The Hundred Dresses – II – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

Previous Chapter Next Chapter
The Hundred Dresses – II

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (First Flight)

The Hundred Dresses – II

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "The Hundred Dresses – II" is a continuation of the story from "The Hundred Dresses – I" in the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook, First Flight. It explores themes of bullying, regret, and redemption as the protagonist, Wanda Petronski, faces discrimination from her classmates due to her Polish heritage and humble background. The story highlights the consequences of prejudice and the importance of empathy and kindness.

The Hundred Dresses – II focuses on the aftermath of Wanda's departure from school and how her classmates, particularly Maddie, come to terms with their actions and seek to make amends.

Key Themes

  • Bullying and its impact
  • Regret and guilt
  • Redemption and forgiveness
  • Empathy and understanding

Characters

  • Wanda Petronski – A Polish girl who is teased for her name and claims of having a hundred dresses.
  • Maddie – A classmate who feels guilty for not standing up for Wanda.
  • Peggy – The main instigator of the teasing, though not malicious in intent.

Summary

After Wanda leaves the school, Maddie realizes the cruelty of their behavior and feels deep remorse. She and Peggy visit Wanda's house to apologize but find that her family has moved away. Maddie reflects on the incident and vows never to stay silent in the face of injustice again. The story ends with Wanda sending a letter to her teacher, Miss Mason, revealing that she has won a drawing competition and gifting two of her dress drawings to Maddie and Peggy as a gesture of forgiveness.

Moral Lesson

The chapter teaches the importance of standing up against bullying, the power of forgiveness, and the need to treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their background.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Why did Wanda claim to have a hundred dresses?
Answer:

To counter Peggy’s teasing.

Question 2:
What did Maddie and Peggy discover in Wanda’s house?
Answer:

Her drawings of dresses.

Question 3:
How did the class react to Wanda’s drawings?
Answer:

They admired her talent.

Question 4:
What lesson did Maddie learn from Wanda’s story?
Answer:

Bullying causes deep hurt.

Question 5:
What was the turning point for Maddie’s guilt?
Answer:

Reading Wanda’s father’s letter.

Question 6:
Why did Wanda gift her drawings to Maddie and Peggy?
Answer:

She forgave their behavior.

Question 7:
What does the story teach about judging others?
Answer:

Appearances can be misleading.

Question 8:
How did Peggy justify her teasing of Wanda?
Answer:

She thought it was harmless.

Question 9:
What emotion did Maddie feel after Wanda left?
Answer:

She felt deep remorse.

Question 10:
Why did Wanda leave the school in The Hundred Dresses – II?
Answer:

Her family moved to a big city.

Question 11:
What did Maddie realize about her behavior towards Wanda?
Answer:

She felt guilty for teasing her.

Question 12:
What was the theme of Wanda’s drawing competition entries?
Answer:

All were dresses designs.

Question 13:
How did Peggy react after Wanda left the school?
Answer:

She regretted mocking Wanda.

Question 14:
What did Wanda’s father’s letter reveal about their move?
Answer:

They moved due to bullying.

Question 15:
What was the reason behind Wanda's absence from school in The Hundred Dresses – II?
Answer:

Wanda was absent from school because her family had moved to a big city to avoid further discrimination and bullying due to their Polish background and poverty.

Question 16:
How did Maddie feel after realizing Wanda had left the school?
Answer:

Maddie felt guilty and remorseful for not standing up for Wanda against Peggy's teasing and for her own silent participation in the bullying.

Question 17:
What did Wanda's letter reveal about her feelings towards her classmates?
Answer:

Wanda's letter showed she held no grudge and even gifted two of her hundred dresses to Maddie and Peggy, indicating her forgiveness and kindness.

Question 18:
Why did Wanda draw a hundred dresses despite owning only one?
Answer:

Wanda drew a hundred dresses to prove her creativity and to silently respond to Peggy's teasing about her single dress, showcasing her talent and imagination.

Question 19:
What lesson did Maddie learn from Wanda's departure?
Answer:

Maddie learned the importance of standing up against injustice and the consequences of staying silent when someone is being bullied.

Question 20:
How did Peggy react when she received Wanda's drawing?
Answer:

Peggy was surprised and realized her mistake in teasing Wanda, acknowledging Wanda's artistic talent and kindness.

Question 21:
What was the significance of the green dress with red trimmings in Wanda's drawings?
Answer:

The green dress with red trimmings was special because it resembled the dress Wanda often wore, symbolizing her self-expression and personal identity.

Question 22:
Why did Maddie hesitate to stop Peggy from teasing Wanda?
Answer:

Maddie hesitated because she feared losing Peggy's friendship and becoming a target of bullying herself, showing her internal conflict.

Question 23:
What does Wanda's act of gifting drawings to Maddie and Peggy signify?
Answer:

It signifies Wanda's generosity and her ability to forgive, rising above the pettiness of her classmates.

Question 24:
How does the story highlight the theme of empathy?
Answer:

The story highlights empathy through Maddie's realization of Wanda's feelings and her regret for not showing kindness earlier.

Question 25:
What role does the teacher play in the story?
Answer:

The teacher serves as a moral guide, subtly addressing the issue of bullying and encouraging fairness among students.

Question 26:
How does the setting of the story contribute to its message?
Answer:

The small-town setting emphasizes the social dynamics and prejudices faced by immigrants, making the message about tolerance more impactful.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Why did Wanda Petronski stop coming to school?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski stopped coming to school because her family moved to a big city where there would be fewer people with foreign-sounding names like hers. She faced bullying and discrimination from her classmates, which made her uncomfortable.

Question 2:
What did Maddie decide after reading Wanda’s letter?
Answer:

After reading Wanda’s letter, Maddie decided never to stand silent when someone was being bullied. She felt guilty for not defending Wanda earlier and vowed to speak up against injustice.

Question 3:
How did Peggy and Maddie realize their mistake about Wanda?
Answer:

Peggy and Maddie realized their mistake when they saw the hundred dresses Wanda had drawn, proving her talent and creativity. They felt ashamed for mocking her and understood the hurt they had caused.

Question 4:
What was the significance of Wanda’s drawings of dresses?
Answer:

Wanda’s drawings of dresses symbolized her imagination and resilience. Despite being teased, she showcased her artistic skills, proving that appearances can be deceiving and talent exists beyond material possessions.

Question 5:
Why did Wanda gift two of her drawings to Peggy and Maddie?
Answer:

Wanda gifted two of her drawings to Peggy and Maddie as a gesture of forgiveness. It showed her kindness and maturity, despite their earlier behavior toward her.

Question 6:
How did Maddie’s feelings change toward Wanda by the end of the story?
Answer:

Maddie’s feelings changed from indifference to guilt and then to admiration. She regretted not standing up for Wanda and later appreciated her talent and generosity.

Question 7:
What lesson does the story The Hundred Dresses – II teach?
Answer:

The story teaches the importance of empathy, kindness, and standing against bullying. It highlights how small actions can deeply impact others and the value of forgiveness.

Question 8:
How did Peggy react when she saw Wanda’s drawings?
Answer:

Peggy was astonished and felt remorseful when she saw Wanda’s drawings. She realized Wanda’s talent and the unfairness of their teasing.

Question 9:
What does Wanda’s letter reveal about her character?
Answer:

Wanda’s letter reveals her forgiving nature and maturity. Despite being bullied, she holds no grudges and even gifts her drawings to Peggy and Maddie.

Question 10:
Why did Maddie feel uncomfortable after Wanda left?
Answer:

Maddie felt uncomfortable because she realized her silence had contributed to Wanda’s pain. She understood the moral responsibility of standing up for others.

Question 11:
How does the story highlight the theme of social discrimination?
Answer:

The story highlights social discrimination through Wanda’s experiences as an immigrant. Her classmates tease her for her name, clothes, and background, showing how prejudice harms individuals.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
How did Peggy and Maddie react when they realized Wanda had left the school?
Answer:

Peggy and Maddie felt guilty and remorseful after realizing Wanda had left the school. They understood that their teasing about the hundred dresses had hurt her deeply. Maddie, in particular, was deeply affected and wished she had stood up for Wanda earlier.

Their reaction shows the theme of regret and the consequences of bullying.

Question 2:
Why did Wanda’s father write a letter to Miss Mason?
Answer:

Wanda’s father wrote the letter to inform Miss Mason that they were moving to a big city where no one would mock Wanda for her name or her claim of having a hundred dresses. The letter indirectly highlighted the pain caused by the students' behavior and their insensitivity towards Wanda.

This act emphasizes the impact of bullying on a child’s self-esteem.

Question 3:
What was the significance of Wanda’s drawing of the hundred dresses?
Answer:

Wanda’s drawings of the hundred dresses were a way to prove that her claim was not a lie. Each dress was unique and beautifully designed, showcasing her talent and imagination.

The drawings also symbolized her resilience and silent response to the teasing, turning negativity into creativity.

Question 4:
How did Maddie’s perspective change after Wanda left?
Answer:

Maddie felt deep regret and realized her mistake of staying silent while Wanda was teased. She decided never to be a bystander again and to stand up against injustice.

Her transformation highlights the lesson of empathy and the importance of speaking up for others.

Question 5:
What lesson does the story 'The Hundred Dresses – II' teach about judging others?
Answer:

The story teaches that judging others based on their appearance, background, or economic status is wrong. Wanda’s talent and kindness were overlooked because of her poor and immigrant status.

It emphasizes the value of kindness and the harm caused by prejudice.

Question 6:
Describe the role of Miss Mason in the story.
Answer:

Miss Mason, the teacher, played a supportive yet indirect role. She read Wanda’s father’s letter to the class, making the students reflect on their actions without scolding them.

Her approach highlights the importance of gentle guidance in teaching children about empathy and responsibility.

Question 7:
Why did Wanda Petronski stop coming to school in The Hundred Dresses – II?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski stopped coming to school because her family moved to a big city where there would be fewer people with foreign-sounding names. She faced constant teasing and bullying from her classmates, especially Peggy and Maddie, about her Polish heritage and her claim of having a hundred dresses. The move was likely to escape the discrimination and find a more accepting environment.

Question 8:
How did Maddie feel after realizing the impact of her actions on Wanda in The Hundred Dresses – II?
Answer:

Maddie felt deeply guilty and remorseful after realizing how her silence and participation in teasing Wanda had hurt her. She couldn't focus on schoolwork and kept thinking about Wanda's absence. Maddie also decided never to stand by and watch someone being bullied again, showing her growth in empathy and moral responsibility.

Question 9:
What was the significance of Wanda's drawing of the hundred dresses in the story?
Answer:

Wanda's drawings of the hundred dresses symbolized her creativity, resilience, and dignity despite being mocked. The detailed and beautiful sketches proved that her claim was not a lie but an expression of her imagination. It also highlighted the injustice of prejudice, as her talent went unnoticed until she left.

Question 10:
Describe the role of Peggy in The Hundred Dresses – II. Was she entirely at fault for Wanda's situation?
Answer:

Peggy was the main instigator of the teasing, often leading the jokes about Wanda's hundred dresses. However, she wasn't entirely malicious—she didn't realize the depth of the hurt she caused until Wanda left. Peggy's actions stemmed from thoughtlessness rather than cruelty, showing how peer behavior can unintentionally harm others.

Question 11:
How did the letter from Wanda's father reveal the theme of discrimination in the story?
Answer:

The letter from Wanda's father stated they moved because "no one would drag the name Petronski through the mud". This directly pointed to the prejudice and bullying faced by immigrants or those with different backgrounds. It underscored the theme of social exclusion and the pain caused by insensitive behavior.

Question 12:
What lesson did Maddie learn by the end of The Hundred Dresses – II?
Answer:

Maddie learned the importance of speaking up against injustice and not being a passive bystander. She realized that staying silent made her complicit in Wanda's suffering. This lesson shaped her resolve to never tolerate bullying again, marking her emotional and ethical growth.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings reflect the theme of empathy and regret? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings marks a turning point in the story, highlighting the themes of empathy and regret. Initially, Peggy and others mock Wanda for her claims of having a hundred dresses, not realizing the depth of her creativity or feelings. However, when Peggy sees Wanda's beautifully drawn dresses in the art contest, she feels a deep sense of guilt and remorse.

For example, Peggy admits, 'I never thought she had the sense to know we were making fun of her.' This shows her lack of empathy earlier. The drawings make her realize Wanda's talent and the pain their teasing caused. The vivid descriptions of the dresses, like 'the brilliant greens and dazzling reds,' symbolize Wanda's hidden emotions and imagination, which Peggy failed to appreciate earlier.

This moment teaches Peggy the importance of understanding others' feelings before judging them, a key lesson in empathy. Her regret is evident when she and Maddie try to apologize, but Wanda has already left, leaving them to reflect on their actions. The story thus emphasizes how empathy can prevent hurt and regret.

Question 2:
How does Wanda's letter to Miss Mason reveal her forgiveness and strength of character? Discuss with references from the chapter.
Answer:

Wanda's letter to Miss Mason in The Hundred Dresses – II showcases her forgiveness and strength of character despite the bullying she faced. In the letter, Wanda generously gifts her drawings of dresses to Peggy and Maddie, the very girls who teased her, proving her ability to rise above pettiness.

For instance, she writes, 'I’d like Peggy to have the drawing of the green dress with the red trimming... and Maddie the blue one.' This act of kindness reflects her forgiveness, as she does not hold grudges. It also shows her maturity and confidence in her identity, as she signs off as 'Wanda Petronski', proudly owning her Polish heritage despite earlier mockery.

Additionally, Wanda's mention of her new school, where 'no one laughs at her name,' highlights her resilience. Instead of bitterness, she focuses on moving forward, demonstrating inner strength. Her letter leaves Peggy and Maddie in awe, making them realize the impact of their actions and the grace with which Wanda handled adversity.

Question 3:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings reflect the theme of empathy and regret? Discuss in detail with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings marks a turning point in the story, highlighting the themes of empathy and regret. Initially, Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda for her claims of owning a hundred dresses, unaware of the emotional impact of their actions. However, when Wanda submits her beautifully drawn dresses for the art contest, Peggy is struck by the talent and effort behind them. This moment makes her realize that Wanda's 'hundred dresses' were not a lie but a creative expression of her imagination.


Peggy's regret is evident when she says, 'And she had all those hundred dresses all lined up in her closet...', showing her newfound understanding of Wanda's perspective. The drawings symbolize Wanda's resilience and dignity, making Peggy feel guilty for her earlier behavior. This realization fosters empathy as Peggy begins to see Wanda as a person with feelings and dreams, rather than just an object of ridicule.


The theme of regret is further emphasized when Peggy and Maddie visit Wanda's house to apologize, only to find she has moved away. Their inability to make amends adds depth to their remorse, teaching them a lifelong lesson about kindness and the consequences of their actions.

Question 4:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings reflect the theme of empathy and regret? Explain in detail with references from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings marks a turning point in the story, highlighting the themes of empathy and regret. Initially, Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda for her claim of having a hundred dresses, unaware of her artistic talent. However, when Wanda submits her beautifully drawn dresses for the art contest, Peggy is struck with guilt.

The text shows Peggy's growing empathy as she recognizes Wanda's creativity and the pain their teasing must have caused. For instance, Peggy admits, 'And she had all those dresses... all lined up in the closet.' This line reveals her regret for underestimating Wanda. The drawings symbolize Wanda's resilience and hidden brilliance, making Peggy reflect on her actions.

Furthermore, Peggy's regret is evident when she and Maddie decide to write a letter to Wanda, apologizing. This act shows their moral growth and understanding of the consequences of their behavior. The story teaches that empathy arises from recognizing others' feelings, while regret motivates corrective actions.

Value-added insight: The theme resonates with real-life situations where people often judge others superficially, only to realize their mistakes later. Wanda's dignified response—gifting Peggy and Maddie her drawings—also highlights forgiveness, adding depth to the lesson.

Question 5:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Wanda Petronski's letter reveal her character and her feelings towards her classmates? Explain in detail with references from the text.
Answer:

Wanda Petronski's letter in The Hundred Dresses – II reveals her forgiving nature, emotional maturity, and kind-heartedness despite being mistreated by her classmates. She writes to Miss Mason, stating that she is leaving the school but wants to gift her drawings of a hundred dresses to the girls, particularly Maddie and Peggy. This act shows her lack of bitterness and her ability to rise above pettiness.

Wanda mentions in the letter that she has a new hundred dresses in her new house, which subtly hints that her earlier claims about owning a hundred dresses were not lies but perhaps a reflection of her imagination or aspirations. Her gesture of giving away the drawings signifies her generosity and her desire to leave a positive mark, even on those who teased her.

Additionally, the letter highlights Wanda's emotional intelligence. Instead of holding grudges, she focuses on the brighter side, proving that she is compassionate and emotionally resilient. Her actions teach a valuable lesson about forgiveness and inner strength.

Question 6:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Wanda's letter reveal her character and her feelings towards her classmates? Discuss in detail with reference to the story.
Answer:

Wanda's letter in The Hundred Dresses – II reveals her forgiving nature, maturity, and kindness despite being mistreated by her classmates. She writes to Miss Mason, informing her that she won't be returning to school but also mentions that she is leaving her drawings of the hundred dresses as a gift for the class. This shows that Wanda harbors no ill feelings, even after being bullied for her poverty and Polish background.

Her letter highlights her emotional resilience and artistic talent. Instead of seeking revenge, she chooses to leave a beautiful memory behind, proving that she is compassionate and generous. The act of gifting her drawings signifies her desire to be remembered positively, not as a victim but as someone who contributed something valuable.

Additionally, Wanda's letter subtly hints at her loneliness and longing for acceptance. By addressing Maddie and Peggy specifically in her drawing of the green dress with red trimmings, she shows that she still cared for them, despite their cruelty. This gesture makes Maddie realize the gravity of her actions, leading to her guilt and transformation.

In summary, Wanda's letter reflects her inner strength, forgiveness, and quiet dignity, making her one of the most memorable characters in the story.

Question 7:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings reflect the theme of empathy and regret? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings highlights the themes of empathy and regret as she understands the depth of Wanda's feelings and talent. Initially, Peggy and others mocked Wanda for her claims of having a hundred dresses, not realizing it was a metaphor for her artistic imagination. However, when Peggy sees Wanda's beautifully drawn dresses in the art contest, she feels a pang of guilt for her earlier behavior.

For instance, Peggy admits, 'And she had all those dresses...', showing her newfound respect for Wanda. This moment signifies empathy as Peggy steps into Wanda's shoes and recognizes her pain. The regret is evident when Peggy and Maddie visit Wanda's house to apologize, but she has already moved away. This teaches the lesson that actions have consequences, and kindness should never be delayed.

Question 8:
How does Wanda Petronski's character evolve in The Hundred Dresses – II, and what message does her departure convey about self-respect and forgiveness? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Answer:

Wanda Petronski's character evolves from being a silent victim of bullying to a symbol of quiet strength and self-respect in The Hundred Dresses – II. Despite being mocked for her poverty and accent, Wanda responds with dignity by showcasing her talent in the drawing contest. Her hundred dresses, though imaginary, become real through her art, proving her creativity and resilience.

Her departure conveys a powerful message about forgiveness. Though hurt, Wanda leaves behind the drawings of the dresses for Peggy and Maddie, indicating she harbors no grudges. The line, 'For Maddie and Peggy...' written on the drawings, shows her magnanimity. This act teaches that true strength lies in rising above pettiness and choosing kindness, even when wronged.

Question 9:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings impact her understanding of friendship and empathy? Discuss with reference to the story.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy's realization about Wanda's drawings marks a turning point in her understanding of friendship and empathy. Initially, Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda for her claim of owning a hundred dresses, unaware of the emotional pain they cause. However, when Wanda submits her exquisite drawings of a hundred dresses in the art contest, Peggy is stunned. The drawings reveal Wanda's creativity, resilience, and the depth of her feelings, making Peggy reflect on her actions.

This moment highlights the theme of regret and self-awareness. Peggy realizes that her teasing was hurtful and that Wanda's absence from school is a consequence of their behavior. The story emphasizes how art becomes a medium for Wanda to express her emotions and for Peggy to recognize the importance of kindness. By the end, Peggy and Maddie decide to apologize, showing growth in their ability to empathize with others.

This transformation underscores the lesson that true friendship requires compassion and understanding, rather than superficial judgments. The story serves as a reminder that actions have consequences and that empathy can bridge gaps between people.

Question 10:
How does Wanda Petronski's character evolve in The Hundred Dresses – II, and what message does her journey convey about resilience and self-worth?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski's character in The Hundred Dresses – II evolves from being a quiet, marginalized girl to a symbol of resilience and self-worth. Despite facing ridicule from her classmates for her poverty and Polish heritage, Wanda remains dignified. Her submission of the hundred dress drawings in the art contest reveals her inner strength and talent, proving that appearances can be deceiving.

Wanda's journey conveys several key messages:

  • Resilience in adversity: Wanda does not let bullying define her; instead, she channels her emotions into creativity.
  • Self-worth: Her drawings demonstrate her belief in herself, even when others doubt her.
  • Forgiveness: Though she leaves the school, she gifts Peggy and Maddie drawings of themselves, showing her capacity to forgive.

Her story teaches readers that true worth comes from within and that kindness and perseverance can overcome challenges. Wanda's silent strength inspires reflection on how society often judges people based on superficial traits, urging us to look deeper.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, Wanda leaves school without saying goodbye. Case Summary: Describe why she left. Analysis: How does this reflect her feelings? Conclusion: What lesson does this teach us?
Answer:
Case Summary: Wanda left because she was bullied for her poverty and fake claims of hundred dresses.
Analysis: She felt humiliated, as shown when Maddie realizes her drawings were the dresses.
Conclusion: It teaches us to avoid judging others, like Peggy’s teasing or Maddie’s guilt. Our textbook shows how kindness matters.
Question 2:
Case Summary: How does Maddie react after Wanda leaves? Analysis: Why does she feel guilty? Conclusion: What change does this bring in her?
Answer:
Case Summary: Maddie feels guilty and visits Wanda’s empty house.
Analysis: She regrets not stopping Peggy’s bullying, as seen in her silent suffering.
Conclusion: She vows to never stay silent again, like when she writes a letter to Wanda. Our textbook highlights empathy.
Question 3:
Case Summary: What does Wanda’s letter reveal? Analysis: How does it show forgiveness? Conclusion: Why is this important?
Answer:
Case Summary: Wanda’s letter reveals she gifted Peggy and Maddie her dress drawings.
Analysis: She forgives them, as shown by her kind gesture despite their mockery.
Conclusion: It teaches forgiveness, like when Maddie cries realizing Wanda’s generosity. Our textbook shows maturity in Wanda.
Question 4:
Case Summary: Compare Peggy and Maddie’s attitudes. Analysis: How does Peggy justify bullying? Conclusion: Who grows more and why?
Answer:
Case Summary: Peggy teases Wanda, while Maddie feels guilty later.
Analysis: Peggy thinks Wanda lies about dresses, but Maddie sees the truth.
Conclusion: Maddie grows more by accepting her mistake, like her letter. Our textbook shows moral growth.
Question 5:
Case Summary: What is the significance of Wanda’s drawings? Analysis: How do they resolve the conflict? Conclusion: What message do they convey?
Answer:
Case Summary: The drawings prove Wanda’s talent and truth about the hundred dresses.
Analysis: They make Maddie and Peggy realize their cruelty, as seen in their shock.
Conclusion: They teach that appearances deceive, like Wanda’s simple dress vs. her art. Our textbook emphasizes humility.
Question 6:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Wanda's letter reveal her forgiveness towards Peggy and Maddie? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda's letter to Miss Mason shows she forgives Peggy and Maddie despite their teasing. She gifts them drawings of the dresses they admired.

Analysis
  • Wanda writes she misses school, showing no bitterness.
  • She includes Maddie and Peggy’s faces in the dress drawings, indicating kindness.
Conclusion

Her actions demonstrate maturity and forgiveness, as studied in our textbook.

Question 7:
How does Maddie's guilt affect her after reading Wanda's letter? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Answer:
Case Summary

Maddie feels deep guilt for not stopping Peggy’s teasing. Wanda’s letter makes her reflect on her silence.

Analysis
  • She cries and can’t sleep, showing remorse.
  • She decides never to stay silent again, as seen in her resolution.
Conclusion

Her guilt leads to personal growth, aligning with our NCERT lesson on empathy.

Question 8:
Compare the character traits of Peggy and Maddie based on their reactions to Wanda's drawings.
Answer:
Case Summary

Peggy remains indifferent, while Maddie feels guilty about Wanda’s drawings.

Analysis
  • Peggy admires the drawings but doesn’t acknowledge her cruelty.
  • Maddie realizes their actions hurt Wanda, showing empathy.
Conclusion

Their contrasting traits highlight themes of insensitivity vs. remorse, as discussed in class.

Question 9:
Why does Wanda leave the school? Explain how her departure impacts the class dynamics.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda leaves due to bullying and her family’s move. Her absence makes the class reflect.

Analysis
  • Students like Maddie realize their mistakes.
  • The class learns about kindness, as shown in their changed behavior.
Conclusion

Her departure teaches a lesson on inclusivity, mirroring our textbook’s moral.

Question 10:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, how does Wanda's letter reveal her forgiveness and maturity? Explain with examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda writes a letter to Miss Mason, revealing she has moved away but leaves her drawings as gifts for her classmates.

Analysis
  • Her forgiveness is shown when she gifts her drawings to Peggy and Maddie despite their teasing.
  • Her maturity is evident as she does not hold grudges and focuses on positivity.
Conclusion

Wanda's actions teach us about kindness and rising above pettiness.

Question 11:
How does Maddie's guilt after reading Wanda's letter reflect her character development? Support with examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

Maddie feels deep regret after realizing the impact of her silence on Wanda.

Analysis
  • Her guilt shows her growing conscience, as she regrets not stopping Peggy.
  • Her character development is clear when she decides never to stay silent again.
Conclusion

Maddie learns the importance of standing up for others, showing emotional growth.

Question 12:
Compare the reactions of Peggy and Maddie to Wanda's letter. How do their responses highlight their personalities?
Answer:
Case Summary

Peggy remains indifferent, while Maddie is deeply affected by Wanda's letter.

Analysis
  • Peggy's lack of remorse reflects her superficiality.
  • Maddie's emotional response shows her sensitivity and moral awakening.
Conclusion

The contrast highlights how people respond differently to guilt and empathy.

Question 13:
Why does Wanda gift her drawings of hundred dresses to Peggy and Maddie? What does this signify about her values?
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda leaves her dress drawings as a parting gift, proving her talent was real.

Analysis
  • The hundred dresses symbolize her creativity and truthfulness.
  • Gifting them shows her generosity and desire to leave a positive legacy.
Conclusion

Wanda's actions emphasize integrity and rising above negativity.

Question 14:

Read the following extract from The Hundred Dresses – II and answer the question that follows:

"Wanda did not sit there because she was rough and noisy. On the contrary, she was very quiet and rarely said anything at all."

Based on the extract, analyze why Wanda was treated differently by her classmates. How does this reflect the theme of prejudice in the story?

Answer:

The extract highlights that Wanda was treated differently by her classmates despite being quiet and reserved. This reflects the theme of prejudice as her classmates judged her based on her Polish background and worn-out clothes, rather than her personality.

Key points:

  • Wanda faced discrimination due to her socio-economic status and ethnicity.
  • Her classmates assumed she was "rough and noisy" without knowing her, showcasing stereotyping.
  • The story critiques how prejudice leads to exclusion and bullying in schools.

This theme is relevant today as it teaches the importance of empathy and not judging others based on appearances.

Question 15:

In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy and Maddie realize their mistake only after Wanda leaves the school. Imagine you are Maddie. Write a diary entry expressing your feelings of guilt and the lesson you learned from the incident. (Word limit: 100-120 words)

Answer:

Diary Entry (Maddie's Perspective):

Dear Diary,

Today, I feel a heavy guilt in my heart. Wanda is gone, and I never apologized for laughing at her hundred dresses. I now realize how cruel we were. Peggy and I thought it was just fun, but we hurt Wanda deeply.

The lesson I learned is that silence is no excuse. Even though I didn’t tease her directly, I was a bystander. I should have stood up for her. Wanda’s drawings proved her talent, but our actions made her feel small.

I promise to never judge anyone again. This guilt will remind me to be kinder.

—Maddie

Question 16:
Read the following extract from The Hundred Dresses – II and answer the question that follows:

'Wanda did not sit there because she was rough and noisy. On the contrary, she was very quiet and rarely said anything at all. And nobody had ever heard her laugh out loud. Sometimes she twisted her mouth into a crooked sort of smile, but that was all.'

Based on this extract, analyze Wanda's character and explain how her behavior contrasts with the perception of her classmates. How does this contribute to the theme of the story?
Answer:

Wanda's character is portrayed as introverted and reserved, contrary to the perception of her classmates who assume she is rough and noisy due to her background. Her quiet nature and rare smiles highlight her emotional restraint, possibly due to the bullying she faces. This contrast emphasizes the prejudice and misjudgment of her peers, who stereotype her without understanding her true personality.

The theme of empathy and acceptance is reinforced through this contrast. Wanda's silence and lack of laughter symbolize her isolation, while her classmates' assumptions reflect their ignorance and lack of compassion. The story critiques how superficial judgments can lead to exclusion, urging readers to look beyond appearances and practice kindness.

Question 17:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, Maddie feels guilty after realizing the impact of her silence during Wanda's bullying. How does Maddie's guilt influence her actions later in the story? Discuss the moral lesson conveyed through her character development.
Answer:

Maddie's guilt acts as a catalyst for her moral awakening. After Wanda leaves, Maddie reflects on her passive role in the bullying and feels deep remorse. This guilt drives her to take responsibility by deciding never to stay silent again, as seen when she resolves to speak up against injustice in the future.

The story conveys a strong moral lesson about accountability and courage. Maddie's transformation highlights:

  • The importance of standing up for others, even at personal cost.
  • The power of self-reflection to inspire positive change.

Her character arc teaches readers that inaction can be as harmful as active participation in wrongdoing, emphasizing the need for empathy and action in the face of injustice.

Question 18:
Read the following excerpt from The Hundred Dresses – II:

Wanda’s letter to the class reveals her feelings about the drawing competition. She mentions that she has won and that her father has decided to move away from the town.

Based on this, answer: How does Wanda’s letter reflect her character and her response to the bullying she faced?
Answer:

Wanda’s letter showcases her forgiveness and inner strength. Despite being bullied by her classmates for her poverty and ethnicity, she does not express anger or resentment. Instead, she focuses on the positive outcome—the drawing competition—and even gifts her drawings to Peggy and Maddie, the very girls who mocked her. This reflects her maturity and kindness.

Her decision to move away, as mentioned in the letter, suggests that the bullying did affect her, but she chooses to rise above it. The letter also highlights her artistic talent and quiet dignity, proving that she was never the 'outsider' the class perceived her to be.

Question 19:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, Maddie feels guilty after reading Wanda’s letter. Describe Maddie’s emotional journey and how it contributes to the theme of the story.
Answer:

Maddie’s guilt signifies her moral awakening. Initially, she remained silent while Peggy teased Wanda, even though she felt uncomfortable. After Wanda leaves, Maddie realizes her complicity in the bullying and is overwhelmed with regret.

  • She reflects on her actions and wishes she had stood up for Wanda.
  • Her emotional journey emphasizes the theme of empathy and the consequences of inaction.

This transformation makes Maddie a pivotal character, as her guilt drives her to promise herself never to let anyone be mistreated again. The story thus highlights the importance of speaking up against injustice.

Question 20:
Read the following extract from The Hundred Dresses – II and answer the question that follows:

'Wanda did not answer Peggy’s letter. She did not answer Maddie’s either. But she did answer the teacher’s letter.'

Why do you think Wanda chose to respond only to the teacher’s letter and not to Peggy or Maddie? Discuss the possible reasons with reference to the story.
Answer:

Wanda's decision to respond only to the teacher’s letter and not to Peggy or Maddie reflects her emotional state and the dynamics of their relationship. Firstly, Wanda might have felt hurt by Peggy’s constant teasing about her hundred dresses and Maddie’s silent complicity, even though Maddie later regretted it. Secondly, the teacher’s letter likely represented a genuine gesture of concern and respect, unlike Peggy and Maddie’s letters, which might have felt insincere or too late to Wanda. Lastly, Wanda’s response to the teacher shows her respect for authority figures who treated her kindly, contrasting with her peers who only realized their mistake after she left.

Question 21:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, Maddie experiences a deep sense of guilt after Wanda leaves the school. How does this guilt influence her actions and thoughts? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:

Maddie’s guilt plays a significant role in shaping her actions and thoughts after Wanda’s departure. Firstly, she realizes her mistake in not standing up for Wanda against Peggy’s teasing, which makes her reflect on her own behavior. For example, she repeatedly thinks about Wanda’s drawings of the hundred dresses and feels remorse for not intervening. Secondly, this guilt drives her to write a letter to Wanda, apologizing and hoping for forgiveness, showing her desire to make amends. Lastly, Maddie resolves never to stay silent again if she witnesses bullying, demonstrating how her guilt leads to personal growth and a stronger moral compass.

Question 22:
Read the following extract from The Hundred Dresses – II and answer the question that follows:

'Wanda did not sit there because she was rough and noisy. On the contrary, she was very quiet and rarely said anything at all. And nobody had ever heard her laugh out loud. Sometimes she twisted her mouth into a crooked sort of smile, but that was all.'

Based on this extract, analyze Wanda's character and explain how her behavior reflects her emotional state in the class.
Answer:

Wanda's character in The Hundred Dresses – II is portrayed as quiet, reserved, and emotionally withdrawn. The extract highlights that she was not rough or noisy, unlike some of her classmates, but rather extremely silent and rarely spoke. Her inability to laugh out loud and her occasional 'crooked sort of smile' suggest a deep sense of isolation and sadness.

This behavior reflects her emotional state in the class, where she likely felt excluded or bullied due to her poverty and ethnic background. Her silence and lack of laughter indicate that she was suppressing her emotions, possibly to avoid drawing attention or further ridicule. The 'crooked smile' could symbolize her attempt to mask her true feelings, showing resilience despite her struggles.

Additionally, Wanda's quiet nature contrasts with the noisy environment of the classroom, emphasizing her outsider status. This extract helps readers understand the emotional toll of bullying and the importance of empathy and inclusion.

Question 23:
In The Hundred Dresses – II, Peggy and Maddie visit Wanda's house but find it empty. How does this incident impact Maddie's perspective on her actions towards Wanda? Discuss the moral lesson conveyed through this event.
Answer:

The incident where Peggy and Maddie visit Wanda's empty house serves as a turning point in Maddie's understanding of her actions. Initially, Maddie had remained silent while Wanda was teased about her 'hundred dresses,' even though she felt guilty. However, seeing Wanda's deserted home makes Maddie realize the consequences of her inaction and the pain Wanda must have endured.

This moment triggers deep regret in Maddie, as she understands that her silence was as harmful as Peggy's teasing. The empty house symbolizes Wanda's absence—not just physically but also emotionally—from their lives due to their unkind behavior.

The moral lesson conveyed here is the importance of standing up against injustice and the impact of passive bystander behavior. Maddie's guilt highlights how failing to act can lead to irreversible consequences. The story teaches readers about empathy, responsibility, and the courage to speak up for others, even when it is difficult.

Chat on WhatsApp