CBSE Class 8 · English · It So Happened
The Comet–I
Chapter summary, hard words and model exam answers for Class 8 English.
Free online summary and notes (Class 8 English). Read it here, no PDF download needed.
About the author
Jayant Narlikar (1938–2023) was an Indian astrophysicist. This story mixes science and humour as amateur astronomer Duttada discovers a comet.
Summary
Retired clerk Duttada bought a telescope and discovered comets from his rooftop.
Retired clerk Duttada bought a telescope and discovered comets from his rooftop.
He spotted an unknown comet - Comet Dutta - and notified experts.
He spotted an unknown comet - Comet Dutta - and notified experts.
His wife consulted pandits fearing evil effects of comets.
His wife consulted pandits fearing evil effects of comets.
International experts calculated the comet might collide with Earth.
International experts calculated the comet might collide with Earth.
Scientists planned to deflect the comet with nuclear action in space.
Scientists planned to deflect the comet with nuclear action in space.
Governments kept plans quiet to avoid panic.
Governments kept plans quiet to avoid panic.
Duttada wondered if calculations and human effort could save Earth.
Duttada wondered if calculations and human effort could save Earth.
Hard words & meanings
| comet | icy object orbiting the sun |
| protagonist | main character |
| narrator | person telling the story |
| conflict | struggle or problem |
| climax | most exciting point |
| theme | main message |
| Retired | see chapter context |
| Duttada | see chapter context |
Model exam answers, grammar & audio
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