Class 8 English (Honeydew) Chapter 7 A Visit Of Cambridge

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I. Chapter Summary:

“A Visit to Cambridge” is a deeply moving autobiographical narrative by Firdaus Kanga, a journalist and writer from India who uses a wheelchair. The story recounts his meeting with the world-renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking at Cambridge. Despite being confined to a wheelchair and speaking only through a voice synthesizer due to motor neuron disease, Hawking remains an inspiration to millions.

The chapter reflects a powerful conversation between two differently-abled individuals and explores themes like courage, determination, acceptance of disability, and redefining ability. It emphasizes how inner strength and intellect can overcome even the most limiting physical conditions.

II. Key Concepts Covered:

III. Important Questions:

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):

1. Who is the author of A Visit to Cambridge?
   a) Ruskin Bond
   b) Firdaus Kanga ✔️
   c) Stephen Hawking
   d) Helen Keller

2. What disease does Stephen Hawking suffer from?
   a) Paralysis
   b) Cancer
   c) Motor neuron disease ✔️
   d) Polio

3. How does Stephen Hawking communicate?
   a) Through writing
   b) Using hand gestures
   c) With a speech synthesizer ✔️
   d) Through sign language

4. What was the main purpose of Firdaus Kanga’s visit to Cambridge?
   a) For a vacation
   b) To meet his friend
   c) To interview Stephen Hawking ✔️
   d) To study at Cambridge

(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):

1. Why did Firdaus Kanga want to meet Stephen Hawking? (PYQ 2020)

2. What made the meeting between the two so special?

3. How does the story reflect Stephen Hawking’s approach to life?

4. What does Firdaus learn from his visit?

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):

1. Describe the emotional and intellectual impact of Firdaus Kanga’s meeting with Stephen Hawking. (PYQ 2021)

2. How does this story inspire people with and without disabilities?

3. Write a character sketch of Stephen Hawking based on the chapter.

4. Discuss how the conversation in the story redefines the idea of disability.

(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills):

1. What can we learn about courage from Stephen Hawking’s life?

2. Do you think society treats differently-abled people fairly? Suggest changes based on the story.

IV. Key Definitions / Concepts:

V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):

No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.

VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):

VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):

VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:

• Accessibility Advocacy: Encourages building inclusive environments for the differently-abled.

• Mind Over Body: Demonstrates how determination and intellect can overcome physical limits.

• Assistive Technology: Highlights the role of tools like voice synthesizers in communication.

IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:

 Time Management:

• Spend 15 minutes summarizing the chapter using key points and quotes.

• Allocate time to reflect on the themes in writing (e.g., a short paragraph or diary entry).

 Exam Preparation:

• Practice HOTS questions and value-based answers.

• Prepare a comparison chart between the author and Stephen Hawking.

 Stress Management:

• Read real-life stories of resilience for motivation.

• Practice gratitude and mindfulness exercises inspired by inspirational figures.

X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class-Specific):

For Classes 9–10:

 Encourage participation in youth awareness programs, TED-style talks, and inclusive storytelling contests.

XI. Important Notes:

•  Check CBSE updates at: https://cbseacademic.nic.in

•  This chapter promotes emotional maturity, awareness of inclusion, and respect for perseverance.

•  Encourage writing reflections or hosting class discussions on inspirational figures.