NCERT Class 12 English Kaliedoscope: Chapter 5 — 71/ONE CENTIMETRE
This chapter from NCERT Class 12 English Kaleidoscope, titled 'One Centimetre,' introduces Bi Shu-min, a renowned Chinese doctor and writer. The narrative focuses on Tao Ying, a factory cook, and her son Xiao Ye. Tao Ying exhibits astuteness in navigating bus fare rules, often avoiding payment. The story highlights the mother-son relationship, with Tao Ying's deep sense of responsibility towards Xiao Ye, especially concerning his physical and emotional well-being. The text delves into the significance of the soft spot on a child's head, symbolizing the 'door to life.' Tao Ying's gentle demeanor and desire to set a good example for her son, despite her humble background, are central themes. The chapter explores themes of motherhood, societal roles, and the subtle nuances of human interaction, offering insights into the life of an ordinary woman striving for perfection in her maternal role.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Kaliedoscope |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — 71/ONE CENTIMETRE |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 682 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the complexities of mother-son relationships.
- Analyze character motivations and actions.
- Appreciate the significance of small details and gestures.
- Reflect on themes of responsibility and societal roles.
- Develop critical reading skills for literary texts.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| astute | having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage. |
| casual | relaxed and unconcerned. |
| conscious | aware of and responding to one's surroundings. |
| lustre | a gentle sheen or soft glow, typically from a relatively smooth surface. |
| skimped | obtained or provided less of something than is needed, especially money. |
| gaping | wide open. |
| aperture | an opening, hole, or gap. |
| overwhelmed | greatly surprised or impressed; overcome. |
| insignificance | the quality of being unimportant. |
| privileged | having advantages because of wealth or social status. |
| gracious | courteous, kind, and pleasant. |
| impression | an idea or feeling formed about someone or something. |
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Practice questions
- Why did Tao Ying often not bother to buy a ticket on the bus? Answer: Tao Ying often did not buy a ticket because she believed the bus would run its route and be staffed regardless of her fare, seeing it as a small saving for herself and a minor punishment for the conductor.
- What did Xiao Ye say to his mother when her jacket got caught? Answer: Xiao Ye reminded his mother about the tickets, stating 'Mama, tickets!'
- What does the painted number '1.10 m' on the bus door signify? Answer: The painted number '1.10 m' signifies the height requirement for a child to purchase a ticket.
- What is Tao Ying's attitude towards her son's diet? Answer: Tao Ying has never skimped on her child's diet, ensuring he is well-fed despite her own carefulness with money.
- What does Tao Ying feel when she touches the soft spot on her son's head? Answer: When Tao Ying touches the soft spot on her son's head, she is overwhelmed by a sense of responsibility, recognizing her role in bringing him into the world.
- How does Tao Ying try to set an example for her son? Answer: Tao Ying tries to be gentle and gracious to set a good example for her son.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Who is the author of 'One Centimetre'?
Explanation: Bi Shu-min is identified as the author of the story 'One Centimetre'.
Q2. What is Tao Ying's profession?
Explanation: Tao Ying works as a cook in the canteen of a factory.
Q3. Why does Xiao Ye insist on having a ticket?
Explanation: Xiao Ye believes that without a ticket in his hand, the bus ride does not count as a proper ride, showing a child's adherence to rituals.
Q4. What is described as fluffy and without lustre?
Explanation: Xiao Ye's hair is described as fluffy as a bundle of straw—dry and without lustre.
Q5. What does Tao Ying feel when she touches the aperture on her son's head?
Explanation: Tao Ying is overwhelmed by a sense of responsibility when she touches the aperture on her son's head, recognizing her role as his mother.
Q6. What is the height requirement for a ticket mentioned on the bus?
Explanation: The painted digit on the door indicates a height requirement of 1.10 m for a ticket.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Bi Shu-min and what is her background?
Bi Shu-min is the author of 'One Centimetre.' She is a doctor in China with over twenty years of service and holds a Master's degree in literature. She is a well-known writer whose works have been translated into many languages and have won numerous awards.
What is the main theme explored in the chapter 'One Centimetre'?
The chapter primarily explores themes of motherhood, the deep sense of responsibility a mother feels towards her child, and the subtle nuances of human connection and societal roles.
What incident highlights Tao Ying's character and her son's perspective?
The incident where Tao Ying's jacket gets caught and her son Xiao Ye reminds her about tickets ('Mama, tickets!') highlights Tao Ying's astuteness and Xiao Ye's awareness of rituals.
What is the significance of the 'aperture' on a child's head mentioned in the chapter?
The 'aperture' or soft spot on a child's head is described as the 'door to life itself.' Its proper sealing is crucial, and its presence evokes a profound sense of responsibility in the mother.
How does Tao Ying try to be a good mother?
Tao Ying tries to be a good mother by being gentle and gracious, setting a good example for her son, and ensuring he is well-fed, despite her own humble background and lack of extensive education.
What does Tao Ying's interaction with the bus conductor reveal?
Her interaction reveals her practical and somewhat opportunistic nature, as she assesses the conductor's demeanor to decide whether to buy a ticket, viewing it as a small saving.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 12 English — Kaliedoscope — Chapter 5 — 71/ONE CENTIMETRE. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.