Class 7 English - ODISHA
Prose: The Tunnel
The prose chapter 'The Tunnel' tells the captivating story of a young boy named Suraj who lives near a forest in the foothills of the Himalayas. He is fascinated by the dark, mysterious train tunnel and loves hearing the morning mail train pass through it. One day, he explores the tunnel and encounters a leopard, teaching him about courage and coexistence with nature. For BSE Odisha Class 7 students, this chapter is important because it tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, and the ability to analyze character actions and themes of bravery, making it a regular feature in board examinations.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Setting
The story is set near a railway track in the foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by a dense forest that creates an atmosphere of mystery and adventure.
Suraj's Fascination
Suraj is a twelve-year-old boy who is deeply intrigued by the dark train tunnel and the powerful steam engine train that roars through it daily.
The Encounter with the Leopard
While walking inside the dark tunnel, Suraj faces a wild leopard, which tests his presence of mind and natural courage.
Coexistence with Nature
The chapter highlights how humans and wild animals share the same forest spaces and need to understand and respect each other.
Theme of Courage
Suraj shows remarkable bravery by staying calm instead of panicking when he comes face-to-face with the leopard in the dark.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
Under the BSE Odisha board, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Common question types include short answer questions about the plot, vocabulary meanings, reference-to-context questions, and paragraph-length questions on Suraj's character and his encounter with the leopard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of 'The Tunnel'?
The story is written by Ruskin Bond, a famous Indian author known for his stories set in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Why was Suraj fascinated by the tunnel?
Suraj was fascinated by the darkness of the tunnel and the thrilling experience of hearing and watching the steam engine train rush through it.
How did Suraj react when he saw the leopard inside the tunnel?
Instead of running away in panic, Suraj stood very still and allowed the leopard to pass, showing great courage and presence of mind.
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