ICSE Total English Class 9 Solution : Chapter 2

As panic gripped the forest inhabitants and they scattered in fear, the little bird remained steadfast, determined to protect its home. Seeking aid from its fellow creatures, the bird implored each one for help. Responding to the urgent call, animals of all shapes and sizes came together, united by a common goal.

Pooling their resources, they devised a plan to halt the fire’s advance. Drawing water from the nearby stream, they carried it in their mouths and deposited it around the perimeter of the forest. The elephants, with their powerful trunks, proved to be invaluable allies, transporting large quantities of water to the frontline.

Though the amount of water they carried seemed minuscule in comparison to the raging inferno, it formed a damp barrier that the fire struggled to breach. As the flames licked at the edge of the moistened ground, they faltered and eventually subsided, unable to penetrate the makeshift barrier created by the collective efforts of the forest inhabitants.

Realizing the significance of their actions, the animals resolved to continue their efforts. Each morning, they gathered by the stream, diligently replenishing the protective barrier around the forest. Through their small but persistent steps, they had achieved a remarkable feat – they had not only saved their homes but also safeguarded the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem.

The story of the little bird and its companions served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that small acts of kindness and cooperation can have. It was a testament to the power of unity in the face of adversity and a shining example of how even the smallest of creatures can bring about lasting change.

(II) The Vande Bharat trains are indigenously built semi-high speed trains with facilities that match air travel. Narrate your experience of travelling on the Vande Bharat Express train for the first time.

Answer :- As I arrived at the station, anticipation stirred within me as I laid eyes on the sleek, modern silhouette of the Vande Bharat Express train resting on the platform. It looked nothing short of impressive, its futuristic design commanding attention from onlookers. I couldn’t help but notice the crowd of passengers surrounding the train, eagerly capturing selfies as if it were a celebrity gracing the station.

Stepping aboard, I was greeted by the inviting sight of the interior. The door to our coach slid open effortlessly, ushering us into a world of comfort and convenience. Each seat boasted an array of amenities, including an adjustable footrest for personalized comfort, a convenient food tray for dining on the go, and a plush, reclining chair for relaxation during the journey.

As I settled into my seat, I marveled at the thoughtful touches that elevated the travel experience to rival that of air travel. A reading light overhead provided ample illumination for perusing my favorite book, while a dedicated phone charging point ensured that my devices remained powered throughout the journey. Nearby, newspapers in both English and regional languages awaited eager readers, offering a moment of leisure amid the hustle of travel.

Refreshments were readily available, with complimentary water bottles, tea, coffee, and cookies provided to satisfy any craving. The clean, well-maintained washroom facilities mirrored those found on airplanes, ensuring hygiene and comfort throughout the journey.

As the train embarked on its journey, I found myself immersed in the seamless travel experience provided by the Vande Bharat Express. Breakfast and tea snacks were served with efficiency and courtesy, further enhancing the journey. Before I knew it, the landscape outside whizzed by in a blur, and the journey drew to a close far sooner than I had anticipated.

Reflecting on my experience, I couldn’t help but marvel at the convenience and comfort afforded by the Vande Bharat Express. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its impeccable service, it was a journey that surpassed all expectations, leaving me eagerly anticipating my next adventure aboard this remarkable train.

(III) ‘Playing games on a mobile device is a stress buster.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.

Answer :- For the View:

Playing games on a mobile device can indeed serve as a stress buster for many individuals. Here are several reasons why:

Firstly, when engrossed in a game on their mobile device, people tend to focus all their attention on the game itself, temporarily forgetting about their problems and worries. This immersive experience provides a much-needed escape from the stressors of daily life, allowing individuals to relax and unwind.

Moreover, people often turn to mobile games after completing their work or when feeling exhausted and stressed out. The act of playing games on their mobile phone serves as a form of relaxation, effectively alleviating their stress levels. The mental stimulation provided by games can help divert their thoughts away from stressful situations, leading to a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Furthermore, playing games on a mobile device can sharpen cognitive abilities such as reaction speed and problem-solving skills. As players navigate through various challenges within the game, they are required to think quickly and effectively, thereby enhancing their ability to tackle real-life problems. This improvement in cognitive function can contribute to reduced stress levels and increased mental resilience.

Additionally, mobile games often impart important lessons such as concentration, focus, and the acceptance of both victory and defeat as part of the gaming experience. These lessons can translate into real-life situations, helping individuals remain calm and composed during difficult phases, thus reducing overall stress levels.

In conclusion, playing games on a mobile device can serve as an effective stress buster by providing a temporary escape from daily stressors, promoting relaxation, sharpening cognitive abilities, and imparting valuable life lessons.

Against the View:

While some may argue that playing games on a mobile device serves as a stress buster, there are several reasons to believe otherwise:

Firstly, individuals may find themselves playing games not out of a genuine desire to relax, but rather due to addiction or compulsion towards a particular game. This addictive behavior can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as individuals become preoccupied with achieving in-game objectives rather than addressing real-life issues.

Furthermore, the time and energy spent on playing mobile games could be better utilized in finding solutions to problems or pursuing productive activities. Instead of alleviating stress, excessive gaming may exacerbate feelings of frustration and dissatisfaction, ultimately contributing to higher stress levels.

Moreover, prolonged exposure to mobile screens can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. The strain on the eyes caused by staring at a screen for extended periods can lead to headaches, eyestrain, and other vision-related issues. Additionally, the strong radiation emitted by mobile phones and computer screens has been linked to various health concerns, further adding to individuals’ stress and anxiety.

Lastly, contrary to the belief that mobile games improve cognitive abilities, many games simply involve repetitive actions or cycles that offer little to no intellectual stimulation. Rather than enhancing problem-solving skills, these games may foster a sense of dependency and distraction, preventing individuals from effectively addressing the root causes of their stress.

In summary, playing games on a mobile device may not necessarily act as a stress buster and could potentially contribute to increased stress levels, addiction, and health issues.

(IV) The route of your school bus takes is smooth without any congestions. However, one afternoon it was stuck in a traffic jam for two hours. Did you figure out the cause of the accident? What difficulties did you face? What were the consequences?

Answer :- The route my school bus usually takes is known for its smooth flow without any congestion. However, yesterday turned out to be an exception, and the experience was nothing short of dreadful. What was supposed to be a routine half-hour journey home turned into a grueling two-hour ordeal.

As our bus inched forward at an excruciatingly slow pace, it became evident that something was amiss. Peering out of the bus window, I noticed a procession unfolding ahead of us, stretching as far as the eye could see. The road was engulfed in chaos, with vehicles at a standstill, seemingly frozen in time.

With each passing minute, the frustration mounted as the realization sunk in that we were trapped in a massive traffic jam. Despite periodically checking to see if the vehicles ahead were moving, progress remained agonizingly slow, akin to the pace of a snail’s crawl.

Amidst the chaos, concerns began to gnaw at me. I couldn’t shake off the worry for my parents, imagining them frantically trying to reach me as I remained stranded in the traffic snarl. The lack of signal on my mobile phone only exacerbated my anxiety, leaving me feeling isolated and helpless.

As the hours dragged on, hunger pangs gnawed at my stomach, and exhaustion crept over me like a heavy blanket. The once familiar journey home had transformed into a tiresome ordeal, testing my patience and resilience to the limit.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the traffic jam began to ease, and our bus resumed its journey homeward. Two hours later than usual, I finally reached home, physically and emotionally drained from the ordeal.

The unexpected traffic jam had disrupted the routine and thrown everything into disarray. It served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of daily life and the importance of adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges. Though the experience was challenging, it also served as a valuable lesson in patience, resilience, and the ability to navigate through adversity.