NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English
Footprints without Feet
Chapter 9 The Book That Saved the Earth
READ AND FIND OUT
Q1. Why was the
twentieth century called the ‘Era of the Book’?
Answer:
The twentieth century was called the ‘Era of the Book’ because, during that
time, books were widely used for various purposes such as education,
entertainment, decoration, and more. People relied on books for learning about
different topics, and books played a crucial role in their everyday lives.
Q2. Who tried
to invade the Earth in the twenty-first century?
Answer:
The Martians, led by the Great and Mighty Think-Tank, tried to invade Earth in
the twenty-first century. However, their invasion was thwarted due to their
misinterpretation of Earth’s books, which led them to believe that Earthlings
were more advanced and dangerous than they actually were.
READ AND FIND OUT
Q3. What
guesses are made by Think-Tank about the books found on Earth?
Answer:
Think-Tank makes several incorrect guesses about the books found on Earth. He
first assumes that the books are sandwiches and part of the Earthlings’ diet.
Later, he believes that the books are used as communication devices and orders
his team to listen to them. Eventually, he concludes that the books contain
secret codes and instructions for growing dangerous crops and teaching animals
advanced technology.
THINK ABOUT IT
Q1. Noodle
avoids offending Think-Tank but at the same time he corrects his mistakes. How
does he manage to do that?
Answer:
Noodle tactfully corrects Think-Tank’s mistakes by carefully phrasing his
suggestions and presenting them as minor additional observations rather than
outright corrections. He uses a respectful tone and subtly introduces new
ideas, allowing Think-Tank to save face while realizing his errors. By doing
this, Noodle avoids offending his superior while guiding him toward the correct
conclusions.
Q2. If you were
in Noodle’s place, how would you handle Think-Tank’s mistakes?
Answer:
If I were in Noodle’s place, I would handle Think-Tank’s mistakes similarly by
offering polite suggestions and emphasizing that Think-Tank’s brilliance is
guiding us in the right direction. I would gently introduce alternative ideas
without directly contradicting him, ensuring that he feels respected while
still receiving the necessary corrections.
Q3. Do you
think books are being replaced by electronic media? Can we do away with books
altogether?
Answer:
Books are increasingly being supplemented by electronic media, such as e-books,
audiobooks, and online articles. However, books still hold a unique place in
society, providing a tactile and immersive experience that many people value.
While electronic media is convenient, it is unlikely that books will ever be
completely replaced. Both formats have their own advantages, and they can
coexist in harmony.
Q4. Why are
books referred to as a man’s best companion? Which is your favourite book and
why? Write a paragraph about that book.
Answer:
Books are referred to as a man’s best companion because they offer knowledge,
wisdom, comfort, and entertainment. They are reliable, constant sources of
companionship and learning, providing a quiet escape into different worlds. My
favorite book is [Insert your favorite book] because [provide reasons why you
enjoy this book and how it has impacted you personally].
THINK ABOUT IT
Q1. In what
ways does Think-Tank misinterpret innocent nursery rhymes as threats to the
Martians? Can you think of any incidents where you misinterpreted a word or an action?
How did you resolve the misunderstanding?
Answer:
Think-Tank misinterprets the nursery rhymes as threats to Martians by taking
them literally. For example, when he hears the rhyme “Mistress Mary, quite
contrary, How does your garden grow?” he assumes that Earthlings have
discovered how to grow crops of metals like silver and cockle shells (which he
interprets as explosives). Similarly, when he hears “The cow jumped over
the moon,” he believes that Earth’s animals are capable of space travel.
These misinterpretations lead him to believe that Earthlings are far more
advanced than they really are.
In real life,
misunderstandings can occur when we take words or actions out of context. For
example, if someone says something sarcastic, and we take it literally, it can
lead to confusion. To resolve such misunderstandings, it’s important to ask for
clarification and communicate openly to ensure both parties understand the true
meaning.
Q2. The aliens
in this play speak English. Do you think this is their language? What could be
the language of the aliens?
Answer:
In the play, the aliens speak English, but it is unlikely that this is their
actual language. The use of English is probably a creative choice made by the
playwright to make the play more accessible to the audience. In reality, the
aliens from Mars would likely have their own unique language, one that is
suited to their culture and environment. Since they are from a different
planet, their language could involve sounds, symbols, or methods of communication
that are completely different from those on Earth.