One of the great values of punctuality is that it gives discipline to life. We have to get up on time. We
have to do things at the appointed time. All these entail certain amount of sacrifice. It dispels laziness
and removes our „take-it-easy attitude‟. A disciplined person always gets recognition and social
acceptance. He is wanted and appreciated. Therefore, punctuality can make us socially acceptable
people.
Another significant merit of punctuality is that it provides ample time to do our work correctly and
properly. Doing things hurriedly or haphazardly can have disastrous consequences. When we do things
in time there is every chance that they end up as fine works.
The virtue of punctuality is said to be the key to success. Look at the great world leaders who have
achieved fame and success. Punctuality was their hallmark. They kept their promises. Punctuality is a
virtue that is appreciated by all. Washington once took his secretary to task for being late. The secretary
laid the blame upon his watch. Washington reported: “Then, Sir either you must get a new watch, or I
must get a new secretary.” People like them are ideals whom we should follow in earnest.
When individuals are not punctual, they cause a lot of inconvenience to others. People have to wait for
them and waste their valuable time. Want of punctuality reveals want of culture and is discourteous to
the person we fail. Unpunctuality invites trouble and worry. History is full of cases which show that lack
of punctuality has caused defeat, loss of kingdom and golden opportunities. It is said that Napoleon lost

THE NEW INDIAN SCHOOL W.L.L
KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN
FIRST TERM ONLINE EXAMINATION , 2021 - 2022
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE(184)
CLASS : IX DATE : 05.10.2021
TIME : 1 Hour 30 minutes MAX.MARKS : 40

Page 2 of 9

the battle of Waterloo in 1815 because one of his generals came late. Many people lose good
opportunities of job or promotion when they reach late for appointment.
All of us are not born with the virtue of punctuality. We have to cultivate it painstakingly. Only constant
vigil and practice can implant this virtue. It calls for great deal of sacrifice. It calls for courage to root out
laziness and the „take-it easy attitude‟. It demands a disciplined life. That is why very few individuals
have the virtue of punctuality. But, know it for certain that it is the surest way to success.
On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:

1. What are the advantages of being punctual?
a. Destroys the discipline of life
c. Helps to gain acceptance and recognition

b. Entails a lot of sacrifice
d. Teaches us a „take it easy‟ attitude

2. What happens when we work punctually?
a. Provides ample time to complete any work on
time
c. Makes us sacrifice our well-being

b. Can have disastrous effects on any work

d. Makes us late for appointments
3. Which statement among the following is not mentioned about punctuality in the given passage?
a. It is the key to success
c. It is an inborn habit

b. It is a virtue that is appreciated by all
d. It roots out laziness

4. How do unpunctual people cause trouble to others?
a. The work gets delayed and remains incomplete
b. It shows indiscipline and lack of respect
c. It causes worry and wastage of time
d. It forces others to wait for them, thus wasting their time
5. What does a disciplined person always get?
a. Recognition
c. Work done correctly and properly

b. Social acceptance
d. All of the above

6. The meaning of „vigil‟ as expressed in the passage is
a. To keep promises

b. To keep a strict watch on

Page 3 of 9

c. To keep calm and quiet d. To keep at bay