Question 1

“At last a sympathetic audience.”
Who says this?
Why does he say it?
is he sarcastic or serious?

Accepted Answer

Gerrard says this.He says this because the intruder becomes sympathetic towards him.He is, no doubt, sarcastic.

Source: This question is from If I Were You, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter If I Were You: Last, Sympathetic, Audience, Says, Say, Sarcastic. These are fundamental topics in English that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 9 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of English papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberUse quotations from the text to support your points.
Analyse literary devices and their effects on the reader.
Structure essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Related Questions from If I Were YouQ10: Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone...
Q11: Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house....
Q12: Enact the play in the class. Pay special attention to words given in italics before a dialogue....
Q13: Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder? smart humorous clever...
Q14: Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the...
Practice more questions from If I Were You &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 2

Why does the intruder choose Gerrard as the man whose identity he wants to take on?

Accepted Answer

The intruder chose Gerrard as the man whose identity he wants to take on because he is a kind of a mystery man. He phones his orders and sometimes goes away suddenly and come back just the same.More Resources for CBSE Class 9NCERT SolutionsNCERT Solutions Class 9 MathsNCERT Solutions Class 9 ScienceNCERT Solutions Class 9 Social ScienceNCERT Solutions Class 9 EnglishNCERT Solutions Class 9 HindiNCERT Solutions Class 9 SanskritNCERT Solutions Class 9 ITRD Sharma Class 9 Solutions

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 3

What is Gerrard’s profession? Quote the parts of the play that support your

Accepted Answer

Answer:Gerrard is a dramatist. He says, “Sorry I can’t let you have the props in time for rehearsal…

Source: This question is from If I Were You, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter If I Were You: Gerrard, Profession, Quote, Parts, Play, Support. These are fundamental topics in English that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 9 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of English papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberUse quotations from the text to support your points.
Analyse literary devices and their effects on the reader.
Structure essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Related Questions from If I Were YouQ10: Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone...
Q11: Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house....
Q12: Enact the play in the class. Pay special attention to words given in italics before a dialogue....
Q13: Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder? smart humorous clever...
Q14: Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the...
Practice more questions from If I Were You &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 4

“They can’t hang me twice.”
Who says this?
Why does the speaker say it?

Accepted Answer

The intruder says this.The speaker says it because he wants to murder Gerrard. And he has already murdered someone. So the police cannot hang him twice.

Source: This question is from If I Were You, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter If I Were You: Hang, Twice, Says, Speaker, Say, If I Were You. These are fundamental topics in English that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 9 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of English papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberUse quotations from the text to support your points.
Analyse literary devices and their effects on the reader.
Structure essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Related Questions from If I Were YouQ10: Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone...
Q11: Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house....
Q12: Enact the play in the class. Pay special attention to words given in italics before a dialogue....
Q13: Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder? smart humorous clever...
Q14: Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the...
Practice more questions from If I Were You &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 5

“A mystery I propose to explain.” What is the mystery the speaker proposes to explain?

Accepted Answer

.The speaker wants that the intruder should explain what mystery is associated with him. The mystery is about Gerrard’s placing his orders on telephone. And he goes out suddenly and returns in the same way.

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 6

“This is your big surprise.”
Where has this been said in the play?
What is the surprise?

Accepted Answer

Gerrard speaks this line. He tells the intruder that if he is not hanged for his murder, he will certainly be hanged being Vincent Charles Gerrard. At this time he utters these words.The big surprise is that Gerrard will not be killed by him. He is right in saying this.Thinking about language(Page 145)

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 7

Consult your dictionary and choose the correct word from the pairs given in brackets.
The (site, cite) of the accident was (ghastly/ghostly).
Our college (principle/principal) is very strict.
I studied (continuously/continually) for eight hours.
The fog had an adverse (affect/effect) on the traffic.
Cezanne, the famous French painter, was a brilliant (artist/artiste).
The book that you gave me yesterday is an extraordinary (collage/college) of science fiction and mystery.
Our school will (host/h

Accepted Answer

site, ghastlyprincipalcontinuouslyeffectartistcollagehostshake

Source: This question is from If I Were You, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter If I Were You: Consult, Dictionary, Choose, Correct, Word, Pairs. These are fundamental topics in English that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 9 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of English papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberUse quotations from the text to support your points.
Analyse literary devices and their effects on the reader.
Structure essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Related Questions from If I Were YouQ10: Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone...
Q11: Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house....
Q12: Enact the play in the class. Pay special attention to words given in italics before a dialogue....
Q13: Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder? smart humorous clever...
Q14: Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the...
Practice more questions from If I Were You &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 8

Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone makes a mistake and you say, “Oh ! that was clever !” that is irony. You’re saying ‘clever’ to mean ‘not clever’.
Expressions we often use in an ironic fashion are:
Oh, wasn’t that clever!/Oh that was clever!
You have been a great help, I must say!
You’ve got yourself into a lovely mess, haven’t you?
Oh, very funny !/How funny!
We use a slightly different tone of voice when we use these words ironi

Accepted Answer

What the author saysWhat he means1. At last a sympathetic audience!Gerrard means that his company is not a sympathetic audience because the intruder has got a gun in his hand.2. You have been so modest.Gerrard means that the intruder has been immodest in not having told anything about himself.3. With you figuring so largely in it, that is under­standableGerrard means that it is not understandable how anything about him is ‘surprising’.Dictionary use(Page 146)A word can mean different things in different contexts. Look at these three sentences:The students are taught to respect different cultures.The school is organising a cultural show.His voice is cultured.In the first sentence, ‘culture’ (noun) means way of life ; in the second, ‘cultural’ (adjective) means connected with art, literature and music ; and in the third, ‘cultured’ (verb) means sophisticated, well-mannered. Usually a dictionary helps you identify the right meaning by giving you signposts.…………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………….Look up the dictionary entries for the words sympathy, familiarity, comfort, care, and surprise. Use the information given in the dictionary and complete the table.NounAdjectiveAdverbVerbMeaningsympathyfamiliaritycomfortcaresurpriseAnswer:

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 9

Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house.
[Clues: Describe (i) the Intruder—his appearance, the way he spoke, his plan, his movements, etc., (ii) how you outwitted him.

Accepted Answer

Yesterday I was standing near the telephone and an intruder entered my cottage. He had a gun in his hand and he tried to threaten me. He intended to kill me and shouted at me. The intruder forced me to tell everything about me. But I did not tell him the reality and misguided him. I told him that he would not gain anything after murdering me. I told him that I was to safeguard myself from the police. So I posted a man on the road. When we tried to come out of the cottage I locked him inside a cupboard and called the police. Eventually, the police arrested him.

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 10

Enact the play in the class. Pay special attention to words given in italics before a dialogue. These words will tell you whether the dialogue has to be said in a happy, sarcastic or ironic tone and how the characters move and what they do as they speak. Read these carefully before you enact the play.

Accepted Answer

For self attempt.

Source: This question is from If I Were You, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter If I Were You: Enact, Play, Class, Pay, Special, Attention. These are fundamental topics in English that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 9 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of English papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberUse quotations from the text to support your points.
Analyse literary devices and their effects on the reader.
Structure essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Related Questions from If I Were YouQ10: Irony is when we say one thing but mean another, usually the opposite of what we say. When someone...
Q11: Imagine you are Gerrard. Tell your friend what happened when the Intruder broke into your house....
Q13: Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder? smart humorous clever...
Q14: Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the...
Q2: Why does the intruder choose Gerrard as the man whose identity he wants to take on?
Practice more questions from If I Were You &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 11

Which of the words below describe Gerrard and which describe the Intruder?
smart humorous clever
beautiful cool confident
flashy witty nonchalant

Accepted Answer

Gerrard was smart, humorous, confident, witty and clever. He was cool. When the intruder broke into his cottage, he did not lose his patience and confidence. He cooked up a story, convinced the intruder and got rid of him. He showed his intelligence and presence of mind. He was nonchalant also. The intruder was smart, beautiful, flashy, clever and confident. He collected much information about Gerrard and planned his visit meticulously. He wore flashy clothes. He had the ability to make someone afraid of him. Moreover he was witty and answered Gerrard’s questions intelligently and sarcastically.

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.

Question 12

Convert the play into a story (150-200 words). Your story should be as exciting and as witty as the play. Provide a suitable title to it. ‘Intelligence is powerful than strength’.

Accepted Answer

Gerrard is a dramatist who lives in a cottage. A very few people come to visit him. He rarely goes out. If he goes out, he comes back suddenly. Once an intruder enters his cottage who has a gun in his hands. Gerrard receives him with a warm welcome. The intruder asks many questions to him about his personal life. He answers his queries intelligently and thoughtfully. The intruder tells him that he wants to take on his identity because he is being chased by police as he has murdered a cop. But Gerrard tells him that he will not be benefited by killing him as he is also wanted. And he expects the police there tonight to arrest him. So he asks him to run with him in the car. But when they are about to cross the door, Gerrard pushes him into the cupboard and slams it. Then he calls the police and gets him arrested.We hope the NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Beehive Chapter 11 If I Were You help you. If you have any query regarding CBSE Class 9 English Beehive Chapter 11 If I Were You, drop a comment below and we will get back to you at the earliest.

Overview: If I Were You
In this one-act play, Gerrard (a playwright living alone in a cottage) is confronted by an Intruder who plans to kill him and assume his identity to escape police. Gerrard stays calm and witty. He fabricates a story about being a criminal himself, convincing the Intruder that assuming his identity would be dangerous. He tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard and locks him inside, then calls the police. The play demonstrates that intelligence and wit defeat brute force.

Key Points

One-act play — only two characters: Gerrard and the Intruder
The Intruder resembles Gerrard physically
Intruder's plan: kill Gerrard, take his identity, escape police
Gerrard remains calm while the Intruder is aggressive
Gerrard claims to be a criminal himself — this is a lie
He says assuming his identity would bring police attention, not safety
Tricks the Intruder into looking into a cupboard — locks him in
Calls the police immediately
Theme: Wit and intelligence defeat brute force
Dramatic irony: audience senses Gerrard is lying; Intruder does not

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gerrard outwit the Intruder?Gerrard used his theatrical skill and quick thinking. He pretended to be a criminal on the run, making the Intruder believe that stealing his identity would be dangerous. He then tricked the Intruder into looking into a cupboard (supposedly containing escape props) and locked him inside.
What makes this play effective as drama?The play works through dialogue alone — no action scenes, no physical conflict. The battle is purely verbal and psychological. The dramatic irony (the audience suspects Gerrard is lying but the Intruder doesn't) creates suspense and entertainment.

Common Mistakes

Not reading the text carefully before attempting questions.
Giving vague answers without specific textual references.
Confusing characters, events, or themes from different chapters.
Writing too much for short-answer questions (should be 30-40 words).

Scoring Tips

For extract-based MCQs: read the passage carefully; eliminate wrong options systematically.
For short answers: be concise (30-40 words), use key vocabulary from the text.
For long answers: structure with introduction, body, conclusion. Quote from the text.
Always identify the chapter/poem name and author when answering.