Question 1

Where was Abdul Kalam’s house?

Accepted Answer

Abdul Kalam’s house was on the Mosque Street in Rameswaram.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Abdul, Kalam, House, My Childhood, English. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your

Accepted Answer

Answer:Dinamani is the name of a newspaper. Abdul Kalam attempts to trace the Second World War’s news in the headlines of this newspaper.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: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends? What did they later become?

Accepted Answer

Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan and Sivaprakasan were his school friends. Ramanadha Sastry became a priest of the Rameswaram temple. Aravindan went into the business of arranging transport for visiting pilgrims. Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for the Southern Railways.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages?

Accepted Answer

Abdul Kalam earned his first wages by distributing newspapers.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Abdul, Kalam, Earn, First, Wages, My Childhood. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

Had he earned any money before that? In what way?

Accepted Answer

Yes, he earned money before also. He used to collect the tamarind seeds and sell them to a provision shop on the Mosque Street. A day’s collection would fetch him the princely sum of one anna.II. Answer each of these questions in a short paragraph (about 30 words).

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

How does the author describe:
his father
his mother
himself?

Accepted Answer

The author describes his father as a wise and generous person. He felt happy when he helped others. He did not have much formal education and riches. He was a man of confidence and great wisdom. He avoided inessential comforts and luxuries.His mother was a noble and kind- hearted woman. She used to feed a large number of people. She had all the attributes of a typical Indian mother.I was born into a middle-class Tamil family. I was a short boy with rather undistinguished looks, born to tall and handsome parents. I studied physics and aerospace engineering and became a scientist.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents?

Accepted Answer

The author inherited humility and benevolence from his parents. He learnt lessons in honesty and integrity from his parents. He was self-disciplined because of his parents’ exemplary life.III. Discuss these questions in class with your teacher and then write down your answers in two or three paragraphs each.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

“ On the whole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the segregation of different social groups,” says the author.
Which social groups does he mention? Were these groups easily identifiable (for example, by the way they dressed)?
Were they aware only of their differences or did they also naturally share friendships and experiences? (Think of the bedtime stories in Kalam’s house; of who his friends were ; and of what used to take place in the pond near his house.)
The author

Accepted Answer

The author talks about the people who belong to various castes and follow various religious preachings. Yes, these groups were easily identifiable. Their dressing, traditions, culture and rituals were different.They did share their personal experiences and friendships. Lakshmana Sastry summoned the teacher who separated the author and his friend in the class and told him that he should not spread the poison of social inequality and communal intolerance in the minds of innocent children.The school teacher encouraged communal differences and Lakshmana Sastry and Sivasubramania Iyer discouraged this malpractice.The influential people can do both the things. A teacher has the ability to bridge communal differences and can play with sentiments of the innocent and ignorant people. This is what the new teacher did. But the Science teacher Sivasubramania Iyer changed his wife’s attitude and showed her the right path.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

Why did Abdul Kalam want to leave Rameswaram?
What did his father say to this?
What do you think his words mean? Why do you think he spoke those words?

Accepted Answer

Abdul Kalam wanted to leave Rameswaram to study at the district headquarters in Ramanathapuram.His father said that he knew he had to go away to grow. He gave the example of a seagull and said that a seagull flies across the sun alone and without a nest.He spoke these words because he intended to hone his skills. He knew the harsh reality of life that children may have to live far from their parents to make their career and earn their livelihood. So he showed his wisdom and intelligence in uttering these words.Thinking about language(Page 75)

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

Find the sentences in the text where these words occur:
erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty

Accepted Answer

The sentences in the text where these words occur are the following:. . . a sudden demand for tamarind seeds erupted in the market.. . . I can still feel the surge of pride in earning my own money for the first time.. . . I would later attempt to trace in the deadlines in Dinamani.. . . a short boy with rather undistinguished looks, born to tall and handsome parents.The first casualty came in the form of the suspension of the train halt at Rameswaram Station.Look these words up in a dictionary which gives examples of how they are used.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

Now answer the following questions.
1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain the various meanings of erupt. Now do the same for the word surge. What things can surge?
2. What are the meanings of the word trace and which of the meanings is closest to the word in the text?
3. Can you find the word undistinguished in your dictionary? (If not, look up the word distinguished and say what undistinguished must mean.)
Answers:
1. An earthquake can erupt. Emotions can erupt. Anger c

Accepted Answer

not specific, not prominent, not distinct, etc.II.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Now, Questions, Things, Erupt, Use, Meanings. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Q18: Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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

In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.

Accepted Answer

In yesterday’s competition the prizes were given away by the Principal.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Yesterday, Competition, Prizes, Away, Principal, My Childhood. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Q18: Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 13

In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.

Accepted Answer

In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers were paid on time.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Spite, Financial, Difficulties, Labourers, Pay, Time. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Q18: Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 14

On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.

Accepted Answer

On Republic Day, vehicles were not allowed beyond this point.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Republic, Day, Vehicles, Allow, Beyond, Point. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q18: Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 15

Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.

Accepted Answer

Second-hand books are bought and sold on the pavement every Saturday.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Second, Hand, Books, Buy, Sell, Pavement. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 16

Elections to the Lok Sabha (hold) every five years.

Accepted Answer

Elections to the Lok Sabha are held every five years.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: Elections, Lok, Sabha, Hold, Years, My Childhood. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 17

Our National Anthem (compose) Rabindranath Tagore.

Accepted Answer

Our National Anthem has been composed by Rabindranath Tagore.V. Rewrite the paragraphs below, using the correct form of the verb given in brackets.

Source: This question is from My Childhood, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter My Childhood: National, Anthem, Compose, Rabindranath, Tagore, My Childhood. 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 My ChildhoodQ10: Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt,surge,trace,undistinguished,casualty
Q11: Now answer the following questions. 1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain...
Q15: In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Q16: In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Q17: On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Practice more questions from My Childhood &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 18

How Helmets Came To Be Used in Cricket
Nari Contractor was the Captain and an opening batsman for India in the 1960s. The Indian cricket team went on a tour to the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados in Bridgetown, Nari Contractor (seriously injure and collapse). In those days helmets (not wear). Contractor (hit) on the head by a bouncer from Charlie Griffith. Contractor’s skull (fracture). The entire team (deeply concern). The West Indies players (worry). Contractor (rush) to hospi

Accepted Answer

How Helmets Came To Be Used in CricketNari Contractor was the Captain and an opening batsman for India in the 1960s. The Indian cricket team went on a tour to the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados in Bridgetown Nari Contractor was seriously injured and collapsed. In those days helmets were not worn. Contractor was hit on the head by a bouncer from Charlie Griffith. Contractor’s skull was fractured. The entire team was deeply concerned. The West Indies players were worried. Contractor was rushed to hospital. He was accompanied by Frank Worrell, the Captain of the West Indies Team. Blood was donated by the West Indies players. Thanks to the timely help, Contractor was saved. Nowadays helmets are routinely used against fast bowlers.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 19

Oil From Seeds
Vegetable oils (make) from seeds and fruits of many plants growing all over the world, from tiny sesame seeds to big, juicy coconuts. Oil (produce) from cotton seeds, groundnuts, soya beans and sunflower seeds. Olive oil (use) for cooking, salad dressing, etc. Olives (shake) from file trees and (gather) up, usually by hand. The olives (ground) to a thick paste which is spread onto special mats. Then the mats (layer) up on the pressing machine which will gently squeeze them to prod

Accepted Answer

Oil From SeedsVegetable oils are made from seeds and fruits of many plants growing all over the world from tiny sesame seeds to big, juicy coconuts. Oil is produced from cotton seeds, groundnuts, soya beans and sunflower seeds. Olive oil is used for cooking, salad dressing, etc. Olives are shaken from the trees and gathered up, usually by hand. The olives are grounded to a thick paste which is spread onto special mats. Then the mats are layered up on the pressing machine which will gently squeeze them to produce olive oil.Dictation(Page 77)Let the class divide itself into three groups. Let each group take down one passage that the teacher dictates. Then put the passages together in the right order.To Sir, with Love1. From Rameswaram to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, it’s been a long journey. Talking to Nona Walia on the eve of Teacher’s Day, President Dr. A.PJ. Abdul Kalam talks about life’s toughest lessons learnt and his mission—being a teacher to the Indian Youth. “A proper education would help nurture a sense of dignity and self-respect among our youth”, says President Kalam. There’s still a child in him though, and he’s still curious about learning new things. Life’s a mission for President Kalam.2. Nonetheless, he remembers his first lesson in life and how it changed his destiny. “I was studying in Standard V, and must have been all of 10. My teacher, Sri Sivasubramania Iyer was telling us how birds fly. He drew a diagram of a bird on the blackboard, depicting the wings, tail and the body with the head and then explained how birds soar to the sky. At the end of the class, I said I didn’t understand. Then he asked the other students if they had understood, but nobody had understood how birds fly,” he recalls.3. “That evening, the entire class was taken to Rameswaram shore” the President continues. “My teacher showed us sea birds. We saw marvellous formations of them flying and how their wings flapped. Then my teacher asked us, ‘Where is the birds’ engine and how is it powered?’ I knew then that birds are powered by their own life and motivation. I understood all about birds’ dynamics. This was real teaching—a theoretical lesson coupled with a live practical example. Sri Sivasubramania Iyer was a great teacher. ” That day, my future was decided. My destiny was changed. I knew my future had to be about flight and flight systems.Answer:For attempt at class level. Paragraphs are put together as given below:To Sir, With LoveFrom Rameswaram to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, it’s been a long journey. Talking to Nona Walia on the eve of Teacher’s Day, President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam talks about life’s toughest lessons learnt, and his mission—being a teacher to the Indian Youth. “A proper education would help nurture a sense of dignity and self-respect among our youth”, says President Kalam. There’s still a child in him though, he’s still curious about learning new things. Life’s a mission for President Kalam.Nonetheless, he remembers his first lesson in life and how it changed his destiny. “I was studying in standard V, and must have been all of 10. My teacher, Sri Sivasubramania Iyer was telling us how birds fly. He drew a diagram of a bird on the blackboard, depicting the wings, tail and the body with the head and then explained how birds soar to the sky. At the end of the class, I said I did not understand. Then he asked the other students if they had understood, but nobody had understood how birds fly”, he recalls. “That evening, the entire class was taken to Rameswaram shore”, the President continues. “My teacher showed us sea birds. We saw marvellous formations of them flying and how their wings flapped. Then my teacher asked us, “Where is the bird’s engine and how is it powered?” I knew then that birds are powered by their own life and motivation. I understood all about birds’ dynamics. This was real teaching—a theoretical lesson coupled with a live practical example. Sri Sivasubramania Iyer was a great teacher. That day, my future was decided. My destiny was changed. I knew my future had to be about flight and flight systems.

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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 20

Think and write a short account of what life in Rameswaram in the 1940s must have been like. (Were people rich or poor? Hard working or lazy? Hopeful of change, or resistant to it?).

Accepted Answer

The people of Rameswaram in 1940s were orthodox and tolerant. It is mentioned in the story that every child is bom into a specific socio-economic and emotional environment and trained in certain ways by figures of authority. The people of Rameswaram were not ready to allow anybody to instigate their children on the basis of communal intolerance. They were all religious people and did not like to enjoy the luxuries of life. They had pucca houses made of limestone and brick. They used to avoid all inessential comforts and were emotionally attached to the members of their family.Extract Based Questions (3 marks each)Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:

Overview: My Childhood
APJ Abdul Kalam describes growing up in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a Muslim family. His father Jainulabdeen was an honest, self-disciplined boat owner; his mother Ashiamma was generous. Kalam's closest friends were Hindu — Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. When a new teacher tried to separate Kalam from a Hindu friend, the issue was resolved through dialogue. Kalam was shaped by his parents' values, his teachers' guidance, and Rameswaram's organic communal harmony.

Key Points

Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu — island town
Father Jainulabdeen: honest, self-disciplined, austere
Mother Ashiamma: kind, generous — fed many people daily
Close friends: Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan (all Hindu)
New teacher separated Kalam from Hindu friend due to religion
Kalam's father and school headmaster resolved the issue
Rameswaram was a model of communal harmony
Hindu and Muslim traditions coexisted naturally
Kalam credits parents and teachers for shaping his values
Theme: communal harmony, influence of family, overcoming prejudice

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rameswaram demonstrate communal harmony?In Rameswaram, Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully. Kalam's Muslim family had close Hindu friends. His father had deep knowledge of both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The town's famous temple and Kalam's mosque coexisted. This organic harmony shaped Kalam's secular values.
What was the incident with the new teacher?A new teacher, seeing a Muslim boy (Kalam) sitting next to a Hindu Brahmin boy (Ramanadha Sastry), made Kalam sit at the back of the class. When Kalam's father and the school headmaster spoke to the teacher, he apologised and the discrimination ended.

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.