CHAPTER 3- WISDOM PAVES THE WAY

Let us do these activities before we read. (Page 27)

I. Why do we seek advice of the elderly in our family? Share your thoughts with your classmates and teacher.
Answer:

We turn to the elders in our family for advice because their life experience and wisdom guide them in making better decisions.

II. Knowledge is about learning facts and information, while wisdom is about using that knowledge with good judgement.
Work in pairs. Read the following situations and classify each one as either ‘knowledge’ or ‘wisdom’. One example has been done for you.

1. Riya’s understanding of plant care helped her grow a healthy vegetable garden in her backyard.
2. Mr. Kumar values time with family over chasing wealth.
3. Karuna’s expertise in computer programming helped her develop a successful app.
4. Rohan understood the value of time management and created a timetable to complete his assignments systematically.
5. Ramesh chose to forgive his friend for a misunderstanding.
6. Ms. Vaijayanthi delivered a lecture on Indian Classical music at the cultural festival.

Answer:

III.

Answer:

Looking at the picture, here’s what might have happened:

• A cat is sitting on the roof of the house, while another cat is stuck on a tree branch.
• The people gathered seem to be discussing the situation and trying to figure out how to bring the cat down safely.
• The women appear to be worried or talking about the trouble caused, while the man is explaining something, perhaps offering a solution.
• Some broken pots on the ground suggest that the cats may have jumped around and caused damage while climbing.

So, it looks like the villagers are discussing how to rescue the cat from the tree and also talking about the mess created.

Let us discuss (Page 32)

I. Complete the following sentences with suitable reasons. One example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. Shiv Datt said, “I believe it has been over a week, perhaps even longer,” because it had been a long time since they left the village.
2. Dev Datt said, “Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. That is why we press on towards Ujjain,” because ________.
3. Har Datt said, “Look there, friends. A camel has passed this way. The tracks are fresh,” because ________.
4. Shiv Datt said, “It appears to be a merchant, running as if pursued by trouble,” because ________.
5. The merchant said, “How could you possibly know that? The poor creature has been unwell for two weeks now. Surely you are a healer!” because ________.
6. Dev Datt said, “You are free to do as you wish, sir. If the King desires our presence, we shall be waiting under that banyan tree yonder,” because ________.
Answer:

2. because they all hoped the King would offer them employment.
3. because he noticed the fresh footprints of a camel on the road.
4. because the merchant was rushing and appeared to be in distress.
5. because Dev Datt had accurately observed that the camel was suffering from stomach pain.
6. because Dev Datt was confident and unafraid, ready to meet the King.

Let us discuss. (Pages 36-37)

I. Arrange the following events in order of their occurrence from Scene II of the play. One example has been, done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. The King makes the four young men his advisers, impressed by their skills. (8)
2. Ram Datt explains how he infers from the tracks that the camel is lame.
3. The King asks the merchant to clearly state his accusation.
4. The King praises the young men for their observations and dismisses the merchant’s accusation.
5. Shiv Datt reveals that the camel is blind in its right eye as it had only chewed on the leaves on the left side of the road.
6. Dev Datt explains his observation about the camel’s pain and careful movement.
7. Har Datt clarifies how he knew that the camel has a short tail.
8. The merchant accuses the four men of knowing a lot about his missing camel.

Answer:

1. The merchant accused the four young men of knowing too much about his missing camel.
2. The King asked the merchant to clearly explain his accusation.
3. Ram Datt explained how he inferred from the tracks that the camel was lame.
4. Shiv Datt revealed that the camel was blind in its right eye, as it had eaten only the leaves on the left side of the road.
5. Har Datt clarified how he knew that the camel had a short tail.
6. Dev Datt described his observation about the camel’s stomach pain and its careful movement.
7. The King praised the young men for their sharp observations and dismissed the merchant’s accusation.
8. The King, impressed by their skills, appointed the four young men as his advisers.

Let us think and reflect (Pages 37-39)

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.
1. Dev Datt: Ten days are but a short span in the grand scheme of things.
We may still have many more roads to wander before we find employment befitting all four of us.
Ram Datt: If only we could secure an audience with the King of Ujjain.
I am confident he would recognise our talents and appoint us to his service.
Shiv Datt: I share your belief.
Dev Datt: Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. That is why we press on towards Ujjain.
Har Datt: (Pausing thoughtfully) Gaining an audience with the King is no simple task. We need to devise a strategy.

(i) Identify the false statement from the two given below and rectify it.
A. Dev Datt believes that finding employment is an easy task.
B. Ram Datt is confident that the King would recognise their talents.
Answer:
False Statement – A.

Dev Datt feels that securing employment is a long and challenging journey.

(ii) What does Ram Datt’s confidence in gaining the King’s recognition tell us about him?
Answer:

Ram Datt’s faith in earning the King’s recognition shows that he is optimistic and self-assured, reflecting strong self-belief.

(iii) Complete the sentence given below with the correct option from those given.
In the line, ‘That’s why we press on towards Ujjain’, the phrase ‘press on’ refers to ________
A. walking with heavy steps
B. moving forward with determi¬nation
C. slowing down frequently for rest
D. stopping briefly to save time
Answer:
B. moving forward with determination

(iv) Har Datt says, “We need to devise a strategy.” What can be inferred about Har Datt’s character from his statement?
A. He is doubtful of their abilities and wants to give up.
B. He is eager to rush into the palace without preparation.
C. He is cautious and thoughtful, preferring to plan ahead.
D. He relies on others to make decisions for the group.
Answer:
C. He is cautious and thoughtful, preferring to plan ahead.

2. King: (To the four men)
You have demonstrated remarkable intelligence and the ability to see beyond the obvious. Such minds are rare and highly valued in my court. I extend to you the honour of becoming my advisers. Your counsel shall guide my decisions, and your wisdom shall be a beacon for my kingdom. What do you say to my offer?
Ram Datt: (Stepping forward) Your Highness, it is an honour we had not dared to dream of.

(i) Select the option that is true for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R).
(A): The merchant left the court feeling humbled and ashamed.
(R): The King commanded that the four wise men join his court.
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Answer:
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(ii) Complete the following sentence by choosing the correct option.
The line, ‘See beyond the obvious’ means that the men had the ability to ________
A. challenge common beliefs with reasoning
B. interpret information in traditional ways
C. notice details that others might overlook
D. predict what is going to happen in the future
Answer:
C. notice details that others might overlook

(iii) Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason.
Ram Datt described the King’s offer as ‘an honour we had not dared to dream of because ________
Answer:

He had never expected to receive such an honour from the King.

(iv) How does the King’s offer to the four men reflect his values as a ruler?
Answer:

The King’s offer reflects his appreciation for keen observation, intelligence, and a sense of justice.

II. Answer the following questions.

Question 1: What does the dusty road leading to Ujjain tell us about the challenges of the young men’s journey?

Answer: The dusty road to Ujjain shows how long, tiring, and challenging the young men’s journey has been.

Question 2: Why did the merchant become suspicious of the four men? What does this tell us about him?
Answer: The merchant became suspicious because the men described his camel so accurately without seeing it. This shows that he had difficulty judging people correctly.

Question 3: How do the four young men’s observations about the camel serve as a turning point in the play?
Answer: The young men’s observations about the camel demonstrate their intelligence and serve as the key moment that earns them the King’s trust.

Question 4: Why did the King believe the four young men and not the merchant?
Answer: The King trusted the four men because their reasoning was logical, clear, and truthful.

Question 5: How does the capability of the four young men make them suitable to become advisors?
Answer: The young men’s sharp observation, honesty, and sound reasoning make them suitable to be the King’s advisers.

Question 6: Why does the merchant feel ashamed for accusing the four young men of stealing his camel? Explain in your own words.
Answer: The merchant feels ashamed because he wrongly accused the wise and innocent men of theft.

Let us learn (Pages 39-42)

Complete the sentences by Ailing in the noun form of the textual words given in the brackets.
1. Some word games need a lot of thought and ________ (deduce)
2. We need to make close ________ of animals in order to understand their behaviour, (observe)
3. A detailed ________ of the documents shows a lot of errors, (scrutinise)
4. You should not make any false ________ against anyone, (accuse)
5. She was given an award in ________ of her contribution to literature, (recognise)
Answer:
1. deduction
2. observation
3. scrutiny
4. accusation
5. recognition

II. Match the expressions in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

Answer:

with all our hearts → (vi) complete sincerity

to be precise → (iv) exact and accurate

gain an audience with → (v) meeting or hearing someone

catch his breath → (vii) to pause or rest for some time

erupts in applause → (ii) starts cheering together

grand scheme of things → (viii) overall plan of life in a larger context

taken aback → (i) surprised

more than meets the eye → (iii) hidden information that is not obvious

Now, make sentences using any five of the expressions from Column 1.

Answer:

1. With all our hearts – We with all our hearts thanked the teacher for her guidance and support.

2. To be precise – The meeting will start at 10:15 a.m., to be precise.

3. Gain an audience with – The young scientist was eager to gain an audience with the Prime Minister to present her research.

4. Catch his breath – After running up the hill, he stopped for a moment to catch his breath.

5. Erupts in applause – As the performer took the stage, the audience erupted in applause.

Answer:
Face: 1. (iii) 2. (i) 3. (iv) 4. (ii)
Bear: 1. (iv) 2. (iii) 3. (ii) 4. (i)

IV. Match the highlighted words in the sentences in Column 1 with the functions they express in Column 2.

Answer–

I will gladly pay your fee if you can cure it. → (viii) prediction

You must have stolen it and sold it off. → (vii) necessity

You shall come with me to face the King! → (x) command

How could you possibly know that? → (iv) challenge

I am confident he would recognise our talents and appoint us to his service. → (v) logical conclusion

A camel with a long tail would have fended off these pests with ease. → (ii) imagined (hypothetical) possibility

They may tell us more than meets the eye. → (xi) possibility

May your wisdom shine upon Ujyain and guide us to prosperity. → (vi) wish or hope

Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. → (iii) moral obligation or advice

We need to devise a strategy. → (ix) willingness

You speak of my camel as if it stood before you, yet you dare to claim not to have seen it! → (i) expression of disbelief

V. Complete the following story with modal verbs in the box given below by using the clues from the functions given within brackets.

An old man, known for his wisdom, lived in a small village. One day, a young boy asked him, “How 1. _______ (ability) I become wise like you?” The old man smiled and said, “Wisdom 2._______ (necessity) be earned through patience. You 3. _______ (suggestion) listen, more than you speak.” The boy thought for a while and replied, “It 4. _______ (weak possibility) take years, but I’ll try.” The old man nodded. “You 5._______ (obligation) learn from your mistakes too. Wisdom 6. _______ (possibility)
come slowly, but it always arrives for those who seek it.” The boy knew he 7. ___ (ability) become wise if he followed the old man’s advice.
Answer:
1. can   2. must   3. should   4. might   5. need to   6. may   7. could

VI. Rewrite the following sentences using appropriate modal verbs.
You may take clues from the highlighted words. One example has been done for you.
1. It is advisable for you to think before you speak.
You should think before you speak.
2. It is unnecessary to worry about things beyond your control.
3. It is not possible for a person to gain experience without taking risks.
4. It is essential to treat others with kindness, even when they disagree with you.
5. It is not allowed to interrupt when someone else is speaking.
Answer:
2. You need not worry about things beyond your control.
3. You cannot gain experience without taking risks.
4. You must treat others with kindness.
5. You must not interrupt someone else.

Let us listen (Page 42)

I. You will listen to four people sharing their thoughts on why they enjoy witty characters in stories. As you listen, match statements 1–6 given below to the speakers (i)–(iv). There are two statements you do not need. (Transcript for teacher on page 48)
Speaker (i): I love witty characters because they make serious situations funny! Even when things seem tense, they always have a clever response. Such characters never panic, think fast, and solve problems in the smartest way. I wish I could think that quickly!
Speaker (ii): Witty characters are the best because they make stories exciting. I especially like how they turn ordinary moments into something memorable. It makes me feel like intelligence and humour are just as powerful as strength.
Speaker (iii): I enjoy witty characters because they always have an answer for everything! They use humour instead of fighting, and that’s really wonderful. Even in folktales, they prove that smart thinking can win over force. It makes me laugh but also teaches me to stay calm in tricky situations.
Speaker (iv): Witty characters add charm to a story. Their intelligence keeps the reader engaged, and their humour makes learning fun. Whether it’s a folktale or a modern one, a clever character always stands out. I often feel that wit and wisdom go hand-in-hand!

Answer:
1. (ii)
2. (iv)
3. (iv)
4. (iii)
5. (ii)
6. (i)

Let us speak (Page 43)

I. The way in which a word is stressed in a sentence can change its meaning.
Read the following examples.

Now, work in pairs. Take turns to say the following sentences aloud by stressing on the highlighted words. Share the meanings of the sentences with each other and teacher.

1. I take my dog for a walk in the evening.
Answer:

Stresses that you yourself, and not anyone else, should take the dog for a walk.

2. I take my dog for a walk in the evening.
Answer:

Highlights the act of taking the dog for a walk, rather than feeding or playing with it.

3. I take my dog for a walk in the evening.

Answer: 

Stresses that the dog belongs to you, not to anyone else.

4. I take my dog for a walk in the evening.

Answer:

Highlights that the activity is a walk, not a run or a drive.

5. I take my dog for a walk in the evening.

Answer:

Stresses the specific time of the walk, not whether it is in the morning or afternoon.

1. Good day, kind Sirs.
   Answer: Uses a falling tone to show politeness and respect in greeting.
2. We regret to inform you that we do not know where it is.
   Answer: Uses a falling tone to convey seriousness and a sense of finality.
3. You describe it perfectly!
   Answer: Uses a falling tone to express strong appreciation or admiration.
4. You shall come with me to face the King!
   Answer: Uses a falling tone to give a firm and authoritative command.

Let Us Write (Page 44)

I. You have observed that the kutcha road leading to your colony is in a very bad condition due to heavy rains. The potholes f are dangerous for people and can lead to accidents. They also serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes as there is stagnant water all around.
Write a letter of complaint to the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation or the Sarpanch, Gram Panchayat to look into the matter and take necessary action.

Follow the format of a formal letter and draft the letter with the help of cues given below.

Answer:

[Your Address]  

[City, State, ZIP Code]  

[Date: September 24, 2025]  

[Recipient’s Address]

Municipal Corporation  

[Office Address]  

[City, State, ZIP Code]  

Subject: Request to Address the Issue of Kutcha Road Leading to Your Colony  

Body of the Letter:  

Dear Sir/Madam,  

I would like to bring to your attention the issue of the kutcha road leading to our colony. The potholes are dangerous for people and can lead to accidents. They also serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes as there is stagnant water all around.  

The problems that we face are causing inconvenience as a result. Consequently, this situation poses a health hazard to the residents.  

Firstly, I would like to suggest that the road be repaired. Secondly, I request you to look into this matter and take necessary action.  

I look forward to your prompt response.  

Yours faithfully,  

[Your Name]  

[Your Contact Information]

Let us explore (Pages 44-45)

Read the steps to enact a play, from : [NCERT Textbook Pages 44-45.]

I. Staging a play requires creativity, organisation, and teamwork.

Steps involved in staging a play:

1.  Choose a play that suits your requirement of theme, duration, number of actors, and available resources.

2.  Choose a director, a stage manager, a light and sound incharge, a props manager, a costume designer, and a makeup artist.

3.  Hold auditions and decide the roles.

4.  Read the script and plan stage movements, and positions for  each scene. 

5.  Make a schedule for rehearsal.

6.  Work on the set design (backdrop) and make or collect the required props. 

7. Design or gather appropriate costumes.

8.  Plan makeup and hairstyles to suit the play’s time period.

9.  Check light and sound arrangements.

10.  Hold a dress rehearsal including sound and light effects.

11.  Promote the event through posters and pamphlets.

12.  Organise the backstage with labelled props, costumes, and actors’ entrances or exits.

13.  Present the play to the audience.

Now, present the enactment of the play ‘Wisdom Paves the Way’ with the help of the steps you have just read. Ensure you use the correct intonation and sentence stress.

Answer:  Do it yourself.

II. Stories related to wit and wisdom have always fascinated the readers. Go to the library and read the stories associated with the following.
Vikramaditya and Betal                       Tenali Rama
Gopal the Jester                                  Panchatantra Tales

Answer:
Do it yourself.