here is the second lesson
The Power of A Plate of Rice
-Ifeoma Okoye
Understanding the Text : Main Ideas (page 36)
1. Where does the opening part of the story take place?
A. The story takes place in Mr.Aziza’s office. He is the principal of the school in which
Mrs. Cheta Adu works.
2. Describe the office of the Principal, Mr.Aziza.
A. The office looks unpleasant with cheap furniture. It has a spotted green door. His desk was of
medium size. It was made of cheap wood and was thickly varnished. It was so untidy and
clumsy with all the files and papers occupying the desk.
3. Why is it difficult to buy things for the new school year?
A. Christmas and New Year celebrations leave a little money for the rest of January. And for
those who have children, it’s time to buy books and uniforms; and pay fees for the new
academic year with the little money left. It’s highly difficult for those who are not paid
properly.
4. How does Mr.Aziza oblige the people in high places?
A. Mr.Aziza gained favour from the higher officials by giving admission to their children in his
school even though the kids are spoilt and are very weak in studies.
5. How does Mr. Aziza accuse the women teachers?
A. He accuses women teachers that they are lazy lots. He has an impression that women teachers
always take excuses from work.
6. Describe the conditions at Mrs. Cheta Adu’s house.
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu is the sole bread winner in her house. She has to look after the family, but she
is left with no money.
7. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu consider the elaborate burial ceremony of her husband a waste?
A. It’s because she had to spend the entire saved money and it left them with no balance. She felt
it a mere waste to spend everything in the name her husband, whom she had lost.
8. How did Mrs. Cheta Adu meet her husband?
A. They were at the university together and were posted to the same state for National Youth
Service. They were engaged at the end of their service and married shortly after.
9. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu borrow money?
A. She hasn’t been paid for 4 months. She was unable to run the family. Additionally, she had to
pay the hospital bills. She borrowed money in order to meet the family expenses.
10. What drastic action does Mrs. Cheta Adu take to save her son from death?
A. She followed Mr.Aziza to his home and irritated him by having his food. She made him
furious and pestered until she received a written slip permitting her to take her salary.
11. What is the response of Mr.Aziza to Mrs.Cheta Adu’s tactic?
A. He was surprised, shocked, taken aback and got irritated. He foamed at his mouth (he was so
furious), and in desperation permitted her to collect her salary from the Bursar.
12. Why do think that the title of the story is appropriate?
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu had been fasting for a few days in order to feed her family. She got tempted
when she happened to smell the delicious food. She ate as if she was taking revenge on the
principal. The principal, himself being very fond of food, got irritated and did what she
wanted to. Ultimately, a plate of rice has got the power to get things done and hence the title
suits the story very aptly.
Looking at Language : Writing Style (page 39)
The reader experiences some sort of tension while reading the story. The tension is medium at
the beginning of the story. As the story progresses, it gets increased and reached maximum as
the story reaches the end. At the end, the reader gets relieved as it was a happy ending.
This happens mainly because of the writing style of the author. Ifeoma Okoye writes in such a
manner that the reader could see the story and experience every feeling that is expressed in
the story.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Theme (page 40)
2. smouldering, bubble like a pot of ogbono, bellowed, strode
3. The words appear in paras 2,3,6,8 and 11. They may be new but they seem to be the suitable
words in the context. We could learn new words and enhance our skills. Any narration
becomes impressive only if the suitable words are chosen. Correct word in correct context
gives a sense of fulfillment.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Idiom (page 41)
Throw tantrums = sudden bursts of ill temper
•I throw tantrums at my friends if they neglect me any time.
Lay the table = set the dishes on dining table
•My mother lays the table at 8 PM sharp.
His jaw dropped = he was shocked in surprise
•My jaw dropped when I came to know that my friend who is so dull in studies topped the class.
Blazing in fury = severe brightness; hot in anger
•The summer sun blazes in fury leaving us exhausted.
Following me like a dog = go behind the other person wherever he goes, expecting something
from him
•I promised my brother that I would lend him my bike as soon as my work is done. He started following me like a dog from then.
Barked at me = shout loudly at someone
•The woman barked at the maid when she broke a flower vase.
Finding his tongue = speak something, coming to consciousness
•We met with an accident last night. I called the emergency number, finding my tongue.
Find out two African proverbs and find similar proverbs in English or in your native language
(page 42)
Whoever comes last drinks muddy water(African)-------an early bird catches the worm(English)
(it means that we have to take the first opportunity, otherwise we don’t get the best in life)
To borrow is to spoil friendship(African)------------lend money to a friend to lose him(English)
(money may separate even close friends)
When the chief limps, all his subjects limp also(African)---------yadha raja, tatha praja(Telugu)
(if the higher official is corrupted, his subordinates also do the same. If the official is honest, the same is followed by his subordinates)
The forest has ears(African)-----------godaku chevulu untay(Telugu)
(there would be someone who hides and listens to the conversation. So, we must always be cautious)
People get fed up even with honey(African)-------------tinaga tinaga garelu chedu agunu(Telugu)
(we get bored when there is surplus of something)
It will not hurt if your lover steps on you(African)------------istamainadedi kastam kadu(Telugu)
(we don’t take to heart even when someone hurts us, if we like the person)
Hunger does not know an elder(African)------nidra sukhameragadu, akali ruchi eragadu(Telugu)
(we don’t think of the facilities and taste when we are in dire need of something)
Don’t cut a carrying strap for a child before it is born(African)----------alu ledu, chulu ledu, koduku peru Somalingam(Telugu)
(it is not wise to think too much about the future and be prepared for something that might happen)
Axes carried in the same bag cannot avoid rattling(African)-----------oka vora lo rendu kattulu imadavu(Telugu)
(ego problems come in between two people of same intelligence or cadre)
Literary Concept : Theme (page 42)
1.Mr.Aziza……………..Present a reasoned answer.
Mr.Aziza has a bad impression on female teachers. He doesn’t have any soft corner for them. He blames that they have silly reasons to take leaves. He even doesn’t seem to care a damn when he heard that Cheta Adu’s son is hospitalized. He doesn’t respond even a little though he heard her problems and never cared to pay her salary. So, we could say that he is a stone hearted fellow, or a heartless fellow.
2.You’re not going to……………say so?
She was afraid that the boy may fall sick again. She found him in a severe condition. To confirm it and to come to know how he had been since morning, she questioned her mother-in-law about his temperature. She is worried that the boy has been suffering a lot and that it may make him more ill.
3.In paragraph 12…………the author?
It does happen everywhere. Many people try to be in the good looks of the officials and hence, they do a few unethical issues. They do some sort of favour and try to earn brownie points from them. It is seen in almost every sector where the common man has to toe the line (follow the rules) and the officials themselves break the rules for their own benefit.
4.Desperation……………..human nature?
The protagonist Mrs. Cheta Adu gained courage out of desperation. She never had the courage to say a word or act against the principal. But her situation made her so bold that she didn’t care about the consequences. Her only intention is to get her pending salary in order to run the family.
5.Is Mrs. Cheta Adu’s………………..sudden?
It was a sudden action. She actually wanted to plead him or pester him to get the job done. But she was unable to control herself when she had smelt the delicious food. All at a sudden, she started eating the food as if she is taking revenge on Mr.Aziza.
Culture Point : Universal and Local (page 45)
1.Mr.Aziza………..diehard attitude.
Mrs. Cheta Adu, though socially weak, fights for her rights. She didn’t accept her defeat when Mr.Aziza said that he didn’t need any female teachers. Instead, she used the tactic of silence when she was rejected. She broke the patience of the principal and made him recruit her. Later, when her salary was withheld, she tried to explain the situation to the principal. When the principal paid a deaf ear to her, she took the drastic step without giving in and ultimately, proved that she is strong willed.
2.Since…………internet.
Ogbono, garri, egusi, jollof
Ogbono seeds are used to thicken the soup. They give the soup a black colour. The soup may be made of leafy vegetables or meat. It can be eaten with rice or yam.
Garri is a popular West African food made from cassava tubers. The cassava tubers are peeled, washed and grated or crushed to produce a mash. The mash is placed in a porous bag and allowed to ferment for one or two days, while weights are placed on the bags to press water out. It is then sieved and roasted by heating in a bowl. The resulting dry granular garri can be stored for longer periods. It may be pounded or ground to make fine flour.
Egusi seeds are the fat and protein-rich seeds of certain gourd, melon or squash plants. These seeds are used in making soups.
Jollof is a type of rice like basmati used to cook biryani, fried rice etc.
3.Even the names………..paragraph 17?
All the names in the story seem to be unique, including the name of the author. The unique names we could spot in 17th Para are…Dulue and Rapulu.
4.In this story…..such tribes?
It is difficult to hold and carry a baby in arms all the time. The easiest and safest way is to hold it by tying to the back. We could carry the baby and go with other household work at the same time.
5.The power of…………..they do it?
Mrs. Cheta Adu and her mother-in-law help each other in the story. They live together, sharing their difficult times. The mother-in-law gives company to her daughter-in-law and looks after the children during the day. Mrs. Cheta Adu takes the responsibility of the house and children from the evening. She comforts her mother-in-law when she is back from school. Mother-in law gives moral support to her daughter-in-law and the daughter-in-law gives financial support to her mother-in-law.
6.I ate quickly………………think so?
It’s a sort of revenge. Mrs. Adu could do nothing more than that. She couldn’t complain to higher officials or couldn’t dare speak harsh to the principal. She took pleasure in irritating him. She enjoyed the feeling that she was able to put the principal in a confused state.
Literary Concepts : Symbolism (page 48)
1.How does…………………of what?
Yes, the plate of rice functions as a symbol. It symbolizes the benefits of a privileged society. Everything goes well when we are with all the facilities. When a man is unable to fulfill his hunger, he gets disturbed and frustrated. It has its impact on a person’s state of mind. In the present story, the mother-in-law starts nagging, the children start to cry and make a mess over small things, and the protagonist starts scolding her students for no reason. These happened because the family is not well fed. The principal came to know the value of food when it is unexpectedly snatched from him.
Literary Concepts : Strife and Victory (page 48)
1.The story…………….profile of hers.
Mrs. Cheta Adu is a woman with many qualities. We could see a sensitive lover in her. She is a responsible person who takes care of her family. She is dutiful too, both at school and at home. We find gratefulness in her character when she thinks of her mother and her mother-in-law. She becomes a strong-willed woman when she has to face the crisis in life. She is humble and honest. She has some sense of humour too which gets revealedwhen she describes the principal and his office. She has a good friendly nature which allowed her friends to lend her money. She has individualistic nature and hence doesn’t like to borrow again and again. She becomes stubborn at times, when she has to. She has fighting spirit and hence fights for her rights. She is gentle, who never likes to hurt others. All in all, she is a woman with many good qualities.
2.The protagonist…………….happened then.
If the protagonist had no family, she wouldn’t have taken the same drastic step. It wouldn’t bother much when one has no family, even if the salaries are given a bit late.She would have requested the principal and get her salary or wait until it is given. She wouldn’t have taken any steps and try to bear the situation until it works out well.
3.What is……………….an attitude?
Mr.Aziza has a strong opinion that female teachers, especially the married ones are not worth working. He believes that they try to escape from work; they are lazy and always find some or other reason to skip the work. He justifies his attitude whenever a teacher applies for a leave or skips school. He repeatedly gives the same opinion that they come to work but are irresponsible. That’s the reason behind withholding the salary of Mrs. Cheta Adu. He justifies his action saying that she has taken leave without prior intimation.
4.A turning point………………question.
Mrs. Cheta Adu led a happy life until her husband was alive. There was a sudden stroke of misfortune when she lost him in an accident. She had to spend all the saved money for her husband’s burial. Now, she has become the sole bread winner in the family. Everyone is dependent on her---- her mother-in-law and her two children. The situation might more or less be the same with every woman that becomes a widow. Cheta Adu faced the situation so boldly even though she has no penny in her hand. She tried her best to save the life of her son. She ran the family with great confidence and patience.
Reading Journal (page 51)
Why does Mr.Aziza………………..general mental outlook?
Mr. Aziza is the principal of a reputed school. It’s quite natural that he behaves in a superior manner with his subordinates. He, in personal, has a low opinion on female teachers. It might be because of a few instances he had faced in the due course of his career. It might also be because of the age old views of the society that are imbibed in him. He would have digested the male attitude that women shouldn’t be given equal rights, opportunities and value.
The social system adds to this mental attitude. Many people support the idea that women are meant to stay indoors. Male ego doesn’t accept a woman to be equally qualified or equally valued in the society. They have a false opinion that women look down at them if they are treated well.
Recently, we could see the comments made by a few politicians and spiritual leaders regarding the Delhi rape incident. They blame the woman for not taking safety measures and for being in western wear. It goes like this in society that woman with individualistic character is supposed to be arrogant. If she is very social and maintains friendly relations, she is supposed to be a loose character. If she is very courageous, brave and trendy, she is treated to be untraditional. Women, who are capable of balancing the work at home and in work place are to be respected and are to be given some moral and emotional support. But, the society considers them to be a threat to the male kingdom. This false mental outlook needs a change.
Mr. Aziza might be a man of having such wrong perceptions and false impressions.
Project (page 53)
After class activity
I found out many new things when I interviewed a house maid. Padma, who is separated from her husband lives with her two daughters. She is the sole bread winner in the family. She has little education and hence, opted to work in a few houses nearby. She helps the women in their day to day chores and is paid for that. As she works in nearly 5 to 6houses, she gets some good amount of money as her salary, ranging from 4 to 5 thousand a month. But she doesn’t lead a very happy life. The reason behind is, she has to look after all the needs of her family.
She doesn’t have emotional support as she got separated from her husband. And, she has to face a few problems from the neighbours. She doesn’t want her children to become like her and hence she joined them in a reputed school. But it left a lot of burden on her in the form of fees, uniforms and books. She has to pay the rent and give some money to her husband whenever he comes and picks a fight with her.
Occasionally, one or other falls ill in the family and she has to pay the hospital bills. She remains with no money by the end of every month. Adding to this, her father who irons clothes fell severely ill. So, now she has to look after her parents and the shop they run as well. She irons clothes in her free time and tries to meet the entire expenses of the family.
She runs the family with a hope that her children would acquire good education. She also planned for their future. She saves some money in post office, regularly. She bought a few ornaments for her girls and a piece of land on her name.
In this way, her life moves on with a few obstacles, hindrances and pressures. She keeps her fingers crossed in hope of better future.
The Power of A Plate of Rice
-Ifeoma Okoye
Understanding the Text : Main Ideas (page 36)
1. Where does the opening part of the story take place?
A. The story takes place in Mr.Aziza’s office. He is the principal of the school in which
Mrs. Cheta Adu works.
2. Describe the office of the Principal, Mr.Aziza.
A. The office looks unpleasant with cheap furniture. It has a spotted green door. His desk was of
medium size. It was made of cheap wood and was thickly varnished. It was so untidy and
clumsy with all the files and papers occupying the desk.
3. Why is it difficult to buy things for the new school year?
A. Christmas and New Year celebrations leave a little money for the rest of January. And for
those who have children, it’s time to buy books and uniforms; and pay fees for the new
academic year with the little money left. It’s highly difficult for those who are not paid
properly.
4. How does Mr.Aziza oblige the people in high places?
A. Mr.Aziza gained favour from the higher officials by giving admission to their children in his
school even though the kids are spoilt and are very weak in studies.
5. How does Mr. Aziza accuse the women teachers?
A. He accuses women teachers that they are lazy lots. He has an impression that women teachers
always take excuses from work.
6. Describe the conditions at Mrs. Cheta Adu’s house.
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu is the sole bread winner in her house. She has to look after the family, but she
is left with no money.
7. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu consider the elaborate burial ceremony of her husband a waste?
A. It’s because she had to spend the entire saved money and it left them with no balance. She felt
it a mere waste to spend everything in the name her husband, whom she had lost.
8. How did Mrs. Cheta Adu meet her husband?
A. They were at the university together and were posted to the same state for National Youth
Service. They were engaged at the end of their service and married shortly after.
9. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu borrow money?
A. She hasn’t been paid for 4 months. She was unable to run the family. Additionally, she had to
pay the hospital bills. She borrowed money in order to meet the family expenses.
10. What drastic action does Mrs. Cheta Adu take to save her son from death?
A. She followed Mr.Aziza to his home and irritated him by having his food. She made him
furious and pestered until she received a written slip permitting her to take her salary.
11. What is the response of Mr.Aziza to Mrs.Cheta Adu’s tactic?
A. He was surprised, shocked, taken aback and got irritated. He foamed at his mouth (he was so
furious), and in desperation permitted her to collect her salary from the Bursar.
12. Why do think that the title of the story is appropriate?
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu had been fasting for a few days in order to feed her family. She got tempted
when she happened to smell the delicious food. She ate as if she was taking revenge on the
principal. The principal, himself being very fond of food, got irritated and did what she
wanted to. Ultimately, a plate of rice has got the power to get things done and hence the title
suits the story very aptly.
Looking at Language : Writing Style (page 39)
The reader experiences some sort of tension while reading the story. The tension is medium at
the beginning of the story. As the story progresses, it gets increased and reached maximum as
the story reaches the end. At the end, the reader gets relieved as it was a happy ending.
This happens mainly because of the writing style of the author. Ifeoma Okoye writes in such a
manner that the reader could see the story and experience every feeling that is expressed in
the story.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Theme (page 40)
2. smouldering, bubble like a pot of ogbono, bellowed, strode
3. The words appear in paras 2,3,6,8 and 11. They may be new but they seem to be the suitable
words in the context. We could learn new words and enhance our skills. Any narration
becomes impressive only if the suitable words are chosen. Correct word in correct context
gives a sense of fulfillment.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Idiom (page 41)
Throw tantrums = sudden bursts of ill temper
•I throw tantrums at my friends if they neglect me any time.
Lay the table = set the dishes on dining table
•My mother lays the table at 8 PM sharp.
His jaw dropped = he was shocked in surprise
•My jaw dropped when I came to know that my friend who is so dull in studies topped the class.
Blazing in fury = severe brightness; hot in anger
•The summer sun blazes in fury leaving us exhausted.
Following me like a dog = go behind the other person wherever he goes, expecting something
from him
•I promised my brother that I would lend him my bike as soon as my work is done. He started following me like a dog from then.
Barked at me = shout loudly at someone
•The woman barked at the maid when she broke a flower vase.
Finding his tongue = speak something, coming to consciousness
•We met with an accident last night. I called the emergency number, finding my tongue.
Find out two African proverbs and find similar proverbs in English or in your native language
(page 42)
Whoever comes last drinks muddy water(African)-------an early bird catches the worm(English)
(it means that we have to take the first opportunity, otherwise we don’t get the best in life)
To borrow is to spoil friendship(African)------------lend money to a friend to lose him(English)
(money may separate even close friends)
When the chief limps, all his subjects limp also(African)---------yadha raja, tatha praja(Telugu)
(if the higher official is corrupted, his subordinates also do the same. If the official is honest, the same is followed by his subordinates)
The forest has ears(African)-----------godaku chevulu untay(Telugu)
(there would be someone who hides and listens to the conversation. So, we must always be cautious)
People get fed up even with honey(African)-------------tinaga tinaga garelu chedu agunu(Telugu)
(we get bored when there is surplus of something)
It will not hurt if your lover steps on you(African)------------istamainadedi kastam kadu(Telugu)
(we don’t take to heart even when someone hurts us, if we like the person)
Hunger does not know an elder(African)------nidra sukhameragadu, akali ruchi eragadu(Telugu)
(we don’t think of the facilities and taste when we are in dire need of something)
Don’t cut a carrying strap for a child before it is born(African)----------alu ledu, chulu ledu, koduku peru Somalingam(Telugu)
(it is not wise to think too much about the future and be prepared for something that might happen)
Axes carried in the same bag cannot avoid rattling(African)-----------oka vora lo rendu kattulu imadavu(Telugu)
(ego problems come in between two people of same intelligence or cadre)
Literary Concept : Theme (page 42)
1.Mr.Aziza……………..Present a reasoned answer.
Mr.Aziza has a bad impression on female teachers. He doesn’t have any soft corner for them. He blames that they have silly reasons to take leaves. He even doesn’t seem to care a damn when he heard that Cheta Adu’s son is hospitalized. He doesn’t respond even a little though he heard her problems and never cared to pay her salary. So, we could say that he is a stone hearted fellow, or a heartless fellow.
2.You’re not going to……………say so?
She was afraid that the boy may fall sick again. She found him in a severe condition. To confirm it and to come to know how he had been since morning, she questioned her mother-in-law about his temperature. She is worried that the boy has been suffering a lot and that it may make him more ill.
3.In paragraph 12…………the author?
It does happen everywhere. Many people try to be in the good looks of the officials and hence, they do a few unethical issues. They do some sort of favour and try to earn brownie points from them. It is seen in almost every sector where the common man has to toe the line (follow the rules) and the officials themselves break the rules for their own benefit.
4.Desperation……………..human nature?
The protagonist Mrs. Cheta Adu gained courage out of desperation. She never had the courage to say a word or act against the principal. But her situation made her so bold that she didn’t care about the consequences. Her only intention is to get her pending salary in order to run the family.
5.Is Mrs. Cheta Adu’s………………..sudden?
It was a sudden action. She actually wanted to plead him or pester him to get the job done. But she was unable to control herself when she had smelt the delicious food. All at a sudden, she started eating the food as if she is taking revenge on Mr.Aziza.
Culture Point : Universal and Local (page 45)
1.Mr.Aziza………..diehard attitude.
Mrs. Cheta Adu, though socially weak, fights for her rights. She didn’t accept her defeat when Mr.Aziza said that he didn’t need any female teachers. Instead, she used the tactic of silence when she was rejected. She broke the patience of the principal and made him recruit her. Later, when her salary was withheld, she tried to explain the situation to the principal. When the principal paid a deaf ear to her, she took the drastic step without giving in and ultimately, proved that she is strong willed.
2.Since…………internet.
Ogbono, garri, egusi, jollof
Ogbono seeds are used to thicken the soup. They give the soup a black colour. The soup may be made of leafy vegetables or meat. It can be eaten with rice or yam.
Garri is a popular West African food made from cassava tubers. The cassava tubers are peeled, washed and grated or crushed to produce a mash. The mash is placed in a porous bag and allowed to ferment for one or two days, while weights are placed on the bags to press water out. It is then sieved and roasted by heating in a bowl. The resulting dry granular garri can be stored for longer periods. It may be pounded or ground to make fine flour.
Egusi seeds are the fat and protein-rich seeds of certain gourd, melon or squash plants. These seeds are used in making soups.
Jollof is a type of rice like basmati used to cook biryani, fried rice etc.
3.Even the names………..paragraph 17?
All the names in the story seem to be unique, including the name of the author. The unique names we could spot in 17th Para are…Dulue and Rapulu.
4.In this story…..such tribes?
It is difficult to hold and carry a baby in arms all the time. The easiest and safest way is to hold it by tying to the back. We could carry the baby and go with other household work at the same time.
5.The power of…………..they do it?
Mrs. Cheta Adu and her mother-in-law help each other in the story. They live together, sharing their difficult times. The mother-in-law gives company to her daughter-in-law and looks after the children during the day. Mrs. Cheta Adu takes the responsibility of the house and children from the evening. She comforts her mother-in-law when she is back from school. Mother-in law gives moral support to her daughter-in-law and the daughter-in-law gives financial support to her mother-in-law.
6.I ate quickly………………think so?
It’s a sort of revenge. Mrs. Adu could do nothing more than that. She couldn’t complain to higher officials or couldn’t dare speak harsh to the principal. She took pleasure in irritating him. She enjoyed the feeling that she was able to put the principal in a confused state.
Literary Concepts : Symbolism (page 48)
1.How does…………………of what?
Yes, the plate of rice functions as a symbol. It symbolizes the benefits of a privileged society. Everything goes well when we are with all the facilities. When a man is unable to fulfill his hunger, he gets disturbed and frustrated. It has its impact on a person’s state of mind. In the present story, the mother-in-law starts nagging, the children start to cry and make a mess over small things, and the protagonist starts scolding her students for no reason. These happened because the family is not well fed. The principal came to know the value of food when it is unexpectedly snatched from him.
Literary Concepts : Strife and Victory (page 48)
1.The story…………….profile of hers.
Mrs. Cheta Adu is a woman with many qualities. We could see a sensitive lover in her. She is a responsible person who takes care of her family. She is dutiful too, both at school and at home. We find gratefulness in her character when she thinks of her mother and her mother-in-law. She becomes a strong-willed woman when she has to face the crisis in life. She is humble and honest. She has some sense of humour too which gets revealedwhen she describes the principal and his office. She has a good friendly nature which allowed her friends to lend her money. She has individualistic nature and hence doesn’t like to borrow again and again. She becomes stubborn at times, when she has to. She has fighting spirit and hence fights for her rights. She is gentle, who never likes to hurt others. All in all, she is a woman with many good qualities.
2.The protagonist…………….happened then.
If the protagonist had no family, she wouldn’t have taken the same drastic step. It wouldn’t bother much when one has no family, even if the salaries are given a bit late.She would have requested the principal and get her salary or wait until it is given. She wouldn’t have taken any steps and try to bear the situation until it works out well.
3.What is……………….an attitude?
Mr.Aziza has a strong opinion that female teachers, especially the married ones are not worth working. He believes that they try to escape from work; they are lazy and always find some or other reason to skip the work. He justifies his attitude whenever a teacher applies for a leave or skips school. He repeatedly gives the same opinion that they come to work but are irresponsible. That’s the reason behind withholding the salary of Mrs. Cheta Adu. He justifies his action saying that she has taken leave without prior intimation.
4.A turning point………………question.
Mrs. Cheta Adu led a happy life until her husband was alive. There was a sudden stroke of misfortune when she lost him in an accident. She had to spend all the saved money for her husband’s burial. Now, she has become the sole bread winner in the family. Everyone is dependent on her---- her mother-in-law and her two children. The situation might more or less be the same with every woman that becomes a widow. Cheta Adu faced the situation so boldly even though she has no penny in her hand. She tried her best to save the life of her son. She ran the family with great confidence and patience.
Reading Journal (page 51)
Why does Mr.Aziza………………..general mental outlook?
Mr. Aziza is the principal of a reputed school. It’s quite natural that he behaves in a superior manner with his subordinates. He, in personal, has a low opinion on female teachers. It might be because of a few instances he had faced in the due course of his career. It might also be because of the age old views of the society that are imbibed in him. He would have digested the male attitude that women shouldn’t be given equal rights, opportunities and value.
The social system adds to this mental attitude. Many people support the idea that women are meant to stay indoors. Male ego doesn’t accept a woman to be equally qualified or equally valued in the society. They have a false opinion that women look down at them if they are treated well.
Recently, we could see the comments made by a few politicians and spiritual leaders regarding the Delhi rape incident. They blame the woman for not taking safety measures and for being in western wear. It goes like this in society that woman with individualistic character is supposed to be arrogant. If she is very social and maintains friendly relations, she is supposed to be a loose character. If she is very courageous, brave and trendy, she is treated to be untraditional. Women, who are capable of balancing the work at home and in work place are to be respected and are to be given some moral and emotional support. But, the society considers them to be a threat to the male kingdom. This false mental outlook needs a change.
Mr. Aziza might be a man of having such wrong perceptions and false impressions.
Project (page 53)
After class activity
I found out many new things when I interviewed a house maid. Padma, who is separated from her husband lives with her two daughters. She is the sole bread winner in the family. She has little education and hence, opted to work in a few houses nearby. She helps the women in their day to day chores and is paid for that. As she works in nearly 5 to 6houses, she gets some good amount of money as her salary, ranging from 4 to 5 thousand a month. But she doesn’t lead a very happy life. The reason behind is, she has to look after all the needs of her family.
She doesn’t have emotional support as she got separated from her husband. And, she has to face a few problems from the neighbours. She doesn’t want her children to become like her and hence she joined them in a reputed school. But it left a lot of burden on her in the form of fees, uniforms and books. She has to pay the rent and give some money to her husband whenever he comes and picks a fight with her.
Occasionally, one or other falls ill in the family and she has to pay the hospital bills. She remains with no money by the end of every month. Adding to this, her father who irons clothes fell severely ill. So, now she has to look after her parents and the shop they run as well. She irons clothes in her free time and tries to meet the entire expenses of the family.
She runs the family with a hope that her children would acquire good education. She also planned for their future. She saves some money in post office, regularly. She bought a few ornaments for her girls and a piece of land on her name.
In this way, her life moves on with a few obstacles, hindrances and pressures. She keeps her fingers crossed in hope of better future.
The Power of A Plate of Rice
-Ifeoma Okoye
Understanding the Text : Main Ideas (page 36)
1. Where does the opening part of the story take place?
A. The story takes place in Mr.Aziza’s office. He is the principal of the school in which
Mrs. Cheta Adu works.
2. Describe the office of the Principal, Mr.Aziza.
A. The office looks unpleasant with cheap furniture. It has a spotted green door. His desk was of
medium size. It was made of cheap wood and was thickly varnished. It was so untidy and
clumsy with all the files and papers occupying the desk.
3. Why is it difficult to buy things for the new school year?
A. Christmas and New Year celebrations leave a little money for the rest of January. And for
those who have children, it’s time to buy books and uniforms; and pay fees for the new
academic year with the little money left. It’s highly difficult for those who are not paid
properly.
4. How does Mr.Aziza oblige the people in high places?
A. Mr.Aziza gained favour from the higher officials by giving admission to their children in his
school even though the kids are spoilt and are very weak in studies.
5. How does Mr. Aziza accuse the women teachers?
A. He accuses women teachers that they are lazy lots. He has an impression that women teachers
always take excuses from work.
6. Describe the conditions at Mrs. Cheta Adu’s house.
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu is the sole bread winner in her house. She has to look after the family, but she
is left with no money.
7. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu consider the elaborate burial ceremony of her husband a waste?
A. It’s because she had to spend the entire saved money and it left them with no balance. She felt
it a mere waste to spend everything in the name her husband, whom she had lost.
8. How did Mrs. Cheta Adu meet her husband?
A. They were at the university together and were posted to the same state for National Youth
Service. They were engaged at the end of their service and married shortly after.
9. Why does Mrs. Cheta Adu borrow money?
A. She hasn’t been paid for 4 months. She was unable to run the family. Additionally, she had to
pay the hospital bills. She borrowed money in order to meet the family expenses.
10. What drastic action does Mrs. Cheta Adu take to save her son from death?
A. She followed Mr.Aziza to his home and irritated him by having his food. She made him
furious and pestered until she received a written slip permitting her to take her salary.
11. What is the response of Mr.Aziza to Mrs.Cheta Adu’s tactic?
A. He was surprised, shocked, taken aback and got irritated. He foamed at his mouth (he was so
furious), and in desperation permitted her to collect her salary from the Bursar.
12. Why do think that the title of the story is appropriate?
A. Mrs. Cheta Adu had been fasting for a few days in order to feed her family. She got tempted
when she happened to smell the delicious food. She ate as if she was taking revenge on the
principal. The principal, himself being very fond of food, got irritated and did what she
wanted to. Ultimately, a plate of rice has got the power to get things done and hence the title
suits the story very aptly.
Looking at Language : Writing Style (page 39)
The reader experiences some sort of tension while reading the story. The tension is medium at
the beginning of the story. As the story progresses, it gets increased and reached maximum as
the story reaches the end. At the end, the reader gets relieved as it was a happy ending.
This happens mainly because of the writing style of the author. Ifeoma Okoye writes in such a
manner that the reader could see the story and experience every feeling that is expressed in
the story.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Theme (page 40)
2. smouldering, bubble like a pot of ogbono, bellowed, strode
3. The words appear in paras 2,3,6,8 and 11. They may be new but they seem to be the suitable
words in the context. We could learn new words and enhance our skills. Any narration
becomes impressive only if the suitable words are chosen. Correct word in correct context
gives a sense of fulfillment.
Looking at Language : Vocabulary by Idiom (page 41)
Throw tantrums = sudden bursts of ill temper
•I throw tantrums at my friends if they neglect me any time.
Lay the table = set the dishes on dining table
•My mother lays the table at 8 PM sharp.
His jaw dropped = he was shocked in surprise
•My jaw dropped when I came to know that my friend who is so dull in studies topped the class.
Blazing in fury = severe brightness; hot in anger
•The summer sun blazes in fury leaving us exhausted.
Following me like a dog = go behind the other person wherever he goes, expecting something
from him
•I promised my brother that I would lend him my bike as soon as my work is done. He started following me like a dog from then.
Barked at me = shout loudly at someone
•The woman barked at the maid when she broke a flower vase.
Finding his tongue = speak something, coming to consciousness
•We met with an accident last night. I called the emergency number, finding my tongue.
Find out two African proverbs and find similar proverbs in English or in your native language
(page 42)
Whoever comes last drinks muddy water(African)-------an early bird catches the worm(English)
(it means that we have to take the first opportunity, otherwise we don’t get the best in life)
To borrow is to spoil friendship(African)------------lend money to a friend to lose him(English)
(money may separate even close friends)
When the chief limps, all his subjects limp also(African)---------yadha raja, tatha praja(Telugu)
(if the higher official is corrupted, his subordinates also do the same. If the official is honest, the same is followed by his subordinates)
The forest has ears(African)-----------godaku chevulu untay(Telugu)
(there would be someone who hides and listens to the conversation. So, we must always be cautious)
People get fed up even with honey(African)-------------tinaga tinaga garelu chedu agunu(Telugu)
(we get bored when there is surplus of something)
It will not hurt if your lover steps on you(African)------------istamainadedi kastam kadu(Telugu)
(we don’t take to heart even when someone hurts us, if we like the person)
Hunger does not know an elder(African)------nidra sukhameragadu, akali ruchi eragadu(Telugu)
(we don’t think of the facilities and taste when we are in dire need of something)
Don’t cut a carrying strap for a child before it is born(African)----------alu ledu, chulu ledu, koduku peru Somalingam(Telugu)
(it is not wise to think too much about the future and be prepared for something that might happen)
Axes carried in the same bag cannot avoid rattling(African)-----------oka vora lo rendu kattulu imadavu(Telugu)
(ego problems come in between two people of same intelligence or cadre)
Literary Concept : Theme (page 42)
1.Mr.Aziza……………..Present a reasoned answer.
Mr.Aziza has a bad impression on female teachers. He doesn’t have any soft corner for them. He blames that they have silly reasons to take leaves. He even doesn’t seem to care a damn when he heard that Cheta Adu’s son is hospitalized. He doesn’t respond even a little though he heard her problems and never cared to pay her salary. So, we could say that he is a stone hearted fellow, or a heartless fellow.
2.You’re not going to……………say so?
She was afraid that the boy may fall sick again. She found him in a severe condition. To confirm it and to come to know how he had been since morning, she questioned her mother-in-law about his temperature. She is worried that the boy has been suffering a lot and that it may make him more ill.
3.In paragraph 12…………the author?
It does happen everywhere. Many people try to be in the good looks of the officials and hence, they do a few unethical issues. They do some sort of favour and try to earn brownie points from them. It is seen in almost every sector where the common man has to toe the line (follow the rules) and the officials themselves break the rules for their own benefit.
4.Desperation……………..human nature?
The protagonist Mrs. Cheta Adu gained courage out of desperation. She never had the courage to say a word or act against the principal. But her situation made her so bold that she didn’t care about the consequences. Her only intention is to get her pending salary in order to run the family.
5.Is Mrs. Cheta Adu’s………………..sudden?
It was a sudden action. She actually wanted to plead him or pester him to get the job done. But she was unable to control herself when she had smelt the delicious food. All at a sudden, she started eating the food as if she is taking revenge on Mr.Aziza.
Culture Point : Universal and Local (page 45)
1.Mr.Aziza………..diehard attitude.
Mrs. Cheta Adu, though socially weak, fights for her rights. She didn’t accept her defeat when Mr.Aziza said that he didn’t need any female teachers. Instead, she used the tactic of silence when she was rejected. She broke the patience of the principal and made him recruit her. Later, when her salary was withheld, she tried to explain the situation to the principal. When the principal paid a deaf ear to her, she took the drastic step without giving in and ultimately, proved that she is strong willed.
2.Since…………internet.
Ogbono, garri, egusi, jollof
Ogbono seeds are used to thicken the soup. They give the soup a black colour. The soup may be made of leafy vegetables or meat. It can be eaten with rice or yam.
Garri is a popular West African food made from cassava tubers. The cassava tubers are peeled, washed and grated or crushed to produce a mash. The mash is placed in a porous bag and allowed to ferment for one or two days, while weights are placed on the bags to press water out. It is then sieved and roasted by heating in a bowl. The resulting dry granular garri can be stored for longer periods. It may be pounded or ground to make fine flour.
Egusi seeds are the fat and protein-rich seeds of certain gourd, melon or squash plants. These seeds are used in making soups.
Jollof is a type of rice like basmati used to cook biryani, fried rice etc.
3.Even the names………..paragraph 17?
All the names in the story seem to be unique, including the name of the author. The unique names we could spot in 17th Para are…Dulue and Rapulu.
4.In this story…..such tribes?
It is difficult to hold and carry a baby in arms all the time. The easiest and safest way is to hold it by tying to the back. We could carry the baby and go with other household work at the same time.
5.The power of…………..they do it?
Mrs. Cheta Adu and her mother-in-law help each other in the story. They live together, sharing their difficult times. The mother-in-law gives company to her daughter-in-law and looks after the children during the day. Mrs. Cheta Adu takes the responsibility of the house and children from the evening. She comforts her mother-in-law when she is back from school. Mother-in law gives moral support to her daughter-in-law and the daughter-in-law gives financial support to her mother-in-law.
6.I ate quickly………………think so?
It’s a sort of revenge. Mrs. Adu could do nothing more than that. She couldn’t complain to higher officials or couldn’t dare speak harsh to the principal. She took pleasure in irritating him. She enjoyed the feeling that she was able to put the principal in a confused state.
Literary Concepts : Symbolism (page 48)
1.How does…………………of what?
Yes, the plate of rice functions as a symbol. It symbolizes the benefits of a privileged society. Everything goes well when we are with all the facilities. When a man is unable to fulfill his hunger, he gets disturbed and frustrated. It has its impact on a person’s state of mind. In the present story, the mother-in-law starts nagging, the children start to cry and make a mess over small things, and the protagonist starts scolding her students for no reason. These happened because the family is not well fed. The principal came to know the value of food when it is unexpectedly snatched from him.
Literary Concepts : Strife and Victory (page 48)
1.The story…………….profile of hers.
Mrs. Cheta Adu is a woman with many qualities. We could see a sensitive lover in her. She is a responsible person who takes care of her family. She is dutiful too, both at school and at home. We find gratefulness in her character when she thinks of her mother and her mother-in-law. She becomes a strong-willed woman when she has to face the crisis in life. She is humble and honest. She has some sense of humour too which gets revealedwhen she describes the principal and his office. She has a good friendly nature which allowed her friends to lend her money. She has individualistic nature and hence doesn’t like to borrow again and again. She becomes stubborn at times, when she has to. She has fighting spirit and hence fights for her rights. She is gentle, who never likes to hurt others. All in all, she is a woman with many good qualities.
2.The protagonist…………….happened then.
If the protagonist had no family, she wouldn’t have taken the same drastic step. It wouldn’t bother much when one has no family, even if the salaries are given a bit late.She would have requested the principal and get her salary or wait until it is given. She wouldn’t have taken any steps and try to bear the situation until it works out well.
3.What is……………….an attitude?
Mr.Aziza has a strong opinion that female teachers, especially the married ones are not worth working. He believes that they try to escape from work; they are lazy and always find some or other reason to skip the work. He justifies his attitude whenever a teacher applies for a leave or skips school. He repeatedly gives the same opinion that they come to work but are irresponsible. That’s the reason behind withholding the salary of Mrs. Cheta Adu. He justifies his action saying that she has taken leave without prior intimation.
4.A turning point………………question.
Mrs. Cheta Adu led a happy life until her husband was alive. There was a sudden stroke of misfortune when she lost him in an accident. She had to spend all the saved money for her husband’s burial. Now, she has become the sole bread winner in the family. Everyone is dependent on her---- her mother-in-law and her two children. The situation might more or less be the same with every woman that becomes a widow. Cheta Adu faced the situation so boldly even though she has no penny in her hand. She tried her best to save the life of her son. She ran the family with great confidence and patience.
Reading Journal (page 51)
Why does Mr.Aziza………………..general mental outlook?
Mr. Aziza is the principal of a reputed school. It’s quite natural that he behaves in a superior manner with his subordinates. He, in personal, has a low opinion on female teachers. It might be because of a few instances he had faced in the due course of his career. It might also be because of the age old views of the society that are imbibed in him. He would have digested the male attitude that women shouldn’t be given equal rights, opportunities and value.
The social system adds to this mental attitude. Many people support the idea that women are meant to stay indoors. Male ego doesn’t accept a woman to be equally qualified or equally valued in the society. They have a false opinion that women look down at them if they are treated well.
Recently, we could see the comments made by a few politicians and spiritual leaders regarding the Delhi rape incident. They blame the woman for not taking safety measures and for being in western wear. It goes like this in society that woman with individualistic character is supposed to be arrogant. If she is very social and maintains friendly relations, she is supposed to be a loose character. If she is very courageous, brave and trendy, she is treated to be untraditional. Women, who are capable of balancing the work at home and in work place are to be respected and are to be given some moral and emotional support. But, the society considers them to be a threat to the male kingdom. This false mental outlook needs a change.
Mr. Aziza might be a man of having such wrong perceptions and false impressions.
Project (page 53)
After class activity
I found out many new things when I interviewed a house maid. Padma, who is separated from her husband lives with her two daughters. She is the sole bread winner in the family. She has little education and hence, opted to work in a few houses nearby. She helps the women in their day to day chores and is paid for that. As she works in nearly 5 to 6houses, she gets some good amount of money as her salary, ranging from 4 to 5 thousand a month. But she doesn’t lead a very happy life. The reason behind is, she has to look after all the needs of her family.
She doesn’t have emotional support as she got separated from her husband. And, she has to face a few problems from the neighbours. She doesn’t want her children to become like her and hence she joined them in a reputed school. But it left a lot of burden on her in the form of fees, uniforms and books. She has to pay the rent and give some money to her husband whenever he comes and picks a fight with her.
Occasionally, one or other falls ill in the family and she has to pay the hospital bills. She remains with no money by the end of every month. Adding to this, her father who irons clothes fell severely ill. So, now she has to look after her parents and the shop they run as well. She irons clothes in her free time and tries to meet the entire expenses of the family.
She runs the family with a hope that her children would acquire good education. She also planned for their future. She saves some money in post office, regularly. She bought a few ornaments for her girls and a piece of land on her name.
In this way, her life moves on with a few obstacles, hindrances and pressures. She keeps her fingers crossed in hope of better future.
👌👍🤝
ReplyDelete