unseen passage 5

 

The Heart of a Lion

In a quiet neighborhood lived a young boy named Leo. He had a wild imagination and loved to read stories about dragons and heroes, but he was often held back by his own fears. Leo was afraid of the dark, nervous about speaking in class, and hesitant to try new activities. To him, bravery was a superpower reserved for fictional characters in his books, not for an ordinary boy like himself. His parents encouraged him to be more confident, but Leo found it easier to stay in his comfort zone.

One Tuesday morning, his school announced a new initiative: the "Local Heroes Project." The goal was to help students understand that courage is found in everyday life. Mr. David, Leo’s teacher, announced, “Bravery isn't about being fearless. It’s about facing your fear to do what is right. It is the courage that turns ordinary people into heroes in their own communities.”

Leo felt a flicker of interest but was also anxious. For the project, he was assigned to interview a retired firefighter, Mr. Sharma, who lived down the street. The thought of speaking to a real-life hero made his stomach churn. That evening, he decided to take a small step. He wrote down his questions on a notepad and practiced asking them to his reflection in the mirror. The next day, he timidly knocked on Mr. Sharma’s door.

At first, Leo was nervous, but Mr. Sharma’s kind smile put him at ease. The old firefighter shared stories of his work, and then said something Leo would never forget: “Bravery isn’t a cape you wear, son. It’s the small voice inside that says, ‘I’m scared, but I’ll do it anyway.’ That’s the heart of a lion.” Later that week at the park, Leo saw a younger child fall from a low swing and start to cry. His first instinct was to look away, but then Mr. Sharma’s words echoed in his mind. He took a deep breath, walked over, and helped the child up, staying with him until his mother arrived.

The project culminated in a special assembly where students shared their findings. When it was Leo’s turn, he walked to the stage, his hands trembling slightly. He spoke not just about Mr. Sharma, but about his own experience helping the child at the park. He explained how he learned that courage wasn't about big, grand actions, but about small, everyday choices.

His classmates and Mr. David listened intently, giving him a warm round of applause. Mr. David gave him a proud nod, knowing Leo had discovered the project's true meaning. Leo realized that bravery wasn't something you were born with, but something you build within yourself. It was the foundation of character, giving him the strength to face challenges and be a person others could count on. From that day on, Leo continued to face his fears, knowing that the heart of a lion beat within him.

Questions:

(1) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage): [2 marks]

I. Bravery (line 6)
(a) fearfulness
(b) the quality of being courageous
(c) a wild imagination
(d) recklessness

II. Courageous (line 21)
(a) shy and timid
(b) able to do something that frightens one
(c) fictional
(d) ordinary

(2) Which word in the passage means the opposite of ‘afraid’? [1 mark]
(a) nervous
(b) quiet
(c) confident
(d) wild

(3) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words:
(a) Who was Leo and what was his attitude toward bravery at first? [2 marks]
(b) What project did Leo’s school organize and why? [2 marks]
(c) How did Leo start preparing to face his fear? [2 marks]
(d) What changes did Leo notice in himself after meeting Mr. Sharma? [2 marks]
(e) What important lesson did Leo learn about bravery? [2 marks]

(4) In not more than 70 words, narrate the sequence of events starting from Leo’s attitude towards bravery to his learning and practicing courage at school. [8 marks]

Question 5:

(i) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets: [4 marks]

1. Leo (1) ________ (think) bravery was only for heroes.
2. Mr. Sharma (2) ________ (share) stories of his work.
3. He (3) ________ (begin) to face his own fears.
4. Leo (4) ________ (feel) stronger and more confident.

(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words: [4 marks]
(a) Leo was nervous ________ speaking in class.
(b) The teacher spoke ________ the meaning of true courage.
(c) Leo helped the child with kindness ________ a steady voice.
(d) The school presented a project ________ "Local Heroes."
(e) He learned to show courage ________ the face of fear.
(f) I prefer careful action ________ reckless behavior.
(g) Leo went ________ Mr. Sharma’s house to interview him.
(h) Leo was proud ________ his newfound courage.