Welcome to “ICSE Total English Class 9 Solution: Chapter 1,” where we provide comprehensive solutions to Chapter 1 from the Total English textbook by Morning Star. This essential resource for ICSE English Language students offers precise answers to all assignments and test papers included in the chapter. Each solution is crafted with 100% accuracy, ensuring students gain a clear understanding and excel in their studies. Whether you are navigating the ICSE syllabus or seeking thorough explanations, this post promises to be your reliable companion. Join us as we delve into Chapter 1, illuminating every aspect with detailed and accurate solutions.
Table of Contents
A. Agreement Of Verb With It's Subject
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the words given in brackets:
1. There……..(is/are) two mistakes in your essay.
Answer: are
2. The captain, with all his team members,……….(were/was) awarded.
Answer: was
3. Everyone of the troupe……………(were/was) present.
Answer: was
4. Neither of my brothers…………….(have/has) any car.
Answer: has
5. Time and tide……………………….(waits/wait) for no man.
Answer: waits
6. Fifty thousand rupees……………………(are/is) a big sum.
Answer: is
7. None but the brave…………………………(deserves/deserve) the fair.
Answer: deserve
8.Which of these books……………………..(are/is) yours?
Answer: are
9. The great leader and statesman……… (are/is) dead.
Answer: is
10. Two and two…..……..(make/makes) four.
Answer: make
11. The teacher, as well as her students, ……….(are/is) present.
Answer: is
12. Three-fourths of the house………………..(were/was) constructed.
Answer: was
D. Practice Paper - 1
Question 1
(i) Write an original story in which a shepherd, two strangers and a boy play an important role.
Answer :- The Brave Shepherd and the Goat Thieves
Sukhpal was a poor shepherd who lived in a small village in Himachal Pradesh. Every day, he took his herd of goats to the hills for grazing. One evening, as he counted his goats, he realized one was missing. He searched everywhere but could not find it. Two days later, another goat disappeared. Sukhpal was troubled because his goats were his only source of income.
Soon, he learned that other shepherds in the village had also lost goats. The villagers grew worried and decided to keep watch at night to catch the thieves.
One night, a young boy named Matiram was returning home when he spotted two strangers lurking near the village. They seemed suspicious, whispering to each other and looking around cautiously. Matiram quietly followed them and saw them enter a hidden tent on the outskirts of the village. Peeking inside, he was shocked—the tent was filled with stolen goats! The strangers were loading them into a truck, likely to sell them in the city.
Matiram rushed back to the village and told Sukhpal and the other shepherds. Acting quickly, they came up with a plan. They gathered their goats and blocked the only road leading out of the village. When the thieves’ truck approached, it was forced to stop—the road was completely blocked by the herd of goats!
The villagers surrounded the truck, and soon the police arrived. The two thieves were arrested, and the stolen goats were recovered. It turned out these men had been stealing goats from nearby villages for months. Thanks to Matiram’s sharp eyes and the shepherds’ quick thinking, the thieves were caught, and the goats were saved.
The villagers celebrated their victory. Sukhpal and the other shepherds got their goats back, and Matiram was praised as a hero. From that day on, the village remained alert, but they no longer feared losing their precious animals to thieves.
(II) Your mother who is a Bharatnatyam dancer has written her first book. Recently the book was launched by the Minister of Culture at a function attended by a large number of people and moderated by a famous author and dancer. Write an account of the event and your feelings at the end of it.
Answer :- A Memorable Evening: My Mother’s Book Launch
I still remember the early morning sounds of my mother’s ghungroos as she practiced Bharatnatyam in our living room. For years, I watched her perfect each movement, but nothing compared to the pride I felt when she published her first book, “The Journey of a Dancer.” The recent book launch ceremony was an event that filled my heart with immense joy and admiration.
The function was held at the prestigious Cultural Hall, decorated simply yet elegantly. The Chief Guest, our Minister of Culture, arrived punctually and began the proceedings by lighting the traditional lamp. Mrs. Arunima Reddy, the famous Kathak dancer and author who moderated the event, introduced my mother with such warmth that I could see the audience leaning forward in anticipation. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – ViewÂ
(III) ‘E-rickshaws are more of a nuisance than convenience.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer :- E-rickshaws are more of a nuisance than convenience.
For the View: In recent years, e-rickshaws have become a common sight on Indian roads, especially in crowded cities. While they were introduced as an eco-friendly and affordable transport solution, they have increasingly become more of a nuisance than a convenience for several reasons.
First, e-rickshaws move at very slow speeds, often causing unnecessary traffic congestion. They occupy road space meant for faster vehicles, leading to bottlenecks during peak hours. Unlike buses or autos that maintain a steady pace, e-rickshaws tend to halt abruptly, disrupting the flow of traffic.
Second, most e-rickshaw drivers blatantly ignore traffic rules. They switch lanes without warning, drive on the wrong side of the road, and squeeze into narrow lanes during traffic jams, creating chaos. Residents often complain about these vehicles blocking entrances to homes and markets, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and other commuters.
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While e-rickshaws provide livelihood opportunities and last-mile connectivity, their unregulated growth has made them a menace. Strict enforcement of traffic rules, designated stops, and mandatory registrations are needed to make them a safer and more organized mode of transport. Until then, they remain more of a nuisance than a convenience for city dwellers.
Against the View: E-rickshaws are not a nuisance because –
E-rickshaws have emerged as a valuable mode of transport in Indian cities, proving to be more of a convenience than a nuisance. These battery-operated vehicles offer several advantages that make them an essential part of urban mobility.
First and foremost, e-rickshaws are environmentally friendly. Unlike autos and cars that run on petrol or diesel, they operate on electricity, reducing air and noise pollution. In a time when cities are struggling with smog and climate change, e-rickshaws provide a cleaner alternative for short-distance travel.
Another benefit is their compact size, which allows them to navigate narrow lanes and crowded markets with ease. While larger vehicles get stuck in traffic, e-rickshaws can weave through congested areas, helping passengers reach their destinations faster. This makes them especially useful for last-mile connectivity, bridging the gap between bus stops, metro stations, and residential areas.
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While some argue that e-rickshaws cause traffic problems, the real issue lies in the lack of proper regulations rather than the vehicles themselves. With better traffic management, designated stops, and driver training, these problems can be minimized.
In conclusion, e-rickshaws are a practical and sustainable transport solution. They reduce pollution, save time and money, and provide employment to thousands. Instead of calling them a nuisance, we should focus on improving their regulation to make urban travel more efficient and eco-friendly.
(IV) Describe a day in the life of a firefighter. Give an account of his daily routine, his struggles and worries. State what do you learn from the life of a firefighter.
Answer :- A Day in the Life of a Firefighter
My uncle, a firefighter, once allowed me to spend a day at his fire station. What I witnessed gave me deep respect for these everyday heroes. The day began with routine equipment checks – polishing axes, testing hoses, and inspecting oxygen tanks. Every tool had to be in perfect condition because lives depended on them.
At 4:00 pm, an alarm shattered the calm. A shop was on fire! Within seconds, my uncle pulled on his heavy protective gear and jumped onto the fire engine. I followed on my bicycle as the blazing red truck raced through traffic, its siren clearing the way.
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From this experience, I learned that firefighters don’t just fight fires – they battle exhaustion, fear, and impossible odds to save strangers. Their courage teaches us the value of selfless service. The least we can do is be more careful with fire hazards to reduce their risks. Their bravery reminds us that true heroes don’t wear capes – they wear fireproof suits and carry axes, running toward danger when everyone else runs away.
(v) Study the picture given on the next page. Write a short story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the picture and your composition.
Answer :- Riding the Waves: The Thrill of Surfing
Question 2
(i) You, along with a group of friends, got a chance to explore Delhi’s heritage by undertaking a ‘Heritage Walk’ through the lanes and by-lanes of old Delhi. Write a letter to a friend, who lives in Bengaluru, giving details about the walk and the experience you had exploring the history and culture of Delhi.
Answer :-
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, PIN Code]
[Date]
Dear Manu,
How are you doing in Bengaluru? I wish you had been with me last Sunday—I went on the most fascinating Heritage Walk through Old Delhi, and I couldn’t stop thinking about you, my history-loving friend!
We started our journey at the Digamber Jain Temple, stepping into the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Every corner was steeped in history—Mirza Ghalib’s haveli, the majestic Jama Masjid, and the grand Red Fort weren’t just stops on a tour; they came alive with stories of the past.
Our guide, Iqbal, was incredible—a fourth-generation Chandni Chowk resident and owner of a stunning haveli. His storytelling was so captivating that our planned two-hour walk stretched to four and a half hours! He even hosted us for tea and snacks at his haveli, sharing anecdotes that made Delhi’s history feel personal.
The best part? The food! We indulged in Old Delhi’s legendary street food—crispy kachoris, buttery parathas, and the juiciest kebabs. By the time we got home, exhaustion hit, but it was worth every minute.
Manu, you’d love this experience. When you visit Delhi, we’re definitely doing this walk together—I know you’ll appreciate it even more than I did!
Give my regards to Uncle and Aunty. Write back soon!
Warmly,
[Your Name]
(II) Write a letter to the Editor of a leading newspaper raising your concern about road accidents caused by blinding headlights in the night.
Answer :-
[Your Address]
[City, PIN Code]
[Date]
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Office Address]
[City]
Subject: Growing Menace of Blinding Headlights on Roads
Dear Sir/Madam,
Through the esteemed columns of your newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the increasing problem of blinding headlights that has become a major cause of road accidents at night.
The high beam headlights of oncoming vehicles, as well as powerful rear lights, often blind drivers temporarily, leading to dangerous situations. According to recent research, glaring headlights are responsible for nearly 75% of nighttime vehicular collisions in India. While high beams serve an important purpose in low visibility conditions, most drivers fail to switch to low beams when approaching other vehicles, as required by traffic rules.
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Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Information]
[City]
Question 3
(i) Your school is organising a ‘Logo Design’ contest to select a logo to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of your school, which is next year. Write a notice informing the students at your school of the contest.  [5]
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(II) Write an email to a famous media designer requesting him/her to guide the students about the nuances of logo designing and select the best logo.        [5]
Answer :-
ravishmishra@gmail.com
Inter-House Logo Design Contest
Dear Sir,
Our school is celebrating its silver jubilee this year. To mark the occasion, it is the wish of the Founder Chairman of our school, Shri Anurag Agarwal, that the students of the school should be involved in designing this logo. So, we are organising a ‘Logo Design’ contest for the students. We request you to spare your valuable time and guide our students in designing the logo and finally help us to select the best logo which would be used for the silver jubilee celebrations.
We look forward to a favourable response.
Thanking you,
Yours faithfully,
Anurita Bose
Incharge, Computer Department
Question 4
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided: [2]
1. Irascible (line 2)
(a) intelligent.
(b) contemporary
(c) irritable
(d) orthodox
Answer :- (c) irritable
2. irksome (line 20)
(a)tedious
(b) soothing
(c) congenial
(d) annoying
Answer :- (a) tedious
(iI) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word awesome? [1]
(a) formidable
(b) vogue
(c) peaceful
(d) violent
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(iII) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) What kind of monarch was Hermann the Irascible? [2]
Answer :- Hermann the Irascible was regarded as the most progressive monarch, who sat on the British throne. Perhaps, he used to make and implement laws so rapidly that his ministers and common people could not keep pace with them.
(b) What was the issue that hampered the meeting of the Legislators, according to the then Prime Minister of Britain?[2]
Answer :- The issue that hampered the meeting of the Legislators was the movement started by the British women where they used to disturb such meetings as a mark of protest against the denial of the right to vote to them.
(c) What was the new law enacted by Hermann? [1]
Answer :- Hermann enacted a new law that made it compulsory for women to vote at all elections from Parliament and county councils to petty elections such as those of curators of museums and other local functionaries.
(d) What were the problems women had to face after the enactment of the new law? [2]
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(e) What did the women do to get the new law abolished? [2]
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(IV) In not more than 50 words, summarise how Hermann was finally able to deny women the right to vote. [8]
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Question 5
(i)Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets.Do not copy the passage, but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space. [4]
Example: (0) began
The Olympic Games are said to be around 3,000 years old. They ….0…(begin) in 776 BC as sports contests in Olympia that …..1….(hold) every four years. Despite the competitive
spirit of the Games, they also ….2…( signify) the …..3…..(possible) of peace. Kings Iphitos of Elis, Cleosthenes of Pisa, and Lycurgus of Sparta ….4…..(sign) a treaty in 9th century
BC allowing safe passage for athletes for their ….…5………(participate) in the ancient Olympic Games. This tradition of Ekecheiria or Olympic Truce was significant at a time when states were ……6…..(constant) at war with each other. However, in 393 AD, the Christian emperor Theodosius I ….7…(forbid) the celebration of pagan cults, which included the Games. The Olympics…8….(revive) in 1894 due to the efforts of French educator Pierre de Coubertin. The first modern-era Games were held in Athens in 1896.
Answer :-
1. were held
2. signified.
3. possibility.
4. signed
5. participation
6. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – ViewÂ
7. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – ViewÂ
8. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – ViewÂ
(II) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words. [4]
(a) The explosion blew……………….our parking lot.
Answer:- up
(b) The child was too tired to blow …………….….the candles on his cake.
Answer:- out
(c) I was breathless trying to keep ………..…..with my sister.
Answer:- up
(d) Please fill this form…………………….. .
Answer:- in
(e) Why did your brother turn ……………………our invitation?
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(f) They are entitled………………………..travel in First Class.
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(g) The manager dispensed………………….the service of the teller.
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(h) I exchanged my old car ..…………………..a new one.
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(III) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so. Choose the correct option. [4]
1. I was wrong. My father said this.
(a) My father says that I am wrong.
(b) My father said I was wrong.
(c) My father said this that I was wrong.
(d) My father said that I was wrong.
Answer:- (d) ather said that I was wrong.
2. It is not a new car. However, it is reliable.
(a) It is not a new car hence it is reliable.
(b) Unless it is a new car, it is reliable.
(c) Though it is not a new car, it is reliable.
(d) Though it is not a new car, it was reliable.
Answer:- (c) Though it is not a new car, it is reliable.
3. We started late from home. We reached the theatre on time.
(a) Despite starting late from home, we reached the theatre on time.
(b) Despite we started late from home, we can reach the theatre on time.
(c) Despite started from home late, we reached the theatre in time.
(d) Despite we were late from home, we could reach the theatre in time.
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4. He waited a little. Then the candidates were ready for the instructions.
(a) He waited when the candidates were ready for the instructions.
(b) He waited until the candidates were ready for the instructions.
(c) He waited unless the candidates were ready for the instructions.
(d) He waited for the candidates when they were ready for the instructions.
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(IV) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence. [8]
1. The Chairman regretted his inability to attend the meeting
(Begin with: The Chairman said to us…)
(a) The Chairman said to us, “I regret my inability to attend the meeting.”
(b) The Chairman said to us, “How can I attend the meeting?”
(c) The Chairman said to us, “I regret that I am unable to attend the meeting.”
(d) The Chairman said to us regretfully, “I am unable to attend the meeting.”
Answer:- (d) The Chairman said to us regretfully, “I am unable to attend the meeting.”
2. Rima dressed up and then had her breakfast. (Begin with: After …)
(a) After she dressed, Rima had her breakfast.
(b) After dressing up, Rima had her breakfast.
(c) After Rima dressing up, she had her breakfast.
(d) After Rima dressed up, she would have breakfast.
Answer:-(b) After dressing up, Rima had her breakfast.
3. He will succeed if he works regularly. (Use: unless)
(a) He will succeed unless he work regularly.
(b) He will not succeed unless he works regularly.
(c) He will not be succeeded unless he works regularly.
(d) He would not succeed unless he had worked regularly.
Answer:- (b) He will not succeed unless he works regularly.
4. He is accustomed to have bed tea every morning. (Use: habit)
(a) He is in the habit of having bed tea every morning.
(b) He is on the habit of having bed tea every morning.
(c) He have the habit of having bed tea every morning.
(d) He is in the habit to having bed tea every morning.
Answer:- (a) He is in the habit of having bed tea every morning.
5.His behaviour annoys me sometimes.. (Use: annoyed)
(a) His behaviour is annoying to me sometimes.
(b) I am annoyed on his behaviour sometimes.
(c) I am annoying at his behaviour sometimes.
(d) I am annoyed at his behaviour sometimes.
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6. He was unpopular due to his arrogance. (End with: unpopular.)
(a) His arrogance was made him unpopular.
(b) His arrogant make him unpopular.
(c) His arrogance make him unpopular
(d) His arrogance made him unpopular.
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7. Ravi wore the helmet and then went to the crease. (Begin with: After wearing…)
(a) After wearing the helmet, Ravi goes to the crease.
(b) After wearing the helmet, Ravi go to the crease.
(c) After wearing the helmet, Ravi went to the crease.
(d) After wearing a helmet, Ravi went too the crease.
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8. It snowed so heavily that we could not drive ahead. (Rewrite using ‘too’)
(a) It snowed too heavy, to be able to drive ahead.
(b) It snowed too heavily to be able to drive ahead.
(c) It snowed too heavily to be able to drove ahead.
(d) It snowed too heavily to be able to driven ahead.
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