Chapter 2: Children at Work

English - It So Happened • Class 8

Download PDF

Loading PDF...

Chapter Analysis

Beginner10 pages • English

Quick Summary

The story 'Children at Work' follows Velu, an eleven-year-old boy who runs away from his village due to an abusive father. Velu arrives in Chennai without any money and food. He encounters Jaya, a ragpicker, who introduces him to her world of survival by collecting recyclable materials. The chapter highlights the plight of destitute children in urban areas and their daily struggles to make ends meet.

Key Topics

  • Child Labor
  • Urban Poverty
  • Survival
  • Friendship
  • Adaptability
  • Resourcefulness

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the socio-economic challenges faced by children in urban settings.
  • Analyze the characters’ motivations and responses to their circumstances.
  • Discuss the implications of child labor on education and well-being.
  • Explore the themes of survival and resilience against adversity.

Questions in Chapter

Can Velu read Tamil and English? How do you know?

Page 10

Why did Velu feel miserable after running away from home?

Page 10

What is the significance of Jaya helping Velu?

Page 16

Additional Practice Questions

Why did Velu decide to leave his village?

easy

Answer: Velu left his village to escape his father's abuse who would take away the money Velu and his sisters earned.

How does Jaya navigate life in the city?

medium

Answer: Jaya navigates life as a ragpicker, collecting materials from garbage which she sells for money.

Discuss the social issues highlighted in the story.

hard

Answer: The story highlights issues such as child labor, urban poverty, and the survival struggles of street children.

What does Velu’s interaction with Jaya teach him?

medium

Answer: Velu learns the importance of resilience and adaptability as he sees how Jaya manages to survive against all odds.

What does Jaya's character represent in the story?

easy

Answer: Jaya's character represents the indomitable spirit and resourcefulness of children in difficult circumstances.