10.3 Understanding the Text
Answer each question yourself first, then check the model answer.
A. Reading for details
1. How did Rakesh come to plant the cherry tree?
While eating cherries he had bought in the bazaar, Rakesh saved one seed and planted it in the garden, then more or less forgot about it. Months later, a tiny sapling sprouted from it.
2. What dangers did the young cherry tree survive?
A goat ate its leaves; a woman cutting grass accidentally sliced it with her scythe; and the harsh winter cold threatened it. Each time, the tree recovered and grew fresh leaves.
3. What did the tree look like once it had grown?
It grew taller than Rakesh, blossomed with lovely pink flowers, and bore small, sour cherries.
4. What role did Grandfather play?
Grandfather was wise, patient, and encouraging. He guided Rakesh to care for the tree, shared his knowledge and love of nature, and rejoiced with Rakesh as the tree grew.
B. Reading between the lines
5. Why is the cherry tree’s survival described as remarkable?
Despite being eaten by a goat, cut by a scythe, and threatened by frost, the tree did not die. Each time it sprang back with fresh leaves, showing remarkable resilience and the will to live and grow.
6. How does the tree’s growth reflect Rakesh’s own growth?
As the tree slowly grows and overcomes hardship, Rakesh too grows up — becoming more patient, caring, and responsible. The tree and the boy develop side by side, so the tree mirrors his journey from childhood towards maturity.
7. What does the story suggest about the relationship between people and nature?
It suggests a loving, caring bond. When people nurture nature with patience and respect, they share in its growth and beauty, and they form a deep emotional connection with the living world around them.
C. Thinking about values
8. What qualities does Rakesh develop through caring for the tree?
He develops patience, responsibility, care, and a sense of pride and love for nature. He learns that good things take time and effort.
9. What lesson does the story teach us?
It teaches patience, resilience, and respect for nature — that small beginnings, nurtured with care, can grow into something beautiful, and that persistence helps overcome hardship.