Class 8 English Question Answers - A Boy`s Best Friend

Short Type Questions

Q1: Who were the "Big Three" science fiction writers during Isaac Asimov's lifetime?
Ans: The "Big Three" science fiction writers during Isaac Asimov's lifetime were Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke.

Q2: Why hasn't Jimmy seen a real dog before?
Ans: Jimmy hasn't seen a real dog before because he was born and raised on the Moon and Moonborn individuals cannot visit Earth.

Q3: What did Mr Anderson bring to the Moon for Jimmy?
Ans: Mr Anderson brought a real dog, a Scorch terrier puppy, to the Moon for Jimmy.

Q4: How does Jimmy describe Robutt?
Ans: Jimmy describes Robutt as his dog. He believes that Robutt understands him and does everything he wants him to do.

Q5: According to Mr Anderson, what is the difference between Robutt and a real dog?

Ans: Mr Anderson explains that Robutt is just a machine, a mechanical imitation programmed to act as though it loves Jimmy. In contrast, a real dog is alive and capable of genuine love.

Long Type Questions

Q1: Describe the appearance and characteristics of Jimmy as mentioned in the text.
Ans: Jimmy is described as spindly but rather tall for a ten-year-old by Earth standards. He has long and agile arms and legs. Despite appearing thicker and stubbier in his spacesuit, Jimmy is capable of handling the lunar gravity exceptionally well, surpassing Earth-born individuals. He can perform the Kangaroo hop and move swiftly in the Moon's reduced gravity.

Q2: Explain why Jimmy is allowed to play on the dark side of the crater wall despite the grown-ups considering it dangerous.
Ans: Jimmy is allowed to play on the dark side of the crater wall because he is familiar with the area and knows the exact location of rocks. He perceives the ground to be smooth and crunchy, allowing him to navigate safely. Additionally, he feels secure due to the presence of Robutt, who can detect Jimmy's location and ensure his safety using radar. Although the grown-ups consider it dangerous, their concerns are based on the assumption that Jimmy is alone and unaware of the potential risks.

Q3: Discuss the relationship between Jimmy and Robutt. How does Robutt assist Jimmy and ensure his safety during their activities on the Moon?
Ans: Jimmy and Robutt share a close relationship. Robutt acts as a companion and protector for Jimmy during their activities on the Moon. Robutt's presence provides Jimmy with a sense of security and companionship. He assists Jimmy by tripping him when he gets too close to rocks, jumping on him to show affection, and alerting others when Jimmy pretends to be hurt. Robutt's radar capabilities allow him to anticipate potential dangers and guide Jimmy away from harm.

Q4: How does Mr Anderson try to convince Jimmy that a real dog is better than Robutt? How does Jimmy counter his argument? Discuss their differing perspectives on the concept of "being alive."
Ans: Mr Anderson tries to convince Jimmy that a real dog is better than Robutt by explaining that a real dog, with its genuine emotions and ability to love, can provide a different and more meaningful experience than a robotic imitation. He believes that Robutt's actions are programmed and not indicative of genuine emotions or consciousness. However, Jimmy counters this argument by asserting that Robutt is his dog and that he feels a deep connection with him. Jimmy believes that Robutt's ability to understand him and do what he wants is evidence of being alive, despite being a machine. They have differing perspectives on the concept of "being alive," with Mr Anderson emphasizing biological life and Jimmy considering emotional connection as an indicator of life.

Q5: Describe Jimmy's emotional attachment to Robutt. How does Jimmy's love for Robutt impact his decision regarding the introduction of a real dog into their lives?
Ans: Jimmy has a strong emotional attachment to Robutt. He genuinely loves and cares for him, considering him to be his dog. Jimmy's love for Robutt is evident in the way he holds him tightly and the joy he feels when Robutt responds with happy squeaks. This emotional bond makes Jimmy hesitant about the introduction of a real dog into their lives. Despite his father's arguments, Jimmy's love for Robutt and his belief that Robutt is alive influence his decision to prioritize his current companionship over the prospect of having a real dog.