Stepwise Answers & Exam Tips for Class 8 English Chapter 1
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let Us Do These Activities Before We Read (Page 1)
1. Select qualities of a person who uses wit from the box given below:
Answer: Qualities of a person who uses wit: Wise, Clever, Humorous, Observant, Charming, Creative, Confident
Discussion: Reasons for your choice of qualities:
Wise – A witty person is thoughtful and uses wisdom to respond appropriately in tricky situations.
Clever – Wit comes from quick and smart thinking.
Humorous – Wit often brings a smile; it helps lighten serious moments with humour.
Observant – Witty people notice even the smallest details, which helps them react intelligently.
Charming – Their cheerful and clever words make them pleasant and admired by others.
Creative – Wit reflects the ability to think differently and find imaginative solutions.
Confident – It takes confidence to speak up cleverly and share ideas freely.
2. Work in pairs and answer the riddles that are given below. Share the answers with your classmates and teacher.
Answer:
Words
Future
Time
Secret
The Wit that Won Hearts – Discuss in Pairs (Page 2)
1. Why are qualities like humour and wit important in a person?
Answer:
Humour and wit help people handle tough situations with ease and positivity. They make conversations engaging, reduce tension, and help solve problems calmly. Such traits also make someone more friendly and approachable.
2. Why do you think kings and queens preferred to have witty people among their courtiers?
Answer:
Rulers liked witty courtiers such as Tenali Rama because they brought laughter, solved complex issues intelligently, and lightened the court’s atmosphere. Their quick thinking often guided the king to wise decisions and kept everyone cheerful.
3. If you were asked to solve a disagreement between two people, what approach would you take?
Answer:
I would first listen carefully to both sides without interrupting. Then I’d look for common points they agree on and help them see each other’s views. If things get tense, I might use a little humour to relax them and find a fair solution together.
4. Have you ever been in a situation where a small misunderstanding led to a big problem? How was it resolved?
Answer:
Yes. Once, I misread a friend’s text and thought they were upset with me. We stopped talking for days. Later, when we discussed it openly, we realised it was just confusion. Talking honestly and forgiving each other quickly fixed the problem.
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let Us Discuss (Page 7)
I. Rectify the following false statements from the text.
1. The queen insulted the king by speaking against the quality of his poem.
Answer:
The queen did not insult the king; she simply yawned because she was tired.
2. Tenali Rama immediately went to the king and convinced him to talk to the queen.
Answer:
Tenali Rama did not act immediately. He took time to think and planned a clever way to bring them together.
3. The courtiers admired the king’s poem and praised his literary talent.
Answer:
The courtiers actually avoided the king and did not comment on the poem to escape his anger.
4. The ministers in the court were eager to hear Tenali Rama’s idea about paddy cultivation.
Answer:
The ministers were doubtful and even mocked Tenali Rama’s strange idea at first.
5. The king never realised his mistake and continued to stay angry with the queen.
Answer:
The king finally understood his error, felt sorry, and apologised to the queen.
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let Us Think and Reflect (Pages 7–9)
I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. “…The king thought I was disrespecting his poem and stormed off. Since then, he has not spoken to me. If I had known this would happen I would have chosen another day. Help me, please, Rama. Only you can help the king understand.” Rama nodded thoughtfully. “If you like, I will try my best to resolve this matter, Your Highness. But this needs a well-planned approach and I may need time to find the right strategy.”
(i) Why does the queen believe that only Tenali Rama can help the king understand?
Answer:
The queen trusts Tenali Rama’s intelligence and sense of humour. She knows he is respected by the king and has the wisdom to solve sensitive issues cleverly.
(ii) What does the queen’s statement, “If I had known this would happen, I would have chosen another day”, suggest about her feelings?
Answer:
B. She regrets the unintended misunderstanding.
It shows that she feels sorry about the situation and wishes she had avoided it.
(iii) How does Tenali Rama’s response reflect his wisdom and problem-solving skills?
Answer:
Tenali Rama’s calm and thoughtful reply shows he doesn’t rush into actions. He believes in analysing a situation carefully and finding a smart, peaceful solution.
(iv) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option from those given in the brackets.
The king’s reaction shows that he is sensitive and ___________ (has a lot of faith / takes great pride) in his poetry.
Answer: takes great pride.
2. That evening, the king approached the queen with a softened expression. “Thirumalambal”, he began, his voice gentle, “I have been foolish. I see now that I overreacted. I let my pride blind me. I’m so sorry.” The queen, who had longed for this moment, smiled and replied, “If you like, we can leave this quarrel behind us. I would very much like to listen to your poem.”
(i) Complete the following with a suitable explanation.
When the king said, “I let my pride blind me,” he means that ___________
Answer:
his pride stopped him from understanding the truth and seeing the situation clearly.
(ii) Why does the queen say, “If you like, we can leave this quarrel behind us”?
Answer:
She says this because she wants to forgive the king and bring peace back into their relationship.
(iii) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option from those given in the brackets.
The king acknowledges that his pride clouded his judgement, which shows ___________ (intelligence and courage / maturity and self-awareness).
Answer:
maturity and self-awareness.
(iv) State any one characteristic that the queen’s response to the king’s apology shows about her.
Answer:
The queen is kind-hearted and forgiving.
II. Answer the following questions.
1. Why was the Vijayanagara Empire considered to be in its ‘Golden Era’ during Krishnadeva Raya’s reign?
Answer:
Krishnadeva Raya’s rule is called the Golden Era because art, culture, architecture, and literature thrived. The empire saw great peace and prosperity during his leadership.
2. How did Tenali Ramakrishna gain a special place in the king’s court?
Answer:
Tenali Ramakrishna impressed the king with his sharp wit, intelligence, and quick solutions to tough problems. His humour made him one of the king’s most trusted courtiers.
3. How did the quarrel between the king and the queen affect the palace?
Answer:
The palace became gloomy and silent since the king avoided meeting the queen. The cheerful environment disappeared until they reconciled.
4. What strategy did Tenali Rama use to make the king realise his mistake?
Answer:
He compared the act of yawning during poetry to sowing seeds before the season—showing the king that timing, not intention, matters. This made the king reflect on his pride.
5. What was the reaction of the courtiers when Tenali Rama introduced ‘special’ paddy seeds?
Answer:
The courtiers laughed at Tenali Rama and doubted his claim, thinking his idea was foolish.
6. How does the story conclude, and what lesson can be learnt from it?
Answer:
The story ends with the king realising his fault and apologising to the queen. It teaches that wisdom, patience, and a touch of humour can heal misunderstandings and strengthen relationships.
The Wit that Won Hearts Class 8 – Let Us Learn (Pages 9–12)”
I. Fill in the blanks and complete the paragraph by choosing suitable expressions from the box given below.
My mother is quite witty, and her sense of humour always lightens stressful moments. Once, at a family dinner, an argument began over a minor issue, and 1. ______, making everyone feel uncomfortable. Just as things were getting serious, she made a clever remark and laughter 2. ______ the gathering, making everyone relaxed. The person who started the argument 3. ______. Everyone disapproved of the action and a 4. ______. My 5. ______ to how my mother had saved other situations like this. Without her, such moments would have 6. ______ over the gatherings. I hope that I grow up to be as witty as my mother.
Answer:
cast a shadow
rippled through
stormed off
hush fell over
mind raced back
cast a shadow
Completed Paragraph:
My mother has a wonderful sense of humour that always brightens stressful times. Once, at a family dinner, an argument broke out over a small issue and it cast a shadow on the happy mood. Just when everyone grew uncomfortable, she cracked a funny remark and laughter rippled through the room. The person who started the fight stormed off, and suddenly a hush fell over the gathering. My mind raced back to other times when my mother had handled tense situations with the same calm wit. Without her, such disagreements would have cast a shadow over our family moments. I truly hope to be as witty as her one day.
II. The writer uses words like ‘roared’, ‘murmur’ in the text to indicate sound. Fill in the blanks with suitable sound words from the box given below.
1. As the teacher began the riddle challenge, a ______ of excitement spread through the classroom.
2. Anaya ______ in relief—she loved riddles more than solving Mathematics problems.
3. Think carefully,’ the teacher began to ______, as she wrote a riddle on the board.
4. When the question was revealed, a few students ______, realising it wasn’t as easy as they had expected.
5. Some exchanged ______, wondering if anyone at all would be able to solve it.
6. Just then, Anaya tapped her book on the desk with a small ______, deep in thought.
7. ‘Ah, I see it now!’ she said stretching with a ______, as if it had taken her great effort.
8. A small breeze made the windows ______, adding to the suspense of the moment.
9. ‘So, what’s the answer?’ the students ______, their voices filled with playful enthusiasm.
10. Leaning forward with a smile, Anaya ______, “Sometimes, the trickiest questions have the simplest
Answer:
murmur
sighed
mumbled
gasped
snickers
thud
groan
rattle
roared
whispered
Completed Sentences:
As the teacher began the riddle challenge, a murmur of excitement filled the class.
Anaya sighed in relief—she loved riddles more than Maths problems.
“Think carefully,” the teacher mumbled as she wrote the next riddle on the board.
When the question appeared, a few students gasped, realising it was tricky.
Some exchanged quiet snickers, unsure who could solve it first.
Anaya tapped her book on the desk with a small thud, deep in thought.
“Ah, I see it now!” she said with a long groan, stretching after thinking hard.
A light breeze made the windows rattle, adding to the suspense.
“So, what’s the answer?” the class roared, eager to know.
Leaning forward, Anaya whispered, “Sometimes, the simplest answers are the smartest.”
III. A compound word is formed when two or more words join to make a new meaning.
1. Create new compound words by matching words in Column 1 with those in Column 2.
Answer:
2. Fill in the blanks with the words created in the previous question.
Ravi was (i) __________, always speaking calmly even in arguments. He grew up in a lively (ii) __________, where he learned to handle different personalities. His friend Arun, however, was (iii) __________ and often lost his patience. Despite this, Arun admired Ravi’s (iv) __________ thinking. One evening, as they passed a (v) __________, they saw some performers rushing out. Ravi noticed that one of them dropped a (vi) __________ book on the ground. “Is this yours?” he asked. “Oh thank you, young man!” the performer smiled. “It’s a recent purchase from the (vii) ________ round the corner.” True to his nature Arun promptly said to Ravi, “ It’s (viii) ________ that it’s not from a bakery but bookshop!” Ravi smiled and they walked on.
Answer:
(i) soft-tempered
(ii) household
(iii) ill-tempered
(iv) quick-witted
(v) dance hall
(vi) sky blue
(vii) bookstore
(viii) common sense
Completed Passage:
Ravi was soft-tempered, always calm even in arguments. He lived in a cheerful household where he learnt to manage people patiently. His friend Arun was ill-tempered and often lost control. Yet, he admired Ravi’s quick-witted nature. One evening, while passing a dance hall, they saw performers rushing out. Ravi noticed one dropped a sky-blue book. “Is this yours?” he asked. “Oh, thank you!” smiled the performer. “I bought it from the bookstore nearby.” Arun chuckled, “Good thing you used common sense—otherwise we’d still be searching for a bakery!”
IV. Read the sentences from the text and their explanation given in the table below.
In sentence 1 ‘if you like’ is the subordinate clause (if clause) and ‘I will try my best to resolve this matter’ is the main clause. Identify the subordinate and main clauses in sentences 2 and 3.
Answer:
Sentence 2:
Subordinate clause – If, by chance, something were to go wrong,
Main clause – our farmers would suffer.Sentence 3:
Subordinate clause – If I had known this would happen,
Main clause – I would have chosen another day.
Now, match the subordinate clauses (if-clauses) in Column 1 with the correct main clauses in Column 2.
Answer:
V. Complete the following sentences appropriately with either the main clause or the subordinate clause (if clause).
1. Your teacher will be unhappy if ______.
2. They would have caught the train if ______.
3. ______ if you continue to stay up late every night.
4. If she knew the answer, ______
5. ______ if she had studied harder.
6. If I had a million rupees, ______.
Answer:
Your teacher will be unhappy if you don’t finish your homework.
They would have caught the train if they had left earlier.
You will feel tired if you keep staying up late every night.
If she knew the answer, she would raise her hand.
She would have passed if she had studied harder.
If I had a million rupees, I would travel around the world.
VI. Complete the following sentences. One example has been done for you.
1. If I were a tree, I would play with the wind and talk to the birds.
2. If I were the Head Teacher of my school, ______
3. If I were a bird, ______
4. If I were a magician, ______
5. If I had studied harder, ______
Answer:
If I were a tree, I would play with the wind and talk to the birds.
If I were the Head Teacher of my school, I would add more games and less homework.
If I were a bird, I would fly freely across mountains and seas.
If I were a magician, I would spread happiness everywhere.
If I had studied harder, I would have topped my class.
Class 8 English Chapter 1 Question Answer – Let us listen (Page 12-13)
I. I. You will listen to a woman narrating a story. As you listen, fill in the blanks in the following sentences by selecting the correct options.
1. The rope tying the bundle of sticks was ______.
(i) loose
(ii) thick
(iii) short
Answer:
(i) loose
The rope tying the bundle of sticks was (i) loose
2. The scholar is finally referred to as ______
(i) irritable
(ii) mischievous
(iii) arrogant
Answer:
(iii) arrogant
The scholar is finally referred to as (iii) arrogant.
II. Number the events of the story in the correct order.
1. The great scholar was ashamed because he did not know what to say.
2. Rama accepted the challenge thrown by the visitor.
3. Rama had a bundle tied in silk when he came to the palace.
4. The king laughed at the explanation given by Rama.
5. The visitor wanted to show his superiority over others in the palace.
6. Rama showed the work to be a bundle of sticks tied together by a rope.
7. The king wanted to know more about the work mentioned by Rama.
8. The court scholars were afraid of the king’s anger.
Answer (Correct Order):
5 → 2 → 3 → 7 → 6 → 4 → 1 → 8
Explanation of Sequence:
The proud scholar wanted to prove his superiority.
Rama accepted the challenge confidently.
He brought a bundle wrapped in silk to the palace.
The king grew curious and asked about the bundle.
Rama revealed that it was a bunch of sticks tied with a rope.
The king laughed at Rama’s witty explanation.
The scholar felt ashamed for being speechless.
Other scholars feared the king’s anger but admired Rama’s cleverness.
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let Us Speak (Pages 13–14)
I. Intonation practice
I. While asking questions, it is important to use the appropriate tone to convey the correct meaning.
1. Yes’ or ‘No’ questions have a rising tone at the end.
Are you coming home?
2. ‘-Wh’ questions have a falling tone at the end.
When will you come home?
This rise and fall in tone is called intonation.
Now, work in pairs and mark the intonation in the questions given below.
Take turns to practise by saying them aloud with the correct intonation.
(i) Is this your cat?
(ii) What is the name of your cat?
(iii) Will you be going to your village?
(iv) Why are you going to your village?
(v) Is this where you live?
(vi) Where do you live?
(vii) Can I meet your parents?
(viii) How are your parents?
(ix) Do you have any plans for tomorrow?
(x) What are you going to do tomorrow?
Answer:
Rising tone (↗) for Yes/No questions; Falling tone (↘) for Wh-questions.
II. ‘What’, ‘Why’, ‘When’, ‘How’, ‘Where’, and ‘Who’ are the words used to ask questions. These words are called question words. Let us use these words and make some questions.
While making questions, remember the correct word order.
Who is the cleverest character in the story? (Correct)
Who the cleverest character is in the story? (Incorrect)
Work in pairs and take turns to ask and answer questions about a trip that you are planning. Remember to use the correct intonation while asking these questions.
Here are some prompts for you.
The destination (Where…)
Purpose (Why…)
Mode of transport (How…)
Duration (When…)
Travel companions (Who…)
Activities (What…)
Answer:
Where are you going?
Why are you going there?
How will you travel?
When will you leave?
Who will go with you?
What will you do there?
Sample dialogue about witty characters:
Who is the witty character in the story?
Why is their wit important in the story?
What clever idea did they use?
When does the story take place?
How did they use their intelligence to solve a problem?
Where does the story happen?
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let Us Write (Pages 15–16)
A narrative essay is written on a personal experience or an imagined experience.
I. Read the narrative essay given below.
A Lesson in Responsibility
One bright Monday morning, I woke up to the sounds of birds chirping loudly. For once, I wasn’t late for school. My uniform was neatly laid out, and my homework was already packed in my bag. I felt proud of myself for being so organised. But little did I know, the day would still teach me an important lesson.
During the morning assembly, our teacher, Mrs. Rao, announced a surprise Science quiz. My heart skipped a beat. I had studied the chapter a week ago, but I had forgotten to revise it over the weekend. As I sat at my desk with the question paper in front of me, I froze. The questions looked familiar, yet I couldn’t recall the answers clearly. I tried my best to focus, but it wasn’t enough. Later, when the results were announced, I scored much lower than I expected. Disappointed, I spoke to Mrs. Rao after the class. She smiled and said, “It’s not about how much you know but how consistently you prepare. Small efforts add up every day.”
Her words stayed with me. From that day on, I made it a habit to revise my lessons regularly, even if there wasn’t an immediate test. Responsibility isn’t just about being on time or finishing tasks—it’s about being ready for what’s unexpected.
Now, work in pairs and check (✓) if the following features are present in the narrative essay.
Answer:
All the mentioned features are found in the given narrative essay:
Introduction:
The essay begins with an engaging opening that sets the context and introduces the theme effectively.Body of the essay:
The sequence of events is logical and descriptive, with clear settings and characters. The narrator’s emotions are expressed well, and a problem or challenge forms the turning point of the story.Conclusion:
The essay ends with a clear outcome and conveys a strong moral about consistency and responsibility.Writing Style:
The tone remains personal and reflective throughout, using first-person narration.Language:
The language is simple and clear with correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Now, write a narrative essay based on any one of the situations given below.
1. The Day I Learnt the Value of Teamwork
Answer:
Hints to write a narrative essay:
Write about a situation where teamwork helped you accomplish something you couldn’t have done alone—such as a school project, sports event, or class competition. Describe how the experience helped you realise the importance of cooperation and shared effort.
2. A Small Act of Kindness that Made a Difference
Answer:
Describe an incident when you or someone else showed kindness that brought happiness or comfort to another person. Mention how that act made you realise the value of compassion and empathy in everyday life.
(Note: Students may write their own narrative essays using the above hints.)
The Wit that Won Hearts – Let us Explore (Page 16)
I. Limericks are poems in five lines that have a twist in the last line. Read and enjoy the following limericks and create one on your own.
Answer:
There once was a fox so sly,
Who’d steal food without a try.
He’d sneak through the night,
Out of everyone’s sight,
Till one day he tripped on a pie!
II. Go to the library and read a story of your choice. Share its theme and the interesting parts of the story with your classmates and teacher.
Answer:
This is a self-activity. Visit the library, choose a story, and discuss its theme, characters, and your favourite moments with your classmates and teacher.
III. You must have read stories of wit, humour, and wisdom in your own language or English. Make a list of these stories that you have read on a chart paper. Each student should read at least one new story from the list.
Answer:
Create a classroom chart featuring well-known witty and wise tales such as:
Tenali Rama Tales
Akbar and Birbal Stories
Mulla Nasruddin Stories
Panchatantra Tales
Aesop’s Fables
Each student can pick a new story from the list, read it, and share its moral with the class.
Understand The Wit That Won Hearts – Key Concepts
Studying NCERT Solutions Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1 The Wit That Won Hearts (2025-26) helps students understand the importance of wit, wisdom, and communication. This story shows how a clever mind can resolve misunderstandings and restore happiness in any situation.
Regular practice of the chapter-wise English Poorvi solutions ensures students improve their comprehension and writing skills. Focus on key events, character traits, and vocabulary to excel in exams and daily communication.
For top marks in Class 8 English Chapter 1, read the story attentively, review all solved questions, and revise the main messages. Effective study habits and smart revision will make you confident for your exams.
FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1: The Wit That Won Hearts
1. What is the best way to prepare for Class 8 English Chapter 1: The Wit That Won Hearts?
The most effective way to prepare for Class 8 English Chapter 1: The Wit That Won Hearts is by using stepwise NCERT Solutions that clarify each textbook exercise and follow CBSE marking schemes. Key steps include:
- Reviewing the chapter summary and key themes.
- Practicing all textbook and back exercise questions with stepwise answers.
- Studying important definitions and examples from the chapter.
- Practicing long and short answer formats as per CBSE exam patterns.
- Utilizing free PDF downloads for offline revision.
2. Are NCERT Solutions enough for Class 8 English exams?
NCERT Solutions for Class 8 English are generally sufficient for scoring well in exams if studied thoroughly. However, for best results:
- Focus on understanding stepwise NCERT answers.
- Practice writing answers within the word limit.
- Revise extra questions and summary notes for better concept clarity.
- Attempt sample papers and previous year questions for exam practice.
3. How to write stepwise NCERT answers to score full marks?
To score full marks in CBSE Class 8 English answers, always use a stepwise format that includes:
- A direct and relevant introduction.
- Bullet points or logical sequence for supporting details.
- Use of important keywords from the chapter.
- Concluding sentences that summarize the answer.
- Examples or quotes where required.
4. Are diagrams or definitions mandatory in answers for The Wit That Won Hearts?
While diagrams are not typically required for this chapter, clear and concise definitions of key terms enhance answers and fetch more marks. Make sure to:
- Include definitions or explanations of important terms like 'wit' and 'wisdom'.
- Use neat underlining or bullet points for definitions.
5. Which questions are likely to come from Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1 in school exams?
Questions in CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 1 exams often include:
- Short answer questions based on chapter events.
- Meaning and usage of 'wit' and 'wisdom'.
- Long answer questions on lessons learned from Tenali Ramakrishna's actions.
- Value-based or moral questions from the story.
6. How does the story conclude and what lessons can be learnt from it: wit and wisdom?
The chapter concludes with Tenali Ramakrishna earning a special place in the king’s court by solving a problem with his wit. The main lessons are:
- Wit and quick thinking can resolve difficult situations peacefully.
- Wisdom helps in making fair and balanced decisions.
- Respecting intelligence and humility in tricky situations.
7. Where can I download the chapter’s solutions PDF for Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1?
You can download the NCERT Solutions PDF for Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1 from trusted educational portals for free. Steps:
- Visit official NCERT or CBSE solution platforms.
- Search for 'Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 1 solutions PDF'.
- Click on the download button for offline access.
8. How did Tenali Ramakrishna gain a special place in the King's Court Class 8?
Tenali Ramakrishna earned a special place in the king’s court by using wit and intelligence to solve difficult problems impressively.
- He gave clever solutions when others failed.
- The king appreciated his practical wisdom and humor.
- His actions demonstrated the value of quick thinking and tact.
9. How to structure long answers for better marks in Class 8 English exams?
For scoring high in long answer questions:
- Start with an introduction mentioning the chapter name and main point.
- Write logically ordered points with examples from the chapter.
- Underline keywords and important terms (e.g., wit, Tenali Ramakrishna).
- Conclude with a summary sentence reflecting values or lessons learned.
10. What are the most important topics from The Wit That Won Hearts Chapter 1?
Important topics for this chapter include:
- The qualities of wit and wisdom as shown by Tenali Ramakrishna.
- Key events and their impact in the king’s court.
- Moral lessons and values conveyed in the story.
- Definitions and examples related to the main theme.
11. Are NCERT solutions free?
Yes, NCERT solutions for Class 8 English and other subjects are available for free download from official educational websites and portals. This helps all students get equal access to quality learning resources.
- Search for 'NCERT Solutions for Class 8 English' online.
- Check for free PDF availability before downloading.
12. Do examiners award partial marks for correct steps even if the final answer is wrong?
Yes, CBSE examiners often give partial marks for correct steps, relevant points, or proper reasoning, even if the final answer is incorrect. To maximize marks:
- Show all working steps and explanations clearly.
- Include main keywords and follow the marking scheme.
