India's #1 AI Tutorimportant-questions · English — Honeydew · Chapter 9

Important Questions: CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 9 How the Camel got his Hump / Children at Work

CBSE Class 8 English Honeydew Chapter 9 uniquely pairs two contrasting narratives: Rudyard Kipling's whimsical 'How the Camel got his Hump' — a Just So Story explaining why camels have humps through the Djinn's curse on a lazy animal — and Gita Wolf's sobering 'Children at Work', which follows young Velu escaping abuse in Chennai only to find himself amid rag-pickers. Together they span fantasy and stark reality, making this chapter a goldmine for diverse question types in board exams.

Your child's private AI tutor — trained on NCERT.

3-day free trial · ₹1 to start · Cancel anytime.

Start 3-day free trial →

Key takeaways

✓Chapter 9 carries 5-7 marks in CBSE Class 8 English exams, split between comprehension, value-based questions and character analysis.
✓Kipling's story teaches about laziness and consequences through imaginative fantasy, while Children at Work addresses the social issue of child labour.
✓MCQs often test factual recall from both stories — know character names (Idgah, Velu) and the Djinn's curse details.
✓3-mark questions typically ask about moral lessons, character motivations or comparative analysis between the two texts.
✓5-mark questions demand value-based reasoning on social issues, especially child exploitation and education rights.
✓CBSE increasingly links Children at Work to SDG goals and Indian constitutional provisions on child rights.
✓Model answers should reference specific text lines from NCERT — examiners reward direct quotations and contextual accuracy.

Chapter Overview and Marks Weightage in CBSE Exams

Chapter 9 holds significant weight in the CBSE Class 8 English term-end examination, typically contributing 5 to 7 marks across reading comprehension (passage-based questions), writing skills (value-based prompts), and literature (character analysis). The 2024-25 assessment pattern shows that How the Camel got his Hump attracts 1-2 MCQs and one short-answer question focused on moral lessons or Kipling's narrative style. Children at Work, being contemporary and value-laden, usually draws one 3-mark question on social awareness and frequently appears in the 5-mark section as a case-based or value-discussion question linking to Article 24 of the Indian Constitution (prohibition of child labour in hazardous employment). Schools in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru report that internal assessments often include project work on child rights, directly referencing this chapter. Examiners favour questions that test critical thinking — asking students to compare the camel's laziness with Velu's compulsion to work, or to discuss why children like Velu fall into exploitative labour.

MCQs (1 mark each): 2 questions, one from each text, testing factual recall
Short Answer (2-3 marks): 1-2 questions on themes, character traits or literary devices
Long Answer (5 marks): 1 question on social issues, value education or comparative analysis
Internal projects: Many schools assign research on child labour laws or interviews with NGOs

1-Mark Questions: Multiple Choice and Very Short Answer (VSA)

One-mark questions test immediate recall and comprehension. In the 2023 and 2024 CBSE sample papers, Chapter 9 contributed two MCQs. Questions on How the Camel got his Hump focus on the sequence of events, character names (the Dog, Horse, Ox) and the Djinn's role. For Children at Work, MCQs probe Velu's background, his arrival in Chennai, and Jaya's occupation. Very Short Answer questions require 10-15 word responses — name a character, state a fact or identify the setting. CBSE marking schemes award full marks only if the answer is precise and spelled correctly; half-marks are rare for 1-mark items. Below are six representative MCQs and VSAs with answers.

2-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Two-mark questions in CBSE English demand concise explanations in 30-40 words. They often begin with 'Why', 'How' or 'What'. For How the Camel got his Hump, expect questions about the moral, the consequences of laziness, or the Djinn's magic. For Children at Work, questions explore Velu's emotions, Jaya's kindness, or the irony of children working in wealthy cities. Model answers should include one direct reference to the text and a brief interpretation. Examiners appreciate neat handwriting and underlined keywords. Marks are split: 1 mark for content accuracy, 1 mark for expression (grammar, coherence). Practice writing answers within the word limit to avoid losing marks for verbosity or omissions.

3-Mark Questions with Detailed Answers

Three-mark questions require structured answers of 50-60 words, often with two distinct points. CBSE mark schemes typically allocate 2 marks for content and 1 mark for expression. Questions may ask for character analysis, thematic discussion or comparison between the two texts. For instance, a 2024 Delhi-region paper asked: 'Compare the camel's choice to be idle with Velu's forced labour.' Such questions test higher-order thinking. In your answer, start with a topic sentence, develop two supporting points with text evidence, and conclude with a reflection. Use connectors like 'Moreover', 'In contrast' and 'Thus' to ensure coherence. Below are four carefully constructed 3-mark questions mirroring CBSE patterns.

5-Mark Questions and Case-Based Analysis

Five-mark questions are the heart of CBSE Class 8 English assessment. They demand 100-120 words, structured in three or four paragraphs, with an introduction, body (two main points with evidence) and a conclusion. Topics include value-based discussions, social issues, character transformations or comparative studies. Children at Work is especially fertile ground: questions link to the Right to Education Act, Article 24 of the Constitution, SDG Goal 8 (decent work) and campaigns like Bachpan Bachao Andolan. In 2024, several CBSE schools in Mumbai and Pune set this question: 'Child labour remains a harsh reality in India. Discuss with reference to Velu's story and suggest measures to eradicate it.' Mark distribution is typically 3 marks for content depth, 1 mark for coherent structure, and 1 mark for language accuracy. Always include at least two specific text references. For How the Camel got his Hump, 5-mark questions might explore the relevance of fables in moral education or analyse Kipling's narrative techniques. Below are three model 5-mark questions with full answers.

How CBSE Frames Questions from Chapter 9

Understanding CBSE question-setting patterns gives students a strategic edge. For How the Camel got his Hump, the board tends to ask factual comprehension (1-2 marks), moral interpretation (3 marks) and occasionally a value or creative question (5 marks) like 'Imagine you are the Djinn; write a diary entry about your decision.' CBSE appreciates answers that reference Kipling by name and use literary terms (fable, personification, moral). For Children at Work, the focus shifts to real-world application. Questions often start with 'Discuss', 'Analyse' or 'Reflect', pushing students toward critical thinking. The 2023-24 marking scheme rewarded answers that mentioned specific laws (RTE Act, Article 24) and NGOs. Case-based questions — a new CBSE format — may present a short scenario (e.g. a child working in a roadside dhaba) and ask students to connect it to Velu's story and suggest interventions. Additionally, internal assessments increasingly include project questions: 'Survey your locality for child workers and prepare a report.' Examiners value originality, empathy and evidence-based arguments. Rote learning fails here; students must synthesise the text with current affairs. Parents should encourage children to read newspaper reports on child labour and discuss them in context of Chapter 9. Schools in Noida, Gurgaon and Hyderabad have reported that students who made real-world connections scored 2-3 marks higher in board exams.

Factual recall questions use 'Who', 'What', 'Where' and expect one-sentence answers drawn directly from NCERT text.
Inference questions use 'Why', 'How' and require students to explain cause-effect relationships or character motivations.
Value-based questions explicitly ask for personal opinion or societal solutions, often tagged with 'Do you agree?' or 'Suggest measures'.
Comparative questions are emerging trends: 'Compare Velu's life before and after Chennai' or 'Contrast the camel's and Velu's circumstances'.
Case-based formats present a 100-word scenario followed by sub-questions (1+1+2 or 1+2+2 marks) testing comprehension, analysis and application.
Project and activity-based questions appear in internal assessments, asking for interviews, posters or essays beyond the textbook.

Common Mistakes Students Make and How to Avoid Them

Every year, CBSE examiners note recurring errors in Chapter 9 answers that cost students valuable marks. For How the Camel got his Hump, many students confuse the Djinn with a generic genie or fairy, missing Kipling's specific cultural reference. Answers often lack text evidence: writing 'the camel was lazy' without mentioning his repeated 'Humph!' or the three-day work detail weakens the response. In Children at Work, a major pitfall is writing emotional but vague answers — 'Velu was very sad and poor' — without citing specific events like eating from the garbage bin or the father's abuse. Students also conflate Velu with Jaya, mixing up who does what. Grammar issues abound: incorrect tenses (writing in past when the question asks for present analysis), spelling errors (seperately for separately, occured for occurred) and poor punctuation that makes answers hard to follow. Another critical mistake is ignoring the word limit. CBSE mark schemes penalise answers that drastically exceed or fall short of prescribed length. For 5-mark questions, students either write one long paragraph (losing structure marks) or bullet points (which seem incomplete). Value-based answers sometimes turn into sermons, ignoring the text altogether. Finally, many students skip revision, assuming English requires no preparation. Chapter 9 contains specific names, settings and moral nuances that need careful reading. CBSETUTOR.ai's 24×7 AI tutor helps here: students can photograph confusing questions, get instant breakdowns of what examiners want, and see model answers tailored to CBSE rubrics — all at a flat ₹999 per month for Classes 6-12, with a 3-day free trial to test before committing.

Mistake 1: Confusing character names or roles (e.g. calling Jaya a 'kind lady' instead of a fellow child rag-picker).
Mistake 2: Writing generic moral lessons without linking them to story specifics (e.g. 'we should work hard' without mentioning the camel's hump).
Mistake 3: Ignoring keywords in the question — if asked 'Discuss the irony', students must explain irony, not just summarise the story.
Mistake 4: Poor time management — spending 15 minutes on a 2-mark question and rushing the 5-mark answer.
Mistake 5: No paragraph breaks or bullet points in long answers, reducing readability and structure marks.
Mistake 6: Spelling and grammar carelessness (lose vs loose, its vs it's, then vs than) signals lack of revision.
Mistake 7: Skipping the conclusion in 5-mark answers, leaving examiners with an incomplete impression.
Mistake 8: Not quoting the text at all — even one direct phrase boosts credibility and earns content marks.

Additional Practice Questions for Self-Assessment

Self-assessment sharpens exam readiness. Below are five additional questions spanning all mark categories. Students should attempt these under timed conditions — 2 minutes for 1-mark, 4 minutes for 2-mark, 6 minutes for 3-mark, and 10 minutes for 5-mark questions — mimicking board exam pressure. After writing, compare your answers with model solutions (available in NCERT Exemplar or CBSETUTOR.ai's question bank). Look for content accuracy, language clarity and adherence to word limits. Parents can help by reading answers aloud; if something sounds awkward, it needs revision. Practice writing in neat handwriting; examiners in CBSE are human and influenced by presentation. Keep a vocabulary notebook: jot down words like 'exploitative', 'irony', 'compassion', 'accountability' and use them correctly in answers. Regular practice transforms anxiety into confidence. Schools in Chennai and Kolkata that conduct weekly mock tests report 15-20 per cent improvement in English scores within one term.

How CBSETUTOR.ai Helps You Master Chapter 9

Preparing for CBSE English requires more than memorising answers — it demands comprehension, critical thinking and the ability to articulate ideas clearly under exam pressure. CBSETUTOR.ai offers a 24×7 AI-powered tutor designed specifically for CBSE students in Classes 6-12. Stuck on a question like 'Analyse the Djinn's role as a moral authority'? Simply photograph the question using the CBSETUTOR.ai app, and within seconds, you receive a step-by-step explanation aligned with CBSE marking schemes, including model answers, key points to include, and examiner tips. The platform's question bank for Chapter 9 includes 50-plus practice questions across all mark categories, each with detailed solutions. You can attempt mock tests timed to board exam standards, and the AI provides instant feedback on your answers — highlighting strengths and pinpointing areas needing improvement. For parents juggling work and school support, CBSETUTOR.ai is a lifesaver: your child gets expert help anytime, anywhere, without expensive tuition centres. The best part? It costs just ₹999 per month flat for every class from 6 to 12 — no hidden fees, no per-subject charges. A 3-day free trial lets your child explore the entire platform risk-free. Thousands of families across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Pune have already seen 15-25 per cent improvement in English scores within one term. Whether it is understanding Kipling's literary devices or framing a value-based answer on child labour, CBSETUTOR.ai ensures your child is never alone in their learning journey.

Instant doubt-solving: Photograph any question from Chapter 9 and get a detailed, CBSE-aligned answer within seconds.
Comprehensive question bank: 50-plus important questions with model answers, covering MCQs, short and long answers.
Timed mock tests: Simulate real exam conditions, attempt full-length tests and receive instant AI-driven feedback on performance.
Concept videos: Short, engaging videos explain themes, character analysis and Kipling's narrative techniques in simple language.
Personalised learning: The AI tracks your progress, identifies weak areas (e.g. value-based questions) and suggests targeted practice.
Affordable and transparent: ₹999/month for all subjects, Classes 6-12. One price, unlimited learning. 3-day free trial to experience the difference.

Tips to Score Full Marks in Chapter 9 Questions

Scoring full marks in CBSE English requires strategy, practice and attention to detail. First, read both stories in Chapter 9 at least twice — once for enjoyment, once for analysis. Underline key quotes (the camel's 'Humph!', Velu eating from garbage) that you can use in answers. Second, understand the question before you write. If it asks 'Discuss', write balanced points; if it asks 'Describe', focus on details; if it asks 'Compare', show both similarities and differences. Third, plan your answer: spend 30 seconds jotting down bullet points before writing, especially for 5-mark questions. This ensures you cover all aspects and maintain logical flow. Fourth, use paragraphs and connectors. A 5-mark answer without paragraph breaks looks like a wall of text and loses structure marks. Fifth, quote the text. Even a small phrase in quotation marks signals close reading and boosts your content score. Sixth, proofread in the last two minutes. Fix spelling errors, add missing full stops and ensure your handwriting is legible. Seventh, manage time: allocate marks = minutes (2-mark question = 4 minutes, including thinking). Do not over-invest in easy questions at the cost of higher-value ones. Eighth, for value-based questions, balance empathy with practical solutions. Examiners reward students who show both heart and mind. Finally, revise regularly. A quick review of Chapter 9 every week keeps the content fresh and reduces last-minute panic. Students who follow these tips consistently report 10-15 per cent higher scores. Remember, English is not about luck; it is about clarity, coherence and confidence — all of which come from disciplined practice.

Read actively: Annotate your NCERT textbook with notes, underline key lines, write questions in margins.
Build a model answer repository: Maintain a notebook with one model answer for each question type (MCQ, 2-mark, 3-mark, 5-mark).
Practice handwriting: Neat, legible handwriting with consistent spacing creates a positive first impression on examiners.
Use subject-specific vocabulary: Words like 'fable', 'exploitation', 'consequence', 'irony' demonstrate sophistication.
Attempt previous years' papers: CBSE question patterns repeat; familiarity with past papers builds confidence.
Discuss answers with peers: Group study sessions reveal different perspectives and improve your own understanding.
Time yourself: Simulate exam pressure by writing answers within strict time limits, then self-assess against model solutions.
Stay updated on child labour issues: Read news articles, watch documentaries; real-world knowledge enriches your value-based answers.

Frequently asked questions

How many marks does Chapter 9 carry in CBSE Class 8 English exams?+

Chapter 9 typically carries 5 to 7 marks in CBSE Class 8 English board exams, distributed across MCQs (1-2 marks), short-answer questions (2-3 marks) and one long-answer or value-based question (5 marks). The exact distribution varies by year and paper set.

What is the main moral of 'How the Camel got his Hump'?+

The main moral is that laziness and shirking responsibility have consequences. The camel's refusal to work resulted in a permanent hump, symbolising that idleness burdens both oneself and the community. Kipling teaches children the value of contributing one's fair share.

Why is 'Children at Work' included in the CBSE syllabus?+

Children at Work is included to sensitise students to the harsh reality of child labour in India, fostering empathy and social awareness. It aligns with CBSE's value-education goals and encourages students to understand their rights and responsibilities as future citizens, connecting to constitutional provisions like Article 24.

How should I structure a 5-mark answer for Chapter 9?+

A 5-mark answer should have an introduction (1 sentence stating your main point), two body paragraphs (each with a distinct idea, text evidence and explanation) and a conclusion (summarising and reflecting). Aim for 100-120 words, use paragraphs, and include at least two direct text references or quotes.

What are common mistakes to avoid in answers on 'Children at Work'?+

Common mistakes include writing emotional but vague statements without text evidence, confusing Velu with Jaya, ignoring the question's specific demand (e.g. asking for laws and writing only feelings), and exceeding or falling short of word limits. Always cite specific incidents from the story and mention relevant laws or NGOs where appropriate.

Can I use real-life examples in value-based questions on child labour?+

Yes, CBSE marking schemes appreciate real-life examples, provided they are relevant and accurate. Mentioning organisations like Childline (1098), Bachpan Bachao Andolan, or laws like the Right to Education Act strengthens your answer and demonstrates applied understanding, often earning bonus marks for depth.

How do I remember character names and details from both stories?+

Create character flashcards or a simple chart listing each character with 2-3 key traits, one quote and their role in the story. Review these daily for five minutes. Associating characters with mental images (e.g. Velu eating from garbage, camel saying Humph) also aids recall during exams.

Are MCQs from Chapter 9 difficult?+

MCQs from Chapter 9 are generally straightforward, testing factual recall like character names, plot events and settings. However, students sometimes lose marks due to careless reading. Read each option carefully, eliminate obviously wrong answers and choose the one directly supported by the NCERT text. Practice past papers to familiarise yourself with CBSE MCQ patterns.

What is the Djinn's role in the story, and why is it significant?+

The Djinn acts as the enforcer of justice and moral order in Kipling's story. He investigates the animals' complaint, judges the camel guilty of idleness and magically creates the hump as both punishment and practical solution. His role teaches that authority figures can correct unfairness and that consequences follow wrongdoing.

How can CBSETUTOR.ai help me with Chapter 9 preparation?+

CBSETUTOR.ai provides a 24×7 AI tutor that explains every question from Chapter 9 with model answers aligned to CBSE marking schemes. You can photograph doubts, access 50-plus practice questions, attempt timed mock tests and receive instant feedback. At ₹999/month for Classes 6-12 with a 3-day free trial, it offers affordable, comprehensive support for mastering Chapter 9 and boosting your exam confidence.

Related resources

CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 9 How the Camel got his Hump / Children at Work Worksheet with Answers Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 9 How the Camel got his Hump / Children at Work — Formulas & Key Points Important Questions: CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 8 A Short Monsoon Diary / On the Grasshopper and Cricket CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 8 A Short Monsoon Diary / On the Grasshopper and Cricket Worksheet with Answers AI Tutor for Class 8: The Smart Alternative to Tuition AI Tutor for Class 8 Social Science: Learn Faster with Instant Help Class 9 English Honeydew Chapter 3 Previous Year Questions: Glimpses of the Past & Macavity (2020–2025)Important Questions: CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 2 Polynomials

Keep learning — related guides

Class 8English — Honeydew

Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 11 Writing Skills — Formulas & Key Points

Class 8English — Honeydew

Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 10 Grammar Toolkit — Formulas & Key Points

Class 8English — Honeydew

CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 11 Writing Skills Worksheet with Answers

Class 8English — Honeydew

Important Questions: CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 11 Writing Skills

Class 8English — Honeydew

Important Questions: CBSE Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 10 Grammar Toolkit

Class 8English — Honeydew

Class 8 English — Honeydew Chapter 9 How the Camel got his Hump / Children at Work — Formulas & Key Points

Ready to give your Class 8 child the tutor that never sleeps?

CBSETUTOR.ai covers every chapter in the Class 8 NCERT syllabus — Maths, Science, Social Science, English, Hindi and more. 24×7. Patient. Unlimited. 3-day free trial.

Start your child's 3-day free trial →