1. Show the major events in the story of Pheidippides on a ‘time-line’.

Ans: The major events in the story of Pheidippides are:

• The Persians get ready to attack Athens.
• Messenger Pheidippides sent to seek help from Sparta, but Spartans were unwilling.
• The battle between the Persians and the Athenians begins.
• The Athenians emerge victorious.
• Before the news of victory reaches Athens, the Persians plan to take over Athens.
• The Athenian Generals plan to defend Athens by letting Athenians know of the victory.
• Pheidippides entrusted responsibility.
• Braving all odds, an exhausted Pheidippides completes the journey.
• Delivers the message but collapses due to exertion and loses his life.
• Marathon was included in the Olympic Games (the games that were stated in Greece) in honour of Pheidippides.

2. Activities

(1) Prepare and present a short speech on the following.

• An inspiring incident in the life of a great leader.
Ans: Students must do this on their own.

• How I accomplished a difficult task.
Ans: Students must do this on their own.

(2) Write a short essay on the following.

• My favourite sports event.
Ans:

My favourite sports event – Football

My favourite sport is football. It is popularly played throughout the world! The best teams from every country make it to the World Cup, and people across the globe watch it with interest. I love football because there is a sense of freedom in playing the game. It is physically demanding as we have to run around the field to score a goal and simultaneously defend our side of the goal post. I play football every day in school with my classmates. I also play football with other children in my neighbourhood. It is a great way to make friends as you learn to play as a team.

Many of us dream of becoming great football players someday. I always work on my skills because my coach says we can make it to the state or national championships if we play well. Football is just as much about strategy and teamwork as it is about physical endurance. We also need great discipline and team cohesion to become a great football team.

• What I would like to do for my country.
Ans: I would like to join the Army, or the Air Force, or the Navy so that the defense of my country can be strengthened. No service can be greater than the sacrifice of my life for the protection of my country.