Reflect and Respond
I. Look at the picture of Sheetal Devi carefully and share your observations. Does this personality inspire you? Give a caption for this picture.
1. Observations about the picture:
Ans:
The image captures Sheetal Devi, a talented para-archer, skillfully drawing her compound bow with her feet—a testament to her ingenious adaptation, as she was born without arms. Her unwavering focus and determination are evident on her face. Set against the backdrop of the Paralympics logo, the scene highlights her participation at a prestigious global event.
2. Does this personality inspire you? Explain how.
Ans:
Yes, Sheetal Devi is truly inspiring. Despite being born without arms, she pursued archery—an exceptionally challenging sport—and excelled at the international level. Her journey demonstrates that limitations exist only in the mind, and with determination and encouragement, any obstacle can be overcome.
3. Caption for this picture:
Ans:
“Sheetal Devi — Where There Is a Will, There Is Always a Way.”
Alternative: “No Arms, No Limits — India’s Golden Para-Archer Defies the Impossible.”
II. Complete the table given below about Paralympics. (What I know / What I want to know)
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Check Your Understanding
I. Fill in the fact table based on the interview with Dr. Deepa Malik.
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II. Choose whether the given statements display: fact-opinion or cause-effect.
Set (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.
Ans: Fact-Opinion.
Statement (i) is a fact — a verifiable, documented event. Statement (ii) is an opinion — Dr. Malik’s personal interpretation (“I feel”) about its significance.
Set (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.
Ans: Cause-Effect.
Statement (i) is the cause — the spinal tumour diagnosis. Statement (ii) is the effect — surgery resulting in permanent paralysis.
III. Work in pairs to identify which pairs of sentences show cause-effect or fact-opinion.
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Critical Reflection
I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract 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.
Ans:
Much like a caterpillar confined to its cocoon before emerging as a butterfly, Dr. Malik underwent a powerful transformation while living with paralysis and using a wheelchair. Rather than viewing her disability as a conclusion, she saw it as the start of a fresh journey—rising from her lowest point, not defeated, but reinvented as an international para-athlete, advocate, and beacon of hope. In both instances, what appeared to be the greatest limitation became the very catalyst for extraordinary renewal.
(ii) Why could the speaker switch to para-athletics quite comfortably?
Ans:
Dr. Malik transitioned smoothly to para-athletics because of her lifelong love for sports and her experience as a competitive swimmer prior to her illness. This background instilled in her the discipline, resilience, and motivation required for success, so moving into para-athletics felt like a continuation of her passion, not a completely new path.
(iii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. The speaker calls 2016 Rio Paralympic Games as a ‘breakthrough moment’ because ________.
Ans:
…because winning her first Paralympic medal—a silver in shot-put—not only marked her debut on the international stage but also affirmed her bold choice to pursue para-athletics. This achievement changed how people viewed the abilities of para-athletes and created new opportunities for visibility and advocacy.
(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
Ans: B. reflective.
“In hindsight” refers to reviewing past events with the benefit of gained understanding—a sign of reflection. Here, Dr. Malik is thoughtfully considering what her experience meant, rather than showing curiosity, determination, or courage.
(v) The speaker uses the phrase ‘changing perceptions’. List one likely perception the speaker might have changed.
Ans:
Many people believe that someone with a physical disability who uses a wheelchair cannot compete at the highest international level. However, Dr. Malik, by becoming India’s first female Paralympic medallist, proved that wheelchair-users can be world-class athletes. Her achievement challenges the stereotype that disability and sporting excellence cannot coexist.
Extract 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
Ans: (a) A and D — appreciative and optimistic.
Dr. Malik expresses gratitude for the opportunities the Paralympics provided her, describing it as “a new lease of life.” She is also hopeful, firmly believing in the power of sports to break down stereotypes. Her tone is neither moralistic, sentimental, nor defensive.
(ii) Complete the analogy given below with a word from the extract. ability : potential :: preconceived notions : __________
Ans: stereotypes.
Just as “ability” is connected to “potential”—both reflecting what someone can achieve—”preconceived notions” are linked to “stereotypes,” as both represent biased judgments made without sufficient understanding. Preconceived notions are individual, while stereotypes operate on a broader, societal scale.
(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.
Ans: True.
Dr. Malik points out that the Paralympics possesses “the extraordinary ability to challenge stereotypes and change attitudes towards disability.” When people see para-athletes competing with remarkable skill and spirit, it powerfully dispels the misconception that disabled individuals have limited abilities.
(iv) What does ‘helped me push boundaries’ tell us about the speaker?
Ans:
This reveals that Dr. Malik is motivated to surpass her own limitations and refuses to let her physical condition or societal expectations restrict her. She embraces growth and is always striving for more. For Dr. Malik, the Paralympics is more than a competition—it is a transformative force that has expanded her personal and professional possibilities.
(v) Which phrase from the extract suggests that the speaker was able to transform her life?
Ans:
The phrase “a new lease of life” refers to receiving a fresh start and renewed purpose after facing adversity. When Dr. Malik says, “Paralympics has given me a new lease of life,” she means the sport restored her confidence and sense of fulfillment. This experience marked a pivotal moment, turning possible despair into achievement and inspiration.
II. Answer the following questions.
1. Explain how Dr. Malik’s achievements challenge societal perceptions.
Ans:
- Disability and athletics: Dr. Malik’s silver at Rio, her Asian Games gold, and her achievement as India’s first female Paralympic medallist shatter the myth that disability and elite sports are mutually exclusive.
- Gender and para-sport: As the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal, she defied the double marginalisation faced by women with disabilities, showing that both gender and disability barriers can be overcome.
- Disability and leadership: By serving as an advocate, policy influencer, and social entrepreneur, Dr. Malik disproves the idea that people with disabilities are merely recipients of help, establishing herself as a leader and changemaker.
- Wheelchair users and independence: Her international success and efforts to empower others from a wheelchair overturn the stereotype that wheelchair users lack independence or cannot fully participate in society.
2. What can be the long-term impact of involving youth in schools and colleges in advocacy with respect to disability?
Ans:
- Shaping attitudes early: When young people learn about disability through an empowering lens, they develop a sense of equality and respect, fostering inclusion rather than exclusion.
- Ending stereotypes: Youth who are educated about disability rights are much less likely to carry harmful stereotypes into their future roles in work, politics, and media.
- Building a better future: Today’s students will become tomorrow’s professionals—doctors, architects, lawmakers—who, with the right mindset, will create more accessible infrastructure, fairer policies, and compassionate healthcare.
- Boosting peer confidence: Seeing classmates champion inclusion gives students with disabilities a sense of belonging and inspires them to aim higher, strengthening their self-esteem and ambitions.
3. Rationalise the appropriateness of the title of this text with reference to Dr. Deepa Malik’s attitude and achievements.
Ans:
- In her own words, Dr. Malik speaks of “limitless possibilities”—she deliberately chose to transform her life in pursuit of this ideal, and her achievements stand as living proof.
- Overcoming physical barriers: Dr. Malik, paralysed from the waist down, rose to become an international para-athlete and national award winner—a powerful example of the title in action.
- A universal message: The title resonates with the entire Paralympic community, where countless athletes continually redefine what is possible, challenging limits imposed by others.
- Personal motto: Her phrase “ability beyond disability” sums up the spirit of limitless possibilities and perfectly aligns with the title’s meaning.
4. “Every setback is an opportunity to prove your strength.” How might this be a life lesson for every individual, and not just sportspersons?
Ans:
- For students: Failing an exam or being rejected by a college can be transformed into motivation to work harder and prove one’s abilities.
- For professionals: Losing a job or facing a failed business, when approached with reflection, becomes a stepping stone for future achievements.
- For personal life: Whether facing relationship struggles, health challenges, or loss, even the toughest times offer opportunities to rebuild, find new meaning, and uncover inner strengths.
- Universal lesson: Every setback presents a choice—give in or rise above it. Those who choose to respond grow stronger, discovering new abilities and depths of character.
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.
Ans:
- Raising visibility: Global recognition of women para-athletes like Dr. Malik highlights that women with disabilities can achieve at the highest levels in sports. This increased visibility is a foundational step toward equality.
- Challenging double barriers: Dr. Malik’s recognition confronts the dual marginalisation experienced by women and people with disabilities, helping to break down both sets of barriers.
- Inspiring future generations: When young girls see women like Dr. Malik celebrated on the world stage, it sends a powerful signal that their achievements matter—motivating more girls to pursue sports.
- Driving policy change: Such high-profile acknowledgment puts pressure on sports organizations and governments to support and invest more fairly in women’s para-sports, shifting the focus from aspiration to tangible, systemic change.
6. How might Dr. Deepa Malik’s thought, ‘ability beyond disability’, serve as a guideline for success for all future para-athletes?
Ans:
- Strength-based identity: It inspires para-athletes to define themselves by their abilities and achievements, not by their limitations—placing emphasis on skills and determination as the core of who they are.
- Perseverance in the face of doubt: Many para-athletes encounter skepticism from coaches, institutions, or society. This mindset fosters inner confidence, helping them persist despite external doubts.
- Embracing adaptation: The philosophy promotes inventive approaches to training and performance—encouraging athletes to creatively work with their unique bodies and discover new ways to excel.
- Broader vision of success: True achievement isn’t limited to medals. It’s about living life fully, making a positive impact on the community, and inspiring others, so athletes find purpose and fulfillment regardless of podium finishes.
7. What have you learnt from this interview, and how can you implement these learnings in your life?
Ans (Sample):
- The power of choice: Dr. Malik chose transformation over despair. I will try to choose action over wallowing when I face failures.
- Redefining possibility: Most limitations exist in the mind. I will question the limits I set for myself before accepting them as permanent.
- Empathy and inclusion: I will be more conscious of my assumptions about others and actively include those who may feel marginalised.
- The importance of advocacy: Personal success is most meaningful when used to create opportunities for others — I can be a voice for classmates who may be shy, isolated, or differently-abled.
Vocabulary and Structures in Context
I. Match the given phrases in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2. Use the phrases in sentences of your own.
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II. Arrange the words related to movement on a word cline from slowest to fastest.
Ans (Slowest → Fastest):
crawl → creep → plod → amble → walk → stroll → saunter → jog → run → dart → sprint
III. Match the highlighted modal verbs in Column 1 with their functions in Column 2. (Two extra functions not needed.)
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Extra functions not used: (i) promise and (ii) possibility
IV. Make sentences with modal verbs using all their functions.
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V. Read the following sentences and answer questions about Direct and Reported Speech. Observe and complete the changes table.
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)
Now, work in pairs. Observe the changes from Column 1 to Column 2. Note these changes in Column 3. One example has been done for you.
Ans:
The sentences given are in Direct Speech.
The sentences given are declarative sentences.
VI. Change the conversation between Siya and Tarun 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.
Ans:
Siya stated that she had watched a documentary about the para equestrian event on television the night before. Tarun responded that he had not known that the Paralympics included equestrian events. Siya added thatit did, and that it was very interesting to watch. Tarun remarked that it was wonderful and noted that para equestrians must train for months for such events. Siya replied thatthey also have to develop their own way of communicating with their horses. Tarun mentioned thathe would watch the documentary the following weekend.
Speaking Activity
I. Interview the Sports Captain (informal) and Sports Coach (formal) of your school. Sample responses given below.
Sample Informal Interview — Sports Captain
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Sample Formal Interview — Sports Coach
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Writing Task
II. Draft a notice for the Inter-school Athletic Meet (not more than 50 words), in a box.
Ans: Sample Notice
Green Valley Public School, Chandigarh
NOTICE
Date: 18 March 2026
Invitation for Inter-school Athletic Meet Registration
All students from Classes 6 to 10 are invited to sign up for the upcoming Inter-school Athletic Meet, scheduled for 5 April 2026. Those interested should register with the Sports Department no later than 25 March 2026. The meet will feature sprints, relay races, long jump, and shot-put. Selection trials are set for 28 March.
(Signature)
Rohan Sharma
Sports Captain, Green Valley Public School