NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Kaveri
Chapter 8: Follow That Dream
Questions & Answers | Critical Reflection | Vocabulary | Grammar | Writing Task
Chapter Overview: This page contains answers from the supplied textbook pages for Follow That Dream, including Check Your Understanding, Critical Reflection, Vocabulary and Structures in Context, grammar practice, and the writing task.
Chapter 8 – Follow That Dream: NCERT Solutions
Check Your Understanding
I. (A) True
Explanation: The mother tells her daughter that to reach a “world-class standard” in any field, a person has to work hard and focus on that subject for at least ten years.
(B) True
Explanation: She explains that the main difference between being great and being ordinary is how much “effort and sacrifice” a person is willing to give to make their dream real.
(C) False
Explanation: According to the mother, the road to reaching a dream is usually “uphill most of the way” and feels like trying to get through a “maze of hurdles”.
(D) True
Explanation: The mother shares from her own life that she is now publishing a book, which was a dream she started later in life and was not the same dream she had when she was young.
(E) False
Explanation: She says that winners, like those who win Academy Awards, always have a “support network” comprising people who stand by them and help them win.
(F) False
Explanation: She warns her daughter to think about the “financial investments” and sacrifices that come with chasing a dream before she decides to start.
(G) True
Explanation: The mother notes that for a lot of people, dreams never happen because they never get past “wishful thinking” or they choose safety over their goals.
Critical Reflection – I
1. (A) conviction
(B) (b) an early abandonment of the dream
(C) complete
(D) It creates a sense of personal satisfaction and inner fulfilment that sustains effort even in the absence of external rewards.
(E) A strong sense of purpose or commitment to one’s passion can motivate a person to continue despite exhaustion.
2. (A) evolving
(B) The author means that even if dreams change over time, they are equally meaningful and valuable as earlier aspirations. New goals, shaped by experience and circumstances, should not be seen as lesser but as equally significant expressions of one’s purpose.
(C) “a maze of hurdles”
(D) Achieving dreams often involves collaboration, support, and interaction with others who contribute to and influence the journey.
(E) (c) optimistic and encouraging
Critical Reflection – II
(A) Ming had probably written to her mother about a dream or ambition she wanted to pursue but felt uncertain about. She may have been seeking her mother’s advice on whether she should follow her passion despite the challenges, effort, and sacrifices involved. Her letter likely reflected both excitement and doubt about achieving her goal.
(B) One can attain an international level of skill through sustained effort and long-term commitment. The text emphasises the need for focused and intensive practice over many years, along with a deep passion for the field. Continuous dedication and willingness to invest time and energy are essential for reaching such high standards.
(C) The key difference lies in the willingness to act and persist. Dreamers only wish or imagine success, while achievers invest effort, make sacrifices, and remain committed despite challenges. Achievers translate their dreams into action, showing determination and resilience, whereas dreamers often stop at desire without sustained effort.
(D) Ming’s mother uses critical questions to encourage Ming to think carefully about the effort, time, and sacrifices needed to achieve a dream. These questions help Ming reflect on her own commitment and readiness. She also shares examples from her own life, making her advice more believable and meaningful. By combining thoughtful questions with personal experiences, she effectively motivates Ming to pursue her dreams with determination and realism.
(E) The mother encourages Ming to pursue her dreams while also urging her to consider the effort and sacrifices involved. She presents both possibilities, that of success and challenges, ensuring that Ming’s decision is informed. This balance reflects a realistic yet supportive approach to guidance.
(F) Yes, this advice is still relevant today. Although there are more opportunities and resources available, achieving a dream still requires hard work, patience, and dedication. People often face challenges such as competition, distractions, and fear of failure. Ming’s mother reminds us that success does not come easily and that we must be prepared to make sacrifices and stay committed to our goals. Her advice also teaches us to think carefully before making important decisions. Therefore, her message continues to be valuable for young people in contemporary society.
(G) I’m willing to put in effort and sacrifice, even working for at least ten years, to achieve greatness despite a challenging path because I believe determination helps overcome obstacles. However, I won’t risk my family’s safety or basic needs, much like those who supported siblings through school. I also know it’s crucial to count the cost before pursuing my dream to avoid quitting early.
Vocabulary and Structures in Context – I
- Mindscape: a mental view; the range of a person’s thoughts, imagination or knowledge.
- Seascape: a view or picture of the sea or the coastline.
- Landscape: all the visible features of an area of land.
- Cityscape: the visual appearance of a city or urban area; a city landscape.
Choose the correct option:
(A) seascape
(B) cityscape
(C) landscape
(D) mindscape
Vocabulary and Structures in Context – II
(A) (b) have a passionate desire
Rahul felt a passion for aeronautics that seemed to burn in his blood, and he refused to give up on it.
(B) (a) a tough challenge
Completing the project on time was an uphill task that required extra effort.
(C) (d) lifted in spirit
She was buoyed up by the support of her friends during difficult times.
(D) (c) a hopeful belief but unlikely to be true
Thinking she could pass the exams without studying was pure wishful thinking.
(E) (a) spoil-sport
His constant complaints made him a wet blanket at the celebration.
(F) (b) flowing through her body
Confidence was coursing through her veins as she stepped onto the stage.
Vocabulary and Structures in Context – III, IV and V
III.
(A) go for it without hesitation.
(B) check the doors and windows carefully.
(C) take a break and try again later.
(D) speak up and take action.
(E) use the extra time to review your work.
IV.
(A) Possibility
(B) Unreal or hypothetical situation
(C) Past possibility or speculation
(D) Past ability or purpose
V.
(A) I could travel
(B) could have taken
(C) could run for hours
(D) could be at
(E) could you please
Grammar Practice – VI
(A) helps
(B) learnt
(C) work
(D) apply
(E) conducts
(F) analyses
(G) must reflect
(H) will help
(I) is
(J) will incorporate
Writing Task – Enquiry Regarding Summer Design Workshop
| From | rahuljain1402@gmail.com |
|---|---|
| To | dir.iif@gov.in |
| Cc | — |
| Bcc | — |
| Date | 10 March 20XX |
| Subject | Enquiry Regarding Summer Design Workshop |
Dear Sir/Madam,
I recently came across the announcement of your Summer Design Workshop and was delighted to learn about this opportunity. As a student with a keen interest in pursuing a career in design, I am eager to participate in the programme.
I would be grateful if you could provide details regarding the workshop schedule, duration, eligibility criteria, registration procedure, fee structure, and the areas of design that will be covered. I would also like to know whether participants will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the workshop.
I believe this workshop will help me develop my creative skills and gain practical exposure to the field of design. I would also suggest including a portfolio-review session, as it would help aspiring designers receive valuable feedback from experts.
I look forward to your prompt response.
Yours faithfully,
Rahul Jain
Student, Class IX
Contact No. 9846XXXXXX
Class 9 English • Kaveri Textbook • NCERT Solutions 2026–2027
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