Class 8 English (It So Happened) Chapter 4 The Treasure Within

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I. Chapter Summary:

“The Treasure Within” is a thoughtful autobiographical account based on a conversation between Mr. Hafeez Contractor, a renowned architect, and the author. The chapter reveals how Hafeez was an average student with little interest in conventional academics but excelled in sports and creative thinking. He was once a troublemaker at school but was later transformed through a principal’s guidance. The narrative emphasizes that every child is unique, and talents lie in different forms—academic and non-academic. The “real treasure” lies within each individual, waiting to be discovered through the right guidance and passion.

II. Key Concepts Covered:

III. Important Questions:

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):

1. What profession did Hafeez Contractor eventually pursue?
   a) Doctor
   b) Engineer
   c) Architect ✔️
   d) Scientist

2. Why was Hafeez often punished in school?
   a) For cheating in exams
   b) For playing sports
   c) For not doing homework and mischief ✔️
   d) For being late

3. What changed Hafeez Contractor’s attitude toward life?
   a) Winning a race
   b) Watching a movie
   c) The principal’s talk ✔️
   d) Joining college

4. What did Hafeez enjoy doing as a child?
   a) Studying History
   b) Drawing and playing games ✔️
   c) Reading novels
   d) Solving Math problems

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

1. What made Hafeez Contractor a unique student, despite not doing well in academics?

2. How did the principal’s guidance affect Hafeez’s life? (PYQ 2020)

3. Why is the chapter titled The Treasure Within?

4. What can we learn from Hafeez Contractor’s journey?

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):

1. Narrate the transformation of Hafeez Contractor from an average student to a successful architect. (PYQ 2021)

2. Do you think school exams are the only way to judge a child’s ability? Why or why not?

3. What does the story teach us about different kinds of intelligence and creativity?

4. How important is it to identify a student’s hidden talent early? Share your views with examples.

(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills):

1. If Hafeez Contractor had not met his principal, how different would his life have been? Discuss.

2. What advice would you give to a friend who thinks they are not good at academics?

IV. Key Concepts & Definitions:

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:

• Creative Careers: Students good at drawing can become architects, designers, illustrators.

• Multiple Intelligences Theory: Emphasizes that not all children excel in academics; some are gifted in sports, art, music, or leadership.

• Importance of Mentorship: Good teachers and mentors can help shape a child’s future, even if the child struggles in traditional settings.

IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:

 Time Management:

• Balance school academics with hobbies and creative pursuits.

• Spend 15–30 mins daily on a non-academic activity you enjoy.

 Exam Preparation:

• Use mind maps to write stories and character journeys.

• Relate the story to your own life while writing long answers.

 Stress Management:

• Don’t compare yourself with others—everyone has their unique talent.

• Discuss your interests and passions with your teachers and parents.

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

For Classes 9–10:

Explore Olympiads and Talent Hunts in drawing, design, and innovation.

XI. Important Notes:

•  Always stay updated via the CBSE official website: https://cbseacademic.nic.in

•  This chapter reminds us that marks do not define success—passion, effort, and guidance do.

•  Focus on finding your strengths early and nurturing them with discipline.