This MCQ module is based on: Extract-Based Questions — Set 1
TOPIC 10 OF 17
Extract-Based Questions — Set 1
🎓 Class 8
English
CBSE
Theory
Ch 2 — A Tale of Valour
⏱ ~28 min
🌐 Language: [gtranslate]
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Myaischool Lt English Assessment
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[myaischool_lt_english_assessment grade_level="class_8" difficulty="basic"]
Quick Recall — Before the Exercises
Bloom: L1 Remember
Think back to the letter. Can you answer these quickly?
- Who wrote the letter and to whom?
- Where was the letter written from?
- What national honour did Kurien receive?
- Name the dairy cooperative that Kurien helped build.
Extract-Based Questions — Set 1
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Reference to Context
Extract: In the rapidly moving world of today, many people have grown so used to quick exchanges that they overlook the lasting joy a thoughtfully written letter can bring. Conversations over the telephone are brief and soon fade from memory, but words put down on paper can be kept, cherished, and revisited whenever one wishes.
(i) Which word in the extract could be replaced by "momentary" or "short-lived"?
L1 Remember
Answer: (B) brief — "Brief" means lasting a short time, which is similar in meaning to "momentary," "short-lived," or "temporary." In the original text, the word used is "fleeting," which carries the same sense.
(ii) Why does writing give "lasting joy" according to the extract? (2 marks)
L2 Understand
Model Answer: Writing gives lasting joy because written words are permanent. Unlike spoken words that vanish after a conversation ends, a letter can be preserved safely, read again and again, and treasured over many years. Each re-reading brings back the warmth and thoughts of the writer.
(iii) According to Kurien, what advantage does writing have over speaking on the telephone? (2 marks)
L3 Apply
Model Answer: Kurien believes that telephone conversations are temporary — they happen and then are quickly forgotten. In contrast, a written letter captures thoughts in a lasting form. It can be stored, revisited at any time, and shared with others. Writing allows the reader to experience the message again, making it far more meaningful.
(iv) What does the phrase "cherished and revisited" suggest about the value of written communication? (3 marks)
L4 Analyse
Model Answer: The phrase suggests that written letters hold deep emotional value. "Cherished" implies that the letter is treated as something precious and beloved, not just a piece of paper. "Revisited" means returning to it repeatedly, finding new meaning or comfort each time. Together, these words show that written communication creates a lasting bond between the writer and reader, far beyond a single moment of conversation.
Extract-Based Questions — Set 2
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Reference to Context
Extract: Kurien began his professional journey shortly after India gained freedom. At that time, the most important challenge was enormous: the newly independent nation needed to be lifted out of hunger and want. He recognised that committing to one path meant willingly setting aside all other possibilities.
(i) What does "noblest task" refer to in the context of the extract?
L2 Understand
Answer: (C) — The "noblest task" refers to the mission of building a free India and removing hunger and poverty from the lives of millions of citizens.
(ii) True or False: Kurien always knew from childhood that he wanted to work with dairy farmers.
L1 Remember
Answer: False. Kurien was trained as a metallurgical engineer. He had several career options open to him. His decision to join the dairy cooperative in Anand came later and involved consciously giving up other opportunities.
(iii) What does "setting aside all other possibilities" mean in Kurien's context? (2 marks)
L3 Apply
Model Answer: It means that when Kurien chose to dedicate his life to the dairy cooperative, he had to let go of all the other careers he could have had — becoming a metals industry executive, an army general, or a wealthy professional abroad. Choosing one meaningful path required the sacrifice of many attractive alternatives.
(iv) How did Kurien's choice of career reflect his values? (3 marks)
L5 Evaluate
Model Answer: Kurien's decision to stay in Anand and work with dairy farmers, despite having far more profitable options, shows that he valued service to the nation above personal wealth. It reflects his belief in integrity — living according to one's deepest principles. It also demonstrates humility, as he chose a simple life among farmers rather than a glamorous career. His choice embodies the idea that life is a privilege meant to be used for the common good.
Comprehension — Thinking About the Text
Q1. Why does Kurien prefer writing a letter over telephoning his grandson? (2 marks)
L2 Understand
Model Answer: Kurien prefers writing because he believes phone conversations are temporary and quickly forgotten. A letter, on the other hand, offers lasting satisfaction. It can be kept safely, re-read whenever one wants, and serves as a permanent record of the writer's thoughts and affection.
Q2. What career choices were available to Kurien? Why did he choose to work in Anand? (3 marks)
L3 Apply
Model Answer: Kurien had several career options: he could have become a senior executive in the metallurgy industry, risen to the rank of an army general, or moved abroad and led a successful life as a non-resident Indian. Despite these opportunities, he chose to work in Anand because he believed that serving India and helping to eliminate hunger was the most worthwhile goal. Working with the small dairy cooperative allowed him to make a direct impact on the lives of ordinary farmers.
Q3. What role did Kurien's grandmother (wife) play in his life and career? (2 marks)
L2 Understand
Model Answer: Kurien's wife wholeheartedly supported his decision to stay in Anand and serve the dairy cooperative. She gave him emotional strength and the calm confidence (poise) needed to face difficult times. Without her unwavering support, his journey would have been much harder.
Q4. What values does Kurien emphasise in his letter to Siddharth? (3 marks)
L4 Analyse
Model Answer: Kurien emphasises several core values: (a) Integrity — being honest with yourself and living by your principles. (b) Humility — remaining modest and placing others' needs above your own. (c) Service — using your talents for the common good. (d) Effort over outcome — true failure is not trying your best, not merely falling short. (e) Gratitude — cherishing what you have rather than comparing yourself with others.
Q5. What does Kurien say about failure? Do you agree with his view? (3 marks)
L5 Evaluate
Model Answer: Kurien believes that failure does not mean falling short of a goal. True failure, in his view, occurs when a person does not put in their best effort. If you try with all your ability and still do not succeed, that is not real failure. This is a positive and encouraging perspective because it shifts the focus from results to effort, helping people stay motivated even when outcomes are uncertain. (Students may add their personal view with reasoning.)
Q6. Explain the meaning of "life is a privilege" as Kurien uses it. (2 marks)
L4 Analyse
Model Answer: When Kurien says life is a privilege, he means that being alive is a special gift, not something to be taken for granted. He urges Siddharth to recognise this gift by using his unique abilities to contribute positively to society. Instead of wasting time comparing with others, one should appreciate life and work towards making it meaningful for oneself and for others.
Grammar Mind Map — Formal vs Informal Language
Bloom: L4 AnalyseFigure: Differences between formal and informal language register, with examples from Kurien's letter. Click any branch to see details.
Grammar Workshop — Language and Register
A. Formal vs Informal Language
Key Concept
Register: The level of formality in language. Formal language uses complete sentences, precise vocabulary, and proper grammar. Informal language is more casual, uses contractions, and may include colloquial expressions. Kurien's letter blends both — it is personal yet thoughtful and polished.
Classify each sentence as Formal (F) or Informal (I):
1. I am writing this letter to share my thoughts with you.
2. Hey, just wanted to drop you a quick note!
3. Life is a privilege that must be used for the greater good.
4. You've gotta earn your own medals, kid!
5. One must put in one's best effort in all endeavours.
6. Integrity means keeping it real with yourself.
B. Vocabulary in Context
Complete each sentence using the correct word from the box:
Word Box: integrity, fleeting, pursue, envisioned, ardently, abiding
1. The rainbow was so __________ that it disappeared within a minute.
2. She decided to __________ a career in teaching because she loved working with children.
3. The architect __________ a beautiful park with fountains and gardens.
4. A person of __________ always tells the truth, even when it is difficult.
5. He __________ believed that every child deserves quality education.
6. Their friendship was not temporary but an __________ bond that lasted decades.
C. Sentence Completion
Complete each sentence in a way that makes sense, based on the lesson:
1. Kurien chose Anand over other careers because __________
2. According to Kurien, failure is not about __________, but about __________
3. Written letters are better than phone calls because __________
4. Kurien told his grandson to earn his own medal instead of __________ because __________
Speaking — Serve the Nation
How Would You Serve India?
Kurien dedicated his life to serving the nation through dairy development. If you had the chance to serve India in a meaningful way, which area would you choose? Think about the themes below and prepare a short speech (1–2 minutes).
Environment
Plant trees, reduce pollution, protect wildlife, clean rivers and lakes
Health
Build clinics, spread health awareness, fight diseases, improve nutrition
Helping Others
Support the needy, volunteer at shelters, teach underprivileged children
Righteous Conduct
Stand against injustice, promote honesty, lead by example, be fair
Speech Starter
Begin with: "If I could serve India in one way, I would choose to... because I believe that..."
Remember to: (a) state your chosen theme clearly, (b) explain why this area matters, (c) describe one or two specific actions you would take, (d) connect your idea to Kurien's values of service and integrity.
Writing Task — A Letter of Gratitude
Write a Letter to a Grandparent
Inspired by Kurien's letter to his grandson, write a letter to your grandparent (or an elder you admire). In your letter, express your gratitude for their guidance and share your dreams for the future.
Word limit: 100–120 words | Format: Informal Letter
[Your Address]
[Date]
Dear [Grandparent's name / Dadi / Nani / Dada / Nana],
[Opening — Express why you are writing]
[Body Para 1 — Share what you are grateful for: advice, stories, support]
[Body Para 2 — Tell them about your dreams and how they inspire you]
[Closing — End with a warm, affectionate line]
With lots of love,
[Your Name]
[Date]
Dear [Grandparent's name / Dadi / Nani / Dada / Nana],
[Opening — Express why you are writing]
[Body Para 1 — Share what you are grateful for: advice, stories, support]
[Body Para 2 — Tell them about your dreams and how they inspire you]
[Closing — End with a warm, affectionate line]
With lots of love,
[Your Name]
Explore — Learn More
Discover More About Kurien's Legacy
Amul
Started as a small cooperative of dairy farmers in Gujarat, Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited) is today India's largest food brand. It was born from the struggle of farmers against exploitative middlemen.
White Revolution (Operation Flood)
Launched in 1970 under Kurien's leadership, Operation Flood made India the world's largest milk producer. It empowered millions of rural families by connecting them directly to urban markets.
NDDB
The National Dairy Development Board, founded in 1965 with Kurien as chairman, planned and implemented dairy development programmes across India, transforming the lives of millions of farmers.
Did You Know?
India today produces over 230 million tonnes of milk per year, making it the world's top milk-producing nation. This transformation is often called the "White Revolution" and owes much to the vision and dedication of Verghese Kurien.
Competency-Based Questions — Final Set
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Higher-Order Thinking
Context: Kurien closes his letter with the thought that if we possess the courage to care deeply for others, the strength to find joy in another's happiness, and the wisdom to see that the world has enough for everyone, then we have lived our lives fully.
Q1. What three qualities does Kurien mention as essential for a full life?
L1 Remember
Answer: The three qualities are: (1) courage — being brave enough to love and care for others, (2) strength — being able to rejoice in the happiness of others, and (3) wisdom — understanding that there is enough in the world for everyone.
Q2. Why does Kurien say it takes "courage" to love? Is love not a natural feeling? (3 marks)
L4 Analyse
Model Answer: While love is a natural feeling, acting on it requires courage. Caring deeply for others makes us vulnerable — we risk being hurt, disappointed, or misunderstood. Kurien suggests that true love involves bravery because it means putting others' needs alongside your own, making sacrifices, and staying committed even during difficult times. It takes courage to remain generous in a world that often rewards selfishness.
Q3. Identify the literary technique in Kurien's closing message. How does it strengthen his argument? (2 marks)
L4 Analyse
Model Answer: Kurien uses parallelism (repetition of similar grammatical structure): "brave enough to..., strong enough to..., wise enough to..." This creates a rhythmic and memorable pattern that emphasises each quality equally. The technique gives the message a sense of balance and completeness, making it more persuasive and emotionally powerful.
HOT Q. If you could write a letter to your future self, what one value from Kurien's letter would you promise to follow? Why? (4 marks)
L6 Create
Hint: Choose ONE value (integrity, service, humility, effort, gratitude). Explain: (a) what it means to you personally, (b) a specific situation where this value would guide your actions, (c) how following this value would make your life meaningful. Write your answer in letter format beginning with "Dear Future Me,..."
Frequently Asked Questions — Chapter 2
What is Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool in NCERT Class 8 Mathematics?
Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool is a key concept covered in NCERT Class 8 Mathematics, Chapter 2: Chapter 2. This lesson builds the student's foundation in the chapter by explaining the core ideas with worked examples, definitions, and step-by-step methods aligned to the CBSE curriculum.
How do I solve problems on Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool step by step?
To solve problems on Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool, follow the NCERT method: identify the given quantities, choose the relevant formula or theorem, substitute values carefully, and simplify. Class 8 exercises gradually increase in difficulty — start with solved NCERT examples before attempting exercise questions, and always verify your answer by substitution or diagram.
What are the most important formulas for Chapter 2: Chapter 2?
The essential formulas of Chapter 2 (Chapter 2) are listed in the chapter summary and highlighted throughout the lesson in formula boxes. Memorise them and practise at least 2–3 problems per formula. CBSE board exams frequently test direct application as well as combined use of multiple formulas from this chapter.
Is Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool important for the Class 8 board exam?
Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool is part of the NCERT Class 8 Mathematics syllabus and appears in CBSE board exams. Questions typically include short-answer, long-answer, and competency-based items. Review the NCERT examples, exercise questions, and previous-year board problems on this topic to prepare confidently.
What mistakes should students avoid in Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool?
Common mistakes in Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool include skipping steps, misapplying formulas, sign errors, and losing track of units. Write each step clearly, double-check algebraic manipulations, and re-read the question after solving to verify that your answer matches what was asked.
Where can I find more NCERT practice questions on Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool?
End-of-chapter NCERT exercises for Part 6 — Verghese Kurien Exercises | Class 6 English | MyAiSchool cover all difficulty levels tested in CBSE exams. After completing them, try the examples again without looking at the solutions, attempt the NCERT Exemplar questions for Chapter 2, and solve at least one previous-year board paper to consolidate your understanding.
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