well”. This is the title of a news report that appeared in a daily about the Amigo brothers’fight. Prepare a detailed news report.
Answer:
Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas were both 17. They were so close in their friendship they felt like brothers. They both had a dream – becoming the light weight champion of the world.

They exercised sometimes at the Boys’ Club and sometimes at the gym. After a series of elimination bouts, they were told they were to meet each other in the division finals. The day was fixed for 7 August. They both wanted to win. They talk about it. Then Felix makes a suggestion that they will not see each other until the day of the fight. After the fight they will get together again as if nothing happened. They continue training hard.

The fight is to take place at Tompkins Square Park for the Division Finals.

Felix Vargas and Antonio Cruz are ready. The announcer makes the announcement. There will be no draw. The referee blows the whistle and the fight is on.

In the first and second round Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas do their best to outwit the other. But both are equally strong. Punches fly back and forth, but none is floored. Each punch is thunderously applauded by the crowd.

Now comes the third round. Each contestant wants to win. They punch each other very hard. Nobody falls to the canvas. The final bell rings. But the fight continues. The bdUfings again and again. But there is no stopping to the fighting. People start getting worried. It looks as if they are witnessing a do or die fight and not a contest. There is utter silence. Then the referee and the trainer separate the two contestants.

Now the contestants embrace. They have forgotten that they were fighting like bulls until a moment ago. The announcer makes an announcement. He is trying to name the winner and he looks around. But both Antonio and Felix had left the scene like good old friends, arm in arm, declaring their strong bond of friendship.

This is the spirit of love! Cooperation in Competition!

Question 9
Imagine that you are the reporter of a local TV channel. After the bout between Antonio and Felix, you were asked to interview them. Prepare a set of five questions to be asked to Antonio and Felix as part of the interview.
(Hints: reason for quitting the scene without waiting forthe result-thoughts during the fight, afterthe fight -theirfriendship- future plans etc.)
Answer:
You wanted to win badly. Then why did you decide to quit the scene before the result was announced? We know you are close friends. What were the thoughts going through your mind during the fight when you were punching each other hard?

What was in your mind after you were separated by the referee and the trainers and you left the scene without waiting to hear the result?

You were fighting like angry bulls at the bout. Will your friendship continue to be as intense as before, after what happened at the bout?

What would be your future plans? Are you going to choose boxing as your profession?

Question 10.
There are a few errors in each line of the excerpt given below. Identify and correct them.
‘Antonio nodded quitely. (a)
“Yeah. We both know that in the ring the better man win. (b)
It’s fair, Tony. When we get to the ring, it’s got to be like we never met. (c)
We got to be like two heavy strangers that wants the same thing and only one can have it. (d)
You understood?” (e)
Answer:
a) quietly,
b) wins,
c) into,
d) want,
e) understand?

Question 11.
The boxing competition between Antonio and Felix is coming to an end. Imagine yourself to be the announcer / commentator of the boxing match between Antonio and Felix. Write the script of the announcement that could be used to conclude the event.
Answer:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Antonio and Felix are fighting like two ferocious bulls. Antonio is punching hard with his left hand. Felix is ducking avoiding the punch. Now Antonio is punching with his right hand it catches the jaw of Felix. Felix is flinching with pain. Felix throws all his weight behind his right hand and is hitting Antonio hard on his left ear. Antonio is trying to block it, but isn’t successful. The punch misses its aim. It hits the nose of Antonio. Look! His nose is bleeding and the blood is coming to his mouth. Oh my God! Now they are locked in each other’s grip. The referee is separating them. Antonio flies savagely to hit Felix on this right ear. The final whistle is sounding. But O, what am I seeing? The fight is going on! Why don’t they stop? The whistle is sounding again. Boys, stop, stop! O my God. What is happening? The referee is trying to separate them. The trainers come running. They too are trying to separate them. They are separate now. Am I seeing it right? I see the boys in a deep embrace. They are smiling at each other as if nothing happened. Felix takes Antonio’s hand and they are walking. (He consults the referee to see who the winner is.)

Ladies and gentlemen, today’s winner is …………. Hey, where are they? Have they disappeared? The crowd shouts – They both are winners!

Amigo Brothers About The Author

– Piri Thomas

Piri Thomas (1928-2011) was a writer and a poet. His memoir ‘Down These Mean Streets’ became a best-seller. He spent 7years in prison. He realized that no person is bom a criminal. He used his street and prison experience to teach the youth prone to risk, to help them avoid a life of crime. He travelled a lot in the USA, Central America and Europe, and gave lectures and conducted workshops in colleges and universities.

Amigo Brothers Summary in English

Page 40: Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas were both 17. They were so together in friendship that they felt like brothers. They had known each otherfrom childhood. They grew up in the same building on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

Antonio was fair, lean and lanky. Felix was dark, short and husky. Antonio’s hair was always falling over his eyes. Felix wore his black hair in an Afro style. They both had a dream – becoming a light-weight champion of the world.

Whenever they got a chance they exercised, sometimes at the Boy’s Club and sometimes at the gym. They would run every day morning, wearing sweat shirts and short towels around their necks. While some youngsters were into street doing wrong things, Antonio and Felix slept and had positive dreams. They had a collection of Fight magazines. They also kept the torn tickets of all the boxing matches they had gone to see. They also had some, cuppings of their own.

After a series of elimination bouts, they were told that they were to meet each other in the division finals scheduled forthe 7th of August. That was 2 weeks away. The winner would represent the koy’s Club in the Golden Gloves Championship Tournament.

They boys continued to run together. But even when joking with each other, they both sensed a wall rising between them.

Page 41: One morning, less than a week before their bout, they met as usual for their workout. Antonio glanced at Felix who kept his eyes straight ahead. He was practising some leg movements and hitting an imaginary jaw. Felix suddenly stopped and told Antonio that they must speak to eaGh other.

Antonio knew it was about their fight. Felix said that since he came to know the fight was between them, he kept awake at night pulling punches on Antonio, trying not to hurt him. Antonio told the same thing. He said that it is natural they thought about the fight. Both are fighters and they both want to win. There are no draws in the eliminations.

Felix tapped Antonio gently and told him he wanted to win. Antonio replied by saying that in the ring the better man wins. When they get into the ring it has to be as if they had never met. They will be like two strangers who want the same thing but only one can have it. Felix agreed. They have to fight it out.

Felix then makes a suggestion. They won’t see each other until the day of the fight. He will stay with his Aunt Lucy, in the Bronx. Antonio agreed and he held out his hand, palm upwards making a deal. Felix sealed the deal by slapping on the open palm. Antonio wanted Felix to run with him a little more. But Felix said he wanted to be free as he wanted to think alone. Antonio asked him if Felix was worried. Felix laughed and said he was not worried. They will fight and afterthat they will get together again as if nothing had happened. The amigo brothers hugged each other tightly.

The evening before the big fight, Antonio made his way to the roof of his building. He tried not to think of Felix. He thought he had made up his mind. He would knock out Felix early and quickly so that he does not get hurt by a long fight.

Page 42: Felix decided towatch a movie in an effort to keep Antonio’s face away from his mind and fists. The film was The Champion’, acted by Kirk Douglas. The champion was getting beaten. Felix got a shock. He imagined himself in the ring, blasting Antonio against the ropes.

He stopped watching the film and began to walk on the street. There he saw only a few boys wearing gang colours. Walking did not relax him. Neitherdid the film. It had stirred him up. He went straight back to bed.

Antonio was passing some heavy time on the rooftop. How will the fight tomorrow affect his relations with Felix? Friendship had nothing to do with the fight. But he soon controlled his negative thoughts. He did some fancy dance steps to drive away his negative thinking. His amigo brother Felix was not going to be Felix in the ring. He was just an opponent. He prayed for victory through a quick clean knockout in the first round the Golden Gloves. There will be no draw. May the best man win.”

The crowd cheered wildly. At the centre of the ring, the referee gave instructions. “Keep your punches up. No low blows. No punching on the back of the head. Let’s have a clean fight. Now shake hands and come out fighting.”

Both the fighters touched the gloves and nodded. Felix and Antonio turned and faced each other squarely in a fighting pose. Felix wasted no time. Now they were fighting like real competitors. The first round came to an end both trying hard to floor the other.

Page 44: The second round began. Felix was off his stool and rushed to Antonio like a bull. Antonio fought back well. Neither fighter was giving an inch. Suddenly Felix hit Antonio on the chin. Antonio’s legs turned jelly and his arms flailed out desperately. Suddenly his head cleared and hit Felix on the bridge of his nose. The crowd was roaring at each punch. Soon the second round came to an end.

The referee asked the ring doctor to check the fighters out. He said OK. The cold water sponges brought clarity to both amigo brothers. They were rubbed until their circulation ran free.

Now was the final round. So far things were even. Everyone knew there could be no draw and this was the final round to decide the winner.

Antonio came out fast. Felix also attacked. Both pounded away. Neither gave an inch and neither fell to the canvas. They fought to win. The sounds of their blows were loud. The crowd had gone completely silent. The referee was stunned by their savagery.

The bell sounded over and over again. Felix and Antonio did not hear the bell. Their blows continued to pound on each other like hailstones. Finally the referee and the two trainers separated them to bring them back to their senses. They looked around and then rushed toward each other.

Page 45: A cry of alarm surged through the crowd. Was this a fight to the death instead of a boxing match? The fear soon ended as the two amigos embraced. No matter what the decision, they knew they would always be champions to each other. The announcer started: “Ladies and Gentlemen. The winner and representative to the Gold Gloves Tournament of Champions is ” The announcer did not see Felix and Antonio. Arm in arm, the champions had already left the ring!

Amigo Brothers Summary in Malayalam

Amigo Brothers Glossary

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two English Textbook Answers Unit 3 Chapter 2 Didi Text Book Questions and Answers, Summary, Notes.

Kerala Plus Two English Textbook Didi Questions and Answers Unit 3 Chapter 2 (Story)

Hsslive Plus Two English Textbook Answers are part of Kerala Plus Two English Textbook Answers Unit 3 Chapter 2 Didi

Read And Respond

Question 1.
What was Shaheen’s first impression of orphanage?
Answer:
In the orphanage she saw crying children, laughing children, quiet children and screaming children. She was confused. She saw the inequity of life there.

Question 2.
Why does she say that life was not perfect during summer vacation?
Answer:
She says that life was not perfect during summer vacation because her summers were spent between the orphanage in Jakarta and trips back to Mumbai. In Mumbai she saw the extreme poverty and children begging forfood.

Question 3.
What was the ‘search’ Shaheen had in her childhood? How was India answering it?
Answer:
The ‘search’ she had in her childhood was finding ways to help the kids in need. India was answering it because in India she found many children begging on the streets for food. She knew she could help them to live better lives.

Question 4.
What do you understand by the expression ‘manicured reality of my university life”?
Answer:
‘Manicure’ means caring for the fingers and nails. Manicured reality is polished reality. As one who has studied in India, especially in the crowded Mumbai, the authorfelt her university life in the USA was manicured, highly polished.

Question 5.
On what conditions did Shaheen’s parents allow her to stay back in India?
Answer:
They put forward two conditions: she would get admission into a good undergraduate college in the city and later she would go abroad for her graduate degree.

Question 6.
How did Shaheen get her admission to St. Xavier’s even when the admissions were closed.
Answer:
I would say she forced the Principal to admit her. She entered the principal’s room through a side door. Before the surprised Principal, Fr. D’Cruz, could open his mouth she said to him, “Father, my life is in your hands. I want to do something for the children of India. I don’t know how, only that I must.” The Principal asked her a few questions and she was admitted.

Question 7.
What was the condition of Mumbai slums?
Answer:
It was horrible. The slum once Shaheen walked into was a sprawling, low income community which was a maze of small alleyways. It was full of life. Some 10,000 people lived there without running water, no system of waste disposal, and shared six dark cubicle toilets in one alley.

Question 8.
How was Sandhya’s life different from that of Shaheen?
Answer:
Sandhya’s life was utterly different from that of Shaheen. Like Shaheen she was also 18. Sandhya knew no English and Shaheen knew no Hindi. But Sandhya, wearing a sari, smiled, laughed and chatted a lot. Sandhya’s home was smaller than the bathroom of Shaheen’s house.

Question 9.
What is the basic principle ofAkanksha?
Answer:
The basic principle of Akanksha is providing underprivileged children with opportunities for learning. Akanksha wants the classroom to be just a safe place for the children where they can forget, at least for some time, their roubles at home and study and also enjoy. Akanksha came into existence in 1991. It started with 15 children. Now it has 3500 children, with 58 centre and 6 schools. The children are taught, apart from English and Maths, values, self-esteem and confidence.

Question 10.
What did the volunteers teach at Akanksha?
Answer:
At Akanksha the volunteers teach the underprivileged children basic English and Maths, and also values, self¬esteem and confidence.

Question 11.
What kind of difference, do you think, Akanksha must have brought in the slums?
Answer:
Nowthe slum-dwellers knowthe importance of education. They also knowthe importance of hygiene and decent living. They have realized that they too can rise higher in the society with education, determination and hard work. Akanksha has provided people with hopes and dreams.

Think And Write

Question 1.
What kind of problems did Shaheen face when she settled in India?
Answer:
She faced a lot of problems when she settled in India. She wanted to help the underprivileged people of slums, especially children. She wanted to teach them. But finding a place was difficult. She went to 20 schools asking them to give a room just for 3 hours in the morning to teach these poor children. All of them refused. Some thought the idea of teaching underprivileged children was too revolutionary. Some thought the children would spread diseases to other students. A principal of a reputed school even said that the glass bangles worn by the poor children would scratch the fine desks. Finally, when she was about to give up, the Principal of Holy Name High School in Colaba, agreed to give her a room. That was the first Akanksha centre.

Question 2.
What was the iniquity that she found in India?
Answer:
She found a lot of iniquity in India. In a city like Mumbai where some of the world’s richest men live, there are also dirty slums where people live in conditions in which even animals would not live. One of the slums she visited was a sprawling, low income community which was a maze of small alleyways, full of life. Some .10,000 people lived there without running water, no system of waste disposal, and shared six dark cubicle toilets in one alley. She says the house of Sandhya was smaller than her bathroom! This is iniquity indeed.

Question 3.
Why, do you think, the principals of different schools refused to give a space for the children from the slum?
Answer:
Shaheen says that the principals often gave illogical and even silly reasons for not giving a space for the children from the slum. Some thought the idea of teaching underprivileged children was too revolutionary. Some thought the children would spread diseases to other students. A principal of a reputed school even said that the glass bangles worn by the poor children would scratch the fine desks in the classroom!

Question 4.
Shaheen refers to Indian education system as ‘bookish’. Comment on this.
Answer:
Shaheen is very right in saying that the Indian education system is bookish. We lay stress on book¬learning. We give a lot importance to studying things by heart. The examinations also check our memory and not our competence in doing things. Theory is given much more importance than practice. We may know a lot about America and England but may not know the things in our immediate locality.

Activity I (Job application/Resume)

Question 1.
(i) Study the poster.

It tells us about another initiative called “Teach for India” by Shaheen Mistri. It is an advertisement seeking volunteers to teach the children in low-income areas.

If you were to apply for this vacancy, what would you write in your application in the resume?
Answer:
(i) Cover Letter
Joe Paul
17, Azad Road
Irinjalakuda North PO
PIN 680 125
15 June 2015

The Chairperson
Teach for India
Kalian Mumbai

Dear Sir,
I have seen your poster asking for people to work in your Enterprise. I would be glad to offer my services as a teacher at the secondary level.

I have a Master’s Degree in English from Ravishanker University, Raipur. I have worked as a teacher in HSS Irinjalakuda for 10 years, teaching English. I would like to utilize my talents forthe betterment of the underprivileged.

I shall be pleased if my application is given due consideration. Although I am willing to come at anytime, anywhere, for an interview I would prefer any day between 20 June and 20 July, preferably in the Thrissur district, of Kerala.

I had been dreaming of helping my countrymen in my own way and I look forward to this opportunity.

Thanking you cordially,
Yours faithfully
(Joe Paul)

(ii) RESUME OF JOE PAUL
Objective : To work in an Organization that works for the welfare of the underivileged

Experience:

• Teacher (HSS lnnjalakuda Teacher -1998-2008)
• Lecturer in English (Students PG Centre lnnjalakuda 2009-1015)

Activities: I am a member of the Rotary Club, irinjalakuda Branch. I have organized blood-donation campaigns.
Achievements: I have published many journal articles on the teaching of English.
Skills: Conversant with computer, Word. I have been the Volley-ball captain while at College. I play the guitar.
Languages: Malayalam, Hindi, English Interests: Reading, travel, Western music Joe Paul

Activity II (Job Interview:)

Question 2.
Suppose your application Is considered positively and you are invited for an interview. What kind of responses would you make for the following interview questions. Use formal and language and be honest In your answers.
Answer:
Interviewer : Why do you prefer to teach?
You : I preférto teach because I believe it is the noblest profession. You mould minds.
Interviewer : Do you have any teaching experience?
You : Yes, I have. I have been teaching since 1997, when I completed my M.A. in English Literature.
I: What do you think is the most serious problem with the education in rural areas?
Y: The rural people, generally, have not understood the importance of education. When a boy or girl is big enough the parents expect the child to help them in the farm or in the household work. Many of them think sending children to school is a waste, especially sending girls to school.
I: If you were to change something about the current education system, what would that be?
Y: I would like to make learning less bookish. We emphasize on learning things by heart. Often in our examination we test memory. This should change. Education should be more practical.
I: How do you plan to create an impact in the society?
Y: I will do my best to teach the underprivileged so that they too can have opportunities like those bom with a silver spoon in their mouth. I will encourage the villagers to send their children to school without making them stay at home to help with the farming and other rural activities.

Activity III: (Modal Auxiliaries)

Read the notes on p. 114 and study the various verbs given in the table there, with their meanings. Read the examples and team howto use them.

LET’S PRACTICE

Question 2.
Given below is the vision of “Teach for India” as given in their website. Go through it and fill in the blanks in the passage with appropriate modal auxiliaries.
Answer:
At Teach For India, each one of us feels lucky. We understand that it is just a matter of chance that we are where we are today. We didn’t choose the family that we were bom into, or choose the fact that our parents could afford.to give us quality education. Every time we make a choice, we feel lucky. However we cannot help but think what if these choices were not available to us?

It is this thought that makes us work towards that one day when every child in India would attain an excellent education. The family or the demographics that a child is bom into might not determine his or her destiny. We understand the importance of education but more importantly, we understand the value of each those 320 million lives andthe potential in every one of them. That’s what we are working towards – A day when every child gets the opportunity to attain an excellent education. A day when we could empower every human being with choice. Because that’s what every child deserves.

Activity IV (Role Play)

(Read the instractions on page 115)
Answer:
(A conversation between Shaheen and her mother)
Shaheen: Good morning, mummy. How are you today?
Mother: Good morning, Shaheen. I am fine. What about you? You sound very excited.
S : I’m excited mummy. I have a plan.
M : A plan? What plan?
S : Mummy, I don’t want to go back to the USA at this time. I want to stay in India.
M : What? You want to stay in India? Have you gone crazy?
S : Mummy, I have not gone crazy. I want to do some service to the underprivileged children here.
M : Forget about service. You go to the Sates to continue with your studies.
S : My mind won’t let me go mummy. I am begging you to allow me to stay here.
M : Father will be so angry with you. You know how hot-tempered he is.
S : I will persuade him. I know he has a warm heart inside. You recommend my case to him.
M : I will do on two conditions: First you get admission in a good college in Mumbai. After you get yourdegree, promise that you will go abroad for higher studies.
S : I accept the conditions.
M : Let me warn you. Staying in India permanently is not like visiting it on vacation.
S: I know mummy. I have seen enough of Mumbai to understand that.
M : I am not too happy with your decision. But what to do? You’re our only daughter and we can’t refuse your request.
S: Thank you mummy. Thank you very much. I promise you I will make you proud.
M: Okay. Take care! And remember your promises!

Activity V (Project)

Read about the three problems that are presented on page 116. Here is a sample answer.,

Action Plan

Name of the School: St. Joseph’s HSS, Kattoor Problem Identified: Water shortage during summer Reasons: There is no well in the compound. The school depends on the pipe-borne water supplied by the Municipality.
Plan Date: 15 June 2015
Completion Date: 15 September 2015

Possible challenges/difficulties:
I) The terrain is dry and so finding water in a well might be difficult. In that case a deep bore-well has to be planned. It might prove very expensive.
II) Participation by the Municipality might be minimal.
III) The community might not show sufficient interest in making contributions.

Activity VI: (Let’s Edit)

A website called studentjob is offering internship jobs for students.

Question 3.
Here is an application letter that a student has drafted to apply for the post of a marketing intern. Read it carefully and correct the mistakes in it Also rewrite the letter after corrections.
Answer:
Dear Sir,
I would like to apply for the position of a Marketing Intern, as advertised in studentjob.co.in. I am a II Year student, doing M.Com. at the University of Calicut. My specialization is in Marketing.

I have always had a keen interest in marketing and that influenced my decision to study Marketing at the university and take part in extra-curricular activities. I am an active member of the Marketing Society where I help arranging events, society meetings and talks from prospective employers. I was responsible for establishing an effective marketing campaign for the launch of a new bookstore in the campus, using various methods such as social media. I therefore have a strong understanding of how modern-day marketing techniques can be used for business opportunities and networking.

Furthermore, I have been elected as the Team Leader of ‘Student Enterprise’, where we are required to develop our own business idea and pitch it to potential investors against an opposing team. This allows me to develop my leadership skills by delegating the appropriate roles and responsibilities to each team member, ensuring the team will successfully reach its aims and objectives.

I have many skills which I am able to contribute to the job role. My excellent communication skills allow me to interact with members of an organization at all levels. I developed my public speaking and presentation skills by making university presentations to new and prospective students and to the members of my Faculty. I am organized, efficient and strive to take up any challenge given to me to the highest standard.

Attached is a copy of my CV. I can provide the names of referees who will support my application.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,
Priya Sekhar

Read And Enjoy

Question 1.
‘We can complain because rose bushes have thorns or rejoice because thorn bushes have rose.’ – Abraham Lincoln.

Question 2.
Here perspectives make a difference. Read the experience the poetic rendition of Stammer by K. Satchidanandan.

Didi (Story) Edumate Questions and Answers

Question 1.
Read the following extract from the lesson ‘Didi’ and answer the questions that follow.
“On one blistering Mumbai day my taxi stopped at a traffic signal. Three children ran upto my window, smiling and begging and at that: moment, I had a flash of introspection”.
a) Who is the speaker?
b) The word introspection’ here means
c) How does the author look at the meaning of life?
Answer:
a) Shaheen Mistry
b) self-examination
c) She looks at the meaning of life with some concern. She is moving in a taxi and when it stops at a traffic signal three children come begging. They were smiling. The author must have wondered how these children could smile even in such precarious circumstances. They are zigzagging through the Mumbai traffic and any moment they can be hit by a moving vehicle. And look at the poverty of these children! They should be going to school and playing around with their mates at this age. But they are begging for their livelihood. This is the Mumbai of millionaires!

Question 2.
You happen to see the following advertisement and got interested and decided to apply for the same. Prepare an application and resume.
Vacancy Announcement
A reputed manpower company invites applications forthe following posts. .
No.1: Manager
Qualification: Should be a graduate in Commerce, experience in manpower field, good communication skill in English, age above 30 years.
Apply with Resume within 7 days: info@samintl.co.in
Only short listed candidates will be called for interview.
Answer:
info@saminl.co.in

Dear Sirs,
Sub: Application forthe post of Manager.

I saw your advertisement. I am interested in applying for the post as I thought my qualification and experience would suit your requirements.

I am enclosing my detailed resume for your perusal.

I will be available for an interview from now till the end of this month. You may decide the time and place. I will present all the original documents at the time of the interview.

Hoping to get the interview letter soon,

Yours faithfully,
Hamza Mohammed

Resume of Hamza Mohammed
Objective: To work in a company which can utilize my services and, at the same time, enable me to sharpen my capabilities forthe betterment of all.

Name & Address:	Hamza Mohhammed XV/56 M.G. Road, Kochi
Mobile Phone :	864702828888
e-mail:	hamzamohd@hotmail.com
Age and date of birth:	32 years, 11 January 1985
Nationality:	Indian
Marital status:	Single
Educational Qualifications:	i) M.Com. with 76% marks, Calicut University, 2008 ii) B.Com. with 82% marks, Calicut University 2006 iii) +2 with all A’s from Don Bosco HSS Irinjalakuda. 2003
Technical Qualifications:	Diploma in Computer Programming with specialization in Java, SQL and C++.
Experience:	I have been working as the Manager of GJ Info tech, Palarivattom Kochi, since July 2010.
Special Abilities:	Creating new computer programmes according to specifications. I have Leadership qualities.
Hobbies:	Travel and reading
Languages known:	Malayalam, English and Hindi
Referees:	1. Prof. Naveen Vithayathil Khanna Nagar, Koratty, Chalakudy 2. Mr. Tom Nettikadan M.L.A., Chalakudy

Question 3.
While appearing for the Plus one improvement examination 2016, you forgotto fill in certain entries in the main answer sheet. Hence your result is withheld by the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education. When you contacted the office concerned you were informed to send an e-mail citing your points. Now draft the e-mail.
Answer:
higheredudirectorate@hotmail.com

Sir,
I wrote the Plus One Improvement Examination 2016. But my result is withheld. When I contacted your office I was told thaf my exam number was not clearly visible in my History Paper and that is why the result was withheld. I am sorry forthe mistake. Here is my exam number: HSS 45678123. My Centre was Don Bosco HSS, irinjalakuda, Thrissur District.

Kindly take necessary action and publish my result.

Thank you,
Jones Mathew

Question4.
Given below are some findings of the research carried out by Delhi Diabetes Research Center on the changing food habits among children. Study them carefully and write an article for your school magazine.

(Hints: 85% school children-diabetic patients- Western eating styles-consumes fast food frequently- 62% eat junk food-green vegetables avoided-25% do not exercise-one in four children obese-prone to develop adult diseases-heart attack, diabetics-memory loss etc.)
Answer:
Changing Food Habits among Children The Delhi Diabetes Research Centre carried out a research for finding out the changing food habits among children. Its findings should cause us some concern in this regard.

The researchers found that 85% of the school going children have some form of diabetes. This is very alarming statistics. This has happened mainly because we have blindly copied the Western eating habits. The climate in the countries in the West is generally very cold. Their food habits suit that climate. But here in India we are in the tropics and the weather is not all that cold. Still we eat what the Westerners eat. Our children consume a lot of fast food – pizza, burghers, KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) and so on. It is surprising that 62% of the children eat junk food. Our children studiously avoid green vegetables from their diet. It is surprising that 25% o the children do not get any exercise.

They go to school in the school bus, come home, sit down to do their home work and then they spend their time before the TV or their computers playing various games. The result is terrible. One in four children is obese – overweight. The obese children are likely to develop adult diseases like heart attack, severe diabetics and memory loss. There have been instances of teenagers dying of heart attack. This is something unheard of in the past. Many children suffer from serious diabetics. Children fail in exams because they have lost their memory power because of the junk food they are consuming.

Parents, who are so much concerned about the welfare and future of their children, should stop giving them junk food. Children should be made aware of the risks involved in eating too much of fast foods. The food may be tasty but it can kill them fast!

Question 5.
With the idea of teaching the underprivileged children, Shaheen Mistry decided to start Akansha Centre and the Principal of Holy Name School at Coloba agreed to give a room in his school. Write the likely conversation between Shaheen Mistry and the Principal. (At least four exchanges.)
Answer:
Shaheen Mistry: Good morning, Sir! I am Shaheen Mistry, a social activist.
Principal : Good morning, Shaheen. I’ve heard aboufyou. What can I do for you?
SM : Sir, I think you can be of great help to me in solving a serious problem that we are facing. For educating the underprivileged children, we have started an organization called Akanksha. We want a room here for conducting our classes.
P : A room in this school? I don’t think it would be possible. We’re already running short of rooms and we find it hard to accommodate our own students.
SM : Sir, we need the room only after your regular class hours. We understand that you close the school at 4.00. So, maybe, from 4.30 you can lend us a room till 7.30 or so. Thus we get three hours to teach.
P : Shaheen, I am really sorry that I can’t do that. Soon after the class hours we get the rooms cleaned and keep them locked till the following morning.
SM : Sir, we assure you that the room you give us will be cleaned properly after our lessons are over. We are trying to uplift the underprivileged children.
P : I do want to help, but
SM : Sir, don’t say “but”.. Please give us a room. Your good gesture will help thousands of underprivileged children here. So, please be positive, Sir!
P : Okay, since you insist and since it is for a good cause, I will give you a room.
SM : Thank you, Sir! Thank you very much!
P : It’s okay.

Question 6.
The following is a conversation between the office assistant of a school and the book seller. Now complete the conversation choosing modal auxiliaries from the box given below, will, can, won’t, shall, needn’t, could
Bookseller : Excuse me sir. (a) ………… I meet the Principal right now?
Office Assistant: Sorry sir, he is attending a meeting.
Bookseller : Then if you don’t mind, you hand over this packet of books to the Principal, I shall be waiting outside.
Office Staff : Certainly sir, but you (b) ………… wait outside. He (c) ………… get enough time to see you and discuss the matter.
Book seller : OK sir, dont worry. I (d) ………… make a call and talk to the Principal.
Office Assistant: All right, bye.
Answer:
a) Can,
b) needn’t,
c) won’t,
d) shall

Didi (Story) About The Author

– Shaheen Mistri

Shaheen Mistri is an Indian social activist and educator. She is the founder of Akanksha Foundation. She is also the CEO of Teach For India since 2008.

She was born in Mumbai in a Parsi family. Her father is a banker with Citigroup. After attending boarding school in Connecticut, USA, she moved to India for higher education. She got B.A. in Sociology. Later she got a Masters in Education from the University of Manchester.

Didi (Story) Summary in English

“I reached to touch a rainbow today,
I reached up high so high.
And yet as high as I reached up,
I could not touch the sky.
I’ll reach to touch a rainbow again,
I’ll reach up higher than high,
And if I reach up high enough,
I just may skim the sky.”

Page 107: I remember sitting on the wide veranda of our Indonesian home, writing little poems and notes in a diary. I would sit and watch little ants carry large loads, determined to get to their destination. What was my destiny? I was 12. What had I achieved?

It was in 1983. We lived in Jakarta, in a lovely home on a quiet street. It was a pleasant life, until I was taken to visit an orphanage in the city. I don’t remember how the orphanage looked, but I vividly remember the children.

I saw different kinds of children-crying, laughing, quiet, screaming children. I did not know what to do. I returned to the orphanage every weekend. Perhaps it was curiosity or a sense of thankfulness for all that I had, or maybe a child’s desire to learn more about the world.

My father was a banker. He had to move from city to city.
I had to study in 10 schools in five countries and followed French, British, American and International school systems.

Page 107: I began to understand that life was not perfect during my summer vacations. My summers were spent between the orphanage in Jakarta and trips back to Mumbai. In Mumbai I volunteered at The Happy Home and School for the Blind. I remember thinking of the beauty you can create when you look beyond what you can see. The school had confident children running up and down the staircases or playing cricket on the terrace with a ball that jingled.

It was through these summer experiences in India that I began to see inequity. I’d go from a family lunch to the dining hall of the blind school. I would watch through the window of my air-conditioned car children begging in the streets. I saw piles of wasted food at a friend’s party. When I left I saw woman, sitting on the side of the road, giving out very small amount of dal and rice to her family members. I saw the slums of Mumbai. They appeared to be everywhere. I saw the disparity in the lives of people.

In 1989 I was on my vacation in India. On one hot Mumbai day, my taxi stopped at a traffic signal. Three children ran up to my window, smiling and begging. My mind started thinking. I suddenly knew that my life would have more meaning if I stayed in India.

In the days that followed I went on thinking about those kids. I realized the purpose of my life. I wanted to be part of making things better for children. I knew this could be my country. Whatever I did here could make more difference than my university life in America.

A week before I was to return to Boston, I telephoned my parents. I explained to them my desire to move back to Mumbai. They listened carefully. They advised me living in Mumbai would be greatly different from spending a vacation. But I persisted. They agreed on two conditions: I would get admission into a good undergraduate college in the city and later would go abroad for my graduate degree.

Page 109: My parents had studied at St. Xavier’s and so I wanted to study there. I wanted an appointment with the Principal. The office told me that admissions were closed three months earlier and the Principal does not give appointments. I was frustrated. A student had seen me talking with the Principal’s assistant. He told me that there was a side door to the Principal’s office and I could try it.

I went through the side door. The Principal, Fr. D’Cruz was surprised and before he could open his mouth I told him, “Father, my life is in your hands. I want to do something for the children of India. I don’t know-how, only that I must.” He asked me a few questions and I was admitted.

The academic system at St. Xavier’s was different from that of the US. Here bookish learning was stressed. I quickly realized that I would learn more in the city than in the classroom.

Now since I was in India, I wanted to understand it in a different and deeper way. I walked around the city. Once I walked into a sprawling, low-income community which was a maze of small alleyways, full of life. Some 10,000 people lived there without running water, no system of waste disposal, and shared six dark cubicle toilets in one alley.

Page 110:1 walked around that afternoon talking with children wondering how life would be different if each one of them had access to the opportunities to grow to their potential. As I was walking, a soft-spoken girl, in a sari, welcomed me into her home. Her name was Sandhya. She was 18, like me. She knew no English and I knew no Hindi. But she smiled, laughed and chatted a lot. I felt an immediate connection with her. Her life was so different from mine.

Every day I went to her house after college. Her home was smaller than the bathroom of our house. When children poked their heads inside the doorway to say ‘Hi’ to us, she would ask them to come in. These children formed the first class I would teach. Each day a few more children would come trying to learn a few words in English, ora little Maths ora song. I felt useful and confident.

This became my routine. I’d leave college and rush to my new world in the community. Here I saw truth and hope. The children shouted ‘Didi, Didi’when I went there. It was becoming a lifelong commitment.

‘Akanksha’ was bom of the simple idea that India had people who could teach. It had spaces that could be used as classrooms. It had funds to educate all the children. Everything was there. I simply had to bring them together.

The people in the community wanted only 3 things – housing, water and education. I knew that for the children to take education seriously, they have to be free from the community’s distractions. We started looking for our first Akanksha centre space.

I approached 20 schools in the city to give us one classroom in their building just for 3 hours every morning. All of them refused. Some thought the idea of teaching underprivileged children was too revolutionary. Some thought the children would spread diseases to other students. A principal of a reputed school even said that the glass bangles worn by the poor children would scratch the desks. Finally, when I was about to give up, the principal of Holy Name High School in Colaba, agreed to give me a room. That was the first Akanksha centre.

Page 111:1 mobilized volunteers from St. Xavier’s to teach. I made a rough plan of what they would teach. I wanted the classroom to be just a safe place for the children where they can forget, at least for some time, their roubles at home.

Akanksha came into existence in 1991. It started with 15 children. Now it has 3500 children, with 58 centre and 6 schools. The main things taught are English and Maths. Students are also trained in values, self-esteem and confidence.

(Excerpt from “Redrawing India” by Shaheen Mistri & Kovid Gupta)

Didi (Story) Summary in Malayalam

Didi (Story) Glossary

Kerala State Board New Syllabus Plus Two Botany Chapter Wise Previous Questions and Answers Chapter 1 Reproduction in Organisms.

Kerala Plus Two Botany Chapter Wise Previous Questions Chapter 1 Reproduction in Organisms

Question 1.
Fill up the blanks after reading the statement: (MARCH-2010)
The postfertilisation events in angiosperms.
Zygote : Embryo
Ovule : ______
Ovary : _______
Answer:
Seed
Fruit

Question 2.
Given below are 3 gametes a, b and c. a and b gametes undergoes fusion. (MARCH-2010)
a) Identify the fusion.

b) Give the explanation for the identification.
Answer:
a) Isogamy
b) Fusion of two morphologically similar gametes (male & female) is called Isogamy

Question 3.
Raman is learning the post-fertilization changes of an angiosperm embryo sac with the help of slides. He identified the egg nucleus and polar nuclei with the help of his teacher. (MARCH-2010)
a) Name the other nuclei present in the embryo sac.
b) Help Raman by giving the changes that takes place with egg nucleus and polar nuclei after fertilization.
Answer:
a) Antipodals and synergids
b) Egg nucleus + Sperm -> Sygote (2n)
Polar nuclei + Sperm -> PEN (3n) primary endosperm nucleus.

Question 4.
Find out which of the statements are true. (MAY-2010)
a) Ovary develops into fruit.
b) In flowering plants, zygote is formed outside the ovule.
c) Ovules develops into fruit.
d) Zygote develops into embryo.
Answer:
Ovary develops into fruit.

Question 5.
Farmers are propagating plants using vegetative structures. Can you mention the names of any two such structures. (MAY-2010)
Answer:
Rhizome – Ginger
Bulb – Onion

Question 6.
Prefertilization events of sexual reproduction in all organisms are gametogenesis and gamete transfer. What are the post fertilization events? (MAY-2011)
Answer:
Formation of zygote
Embryogenesis

Question 7.
You are asked to plant ginger in your home. Which part of ginger you will plant? Name the type of reproduction. (MAY-2011)
Answer:
Underground stem
Asexual reproduction

Question 8.
In asexual reproduction, off springs are produced by a single parent with or without the involvement of gamete formation.(MARCH-2012)
Name the asexual reproductive structures (a & b) given below.
Answer:
a) Bud
b) conidia

Question 9.
Zoospores are common asexual reproductive structures in plants and animals with relatively simple organization. Name two other asexual reproductive structures seen in the group. (MAY-2012)
Answer:
Gemmules in sponges, conidia in penicillium

Question 10.
In honey bees and some lizards,female gamete undergoes development to form new organisms without fertilization. This phenomenon is called ________. (MARCH-2013)
Answer:
Parthenogenesis

Question 11.
Morphologically and genetically similar individuals are called ______ . (MARCH-2013)
Answer:
Clones

Question 12.
Match the following terms with regard to vegetative reproduction in plants. (MAY-2013)

Answer:
a-c
b-d
c-a
d-b

Question 13.
a) Amoeba asexually multiplies by binary fission whereas Sponge by _______ (MAY-2014)
b) Water hyacinth vegetatively multiples by offset agave by ______
Answer:
a) Gemmule
b) Bulbil

Question 14.
Match the Column A with B: (MARCH-2015)

Answer:

Question 15.
a) Yeast asexually multiples by budding whereas Penicillium by. (MAY-2015)
b) Bryophyllum vegetatively multiples by adventitious buds water hyacinth by
Answer:
a) Conidia
b) offset/stem

Question 16.
The chromosome number of onion is 16 (2n). Find the chromosome number in the following cells with reasons. (MAY-2015)
a) Endosperm cell
b) Zygote
Answer:
a) 24
b) 16

Question 17.
When a gamete without any fusion develop into a new organism the phenomenon is called ______. (MARCH-2016)
a) Syngamy
b) External fertilization
c) Parthenogenesis
d) Parthenocarpy
Answer:
c) Parthenogenesis

Question 18.
A unisexual flower having no androecium is called _____. (MARCH-2016)
a) Dithecous
b) Dioecious
c) Monoecious
d) Pistillate
Answer:
d) Pistillate

Question 19.
Select the one which is not helping vegetative propagation. (MAY-2016)
a) Bulb
b) Clone
c) Adventitious
d) Eyes of the potato
Answer:
b) Clone

Question 20.
The plant in which adventitious buds along the mar¬gin of leaves give rise to new plants is (MARCH-2017)
a) Water Hyacinth
b) Agave
c) Bryophyllum
d) Dahlia
Answer:
Bryophyllum

Question 21.
In flowering plants male flower is called ______ flower and female flower is known as _______ flower. (MAY-2017)
Answer:
Staminate
Pistillate

Students can Download Chapter 15 Kerala: Towards Modernity, Plus Two History Notes helps you to revise the complete Kerala State Syllabus and score more marks in your examinations.

Kerala Plus Two History Notes Chapter 15 Kerala: Towards Modernity (Economy, Society, and Polity)

In this chapter, we discuss the factors that led Kerala to modernity. The most important factor for the modernization of Kerala is the colonial intervention. Colonialism brought changes in the existing landowning system and system of laws. All this resulted in the development of the estate (plantation) economy, capital, investment, deposits, growth of new industries, and growth in travel and communication. This era witnessed the beginning of missionary education, the publication of dictionaries, the start of public education, the ban on slavery, movements for a democratic society, and the resistance to colonialism.

The national movements under the leadership of the Indian National Congress and Praja Mandal and the agricultural protests against feudal, colonial exploitation resulted in the formation of Kerala State. The 19th and 20th century Social Reform Movements and the formation of Malayali identity played a big role in leading Kerala to modernity. All these are stressed in this chapter.

In the first part of the 19th century, there was administrative stability in all three regions of Kerala. Western influence was most felt during this period. This influence positively helped in paving the base for modem Kerala. There were many reforms in the society initiated by the British as well as the rulers of Travancore and Kochi. Of course, behind the reforms brought by the British, there were colonial interests. Most of these reforms were brought with the intention of solidifying British rule in India. But they did bring changes in the attitude of Keralites and the circumstances prevailing here.

As the British established their authority here in Kerala, there were also strong resistance movements against them. Regional leaders and the people rose in revolt against British dominance. Pazhassiraja, Kurichiar, the Mappila farmers of Malabar, Veluthambi Dalava, Paliathachan, etc. were the leaders of these protests.

In the 19th century Kerala, there were many superstitions, evil practices, and social inequalities. The repressive administration by the feudal lords and the dominance by upper-caste Hindus made the life of the backward communities very painful and unbearable. Society had a lot of illegal and illogical practices in relation to menstruation, pregnancy, and death.

Many social evils and controls based on Caste existed in Kerala. Some sections of the society were denied even their essential fundamental rights. Human dignity did not mean anything to some people. Certain civil rights movements came up against such injustice. Some of them were very important.

The State Re-organization Committee under Sayyid Fasal Ali made the dream of a United Kerala a reality. The recommendation was to form Kerala State with Malabar, Kochi, and Travancore as its constituent regions. On 1 November 1956, Kerala officially became a reality.

Students can Download Chapter 14 Pre Modern Kerala, Plus Two History Notes helps you to revise the complete Kerala State Syllabus and score more marks in your examinations.

Kerala Plus Two History Notes Chapter 14 Pre Modern Kerala (Economy, Society, and Polity)

In this chapter, we talk about the historical changes that took place in Kerala from the early times to 1800 CE. This chapter is divided into 4: a. The EdVly Moopan rule and the different types of earning a livelihood, b. Unification of agricultural centers and the formation of a hierarchical society, c. The Rise of Makotha Perumals. d. The social, political, and economic activities from 1200 to 1800 CE.

The period 12 to 18th century was one of change and also continuity. Agricultural production, exchange, political structure, land ownership, land relations, tax system, etc. continued and at the same time changed gradually. This period witnessed the coming of the Europeans, the Mysore attack, and the establishment of British colonial rule.

“Sanketam” is another type of political power that existed in Kerala. The Sanketams of Brahmins and Temples were very famous. Sanketam is a semi-autonomous area. In this, there would be a Brahmin temple and around it some villages. Sanketams were of two kinds: a) Sanketams established by Brahmin landowners and b) Sanketams established by political authorities as symbols of dedication and; piety to Brahmins.

The first Europeans to come to Kerala were the Portuguese. In 1498, Vasco da Gama landed at Kappad in Kozhikode. This was the beginning of an eventful era. K.M. Panicker says that in Asian History it started an age called the Vasco da Gama Age. European Colonialism lasted in India for 5 centuries and it was started by the coming of the Portuguese.

In the 18th century, far-reaching economic and political changes took place in Travancore, Kochi, and Malabar. In 1792, Marthanda Varma came to power and from then there were changes in Travancore. He started a new era in the history of Travancore. He is considered the founder of modern Travancore. He brought drastic changes to the economic structure of Travancore.

With the establishment of British authority, a new era began in Kerala. It was an era of resistance against colonialism. In Malabar, this resistance movement was organized by Pazhassiraja and Kurichiars. In Travancore, it was Veluthampi Dalava and in Kochi Paliath Komi Achan led such resistance.

Students can Download Chapter 13 Understanding Partition, Plus Two History Notes helps you to revise the complete Kerala State Syllabus and score more marks in your examinations.

Kerala Plus Two History Notes Chapter 13 Understanding Partition (Politics, Memories, and Experiences)

On 15 August 1947, the British rule in India ended. India was divided into two sovereign nations-India and Pakistan. India witnessed some most tragic incidents as a result of the partition. The joy of freedom from colonial chains was extinguished by the cruelty and violence of the Partition. Thousands of people died. There were dramatic changes in the lives of people. Cities changed, India changed, a new nation was born. Mass murders and violence were everywhere. There was the flow of refugees and migrations.

This chapter deals with the history of Partition. It discusses why and how the Partition occurred. It also discusses the dreadful experiences of people during the 1946-50 period.

In the beginning, Congress was against Partition. But in March 1947, the Congress High Command agreed to divide Punjab into two – an area of Muslim majority and the other with Hindu/Sikh majority. By this time The Congress and Sikh leaders started seeing the partition of Punjab as a ‘necessary evil’. If there was no partition, the leaders thought, the Muslim majority would overshadow other communities. They were afraid they would have to obey the Muslim authorities.

The Congress thought in Bengal also such a partition was necessary. In Bengal, there was a section of Hindus known as ‘Bhadralok Bengali’. This section wanted to maintain its political power. Without partition, they would remain in the shadows of the Muslim majority.

Bhadralok was a minority in Bengal. They believed that only through partition they could maintain their political power.

Timeline

1930 – Urdu Poet Mohammed Iqbal presents the concept of a North-Western Indian Muslim Nation with autonomy within the Indian Federation.

1933 – Choudhary Rehmat Ali, a Punjabi student of Cambridge, proposes the name Pakistan for the proposed Muslim Nation.

1937-39 – In 7 out of the 11 Provinces of India, Congress Ministries come to power.

1940 – Muslim League passes a Resolution demanding self-rule in areas with Muslim majorities.

March-June 1946 – The Cabinet Mission visits India.

16 Aug. 1946 – To get Pakistan, Muslim League declares an agitation. Hindu-Muslim riots in Calcutta. Thousands are killed.

March 1947 – Congress agrees to divide Punjab into two on the basis of the majority population. One will be Muslim Majority and the other Hindu-Sikh majority. The same principle is used in Bengal. Britain is ready to leave India.

14-15 Aug. 1947 – India gets freedom. Pakistan is formed. To bring about peace Gandhi tours Noakhali (East Bengal)

Students can Download Chapter 12 Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement Civil Disobedience and Beyond, Plus Two History Notes helps you to revise the complete Kerala State Syllabus and score more marks in your examinations.

Kerala Plus Two History Notes Chapter 12 Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement Civil Disobedience and Beyond

This chapter discusses the activities of Gandhiji during the period 1915-1948. it also talks about the work he did among the various sections of the Indian society, it examines many democratic Movements for which he was the inspiration and also the leader. This chapter also talks about Gandhiji’s life, political activities, and the social movements related to his work.

The Champaran, Kheda, and Ahmedabad Satyagraha of Gandhi were a preparation for his entry into Indian National Movement. These activities helped him in understanding the problems of the people.

They helped Gandhi to have close contact with people. The sympathy he showed to the poor people helped him to get a place in their hearts.

The Non-Cooperation Movement was the first strong moment of Gandhi against the British. It was part of Gandhi’s concept of non-violence. In the beginning, he co-operated with the British. He believed in their sense of righteousness. He showed his loyalty to the British in the First World War by asking the Indians to join the British army. But some developments in 1919 made Gandhi change his attitude. The Rowlett Acts, Jaiian Wala Bagh tragedy, the Khilafat Movement, etc. were some of them. These incidents made his attitude towards British change and made him not to cooperate with them. They also prompted him to start the Non-Cooperation Movement.

By 1922, Gandhi was able to make Indian Nationalism a highly popular Movement. Until then it was a Movement of intellectuals and professionals. But soon, with the efforts of Gandhi, thousands of farmers, artisans, and workers joined the Movement. Many of them started calling Gandhi ‘Mahatma’ showing him their respect. He was not like other leaders who preferred to keep some distance from people. He sympathized with them and became one of them. He lived like them and dressed like them. He also spoke in their language.

After the stopping of the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji retired from active political life. Then he concentrated on social issues like the propagation of khadi and removal of untouchability. Bu 1928, he started thinking of re-entering political activities. That year two important things happened – a. The visit of the Simon Commission and b. the Bardoli Satyagraha.

In 1942, the then British PM, Winston Churchill, sent a Mission under one of his Cabinet Members, Sir Stafford Cripps, to make an agreement with Gandhi and the Congress.

The Cripps Mission failed. After that Gandhiji decided to start his third protest against the British. This is the Quit India Movement. It was started in August 1942.

On 30 January 1948, as Gandhiji was going to take part in a prayer meeting, Nathuram Godse shot and killed him. Godse was a Brahmin from Pune.

Timeline

1915 – Mahatma Gandhi returns to India from South Africa.

1917 – Champaran Movement

1918 – The Peasant Unrest in Kheda, The Labour Movement in Allahabad.

1919 – Rowlett Satyagraha (March-April) Julian Wala Bagh murder (April)

1921 – Non-Cooperation Movement and the Khilafat Movement.

1928 – Peasant Revolt in Bardot.

1929 – Congress’s Lahore Meeting; Poorna Swaraj is accepted as the aim.

1930 – Civil Disobedience Movement starts – Dandi March (March-April)

1931 – Gandhi Irwin Pact (March), II Round Table Conference.

1935 – India Government passes Laws-Some form of Representative Government is promised.

1939 – Congress Ministries resign.

1942 – Quit India Movement (August)

1946 – Gandhiji visits Noakhali and other areas to prevent religious strife.