TJS Public School CBSE
Summary Notes
Prose
1. A Letter to God – G.L. Fuentes
Introduction
'A Letter to God' is a touching story by G.L. Fuentes about a poor farmer named
Lencho whose life depends entirely on his crops. When a devastating hailstorm
destroys his harvest, he faces the fear of hunger and poverty. Instead of losing
hope, he places complete faith in God and writes a letter asking for help. The
story presents a simple yet powerful portrayal of unwavering faith and human
kindness. It also explores the irony that arises from Lencho's unquestioning
belief.
Lencho eagerly waits for rain to nourish his ripe cornfields, but the rain soon
turns into a destructive hailstorm. Believing that only God can save his family, he
writes a letter requesting one hundred pesos. Deeply moved by his faith, the
postmaster and his colleagues collect seventy pesos and send the money
anonymously. On receiving less than he expected, Lencho assumes that the post
office employees have stolen the remaining amount. He writes another letter
asking God not to send money through the post office again.
Conclusion
The story highlights the extraordinary faith of Lencho and the generosity of the
postmaster. It shows that kindness often comes through ordinary people acting
with compassion. At the same time, it reveals the irony of Lencho mistrusting
those who actually helped him. The lesson reminds us that faith should be
accompanied by gratitude and understanding. Above all, it celebrates humanity,
hope, and compassion.
Absolutely. Below are NCERT-authentic, board-ready introductions, body
summaries, and conclusions (5 lines each) for the remaining First Flight prose
lessons. They are faithful to the NCERT text and ideal for memorisation.
2. Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Introduction
This lesson is an extract from Long Walk to Freedom, the autobiography of
Nelson Mandela. It describes the historic day when he took oath as the first Black
President of democratic South Africa. Mandela recalls the long struggle against
apartheid and the sacrifices made by countless people. He reflects on the true
meaning of freedom and equality. The lesson is a powerful message of courage,
justice, and reconciliation.
Mandela describes the inauguration ceremony attended by leaders from across
the world. He pays tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices made
democracy possible. He explains that true freedom is not merely personal liberty
but respect for the rights of all people. He believes that courage is the triumph
over fear rather than the absence of fear. The lesson presents freedom, equality,
and forgiveness as the foundations of a just society.
Conclusion
The lesson celebrates the victory of justice over oppression. It teaches that
freedom comes with responsibility and respect for others. Mandela's life is an
example of courage, determination, and selfless leadership. His message inspires
people to reject discrimination and promote equality. The lesson remains a
timeless reminder of humanity's struggle for freedom.
3(a). Two Stories about Flying – His First Flight
Introduction
Two Stories about Flying, written by Liam O'Flaherty. This story explores the
universal feeling of fear and the importance of self-confidence. It centres on a
young seagull who is afraid to fly despite having the ability. His fear prevents
him from joining his family in flight. The story shows how encouragement and
necessity help overcome fear. It conveys the value of courage and determination.
The young seagull watches his parents and siblings fly confidently while he
remains alone on the ledge. Hunger makes him desperate, but fear still prevents
him from flying. His mother cleverly tempts him with food until he finally jumps
forward. Instead of falling, he spreads his wings and begins to fly naturally. His
family welcomes him joyfully as he gains confidence.
Conclusion
The story teaches that fear can be overcome through courage and experience.
Confidence develops when we take the first step despite uncertainty. Family
support and encouragement play an important role in personal growth. Every
challenge becomes easier once we believe in ourselves. The lesson inspires
readers to face difficulties with confidence.
3(b). Black Aeroplane
Introduction
Written by Frederick Forsyth, this story combines adventure with mystery. It
narrates the frightening experience of a pilot flying home on a stormy night. The
story presents a mysterious black aeroplane that appears unexpectedly. It creates
suspense while exploring hope during difficult situations. The ending leaves
readers with an unanswered mystery.
While flying towards England, the pilot enters dangerous storm clouds and loses
contact with the control tower. He suddenly notices another aeroplane flying
ahead of him. The unknown pilot silently guides him through the storm until he
lands safely. Later, the control tower informs him that no other aircraft was in the
sky. This unexpected revelation gives the story its mysterious ending.
Conclusion
The story reminds readers that hope often appears in unexpected ways. It
highlights the importance of staying calm during moments of danger. The
mysterious ending encourages readers to think beyond ordinary explanations. It
successfully blends realism with imagination. The story leaves a lasting
impression through its suspense and uncertainty.
4. From the Diary of Anne Frank
Introduction
This lesson is taken from The Diary of a Young Girl written by Anne Frank. It
presents the thoughts and experiences of a young girl during the Second World
War. Anne begins writing her diary because she feels lonely despite having many
acquaintances. She names her diary "Kitty" and treats it like a close friend. The
lesson reflects honesty, maturity, and emotional strength.
Anne explains why she prefers writing to talking about her feelings. She
describes her school life, classmates, and her mathematics teacher, Mr. Keesing.
His repeated punishments lead her to write humorous essays. Anne's intelligence
and creativity eventually impress her teacher. The lesson presents her cheerful
personality and thoughtful nature.
Conclusion
The lesson highlights the importance of self-expression and emotional honesty.
Anne's diary became a source of comfort during difficult times. Her observations
reveal remarkable maturity for her age. The lesson encourages readers to value
hope, optimism, and personal reflection. Anne's words continue to inspire readers
across generations.
5. Glimpses of India
Introduction
Glimpses of India is a collection of three travel sketches that present different
regions of India. The chapter highlights the country's rich cultural heritage,
traditions, and natural beauty. It introduces readers to Goa, Coorg, and Assam
through engaging descriptions. Each section reflects the uniqueness of its people
and landscape. The lesson celebrates India's unity in diversity.
The first sketch describes Goa's traditional baking culture and Portuguese
influence. The second presents Coorg's breathtaking scenery, coffee plantations,
and brave Kodavu people. The third follows two friends as they learn about tea
cultivation in Assam. Together, the three sketches portray India's varied customs
and geographical beauty. They encourage readers to appreciate the richness of
Indian culture.
Conclusion
The chapter inspires pride in India's diverse heritage and traditions. It shows how
geography, history, and culture shape people's lives. Every region has its own
unique identity and contribution. Respecting diversity strengthens national unity.
The lesson encourages readers to explore and value the beauty of their own
country.
Poem
1. Dust of Snow – Robert Frost
Introduction
Dust of Snow is a short lyric poem written by Robert Frost. It shows how even a
small incident in nature can change a person's mood. The poet uses simple
natural elements to convey a deep message. The crow and the hemlock tree,
usually associated with negativity, become symbols of hope. The poem
celebrates the healing power of nature.
The poet is standing sadly beneath a hemlock tree. A crow shakes the branches,
causing dust-like snowflakes to fall on him. This small and unexpected incident
changes his mood instantly. He realizes that he has been wasting his day in
regret. Nature helps him regain hope and happiness.
Conclusion
The poem teaches that small moments can bring great happiness. Nature has the
power to transform negative thoughts into positive ones. Every experience,
however small, has value in life. One should never lose hope during difficult
times. The poem leaves readers with a message of optimism.
2. Fire and Ice – Robert Frost
Introduction
Fire and Ice is a symbolic poem by Robert Frost. It presents two possible ways in
which the world may end. Fire represents uncontrolled desire, while ice
symbolizes hatred and indifference. The poem explores destructive human
emotions. It conveys a timeless moral lesson through powerful symbolism.
The poet says that some people believe the world will end in fire, while others
believe it will end in ice. He personally associates fire with desire because it
destroys human values. Ice represents hatred and emotional coldness, which are
equally destructive. Both emotions can lead to disaster. Thus, either one is
capable of destroying the world.
Conclusion
The poem warns readers against excessive desire and hatred. Human emotions
must be controlled before they become destructive. Love, kindness, and
understanding are essential for peaceful living. The poem remains relevant
because these emotions still affect society today. It teaches the importance of
emotional balance.
3. A Tiger in the Zoo – Leslie Norris
Introduction
This poem by Leslie Norris highlights the contrast between freedom and
captivity. It describes a tiger confined in a zoo instead of living freely in the
jungle. The poet expresses sympathy for the helpless animal. Through vivid
imagery, he questions the practice of keeping wild animals in cages. The poem
conveys the importance of freedom.
The tiger walks silently inside a narrow cage with quiet anger. He longs to roam
freely in the forest and hunt his prey. Instead, he remains helpless behind strong
bars. Visitors look at him, but he ignores them with silent dignity. At night, he
continues dreaming of his natural habitat.
Conclusion
The poem shows that freedom is the birthright of every living creature. Captivity
destroys the natural instincts of wild animals. Human beings should respect
wildlife and protect natural habitats. The poet strongly opposes unnecessary
imprisonment of animals. The poem creates awareness about wildlife
conservation.
4. How to Tell Wild Animals – Carolyn Wells
Introduction
This humorous poem is written by Carolyn Wells. It playfully describes different
wild animals through exaggerated situations. The poet uses humour, irony, and
imagination throughout the poem. Although entertaining, it also introduces
readers to various animals. The poem combines learning with amusement.
The poet explains how to identify animals like the Asian Lion, Bengal Tiger,
Leopard, Bear, Hyena, Crocodile, and Chameleon. Each animal is described
through funny and impossible situations. The exaggerated descriptions make the
poem enjoyable and memorable. The poet uses rhyme and humour to engage
readers. The poem never intends to be a scientific guide.
Conclusion
The poem entertains readers while introducing different wild animals. Humour
makes learning more enjoyable and effective. The poet's creative imagination
gives life to the descriptions. The poem demonstrates that poetry can be both
educational and amusing. It leaves readers smiling while remembering the
animals.
5. The Ball Poem – John Berryman
Introduction
The Ball Poem is written by John Berryman. It deals with the theme of loss and
emotional maturity. Through the loss of a ball, the poet explains an important
lesson about life. The poem shows that everyone must learn to accept loss. It
emphasizes personal growth through experience.
A young boy loses his ball in the water and becomes deeply upset. The poet
watches him without offering another ball. He believes that the boy must learn to
face disappointment on his own. Material things can be replaced, but emotional
experiences teach valuable lessons. The incident helps the boy become more
mature.
Conclusion: The poem teaches that loss is an unavoidable part of life. Every
person must learn to accept pain with courage. Emotional experiences help us
become stronger and wiser. True maturity comes from accepting reality. The
poem beautifully explains the importance of resilience.
6. Amanda! – Robin Klein
Introduction
Amanda! is written by Robin Klein. The poem presents the thoughts of a young
girl who longs for freedom. Amanda is constantly instructed and corrected by her
parents. She escapes into her imagination to avoid pressure. The poem highlights
the need to understand children's emotions.
Amanda is repeatedly told to sit properly, clean her room, finish homework, and
behave well. Feeling restricted, she imagines herself as a mermaid, an orphan,
and Rapunzel. These fantasies represent her desire for freedom and peace. Her
parents misunderstand her silence and sadness. The poem reflects the emotional
struggles of growing children.
Conclusion: The poem stresses the importance of balancing discipline with love.
Parents should understand children's feelings and give them space to grow.
Excessive control may affect a child's confidence and happiness. Mutual
understanding strengthens family relationships. The poem encourages empathy
between parents and children.
Supplementary reader
1. A Triumph of Surgery – James Herriot
Introduction: A Triumph of Surgery is a humorous and heart-warming story by
James Herriot. It revolves around Tricki, a rich lady's pet dog, who falls seriously
ill because of overfeeding and lack of exercise. The story highlights the
importance of proper care and discipline. It also shows the dedication and
practical wisdom of a veterinary doctor. The lesson emphasizes responsible love
rather than excessive pampering.
Mrs. Pumphrey loves Tricki deeply and constantly feeds him rich food and treats.
As a result, Tricki becomes lazy, overweight, and seriously ill. Dr. Herriot takes
him to his clinic and treats him with a simple routine of exercise, a balanced diet,
and rest. Gradually, Tricki regains his health and playful nature. Mrs. Pumphrey
believes it is a miraculous recovery and calls it "a triumph of surgery."
Conclusion: The story teaches that love should be balanced with discipline and
proper care. Good health depends on regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Dr.
Herriot's practical treatment proves that simple remedies are often the most
effective. The story also reflects the strong bond between humans and animals. It
leaves readers with a message of responsibility and moderation.
2. The Thief's Story – Ruskin Bond
Introduction
The Thief's Story is written by Ruskin Bond and explores the themes of trust,
kindness, and transformation. The story centres on Hari Singh, a young thief, and
Anil, a simple and generous writer. Their relationship gradually changes the
boy's outlook on life. The lesson shows that goodness can reform even a
criminal. It emphasizes the power of trust over punishment.
Hari Singh joins Anil as a servant with the intention of stealing from him. One
night, he steals six hundred rupees and decides to run away. However, guilt and
Anil's kindness make him change his mind. He returns the money and quietly
places it back. The next morning, Anil forgives him without mentioning the theft
and encourages him to continue learning.
Conclusion: The story teaches that trust and forgiveness can transform a person's
character. Education and honesty offer a better future than crime. Anil's silent
understanding reforms Hari Singh completely. Kindness proves to be more
effective than punishment. The lesson inspires readers to believe in the goodness
of people.
3. The Midnight Visitor – Robert Arthur
Introduction : The Midnight Visitor is a suspenseful detective story by Robert
Arthur. It features Ausable, a secret agent, who appears ordinary but possesses
exceptional intelligence. The story demonstrates that presence of mind is more
valuable than physical strength. It keeps readers engaged through suspense and
clever planning. The lesson highlights intelligence as the greatest weapon.
Ausable is confronted by Max, a criminal who wants to steal an important
document. Instead of panicking, Ausable invents a story about a balcony outside
his room. Soon, there is a knock at the door, and Max believes the police have
arrived. In fear, he jumps through the window, expecting to land on the balcony.
Since no balcony exists, he falls to the ground.
Conclusion : The story proves that intelligence can defeat physical power.
Ausable remains calm even in a dangerous situation. His quick thinking saves his
life without using violence. The lesson encourages readers to stay composed
during emergencies. It also reminds us that wisdom is often stronger than force.
4. A Question of Trust – Victor Canning
Introduction : This story by Victor Canning revolves around Horace Danby, an
experienced burglar with an unusual personality. Although he steals for a living,
he has a passion for rare books. The story explores themes of trust, deception,
and overconfidence. It shows how even clever people can be outsmarted. The
lesson is filled with suspense and irony.
Horace carefully plans to rob Shotover Grange while the owners are away. Inside
the house, he meets a woman who claims to be the owner. She convinces him to
open the safe using his own fingerprints. Later, Horace discovers that the woman
was actually a clever thief. The police arrest him because his fingerprints are
found on the safe.
Conclusion: The story teaches that overconfidence can lead to failure. Horace
becomes a victim of his own carelessness and misplaced trust. Appearances can
often be deceptive. Every decision should be made with caution and presence of
mind. The story ends with an ironic twist that makes it memorable.
5. Footprints Without Feet – H.G. Wells
Introduction: Footprints Without Feet is a science-fiction story by H.G. Wells.
It tells the story of Griffin, a brilliant scientist who discovers the secret of
invisibility. Instead of using his discovery for the benefit of society, he misuses it
for selfish purposes. The story explores the dangers of uncontrolled scientific
power. It raises important moral questions about responsibility.
Griffin becomes invisible after conducting experiments on himself. To survive,
he steals clothes, food, and money and creates fear wherever he goes. He takes
shelter in an inn but is forced to escape after causing trouble. Invisible footprints
create panic among the people. Eventually, Griffin's selfish behaviour brings him
more problems than success.
Conclusion: The story teaches that scientific knowledge should always be
guided by moral values. Intelligence without responsibility becomes dangerous.
Griffin's misuse of science leads to fear and destruction. True success lies in
using knowledge for the welfare of others. The lesson remains relevant even in
today's scientific world.
Grammar
Yes. Here’s the properly aligned version without unnecessary gaps. You can
directly copy it into Word and it will look neat on an A4 page.
DIRECT & INDIRECT SPEECH (REPORTED SPEECH)
Definition
Direct Speech
The exact words of the speaker are written within quotation marks.
Indirect Speech
The speaker’s words are reported without quotation marks and with necessary
changes.
Example:
Direct: Ravi said, “I am happy.”
Indirect: Ravi said that he was happy.
1. Conversion Steps
Step Rule Example
1 Remove quotation marks. “I am ready.” → He said that he was ready.
2 Change the reporting verb if needed. Said to → told
3 Change the pronoun. I → he, You → me
4 Change the tense (if required). Am → was
5 Change time/place words. Today → that day
6 Change sentence type. Question → asked
2. Reporting Verbs
Direct Indirect
Said said that
Said to told
Says says that
Says to tells
Note: “Told” must always be followed by an object.
She told me that... She told that...
3. Pronoun Changes (SON Rule)
Person. Rule Example
First Person. Changes according to Subject I → he/she
Second Person Changes according to Object You → me/us
Third Person No Change They → they
Memory Trick: SON = Subject – Object – No Change
4. Tense Changes
Direct Speech Indirect Speech
Simple Present. Simple Past
Present Continuous Past Continuous
Present Perfect Past Perfect
Present Perfect Continuous Past Perfect Continuous
Simple Past. Past Perfect
Past Continuous Past Perfect Continuous
Will Would
Shall Should/Would
Can. Could
May Might
Must Had to
5. Time & Place Changes
Direct Indirect
Now then
Today. that day
Yesterday the previous day
Tomorrow the next day
Last week the previous week
Next week the following week
Ago. before
Here there
This that
These those
Come go
[Link] Tense Change
Condition Example
Universal Truth The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.
Scientific Fact Water boils at 100°C.
Reporting verb in Present/Future He says that he is busy.
6. Common Board Mistakes
Wrong Correct
He told that... He told me that...
Asked that asked if/whether
Wrong pronoun Correct pronoun
Wrong tense Correct tense
Forgetting time changes today → that day
7. Board Exam Formula
Sentence Formula
Statement said + that + clause
Yes/No Question. asked + if/whether + clause
Wh-Question asked + Wh-word + clause
Command ordered/told + object + to + V₁
Request requested + object + to + V₁
Advice advised + object + to + V₁
Suggestion. suggested + V-ing / that + should
Exclamation exclaimed with + emotion
Wish wished/prayed that...
Memory Code (Board Revision)
R→C→P→T→W→S
R – Reporting Verb
C – Conjunction (that / if / whether / Wh-word)
P – Pronoun
T – Tense
W – Words (time/place)
S – Sentence Type