CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 4 The Treasure Within NCERT Solutions

Reviewed by NCERT Help Editorial Team · Updated on 29 Jul 2026

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 8 PDF

This resource provides detailed NCERT Solutions for CBSE Class 8 English, Chapter 4, 'The Treasure Within'. It delves into the life and experiences of Hafeez Contractor, highlighting that academic success is not the sole measure of intelligence or future achievement. The solutions explore the idea that every individual possesses unique talents and learning styles, often referred to as the 'treasure within'. Through comprehension checks and exercise questions, students will understand the importance of identifying and nurturing these hidden abilities, moving beyond traditional academic metrics. These solutions aim to help students grasp the chapter's core message about diverse forms of intelligence and potential, aiding in their exam preparation by offering clear explanations and insights into the text's themes.

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Quick info

Board	CBSE
Class	Class 8
Subject	English
Session	2026
Language	English
Type	NCERT Solutions
Chapter	Chapter 4 The Treasure Within

Chapter summary

Chapter 4, 'The Treasure Within', focuses on the life of architect Hafeez Contractor, emphasizing that academic brilliance doesn't always correlate with future success. The NCERT Solutions cover comprehension checks and exercises that explore the concept of hidden talents, unconventional learning, and the importance of recognizing individual strengths beyond traditional schooling. It encourages students to think about different types of intelligence and how schools can better support learners who don't fit the conventional mold.

Learning outcomes

Understand that academic performance is not the only indicator of intelligence or future success.
Identify the concept of 'hidden talents' or 'the treasure within' each individual.
Analyze Hafeez Contractor's journey from a disengaged student to a successful architect.
Discuss the role of teachers and mentors in recognizing and nurturing unique abilities.
Reflect on different learning styles and the limitations of conventional education.
Appreciate the importance of pursuing one's passion and area of interest.

Topics covered

Paper topics

Understanding Hafeez Contractor's childhood experiences
The concept of 'The Treasure Within'
Identifying hidden talents and potential
Critique of conventional schooling methods
Different learning styles and intelligence
The role of teachers and mentors
Redefining success beyond academic achievement
Hafeez Contractor's journey into architecture
Mathematics as a creative and applied field
The importance of pursuing one's passion

Important topics

The concept of 'The Treasure Within'
Identifying and nurturing hidden talents
Critique of conventional schooling
Redefining success
Hafeez Contractor's journey and insights

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Questions and Solutions

Comprehension Check (Page 28) - Question 1

What did Hafeez Contractor have nightmares about?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor used to have nightmares about his mathematics examinations. He found the subject very difficult and feared failing, which led to these distressing dreams.

Comprehension Check (Page 28) - Question 2

What did the Principal say to him, which influenced him deeply?

Solution: The Principal told Hafeez that he was a good student but never studied. He emphasized that his mother had worked very hard to raise him and that it was time for him to rise to the occasion and focus on his studies.

Comprehension Check (Page 28) - Question 3

"..... that year I did not step out into the field." What was he busy doing that year?

Solution: That year, Hafeez Contractor was busy studying books. He dedicated his time to his studies, unlike his usual inclination towards outdoor activities or sports.

Comprehension Check (Page 28) - Question 4 (i)

What 'distraction' did Hafeez Contractor create one day?

Solution: One day, Hafeez Contractor and his friends created a 'distraction' by playing the game 'Chor-police' for an entire hour.

Comprehension Check (Page 28) - Question 4 (ii)

Would you have liked to participate in the 'distraction' had you been with him?

Solution: As a student, it would be advisable to avoid such distractions. Participating in games like 'Chor-police' during study time could lead to neglecting academic responsibilities and potentially facing consequences from teachers. It is generally better to focus on studies during school hours.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 1

Hafeez Contractor wanted to join the police force. Why didn't he?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor initially wanted to join the police force. However, his mother advised him to complete his graduation first. Following her advice, he joined Jaihind College in Mumbai to pursue his higher education.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 2

In the architect's office, Hafeez Contractor was advised to drop everything and join architecture. Why?

Solution: This advice came about by chance. While visiting someone's office, Hafeez Contractor noticed a window design that was incorrect and pointed out that it wouldn't open. His observation was accurate, surprising his cousin's husband, who then asked Hafeez to design a house. Impressed by Hafeez's natural talent for design, he was strongly advised to pursue architecture.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 3 (i)

What was Mrs Gupta's advise to Hafeez Contractor?

Solution: When Hafeez Contractor was in the second or third standard, his teacher, Mrs. Gupta, saw his sketches. She advised him to become an architect when he grew up, recognizing his artistic talent.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 3 (ii)

What made her advise him so?

Solution: Mrs. Gupta advised Hafeez to become an architect because she was impressed by the quality and skill evident in his sketches. She saw his potential in the field of design and architecture.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 4

How did he help fellow students who had lost a button?

Solution: If a fellow student lost a button, perhaps during play or a scuffle, Hafeez Contractor would help them out. He would skillfully use a blade to cut a makeshift button from a piece of chalk, providing a temporary replacement.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 5

Which rules did he break as a school boy?

Solution: As a schoolboy, Hafeez Contractor broke several rules related to academic discipline. He confessed that he never studied until the 11th grade and would copy during examinations to pass. He was also more interested in games and sports than in his books.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 6 (i)

What is Hafeez Contractor's definition of Mathematics?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor defines Mathematics not just as numbers and calculations, but as a creative field. He sees it as a combination of putting designs, construction, psychology, and sociology together, and then making sketches that integrate all these elements.

Comprehension Check (Page 32) - Question 6 (ii)

How would you want to define Mathematics? Do you like the subject?

Solution: Mathematics can be defined as the study of numbers, quantity, space, structure, and change. It is a fundamental science that helps us understand patterns and relationships in the world. While it can be challenging, many find it fascinating due to its logical nature and problem-solving applications. Whether one likes the subject often depends on their aptitude and how it is taught.

Exercise (Page 32) - Q1

It is likely that someone who is original and intelligent does not do very well at school? Should such a learner be called a failure? If not, why not?

Solution: It is indeed possible for an original and intelligent person to not perform exceptionally well in the conventional school system. This can happen if the school's methods do not align with their unique way of thinking or learning. Such a learner should not be called a failure. Their intelligence might manifest in creativity, problem-solving outside the curriculum, or in areas not typically assessed by schools. Their potential for success in life, especially in fields that value originality, can be very bright, even if their academic scores are average.

Exercise (Page 32) - Q2

Who, in your view, is an 'unusual' learner?

Solution: An 'unusual' learner is someone who thinks differently from the majority of their peers and deviates from standard learning patterns. This learner might possess exceptional talent or genius in a specific area, such as art, music, or innovative thinking, but may struggle with traditional academic subjects or classroom structures. They often require a different approach to education to thrive.

Exercise (Page 32) - Q3

What can schools do to draw out the best in unusual learners? Suggest whatever seems reasonable to you.

Solution: Schools can significantly help unusual learners by adopting more flexible and personalized teaching strategies. Instead of treating all students the same, educators should strive to identify each student's unique talents and interests. This could involve offering diverse extracurricular activities, project-based learning, or opportunities for independent study. Encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and providing mentorship can help these learners discover and develop their potential, ensuring they don't feel stifled by conventional methods.

Short Answer Type Questions - Q1

What does the title of the lesson 'The Treasure Within' mean and highlight?

Solution: The title 'The Treasure Within' refers to the inherent, often undiscovered, talents, skills, and potential that every individual possesses. It highlights the idea that true achievement and fulfillment come from recognizing and nurturing these inner capabilities, rather than solely focusing on academic excellence. The lesson emphasizes that not all academically successful students become achievers in life, and conversely, those who may not excel in school can find greatness in their areas of interest.

Short Answer Type Questions - Q2

Who is Hafeez Contractor? What does he tell about himself to his interviewer? How does he find his calling?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor is currently a leading architect in India. In the interview, he shares his childhood experiences, revealing his lack of interest in studies and his tendency to pass exams by copying. He was more inclined towards sports and was even the cricket captain. Hafeez found his calling in architecture quite by chance when his talent for design and spotting flaws in architectural drawings was recognized by his cousin's husband, who then encouraged him to pursue this profession.

Short Answer Type Questions - Q3

Mr Hafeez at school was more interested in other things than his books. How does he support this statement?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor supports this statement by recounting several instances from his school days. He mentions his primary interest lay in games and playing pranks rather than academics. He was a good sportsman and captained the cricket team. Academically, he admits to copying to pass exams and finding mathematics a 'terror'. Despite his poor performance in traditional subjects, he excelled in designing, a skill that ultimately led him to his successful career as an architect.

Short Answer Type Questions - Q4

How does Hafeez give to his client the kind of structure he wants?

Solution: Hafeez Contractor possesses a remarkable ability to understand and translate his clients' desires into architectural designs. He is adept at sketching house designs on the spot. By observing the client's demeanor and listening to their conversation, he intuitively grasps their taste and preferences. He then quickly creates a sketch that reflects what the client envisions, presenting it to them in his office.

Common mistakes

Equating academic toppers with overall life success.
Underestimating the value of non-academic skills and talents.
Assuming that 'failure' in school means failure in life.
Not recognizing or nurturing individual learning styles.
Focusing solely on rote learning rather than understanding and application.

Revision tips

Focus on the core message: 'The Treasure Within' is about diverse talents, not just academics.
Analyze Hafeez Contractor's experiences to understand how potential can be unlocked.
Consider the questions about 'unusual learners' and how schools can support them.
Reflect on the definition of success beyond school marks.
Discuss with peers the different types of intelligence and talents.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What did Hafeez Contractor have nightmares about?

Q2. What did the Principal advise Hafeez Contractor that influenced him?

Q3. What 'distraction' did Hafeez and his friends engage in for an hour?

Q4. Why was Hafeez Contractor advised to join architecture?

Q5. What did Hafeez Contractor do for a fellow student who lost a button?

Q6. According to Hafeez Contractor, what is Mathematics a combination of?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main message of Chapter 4, 'The Treasure Within'?

The main message is that every individual possesses unique talents and potential ('the treasure within') that may not be recognized by traditional academic systems. Success in life is not solely defined by academic achievements.

Who is Hafeez Contractor and why is his story important in this chapter?

Hafeez Contractor is a renowned architect whose life story illustrates that even someone who struggled academically can achieve great success by discovering and pursuing their innate talents.

How does the chapter challenge the idea of a 'failure' in school?

It suggests that a student who doesn't perform well academically might be an 'unusual learner' with different strengths. Such a learner should not be labeled a failure, as they may excel in other areas later in life.

What is Hafeez Contractor's definition of Mathematics?

He defines Mathematics as a combination of designs, construction, psychology, and sociology, expressed through sketches and practical applications, rather than just abstract calculations.

How can schools help 'unusual learners' according to the chapter?

Schools should move away from rigid, mechanical teaching methods, identify the hidden talents of each student, and encourage them to develop these unique abilities.

What does the chapter imply about the role of teachers?

Teachers play a crucial role in recognizing and nurturing students' potential. As seen with Mrs. Gupta, a teacher's encouragement based on observing a student's talent can significantly impact their future.

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