This page offers The Cutting of My Long Hair long answer type question for Class 12 from the book Vistas. 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 The Cutting of My Long Hair long answer type question
The Cutting of My Long Hair Long Answer Type Question
1.Question: Imagine you are Zitkala-Sa. Write a diary entry expressing your feelings after your hair is cut, as shown in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair. (120–150 words)
Answer: Today was a terrible day. They cut my long hair, which my mother always said was a sign of bravery. I tried to hide under a bed, but they found me. They held me down and cut my hair. I felt so helpless and angry. Losing my hair made me feel weak.
It was not just hair; it was a part of my identity. Now I feel like I have lost something very important. The white women here do not understand my pain. I miss my mother.
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She would have held me close and comforted me. Here, I feel alone. They treat us like animals, making us follow their rules. I feel trapped and lost.
2.Question: How do the themes of resistance and oppression reflect Zitkala-Sa’s character as described in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: In the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, Zitkala-Sa shows her strong spirit through resistance. When she hears about her hair being cut, she refuses to submit. She hides under a bed to protect her hair.
This shows her courage and love for her culture. However, the authorities represent injustice. They find her and cut her hair by force. They make her follow their rules and ignore her feelings. This reflects how people in power control and harm those they think are weaker.
Zitkala-Sa’s actions show that even in tough situations, we can stand up for what is right. Her resistance, though small, shows her inner strength.
3.Question: How would you feel if you were in Zitkala-Sa’s place, as described in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? What would you do? (120–150 words)
Answer: If I were in Zitkala-Sa’s place, I would feel very sad and angry. Losing my hair, which is a part of my culture, would make me feel like I lost my identity. I would also feel helpless because the people in charge are much stronger.
Like Zitkala-Sa, I would try to hide or ignore in some way. But being young and alone, it would be very hard. I would try to find others who feel the same as me. Together, we could share our feelings and support each other. This might make us feel stronger.
Zitkala-Sa’s story reminds us that losing our identity is very painful, but we can still fight to keep it alive in our hearts.
4.Question: Compare Zitkala-Sa’s experience with a modern-day situation where someone is forced to give up their identity, based on your understanding of the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair. (120–150 words)
Answer: In the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, Zitkala-Sa is forced to give up her cultural identity. This can be compared to students today who may face pressure to dress or act in a certain way to fit in.
For example, some schools or workplaces may not allow traditional clothes or hairstyles. Like Zitkala-Sa, these people might feel hurt and lose their sense of self. However, today, many people fight for cultural acceptance. There are organisations and laws to protect diversity. Unlike Zitkala-Sa, people today have more support to stand up for their identity.
Both situations show that forcing someone to change their identity is harmful, but they also remind us to respect and celebrate different cultures.
5.Question: What does Zitkala-Sa teach us about standing up for our beliefs, as shown in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: In the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, Zitkala-Sa teaches us the importance of standing up for what we believe in. She tries to resist when she hears about her hair being cut. She hides under a bed, hoping to save her hair.
This shows her courage and love for her culture. Even though she is caught and her hair is cut, her effort to fight back is inspiring. It reminds us that we should not give up on our beliefs, even if the situation is difficult.
Zitkala-Sa shows us that we can keep our inner strength alive, even when others try to take away what is important to us.
6.Question: Write a letter to Zitkala-Sa offering your support, based on the events in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair. (120–150 words)
Answer: Dear Zitkala-Sa,
I am so sorry for the pain you are going through. Losing your hair must feel like losing a part of your identity. I admire your courage for trying to hide and protect your hair. Even though they cut it, your resistance shows your strength.
Remember, your culture and traditions are in your heart, and no one can take them away. You are not alone. Many people respect your bravery and understand your struggle. Keep believing in yourself. One day, people will realise the importance of respecting different cultures. Stay strong, Zitkala-Sa. You are an inspiration to many.
With care,
[Your Name]
7.Question: How would the story in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair change if Zitkala-Sa had successfully protected her hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: If Zitkala-Sa had protected her hair, the story in The Cutting of My Long Hair would have shown her victory over injustice. She would have been able to hold onto a part of her identity and feel proud of her resistance.
This might have inspired other children to stand up for their culture too. However, it could have also brought more challenges, like strict punishments or new rules to control her. Even if she faced more difficulties, her success in keeping her hair would send a powerful message. It would show that even small acts of courage can make a big difference in fighting for one’s beliefs and traditions.
8.Question: What message does the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair give about the importance of cultural identity? (120–150 words)
Answer: The chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair shows that cultural identity is very important for a person. Zitkala-Sa feels connected to her culture through her long hair. When it is cut, she feels like she has lost a part of herself.
This shows how traditions and symbols are deeply tied to who we are. The chapter also highlights how losing one’s identity can cause pain and sadness. It reminds us to respect our own culture and traditions. At the same time, it teaches us to respect the identities of others. Everyone has the right to their cultural beliefs, and no one should be forced to give them up.
9.Question: Imagine you are a friend of Zitkala-Sa. How would you help her cope with her situation, as suggested in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: If I were Zitkala-Sa’s friend, I would comfort her by reminding her of her inner strength. I would tell her that her culture is not just in her hair but also in her heart. I would listen to her and let her share her pain.
I would also share stories from her traditions to keep her connected to her roots. Together, we could find ways to celebrate her culture, even in small ways. I would stand by her, so she knows she is not alone. Sometimes, just having someone to support us makes a big difference. Zitkala-Sa’s bravery inspires me to help others hold onto their identity.
10.Question: What can schools today learn from the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair about respecting cultural diversity?(120–150 words)
Answer: Schools today can learn a lot from the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair. Zitkala-Sa’s experience shows how forcing someone to change their identity can cause pain. Schools should respect every student’s culture and traditions.
This can be done by allowing students to wear their traditional clothes or hairstyles. Schools can also celebrate different cultural events and discussions. Instead of making all students follow one way of life, schools should encourage understanding and acceptance of different backgrounds.
By doing this, schools can create a safe and supportive environment where students feel proud of who they are. This will help everyone learn to respect each other’s differences.
11. Question: What might have been the long-term emotional impact on Zitkala-Sa after losing her hair and her cultural identity? Discuss based on your understanding of the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair ?(120–150 words)
Answer: Losing her hair and cultural identity may have caused Zitkala-Sa long-term sadness and anger. She might have felt disconnected from her roots, which could make her feel incomplete. This experience would leave her distrusting people who try to control or change others.
However, it might also make her more determined to save her culture. Zitkala-Sa may grow stronger over time, using her pain to fight against such injustice and help others.
12.Question: How do you think Zitkala-Sa’s relationship with her culture and traditions might change as she grows older after experiencing this incident? Answer based on your interpretation of the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair. (120–150 words)
Answer: As Zitkala-Sa grows older, her connection to her culture might become even stronger. This incident could inspire her to learn more about her traditions and preserve them.
She might also teach others about her heritage, so it is not forgotten. However, the pain of this event might also make her feel distant at times. It could remind her of the injustice she faced, creating mixed emotions.
13.Question: Imagine how Zitkala-Sa’s life would have been different if she had grown up in her native community without facing such oppression. What kind of person might she have become? (120–150 words)
Answer: If Zitkala-Sa had stayed in her native community, she might have grown up with a stronger sense of identity. She could have learned her traditions and passed them on to future generations. Without oppression, she might have been happier and more confident.
She might have become a leader in her community, helping to save their way of life. However, she might not have developed the same courage and resilience that her struggles gave her.
14.Question: What might have been the intentions of the authorities in forcing children like Zitkala-Sa to abandon their traditions? Discuss the possible reasons based on the events in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair.(120–150 words)
Answer: The authorities likely wanted to make the children adopt their culture and forget their roots. They believed their way of life was superior and tried to erase native traditions. Forcing children to follow strict rules was a way to control them and remove their connection to their heritage.
They may have thought this would make the children easier to manage and more like them. However, this approach caused pain and damaged the children’s sense of identity.
15.Question: How do you think Zitkala-Sa’s act of resistance might inspire other children in the same situation? What might be the effect of her courage on others? (120–150 words)
Answer: Zitkala-Sa’s resistance might inspire other children to stand up for their traditions. Her courage shows that even small acts of opposition can make a big difference. Other children might feel stronger knowing they are not alone in their struggles.
Zitkala-Sa’s bravery could encourage them to remember their culture and fight to keep it alive. Her actions remind everyone that standing up for what is right is important, even when it seems hard.
16.Question: Based on the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, what values should societies uphold to prevent the kind of oppression and discrimination that Zitkala-Sa faced? (120–150 words)
Answer: Societies should uphold the values of respect and equality. Every culture should be treated with dignity, and no one should be forced to give up their traditions. Empathy is important to understand the pain of others and ensure their freedom.
Education should promote and teach people to accept different ways of life. By encouraging kindness and understanding, societies can create an environment where everyone feels valued and safe, regardless of their background.
17. Question: The chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair shows how losing one’s cultural identity can deeply hurt a person. How can individuals help preserve their own traditions and respect those of others?(120–150 words)
Answer: Individuals can save their traditions by practising and teaching them to others. Sharing stories, customs, and rituals helps keep cultures alive. At the same time, respecting others’ traditions is important.
This can be done by listening and learning about their practices. By showing interest and avoiding judgement, individuals can promote harmony. Celebrating diversity through festivals and discussions also helps people value their own identity while appreciating others.
18.Question: Zitkala-Sa’s story highlights the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs. What values are necessary to resist oppression, as shown in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: Courage is a key value needed to oppose injustice. Zitkala-Sa shows this by trying to hide and protect her hair. Determination is also important to stay firm in one’s beliefs, even when facing challenges.
Self-respect and pride in one’s identity are necessary to fight against unfair treatment. These values help people stand strong and inspire others to do the same. Together, they make resistance meaningful and impactful.
19.Question: How does the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair teach us the importance of empathy and understanding in a diverse world? (120–150 words)
Answer: The chapter shows that forcing someone to leave their traditions causes pain and loss. Empathy helps us understand how others feel when they are treated unfairly. By putting ourselves in their place, we can respect their struggles.
Understanding teaches us to value diversity and learn from each other. These qualities create a world where everyone feels respected and safe. They remind us that kindness and acceptance are essential for a melodious society.
20.Question: What role does education play in promoting equality and preventing discrimination, as reflected in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: Education plays a big role in teaching people about equality and respect. It helps us understand different cultures and traditions, reducing prejudice. If the authorities in the chapter had been educated about diversity, they might have treated Zitkala-Sa with more respect.
Schools can teach children to value fairness and kindness, so they grow up respecting everyone. Education encourages open minds and helps build a world where no one is treated unfairly because of their identity.
21.Question: In the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, Zitkala-Sa tries to protect her hair but ultimately loses it. Do you think her resistance, even though unsuccessful, was meaningful? Why or why not?(120–150 words)
Answer: Zitkala-Sa’s resistance was meaningful because it showed her courage and love for her culture. Even though she could not save her hair, her attempt reflects her strong spirit. It teaches us that standing up for what we believe in is important, even if we don’t always succeed. It is the act of resistance that matters.
22. Question: The chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair shows how cultural oppression affects individuals. What could have been done differently to create a respectful environment for Zitkala-Sa? (120–150 words)
Answer: The authorities could have respected Zitkala-Sa’s traditions instead of forcing her to change. They could have allowed her to keep her long hair and practice her culture. By understanding her background, they could have created an environment where her identity was valued. Respect and communication are key to harmony.
23.Question: Imagine Zitkala-Sa meeting someone from another culture who also experienced oppression. What might they learn from each other, as suggested in the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: Zitkala-Sa and the other person could share their stories and understand the injustice faced by people, regardless of culture. They might learn that courage and hope are universal in fighting injustice. By supporting each other, they could find strength to save their identities and create change.
24. Question: In the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair, the authorities believe their culture is superior. What lessons can we learn about avoiding such attitudes in today’s world? (120–150 words)
Answer: This chapter teaches us that no culture is better than another. To avoid such attitudes, we must respect diversity and value differences. Education can help us learn about other traditions and break stereotypes. By listening to and understanding others, we can create a world where everyone feels respected.
25.Question: How might Zitkala-Sa’s experience have shaped her future decisions and her efforts to fight for her people, based on the chapter The Cutting of My Long Hair? (120–150 words)
Answer: Zitkala-Sa’s painful experience likely made her more determined to fight for her people. It might have inspired her to speak out against injustice and preserve her culture. The loss she faced could have driven her to work harder for equality, ensuring others do not go through the same struggles.