TS 9th Class English Important Questions 2nd lesson Games and Sports

These TS 9th Class English Important Questions 2nd lesson Games and Sports will help the students to improve their time and approach.

TS 9th Class English 2nd Lesson Questions and Answers Telangana – Games and Sports

Section – A: Reading Comprehension

Questions : 1 – 7, Marks : 10

A. Reading

Passage No. 1

Read the following passage.

His palms were sweating. He needed a towel to dry his grip. A glass of ice water quenched his thirst but hardly cooled his intensity. The astroturf he sat on was as hot as the competition he faced today at the National Junior Olympics. The pole was set at 17 feet.That was three inches higher than his personal best. Michael Stone confronted the most challenging day of his pole-vaulting career. The stands were still filled with about twenty thousand people, even though the final race had ended an hour earlier.

The pole vault is truly the glamourous event of any track and field competition. The sportsman combines the grace of a gymnast with the strength of a bodybuilder. Pole-vaulting also has the element of flying, and the thought of flying as high as a two-storeyed building is a mere fantasy to anyone watching such an event. Today it is not only Michael Stone’s reality and dream – it is his quest.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (4 × 1 = 4M)

Question 1.
What was the personal best of Michael ?
A) 17 feet
B) 16 feet
C) 18 feet
D) 16 feet 9 inches
Answer:
D) 16 feet 9 inches

Question 2.
Why didn’t a glass of water cool his intensity ?
A) because it was a sunny day
B) because he was facing a competition at the National Junior Olympics
C) because the pole was set at 17 feet
D) because it was a glamorous event
Answer:
B) because he was facing a competition at the National Junior Olympics

Question 3.
Pick out the word which means ‘a type of artificial grass surface, used especially for sports grounds’.
A) intensity
B) confront
C) astroturf
D) fantasy
Answer:
C) astroturf

Question 4.
The astroturf he sat on was as hot as __________
A) the pole.
B) the sun.
C) the competition he faced that day.
D) the track.
Answer:
C) the competition he faced that day.

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3 × 2 = 6M)

Question 5.
What type of combination do you find in a sportsman ?
Answer:
The sportsman combines the grace of a gymnast with the strength of a bodybuilder.

Question 6.
What is a mere fantasy to anyone who watch pole-vaulting ?
Answer:
The thought of flying as high as a two storeyed-building is a mere fantasy to anyone watching such an event.

Question 7.
What was Michael Stone’s dream ?
Answer:
Michael Stone’s dream was to become a champion in pole-vaulting.

Passage No. 2:

Read the following passage.

As long as Michael could remember, he had always dreamed of flying. Michael’s mother read him numerous stories about flying when he was growing up. Her stories were always the ones that described the land from a bird’s-eye view. Her excitement and passion for details made Michael’s dreams full of colour and beauty. Michael had this one recurring dream. He would be running down a country road. He could feel the rocks and chunks of dirt at his feet. As he raced down the golden-lined wheat fields, he would always outrun the locomotives passing by. He would begin soaring like an eagle.

Where he flew would always coincide with his mother’s stories. His dad, on the ‘ other hand, was not a dreamer. Bert Stone was a hard-core realist. He believed in hard work, and sweat. His motto: If you want something, work for it!

From the age of fourteen, Michael did just that. He began a very careful and regimented weightlifting programme. He worked out every other day with weights, with some kind of running work on alternate days. The programme was carefully monitored by Michael’s coach, trainer and father. Michael’s dedication, determination and discipline was a coach’s dream. Besides being an honest student, Michael Stone continued to help his parents with their farm chores. Michael’s persistence in striving for perfection was not only his obsession but his passion.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (4 × 1 = 4M)

Question 1.
Michael had always dreamed of flying __________.
A) because he read numerous stories.
B) because he read numerous stories about flying.
C) because his mother read numerous stories.
D) because his mother read him numerous stories about flying.
Answer:
D) because his mother read him numerous stories about flying.

Question 2.
What do you understand from the line “Her excitement and passion for details made Michale’s dreams full of colour and beauty.” ?
A) Michael had always dreamed of flying.
B) Michael was influenced by his mother’s stories in achieving his dream.
C) Michael was excited about flying high.
D) Michael’s mother was a good story teller.
Answer:
B) Michael was influenced by his mother’s stories in achieving his dream.

Question 3.
What did Michael’s father wish Michael to do ?
A) hard work
B) no work
C) have discipline
D) have indiscipline
Answer:
A) hard work

Question 4.
“If you want something, work for it ” Who does ‘you’ refer to ?
A) Michael Stone
B) Michael Stone’s father
C) Michael Stone’s mother
D) Michael Stone’s coach
Answer:
A) Michael Stone

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3 × 2 = 6M)

Question 5.
What is the motto of Michael Stone’s father ?
Answer:
The motto of Michael’s father is : “If you want something, work for it!”

Question 6.
Why do you think Michael’s mother read him numerous stories about flying ?
Answer:
Michael’s mother had much excitement and passion for flying. Hence she read him numerous stories about flying.

Question 7.
What impact did the mother’s stories have on Michael ?
Answer:
Michael’s mother’s stories had a great impact on Michael since his childhood. She told him a number of stories about flying as he was growing up. She described the land from a bird’s- eye view. Her excitement and passion for details made Michael’s dreams full of colour and beauty. He developed passion and love for flying.

Passage No. 3:

Read the following passage.

Mildred Stone, Michael’s mother, wished that he could relax a bit more and be that ‘free dreaming’ little boy. On one occasion she attempted to talk to him and his father about this, but his dad quickly interrupted, smiled and said, “You want something, work for it!”

All of Michael’s vaults today seemed to be the reward for his hard work. If Michael Stone was surprised, thrilled or arrogant about clearing the bar at 17 feet, you couldn’t tell. As soon as he landed on the inflated landing mat, and with the crowd on its feet, Michaeli mmediately began preparing for his next attempt at flight. He seemed oblivious of the fact that he had just surpassed his personal best by three inches and that he was one of the final two competitors in the pole-vaulting event at the National Junior Olympics.

Michael cleared the bar at 17 feet and 2 inches and 17 feet 4 inches; again he showed no emotion. Constant preparation and determination were his vision. As he lay on his back and heard the crowd groan, he knew the other vaulter had missed his final jump. He knew it was time for his final jump. Since the other vaulter had
fewer misses, Michael needed to clear this vault to win. A miss would get him second place. Nothing to be ashamed of, but Michael would not allow himself the thought of not winning first place.

He rolled over and did his ritual of three finger-tipped push-ups. He found his pole, stood and stepped on the runway that led to the most challenging event of his seventeen-year-old life.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (4 × 1 = 4M)

Question 1.
What was the wish of Michael’s mother ?
A) that he could work hard
B) that he could give up pole-vaulting
C) that he could relax a bit more and be that free-dreaming little boy,
D) he could be an honest student
Answer:

Question 2.
What was the reward for Michael’s hard work ?
A) All of Michael’s valults today.
B) He was one of the final two competitors in the pole-vaulting event.
C) He had missed his final jump.
D) He began preparing for this next attempt.
Answer:
A) All of Michael’s valults today.

Question 3.
Michael was not aware of the fact
A) that he had just surpassed his personal best by three inches.
B) that he was one of the final two competitors in the pole-vaulting event at the National Junior Olympics.
C) that he had cleared the bar at 17 feet and 2 inches and 17 feet 4 inches.
D) A and B
Answer:
D) A and B

Question 4.
What was nothing to be ashamed of ?
A) getting second place at the National Junior Olympics
B) getting first place at the National Junior Olympics
C) getting third place at the National Junior Olympics
D) he had just overcome his personal best by three inches
Answer:
A) getting second place at the National Junior Olympics

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3 × 2 = 6M)

Question 5.
Why did Michael’s father quickly interrupt his mother ?
Answer:
He quickly interrupted his wife so that his son, Michael would not deviate from his goal.

Question 6.
What type of emotions couldn’t you guess when he cleared the bar at 17 feet ? Why?
Answer:
I couldn’t guess whether he was surprised, thrilled or arrogant about clearing the bar at 17 feet because he showed no emotion.

Question 7.
How did Michael know the other vaulter had missed his final jump ?
Answer:
He knew the other vaulter had missed his final jump by hearing the groaning of the crowd.

Passage No. 4:

Read the following passage.

The runway felt different this time. It startled him for a brief moment. Then it all hit him like a wet bale of hay. The bar was set at nine inches higher than his personal best.“That’s only one inch off the National record,” he thought. The intensity of the moment filled his mind with anxiety. He began shaking off the tension from his body. It wasn’t working. He became more tense. “Why is this happening to me now?” he thought. He began to get nervous.

Fear would be a more accurate description. What was he going to do? He had never experienced these feelings. Then out of nowhere, and from the deepest depths of his souls, he envisioned his mother. Why now? What was his mother doing in his thoughts at a time like this? It was simple. His mother always used to tell him whenever he felt tense, anxious or even scared, to take deep breaths.

So he did. Along with shaking the tension from legs, he gently laid his pole at his feet. He began to stretch out his arm and upper body. The light breeze that was once there was now gone. He could feel a trickle of cold sweat running down his . back. He carefully picked up his pole. He felt his heart pounding. He was sure the crowd did, too. The silence was deafening. When he heard the singing of some distant robins in flight, he knew it was his time to fly.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (4 × 1 = 4M)

Question 1.
What confused Michael for a short period ?
A) runway
B) the bar
C) tension
D) anxiety
Answer:

Question 2.
‘Then it all hit him like a wet bale of hay.’ What do you understand from this line ?
A) The intensity of the moment filled his mind with anxiety.
B) The intensity of the moment filled his mind with glandness.
C) The intensity of the moment filled his mind with curiosity.
D) He began relaxing off.
Answer:
A) The intensity of the moment filled his mind with anxiety.

Question 3.
What happened to Michael when he was on the runway ?
A) He began shaking off the tension from his body.
B) He became more tense.
C) He began to get nervous.
D) All the above
Answer:
D) All the above

Question 4.
How did he know it was his time to fly ?
A) by hearing the singing of some distant robins in flight
B) by hearing a whistle from the organizer
C) by hearing the groaning of the crowd
D) by hearing the singing of some distant mynahs in flight
Answer:
A) by hearing the singing of some distant robins in flight

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3 × 2 = 6M)

Question 5.
What was Michael’s personal best and what was the National record ?
Answer:
Michael’s personal best was 16 feet 9 inches. The National record was 17 feet 6 1/2 inches.

Question 6.
Why did Michael envision his mother when he felt nervous in his fipal jump ?
Answer:
He envisioned his mother because she always used to tell him whenever he felt tense, anxious or even scared, to take deep breaths.

Question .
Why did Michael experience anxiety, tension, nervousness and fear ? How did he overcome those emotions ? Is it usual or- unusual ? Justify your statement.
Answer:
He experienced anxiety, tension, nervousness because he was attempting his final jump at the National Junior Olympics. He overcame the tension by taking deep breaths. It is usual because anyone would feel the same emotions as it was the deciding event.

Passage No. 5:

Read the following passage.

As he began sprinting down the runway, something felt wonderfully different, yet familiar. The surface below him felt like the cduntry road he used to dream about. The rocks and chunks of dirt, the visions of the golden wheat fields seemed to fill his thoughts. When he took a deep breath, it happened. He began to fly. His take-off was effortless.

Michael Stone was flying, just as in his childhood dreams. Only this time he knew he wasn’t dreaming. This was real. Everything seemed to be moving in slow motion. The air around him was the purest and freshest he had ever sensed. Michael was soaring with the majesty of an eagle.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in ypur answer booklet. (4 × 1 = 4M)

Question 1.
How did Michael feel when he began sprinting down the runway ? ( D)
A) amazing
B) wonderful
C) terrified
D) wonderfully different, yet familiar
Answer:
B) wonderful

Question 2.
When did he become tension free ?
A) when he gegan to fly
B) when he ran on the runway
C) when he took a deep breath
D) when he began take-off
Answer:
C) when he took a deep breath

Question 3.
How did Michael fly ?
A) just as in his childhood dreams
B) just as in his mother’s stories
C) just as in his father’s stories
D) in a slow motion
Answer:
A) just as in his childhood dreams

Question 4.
How was Michael soaring ?
A) with the majesty of an eagle
B) with the majesty of a vulture
C) with the majesty of a hawk
D) with the majesty of a parrot
Answer:
A) with the majesty of an eagle

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3×2 = 6M)

Question 5.
How did Michael feel the surface ?
Answer:
He felt the surface like the country road he used to dream about.

Question 6.
Describe his vision.
Answer:
The rocks and chunks of dirt, the visions of golden wheat fields fill his thoughts.

Question 7.
How can you say that Michael was not dreaming ?
Answer:
It was rfeal because everything was moving in slow motion. The air around him was the purest and freshest he had ever sensed.

Passage No. 6:

Read the following passage.

It was either the eruption of the people in the stands or the thump of his landing that brought Michael back to earth. On his back with that wonderful hot sun on his face, he could only envision the smile on his mother’s face. He knew his dad was probably smiling too, even laughing. Bert would always do that when he got excited, smile and then sort of giggle. What he didn’t know was that his dad was hugging his wife and crying. He was crying harder than Mildred had ever seen before. She also knew he was crying the greatest tears of all: tears of pride.

Michael was immediately swarmed with people hugging and congratulating him on the greatest accomplishment of his life. He later went on that day to clear 17 feet 61/2 inches – a National and International Junior Olympics record.

With all the media attention and heartfelt congratulations; Michael’s life would never be the same. It wasn’t just because he won the National Junior Olympics and set a new world record. And it wasn’t because he had just increased his personal best by Wi inches. It was simply because… Michael Stone was blind.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (4 × 1= 4M)

Question 1.
What was the greatest accomplishment of Michael’s life ?
A) He participated in Olympics.
B) He won the National Junior Olympics and set a new world record.
C) He had just increased his personal best by 9 1/2 inches.
D) He got heartfelt congratulations from all the media.
Answer:
B) He won the National Junior Olympics and set a new world record.

Question 2.
How was Michael brought back to earth ?
A) It was the eruption of the people in the stands
B) It was the thump of his landing
C) It was either the eruption of the people in the stands or the thump of his landing
D) The wonderful hot sun on his face
Answer:
C) It was either the eruption of the people in the stands or the thump of his landing

Question 3.
Though the sun was very hot, what did Michael imagine ?
A) The smile on his mother’s face
B) The giggle of his father
C) A & B
D) The greates tears of pride in his parents
Answer:
C) A & B

Question 4.
What was so special about Michael’s achievement ?
A) He was blind.
B) He was deaf.
C) He was dumb.
D) He was lame.
Answer:
A) He was blind.

Answer the following questions in two or three sentences each. (3 × 2 = 6M)

Question 5.
What did Michael’s father do instead of giggling ?
Answer:
Michael’s father was crying harder than Mildred had ever seen before.

Question 6.
What appreciation did Michael get for his greatest achievement in his life ?
Answer:
Michael was swarmed with people hugging and congratulating him.

Question 7.
How much had Michael increased his personal best ?
Answer:
He had increased his personal best by 9 1/2 inches.

B. Reading:

Questions : (8 -12), Marks : 5

1. Read the following stanzas.

A player is one, who doesn’t give up at the sight of defeat,
But learns from their mistakes and puts them beneath.
A player is one who doesn’t give up at the sound of the buzzer, Always giving what they have from one side of the court to the other. A player is one who doesn’t whine about their playing time, Because a player knows it’s an unacceptable crime.
A player is one who practices game-speed,
Always keeping in mind that their shots are not guaranteed.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
Who is the poet?
A) Jessica Taylor
B) Edward Lear
C) Rabindranath Tagore
D) Sarojini Naidu
Answer:
A) Jessica Taylor

Question 9.
When doesn’t a player give up?
A) when he faced defeat
B) when he faced troubles
C) when he heard the sound of the buzzer
D) when he gave what he had to the other
Answer:
A) when he faced defeat

Question 10.
‘Whine’ means
A) crime
B) complain
C) leave
D) consider
Answer:
B) complain

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.

Question 11.
What does a player put beneath?
Answer:
Mistakes

Question 12.
What, according to the poet, is an unacceptable crime of a player?
Answer:
Complaining about playing time is an unacceptable crime of a player.

2. Read the following stanza.

A player is one who ‘doesn’t settle for anything less, Even knowing, that they’re not the best.
They will be the ones you see outside practising,
Day or night, rain or shine,
They are the ones running on hurt ankles, admitting they’re fine.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
Mention any one of don’ts for a true player with reference to the given stanza.
A) regular practice
B) learn from mistakes
C) settle for less
D) admit to be fine even when hurt
Answer:
C) settle for less

Question 9.
What does a true player do though he knows that he is not the best ?
A) settles for anything less
B) doesn’t settle for anything less
C) does regular practice
D) develops sensible mind
Answer:
B) doesn’t settle for anything less

Question 10.
Where do you see a true player ?
A) outside practising
B) inside practising
C) give up practising
D) on a rainy day
Answer:
A) outside practising

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
Where and when does a true player practise ?
Answer:
They practise outside, day or night, rain or shine.

Question 12.
What do the true players admit when they are hurt ?
Answer:
Though they are hurt they admit that they are fine.

3. Read the following stanza.

A player is one, who has a strong, sensible mind,
Never pondering about failing, only contemplating prevailing.
A player is one who doesn’t chicken out,
Who wants to be in the game when everything counts
Now, that is a true player.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
‘Pondering’ means
A) leave
B) complain
C) thinking about something carefully for a period of time
D) considering about
Answer:
C) thinking about something carefully for a period of time

Question 9.
What type of mind must a player have ?
A) sensible
B) sensitive
C) powerful
D) determined
Answer:
A) sensible

Question 10.
What does the phrase ‘chicken out’ mean ?
A) decide not to play because of fear
B) overcome the fear
C) drop out due to fear
D) play nicely
Answer:
A) decide not to play because of fear

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
What are the qualities of a true player ?
Answer:
A true player has a strong, sensible mind. A true player never fears about success or failure.

Question 12.
Which game do you like the most ? Which qualities of a true player do you have ?
Answer:
I like cricket the most. I usually never give up at the sight of defeat. I learn from mistakes. I have no fear about success or failure.

C. Reading: Marks : 5

Passage No. 1:

Read the following passage.

It has been wonderful. I was lucky that the Hyderabad Cricket Association promoted me and Zaki (Syed Moinuddin Zaki) from the under-16 level itself. They made us play in the under-19 grade the same year. It was a huge leap for us and very encouraging. Fortunately, by 18, I was on the verge of playing for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy.

Honestly, I feel that all the hard work and commitment I put in from the start of my career have culminated in 16 long years of international cricket. It has been an immensely satisfying feeling to have contributed to Indian cricket in my own way.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
‘It has been wonderful.’ What does ‘it’ refer to ?
A) Cricket
B) Cricket Association
C) Playing for Hyderabad
D) The journey of WS Laxman in the world of cricket
Answer:

Question 9.
Who promoted the speaker from the under – 16 level itself ?
A) Cricket
B) Cricket Association
C) Hyderabad Cricket Association
D) Kolkata Cricket Association
Answer:
C) Hyderabad Cricket Association

Question 10.
What was the age of the speaker when he started playing for Hyderabad ?
A) 16
B) 17
C) 18
D) 19
Answer:
C) 18

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
What was the huge leap for the speaker ?
Answer:
Playing in the under-19 grade was the huge leap for the speaker.

Question 12.
How was V.V.S Laxman able to withstand such a long period in international cricket?
Answer:
All the hard work and commitment that WS Laxman put in from the start of his career.

Passage No. 2:

Read the following text.

SS : Who has been the biggest influence on you ?
VVS : My parents (Dr. V. Shantaram and Dr. V. Satyabhama), no doubt about that. Especially, given the fact that sports was never an integral part of our family. But, the guiding philosophy which they taught was handling success and failure with equal ease.
SS : What did the sport teach you?
VVS : Character. To treat success and failure on the same wavelength. It also taught me to be very balanced and obviously whatever I am today is because of cricket.
SS : What was the most difficult phase of your career?
VVS : It was when I had to prefer cricket -to academics. That was the toughest moment of my life. Though there was always the dream to play for my country, I also had a natural desire to be a doctor, coming from a family of doctors. Luckily, my father gave me the complete freedom to choose any one of the two. Here the role of my uncle Baba Mohan was very crucial along with some of the coaches then.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (Q or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
How can you say that sports were not an integral part of their family ?
A) because he came from a family of doctors
B) because he came from a family of teachers
C) because he came from a family of trading
D) because he came from a family of musicians
Answer:
A) because he came from a family of doctors

Question 9.
What did the speaker choose ?
A) Cricket
B) Academics
C) Both Cricket and academics
D) Hockey
Answer:
A) Cricket

Question 10.
What is the natural desire of the speaker ?
A) to become a doctor
B) to become a player
C) to become a teacher
D) to become a lawyer
Answer:
A) to become a doctor

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
What is Laxman’s philosophy of life ?
Answer:
Handling success and failure with equal ease.

Question 12.
What was the toughest moment of the speaker’s life ?
Answer:
The time when he had to prefer cricket to academics.

Passage No. 3:

Read the following text.

SS : From where did you draw the strength to emerge as a giant every time there was an effort to dwarf your achievements?
V.V.S: My parents and my entire family again. They, along with my well-wishers, were always the source of inspiration. The best part is that they never changed irrespective of whether I was performing or not.
SS : What were your biggest moments as a cricketer?
V.V.S: There were many. But some stand out. Though 1 never played the World Cup that saw India as the No.l team, being a member of the Indian team which was the world No.l in Test cricket was one of them. The 281 against the Aussies in Kolkata in 2001 was another. That Test remains the most memorable match for me. In fact, that Test series was very special for all the players for it was also the best and the most memorable series. That series gave us the confidence that we can be the best. Clearly, that was the turning point of Indian cricket itself. ‘

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
Who were always the source of inspiration to V.V.S Laxman ?
A) Parents
B) Well-wishers
C) Parents and well-wishers
D) Friends
Answer:
C) Parents and well-wishers

Question 9.
What was the most memorable match for the speaker ?
A) World Cup matc
B) The match against Australia in Kolkata in 2001
C) The Test series against West Indies
D) The Test match
Answer:
B) The match against Australia in Kolkata in 2001

Question 10.
What was the top score made by the speaker against Australia in 2001 ?
A) 281
B) 285
C) 283
D) 282
Answer:
A) 281

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
Did the speaker play the World Cup ? Which event saw India as the No.l team ?
Answer:
No; the World Gup

Question 12.
What was the turning point of Indian cricket itself according to the speaker ?
Answer:
The Test series against Australia in 2001.

Passage No. 4:

Read the following text.

VVS : Well (with a big smile), when Sourav and I collided while taking a single in an Oval ODI. It is still amusing and embarrassing, when I look back as to how it could have happened.
SS : What was the most disappointing moment for you?
VVS : There was nothing like that. But, I would feel terribly disgusted whenever I dropped a catch. I would feel sorry for the bowler who puts in such a great effort and the chance is floored! That hurt me the most.
SS : What are your hobbies?
VVS : I love to spend time with the members of my family. It gives so much of peace. I do love reading biographies of successful individuals. For, they help us know how they handled different aspects in life and in sport.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1 = 3M)

Question 8.
When was the speaker hurt the most ?
A) whenever he dropped a catch
B) whenever he missed the run
C) whenever he quarralled with other batsmen
D) whenever he collided the other batsmen
Answer:
A) whenever he dropped a catch

Question 9.
What does the speaker love to do ?
A) to read autobiographies
B) to read novels
C) to play cricket
D) to spend his time with his family members
Answer:
D) to spend his time with his family members

Question 10.
What does the speaker love to read ?
A) autobiographies of successful people
B) biographies of successful individuals
C) novels
D) comic books
Answer:
B) biographies of successful individuals

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
What has been the funniest incident of Laxman on the field ?
Answer:
The collision of Sourav and Laxman while taking a single in an Oval ODI.

Question 12.
Why would he feel sorry for the bowler?
Answer:
Whenever he dropped a catch he would feel sorry for the bowler because the great effort and the chance of the bowler is floored.

Passage No. 5:

Read the following text.

SS : You are a complete family man now. Outside you are a celebrity and at home a normal caring father…
VVS : I am lucky to have such a wonderful well-knit family with a wonderful wife. And it’s a great feeling to see the kids grow up so fast. It’s a real joy to be with them.
SS : Who are the cricketers whom you admire?
VVS : In my early days, Azhar. Well, Sachin is such a role model in every aspect. Kapil was a great inspiration too.
SS : What is your favourite cuisine?
VVS : I am vegetarian. I love to taste all sorts of dishes. Thai cuisines are my favourite.
SS : What kind of music do you normally listen to and who are your favourite singers?
VVS : India has been very fortunate to have seen so many great musicians and singers. And, 1 love listening to Kishore Kumar and our own S.P. Balasubrah- manyam, with whom I fortunately enjoy a special, personal relationship.
SS : Which TV programme do you love to watch?
VVS : Generally I don’t miss any big sporting events and Wimbledon is one such that I love to watch without fail. And, with the family members I do enjoy watching the singing and dancing competition programmes. I am amazed at the talent actually.
SS : Who was your childhood hero?
VVS : Childhood and current hero — it is my dad. I owe everything to him.
SS : What is that you miss by being a cricketing celebrity?
VVS : I never thought of myself as a big cricketer. It is always nice to be with my family My wife has all the qualities I look for. I have two wonderful kids and I am blessed to have such a family.
SS : Have you given thought to post-retirement plans?
VVS : Well, I have a dream to set up a school and an academy, I am confident of realising this big dream.

Now, answer the following questions. Each question has four choices.
Choose the correct answer and write (A), (B) (C) or (D) in your answer booklet. (3 × 1= 3M)

Question 8.
Why is VVS Laxman lucky ?
A) to be a cricketer
B) to be a celebrity
C) to have a happy life
D) to have a wonderful well-knit family with a wonderful wife
Answer:
D) to have a wonderful well-knit family with a wonderful wife

Question 9.
Who do you think is the role model of WS Laxman ?
A) Azhar
B) Sachin
C) Kapil
D) Sourav
Answer:
B) Sachin

Question 10.
Who do you think WS Laxman has a close relationship with in the field of music ?
A) Kishore Kumar
B) S.P. Balasubrahmanyam
C) P. Suseela
D) S.P. Sailaja
Answer:
B) S.P. Balasubrahmanyam

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 × 1 = 2M)

Question 11.
Who is the present hero of V.V.S. Laxman ?
Answer:
V.VS Laxman’s present hero is his father.

Question 12.
What is the dream of V.V.S. Laxman ?
Answer:
His dream is to set up a school and an academy.

Section – B : Vocabulary and Grammar

Questions : (13 – 17), Marks : 5

Editing A Passage:

Reading : A, B & C

Read the passage given below. Five sentences in the passage are numbered (13 – 17) at the beginning. Each of these sentences has an error. Correct and re¬write them in the answer booklet. , (5 × 1 = 5 M)

Question 1.
(13) The pole vault is truly the glamorous event in any track and field competition. (14) The sportsman combines the grace of the gymnast with the strength of a ‘ bodybuilder. (15) Pole-vaulting also have the element-of flying, and the thought of flying as high as a two-storeyed building is a mere fantasy to anyone watching such an event. (16) Today it wps not only Michael Stone’s reality and dream – it is his quest. (17) As long as Michael can remember, he had always dreamed of flying.
Answer:
13) The pole vault is truly the’glamorous event of any track and field competition.
14) The sportsman combines the grace of a gymnast with the strength of a bodybuilder.
15) Pole-vaulting also has the element of flying, and the thought of flying as high as a two-storeyed building is a mere fantasy to anyone watching such an event.
16) Today it is not only Michael Stone’s reality and dream – it is his quest.
17) As long as Michael could remember, he had always dreamed of flying.

Question 2.
(13) He rolled on and did his ritual of three finger-tipped push-ups. (14) He found his pole, stood and stepped on the runway that led to the more challenging event of his seventeen year-old life. (15) The runway feel different this time. (16) It startled him for the brief moment. (17) Then it all hit his like a wet bale of hay.
Answer:
13) He rolled over and did his ritual of three finger-tipped push-ups.
14) He found his pole, stood and stepped on the runway that led to the most challenging event of his seventeen year-old life.
15) The runway felt different this time.
16) It startled him for a brief moment.
17) Then it all hit him like a wet bale of hay.

Question 3.
(13) It was either the eruption of the people in the stands and the thump of his landing that brought Michael back to earth. (14) On his back with that wonderful hot sun in his face, he could only envision the smile on his mother’s face. (15) He know his dad was probably smiling too, even laughing. (16) Bert would never do that when he got excited, smile and then sort of giggle. (17) What he didn’t know is that his dad was hugging his wife and crying.
Answer:
13) It was either the eruption of the people in the stands or the thump of his landing that brought Michael back to earth.
14) On his back with that wonderful hot sun on his face, he could only envision the smile on his mother’s face.
15) He knew his dad was probably smiling too, even laughing.
16) Bert would always do that when he got excited, smile and then sort of giggle.
17) What he didn’t know was that his dad was hugging his wife and crying.

Question 4.
(13) It was when I had to preter cricket than academics. (14) That was the tough moment of my life. (15) Though there was always the dream to play to my country, I also had a natural desire to be a doctor, coming from a family of doctors. (16) Lucky, my father gave me the complete freedom to choose any one of the two. (17) Here the role .of my uncle Baba Mohan was much crucial along with some of the coaches then. ‘
Answer:
13) It was when I had to prefer cricket to academics.
14) That was the toughest moment of my life.
15) Though there was always the dream to play for my country, I also had a natural desire to be a doctor, coming from a family of doctors.
16) Luckily, my father gave me the complete freedom to choose any one of the two.
17) Here the role of my uncle Baba Mohan was very crucial along with some of the
coaches then.

Question 5.
There was nothing like that. (13) But, I would feel terrible disgusted whenever I dropped a catch. (14) I would felt sorry for the bowler who puts in such a great effort and the chance is floored ! (15) That hurt me the more; (16) I love to spent time with the members of my family. (17) It gives so much in peace.
Answer:
13) But, I would feel terribly disgusted whenever 1 dropped a catch. ,
14) I would feel sorry for the bowler who puts in such a great effort and the chance is floored !
15) That hurt me the most.
16) I love to spend time with the members of my family.
17) It gives so much of peace.

Questions : (18 – 22) Marks : 2 1/2

Choose The Right Word:

Complete the passage choosing the right words from the box given below. Each blank is numbered. Write the correct words in your answer booklet. (5 x 1/2 = 2 1/2 Marks)

Question 1.

sweating, confronted, astroturf, earlier, glamorous, challenging, quenched

His palms were sweating (18). He needed a towel to dry his grip. A glass of ice water quenched (19) his thirst but hardly cooled his intensity. The astroturf (20) he sat on was as hot as the competition he faced today at the National Junior Olympics. The pole was set at 17 feet. That was three inches higher than his personal best. Michael Stone confronted (21) the most challenging day of his pole-vaulting career. The stands were still filled with about twenty thousand people, even though the final race had ended an hour earlier.

The pole-vault is truly the glamorous (22) event of any track and field competition.

Question 2.

disturbed, reward, gift, interrupted, free dreaming, chores, obsession

Besides being an honest student, Michael Stone continued to help his parents with their farm chores (18). Michael’s persistence in striving for perfection was not only his obsession (19) but his passion. Mildred Stone, Michael’s mother, wished that he could relax a bit more and be that ‘free ‘dreaming’ (20) little boy. On one occasion she attempted to talk to him and his father about this, but his dad quickly interrupted (21), smiled and said, “You want something, work for it!”

All of Michael’s vaults today seemed to be the reward (22) for his hard work.

Question 3.

always, never, swarmed, Senior, Junior, accomplishment, heartfelt

Michael was immediately swarmed (18) with people hugging and congratulating him on the greatest (19) of his life. He later went on that day to clear 17 feet ‘6 1/2 inches – a National and International Junior (20) Olympics record. With all the media attention and heartfelt (21) congratulations. Michael’s life would never (22) be the same.

Question 4.

consistently, contemporary, temporary, failure, self-belief, self-confidence, delighted

“Success and failure (18) are parts of anybody’s life. The key is self-belief (19) and performing consistently (20) in tough conditions,” V.V.S. Laxman tells V.V.Subrahmanyam. One of the finest players in contemporary (21) cricket has called it a day. For someone who delighted (22) cricket lovers with his brilliance with the willow for 16 long years in Test cricket, Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman announced his retirement at a crowded media conference in Hyderabad, ahead of the two-test series against New Zealand.

Question 5.

happiest, funniest, commitment, terribly, consistently, influential, amazingly

VVS : I must say that the combination of Sourav and Coach John Wright was influential (18) in changing the mindset of Indian cricket itself. For, it was then that we started doing well consistently (19), especially abroad. And we had some amazingly (20) talented individuals with the hunger for success, who played with great pride, worked really hard and showed great commitment (21) levels.
SS : What has been your funniest (22) incident on the field ?

Questions : (23 – 27) Marks : 2 1/2

Rewrite As Directed:

Some words in the given passage are underlined. Rewrite the underlined words in your answer booklet as directed.

1. As long as Michael could remember, (23) he had never (24) dreamed of flying. Michael’s mother read him numerous stories about flying when he was growing (25) up. Her stories were always the ones that describes (26) the land from a bird’s-eye view. Her excitement and passion of (27) details made Michael’s dreams full of colour and beauty.

Question 23.
Write the word that is opposite in meaning of the underlined word.
Answer:
forget

Question 24.
Replace the underlined word with a suitable one.
Answer:
always

Question 25.
Write the right form of the word.
Answer:
growth

Question 26.
Write the correct form of the underlined word.
Answer:
described

Question 27.
Replace the underlined word with a correct one.
Answer:
for

2. Mildred Stone, Michael’s mother, wished that he could relax a bit most (23) and be that‘free dreaming’ little boy. On one occasion she attempted to talk with (24) him and his father about this, but his dad quickly (25) interrupted, (26) smiled and says, (27) “You want something, work for it!”

Question 23.
Replace the underlined word with a suitable one.
Answer:
more

Question 24.
Replace the underlined word with a correct one.
Answer:
to

Question 25.
Write the opposite word of the underlined word.
Answer:
slowly

Question 26.
Write the right form of the underlined word.
Answer:
interruption

Question 27.
Write the correct form of the underlined word.
Answer:
said

3. When he took a deep (23) breath, it happened. He began to fly. His take-off was effortless. Michael Stone was flying, just as in his childhood (24) dreams. Only this time he knew he wasn’t dreaming. This is (25) real. Everything seemed to be moving of (26) slow motion. The air round. (27) him was the purest and freshest he had ever sensed. Michael was soaring with the majesty of an eagle.

Question 23.
Write the opposite word of the underlined word.
Answer:
shallow

Question 24.
Write the right form of the underlined word.
Answer:
child

Question 25.
Write the correct form of the underlined word.
Answer:
was

Question 26.
Replace the underlined word with a correct one.
Answer:
in

Question 27.
Replace the underlined word with a suitable one.
Answer:
around

4. VVS : Frankly, nowadays it is more easy (23) to perform (24) and be recognised so (25) of the media glare. There are many platforms for real talent to come good and the IPL is one such which pushed (26) you into national reckoning. If you perform, you are bound of (27) get recognized.

Question 23.
Write the opposite word of the underlined word.
Answer:
difficult

Question 24.
Write the right form of the underlined word.
Answer:
performance

Question 25.
Replace the underlined word with a suitable one.
Answer:
because

Question 26.
Write the correct form of the underlined word.
Answer:
pushes

Question 27.
Replace the underlined word with a correct one.
Answer:
to

5. That Test remains the most memorable match to (23) me. In fact, that Test series were (24) very special (25) for all the players for it was also the better (26) and the most memorable series. That series gave us the confidence that we can be the best. Clearly, (27) that was the turning point of Indian cricket itself.

Question 23.
Replace the underlined word with a correct one.
Answer:
for

Question 24.
Write the correct form of the underlined word.
Answer:
was

Question 25.
Write the opposite word of the underlined word.
Answer:
ordinary

Question 26.
Replace the underlined word with a suitable one.
Answer:
best

Question 27.
Write the right form of the underlined word.
Answer:
Clear

Section C : Creative Writing (Discourses)

Question : 28, Marks : 10

Major Discourses:

Question 1.
You have read the lesson “True Height”. In that lesson Michael Stone won the National Junior Olympics.
Imagine that you are News reporter and write an imaginary interview with Michael Stone.
Answer:
News Reporter : Congratulations ! Many people are very happy as you have won Junior Olympics and set a new world record. What is your reaction?
Michael : I am very lucky to have such support from my people.
News Reporter : How did you get interested in pole-vaulting ?
Michael : My mother used to tell me numerous stories about flying. So I had always dreamed of flying. She is the inspiration to enter this field.
News Reporter : Who is your coach ?
Michael : My father. He was not a dreamer like me. 1 believed in his motto: If you want something, work for it.
News Reporter : How did you practise daily ?
Michael : I used to run alternate days and every day with weight lifting programme.
News Reporter : How did your parents feel when you set a new world record ?
Michael : They felt very happy. They cried harder than I ever seen before with the greatest tears of pride.
News Reporter : Have you ever felt sorry for your disability ?
Michael : No, my mother and father never gave a chance to think like that.
News Reporter : What is the secret of your success ?
Michael : Dedication, determination, and discipline.
News Reporter : How long will you be in this sport ?
Michael : As far as the God allows me.
News Reporter : Thank you very much for sparing a few minutes for us.

Question 2.
Describe the thoughts of Michael when he had to clear the final vault in Olympics.
Answer:
I know it is time for my final jump. Since the other vaulter had fewer misses, I needed to clear this vault to win. If I miss, I will get second place. Nothing to be ashamed of. But why would I allow myself the thought of not winning first place ? Why this runway felt different this time ? Why it is startling me ? Why it all hit me like a wet bale of hay? I think the intensity of the moment filled my mind with anxiety. Oh ! I began shaking off the tension from my body. My body is not working. I am feeling more tense.

Why is this happening to me now ? Why are this fear and nervousness shaking me ? I have never experienced these feelings. I must overcome all this. I have to do something. From the deepest depths of my souls, I envisioned my mother. What was my mother doing in my thoughts at a time like this ? Yes, I remember she always used to tell me whenever I felt tense, anxious or even scared, to take deep breaths. So I will do that.

Question 3.
Write a possible conversation between Michael’s mother and father when Michael won a National and International Junior Olympics record.
Answer:
Mildred Stone (mother) : Why are you crying dear ? I have never seen you before like this ?
Bert Stone (father) : I am unable to control my emotions.
Mildred Stone : I know that you are crying the greatest tears of all; tears of pride.
Bert Stone : Yes, see how our son has achieved his goal !
Mildred Stone : Though God did a cruel trick in one angle, he rectified it in another angle.
Bert Stone : Yes, though our son is blind, he won the National Junior Olympics.
Mildred Stone : Michael was swarmed with people hugging and congratulating him. Have you seen him ?
Bert Stone : Yes, it is a reward for his hard work. It is the greatest accomplishment of his life.
Mildred Stone : Our dreams are fulfilled. I am proud of my precious son.
Bert Stone : I too feel proud of him. It is a memorable event in our life. I can’t forget the media attention and heartfelt congratulations received by Michael.
Mildred Stone : Yes, dear. Let’s wait to welcome warmly our beloved son.

Question : 29, Marks : 5

Minor Discourses:

Question 1.
You have read the lesson True Height’. In this lesson Michael Stone won the National Junior Olympics and set a new world record.
Imagine that you are Michael Stone and write a diary entry of the day.
Answer:

Wednesday
16th Nov, 20xx
10 pm

Dear Diary,

God ! I thank you very much. At last I became an Olympic champion-in pole¬vaulting. I can’t forget how a great joy came before me when I set a new world record. I felt amazing when I was swarmed with people hugging and congratulating me. My heart filled with joy with all the media attention and heartfelt congratulations. How desperately I wanted to be a champion. My mother and father always wanted me to be an Olympic champion. My joy is now coupled as I fulfilled my parents’ wish. I must gear up with this greatest accomplishment in my life.

Michael Stone

Question 2.
You have read the lesson “True Height”. Imagine that the following is telephonic conversation between Michael and his sister. As Michael’s sister has to leave for swimming, she leaves a message for their mother.
Write the message in not more than 50 words.

Michael : Can I speak to mom ?
Lucy : She has gone out.
Michael : I have to leave for New York tomorrow at 4 a.m. for the National
Pole- vaulting competition. Please ask her to get my bag packed as . I will be back home late in the evening after practice.
Lucy : I will.
Answer:

Message

16th Nov, 20xx.

Mom,

Michael called on phone today when you were away. He is leaving for New York for National Pole-vaulting Competition at 4 a.m. tomorrow. Please get his bag packed as he will be back home in the evening after practice.
Lucy.