The Snail Solutions – AAtoons Study

Ch 8 – The Snail Solutions

Content Structure

1. About the author – (William Cowper)
2. Summary
3. Word meanings
4. Comprehension exercises
5. Grammar in Use
6. Writing activities

1. About the author – (William Cowper)

William Cowper was a famous English poet born on 26 November 1731. He changed the direction of 18th-century nature poetry by writing about the English countryside and the everyday lives of people. His poems are gentle, kind, and easy to understand. He is considered one of the most important poets of his time. His famous works include Olney Hymns and The Task. He died on 25 April 1800.

2. Summary

In the poem, the poet describes the snail’s simple and independent life where he fights alone and never worries about having companions. The snail lives on all types of surfaces and sticks to them easily. He always moves with his shell which provides him protection, security, and comfort. He does not fear dangers like storms or bad weather and is always prepared to protect himself. The poet also explains that the snail is very sensitive, and even a slight touch alerts him to quickly pull into his shell and cover securely. This quick reaction shows his strength and power. Although he lives alone with his strong shell, he never complains about his loneliness because he accepts his independence and focuses on living. He knows that complaining brings only sadness, so he loves his home and lives happily with joy and satisfaction. Through this description, the poet shows that even the smallest creatures understand how important it is to protect themselves and care for their own safety whenever they face danger.

3. Word meanings

1. Sticks – Holds tight
2. Imminent – Coming soon
3. Slightest – Very small
4. Shrinks – Pulls back
5. Dwells – Lives
6. Chatells – Personal belonging
7. Displeasure – Unhappy
8. Treasure – Precious thing

4. Comprehension exercises

1. Choose the correct alternative to complete the following sentences:

(a) With the slightest touch, the snail shrinks into its house with
(i) displeasure
(ii) pleasure
(iii) pain
(iv) surprise

Ans: (i) displeasure

(b) In its house the snail lives with
(i) parents
(ii) friends
(iii) relatives
(iv) no one

Ans: (iv) no one

2. State whether the following statements are True or False. Provide sentences/phrases/words in support of your answer:

(a) The snail fears falling from the wall. (False)
S/S: The snail sticks tightly to all kinds of surfaces and does not fear falling from the wall.

(b) The snail comes out of his house during a storm. (False)
S/S: To protect himself during a storm, the snail quickly pulls back into his strong shell and covers himself securely to feel safe and comfortable.

3. Answer the following questions:

(a) What does the snail usually stick itself to?
Ans: The snail usually sticks to soft grass, a green leaf, or the wall of its own small house to stay safe and comfortable.

(b) What makes the snail well-satisfied?
Ans: The snail feels well-satisfied because he has a strong shell that keeps him safe and provides a peaceful, happy place to live.

5. Grammar in Use

4. Change the following sentences into questions as directed:

(a) Siraj always rises early (interrogative sentence using ‘does’).
Ans: Does Siraj always rise?

(b) Joyce is the best singer in the class. (information question using “who”)
Ans: Who is the best singer in the class?

(d) I go to school by bus. (information question using “how”)
Ans: How do you go to school?

6. Writing activities

Write a letter (within 100 words) to the editor of an English daily about the disturbance caused by the thoughtless use of loudspeakers.

To,
Rajiv Sen
The editor
The statesman
23, Rajarhat
Kolkata – 700056
Date: 24 November, 2021

Sub: Thoughtless use of loudspeaker

Respected sir,

I am writing to draw attention to the increasing disturbance caused by the careless use of loudspeakers in our city. During festivals, public events, and religious gatherings, loudspeakers are played at high volumes, disturbing the peace of neighbourhoods. This loud noise affects children, the elderly, and sick individuals, leading to stress, hearing damage, and sleep disturbances. I kindly request that the authorities regulate loudspeaker usage and ensure that noise levels are maintained within reasonable limits to safeguard public health and well-being.

So, I kindly request you to publish an article on this issue to raise awareness and urge the authorities to take quick action.

Thanking You

Yours faithfully,
Rajiv Sen