The World of Limitless Possibilities
Featuring Dr. Deepa Malik & Sheetal Devi
The Big Picture
The Paralympic Spirit
This chapter explores the awe-inspiring world of the Paralympic Games, focusing on the incredible resilience of para-athletes who “defy the odds.” It highlights the journey of Indian icons like Sheetal Devi, the world’s first armless female para-archer, and Dr. Deepa Malik.
Through an intimate interview, Dr. Deepa Malik recounts her life-changing diagnosis of a spinal tumor at age 29. Paralyzed from the waist down, she refused to “squander her life in remorse.” Instead, she became India’s first female Paralympic medalist, securing Silver at Rio 2016.
The text emphasizes that physical limitations do not define human potential. By advocating for “ability beyond disability,” these trailblazers challenge societal stereotypes and pave the way for a more inclusive world where every individual is treated with dignity.
Core Values
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Resilience & Fortitude The mental strength to turn setbacks into stepping stones and overcome personal tragedy.
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Inclusivity Breaking down “preconceived notions” and advocating for equal rights and accessibility.
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Limitless Potential The belief that “ability” is a unique strength waiting to be unleashed, regardless of physical challenges.
RTC Time Attack
Extract Analysis (Target: 10 Marks)
“I was 29, an awful tragedy struck me when I was diagnosed with spine tumour. I underwent a surgery, but misfortune raised its ugly head again. The doctors declared that I would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of my life… I had two choices—squander my life in remorse or transform it to a world of limitless possibilities.”
1. What does the speaker mean by “misfortune raised its ugly head again”?
2. Which word best describes the tone of the speaker in the final sentence?
3. Find a word in the extract that means ‘waste something in a foolish manner’.
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Short Answer Practice
Target Word Count: 40-50 Words (Target: 10 Marks)
1. How does the example of Sheetal Devi justify the title of the chapter?
Required Value Points:
- Sheetal Devi was born without arms, a condition that many would see as a total limitation.
- She used her legs and feet to master archery, winning the Arjuna Award and becoming world No. 1.
- This proves that with determination, human possibilities are indeed “limitless.”
2. What does Dr. Deepa Malik mean by the school of thought ‘ability beyond disability’?
Required Value Points:
- It suggests that physical impairment is just one aspect of a person and not their entire identity.
- Every person has unique skills and potential that “unleash” when given the right opportunity.
- It emphasizes focusing on what a person *can* do rather than what they cannot.
The Extrapolation Builder
Long Answer Questions • 120-150 Words
Board Standard
10 Marks Target
Writing Task
Imagine you are Dr. Deepa Malik. Write a diary entry on the night you won the Silver Medal at Rio 2016, reflecting on your journey from the hospital bed to the podium.
Marking Scheme Rubric
5 Content & Value Points
5 Quality of Expression
- Precise use of vocab: *Fortitude*, *Resilience*, *Testament*.
- Correct format (Diary/Article/Essay).
- Error-free grammar and spelling.