NCERT Class 10 English First Flight: Chapter 5 — BEFORE YOU READ
This chapter, 'A Baker from Goa,' from NCERT's Class 10 English textbook 'First Flight,' offers a nostalgic glimpse into the life and importance of a Goan baker. The author reminisces about the Portuguese era and the enduring presence of bakers, known as 'pader' in Goa. These bakers were integral to the community, visiting twice daily and their arrival announced by the jingling of their bamboo staff. While the elders recall the Portuguese loaves, the children eagerly awaited the sweet bread-bangles. The chapter highlights the baker's role not just as a provider of bread but as a friend and companion. It touches upon simple childhood joys and routines, like the morning ritual of meeting the baker, even before brushing teeth, emphasizing the baker's significant place in Goan society. The text also includes a 'Before You Read' section with discussion prompts about India's diverse culture and geography, and an 'Oral Comprehension Check' to assess understanding of the text.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | First Flight |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — BEFORE YOU READ |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 588 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the cultural significance of the baker in Goan society.
- Appreciate the nostalgic tone and personal reflections in the narrative.
- Identify key vocabulary related to baking and daily life.
- Discuss the historical influences on Goa.
- Analyze the author's childhood memories associated with the baker.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| reminiscing | thinking fondly of the past |
| nostalgically | in a way that shows a sentimental longing for the past |
| heralding | announcing |
| furnaces | an enclosed structure in which metal or other material is heated, or chemicals are treated, at very high temperatures |
| rebuke | an expression of disapproval; a scolding |
| fragrance | a pleasant, sweet smell |
| parapet | a low protective wall along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony |
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Practice questions
- What do the elders in Goa often reminisce about? Answer: The elders in Goa often reminisce nostalgically about the Portuguese days and their famous loaves of bread.
- What is the traditional baker called in Goa? Answer: The traditional baker is known as 'pader' in Goa.
- How did the baker announce his arrival? Answer: The baker announced his arrival with the 'jhang, jhang' sound of his specially made bamboo staff.
- What did the children long for from the baker's basket? Answer: The children longed for the sweet bread-bangles, not the loaves meant for the elders.
- According to the author, why was it not necessary to brush teeth or wash mouths properly in childhood? Answer: The author humorously suggests that hot tea could wash and clean everything, and compares it to a tiger not brushing its teeth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of the chapter 'A Baker from Goa'?
The main theme is the nostalgic remembrance of the traditional Goan baker and his integral role in the community, reflecting on past Portuguese influences and childhood joys.
Who are the 'paders' in Goa?
'Paders' are the traditional bakers in Goa, who continue the family profession of baking.
What did the children in Goa look forward to from the baker?
Children looked forward to the sweet bread-bangles, which were specially made and chosen carefully.
How did the baker's arrival impact the children's morning?
The jingling thud of the baker's bamboo staff would wake the children up, and they would run to meet and greet him.
Does the chapter suggest that baking is still a relevant profession in Goa?
Yes, the chapter suggests that the profession continues, with sons carrying on their fathers' legacy, and the traditional furnaces still existing.
What historical period does the chapter refer to regarding Goa?
The chapter refers to the 'good old Portuguese days' when Goa had Portuguese influence.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 10 English — First Flight — Chapter 5 — English Glimpses India. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.