Welcome to “ICSE Total English Class 9 Solution: Chapter 2,” where we provide comprehensive solutions to Chapter 2 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 2, illuminating every aspect with detailed and accurate solutions.
Table of Contents
A. Time And Tense - 1
Change the words in brackets to either the Present Perfect or the Present Perfect Continuous:
1. We……………..(be) students in this school for the last five years.
Answer: have been
2. My brother…………..recently……………… (enter) the university.
Answer: has; entered
3. Miriam………………………………….(fast) since sunrise.
Answer: has been fasting
4.Не…………………………………(not visit) us since 1999.
Answer: has not visited
5. We………………………….(do) a tense exercise for the last few minutes.
Answer: have been doing
6. I………………..(wait) for him since half past eight and I shall wait only for another five minutes.
Answer: have been waiting
7. The President…………………just………………(announce) the good news.
Answer: has; announced
8. He already…………………………(write) a letter to his father.
Answer: has written
9. He…………………………..(talk) for two hours and soon he will have to stop.
Answer: has been talking
10. Now that I………………….. (finish) reading Oliver Twist, I shall read the Bible.
Answer: have finished
B. Beginning And Ending
Write an opening and a closing sentence for each of the following composition topics:
(i)Spare the rod and spoil the child.
Answer: Opening Sentence: Rocky, a spoilt child, was unmanageable.
Closing Sentence: Rocky as well as his parents had learnt their lesson.
(ii)A fatal train accident.
Answer: Opening Sentence: Flames leaping up in the sky and screams of people for help woke up the villagers early that morning.
Closing Sentence: Such accidents can be prevented if we adopt latest devices and train our drivers to be more vigilant.
(iii)Prevention is better than cure.
Answer: Opening Sentence: It goes without saying that prevention is better than cure.
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(iv)Influence of the internet on school students.
Answer: Opening Sentence: We live in the age of Internet, which has influenced the lives of all, especially students.
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(v) Popularity of fast food restaurants.
C. An Approach To Comprehension
(i)For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided: [2]
1. contracted (line 6)
(a) got afflicted with (disease)
(b) shrunk
(c) made a contract
(d) promised
Answer :- (a) got afflicted with (disease)
2. pecuniary (line 13)
(a) honourable
(b) monetary.
(c) momentary
(d) governmental
Answer :- (b) monetary
(ii) Which word, in the passage, means the opposite of the word prohibited? [1]
(a) tested
(b) permitted
(c) volunteered
(d) contracted
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(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a)Briefly explain “the mosquito theory.” [2]
Answer :- According to the “mosquito theory,” a person can contract yellow fever by being bitten by a mosquito which had previously bitten a person suffering from yellow fever.
(b) According to the passage, who died in the process of proving the truth of the theory? [1]
Answer :- Dr Lazear contracted yellow fever and died within a few days.
(c) For whom did Dr Reed say, “Gentlemen, I salute you”? Why? [2]
Answer :- Dr Reed said, “Gentlemen, I salute you” for the two soldiers who volunteered their services for experimental purposes. He said so because of the exemplary behaviour of the two soldiers, who volunteered for the experiment knowing fully the consequences of their decision.
(d) How did the commission prove that the disease was not contagious? [2]
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(e) What is meant by “martyrs to scientific investigation”? Why are Dr Lazear and Dr Myers described as “martyrs to scientific investigation”? [2]
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(iv) In not more than 50 words, state how the cause of yellow fever was discovered. [8]
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D. Practice Paper - 2
Question 1
(i) Write a story including all of the following, in any order: (i) water logging; (i) car break down; and (iii) dark clouds.
Answer :- Stranded in the Storm
The dark clouds had been gathering since noon, but Rohan didn’t think much of them as he drove home from work. His old sedan had never failed him before. But today, as he turned onto the flooded service road near the industrial area, his engine sputtered and died without warning.
Water logging from the morning rains had turned the entire stretch into a shallow lake. Rohan groaned as he stepped out into knee-deep water, his shoes instantly soaked. The dark clouds above rumbled ominously, threatening to unleash more rain. He tried restarting the car, but the engine only coughed weakly in response.
As the first heavy drops began falling, Rohan spotted an elderly man struggling to push his vegetable cart through the water. Without thinking, he waded over to help. Together, they managed to get the cart to higher ground just as the downpour intensified.
“Thank you, beta,” the old man said, offering shelter under his plastic sheet. They watched as the water level rose around Rohan’s stranded car. The headlights flickered eerily beneath the murky water like drowning eyes.
A police patrol boat eventually arrived to rescue stranded motorists. As Rohan climbed aboard, he realized his car wasn’t the only casualty – several vehicles sat half-submerged in the unexpected flood. The old fruit-seller pressed a warm cup of tea into Rohan’s hands as they were taken to safety.
That evening, watching news reports of the worst water logging in years, Rohan didn’t curse his ruined car. He remembered instead the kindness of strangers under dark clouds, and how disasters often reveal the best in people. His vehicle could be replaced – but that lesson was priceless.
(ii) You participated in a radio quiz show. Narrate your journey from being a caller to becoming the winner of the quiz show.
Answer :- My Journey from Listener to Quiz Champion
For years, the car rides to school were made special by my favorite FM radio station. The lively RJs, latest songs, and interactive segments were the highlight of my daily commute. I often dreamed of being one of those lucky callers who answered questions and won exciting prizes, though my previous attempts to get through had been unsuccessful.
Everything changed when the station announced a special Independence Day quiz competition. Without hesitation, I registered online, never imagining I’d actually be selected. The thrill of receiving the confirmation call is unforgettable – I was going to be a contestant on a live radio quiz show!
On the big day, my hands trembled as I waited for my turn. The first few questions stumped me completely, and I feared I might be eliminated early. But then came a question about Indian history – my strongest subject. Answering correctly boosted my confidence. Round after round, I surprised myself by knowing answers about science, sports, and even Bollywood trivia.
The final question about famous Indian inventors made my heart pound. Drawing from a school project I’d done, I gave the correct answer. When the host declared me the winner, I couldn’t believe my ears! My prize – gift vouchers from a premium watch brand – was exciting, but the real reward was hearing my family cheer as they listened live at home.
This experience taught me that persistence pays off. From being just another listener to becoming a quiz champion, the journey showed me the value of never giving up on my dreams. The memory of that triumphant moment still brings a smile to my face whenever I tune in to my favourite station.
(iii), A’ single child is an unhappy child.’ Express your views either for or against this statement.
Answer :- FOR the Statement: “A single child is an unhappy child”
The belief that single children are unhappy stems from several observable realities. Without siblings, these children often lack constant companions during their formative years, leading to feelings of loneliness. While parents may provide attention, they cannot replace the unique bond of sibling relationships that teach vital social skills like sharing, compromise, and conflict resolution.
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While exceptions exist, the absence of siblings often creates gaps in a child’s emotional development and social skills that material comforts cannot fill. The companionship, rivalry, and unconditional support that siblings provide contribute significantly to a happier, more balanced childhood.
AGAINST the Statement: “A single child is an unhappy child”
The assumption that single children are unhappy reflects outdated stereotypes rather than reality. Happiness depends on the quality of relationships and environment, not merely the presence of siblings. Many single children lead exceptionally fulfilling lives with strong bonds to parents, extended family, and friends.
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Happiness stems from love, security, and opportunities for growth – all of which single-child families can provide abundantly. The quality of relationships matters far more than the quantity of siblings in creating a joyful childhood.
(iv) There was a strange incident that occurred when you were enjoying a dish at a roadside eatery. Describe what happened, how you reacted and what you learnt from the incident.
Answer :- The Incident at the Roadside Dhaba
It was a humid evening when I stopped at my favorite roadside dhaba for their famous chole bhature. The smoky aroma of spices and sizzling oil promised the perfect comfort food after a tiring day. I had just taken my first delicious bite when something extraordinary happened.
A street dog, thin but dignified, sat patiently near my table. I tossed him a small piece of bhatura, which he caught mid-air with surprising grace. Suddenly, the dog stood alert, his ears perking up. Before I could react, he leapt towards me – not for food, but to knock a heavy steel glass off the table that was about to topple onto my lap. The crashing sound drew everyone’s attention as the glass missed my legs by inches.
The dhaba owner rushed over, astonished. “This is Bholu,” he explained. “He’s been here for years, but never done anything like this before.” The dog, now sitting calmly, seemed to understand he’d done something special. Other customers started offering him treats, which he accepted politely but without the usual desperate eagerness of street dogs.
I sat stunned, my appetite gone but my heart full. The incident taught me several lessons: that kindness to animals is never wasted, that help can come from unexpected places, and that even ordinary moments can turn extraordinary. Since that day, I always carry dog treats when visiting that dhaba, and Bholu and I share a special bond. More importantly, I’ve learned to pay attention to the quiet heroes around us – sometimes they walk on four legs.
The chole bhature remained unfinished that evening, but I gained something far more satisfying – a renewed faith in the connection between humans and animals, and a memory that still makes me smile whenever I pass by that busy roadside eatery.
(v) Study the picture given below. Write a 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.
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Question 2
(i) Write a letter to the Municipal Commissioner drawing his/her attention to the open electricity boxes in your area and the danger they pose especially during the monsoon.
Answer :–
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, PIN Code]
[Date]
The Municipal Commissioner
[Your City Municipal Corporation Name]
[Office Address]
[City, PIN Code]
Subject: Concern Regarding Open Electricity Boxes Posing Danger During Monsoon
Respected Sir/Madam,
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Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Number]
[Email ID (if available)]
(ii)Your uncle is a chef at a speciality restaurant and he showed you the behind-the-scene action at his restaurant. Write a letter thanking him for the wonderful experience you had. Tell him what piqued you the most. Mention whether you would follow his footsteps, giving reason for your decision.
Answer :- 12, Greenview Apartments
M.G. Road, Pune – 411004
10th July, 2024
Dear Uncle Raj,
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the incredible opportunity to see the behind-the-scenes magic at The Spice Pot last weekend. It was truly an eye-opening experience, and I can’t stop thinking about it!
What fascinated me the most was watching you and your team work with such precision and passion. The way you orchestrated the kitchen—balancing multiple orders, plating dishes like edible art, and ensuring every flavor was perfect—was nothing short of awe-inspiring. I especially loved how you explained the science behind balancing spices and how even a pinch of salt could transform a dish. The sizzle of the tandoor and the aroma of fresh herbs are still fresh in my memory!
As for following in your footsteps—while I admire your skill and creativity, I don’t think the kitchen is my calling. The pressure, heat, and non-stop pace made me realize how much patience and dedication your profession demands. Instead, this experience has inspired me to explore food journalism or photography, where I can celebrate culinary artistry just like yours, but from a different angle.
Thank you again for this unforgettable glimpse into your world. Please send my regards to Auntie and the twins. I’d love to treat you to coffee soon and hear more of your kitchen stories!
With gratitude,
Rohan
Question 3
(i) Your school is organising a Scholars Cup for the students of Classes XI and Xon the topic ‘Climate Change. Write a notice for your school informing the students about the event and requesting them to submit their names for participating in the contest. [A Scholars Cup is an academic competition that uses collaborative events such as debates, writing and quiz challenges on one particular topic, to foster teamwork.] [5]
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(ii) Write an email to the Principal of a neighbouring school informing him/her of the Scholars Cup and requesting him/her to send subject teachers to judge the participants. (5)
Answer :- To: principalnewageschool@gmail.com
Subject: Invitation to Judge the Scholars Cup
Dear Sir/Madam,
Our school is organizing the Inter-School Scholars Cup on 25th November 20XX from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the School Auditorium. We would be honored if your esteemed institution could send subject teachers (preferably from Science, Mathematics, and Humanities) to judge the participants.
The competition will include quizzes, debates, and project presentations. Judges will be provided with evaluation criteria in advance. Kindly confirm the names of the participating teachers by 10th November 20XX.
We deeply appreciate your support and look forward to your school’s involvement in making this event a success.
Thanking you,
Yours faithfully,
Rahul Sharma
Head, Academic Committee
Greenwood High School
Question 4
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided: [2]
1. speculative (line 1)
(a)proven
(b) conjectural
(c) verified
(d) substantiated
Answer :- (b) conjectural
2.fancy (line 8)
(a) fear
(b) gaudy
(c) concept
(d) belief
Answer :- (d) belief
(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word ‘liberated’? [1]
(a) overpowered
(b) delighted
(c) panted
(d) tugged
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(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
(a) Why does the narrator say that ‘buying of orchids always has in it a certain speculative flavour? [2]
Answer:- The narrator says so because the orchids change-day after day, and reveal its new variety, colours or something quite unexpected to the buyer after sometime.
(b) Why was Wedderburn a ‘frequent attendant’ at the sale of orchids? [2]
Answer:- Wedderburn regularly visited the sale of orchids because he was in search of an orchid of a new variety altogether diěerent from the existing ones. Besides, he had no other interest
(c) What ‘great thing’ happened when the new orchid showed signs of life? [4]
Answer:- It gave out a new odour in the air that had an intensely sweet aroma, that overpowered every other aroma present in his greenhouse. Besides, it was altogether a new variety.
(d) Why did Wedderburn not join his cousin for the regular evening tea? [2]
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(e) What happened to Wedderburn after the strange orchid filed the greenhouse with a new odour? [2]
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(iv) Describe how Wedderburn’s housekeeper released him from the grip of the strange orchid. Answer in not more than fifty words. [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
Example: (0) gathered
At Sera Nagla village in Banswara district, members of the Bheel community …….0……. (gather) around a few tables on which indigenous millet seeds ……..1……. (display). The seeds, brought by some women farmers, were taken in small amounts by others who needed them. The
…….2……. (participate) were encouraged to tell other farmers in their villages about what they…..….3………. (learn) at the event and also share a few seeds with them.At the end of the ……4…….. (interact) assemblies, the farmers took a pledge …..5…… (protect) and save indigenous seeds by ………6…….. (develop) the habit of …..7…….(use) them in their regular
……8…… (agriculture) practice.
Answer:-
1. were displayed
2. participants
3. had learned
4. interactive
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6. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – View
7. 🔒 Get Full Textbook Answers – View
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(ii). Fill in the blanks with appropriate words. [4]
(a) My brother surprised me by coming to school to pick me …………………
(b) Before announcing his decision, he decided to read………………….
the report.
(c) The cricket match was put………………………due to heavy rain.
(d) This year the monsoon might set……………………earlier.
(e) After my father, I carried on …………………….. the family business.
(f) My shoulder is paining, I think the doctor should look………………………it.
(g) The students stood ……………… when the principal entered the class room.
(h) He was showing…………………… his new phone when it slipped from his hand.
Answer:-
(a) up
(b) through
(c) off
(d) in
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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. You may succeed or not. She is not interested in it.
(a) She will not be interested if you succeed or not.
(b) She is not interested whether you have success or not.
(c) She is not interested whether you succeed or not.
(d) She is not interested, unless you succeed or not.
Answer:- (c) She is not interested whether you succeed or not.
2.You copied my essay. Do you deny this?
(a) Do you deny to have copied my essay?
(b) Do you denied copying my essay?
(c) Do you deny having copied my essay?
(d) Do you deny in copying my essay?
Answer:- (c) Do you deny having copied my essay?
3. The typist was intelligent. We hired him.
(a) We hired the typist which was very intelligent.
(b) We hired the typist for his having been intelligent.
(c) We hired the typist as he was intelligent.
(d) We hired the typist for his being too intelligent.
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4. The brakes could have failed. How would you have stopped the car then?
(a) How would you have stopped the car if the brakes could fail?
(b) How would you have stopped the car when the brakes had failed?
(c) How would you have stopped the car if the brakes had failed?
(d) How would have you stopped the car should the brakes had failed?
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(iv)Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence. [8]
1. Crossing the railway lines to get to the station is dangerous. (Begin with: It ).
(a) It is dangerous crossing the railway lines to get over to the station.
(b) It is dangerous too crossing the railway lines to get to the station.
(c) It is dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
(d) It is too dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
Answer:- (c) It is dangerous to cross the railway lines to get to the station.
2.He is getting so absent-minded that he cannot go on working much longer. (Begin with: He is getting too ).
(a) He is getting too absent-minded to get working for long.
(b) He is getting too absent-minded to go at working much longer.
(c) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.
(d) He is getting too absent-mind for going to work much longer.
Answer:- (c) He is getting too absent-minded to go on working much longer.
3. If Uma apologises, she will be set free. (Begin with: Unless…)
(a) Unless Uma apologises, she will not be set free.
(b) Unless Uma does not apologise, she will not be set free.
(c) Unless Uma does not apologise, she would not be set free.
(d) Unless Uma apologises, she will be not set free.
Answer:- (a) Unless Uma apologises, she will not be set free.
4. Anand always repays whatever he borrows. (Begin with: Anand never ).
(a) Anand never fail to repay whatever he borrows.
(b) Anand never failed to repay whenever he borrows.
(c) Anand never fails to repay whatever he borrows.
(d) Anand never fail to repay whatever he borrowed.
Answer:-(c) Anand never fails to repay whatever he borrows.
5.The honey bee is more diligent than all other creatures. (Use: most diligent)
(a) The honey bee is the most diligent than al other creatures.
(b) The honey bee is the most diligent of al creatures.
(c) The honey bee is the most diligent along all other creatures.
(d) The honey bee is the most diligent among other creatures.
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6.They were not sure that it was you. (Use: doubtful)
(a) They are doubtful that it was you.
(b) They were doubtful that it was you.
(c) They were doubtful it is you.
(d) They were doubtful that it is you.
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7. We propose to build a school in the hamlet. (Begin with: It is.)
(a) It is proposed by us to build a school in the hamlet.
(b) It is a proposal to build the school in the hamlet.
(c) It is proposed to built a school in the hamlet by them.
(d) It is proposed for building a school in the hamlet.
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8. “I will complete the task tomorrow” she promised. (Rewrite in Indirect speech)
(a) She promised that she would complete the task the following day.
(b) She promised that she would complete the task tomorrow.
(c) She promised to complete the task the next day.
(d) She promised that I would complete the task the following day.
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