A. Answer these questions briefly.
1.
Ans: The first thing Armstrong noticed on reaching the Waif's Home was several large trees standing before the building and the lovely smell of honeysuckles.
2.
Ans: Armstrong did not eat anything during the first few days at the Waif's Home because he was too depressed and had lost his appetite.
3.
Ans: Mr Davis disapproved of Armstrong in the beginning because he did not like the neighborhood Armstrong came from and thought he might be worthless.
4.
Ans: Armstrong's only way of getting out of the Waif's Home was if a judge set him free or if some important white person vouched for him and his parents.
5.
Ans: Armstrong was excited and happy when he was asked to join the brass band.
6.
Ans: Armstrong was different from the previous bugler because he had an urge to learn the cornet and play music, whereas the previous bugler did not show the same interest or passion.
B. Answer these questions with reference to the context.
1.
a.
Ans: The speaker feels like this when he wakes up and wonders about his fate and what will happen to him.
b.
Ans: The speaker means that he has many conflicting thoughts and worries in his mind.
c.
Ans: The speaker could not calm or satisfy any of his thoughts or worries.
2.
a.
Ans: Mr Jones is one of the keepers at the Waif's Home.
b.
Ans: Mr Jones and his colleagues laugh because Armstrong was so hungry that he was first at the table.
c.
Ans: Armstrong gives a 'sheepish grin' because he felt embarrassed and awkward in that situation.
3.
a.
Ans: 'That' refers to the fact that Armstrong was given a tambourine instead of a cornet, which ended his dream of playing the cornet.
b.
Ans: The 'beautiful dream' refers to Armstrong's aspiration to learn and play the cornet in the brass band.
c.
Ans: The speaker says that it was the end of his dream because he was given a tambourine instead of a cornet, which was a disappointment for him.
C. Answer these questions.
1.
Ans: Life at the Waif's Home was regulated by bugle calls, which signaled waking up, going to bed, and coming to meals for the boys.
2.
Ans: Mr Davis began to appreciate Louis Armstrong when he saw him playing the tambourine in rhythm with the band and sensed that he had the beat he was looking for.
3.
Ans: If Louis Armstrong refused to play the tambourine, he might have missed the opportunity to showcase his musical talent to Mr Davis, and it could have delayed or prevented his eventual role in the band.
4.
Ans: Louis Armstrong became the most popular boy at the Waif's Home because he collected a significant amount of money during parades and used it to buy new uniforms and instruments for everyone in the band, increasing his popularity and gratitude from others.
5.
Ans: The Waif's Home band was chosen by the social clubs because the boys in the band were enthusiastic and willing to march all day without complaining, making them a reliable and entertaining choice for parades.
6.
Ans: Life at the Waif's Home involved following strict routines regulated by bugle calls, engaging in vocational training, and receiving education. The boys also had meals together and participated in activities like carpentry, gardening, and music lessons.
7.
Ans: Louis Armstrong's journey began when he entered the Waif's Home as a newcomer. He faced initial disapproval from Mr Davis but developed a passion for music. He listened to the brass band and wished to learn the cornet. He slowly gained appreciation from Mr Davis, eventually joining the band as a drummer. Over time, he became the leader of the band, showcasing his talent and popularity. The qualities that helped him in his journey were his passion for music, perseverance, and the ability to impress others with his musical abilities.
8.
Ans: Louis Armstrong is a young boy who finds himself in a difficult and uncertain situation when he is sent to the Waifs' Home for Boys. He wakes up feeling frightened and overwhelmed by the unknown. Despite his initial fear, he shows resilience and curiosity as he observes his surroundings. Louis has a deep passion for music, which is evident from the moment he smells the honeysuckles and falls in love with their fragrance. He is drawn to Mr. Peter Davis, the music teacher at the home, and desperately wants to learn to play the cornet.
Louis faces challenges along the way, particularly with Mr. Davis, who initially dislikes him because of his background. However, Louis perseveres and continues to listen to the band practice, soaking in every note and rhythm. He shows determination and a strong desire to pursue his musical aspirations, even though he is uncertain about his future at the home.
Over time, Louis's dedication and talent catch Mr. Davis's attention. The moment Mr. Davis offers him a chance to join the brass band, Louis is speechless with joy. He finally feels recognized and valued for his musical abilities. This opportunity transforms Louis's life, and he becomes the band leader, fulfilling his dream of playing music and leading a group of talented young musicians.
Throughout the text, Louis Armstrong's character is depicted as resilient, passionate, and ambitious. He faces adversity but remains determined to pursue his love for music, eventually finding success and recognition for his talent.
9.
Ans: Yes, I agree that if one has a passion for something, things can work out for them towards the end. In the case of Louis Armstrong, his passion for music and his unwavering dedication ultimately lead him to success. Despite facing initial obstacles, such as Mr. Davis's dislike for his neighborhood and background, Louis persists in his pursuit of learning the cornet and impresses Mr. Davis with his talent.
Louis's passion for music drives him to listen attentively to the band's rehearsals, even though he is not initially allowed to participate. He patiently waits for an opportunity and seizes it when it arises. Eventually, his hard work and commitment pay off when Mr. Davis offers him a place in the band, recognizing his talent and potential.
Louis's story demonstrates that passion and perseverance can lead to opportunities and positive outcomes. His dedication to music allowed him to overcome challenges and achieve his goals, proving that when one is passionate about something and willing to put in the effort, doors can open, and success can be achieved.
10.
Ans: Before the beginning of this extract, it is likely that Louis Armstrong had encountered some sort of trouble or had engaged in behavior that led to his placement in the Waifs' Home for Boys. The text mentions that Louis had fired off a pistol in the street, which suggests that he had been involved in reckless or inappropriate actions. This incident might have led to his apprehension and subsequent placement in the home.
Additionally, the text mentions that the judge had condemned Louis for an indefinite period. It is possible that Louis had a troubled background or had been involved in a series of negative behaviors that resulted in legal consequences. The exact circumstances leading up to his placement in the home are not explicitly stated in the given extract, but it can be inferred that Louis had a troubled past that contributed to his current situation.
