India's Heroes - Gem's English Reader - Class 8 - English

“It was a combination of traits and people from different walks of life.”

a. What was a combination of traits and people from different walks of life?
b. Name two people whose traits were spoken about.
c. Why did Kabir want to talk about the traits of these people?

“Don’t come up, I will handle them.”

a. Who said this to whom?
b. Who was the speaker referring to with the word ‘them’?
c. Why did he not allow the others to come up?

Name the profession that the children before Kabir Spoke about.

Why was Kabir nervous when it was his turn to speak?

Why did Kabir say Vishnu Zende was a ‘dutiful’ man?

Do you think Hemant Karkare was fearless? Give reasons.

What role did Mohammad Taufiq play during the attack?

Kabir’s description of what he wanted to be when he grew up was very touching. Do you agree? Why? Give reasons for your answers.

Why did the quality of bravery impress Kabir?

Name three qualities mentioned by Kabir that you would like to make your own. Why?

“Terrorists are people like you and me. The only difference between us and them is that their goals are misplaced.”

a. Who is Mrs Baruah referring to when she says “you and me”?
b. What does she mean by “their goals are misplaced”?
c. How does this differ from the idea Kabir presented in his speech?

How did the students react to Kabir's speech?

Use the words in the box to complete the sentences.
                in the past           just         lately     previously           recently
1. I have ________________ learnt, about a few days ago, how to use this New Gem’s mobile app. Let me show it to you.
2. It has been very humid ________________ I am sure it is going to rain.
3. Did you ________________ come in or were you here much before I was?
4. ________________ people used bullock carts and horses as means of transport.
5. It was ________________ thought that digital teaching would not become popular, but it has.

Punctuate these sentences. Use capitals where necessary.
1. However father had told us not to expect a good hotel there because it is a very small town
2. Tomorrow if it is a clear day we will visit the mehtas
3. Will that be all was his question
4. It doesn’t make any difference said she whether you come or not
5. Hats the matter with you narayan she inquired.
6. Narayan replied I am trying to remember the poem that begins with the line half a league
7. That was the day I travelled all alone to kochi even though I was only 12 years old
8. He is a member at least he claims to be of the gymkhana club

Change these sentences into indirect speech. Use introductory words.
1. “Do you often go to the library?”
2. “Have you received the certificate?”
3. “Is this book worth buying?”
4. “Why haven’t you brought your English book today?”
5. “Where did you learn to sing so well?”

Change the sentences from direct to indirect speech.
1. The teacher said to his students. “We will visit the Old People’s Home on Friday.”
2. “You can discuss people and traits,” suggested Mrs Baruah.
3. The monitor said, “Boys, please walk fast.”
4. The doctor advised Mahua, “Eat plenty of green vegetables every day.”
5. Myna said, “Let’s start our work.”

Change these sentences into Indirect speech.
1. Adit said, “Your speech was marvellous!”
2. “What a great shot! Yuvjaj is in great from today,” said Gary Kirsten.
3. “Mrs Baruah is my favourite teacher!” Shalu exclaimed.
4. “Bharatpur is the best place to watch migratory birds,” Mr Devesar informed.
5. “So, I am going to teach online from tomorrow!” exclaimed Jennifer.
6. “We are going for a recital next week,” shouted the class monitor.

Write an article for the school magazine about a person you admire. Relate an incident or two from the person’s life to prove your point.
Remember these guidelines:
1.    Introduction
        - Introduce the person
2.    Body
        - Highlight their qualities
        - Describe what you like about them the most
        - Describe how they inspire you
3.    Conclusion
        - Conclude with a gist of the main points