Follow That Dream Class 9- Summary & NCERT Solutions

Back to Class 9 English Notes

At a Glance

Author	Irene Chua
Source	An excerpt from the letter collection ‘My Daughter, My Friend’
Genre	Prose (a personal letter / non-fiction)
Central Figures	The mother (the letter’s author) and her teenage daughter, Ming
Central Theme	The effort, sacrifice, and honest self-assessment required to truly pursue a dream
Message	Dreams are worth chasing, but only with a realistic understanding of the years, cost, and sacrifice involved

NCERT Solutions

Reflect and Respond

I. Read the questions given below and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. What is your dream?

Answer: This is a personal-response question.

 A model answer: My dream is to become a wildlife photographer and use my photographs to help people appreciate and protect the natural world.

2. Who inspires you to dream?

Answer: This is a personal-response question.

 A model answer: My grandmother inspires me because she has always encouraged me to learn, try new things and believe that difficulties should not stop me from pursuing my goals.

3. What qualities should you have in order to fulfil your dream?

Answer: To fulfil a dream, I need determination, discipline, patience and self-belief. I should be willing to learn from mistakes, overcome difficulties and continue working towards my goal even when progress is slow.

4. Abdul Kalam said, ‘Dream is not that you see in sleep, dream is something that does not let you sleep.’ Discuss.

Answer: Abdul Kalam’s words suggest that a true dream is more than a wish or a pleasant thought. It is a goal that motivates a person to take action. Such a dream encourages us to work hard, remain focused and overcome difficulties. This idea connects with Follow Your Dreams, which shows that achieving a dream requires effort, determination and commitment, not merely imagination.

II. What role can parents and community play to help children achieve their dreams?

Answer: Parents can help children by providing encouragement, guidance and emotional support, while also allowing them to explore their interests and abilities. The community can contribute by providing opportunities, mentors, training and resources. When children receive support from both their families and their community, they gain greater confidence to pursue their dreams and face challenges.

III. Complete the given web chart: ‘Why is it important to follow a dream?’ Give as many reasons as you can.

Answer:

1. It gives purpose and direction to life.
2. It motivates us to work hard and remain focused.
3. It helps us discover and develop our abilities.
4. It teaches us to face challenges and learn from failures.
5. It builds confidence, determination and self-belief.
6. Achieving a meaningful dream brings a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
7. Our efforts and achievements can inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Check Your Understanding

I. State whether the following sentences are true or false.

1. True — The letter refers to the idea that reaching a high level of skill in a field generally requires focused effort and sustained practice over many years.
2. True — The mother emphasises that achieving an aspiration requires serious effort, commitment and personal sacrifice.
3. False — The path towards a deeply desired goal is not easy. The letter suggests that the journey may be uphill and involve many obstacles.
4. True — The mother acknowledges that a person’s goals, dreams and aspirations may change with time.
5. False — A strong network of supportive people can help a person pursue an ambition rather than become a hurdle.
6. False — The mother advises the reader to consider the financial investment and personal sacrifice that may be involved in pursuing a major goal.
7. True — The letter suggests that many aspirations remain only wishes because people do not move beyond daydreaming and take action.

Critical Reflection

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

1. It starts with a passion for a particular interest, then comes the conviction that it is imperative to realise it. Count the cost in years of effort, financial investments and sacrifice. Then if it is still burning in your blood and you are ready to commit yourself to the task, plunge. It could be in any field—sports, science, arts, business, or design. The road may be uphill most of the way and often you are buoyed up only by the knowledge that you are doing what you love best and are doing the right thing. When stamina is running out, the prospect of success will keep you on track.

(i) Complete the analogy:
enthusiasm : passion :: belief : __________

Answer: conviction

(ii) The author says that a realistic assessment of effort, investment and sacrifice is crucial for preventing __________.

A. the need for external support network
B. an early abandonment of the dream
C. initial excitement from fading over time
D. others from questioning one’s commitment

Answer: B. an early abandonment of the dream

(iii) The word ‘plunge’ as used in the extract indicates a __________ (complete/gradual) involvement in a task.

Answer: complete

(iv) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.

The author’s emphasis on ‘when you are doing what you love best and are doing the right thing’ works as a form of intrinsic motivation because __________.

Answer: the motivation comes from within the person through genuine interest and satisfaction in the work, rather than from external rewards.

(v) Mention one motivating factor besides ‘prospect of success’, that might keep a person on track, despite running out of stamina.

Answer: The knowledge that one is doing what one loves best and is doing the right thing.

2. From my own experience, life itself may change a person’s dreams. These hopes and aspirations are no less than the original dream of younger days. To fulfil them you will need to negotiate a path through a maze of hurdles. The dream will take a much longer time to realise, and the people who are participants in your dreamscape would be many more.

II. Answer the fo (i) Complete the sentence appropriately.

The phrase ‘life itself may change a person’s dreams’ suggests that dreams are not static but rather __________.
(evolving/dynamic)

Answer: dynamic

(ii) What does the author mean by, ‘hopes and aspirations are no less than the original dream of younger days’?

Answer: The author means that dreams that develop or change later in life are just as valuable and meaningful as the dreams a person had when they were younger.

(iii) Identify the phrase from the extract that indicates a complex and challenging journey.

Answer: ‘a maze of hurdles’

(iv) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.

The author says, ‘people who are participants in your dreamscape would be many more’ because __________.

Answer: a person’s dreams and aspirations may increasingly involve other people, who become part of the journey towards achieving them.

(v) What is the tone of the author in this extract?

A. appreciative and celebratory
B. excited and cheerful
C. optimistic and encouraging
D. eager and inquisitive

Answer: C. optimistic and encouraging

II Answer the following questions.

1. The letter begins thus, ‘By all means follow that dream’. What do you think Ming must have written to her mother about?

Answer: Ming must have written to her mother about a dream or ambition she wished to pursue, probably seeking her mother’s advice or expressing uncertainty about whether she should follow it. Her mother’s opening words show that she wanted Ming to pursue the dream after considering its demands carefully.

2. How can one attain an international level of skill in any field? Mention any two ways.

Answer: According to the letter, one can attain an international level of skill by pursuing the chosen field with focused and intensive effort for many years, often about a decade, and by being prepared to invest time, money and personal sacrifice in developing the required skill.

3. What differentiates the mere dreamers from actual achievers?

Answer: Mere dreamers only imagine or wish for success, whereas actual achievers turn their dreams into goals and take sustained action. They are prepared to face difficulties, make sacrifices and continue working towards their goals instead of remaining lost in daydreams.

4. How does Ming’s mother use critical questions and personal anecdotes to persuade Ming and convey her message effectively?

Answer: Ming’s mother encourages reflection by asking questions that make Ming consider how strongly she wants the dream, what she is prepared to sacrifice and whether she is ready for the difficulties involved. She also uses personal experiences and examples, including her own journey and experiences from the past, to show that dreams often require persistence, sacrifice and commitment. This makes her advice practical and convincing rather than merely theoretical.

5. How does Ming’s mother balance encouragement with caution in her advice?

Answer: She begins with strong encouragement by saying, ‘By all means follow that dream’, but she does not suggest following it blindly. She asks Ming to ‘count the cost’ by considering the years of effort, financial investment and personal sacrifice involved. Thus, she supports Ming’s ambition while encouraging her to make a realistic and informed decision.

6. In the letter, Ming’s mother specifically addresses the challenges people face in pursuing their dreams. Do you think this advice is still relevant in contemporary society? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer: Yes, the advice remains relevant today because achieving meaningful goals still requires patience, sustained effort and the willingness to face setbacks. In a world where quick success is often highlighted, the mother’s reminder that worthwhile achievements may take years helps people understand that pursuing a dream requires commitment rather than instant results.

7. What ‘costs’ in terms of effort, sacrifice, and time are you willing or unwilling to invest to pursue your goals?

Answer: This is a personal-response question. A model answer: I would be willing to give up some leisure time, practise regularly and remain committed to improving my skills. However, I would not be willing to sacrifice my health, essential family responsibilities or important relationships. I believe that pursuing a goal should involve dedication without losing a healthy balance in life.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context

I Read the following sentence from the text. The dream will take a much longer time to realise, and the people who are participants in your dreamscape would be many more. The word ‘dreamscape’ is a compound word where ‘-scape’ means ‘a view or scene of’.

 Now, refer to a dictionary and find out the meaning of the following words.

I. Compound words with ‘-scape’

Mindscape — the mental or imaginative view of a person’s thoughts and feelings.
Seascape — a view or picture of the sea.
Landscape — a view or area of natural scenery on land.
Cityscape — a view of a city, especially its buildings and streets.

1. Fill in the blanks in the following dialogue between two friends with the words given in the box.

Answer:

(i) seascape
(ii) cityscape
(iii) landscape
(iv) mindscape

II Read each sentence carefully and choose the best meaning for the underlined expression. Then, use that expression in a sentence of your own.

1. She had a dream that seemed to burn in her blood, and she wasn’t going to give up on it easily.

(i) make her angry
(ii) have a passionate desire
(iii) cause physical pain
(iv) become violent

Answer: (ii) have a passionate desire

Sentence: Her passion for classical dance seemed to burn in her blood from an early age.

2. Preparing for the final exam without proper notes felt like an uphill task.

(i) a tough challenge
(ii) a slow progress
(iii) a hard routine
(iv) a difficult choice

Answer: (i) a tough challenge

Sentence: Completing the project within two days proved to be an uphill task.

3. The team was buoyed up by their recent victory and felt confident about the next game.

(i) energised by success
(ii) encouraged by the result
(iii) motivated to improve
(iv) lifted in spirit

Answer: (iv) lifted in spirit

Sentence: She was buoyed up by her teacher’s encouraging words before the competition.

4. He thought he could ace the exam without studying, but that was just wishful thinking.

(i) a clever shortcut but no real effort behind it
(ii) a confident guess but lacking proper knowledge
(iii) a hopeful belief but unlikely to be true
(iv) a strong desire but based on facts and planning

Answer: (iii) a hopeful belief but unlikely to be true

Sentence: Expecting to succeed without making any effort is simply wishful thinking.

5. Don’t be a wet blanket—we’re trying to have fun!

(i) spoil-sport
(ii) latecomer
(iii) rule-breaker
(iv) daydreamer

Answer: (i) spoil-sport

Sentence: He did not want to be a wet blanket, so he joined his friends in the celebration.

6. Excitement was coursing through her veins as she stepped onto the stage for the first time.

(i) hiding deep inside
(ii) flowing through her body
(iii) lingering in her thoughts
(iv) causing numbness

Answer: (ii) flowing through her body

Sentence: Excitement was coursing through her veins as she waited for the results.

III Read the following sentence from the text. After all the obstacles are considered, if the burning conviction is still coursing through your veins, then go ahead and do something about it. Here, the first conditional is used to talk about real or possible situations in the future. Sometimes, instead of saying ‘will + verb’ in the main clause, we use an imperative (a command or advice).

Complete the sentences using your own words (imperatives):

Answer:

1. If the idea excites you, write it down and explore it further.
2. If you hear strange noises, stay calm and investigate carefully.
3. If this seems too hard, break the task into smaller steps.
4. If you care about the issue, take action and speak up.
5. If you finish early, check your work carefully.

IV. Analyse the usage of ‘could’ in the given sentences and match them with their functions.

Functions:

• Past ability or purpose
• Past possibility or speculation
• Possibility
• Unreal or hypothetical situation

1. ‘It could be in any field—sports, science, arts, business or design.’

Answer: Possibility

Here, ‘could’ suggests that the dream may be pursued in any one of several possible fields.

2. ‘I wish I could be this or the other,’ they have never got beyond just wishful thinking.

Answer: Unreal or hypothetical situation

Here, ‘could’ expresses something the people wish were possible, but which has not become a reality.

3. ‘They could have preferred to trade their dream for security.’

Answer: Past possibility or speculation

Here, ‘could have preferred’ refers to something that might have happened in the past, but the writer is not stating it as a definite fact.

4. ‘I know too, of people who had wished to finish secondary school but they had to go out to work so that they could support their siblings through school.’

Answer: Past ability or purpose

Here, ‘could’ shows the purpose for which they went out to work: they worked so that they would be able to support their siblings through school.

V. Complete the following sentences using ‘could’ with the functions mentioned in brackets.

1. I wish ____________ without worrying about money.
(unreal or hypothetical)

Answer: I wish I could travel without worrying about money.

2. They ____________ the shorter route, but they didn’t know about it.
(past possibility or speculative)

Answer: They could have taken the shorter route, but they didn’t know about it.

3. When I was younger, I ____________ without stopping.
(past ability)

Answer: When I was younger, I could run without stopping.

4. She ____________ the library right now—she had mentioned it.
(possibility)

Answer: She could be at the library right now—she had mentioned it.

5. ____________ repeat the question? I didn’t hear it clearly.
(formal/polite request)

Answer: Could you repeat the question? I didn’t hear it clearly.

VI. Fill in the blanks with suitable grammatical forms of the words given in brackets.

Answer:

Experiential learning is an approach to education that focuses on learning through experience, action and reflection. It 1. helps (help) students gain practical knowledge and develop real-world skills. Traditionally, students 2. learned (learn) by listening to lectures and memorising facts, but experiential learning has changed this process. In an experiential setting, students 3. work (work) on projects, solve problems, and take part in activities that reflect real-life challenges. They 4. apply (apply) what they have learned in class to new and unfamiliar situations. For example, a student studying science 5. conducts (conduct) experiments to test a theory, while a business student 6. analyses (analyse) a case study to understand market trends.

Reflection is key to this process. After completing a task, learners 7. must reflect (must/reflect) on what went well and what could be improved. This reflection 8. helps (help) them build a deeper understanding of the topic. Educators believe that experiential learning 9. is (be) more effective than passive learning methods because it is engaging and meaningful. In the future, more schools and universities 10. will incorporate (incorporate) experiential learning into their curriculum to prepare students for the real world.

Listen and Respond

I. You will listen to an announcement regarding vocational courses starting in school. As you listen, fill in the blanks with one to three exact words that you hear.

1. Vocational courses will begin in the month of April.
2. The objective of the courses is to prepare you with practical skills for future studies and jobs.
3. Offered courses include Graphic Design, Basic Coding, Web Application, and Entrepreneurship Skills, etc.
4. Classes will be conducted by trained professionals at school.
5. The application forms will be available at the school office.
6. Choice of course will be given to early applicants.

Speaking Activity

I. Work in groups of four. Each member takes up one of the roles given and presents the role play using the sentence prompts.

Sample Role Play:

1. The Dreamer:
‘I know this might sound challenging, but I have thought carefully about becoming a trekking guide. Ever since I was a child, I’ve dreamed of exploring mountains and helping others experience them safely. I understand it’s not a usual path, but I believe it is something I would truly enjoy and work hard to achieve. It’s an uphill journey, but I’m ready for it because I am willing to develop the necessary skills and face the challenges.’

2. A Parent:
‘I know you’re passionate, but I am worried about your financial stability and future. I only want what’s best for you, and I want you to think carefully before making such an important decision. You can always pursue your dream later, but you should first consider how you will support yourself. What if it doesn’t work out as you expect?’

3. A Mentor or Teacher:
‘Remember dreams need planning, hard work and commitment. Let’s look at the long-term view and consider the training, qualifications and financial preparation you will need. There are ways to combine your dream and practical career options. Are you ready to work patiently towards your goal and prepare for the difficulties along the way?’

4. A Friend/Sibling:
‘You’ve always been good at outdoor activities and guiding others, so don’t give up now. I don’t want to be a wet blanket, but what’s your backup plan? If anyone can do this, it’s you, so think about how you can prepare yourself properly. If this dream makes you happy, you should certainly explore it, but make sure you have a practical plan as well.’

Writing Task

I You are passionate about pursuing a course in designing in future. You come across a summer workshop being conducted by a reputed design institute. Write an email to the Director of the institute enquiring the details of the workshop and expressing your interest in joining it. Follow the guidelines given below to write the email.

Short Summary

‘Follow That Dream’ is an excerpt from a letter written by a mother to her teenage daughter, Ming, from Irene Chua’s collection My Daughter, My Friend. The mother begins by encouraging Ming to follow her dream, but she makes it clear that a dream becomes meaningful only when it is supported by commitment, hard work and realistic planning. She explains that achieving a high level of skill may require many years of focused effort, financial investment and personal sacrifice. She also points out that success is rarely achieved alone, as family members, teachers, friends and other supporters often contribute to a person’s journey.

The mother distinguishes between people who merely dream of success and those who take practical steps to achieve their goals. Through examples from real life and her own experiences, she shows that the path towards a dream may be difficult and may involve unexpected obstacles. She also explains that dreams can change as circumstances and responsibilities change. Her own aspirations evolved over time, yet she eventually worked patiently towards a new goal and published her book after years of effort.

The letter therefore presents a balanced view of ambition. It encourages young people to follow what they genuinely care about, while reminding them to understand the demands of their chosen path and prepare themselves for challenges. The central message is that one should follow a dream with passion, but pursue it with determination, preparation, patience and a willingness to make sacrifices.

About the Author  

Irene Chua is a Singaporean writer known for My Daughter, My Friend: Letters to a Daughter. The book brings together letters written to her teenage daughter, Ming, through which she shares thoughts on growing up, making choices, relationships and facing the challenges of life. Her writing reflects the warmth and understanding of a mother guiding her daughter.

Style & Tone

• The tone is warm and affectionate, reflecting the close relationship between the mother and Ming.

● The writing balances encouragement with honesty, showing that dreams are worth pursuing but require effort, patience and sacrifice.

● The mother uses personal experiences and real-life examples to make her advice clear and believable.

● The conversational style and personal letter format make the advice feel natural, sincere and intimate.

Detailed Explanation

The letter begins with the mother’s encouraging advice to Ming: ‘By all means follow that dream.’ However, she immediately balances this encouragement with practical guidance. She explains that a dream should be pursued only after a person has considered the ‘years of effort’, financial investment and sacrifices it may require. Thus, the chapter presents dreaming not as mere wishful thinking, but as a serious commitment.

The mother explains that achieving an international level of skill requires ‘focused and intensive pursuit’ over many years. She wants Ming to understand that excellence cannot usually be achieved quickly. A person must be prepared to practise, remain disciplined and continue working even when the journey becomes difficult. The mother therefore connects a genuine dream with patience, stamina and sustained effort.

She then describes the process of turning an interest into a serious goal. A person may begin with ‘passion for a particular interest’, develop ‘conviction’ about pursuing it and finally ‘plunge’ into it after considering the cost. This shows that enthusiasm alone is not enough. A person must understand the demands of the chosen path and be willing to commit to it fully.

The mother also distinguishes between people who merely dream and those who actually achieve their goals. ‘Mere dreamers’ remain caught in wishful thinking, while achievers take practical steps towards their goals. They are prepared to face difficulties, make sacrifices and continue working when the initial excitement fades. The prospect of success can help them remain on track when their ‘stamina runs out’.

Another important idea is that success rarely comes through individual effort alone. The mother’s reference to Academy Award winners, who acknowledge the contribution of their families, friends and supporters, highlights the importance of a support network. Encouragement, guidance and practical help from others can strengthen a person’s journey towards a goal.

At the same time, the mother recognises that life does not always allow people to follow their original dreams. Circumstances such as war, financial difficulties and family responsibilities can change a person’s choices. Therefore, an unfulfilled dream should not automatically be seen as failure. A person’s later ‘hopes and aspirations’ can be just as meaningful as the dreams they had earlier in life.

Towards the end, the mother uses her own experience to illustrate this idea. Her aspirations changed with time, but she eventually developed a new goal and worked towards publishing her book. Her experience demonstrates that dreams can evolve according to circumstances and responsibilities, while determination can still lead to fulfilment.

Overall, the letter gives Ming an encouraging but realistic message. The mother does not discourage her daughter from dreaming; instead, she asks her to ‘count the cost’ and understand what pursuing that dream will demand. The chapter therefore teaches that dreams become achievable when passion is supported by conviction, preparation, commitment, perseverance and realistic planning.

Word Meanings

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Insight	Clear and deep understanding.
Singularly	Exclusively.
Imperative	Necessary.
Plunge	To throw oneself into an activity fully.
Buoyed up	Kept afloat; emotionally lifted or supported.
Wistfully	Longingly.
Dreamscape	A world of dreams.
Wet blanket	Someone who spoils others’ enjoyment or enthusiasm.
Conviction	A firm belief.
Maze of hurdles	A complicated, difficult series of obstacles.

Literary Devices

Device	Explanation and Use
Metaphor	Expressions such as ‘burning in your blood’ and ‘a maze of hurdles’ use vivid images to represent strong desire and the difficulties faced while pursuing a dream.
Idiom	Expressions such as ‘wet blanket’, ‘uphill task’ and ‘wishful thinking’ use familiar expressions to make the advice natural and conversational.
Rhetorical Question	The mother uses questions to make Ming think carefully about her goals, commitment and the sacrifices involved in pursuing a dream.
Contrast	The text contrasts ‘mere dreamers’ with people who actively pursue their goals, highlighting the difference between wishing for success and working towards it.
Repetition	The recurring ideas of dreams, effort, sacrifice, commitment and success reinforce the central message of the chapter.

 Writing & Rhetorical Techniques

Technique	Explanation and Use
Epistolary Form	The text is presented as a personal letter from a mother to her daughter. This gives the advice a warm, intimate and personal quality.
Direct Address	The mother speaks directly to Ming and repeatedly uses ‘you’, making her advice feel personal rather than general.
Anecdote / Real-life Examples	References to Academy Award winners, people whose dreams were affected by difficult circumstances, and the mother’s own experience of publishing her book make her advice practical and convincing.
Concession	The mother acknowledges that she is not trying to discourage Ming’s dreams before introducing practical caution. The expression ‘put a wet blanket on your dreams’ shows this balance between encouragement and realism.
First-person Narration	The mother uses ‘I’ when sharing her own experiences and reflections. This makes her advice more personal and allows her to support her ideas with examples from her own life.

Character Sketch

Important Exam Questions (NEP 2020 Aligned)

Section A: Extract-Based Questions

Extract 1

‘When you watch the Academy Awards for best actors and actresses and films, the winner always thanks a host of people that formed his/her support network. So, you see that for one winner, there is a group of people who stood by him/her.’

1. Why does the mother choose the Academy Awards as her example, rather than simply stating that dreamers need support?

Answer: She uses a familiar and concrete example to make the idea of support easier for Ming to understand. By showing that even celebrated winners acknowledge many people who helped them, she demonstrates that major achievements are rarely the result of individual effort alone.

2. What does the phrase ‘a group of people who stood by him/her’ suggest about achieving a dream?

Answer: It suggests that achieving a dream often involves the encouragement, guidance and support of other people, alongside the individual’s own effort and determination.

3. Why might the mother include this example while explaining the difficulties of pursuing a dream? (Very Short Answer)

Answer: It shows Ming that support from others can help a person through difficulties while pursuing a dream.

Extract 2

‘No, I am not going to put a wet blanket on your dreams, …but you will also have to consider the years you need to chase your dream. After all the obstacles are considered, if the burning conviction is still coursing through your veins, then go ahead and do something about it.’

1. What does the phrase ‘I am not going to put a wet blanket on your dreams’ reveal about the mother’s intention?

Answer: It reveals that the mother does not want to discourage Ming’s ambitions. Instead, she wants Ming to consider the time, effort and difficulties involved before committing herself to the dream.

2. Why does the mother mention ‘obstacles’ before telling Ming to ‘go ahead and do something about it’?

Answer: She wants Ming to recognise and consider the difficulties beforehand. This ensures that her decision is based on realistic understanding and genuine commitment rather than temporary excitement.

3. What does ‘burning conviction’ suggest about the kind of belief needed to pursue a dream? (Very Short Answer)

Answer: It suggests that the belief must be strong, deep and unwavering.

Section B: Short Answer Questions (40–50 words)

1. What does the phrase ‘count the cost’ suggest about the mother’s approach to advising her daughter?

Answer: It shows that the mother believes in realistic and practical thinking. She wants Ming to consider the years of effort, financial investment, personal sacrifice and possible difficulties involved before pursuing her dream, rather than making an important decision based only on enthusiasm or emotion.

2. Why might the mother share her own example of publishing her book rather than only citing other people’s stories?

Answer: Sharing her own experience makes the advice more sincere and convincing. By explaining how her own dream changed and how she eventually worked towards publishing her book, the mother shows Ming that she has personally experienced the effort, patience and commitment that she expects her daughter to understand.

3. What does the opening line, ‘Great men and women become great because they have a dream’, suggest about how the letter builds its argument?

Answer: The statement introduces the central idea that great achievement begins with a dream. The mother then develops this idea by explaining that having a dream alone is not enough. She gradually focuses on the effort, commitment, sacrifice and perseverance needed to turn a dream into an achievement.

4. Why does the mother mention specific historical events, such as the Japanese invasion during World War II?

Answer: She mentions such events to show that circumstances beyond an individual’s control can affect dreams and plans. The example helps Ming understand that even when a person has genuine ambition and determination, unexpected events may force them to change their original goals.

5. How does the letter’s form, as a personal letter, shape the way the advice is delivered?

Answer: The personal letter form makes the advice feel intimate, caring and sincere. Since the mother addresses Ming directly, her ideas sound like guidance from someone who knows and cares about her daughter rather than like a general lecture. This personal form also makes the message easier to relate to.

6. What is the significance of the mother saying her ‘original dream has changed over the years’?

Answer: It shows that dreams can change as people grow and their circumstances develop. The mother wants Ming to understand that changing an ambition does not necessarily mean giving up or failing. A new goal can also be meaningful if a person is willing to work towards it with commitment.

Section C: Long Answer Questions (120–150 words)

Extrapolation Questions

1. Imagine you are Ming, invited to speak at your school’s Annual Day on the topic ‘What My Mother Taught Me About Dreams’. Write this speech, in about 120–150 words, incorporating specific ideas from her letter.

Answer:

Good morning, respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends.

My mother taught me that having a dream is only the beginning. She encouraged me to ‘follow that dream’, but also asked me to ‘count the cost’ before committing myself to it. I learnt that achieving a high level of skill may require years of focused effort, financial investment and personal sacrifice. She also taught me that successful people rarely achieve their goals alone. Family, friends, teachers and other supporters can play an important role in their journey. Another lesson that stayed with me is that dreams may change as life changes. A new aspiration is not necessarily a failure of the old one. Most importantly, my mother taught me to distinguish between wishful thinking and genuine effort. A dream becomes meaningful when we are prepared to work patiently and persistently to achieve it.

Thank you.

2. Ten years after receiving this letter, imagine Ming writes a short newspaper opinion column reflecting on how accurate her mother’s advice turned out to be. Write this column, in about 120–150 words.

Answer:

Dreams Need More Than Desire

Ten years ago, my mother wrote to me about following my dreams. At the time, I understood her encouragement, but I did not fully appreciate her warning to ‘count the cost’. Today, I realise how important that advice was. Pursuing a meaningful goal requires patience, sustained effort and a willingness to face difficulties. Progress is not always quick, and there are moments when determination is tested.

I have also learnt that a dream does not always remain exactly the same. Circumstances, responsibilities and new experiences can change what we hope to achieve. My mother had already explained that her own ‘original dream has changed over the years’, yet she continued to work towards a new goal and eventually published her book.

Her advice has taught me that changing direction is not necessarily giving up. A dream cannot be achieved through wishful thinking alone. It requires action, patience, commitment and perseverance, even when the journey does not unfold exactly as planned.

Theme and Character Questions

1. Analyse the letter as a piece of persuasive writing. What specific techniques does the mother use to make her advice convincing?

Answer: The mother uses several persuasive techniques to make her advice convincing. She begins with a confident general statement about dreams and greatness, establishing the central idea of the letter. She then uses concrete examples, such as Academy Award winners and people whose dreams were affected by historical circumstances, to make her ideas practical and believable. Her personal anecdote about pursuing a changed dream and eventually publishing her book adds sincerity and credibility. She also uses concession, acknowledging that she does not want to discourage Ming before offering realistic caution. Together, these techniques make her advice both emotionally reassuring and practically convincing.

2. What does the letter reveal about the mother’s own character and values, beyond the advice she gives to Ming?

Answer: The letter presents the mother as reflective, self-aware, honest and caring. She openly acknowledges that her own dream changed over the years and shares her experience of working towards a new goal. This shows that she does not present herself as someone whose life followed a perfectly fixed plan. She values effort, commitment, sacrifice and realistic self-assessment, while also believing that people should pursue what they genuinely care about. Her willingness to share personal experiences makes her advice sincere and shows that she speaks from experience rather than simply giving abstract instructions.

3. Trace how the letter moves from general statements about ‘great men and women’ to specific, personal stories. What effect does this movement create?

Answer: The letter begins with a broad discussion of greatness, dreams and achievement, referring to ‘great men and women’ in general. It then moves to the familiar example of Academy Award winners, showing that successful people depend on others. Next, the mother refers to specific people whose dreams were affected by historical circumstances. Finally, she shares her own experience of a changing dream and publishing her book. This movement from the general to the personal gradually increases the sense of closeness, credibility and trust, making the mother’s advice feel increasingly relevant to Ming.

Section D: Case-Based Question (Competency-Based)

Read the following situation and answer the questions that follow.

Rehan wants to become a professional footballer, but his parents are worried that this path is too uncertain and would prefer he focus entirely on his academics. Rehan feels torn between his passion for football and his parents’ practical concerns.

1. Using the letter’s ideas, what advice might Ming’s mother give to Rehan about deciding between football and academics?

Answer: She would advise Rehan to ‘count the cost’ of pursuing football professionally by considering the years of training, effort, financial demands and possible obstacles. If his conviction remains strong after considering these realities, she would encourage him to pursue the goal seriously rather than merely dream about it.

2. Based on the letter, suggest one way Rehan could involve his parents in his decision, rather than simply choosing one option over the other.

Answer: Rehan could discuss his ambitions and practical plans openly with his parents, listen to their concerns and seek their guidance. This could help him turn them into part of his support network while making a thoughtful and informed decision about his future.

3. How does Rehan’s situation reflect the tension the letter describes between ‘trading a dream for security’ and pursuing it fully?

Answer: Rehan faces a similar conflict between security and ambition. His parents’ preference for academics reflects the desire for a safer and more secure path, while his passion for football represents his dream. Like the situations discussed in the letter, he must consider both his circumstances and his genuine desire before deciding.

Section E: Higher-Order Thinking Questions (HOTS)

Analytical Thinking

1. Analyse why the mother brings in her own personal experience towards the end of the letter rather than ending with general advice.

Answer: The mother uses her own experience to support her advice through lived experience rather than merely stating an idea. By explaining how her own dream changed and how she eventually worked towards publishing her book, she demonstrates that dreams can evolve and may require years of effort. This makes her message more personal, credible and convincing, while showing Ming that the advice comes from experience rather than theory.

Evaluation-Based Question

2. The letter offers both encouragement and caution. Which aspect do you think carries greater weight in the mother’s message? Give reasons based on the text.

Answer: The encouragement can be seen as carrying greater weight, because the mother begins by saying ‘by all means follow that dream’ and later tells Ming to ‘go ahead and do something about it’ if her conviction remains strong after considering the obstacles. Her caution does not tell Ming to abandon her dream; instead, it asks her to understand the effort, time and sacrifice involved. Thus, the caution strengthens the encouragement by making it realistic rather than simply optimistic.

Application-Based Questions

1. A cousin of yours has just been offered a stable, well-paying job, but is also considering leaving it to pursue a passion project instead. Drawing on the letter’s ideas, write the advice you would give them.

Answer: Drawing on the letter’s ideas, I would advise my cousin not to make the decision on excitement alone, but to ‘count the cost’ carefully. They should consider the time, financial demands, sacrifices and possible obstacles involved in pursuing the passion project. They should also ask themselves whether their conviction remains strong after considering these realities. Finally, they should seek guidance from family, friends or other members of their support network and make a well-informed decision rather than acting on wishful thinking.

Assertion-Reason Questions

Read the following extract, and then answer the Assertion-Reason question that follows.

They could have preferred to trade their dream for security. Perhaps circumstances changed their lives. I know of people whose dream was to go to the then Raffles College, now the National University of Singapore, but the Japanese invasion during World War II changed forever their destiny.

Assertion (A): The mother acknowledges that some people’s dreams were changed by circumstances beyond their control, such as war or family responsibility.

Reason (R): She believes such people failed to try hard enough to achieve their original dreams. Choose the correct option.

 Choose the correct option.

 (A) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason correctly explains Assertion.

(B) Both are true, but Reason does not correctly explain Assertion.

(C) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

 (D) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

Answer: (C). Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

(The Assertion is true, since the extract clearly describes dreams being reshaped by events like the Japanese invasion. However, the Reason is false: the mother’s tone here is sympathetic, not blaming — nowhere does she suggest these people lacked effort; she presents their changed circumstances as genuinely beyond their control.)

Section F: Language and Literature (Competency-Based)

1. Complete the sentence using ‘could’ to show past ability: ‘As a young woman, my grandmother ____ (could) recite entire poems from memory.’

Answer: As a young woman, my grandmother could recite entire poems from memory.

2. Using the same ‘-scape’ pattern as ‘dreamscape’, form a new compound word to describe ‘a view of the night sky full of stars’, and use it in a sentence of your own.

Answer: The new compound word is ‘starscape’, meaning a view or scene of the stars. Sample sentence: ‘We lay on the grass, staring up at the clear starscape above the campsite.’

3. Complete this sentence, following the same first-conditional and imperative structure used in the letter (‘If the idea excites you, write it down’): ‘If you feel unsure about your goal, ____.’

Answer: Sample answer: ‘If you feel unsure about your goal, talk it through with someone you trust.’

4. Use the idiom ‘burn in your blood’ in a sentence of your own, about a hobby or interest that is unrelated to the letter.

Answer: Sample sentence: ‘Ever since she first picked up a paintbrush as a child, art has seemed to burn in her blood.’

Back to Class 9 English Notes

For official academic guidelines and updates, you can refer to CBSE Academic Website