A Baker from Goa Long Answer Type Question | Assumption, Creativity & Critical Thinking Based | Class 10  First Flight

This page offers A Baker from Goa long answer type question for Class 10  from the book First Flight.  We’ve put together a bunch of long answer type question based on assumption, creativity, extrapolation and critical thinking. These types of questions are introduced after 2024 in CBSE Board. So, practice to understand A Baker from Goa long answer type question

A Baker from Goa Long Answer Type Question

 By– Lucia Rodrigues

Question 1. Why was it absolutely essential to have a “baker’s furnace” in a Goan village?

Answer: A baker’s furnace is very essential in a Goan village because of the deep-rooted influence of the Portuguese, who introduced their famous loaves of bread. Although the Portuguese are no longer present, the tradition of baking bread continues to hold an important place in Goan society. Bakers, known as paders, are still active and respected. They use the same old furnaces that have been around for generations.

Bread is an important part of Goan culture and celebrations. For example, the lady of the house needs to prepare sandwiches for her daughter’s engagement. During Christmas and other festivals, cakes and bolinhas (sweet bread) are a must. Therefore, the baker’s furnace is still essential for making these important items, keeping the tradition alive, and supporting the cultural practices of the village.

Question 2. Give a pen-portrait of the baker or the pader highlighting the changes that came in his fortune and dress with the passage of the time. 

Answer. The baker or the pader used to be an essential part of the Goans’ life. The baker or bread seller had a peculiar dress during the Portuguese days. It was known as the kabai. It was a single piece long frock reaching down the knees. With the passage of time, he started wearing a shirt and trousers which were just longer than the short pants.

The baker and his family always looked happy and prosperous in the good old days. Their plumpy physique was an open testimony of their happiness and prosperity. However, as the time changed, the bakers continued their profession but with their reduced fortune and importance.

The thud and jingle of the traditional bamboo of the baker are still heard in the streets of Goa even now. Sweet bread or the boys are still the part of feasts, marriages and Christmas in Goa. However, the old charm and craze have become rather dim in recent days.

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Question 3. Describe the role of a traditional Goan baker in the village community. How did the baker’s presence influence daily life and special occasions in the village?

Answers : The traditional Goan baker, known as the pader, played a very important role in the village community. He was not just a baker but a friend and a significant part of daily life. The baker visited the village twice a day, in the morning and after his round. His arrival was announced by the jingling sound of his bamboo staff, which woke the children who eagerly ran to greet him. The bread he sold was a staple in every household, essential for meals and special occasions.

The baker’s presence was especially important during celebrations. For weddings, the sweet bread called bol was a must. At Christmas and other festivals, cakes and bolinhas were essential. The village lady relied on the baker for sandwiches during her daughter’s engagement.

The baker’s goods were not just food items; they were integral to the social and cultural fabric of the village, making the baker a cherished and indispensable figure in the community.

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Question 4. How does the author describe his childhood memories of the baker? What emotions and sensory details does he recall?

Answers : The author describes his childhood memories of the baker with great fondness and nostalgia. He recalls the baker as a friendly figure who was a regular part of their daily life.

The sound of the baker’s bamboo staff, ‘jhang, jhang,’ was a delightful alarm that woke the children up each morning. The author vividly remembers the excitement of running out to meet the baker and the joy of choosing bread-bangles from his basket.

The author remembers the nice smell of freshly baked bread when the baker came. He also recalls seeing the baker balance a basket on his head and greet the lady of the house. These memories are warm and happy, showing how important the baker was in his childhood and to the community’s daily life.

Question 5. Discuss the significance of bread and bakery products in Goan culture. Why were these items considered essential for various occasions?

Answers : Bread and bakery products are very important in Goan culture. They are not just food; they are a big part of daily life and special events. Bread is a staple in Goan homes and is needed for everyday meals. Fresh bread is a must-have every day, showing how important it is.

For special occasions, bread and bakery items are even more important. For example, sweet bread called bol is needed for marriage gifts. No wedding is complete without it. Cakes and bolinhas are essential for Christmas and other festivals, making the celebrations sweeter. The lady of the house needs the baker’s sandwiches for her daughter’s engagement, showing that baked goods are expected at special events.

These items represent happiness and community spirit. The baker’s products are a key part of Goan life, making them essential for both daily meals and festive occasions.

Question 6. Explain how the tradition of bread-making in Goa has survived over the years. What changes and continuities does the author mention?

Answers :  The tradition of making bread in Goa has lasted a long time because it is an important part of the culture and people still want bread. The author says that even though the Portuguese who brought bread have left, the bakers, called paders, continue the tradition. They still use the old furnaces, and the sound of their bamboo staff in the morning is a familiar and comforting sight.

Some things have changed, like what bakers wear. In the past, they wore a long frock called the kabai, but now they wear shorter pants. Despite these changes, many things are still the same. The way they make bread is still traditional, and bread is still important in daily life and for special events.

The author also says that baking is still a good job, allowing bakers and their families to live well. This mix of changes and things staying the same shows how a valued tradition can continue over time.

Question 7. Imagine you are a child in the village during the author’s time. Write a diary entry about a day when you waited eagerly for the baker to arrive.

Answer:

Dear Diary,

Today was so exciting! I woke up early because the baker was coming. I love hearing his bamboo staff, “jhang, jhang.” When I heard it, I ran outside. The air smelled of fresh bread.

I saw him coming with his big basket of bread. All the kids were waiting. We shouted and waved, hoping to see the bread-bangles.

He greeted my mother with “Good morning” and placed his basket down. I stood on my toes to see all the bread. The sweet smell made my mouth water.

I got my favourite bread-bangle, and it tasted so good. I didn’t even brush my teeth or wash my face; I was too excited. It was the best part of my day!

Until next time,

Me

Question 8. How does the author use the character of the baker to reflect on the changes in Goan society? What does this tell us about cultural continuity and change in Goa?

Answers :  The author uses the character of the baker to show the changes in Goan society over time. The baker, or pader, is a link between the past and the present. The author remembers how the baker was an important figure during his childhood, visiting twice a day and bringing joy with his fresh bread. This reflects a time when traditional roles were highly valued.

Over the years, some things have changed. The bakers now wear different clothes, and modern influences have affected their profession. However, many things have stayed the same. The traditional bread-making process continues, and bread remains an essential part of daily life and celebrations in Goa. 

This shows that while Goan society has modernised, it has also preserved its cultural heritage. The continuity of the baker’s tradition amidst change highlights the balance between maintaining cultural identity and adapting to new times.

Question 9. Compare the lifestyle and profession of the baker in the author’s childhood to a modern-day baker. What differences and similarities can you identify?

Answer: In the author’s childhood, the baker, called the pader, had a traditional lifestyle. He visited the village twice a day with a big basket of fresh bread on his head and a bamboo staff that made a ‘jhang, jhang’ sound. He wore a long frock called the kabai or short pants. The baker was important for daily life and special events, like weddings and festivals. His job was profitable, and his family lived well.

Today, modern bakers use advanced equipment and have shops instead of going house to house. They wear modern clothes and interact with customers differently. However, bread is still important for daily meals and celebrations. Both past and present bakers are key in their communities, providing essential bread and bakery items.

The main differences are in how they work, but the core of their job—baking and selling bread—remains the same.

Question 10. Discuss the author’s tone throughout the chapter “A Baker from Goa.” How does his tone help convey his feelings about the past and present?

Answer: The author’s tone throughout the chapter “A Baker from Goa” is nostalgic and warm. He fondly recalls the past, describing the sounds, smells, and sights of the baker’s daily visits. This nostalgic tone shows his deep affection for the old days and the important role the baker played in the community.

When he talks about the present, his tone remains respectful and appreciative. He acknowledges that while some things have changed, like the bakers’ clothing and methods, the essence of their work remains the same.

This blend of nostalgia for the past and respect for the present helps convey the author’s feelings. He appreciates the tradition of bread-making and how it has adapted over time while still holding an important place in Goan culture.

Question 11. If you were to visit a traditional Goan village today, how would you imagine the experience of meeting a baker? Describe the scene, the interactions, and your feelings.

Answers :  If I were to visit a traditional Goan village today, meeting a baker would be wonderful. I imagine walking through small, quiet streets with lovely houses. The air would smell like fresh bread.

I could hear the ‘jhang, jhang’ sound of the baker’s bamboo staff as he walked with a big basket of bread on his head. Children would run to greet him, just like in the old days. The baker, wearing simple clothes, would smile warmly at everyone.

I would go to him, excited to see the different breads he has. The sight of freshly baked loaves and sweet bread-bangles would remind me of simpler times. I would buy some bread and thank him, feeling connected to the past.

This visit would make me feel happy and nostalgic, appreciating the tradition that still lives on in this lovely village.

Question 12. How do the author’s descriptions of the baker’s clothes and physical appearance contribute to the overall portrayal of the baker? Why are these details important?

Answers : The author’s descriptions of the baker’s clothes and physical appearance add a lot to the overall portrayal of the baker. He describes the baker wearing a long frock called the kabai in the old days and later, shorter pants. These details show the traditional and unique style of the baker. These details make him a distinct and memorable figure in the village.

The physical appearance of the baker, often described as plump, indicates that the baking profession was profitable and the baker’s family lived well. This shows that the baker was not only important but also respected and successful in the community.

These details are important because they help paint a vivid picture of the baker, making the character more real and relatable. This explanation enriches the reader’s understanding and connection to the story.

Question 13. How might the daily routine of the baker change if he had to adapt to a modern, urban environment? What challenges and opportunities might he face?

Answers : If the baker had to adapt to a modern, urban environment, his daily routine would change a lot. Instead of walking through the village with his bamboo staff and basket of bread, he might open a bakery shop in the city. He would need to wake up early to prepare a variety of baked goods, using modern equipment like ovens and mixers.

One challenge he might face is the competition from other bakeries and supermarkets. He would need to find ways to stand out, maybe by offering unique traditional Goan breads and sweets. 

However, there would also be opportunities. In the city, he could reach more customers and possibly earn more money. Despite the challenges, the baker could thrive in an urban setting by blending traditional recipes with modern conveniences.

Question 14. If the baker’s son decided to continue the family tradition, what innovations might he introduce to make the business more successful while preserving its cultural essence?

Answers : If the baker’s son decided to continue the family tradition, he could use new ideas to make the business more successful while keeping its cultural essence. First, he could use modern baking equipment to make more bread quickly, ensuring it is always fresh and tasty.

To attract more customers, he could offer traditional Goan breads and sweets along with new, creative flavours. He could also add healthier options like whole grain or gluten-free bread to meet modern dietary needs.

Another idea could be to set up an online store so customers can order bread and have it delivered to their homes. This would help the business reach more people beyond the village. He could use social media to share the family bakery’s story, showing its history and tradition.

By mixing modern technology with traditional recipes and marketing, the baker’s son could help the business grow while keeping its cultural heritage.

Question 15. Imagine the village without the presence of the traditional baker. How would this absence affect the social and cultural fabric of the community?

Answers : If the traditional baker were absent from the village, it would have a significant impact on the social and cultural fabric of the community. Bread is not just food; it is a vital part of daily life and special occasions. Without the baker, villagers would miss the daily joy of fresh bread and the delightful smell in the mornings.

Special occasions like weddings, festivals, and engagements would feel incomplete without the traditional breads and sweets that the baker provides. The absence of these items would take away from the sense of celebration and community bonding.

Overall, the absence of the baker would mean losing a cherished tradition and a key element that brings people together, affecting both the daily routine and the cultural richness of the village.

Question 16. How do you think the author’s memories of the baker shape his views on modernity and tradition? What might be his perspective on balancing the two?

Answers : The author’s memories of the baker shape his views on modernity and tradition by highlighting the importance of preserving cultural practices while adapting to changing times. He fondly recalls the baker’s role in the village, the sounds of the bamboo staff, and the smell of fresh bread, which symbolise a simpler, more connected past. These nostalgic memories make him value tradition and the sense of community it brings.

The author’s perspective on balancing modernity and tradition likely involves embracing new technologies and methods to improve efficiency and reach while maintaining the essence of cultural practices. He might advocate for a blend of old and new, ensuring that traditions evolve without losing their fundamental values and significance.

Question 17. If the baker decided to expand his business to neighbouring villages, what strategies might he employ to maintain the quality and charm of his bread while reaching a larger market?

Answers : If the baker wanted to expand his business to nearby villages, he could use several simple strategies to keep his bread tasty and special while reaching more people. 

First, he could train a few bakers to make sure every loaf is just as good as the ones he bakes. This way, the traditional recipes and methods stay the same.

He could also use better equipment to make more bread at once, without changing the taste. For example, using modern ovens could help bake more bread while keeping it delicious.

To reach more customers, he could open small bakery shops in neighbouring villages. Each shop would sell fresh bread every day, keeping it special. 

By combining training, better equipment, local shops, and storytelling, the baker could expand his business while keeping his bread’s quality and charm.

Question 18. What values do you think the author is trying to convey through his nostalgic memories of the baker and the bread-making tradition?

Answers : Through his nostalgic memories of the baker and the bread-making tradition, the author conveys several important values. One key value is the importance of community. The baker’s daily visits and his role in special occasions show how simple routines and traditions can bring people together, creating a sense of belonging and shared joy.

Another value is the appreciation of cultural heritage. The author fondly remembers the traditional methods and the distinct, charming character of the baker. This highlights the value of preserving cultural practices and passing them down through generations.

Overall, the author encourages us to cherish our traditions, appreciate our community, and find happiness in the small, meaningful moments that connect us to our past and to each other.

Question 19. In what ways can the story of the traditional Goan baker inspire individuals to appreciate and preserve their cultural heritage?

Answers : The story of the traditional Goan baker can inspire individuals to appreciate and preserve their cultural heritage in several ways. 

First, it shows the importance of everyday traditions. The baker’s role in daily life and special occasions demonstrates how simple customs bring joy and a sense of belonging to a community. This can inspire people to value and continue their own traditions.

Second, it emphasises passing down skills and knowledge. The baker learned his craft from his ancestors and continued the tradition. This can encourage people to learn about their own culture.

Third, it highlights the connection between culture and identity. The baker’s presence and the bread he makes are integral to the village’s cultural identity.

Lastly, it shows the beauty of cultural diversity, reminding us that every culture has unique traditions worth preserving, inspiring respect and celebration of all heritages.

Question 20. Imagine you are the baker’s child. How would you modernise the bakery while keeping traditional methods? What steps would you take?

Answers : If I were the baker’s child, I would modernise the bakery while keeping traditional methods by taking these steps:

First, I would use modern equipment like ovens and mixers. This would help make more bread faster.

Second, I would keep using our traditional recipes and techniques. This way, the bread would still have the same special taste.

Third, I would add new types of bread to attract more customers. This could include healthier options like whole grain and gluten-free bread.

Lastly, I would set up an online ordering system. I would also offer delivery services to reach more people.

By mixing modern technology with traditional methods, I would keep the bakery’s charm and cultural importance. This would make the bakery more successful and available to more customers.

Question 21. If you wrote a story from the baker’s point of view, what key moments and feelings would you include to show his role in the community?

Answers : If I wrote a story from the baker’s point of view, I would include key moments and feelings to show his role in the community.

First, I would describe his morning routine, waking up early to bake fresh bread. I would show his pride in making the best bread for the village.

Next, I would write about his daily visits to the village. He feels happy seeing the children run to greet him and hearing the villagers’ friendly greetings. These moments show his connection to the people.

I would also include special events, like baking for weddings and festivals. He feels honoured to be part of these important moments, knowing his bread makes the celebrations complete.

Lastly, I would describe his feelings of joy and satisfaction when he sees the smiles on people’s faces as they enjoy his bread. These moments show his deep bond with the community and how much he values his role.

Question 22. How do the baker’s daily interactions with villagers show the importance of small businesses in keeping cultural identity? What can modern business owners learn from him?

Answers : The baker’s daily interactions with villagers show why small businesses are important for keeping cultural identity. First, the baker knows his customers well. He greets them by name and remembers what they like, making people feel valued and connected.

Second, the baker uses old methods and recipes from his family, which keeps the village’s cultural heritage alive. His bread and sweets are part of village traditions and celebrations.

Third, the baker’s regular visits and friendly chats make daily life special, keeping the community close and helping everyone share the same cultural identity. Modern business owners can learn from the baker by building personal relationships with customers, keeping traditions alive, and being part of the community. This helps build trust, loyalty, and a strong sense of belonging among their customers.