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The Hundred Dresses – I – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Hundred Dresses – I

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (First Flight)

The Hundred Dresses – I

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "The Hundred Dresses – I" is part of the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook, First Flight. It is a story written by Eleanor Estes that explores themes of bullying, empathy, and social exclusion through the experiences of a young Polish girl named Wanda Petronski, who faces ridicule from her classmates for her poverty and cultural differences.

Key Theme: The story highlights the impact of bullying and the importance of kindness and understanding towards others, regardless of their background.

Summary of the Chapter

The story revolves around Wanda Petronski, a quiet and poor Polish girl who attends school with other American children. She is often teased by her classmates, particularly Peggy and Maddie, because she wears the same faded blue dress every day. Despite this, Wanda claims to have a hundred dresses at home, which further fuels the mockery.

Wanda's classmates, especially Peggy, frequently question her about her supposed hundred dresses, enjoying her discomfort. Maddie, though uncomfortable with the teasing, does not intervene, fearing she might become the next target. The story builds towards a school drawing competition where Wanda submits a hundred beautifully drawn dresses, revealing her artistic talent and proving her claim metaphorically.

Character Analysis: Wanda is portrayed as resilient and creative, while Peggy represents the unthinking cruelty of children, and Maddie symbolizes the bystander who struggles with guilt.

Important Events

  • Wanda is teased for wearing the same dress daily.
  • She claims to have a hundred dresses at home, which her classmates mock.
  • The school organizes a drawing competition.
  • Wanda wins the competition by submitting a hundred unique dress designs.

Moral of the Story

The story teaches the importance of empathy and the consequences of bullying. It encourages readers to reflect on their actions and stand up against injustice, even if it means going against peer pressure.

Symbolism: The hundred dresses symbolize Wanda's imagination and dignity, contrasting with the superficial judgments of her classmates.

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:
Who is the author of The Hundred Dresses – I?
Answer:

Eleanor Estes

Question 2:
What is the name of the main character in the story?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski

Question 3:
Why did Wanda say she had a hundred dresses?
Answer:

To defend herself from teasing.

Question 4:
Where did Wanda sit in the classroom?
Answer:

In the last row.

Question 5:
Name the two girls who often teased Wanda.
Answer:

Peggy and Maddie.

Question 6:
What was the reason for Wanda's absence from school?
Answer:

She moved to a big city.

Question 7:
What was the drawing competition about in the story?
Answer:

Designing dresses.

Question 8:
How did Wanda prove she had a hundred dresses?
Answer:

By showing her drawings.

Question 9:
What was the reaction of the class to Wanda's drawings?
Answer:

They were amazed.

Question 10:
What was the theme of The Hundred Dresses – I?
Answer:

Bullying and empathy.

Question 11:
What did Wanda's father write in his letter to the school?
Answer:

They were moving away.

Question 12:
What did Maddie realize after Wanda left?
Answer:

She felt guilty for teasing.

Question 13:
What was the color of Wanda's faded blue dress?
Answer:

Blue.

Question 14:
What did Wanda's classmates think about her claims of having dresses?
Answer:

They didn't believe her.

Question 15:
Who is the author of The Hundred Dresses – I?
Answer:

The author of The Hundred Dresses – I is Eleanor Estes. She was an American children's author known for her heartfelt stories.

Question 16:
What was the name of the main character in The Hundred Dresses – I?
Answer:

The main character in The Hundred Dresses – I is Wanda Petronski, a Polish girl who faces bullying at school.

Question 17:
Why did Wanda Petronski claim to have a hundred dresses?
Answer:

Wanda claimed to have a hundred dresses because she was mocked for wearing the same faded blue dress daily. Her imaginary collection was her way of coping with the teasing.

Question 18:
Name the two girls who often teased Wanda in the story.
Answer:

The two girls who teased Wanda were Peggy and Maddie. Peggy was the leader, while Maddie followed her reluctantly.

Question 19:
Where did Wanda Petronski sit in the classroom?
Answer:

Wanda sat in the last row of the classroom, near the corner, where the rough boys who didn’t get good marks sat.

Question 20:
What was the reason behind Wanda's absence from school for a few days?
Answer:

Wanda was absent because her family moved to a big city to avoid racial discrimination and bullying in their small town.

Question 21:
What lesson does The Hundred Dresses – I teach about bullying?
Answer:

The story teaches that bullying harms others deeply and that kindness and empathy are essential. It also shows how bystanders (like Maddie) play a role in enabling bullying.

Question 22:
What was the significance of the drawing competition in the story?
Answer:

The drawing competition revealed Wanda's hidden talent. Her sketches of a hundred beautiful dresses proved her claim and left everyone stunned.

Question 23:
How did Maddie feel about Peggy's teasing of Wanda?
Answer:

Maddie felt uncomfortable and guilty but didn’t speak up due to fear of losing Peggy’s friendship or becoming a target herself.

Question 24:
What was the cultural background of Wanda Petronski?
Answer:

Wanda was from a Polish immigrant family, which made her stand out in her predominantly American school, leading to discrimination.

Question 25:
What did Wanda's father write in his letter to the school?
Answer:

Wanda's father wrote that they were moving to a place where their last name wouldn’t make them a target for mockery or bullying.

Question 26:
How did the students react after Wanda won the drawing competition?
Answer:

The students were ashamed and regretful for mocking Wanda. They realized her talent and the unfairness of their behavior.

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:
Who were Peggy and Maddie in the story?
Answer:

Peggy was the popular girl who teased Wanda, while Maddie was her friend who felt guilty but didn't speak up. They later realized their mistake.

Question 2:
How did Wanda's classmates react to her drawings?
Answer:

Wanda's classmates were amazed and felt guilty when they saw her drawings. They realized she was talented and regretted mocking her.

Question 3:
What lesson does The Hundred Dresses – I teach?
Answer:

The story teaches empathy and the importance of not judging others based on appearances. It highlights the impact of bullying and the value of kindness.

Question 4:
Where did Wanda sit in the classroom and why?
Answer:

Wanda sat in the last row near the window because she was quiet and often ignored. Her seating reflected her isolation in the class.

Question 5:
Why did Maddie feel uncomfortable about Peggy's teasing?
Answer:

Maddie felt uncomfortable because she was poor too and feared being teased next. However, she didn't stop Peggy due to peer pressure.

Question 6:
How does the story highlight the theme of regret?
Answer:

The story shows regret through Maddie and Peggy's guilt after Wanda leaves. They realize their actions were hurtful but couldn't apologize in time.

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:
Why did Wanda Petronski sit in the last row of the class?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski sat in the last row of the class because she was a quiet and reserved girl who came from a poor immigrant family. She was often teased by her classmates for her shabby dress and unusual name, which made her feel isolated. Sitting in the back allowed her to avoid unnecessary attention.

Question 2:
How did Peggy and Maddie treat Wanda in the beginning of the story?
Answer:

Peggy and Maddie treated Wanda poorly in the beginning of the story. Peggy, the most popular girl in class, would mock Wanda by asking her about her hundred dresses in a sarcastic tone. Maddie, though uncomfortable with Peggy's behavior, remained a silent bystander due to her fear of losing Peggy's friendship.

Question 3:
Describe the emotions Maddie experienced after Wanda left the school.
Answer:

Maddie felt deep regret and guilt after Wanda left the school. She realized how her silence had contributed to Wanda's pain. Maddie's conscience troubled her, and she wished she had stood up for Wanda. This experience taught her the importance of empathy and courage.

Question 4:
What lesson does the story 'The Hundred Dresses – I' teach about bullying?
Answer:

The story teaches that bullying, even in subtle forms like teasing or exclusion, can deeply hurt someone. It highlights the importance of kindness and standing up against injustice. Through Wanda's silent suffering and Maddie's guilt, the story urges readers to reflect on their actions and treat others with respect.

Question 5:
How did Wanda's father react to the teasing his daughter faced?
Answer:

Wanda's father, Mr. Petronski, wrote a letter to the school explaining that they were moving to a bigger city where their Polish name wouldn't make them targets of ridicule. His reaction showed his concern for Wanda's well-being and his desire to protect her from further humiliation.

Question 6:
Why did Wanda Petronski sit in the last row of the classroom?
Answer:

Wanda Petronski sat in the last row of the classroom because she was a quiet and reserved girl who did not want to draw attention to herself.
She came from a poor immigrant family and felt out of place among her classmates.
The last row allowed her to avoid interactions and the teasing she often faced.

Question 7:
What was the significance of the hundred dresses in Wanda's story?
Answer:

The hundred dresses symbolized Wanda's imagination and creativity despite her poverty.
She claimed to own a hundred dresses to counter Peggy and Maddie's teasing about her worn-out blue dress.
Later, it was revealed through her drawings that she had indeed designed a hundred beautiful dresses, showcasing her artistic talent.

Question 8:
How did Peggy and Maddie treat Wanda, and why?
Answer:

Peggy and Maddie often teased Wanda about her hundred dresses and her Polish surname.
Peggy, though not intentionally cruel, enjoyed the attention from others, while Maddie followed Peggy to avoid being teased herself.
Their behavior reflected the insensitivity of children towards those who are different.

Question 9:
Describe the moment when Wanda's classmates realized the truth about her hundred dresses.
Answer:

Wanda's classmates realized the truth when they saw her beautifully drawn dresses displayed in the classroom during the art competition.
Each dress was unique and elegantly designed, proving that Wanda's claim was not a lie but a display of her artistic skill.
This moment made them feel guilty for mocking her.

Question 10:
What lesson does the story The Hundred Dresses – I teach about bullying?
Answer:

The story teaches that bullying often stems from ignorance and insensitivity.
Wanda's classmates judged her based on her appearance and background without understanding her feelings.
It highlights the importance of empathy and the lasting impact of unkind words.

Question 11:
How does Wanda's character challenge stereotypes about poverty?
Answer:

Wanda challenges stereotypes by proving that creativity and talent are not limited by financial status.
Despite wearing the same faded dress, she imagined and drew exquisite designs, showing that wealth does not define ability.
Her story encourages readers to look beyond superficial judgments.

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:
How does Wanda Petronski’s character highlight the theme of social exclusion in The Hundred Dresses – I?
Answer:
Introduction

Wanda Petronski, a Polish immigrant, faces bullying due to her poverty and ethnicity, reflecting social exclusion.


Argument 1
  • Wanda is mocked for her faded blue dress and claims of 'a hundred dresses.'
  • Our textbook shows Peggy and Maddie teasing her, revealing peer cruelty.

Argument 2
  • Her silent suffering symbolizes marginalized voices.
  • Example: She sits alone in class, ignored by classmates.

Conclusion

The story teaches empathy and condemns discrimination.

Question 2:
Analyze the role of Peggy as both a bully and a popular girl in the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Peggy, though well-liked, leads the teasing against Wanda, showing duality.


Argument 1
  • She questions Wanda about her dresses, provoking humiliation.
  • Example: 'How many dresses do you have?' is repeated mockingly.

Argument 2
  • Her popularity makes others follow her actions blindly.
  • Our textbook shows Maddie hesitates but doesn’t stop Peggy.

Conclusion

Peggy represents how power can enable cruelty.

Question 3:
Why does Maddie feel guilty but fail to defend Wanda?
Answer:
Introduction

Maddie’s internal conflict shows fear of losing social standing.


Argument 1
  • She relates to Wanda’s poverty but fears becoming a target.
  • Example: She writes a note to Peggy but tears it.

Argument 2
  • Her silence reflects peer pressure.
  • Our textbook describes her discomfort during the teasing.

Conclusion

Maddie’s guilt highlights moral dilemmas in adolescence.

Question 4:
Explain how the title 'The Hundred Dresses' is ironic.
Answer:
Introduction

The title contrasts Wanda’s imaginary dresses with her reality.


Argument 1
  • Wanda owns only one faded dress but claims a hundred.
  • Example: Her drawings reveal creativity masking hardship.

Argument 2
  • The dresses symbolize her unfulfilled desires.
  • Our textbook shows classmates later regret mocking her.

Conclusion

The irony underscores themes of perception and truth.

Question 5:
How does the setting of the story emphasize class differences?
Answer:
Introduction

The school and neighborhood reflect economic disparities.


Argument 1
  • Wanda lives in a poor area, unlike her classmates.
  • Example: She walks alone from Boggins Heights.

Argument 2
  • Her shabby dress contrasts with others’ attire.
  • Our textbook describes Peggy’s fashionable clothes.

Conclusion

The setting reinforces social inequality.

Question 6:
Describe the significance of Wanda’s drawings in the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Her drawings reveal hidden talent and resilience.


Argument 1
  • They prove her 'hundred dresses' claim was artistic.
  • Example: The contest-winning sketches stun the class.

Argument 2
  • The drawings symbolize her unspoken emotions.
  • Our textbook shows Maddie realizing Wanda’s forgiveness.

Conclusion

Art becomes Wanda’s voice against injustice.

Question 7:
Compare the attitudes of Peggy and Maddie toward Wanda.
Answer:
Introduction

Peggy is openly cruel, while Maddie is conflicted.


Argument 1
  • Peggy enjoys teasing, seeing Wanda as 'different.'
  • Example: She calls the dress game 'fun.'

Argument 2
  • Maddie regrets it but lacks courage to intervene.
  • Our textbook shows her guilt after Wanda leaves.

Conclusion

Their contrast highlights bystander guilt.

Question 8:
What lesson does the story teach about prejudice?
Answer:
Introduction

It condemns judging others based on appearances.


Argument 1
  • Wanda’s classmates stereotype her as poor and odd.
  • Example: They mock her name and clothing.

Argument 2
  • Their regret shows prejudice harms both sides.
  • Our textbook describes Maddie’s lasting remorse.

Conclusion

The story urges empathy over judgment.

Question 9:
How does the story use humor to convey serious themes?
Answer:
Introduction

Light teasing masks deeper cruelty and regret.


Argument 1
  • Peggy’s jokes about dresses seem harmless but hurt Wanda.
  • Example: 'Tell us about your velvet one!' is sarcastic.

Argument 2
  • The class laughs initially but later feels shame.
  • Our textbook shows their silence after Wanda leaves.

Conclusion

Humor underscores how bullying is often trivialized.

Question 10:
Discuss the moral conflict faced by Maddie in the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Maddie struggles between peer approval and doing right.


Argument 1
  • She dislikes Peggy’s teasing but fears speaking up.
  • Example: She dreams of stopping Peggy but doesn’t.

Argument 2
  • Her guilt grows after Wanda disappears.
  • Our textbook shows her reflecting on her silence.

Conclusion

Her conflict teaches the cost of inaction.

Question 11:
Describe the character of Wanda Petronski from The Hundred Dresses – I in detail, highlighting her personality traits and the challenges she faces.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – I, Wanda Petronski is portrayed as a quiet, humble, and imaginative girl who faces social exclusion due to her Polish background and economic status. She wears the same faded blue dress every day, which makes her a target for teasing by her classmates, particularly Peggy and Maddie. Despite this, Wanda remains dignified and responds to their taunts with patience.

Her resilience is evident when she claims to own a hundred dresses—a statement that seems absurd to others but reflects her creativity and inner strength. Wanda's character teaches us about the pain of bullying and the importance of empathy. Her artistic talent, revealed later in the story, symbolizes how appearances can be deceiving and how kindness can transform relationships.

Question 12:
Analyze the theme of prejudice and bullying in The Hundred Dresses – I and explain how it impacts the characters.
Answer:

The theme of prejudice and bullying is central to The Hundred Dresses – I. Wanda Petronski faces discrimination because of her Polish surname, her poverty, and her simple clothing. The other students, especially Peggy and Maddie, mock her without realizing the emotional harm they cause.

  • Impact on Wanda: She endures the teasing silently, but her claim of owning a hundred dresses suggests her longing for acceptance and her way of coping with loneliness.
  • Impact on Maddie: Though she participates in the bullying, she later feels guilt, showing how peer pressure can lead to regret.

The story highlights the consequences of prejudice and the need for compassion, urging readers to reflect on their actions and treat others with kindness.

Question 13:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, how does Eleanor Estorit portray the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's character? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – I, Eleanor Estorit beautifully portrays the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's character by highlighting her silent suffering and the lack of understanding from her classmates. Wanda, a Polish immigrant, is mocked for her "hundred dresses" claim, which seems unrealistic to her peers. However, her detailed drawings of dresses later reveal her creativity and truthfulness, making the others realize their cruelty.

For example, when Peggy and Maddie tease Wanda about her dresses, they fail to see her feelings or the economic struggles she faces. The turning point comes when Wanda submits her drawings in the art contest, showcasing her talent and the depth of her imagination. This moment evokes empathy as the classmates, especially Maddie, reflect on their actions and feel remorse.

The story teaches that empathy involves looking beyond appearances and understanding others' perspectives. Wanda’s quiet resilience and artistic expression serve as a mirror for the students to recognize their insensitivity, making the theme central to the narrative.

Question 14:
Describe the character of Wanda Petronski from the chapter The Hundred Dresses – I. How does her character evoke empathy in the reader? Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The character of Wanda Petronski in The Hundred Dresses – I is portrayed as a quiet, humble, and resilient girl who faces constant teasing from her classmates due to her Polish heritage and worn-out clothes. Despite being mocked for her claim of owning a hundred dresses, Wanda remains dignified and never retaliates, which evokes deep empathy in the reader.

Her character is revealed through subtle yet powerful details:

  • She sits in the last row of the classroom, indicating her isolation.
  • She wears the same faded blue dress daily, highlighting her poverty.
  • When Peggy and Maddie tease her about her dresses, she calmly responds, "I have a hundred dresses all lined up in my closet," showing her imaginative resilience.

Wanda's quiet suffering and unbroken spirit make the reader reflect on the cruelty of bullying and the strength of dignity. Her eventual act of submitting a hundred beautiful dress designs in the drawing competition proves her creativity and silent determination, leaving a lasting impact on both the characters and the reader.

Question 15:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, how does Eleanor Estorit portray the theme of empathy through the character of Wanda Petronski? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – I, Eleanor Estorit effectively portrays the theme of empathy through the character of Wanda Petronski by highlighting her silent suffering and the lack of understanding from her classmates. Wanda, a Polish immigrant, is mocked for her "hundred dresses" claim, which seems unrealistic due to her poor background. However, her detailed drawings of dresses later reveal her creativity and depth, making the other girls realize their cruelty.

For example, Peggy and Maddie initially tease Wanda without considering her feelings. Maddie, however, begins to feel guilty but does not intervene, showcasing a lack of empathy. The turning point occurs when Wanda’s drawings are displayed, proving her talent and making the girls regret their actions. This moment teaches the importance of understanding others' perspectives and emotions.

Estorit uses Wanda’s character to emphasize that empathy involves looking beyond appearances and recognizing the hidden strengths and struggles of individuals. The story serves as a lesson on kindness and the consequences of bullying, urging readers to practice compassion in their daily lives.

Question 16:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, how does Eleanor Estoril highlight the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's character? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

Eleanor Estoril effectively highlights the theme of empathy in The Hundred Dresses – I through Wanda Petronski's character by portraying her silent suffering and the eventual realization of her classmates. Wanda, a Polish immigrant, faces constant teasing from her peers, especially Peggy and Maddie, for her claim of owning a hundred dresses. Despite her poverty, Wanda's imaginative drawings of dresses symbolize her inner strength and creativity.

One key example is when Wanda quietly endures the mockery without retaliation, showing her dignity. Later, when her classmates discover her beautiful drawings in the art contest, they feel remorse for their actions. This moment evokes empathy as they realize Wanda's talent and the pain their teasing caused.

Another instance is Maddie's internal conflict, where she begins to question Peggy's behavior but remains silent due to fear of losing her friendship. This reflects how lack of empathy can perpetuate injustice. The story ultimately teaches that understanding others' perspectives and showing kindness can prevent hurtful actions.

Question 17:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, how does Eleanor Estor portray the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's character? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – I, Eleanor Estor highlights the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's quiet resilience and the eventual realization of her classmates. Wanda, a Polish immigrant, faces ridicule for her "hundred dresses" claim, yet her dignified silence and artistic talent reveal deeper layers of her character.

For instance, when Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda, she never reacts angrily but instead responds with subtle pride, showcasing her emotional strength. Later, the reveal of Wanda's beautifully drawn dresses forces her classmates to reflect on their cruelty, evoking empathy. The line, "She had drawn a hundred dresses—all different, all beautiful", underscores how misunderstanding can blind people to others' truths.

Additionally, Maddie's guilt signifies the growth of empathy, as she realizes the impact of her actions. The story teaches that true understanding comes from looking beyond appearances and valuing others' perspectives.

Question 18:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, how does Eleanor Estes portray the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's character? Discuss with examples from the text.
Answer:

In The Hundred Dresses – I, Eleanor Estes skillfully portrays the theme of empathy through Wanda Petronski's quiet resilience and the eventual realization of her classmates. Wanda, a Polish immigrant, faces constant teasing from her peers, especially Peggy and Maddie, for wearing the same faded blue dress every day. Despite this, she claims to own a hundred dresses at home, which becomes a source of mockery.

The theme of empathy emerges when Maddie begins to reflect on her actions. For instance, when Wanda is absent after winning the drawing contest, Maddie feels guilty for not standing up for her. The detailed drawings of a hundred beautiful dresses Wanda submits for the contest reveal her creativity and inner strength, making her classmates realize their cruelty.

Estes uses Wanda's character to highlight how empathy develops too late—only after Wanda leaves the school do her peers understand the pain they caused. The story teaches the importance of kindness and seeing beyond superficial differences.

Question 19:
Describe the character of Wanda Petronski from The Hundred Dresses – I. How does her background influence her behavior in the story?
Answer:

The character of Wanda Petronski is portrayed as a quiet, humble, and resilient girl in The Hundred Dresses – I. She comes from a poor Polish immigrant family and faces discrimination from her classmates due to her ethnic background and economic status. Despite being mocked for her claim of owning a hundred dresses, Wanda remains dignified and never retaliates.

Her background plays a crucial role in shaping her behavior. Being an outsider, she is often isolated, but she responds with patience and silence. Her resilience is evident when she continues to participate in the drawing competition, proving her talent. The story highlights how societal prejudices affect individuals, but Wanda’s character teaches us the value of inner strength and dignity.

Question 20:
Explain the significance of the title The Hundred Dresses – I. How does it reflect the central theme of the story?
Answer:

The title The Hundred Dresses – I holds deep symbolic meaning in the story. Wanda’s claim of owning a hundred dresses is initially mocked by her classmates, especially Peggy and Maddie, as they see her wearing the same faded blue dress daily. However, the title later reveals the truth—Wanda’s imagination and artistic talent allow her to create a hundred beautiful dress designs in a school competition.

The title reflects the central theme of judgment based on appearances and the power of creativity. It shows how people often misjudge others without understanding their true potential. Wanda’s drawings of the dresses symbolize her dreams and resilience, proving that true worth lies beyond material possessions. The story teaches us to look beyond superficial differences and appreciate the hidden talents in everyone.

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 – I, how does Peggy's behavior towards Wanda reflect the theme of bullying? Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary

Peggy, though not cruel, often teases Wanda about her hundred dresses, highlighting social insensitivity.

Analysis
  • Peggy leads others to mock Wanda’s poverty, e.g., asking "How many dresses do you have?" sarcastically.
  • Wanda’s quiet resilience contrasts Peggy’s casual cruelty.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how unchecked teasing becomes bullying, as Wanda’s dignity is overlooked.

Question 2:
How does Wanda’s imagination serve as a coping mechanism against her classmates' ridicule? Refer to the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda claims to own a hundred dresses, though she wears the same faded blue one daily.

Analysis
  • Her imaginary wardrobe symbolizes her desire for acceptance.
  • The detailed designs (e.g., "velvet with gold trimmings") show creativity amid hardship.
Conclusion

We studied how imagination shields her from hurt, proving inner strength outweighs material lack.

Question 3:
Contrast Maddie’s guilt with Peggy’s indifference after Wanda leaves school. Use textual evidence.
Answer:
Case Summary

Maddie regrets staying silent, while Peggy dismisses Wanda’s absence.

Analysis
  • Maddie thinks, "Was she really awful?", showing remorse.
  • Peggy claims, "She never got mad", ignoring her role.
Conclusion

Our textbook contrasts bystander guilt (Maddie) with perpetrator apathy (Peggy), teaching empathy’s importance.

Question 4:
Explain how the drawing competition reveals Wanda’s true character. Provide two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda wins the competition with drawings of a hundred dresses, astonishing her peers.

Analysis
  • Her sketches (e.g., "elegant ball gowns") prove her claim wasn’t a lie but art.
  • The judges praise her skill, contrasting earlier mockery.
Conclusion

We studied how talent triumphs over prejudice, as Wanda’s art speaks louder than words.

Question 5:
How does Wanda's response to Peggy and Maddie's teasing reveal her inner strength? Provide evidence from the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda remains calm and composed despite the teasing, showing her inner strength.

Analysis
  • She quietly says, "I have a hundred dresses," ignoring their laughter.
  • Her drawings later prove her creativity and resilience.
Conclusion

We studied how Wanda’s dignified silence and artistic talent reveal her strength, turning mockery into triumph.

Question 6:
Explain how Maddie's guilt over Wanda's treatment develops her character in the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Maddie feels guilty for not stopping Peggy’s teasing, showing her moral growth.

Analysis
  • She dislikes the teasing but fears losing Peggy’s friendship.
  • Her guilt leads her to reflect on her actions.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows Maddie’s internal conflict, highlighting how guilt can inspire change and empathy.

Question 7:
How does the setting of a small-town school influence the events in The Hundred Dresses – I? Give examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The small-town school setting amplifies Wanda’s isolation due to her poverty and Polish background.

Analysis
  • Wanda sits alone in the corner, ignored by classmates.
  • Peggy’s popularity makes it harder for others to oppose her.
Conclusion

We studied how the setting intensifies social dynamics, making Wanda’s exclusion more pronounced.

Question 8:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, why did Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda? Explain how their behavior reflects bullying.
Answer:
Case Summary

Peggy and Maddie mocked Wanda for claiming to own a hundred dresses, which seemed impossible due to her poor background.

Analysis
  • Their teasing was repetitive and targeted, a sign of bullying.
  • Wanda's quiet nature made her an easy target.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how bullying stems from prejudice. Like Wanda, many face ridicule for being different.

Question 9:
How does Wanda’s imagination contrast with her reality in the story? Provide two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda imagined owning a hundred beautiful dresses, but in reality, she wore the same faded blue dress daily.

Analysis
  • Her drawings of elaborate dresses showcased her creativity.
  • Her poverty limited her actual wardrobe.
Conclusion

We studied how imagination offers escape. Like Wanda, some use art to cope with hardships.

Question 10:
Describe Maddie’s internal conflict about joining Peggy in teasing Wanda. What moral lesson does this teach?
Answer:
Case Summary

Maddie felt guilty but stayed silent to avoid becoming Peggy's next target.

Analysis
  • She knew teasing was wrong but feared social exclusion.
  • Her inaction highlights peer pressure’s influence.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows that speaking up against injustice, like bullying, is crucial for change.

Question 11:
How does the story use symbolism in Wanda’s drawings of dresses? Relate it to her character.
Answer:
Case Summary

Wanda’s drawings symbolized her dreams and hidden talents despite her circumstances.

Analysis
  • The colorful dresses represented her unexpressed creativity.
  • They contrasted her plain reality, showing resilience.
Conclusion

We studied how symbols, like the dresses, reveal deeper truths about characters, as seen in NCERT examples.

Question 12:

Read the following situation from The Hundred Dresses – I:

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

Q2. Why do you think Wanda chose to sit in the corner of the classroom? How does this reflect her character and the attitude of her classmates?

Answer:

Wanda likely sat in the corner because she felt isolated and unwelcome among her classmates. Despite being quiet and well-behaved, she was excluded due to her poverty and ethnicity, which made her a target for bullying.

This reflects her resilient yet lonely character—she endured the teasing silently but never retaliated. Her classmates' attitude shows their prejudice and lack of empathy, as they judged her without understanding her struggles. The story critiques such behavior, urging readers to reflect on inclusivity and kindness.

Question 13:

Read the following excerpt from The Hundred Dresses – I:

"Wanda Petronski, most of the children in Room Thirteen didn’t have names like that. They had names easy to say, like Thomas, Smith or Allen."

Based on this, answer the following:

Q1. How does the author highlight the theme of discrimination in the given lines? Explain with reference to the story.

Answer:

The author highlights the theme of discrimination by contrasting Wanda Petronski's name with those of her classmates. Names like Thomas, Smith, or Allen are common and easy to pronounce, while Wanda's Polish name stands out as different. This subtly suggests how Wanda is treated as an outsider due to her cultural background.

In the story, this discrimination escalates when Peggy and Maddie mock Wanda for her "hundred dresses" claim, targeting her poverty and ethnicity. The author uses this to critique how society often judges people based on superficial differences, leading to exclusion and bullying.

Question 14:
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

"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."

(a) Why did Wanda not sit with the other girls?
(b) What does the description of Wanda's behavior reveal about her personality?
Answer:

(a) Wanda did not sit with the other girls because she was perceived as different due to her quiet nature and lack of interaction. The girls likely excluded her because she did not fit into their social norms, highlighting the theme of social exclusion in the story.

(b) The description reveals that Wanda was an introverted and reserved girl who kept to herself. Her rare smiles and silence suggest she might have felt isolated or uncomfortable in her surroundings. This behavior also hints at her emotional strength, as she endured teasing without reacting aggressively.

Question 15:
Based on the chapter The Hundred Dresses – I, imagine you are Peggy. Write a diary entry expressing your thoughts after realizing the impact of your actions on Wanda. Include:
(a) Your initial attitude towards Wanda
(b) The moment you realized your mistake
(c) How you plan to make amends
Answer:

Dear Diary,

(a) Initially, I thought teasing Wanda about her hundred dresses was harmless fun. I didn’t realize how much it hurt her because she never reacted. I assumed she didn’t mind, but now I see how wrong I was.

(b) The moment I saw her drawings of the hundred dresses, I felt a deep sense of guilt. Her talent and effort made me realize she was silently expressing herself all along, while we mocked her.

(c) I plan to apologize to Wanda and stand up for others who are bullied. I’ll also encourage my friends to be kinder, so no one feels the way Wanda did.

Question 16:
Read the following extract 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 given extract, analyze why Wanda chose to sit in the last row of the classroom. How does this reflect the theme of social exclusion in the chapter?
Answer:

Wanda chose to sit in the last row of the classroom because she was socially excluded by her classmates due to her Polish background and worn-out clothes. Despite being quiet and well-behaved, she was treated as an outsider, highlighting the theme of prejudice and discrimination.

The last row symbolizes her isolation and the unfair treatment she faced. The classmates' behavior reflects how society often judges people based on their appearance or economic status rather than their character. This exclusion is a critical aspect of the chapter, emphasizing the need for empathy and inclusivity.

Question 17:
Peggy often teased Wanda about her 'hundred dresses,' even though Wanda claimed to own them. Later, it was revealed that Wanda had drawn a hundred beautiful dresses. What does this incident reveal about Peggy's character and the moral lesson conveyed in the story?
Answer:

This incident reveals that Peggy, though popular, was insensitive and unkind towards Wanda. Her teasing shows a lack of empathy and an inability to understand Wanda's creative imagination.

The moral lesson here is that judging others without knowing their reality can lead to regret. Wanda's drawings of a hundred dresses symbolize her hidden talent and inner strength, proving that appearances can be deceptive. The story teaches us to respect others' feelings and avoid bullying or mockery based on assumptions.

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

'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 this, analyze why Wanda might have been treated differently by her classmates, and how this reflects societal attitudes.
Answer:

Wanda was treated differently by her classmates primarily because of her economic background and ethnic identity. She came from a poor Polish immigrant family and wore the same faded blue dress daily, which made her a target for bullying. The excerpt highlights that despite being quiet and well-behaved, she was excluded due to prejudice and social stereotypes.

This reflects broader societal attitudes where people are often judged based on superficial factors like clothing or origin rather than their character. The story critiques how such biases lead to marginalization and lack of empathy in peer groups.

Additionally, the classmates' behavior shows how conformity and peer pressure can perpetuate unfair treatment, as no one stood up for Wanda. The lesson emphasizes the importance of kindness and acceptance in overcoming societal prejudices.

Question 19:
In The Hundred Dresses – I, Peggy often leads the teasing of Wanda but claims she isn’t cruel. Examine Peggy’s character and justify whether her actions align with her self-perception.
Answer:

Peggy’s character is a mix of contradictions. While she sees herself as not cruel, her actions—leading the daily teasing of Wanda—prove otherwise. She justifies her behavior by thinking Wanda doesn’t mind or that it’s just harmless fun, showing a lack of self-awareness.

Her actions reflect privilege and ignorance; as a popular, well-off girl, she doesn’t understand the emotional impact of her teasing. The story highlights how people in positions of social power often dismiss their role in bullying.

However, Peggy isn’t entirely malicious—she defends Wanda when others mock her drawings, showing glimpses of empathy. This duality suggests that her self-perception is flawed but not entirely false. The narrative urges readers to reflect on unintentional cruelty and the importance of self-reflection.

Question 20:
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

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

(a) Why did Wanda sit in the corner of the classroom?
(b) How does this behavior reflect the theme of prejudice in the story?
Answer:

(a) Wanda sat in the corner of the classroom because she was perceived as different by her classmates due to her Polish background and worn-out clothes. Despite being quiet and well-behaved, she was isolated due to the prejudice and stereotypes held by others.

(b) This behavior highlights the theme of prejudice as it shows how people are often judged based on superficial factors like appearance or social status. Wanda's quiet nature contrasts with the unfair treatment she receives, emphasizing how ignorance and bullying can lead to exclusion. The story critiques such biases and encourages empathy.

Question 21:
Peggy often teased Wanda about her 'hundred dresses,' but Maddie felt uncomfortable yet remained silent.

(a) Why did Maddie not stop Peggy from teasing Wanda?
(b) What does this reveal about the peer pressure faced by Maddie?
Answer:

(a) Maddie did not stop Peggy because she feared becoming a target herself. She was financially disadvantaged like Wanda and worried that speaking up might redirect Peggy's teasing toward her. This shows her internal conflict between doing what's right and protecting herself.

(b) This situation reveals how peer pressure can silence individuals, even when they recognize injustice. Maddie's hesitation reflects the struggle many face in standing up against bullying due to fear of social rejection. The story underscores the importance of courage and moral responsibility in such situations.

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