Things that Have Changed Our Lives - Textual Dictionary | ENGLISH FOR TODAY

Chapter Nine

Things that Have Changed Our Lives

Textual Dictionary

The words below are taken from this chapter. Their meanings and examples are given for clear understanding.

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shən)	A new thing made by human beings	creation; discovery	—	The wheel is an important invention.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round	straight	A wheel is a circular object.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point	turn; revolve	stop	A wheel can rotate around its axis.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	central line	—	The wheel rotates around its axis.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness	A wheel's mobility has contributed much to civilisation.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower	The Greeks were pioneers in many things.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast	subsonic	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.

The dictionary contains 10 words from the chapter.

1. How to Use This Sheet

Study steps

Read the chapter carefully before using this sheet.
Cover the Meaning column and test yourself on each word.
Read every example sentence aloud and notice how the word is used.
Use the example sentences as models for your own writing practice.
Review the synonyms and antonyms after learning the main meaning.
Use the Key Points box to revise the important facts from the chapter.

▣ Textual Dictionary

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shən)	A new thing made by human beings	creation; discovery	—	The wheel is an important invention. This sentence shows the value of the wheel.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round	straight	A wheel is a circular object. The sentence describes the shape of a wheel.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point	turn; revolve	stop	A wheel can rotate around its axis. The sentence explains the movement of a wheel.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	central line	—	The wheel rotates around its axis. The axis is the centre line of the movement.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness	A wheel's mobility has contributed much to civilisation. Easy movement is an important benefit of a wheel.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq. The word refers to a very old time.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower	The Greeks were pioneers in many things. Pioneers lead the way in a field.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing. The sentence gives one use of chariots.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train. It uses the usual wheeled design.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast	subsonic	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft. Its speed was greater than the speed of sound.

The dictionary contains 10 words from the chapter.

▣ Key Points

The wheel is a major human invention that has helped civilisation progress.
A wheel has a circular shape.
A wheel can rotate around its axis.
Wheels make the movement of objects across a surface easier.
Wheels are used on vehicles, machines, factory equipment and farm equipment.
Fans, propellers and turbines are other types of wheels.
The earliest known wheel was discovered in Mesopotamia in 3,500 B.C.
The Egyptians improved wheels by making wheels with spokes.
Ancient chariots with spoked wheels were used for war, hunting and racing.
A conventional train is a usual wheeled train.
A supersonic aircraft travels faster than sound.
The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft developed jointly by France and Britain.

2. Key Words - Main Table (1-15)

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (ইনভেনশন)	A new thing made by human beings (a new creation)	creation (something made); discovery (finding something new)	—	The wheel is a great human invention.
circular (সার্কুলার)	Having the shape of a circle (round in shape)	round (having a curved shape); ring-shaped (shaped like a ring)	straight (not curved); angular (having angles)	A wheel is a circular object.
rotate (রোটেট)	To turn around a central point (to spin)	turn (move around); revolve (move in a circle)	stop (cease moving); remain (stay still)	A wheel can rotate around its axis.
axis (অ্যাক্সিস)	The central line around which a wheel turns (a centre line)	centre line (middle line); pivot (turning point)	—	The wheel rotates around its axis.
mobility (মোবিলিটি)	The ability to move easily (ease of movement)	movement (act of moving); motion (change of position)	stillness (lack of movement); immobility (inability to move)	A wheel’s mobility helps objects move across a surface.
ancient (এনশেন্ট)	Belonging to a very old period (from long ago)	old (from the past); early (belonging to an earlier time)	modern (of the present time); recent (not long ago)	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
pioneer (পাইওনিয়ার)	A person or group that is first in doing something (a pathfinder)	leader (one who leads); forerunner (one who comes first)	follower (one who follows); beginner (one who is not experienced)	The Greeks were pioneers in many things.
warfare (ওয়ারফেয়ার)	The activity of fighting a war (war fighting)	fighting (using force); battle (a fight between groups)	peace (absence of war); friendship (friendly relations)	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing.
conventional (কনভেনশনাল)	Usual or traditional (following the common design)	usual (common); traditional (following old practice)	unconventional (not usual); unusual (not common)	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train.
supersonic (সুপারসনিক)	Moving faster than sound (faster than sound travels)	ultrafast (extremely fast); high-speed (moving at great speed)	subsonic (slower than sound); slow (not fast)	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.
high-speed (হাই-স্পিড)	Moving or operating very fast (having great speed)	fast (quick); rapid (happening quickly)	slow (not quick); low-speed (having little speed)	The TGV is France’s high-speed rail service.
network (নেটওয়ার্ক)	A connected system of routes or services (linked lines)	system (organised group); chain (connected series)	separation (state of being apart); isolation (being alone)	The Bullet Train is a high-speed train network in Japan.
expand (এক্সপ্যান্ড)	To become larger or cover more places (to increase in size)	grow (become larger); extend (make longer or wider)	reduce (make smaller); contract (become smaller)	The rail network will expand to more cities.
magnetic (ম্যাগনেটিক)	Related to a magnet or magnetic force (connected with magnetism)	attractive (able to pull); magnetised (made magnetic)	nonmagnetic (not affected by magnets); repulsive (pushing away)	Japan set a record for unconventional magnetic trainsets.
endeavor (এনডেভার)	To try hard to do something (to make a serious effort)	try (make an attempt); strive (work hard)	neglect (fail to care); abandon (give up)	Human beings endeavored further after discovering wheels.

▣ Key Points

The wheel is an important human invention that helped civilisation progress.
A wheel has a circular shape.
A wheel can rotate around its axis.
Wheels make it easier to move objects across a surface.
Wheels are used on vehicles, machines, factory equipment and farm equipment.
Fans, propellers and turbines are also types of wheels.
The earliest known wheel was discovered in Mesopotamia in 3,500 B.C.
The Egyptians improved wheels by making wheels with spokes.
Ancient chariots with spoked wheels were used for war, hunting and racing.
A conventional train is a usual wheeled train.
A supersonic aircraft travels faster than sound.
The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft developed jointly by France and Britain.

3. Key Words - Main Table (16-30)

▣ Key Points

high-speed means moving or operating very fast.
record-breaking describes something that sets a new best performance or speed.
network means a connected system of routes or services.
expand means to become larger or to cover more places.
conventional means usual or traditional.
unconventional means different from what is usual or traditional.
magnetic relates to a magnet or magnetic force.
trainset means a complete set of railway vehicles used together as a train.
endeavor means to try hard to do something.
aviation means the activity or technology of flying aircraft.
revolution means a great change in a system or technology.
supersonic means moving faster than sound.
neither is used to say that not one and not the other of two things is true.
ground means stopped from flying or kept on the ground.
sky’s the limit expresses the idea that there is no fixed limit to what can be achieved.

4. Subject Terms and Definitions

Textual terms from the chapter

These terms are used in the lessons about wheels, transport, trains and aviation.

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shun)	A new thing made by human beings.	creation; discovery	—	The wheel is a great human invention. The sentence identifies the wheel as an important creation.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle.	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	A wheel is a circular object. The sentence describes the shape of a wheel.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point.	turn; revolve	stop; remain	A wheel can rotate around its axis. The sentence explains the movement of a wheel.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns.	centre line; pivot	—	The wheel rotates around its axis. The axis is the centre line of the rotation.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily.	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	A wheel’s mobility has contributed much to civilisation. The sentence links easy movement with the progress of civilisation.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period.	old; early	modern; recent	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq. The sentence refers to a very old historical period.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something.	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Greeks were pioneers in many things. The sentence describes people who led the way.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war.	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing. The sentence gives one historical use of chariots.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional.	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train. The train uses the usual wheeled design.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound.	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft. Its speed was greater than the speed of sound.
magnetic (mag-NET-ik)	Related to a magnet or magnetic force.	magnetised; attractive	nonmagnetic; repulsive	Japan set the world record for unconventional magnetic trainsets. The sentence refers to trains using magnetic technology.
aviation (ay-vee-AY-shun)	The activity or technology of flying aircraft.	flying; air travel	ground transport; landing	Modern aircraft companies are making revolutions in aviation technology. The sentence connects aviation with new aircraft technology.

The table contains 12 subject terms from the chapter.

▣ Key Points

An invention is a new thing made by human beings.
A wheel is circular because it has the shape of a circle.
A wheel rotates around its axis.
Mobility means the ability to move easily.
The earliest known wheel was discovered in Mesopotamia in 3,500 B.C.
The Egyptians improved wheels by making wheels with spokes.
Ancient chariots with spoked wheels were used for war, hunting and racing.
A pioneer is first in doing something in a particular field.
A conventional train is a usual wheeled train.
A supersonic aircraft travels faster than sound.
The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft developed jointly by France and Britain.
Magnetic trainsets use magnetic force as part of their technology.

5. Words in Context

The following passage brings important words from the chapter together in a meaningful context. Read it aloud and notice how each bold word helps explain the development of transport.

The wheel was a major invention that helped human beings move objects more easily. Its circular shape allows it to rotate around its axis. This increased mobility and helped civilisation progress. In ancient times, pioneers improved wheels and used them on chariots for travel, hunting and warfare. Later, the conventional train developed into faster forms of transport, while modern aircraft achieved supersonic speed through advances in aviation.

Use the table to review the meaning of each word, then read the example sentences again. Try to write one new sentence with any three words.

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shən)	A new thing made by human beings	creation; discovery	—	The wheel was a great human invention.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	A wheel has a circular shape.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point	turn; revolve	stop; remain	A wheel can rotate around its axis.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	centre line; pivot	—	The wheel rotates around its axis.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	A wheel’s mobility helps objects move across a surface.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern; recent	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Greeks were pioneers in many things.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.
aviation (ay-vee-AY-shun)	The activity or technology of flying aircraft	flying; air travel	ground transport; landing	Modern aircraft companies are making revolutions in aviation technology.

6. Exercise 1 - Match the Meaning

Match each word in Column A with its correct meaning in Column B. Write the letter of the meaning beside the word number.

Column A: Words	Column B: Meanings
1. mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	A. Moving faster than sound
2. pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	B. The central line around which a wheel turns
3. supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	C. Usual or traditional
4. axis (AK-sis)	D. The activity of fighting a war
5. conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	E. The ability to move easily
6. warfare (WOR-fair)	F. A person or group that is first in doing something
7. circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	G. Belonging to a very old period
8. ancient (AYN-shənt)	H. To turn around a central point
9. rotate (ROH-tayt)	I. Having the shape of a circle
10. invention (in-VEN-shən)	J. A new thing made by human beings

Answer Key
1-E, 2-F, 3-A, 4-B, 5-C, 6-D, 7-I, 8-G, 9-H, 10-J

Textual Dictionary

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shən)	A new thing made by human beings	creation; discovery	—	The wheel is a great human invention. The sentence shows the importance of the wheel.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	A wheel is a circular object. The sentence describes the shape of a wheel.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point	turn; revolve	stop; remain	A wheel can rotate around its axis. The sentence explains the movement of a wheel.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	centre line; pivot	—	The wheel rotates around its axis. The axis is the centre line of the movement.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	A wheel's mobility helps objects move across a surface. Easy movement is an important benefit of a wheel.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern; recent	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq. The word refers to a very old time.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Greeks were pioneers in many things. Pioneers lead the way in a field.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing. The sentence gives one use of chariots.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train. It uses the usual wheeled design.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft. Its speed was greater than the speed of sound.

Worked Example Series

Ex. 1. Find the word that means “the ability to move easily.”

Sol: Meaning = the ability to move easily
Word = mobility
Ans. mobility

Ex. 2. Find the word that means “to turn around a central point.”

Sol: Meaning = to turn around a central point
Word = rotate
Ans. rotate

Ex. 3. Complete the statement: A wheel is ______ because it has the shape of a circle.

Sol: Shape described = the shape of a circle
Matching word = circular
Completed statement = A wheel is circular because it has the shape of a circle.
Ans. circular

Ex. 4. Choose the correct word: The Concorde travelled faster than sound, so it was ______.

Sol: Clue = faster than sound
Matching word = supersonic
Completed sentence = The Concorde was supersonic.
Ans. supersonic

7. Exercise 2 - Fill in the Blanks

Instructions

Fill in each blank with the most suitable word from the box. Use each word once.

circular axis mobility ancient pioneers warfare conventional supersonic network endeavored

1. A wheel is ______ because it has the shape of a circle.

2. A wheel can rotate around its ______.

3. The wheel's ______ helps objects move across a surface.

4. Mesopotamia was in ______ Iraq.

5. The Greeks were ______ in many things.

6. Chariots with spoked wheels were used for ______, hunting and racing.

7. The TGV is a ______ wheeled train.

8. The Concorde was a ______ passenger aircraft.

9. The Bullet Train is a high-speed train service ______ in Japan.

10. Human beings ______ further after discovering wheels.

Answer Key

1. circular 2. axis 3. mobility 4. ancient 5. pioneers

6. warfare 7. conventional 8. supersonic 9. network 10. endeavored

Worked Example Series

Ex. Find the word that means “having the shape of a circle.”

Sol: Meaning = having the shape of a circle
Matching word = circular
Ans. circular

Ex. Complete the sentence: A wheel can rotate around its ______.

Sol: The sentence names the central line of movement.
Correct word = axis
Completed sentence = A wheel can rotate around its axis.
Ans. axis

Ex. Choose the correct word: Mesopotamia was in ______ Iraq.

Sol: The clue refers to a very old period.
Correct word = ancient
Completed sentence = Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
Ans. ancient

Ex. Complete the sentence: The Concorde was a ______ passenger aircraft.

Sol: The clue refers to movement faster than sound.
Correct word = supersonic
Completed sentence = The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.
Ans. supersonic

Ex. Find the word that means “a connected system of routes or services.”

Sol: Meaning = a connected system of routes or services
Matching word = network
Ans. network

Textual Word Support

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	A wheel is a circular object.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	centre line; pivot	—	A wheel can rotate around its axis.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	A wheel's mobility helps objects move across a surface.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern; recent	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Greeks were pioneers in many things.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	The chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing.
conventional (kən-VEN-shə-nəl)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train.
supersonic (soo-pər-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.
network (NET-wurk)	A connected system of routes or services	system; chain	separation; isolation	The Bullet Train is a high-speed train network in Japan.
endeavor (en-DEV-er)	To try hard to do something	try; strive	neglect; abandon	Human beings endeavored further after discovering wheels.

8. Exercise 3 - Synonyms and Antonyms

Study the following textual words with their meanings, synonyms, antonyms and contextual examples.

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
high-speed (হাই-স্পিড)	Moving or operating very fast	fast; rapid	slow; low-speed	France developed a high-speed rail service.
network (নেটওয়ার্ক)	A connected system of routes or services	system; service	separation; isolation	The train network connects several major cities.
expand (এক্সপ্যান্ড)	To become larger or cover more places	increase; extend	reduce; contract	The railway service will expand beyond Paris.
magnetic (ম্যাগনেটিক)	Related to a magnet or magnetic force	magnetised; attractive	nonmagnetic; repulsive	The test train used magnetic technology.
endeavor (এনডেভার)	To try hard to do something	try; strive	neglect; abandon	People endeavored to travel farther and faster.
revolution (রেভলিউশন)	A great change in a field	change; improvement	stability; sameness	Aircraft companies are making a revolution in aviation technology.
aviation (এভিয়েশন)	The activity or technology of flying aircraft	flying; flight	ground; stillness	Modern aviation technology has developed rapidly.
grounded (গ্রাউন্ডেড)	Kept on the ground and not allowed to fly	stopped; immobilised	airborne; flying	The aircraft fleet was grounded after the accident.
supersonic (সুপারসনিক)	Moving faster than sound	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde made supersonic passenger travel possible.
conventional (কনভেনশনাল)	Usual or traditional	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The test involved a conventional wheeled train.

Choose the correct synonym or antonym.

1. Choose the synonym of high-speed: (a) slow (b) rapid (c) grounded

2. Choose the antonym of network: (a) system (b) service (c) isolation

3. Choose the synonym of expand: (a) extend (b) reduce (c) abandon

4. Choose the antonym of magnetic: (a) attractive (b) nonmagnetic (c) magnetised

5. Choose the synonym of endeavor: (a) neglect (b) strive (c) abandon

6. Choose the antonym of revolution: (a) improvement (b) change (c) stability

7. Choose the synonym of aviation: (a) flight (b) ground (c) stillness

8. Choose the antonym of grounded: (a) stopped (b) airborne (c) immobilised

9. Choose the synonym of supersonic: (a) subsonic (b) ultrafast (c) slow

10. Choose the antonym of conventional: (a) traditional (b) usual (c) unconventional

Answer Key: 1. rapid; 2. isolation; 3. extend; 4. nonmagnetic; 5. strive; 6. stability; 7. flight; 8. airborne; 9. ultrafast; 10. unconventional.

Worked Example Series

Ex. Find the synonym of “expand”.

Sol: Meaning clue = become larger

Matching word = extend

Ans. extend

Ex. Find the antonym of “magnetic”.

Sol: Meaning clue = related to magnetic force

Opposite meaning = not affected by magnets

Ans. nonmagnetic

Ex. Choose the synonym of “endeavor”: try or abandon.

Sol: The word means = try hard

Correct choice = try

Ans. try

Ex. Complete the pair: conventional : usual :: ______ : unusual.

Sol: Opposite of usual = unusual

Matching chapter word = unconventional

Ans. unconventional

Ex. Find the antonym of “grounded”.

Sol: Meaning clue = kept on the ground

Opposite meaning = in the air

Ans. airborne

9. Exercise 4 - Make Sentences

Use each word in a meaningful sentence connected with the chapter.

Write the sentences in your exercise book, then compare them with the model sentences in the table.

Words for sentence writing

invention • circular • rotate • axis • mobility • ancient • pioneer • warfare

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shən)	A new thing made by human beings	creation; discovery	—	The wheel remains a useful invention in modern life.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lər)	Having the shape of a circle	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	The circular wheel rolled across the surface.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point	turn; revolve	stop; remain	The wheels rotate when the train begins to move.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns	centre line; pivot	—	The spoke wheel turns smoothly around its axis.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	The mobility provided by wheels helps transport heavy equipment.
ancient (AYN-shənt)	Belonging to a very old period	old; early	modern; recent	Ancient India used spoked wheels on chariots.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Wright brothers were pioneers in powered flight.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	Ancient chariots were used in warfare as well as racing.

Worked Example Series

Ex. Make a sentence with “invention”.

Sol:
Word = invention
Context = the wheel and human progress
Sentence = The wheel remains a useful invention in modern life.
Ans. The wheel remains a useful invention in modern life.

Ex. Make a sentence with “rotate”.

Sol:
Word = rotate
Context = the movement of train wheels
Sentence = The wheels rotate when the train begins to move.
Ans. The wheels rotate when the train begins to move.

Ex. Make a sentence with “mobility”.

Sol:
Word = mobility
Context = moving heavy equipment
Sentence = The mobility provided by wheels helps transport heavy equipment.
Ans. The mobility provided by wheels helps transport heavy equipment.

Ex. Make a sentence with “ancient”.

Sol:
Word = ancient
Context = the history of spoked wheels
Sentence = Ancient India used spoked wheels on chariots.
Ans. Ancient India used spoked wheels on chariots.

Ex. Make a sentence with “pioneer”.

Sol:
Word = pioneer
Context = the first successful experiment in flying
Sentence = The Wright brothers were pioneers in powered flight.
Ans. The Wright brothers were pioneers in powered flight.

10. Vocabulary MCQ (1-10)

Choose the correct meaning or usage of each chapter word.

The Wheel

1. Which word means “a new thing made by human beings”?

A. axis

B. invention

C. mobility

D. turbine

Sol: [B] Invention means a new thing made by human beings.

2. A wheel is called circular because it is shaped like a ____.

A. circle

B. square

C. valley

D. spoke

Sol: [A] Circular means having the shape of a circle.

3. Which sentence uses “rotate” correctly?

A. The wheel rotates around its axis.

B. The wheel rotates into a valley.

C. The wheel rotates the ancient period.

D. The wheel rotates a passenger.

Sol: [A] Rotate means to turn around a central point, such as an axis.

History of the Wheel

4. What does “axis” mean in the description of a wheel?

A. A racing vehicle

B. The central line around which a wheel turns

C. A river valley

D. A type of aircraft

Sol: [B] An axis is the central line around which a wheel turns.

5. Which word describes something belonging to a very old period?

A. conventional

B. ancient

C. magnetic

D. supersonic

Sol: [B] Ancient refers to a very old period.

6. The Greeks were called pioneers because they ____.

A. were first in doing many things

B. stopped using wheels

C. built the TGV

D. flew the Concorde

Sol: [A] A pioneer is a person or group that is first in doing something.

High-Speed Trains

7. Which word means “usual or traditional”?

A. unconventional

B. conventional

C. supersonic

D. magnetic

Sol: [B] Conventional means usual or traditional.

8. In the chapter, “magnetic” is connected with ____.

A. sound

B. magnetism

C. ancient warfare

D. farming equipment

Sol: [B] Magnetic means related to a magnet or magnetic force.

Aviation

9. An aircraft moving faster than sound is described as ____.

A. grounded

B. supersonic

C. conventional

D. ancient

Sol: [B] Supersonic means moving faster than sound.

10. If an aircraft is grounded, what has happened to it?

A. It has been kept on the ground.

B. It has become magnetic.

C. It has travelled faster than sound.

D. It has started a journey.

Sol: [A] Grounded means kept on the ground and unable to fly.

11. Quick Revision List

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
invention (in-VEN-shuhn)	A new thing made by human beings (a new creation)	creation; discovery	—	The wheel is a great human invention.
circular (SUR-kyuh-lur)	Having the shape of a circle (round in shape)	round; ring-shaped	straight; angular	A wheel is a circular object.
rotate (ROH-tayt)	To turn around a central point (to spin)	turn; revolve	stop; remain	The wheels rotate when the train begins to move.
axis (AK-sis)	The central line around which a wheel turns (a centre line)	centre line; pivot	—	The wheel turns around its axis.
mobility (moh-BIL-uh-tee)	The ability to move easily (ease of movement)	movement; motion	stillness; immobility	Wheel mobility makes heavy objects easier to move.
ancient (AYN-shuhnt)	Belonging to a very old period (from long ago)	old; early	modern; recent	Mesopotamia was in ancient Iraq.
pioneer (py-uh-NEER)	A person or group that is first in doing something (a pathfinder)	leader; forerunner	follower; beginner	The Greeks were pioneers in many things.
warfare (WOR-fair)	The activity of fighting a war (war fighting)	fighting; battle	peace; friendship	Ancient chariots were used for warfare, hunting and racing.
conventional (kuhn-VEN-shuh-nuhl)	Usual or traditional (following the common design)	usual; traditional	unconventional; unusual	The TGV is a conventional wheeled train.
supersonic (soo-pur-SON-ik)	Moving faster than sound (faster than sound travels)	ultrafast; high-speed	subsonic; slow	The Concorde was a supersonic passenger aircraft.
high-speed (HY-speed)	Moving or operating very fast (having great speed)	fast; rapid	slow; low-speed	The TGV is France's high-speed rail service.
network (NET-wurk)	A connected system of routes or services (linked lines)	system; chain	separation; isolation	The Bullet Train is a high-speed train network in Japan.
expand (ik-SPAND)	To become larger or cover more places (to increase in size)	grow; extend	reduce; contract	The rail network will expand to more cities.
magnetic (mag-NET-ik)	Related to a magnet or magnetic force (connected with magnetism)	attractive; magnetised	nonmagnetic; repulsive	Japan set a world record for unconventional magnetic trainsets.
endeavor (en-DEV-ur)	To try hard to do something (to make a serious effort)	try; strive	neglect; abandon	Human beings endeavored further after discovering wheels.

▣ Key Points

The wheel is a major human invention that helped civilisation progress.
A wheel has a circular shape and can rotate around its axis.
Wheels make it easier to move objects across a surface.
Wheels are found on cars, trains, planes, wagons, factory equipment and farm equipment.
Fans, propellers and turbines are also types of wheels.
The oldest known wheel was discovered in Mesopotamia in 3,500 B.C.
The Egyptians improved wheels by making wheels with spokes.
Ancient chariots with spoked wheels were used for war, hunting and racing.
The TGV is France's high-speed rail service and its regular trains operate at up to 320 km/h.
The Bullet Train is Japan's high-speed train network.
A supersonic aircraft travels faster than sound.
The Concorde was a joint project by France and Britain and began passenger flight in 1976.

12. Practice Bank

Further Vocabulary Practice

Complete the meanings, synonyms, antonyms and example sentences for these words from the chapter.

Word (Pronunciation)	Meaning	Synonyms	Antonyms	Example Sentence
valley (ভ্যালি)	________________	________________	________________	________________
further (ফারদার)	________________	________________	________________	________________
journey (জার্নি)	________________	________________	________________	________________
vehicle (ভিহিকল)	________________	________________	________________	________________
propeller (প্রপেলার)	________________	________________	________________	________________
turbine (টারবাইন)	________________	________________	________________	________________
powered (পাওয়ার্ড)	________________	________________	________________	________________
electric (ইলেকট্রিক)	________________	________________	________________	________________
route (রুট)	________________	________________	________________	________________
aviation (এভিয়েশন)	________________	________________	________________	________________
revolution (রেভলিউশন)	________________	________________	________________	________________
grounded (গ্রাউন্ডেড)	________________	________________	________________	________________

Hints: Match each word with its meaning in the chapter, then write a sentence about wheels, trains or aircraft.

Creative Question Bank

1. Stimulus: The wheel is a circular object. It can rotate around its axis and help the easy movement of things across a surface.
(a) What is a wheel? 2 marks
(b) Explain how a wheel helps the movement of things. 4 marks
(c) Write four places or machines where wheels are found. 4 marks

2. Stimulus: The oldest ever wheel was discovered in Mesopotamia in 3,500 B.C. Later, the Egyptians made wheels with spokes and used them on chariots around 2000 B.C.
(a) Where was the oldest wheel discovered? 2 marks
(b) Describe two improvements made by the Egyptians. 4 marks
(c) Write a short paragraph on the early history of the wheel using the stimulus. 4 marks

3. Stimulus: The TGV service first started between Paris and Lyon in 1981. A TGV test train reached 574.8 km/h on 3 April 2007, while regular TGV trains operate at up to 320 km/h.
(a) What does TGV mean? 2 marks
(b) Distinguish between the test speed and the regular operating speed of the TGV. 4 marks
(c) Write a comparison between the TGV and the Bullet Train using information from the chapter. 4 marks

4. Stimulus: The Bullet Train started operation in Japan in 1964 on a limited route. At present, most major cities of Japan come under its network. It runs at a maximum speed of 300 km/h.
(a) When did the Bullet Train start operation? 2 marks
(b) Explain how the Bullet Train network expanded. 4 marks
(c) Prepare a brief report on the Bullet Train, including its country, network and maximum speed. 4 marks

5. Stimulus: The Wright brothers made the first experiment of flying in a plane on December 17, 1903. The Concorde was a joint project by France and Britain, and its normal speed was 2,170 km/h.
(a) Who made the first experiment of flying in a plane? 2 marks
(b) Describe the importance of the Wright brothers’ experiment. 4 marks
(c) Compare the speed and development of a modern aircraft with the Concorde. 4 marks