Class 8 English - HARYANA
Prose: Feathered Friend
Feathered Friend is an engaging prose selection prescribed for Class 8 students under the Haryana Board (BSEH). The story revolves around life in a space station and introduces an unexpected guest—a small canary bird named Clarence. Written by Arthur C. Clarke, the chapter highlights the importance of pets, the thrill of space exploration, and how animals can act as vital life-detectors in hazardous environments. For board exam preparation, students must focus on the plot, character reactions, and the scientific context of space travel, as questions frequently test both literal comprehension and thematic understanding.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Setting of the Story
The events take place in a space station orbiting Earth, showcasing the unique challenges and environment of living in zero gravity.
Clarence the Canary
Clarence is a pet bird smuggled aboard the space station by Sven, serving not only as a companion but also as an early warning system for toxic air.
The Crisis
A sudden drop in oxygen or the presence of poisonous gas in the space station is first detected when Clarence faints, alerting the crew to danger.
Theme of Companionship
The chapter emphasizes how animals provide emotional comfort and psychological relief to humans isolated in deep space.
Scientific Utility of Pets
Historically, canaries were used in coal mines to detect odorless toxic gases, a concept cleverly adapted here for a futuristic space setting.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Haryana Board (BSEH) Class 8 English examination, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include short answer questions based on the plot, reference to context (RTC) from the text, character sketches, and vocabulary-based exercises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sven bring a canary into the space station?
Sven brought Clarence the canary to keep him company in the lonely environment of space and also because birds are sensitive to bad air, serving as a safety alarm.
How did Clarence save the lives of the crew members?
When a pocket of foul air leaked into the station, Clarence fainted before the humans noticed, prompting the crew to take immediate corrective action.
Who is the author of the story 'Feathered Friend'?
The story was written by the famous science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke.
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