Chapter 4: The Treasure Within

English - It So Happened • Class 8

Download PDF

Loading PDF...

Chapter Analysis

Intermediate12 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'The Treasure Within' is an interview-based narrative centered around Hafeez Contractor, one of India's leading architects. It explores his unconventional journey through school, where he had little interest in academics. The story highlights how Hafeez's childhood behaviors and interests in playing and creativity eventually shaped his successful career in architecture. The chapter emphasizes the concept that academic success is not the sole predictor of one's potential, and it underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing diverse talents.

Key Topics

  • Non-traditional learning paths
  • Influence of early childhood experiences
  • The role of educators in student success
  • Practical skills versus academic success
  • Creativity and innovation in career development
  • Overcoming academic challenges

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the value of diverse learning paths and interests.
  • Recognize the role of educators in student development.
  • Comprehend the impact of practical and creative thinking.
  • Analyze how early experiences shape career choices.
  • Discuss how traditional education systems can adapt to diverse needs.
  • Reflect on the concept of 'street-smart' skills in professional success.

Questions in Chapter

What did Hafeez Contractor have nightmares about?

Answer: He had nightmares about appearing for a maths examination where he did not know anything.

Page 27

What did the Principal say to him, which influenced him deeply?

Answer: The Principal said, 'I have taken care of you till today. Now, I can no longer take care of you so you do it yourself.'

Page 27

What 'distraction' did Hafeez Contractor create one day?

Page 28

Additional Practice Questions

What role did Hafeez Contractor's principal play in his career development?

medium

Answer: Hafeez's principal inspired him to take responsibility for his life and studies, which ultimately led him to focus on his interests and abilities, steering him towards a career in architecture.

Analyse how Hafeez Contractor's experiences in school contributed to his professional success.

medium

Answer: Hafeez's school experiences, like his interest in sports, leadership activities, and practical problem-solving, developed skills that were crucial to his innovative approach in architecture.

Discuss the significance of 'street-smart' skills as demonstrated by Hafeez Contractor.

hard

Answer: Hafeez’s ability to think practically and innovate on the spot made him 'street smart,' a trait that was invaluable in his architecture career where unconventional thinking often leads to successful design solutions.

Explain why traditional academic success might not be a definitive measure of potential.

hard

Answer: The chapter highlights that Hafeez Contractor, despite not excelling academically, became a leading architect, suggesting that creativity and practical skills can be equally or more important.

What lessons can educational institutions learn from Hafeez Contractor's story?

easy

Answer: Schools should focus on identifying and nurturing individual talents and not solely on academic performance. Customized education that leverages a student's strengths can lead to significant achievements.