Are you a CBSE Class 10 student gearing up for the Board exams in 2024-25? If so, you've probably encountered Chapter 7 of the First Flight book, "Madam Rides the Bus." While you're diving into the world of Valli and her unforgettable bus journey, you might have some burning questions. That's where we come in! In this blog post, we've got you covered with extra questions and answers related to "Madam Rides the Bus." Let's unravel the story and ace those exams together!
| Subject | English Language & Literature |
| Class | 10 |
| Board | CBSE |
| Chapter Name | Madam Rides the Bus |
| Author | Vallikkannan |
| Type | Important Questions and Answers |
| Session | 2024-25 |
| Book Name | First Flight Chapter 7 |
| Literature | Prose |
"हारना असंभव है, जब तक आप हारने के लिए तयार नहीं होते।"
- नेल्सन मंडेला
Madam Rides the Bus Class 10 Important Questions & Answers
Q. No. 1) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract.
“Day after day she watched the bus, and gradually a tiny wish crept into her head and grew there: she wanted to ride on that bus, even if it was just once. This wish became stronger until it was an overwhelming desire. Valli would stare wistfully at the people who got on and off the bus when it stood at the street corner. Their faces would kindle in her longings, dreams, and hopes. If one of her friends happened to ride the bus and tried to describe the sights of the town to her. Valli would be jealous to listen and would shout, in English: “Proud! Proud!”
i. Valli would stare wistfully at the people as she
a. had been watching the bus for a long time.
b. was inspired by the people traveling on the bus.
c. had a strong desire to take a ride on the bus.
d. envied the people who could travel on the bus.
Ans. Option (c)
ii. Pick the option that shows the list of words that collocate with ‘overwhelming’ (e.g. overwhelming desire)
- response
- lies
- support
- majority
- pets
- places
a. 1, 5 & 6
b. 1, 3 & 4
c. 2 & 5
d. 3, 5 & 6
Ans. Option (b)
iii. ‘Valli would be jealous to listen…’ This indicates Valli’s
a. longing to ride the bus.
b. nature as an envious person.
c. denial to accept her situation.
d. inclination to trouble travelers.
Ans. Option (a)
iv. A part of the extract has been paraphrased. Choose the option that includes the most appropriate solution to the blanks.
The desire became so (i) _____ that it transformed into an (ii) _____ one. Valli would look (iii) _____ at people who boarded the bus and got off.
a. i) active ii) overt iii) longingly
b. i) vigorous ii) overpowering iii) cheerfully
c. i) staunch ii) overt iii) joyfully
d. i) vigorous ii) overpowering iii) longingly
Ans. Option (d)
v. What does the line ‘gradually a tiny wish crept into her head and grew there’, mean?
a. The wish developed in her head over a period of time.
b. The wish was a feeling of wanting to prove her strength.
c. The wish was planted in her head by someone’s suggestion.
d. The wish was small and was overpowered by a sense of doubt.
Ans. Option (a)
Q. No. 2) Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Suddenly she was startled by a voice. “Listen, child,” said the voice, “you shouldn’t stand like that. Sit down.”
Sitting down, she looked to see who had spoken. It was an elderly man who had honestly been concerned for her, but she was annoyed by his attention.
“There’s nobody here who’s a child,” she said haughtily. “I’ve paid my thirty paise like everyone else.”
The conductor chimed in. “Oh, sir, but this is a very grown-up madam. Do you think a mere girl could pay her own fare and travel to the city all alone?”
Valli shot an angry glance at the conductor and said, “I am not a madam. Please remember that. And you’ve not yet given me my ticket.”
“I’ll remember,” the conductor said, mimicking her tone. Everyone laughed, and gradually Valli too joined in the laughter.
i. How did Valli feel when the elderly man expressed concern that she was standing?
a. Rather shocked
b. Somewhat happy
c. Fairly displeased
d. Quite embarrassed
Ans. Option (c)
ii. Choose the option that lists the set of statements that are NOT TRUE according to the given extract.
- Valli was traveling without a guardian.
- The conductor was bullying Valli.
- Valli was nervous in her interactions.
- Valli was a child passenger.
- Valli followed the elderly man’s advice.
- Valli’s response to the elderly man was respectful.
- It took Valli some time to participate in the jocular conversations.
a. 2, 3, 4
b. 5, 6, 7
c. 3, 5, 7
d. 2, 3, 6
Ans. Option (d)
iii. Pick the option that correctly classifies fact/s(F) and opinion/s (O) of the students below.
a. F - 1, 2 and O - 3, 4
b. F - 2, 3, 4 and O - 1
c. F - 2, 4 and O - 1, 3
d. F - 3 and O - 1, 2, 4
Ans. Option (d)
iv. Which word does ‘chimed in’ NOT correspond to?
a. Intervened
b. Interrupted
c. Intersected
d. Interjected
Ans. Option (c)
v. Choose the characteristic displayed by the conductor when he addressed Valli and declared that she couldn’t be ‘a mere girl’.
a. encouragement
b. indulgence
c. embarrassment
d. authority
Ans. Option (b)
Q. No. 3) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract.
“‘Yes, I’m traveling alone,” she answered curtly. And I’ve got a ticket too.’
‘Yes she’s on her way to town,’ said the conductor. ‘With a thirty paise ticket.’
‘Oh, why don’t you mind your own business,’ said Valli. But she laughed all the same, and the conductor laughed too.
But the old woman went on with her drivel. ‘Is it proper for such a young person to travel alone? Do you know exactly where you’re going in town? What’s the street? What’s the house number?
‘You needn’t bother about me. I can take care of myself,’ Valli said, turning her face towards the window and staring out.”
i. Pick the option that matches the expressions with ‘mind’ correctly.
| Expression | Meaning |
| 1. bring to mind | A. be receptive to someone’s ideas |
| 2. be in two minds | B. think about only one subject |
| 3. have an open mind | C. recall something |
| 4. put your mind at ease | D. undecided |
| E. reassure you | |
| F. reach a decision |
a. 1-F, 2-C, 3-A, 4-D
b. 1-C, 2-D, 3-A, 4-E
c. 1-B, 2-F, 3-E, 4-A
d. 1-F, 2-D, 3-C, 4-B
Ans. Option (b)
ii. Valli told the conductor to mind his own business and laughed as well. This shows that Valli ...
a. was not really bothered about what the conductor said.
b. didn’t like the conductor speaking about her.
c. disliked what the conductor said but was amused.
d. was impressed with what the conductor said.
Ans. Option (c)
iii. The old woman went on with her drivel. Why is the word ‘drivel’ used here? It is used to show that the old woman
a. was talking incessantly.
b. kept muttering a lot of nonsense.
c. was volunteering advice on request.
d. spoke non-stop about herself.
Ans. Option (b)
iv. The old woman asked her questions
a. due to anxiety about Valli traveling alone.
b. out of curiosity and concern for Valli.
c. interest in Valli’s life and need for travel.
d. due to the habit of interfering in Valli’s life.
Ans. Option (b)
v. How do you think Valli felt when the old woman asked her questions? Pick the option that best describes her feelings.
a. i) irritated ii) agitated
b. i) concerned ii) upset
c. i) upset ii) agitated
d. i) upset ii) irritated
Ans. Option (d)
Q. No. 4) Why does the conductor call Valli ‘madam’?
Ans. The conductor calls Valli "madam" as a playful tease. He is likely amused by her young age and her determination to take the bus journey alone. The term "madam" is often used to address women respectfully, but in this context, it is used in a lighthearted and humorous way.
Q. No. 5) During her journey, Valli absorbed the natural beauty and clapped her hands in happiness on seeing a young cow running very fast. What does this reveal about Valli?
Ans. Valli's clapping in happiness upon seeing a young cow running very fast during her journey reveals her deep connection with and appreciation for the simple joys of nature. It suggests her innocence, enthusiasm, and ability to find delight in the world around her.
Q. No. 6) Valli didn’t like the way adults treated her during her bus journey. Describe how you would feel and react if you were to find yourself in a similar situation.
Ans. If I were in a similar situation as Valli, feeling ignored or condescended to by adults during a journey, I might feel frustrated and a bit disheartened. I would try to assert myself politely and express my thoughts and feelings, seeking to be treated with respect and consideration.
Q. No. 7) Valli’s unique maiden bus ride experience could be possible because she belonged to a small village. Do you agree? Why/Why not?
Ans. Agree:
- A bus ride seemed like a fascinating means of recreation and adventure ---unlike cities and bigger towns.
- She could travel alone safely –unfortunately, not recommended in larger townships or cities.
- There was only one bus that Valli observed several times – cities have varied means of transport that might seem more adventurous.
Disagree:
- Fascination for riding a bus or an automobile can exist in children of Valli’s age even in big cities.
- Traveling unnoticed is easier in large cities than in small towns or villages due to familiarity.
- Cities would offer more opportunities for a bus ride due to the availability and frequency of several buses on the same route.
Q. No. 8) Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow:
An elderly woman came and sat beside her.
“Are you all alone dear?” she asked Valli as the bus started again.
Valli found the woman absolutely repulsive-such big holes in her ear lobes, and such ugly earrings in them! And she could smell the betel nut the woman was chewing and see the betel juice that was threatening to spill over her lips at any moment
Ugh!-who could be sociable with such a person?
“Yes I am traveling alone,” she answered curtly, “and I’ve got a ticket too .”
“Yes, she’s on her way to town .”, said the conductor. “With a thirty paise ticket.”
“Oh, why don't you mind your own business.”
a. Why did the elderly woman come to sit near Valli?
Ans. She felt that she was traveling all alone.
b. Valli’s dislike for the elderly woman. Briefly explain.
Ans. She could smell the betel nut the woman was chewing and see the betel juice that was threatening to spill over her lips at any moment.
c. The conductor makes fun of Valli. Give a reason.
Ans. Because Valli had spoken rudely to the conductor and was taking pride in traveling alone.
Q. No. 9) Imagine you come across a little girl traveling alone on a bus. Write down any two questions you would ask her and your reasons for asking them.
Ans. I would ask:
- "Are you traveling alone?"
Reason: To ensure her safety and well-being, as a child traveling alone might need assistance or supervision. - "Is there someone waiting for you at your destination?"
Reason: To determine if she has a responsible adult or guardian to pick her up and provide for her upon arrival, ensuring her safety and welfare.
Q. No. 10) If you were to advise Valli on the two things she ought to take with her if she were traveling alone for the first time, what would they be and why?
Ans. I would advise Valli to take two essential things:
- Identification and Contact Information: She should carry an identification card with her name, address, and emergency contact details. This would be crucial in case she gets separated or needs help.
- Some Snacks and Water: To ensure she stays nourished and hydrated during her journey, as it might be a long trip, and having some snacks and water can provide comfort and sustenance.
Q. No. 11) Why didn’t she get off the bus at the bus station?
Ans. Valli didn't get off the bus at the bus station because she was afraid to explore the city alone. Her only intention was to experience the bus ride itself, not to visit the town. She was fascinated by the journey, the scenery, and the experience of being on the bus, but she didn’t feel the need to explore the town. In her mind, the ride was the real adventure, and she was content just enjoying that without stepping off the bus. Additionally, she may have been worried about getting lost or being unable to find her way back to the bus.
Q. No. 12) Why didn’t Valli want to go to the stall and have a drink? What does this tell you about her?
Ans. Valli didn’t want to go to the stall to have a drink because she didn’t want to spend her money. Even though the conductor offered to treat her, she insisted on paying for her own expenses. This shows that Valli is a responsible and independent person who values self-reliance.
Q. No. 13) Why does Valli refuse to look out of the window on her way back?
Ans. Valli refuses to look out of the window on her way back because she is haunted by the memory of the dead cow. The sight of the cow has deeply saddened her and dampened her enthusiasm for the journey. This suggests that Valli is a compassionate and empathetic person who is deeply affected by the suffering of others.
Q. No. 14) What does Valli mean when she says, “I was just agreeing with what you said about things happening without our knowledge.”
Ans. When Valli says, “I was just agreeing with what you said about things happening without our knowledge,” she is reflecting on the unexpected and uncontrollable events in life. The sight of the dead cow had a profound impact on her, and she realizes that life can change quickly and unexpectedly, sometimes without us even knowing or having control over it. This statement shows that Valli is starting to grasp the unpredictable nature of life.
Q. No. 15) Do you think Valli’s mother would have taken her for the bus ride if she had requested her to do so? Why/ Why not?
Ans. It's likely that Valli's mother would not have taken her for the bus ride even if she had requested it. The story suggests that Valli's mother is overprotective and cautious about her safety. She might have been concerned about the risks and dangers of a bus journey and preferred to keep Valli close to ensure her safety.
Q. No. 16) Imagine Valli had to plan a day-long budget trip to a domestic destination for her family all by herself. What things do you think she would keep in mind while planning?
Ans. If Valli were to plan a day-long budget trip for her family, she might consider factors like affordable transportation, nearby destinations, activities that don't require much expense, and packing essentials like food, water, and any necessary documents. Her resourcefulness and knowledge of her family's preferences would likely play a significant role in planning a memorable yet budget-friendly trip.
Q. No. 17) Valli shows extraordinary courage in taking a bus journey all alone. Explain how ability and courage are essential to fulfill one’s dream.
Ans. Valli's journey on the bus, despite being a young girl traveling alone, demonstrates the vital role of ability and courage in fulfilling one's dreams. Her earnest wish to ride the bus and reach the nearest town was fueled by her strong determination. To achieve this dream, she meticulously planned her journey, saved money, and gathered the necessary information about the bus routes and schedules. This planning showcased her ability to organize and prepare for her goal.
Her journey also required strong willpower as she patiently waited for the right moment to embark on her adventure. During the journey, her confidence and dignity were evident when the conductor addressed her as 'Madam,' a sign of respect. This showed that Valli's demeanor and self-assuredness played a role in her successful journey.
Above all, Valli displayed extraordinary courage throughout the entire journey. She faced the unknown, navigated through challenges, and completed her trip despite being a young girl traveling alone. This story exemplifies that ability and courage are essential traits for realizing one's dreams, as they enable individuals to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals with determination and confidence. Valli's story serves as an inspiring example of how one can achieve their dreams through determination, planning, and unwavering courage.
Q. No. 18) Traveling teaches us many life lessons and enriches us with experiences. You and your classmate have a discussion on this statement and your love for travel. Write the dialogue.
You may begin like this...
Friend: I think traveling is one of the best ways to explore not just the world around you but also helps you introspect about life itself.
You: ................................................
Friend: Travelling enriches us with so many varied experiences.
You: .............................................
Ans. Friend: I think traveling is one of the best ways to explore not just the world around you but also helps you introspect about life itself.
You: Absolutely, I couldn't agree more. Traveling broadens our horizons, exposes us to diverse cultures, and makes us appreciate the beauty of our planet. It's like a classroom without walls, where we learn about history, art, and human nature firsthand.
Friend: Travelling enriches us with so many varied experiences.
You: It really does. Each journey is a lesson in itself. We learn to adapt to new situations, deal with unexpected challenges, and become more self-reliant. Plus, meeting people from different backgrounds teaches us tolerance and empathy. And let's not forget the amazing memories and stories we collect along the way – they stay with us forever.
Friend: And the best part is, it's a lifelong journey of learning and self-discovery.
You: Absolutely, my friend. Traveling is not just about visiting places; it's about growing as a person, gaining perspective, and appreciating the beauty and diversity of our world. It's an adventure that never ends.
Q. No. 19) After reading the story about Valli; you realize that she had such a small desire and demanded nothing from her mother.
After reflecting on this, you decide to write a diary entry on how you felt you have been unreasonable about the demands you have posed to your parents. You also realize that life is not all about materialistic possessions.
You may begin like this:
15 August 2020, Saturday 9:00 pm
I feel I have learned a big lesson in life after reading about Valli. I feel ashamed for the way I have been …………………
Ans. 15 August 2020, Saturday, 9:00 PM
I feel I have learned a big lesson in life after reading about Valli. I feel ashamed for the way I have been so demanding and unreasonable with my parents. Valli had such a small desire, just to ride a bus, and she asked for nothing more from her mother. In contrast, I've often pestered my parents for materialistic possessions and luxuries, without realizing how fortunate I am to have their love and support.
Valli's story made me understand that life isn't all about materialistic possessions. It's about finding joy in the simple things, appreciating the love and care we receive, and being content with what we have. It's a wake-up call to be more grateful and less demanding, to cherish the moments and experiences rather than accumulating things. I hope to remember this lesson and be a more considerate and appreciative person in the future.
Q. No. 20) You have been asked to give a speech on the topic 'The journey is more important than the destination'. Prepare a draft for the speech, in not more than 120 words, with reference to the texts Madam Rides the Bus and The Black Aeroplane.
You may begin this way:
Good morning, everyone. Today, I would like to talk to you about how the journeys that we experience in life are often more important than their destinations.
You may end this way:
To conclude, I would like to say that...
Thank you.
Ans. [A detailed insight has been presented below to allow for the usage of content points as per individual choice. However, the final answer crafted by the learner is to be written in the first person, as indicated by the question cues. It has to be a cohesive whole, structured in paragraphs and devoid of headings, in about 120 words.]
Good morning, everyone. Today, I would like to talk to you about how the journeys that we experience in life are often more important than their destinations.
(Theme 1: Literal Journey is More Important Than the Destination)
In Madam Rides the Bus, we see Valli who yearns to travel by bus. She worked hard and saved up her money such that she could finally travel on the bus. During this journey, she was firmly present in the moment and absorbed all the sights and sounds that she experienced. She was delighted by watching a young cow running on the road and was fascinated by all the colorful shops and large crowds that she could see. Once she reached the city, she did not get off the bus to explore her destination. She stayed on the bus so that she could experience the journey back home. Even though it was the same route, she was still thoroughly excited by everything. It was only when she saw the young cow dead on the road did her spirits dampened. For Valli, it did not truly matter what her destination was, what did matter were the experiences and learnings she gained throughout her journey.
Unlike Valli, for the pilot In The Black Aeroplane, his destination was important to him. He was flying back home and was looking forward to reuniting with his family. But an unexpected storm turned what he thought would be an easy, insignificant journey into a significant one. The pilot saw another plane through the storm which guided him to safety. It was only when he safely landed and spoke to a lady at the control tower did he learned that there were no other planes in the sky! Thus, a journey he initially saw as unimportant turned into a great mystery that would always be on his mind.
(Theme 2: Metaphorical Journey is More Important Than the Destination)
Valli's bus journey to the city is a journey of exploration and discovery, as she learns about the world outside of her village. The pilot's journey through the storm is a journey of courage, as he faces the unknown. Both of these journeys are important because they teach the characters about themselves and about the world around them. Both of the characters experienced journeys that impacted them, changed them, and would stay with them forever.
(Conclusion)
To conclude, I would like to say that by seeing how their journeys impacted them, we can learn a lot from Valli and the pilot. In our own lives, we often focus on the destination, whether it is a test result or a new toy. But the journey to achieving these destinations is more important. The journey is where we learn and grow, where we experience new things and challenge ourselves.
Thank you.
(Any other valid response will be accepted.)
Hope you liked these Important Questions & Answers on Class 10 English First Flight Book Story Madam Rides the Bus by Vallikkannan. Please share this with your friends and do comment if you have any doubts/suggestions to share.