Class 7 English Questions and Answers Chapter-1 The Day the River Spoke
Let us think and reflect
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
Question: 1. “You shouldn’t cry, you know,” the voice went on. “And you really shouldn’t be scared, when you have been coming here to see me every day, well, almost every day.” She was puzzled. It was such a voice, like the river. It couldn’t be the river! “Well, tell me all about it,” said the River, for it was the River. “I’ve got to hurry to reach the sea, you know.”
(i) Complete the sentence with the correct option from those given in the brackets. The tone of the River in the given extract is __________________. (assuring/sympathising)
Answer: assuring.
(ii) Select a phrase from the extract which shows that Jahnavi was a frequent visitor to the spot.
Answer: The phrase that indicates Jahnavi was a frequent visitor is “when you have been coming here to see me every day, well, almost every day.” This suggests that Jahnavi often visits the River, establishing a sense of familiarity and connection between them.
(iii) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
The use of an exclamation mark at the end of the line, ‘It couldn’t be the river!’ expresses ___D. D. disbelief.
A. excitement B. hesitation C. irritation D. disbelief
Answer: The use of an exclamation mark in the sentence expresses D. disbelief. Jahnavi is surprised and cannot believe that the voice she hears could belong to the River, which adds to her confusion and astonishment.
(iv) Choose three qualities of the River highlighted in the extract from the words in the box given below.
affectionate forgiving thoughtful impatient kind-hearted
Answer: The three qualities of the River highlighted in the extract are:
- Affectionate – The River shows care for Jahnavi’s feelings.
- Thoughtful – The River considers Jahnavi’s fears and reassures her.
- Kind-hearted – The River’s gentle tone and encouragement reflect a kind nature.
📌 Key Point: The River serves as a comforting figure for Jahnavi, embodying qualities that encourage her to overcome her fears.
Question: 2. “Can I do something?” asked Jahnavi. “Well, it’s up to you,” said the River. “Seems to me little girls can do as much as little boys—they swim as fast as little boys. You just slip along one morning and sit there in the school and listen to what’s going on, and maybe the teacher will let you stay.” “I couldn’t,” gasped Jahnavi. “I couldn’t! They’d scare me! They’d chase me out.”
(i) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. According to the River, there was no difference between girls and boys because __________________.
(ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. The River encourages Jahnavi to have faith in herself and fulfill her desire to go to school.
(iii) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. When the River suggests that Jahnavi should ‘slip along’, it means that she should move __________________.
A. quickly B. casually C. quietly D. confidently
(iv) What does the repetition of the phrase I couldn’t, tell us?
II Answer the following questions.
Question: 1. Why does the writer describe different aspects of nature in great detail at the beginning of the story? Why do you think the writer does this?
Answer: The writer describes various aspects of nature in great detail to create a vivid and immersive setting that reflects Jahnavi’s emotional state. By highlighting the beauty and tranquility of the natural surroundings, the writer establishes a contrast to Jahnavi’s inner turmoil and longing for education. This detailed depiction serves to engage the reader’s senses and emphasizes the connection between Jahnavi and the environment, suggesting that nature is a comforting presence in her life. Additionally, it sets the tone for the story, inviting readers to appreciate the beauty of the world around them, which Jahnavi yearns to explore further through education.
Question: 2. How did the River know so much about Jahnavi?
Answer: The River knew so much about Jahnavi because she had been visiting it frequently, almost every day. This consistent interaction allowed the River to observe Jahnavi’s emotions, dreams, and struggles. The River serves as a confidant and a source of wisdom, indicating that it has been a silent witness to Jahnavi’s life and aspirations. Thisconnection symbolizes the idea that nature can understand and empathize with human experiences, reinforcing the theme of companionship between Jahnavi and the River.
Question: 3. Jahnavi says, “And I’m so old now, they’ll never let me go.” What can you infer about Jahnavi and the school from this line?
Answer: Jahnavi’s statement reflects her feelings of frustration and helplessness regarding her desire to attend school. It indicates that she believes societal norms and expectations limit her opportunities, particularly as a girl in her community. The phrase “I’m so old now” suggests that she feels time is running out for her to pursue her education, highlighting her awareness of the barriers girls face in accessing schooling. This line underscores Jahnavi’s yearning for knowledge and her belief that her age is a disadvantage, revealing the internal conflict between her aspirations and the reality of her situation.
Question: 4. Why did the River laugh when Jahnavi said she would be scared at school?
Answer: The River laughed when Jahnavi expressed her fear of school because it recognized the irony in her apprehension. The River, having observed Jahnavi’s bravery in other situations—such as interacting with wildlife and navigating her environment—understood that she was capable of facing her fears. The River’s laughter serves to encourage Jahnavi, suggesting that her fears are unfounded and that she possesses the strength and courage to overcome them. This moment also emphasizes the River’s role as a supportive figure, aiming to boost Jahnavi’s confidence.
Question: 5. Why should Jahnavi follow the River’s advice?
Answer: Jahnavi should follow the River’s advice because it encourages her to take initiative and pursue her dreams of education. The River’s suggestion to “slip along” to school and listen to the lessons provides a practical and non-threatening way for Jahnavi to engage with her desire to learn. By following this advice, Jahnavi can confront her fears in a manageable way, potentially leading to her acceptance in school. The River’s guidance embodies the idea that taking small steps can lead to significant changes in one’s life, empowering Jahnavi to take control of her future.
Question: 6. How does the conversation between Jahnavi and the River make the story more appealing?
Answer: The conversation between Jahnavi and the River adds depth to the narrative by creating a unique dynamic between a young girl and a personified natural element. This dialogue not only humanizes the River but also allows readers to witness Jahnavi’s struggles and aspirations in a relatable manner. The exchange is filled with warmth, wisdom, and encouragement, making the story emotionally engaging. Additionally, the River’s responses provide insights into Jahnavi’s character and her environment, enhancing the overall theme of connection between humanity and nature.
Question: 7. What is the main message that the writer intends to convey?
Answer: The main message the writer intends to convey is the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and the idea that barriers, such as gender norms, should not hinder one’s aspirations. Through Jahnavi’s journey and her interaction with the River, the story emphasizes the value of education and the need for self-belief. It highlights that courage and determination can lead to overcoming obstacles, encouraging readers to recognize their potential and strive for their goals, regardless of societal limitations. The narrative ultimately advocates for empowerment, equality, and the transformative power of education.
📌 Key Point: The story illustrates the significance of nature as a source of wisdom and support, while also addressing themes of gender equality and the pursuit of education.
Let us learn
I. You have learnt that naming words are called nouns and only proper nouns begin with a capital letter. Why has the author used a capital letter for the ‘River’ even when it is a common noun?
(Clue: Has the River been given qualities of a human being?)
II There are a few words related to sound in the text. Pick the words from
the text and write them next to the correct definition.
- made a high-pitched piercing sound
- to cause liquid to strike or fall on something
- a low continuous background noise
- cry with loud uncontrollable gasps
- to make a soft dry sound, like paper or leaves moving
- took a short quick breath through the mouth due to surprise, pain or shock
- shaking rapidly to make continuous short, sharp sounds