NCERT Class 8 English Honeydew: Chapter 7 — A Visit to Cambridge
This chapter, "A Visit to Cambridge," recounts the author Firdaus Kanga's meeting with renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking. Both individuals are 'differently abled,' with Hawking confined to a wheelchair due to paralysis and communicating via a computer, and Kanga having brittle bones and also using a wheelchair. Kanga, a writer and journalist from Mumbai, visits Cambridge and is inspired by Hawking's achievements. He arranges a meeting, during which they discuss living with disabilities and societal perceptions. Hawking, communicating through his computer, expresses that he hasn't been brave but had no choice, highlighting the challenges of his disintegrating body. Kanga reflects on the potential for creative living despite physical limitations and the importance of seeing others achieve great things to foster hope and ambition. The chapter explores themes of resilience, perception of disability, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Honeydew |
| Chapter | Chapter 7 — A Visit to Cambridge |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 593 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of 'differently abled' individuals.
- Appreciate the achievements of Stephen Hawking and Firdaus Kanga.
- Reflect on societal attitudes towards people with disabilities.
- Recognize the importance of inspiration and hope in overcoming challenges.
- Analyze the communication methods used by Stephen Hawking.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| differently abled | A term used to describe people with disabilities, emphasizing their unique abilities. |
| paralysis | Loss of the ability to move a part of the body. |
| astrophysicist | A scholar of astrophysics, the branch of physics dealing with stars, planets, etc. |
| brittle bones | Bones that tend to break easily. |
| buoyant | Intensely active and vibrant. |
| disintegrating | Breaking apart or falling into pieces. |
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Practice questions
- Who are the two main individuals featured in the chapter 'A Visit to Cambridge'? Answer: The two main individuals are Stephen Hawking and Firdaus Kanga.
- What condition does Stephen Hawking suffer from? Answer: Stephen Hawking suffers from a form of paralysis.
- How does Stephen Hawking communicate? Answer: Stephen Hawking communicates by punching buttons on a computer, which speaks for him in a machine-like voice.
- What does Firdaus Kanga's journalist background suggest about him? Answer: It suggests he is observant, articulate, and interested in sharing experiences through writing.
- What does Hawking say about being brave? Answer: Hawking states he hasn't been brave, implying he had no choice but to live with his condition.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Stephen Hawking?
Stephen Hawking was one of the greatest scientists of our time, known for his work in astrophysics and his book 'A Brief History of Time'.
Who is Firdaus Kanga?
Firdaus Kanga is the author of the chapter, a writer and journalist from Mumbai who uses a wheelchair due to brittle bones.
What does 'differently abled' mean?
'Differently abled' is a term used to describe people with disabilities, suggesting they have unique abilities.
What was the main topic of discussion between Hawking and Kanga?
They discussed what it means to live life in a wheelchair and how 'normal' people react to the disabled.
How does Stephen Hawking communicate?
He communicates using a computer that speaks for him, controlled by punching buttons.
What is the significance of seeing someone like you achieve something huge, according to the chapter?
It makes you realize how much is possible and encourages you to reach further than you thought you could.
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NCERT Class 8 English — Honeydew — Chapter 7 — A Visit to Cambridge. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.