Class 7 English - WEST-BENGAL
Prose: The Tunnel
The Tunnel, written by Ruskin Bond, is a touching prose piece prescribed for Class 7 students under the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE). The story revolves around a young boy named Suraj who is fascinated by the dark, mysterious tunnel near his village and the daily passing of the afternoon train. It beautifully explores themes of curiosity, courage, and human connection, especially through Suraj's bond with the engine driver and a watchman. For board exams, questions usually focus on comprehension, character sketching, and understanding the deeper emotional values conveyed through the simple storyline.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Fascination with the Unknown
Suraj's attraction to the dark tunnel represents the natural curiosity of children towards mysterious and unexplored places.
Friendship Across Age Groups
The relationship between young Suraj and the middle-aged engine driver highlights how friendship can blossom unexpectedly between people of different ages and backgrounds.
Role of the Watchman
The watchman acts as a guardian figure who ensures safety along the railway track, adding a layer of responsibility and realism to the narrative.
Setting and Atmosphere
Ruskin Bond vividly describes the natural surroundings of the foothills of the Himalayas, creating a vivid picture of the Indian landscape in the readers' minds.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In WBBSE Class 7 English exams, chapters from prose generally carry around 8 to 12 marks. Common question types include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer type questions testing text comprehension, vocabulary exercises based on the text, and reference-to-context questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of 'The Tunnel'?
The story is written by the renowned Indian-British author Ruskin Bond.
Why was Suraj fascinated by the tunnel?
Suraj was fascinated by the dark, mysterious tunnel and the thrilling experience of watching the train roar through it.
What is the main message of the story?
The story teaches us about the beauty of simple joys, unexpected friendships, and overcoming fear through curiosity and courage.
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