4.5 Seeing Eyes Helping Hands – Class 7 – Balbharati

Author: Informational / Functional English Lesson

Genre: Prose (Value-based / Functional Writing)

Textbook: English Balbharati – Class 7

Board: Maharashtra State Board

English Summary

Seeing Eyes Helping Hands is a functional lesson that teaches students how to express gratitude formally and informally. It includes examples of a formal letter written by the secretary of a Home for the Aged to a school principal, thanking students for their service visit. The visit brought joy to the residents and lightened their daily tasks. The second example is a conversation between a parent, Mr Bendre, and the school principal, where he appreciates the changes in his children due to the programme. The lesson also provides the format of an informal letter and group activity to practise expressions of thanks. The overall aim is to show that polite communication and gratitude strengthen relationships, develop personality, and spread positivity.

Theme / Central Idea

The lesson highlights the value of gratitude and politeness. It teaches students to express thanks through formal letters, informal letters, and conversations, showing how appreciation builds goodwill and respect.

Character Sketches

Secretary (Home for the Aged)

• Polite and appreciative.

• Writes a formal thank-you letter to the principal.

• Shows the impact of students’ service on the residents.

  
  

Mr Bendre (Parent)

• Observant and grateful father.

• Appreciates the positive changes in his son and cousin.

• Publicly wishes to thank the principal and teachers.

  
  

Principal

• Humble and encouraging.

• Believes in holistic education.

• Accepts gratitude graciously.

Word Meanings

Grammar Questions (5)

1. Infinitive / Gerund

   Sentence: “The children enjoyed helping the aged.”

   Gerund: helping – used as the object of the verb.

   
   

2. Passive Voice

   Active: The secretary wrote a letter of thanks.

   Passive: A letter of thanks was written by the secretary.

   
   

3. Modal Auxiliary

   Sentence: “We should always express gratitude.”

   Should shows advice.

   
   

4. Tense Change

   Direct: Mr Bendre said, “I will congratulate you at the PTA meeting.”

   Indirect: Mr Bendre said that he would congratulate her at the PTA meeting.

   
   

5. Wh-Question Framing

   Statement: The students visited the Home for the Aged.

   Question: Where did the students visit?

   
   

Personal Response Questions (5)

1. Why is it important to say ‘thank you’?

   It is important to say ‘thank you’ because it shows respect and gratitude. It makes others feel valued and strengthens relationships.

   
   

2. What difference did the children’s visit make to the Home for the Aged?

   The visit brought joy and brightness to the residents’ lives. It also reduced the workload of staff and created a bond of care and affection.

   
   

3. How did Mr Bendre appreciate the school’s programme?

   Mr Bendre appreciated it by telling the principal that it improved children’s behaviour and personality. He promised to thank the teachers at the PTA meeting.

   
   

4. Would you prefer writing a letter or saying thanks personally? Why?

   I would prefer saying thanks personally because it feels more direct and heartfelt. But letters are also useful when distance or formality is required.

   
   

5. What lesson does this story give us?

   The story teaches us to express gratitude sincerely, whether formally or informally. It shows that politeness and appreciation create goodwill in society.

   
   

True or False (5)

1. The Home for the Aged secretary wrote to scold the students. → False (He wrote to thank them.)

2. The residents enjoyed the story-telling sessions. → True

3. Mr Bendre was unhappy with the programme. → False (He was very impressed.)

4. The principal believed in personality development through such programmes. → True

5. The lesson shows both formal and informal ways of giving thanks. → True

Probable Board / Exam Questions (5)

1. What was the purpose of the children’s visit to the Home for the Aged?

   The purpose was to serve the residents by doing tasks, sharing stories, and spending time with them, bringing joy to their lives.

   
   

2. How did the secretary describe the effect of the children’s visit?

   The secretary said the children were obedient and cheerful, and their visit brightened the residents’ entire week.

   
   

3. What changes did Mr Bendre notice in his children?

   He noticed positive changes in their thinking and behaviour. The programme made them more disciplined and caring.

   
   

4. What formats of gratitude are shown in the lesson?

   The lesson shows formal letters, informal letters, and face-to-face conversations as ways to express thanks.

   
   

5. What message does the lesson Seeing Eyes Helping Hands give?

   It gives the message that gratitude is essential. Saying thanks builds respect, personality, and strong social bonds.

   
   

Appreciation / Reflection Paragraph

Seeing Eyes Helping Hands is an educational and value-based lesson that focuses on gratitude. Through real-life examples of a letter, conversation, and activity, it shows practical ways of saying thanks. The lesson connects English learning with moral values, making students more polite and socially responsible. Its message—that a simple ‘thank you’ can brighten lives—is memorable and important for both personal and social growth.

About BhashaLab

BhashaLab is a dynamic platform dedicated to the exploration and mastery of languages - operating both online and offline. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), we offer language education that emphasizes measurable learning outcomes and recognized, transferable credits.

We offer:

1. NEP alligned offline language courses for degree colleges - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

2. NEP alligned offline language courses for schools - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

3. Std VIII, IX and X - English and Sanskrit Curriculum Tuitions - All boards

4. International English Olympiad Tuitions - All classes

5. Basic and Advanced English Grammar - Offline and Online - Class 3 and above

6. English Communication Skills for working professionals, adults and students - Offline and Online

Contact: +91 86577 20901, +91 97021 12044

Mail: info@bhashalab.com

Website: www.bhashalab.com