NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi: Chapter 3 — The Case of the Fifth Word
This chapter, 'The Case of the Fifth Word' from NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi, introduces the concept of mystery and deduction through the character of Encyclopedia Brown. The chapter begins with pre-reading activities involving a crossword puzzle based on anagrams and matching different meanings of the word 'case'. It then introduces Encyclopedia Brown, a young boy who secretly helps his police chief father solve difficult cases. Despite his intelligence and detective skills, he prefers to remain like other boys and is nicknamed 'Encyclopedia' due to his vast knowledge. The narrative sets the stage for a mystery that Encyclopedia will solve, highlighting his exceptional ability to deduce solutions that baffle the police. This chapter aims to enhance reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills for CBSE students.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Poorvi |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — The Case of the Fifth Word |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 467 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of anagrams and their use in word puzzles.
- Differentiate between various meanings and usages of the word 'case'.
- Identify the main characters and the central theme of mystery.
- Develop critical thinking skills through deductive reasoning presented in the story.
- Enhance vocabulary related to mystery and detective work.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Anagram | A word or phrase made by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase. |
| Declare | To state something firmly or publicly. |
| Tucks | Pulls or pushes into a neat or tidy position. |
| Sword | A weapon with a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard. |
| Evil | Profoundly immoral and wicked. |
| Mane | A growth of long hair on the neck of a horse or lion. |
| Loves | Feels deep affection or liking for. |
| Mystery | Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain. |
| Detective | A person whose occupation is to investigate and solve crimes. |
| Deduce | Arrive at (a fact or a conclusion) by reasoning; draw as a logical conclusion. |
| Nickname | A familiar or humorous name given to a person or thing. |
| Encyclopedia | A book or set of books containing facts on many subjects or on many aspects of one subject. |
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Practice questions
- What is an anagram? Answer: An anagram is a word or phrase made by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase.
- List three different meanings of the word 'case' as presented in the chapter. Answer: Situation, container, matter (or writing format).
- Who is Encyclopedia Brown? Answer: Encyclopedia Brown is a young boy who helps his police chief father solve mysteries.
- Why is Leroy called 'Encyclopedia'? Answer: Leroy is called 'Encyclopedia' because he reads many books and has a head full of facts, like an encyclopedia.
- What is Encyclopedia Brown's father's profession? Answer: Encyclopedia Brown's father is the Chief of Police.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 10?
The main theme of the chapter is mystery and deduction, focusing on a young detective named Encyclopedia Brown.
What are the pre-reading activities in this chapter?
The pre-reading activities include solving a crossword puzzle using anagrams and matching different meanings of the word 'case'.
Who is Encyclopedia Brown?
Encyclopedia Brown is a young boy who is exceptionally intelligent and helps his father, the Chief of Police, solve difficult cases.
What does the term 'anagram' mean?
An anagram is a word or phrase formed by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase.
Why is Encyclopedia Brown nicknamed 'Encyclopedia'?
He is nicknamed 'Encyclopedia' because he reads extensively and possesses a vast amount of knowledge, similar to an encyclopedia.
What is the significance of the word 'case' in the chapter?
The chapter explores multiple meanings of the word 'case', including a situation, a legal matter, and a container, hinting at the mystery to be solved.
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NCERT Class 8 English — Poorvi — Chapter 3 — The Case of the Fifth Word. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.