Realizing a Dream: Answers for Grade 8 English Textbook, Henan
Introduction
The journey towards realizing one's dream often begins with setting goals and working hard to achieve them. In the Grade 8 English Textbook used in Henan, students are introduced to inspiring stories of individuals who pursued their dreams with determination and persistence. Here are the answers to the questions posed in the book that will help students comprehend these stories better and get inspired to chase their own dreams.Chapter 1: The Importance of Having a Dream
In this chapter, the text emphasizes the importance of having a dream and pursuing it relentlessly. As students read 'The Great Wall,' they learn about how the architect, Yehuda Levin, fulfilled his dream of participating in a marathon by using his ingenuity to construct his 'Great Wall' and finishing the race. Below are the answers to the questions at the end of this chapter: 1. Why did Levin decide to build his 'Great Wall' for the marathon? Answer: Levin, who was passionate about running, had a dream of participating in the marathon, but he was wheelchair-bound. When he realized that the course would take him past a construction site, he decided to use the cinder blocks and lumber there to build his unique 'Great Wall' so that he could participate in the race. 2. What was Levin's attitude towards obstacles? Answer: Levin had a positive and creative attitude towards obstacles. Instead of being discouraged by his disability, he found a way to use it to his advantage, and he did not let the limitations of the marathon course restrict him. He used his imagination and resourcefulness to overcome the obstacles in his way and achieve his dream.Chapter 2: Dreams Can Come True
This chapter features the story of the Chinese gymnast, Li Ning, who overcame a series of failures to accomplish his dream of winning a gold medal at the Olympics. Here are the answers to the questions in this chapter: 1. How did Li Ning feel after his fall during the 1988 Olympics? Answer: Li Ning was devastated and felt that he had let down himself, his team, and his country. He thought that he would never be able to achieve his dream of winning a gold medal at the Olympics. 2. What motivated Li Ning to persist in his training? Answer: Li Ning was motivated by his passion for gymnastics and his desire to prove himself. He was not willing to give up his dream because of one failure, and he continued to work hard, even though he was facing challenges, such as injuries and a slower recovery rate due to his age.Chapter 3: Pursuing One's Passion
This chapter tells the story of the Chinese opera performer, Cheng Yanqiu, who pursued his passion for opera despite facing many hardships. Here are the answers to the questions in this chapter: 1. What inspired Cheng Yanqiu to become an opera performer? Answer: Cheng Yanqiu was inspired by his mother, who was a famous opera performer. He was attracted to the beauty and grace of the art form, and he wanted to carry on the tradition of performing it. 2. What challenges did Cheng Yanqiu face in his career? Answer: Cheng Yanqiu faced numerous challenges in his career, including ridicule and criticism for being a performer of 'old-fashioned' opera. He also faced financial difficulties and had to work hard to support his family while pursuing his passion for performing. However, he persevered and became one of the most renowned opera performers of his time.Conclusion
The stories of these remarkable individuals demonstrate the importance of setting goals, having passion and persistence, and never giving up on one's dream. Students in Henan will be encouraged by reading about these inspiring figures from different fields and can apply their lessons to their own lives. With dedication and hard work, they too can achieve their dreams, no matter what challenges or obstacles they may face.
