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Unseen Passages for Class 8 CBSE With Questions and Answers PDF
Comprehension Passages for Class (Grade) 8 CBSE With Questions and Answers PDF
A. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Social networking implies the use of internet programs to make connections with friends, family, classmates, customers and clients. Social networking can occur for social or business purposes through sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. Social networks are as old as the internet technology that was first developed in the 1960s. After 2003, the social networks became very popular. Currently, internet users have more than two hundred social networks to choose from.
2. Social networking has many advantages. The biggest advantage is that you can stay in touch with your friends and family from all around the world. These social networks can be used to improve our social awareness. Students can explore topics that they are interested in by using online social networking. This can be done by interacting with people from different parts of the world. Teachers, students and professionals can also create discussion forums, or write blogs and posts to explore different and wide-ranging topics.
3. Social networking takes place online where people meet and share ideas and experiences. Many companies use social networks such as Twitter and Facebook to connect with customers and clients. This can create opportunities for relationship-building, brand-building, publicity and promotions.
4. However, there are several disadvantages of social networking sites as well. Cybercrime! and cyber bullying? have increased because it is hard to identify the offender and it is almost impossible to keep full-time surveillance in such a wide network. As people spend more time on social networking sites, they experience less face-to-face interaction which also makes them more dependent on devices. Addiction to online networking is yet another disadvantage. Fifty per cent of people between the age of 25 and 35 years admitted that they are so attached to social networks that they even use them during working hours.
A.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are the three chief uses of social networking?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking has many uses. It helps one stay in touch with their friends and family from all around the world. These social networks can also be used to improve our social awareness. Students can explore topics that they are interested in by using online social networking. This can be done by interacting with people from different parts of the world.
Question 2.
When did social networking take off?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking took off after 2003 even though it is as old as the internet technology that was first developed in the 1960s.
Question 3.
Write a statement from the passage that shows the growing popularity of the internet.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The following statement from the passage shows the growing popularity of the internet—internet users have more than two hundred social networks to choose from.
Question 4.
How does social networking impact learning?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking promotes learning. It helps people meet and share ideas and experiences. Teachers, students and professionals can also create discussion forums, or write blogs and posts to explore different and wide-ranging topics.
Question 5.
How do companies benefit from social networking?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Many companies benefit from social networking by using social networks such as Twitter and Facebook to connect with customers and prospective clients. This can create opportunities for relationship building, brand building, publicity and promotions.
Question 6.
How do social networking sites increase crime?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking increases cases of cybercrime and cyber bullying because it is hard to identify the offender and it is almost impossible to keep full-time surveillance in such a wide network.
Question 7.
What does social networking makes us dependent on?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
People spend more time on social networking sites, hence, they experience less face-to-face interaction which also makes them more dependent on devices.
Question 8.
What is meant by social networking addiction?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking addiction refers to spending most of one’s waking hours on social media sites instead of pursuing outdoor activities. In fact, fifty percent of people between the age of 25 and 35 years admitted that they are so attached to social networks that they even use them during office hours.
A.2. Pick antonyms of the words given below from the passage.
Question 1.
worsen (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
improve
Question 2.
narrow (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
wide-ranging
Question 3.
separate (para 3)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
connect
Question 4.
privacy (para 3)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
publicity
B. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Lifestyle diseases are the diseases associated with the way people lead their lives. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc. Across the world, about 14.2 million people between the ages of 30 and 69 years die prematurely each year from these diseases. Undoubtedly, urbanization and medical advancement have brought about tremendous improvements in healthcare and the general standards of living. But there have been many negative implications of the changed lifestyle behaviours as well. Dealing with day-to-day struggles, we often compromise on diet, exercise, rest and relaxation, making convenient but poor choices.
2. While the toll from infectious diseases like tuberculosis, influenza and smallpox has greatly reduced, lifestyle diseases such as depression, anxiety, psycho-emotional disturbances, unsocial responses, insomnia, eating disorders, drug addiction, cardiovascular diseases, gastric ulcers, obesity, early ageing, and cancer have seen a . dramatic rise. Consequently, these diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones.
3. Undoubtedly, technology has made our life simpler, but it has also caused a dramatic increase in pollution. This pollution of air, water, soil, noise and light has led to myriad problems. Noise pollution has led to an increase in neurotic problems, hypertension, ry problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer. Water pollution has led to various water-borne diseases such as allergies, cholera, gastroenteritis and jaundice. Unhealthy food and a lack of exercise are a risk factor for various diseases.
4. In order to lead a healthy life in the present times, we must reduce the consumption of fast food, soft drinks and excessive consumption of fat. These should be replaced with cereals, vegetables, pulses, rice and milk. Physical exercise should be a part of our daily routine. We must have pollution-free zones. Over and above, we must develop a positive attitude in life. This will help us relax. We can improve our lives by redu for these diseases including the type of work we do, environmental factors that affect our living conditions, work environment, the food we eat, our exercise habits and stress.
B.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are lifestyle diseases?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Lifestyle diseases are the diseases associated with the way people lead their lives. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc.
Question 2.
What is the alarming situation related to these diseases?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Across the world, about 14.2 million people between the ages of 30 and 69 years die prematurely each year from the lifestyle diseases. While deaths from infectious diseases have decreased, lifestyle diseases such as depression, anxiety, psycho- emotional disturbances, unsocial responses, insomnia, eating disorders, drug addiction, cardiovascular diseases, gastric ulcers, obesity, early ageing, and cancers have seen a dramatic rise. Consequently, these diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones. This is quite alarming.
Question 3.
What are the two factors that have positively impacted health?
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Answer:
Urbanization and medical advancement are the two factors that have positively impacted health and have brought about tremendous improvements in healthcare and the general standards of living.
Question 4.
Mention two disadvantages of modern lifestyle.
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Answer:
Modem lifestyle leads to a struggle to cope with the pressures of work and survival. We often compromise on diet, exercise, rest and relaxation, making convenient but poor choices. Unfortunately, lifestyle diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones.
Question 5.
What are the adverse effects of technology on our lives?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Technology has made our life simpler, but it has also caused a dramatic increase in pollution. This pollution of air, water, soil, noise and light has led to myriad problems. Noise pollution has led to the increase of neurotic problems, hypertension, circulatory problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer. Water pollution has led to various water borne diseases such as allergies, cholera, gastroenteritis and jaundice.
Question 6.
What has been the impact of noise pollution on us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Noise pollution has led to the increase of neurotic problems, hypertension, circulatory problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer.
Question 7.
Mention two healthy and two unhealthy food items.
…………………………………………………………………………..
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Answer:
Fast food and soft drinks are two examples of unhealthy food items, while cereals, vegetables, pulses, rice and milk are healthy food items.
Question 8.
How does a positive mindset affect us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
It is important to develop a positive attitude in life. A positive mindset helps us relax. This will help reduce lifestyle diseases.
B.2. Find words from the passage which are the synonyms of words given below.
Question 1.
ahead of time (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
prematurely
Question 2.
handy (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
convenient
Question 3.
genetic (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
hereditary
Question 4.
utilization (para 3)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
consumption
C. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Global warming is the term used to describe a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans. This causes a change in the Earth’s climate. Global warming occurs when carbon dioxide (CO,) and other air pollutants and greenhouse gasses collect in the atmosphere and absorb sunlight and solar radiation that have bounced off the Earth’s surface. Normally, this radiation would escape into space. But these pollutants, which can last for years even up to centuries in the atmosphere, trap the heat and make the planet warmer. This is known as the greenhouse effect.
2. Climatologists agree that the average temperature of the earth has risen between 0.4 and 0.8°C over the past 100 years. They feel that in the past 50 years, the average global temperature has increased at the fastest rate in recorded history. This is chiefly because the increased volumes of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released by the burning of fossil fuels, land clearing, agriculture and other human activities have been the chief causes of the global warming that has occurred over the decade. Scientists now predict that average global temperatures could increase between 1.4 and 5.8°C by the year 2100.
3. Global warming has many environmental, economic, and health consequences. It will be manifested in the melting of the polar ice caps, as well as an increase in the occurrence verity of storms and other severe weather events such as wildfires. Rising sea levels could lead to coastal flooding. Thus, there could be pests, heat waves, heavy downpours and increased flooding as a result of global warming. And these could damage or destroy agriculture and fishing industry. Disruption of habitats such as coral. reefs and the Alpine meadows could drive many plant and animal species to extinction. Allergies, asthma and infectious disease outbreaks will become more common due to higher levels of air pollution and the spread of conditions favourable to microorganisms and mosquitoes.
C.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What is global warming?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Global warming is the term used to describe a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans. This permanently changes the Earth’s climate.
Question 2.
What prevents radiations from escaping into space?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Carbon dioxide (C02) and other air pollutants and greenhouse gasses that collect in the atmosphere prevent radiations from escaping into space.
Question 3.
What is the greenhouse effect?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Pollutants such as carbon dioxide (C02) and greenhouse gasses collect in the atmosphere and absorb sunlight and solar radiation that have bounced off the Earth’s surface. These pollutants, which can last from years to centuries in the atmosphere, trap the heat and make the planet warmer. This is known as the greenhouse effect.
Question 4.
How is the climate changing at present?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The average temperature of the planet Earth has risen between 0.4 and 0.8 °C over the past 100 years. Climatologists feel that in the past 50 years, the average global temperature has increased at the fastest rate in recorded history. Scientists now predict that average global temperatures could increase between 1.4 and 5.8 °C by the year 2100.
Question 5.
Name some human activities that lead to global warming.
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Answer:
Human activities like burning of fossil fuels, land clearing and agriculture have led to global warming.
Question 6.
Mention two environmental effects of global warming.
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…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Global warming has tremendous environmental effects. It is manifested in the melting of the polar ice caps, as well as an increase in the occurrence and severity of storms and other severe weather events such as wildfires.
Question 7.
What is the economic impact of global warming?
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…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Rising sea level could cause floods, which will lead to the loss of life, livelihood and property. Global warming can also impact agriculture by increasing pests in the environment, thus affecting agriculture negatively.
Question 8.
How does global warming affect human health?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Rising sea levels resulting from global warming could lead to coastal flooding. There could be pests, heat waves, heavy downpours and increased flooding. And these could damage or destroy the agriculture and fishing industry. Disruption of habitats such as coral reefs and the Alpine meadows could drive many plant and animal species to extinction. Allergies, asthma and infectious disease outbreaks will become more common due to higher levels of air pollution and the spread of conditions favorable to micro-organisms and mosquitoes.
D. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The extinction of species, that is, our flora and fauna is nothing new for the planet, but the rate of extinction has increased at an alarming pace. Sadly, we have played a major role in the process. It has been estimated that some 50,000 plants and animal species will become extinct every year in the coming decades. The loss of insects and microorganisms, cannot be calculated. The destruction of our eco-system is so alarming that as many as 60,000 plant species are expected to be lost by the year 2025.
2. However, according to the Centre for Biological Diversity, ‘Unlike past mass extinctions caused by events like asteroid strikes, volcanic eruptions and natural climate shifts, the current crisis is almost entirely caused by us–humans. Ninety-nine per cent of currently threatened species are at risk from human activities, primarily those driving habitat loss, introduction of exotic species and global warming.’
3. The habitats are often destroyed because of destructive change to environments. These could either be attributed to natural phenomena such as floods, volcanoes and hurricanes or human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing land use for agriculture and artificial land drainage. Hunting and poaching of rare plants and animals is, a significant cause of extinction and represents a major or dominant factor in the decline of certain species. One such example of man’s callousness can be seen in the Nilgiris, once a peaceful haunt of a large herd of pachyderms, and which is now fast becoming a hunting ground. The forest areas of Gudlur and Mudumalai, which once resounded with elephants tramping in the undergrowth, are now witnessing the mindless slaughter of these gentle giants.
4. The introduction of plant and animal species that are not native to a given area may upset the balance of the local ecosystem. Pollution is yet another cause of extinction and may impact entire ecosystems. For example, the pesticide DDT had a catastrophic impact on our écology. The spread of disease may be both a natural and human factor behind the extinction of species.
D.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Why is the extinction of species a cause for alarm?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The species—our flora or fauna—is now getting extinct at an alarming rate because of humans. It has been estimated that some 50,000 plants and animal species will become extinct every year in the coming decades. The loss of insects and micro-organisms cannot be calculated. The destruction of our eco-system is so alarming that as many as 60,000 plant species are expected to be lost by the year 2025.
Question 2.
How did extinction take place earlier?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Extinction took place due to events like asteroid strikes, volcanic eruptions and natural climate shifts.
Question 3.
How is the next mass extinction likely to happen?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Mass extinction is likely to happen because of humans. Ninety-nine per cent of currently threatened species are at risk from human activities, primarily those driving habitat loss, introduction of exotic species and global warming.
Question 4.
What kinds of activities threaten species?
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…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing landuse for agriculture and artificial land drainage threaten species. Moreover, hunting and poaching of rare plants and animals is also a significant cause of extinction that may represent a major or dominant factor in the decline of certain species.
Question 5.
What are the two factors that can cause habitat loss?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The habitats are often destroyed because of destructive change to environments. These could either be attributed to natural phenomena such as floods, volcanoes, hurricanes, etc. or human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing land use for agriculture and artificial land drainage.
Question 6.
How is the poaching of animals affecting certain species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
As a result of animal poaching, certain animal species are on the verge of extinction.
Question 7.
How does the introduction of plant and animal species affect native species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The introduction of plant and animal species that are not native to a given area may upset the balance of the local ecosystem. Thus, it may affect native species.
Question 8.
What is the impact of pollution on species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Pollution is yet another cause of extinction and may impact entire ecosystems. For example, the pesticide DDT had a catastrophic impact on our ecology.
E. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. For the last many decades, people have been mystified about the presence of aliens. Efforts have been made to solve this puzzle because this will get us a step closer to discovering if Earth is the only planet to support life. If is difficult to know if extraterrestrials exist, unless they get in touch with us or we find some evidence of their existence. Scientists do not rule out the possibility of life in the form of bacteria or other microorganisms, rather than intelligent human beings. But the search continues.
2. NASA captured images of Mars and they revealed that the Red Planet is somewhat like Earth—it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history. Some stargazers claim to have seen aliens there. However, scientists do not support these claims. It is believed that Mars was frozen once upon a time-a few billion years ago. The surface of the planet melted, and this resulted in the creation of deep valleys and canyons on its surface.
3. Scientists believe that there could be bacteria on Mars that bear resemblance to the simple microbes that exist in the ice-bound lakes of Antarctica. Scientists believe like Earth, Mars too was struck by huge asteroids, sending fragments of both these planets into space. Scientists think that the discovery of life on Mars could help us understand how life first began on Earth.
4. Alfred McEwen, professor of Planetary Geology at the University of Arizona, said: the search for ancient life on Mars may really be the search for the origin of life on Earth’. The samples collected by NASA’s Mars Rovers have detected complex organic compounds on Mars. Professor McEwen feels life probably still survives there in pockets below the surface where it would be warmer and that the microbes were sheltered from cosmic radiation. This raises an interesting question-Did life originate on Earth and get transported to Mars or was it the other way round?
E.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Why has there been a mystery surrounding aliens?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
There has been a mystery surrounding aliens because no discovery has been made about their existence yet. People are curious to know how they look and what they are like.
Question 2.
Why have scientists been trying to solve the mystery?
…………………………………………………………………………..
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Answer:
Scientists have been trying to solve the mystery because this will get us a step closer to discovering if Earth is the only planet to support life.
Question 3.
Why is it difficult for scientists to know the truth?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
It is difficult for scientists to know the truth because they have been unable to find any substantial evidence of aliens’ existence.
Question 4.
What kind of life do scientists expect on other planets?
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Answer:
Scientists expect life in the form of bacteria or other micro-organisms on other planets.
Question 5.
Why is the possibility of life on Mars not ruled out?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The possibility of life has not been ruled out on Mars because the images of Mars that have been captured by NASA revealed that it is similar to the planet Earth; it also shows that it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history.
Question 6.
What are the indications of water on Mars?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
NASA-captured images of Mars revealed that it resembles our planet Earth and it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history. It is believed that Mars was frozen once upon a time—a few billion years ago. The surface of the planet melted due to warming, and this resulted in the creation of deep valleys and canyons on its surface. Scientists believe this to be the reason for water-carved features there.
Question 7.
What is the similarity that the scientists see between Earth and Mars?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Scientists believe that there could be a bacteria on Mars that bear resemblance to the simple microbes that exist in the ice-bound lakes of Antarctica. Scientists believe like Earth, Mars too was struck by huge asteroids, sending fragments of both these planets into space. Scientists think that the discovery of life on Mars could help us understand how life first began on Earth.
Question 8.
How will finding life on Mars help us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The search for ancient life on Mars may really be the search for the origin of life on Earth. The samples collected by the Mars Rovers of NASA have detected complex organic compounds on Mars. Professor McEwen feels life probably still survives there in pockets below the surface where it would be warmer and the microbes were sheltered from cosmic radiation.
E.2. Which words in the passage mean the following?
Question 1.
period of ten years (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
decade
Question 2.
not belonging to this planet (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
extraterrestrial
Question 3.
photographed (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
captured
Question 4.
proof (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
evidence
F. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The word “Paralympic’ derives from the Greek preposition ‘para’ that means beside or alongside, and the word ‘Olympic’. This suggests that Paralympics are the parallel Games to the Olympics and exist side-by-side. These sports for athletes with some impairment have existed for more than 100 years. The first sport clubs for the deaf existed in 1888 in Berlin, but sports were formally introduced after World War II for veterans and civilians who had been injured during wartime. In 1944, a British neurologist, Dr Ludwig Guttmann, suggested this as a rehabilitation sport. It later evolved to recreational sport and then to competitive sport. In July 1948, Dr Guttmann organized the first competition for wheelchair athletes. Paralympics Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 featuring 400 athletes from 23 countries. Since then they have taken place every four years.
2. Before Paralympics, differently-abled individuals with disability were as treated as ill. This gave the individuals with disabilities a feeling of inferiority, and it impacted the way they viewed their own roles in society, including their involvement in sports. But this is no longer true. Now these individuals participate in all levels of society, including sports. The focus is not on the athletes’ disabilities, but their abilities; instead of poring over their disability, it celebrates their extraordinary prowess. They are no longer pitied or ‘looked down upon’. Today these heroes of Paralympics are also admired by the society for their achievements
3. Paralympians now get the respect they deserve. However, the real progress will come when those with disabilities will not be seen as second-class citizens or as superhuman symbols of virtue. It will be when they shall be acceptable as everybody else and will get support when they need it.
F.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What does the term “Paralympics’ mean?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The word ‘Paralympic’ is derived from the Greek preposition ‘para’ that means beside or alongside, and the word ‘Olympic’. This suggests that Paralympics are the parallel Games to the Olympics and exist side-by-side.
Question 2.
Who participates in the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Athletes with some impairment participate in the Paralympics.
Question 3.
When was the first club for the physically impaired set up?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The first sport clubs for the physically impaired existed in 1888 in Berlin, but sports were formally introduced after World War II for veterans and civilians who had been injured during wartime.
Question 4.
Who was Dr Ludwig Guttmann?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Ludwig Guttmann was a British man who suggested sports for the physically impaired as a way of their rehabilitation. Ludwig Guttmann organized the first competition for wheelchair athletes in July 1948. It is because of him that the Paralympics Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 featuring 400 athletes from 23 countries. Since then they have taken place every four years.
Question 5.
What is Dr Guttmann’s contribution to the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Before Paralympics, differently-abled individuals with disability were as treated as ill. This gave the individuals with disabilities a feeling of inferiority, and it impacted the way they viewed their own roles in society, including their involvement in sports.
Question 6.
How were differently-abled individuals treated before the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Question 7.
How have the Paralympics helped these individuals?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The focus of Paralympics is not on the athletes’ disabilities, but their abilities; instead of poring over their disability, it celebrates their extraordinary prowess. They are no longer pitied or ‘looked down upon’. Today these heroes of Paralympics are also admired by the society for their achievements. Paralympians now get the respect they deserve.
Question 8.
What will be the real victory for the Paralympians?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The real victory will come when those with disabilities will not be seen as second-class citizens or as superhuman symbols of virtue. It will be when they shall be acceptable as everybody else and will get support when they need it.
G. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems. These are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Tens of thousands of marine species live there. These include about one-third of all marine fish species. Coral reefs not only add incredible value as wildlife habitat, but also protect coastlines from storms and provide jobs worth billions to people around the world.
2. Corals are ancient animals related to jellyfish. An individual coral is known as a polyp, a. very small and simple organism. It has a tentacle-bearing mouth. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony. Each polyp excretes calcium carbonate and over long periods of time; many coral colonies add up to the structure of a coral reef. Many other species—fish, invertebrates, algae and microorganisms-make their homes on and around this reef. Reefs only occur in shallow areas that get sunlight. However, some coral reefs extend even deeper, up to about 450 feet deep. These reef-building corals are animals that act like plants. They stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun. In India, coral reefs are located in Lakshadweep, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Marwar.
3. Coral reefs are one of the most sensitive ecosystems, and a large number of reefs are on the brink of extinction. The major factor for the destruction of coral reefs is global warming due to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Studies have shown that even one degree Celcius rise above normal temperature can result in a large-scale destruction. Besides this, water pollution, destructive fishing practices, oil spills and tourism activities also play an important part in destroying corals.
4. Coral reefs are of immense value, but their entire presence in the world adds up to less than one per cent of the sea floor.
G.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are coral reefs?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems. These are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Tens of thousands of marine species live there.
Question 2.
How are these built?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Coral reefs are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony. Each polyp excretes calcium carbonate and over long periods of time, many coral colonies add up to the structure of a coral reef. Many other species—fish, invertebrates, algae and microorganisms—make their homes on and around this reef.
Question 3.
Why are they very rich in marine life?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Coral reefs are rich in marine life because different kinds of species make their homes around it.
Question 4.
What are polyps?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
An individual coral is known as a polyp, which is a very small and simple organism. It has a tentacle-bearing mouth. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony.
Question 5.
Why do reefs generally exist in shallow areas?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Reefs mostly occur in shallow areas because these areas get sunlight. Corals stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun.
Question 6.
How are reef-building corals similar to plants?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Reef-building corals are animals that act like plants. They stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun, just like plants.
Question 7.
Why are coral reefs on the verge of extinction? Give two reasons.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Coral reefs are one of the most sensitive ecosystems, and a large number of reefs are on the brink of extinction. The major factor for the destruction of coral reefs is global warming due to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Studies have shown that even one degree Celcius rise above normal temperature can result in a large-scale destruction. Besides this, water pollution, destructive fishing practices, oil spills, tourism activities and collection of rare species also play an important part in destroying corals.
Question 8.
How does water pollution affect coral reefs?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Destructive fishing practices and oil spills affect coral reefs as these are sensitive ecosystems.
H. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines music as ‘the art of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony and expression of emotion’. It is a form of art wherein different sounds are merged together to create a pleasing sound. The word “music’ comes from the Greek word ‘mousike’, which means ‘art of the Muses’. In ancient Greece, the Muses included the goddesses of music, poetry, art and dance. Music is not only for entertainment. It touches the soul and thus is capable of breaking boundaries to unite people from different backgrounds and cultural heritage. It dissolves the physical boundaries of the nations. It removes the barriers of age and language, and speaks to us all. Thus, it is the singular greatest force that is capable of binding people in brotherhood, love as well as peace.
2. Legends talk about the magical power of music. Orpheus, a legendary Greek master musician and lyre-player, had the ability to charm all living things and even stones with his music. Tansen and Baiju Bawra could light lamps, melt stones, blossom flowers in autumn, and make it rain just by the precise use of the accurate tune. The importance of music is felt even more in today’s stress-riddled life. Music soothes the nerves and helps us relax. Melody has the power to cure mental or physical exhaustion. It has been proved that music has miraculous powers to treat anxiety and depression. It is also known to cure insomnia. Music also helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore.
3. Music is known to help children develop linguistic skills. They are fascinated with the tone and try to repeat and figure out the meaning. Children should be introduced to the basics concepts of music in school at an early age and if they show any inclination towards it, they will have ample time to pursue it.
4. Music is also the best expression of emotions. One can express anger, love, passion, joy and other kinds of feelings simply through music. It has the ability to convey what words cannot. This is why accomplished musicians are held in very high esteem and most coveted awards have been conferred upon them.
H.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
How do you define music?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Music is defined as ‘the art of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion’. It is a form of art wherein different sounds are merged together to create a pleasing sound.
Question 2.
Where does music get its name from?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The word ‘music’ comes from the Greek word ‘mousike’, which means ‘art of the Muses’.
Question 3.
Why is music an important part of our lives?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Music is an important part of our lives because it touches the soul and thus is capable of breaking boundaries to unite people from different backgrounds and cultural heritage. It dissolves the physical boundaries of the nations. It removes the barriers of age and language and speaks to us all. Thus, it is the singular greatest force that is capable of binding people in brotherhood, love as well as peace.
Question 4.
How did Orpheus create magic with his music?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Orpheus, a legendary Greek master-musician and lyre-player, had the ability to charm all living things and even stones with his music. Thus, he could create magic with his music.
Question 5.
Mention two legendary Indian musicians. What could they accomplish with their music?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Tansen and Baiju Bawra could light lamps, melt stones, blossom flowers in autumn, make it rain just by the accurate use of the accurate tune.
Question 6.
How does music benefit children?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Music is known to help children develop linguistic skills. They are fascinated with the tone and try to repeat and figure out the meaning. Children should be introduced to the basics concepts of music in school at an early age and if they show any inclination towards it, they will have ample time to pursue it.
Question 7.
How is music’ an expression of our emotions?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Music soothes the nerves and helps us relax. Melody has the power to cure mental or physical exhaustion. It has been proved that music has miraculous powers to treat anxiety and depression. It is also known to cure insomnia. Music also helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore. One can express anger, love, passion, joy and other kinds of feelings simply through music. Music is thus accepted as an expression of emotions.
Question 8.
Why are musicians held in great esteem in our society?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Music helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore. It has the ability to convey what words cannot. Tfeis is why accomplished musicians are held in very high esteem and most coveted awards have been conferred upon them.
H.2. Which words in the passage mean the following?
Question 1.
synchronization (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
harmony
Question 2.
limits (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
barriers
Question 3.
folklore (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
legends
Question 4.
calms (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
soothes
I. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The indigenous cultures of Australia were the oldest living cultural history in the world. The Aboriginal cultures survived for more than 50,000 years chiefly because of their ability to adapt. However, they kept their cultural heritage alive by passing their knowledge, arts, rituals and performances from one generation to another.
2. These Aboriginals were semi-nomadic hunters and gatherers. Each clan had its own territory or ‘traditional lands’. These lands were demarcated by rivers, lakes and mountains. They understood and cared for their different environments, and adapted to them.
3. There were about 600 different clans with distinctive cultures and beliefs. Their “traditional lands’ were very different. They could be fertile lands, lush woodland areas or harsh desert areas. Consequently, they developed different skills and took on responsibilities that suited that particular environment.
4. The tools also varied according to the geographical terrain. For example, coastal tribes used fishbone to tip their weapons, whereas desert tribes used stone tips. All Aboriginal people had knives, scrapers, axe-heads, spears, various vessels for eating and drinking, and digging sticks. These people were the first to use stone tools and to prepare animal skins. Land was sacred for them.
5. Art, music, song and dance had been an important part of Aboriginal life and customs. They excelled in song, dance, body decoration, sculpture and painting. They sang and danced at large ceremonial gatherings when there was plenty of food. The emergence of ‘dot’ paintings by these people in the early 1970s has been called the greatest art movement of the twentieth century. This can be seen in the Papunya Tula art. At present, their art is drawn on paper, canvas, fibre and glass. It reflects customary patterns as well as their history.
6. Aboriginal tourism has only recently emerged as an industry to promote aboriginal culture and lifestyle. The experiences range from organized tours to dance performances, the purchase of traditional Aboriginal artefacts and an opportunity to stay on Aboriginal land to experience the daily lives of the Aboriginal people. This provides them with an economic base and also ensures that the Aboriginal heritage is sustained.
I.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What was the main reason for the survival of the Aboriginal culture?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The Aboriginal cultures have survived for more than 50,000 years chiefly because of their ability to adapt. However, they keep their cultural heritage alive by passing their knowledge, arts, rituals and performances from one generation to another.
Question 2.
What were the main professions of the Aboriginal tribes?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
These Aboriginals were semi-nomadic hunters and gatherers. Each clan had its own territory or ‘traditional lands’. These lands were demarcated by rivers, lakes and mountains. They understood and cared for their different environments, and adapted to them.
Question 3.
How did topographic variation impact the Aboriginal tribes?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
There were about 600 different clans in the Aboriginal tribes with distinctive cultures and beliefs. Their ‘traditional lands’ were very different. They could be fertile lands, lush woodland areas or harsh desert areas. Consequently, they developed different skills and took on responsibilities that suited that particular environment.
Question 4.
What was the variation in tools seen among the different tribes?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The tools used by the Aboriginals varied according to the geographical terrain. For example, coastal tribes used fishbone to tip their weapons, whereas desert tribes used stone tips. All Aboriginal people had knives, scrapers, axe-heads, spears, various vessels for eating and drinking, and digging sticks. These people were the first to use stone tools and to prepare animal skins.
Question 5.
How did the Aboriginal tribes express their art?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Art has always been an important part of Aboriginal life and customs. They excelled in body decoration, sculpture and painting. The emergence of ‘dot’ paintings by these people in the early 1970s has been called the greatest art movement of the twentieth century. This can be seen in the Papunya Tula art. At present, their art is drawn on paper, canvas, fibre and glass. It reflects customary patterns as well as their history.
Question 6.
Who is an Aboriginal?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
An Aboriginal is a member of the indigenous cultures of Australia which are the oldest living cultural history in the world.
Question 7.
What do the tourists experience with the Aboriginal tribes?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Aboriginal tourism has only recently emerged as an industry to promote aboriginal culture and lifestyle. The experiences range from organized tours to dance performances, the purchase of traditional Aboriginal artefacts and an opportunity to stay on Aboriginal land to experience the daily lives of the Aboriginal people.
Question 8.
How does tourism help the Aboriginal tribes?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Tourism provides them with an economic base and also ensures that the Aboriginal heritage is sustained.
I.2. Pick the antonyms of the following words from the passage.
Question 1.
perished (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
survived
Question 2.
inability (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
ability
Question 3.
united (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
demarcated
Question 4.
similar (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
different
J. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Among the most oft-repeated words in our daily lives is ‘thank you’. However, mechanical repetition of these words has robbed it of its essence—the heartfelt gratitude that the words seek to express. True thanksgiving goes deeper than mere words. It arises out of appreciation and gratitude—sometimes even for the gift of life out of a sense of wonder and humility, acknowledgement and submission.
2. Most of us can narrate a number of incidents when these words are uttered distantly and impassively. But very few would be able to recount even a single incident in the recent past when warm and heartfelt gratitude was either given or received. These golden words seem to have lost their true purpose and meaning in the hurly-burly of our busy schedules, leaving us with little time to think deeply or even from the heart.
3. Gratitude is more than just another emotion or expression of humility. It is an attitude, a way of life, even a gateway to a happy, positive and reassured life. Incredible as it might seem, this simple emotion has the potential to release positive forces like love, hope, compassion, humility, joy, reassurance and faith in an individual’s life. In the material world, gratitude is like a smile. If sincere, it transmits immense joy to both the giver and receiver. A heartfelt ‘thank you’can introduce joy and happiness even in those domains where there is a very practical exchange of money and services.
J.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Which words are very often repeated?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
An oft-repeated words in our daily lives are ‘thank you’ and ‘welcome’.
Question 2.
If these words are used mechanically, what do they not convey?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
If these words are used mechanically, they do not convey the heartfelt gratitude that the words seek to express. True thanks giving goes deeper than mere words; it arises out of appreciation and gratitude—sometimes even for the gift of life—out of a sense of wonder and humility, acknowledgment and submission.
Question 3.
What are the golden words? Why does the author say that they have lost their true meaning and purpose?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The golden words are words of thankfulness and appreciation. The author says that they have lost their true meaning and purpose in the hurly-burly of our busy schedules, leaving us with little time to think deeply or even from the heart.
Question 4.
a. Which emotion releases positive feelings?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
a. Gratitude and humility release positive feelings.
b. What are these positive forces?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
b. These positive forces are love, hope, compassion, humility, joy, reassurance, and faith in an individual’s life.
Question 5.
What is the effect of a heartfelt “thank you’?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
If sincere, a heartfelt ‘thank you’ transmits immense joy to both the giver and receiver. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ can introduce joy and happiness even in those domains where there is a very practical exchange of money and services.
J.2. Give words from the passage that are antonyms of words given below.
Question 1.
discontinuous (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
oft-repeated
Question 2.
thanklessness (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
thanksgiving
Question 3.
arrogance (para 2)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
humility
Question 4.
uncertainty (para 3)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
reassurance