Class : 9 – Lession (27) Writings
📘 Passage: The Rising Grip of Mobile Gaming on Students
1.
Mobile gaming has rapidly emerged as one of the most time-consuming digital engagements among students across the country. With smartphones becoming affordable and internet data readily accessible, young users—particularly between the ages of 13 and 18—have turned to mobile games as their primary form of recreation. While some educators acknowledge that a few gaming apps may sharpen reflexes and decision-making, the overwhelming majority express concern over excessive screen time and dwindling academic focus.
2.
A 2024 study by the Digital Youth Observatory found that nearly 62% of students in urban schools play mobile games for over two hours daily. Interestingly, most respondents admitted gaming often during study breaks, with some even continuing during online classes. Psychologists warn that frequent short bursts of gaming can fragment attention spans, leading to difficulty in concentrating on extended tasks such as reading, writing, or conceptual understanding.
3.
Gaming addiction doesn’t always manifest as constant play; instead, it subtly invades time meant for physical activity, social interaction, and mental rest. As a result, students often feel fatigued without knowing why. Schools that attempted to ban mobile phones on campus witnessed limited success—students found ways to circumvent restrictions or switched to playing late at night, thereby compromising their sleep cycles and mental alertness during school hours.
4.
Parents and educators alike are caught in a paradox—they recognize the technological inevitability of mobile devices but struggle to create boundaries without triggering rebellion or anxiety. The few successful interventions were not based on force but on gradual reintroduction of offline hobbies such as reading, art, and sports. Family-led digital detox periods—like one weekend without screens—have shown promising results in rebalancing the students’ routines.
5.
The habit of mobile gaming among students is no longer just a leisure issue—it reflects deeper lifestyle imbalances and value shifts. Unless addressed holistically, it could shape a generation less inclined toward patience, introspection, or sustained mental effort—traits once considered foundational to learning and creativity.
📖 Questions (Total Marks: 10)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What factors have contributed to the widespread adoption of mobile gaming among school students?
Answer:
Affordable smartphones and easy access to internet data have made gaming a common and addictive pastime.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
How does frequent gaming affect students’ ability to focus during academic tasks?
Answer:
It fragments their attention span, making it hard to sustain focus during reading or conceptual learning.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks]
Despite efforts like phone bans, students continue gaming. What deeper challenge does this suggest for schools?
Answer:
It reveals that behavioral change can’t be enforced solely by rules. Gaming reflects a deeper craving for quick stimulation, and without addressing that, restrictions will fail.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – One Word Substitution]
Give one word for “lack of sleep resulting in tiredness and low energy.”
Answer:
Sleep deprivation
Q5. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – MCQ]
Which approach showed the most effective result in reducing gaming addiction among students?
A) Strict bans on all digital devices
B) Installing firewalls on mobile phones
C) Family-led digital detox activities
D) Conducting surprise phone checks in schools
Answer:
✅ C) Family-led digital detox activities
Q6. (From Passage 4) [1 mark]
Why do many parents hesitate to strictly limit mobile usage for their children?
Answer:
They fear it might cause rebellion or emotional withdrawal, making matters worse instead of better.
Q7. (From Passage 5) [2 marks – Extract/Outcome Question]
What broader consequences might unchecked mobile gaming habits have on the future of student learning?
Answer:
It could erode patience, reduce introspective thinking, and weaken cognitive endurance—skills vital for creativity and deep learning.
Q8. (From Passage 5) [1 mark – Idiom Question]
Explain the idiom “caught in a paradox” as used in the passage.
Answer:
It means being trapped between two conflicting realities—knowing phones are essential, yet unable to control their misuse without creating new problems.
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📘 Changing Career Choices Among Youth of India
1.
A significant transformation has been observed in the career aspirations of Indian youth over the last decade. Traditional career paths like medicine, engineering, or civil services no longer enjoy unquestioned preference. While they still hold value, the growing presence of careers in digital marketing, entrepreneurship, UI/UX design, sports management, and performing arts indicates a shift in the collective mindset. This change is powered by better access to information, online mentorship, and exposure to global trends.
2.
Social media and content platforms have become powerful career influencers. Young individuals follow creators, athletes, coders, designers, and entrepreneurs not just for inspiration but also to model career decisions. As a result, there is a rise in students opting for unconventional fields right after high school—fields previously considered unstable or unworthy of parental approval. Many are turning passions into professions, driven more by self-worth than salary.
3.
A 2023 youth career survey across 20 Indian cities showed that 57% of students between 16–22 preferred careers not previously chosen by their parents. Among these, nearly 40% were aiming for creative or freelance careers such as animation, travel blogging, or podcasting. Interestingly, students cited autonomy, identity, and digital independence as reasons—far more than monetary gain or job security.
4.
However, the journey isn’t always smooth. Lack of societal validation, income instability in early years, and pressure from conservative family values often act as roadblocks. Some students return to conventional paths mid-way, not due to lack of talent but lack of support. The success stories we see on screen rarely portray the emotional and logistical battles behind them.
5.
India’s youth are at the crossroads of change—between following inherited ideals and crafting self-defined success. While the freedom to choose has increased, so has the burden to prove the value of those choices. The future will likely belong to those who balance risk with resilience, and vision with responsibility.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What primary change is reflected in the career outlook of Indian youth over the last decade?
Answer:
Youth now prioritize non-traditional careers driven by passion, access, and global exposure over merely status-driven choices.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
Why are platforms like YouTube and Instagram influencing career choices of young Indians?
Answer:
They provide real-life models of alternative careers and normalize success through creativity, passion, and visibility.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks]
Why might students today prioritize autonomy and identity over salary in their career decisions?
Answer:
They seek purpose and control in life choices. Autonomy gives them freedom, while identity gives meaning—both outweigh mere financial stability.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – One Word Substitution]
Give one word for “someone who works independently without being employed by a single organization.”
Answer:
Freelancer
Q5. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
Why do many youth today choose creative fields like animation or podcasting?
A) They are easier to succeed in
B) They involve less education
C) They offer digital freedom and personal expression
D) They are pressured by peers
Answer:
✅ C) They offer digital freedom and personal expression
Q6. (From Passage 4) [1 mark]
Why do some students abandon alternative careers despite initial enthusiasm?
Answer:
They lack emotional, social, or financial support, leading them to revert to traditional and safer career paths.
Q7. (From Passage 5) [2 marks – Outcome/Extract Question]
What key challenge lies ahead for youth choosing non-traditional careers?
Answer:
They must validate their choices through tangible success while navigating skepticism and proving unconventional paths are viable long-term.
Q8. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – Idiom Question]
What does the idiom “at the crossroads of change” mean in the passage’s context?
Answer:
It implies the youth are facing crucial choices that can redefine their life direction—between tradition and innovation.
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📘 Lata Mangeshkar: The Timeless Voice of India
1.
Lata Mangeshkar, often hailed as the “Nightingale of India,” was more than just a singer—she was a national emotion. Born in 1929, her musical journey spanned over seven decades, leaving an indelible imprint on Indian cinema and hearts alike. Her voice, known for its clarity, grace, and emotional depth, became the backdrop to generations of Indian memories.
2.
Her early years were marked by struggle. After her father’s untimely demise, Lata sang in films to support her family. She faced rejection and mimicry for her unconventional, high-pitched voice—yet, perseverance became her signature note. With time, her voice transcended language barriers as she sang in over 30 Indian languages, each song rooted in emotion and discipline.
3.
Collaborating with legendary music directors like S.D. Burman, Madan Mohan, and R.D. Burman, she shaped the musical soul of post-independence India. Her songs weren’t mere melodies—they reflected the moods, aspirations, and emotional rhythms of a changing nation. From patriotic anthems to romantic ghazals, her range was a tapestry of India’s emotional diversity.
4.
Even after achieving monumental fame, Lata remained modest and fiercely professional. She believed music was a spiritual offering, not just performance. Awards and recognition, including the Bharat Ratna, followed—but she wore them lightly. Behind her public grace lay years of rigorous practice and personal sacrifice.
5.
Lata Mangeshkar’s passing in 2022 was mourned like the loss of a family elder. Her songs continue to echo in every Indian home, wedding, and memory. More than an artist, she was a keeper of cultural continuity—her voice will forever be India’s soul in song.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (Passage 1) [1 mark]
Why is Lata Mangeshkar referred to as more than just a singer?
Answer:
Because her voice became a national emotion, shaping generations’ feelings and cultural identity.
Q2. (Passage 2) [1 mark]
What qualities helped Lata rise above early rejections?
Answer:
Her perseverance, emotional resilience, and discipline in mastering diverse languages and styles.
Q3. (Passage 2–3) [2 marks]
What does the passage suggest about the connection between her voice and India’s cultural journey?
Answer:
Her songs mirrored India’s evolution—emotional shifts, patriotic spirit, and romantic imagination—all expressed through her music.
Q4. (Passage 3) [1 mark – One Word Substitution]
Give one word for “a person who writes music for songs or films.”
Answer:
Composer
Q5. (Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
Which quality most defined Lata’s musical contribution, as described?
A) Use of western instruments
B) Musical experimentation without discipline
C) Expression of Indian emotion through music
D) Refusal to sing in regional languages
Answer:
✅ C) Expression of Indian emotion through music
Q6. (Passage 4) [1 mark]
What does the passage reveal about Lata’s attitude towards fame?
Answer:
She treated fame with humility, valuing the spirituality and discipline of music over accolades.
Q7. (Passage 5) [2 marks – Outcome/Extract Question]
What lasting impact has Lata Mangeshkar left on Indian society?
Answer:
She ensured cultural continuity; her songs preserve values, emotions, and collective memory, uniting people across generations.
Q8. (Passage 4) [1 mark – Idiom Question]
What does the phrase “wore them lightly” mean in the context of Lata’s awards?
Answer:
It means she did not let fame or recognition affect her humility or personal simplicity.
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📘 Pariksha Pe Charcha: Rethinking Exams with PM Modi
1.
Each year, as board exam season approaches, anxiety among students, parents, and teachers surges. Addressing this nationwide concern, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated Pariksha Pe Charcha—an annual interactive programme that aims to change how exams are perceived. Instead of treating exams as life-defining events, he encourages students to view them as opportunities, not obstacles.
2.
The programme, which includes live Q&A sessions, motivational anecdotes, and light humour, draws millions of viewers. What makes the session impactful is Modi’s conversational style—he connects directly with students by using relatable language and examples. He often shares his own stories of dealing with pressure, helping students to dismantle the myth that only academic brilliance ensures success.
3.
In the 2024 edition, Modi emphasized the role of smart work alongside hard work. He addressed issues like digital distraction, peer pressure, and unrealistic parental expectations. He reminded students that comparisons kill originality and that one’s journey cannot be photocopied from someone else’s success. A table shown during the session illustrated how time mismanagement is often the silent reason behind exam stress.
4.
Pariksha Pe Charcha is more than a televised talk—it’s a mindset shift. It calls for redefining success, prioritizing mental wellness, and fostering self-confidence. Teachers and parents are urged to be mentors, not just monitors. Ultimately, the message is simple: exams are a chapter, not the entire book of life.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What is the main objective of Pariksha Pe Charcha?
Answer:
To reduce exam-related stress and shift focus from pressure to positivity and preparation.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
How does PM Modi make his interaction effective for students?
Answer:
By using simple language, personal stories, and humour that help students relate and engage.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks – Extract Question]
What approach does the Prime Minister recommend for students struggling with comparison and pressure?
Answer:
He urges them to embrace individuality, avoid imitation, and focus on personal effort rather than external expectations.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – Antonym-Based Question]
Give the antonym of “originality” as used in the context of comparison.
Answer:
Imitation
Q5. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
Which issue was not addressed by PM Modi in the 2024 edition?
A) Time mismanagement
B) Peer pressure
C) Exam paper leaks
D) Parental expectations
Answer:
✅ C) Exam paper leaks
Q6. (From Passage 3 or 4) [1 mark]
Why did PM Modi use a time management table during the session?
Answer:
To show that lack of time planning causes unnecessary stress more than exams themselves.
Q7. (From Passage 4) [2 marks – Outcome/Extract Question]
What lasting shift in perspective does Pariksha Pe Charcha hope to bring?
Answer:
It aims to normalize exam fear, redefine success beyond marks, and promote mental well-being in education.
Q8. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – Idiom-Based Question]
Explain the idiom “chapter, not the entire book of life” as used here.
Answer:
It means exams are just a part of life and do not define one’s whole future.
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📘 India’s Moon Mission: A Journey Beyond Earth
1.
India’s journey to the Moon has been one of ambition, resilience, and innovation. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), once considered a modest agency with limited funds, stunned the world with the successful launch of Chandrayaan-1 in 2008. It not only placed India on the lunar map but also discovered water molecules on the Moon’s surface—something that changed global lunar research forever.
2.
Chandrayaan-2, launched in 2019, aimed for a soft landing near the lunar south pole, a region unexplored by any nation. Though the orbiter succeeded and continues to send vital data, the lander Vikram lost communication just before touchdown. Instead of mourning the setback, the nation admired ISRO’s courage and commitment. The mission was declared partially successful, reinforcing India’s spirit of scientific perseverance.
3.
Learning from past experiences, ISRO meticulously planned Chandrayaan-3, launched in 2023. This time, India achieved what few imagined—a flawless soft landing near the south pole. With this achievement, India became the first country to land in this specific region, gaining critical insights into lunar soil and temperature. Scientists hope this data could prove essential for future lunar habitation or even resource mining.
4.
Beyond science and technology, India’s moon missions symbolize national confidence and global relevance. They inspire young minds, shift public discourse toward science, and foster international collaborations. The missions also reflect India’s ability to balance cost-efficiency with world-class innovation—proving that greatness isn’t always about having the biggest budgets, but the boldest vision.
5.
As India eyes deeper space exploration—Mars, Venus, and even human spaceflight—the Moon remains both a milestone and a starting point. The Chandrayaan programme isn’t just about reaching the Moon; it’s about rewriting India’s narrative as a pioneering spacefaring nation. The mission’s true impact lies not just in the touchdown, but in the lift-off it offers to millions of dreams.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What discovery during Chandrayaan-1 fundamentally changed global lunar research?
Answer:
The detection of water molecules on the Moon’s surface.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
Why was Chandrayaan-2 called a partial success despite Vikram’s failure to land?
Answer:
Because the orbiter remained operational and continued sending important lunar data.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks – Extract Question]
How did Chandrayaan-2 influence India’s approach toward Chandrayaan-3?
Answer:
It taught ISRO valuable lessons in precision and system redundancy, leading to Chandrayaan-3’s more robust design and successful landing.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – Fill in the Blank – Synonyms]
India’s soft landing was seen as a __ moment, showcasing capability and precision.
(trivial / landmark / outdated)
Answer:
landmark
Q5. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
What was the most unique accomplishment of Chandrayaan-3?
A) First private lunar mission
B) Landing at lunar north pole
C) First spacecraft to orbit the Moon
D) First landing at lunar south pole
Answer:
✅ D) First landing at lunar south pole
Q6. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – Phrasal Verb Question]
Explain the meaning of “shift public discourse toward science” as used in the passage.
Answer:
It means changing the focus of public conversations and attention more towards scientific topics and thinking.
Q7. (From Passage 5) [2 marks – Outcome/Extract Question]
According to the passage, what broader impact do India’s lunar missions have on its identity?
Answer:
They reshape India’s global image from a developing nation to a technologically advanced space leader, inspiring scientific pride and ambition.
Q8. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – MCQ]
What message do India’s space missions convey about innovation?
A) Innovation is costly and exclusive
B) Only major powers can innovate in space
C) Greatness lies in vision, not just budget
D) Space science should focus only on exploration
Answer:
✅ C) Greatness lies in vision, not just budget
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📘 Digital Reading Trends in India: A Survey-Based Insight
1.
In early 2025, the National Education Research Council conducted a nationwide survey on the changing reading habits of Indians. The focus was on digital reading—eBooks, online articles, educational platforms, and social media content. According to the findings, 68% of urban respondents between the ages of 15 to 30 now prefer reading digitally over physical books, citing convenience, affordability, and accessibility.
2.
Interestingly, rural India showed a growing appetite for digital reading too. With increased smartphone penetration and government-led digital literacy programs, 43% of rural youth reported using online platforms to access news, academic content, or leisure reading. This rise is seen not just as a tech revolution, but a cultural shift in how information is consumed and processed.
3.
A comparison of reading durations revealed striking patterns:
Category
Avg. Daily Reading Time (Digital)
Avg. Daily Reading Time (Print)
Urban Youth
92 minutes
21 minutes
Rural Youth
61 minutes
28 minutes
Such data hints at an imbalance: digital content dominates not only by preference but also in time spent. However, concerns persist. Educators worry that the brevity and scrolling culture of digital media may reduce critical reading skills and attention spans.
4.
Publishers have responded by offering hybrid models—print books with QR-linked audio summaries, or eBooks bundled with physical versions. Meanwhile, libraries across India have started digital sections and app-based borrowing. Still, reading for depth and reflection seems to be gradually replaced by skimming and fast consumption.
5.
The survey concludes that while digital reading enhances accessibility, it raises new questions about retention, comprehension, and long-term engagement. India now stands at a crossroads: how to blend technological convenience with cognitive depth. The answer may lie in redesigning content that encourages not just reading, but understanding.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What key reasons led to the preference for digital reading among urban youth?
Answer:
Convenience, affordability, and easy accessibility to digital content.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
Why is the increase in rural digital reading considered more than just a technological shift?
Answer:
Because it marks a cultural transformation in how rural youth engage with and consume information.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks – Extract Question]
What concerns are raised regarding the rising preference for digital over print reading?
Answer:
It may lead to reduced attention spans, shallow comprehension, and hinder critical thinking due to the skimming nature of digital content.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – One Word Substitution]
Find one word for “the ability to keep something in memory.”
Answer:
Retention
Q5. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
Which group showed the highest daily digital reading time?
A) Rural elders
B) Urban youth
C) Rural youth
D) Urban adults
Answer:
✅ B) Urban youth
Q6. (From Passage 4) [1 mark]
Why are publishers offering hybrid models of books?
Answer:
To merge the benefits of digital and print reading, catering to evolving user preferences.
Q7. (From Passage 5) [2 marks – Outcome Type Question]
What broader challenge does the survey highlight for the future of reading in India?
Answer:
Balancing ease of digital access with the need for deep comprehension and meaningful engagement in reading.
Q8. (From Passage 4) [1 mark – Idiom Question]
Explain the idiom “stand at a crossroads” in context of the final passage.
Answer:
It means India faces a critical decision point about the direction of its reading culture in the digital age.
Sure! Here’s a 400-word passage based on cricket data, emphasizing data interpretation, divided into 5 subpassages, followed by 8 high-difficulty questions totaling 10 marks. As requested, Q3 and Q7 are extract/outcome-type (2 marks each) and 2 questions are MCQs. Most questions emphasize data analysis, context reference, and thoughtful interpretation.
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🏏 Cricket’s Changing Landscape: Insights from Recent Data
1.
Cricket has always been more than a game in India—it is a shared national emotion. However, the evolution of formats, viewership patterns, and player performance has significantly altered how the game is consumed and understood. A recent survey conducted by the All India Cricket Data Forum (AICDF) analyzed trends across Test, ODI, and T20 formats from 2020 to 2024.
2.
The data revealed that T20 matches now account for 58% of total cricket viewership in India, with ODIs at 31% and Tests declining to just 11%. Fans cited shorter match durations, higher strike rates, and last-over thrillers as reasons for their T20 preference. Yet, cricket purists argue that technique, temperament, and the narrative arc of Test cricket are irreplaceable.
3.
Here is a breakdown of average performance data (2022–2024) for top Indian players in different formats:
Player Test Avg (Runs) ODI Avg (Runs) T20 Avg (Strike Rate)
Rohit Sharma 48.3 54.1 137.2
Virat Kohli 51.4 57.0 135.6
Shubman Gill 46.2 61.5 144.3
Interestingly, Shubman Gill showed the highest T20 strike rate, while Kohli continued to dominate ODIs. The consistent averages across formats also indicate how modern players are adapting dynamically.
4.
Despite the glamour of shorter formats, Test cricket remains the benchmark of skill. Overseas wins in Australia and England during this period revived some interest in red-ball cricket. Nonetheless, younger fans seem more aligned with T20 leagues like IPL, which also offer faster returns for emerging players and commercial stakeholders.
5.
Experts suggest that data-led strategies will shape future cricket decisions—from squad selection to pitch analysis and even advertising placement. Cricket in India is no longer judged just by centuries or wickets, but by metrics, impact ratings, and heatmaps. The numbers, it seems, are beginning to play their own game.
📖 Questions (Total: 10 Marks)
Q1. (From Passage 1) [1 mark]
What key purpose did the AICDF survey serve in understanding cricket’s evolution in India?
Answer:
It provided a comprehensive analysis of changes in viewership, formats, and player performances from 2020–2024.
Q2. (From Passage 2) [1 mark]
Why do some fans still prefer Test cricket over T20, despite the popularity of the latter?
Answer:
Because Tests showcase deeper technique, patience, and long-term strategy, unlike the short, explosive nature of T20s.
Q3. (From Passage 2–3) [2 marks – Extract Type Question]
What conclusions can be drawn from the performance data of players across all three formats?
Answer:
Modern cricketers like Gill and Kohli demonstrate adaptability by maintaining consistency across all formats, balancing strike rate with technical proficiency.
Q4. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
Which player has the highest ODI average based on the data table?
A) Rohit Sharma
B) Shubman Gill
C) Virat Kohli
D) KL Rahul
Answer:
✅ C) Virat Kohli
Q5. (From Passage 3) [1 mark – MCQ]
What insight does Shubman Gill’s T20 strike rate provide?
A) He struggles in T20 format
B) He plays T20s cautiously
C) He excels with aggressive play in T20s
D) He avoids playing T20 matches
Answer:
✅ C) He excels with aggressive play in T20s
Q6. (From Passage 4) [1 mark]
What factor helped revive interest in Test cricket despite its declining popularity?
Answer:
India’s overseas victories in Australia and England renewed faith in the format’s relevance and challenge.
Q7. (From Passage 5) [2 marks – Outcome Type Question]
What shift in cricket culture does the passage highlight about data’s role?
Answer:
It emphasizes the growing influence of analytics in every cricket decision—team building, advertising, and performance tracking—signaling a data-first cricketing culture.
Q8. (From Passage 5) [1 mark]
Give one word for “visual tools that show player activity intensity during a match.”
Answer:
Heatmaps
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