Question 1

Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised?
(1)

Accepted Answer

The ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings was surprised because her grandmother sought blessings for a daughter. In this society most of the people ask the seers to bless for a son.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Give an example to show that even as a young girl Santosh was not ready to accept anything unreasonable.
(2)

Accepted Answer

She used to wear shorts and not the traditional dresses meant for girls.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: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Why was Santosh sent to the local school?
(3)

Accepted Answer

She was sent to the local school in line with the prevailing custom in the family.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Santosh, Sent, Local, School, Reach for the Top, 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

When did she leave home for Delhi, and why?
(4)

Accepted Answer

She left home for Delhi to get proper education. She was sixteen at that time.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Leave, Home, Delhi, Reach for the Top, 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Why did Santosh’s parents agree to pay for her schooling in Delhi? What mental qualities of Santosh are brought into light by this incident?
(4)

Accepted Answer

Her parents got ready because she informed them of her plans to earn money by working part time to pay her school fees.II. Answer each of these questions in a short paragraph (about 30 words).

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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 did Santosh begin to climb mountains?

Accepted Answer

She wished to climb mountains when she watched villagers from her room, going up the hill and suddenly vanishing after a while. One day, she decided to check it out herself. She found nobody except a few mountaineers. Later she saved money and enrolled in a course at Uttarkashi’s Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Then she began climb mountains every year.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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 incidents during the Everest expedition show Santosh’s concern for her team-mates?

Accepted Answer

Santosh Yadav provided special care to a climber who lay dying at the south pole in 1992 Everest Mission. She saved Mohan Singh, who would have lost his life had she not shared her oxygen with him.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

What shows her concern for the environment?

Accepted Answer

Santosh was really concerned for the environment. She collected and brought down 500 kilograms of garbage from the Himalayas.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Shows, Concern, Environment, Reach for the Top, 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

How does she describe her feelings at the summit of the Everest?

Accepted Answer

She said that it took some time for the enormity of the moment to sink in. She was delighted at this moment and proudly unfurled the Indian tricolour.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Feelings, Summit, Everest, Reach for the Top, 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons for this?

Accepted Answer

She is the youngest woman who scaled the Everest. She is the only woman who climbed the Everest twice.III. Complete the following statements:From her room in Kasturba Hostel, Santosh used to ………………When she finished college, Santosh had to write a letter of apology to her father because ………………During the Everest expedition, her seniors in the team admired her ……………… while ……………… endeared her to fellow climbers.Answers:… see the villagers going up the hill and suddenly vanishing after a while.… she was going directly for training and not home which she should have done.… climbing skills, physical fitness and mental strength while working together endeared her to fellow climbers.IV. Pick out words from the text that mean the same as the following words or expressions. (Look in the paragraphs indicated.)took to be true without proof………………………………based on reason; sensible; reasonable………………………………the usual way of doing things (para 3):………………………………a strong desire arising from within (5):the power to endure, without fallingill (7): …………………….Answers:blessingrationalcustomurgeresistance/enduranceThinking about the text(Page 107)Working in small groups of 4-5 students, go back over the two passages on Santosh Yadav and Maria Sharapova and complete the table given below with relevant phrases or sentences.Points of Comparison/ContrastSantosh YadavMaria Sharapova1.Their humble beginning2.Their parents’ approach3.Their will power and strong desire to succeed4.Evidence of their mental toughness5.Their patriotismAnswer:Santosh YadavMaria Sharapova1.Santosh’s parents were affluent landowners who could afford …My father was working as much as he could to keep ….2.Wishing always to study ‘a bit more’, and with her father slowly getting used to her urge …The latter (her mother) was compelled to stay back in Siberia …. [My father working as much … either.]3.Equipped with an iron will, physical endurance and an amazing mental…Instead of letting that depress me, I became more quietly determined and mentally tough.4.The culmination of her hard work and sincerity came in 1942 …And that something in her lifted her on Monday, 22 August 2005 to the world number one position in women’s tennis.5.Then I unfurled the Indian tricolour and held it….. indescribable…… I felt proud as an Indian …My blood is totally Russian. I will play the Olympics for Russia if they want me.Thinking about language(Page 107)Look at the following sentences. They each have two clauses, or two parts each with their own subject and verb or verb phrase. Often, one part (italicised) tells us when or why something happened.I reached the market when most of the shops had closed. (Tells us when I reached.)When Rahul Dravid walked back towards the pavilion, everyone stood up. (Tells us when everyone stood up.)The telephone rang and Ganga picked it up. (Tells us what happened next.)Gunjan has been with us ever since the school began. (Tells us for how long he has been with us.)I. Identify the two parts in the sentences below by underlining the part that gives us the information in brackets, as shown above.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Where other girls wore traditional Indian dresses, Santosh preferred shorts. (Contrasts her dress with that of others.)

Accepted Answer

Where other girls wore traditional Indian dresses, Santosh preferred shorts.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Girls, Wore, Traditional, Indian, Dresses, Santosh. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the first action.)

Accepted Answer

She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Left, Home, Got, Herself, Enrolled, School. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Q15: Grandfather told me about the old days. All books were printed on paper then.
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to fight the system?)

Accepted Answer

She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Decided, Fight, System, Right, Moment, Arrived. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Q15: Grandfather told me about the old days. All books were printed on paper then.
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the United States. (Tells us when Maria was sent to the US?)

Accepted Answer

Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the United States.II. Now rewrite the pairs of sentences given below as one sentence.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Little, Maria, Celebrated, Tenth, Birthday, Packed. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q15: Grandfather told me about the old days. All books were printed on paper then.
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

Grandfather told me about the old days. All books were printed on paper then.

Accepted Answer

Grandfather told me about the old days when all books were printed on paper.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Grandfather, Told, Old, Days, Books, Printed. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

What do you do after you finish the book? Perhaps you just throw it away.

Accepted Answer

Perhaps you just throw the book away after reading it.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Finish, Book, Perhaps, Throw, Away, Reach for the Top. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

He gave the little girl an apple. He took the computer apart.

Accepted Answer

After giving the little girl an apple, he took the computer apart.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Gave, Little, Girl, Apple, Took, Computer. 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

You have nothing. That makes you very determined.

Accepted Answer

You have nothing which makes you very determined.

Source: This question is from Reach for the Top, English &mdash; Class 9, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Reach for the Top: Nothing, Makes, Determined, Reach for the Top, 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 Reach for the TopQ1: Why was the ‘holy man’ who gave Santosh’s mother his blessings surprised? (1)
Q10: Santosh Yadav got into the record books both times she scaled Mt. Everest. What were the reasons...
Q12: She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi. (Tells us what happened after the...
Q13: She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived. (Tells us when she was going to...
Q14: Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the...
Practice more questions from Reach for the Top &mdash; English, Class 9 CBSE

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

I never thought of quitting. I knew what I wanted.

Accepted Answer

I never thought of quitting as I knew what I wanted.Dictation(Page 108)Read the passage once. Then close your books. Your teacher will dictate the story to you. Write it down with the correct punctuation and paragraphing.The RaincoatAfter four years of drought in a small town in the Northeast, the Vicar gathered everyone together for a pilgrimage to the mountain, where they would pray together and ask for the rain to return.The priest noticed a boy in the group wearing a raincoat.“Have you gone mad ?” he asked. “It hasn’t rained in this region for five years, the heat will kill you climbing the mountain.”“I have a cold, father. If we are going to ask God for rain, can you imagine the way back from the mountain ? It’s going to be such a downpour that I need to be prepared.”At that moment a great crash was heard in the sky and the first drops began to fall. A boy’s faith was enough to bring about a miracle that not even those most prepared truly believed in.(translated by James Mulholland)Answer:Do it yourself.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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

The roll of honour of women who enjoyed life at the summit since everybody’s favourite player, Chris Evert, took her place in 1975.
Name
Ranked on
Weeks as No. 1
Maria Sharapova (Russia)
22 August 2005
1
Lindsay Davenport (U.S.)
October 2004
82
Amelie Mauresmo (France)
13 September 2004
5
Justine Henin-Hardenne (Belgium)
20 October 2003
45
Kim Clijsters (Belgium)
11 August 2003
12
Serena Williams (U.S.)
8 July 2002
57
Venus Williams (U.S.)
25 February 2002
11
Jennifer Capriati (U.S.)
15 October

Accepted Answer

The long list of the women who topped the tennis arena. Different women enjoyed life being at the top for different durations. For example, Staff! Graf of Germany enjoyed the topmost rank for the longest duration of 377 weeks. She was followed by Chris Evert of the US who enjoyed this rank for 362 weeks. Martina Navratilova of the US enjoyed it for 33 weeks. It was Martina Hingis of Switzerland who had it for 209 weeks. Monica Seles of the US also enjoyed it for 178 weeks. After that Serena William and Lindsay Davenport of the US also remained world number one for 57 and 82 weeks respectively. Maria Sharapova of Russia enjoyed this rank for 1 week. All these women worked day and night to achieve the pinnacle. They sharpened their playing skills with determination. They had physical fitness and mental strength to succeed. They had talent, mental toughness and readiness to sacrifice. These qualities played an important role in their world achievements.The above answer is only a sample provided to the students. We suggest students to answer these questions using their own creativity.

Overview: Reach for the Top
Part I: Santosh Yadav, from a small Haryana village, defied social norms that expected her to marry young. She chose education, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest — and the only woman to do it twice. She also collected 500 kg of garbage from the Himalayas. Part II: Maria Sharapova, sent from Siberia to the USA at age 9, endured years of loneliness, homesickness, and bullying before winning Wimbledon at 17.

Key Points

Part I: Santosh Yadav from Joniyawas village, Haryana
Defied social norms — chose education over early marriage
Joined Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
Youngest woman to climb Mount Everest
Only woman to scale Everest twice
Collected 500 kg garbage from Himalayas — environmentally conscious
Part II: Maria Sharapova — born in Siberia, Russia
Sent to USA at age 9 for tennis training
Endured loneliness, homesickness, bullying by older girls
Won Wimbledon at age 17
Both stories celebrate determination and breaking barriers

Frequently Asked Questions
How did Santosh Yadav break social barriers?In Haryana, girls were expected to marry young and stay home. Santosh refused. She left home to get educated in Delhi, joined a mountaineering institute, and became the youngest woman to climb Everest. Her determination was stronger than social pressure.
What sacrifices did Maria Sharapova make?Maria was sent to the USA at age 9, separated from her mother for two years. She was bullied by older girls at the training academy. She endured loneliness and homesickness but never gave up, eventually winning Wimbledon at 17.

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.