The World of Limitless Possibilities

Reflect and Respond

Q1. I This is a picture of Sheetal Devi, a para-archer who was honoured with the Arjuna Award in January 2024. 1. Look at the picture carefully and share your observations with your classmates and teacher. 2. Does this personality inspire you? Explain how. 3. Give a caption for this picture.

Answer:

1. Observations: Sheetal Devi is a para-archer who has achieved great success despite physical challenges. The picture likely shows her with her bow and arrow, demonstrating focus, determination, and skill.

2. Inspiration: Yes, Sheetal Devi inspires me greatly. Despite being a para-athlete, she has reached the highest levels of her sport and received the Arjuna Award. Her journey shows that physical limitations do not define a person's potential. Her dedication, hard work, and success motivate me to overcome my own challenges and pursue my goals with determination.

3. Caption: "Aiming for Excellence: Sheetal Devi, the Arjuna Award-winning para-archer, redefines possibilities."

Q2. II Complete the table given below about Paralympics. Share your responses with your classmates and teacher.

What I know	What I want to know

Answer:

What I know:

• The Paralympics are for athletes with locomotor, sensory, or intellectual disabilities.
• India has won several medals in the Paralympics.
• Dr. Deepa Malik was the first Indian female to win a Paralympic medal.
• The Paralympics are held in the same city as the Olympics, shortly after.

What I want to know:

• When did the Paralympics officially begin?
• How are athletes classified in the Paralympics?
• What are the different sports included in the Paralympics?
• How can one qualify for the Paralympics?

Reading for Meaning

Q1. I Fill in the fact table given below based on the interview with Dr. Deepa Malik. Discuss your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Fact Table
1. diagnosed with spinal tumour at the age of
2. result of the surgery
3. named as one of the 10 most effective para-athletes by
4. first successful Paralympic event
5. list of 'firsts'	(i) (ii)
6. awards won	(i) (ii) (iii)
7. two things supported by her	(i) (ii)

Answer:

Based on the interview with Dr. Deepa Malik:

Q2. II Read the two sets of sentences given below. Choose whether the given statements display: fact-opinion or cause-effect. (1) (i) In the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, I secured the silver medal in the shot-put event. (ii) I feel it was a moment of personal victory and a step forward in changing perceptions. (2) (i) I was diagnosed with a tumour in my spine. (ii) I had a surgery and was told that I would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of my life.

Answer:

Set 1: Fact-Opinion

• (i) In the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, I secured the silver medal in the shot-put event. — Fact (can be verified)
• (ii) I feel it was a moment of personal victory and a step forward in changing perceptions. — Opinion (personal belief/feeling)

Set 2: Cause-Effect

• (i) I was diagnosed with a tumour in my spine. — Cause
• (ii) I had a surgery and was told that I would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of my life. — Effect

Q3. III Work in pairs to identify which of these pairs of sentences show: 1. cause-effect, 2. fact-opinion. Write 1 or 2 in the boxes given. (i) Dr. Deepa Malik was a member of the Working Group for the Formulation of Twelfth Five Year Plan (2012-17). It is believed that she contributed greatly to create better sports policies for the persons with disabilities. (ii) Paralympics showcases incredible talent and determination of para-athletes. The global perception on disabilities shifts, inspiring para-athletes to pursue their dreams.

Answer:

(i) 2 — Fact-Opinion

The first sentence is a factual statement (she was a member of the Working Group). The second sentence is an opinion (it is believed that she contributed greatly).

(ii) 1 — Cause-Effect

Paralympics showcases incredible talent (cause) → global perception shifts, inspiring para-athletes (effect).

Critical Reflection

Q1. I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. I had two choices—squander my life in remorse or transform it to a world of limitless possibilities. I love sports and had been a swimmer too, so I decided to switch to para-athletics. This is how my Paralympics journey began. My breakthrough moment came in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, when I secured the silver medal in the shot-put event. In hindsight, I feel it was a moment of personal victory and a step forward in changing perceptions. (i) Give a reason for the following statement. The speaker's decision to transform her life can be likened to the concept of a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. (ii) Why could the speaker switch to para-athletics quite comfortably? (iii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. The speaker calls 2016 Rio Paralympic Games as a 'breakthrough moment' because (iv) Select the correct option to complete the sentence. The phrase 'in hindsight' indicates the speaker is A.curious B.reflective C.determined D.courageous (v) The speaker uses the phrase 'changing perceptions'. List one likely perception the speaker might have changed.

Answer:

(i) The speaker's decision to transform her life is like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly because both involve a complete and beautiful transformation. Just as a caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis to become a butterfly, the speaker transformed from a person facing a life-changing disability into a world-class athlete, emerging stronger and more beautiful.

(ii) The speaker could switch to para-athletics comfortably because she already loved sports and had been a swimmer, so she had an athletic background and a passion for sports.

(iii) The speaker calls 2016 Rio Paralympic Games as a 'breakthrough moment' because it was when she secured the silver medal in shot-put, marking her first major success in para-athletics and a personal victory.

(iv) B. reflective

(v) One likely perception the speaker might have changed is the belief that people with disabilities cannot be successful athletes or achieve great things in sports. By winning a silver medal, she proved that physical limitations do not define one's potential.

Q2. 2. Honestly, I feel sports, especially Paralympics, have the extraordinary ability to challenge stereotypes and change attitudes towards disability. When people witness the strength, skill, and competitive spirit of para-athletes, it breaks down preconceived notions. Paralympics has given me a new lease of life and helped me push boundaries. (i) Choose the option that lists the words to describe the tone of the speaker. A. appreciative B. moralistic C. sentimental D. optimistic E. defensive (a) A and D (b) B, D, and E (c) B and C (d) A, C, and E (ii) Complete the analogy given below with a word from the extract. ability : potential :: preconceived notions : (iii) State whether the following sentence is true or false. Paralympics is a platform that not only showcases the remarkable abilities of para-athletes but also questions stereotypes. (iv) What does 'helped me push boundaries' tell us about the speaker? (v) Which phrase from the extract suggests that the speaker was able to transform her life?

Answer:

(i) (a) A and D — appreciative and optimistic

The speaker is appreciative of what sports has done for her and optimistic about its power to change attitudes.

(ii) stereotypes

ability : potential :: preconceived notions : stereotypes

(iii) True

The extract clearly states that Paralympics challenge stereotypes and change attitudes towards disability.

(iv) 'Helped me push boundaries' tells us that the speaker is someone who constantly strives to go beyond limitations, challenge herself, and achieve more than what is expected.

(v) The phrase 'a new lease of life' suggests that the speaker was able to transform her life.

Q3. II Answer the following questions. 1. Explain how Dr. Malik's achievements challenge societal perceptions.

Answer:

Dr. Malik's achievements challenge societal perceptions in several ways. First, by winning a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics and being the first Indian female to do so, she proved that physical disabilities do not limit a person's ability to achieve greatness. Second, her recognition as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally by the International Paralympic Committee shows that women with disabilities can be world-class athletes. Third, through her advocacy work, she challenges the perception that people with disabilities are helpless and need pity; instead, she shows they are capable, strong, and deserving of respect and equal opportunities.

Q4. 2. What can be the long-term impact of involving youth in schools and colleges in advocacy with respect to disability?

Answer:

Involving youth in advocacy with respect to disability can have several long-term impacts:

• Awareness and Sensitivity: Young people will grow up with a better understanding of disabilities, leading to a more inclusive and empathetic society.
• Breaking Stereotypes: Youth will challenge preconceived notions about disability and become advocates for equality.
• Future Leadership: These young advocates will become future leaders who prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in their policies and decisions.
• Cultural Change: Over time, society's attitudes towards disability will shift, creating a world where everyone is treated with dignity and given fair chances to succeed.

Q5. 3. Rationalise the appropriateness of the title of this text with reference to Dr. Deepa Malik's attitude and achievements.

Answer:

The title 'The World of Limitless Possibilities' is highly appropriate for this text. Dr. Deepa Malik's life story perfectly embodies this idea. Despite being diagnosed with a spinal tumour and being paralysed waist down, she refused to let her disability limit her. Instead of wasting her life in remorse, she transformed it into a world of limitless possibilities. Her achievements—winning a silver medal at the Paralympics, being the first Indian female to do so, and winning numerous awards—prove that there are no limits to what one can achieve with determination and the right attitude. Her philosophy of 'ability beyond disability' and her advocacy work further reinforce the idea that possibilities are truly limitless when one has the courage to pursue their dreams.

Q6. 4. "Every setback is an opportunity to prove your strength". How might this be a life lesson for every individual, and not just sportspersons?

Answer:

This quote is a powerful life lesson for everyone, not just sportspersons. In life, everyone faces setbacks—whether in academics, career, relationships, or personal goals. This quote teaches us that instead of viewing setbacks as failures, we should see them as opportunities to demonstrate our resilience and strength. It encourages a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as stepping stones to success rather than obstacles. For students, a poor grade can be an opportunity to work harder and improve. For professionals, a failed project can be a chance to learn and innovate. This attitude helps us build mental toughness and develop the perseverance needed to overcome any challenge.

Q7. 5. Examine how Dr. Deepa Malik's recognition as one of the 10 most inspirational para-athletes globally contributes to the larger discourse on gender equality in sports.

Answer:

Dr. Deepa Malik's recognition as one of the 10 most inspirational para-athletes globally contributes significantly to the discourse on gender equality in sports. First, it highlights that women can achieve at the highest levels of sport, even in the face of physical challenges. This challenges the stereotype that women are weaker or less capable athletes. Second, it brings attention to female para-athletes, who are often overlooked in discussions about sports. Third, her success inspires young girls and women with disabilities to pursue their sporting dreams, showing them that gender and disability are not barriers to success. Her advocacy for empowering women through outdoor sports further reinforces the message of gender equality.

Q8. 6. How might Dr. Deepa Malik's thought, 'ability beyond disability', serve as a guideline for success for all future para-athletes?

Answer:

Dr. Malik's thought of 'ability beyond disability' can serve as a powerful guideline for success for all future para-athletes in several ways:

• Focus on Strengths: It encourages athletes to focus on what they can do rather than what they cannot. This positive mindset helps them build confidence and perform at their best.
• Overcoming Doubts: It helps athletes overcome self-doubt and societal stereotypes that may suggest they are less capable.
• Setting High Goals: It inspires them to set ambitious goals and believe in their potential to achieve them.
• Resilience: It teaches them to be resilient in the face of challenges and to use their abilities, not their limitations, as their identity.

Q9. 7. What have you learnt from this interview, and how can you implement these learnings in your life?

Answer:

From this interview, I have learnt several valuable lessons:

• Resilience: Life will throw challenges at us, but it is our response to them that defines us. Like Dr. Malik, we should face challenges with courage and determination.
• Positive Mindset: Instead of dwelling on what we cannot do, we should focus on our abilities and strengths.
• Advocacy and Empathy: We should use our success and position to help others and advocate for inclusivity and equality.

Implementation:

• I will adopt a positive attitude towards challenges and see them as opportunities to grow.
• I will support and encourage classmates and friends who face difficulties.
• I will speak up against stereotypes and discrimination, promoting inclusivity in my school and community.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context

Q1. I Work in pairs. Match the given phrases in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. Use the phrases in sentences of your own.

Column 1	Column 2
1. defy the odds	(i) a time of significant development or discovery
2. a new lease of life	(ii) overcome challenges and achieve goals
3. in hindsight	(iii) succeed in doing something when most people think it would result in failure
4. breakthrough moment	(iv) ability to understand something after it has happened
5. turn obstacles into stepping stones	(v) an occasion when you become more energetic and active than earlier

Answer:

The correct matches are:

Sentences:

• Defy the odds: She defied all odds to become a successful entrepreneur despite coming from a poor background.
• A new lease of life: After recovering from his illness, he felt he had a new lease of life.
• In hindsight: In hindsight, I should have studied harder for the exam.
• Breakthrough moment: Winning the championship was a breakthrough moment in his career.
• Turn obstacles into stepping stones: She turned every obstacle into a stepping stone to success.

Q2. II A common word used in athletics is 'sprinting' which relates to movement. Read the words related to movement given in the box below. Arrange them on the word cline in increasing order of pace from the slowest to the fastest. Some examples have been done for you. crawl amble walk jog saunter dart sprint stroll run plod creep

Answer:

Arranged in increasing order of pace from slowest to fastest:

crawl → creep → amble → plod → walk → stroll → saunter → jog → run → sprint → dart

Explanation:

• crawl — moving on hands and knees, very slow
• creep — moving slowly and carefully, often stealthily
• amble — walking at a slow, relaxed pace
• plod — walking slowly and heavily
• walk — moving at a regular, moderate pace
• stroll — walking leisurely
• saunter — walking in a slow, relaxed manner, but slightly faster than strolling
• jog — running at a slow, steady pace
• run — moving faster than walking
• sprint — running at full speed over a short distance
• dart — moving suddenly and quickly, the fastest

Q3. Match the highlighted verbs in Column 1 with their functions in Column 2. There are two extra functions that you do not need.

Column 1	Column 2
1. I could hear the audience clapping.	(i) promise
2. It couldn't be helped.	(ii) possibility
3. I should give it my best shot.	(iii) prediction
4. I knew if I tried, I would win.	(iv) obligation
	(v) past ability
	(vi) impossibility

Answer:

The correct matches are:

Q4. IV Read the table which shows other functions of the modal auxiliaries.

Modal Verbs	Functions
1. could	(i) possibility (ii) unreal ability (iii) request (iv) suggestion
2. couldn't	(i) inability
3. should	(i) probability (ii) advice
4. would	(i) request (ii) past habit

Now, make sentences with the modal verbs given in the table above with each function of the modal verbs. Mention the function in brackets.

Answer:

1. Could

• Possibility: It could rain today. (possibility)
• Unreal ability: If I had more time, I could learn to play the guitar. (unreal ability)
• Request: Could you please help me with this homework? (request)
• Suggestion: We could go to the park for a walk. (suggestion)

2. Couldn't

• Inability: I couldn't finish the project on time because I was unwell. (inability)

3. Should

• Probability: He should be home by now. (probability)
• Advice: You should study regularly to do well in exams. (advice)

4. Would

• Request: Would you mind closing the window? (request)
• Past habit: When I was young, I would visit my grandparents every weekend. (past habit)

Q5. V Read the following sentences. Interviewer: You've been listed as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally by the International Paralympic Committee. Dr. Malik: I love sports and had been a swimmer too, so I decided to switch to para-athletics. The sentences given above are in (Direct Speech/Reported Speech) The sentences given above are sentences. (declarative/interrogative/exclamatory/imperative)

Answer:

The sentences given above are in Direct Speech.

The sentences given above are declarative sentences.

Q6. VI Observe the changes from Column 1 to Column 2. Note these changes in Column 3. One example has been done for you.

Column 1 Direct Speech	Column 2 Reported Speech	Column 3 Changes Noted
Interviewer: You've been listed as one of the ten most inspirational women para-athletes globally by the International Paralympic Committee.	The interviewer said that she had been listed as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally by the International Paralympic Committee.	1. 'said' added 2. that—linking word added 3. have been—had been 4. you—she
Dr. Malik: I love sports and had been a swimmer too, and so I decided to switch to para-athletics.	Dr. Malik said that she loved sports and had been a swimmer too, and so she had decided to switch to para-athletics.
Interviewer: Your story is indeed a testament to the power of determination.	The interviewer said that her story was indeed a testament to the power of determination.
Dr. Malik: I believe youth is the voice of tomorrow.	Dr. Malik says that she believes youth is the voice of tomorrow.

Answer:

For Dr. Malik's first statement:

For the Interviewer's second statement:

For Dr. Malik's second statement:

Q7. VII Change the conversation given below to reported speech. SIYA: I watched a documentary on the para equestrian event on television last night. TARUN: I didn't know Paralympics has equestrian events. SIYA: It does. It was so interesting to watch. TARUN: That's wonderful. So, para equestrians must be training for months for this. SIYA: They also have to find and develop their own style of communication with their horse. TARUN: I will watch this documentary the next weekend.

Answer:

Siya said that she had watched a documentary on the para equestrian event on television the previous night. Tarun replied that he hadn't known that Paralympics had equestrian events. Siya added that it did and that it had been so interesting to watch. Tarun remarked that it was wonderful and that para equestrians must be training for months for that. Siya replied that they also had to find and develop their own style of communication with their horse. Tarun said that he would watch that documentary the following weekend.

Writing Task

Q1. I Read the details about a notice in the table given below.

What is a notice?	A notice is generally written to convey some information to students, or a specific group of people.
A notice tells us about...	An event, a celebration, a competition, important information, lost/found article
Format of a notice	Name of Organisation
	NOTICE
	Date
	Heading
	Details
	Signature
	Name
	Designation

Answer:

A notice is a formal way of communicating important information to a large group of people. It should be brief, clear, and to the point.

Q2. II The Sports Club of your school is organising an Inter-school Athletic Meet. As the Sports Captain, draft a notice in not more than 50 words asking interested students to register themselves for selection in different events. Add all necessary details. Do not forget to design your notice within a box.

Answer:

Sample Notice: