8. Reach for the Top - Part 2 - Maria Sharapova - Beehive - Class 9 - English - Q&A Solved

Summary

The passage about Maria Sharapova highlights her journey to becoming the world’s number one tennis player. Born in Siberia, Maria moved to the United States at a young age to pursue her tennis career. This decision required her to endure significant hardships, including a two-year separation from her mother and dealing with loneliness and tough training conditions. Despite these challenges, Maria’s determination and mental toughness helped her rise rapidly in the competitive world of tennis. By 2005, she had reached the pinnacle of her sport, driven by a strong desire to succeed and an unwavering focus on her goals. Although she speaks with an American accent, Maria proudly identifies as Russian and remains committed to representing her country. Her story is one of sacrifice, hard work, and relentless ambition, showing that success in tennis—and in life—comes at a price, but it is a price Maria was willing to pay.

Thinking about the Text

1. Their humble beginning

   • Santosh Yadav: "She was born in a society where the birth of a son was celebrated, but not that of a daughter."
   • Maria Sharapova: "When you come from nothing and you have nothing, then it makes you very hungry and determined."

2. Their parents’ approach

   • Santosh Yadav: "Her parents reluctantly agreed to send her to school when she threatened to never get married."
   • Maria Sharapova: "Little Maria had not yet celebrated her tenth birthday when she was packed off to train in the United States."

3. Their willpower and strong desire to succeed

   • Santosh Yadav: "She left home and got herself enrolled in a school in Delhi."
   • Maria Sharapova: "I never thought of quitting because I knew what I wanted."

4. Evidence of their mental toughness

   • Santosh Yadav: "She decided to fight the system when the right moment arrived."
   • Maria Sharapova: "Instead of letting that depress me, I became more quietly determined and mentally tough."

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Thinking about Language

I. Identify the two parts in the sentences:

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

   • (Contrasts her dress with that of others)

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

   • (Tells us what happened after the first action.)

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

   • (Tells us when she was going to fight the system.)

4. 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 U.S.)

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II. Rewrite the pairs of sentences as one sentence:

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

2. Perhaps you just throw the book away after you finish it.

3. He gave the little girl an apple while he took the computer apart.

4. Having nothing makes you very determined.

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

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Speaking

If you were to deliver a motivational speech as Maria Sharapova at an All India Girls’ Athletic Meet, you might say:

"Dear young athletes, I stand before you today not just as a champion but as someone who has faced challenges and hardships just like many of you. I know what it means to sacrifice, to be lonely, and to push through pain and discouragement. But I also know the power of determination, confidence, and self-belief. Never let anyone tell you that you can't achieve your dreams. Be sure of yourself, believe in your abilities, and let no defeat demoralize you. Remember, the road to success is paved with challenges, but it is your unwavering desire to succeed that will lead you to victory. Dream big, work hard, and stay true to yourself. The world is yours to conquer." 

10 Multiple Choice Questions on Maria Sharapova

1. What significant achievement did Maria Sharapova reach on 22 August 2005?

a) Winning her first Grand Slam

b) Becoming the world’s number one in women’s tennis

c) Winning an Olympic gold medal

d) Moving to the United States for training

Answer: b) Becoming the world’s number one in women’s tennis

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2. How long did it take Maria Sharapova to become a world-class tennis player after turning professional?

a) Four years

b) Nine years

c) Two years

d) Five years

Answer: a) Four years

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3. What was the primary reason Maria Sharapova moved to the United States as a child?

a) To pursue a better education

b) To receive specialized tennis training

c) To escape harsh living conditions in Siberia

d) To reunite with her father

Answer: b) To receive specialized tennis training

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4. Which of the following best describes Maria Sharapova's attitude towards the challenges she faced during her early years in tennis?

a) Depressed and discouraged

b) Quietly determined and mentally tough

c) Confused and uncertain

d) Reluctant and hesitant

Answer: b) Quietly determined and mentally tough

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5. Why was Maria Sharapova separated from her mother for two years?

a) Her mother was not supportive of her tennis career.

b) Her mother stayed back in Siberia due to visa issues.

c) Her parents were divorced.

d) Her mother was training in a different country.

Answer: b) Her mother stayed back in Siberia due to visa issues.

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6. What lesson did Maria Sharapova learn early in life about achieving tennis excellence?

a) It requires natural talent and luck.

b) It comes at a price, involving sacrifices.

c) It can be achieved easily with enough money.

d) It is impossible without family support.

Answer: b) It comes at a price, involving sacrifices.

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7. What does Maria Sharapova mean when she says, "I would have put up with much more humiliation and insults than that to steadfastly pursue my dream"?

a) She was willing to endure any challenge to achieve her goals.

b) She did not face any difficulties in her career.

c) She enjoyed the hardships she encountered.

d) She considered quitting several times.

Answer: a) She was willing to endure any challenge to achieve her goals.

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8. Despite having a pronounced American accent, how does Maria Sharapova identify herself?

a) As an American

b) As a Russian

c) As a European

d) As a global citizen

Answer: b) As a Russian

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9. Which of the following best reflects Maria Sharapova’s attitude towards money?

a) It is the most important aspect of her career.

b) It is a motivation but not the main focus.

c) She is indifferent to it.

d) She believes it is unimportant in tennis.

Answer: b) It is a motivation but not the main focus.

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10. What can be inferred about Maria Sharapova’s personality based on her journey and achievements?

a) She is easily discouraged by challenges.

b) She is focused, resilient, and determined.

c) She is more interested in fashion than tennis.

d) She lacks a clear sense of identity.

Answer: b) She is focused, resilient, and determined.

Packing by Jerome K. Jerome - Summary - MCQs - Q&A Solved

Table of Index

1. Summary of Chapter 'Packing' by Jerome K. Jerome
2. Difficult Words and Meanings from the chapter Packing
3. Thinking About the Text (Q&A)
4. Thinking About Language
5. Writing
6. Speaking
7. MCQs Based on "Packing" by Jerome K Jerome

Summary of Chapter 'Packing' by Jerome K. Jerome

In this humorous story, the narrator, who is confident in his packing skills, takes charge of packing for a trip. He insists that his friends, George and Harris, let him do the job while they relax, but this wasn’t what he intended. He wanted to be in control while they helped. Their laziness annoys him, but he starts packing anyway.

Things don't go smoothly. He forgets to pack his boots, which Harris points out after the bag is already closed. Then, he becomes obsessed with whether he packed his toothbrush, leading him to unpack everything, only to find it inside a boot. Frustrated, he repacks, only to discover that he accidentally packed his spectacles, which means he has to open the bag again.

Finally, George and Harris take over packing the hampers. They start with enthusiasm but make a mess, breaking a cup, squashing a tomato, and creating chaos with the butter. Their dog, Montmorency, adds to the confusion by getting in the way, sitting on things, and causing more trouble.

Despite all the mishaps, the packing is finally done, and they prepare for bed. They argue about what time to wake up, eventually settling on 6:30. However, they find George already asleep, so they set a prank for him by placing a bath where he might stumble into it in the morning.

Difficult Words and Meanings from the chapter Packing

1. Pride - A feeling of satisfaction from one’s achievements.
2. Uncanny - Strange or mysterious in a way that is surprising or hard to explain.
3. Irritate - To make someone annoyed or angry.
4. Slaving - Working very hard.
5. Superintend - To supervise or manage something.
6. Strap - To fasten something with a strap or belt.
7. Horrible - Very bad, unpleasant, or shocking.
8. Haunt - To stay in your mind and make you feel worried.
9. Rummage - To search through something, especially in a messy way.
10. Chaos - Complete disorder and confusion.
11. Light-hearted - Cheerful and carefree.
12. Exciting - Causing great enthusiasm or eagerness.
13. Squash - To crush something so that it becomes flat or out of shape.
14. Spectacles - Another word for eyeglasses.
15. Teapot - A pot used for making and serving tea.
16. Conceit - Excessive pride in oneself.
17. Nuisance - Something or someone that causes trouble or annoyance.
18. Frying-pan - A flat pan used for frying food.
19. Hamper - A basket or container used for storing or carrying things.
20. Tumble - To fall or roll over suddenly.
21. Reflection - Thought or consideration about something.

Thinking About the Text (Q&A)

I. Discuss in pairs and answer each question below in a short paragraph (30– 40 words).

1. How many characters are there in the narrative? Name them. (Don’t forget the dog!).

   • There are four characters in the narrative: Jerome (the narrator), George, Harris, and the dog, Montmorency.

2. Why did the narrator (Jerome) volunteer to do the packing?

   • Jerome volunteered to do the packing because he prided himself on his packing skills and believed he was better at it than anyone else.

3. How did George and Harris react to this? Did Jerome like their reaction?

   • George and Harris readily agreed to let Jerome pack and relaxed while he did all the work. Jerome didn’t like their reaction because he wanted them to assist him, not sit idle.

4. What was Jerome’s real intention when he offered to pack?

   • Jerome’s real intention was to supervise and manage the packing while George and Harris helped, allowing him to correct their mistakes and show off his packing skills.

5. What did Harris say after the bag was shut and strapped? Why do you think he waited till then to ask?

   • After the bag was shut and strapped, Harris asked if Jerome had packed the boots. He probably waited because he wanted to tease Jerome after all the effort was already done.

6. What “horrible idea” occurred to Jerome a little later?

   • A “horrible idea” occurred to Jerome that he might have forgotten to pack his toothbrush, which always troubled him when travelling.

7. Where did Jerome finally find the toothbrush?

   • Jerome finally found the toothbrush inside a boot after searching through the entire bag.

8. Why did Jerome have to reopen the packed bag?

   • Jerome had to reopen the packed bag because he realized that he had packed his spectacles inside it by mistake.

9. What did George and Harris offer to pack and why?

   • George and Harris offered to pack the hampers because they thought it would be quicker and easier if they did it, especially since they were short on time.

10. While packing the hamper, George and Harris do a number of foolish and funny things. Tick the statements that are true.

• The true statements are:
  (i) They started with breaking a cup.
  (iii) They squashed a tomato.
  (iv) They trod on the butter.
  (vi) They put things behind them, and couldn’t find them.
  (vii) They stepped on things.

II. What does Jerome say was Montmorency’s ambition in life? What do you think of Montmorency and why?

• Jerome says Montmorency’s ambition in life is to be a nuisance and get in people’s way. Despite his troublesome behaviour, Montmorency is playful and adds humour to the story, making him an amusing and endearing character.

III. Discuss in groups and answer the following questions in two or three paragraphs (100–150 words)

1. Of the three, Jerome, George, and Harris, who do you think is the best or worst packer?

• Among the three, Jerome seems to be the best packer, although he still makes mistakes. He is meticulous, even if it means unpacking everything to find his toothbrush or spectacles. However, George and Harris are clearly the worst packers. They create chaos while packing the hampers, breaking items, stepping on things, and making a mess of everything. Their clumsiness and lack of organisation highlight their incompetence in packing, making them far less effective than Jerome.

2. How did Montmorency ‘contribute’ to the packing?

• Montmorency, the dog, “contributed” to the packing by being a constant source of disruption. He would get in the way at every opportunity, sitting on items that needed to be packed and interfering with the process. He even put his leg in the jam and pretended that the lemons were rats, which caused further chaos. Montmorency’s antics added to the confusion and made the already difficult task of packing even more challenging for George and Harris.

3. Do you find this story funny? What are the humorous elements in it?

• Yes, this story is very funny. The humour comes from the absurd situations and the way they are described. First, Jerome’s frustration with George and Harris lounging around while he packs is amusing, especially when he realises they took his offer too literally. Second, the chaos caused by George and Harris while packing the hampers, like squashing tomatoes and stepping on butter, adds to the comedic effect. Finally, Montmorency’s mischievous behaviour, such as sitting on things and attacking the “rat” lemons, brings a playful and light-hearted humour to the story. Jerome’s witty and sarcastic narration enhances the overall comedic tone.

Thinking About Language

ANSWER:

Following is the matching of words/phrases from Column A with their meanings in Column B:

1. slaving - (viii) working hard
2. chaos - (vi) complete confusion and disorder
3. rummage - (v) search for something by moving things around hurriedly or carelessly
4. scrape out - (ii) remove something from inside another thing using a sharp tool
5. stumble over, tumble into - (vii) fall, or step awkwardly while walking
6. accomplish - (iv) finish successfully, achieve
7. uncanny - (iii) strange, mysterious, difficult to explain
8. (to have or get into) a row - (i) a quarrel or an argument

II. Use suitable words or phrases from Column A to complete the paragraph.

A Traffic Jam

During power cuts, when traffic lights go off, there is utter chaos at crossroads. Drivers add to the confusion by having or getting into a row over their right of way, and nearly come to blows. Sometimes passers-by, seeing a few policemen stumbling over, tumbling into at regulating traffic, step in to help. This gives them a feeling of having accomplished something.

1. Work in pairs and give:

• (i) Two commands to your partner:

  • Sit down.
  • Open the book.

• (ii) Two dos and don'ts to a new student in your class:

  • Do: Always be on time.
  • Don't: Don't interrupt when someone is speaking.

• (iii) Directions to get to each other's houses:

  • Board Bus No.121 and get down at Sagar Restaurant. From there, turn right and walk till you reach a book shop. My home is just behind the shop.

• (iv) Instructions for moving the body in an exercise or a dance, or for cooking something:

  • Exercise: Stand straight with feet shoulder-width apart. Raise your arms above your head and stretch. Bend forward and try to touch your toes without bending your knees.
  • Cooking: Wash the fruit. Cut them into small pieces. Mix them well. Add a few drops of lime juice. Add sugar to taste. Now add some cream or ice cream if you wish to make fruit salad with ice cream.

2. Fill in the blanks and add a few more proverbs to the table:

• Positive:
  • (iii) Look before you leap.
  • (iv) Live and let live.
• Negative:
• (iii) Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill.
• (iv) Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Writing

You have seen how Jerome, George and Harris mess up their packing, especially of the hamper. From their mistakes you must have thought of some dos and don’ts for packing. Can you give some tips for packing by completing the paragraph below?

First pack all the heavy items, especially the ones you don’t need right away. Then ...

Here are some words and phrases you can use to begin your sentences

with:

• Then

• Next

• Now

• Remember

• Don’t forget

• At last/Finally

ANSWER:

First, pack all the heavy items, especially the ones you don’t need right away. Then, place the lighter items on top to avoid crushing anything fragile. Next, make sure to wrap any breakable items in soft materials like clothing or bubble wrap for added protection. Now, check if there’s any extra space in the corners of the bag where you can tuck small items. Remember to label your boxes or bags if you’re packing for a move, so you know where everything is. Don’t forget to leave out the items you’ll need immediately, such as toiletries or a change of clothes, and keep them accessible. At last/Finally, double-check that everything is securely packed and that nothing has been left behind.

Speaking

Here are some examples of how to use "had better" in response to the situations listed:

1. Hasn't returned a book to the library:

   • "You had better return that book to the library today, or you'll get a fine."

2. Has forgotten to bring lunch:

   • "You had better find something to eat, or you'll be hungry all day."

3. Hasn't got enough change for bus fare:

   • "You'd better ask someone for change, or you might miss the bus."

4. Has found out a secret about you:

   • "You'd better keep that secret to yourself, or else."

5. Has misplaced your English textbook:

• "You had better find my English textbook, or you'll be in trouble."

MCQs Based on "Packing" by Jerome K Jerome

1. Who is the narrator of the story?
• A. George
• B. Harris
• C. Jerome
• D. Montmorency
2. What is the narrator's primary concern throughout the packing process?
• A. Breaking something
• B. Losing his belongings
• C. Running out of time
• D. Arguing with his friends
3. Which animal plays a significant role in the story?
• A. A cat
• B. A dog
• C. A bird
• D. A horse
4. What is the narrator's opinion of Harris and George's packing skills?
• A. He admires their efficiency
• B. He finds them to be quite good
• C. He believes they are terrible
• D. He thinks they are better than him
5. Where does the narrator plan to go on this trip?
• A. The narrator does not mention a destination
• B. A nearby city
• C. A foreign country
• D. A rural area
6. Why does the narrator insist on packing himself?
• A. He is a perfectionist
• B. He wants to show off his skills
• C. He doesn't trust his friends
• D. He enjoys being in control
7. What can we infer about the narrator's personality based on his interactions with his friends?
• A. He is patient and understanding
• B. He is lazy and irresponsible
• C. He is bossy and opinionated
• D. He is kind and generous
8. Why does Montmorency seem to enjoy causing trouble?
• A. He is bored
• B. He is jealous
• C. He is mischievous
• D. He is hungry
9. What is the significance of the constant arguments between the narrator, Harris, and George?
• A. They highlight the challenges of friendship
• B. They show that they are not really compatible
• C. They create comedic relief in the story
• D. They reveal underlying tensions and conflicts
10. What is the overall tone of the story?
• A. Serious
• B. Romantic
• C. Tragic
• D. Humorous
11. What does the narrator's constant references to his toothbrush reveal about his character?
• A. He is forgetful and disorganized
• B. He is overly cautious and anxious
• C. He is superstitious and irrational
• D. He is obsessive and compulsive
12. The constant chaos and bickering among the three men can be seen as a metaphor for what?
• A. The challenges of travel
• B. The complexities of human relationships
• C. The absurdity of life
• D. The difficulties of planning a vacation
13. Why does the narrator seem so irritated by his friends' packing skills?
• A. He is a perfectionist and values efficiency
• B. He is jealous of their abilities
• C. He is trying to assert his dominance
• D. He is simply annoyed by their incompetence
14. What is the significance of the narrator's frequent use of humor and exaggeration in the story?
• A. To create a sense of realism
• B. To make the characters more relatable
• C. To provide comic relief and entertain the reader
• D. To highlight the seriousness of the situation
15. The story can be interpreted as a critique of what aspect of Victorian society?
• A. The obsession with class and status
• B. The emphasis on material possessions
• C. The lack of respect for women
• D. The value placed on leisure and recreation
16. How does the narrator's perspective on the trip change as the story progresses?
• A. He becomes more excited and optimistic
• B. He becomes more disillusioned and pessimistic
• C. He remains largely unchanged
• D. He becomes more appreciative of his friends
17. What is the significance of the constant references to time and deadlines in the story?
• A. To create a sense of urgency and tension
• B. To highlight the limitations of human planning
• C. To emphasize the importance of efficiency
• D. To symbolize the passage of time and the inevitability of change
18. How does the character of Montmorency contribute to the overall theme of the story?
• A. He represents the natural world and its indifference to human affairs
• B. He symbolizes the chaos and unpredictability of life
• C. He serves as a foil for the human characters
• D. He represents the petulant and demanding nature of children
19. What is the underlying message of the story?
• A. The importance of planning and preparation
• B. The value of friendship and camaraderie
• C. The absurdity and unpredictability of life
• D. The dangers of excessive indulgence and hedonism
20. How does the story reflect the values and attitudes of the Victorian era?
• A. By emphasizing the importance of hard work and discipline
• B. By romanticizing the natural world and wilderness
• C. By satirizing the upper classes and their excesses
• D. By promoting the ideals of individualism and self-reliance

ANSWER KEY:

1. C
2. B
3. B
4. C
5. A
6. A
7. C
8. C
9. A
10. D
11. B
12. B
13. A
14. C
15. C
16. C
17. A
18. B
19. C
20. C

Chapter 6 - My Childhood by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - Class IX - Beehive - Summary Q&A Solved

Table of Content

1. Summary of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
2. Word-Meaning of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
3. Short Question-Answer of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
4. Long Answer Type Questions of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
5. Discuss and Answer Questions of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
6. 20 Multiple Choice Questions(MCQs) of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam

Summary

"My Childhood" is an autobiographical account by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, where he reflects on his early years growing up in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. The story highlights the simplicity and humility of his upbringing.

Kalam was born into a middle-class Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was not formally educated but was wise and generous, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a devout and caring woman. Kalam recalls the strong values instilled in him by his parents, emphasizing honesty, self-discipline, and faith in God.

The story also sheds light on the communal harmony in Rameswaram, where people from different religions lived peacefully together. Kalam had three close friends, all from different religious backgrounds, and this diversity was never a barrier in their friendship.

Kalam's early education was shaped by his teachers, especially his science teacher, who inspired him to dream big. The teacher's encouragement and support played a significant role in shaping Kalam’s aspirations.

The story concludes with a message of unity, tolerance, and the importance of hard work and perseverance in achieving one's goals.

Word Meaning of 'My Childhood'

1. Erstwhile - Former.
2. Generosity - Kindness and willingness to give.
3. Innate - Inborn or natural.
4. Helpmate - A helpful companion or partner.
5. Undistinguished - Not very good-looking or ordinary.
6. Ancestral - Related to ancestors or forefathers.
7. Austere - Simple and strict.
8. Inessential - Not necessary.
9. Necessities - Basic needs or requirements.
10. Secure - Safe.
11. Broke out - Started suddenly.
12. Fetch - Bring.
13. Princely sum - A large amount of money.
14. Orthodox - Traditional or conservative.
15. Discrimination - Unfair treatment based on differences like religion or race.
16. Progressive - Forward-thinking or modern.

Thinking About the Text (Q&A of 'My Childhood')

I. Answer these questions in one or two sentences each.

1. Where was Abdul Kalam’s house?
   Abdul Kalam’s house was on Mosque Street in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
2. What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your answer.
   Dinamani is the name of a local newspaper because Abdul Kalam used to read it to follow the news about the Second World War.
3. Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends? What did they later become?
   Abdul Kalam’s school friends were Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. Ramanadha Sastry became a priest, Aravindan started a business arranging transport for pilgrims, and Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for the Southern Railways.
4. How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages?
   Abdul Kalam earned his first wages by helping his cousin distribute newspapers. He collected bundles of newspapers thrown from a moving train.
5. Had he earned any money before that? In what way?
   Yes, Abdul Kalam had earned money before that by collecting and selling tamarind seeds.

II. Answer each of these questions in a short paragraph (about 30 words)

1. How does the author describe: (i) his father, (ii) his mother, (iii) himself?
   (i) Abdul Kalam describes his father as a wise and simple man who led a disciplined life. (ii) His mother is portrayed as a kind and caring woman who supported the family. (iii) He describes himself as a curious and hardworking boy, eager to learn and explore.
2. What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents?
   Abdul Kalam inherited honesty and self-discipline from his father, and faith in goodness and deep kindness from his mother. These traits shaped his character and guided his actions throughout his life.

III. Discuss these questions in class with your teacher and then write down your answers in two or three paragraphs each.

1. “On the whole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the segregation of different social groups,” says the author.

(i) Which social groups does he mention? Were these groups easily identifiable (for example, by the way they dressed)?

Abdul Kalam mentions two main social groups in Rameswaram: the orthodox Brahmins and the Muslims. These groups were easily identifiable by their distinct attire and customs. For example, Brahmins wore traditional dhotis and sacred threads, while Muslims wore caps and specific types of clothing that marked their religious identity. This clear distinction in appearance made it easy to identify which group a person belonged to.

(ii) Were they aware only of their differences or did they also naturally share friendships and experiences?

Despite the clear social divisions, people in Rameswaram also shared friendships and experiences. Abdul Kalam’s own life is a testament to this, as he had close friends from different religious backgrounds. They played together, studied together, and shared stories. For instance, Kalam’s family often hosted people from various communities, and his mother would tell bedtime stories that were enjoyed by children of all backgrounds. The pond near his house was a common meeting place where children from different communities would gather and play, showing that friendships transcended social barriers.

(iii) The author speaks both of people who were very aware of the differences among them and those who tried to bridge these differences. Can you identify such people in the text?

In the text, Abdul Kalam mentions people who were very conscious of social differences, such as some of the orthodox Brahmins who adhered strictly to their customs. However, there were also individuals who tried to bridge these gaps. For example, Kalam’s science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, was progressive and encouraged Kalam to overcome social barriers. He invited Kalam to his home for a meal, despite the objections of his orthodox wife, demonstrating his belief in equality and unity.

(iv) Narrate two incidents that show how differences can be created, and also how they can be resolved. How can people change their attitudes?

One incident that shows how differences can be created is when a new teacher at Kalam’s school asked him to sit at the back of the class because he was a Muslim. This act of discrimination highlighted the rigid social divisions. However, this situation was resolved when Kalam’s friend, Ramanadha Sastry, and his father, the high priest of the Rameswaram temple, protested against this unfair treatment, leading to the teacher’s removal. Another incident is when Sivasubramania Iyer invited Kalam to his home for a meal. Initially, Iyer’s wife refused to serve Kalam because of his religion, but Iyer himself served Kalam and later convinced his wife to do the same. These incidents show that attitudes can change through education, empathy, and the courage to challenge social norms.

2. (i) Why did Abdul Kalam want to leave Rameswaram?

Abdul Kalam wanted to leave Rameswaram to pursue higher education and better opportunities. He was eager to learn more and expand his horizons, which required him to move to a place with better educational facilities. His ambition and desire to achieve something significant in life drove him to seek education beyond his hometown.

(ii) What did his father say to this?

Abdul Kalam’s father supported his decision to leave Rameswaram. He understood that Kalam needed to go away to grow and fulfil his potential. He compared Kalam to a seagull that flies across the sun, alone and without a nest, emphasizing the importance of independence and self-reliance. He also quoted Khalil Gibran, saying that children are not possessions but individuals with their own thoughts and dreams.

(iii) What do you think his words mean? Why do you think he spoke those words?

Kalam’s father’s words reflect a deep understanding of the need for personal growth and the pursuit of one’s dreams. By comparing Kalam to a seagull, he highlighted the importance of independence and the courage to explore new horizons. His reference to Khalil Gibran’s words about children being independent individuals underscores the idea that parents should support their children’s aspirations without imposing their own limitations. He spoke these words to reassure both Kalam and his mother, encouraging them to embrace the journey ahead with confidence and hope.

20 MCQs on 'My Childhood' by APJ Abdul Kalam

1. Where was A. P. J. Abdul Kalam born?

   • a) Chennai
   • b) Rameswaram
   • c) New Delhi
   • d) Mumbai

2. What was the name of Kalam's father?

   • a) Jainulabdeen
   • b) Abdul Kalam
   • c) Raghavachari
   • d) Lakshmana Sastry

3. Which profession did Kalam's father engage in?

   • a) Fisherman
   • b) Priest
   • c) Boat owner
   • d) Teacher

4. What did Kalam's father possess in abundance?

   • a) Wealth
   • b) Knowledge
   • c) Self-discipline and honesty
   • d) Political power

5. Who was Kalam's close friend from a different religion?

   • a) Ramanadha Sastry
   • b) Sivaprakasan
   • c) Ramakrishna Iyer
   • d) Ahmed Jalaluddin

6. What role did Lakshmana Sastry play in Kalam's life?

   • a) His teacher
   • b) His mentor
   • c) A friend’s father
   • d) A distant relative

7. How did the school headmaster treat young Kalam when he wore a cap that marked him as a Muslim?

   • a) With respect
   • b) Disrespectfully
   • c) Ignored him
   • d) Encouraged him

8. What was Kalam’s first job as a young boy?

   • a) Newspaper delivery boy
   • b) Fisherman’s assistant
   • c) Teacher's assistant
   • d) Shopkeeper

9. What influence did Kalam's father have on him?

   • a) Encouraged him to join politics
   • b) Taught him the value of hard work and integrity
   • c) Guided him in his studies
   • d) Advised him to pursue wealth

10. Which value did Kalam's father emphasize the most?

    • a) Religious rituals
    • b) Pursuit of wealth
    • c) Importance of inner self and spirituality
    • d) Academic excellence

11. How did Kalam describe his childhood home?

    • a) Luxurious and grand
    • b) Simple but full of harmony and happiness
    • c) Small and uncomfortable
    • d) Large and bustling with activity

12. Who motivated Kalam to pursue higher education?

    • a) His mother
    • b) His father
    • c) His teacher
    • d) His sister

13. What significant event changed the lives of people in Rameswaram during Kalam's childhood?

    • a) The onset of World War II
    • b) A natural disaster
    • c) The arrival of a new leader
    • d) A communal conflict

14. Which subject was Kalam particularly interested in during his school days?

    • a) History
    • b) Science
    • c) Mathematics
    • d) Literature

15. What did Kalam and his friends do when the teacher scolded them for sitting together despite belonging to different religions?

    • a) They argued with the teacher
    • b) They refused to obey
    • c) They separated reluctantly
    • d) Their families intervened and resolved the issue

16. What was Kalam’s most prominent trait as a child?

    • a) Rebelliousness
    • b) Curiosity
    • c) Laziness
    • d) Introversion

17. Which form of transportation was prominent in Rameswaram?

    • a) Buses
    • b) Trains
    • c) Boats
    • d) Bullock carts

18. How did Kalam’s family respond to the religious tensions in Rameswaram?

    • a) With fear
    • b) By leaving the town
    • c) By maintaining peace and unity
    • d) By supporting one religious group

19. What was the message of universal love and unity that Kalam’s father shared with him?

    • a) Religion should divide people
    • b) All religions fundamentally teach the same principles
    • c) Science and religion cannot coexist
    • d) Wealth is the most important pursuit in life

20. What did Kalam learn from his parents' simple lifestyle?

    • a) The importance of luxury
    • b) The need for fame
    • c) The value of simplicity, hard work, and self-discipline
    • d) The pursuit of knowledge over everything

Answer Key

1. b) Rameswaram
2. a) Jainulabdeen
3. c) Boat owner
4. c) Self-discipline and honesty
5. a) Ramanadha Sastry
6. c) A friend’s father
7. b) Disrespectfully
8. a) Newspaper delivery boy
9. b) Taught him the value of hard work and integrity
10. c) Importance of inner self and spirituality
11. b) Simple but full of harmony and happiness
12. c) His teacher
13. a) The onset of World War II
14. b) Science
15. c) They separated reluctantly
16. b) Curiosity
17. c) Boats
18. c) By maintaining peace and unity
19. b) All religions fundamentally teach the same principles
20. c) The value of simplicity, hard work, and self-discipline

A Truly Beautiful Mind - Theme, Summary, Q&A - Class IX Beehive

Theme of 'A Truly Beautiful Mind

Great men are not born with special signs. In their childhood days they are also like common children, and their likes and dislikes are very much similar to them. Their parents also take care of them as normally parents do. Gradually, these children develop some specific virtues and become great when they grow up.

Short Summary

Einstein as a little boy: This story is about a genius-Albert Einstein, who was born on 14 March 1879 in the German city of Ulm. His mother thought him to be a freak. His head seemed too large. He was not talking till he was two and a half. He played by himself and loved mechanical toys. He learnt to play the violin at six. Once, his headmaster told his father that he would never be a success at anything.

Einstein's desire: Einstein was good at studies but left school for good as he always clashed with teachers. He wished to continue his education in Switzerland. He was highly gifted in Mathematics and Physics. He decided to study at the University of Zurich after schooling. He found his fellow student Mileva Maric a 'clever creature'.

His work and marriage: At the age of 21, Einstein worked as a technical assistant and finally secured the job of a technical expert. His famous paper of 1905 was 'Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity'. While he was solving problems in Physics, his private life was unravelling. He wanted to marry Mileva. And finally he married her. But they could not live together, and finally the couple divorced in 1919. Later, Albert married his cousin the same year.

Noble Prize for Physics: Einstein published his General Theory of Relativity in 1915. The newspapers proclaimed his work as a scientific revolution. He received the Noble Prize for Physics in 1921 and was lauded by the press worldwide.

Emigration to the U.S.: Einstein emigrated to the U.S. in 1933, when the Nazis came to power in Germany. Five years later, the discovery of nuclear fission in Berlin had American physicists in an uproar. Many of them fled, as Einstein had, and they were afraid that the Nazis could build and use an atomic bomb.

Einstein's letter to Franklin D. Roosevelt: Einstein wrote a letter to Franklin D. Roosevelt, the American President and warned him that a single nuclear bomb would cause mass destruction. But the Americans secretly developed an atomic bomb and dropped them on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945.

Einstein's sorrow: Einstein was deeply shaken by the destruction caused by the atomic bombs. He proposed to the United Nations to form a world government. But his letter made no impact. Over the next decade, he got involved in politics to end the arms buildup and campaigned for peace and democracy.

Einstein's death: Einstein died in 1955, and the world celebrated him as a visionary and world citizen.

REFERENCE TO CONTEXT

Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: 

1. Einstein did not know what to do with other children, and his playmates called him "Brother Boring." So the youngster played by himself much of the time. He especially loved mechanical toys. (Page 46)

Questions:

(a) What did Einstein's playmates and friends call him?

(b) Why did Einstein's friends and playmates called him so?

(c) Did Einstein show any indication of his future greatness?

(d) What was Albert's interest?

Answers

(a) Einstein's friends and playmates called him 'Brother Boring'.

(b) Einstein didn't know what to do with other children. So, his friends and playmates called him 'Brother Boring'.

(c) No, Einstein didn't show anything that he would become so great and famous in future. 

(d) Albert's interest was to play alone, especially with mechanical toys 

2. A headmaster once told his father that what Einstein chose as a profession wouldn't matter because "he'll never make a success at anything." Einstein began learning to play the violin at the age of six, because his mother wanted him to. (Page 47)

Questions:

(a) Who said 'Albert would never make a success at anything? 

(b) Should he have said such words to him?

(c) Did Einstein indeed never make a success at anything?

(d) What did Einstein's mother want him to become? 

Answers:

(a) A headmaster told him such words

(b) He should not have said such discouraging words to him.

(c) No, he became a famous physicist and won the Nobel Prize for physics 

(d) Einstein mother wanted him to become a good violinist 

3. He went to high school in Munich, where Einstein's family had moved when he was 15 months regimentation old, and scored good marks in almost every subject. Einstein hated the schools and often clashed with his teachers. At the age of 15, Einstein felt so stifled there that he left the school for good.(Page 47)

Questions:

(a) Why did Einstein go to high school in Munich? 

(b) How did Einstein do in high school?

(c) Did he like the rule and regulations of the school? 

(d) Why did he leave his school?

Answers:

(a) Because Einstein's family had been living in Munich

(b) In high school, he scored good marks in almost every subject 

(c) No, he didn't like the rule and regulations of the school 

(d) He felt stifled by the school's rigidity and regimentation, and hence he left the school.

4. Einstein was highly gifted in mathematics and interested in physics and after finishing school. he decided to study at a university in Zurich. But science wasn't the only thing that appealed to the dashing young man with the walrus moustache. (Page 47)

Questions:

(a) What were his favourite subjects?

(b) Where did he decide to study after finishing school?

(c) Apart from science, what appealed to Einstein? 

(d) Who was that young man with a Walrus moustache?

Answers:

(a) Mathematics and Physics

(b) After finishing school, he decided to study at a university in Zurich 

(c) Apart from the science he loved a fellow student Mileva Maric

(d) He was Albert Einstein.

5. Einstein saw in her an ally against the "philistines"- those people in his family and at the university with whom he was constantly at odds. The couple fell in love Letters survive in which they put their affection into words, mixing science with tenderness. (Page 45)

Questions:

(a) Who does 'her' refer to here?

(b) Why did Einstien like her?

(c) Did Einstein like the philistines? 

(d) How did people come to know that Einstein fell in love with Mileva Maric?

Answers:

(a) Here, 'her ' refers to Mileva Maric.

(b) Because she was dead against the philistines.

(c) No, he was constantly at odds with the philistines. 

(d) People found the letters where they put their affection into words.

6. He worked as a teaching assistant, gave private lessons and finally secured a job in 1902 as a technical expert in the patent office in Bern. While he was supposed to be assessing other people's inventions, Einstein was actually developing his own ideas in secret. (Page 48)

Questions:

(a) What was Einstein's first job?

b) What job did he finally secure in 1902? 

(c) What was he supposed to do in the patent office?

(d) What was he actually doing while carrying out his job?

Answers:

(a) Einstein first worked as a teaching assistant. 

(b) He became a technical expert in the patent office in Bern in 1902.

(c) He was supposed to assess other people's inventions.

(d) He was secretly developing his own ideas while carrying out his job.

7. One of the famous papers of 1905 was Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, according to which time and distance are not absolute. Indeed, two perfectly accurate clocks will not continue to show the same time if they come together again after a journey if one of them has been moving very fast relative to the other. (Page 48)

Questions:

(a) What is not absolute, according to Einstein? 

(b) Name an article written by Einstein in 1905.

(c) In what case will the two perfectly accurate clocks not continue to show the same time? 

(d) Name the lesson from which this extract has been taken.

Answers:

(a) According to Einstein, time and distance are not absolute. 

(b) Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity.

(c) If they come together again after a journey and one of them has been moving very fast relative to the other. 

(d) A Truly Beautiful Mind.

8. Albert had wanted to marry Mileva right after finishing his studies, but his mother was against it She thought Mileva, who was three years older than her son, was too old for him. She was also bothered by Mileva's intelligence. (Page 49)

Questions:

(a) Whom did Einstein want to marry? 

(b) When did he want to marry her?

(c) Who was against his desire to marry her? 

(d) Why was she against it?

Answers:

(a) Einstein wanted to marry Mileva.

(b) He wanted to marry her right after finishing his studies. 

(c) Her mother was against his desire to marry her.

(d) She was against it because Mileva, she thought, was older and more intelligent than him  

9. The pair finally married in January 1903 and had two sons. But a few years later, the marriage faltered. Mileva, meanwhile, was losing her intellectual ambition and becoming an unhappy housewife. After years of constant fighting, the couple finally divorced in 1919. Einstein married his cousin Elsa the same year.

Questions:

(a) When did Einstein marry Mileva? 

(b) How was Einstein's life after marriage?

(c) Did Mileva become a happy housewife? 

(d) Whom did Einstein marry after divorcing Mileva?

Answers:

(a) Einstein married Mileva in January 1903 

(b) Einstein's life was not good with Mileva, and they finally divorced. 

(c) No, Mileva led a miserable, unhappy life as a housewife.

(d) Einstein married his cousin Elsa in the same year. 

10. In 1915, he had published his General Theory of Relativity, which provided a new interpretation of gravity An eclipse of the sun in 1919 brought proof that it was accurate. Einstein had correctly calculated in advance the extent to which the light from fixed stars would be deflected through the sun's gravitational field. (Page 49)

Questions: 

(a) What had he published in 1015?

(b) What is interpreted in the General Theory of Relativity? 

(c) What proved that Einstein's theory was accurate?

(d) What had Einstein correctly calculated in advance?

Answers: 

(a) In 1915, he had published his General Theory of Relativity.

(b) Gravity is interpreted in the General Theory of Relativity

c) An eclipse in 1919 proved that his theory of relativity was accurate. 

(d) He had correctly calculated in advance the extent to which the light from fixed stores would be deflected through the sun's gravitational field.

11. "A single bomb of this type... exploded in a port, might very well destroy the whole port some of the surrounding territory." (Page 50)

Questions:

(a) What types of the bomb has been referred to here? 

(b) Who said the above statement and to whom? 

(c) When was the above statement said?

(d) Did his words have any effect? 

Answers:

(a) Atomic bomb has been referred to here. 

b) The above statement was said by Einstein to the American president. 

(c) This statement was said by Einstein on 2 August 1939. 

(d) No, his words did not have any effect.

12. Einstien was deeply shaken by the extent of the destruction. This time he wrote a public missive to the United Nations. to the United Nations. In it, he proposed the formation of a world government. Unlike the letter to Roosevelt, this one made no impact.  (Page 50)

Questions:

(a) How did the massive destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki influence Einstein? 

(b) What did he do in response to it?

(c) What was proposed by him?

(d) Did his proposal have a favourable outcome?

Answers:

(a) Einstein was deeply moved by the extent of the destruction. 

(b) In response to the massive destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, he wrote a public letter to the United Nations.

(c) He proposed the formation of a world government. 

(d) No, his proposal did not have any positive results.

NCERT TEXTBOOK QUESTIONS SOLVED

Talking About The Test (Page 50)

Q1. Here are some headings for paragraphs in the text. Write the number(s) of the paragraph(s) for each title against the heading. The first one is done for you. 

(i) Einstein's equation - 9

(ii) Einstein meets his future wife 

(iii) The making of a violinist

(iv) Mileva and Einstein's mother 

(v) A letter that launched the arms race

(vi) A desk drawer full of ideas 

(vii) Marriage and divorce

Ans. (i)-9 (ii)-7 (iii)-3 (iv)-10 (v)-15 (vi)-8 (vii)-11

Q2. Who had these opinions about Einstein?

(i) He was boring.

(ii) He was stupid and would never succeed in life.

(iii) He was a freak. 

Ans. 

(i) His playmates.

(ii) A headmaster. 

(iii) His mother. 

Q3. Explain what the reasons for the following are:

(i) Einstein leaving the school in Munich for good.

(ii) Einstein wanting to study in Switzerland rather than in Munich. 

(iii) Einstein seeing in Mileva an ally.

(iv) What do these tell you about Einstein?

Ans. 

(i) Einstein left the school in Munich because he did not like the discipline of the school. He hated the school's regimentation and often clashed with teachers.

(ii) Albert's parents moved to Milan and left their son with relatives. After prolonged discussion, Einstein got his wish to continue his education in German- speaking Switzerland. Actually, it was more liberal than Munich.

(iii) Einstein saw in Mileva Maric an ally against the "Philistines"-those people in his family and at the university with whom he was constantly at odds. He found that she was a "clever creature".

(iv) These tell that Einstein was a genius and had the capabilities to achieve his targets. Moreover, he had his own view of life. He liked freedom too much.

Q4. What did Einstein call his desk drawer at the patent office? Why?

Ans. Einstein called his desk drawer at the patent office the "bureau of theoretical physics". Einstein was actually developing his own ideas in secret and his drawer had all the evidences which could reveal the secret.

Q5. Why did Einstein write a letter to Franklin Roosevelt?

Ans. With the emergence of Nazis in Germany, Einstein emigrated to the United States. It was the fact that the Nazis had the ability to develop the atomic bomb. It could destroy the whole world. So he warned Franklin D. Roosevelt in his letter.

Q6. How did Einstein react to the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki? 

Ans. The atomic bomb devastated the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He was deeply shaken by the extent of the destruction and wrote a public missive to the United Nations.

Q7. Why does the world remember Einstein as a 'world citizen"?

Ans. The world remembers Einstein as a "world citizen' because he believed in universal peace. When there was the rat race for becoming atomic power, he was worried about the aftermaths of the bomb. He was really a world citizen who was concerned with humanity.

Q8. Here are some facts from Einstein's life. Arrange them in chronological order.

[] Einstein publishes his special theory of relativity.

[] He is awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics.

[] Einstein writes a letter to U.S. President, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and warns against Germany's building of an atomic bomb.

[] Einstein attends a high school in Munich.

[] Einstein's family moves to Milan. 

[] Einstein is born in the German city of Ulm.

[] Einstein joins a University in Zurich, where he meets Mileva.

[] Einstein dies.

[] He provides a new interpretation of gravity.

[] Tired of the school's regimentation, Einstein withdraws from school.
[] He works in a patent office as a technical expert. 

[] When Hitler comes to power, Einstein leaves Germany for the United States.

Ans.
[1] Einstein is born in the German city of Ulm.

[2] Einstein attends a high school in Munich.

[3] Einstein's family moves to Milan. 

[4] Tired of the school's regimentation, Einstein withdraws from school. 

[5] Einstein joins a University in Zurich where he meets Mileva.

[6] He works in a patent office as a technical expert. also

[7] Einstein publishes his special theory of relativity.

[8] He provides a new interpretation of gravitation. 

[9] He is awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics.

[10] When Hitler comes to power, Einstein leaves Germany for the United States. 

[11] Einstein writes a letter to U.S. President, Franklin D. Roosevelt and warns against Germany's building of an atomic bomb, hy 

[12] Einstein dies

THINKING ABOUT LANGUAGE (Page 51)

Q.1. Here are some sentences from the story. Choose the word from the brackets which can be substituted for the italicised words in the sentences.

1. A few years later, the marriage faltered (failed, broke, became weak)

2. Einstein was constantly at odds with people at the university. (on bad terms, in disagreement, unhappy)

3. The newspapers proclaimed his work as "a scientific revolution". (declared, praised, showed)

4. Einstein got ever more involved in politics, agitating for an end to the anns build up. (campaigning, fighting, supporting)

5. At the age of 15, Einstein felt so stifled that he left the school for good. (permanently, for his benefit, for a short time)

6. Five years later, the discovery of nuclear fission in Berlin had American physicists in an uproar. (in a state of commotion, full of criticism, in a desperate state)

7. Science wasn't the only thing that appealed to the dashing young man with the walrus moustache. (interested, challenged, worried)

Ans.

1. failed

2. in disagreement

3. declared

4. campaigning

5. permanently 6. in a state of commotion

7. interested.

Q.II. Study the following sentences:

• Einstein became a gifted amateur violinist, maintaining this skill throughout deb his life.
• Letters survive in which they put their affection into words, mixing science with tenderness.

The parts in italics in the above sentences begin with ing verbs, and are called participial phrases. Participial phrases say something more about the person or thing talked about or the idea expressed by the sentence as a whole. For example:

-Einstein became a gifted amateur violinist. He maintained this skill throughout his life.

Complete the sentences below by filling in the blanks with suitable participial clauses. The information that has to be used in the phrases is provided as a sentence in brackets.

1. ....................the firefighters finally put out the fire. (They worked round the clock.) 
2. She watched the sunset above the mountain, .................... (She noticed the colours blending softly into one another.)
3. The excited horse pawed the ground rapidly, ............. (While it neighed continually.)
4. ................, I found myself in Bangalore, instead of Benaras. (I had taken the wrong train.)
5. ................. I was desperate to get to the bathroom. (I had not bathed for two days)
6. The stone steps, ............... needed to be replaced. (They were worn down).
7. The actor received hundreds of letters from his fans, (They asked him to send them his photograph.) 

Ans.

1. Working round the clock the firefighters finally put out the fire.
2. Noticing the colours blending softly into one another she watched the sunset above the mountain.
3. Neighing continually the excited horse pawed the ground rapidly.
4. Having taken the wrong train I found myself in Bangalore instead of Benaras 
5. Having not bathed for two days I was desperate to get to the bathroom. 
6. The stone steps being worn down needed to be replaced.
7. The actor received hundreds of letters from his fans asking him to send them his photograph.

WRITING NEWSPAPER REPORTS (Page 53)

Here are some notes which you could use to write a report.

21 August 2005----original handwritten manuscript of Albert Einstein unearthed ------by student Rowdy Boeynik in the University of Netherlands -------- Boeynik researching papers ------- papers belonging to an old friend of Einstein--------fingerprints of Einstein on these papers---------16 page document dated 1924-------Einstein's work on his last theory---- behaviour of atoms at low temperature ------- now known as the Bose-Einstein condensation -------- the manuscript to be kept at Leyden University where Einstein got the Nobel Prize.

Q. Write a report which has four paragraphs, one each on:

• what was unearthed.
• who unearthed it and when
• what the document contained
• where it will be kept.

Your report could begin like this:

Ans. 

Student Unearths Einstein Manuscript 

21 August 2023. An original handwritten Albert Einstein manuscript has been un- earthed at a University of Netherlands. A student named Rowdy Boeynik was researching on the papers belonging to his old companion Einstein.

The document contained papers of Ein- stein's work on the last theory-Behav- iour of Atoms at Low Temperature. Now- adays it is known as the Bose-Einstein Condensation.

The manuscript will be kept at Leyden University where Einstein got the Nobel Prize.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS SOLVED

SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTION

Q1. Why didn't Einstein's playmates like him? 

Ans. When Einstein was two-and-a-half years old, he still wasn't talking. When he finally learnt to speak, he spoke everything twice. His playmates called him 'Brother Boring'. So Einstein played by himself much of the time.

Q2. What was the headmaster's opinion about Einstein?

Ans. During childhood, Einstein was sent to school. There he failed to show any sign of progress in his studies. The headmaster too had a poor opinion about him. He told Einstein's father that he would never make a success at anything.

Q3. Why did Einstein leave school for good? 

Ans. Einstein was not a bad pupil. He went to High School in Munich. When he was 15 months old, his family had moved there. He scored good marks in almost every subject. But he hated the school's regimentation. He often clashed with his teachers. At the age of 15, he felt so stifled that he left school forever.

Q4. Why did Einstein have special interest in Mileva Maric?

Ans. Einstein found Mileva Maric a "clever creature". This young Serb had come to Switzerland because the university in Zurich was one of the few in Europe where women could get degrees. Einstein saw in her an ally against the "philistines" those people in his family and at the university with whom he was constantly at odds. That is why Einstein had a special interest in her.

Q5. What was Einstein's Theory of Relativity? 

Ans. According to Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, time and distance are not absolute. In fact, two perfectly accurate clocks will not continue to show the same time if they come together again after a journey if one of them had been moving very fast relative to the other.

Q6. Why was Einstein's mother against his marriage with Mileva? 

Ans. Albert wanted to marry Mileva right after finishing his studies. But his mother was against it. She thought Mileva, who was three years older than Einstein, looks too old for him. She was also bothered by Mileva's intelligence. Einstein's mother said, "she is a book like you" So Einstein put the wedding off.

Q7. Did Einstein show any indication of his future greatness?

Ans. No, Einstein did not show any extraordinary traits in his childhood. He showed no indication that he was destined for greatness. His mother thought Albert was a freak. To her, his head seemed too large. He didn't talk till the age of two and a half. When learnt to speak, he uttered everything twice. His playmates called him "Brother Boring."

Q8. Was Einstein a bad pupil?

Ans. No, Einstein was not a bad pupil. He went to high school in Munich and scored good marks in almost every subject. He started learning violin at the age of six. He became a gifted amateur violinist. But he hated the school's regimentation. He often clashed with his teachers.

Q9. Why did Einstein wish to continue his education in German speaking Switzerland?

Ans. Einstein didn't like regimentation widely spread in schools in Germany. He felt stifled there. He wished to continue his education in German speaking Switzerland which was more liberal city than Munich. After finishing school, he studied at a university in Zurich.

Q10. Why did he call his desk drawer at work the 'bureau of theoretical physics"?

Ans. Einstein got a job as a technical expert in the patent office in Bern. While assessing other people's inventions, he actually developed his own ideas in secret. He worked very hard. He jokingly called his desk drawer at work the "Bureau of theoretical physics".

Q11. Why did Einstein's marriage with Mileva fail?

Ans. Before marriage Einstein was fascinated by Mileva. He thought her as his ally against the 'Philistines'. The couple fell in love and in spite of his mother's objection, they ultimately married. But after a few years later, the marriage faltered. Mileva lost her intellectual ambition. She became an unhappy wife. After years of constant fighting, the couple finally divorced in 1919.

Q12. Why did newspapers proclaim Einstein's work as 'a scientific revolution'?

Ans. In 1915, Einstein published his General Theory of Relativity. It gave a new interpretation of gravity. An eclipse of the sun in 1919 proved its correctness. He had correctly calculated in advance the extent to which the light from fixed stars would be deflected through the sun's gravitational fields. The newspaper hailed his work as 'a scientific revolution'.