NCERT Class 10 English Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader: Chapter 6 — The Making of a Scientist
This chapter, "The Making of a Scientist," introduces Richard H. Ebright, a brilliant young scientist whose journey began with a childhood fascination for butterflies. An only child, Ebright's curiosity was nurtured by his supportive mother, who provided him with books, equipment, and companionship. His early passion led him to collect butterflies, rocks, fossils, and coins, and even pursue astronomy. A pivotal moment occurred when his mother gifted him a children's book, "The Travels of Monarch X," which ignited his interest in the scientific world and the migration of monarch butterflies. This book marked the beginning of his remarkable scientific career, leading to significant achievements and recognition in fields like biochemistry and molecular biology. The chapter highlights the importance of curiosity, a supportive environment, and early exposure to science in shaping a scientist's path.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader |
| Chapter | Chapter 6 — The Making of a Scientist |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 339 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the early life and influences that shaped Richard Ebright's scientific career.
- Recognize the importance of curiosity and a supportive environment in scientific development.
- Identify key moments and resources that contributed to Ebright's scientific journey.
- Appreciate the connection between childhood interests and future scientific achievements.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Fascination | A strong attraction or interest. |
| Pivotal | Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else. |
| Companion | A person or animal with whom one spends a lot of time or with whom one travels. |
| Curiosity | A strong desire to know or learn something. |
| Achievements | Things done successfully, typically by effort, courage, or skill. |
| Migrate | Move from one place or country seasonally to find food or to breed. |
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Practice questions
- What was Richard Ebright's initial fascination that opened the world of science to him? Answer: His fascination for butterflies.
- How did Ebright's mother support his interests? Answer: She encouraged his interest in learning, took him on trips, bought him scientific equipment, and spent time with him.
- What book became a turning point in Ebright's life? Answer: The children's book 'The Travels of Monarch X'.
- What did Ebright collect as a child besides butterflies? Answer: Rocks, fossils, and coins.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Richard H. Ebright?
Richard H. Ebright is a scientist who, along with his college roommate, published a new theory on how cells work in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
What sparked Richard Ebright's interest in science?
His fascination for butterflies and a children's book titled 'The Travels of Monarch X' sparked his interest in science.
How did Ebright's mother contribute to his scientific journey?
She actively encouraged his learning, provided him with necessary equipment, and spent quality time with him, fostering his curiosity.
What was a significant early achievement for Ebright?
Publishing his work as a college student in the prestigious journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
What does the chapter suggest about the origins of scientific talent?
The chapter suggests that scientific talent often stems from early curiosity, a supportive environment, and dedicated exploration of interests.
What does the footnote explain about 'home run'?
The footnote explains that a 'home run' in baseball is scoring a run by safely rounding all bases. In the context of the chapter, it compares getting published in a scientific journal at a young age to hitting a home run in one's first at-bat.
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NCERT Class 10 English — Foot Prints Without feet Supp. Reader — Chapter 6 — The Making of a Scientist. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.