Chapter 6 Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer – Let us do these activities before we read. (Page 82)

I. Arrange the worldwide means of communication given below in the timeline provided.

Answer:
Carrier pigeons → Telegraph → Postcard → Telephone → Mobile phone → Email

II. Work in pairs and discuss the following things.
1. The reasons for change in the means of communication over the years.
2. The means of communication that you prefer to use and the reason for your choice.
3. Communication through social media: its benefits and precautions that one should take against its misuse.
Answer:
1. Because of new technology, convenience of usage, and the desire for rapid communication.
2. I like email more because it lets me say what I want to say clearly and I can save it for later.
3. Social media is good for bringing people together, but we need to be careful about fake news, cyberbullying, and using it too much.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Class 8 Question Answer – Let us discuss (Page 85)

A fact is something that can be proven true or false. A fact is not based on people’s beliefs.
An opinion on the other hand is a belief, feeling or judgement, and can vary from one person to another. An opinion cannot be proven.

I. Identify which of the following statements are facts and which are opinions.
1. But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy.
2. I started my working life soon after our country became independent.
3. To be quite honest, service to our nation’s farmers was not the career I had envisioned for myself.
4. I knew I could make a more meaningful contribution by working here in Anand, Gujarat.
5. … values that I saw in my mentor and supporter here in Anand—Tribhuvandas Patel.
6. Life is a privilege, and to waste it would be wrong.
7. I hope that you, too, will discover, as I did, that failure is not about not succeeding.
8. … the magnificent ceremony in which the President awarded me the Padma Vibhushan in 1999?
Answer:
1. Opinion
2. Fact
3. Opinion
4. Opinion
5. Fact
6. Opinion
7. Opinion
8. Fact

Class 8 English Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer – Let us think and reflect (Pages 86-88)

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.
1. In today’s fast-paced world we have become so addicted to instant communication that we prefer to use a telephone. But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy. Writing is different. Writing—even if it is a letter—not only conveys our present concerns and views of the events taking place around us but it becomes a possession that can be treasured and reread over the years, with great, abiding pleasure.

(i) Fill in the blank given below by selecting the correct option from the brackets.
When the writer refers to a ‘fast-paced world’, he is speaking of a world where _______ (communication happens quickly but lacks depth/ people have more time to write and reflect)
Answer:
communication happens quickly but lacks depth

(ii) Select the option that applies correctly to both Assertion (A) and Reason (R).
(A) : Writing letters can be treasured and re-read over the years.
(B) : Speaking on the telephone provides long lasting joy.
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. Both (A) and (R) are false.
Answer:
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false

(iii) Identify whether the statement given below is true or false.
The writer feels that letter-writing is a class apart from other kinds of writing.
Answer:
True

(iv) Which of the following is the most appropriate title for the given extract?
A. The Rise of Instant Communication
B. The Fleeting Delight of Phone Calls
C. The Lasting Joy of Written Words
D. Living in a Fast-paced World
Answer:
C. The Lasting Joy of Written Words

2. Your grandmother too made an important choice. She knew, in those early days, life in Anand could not offer even the simple comforts that we take for granted today. However, she ardently supported my choice to live and work in Anand. That choice of your grandmother to stand by me has given me an everlasting strength, always ensuring that I shouldered my responsibilities with poise.
(i) How can we say that the grandmother shared her husband’s dedication to a greater cause?
Answer:
She gave up conveniences to support her husband’s decision to work for farmers.

(ii) Complete the following with the correct option from the two given in brackets. The fact that the writer (grandfather) praises his wife tells us that he _______ (truly values/quietly accepts) her role in his life.
Answer:
truly values

(iii) Complete the following sentence with the correct option from those given below.
Based on the information in the extract, we can infer that the grandmother had all of the following traits EXCEPT
A. encouraging
B. understanding
C. comforting
D. thoughtful
Answer:
C. Comforting

(iv) Select the phrase that conveys— ‘showed grace under pressure and carried out my duties with dignity and confidence’.
Answer:
“shouldered my responsibilities with poise”

II. Answer the following questions.

Question 1.
What event does Dr. Kurien refer to when he mentions receiving the Padma Vibhushan?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien talks about the time he was given the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, for his important work on the White Revolution and in the growth of India’s dairy industry. It stands for the country’s recognition of his commitment to improving rural areas and building cooperatives.

Question 2.
How did Dr. Kurien’s decision to join the cooperative in Anand affect his life?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien’s life changed radically when he decided to join the cooperative in Anand. Even though he didn’t want to at first, he decided to stay and help the dairy farmers. This choice led him to start the cooperative dairy movement, create Amul, and lead the White Revolution. He made it his life’s work to help rural India, and he became a national symbol of selfless dedication and new ideas in farming.

Question 3.
Dr. Kurien’s decision to work in Anand reveals his values and sense of duty. Explain.
Answer:
Dr. Kurien’s decision to stay in Anand instead of looking for a better-paying or more comfortable job shows how responsible he is, how committed he is to social justice, and how much he cares about farmers. Even though he worked for the government somewhere else, he chose to help the rural community, which shows his altruism, love of country, and belief in grassroots development.

Question 4.
Why did Dr. Kurien write the letter to his grandson?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien wrote the letter to his grandson to pass on the lessons he learned in life and to encourage the future generation. He wanted to teach people vital things about purpose, service, and how crucial it is to make decisions that matter. The letter is a sincere effort to share principles like honesty, hard work, and caring for others.

Question 5.
According to Dr. Kurien “life is a privilege and it is wrong to waste it”. What is your opinion on this?
Answer:
I agree with Dr. Kurien. Life gives all of us a chance to make a difference, even if it’s tiny. It is a gift that gives you chances to grow, help others, and make a difference. If we waste our time on selfish things or don’t care, we not only limit our own potential, but we also deny society the rewards of what we could do. Living with purpose, like Dr. Kurien did, makes you happy and helps others.

Question 6.
What message does Dr. Kurien want to convey about selfless service and its long-term impact on the society?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien says that serving others without expecting anything in return might change things for the better. He showed that assisting others can make communities stronger, give people more influence over their own lives, and bring about social justice by spending his life in rural India. His findings showed that when people act with honesty and a clear goal, the effects can last for a long time.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Class 8 Questions and Answers – Let us learn (Pages 88-92)

I. Replace the underlined words in each sentence with the correct synonym from the box. You may refer to a dictionary.

1. He received the award in a magnificent ceremony.
2. I felt a fleeting joy when I received the appreciation for my song.
3. With today’s instant communication, we can share information across the world in seconds.
4. Our school focuses on the core values—collaboration, innovation, and unity.
5. My teacher’s advice on time management is a valuable reminder of the importance of planning.
6. Reading books and listening to music can give abiding pleasure that will last forever.
Answer:
1. Magnificent → Splendid
2. Fleeting → Momentary
3. Instant → Swift
4. Core → Essential
5. Valuable → Useful
6. Abiding → Lifelong

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

Answer:

III. Make as many words as you can out of the following words. One example has been done for you.
1. community—city, toy, tune, unity, mutiny, cot
2. important
3. magnificent
4. satisfied
5. generation
6. achievement
Answer:
1. Important → rant, ramp, point, port, part
2. Magnificent → gift, cent, tent, gain, magi
3. Satisfied → date, fade, safe, said, side
4. Generation → ratio, torn, ring, rate, gene
5. Achievement → men, vent, cheat, time, achieve

IV. Let us play a word game—antakshari.

1. Write the synonym of the word according to the clues given below.

2. For example, the synonym of the first word, ‘IMPORTANT,’ ends with the letter T’. The synonym of the second word begins with T’, TROUBLE’. Then write the synonym of the third word starting with the letter ‘E’.

3. Now, continue with the word game.

V. Read the sentences below and insert either an em dash (—) or an en dash (-) suitably.
(i) The conference will be held from March 15 March 20.
(ii) I have lived in Kanpur Raipur for five years now.
(in) The artist known for her vibrant paintings will be showcasing her work in Guwahati.
(iv) The scores for the final match were 2 3.
(v) My favourite snacks samosas, pakoras, and jalebis are all from India.
(vi) The train journey from Belagavi Bengaluru takes less than ten hours.
(vii) I just finished reading the book it was absolutely amazing!
(viii) The event will take place on September 1 September 5.
Answer:
(i) March 15–March 20
(ii) Kanpur-Raipur
(iii) The artist—known for her vibrant paintings—will be showcasing her work.
(iv) 2-3
(v) My favorite snacks—samosas, pakoras, and jalebis—are all from India.
(vi) Belagavi-Bengaluru
(vii) I just finished reading the book—it was absolutely amazing!
(viii) September 1-September 5

VI. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct word from the options given in the brackets.
(i) Please remember to bring ___________ (your/you’re) assignment book.
(ii)The team celebrated ___________ (their/they’re) victory after the match.
(iii)___________ (its/it’s) important to stay hydrated during the hot summer days.
(iv)I can’t believe ___________ (your/you’re) going to the mango festival today.
(v)The students said ___________ (they’re/their) excited for the field trip tomorrow.
(vi) The tree lost ___________ (its/it’s) leaves in the winter.
Answer:
(i) your
(ii) their
(iii) it’s
(iv) you’re
(v) they’re
(vi) its

VII. Complete the following sentences with suitable prepositional phrases.

(i) The children played happily in ___________
(ii) Nisha placed the vase on ___________
(iii) We discussed the project in ___________
(iv) Preethi found the lost book under _______
(v) The cat slept on _______
Answer:
(i) the garden
(ii) the table
(iii) the meeting
(iv) the bed
(v) the sofa

VIII. Rearrange the following jumbled words and phrases into meaningful sentences.
1. barked/at the strangers/the dog/ loudly/the house/walking by
2. wrote/my classmate/during the/a story/ summer vacations
3. enjoyed/under the trees/they/by the lake/a picnic
4. in his / grandfather’s room/ hung/ he / the painting
5. studied/with great determination/for/ students / the / exam
Answer:
1. The dog barked loudly at the strangers walking by the house.
2. My classmate wrote a story during the summer vacations.
3. They enjoyed a picnic under the trees by the lake.
4. He hung the painting in his grandfather’s room.
5. The students studied with great determination for the exam.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer Class 8 – Let us listen (Page 93)

I. You will listen to the passage about Evelyn Glennie’s journey in overcoming her hearing loss through music and turning a physical disability into a success story. (Refer to NCERT Texbook Page 100 for transcript)

You will listen to a woman read a special broadcast of the news. As you listen, arrange the pictures in the correct sequence of events that took place.

Now, for the special broadcast, we bring you the story of a young hero whose courage has captured the nation’s heart.
On a fateful morning in Rajouri, young Rohan Ramchandra Bahir, a 15-year-old student, became a local hero when he fearlessly saved the life of a woman who had fallen into the Domri River while washing clothes. The 43-year-old woman was struggling to stay aflat in the strong currents, when Rohan, without a moment’s hesitation, leapt into the river, putting his own life at risk.

With great determination and courage, Rohan managed to reach the woman and pull her to safety, despite the dangerous conditions of the river. Onlookers who witnessed the incident were in awe of the young boy’s bravery.

Rohan’s selflss act did not go unnoticed. His incredible courage was recognised at Vigyan Bhawan, where he was honoured with the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2023 by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

This remarkable young boy is now a symbol of heroism in his community, and his story is an inspiration to all. We commend Rohan for his bravery and for showing that age is no barrier when it comes to saving lives.

After listening, match the words given in Column 1 with their meanings given in Column 2.

Answer:

II. Listen to the passage once again and state whether the statements given below are true or false.
1. Evelyn Glennie became deaf suddenly.
Answer:
False

2. Her headmistress ignored the signs of her hearing loss.
Answer:
False

3. Ron Forbes was a percussionist who helped Evelyn.
Answer:
True

4. Evelyn used her skin and bones to sense music.
Answer:
True

5. She gave up on music after her diagnosis.
Answer:
False

III. Answer the following questions in one or two words.

Question 1.
How did Evelyn turn her disability into strength?
Answer:
By sensing vibrations

Question 2.
What role did Ron Forbes play in her life?
Answer:
Mentor/Percussionist

Question 3.
What lessons can we learn from Evelyn’s story about how to treat others who have different abilities or challenges?
Answer:
Respect and support them

Class 8 English Chapter 6 Question Answer – Let us speak (Page 94)

I. Read the highlighted word in the following sentence from the text.
That common good will present itself to you in many forms every day.
The highlighted word is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable. PRESENT (verb) the stress is on the second syllable.
PRESENT (noun): the stress is on the first syllable.
Now, read aloud the given words with the correct syllable stress according to the part of speech given in the brackets.
PROduce (noun) conTRACT (verb) PROject (noun) conTENT (verb) REfuse (noun)
Answer:
Do it yourself.

II. Read the highlighted words in the following sentence from the text.
…but it becomes a possession that can be treasured and reread over the years, with great, abiding pleasure, treasure [treh-Zhuh] pleasure [pleh-Zhuh]
In the highlighted words, -sure has a ‘Zhuh’ sound.
There are some words which end in -sure, but have a ‘shuh’ sound as in pressure [preh-shuh].
Now, read aloud the words given below with the ‘shuh’ or ‘zhuh’ sound.

Answer:
Words with “Zhuh” sound (-sure ending):
with themeasure, leisure, reassure, enclosure, exposure, composure

Words with the “Shuh” sound (-sure but sharp ‘sh’):
pressure, fissure, ensure, unsure

III. 1. Read aloud the following lines from the poem.
Don’t Quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
when the funds are low and the debts are high,
and you want to smile but you have to sigh,
when care is pressing you down a bit —rest if you must,
but don’t you quit.
Edgar Albert Guest
Now, read the lines of the poem once again by taking a shorter pause (/) or a long pause (//).
Answer:
When things go wrong,/as they sometimes will,//
when the road you’re trudging/seems all uphill,//
when the funds are low/and the debts are high,//
and you want to smile/but you have to sigh,//
when care is pressing you down a bit/
—rest if you must,/
but don’t you quit.//

2. Chunk the stanzas with (/) or (//) and read it aloud.
Life is queer with its twists and turns.
As everyone of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about when he might
have won had he stuck it out.
Don’t give up though the pace seems slow—
you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man.
Answer:
Life is queer with its twists and turns, /
As every one of us sometimes learns. / /
And many a fellow turns about /
when he might have won /
had he stuck it out. / /
Don’t give up / though the pace seems slow— /
you may succeed / with another blow. / /
Often the goal is nearer than it seems /
to a faint and faltering man. / /.

NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 6 Question Answer – Let us write (Page 95)

I. Write a letter to your grandparents thanking them for the valuable lessons they have taught you. Include how their wisdom has shaped your values and behaviour in life.
1. Thank them for teaching you important lessons, sharing stories, or helping others in the neighbourhood.
2. Share how their actions inspire you to contribute to the betterment of the society.
Answer:
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
I hope you are both doing well. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the wisdom and principles you have shared with me over the years. The things you’ve done for others in the area, your kindness, and your life stories have really touched me.
Grandpa, your honesty and sense of duty have inspired me to always do the right thing, even when no one is watching. Your kind and calm personality makes me want to be patient and caring, Grandma. I have learned the value of hard work, humility, and helping others because of you both.
I try to be like you by being nice to people who need it, helping my friends at school, and respecting my professors. Every day, I follow what you say and do. Thanks for making me a better person.
With a lot of love and thanks,
[Your Name]

Class 8th English Chapter 6 Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer—Let us explore (Page 96-97)

I. Read about White Revolution, Green \ ; Revolution and Blue Revolution from: : NCERT Textbook Page 96.
In groups of four, research more information about these revolutions. Share your findings with your classmates and teacher.
The White Revolution led to a increase in milk production in India primarily due to the effrts of Dr. Verghese Kurien. Therefore, he is known as ‘the Milkman of India’.

The Green Revolution in India introduced high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. It was initiated by Dr. M.S. Swaminathan. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1967, Padma Bhushan in 1972, Padma Vibushan in 1989, and Bharat Ratna in 2024.

The Blue Revolution focused on increasing fiheries production and productivity in India. This initiative was led by Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri.

Answer:
Do it yourself.

II. Vocational training for people in rural regions is provided by the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The objective of JSS is to economically uplift the rural population by imparting essential skill-based training. This enables local trades to grow and creates new opportunities for the people in the region.
Find out more about JSS with the help of the link given below, https: //jss.gov.in/staticPages
Answer:
Do it yourself.

III. Financial Literacy
Read the passage and discuss the questions given below.
Financial literacy is an essential lifelong skill that should be taught to children from an early age. Preparing children with financial literacy skills is an investment for their future well-being. By imparting an understanding of money, saving, budgeting, and wise spending, we empower them to navigate the financial world with confidence as they grow up.

Whether it is managing a cooperative society, a start-up, or a household budget, financial literacy is an ongoing learning process that evolves as children grow and their understanding deepens. An introduction to concepts of saving, budgeting, investing, and responsible spending equips them with essential life skills.

Children learn best through practical examples. Real-life situations help them understand the value of money and the importance of making wise financial choices. Thinking critically before spending helps cultivate responsible habits. The concept of saving and investing can be explained through relatable examples, such as planting seeds that grow into trees bearing fruit.

As children grow older, they will learn to differentiate between needs and wants, compare prices before making a purchase and understand importance of financial literacy.

Discuss in groups.
1. The importance of learning about money and saving from a young age. Share one example of it.
2. Imagine you received some money as a gift. How would you decide whether to save it, spend it, or invest it?
What factors would you consider?
3. If you were in charge of planning a small event at school with a limited budget, how would you manage the money?
4. Why is financial literacy important for everyone?
Answer:
1. It’s important for kids to learn about money and how to save it from a young age because it helps them develop good financial habits that will help them for the rest of their lives. For instance, if a child learns to save some of their pocket money every week, they can save up enough to buy something significant later, like a book or a toy. This teaches them the value of saving and how to be patient.

2. If someone gave me money, I would think about my current needs, future ambitions, and chances to grow before determining what to do with it. If I wanted to expand my money over time, I would save some of it for emergencies or future needs, spend a small amount on something useful or fun, and invest a tiny amount. Things like how badly I need the money, how much I’ve already saved, and what investment opportunities are available would all play a role in my choice.

3. I would start by making a list of all the important things and activities that need to happen at the event and figuring out how much they would cost. After that, I would make a list of the most important things to buy within my budget, search for ways to save money like borrowing products or using donations, and keep track of all my expenses to avoid going over budget. I would also set aside some money for things that come up that I didn’t plan for.

4. Everyone should know about money management, saving, budgeting, and investing since it helps them make smart choices. It gives you the confidence to deal with money problems and encourages you to spend wisely. Financial literacy is important for long-term financial health and security, whether you’re managing your own money, a business, or your family’s money.