Key Concept: Basic Concepts

b) Thesis statement

[Solution Description]

A common element found in an introduction is the thesis statement, which presents the main argument or purpose of the document.

Key Concept: Introduction

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion that the sky appears blue during the day is true. The reason provided is also true and explains why the sky appears blue. Shorter wavelengths of light, such as blue, are scattered more by the Earth's atmosphere compared to longer wavelengths, causing the blue color of the sky.

Key Concept: Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving

c) Presenting a specific problem or question and explaining its significance

[Solution Description]

An effective introduction engages the reader by presenting a compelling problem or question, providing relevant background information, and clearly stating the purpose or thesis of the paper. This approach grabs the reader's attention and motivates them to continue reading.

Key Concept: Critical Thinking

c) It presents the main point or claim of the research

[Solution Description]

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of the research paper. It appears in the introduction and guides the direction of the paper by presenting the central argument or focus. This helps the reader understand the purpose and scope of the research.

Key Concept: War Context, Christmas Truce

c) World War I

[Solution Description]

The story mentions a war between the British and the Germans in 1914. This is a reference to World War I, which began in 1914 and lasted until 1918. The Christmas truce during this war is a well-known event where soldiers from both sides temporarily ceased hostilities to celebrate Christmas.

Key Concept: Historical Context

d) World War I

[Solution Description]

The story is set against the backdrop of World War I, specifically the year 1914, when there was a temporary ceasefire between the British and German troops during Christmas. This event is known as the Christmas Truce.

Key Concept: Character Mistake

d) Her husband

[Solution Description]

In the story, Connie mistakes the stranger for her long-awaited husband. This is a key point mentioned in the syllabus.

Key Concept: Overview of the story

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

In the story, Connie, aged 101, receives a present from a stranger whom she mistakes for her long-awaited husband. This happens because she is deeply emotional due to the memories of her husband and the significance of Christmas. The reason given is that her emotional state clouds her judgment, making her unable to distinguish between reality and her longing for her husband. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why Connie mistakes the stranger for her husband.

Key Concept: War and Christmas – A contrast

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Christmas truce during World War I shows humanity's ability to rise above the brutalities of war. This is supported by the reason, which explains that soldiers from opposing sides participated in peaceful activities such as sharing food, playing football, and singing carols. These activities highlight a temporary but profound moment of unity and goodwill amidst the conflict, thereby justifying the assertion. Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: War and Christmas – A contrast

c) Humanity and compassion can transcend the horrors of war

[Solution Description]

The Christmas truce reveals that even in the midst of war, humanity and compassion can prevail. It shows that soldiers on both sides are not just faceless enemies but individuals with shared emotions, desires, and the capacity for peace. The truce highlights the absurdity of war and the possibility of reconciliation, even if temporary, demonstrating that human connections can transcend the boundaries of conflict.

Key Concept: War and Christmas – A contrast

c) The spirit of Christmas and shared humanity prevailed

[Solution Description]

During the Christmas truce, both sides refrained from shooting because the spirit of Christmas and the shared humanity between the soldiers took precedence over the hostilities of war. The soldiers on both sides recognized the futility of violence on such a sacred day, leading to a temporary cessation of fighting. This act symbolized their collective desire for peace, even if only momentarily.

Key Concept: Symbolism

c) A temporary peace and goodwill among soldiers.

[Solution Description]

The exchange of carols, such as "Stille Nacht" and "While Shepherds Watched," symbolizes a temporary peace and goodwill between the opposing sides. It represents a moment of humanity and shared celebration amidst the horrors of war, emphasizing the common desire for peace and normalcy.

Key Concept: Significant Dates, World War I

c) Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia

[Solution Description]

On July 28, 1914, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, marking the formal beginning of World War I. This declaration followed the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and set off a chain reaction of alliances and conflicts among European nations.

Key Concept: Historical background, World War I

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the immediate cause of World War I, which is historically accurate. The reason explains that the assassination led to a series of diplomatic crises and military mobilizations among European powers, which is also true. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the assassination triggered a chain of events that ultimately led to the outbreak of World War I. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Historical Events

c) The dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima

[Solution Description]

On 6 August 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima by the United States during World War II. This event marked a significant turning point in the history of warfare.

Key Concept: Historical Figures

c) Erich Maria Remarque

[Solution Description]

Erich Maria Remarque is the author of "All Quiet on the Western Front." The novel provides a stark portrayal of the physical and mental trauma experienced by soldiers during World War I.

Key Concept: World History, Significant Dates

b) Yuri A. Gagarin became the first human to orbit the Earth

[Solution Description]

12 April 1961 is a historic date as it marks the day when Yuri A. Gagarin became the first human to orbit the Earth. This event was a major milestone in the space race and demonstrated the capabilities of human spaceflight.

Key Concept: Historical Events

c) American Declaration of Independence

[Solution Description]

The date 4 July 1776 is significant in world history as it marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress, declaring the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule. This event led to the formation of the United States of America.

Key Concept: Significant dates in world history

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that 6 August 1945 marks the end of World War II, which is incorrect. World War II ended on 2 September 1945. The reason states that an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on 6 August 1945, which is true. Therefore, the assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Key Concept: Significant Dates

b) Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi

[Solution Description]

On 30 January 1948, Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader in India's struggle for independence, was assassinated. This event is remembered as a significant moment in world history.

Key Concept: Assertion and Reason

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The author mentions that he had always wanted a roll-top desk but they were too expensive. When he found one in a junk shop, it was in poor condition with the roll-top in several pieces, one leg clumsily mended, and scorch marks all down one side. Despite its condition, he decided to buy it because he thought he could restore it. He saw it as a risk and a challenge but felt compelled to have it. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true. Additionally, the reason correctly explains why the author decided to buy the desk despite its poor condition.

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

[Solution Description] The Assertion states that the narrator bought the desk because it was in perfect condition and required no restoration. This is false because the text explicitly mentions that the desk was in a bad condition, with the roll-top in several pieces, one leg clumsily mended, and scorch marks all down one side. The Reason, however, is true as the text states that the desk was going for very little money, making it an affordable purchase despite its poor condition.

Key Concept: Comprehension, Analysis

b) The desk belonged to a soldier named Jim Macpherson

[Solution Description]

The discovery of the letter reveals that the desk likely belonged to someone named Jim Macpherson, who received the letter on January 25, 1915. The note attached to the tin box suggests that the desk's previous owner intended for the letter to be buried with them. This indicates that the desk has a personal and emotional history connected to Jim Macpherson and his family.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) A small black tin box

[Solution Description]

The author found a small black tin box in the secret drawer of the roll-top desk. The box had a piece of lined notepaper taped to the top, which read: “Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes.” Inside the box was an envelope addressed to “Mrs Jim Macpherson, 12 Copper Beeches, Bridport, Dorset,” containing a letter dated December 26, 1914.

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Assertion states that the narrator bought the damaged roll-top desk because it was cheap and he thought he could restore it. This is true as per the text, where the narrator mentions that the desk was going for very little money and he thought he could restore it. The Reason states that the narrator had always wanted a roll-top desk but found them too expensive in good condition. This is also true as the narrator explicitly mentions this in the text. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains why the narrator decided to buy the damaged desk despite its condition. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: Narrator's Decision

c) He could restore it and saw it as a challenge.

[Solution Description]

The narrator decided to buy the roll-top desk because it was being sold for a very low price. He saw potential in restoring it and viewed it as both a risk and a challenge. This decision reflects his willingness to take on difficult tasks and his interest in restoration projects.

Key Concept: Letter Details

c) Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes.

[Solution Description]

The piece of lined notepaper attached to the black tin box had the following written on it: “Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes.”

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the narrator decided to restore the damaged roll-top desk because it was a challenge and he had always wanted one. This is true as per the syllabus, where the narrator mentions that restoring the desk would be a risk and a challenge, but he had to have it. The reason states that the roll-top desk was in a bad condition but was going for very little money. This is also true, as mentioned in the syllabus. However, the reason does not explain why the narrator decided to restore the desk; it only provides additional context about the desk's condition and price. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery, Secret Drawer

c) A small black tin box with a piece of lined notepaper attached to it.

[Solution Description] Inside the secret drawer, the narrator found a small black tin box with a piece of lined notepaper sello-taped to the top. The note read: "Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes." This discovery reveals a personal and historical artifact hidden within the desk.

Key Concept: Contextual Understanding

c) He wanted to restore it as a challenge

[Solution Description]

The narrator mentions that he had wanted a roll-top desk for a long time, but they were usually too expensive. The desk he found was going for very little money, so he decided to take the risk and restore it himself, seeing it as a challenge.

Key Concept: Basic Concept

c) Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes.

[Solution Description]

The notepaper had the following message: "Jim’s last letter, received January 25, 1915. To be buried with me when the time comes."

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the roll-top desk was purchased because it was in good condition. However, according to the syllabus, the desk was in a bad condition with several issues like a broken roll-top, mended leg, and scorch marks. Therefore, the assertion is false. The reason states that the desk was inexpensive and the narrator wanted to restore it, which is true as per the syllabus. Hence, the correct answer is that the assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Key Concept: Analysis, Inference

c) To keep it hidden due to its personal and emotional significance.

[Solution Description]

The letter is labeled as "Jim's last letter" and is intended to be buried with the owner when the time comes. This suggests that the letter holds significant personal value and was hidden to keep it safe and private, possibly as a cherished memory or a final message.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) An envelope with a letter

[Solution Description]

Inside the small black tin box, there was an envelope addressed to Mrs Jim Macpherson. The envelope contained a letter written by Jim on December 26, 1914.

Key Concept: Assertion-Reason

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the author found a small black tin box in the secret drawer due to the last drawer being stuck and requiring force to open. This is true as per the text, which mentions that the last drawer was stuck and the author used brute force to open it, revealing the secret drawer containing the tin box. The reason states that the secret drawer contained a letter from Jim Macpherson, intended to be buried with him. This is also true as the text describes the letter inside the tin box and the note indicating it was to be buried with Jim. However, the reason does not explain why the tin box was found in the secret drawer; it only provides information about the contents of the box. Therefore, while both statements are true, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion.

Key Concept: The Junk Shop Discovery

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the narrator found a tin box in the secret drawer of an old desk. This is true as per the passage where the narrator describes finding a small black tin box in the secret drawer. The reason given is that the secret drawer was opened using brute force, which is also true as the narrator explicitly mentions using brute force to open the drawer. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains how the tin box was discovered, as the use of brute force directly led to the discovery of the secret drawer and the tin box inside it. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Setting

c) In a conservatory at Burlington House Nursing Home.

[Solution Description]

The author found Mrs Macpherson in a conservatory at Burlington House Nursing Home, where she was sitting in a wheelchair.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) Her eyes lit up with recognition and she was happy.

[Solution Description]

When Mrs Macpherson received the tin box, her eyes lit up with recognition, and her face became suffused with a sudden glow of happiness. She was deeply moved by the gift, as it contained a letter from her husband, Jim.

Key Concept: Comprehension

b) An envelope containing a letter.

[Solution Description]

Inside the black tin box, the author found an envelope addressed to "Mrs Jim Macpherson, 12 Copper Beeches, Bridport, Dorset." The envelope contained a letter written in pencil dated "December 26, 1914."

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) Her eyes lit up with recognition and she became very happy.

[Solution Description]

Mrs Macpherson's eyes lit up with recognition and her face became suffused with happiness upon receiving the letter, showing her deep emotional connection to it.

Key Concept: Letter Content

b) The war will end by Christmas next year.

[Solution Description]

In his letter, Captain Jim Macpherson writes that by Christmas time next year, the war will be nothing but a distant and terrible memory. This indicates his prediction that the war will be over by then.

Key Concept: Contextual Interpretation

b) To hear his voice again.

[Solution Description]

Connie asks Jim to read the letter to her because she wants to hear his voice again. This act would make her happy and bring her comfort now that he is back.

Key Concept: Concepts: Letter details, Historical context

b) December 26, 1914

[Solution Description]

The letter was found inside an envelope, and it was written in pencil. The top of the letter was dated "December 26, 1914". This date marks the day after Christmas and provides historical context about the time during World War I.

Key Concept: Exchange of Gifts

b) Schnapps and sausage

[Solution Description]

During the Christmas truce, the German soldiers offered schnapps (a type of alcoholic beverage) and sausage to the British soldiers. This exchange symbolized goodwill and camaraderie despite being enemies in war.

Key Concept: Character Interaction

b) Their shared love for literature and England

[Solution Description] Hans Wolf and Jim Macpherson talked about their shared love for England, particularly Dorset, and their favorite book, "Far from the Madding Crowd" by Thomas Hardy. They also discussed their families and personal lives.

Key Concept: The Christmas Truce of 1914

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Assertion states that the Christmas Truce of 1914 was initiated by German soldiers, which is true as per the text where it mentions that Fritz (German soldiers) began it by waving a white flag and calling out "Happy Christmas". The Reason given is also true because it describes exactly how the truce started, with German soldiers waving a white flag and extending Christmas greetings. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains the Assertion by detailing the specific action that initiated the truce.

Key Concept: Emotional Impact, Character Interaction

c) They respected and understood each other as individuals

[Solution Description]

The interaction between Jim Macpherson and Hans Wolf reveals a deep sense of mutual respect and understanding despite being on opposing sides of the war. Their conversation about literature, families, and shared experiences demonstrates that they saw each other as individuals rather than enemies. This moment of connection highlights the possibility of peace and camaraderie even in the midst of conflict.

Key Concept: Christmas Truce

a) A white flag waving from the trenches

[Solution Description]

The first sign of the Christmas truce was when someone saw a white flag waving from the trenches opposite. This was followed by the Germans calling out "Happy Christmas, Tommy!" to the British soldiers.

Key Concept: The Best Christmas Present in the World

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the soldiers exchanged gifts and played football during the Christmas truce to celebrate the festive spirit despite being enemies in war. This is true as the text describes how both sides came together, shared food, drinks, and even played a game of football. The reason given is that Hans Wolf suggested that wars should be resolved through sports like football, where no one dies or suffers. This is also true as Hans explicitly mentions this idea during their conversation. However, the reason does not directly explain why the soldiers engaged in these activities during the truce. The truce was more about spontaneous goodwill rather than a formal suggestion by Hans. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Captain Jim Macpherson's hope for peace

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that Captain Jim Macpherson believes the war will be a distant memory by Christmas next year. This is directly supported by his letter where he writes, "by Christmas time next year, this war will be nothing but a distant and terrible memory." The reason given is that both armies long for peace, which is also mentioned in the letter: "I know from all that happened today how much both armies long for peace." The reason correctly explains why Captain Jim Macpherson has hope for peace, as the longing for peace by both armies reinforces his belief that the war will soon end. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Captain Jim Macpherson's perspective, hope for peace

b) He hopes for peace and believes the war will end soon

[Solution Description]

In the letter, Captain Jim Macpherson expresses his hope for peace and the belief that the war will soon be a distant memory. He mentions how both armies long for peace and is confident that he and Connie will be together again soon.

Key Concept: Captain Jim Macpherson's Hope for Peace

c) The war will become a distant and terrible memory by next Christmas.

[Solution Description]

In his letter, Captain Jim Macpherson expresses hope that by Christmas time next year, the war will be nothing but a distant and terrible memory. He believes both armies long for peace and is confident they will be together again soon.

Key Concept: The Search for Mrs. Macpherson

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

Key Concept: Setting, Character Interaction

b) It highlights her isolation and emotional vulnerability.

[Solution Description]

The description of Burlington House Nursing Home, with its paper chains, lighted Christmas tree, and residents wearing paper hats and singing, paints a picture of a festive and communal environment. However, Mrs. Macpherson is separated from the others, indicating her isolation and confusion. The matron’s comment that Mrs. Macpherson has no family and no visitors further highlights her loneliness. This setting underscores Mrs. Macpherson’s emotional vulnerability and the significance of the protagonist's visit in bringing her a sense of connection and joy.

Key Concept: The Search for Mrs. Macpherson

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The passage mentions that Mrs. Macpherson's house was destroyed in a fire and she was subsequently moved to Burlington House Nursing Home. It also states that the fire could have started due to her use of candles instead of electricity, as she believed electricity was too expensive. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains why Mrs. Macpherson was moved to the nursing home.

Key Concept: Understanding the Setting

c) At Burlington House Nursing Home

[Solution Description]

The narrator found Mrs. Macpherson at Burlington House Nursing Home, which is located on the Dorchester road.

Key Concept: Comprehension, Analysis

b) She had no family and no visitors

[Solution Description]

The matron mentions that Mrs. Macpherson has no family and no one visits her. This indicates that she was living a lonely life. The text states, “She has no family you know, no one visits. So I’m sure she’ll be only too pleased to see you.”

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) She thought electricity was too expensive.

[Solution Description]

According to the old man next door, Mrs. Macpherson used candles because she always thought electricity was too expensive. This is why she avoided using it.

Key Concept: Understanding the Setting

c) In a conservatory at Burlington House Nursing Home

[Solution Description]

The narrator finds Mrs. Macpherson in a nursing home called Burlington House. She is described as being in a conservatory with wicker chairs and potted plants, sitting in a wheelchair.

Key Concept: Symbolism, Emotional Impact

c) The imperfection and bittersweet nature of life.

[Solution Description]

The lopsided angel on the Christmas tree symbolizes imperfection and the bittersweet nature of the holiday season. It reflects the reality of life in the nursing home, where joy and sorrow coexist, much like Mrs. Macpherson's own experiences.

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) She was rather confused and needed rest

[Solution Description]

The matron mentions that Mrs. Macpherson was rather confused that day, so they thought it best for her to have a good rest instead of joining the others.

Key Concept: Character Analysis, Emotional State

c) Mrs. Macpherson was confused and needed rest.

[Solution Description]

The matron decided to let Mrs. Macpherson rest because she was confused that day. It was thought best for her to have a good rest rather than join the festivities, especially since she had no family and no one visited her.

Key Concept: Emotional Reunion, Recognition

c) She thought the narrator was her husband.

[Solution Description]

Mrs. Macpherson's eyes lit up with recognition because she mistook the narrator for her husband. The tin box likely held sentimental value associated with her husband, triggering a moment of happiness and recognition.

Key Concept: Emotional Reunion

b) She looked at him vacantly without recognition

[Solution Description]

Mrs. Macpherson initially looked at the narrator vacantly, showing no immediate recognition or emotion. Her gaze was empty until she saw the tin box, which triggered her emotional response.

Key Concept: Character Traits, Moral Dilemma

b) Strict and disciplined.[Solution Description]The ant's refusal to help the cricket reflects its adherence to principles of self-reliance and responsibility. The ant believes that the cricket’s failure to prepare for winter is a result of its own choices and thus does not offer assistance. This trait can be interpreted as either practical or unsympathetic, depending on one's perspective.

Key Concept: Fable, Moral

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The poem describes a cricket who sings during the warm months of summer and spring but fails to prepare for winter. As a result, when winter arrives, the cricket faces starvation and is forced to seek help from the ant. This situation emphasizes the importance of planning and preparing for the future. The assertion that the cricket's situation highlights the consequences of not planning for the future is true. The reason given is also true, as the cricket indeed spent his time singing instead of storing food for winter. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the cricket's lack of preparation directly leads to his predicament. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Fable and Moral

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The poem is a fable that uses the story of the ant and the cricket to teach a moral lesson. The assertion correctly states that the poem conveys a moral about the importance of hard work and preparation for the future. The reason explains that the cricket’s failure to prepare for winter highlights the consequences of laziness, which directly supports the assertion. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Fable, Moral Significance

b) Hard work ensures future security.

[Solution Description]

The fable of the ant and the cricket teaches the importance of planning and hard work. The cricket spends its summer singing and playing, neglecting to prepare for winter. When winter arrives, it has no food and must beg from the ants, who diligently prepared by storing food during the summer. The moral is that those who do not plan ahead will suffer in times of need.

Key Concept: Fable Definition

b) A story that conveys a moral, often using animals as characters

[Solution Description] A fable is a story that conveys a moral, often using animals as characters. It is designed to teach a lesson through simple narratives.

Key Concept: Fables and their significance

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the poem about the ant and the cricket is a fable because it uses animals to convey a moral lesson. This is true as fables typically use animals as characters to illustrate moral lessons. The reason given is also true, as fables are indeed stories that use animals as characters to teach moral lessons. Moreover, the reason correctly explains why the poem is considered a fable. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) The cricket is hungry and cold with no food stored.

[Solution Description]

The cricket approaches the ant because he is facing starvation and cold during winter. He has no food stored and is desperate for shelter and a mouthful of grain to survive. The cricket's situation is dire, and he hopes the ant will help him.

Key Concept: Introduction to the characters: The Ant and the Cricket

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The poem explicitly describes the cricket as a character who spent the warm, sunny months of summer and spring singing instead of preparing for the winter. The cricket himself admits that he did not lay anything by when the weather was warm, which led to his desperate situation when winter arrived. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why the cricket was unprepared for the winter.

Key Concept: Fable Structure, Cricket's Situation

c) He did not save food during summer and spring

[Solution Description]

The cricket faces starvation because he did not save any food during the warm months of summer and spring. Instead, he spent his time singing and being carefree, without considering the future. His lack of preparation led to his dire situation when winter arrived.

Key Concept: Adjectives in the Poem

c) cold

[Solution Description]

The adjectives associated with summer and spring in the first stanza are "warm," "sunny," and "gay." Therefore, the adjective not used is "cold."

Key Concept: The Cricket’s Carefree Summer, Impact of Seasonal Changes

c) Preparation and planning are essential for survival[Solution Description]The cricket's experience teaches the importance of foresight and preparation. His carefree attitude during the summer and spring led to his suffering in winter due to lack of preparation.

Key Concept: Cricket's Despair

c) He is worried about his survival due to lack of food

[Solution Description]

The cricket says this when he realizes that winter has arrived, and he has no food stored. He is worried about his survival because he did not prepare for winter during the summer and spring.

Key Concept: Adjective Identification

b) Warm, sunny, gay

[Solution Description]

The first stanza describes the warm, sunny, and gay months of summer and spring. The adjectives associated with these seasons are “warm,” “sunny,” and “gay.” Therefore, the correct answer includes these three adjectives.

Key Concept: Consequences of Negligence

b) He was too busy singing and didn't prepare for winter

[Solution Description]

The cricket spends all his time singing and enjoying the warm months of summer and spring without preparing for the future. As a result, when winter arrives, he has no food stored and faces an empty cupboard, leading to hardship. This shows the consequences of neglecting responsibilities and failing to plan ahead.

Key Concept: Theme of Responsibility

c) The necessity of hard work and preparation

[Solution Description]

The cricket's experience of having an empty cupboard in winter highlights the theme of responsibility. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared and taking care of one’s needs instead of indulging in leisure without considering future challenges.

Key Concept: Concept: Consequences of Carelessness

c) He faced severe scarcity of food and shelter in winter.

[Solution Description]

The cricket's decision to spend his summer singing instead of saving led to an empty cupboard when winter arrived. This left him with no food or shelter, causing distress and hardship.

Key Concept: Cricket's Carefree Attitude, Consequences of Not Preparing for the Future

b) The cricket’s cupboard was empty because he did not save anything during summer.

[Solution Description]

The cricket spent his summer singing and enjoying the warmth without saving or preparing for the future. When winter arrived, he had no food stored, leading to his distress. This highlights the consequences of not planning ahead.

Key Concept: Moral Lesson

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The story clearly states that the cricket spent the summer singing and enjoying himself, without saving for the winter. As a result, when winter came, he had an empty cupboard and no food to survive. This directly supports the Assertion. The Reason is also true as it conveys the moral of the story: lack of planning for the future leads to hardship during difficult times. Moreover, the Reason correctly explains why the Assertion is true, as the cricket's failure to plan caused his winter hardship.

Key Concept: Rhyming Words

b) Ticket, thicket, wicket[Solution Description]Words that rhyme with "cricket" include "ticket," "thicket," and "wicket."

Key Concept: Adjective Identification, Contextual Understanding

a) Carefree, singing, playing

[Solution Description]

In the first stanza, the adjectives associated with summer and spring are "carefree," "singing," and "playing." These words describe the activities and mood of the cricket during the warmer seasons, emphasizing its lack of concern for the future.

Key Concept: Story Rearrangement

a) 4, 5, 7, 1, 3, 2, 9, 6, 8

[Solution Description] The correct sequence should start with sentence 4, followed by sentences that logically follow the story. Sentence 4 introduces the ants collecting food for winter. Next, sentence 5 shows how they stored it. Sentence 7 explains the result of their hard work. Sentence 1 introduces the grasshopper's arrival. Sentence 3 shows the ant's inquiry about the grasshopper's summer activities. Sentence 2 contains the grasshopper's reply. Sentence 9 is the ant's response. Sentence 6 concludes the interaction, and sentence 8 delivers the moral.

Key Concept: Poet's comment, Moral of the story

d) The moral applies to both animals and humans alike.

[Solution Description]

The poet uses this metaphor to suggest that the fable's moral applies not just to animals like the cricket but also to humans. It highlights the universal relevance of the lesson about responsibility and foresight.

Key Concept: The Cricket’s Carefree Summer

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The poem clearly states that the cricket was accustomed to singing during the warm, sunny months of summer and spring, and only began to complain when winter arrived and his cupboard was empty. This shows that the cricket did not prepare for winter, leading to his starvation. Therefore, the assertion is true, and the reason correctly explains why the cricket faces starvation.

Key Concept: Cricket’s Situation

b) When he finds his cupboard empty and winter arrives

[Solution Description] The cricket says this when he finds his cupboard empty and winter has arrived. He is worried about his survival because he has no food stored for the winter.

Key Concept: Poet’s Commentary, Moral Lesson

b) It criticizes the cricket’s lack of preparation and responsibility.

[Solution Description]

The poet’s implied commentary is that those who fail to plan for the future must face the consequences of their actions. The ant’s statement, "Go then," says the ant, "and dance the winter away," is sarcastic, suggesting that the cricket should continue living as frivolously as he did in summer, now that he is unprepared for winter. The moral lesson conveyed is the importance of diligence, foresight, and preparation for inevitable challenges.

Key Concept: Interpretation

c) The ant is mocking the cricket's lack of preparation.

[Solution Description]

When the ant tells the cricket to "dance the winter away," she is being sarcastic. Since the cricket spent his summer singing instead of preparing for winter, the ant implies that he should continue his carefree behavior even in hardship.

Key Concept: Ant’s Principles

c) Ants do not borrow or lend anything

[Solution Description]

The ant means that ants do not borrow or lend anything. They believe in self-reliance and do not depend on others for their needs. This reflects their disciplined and hardworking nature.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) He sang day and night.

[Solution Description]

The cricket spent the warm, sunny months of summer and spring singing day and night, as mentioned in the poem: "My heart was so light That I sang day and night."

Key Concept: The Cricket’s Carefree Summer: The Ant’s Response

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the ant’s response is harsh due to its belief in self-reliance and preparation for the future. This is true because the ant emphasizes its principles of not borrowing or lending, which are based on practical wisdom. The reason explains that the ant’s refusal is directly tied to the cricket’s carefree behavior during the summer, which aligns with the moral of the story. Both statements are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Comprehension

b) To ask for shelter and food.

[Solution Description]

The cricket approached the ant because he was starving and cold, as stated in the poem: "At last by starvation and famine made bold, All dripping with wet, and all trembling with cold, Away he set off to a miserly ant, To see if, to keep him alive, he would grant Him shelter from rain, And a mouthful of grain."

Key Concept: Understanding the Story

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The story clearly states that the cricket spent his summer singing and did not store any food for winter, which makes the Assertion true. The Reason is also true as the ant explicitly says, "we ants never borrow; we ants never lend." However, the Reason does not explain why the cricket did not prepare for winter; it only explains why the ant refused to help. Therefore, both statements are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: Understanding the Story

c) He sang day and night.

[Solution Description] The cricket spent his time singing and enjoying the pleasant weather during the warm, sunny months of summer and spring. He did not prepare for the winter.

Key Concept: Understanding the Story

b) To ask for food and shelter.

[Solution Description] The cricket approached the ant because he was starving and had no food or shelter. He hoped the ant would provide him with some grain and shelter to survive the winter.

Key Concept: The Cricket’s Carefree Summer

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The cricket was carefree during the summer, spending his time singing and enjoying the warm weather. He did not gather any food or prepare for the winter. As a result, when winter arrived, he found himself with an empty cupboard and no food to survive on. This led him to seek help from the ant, who refused to assist him because the cricket had not taken responsibility for preparing during the summer. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains why the cricket faced starvation in winter.

Key Concept: Carefree attitude, Consequences

b) Preparation for the future is essential

[Solution Description] The cricket learns a hard lesson about the consequences of his carefree attitude. During the warm months, he sings and enjoys himself without preparing for winter. When winter arrives, he faces starvation and seeks help from the ant. The ant refuses to help, teaching him that one must prepare for the future and not rely on others in times of need.

Key Concept: The Cricket’s Carefree Summer

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The poem describes a cricket who sings throughout the warm months without preparing for winter. When winter arrives, he finds himself with an empty cupboard and no food. This shows that the cricket's complaint is directly linked to his lack of preparation during the warmer months. The assertion is true because the cricket's empty cupboard is indeed a result of his failure to prepare for winter. The reason is also true as it correctly explains why the cricket faced this issue: he spent all his time singing and did not store any food.