Mijbil the Otter: Class 10 Questions & Answers

Welcome to "Mijbil the Otter: Class 10 Questions & Answers," your one-stop destination for diving into the captivating world of NCERT Class 10 English from the "First Flight" book. In this blog post, we've compiled a curated list of important questions and answers, helping you to understand the tale of Mijbil the Otter while acing your Class 10 English studies. Get ready to embark on a journey of exploration and enlightenment as we tackle the most important aspects of this chapter. Let's dive right in!

Subject	English Language & Literature
Class	10
Board	CBSE
Chapter Name	Mijbil the Otter
Author	Gavin Maxwell
Type	Important Questions and Answers
Session	2024-25
Book Name	First Flight Chapter 6
Literature	Prose

"The expert in anything was once a beginner."

- Helen Hayes

Mijbil the Otter Class 10 Important Questions & Answers

Q. No. 1) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract:

For the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible. The second night Mijbil came onto my bed in the small hours and remained asleep in the crook of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning, and during the day he began to lose his apathy and take a keen, much too keen, interest in his surroundings. I made a body belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water, plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub underwater, and making enough slosh and splash for a hippo.

i. “Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent…” From the actions of the given set of friends, choose the person whose behavior is likely to resemble Mijbil’s.

a. Akanksha rudely tells her best friend to stop calling.

b. Piyush was amicable since the day he walked into his new classroom.

c. Rishabh became nasty as soon as he started earning money.

d. Urvashi was distant for a while after losing her grandmother.

Ans. Option (d)

ii. Select the option that correctly puts the following events in the correct order.

1. Maxwell planned to take Mijbil to the bathroom.
2. Mijbil slept at a significant distance from Maxwell’s bed.
3. Mijbil immensely enjoyed playing in the water.
4. Mijbil slept in a much closer vicinity to the author as opposed to the previous night.

a. 1, 3, 4, 2

b. 3, 1, 2, 4

c. 2, 4, 1, 3

d. 4, 3, 1, 2

Ans. Option (c)

iii. The words “slosh and splash” are examples of the onomatopoeic words that go together phonetically-resembling the sound that they describe.

Choose the option that DOES NOT fit the given description.

a. hip hop

b. bow wow

c. tick tock

d. pitter patter

Ans. Option (a)

iv. Choose the option that correctly describes a body-belt in the given context as explained by the four people given below.

a. A body belt is a device specially made for swimmers and scuba divers, which helps them breathe underwater.

b. Body belts basically resemble waist belts and keep our body upright, in a standing position.

c. Body belts are used for restraining while doing certain activities, in order to prevent hurt.

d. A body belt is an accessory used by bodybuilders for weight training as a measure against muscle and bone injuries.

Ans. Option (c)

v. Select the option that best describes the final action of the otter, based on the given passage.

a. Option (1)

b. Option (2)

c. Option (3)

d. Option (4)

Ans. Option (b)

Q. No. 2) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract:

When I returned, there was an appalling spectacle. There was complete silence from the box, but from its airholes and chinks around the lid, blood had trickled and dried. I whipped off the lock and tore open the lid, and Mij, exhausted and blood-spattered, whimpered and caught at my leg. He had torn the lining of the box to shreds; when I removed the last of it so that there were no cutting edges left, it was just ten minutes until the time of the flight, and the airport was five miles distant. I put the miserable Mij back into the box, holding down the lid with my hand. I sat in the back of the car with the box beside me as the driver tore through the streets of Basra like a ricocheting bullet.

i. Choose the speaker that uses the phrase ‘appalling spectacle’ correctly.

Speaker 1 – We got back home to see that our pet dog had eaten kheer my mother had kept out of the fridge. Indeed, an appalling spectacle.

Speaking 2 – We got back home and witnessed that our cousin had dressed our pet dog in his t-shirt. Have to admit that it was an appalling spectacle.

Speaker 3 – We got back home to see that our pet dog sitting with a mangled rat. It was an appalling spectacle.

Speaking 4 – We got back home from the airport and observed our pet dog sound asleep on the rug. What an appalling spectacle!

a. Speaker 1

b. Speaker 2

c. Speaker 3

d. Speaker 4

Ans. Option (c)

ii. “whipped off”, is an example of a phrasal verb i.e. a combination of a verb and a preposition. Choose the option that DOES NOT fit the given definition.

a. Option 1

b. Option 2

c. Option 3

d. Option 4

Ans. Option (b)

iii. Choose the option that is closest in resemblance to the box’s condition in which Mij was kept.

a. Option (1)

b. Option (2)

c. Option (3)

d. Option (4)

Ans. Option (d)

iv. Select the option that DOES NOT state the possible reason for Maxwell’s cutting the box edges off. down after out off take up out along down look up in away back give in up out back get

a. Mij could have injured himself further.

b. It could have made the place untidy.

c. Mij could have accidentally swallowed the torn pieces

d. It could have obstructed the shutting of the lid.

Ans. Option (b)

v. Choose the option that correctly states Maxwell’s likely feelings, in the situation below.

“… I put the miserable Mij back into the box, holding down the lid with my hand.”

1. anxious
2. disappointed
3. terrified
4. guilty
5. insulted

a. 1 and 5

b. 2 and 3

c. 1 and 4

d. 3 and 5

Ans. Option (c)

Q. No. 3) Why is Mij’s species now known to the world as Maxwell’s otter?

Ans. Mij's species is now known to the world as Maxwell's otter because Gavin Maxwell, the naturalist who discovered and studied it, played a crucial role in its identification and classification.

Maxwell's observations and research led to the recognition of this unique species, which had not been previously documented. In honor of his contribution to the scientific community, the species was named after him. This naming convention is a common practice in zoology, where new species are often named after their discoverers or researchers who have made significant contributions to their study.

Q. No. 4) “…every drop of water must be, so to speak, extended and spread about the place…”
Describe Maxwell’s observation regarding Mij with reference to the given quote.

Ans. In the quote, Maxwell is describing how Mijbil, the otter behaves when he interacts with water. Maxwell noticed that Mij loved water and always wanted to play with it. Mij would do anything to make the water move and splash around. He would tip over bowls or sit in them until the water spilled everywhere.

Q. No. 5) Maxwell’s fear of sending Mij to England was legitimate. Give a reason.

Ans. Maxwell's fear of sending Mijbil to England was legitimate because otters like Mijbil are wild animals with specific habitats and behavioral needs. Transplanting Mijbil to England could have caused immense stress and health problems for the otter. Moreover, it might have been illegal and ecologically irresponsible to import a wild animal into a foreign environment, potentially disrupting local ecosystems.

Q. No. 6) Maxwell was justified in thinking very highly of the air hostess. Justify.

Ans. Maxwell was justified in thinking highly of the air hostess for several reasons:

1. Her Kindness and Understanding: She was incredibly kind and understanding towards Maxwell and his situation. She offered to help him despite the inconvenience of having an otter on board.
2. Her Professionalism: She handled the situation with grace and efficiency, even when faced with a challenging and unusual passenger.
3. Her Calmness: She remained calm and collected throughout the ordeal, which helped to alleviate Maxwell's stress and anxiety.
4. Her Willingness to Help: She was willing to go above and beyond her duties to assist Maxwell, even offering to hold Mijbil on her lap.

These qualities demonstrate the air hostess's exceptional character and make it clear why Maxwell held her in such high regard.

Q. No. 7) What game had Mij invented?

Ans. Mij had invented a game using the ping-pong ball and the damaged suitcase. He would place the ball on the high end of the suitcase and watch it roll down to the other end. He would then chase after the ball, hide from it, or try to catch it before it reached the bottom.

Q. No. 8) What are ‘compulsive habits’? What does Maxwell say are the compulsive habits of
(i) school children
(ii) Mij?

Ans. Compulsive habits are repetitive behaviors that a person feels compelled to perform, often to reduce anxiety or stress.  
Maxwell observes that school children often have compulsive habits like touching every seventh railing or stepping on the center of each paving stone.
Mij's compulsive habit was to jump on the wall outside the primary school and run along its length.

Q. No. 9) Compare any one compulsive human habit with respect to the otter’s compulsive habit, as mentioned in the text.

Ans. Compulsive Human Habit:

• Nail-biting: Many people have a compulsive habit of biting their nails, often without even realizing they're doing it. This repetitive behavior can be a source of anxiety or stress relief.

Comparison to Mij's Compulsive Habit:

Both nail-biting and Mij's habit of jumping on the wall are repetitive behaviors that are performed almost unconsciously. They are both ways of coping with stress or finding comfort. While nail-biting is a common human habit, Mij's behavior is unique to his species and his individual personality.

Q. No. 10) What would you say was the greatest obstacle faced by the narrator in transporting Mijbil to Camusfearna?

Ans. The greatest obstacle faced by the narrator in transporting Mijbil to Camusfearna was the airline's restrictions on animals. The British airline he initially intended to use did not allow animals on board, forcing him to find an alternative airline and deal with the associated complications. Additionally, the airline imposed strict requirements on the size of the travel container, which added to the challenges of transporting Mijbil safely.

Q. No. 11) There is not a dull moment when pets are around. Explain how this holds true in the case of “Mijbil the Otter”.

Ans. In "Mijbil the Otter," there are no dull moments due to Mijbil's playful and mischievous nature. His antics, such as inventing games with ping-pong balls and creating chaos during walks, keep the narrator and the readers thoroughly entertained. Mijbil's presence adds vibrancy and excitement to the narrative, illustrating the idea that pets bring joy and liveliness to their owners' lives.

Q. No. 12) Peculiar behaviors are a characteristic of Otters. Discuss with respect to “Mijbil the Otter”.

Ans. Peculiar behaviors are indeed a characteristic of otters, as exemplified by Mijbil in the story. Mijbil displays a range of unusual and charming habits, such as playing with stones, inventing games with ping-pong balls, and following specific routines during walks. These behaviors highlight the unique and endearing nature of otters, making them fascinating creatures to observe and interact with.

Q. No. 13) Without the assistance of the air hostess, the narrator could not have transported Mijbil from Basra to London safely. Comment.

Ans. Without the assistance of the air hostess, the narrator would have faced significant challenges in transporting Mijbil from Basra to London safely. Her care, empathy, and attention to Mijbil's needs during the flight ensured his well-being, reducing the stress and potential risks of the journey. Her support was crucial for a successful and safe transfer.

Q. No. 14) Mijbil caused a sensation in London. Expound with reference to the chapter “Mijbil the Otter”.

Ans. In the chapter "Mijbil the Otter," Mijbil's presence in London caused quite a sensation. His playful interactions with toys, especially the ping-pong ball game, and his peculiar habits during walks intrigued and amused people. However, many Londoners couldn't identify him as an otter, leading to a variety of humorous and incorrect guesses about his species, creating a sense of wonder and curiosity among the public.

Q. No. 15) What group of animals do otters belong to?

Ans. Otters belong to the group of animals called Mustellines. This group also includes badgers, mongooses, weasels, stoats, and minks.

Q. No. 16) Imagine yourself to be the narrator of “Mijbil the Otter”. A friend of yours is confused about whether to adopt an otter as a pet or not and has asked for your advice. Based on the experiences described in the chapter, write a letter to your friend giving your opinion on the matter. You may use the prompt given below

XYZ,
Camusfearna Sandaig Bay,
UK

4 December ’61

Dear Gavin,

Trust you and Mij are doing well. I am writing for a special reason that will surely interest you. This is because it concerns the love of your life- otters! I have been….

Yours affectionately

Kevin

Ans.

XYZ,
Camusfearna Sandaig Bay,
UK

4 December ’61

Dear Kevin,

Trust you're doing well. I'm writing to you because I know you've been considering adopting an otter as a pet. I wanted to share my experiences with Mijbil to help you make an informed decision.

While otters can be incredibly rewarding companions, it's important to be aware of the challenges involved. They require specialized care, a suitable habitat, and a lot of attention.

I've faced my own share of difficulties, such as Mijbil's escape and the challenges of transporting him. However, the joy and companionship he's brought into my life far outweigh the challenges.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to adopt an otter is a personal one. If you're prepared for the commitment and can provide the necessary care, it can be a truly rewarding experience.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Yours affectionately,
Gavin

Q. No. 17) Mijbil and the Tiger, both were looked after by humans. Assume they both meet each other in the zoo and have a conversation about their lifestyle and feelings.

Write this conversation as per your understanding of Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo.

You may begin like this

Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors.

Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think.

Ans.

Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don't usually like visitors.

Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think. I'm Mijbil, by the way. I live with my owner, Gavin, in a nice place called Camusfearna. He takes care of me, and I get to play with toys and go for walks. Life is quite fun and peaceful.

Tiger: That sounds nice, Mijbil. I'm a tiger, and they've kept me here in this zoo. I don't like it at all. I wish humans would understand the value of letting us live in our natural habitat. I long to be free and roam the jungles, hunting for my own food.

Mijbil: That does sound tough. I don't think I'd know how to survive in the wild. But, I do understand what you mean. It must be frustrating to be caged. I'm lucky to have a loving owner who takes care of me.

Tiger: Yes, Mijbil, you are lucky. I get disturbed by all the human activity around here. It's not the life I was meant for. I wish they'd let me be in the wild where I belong.

Mijbil: I'm sorry to hear that, Tiger. I hope things change for you someday, and you can experience the freedom you desire.

Q. No. 18) The People’s Collective for Endangered Species has invited the narrator of “Mijbil the Otter” as a guest speaker to address the audience about the importance of protecting Otters and their natural habitats like lakes and ponds.

As the narrator, pen down a speech detailing your own experience with Mijbil and why it is important to conserve water bodies for animals like Otters.

You may use the prompt given below

My Experiences with Mijbil

Theodore Roosevelt said, “Wildlife cannot speak, so we must and we will.” Dear friends, I have had a pet otter named Mijbil as my roommate for several years now. What I want to share with you today, is how all forms of wildlife are integral for …………..

Ans. Ladies and gentlemen,

Theodore Roosevelt once wisely stated, "Wildlife cannot speak, so we must and we will." Today, I stand before you to share my experiences with a remarkable otter named Mijbil and to emphasize the critical importance of conserving water bodies for animals like otters.

Mijbil, my dear companion, has taught me invaluable lessons about the significance of preserving their natural habitats. Living with Mijbil, I witnessed his sheer joy and exuberance in the presence of water. Otters are not just charismatic creatures; they are vital indicators of the health of our aquatic ecosystems. Their presence in lakes and ponds signifies the health and biodiversity of these habitats.

Mijbil's playful antics and endearing nature reminded me that these creatures deserve a safe and thriving environment, one that includes clean water, abundant food sources, and shelter. When we protect water bodies, we ensure the survival of not only otters but an entire ecosystem of plants and animals. This interdependence is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of our planet's biodiversity.

In conclusion, my experiences with Mijbil have reinforced the need for us to act as stewards of our environment. Let us heed Roosevelt's words and speak for those who cannot. By preserving our water bodies, we safeguard the homes and lives of otters and countless other species, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

Thank you for your attention, and may we all commit ourselves to protect our natural world for generations to come.

Q. No. 19) If Mijbil were living in the world of the poem, The Tale of Custard the Dragon, how do you think he would have

a. behaved with Custard?

b. reacted to the appearance of the pirate?

Rationalize your answer.

Ans. If Mijbil were living in the world of the poem "The Tale of Custard the Dragon" by Ogden Nash, his behavior would likely be influenced by his otter instincts and playful nature.

(a) Mijbil might have been intrigued by Custard the Dragon's initial reluctance to engage in brave and heroic acts. Being a playful and curious otter, Mijbil could have tried to coax Custard into joining in some adventurous and fun activities. His presence might have encouraged Custard to find his inner courage and become braver over time.

(b) As for the appearance of the pirate, Mijbil's natural instincts might lead him to be cautious. Otters are known for their alertness and sharp senses. He could have been wary of the stranger and possibly tried to hide or keep a safe distance until he sensed whether the pirate posed a threat or not.

In summary, Mijbil's behavior would likely be a blend of curiosity, playfulness, and caution, as is typical of otters in unfamiliar situations.

Must Read: Class 10 Revision Notes Class 10 Important Questions

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