NCERT Class 12 English Kaliedoscope: Chapter 9 — 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. The story highlights Tao Ying's astute nature, particularly her approach to bus fares, and her deep maternal love and sense of responsibility towards her son. It delves into the physical and emotional connection between mother and child, symbolized by the 'one centimetre' difference in height that determines Xiao Ye's bus ticket. The chapter explores themes of social class, maternal instinct, and the profound impact a mother has on her child's world, even amidst her own feelings of insignificance. It emphasizes the importance of setting a good example and nurturing a child's well-being, reflecting the CBSE curriculum's focus on character development and emotional intelligence.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Kaliedoscope |
| Chapter | Chapter 9 — 71/ONE CENTIMETRE |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 684 |
Learning outcomes
- Analyze the character of Tao Ying and her maternal instincts.
- Understand the significance of the 'one centimetre' detail in the story.
- Discuss themes of social class and responsibility.
- Appreciate the author's portrayal of the mother-child relationship.
- Identify literary devices used by Bi Shu-min.
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, especially that of a partly reflective surface. |
| skimped | obtained too little of something, especially money or food. |
| hemispheres | halves of the brain. |
| aperture | an opening, hole, or gap. |
| insignificance | the quality of being unimportant. |
| privileged | having advantages because of wealth or high social status. |
| gracious | courteous, kind, and pleasant. |
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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 employ staff regardless, and she saw it as a small saving for herself and a minor punishment for a careless conductor.
- What does Xiao Ye say to his mother about the tickets? Answer: Xiao Ye tells his mother, 'Mama, tickets!' because children are often more conscious of rituals, and without a ticket, the ride doesn't count as a proper ride for him.
- What is the height requirement mentioned on the bus door? Answer: The height requirement mentioned on the bus door is 1.10 m.
- How 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, realizing she brought this delicate creature into the world and must be a perfect mother to him.
- Why does Tao Ying tell her son he is still one centimetre away from the height requirement? Answer: Tao Ying tells her son he is one centimetre away from the height requirement so he doesn't need a ticket, likely to save money, while also setting an example of gentleness and graciousness for him.
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 insists on a ticket because children are often more conscious of rituals, and for him, the ride doesn't count as proper without a ticket.
Q4. What does the painted digit '1.10 m' on the bus door indicate?
Explanation: The '1.10 m' indicates the minimum height requirement for a child to need a ticket on the bus.
Q5. What does Tao Ying feel when she touches the soft spot on her son's head?
Explanation: She is overwhelmed by a sense of responsibility, recognizing her role in bringing him into the world.
Q6. How does Tao Ying describe her son's hair?
Explanation: Xiao Ye's hair is described as looking as fluffy as a bundle of straw—dry and without lustre.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the author of the story 'One Centimetre'?
The author of 'One Centimetre' is Bi Shu-min, a well-known Chinese doctor and writer.
What is the main theme of the chapter 'One Centimetre'?
The main themes include maternal love, responsibility, social class, and the profound connection between a mother and her child.
What does the 'one centimetre' detail symbolize in the story?
The 'one centimetre' detail symbolizes the fine line between childhood innocence and the adult world of rules and expenses, specifically related to bus fare.
What is Tao Ying's attitude towards her son's well-being?
Tao Ying is deeply devoted to her son's well-being, ensuring he has a good diet despite her own financial constraints, and feels an immense responsibility towards him.
What does the story reveal about Tao Ying's personality?
The story reveals Tao Ying as an astute, hardworking, and deeply loving mother who, despite her humble background, strives to be gentle and gracious for her son's sake.
Where does the story take place?
The story primarily takes place on a bus in China, focusing on the interaction between Tao Ying and her son Xiao Ye.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 12 English — Kaliedoscope — Chapter 9 — 71/ONE CENTIMETRE. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.