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Important Questions: CBSE Class 7 English — Honeycomb Chapter 2 A Gift of Chappals / The Rebel

CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 comprises two distinct pieces — the prose story 'A Gift of Chappals' by Vasantha Surya and the poem 'The Rebel' by D.J. Enright. Together they contribute 6-8 marks in term exams and appear regularly in periodic assessments and sample papers. This chapter tests comprehension, vocabulary, character analysis, and poetic device identification, making thorough question practice essential for scoring well.

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Key takeaways

  • Chapter 2 typically carries 6-8 marks in Class 7 English exams, split between the prose piece 'A Gift of Chappals' and poem 'The Rebel'.
  • MCQs now form 20-25% of internal assessments; expect 2-3 objective questions from this chapter in periodic tests.
  • Character-based questions on Ravi, Mridu, and the music teacher appear frequently in 2-3 mark questions.
  • Poetic devices like paradox, irony, and rhyme scheme in 'The Rebel' are standard 3-mark topics.
  • Extract-based questions from both prose and poem require precise NCERT textbook references and context.
  • Value-based questions on kindness, empathy, and individuality are common 5-mark long-answer questions.
  • CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 doubt-solving with photo upload at ₹999/month for all classes 6-12, with a 3-day free trial to practise these question types interactively.

Chapter Overview and Marks Weightage in CBSE Class 7 English Exam

Chapter 2 of NCERT Class 7 English Honeycomb is unique because it combines a prose narrative with a poem, offering examiners a wide range of question types. 'A Gift of Chappals' explores themes of childhood innocence, empathy, and social awareness through the eyes of Mridu, Ravi, and their interactions with a beggar and a music teacher. 'The Rebel' is a short, witty poem that celebrates non-conformity and individuality using paradoxical statements. In CBSE term exams, this chapter typically accounts for 6-8 marks across reading comprehension and literature sections. Internal assessments and periodic tests often allocate 3-4 marks to MCQs and VSAs, 4-5 marks to short answers, and occasionally one 5-mark long-answer or value-based question. Understanding the dual structure — prose plus poetry — helps students prepare strategically for both narrative analysis and poetic technique questions, ensuring complete coverage of the syllabus as per the latest CBSE assessment framework.
  • Prose section 'A Gift of Chappals': 3-4 marks (character traits, plot events, values)
  • Poem 'The Rebel': 2-3 marks (poetic devices, central idea, interpretation)
  • MCQs and VSAs: 1-2 marks combined in periodic tests
  • Extract-based questions: 2-3 marks (context, reference to speaker, meaning)
  • Long-answer or value-based question: 5 marks (empathy, kindness, individuality)

One-Mark Questions: MCQs and Very Short Answers (VSAs)

Objective questions have become a staple in CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb assessments since 2023. For Chapter 2, expect 2-3 MCQs in periodic tests and one VSA in the term exam. These questions test factual recall, vocabulary, and basic comprehension. MCQs may ask about character names, specific events (like whose chappals were given away), or the poet's name. VSAs require one-word or one-sentence answers. Practising these helps build confidence and secures easy marks. Below are representative one-mark questions with model answers drawn from NCERT text and standard CBSE question patterns. Students should focus on exact spellings — for instance, 'Mahendran' not 'Mahendra' — and author names as they appear in Honeycomb. These small details often differentiate full marks from zero in objective assessments, making careful NCERT reading indispensable for Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 preparation.
  • Q1. Who is the author of 'A Gift of Chappals'? — A. Vasantha Surya
  • Q2. What was the name given to the kitten by Ravi? — A. Mahendran
  • Q3. The Rebel is a poem written by ________. — A. D.J. Enright
  • Q4. Why did the music teacher come to Rukku Manni's house? — A. To give a music lesson to Lalli
  • Q5. What does the rebel do when everybody has short hair? — A. The rebel keeps long hair
  • Q6. Whose chappals did the children give to the beggar? — A. The music teacher's chappals

Two-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Two-mark questions in Class 7 English Honeycomb typically ask for brief explanations, reasons, or character traits supported by one example from the text. CBSE examiners expect two distinct points or one point with textual evidence. For 'A Gift of Chappals', common two-markers probe why characters act in certain ways or what specific events reveal about them. For 'The Rebel', questions often ask students to explain a particular stanza or identify one poetic device with an example. Writing concise, point-based answers is key — avoid long paragraphs and instead use bullets or numbered points when the format allows. Model answers below reflect the NCERT terminology and ensure full marks by citing chapter content accurately. Students should practise writing these answers in under three minutes, as time management is crucial in term exams where multiple two-mark questions appear across reading and literature sections of the CBSE 7 English Honeycomb paper.
  • Q1. Why did Mridu feel bad for the kitten? — A. Mridu felt bad because the kitten was very small, scared, and appeared to be a stray without a home. She was concerned about its safety and well-being when she saw it hiding under a newspaper.
  • Q2. What did Ravi tell Mridu about Mahendran? — A. Ravi told Mridu that the kitten's name was Mahendran and explained that it was a descendant of the Pallava dynasty, making up a grand story to make the kitten seem important and royal.
  • Q3. How did the music teacher find out his chappals were missing? — A. When the music lesson ended, the music teacher came out and looked for his chappals but could not find them, as the children had given them away to the beggar.
  • Q4. What is the central idea of 'The Rebel'? — A. The poem celebrates individuality and non-conformity. It shows that rebels deliberately do the opposite of what everyone else does, highlighting the value of being different in a conformist society.

Three-Mark Questions with Detailed Answers

Three-mark questions demand more depth and typically require three distinct points, or two points with supporting examples from NCERT Class 7 English Honeycomb text. These questions test analytical skills — character comparison, theme interpretation, or poetic device identification. For 'A Gift of Chappals', expect questions on Mridu's personality, the significance of the title, or how the children justified their actions. For 'The Rebel', questions often ask students to explain how the poet uses paradox or to comment on the poem's tone and message. Structure your answer in short paragraphs or numbered points, ensuring each point earns one mark. Use quotations sparingly but accurately — for instance, quoting 'It is very good that we have rebels' from the poem adds authenticity. CBSE marking schemes reward clarity, textual evidence, and adherence to the question, so avoid generic statements and focus on chapter-specific details as found in Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 solutions and notes.
  • Q1. Describe Mridu's character as depicted in 'A Gift of Chappals'. (3 marks) — A. (i) Compassionate: Mridu showed empathy towards the kitten and the beggar, worrying about their suffering. (ii) Innocent: She genuinely believed Ravi's exaggerated story about Mahendran's royal lineage. (iii) Sensible: She understood the gravity of giving away the music teacher's chappals but also appreciated the kindness behind the act.
  • Q2. Why is the story titled 'A Gift of Chappals'? (3 marks) — A. (i) The central event is the children giving the music teacher's chappals to a beggar. (ii) The act represents kindness and generosity, core values the story promotes. (iii) The 'gift' is ironic because it was not the children's property to give, highlighting childhood innocence and moral complexity.
  • Q3. How does the poet use paradox in 'The Rebel'? (3 marks) — A. (i) A paradox is a statement that contradicts itself yet reveals truth. (ii) The poet lists opposite actions: when others have short hair, the rebel has long hair; when others talk, the rebel stays silent. (iii) This paradox emphasises that rebels define themselves by doing the opposite, illustrating non-conformity and individuality.

Five-Mark and Long-Answer Questions with Complete Solutions

Five-mark questions in CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb are usually long-answer or value-based, requiring well-structured responses of 100-120 words. These questions assess your ability to synthesise information, draw inferences, and connect chapter themes to real-life values. For Chapter 2, expect questions on the broader message of kindness in 'A Gift of Chappals' or the importance of individuality in 'The Rebel'. Structure your answer with an introduction, three to four body points, and a brief conclusion. Use subheadings or bullets if it improves clarity, though prose paragraphs are standard. Examiners look for coherence, textual evidence, and personal reflection where asked. Avoid retelling the story; instead, focus on analysis and interpretation. Practising past-year five-markers and sample papers from CBSE or Kendriya Vidyalaya question banks gives insight into expected depth and style. Below are model answers aligned with NCERT Class 7 English Honeycomb solutions and the latest marking guidelines.
  • Q1. 'A Gift of Chappals' teaches us the value of empathy and kindness. Discuss with reference to the chapter. (5 marks)
  • Model Answer: The story beautifully illustrates how children, guided by natural compassion, respond to suffering. When the beggar arrives with bleeding feet, the children do not hesitate to offer help, even if it means parting with someone else's belongings. Mridu's concern for the kitten and the beggar shows her empathetic nature. Ravi's imaginative story about Mahendran adds warmth and humour, but the core message is serious: small acts of kindness matter. The music teacher's reaction — initial anger softened by the explanation — suggests society values generosity. The chapter encourages readers, especially young students, to look beyond rules and see the human need. In today's world, where indifference is common, the story reminds us that empathy must be taught and practised from childhood. CBSE includes such value-based themes to foster holistic development, making this question a favourite in term exams and internal assessments.
  • Q2. How does 'The Rebel' celebrate individuality? Explain the poet's message. (5 marks)
  • Model Answer: D.J. Enright's poem 'The Rebel' is a witty exploration of non-conformity. The rebel is characterised by doing the exact opposite of what everyone else does — keeping long hair when others have short, staying silent when others talk, and so on. This deliberate opposition highlights the human need to stand out and assert individuality. The poet uses paradox throughout, making each stanza mirror the previous one in reverse, which is both humorous and thought-provoking. The concluding lines, 'It is very good that we have rebels. You may not be one,' carry a double message: society needs rebels to challenge norms and bring change, but universal rebellion would lead to chaos. The poem thus balances appreciation of uniqueness with a subtle warning against mindless defiance. For Class 7 students, this poem encourages critical thinking about peer pressure, conformity, and the courage to be different — values important in adolescent development and frequently tested in CBSE exams through interpretive and value-based questions.

Extract-Based Questions (Prose and Poem) with Answers

Extract-based or reference-to-context questions are a staple in CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb exams, usually worth 2-3 marks each. The examiner provides a short passage or stanza, and students must identify the speaker, explain the context, and interpret meaning or literary devices. For 'A Gift of Chappals', extracts often feature dialogue between Mridu, Ravi, or Rukku Manni, testing comprehension and inference. For 'The Rebel', expect stanzas showcasing paradox or contrasting behaviour. When answering, always state: (i) who is speaking and to whom, (ii) what is happening at that moment in the story or poem, and (iii) the significance or meaning of the lines. Use NCERT terminology and avoid vague language. Below are sample extracts with model answers that follow CBSE marking schemes. Practising these sharpens close-reading skills and ensures you can handle any extract CBSE throws at you in Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 assessments.
  • Extract 1 (Prose): 'She did not think that a kitten should be given such a fine name. It should be reserved for a really big person.' — (i) Who is 'she'? A. Mridu. (ii) Why did she think so? A. She felt the name 'Mahendran' was too grand for a small, stray kitten. (iii) What does this tell us about Mridu? A. She is practical and thoughtful, distinguishing between reality and Ravi's imaginative storytelling.
  • Extract 2 (Poem): 'When everybody has short hair, / The rebel lets his hair grow long.' — (i) Name the poem and poet. A. 'The Rebel' by D.J. Enright. (ii) What does this line illustrate? A. The rebel's tendency to do the opposite of what is popular or common. (iii) Identify the poetic device. A. Paradox, as the rebel's behaviour contrasts sharply with societal norms.
  • Extract 3 (Prose): 'We have given them to the beggar,' said Ravi. — (i) What had been given to the beggar? A. The music teacher's chappals. (ii) Why did Ravi say this? A. To justify their action by highlighting the beggar's need. (iii) What was the music teacher's likely reaction? A. Anger and disbelief, as his belongings were given away without permission.

How CBSE Frames Questions from Chapter 2: Question Patterns and Trends

Understanding how CBSE constructs questions for Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 gives students a strategic edge. The board typically balances factual recall, comprehension, and analytical thinking. For 'A Gift of Chappals', expect character-based questions (Mridu's empathy, Ravi's imagination), plot-sequence VSAs, and value-based long answers on kindness and social awareness. Questions often ask 'Why did the children…?' or 'What does this incident reveal about…?', testing inference rather than rote memory. For 'The Rebel', questions focus on poetic devices (paradox, rhyme scheme ABABCC), the central theme of individuality, and line-by-line interpretation of stanzas. Since 2023, CBSE has increased the share of MCQs and competency-based questions, so students must be ready for assertion-reason formats and case-based mini-passages linking the chapter to real-life scenarios. Reviewing the latest CBSE sample papers, previous-year question papers from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, and model answers in Class 7 English Honeycomb solutions ensures familiarity with current trends and typical phrasing used by examiners.
  • Character analysis questions: 'Describe Mridu/Ravi. What traits do they display?' (3-5 marks)
  • Plot-based MCQs: Testing sequence of events, speaker identification, or specific details (1 mark each)
  • Poetic device identification: 'Identify and explain the paradox in stanza 2 of The Rebel' (2-3 marks)
  • Extract-based comprehension: Passage from prose or stanza from poem with 3 sub-questions (2-3 marks total)
  • Value-based long answer: 'What values do you learn from the children's actions?' (5 marks)
  • Vocabulary and word-meaning: 'Find a word from the passage that means the same as…' (1 mark)

Common Mistakes Students Make and How to Avoid Them

Even well-prepared students lose marks in CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 due to avoidable errors. One frequent mistake is writing overly long answers for two-mark questions, wasting time and risking incomplete papers. Stick to the mark allocation: roughly 30-40 words for two marks, 60-70 for three marks, and 100-120 for five marks. Another common pitfall is misidentifying the speaker in extract-based questions — always read the lines carefully and check pronouns and context clues. In 'The Rebel', students often confuse paradox with irony or forget to state the rhyme scheme when asked; revise literary terms from NCERT Class 7 English Honeycomb notes before exams. For 'A Gift of Chappals', many students retell the story instead of analysing it, which earns minimal marks in long answers. Avoid starting answers with 'This chapter is about…' or 'The poet says…' — dive straight into the answer. Finally, spelling errors in character names (Mridu, Mahendran, Lalli) and author names (Vasantha Surya, D.J. Enright) can cost marks in objective questions, so double-check spellings during revision.
  • Mistake 1: Writing story summary instead of character analysis in long answers — Fix: Focus on traits, actions, and their significance.
  • Mistake 2: Not quoting or referencing the text in answers — Fix: Use short, accurate quotes to support points.
  • Mistake 3: Forgetting to identify poetic devices in 'The Rebel' — Fix: Memorise paradox, rhyme scheme ABABCC, and examples of each.
  • Mistake 4: Leaving extract-based sub-questions unanswered — Fix: Attempt all parts; even partial answers earn marks.
  • Mistake 5: Poor time management, spending too long on 5-mark questions — Fix: Practise writing timed answers; allocate 8-10 minutes for 5-markers.
  • Mistake 6: Ignoring the word limit in descriptive answers — Fix: Use bullet points or short paragraphs to stay concise and clear.

Tips to Score Full Marks in Chapter 2 Questions

Maximising your score in CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 requires a blend of conceptual clarity, exam technique, and consistent practice. First, read both 'A Gift of Chappals' and 'The Rebel' at least three times — once for the story, once for themes and characters, and once for language and literary devices. Annotate your NCERT textbook with notes on key events, character traits, and important lines. For MCQs, eliminate obviously wrong options first, and for extract-based questions, underline keywords in the passage to locate context quickly. When writing long answers, plan your response with a quick mental outline — introduction, three points, conclusion — before you start. Use simple, correct English; CBSE values clarity over ornate language. Practise previous-year question papers and sample papers under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy. Refer to Class 7 English Honeycomb solutions from NCERT or trusted guides to cross-check your answers and learn model phrasing. Finally, consider using CBSETUTOR.ai for personalised doubt-solving; the platform offers 24×7 AI tutoring with photo upload at a flat ₹999/month for all classes 6-12, with a 3-day free trial, making it easy to clarify tricky questions or get instant feedback on your written answers.
  • Read the chapter thoroughly, focusing on character motivations and thematic elements.
  • Memorise author names, character names, and spellings to secure objective question marks.
  • For poem questions, revise rhyme scheme, poetic devices, and stanza-wise summary.
  • Practise writing answers within word limits; use bullet points for clarity where appropriate.
  • Solve at least 5-6 sample papers or previous-year questions for this chapter before the exam.
  • Review NCERT 'Working with Text' and 'Working with Language' exercises; exam questions often mirror these.
  • Use CBSETUTOR.ai to upload question photos and get instant, step-by-step solutions, especially for tricky value-based or extract questions.

How CBSETUTOR.ai Supports Class 7 English Honeycomb Preparation

Preparing for CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb becomes significantly easier with the right support system. CBSETUTOR.ai is designed specifically for Indian CBSE students in classes 6-12, offering 24×7 AI-powered tutoring at a flat ₹999 per month — one price for all subjects and classes. Students can upload photos of any question from Chapter 2, whether it is an extract-based query, a poetic device identification task, or a long-answer prompt, and receive instant, step-by-step solutions grounded in NCERT content. The platform explains not just the answer but the reasoning behind it, helping students understand how CBSE frames questions and what examiners look for in model answers. For 'A Gift of Chappals' and 'The Rebel', CBSETUTOR.ai provides character maps, theme summaries, poetic device glossaries, and practice question banks with marking schemes. Parents appreciate the affordability and the 3-day free trial, which lets students explore the platform risk-free. With personalised feedback and unlimited question uploads, CBSETUTOR.ai acts as a virtual tutor available anytime — perfect for last-minute revision, homework help, or deep conceptual clarity in Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 and beyond.
  • Instant doubt-solving via photo upload for any question from 'A Gift of Chappals' or 'The Rebel'.
  • Step-by-step model answers aligned with CBSE marking schemes and NCERT terminology.
  • Access to curated question banks, sample papers, and previous-year solutions for Chapter 2.
  • Explanations of poetic devices, character analysis, and thematic interpretation in simple language.
  • Affordable pricing: ₹999/month for all subjects and classes 6-12, with a 3-day free trial.
  • 24×7 availability — ideal for students in smaller cities or those without access to quality coaching.
  • Personalised learning paths that adapt to individual strengths and weaknesses in English literature.

Frequently asked questions

How many marks does CBSE Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 2 carry in exams?+
Chapter 2 typically carries 6-8 marks in term exams, distributed across MCQs, short-answer questions (2-3 marks), and one long-answer or value-based question (5 marks). Internal assessments may allocate 3-4 marks from this chapter.
What is the best way to prepare 'The Rebel' for the exam?+
Read the poem multiple times, note the rhyme scheme (ABABCC), understand the central theme of individuality, and memorise examples of paradox from each stanza. Practise extract-based and 3-mark interpretation questions using NCERT solutions and Class 7 English Honeycomb notes.
Are extract-based questions from 'A Gift of Chappals' common in CBSE exams?+
Yes, CBSE frequently includes 2-3 mark extract-based questions from the prose. Students must identify the speaker, explain context, and interpret the significance of the lines. Reviewing NCERT 'Working with Text' exercises helps enormously.
How should I structure a 5-mark answer for Chapter 2?+
Start with a brief introduction (one sentence), present three to four well-developed points with examples or quotes from the text, and conclude with a summary or personal reflection if the question asks for values. Aim for 100-120 words and clear paragraphs.
What poetic devices are important in 'The Rebel'?+
The key device is paradox — the rebel does the opposite of everyone else. Also note the rhyme scheme ABABCC and the use of repetition for emphasis. Questions often ask you to identify and explain these devices with examples from the poem.
Can CBSETUTOR.ai help with Chapter 2 important questions?+
Absolutely. CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI tutoring where you can upload any question from 'A Gift of Chappals' or 'The Rebel' and receive instant, detailed model answers. The platform costs ₹999/month for all classes 6-12 and includes a 3-day free trial.
What common mistakes should I avoid in Chapter 2 answers?+
Avoid retelling the story instead of analysing it, forgetting to quote the text, misspelling character or author names, writing beyond the word limit, and leaving extract sub-questions blank. Always read the question carefully and stick to the mark allocation.
How do I identify the speaker in extract-based questions?+
Read the lines carefully, look for pronouns (he, she, I), and match the content with events in the chapter. For 'A Gift of Chappals', note who is present in the scene. For 'The Rebel', the poet is the speaker unless the question specifies otherwise.
Are value-based questions asked from this chapter?+
Yes, CBSE often includes 5-mark value-based questions on empathy, kindness, individuality, and social responsibility, drawing from the actions of Mridu, Ravi, and the children, as well as the theme of 'The Rebel'. Prepare by linking chapter events to real-life values.
Where can I find previous-year questions for Chapter 2?+
Check CBSE official sample papers, Kendriya Vidyalaya question banks, NCERT exemplar materials, and trusted guides. CBSETUTOR.ai also provides curated previous-year and practice questions with complete solutions for Chapter 2 and all Honeycomb chapters.

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