Class 10 : English – Lesson 3. Two Stories about Flying

EXPLANATION & SUMMARY

The lesson “Two Stories about Flying” is divided into two inspiring parts, each focusing on a different character’s journey to overcome fear and achieve flight, both literally and metaphorically. Through the stories, the lesson explores universal themes of courage, family support, and self-realization.
I. His First Flight (by Liam O’Flaherty)

The first part, “His First Flight,” is about a young seagull who is afraid to take his first flight. While his siblings have already learned to fly, the young seagull hesitates, paralyzed by fear as he looks at the vast expanse of the sea beneath the cliff. He worries that his wings will not support him, despite all his siblings’ success and his parents’ encouragement.

The family tries various ways to motivate him, but the young seagull remains on the ledge, hungry and alone. He sees his parents teaching his brothers and sister how to skim fish from the water and feels more and more isolated. Eventually, driven by hunger, the young seagull’s mother comes up with a plan. She flies close to him, holding a piece of fish in her beak but not reaching him. Tempted by food, the seagull dives forward to get it—and in that moment, instinctively spreads his wings and starts to fly.

As he glides downward, initially terrified, the seagull realizes he is actually flying. His fear is replaced by joy and excitement. Soon, he is able to flap his wings, soar, and dive, joining his family in the sky. The story ends on a triumphant note, as the seagull finally learns the importance of self-belief and courage. The narrative emphasizes that sometimes, overcoming fear requires a leap of faith and a little push from those who care for us.

II. Black Aeroplane (by Frederick Forsyth)
The second part, “Black Aeroplane,” recounts a mysterious and suspenseful adventure. The narrator, a pilot, is flying a Dakota aeroplane from France to England at night. He is eager to reach home and have a nice breakfast with his family. The journey seems smooth until he encounters a massive, dark storm cloud. With low fuel and no way around the storm, the pilot bravely flies into it, only to lose all sense of direction. His compass and radio stop working, and he cannot see anything in the darkness.

Just as panic sets in, the pilot notices another plane—a black aeroplane—flying alongside him. Its pilot signals for him to follow. The narrator, with no other option, follows the mysterious plane through the storm until they emerge safely on the other side, near an airstrip. When the narrator tries to thank the other pilot, he is told by the control tower that no other plane was seen on the radar that night.

This story leaves readers with a sense of wonder and mystery. The black aeroplane seems almost supernatural, symbolizing unexpected help or guidance in times of crisis. The pilot’s survival teaches us to have faith, even in desperate situations.

In summary, both stories in the lesson focus on overcoming fear, the importance of trust—whether in family, instinct, or unexpected help—and the joy of achieving something once thought impossible. Through simple yet gripping narratives, “Two Stories about Flying” inspires readers to face their own challenges with courage and hope.

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PASSAGE

Suddenly, I saw another aeroplane. It had no lights on its wings, but I could see it flying next to me in the black clouds. I was glad to see another person’s face, and the pilot waved his hand, signaling me to follow. I followed like an obedient child. Soon, I realized my compass and radio were dead. The strange black aeroplane led me through the storm until I saw lights on the runway.

Questions and Answers
(Fill in the blank—Synonym, 1 mark)
1. The word “obedient” in the passage can be replaced by the synonym __.
Answer:
compliant

(Multiple Choice—Antonym, 1 mark)
2. Choose the correct antonym for “strange” as used in the passage:
A) familiar
B) odd
C) unknown
D) foreign
Answer:
A) familiar

(Short Answer, 15 words, 1 mark)
3. How did the narrator feel when he saw the other aeroplane and its pilot?
Answer:
The narrator felt glad and reassured to see another pilot guiding him through the storm.

(Long Answer, 40 words, 2 marks)
4. Explain how the presence of the black aeroplane affected the narrator’s actions and emotions during the storm.
Answer:
The black aeroplane gave the narrator hope and direction in the dangerous storm. Following it, he felt less afraid and more confident. The mysterious pilot’s help led him safely out of danger, highlighting the importance of trust and guidance in crises.

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OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

(3 marks, 60 words)
1. Question:
Describe the role of the young seagull’s family in helping him overcome his fear of flying.
Answer:
The young seagull’s family plays a crucial role in his first flight. His parents encourage him by demonstrating flying and calling him. They even scold and threaten him to push him towards independence. Ultimately, his mother tempts him with food, motivating his leap and forcing him to use his wings, which leads to his successful flight.

(3 marks, 60 words)
2. Question:
How does the setting contribute to the suspense in “Black Aeroplane”?
Answer:
The setting—a dark, stormy night sky filled with black clouds—creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. The pilot’s isolation, broken communication, and malfunctioning instruments heighten the tension. The unexpected appearance of the black aeroplane in this ominous environment deepens the mystery and keeps both the pilot and readers anxious about what will happen next.

(3 marks, 60 words)
3. Question:
What emotions did the young seagull experience before, during, and after his first flight?
Answer:
Before his first flight, the seagull feels afraid and hesitant, doubting his ability to fly. During the flight, his initial terror turns into surprise, followed by joy and excitement as he realizes he can actually fly. Afterward, he feels pride and relief, gaining confidence in himself and happiness in joining his family.

(3 marks, 60 words)
4. Question:
Explain how the mysterious black aeroplane helps the narrator in his moment of crisis.
Answer:
In the midst of a terrifying storm, when all instruments fail, the narrator feels helpless. The sudden arrival of the black aeroplane gives him hope and guidance. The mysterious pilot leads him safely through the storm to an airfield, saving him from danger. This unexpected help makes the experience unforgettable and deeply puzzling.

(6 marks,120 words)
5. Question:
Both stories show moments when characters must trust someone or something beyond themselves. How does this trust impact their success? Relate your answer to both stories and your own perspective.
Answer:
In “His First Flight,” the young seagull’s trust in his mother, when she approaches with food, prompts him to leap and discover his ability to fly. In “Black Aeroplane,” the narrator’s trust in the unknown pilot is his only hope amid the storm, ultimately saving his life. In both stories, trust is essential for overcoming fear and uncertainty. It motivates the characters to take crucial actions they would not have attempted alone. From my perspective, trust—whether in family, friends, or even a mysterious helper—often gives us the courage to face daunting challenges. It shows that sometimes, we need to believe in others to unlock our own strengths and reach safety or success.

(6 marks, 120 words)
6. Question:
What do the stories teach us about overcoming fear and the importance of perseverance? Support your answer with examples from the lesson and your reflections.
Answer:
Both stories highlight that fear is natural but can be conquered through courage and persistence. The young seagull’s initial fear is intense, but hunger and his mother’s clever encouragement push him to act, revealing his potential. The pilot in “Black Aeroplane,” though terrified by the storm and failing instruments, continues flying, not giving in to panic. Help arrives unexpectedly, rewarding his perseverance. These narratives show that facing fear head-on, with determination or external support, can lead to growth, survival, and triumph. Personally, I believe that pushing through anxiety, even when uncertain, often leads to discoveries about our own abilities and hidden resources. Perseverance, bolstered by trust and courage, turns frightening moments into life-changing victories.

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QUESTIONS FROM COMPETITION EXAMS

🔹 Q1. (Word: PLUNGING)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (… plunging headlong into the sea.)
Question:
Synonym of Plunging:
(A) Rising
(B) Falling suddenly
(C) Floating
(D) Stopping
✅ Answer: (B) Falling suddenly
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020

🔹 Q2. (Word: DESPERATE)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (He felt desperate for food.)
Question:
Antonym of Desperate:
(A) Calm
(B) Helpless
(C) Serious
(D) Rash
✅ Answer: (A) Calm
📝 Exam: SSC CGL 2020

🔹 Q3. (Word: COURAGE)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (He gathered his courage and flew.)
Question:
Synonym of Courage:
(A) Bravery
(B) Weakness
(C) Fear
(D) Cowardice
✅ Answer: (A) Bravery
📝 Exam: SSC GD 2019

🔹 Q4. (Word: STARVING)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (The young seagull was starving.)
Question:
Synonym of Starving:
(A) Thirsty
(B) Hungry
(C) Angry
(D) Tired
✅ Answer: (B) Hungry
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2021

🔹 Q5. (Word: INVISIBLE)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (The black aeroplane was almost invisible.)
Question:
Antonym of Invisible:
(A) Visible
(B) Clear
(C) Transparent
(D) Bright
✅ Answer: (A) Visible
📝 Exam: SSC GD 2021

🔹 Q6. (Word: HORIZON)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (He flew over the horizon.)
Question:
Synonym of Horizon:
(A) Line of sight
(B) Ground
(C) Border
(D) Sky
✅ Answer: (A) Line of sight
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020

🔹 Q7. (Word: FEAR)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (Fear gripped the young seagull.)
Question:
Antonym of Fear:
(A) Courage
(B) Panic
(C) Terror
(D) Confusion
✅ Answer: (A) Courage
📝 Exam: SSC GD 2019

🔹 Q8. (Word: FLAPPING)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (… flapping his wings.)
Question:
Meaning of Flapping:
(A) Flying
(B) Beating wings
(C) Falling
(D) Hiding
✅ Answer: (B) Beating wings
📝 Exam: SSC MTS 2021

🔹 Q9. (Word: STORM)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (… heading straight into the storm.)
Question:
Synonym of Storm:
(A) Calm
(B) Strong wind
(C) Peace
(D) Fire
✅ Answer: (B) Strong wind
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020

🔷 Grammar / Syntax (Lesson Sentences + Real Exam Questions)

🔹 Q10. (Lesson: “It was flying fearfully over the sea…”)
Exam Question (SSC CGL 2019):
She was working __ her brother was playing.
(A) when
(B) during
(C) while
(D) although
✅ Answer: (C) while

🔹 Q11. (Lesson: “He was flying steadily…”)
Exam Question (SSC CHSL 2020):
They were __ hard for their exam.
(A) work
(B) works
(C) working
(D) worked
✅ Answer: (C) working

🔹 Q12. (Lesson: “The aeroplane disappeared into the clouds…”)
Exam Question (SSC GD 2020):
The bird disappeared __ the clouds.
(A) in
(B) into
(C) on
(D) at
✅ Answer: (B) into

🔹 Q13. (Lesson: “The young seagull had not eaten since the previous day…”)
Exam Question (SSC CHSL 2020):
She had __ her lunch.
(A) ate
(B) eating
(C) eaten
(D) eats
✅ Answer: (C) eaten

🔹 Q14. (Lesson: “He was trembling with fear…”)
Exam Question (SSC GD 2019):
He was trembling __ fear.
(A) in
(B) at
(C) with
(D) of
✅ Answer: (C) with

🔹 Q15. (Lesson: “He dived sharply…”)
Exam Question (SSC CHSL 2021):
The plane landed __ the runway.
(A) on
(B) in
(C) at
(D) over
✅ Answer: (A) on

🔴 Q16–Q25 (Vocabulary + Grammar | Higher Exams)
🔷 Vocabulary (7 Questions | Real Competitive Exams)

🔹 Q16. (Word: CONTROL)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (The pilot lost control of his plane.)
Question:
Antonym of Control:
(A) Chaos
(B) Order
(C) Balance
(D) Calm
✅ Answer: (A) Chaos
📝 Exam: SSC GD 2021

🔹 Q17. (Word: BLACK AEROPLANE)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (The mysterious black aeroplane…)
Question:
A plane is a:
(A) Vehicle
(B) Aeroplane
(C) Car
(D) Ship
✅ Answer: (B) Aeroplane
📝 Exam: SSC MTS 2020

🔹 Q18. (Word: STORM)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (Flying towards the storm.)
Question:
Synonym of Storm:
(A) Tempest
(B) Peace
(C) Weak breeze
(D) Calm
✅ Answer: (A) Tempest
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020

🔹 Q19. (Word: DESPERATION)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (He flew in desperation through the storm.)
Question:
Synonym of Desperation:
(A) Hopelessness
(B) Confidence
(C) Joy
(D) Safety
✅ Answer: (A) Hopelessness
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2021

🔹 Q20. (Word: HUNGER)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (The young seagull was weak with hunger.)
Question:
Antonym of Hunger:
(A) Famine
(B) Thirst
(C) Satisfaction
(D) Weakness
✅ Answer: (C) Satisfaction
📝 Exam: SSC GD 2021

🔹 Q21. (Word: CONFIDENCE)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (He flew with confidence after succeeding.)
Question:
Synonym of Confidence:
(A) Assurance
(B) Doubt
(C) Fear
(D) Weakness
✅ Answer: (A) Assurance
📝 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020

🔹 Q22. (Word: TREMENDOUS)
📗 Lesson Sentence: (There was a tremendous storm.)
Question:
Synonym of Tremendous:
(A) Huge
(B) Small
(C) Tiny
(D) Average
✅ Answer: (A) Huge
📝 Exam: SSC CGL 2020

🔷 Grammar (3 Questions | Higher Tier Exams)

🔹 Q23. (Lesson Sentence: “The clouds covered everything…”)
Exam Question (Bank PO 2020):
Identify tense:
The storm has covered the town.
(A) Present Perfect
(B) Past Simple
(C) Present Continuous
(D) Future
✅ Answer: (A) Present Perfect

🔹 Q24. (Lesson Sentence: “The aeroplane disappeared into clouds…”)
Exam Question (CAT 2021):
Identify sentence type:
The plane disappeared into the clouds.
(A) Simple
(B) Compound
(C) Complex
(D) Interrogative
✅ Answer: (A) Simple

🔹 Q25. (Lesson Sentence: “The young seagull had not eaten…”)
Exam Question (RBI Assistant 2020):
She had prepared dinner.
Convert to passive.
(A) Dinner had been prepared by her.
(B) Dinner has been prepared.
(C) She has prepared dinner.
(D) Dinner was prepared.
✅ Answer: (A) Dinner had been prepared by her.

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