Uncover the essence of India's diversity with our comprehensive guide to Class 10 English Glimpses of India Important Questions & Answers. This Chapter has three parts: i. A Baker from Goa, ii. Coorg, and iii. Tea from Assam. This list of key questions and answers is a must-do if you aim to score high in your CBSE Class 10 English exam.
A Baker from Goa
| Subject | English Language & Literature |
| Class | 10 |
| Board | CBSE |
| Chapter Name | Glimpses of India: A Baker from Goa |
| Poet | Lucio Rodrigues |
| Type | Important Questions and Answers |
| Session | 2024-25 |
| Book Name | First Flight |
| Literature | Prose |
Table of Contents
A Baker From Goa Class 10 English Important Questions Answers
Q. No. 1) Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
i. Read the extract given below and attempt to answer the questions that follow.
The baker or bread-seller of those days had a peculiar dress known as the kabai. It was a single-piece long frock reaching down to the knees. In our childhood, we saw bakers wearing shirts and trousers that were shorter than full-length ones and longer than half pants. Even today, anyone who wears a half pant which reaches just below the knees invites the comment that he is dressed like a pader!
i. Choose the answer that lists the correct option about the recording of the baker’s monthly accounts.
a. Option (1)
b. Option (2)
c. Option (3)
d. Option (4)
Ans. Option (c)
ii. When the writer says, ‘Baking was indeed a profitable profession in the old days.’, he means that
a. baking isn’t as popular in Goa currently.
b. bakers have chosen to adopt other professions.
c. baking, as a job, isn’t as gainful as it used to be.
d. bakers’ goods were of a better quality in earlier times.
Ans. Option (c)
iii. The statement that is TRUE about payment collection, according to the passage is:
a. The baker received payment on a daily basis.
b. The baker was paid for his services at the end of the month.
c. The baker insisted that customers pay before the month-end.
d. The baker chose to receive payment any day of the month.
Ans. Option (b)
iv. The kabai was a ‘peculiar’ outfit as it was
a. a tight-fitting apparel.
b. too colorful.
c. made of unsuitable materials.
d. a dress-like attire.
Ans. Option (d)
v. The extract uses the phrase, ‘invites (the) comments’. Which of the following expressions is incorrect with respect to the word ‘invites’?
a. Option (1)
b. Option (2)
c. Option (3)
d. Option (4)
Ans. Option (b)
ii. Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract.
“Our elders are often heard reminiscing nostalgically about those good old Portuguese days, the Portuguese and their famous loaves of bread. Those eaters might have vanished but the makers are still there. We still have amongst us the mixers, the molders, and those who bake the loaves. Those age-old, time-tested furnaces still exist. The fire in these furnaces has not yet been extinguished. The thud and jingle of traditional baker’s bamboo, heralding his arrival in the morning, can still be heard in some places.”
i. The narrator says that the furnaces were ‘time-tested’ because
a. they had been thoroughly tested each time before being used.
b. they had proved the test of time and were working well.
c. they had been tested by modern-day experts.
d. they had the power to withstand inexperienced usage.
Ans. Option (b)
ii. Those eaters might have vanished but the makers are still there. Pick the option that expresses the tone of the narrator.
- elated
- morose
- nostalgic
- hopeful
- sarcastic
- critical
- celebratory
a. 1 and 7
b. 2 and 6
c. 3 and 4
d. 4 and 5
Ans. Option (c)
iii. Pick the idiom that brings out the same meaning of ‘reminiscing’ as used in the passage
a. train of thought.
b. commit something to memory.
c. a trip down memory lane.
d. jog somebody’s memory.
Ans. Option (c)
iv. Why do you think the baker came in with ‘a thud and a jingle’?
a. He wanted to make everyone alert and active with his presence.
b. He wanted to wake up everyone from their slumber and ask them to visit the bakery.
c. He was used to making a loud noise as most people responded to just that.
d. He wanted to make people aware that he had come around to sell his goodies.
Ans. Option (d)
v. The ‘fire in the furnaces has not yet been extinguished’ implies that
a. the furnaces are still being used to bake the loaves of bread.
b. The fire is in the process of being reviewed as a replaceable method for heating furnaces.
c. The furnaces are very strong and cannot be shifted for use in other areas.
d. The fire in the furnaces takes a long time to cease burning, once lighted.
Ans. Option (a)
Q. No. 2) How did the baker become synonymous with celebrations and occasions in Goa?
Ans. The baker in Goa became synonymous with celebrations and occasions through the delicious and special bread known as the 'bol.' This traditional bread, baked by Goa's bakers, was an essential part of festivals, weddings, and daily life, making the baker a cherished and integral part of Goan culture and festivities.
Q. No. 3) How is bread an important part of life in Goa?
Ans. Needed for all sorts of functions, like marriages, birthdays, part of traditional cuisine, mothers prepare delicacies.
Q. No. 4) How do we know that bakers were an integral part of Goan society?
Ans.
- They were loved and warmly welcomed into homes by the young and old alike.
- The fact that the bakers visited homes at least twice a day shows exactly how important their baked goods were to everyday life, thus making them very popular figures.
- Bread was a necessary part of festivities and functions in those days and thus the baker was an important part of these events.
Q. No. 5) Justify the opinion that the traditional baker and his bread play a significant role in the cultural and social fabric of Goan society.
Ans. The traditional baker and his bread play a significant role in the cultural and social fabric of Goan society.
- the Portuguese introduced their famous loaves of bread to Goa - they left but the bread-makers remained, and their age-old, time-tested furnaces still exist.
- The baker's bread was not just a food item, but it was an essential part of Goan cuisine and culture - not just a staple food item but also served as a symbol of social and economic status
- The traditional baker and his bread -- played a vital role in local commerce -- baker would sell his bread by going from house to house -- a critical role in local distribution and trade
- bread-making tradition -- passed down from one generation to the next -- many bakers continuing the family profession to this day
- continued existence of these bakers and their furnaces represents a living connection to Goa's cultural and culinary heritage -- continues to be cherished and celebrated by the local community.
Q. No. 6) The narrator shares, “Baking was indeed a profitable profession in the old days.”
a. What do you feel has changed now? Why?
b. State any one way, you feel, the paders can regain their lost glory.
Ans. a. In the present day, the profitability of baking has declined due to various factors. One significant change is the shift in dietary preferences and the increased availability of factory-produced, packaged bread, which often sells at a lower cost. Modern consumers are inclined towards convenience and speed, which has led to a decline in the demand for traditional handmade bread. Additionally, the younger generation may not be as interested in taking up the demanding profession of baking, resulting in a shortage of skilled bakers. Economic factors, such as rising ingredient costs and competition, have further impacted profitability.
b. To regain their lost glory, paders can consider adapting to the changing times while preserving their heritage. They could modernize their bakeries by introducing new and innovative bread varieties that cater to contemporary tastes. Promotion and marketing strategies can be employed to highlight the cultural significance of traditional Goan bread, creating a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Collaborating with local restaurants and cafes to showcase their products can also help increase demand. Moreover, offering baking workshops or apprenticeships to aspiring bakers can ensure the continuation of this valuable tradition, passing down the skills and knowledge to the next generation while reviving the bakery's prosperity.
Q. No. 7) In the chapter, ‘A Baker from Goa’ the narrator talks about his childhood in Goa and his fond memories.
Compare the childhood of Nelson Mandela with that of the narrator.
Ans. The childhoods of Nelson Mandela and the narrator in "A Baker from Goa" differ significantly in terms of their experiences and environments. Nelson Mandela grew up in a racially segregated South Africa during the era of apartheid, which subjected him to extreme racial discrimination and inequality. His early life was marked by systemic oppression and hardships due to his African heritage, with limited access to education and basic rights.
In contrast, the narrator in "A Baker from Goa" reminisces about his childhood in Goa, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and relatively peaceful coexistence. He enjoyed the warmth of a tight-knit community and fondly recalls the simple pleasures of life, like buying bread from the local bakery. Unlike Mandela's tumultuous upbringing, the narrator's childhood seems to have been filled with a sense of belonging and cultural continuity.
In summary, while Nelson Mandela's childhood was marred by racial injustice and struggle, the narrator's childhood in Goa appears to have been more idyllic and rooted in the traditions of his community.
Coorg
| Subject | English Language & Literature |
| Class | 10 |
| Board | CBSE |
| Chapter Name | Glimpses of India: Coorg |
| Poet | Lokesh Abrol |
| Type | Important Questions and Answers |
| Session | 2024-25 |
| Book Name | First Flight |
| Literature | Prose |
Coorg Class 10 English Important Questions Answers
Q. No. 8) Why does the author in ‘Coorg’ say that the visitors’ search for the heart and soul of India would be found in Coorg?
Ans. The author in "Coorg" suggests that visitors searching for the heart and soul of India would find it in Coorg because the region preserves its rich cultural traditions, natural beauty, and the warrior spirit of the Kodavas, offering a glimpse into India's diverse heritage and values.
Q. No. 9) Coorgis belong to a valorous and hospitable race. Comment on this statement with reference to the text.
Ans. The statement that Coorgis belongs to a valorous and hospitable race is supported by the text. The author describes the bravery of the Kodavas and their warm hospitality, exemplified by their offering shelter to strangers, which reflects their courageous and welcoming nature.
Q. No. 10) Do adventure sports like river rafting and rock climbing require a person to possess just physical strength? Why/Why not?
Ans. Adventure sports like river rafting and rock climbing require more than just physical strength. They demand mental resilience, skill, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to challenging situations, making them holistic activities that involve both physical and mental aspects.
Q. No. 11) Explain why the author describes Coorg as 'a piece of heaven that must have drifted from the kingdom of god’.
Ans.
- scenic beauty / rolling hills / great weather / evergreen rainforests and coffee plantations/variety of birds and animals
- brave race of people / colorful and warm.
- Hence, a popular tourist destination.
Q. No. 12) The culture, lifestyle, and traditions of a place are influenced by the people who lived or settled there at some point of time. Cultural assimilation adds flavor to the existing structure of a society.
Summarise your opinion on the given idea.
Ans. I agree with the idea that culture, lifestyle, and traditions are influenced by the people who have lived in a place over time. Cultural assimilation enriches a society by bringing in diverse elements, contributing to a more vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape. It's the fusion of different cultures that often adds depth and uniqueness to a society's identity.
Q. No. 13) Pen down a brief travelogue* entry, narrating any personal impression/s about a visit to Coorg. Include your reflections about the differences between the place where you live and the place you’ve visited.
(* A travelogue is a person’s account of a journey to another country or place. It can either be a written report with many factual details or a narrative story about personal impressions and experiences.)
You may begin like this...
As I stepped into the land of evergreen forests, I was blown away by the pristine beauty and ………………………………(continue)
Ans. As I stepped into the land of evergreen forests, I was blown away by the pristine beauty and tranquility of Coorg. The rolling hills covered in lush coffee plantations created a breathtaking panorama. It was a stark contrast to the bustling city I call home, where concrete jungles dominate the landscape.
The air in Coorg was filled with the earthy aroma of coffee and the sweet scent of blooming flowers, a refreshing departure from the smog and traffic of urban life. The people in Coorg were warm and hospitable, reflecting the region's rich culture and traditions.
One notable difference was the pace of life. Coorg seemed to move at a more relaxed rhythm, allowing me to savor every moment. It was a stark contrast to the fast-paced, time-driven life I was accustomed to.
In Coorg, I found a deep connection with nature and a sense of serenity that had eluded me in my busy city life. The visit was not just a journey but a profound experience that made me appreciate the diversity and beauty of our world.
Tea from Assam
| Subject | English Language & Literature |
| Class | 10 |
| Board | CBSE |
| Chapter Name | Glimpses of India: Tea from Assam |
| Poet | Arup Kumar Datta |
| Type | Important Questions and Answers |
| Session | 2024-25 |
| Book Name | First Flight |
| Literature | Prose |
Tea from Assam Class 10 English Important Questions Answers
Q. No. 14) “Hey, a tea garden!” Rajvir cried excitedly.
Pranjol, who had been born and brought up on a plantation, didn’t share Rajvir’s excitement.
“Oh, this is tea country now,” he said. “Assam has the largest concentration of plantations in the world.
You will see enough gardens to last you a lifetime!”
“I have been reading as much as I could about tea,” Rajvir said. “No one really knows who discovered tea but there are many legends.”
(Glimpses of India)
i. Why was Pranjol not as excited as Rajvir about the tea gardens?
a. He disliked looking at tea gardens.
b. He had worked in tea gardens himself.
c. He had grown up in and around tea gardens.
d. He was bored with tea gardens.
Ans. Option (c)
ii. What does Pranjol mean by saying that Assam has the largest concentration of plantations in the world?
Ans. When Pranjol says Assam has the "largest concentration of plantations in the world," he means that Assam has the:
- Highest density: This refers to the greatest number of tea plantations per unit area compared to any other region globally. Assam has a very high concentration of tea gardens within its borders.
- Most tea plantations in a single location: This implies that Assam has the single largest geographical area dedicated to tea plantations, surpassing any other place in the world.
iii. Fill in the blank with ONE WORD only.
Pranjol’s _____ comes through clearly when he exclaims, “You will see enough gardens to last you a lifetime!”
Ans. frustration/irritation/exasperation (or any suitable word) compatible with the exclamation mark in the sentence.
iv. How according to Rajvir does the world know about the discovery of tea?
a. Historical places
b. Traditional tales
c. Authentic anecdotes
d. Popular publications
Ans. Option (b)
v. Select the option that correctly captures the application of the word ‘cried’ as used in line 1 of the extract.
a. Jaspreet cried a lot in spite of winning second place in a competition.
b. Jaspreet cried out loud when she saw a white tiger in the sanctuary.
c. Jaspreet cried for hours when the police were unable to find her lost pet.
d. Jaspreet has barely cried since she was three years of age.
Ans. Option (b)
Q. No. 15) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract.
“Tell me another!” scoffed Pranjol.
“We have an Indian legend too. Bodhidharma, an ancient Buddhist ascetic, cut off his eyelids because he felt sleepy during meditations. Ten tea plants grew out of the eyelids. The leaves of these plants when put in hot water and drunk, banished sleep.”
“Tea was first drunk in China,’’ Rajvir added, ‘‘as far back as 2700 B.C.! In fact, words such as tea, chai, and chini are from the Chinese. Tea came to Europe only in the sixteenth century and was drunk more as medicine than as a beverage.”
i. The main idea of this extract is
a. Tea as a popular beverage in Europe and how it spread.
b. Origin of tea in India and why it became popular in Europe.
c. Importance of India in popularising tea and influencing Europe.
d. Indian legend on tea and how it traveled from China to Europe.
Ans. Option (d)
ii. Why do you think Pranjol ‘scoffed’?
a. He was upset with the legend Rajvir shared.
b. He was mocking Rajvir for his lack of knowledge.
c. He was amused and tickled at what Rajvir shared.
d. He was impressed with what Rajvir had shared.
Ans. Option (a)
iii. Pick the option that includes the tea label information that corresponds to the given sentence.
“The leaves of these plants when put in hot water and drunk, banished sleep.”
a. Option 1
b. Option 2
c. Option 3
d. Option 4
Ans. Option (c)
iv. Based on the inference from the extract, which of these is NOT TRUE about tea drinking in sixteenth-century Europe?
Dr. Smith is a doctor of sixteenth-century Europe.
a. Dr. Smith encouraged drinking green tea whenever available, to reduce chances of tooth loss.
b. Dr. Smith prescribed regular tea drinking to all his patients with weak hearts.
c. Dr. Smith always served tea as a refreshment when he had guests, as they all enjoyed this beverage.
d. Dr. Smith usually recommends black tea to reduce inflammation in the body.
Ans. Option (c)
v. Based on this extract, how do you think Rajvir felt while narrating?
a. i) excited ii) agitated
b. i) hysterical ii) nervous
c. i) nervous ii) agitated
d. i) enthusiastic ii) passionate
Ans. Option (d)
Q. No. 16) Pranjol buried his head in his detective book while Rajvir was eager to look at the beautiful scenery during the train journey. Why was there a difference in their attitude?
Ans. The difference in Pranjol and Rajvir's attitudes during the train journey reflects their distinct interests and priorities. Pranjol's fascination with detective books indicates his preference for fictional adventures, while Rajvir's eagerness to admire the scenery suggests his appreciation for the real-world beauty around him. Their contrasting personalities and interests shape their reactions.
Q. No. 17) What is a famous Indian legend regarding tea?
Ans. Chinese emperor boiled water before drinking, few leaves of twigs fell in to water and gave delicious flavor.
Q. No. 18) What is the legend about tea’s quality to banish sleep?
Ans. The legend about tea's quality to banish sleep is that when Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk, fell asleep during his meditation, he became so infuriated with himself that he cut off his eyelids to prevent it from happening again. Legend has it that from the spot where his eyelids fell, the first tea plant sprouted. Tea, then, became known for its stimulating properties, helping to keep people awake and alert, thus banishing sleep. This legend is often used to explain the origin of tea and its association with promoting wakefulness.
Q. No. 19) Rajvir did his study before his visit to the tea plantation.
Is it good to do one’s research before the start of a new venture or does it take away from the thrill of discovery? Elucidate your stance.
Ans. Doing research before embarking on a new venture is often beneficial. It provides a foundation of knowledge, increases preparedness, and can enhance the overall experience. While it may demystify some aspects, the thrill of discovery remains intact as research merely lays the groundwork, leaving plenty of room for unexpected and exciting experiences along the way. A balance between preparation and spontaneity is ideal for a fulfilling adventure.
Q. No. 20) Inspired by the diversity in the chapter, ‘Glimpses of India’, you wrote an article for your school magazine on the topic, ‘Diversity-the Uniqueness of India’.
Write a paragraph, sharing two key opinions from the article.
Ans. In my article on "Diversity - the Uniqueness of India," I highlighted two key opinions. Firstly, I emphasized that India's diversity, encompassing its varied cultures, languages, traditions, and landscapes, is a source of immense strength and richness. Secondly, I discussed the importance of fostering tolerance and harmony among such diverse communities, as it's the key to harnessing the full potential of this uniqueness and building a united and progressive nation.
Q. No. 21) Pranjol and Rajvir discuss their next vacation destination. They shortlist Coorg and Goa. Rajvir is keen on Coorg and tries to convince Pranjol. Develop a conversation between the two, based on your understanding of Glimpses of India.
You may begin like this:
Rajvir: Hey Pranjol! I think we should be visiting Coorg. It is a beautiful place with coffee plantations. I can smell the aroma already!
Pranjol: I gave you the opportunity to explore a tea plantation last year, in Assam; I want to…
Ans. Rajvir: Hey Pranjol! I think we should be visiting Coorg. It is a beautiful place with coffee plantations. I can smell the aroma already!
Pranjol: I gave you the opportunity to explore a tea plantation last year, in Assam; I want to…
Rajvir: There is a lot more to do in Coorg than smelling the coffee! The place has rainforests, so the megafauna will be worth watching. Not just this, Coorg provides opportunities to indulge in adventure sports like river rafting, rappelling, and mountain biking, to name a few.
Pranjol: That sounds interesting, but I would prefer some serene moments too, away from this post-pandemic hustle-bustle.
Rajvir: Oh! The answer is Coorg again!
Pranjol: Oh, come on! You can’t be serious…
Rajvir: Believe me, I am. Coorg is the place. It has beautiful natural walking trails and the Brahmagiri hills offer a panoramic view. I read that the place has the largest Tibetan settlement, so the environment will reflect peace and spirituality, I’m sure.
Pranjol: Have to say, you’ve presented a fine case in favor of Coorg and convinced me. Let’s plan to leave for Coorg next Wednesday!
The dialogues should be based on an understanding of the chapter. There should be arguments from Pranjol showing he requires more to get convinced. Rajvir, being an explorer must be able to give an interesting account about Coorg to convince Pranjol. The persuasive element using examples from text descriptions needs to be showcased.
Apart from the above the following could be added:
- Coorg is culturally rich, the people there are brave and their hospitality is great.
- Some people in Coorg are the only ones allowed to keep firearms without a license. It will be fun meeting such Bravehearts.
- Rainforests can be visited for flora and fauna.
- There flows the river Kaveri and sitting by the river could be peaceful.
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