NCERT Solution of The Making of a Scientist Class 10 English of the book “Footprints
Without Feet” will explain The Making of a Scientist’s summary, critical analysis, difficult word meaning, and most important questions.
Summary of “The Making of a Scientist”
“The Making of a Scientist” by Robert W. Peterson is a narrative about Richard H. Ebright, a renowned scientist who made significant contributions to our understanding of cell life. The story highlights Ebright’s journey from a curious child in Reading, Pennsylvania, to a distinguished scientist.
Ebright’s interest in science began with collecting butterflies, encouraged by his supportive mother who provided him with various scientific tools and resources. A pivotal moment came when his mother gave him the book “The Travels of Monarch X,” which introduced him to butterfly migration research. This sparked his lifelong passion for scientific exploration.
Ebright participated in science fairs, learning valuable lessons from both his successes and failures. His projects evolved from simple displays to complex experiments, leading to discoveries like the role of gold spots on monarch pupae in producing a hormone essential for development. His persistent curiosity and determination culminated in a new theory about how cells read the DNA blueprint, a significant step in understanding cellular processes.
Ebright’s achievements were not limited to science; he also excelled in debating, public speaking, and outdoor activities, demonstrating a well-rounded character. His journey underscores the importance of curiosity, hard work, and supportive mentorship in achieving scientific success.
“The Making of a Scientist” – Explanation for Class 10 Students
Summary: “The Making of a Scientist” is an inspiring story about Richard H. Ebright, who, from a young age, displayed an intense curiosity about the world. Encouraged by his mother and a pivotal book, he grew into a renowned scientist. The chapter highlights his journey from collecting butterflies to making groundbreaking discoveries in science.
Read and Find Out
How did a book become a turning point in Richard Ebright’s life?
The book “The Travels of Monarch X” was a significant turning point in Richard Ebright’s life. It introduced him to the study of butterfly migrations, sparking his interest in scientific research. The book invited readers to help in tagging monarch butterflies for research, which Ebright eagerly participated in, thus opening the door to his future scientific pursuits.
How did his mother help him?
Richard Ebright’s mother played a crucial role in his development as a scientist:
- She encouraged his curiosity and love for learning by providing him with the necessary tools and resources like telescopes, microscopes, and books.
- She spent quality time with him, engaging in educational activities.
- She supported his interests by taking him on trips and helping him with his projects, like contacting Dr. Urquhart for butterfly tagging.
Critical Explanation
Achievements in Science: Richard Ebright’s scientific journey is marked by significant milestones:
- As a young boy, he collected various species of butterflies.
- He participated in science fairs, learning from his failures to conduct real experiments.
- His high school projects, like studying monarch butterflies, led to notable discoveries such as an insect hormone and eventually a new theory on cell life.
Support System: His mother’s unwavering support and encouragement were instrumental in his success. She nurtured his inquisitive mind and provided the resources he needed to explore his interests.
Qualities of a Scientist: Ebright’s story exemplifies essential qualities for a scientist:
- Curiosity: Ebright was always eager to learn and explore new things.
- Determination: Despite setbacks, he persisted in his experiments and research.
- Hard Work: He dedicated countless hours to his studies and projects.
- Ethical Competitiveness: He aimed to be the best for the right reasons, focusing on the quality of his work rather than just winning.
Vocabulary: Difficult Words and Their Meanings
- Scout (स्काउट)
- Meaning: A person sent out to obtain information.
- Synonyms: Explorer, pathfinder
- Antonyms: Follower
- Proceedings (कार्रवाई)
- Meaning: An official record of events.
- Synonyms: Minutes, records
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Determination (दृढ़ निश्चय)
- Meaning: Firmness of purpose.
- Synonyms: Resolve, perseverance
- Antonyms: Indecision, hesitation
- Fascination (मोह)
- Meaning: Intense interest in something.
- Synonyms: Captivation, allure
- Antonyms: Boredom, indifference
- Curiosity (जिज्ञासा)
- Meaning: A strong desire to know or learn something.
- Synonyms: Inquisitiveness, interest
- Antonyms: Apathy, disinterest
- Eager (उत्सुक)
- Meaning: Very interested and enthusiastic.
- Synonyms: Keen, enthusiastic
- Antonyms: Reluctant, apathetic
- Astronomer (खगोलशास्त्री)
- Meaning: A scientist who studies celestial bodies.
- Synonyms: Stargazer, astrophysicist
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Ornamental (सजावटी)
- Meaning: Serving as decoration.
- Synonyms: Decorative, embellishing
- Antonyms: Functional, utilitarian
- Sophisticated (परिष्कृत)
- Meaning: Highly developed and complex.
- Synonyms: Advanced, refined
- Antonyms: Simple, crude
- Theoretical (सैद्धांतिक)
- Meaning: Based on theory rather than practical application.
- Synonyms: Hypothetical, conceptual
- Antonyms: Practical, empirical
- Entomology (कीटविज्ञान)
- Meaning: The scientific study of insects.
- Synonyms: Insectology
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Hormone (हार्मोन)
- Meaning: A regulatory substance produced in an organism.
- Synonyms: Biochemical, endocrine
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Hereditary (आनुवंशिक)
- Meaning: Passed down from parents to offspring.
- Synonyms: Genetic, inherited
- Antonyms: Acquired, learned
- Blueprint (खाका)
- Meaning: A detailed plan or outline.
- Synonyms: Design, plan
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Molecule (अणु)
- Meaning: A group of atoms bonded together.
- Synonyms: Particle, compound
- Antonyms: (No direct antonym)
- Nucleus (केंद्रक)
- Meaning: The central part of a cell containing DNA.
- Synonyms: Core, center
- Antonyms: Periphery, edge
- Inquisitive (जिज्ञासु)
- Meaning: Curious or inquiring.
- Synonyms: Curious, questioning
- Antonyms: Uninterested, indifferent
- Competitiveness (प्रतिस्पर्धा)
- Meaning: The desire to be more successful than others.
- Synonyms: Rivalry, ambition
- Antonyms: Cooperation, non-competitiveness
- Orator (वक्ता)
- Meaning: A skilled public speaker.
- Synonyms: Speaker, rhetorician
- Antonyms: Listener, audience
- Adviser (सलाहकार)
- Meaning: A person who gives advice.
- Synonyms: Consultant, mentor
- Antonyms: Discourager, detractor
Central Idea
The central idea of “The Making of a Scientist” is that curiosity, determination, and the right support can lead to remarkable achievements in science. Richard Ebright’s journey from a curious child collecting butterflies to a renowned scientist illustrates how a supportive environment and a persistent quest for knowledge are crucial in shaping a successful career in science.
Theme
- Curiosity and Learning: The story emphasizes the importance of a curious mind and the pursuit of knowledge.
- Support and Encouragement: Ebright’s mother’s support played a pivotal role in nurturing his scientific interests.
- Persistence: The narrative shows how persistence and hard work can lead to significant achievements.
- Ethical Competitiveness: Competing for the right reasons and striving to do one’s best are highlighted as key factors in Ebright’s success.
Reading Comprehension Questions
- How did Ebright’s mother support his interest in science?
- Ebright’s mother provided him with books, equipment, and companionship, encouraging his curiosity and helping him with his projects.
- What did Ebright realize after losing at the science fair?
- Ebright realized that real experiments, not just neat displays, are crucial for winning science fairs.
- What was Ebright’s significant discovery about the monarch pupa?
- Ebright discovered that the gold spots on the monarch pupa produce a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s development.
- How did Ebright’s interest in debating and public speaking complement his scientific pursuits?
- Ebright’s involvement in debating and public speaking helped him develop communication skills, which are essential for presenting scientific ideas.
Important Questions
- What lesson did Richard Ebright learn from his first county science fair?
- Richard Ebright learned that conducting real experiments is more important than just making neat displays, leading him to focus on more substantial scientific inquiries.
- Describe the role of Ebright’s mother in shaping his career as a scientist.
- Ebright’s mother provided constant encouragement, resources, and support, fostering his curiosity and helping him pursue his scientific interests.
- How did Ebright’s discovery about the monarch pupa’s gold spots contribute to science?
- Ebright’s discovery about the gold spots producing a hormone was crucial in understanding insect development and contributed to his later theory on cell life.
Thought-Provoking Questions
- What role does curiosity play in scientific discoveries?
- Curiosity drives individuals to explore, ask questions, and seek answers, leading to new discoveries and advancements in science.
- Why is it important to have supportive mentors or role models in one’s academic journey?
- Supportive mentors and role models provide guidance, encouragement, and resources, helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve their full potential.
- How can early interests and hobbies influence career choices later in life?
- Early interests and hobbies can spark a lifelong passion, leading to career choices that align with one’s talents and curiosities, as seen in Ebright’s journey from collecting butterflies to becoming a scientist.
10 Important Questions and Answers
- How did Richard Ebright’s mother support his interest in science?
- Answer: Ebright’s mother supported him by providing scientific equipment like microscopes and telescopes, taking him on educational trips, and encouraging his curiosity. She also helped him connect with scientists like Dr. Urquhart and was a constant source of motivation.
- What was the turning point in Richard Ebright’s early scientific career?
- Answer: The turning point was when his mother gave him the book “The Travels of Monarch X,” which introduced him to the study of butterfly migrations and scientific research, leading to his first significant project on tagging monarch butterflies.
- What lesson did Ebright learn from his first science fair experience in the seventh grade?
- Answer: Ebright learned that real science involves conducting experiments rather than just making neat displays. This realization pushed him to focus on more substantive scientific inquiries in his future projects.
- What was Ebright’s significant discovery about the monarch pupa’s gold spots?
- Answer: Ebright discovered that the gold spots on the monarch pupa produce a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s full development, challenging the previous belief that the spots were merely ornamental.
- How did Ebright’s interest in debating and public speaking complement his scientific pursuits?
- Answer: Ebright’s skills in debating and public speaking helped him develop his communication abilities, which are essential for effectively presenting and defending scientific ideas and theories.
- What qualities, according to the story, are essential for becoming a successful scientist?
- Answer: Essential qualities include a strong curiosity, determination, hard work, and ethical competitiveness—striving to do one’s best for the right reasons rather than just for winning.
- What role did Dr. Frederick A. Urquhart play in Ebright’s scientific journey?
- Answer: Dr. Urquhart was a mentor to Ebright, providing him with ideas for experiments and guiding him in his research on monarch butterflies, which played a crucial role in shaping his scientific career.
- What was Ebright’s theory about how cells read the DNA blueprint?
- Answer: Ebright’s theory suggested that the chemical structure of a hormone he studied could help explain how cells read the DNA blueprint, contributing to our understanding of cellular processes and heredity.
- Why is Ebright’s discovery significant for the field of biology?
- Answer: Ebright’s discovery about the hormone produced by the gold spots on monarch pupae and his subsequent theory about cell life are significant because they offer insights into cellular development and DNA function, potentially leading to advancements in disease prevention and treatment.
- How did Ebright balance his scientific interests with other activities?
- Answer: Ebright balanced his scientific interests with other activities by excelling in debating, public speaking, canoeing, and photography. His diverse interests and talents made him a well-rounded individual, capable of integrating various skills into his scientific work.
20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with answers for the chapter “The Making of a Scientist” by Robert W. Peterson:
“The Making of a Scientist” MCQs
- Who is the author of “The Making of a Scientist”?
- a) H.G. Wells
- b) Robert W. Peterson
- c) Richard Feynman
- d) Isaac Asimov
- Answer: b) Robert W. Peterson
- What was Richard Ebright’s first scientific interest?
- a) Chemistry
- b) Astronomy
- c) Butterflies
- d) Botany
- Answer: c) Butterflies
- At what age did Richard Ebright start collecting butterflies?
- a) Five
- b) Seven
- c) Nine
- d) Eleven
- Answer: b) Seven
- Who played a significant role in encouraging Richard’s scientific interests?
- a) His father
- b) His teacher
- c) His mother
- d) His friend
- Answer: c) His mother
- What did Richard Ebright do with the butterflies he collected?
- a) Sold them
- b) Gave them away
- c) Mounted them in frames
- d) Released them back into the wild
- Answer: c) Mounted them in frames
- Which book ignited Richard’s passion for science?
- a) “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”
- b) “The Travels of Monarch X”
- c) “The Origin of Species”
- d) “A Brief History of Time”
- Answer: b) “The Travels of Monarch X”
- What was Richard’s first scientific achievement?
- a) Winning a local science fair
- b) Discovering a new species
- c) Collecting all 25 species of butterflies found around his hometown
- d) Writing a research paper
- Answer: c) Collecting all 25 species of butterflies found around his hometown
- What important project did Richard work on in high school?
- a) The theory of relativity
- b) The genetics of the monarch butterfly
- c) The laws of motion
- d) The conservation of mass
- Answer: b) The genetics of the monarch butterfly
- Where did Richard Ebright attend college?
- a) Harvard University
- b) Stanford University
- c) MIT
- d) Princeton University
- Answer: a) Harvard University
- What did Richard discover about the monarch butterfly’s migration?
- a) They migrate to Africa
- b) They migrate to South America
- c) They migrate to Central America
- d) They migrate to Mexico
- Answer: d) They migrate to Mexico
- How did Richard’s mother contribute to his early education?
- a) By hiring private tutors
- b) By homeschooling him
- c) By taking him on nature walks and providing scientific equipment
- d) By enrolling him in a special school
- Answer: c) By taking him on nature walks and providing scientific equipment
- What was Richard’s attitude towards scientific research?
- a) It was just a hobby
- b) It was a means to become famous
- c) It was a way to help humanity
- d) It was a way to make money
- Answer: c) It was a way to help humanity
- Which scholarship did Richard Ebright win for his scientific efforts?
- a) Rhodes Scholarship
- b) Westinghouse Science Talent Search
- c) Fulbright Scholarship
- d) Nobel Prize
- Answer: b) Westinghouse Science Talent Search
- Which scientific journal published Richard’s work?
- a) Nature
- b) Science
- c) Scientific American
- d) National Geographic
- Answer: a) Nature
- What was the title of Richard’s article published in a scientific journal?
- a) “Monarch Butterflies and Their Genetics”
- b) “The Travels of Monarch X”
- c) “The Role of DNA in Protein Synthesis”
- d) “The Genetic Structure of Monarch Butterflies”
- Answer: c) “The Role of DNA in Protein Synthesis”
- Which field of study did Richard Ebright pursue after butterflies?
- a) Human genetics
- b) Marine biology
- c) Quantum physics
- d) Environmental science
- Answer: a) Human genetics
- What trait did Richard Ebright believe was essential for a scientist?
- a) Curiosity
- b) Wealth
- c) Popularity
- d) Patience
- Answer: a) Curiosity
- How did Richard’s interest in butterflies help him in his later scientific career?
- a) It provided him with a hobby to relax
- b) It helped him understand complex genetic problems
- c) It made him famous
- d) It gave him financial support
- Answer: b) It helped him understand complex genetic problems
- What did Richard Ebright aim to achieve through his scientific work?
- a) Fame and fortune
- b) Nobel Prize
- c) Scientific recognition and knowledge
- d) A comfortable life
- Answer: c) Scientific recognition and knowledge
- What lesson can be learned from “The Making of a Scientist”?
- a) Scientific endeavors are best left to professionals
- b) Early encouragement and curiosity are key to becoming a scientist
- c) Science is a waste of time
- d) Only those with high intelligence can become scientists
- Answer: b) Early encouragement and curiosity are key to becoming a scientist
These questions cover key plot points, characters, themes, and moral lessons from the chapter “The Making of a Scientist.”
