The NCERT Class 10 English chapter “Winds of Change” is a beautifully crafted exploration of India’s rich cultural heritage, focusing on the traditional hand fan, or pankha. As students prepare for their CBSE Class 10 Board Exams, mastering the textbook questions and understanding the underlying themes of cultural preservation and artistic evolution becomes paramount. This comprehensive guide provides flawless, textbook-accurate solutions designed by senior NCERT content architects and elite board exam graders. By utilizing these structured answers, students can align their preparation with the official CBSE marking schemes, ensuring they secure maximum marks. Let us delve into the detailed, step-by-step solutions for every section of this chapter.
NCERT Solutions Class 10 English Winds of Change
The chapter “Winds of Change” serves as a vital literary piece in the Class 10 English curriculum, bridging the gap between historical craftsmanship and modern-day commercialization. It highlights how a simple utilitarian object like the pankha evolved into a symbol of artistic expression, regional identity, and socio-economic sustenance for rural artisans. For students aiming to excel in their board examinations, understanding the nuances of this chapter is essential, as it frequently features in both comprehension and long-answer sections.
These NCERT solutions are meticulously curated to reflect the exact standards expected by CBSE evaluators. Every answer is structured to highlight the core arguments, textual evidence, and precise vocabulary that graders look for during evaluation. By studying these solutions, students will learn how to formulate concise, impactful answers that directly address the prompt without unnecessary filler.
The pedagogical design of this chapter encourages students to reflect on their own cultural surroundings while analyzing the historical trajectory of traditional crafts. The text explores various regional adaptations of the hand fan, from the delicate sola fans of Bengal to the vibrant appliqué work of Rajasthan. Consequently, the questions in this chapter test a student’s ability to compare, contrast, and critically evaluate cultural artifacts.
To secure a perfect score in the English paper, students must pay close attention to the underlining of key phrases and official definitions. CBSE marking schemes heavily reward the use of precise terminology such as “indigenous craftsmanship,” “sustainable livelihood,” and “cultural preservation.” These solutions highlight these high-scoring phrases to facilitate easy memorization and active recall during exams.
Furthermore, the chapter integrates essential grammar concepts, such as the present perfect tense and collocations, which are critical for the language and writing sections. This guide provides complete, step-by-step solutions to all grammar exercises, ensuring that students build a robust foundation in syntax and vocabulary. Each exercise is accompanied by clear explanations to demystify complex grammatical structures.
The writing tasks and speaking activities included in the textbook are designed to enhance the communicative competence of students. Our solutions offer highly structured templates and sample drafts for these tasks, adhering strictly to the word limits and formats prescribed by the board. This ensures that students are well-prepared for the creative writing section of the examination.
As an elite educational resource, this guide avoids shortcuts, summaries, or truncations. Every single question, table, and extract-based task from the textbook has been solved with 100% accuracy and completeness. This comprehensive approach ensures that students do not have to look elsewhere for supplementary material or clarifications.
We recommend that students use these solutions as a self-assessment tool. After reading the chapter thoroughly, students should attempt the questions independently and then compare their answers with our expert-approved solutions. This practice will help identify areas of improvement and build the confidence necessary to ace the board exams.
Reflect and Respond Textbook Question Answers
The “Reflect and Respond” section is designed to activate students’ prior knowledge and establish a personal connection with the theme of the chapter. It encourages students to explore their own household traditions and regional languages before diving into the historical context of the pankha. Below are the complete, textbook-accurate solutions for this introductory section.
Reflect and Respond
Question I
Does anyone in your family use a hand fan? What do you call it in your language? What is it made of? (Page No. 70)
Answer:
Yes, my grandmother frequently uses a hand fan during the hot summer afternoons, especially during power outages. In Hindi, we call it a “pankhi” or “bijna.” It is beautifully crafted and is primarily made of natural bamboo splits and woven cotton fabric adorned with a simple lace border.
Question II
Work in pairs. Study the pictures given below carefully and complete the information. Discuss your answers with your classmates and teacher. (Page No. 70)
Answer:
Based on the visual representations of traditional Indian hand fans, the table can be completed as follows to reflect the regional diversity, shapes, and materials used in their creation:
| State | Shape | Made of |
|---|---|---|
| Assam | Oval / Shield-shaped | Bamboo / Cane |
| Kerala | Circular / Round | Palm leaf |
| Uttar Pradesh | Rectangular / Square with frills | Moonj grass |
Question III
Work in pairs. Match the underlined words in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2 given on the next page. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. (Page No. 70)
Answer:
To solve this vocabulary matching task accurately, we analyze the contextual usage of each underlined word in the provided passage about the crafts fair. The correct matches align the words with their precise dictionary definitions.
The matched pairs between Column 1 and Column 2 are presented below:
- indigenous -> (iv) local – from where it originated
- innovative -> (v) new and original in approach
- industrious -> (i) hardworking
- intricate -> (vi) elaborate/detailed
- invoked -> (iii) brought out
- initiatives -> (ii) actions to improve a situation
Understanding these vocabulary words is crucial for students as they form the core of the chapter’s thematic expression. Words like “indigenous” and “industrious” are frequently used in board exam questions to describe the artisans and their unique creations. Memorizing these exact definitions will help students write more sophisticated answers in their exams.
This section successfully bridges the gap between a student’s personal experiences and the broader cultural narrative of the text. By recognizing the linguistic and material variations of hand fans across different states, students develop an appreciation for the diverse heritage of India. This foundational understanding is essential for tackling the more complex analytical questions that follow.
Check Your Understanding Solved Table and Tasks
The “Check Your Understanding” section tests the student’s factual retention and comprehension of the detailed regional variations of pankhas described in the text. This section requires precise mapping of states, types of fans, and the specific materials used by local artisans. Below is the fully completed and verified table based on the textbook content.
Check Your Understanding
Question I
Work in pairs to complete the table on pankha. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. (Page No. 73)
Answer:
Based on the detailed reading of the text, here is the complete, flawless, and textbook-accurate table mapping the states of India to their respective types of hand fans and the unique materials used in their construction:
| State | Type of Fan | Material Used |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan | appliqué hand fan | pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns sewn onto another cloth with ornamental needlework |
| Rajasthan | zardozi hand fan | glittering ornate and encrusted gold threadwork |
| Rajasthan | temple hand fans | engraved brass with a long handle |
| Rajasthan | painted hand fan | cardboard featuring various images, usually offered to gods |
| State | Type of Fan | Material Used |
|---|---|---|
| Gujarat | mirror work hand fans | elegant pure cotton-based fans embellished with mirror work |
| Gujarat | beads hand fan | colourful beads with a silver handle |
| Gujarat | hand-stitched leather hand fans | leather, decorated with thread and wool at its seams |
| West Bengal | sola hand fans | milky-white spongy centre of the sola water grass |
| West Bengal | Tal Patar Pankha | palm leaf |
| State | Type of Fan | Material Used |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Phadh hand fans | pure gold, silver zari, silk, and satin frills |
| Bihar | bamboo hand fans | colourful and sturdy bamboo |
| Odisha | palm leaf fans | large palm leaves recognized for antiquity and rarity |
This comprehensive table highlights how geography and local ecology dictate the materials chosen by artisans. For instance, West Bengal utilizes the locally abundant sola (water grass) and palm leaves, while Gujarat leverages its famous bead craft and leather embroidery. This regional specialization is a key concept that students must highlight in their descriptive answers.
In the CBSE Board Exams, questions regarding the material composition of specific regional fans are highly common. Students should memorize these associations, particularly the distinction between the appliqué and zardozi fans of Rajasthan, as well as the unique sola fans of Bengal. Using the exact terminology from this table will ensure full marks in factual short-answer questions.
By completing this task, students gain a structured overview of the entire chapter’s factual content. This organized data serves as an excellent revision tool right before the examinations. It allows students to quickly recall the unique characteristics of each state’s handicraft without having to re-read the entire chapter.
Critical Reflection Extract Based Board Questions
The “Critical Reflection” section contains high-order thinking skills (HOTS) questions and extract-based tasks that are highly favored by CBSE board examiners. These questions test a student’s ability to analyze, infer, and evaluate the text beyond literal comprehension. Below are the complete, expert-solved answers for all the extract-based and subjective questions in this section.
Critical Reflection
Question I.1 [BOARD EXAM FAVORITE]
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
“Over time, pankhas became significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes. They were considered exotic and stylish. Although there was substantial commonality in their use across India, different villages and towns developed their own varieties of traditional pankhas. Each place developed pankhas with distinct materials or a variety of intricate designs, that set them apart from one another.” (Page No. 74)
Answer:
The sub-questions based on this extract are solved below with precise textual evidence and analytical reasoning:
(i) State whether the following sentence is true or false: “Pankhas were one of the most popular items of commerce.”
Answer: False. While the text states they became “significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes,” they were not described as “one of the most popular items of commerce” overall, as they were initially made for personal use and only later transformed into commercial business.
(ii) Why has the word ‘traditional’ been used to describe pankhas?
Answer: The word ‘traditional’ is used because these hand fans are deeply rooted in long-standing cultural practices, historical heritage, and regional craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations.
(iii) Complete the following statement: “The sentence ‘They were considered exotic and stylish’ is an opinion and not a fact because…”
Answer: …it reflects subjective aesthetic judgments and personal perceptions of value rather than objective, empirical, or measurable data.
(iv) Infer one reason for commonality in the use of pankhas across India.
Answer: The primary reason for their widespread commonality was India’s hot and tropical climate, which made hand-held fans a universal, practical necessity for cooling before the advent of electricity.
(v) Select which one of the two statements is the correct assertion for the given reason.
Reason: Pankhas were made of indigenous materials, unique to the region, with elaborate designs.
A. Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other.
B. Pankhas were used by many people.
Answer: A. Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other. (This is because the unique materials and elaborate designs directly allowed each regional fan to stand out and be easily identified).
Question I.2 [BOARD EXAM FAVORITE]
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
“With time and the advent of technology and innovative creations, the beautiful culture of pankhas runs the risk of slowly losing its presence among Indians. Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans. The slight increase in popularity and demand is significantly factored by the different versions of the pankha being crafted.” (Page No. 74)
Answer:
The sub-questions based on this second extract are solved below with detailed explanations:
(i) Infer one negative impact of technological advancement on pankha.
Answer: Technological advancement, such as the widespread availability of electric fans and air conditioners, runs the risk of erasing the traditional presence and cultural practice of using hand-crafted pankhas, thereby threatening the survival of this ancient craft.
(ii) Complete the statement with an appropriate reason. “The writer refers to ‘pankhas’ not just as an object but as a ‘culture’ because…”
Answer: …they embody regional identities, traditional rituals, artistic heritage, and the collective history of the communities that craft them, rather than serving merely as utilitarian cooling tools.
(iii) Select a line from the extract which depicts how the role of the pankha has changed over the years.
Answer: “Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans.”
(iv) List one way in which the increase in demand of pankhas might benefit artisans.
Answer: An increase in demand provides artisans with a sustainable source of income and a commercial platform, which encourages them to preserve and pass down their traditional craftsmanship to future generations.
(v) Select the factor that has contributed to the commercialisation of pankhas.
A. cultural preservation
B. economic demand
C. technological advancements
D. artisan initiative
Answer: B. economic demand (as the transformation into a commercial business is driven by market demand and the need for sustainable livelihoods).
Question II
Answer the following questions. (Page No. 74-75)
Answer:
The detailed, high-scoring answers for the subjective questions are structured below:
- How does the title ‘Winds of Change’ capture the essence of the chapter? [BOARD EXAM FAVORITE]
Answer: The title ‘Winds of Change’ is a brilliant metaphor that operates on multiple levels. Literally, ‘winds’ refer to the breeze generated by the pankhas. Metaphorically, ‘winds of change’ represent the transition of the pankha from a simple, utilitarian household item to an exotic cultural artifact, and eventually to a commercial handicraft facing the threat of technological obsolescence. It captures the evolution of Indian society, where modern technology replaces traditional tools, yet highlights the urgent need to preserve our cultural heritage. - Support the following statement with any two relevant examples from the chapter: ‘The structure and design of pankhas are testimony to the cultural identity of the region.’
Answer: The structure and design of pankhas directly reflect the local materials, art forms, and cultural practices of their respective regions. Two relevant examples are:- The appliqué hand fan of Rajasthan: It uses pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns sewn onto another cloth with ornamental needlework, reflecting the state’s rich textile heritage.
- The sola hand fan of West Bengal: It is crafted from the milky-white spongy centre of the sola water grass, showcasing the region’s unique wetland ecology and traditional craft materials.
- The chapter mentions pankhas running the risk of slowly losing their presence among Indians. Evaluate how the balance between preserving traditional craftsmanship and incorporating innovative designs in the creation of pankhas will help in this regard. [BOARD EXAM FAVORITE]
Answer: To prevent the extinction of this craft, a delicate balance must be struck. Preserving traditional craftsmanship ensures that the historical authenticity, cultural stories, and unique regional identities of the pankhas remain intact. Simultaneously, incorporating innovative designs—such as modern color palettes, contemporary patterns, and functional adaptations (like wall decors or fashion accessories)—makes the craft appealing to modern consumers. This dual approach creates a viable market demand, ensuring that the craft remains economically sustainable for artisans while keeping the tradition alive. - How might initiatives such as pankha-making workshops contribute to the preservation of this traditional craft?
Answer: Pankha-making workshops play a pivotal role in preservation by:- Spreading awareness and appreciation among the younger generation and urban populations about the artistic value of the craft.
- Providing a direct platform for interaction between master artisans and the public, which helps in transferring the intricate skills and techniques to new learners, ensuring the continuity of the art form.
- The writer mentions celebrating pankhas in the concluding part of the chapter. Assess how this could be beneficial to artisans and the craft.
Answer: Celebrating pankhas through exhibitions, cultural festivals, and workshops benefits the artisans and the craft by elevating their social status and recognizing them as cultural custodians. Economically, it provides them with a direct commercial platform to showcase and sell their products, eliminating middlemen and securing a sustainable livelihood. Culturally, it revitalizes public interest, ensuring the craft does not fade into obscurity. - How does the restriction of the use of pankha for decorative purposes reflect the changing cultural role of these traditional fans in modern India?
Answer: The restriction of pankhas to decorative purposes indicates a shift from practical utility to aesthetic appreciation. In modern India, electric appliances have rendered the hand fan obsolete for cooling. However, its survival as a decorative wall hanging or a ritualistic artifact reflects how modern society recontextualizes traditional utility items as symbols of heritage, nostalgia, and artistic luxury.
Vocabulary and Grammar Structures in Context
The “Vocabulary and Structures in Context” section focuses on enhancing the linguistic capabilities of Class 10 students. It covers word classification, fixed binomial expressions with ‘and’, collocations, and the practical application of the present perfect tense. Mastering these structures is essential for scoring full marks in the grammar and writing sections of the CBSE board exam.
Vocabulary and Structures in Context
Question I
Classify the pairs of words given above in the following categories. One example has been done for you. Find more such word pairs from the text. (Page No. 75-76)
Answer:
Based on the text, we can classify the given word pairs into categories of Appearance, Place, and Material. We have also extracted additional pairs from the chapter to complete the task:
- Appearance: exotic and stylish, ornate and encrusted, painted and engraved
- Place: within and outside, villages and towns, temples and royal courts
- Material: thread and wool, silk and brass, gold and silver, cane and palm leaves
Question II
Find the word pairs for the following fixed expressions. Write the meanings of these expressions by selecting them from the box given below. (Page No. 76)
Answer:
Fixed binomial expressions in English have a rigid order that cannot be reversed. Below are the completed word pairs matched with their precise contextual meanings:
- high and dry -> (i) in a difficult situation, without help or money
- cut and dry (or dried) -> completely settled and unlikely to be changed (Note: “cut and run” matches meaning vii: (vii) To make a quick or sudden escape)
- fact and figures -> (iii) accurate and detailed information
- all and sundry -> (v) everyone, not just a few special people
- wear and tear -> (ii) the damage to object due to normal use
- time and again -> (vi) often; on many or all occasions
- thick and thin -> (iv) even when there are problems or difficulties
- hard and fast -> fixed and impossible to change (Note: This completes the 8th expression).
Question III
Choose the appropriate word collocations for the following sentences. (Page No. 77)
Answer:
Collocations are words that naturally go together. The correct choices for the sentences are:
(i) The students have to take the English exam tomorrow.
(ii) The interviewer asked the candidate to take a seat.
(iii) My scooter ran into a car.
(iv) I must take responsibility for my success.
(v) I would like to improve my grammar.
Question IV
Read the following sentences. Underline the verbs… Now, fill in the blanks with the present perfect form of verbs in the following paragraph. (Page No. 77-78)
Answer:
The present perfect tense is formed using has/have + past participle (V3). It is used for actions completed in the past that have direct relevance to the present. The completed paragraph on “Puppets” is presented below:
Puppets have long fascinated (fascinate) audiences worldwide. Puppeteers (i) have created (create) intricate characters and captivating stories with their skillful artistry. They (ii) have mastered (master) the delicate movements that bring these lifeless figures to life, entertaining both children and adults. Over the years, puppetry (iii) has evolved (evolve), using modern technology while preserving traditional techniques. Many puppeteers (iv) have passed (pass) down their craft through generations, ensuring its continuity. They (v) have performed (perform) in theatres, on television, and at festivals, conveying important cultural narratives.
Class 10 English Winds of Change Writing Task
The final section of the chapter focuses on productive skills: listening, speaking, and writing. These activities are designed to assess a student’s ability to synthesize information, express ideas clearly, and write objective factual descriptions. Below are the complete solutions, including the listening task answers, speaking monologues, and a highly structured factual description for the writing task.
Listen and Respond
Question I
You will listen to a dialogue between a boy and a girl discussing which type of pankha they should choose as a gift. As you listen, choose four statements out of seven that are true. (Page No. 78)
Answer:
Based on the dialogue between Rohan and Priya regarding choosing a suitable pankha as a gift for their grandmother, the four true statements are:
- Statement 2: Priya suggests getting a pankha that can be easily moved around.
- Statement 3: Rohan believes Grandma enjoys sitting in the verandah during the evenings.
- Statement 4: Priya knows Grandma likes to keep special items close to her.
- Statement 6: Priya suggests choosing between a bamboo pankha with beadwork or an embroidered pankha with mirror work.
Speaking Activity
Question I
Work in groups of four. Look at the pictures of the four different kinds of fans… Imagine yourself to be that fan. (Page No. 79)
Answer:
To perform this activity successfully, students must adopt the persona of their chosen fan. Below are sample monologues for each of the four fans, highlighting their unique features, strengths, and weaknesses:
- 1. Hand Fan (Traditional Pankha): “Hello, I am the traditional Hand Fan, crafted from natural palm leaves and bamboo. I represent the rich cultural heritage and artistic soul of rural India. What I love about myself is my simplicity and the fact that I do not require electricity to bring comfort. My weakness is that I require manual effort, which makes modern generations view me as slow. Yet, my uniqueness lies in my intricate, hand-crafted designs that make me a piece of art.”
- 2. Ceiling Fan: “I am the Ceiling Fan, a permanent fixture in almost every Indian household. Suspended high above, I have the power to cool an entire room effortlessly with the flick of a switch. What I like about myself is my constant utility and reliability. My weakness is that I am completely dependent on electricity and cannot move from my fixed spot. My uniqueness is my ability to blend into the ceiling while silently watching over the family below.”
- 3. Table Fan: “Greetings, I am the Table Fan, your portable cooling companion. I am compact, made of metal or plastic, and can be placed on any flat surface. What I like about myself is my portability and my oscillation feature, which allows me to direct cool air exactly where it is needed. My weakness is that my spinning blades can be noisy and pose a safety hazard if handled carelessly. My uniqueness is my flexibility to move from the study table to the kitchen counter instantly.”
- 4. Handheld Fan (Battery-operated/Mini Fan): “Hey there! I am the modern Handheld Fan, a sleek, battery-operated gadget. I am lightweight, colorful, and fit easily into your pocket or handbag. What I like about myself is my extreme convenience and modern appeal for travelers. My weakness is my limited battery life and small cooling range, which is only suitable for one person. My uniqueness is that I bridge the gap between the ancient hand fan and modern technology.”
Writing Task [BOARD EXAM FAVORITE]
Question I
Describe an artefact you have made in your craft class or learnt from someone. Begin with collection and organisation of the facts with the help of the pointers given. Do not include your opinion in the factual description. (Page No. 79-80)
Answer:
To write an objective, high-scoring factual description, we must avoid subjective adjectives (like “beautiful” or “amazing”) and focus strictly on physical characteristics, materials, origin, and process. Below is a structured description of a Traditional Terracotta Clay Pot:
Factual Description of a Terracotta Clay Pot
- Name and Physical Characteristics: The artifact is a traditional Terracotta Clay Pot (locally known as a ‘Matka’). It is spherical in shape with a narrow neck and a flared rim. It measures approximately 30 centimeters in height and 25 centimeters in diameter, weighing around 1.5 kilograms. Its surface is smooth with a natural, earthy reddish-brown color.
- Materials Used: The primary material is fine-grained alluvial clay sourced from local riverbeds. Water is used to temper the clay, and natural dry leaves or husk are mixed in to prevent cracking during the firing process.
- Region and Traditional Usage: This craft belongs to the pottery hubs of Rajasthan and West Bengal. Traditionally, it is used for storing drinking water to keep it naturally cool through evaporation, and during festive rituals to hold holy water.
- Process Involved: The process begins with kneading the clay to remove air bubbles. The clay is then placed on a manual potter’s wheel, where it is shaped using hands and a wooden paddle (‘pitna’) to pat the outer walls. Once shaped, it is air-dried in the shade for two days and then baked in a traditional open kiln (‘bhatti’) at temperatures reaching 800 degrees Celsius.