The Hundred Dresses II: MCQs & Chapter Guide for Class 10 English (NCERT)
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Added: 27.01.2026 at 11:13
Summary:
Explore The Hundred Dresses II MCQs and chapter guide for Class 10 English to master key themes, plot details, and improve your NCERT exam readiness effectively.
A Comprehensive Study Guide to ‘The Hundred Dresses II’ — MCQs and Insights for NCERT Class 10 English
Introduction
“The Hundred Dresses II,” a widely studied chapter from the NCERT Class 10 English textbook *First Flight*, carries readers beyond a simple schoolgirl’s tale into the complex domains of empathy, self-reflection, and social change. After the initial story’s foundation, this part truly brings home themes that are both personal and relevant for today’s students. The chapter delves into issues of bullying, guilt, and the journey toward personal growth.In the CBSE and most state board curricula, multiple-choice questions (MCQs) play an important role. They help students test not just their factual memory, but also their understanding of deeper motivations and themes. As exam patterns in India evolve, the ability to comprehend, analyse, and interpret literature using MCQs becomes essential for every student aiming for success.
This essay is designed as a step-by-step companion for every Class 10 student. Through detailed analysis and illustrative MCQs, it aims to guide you in grasping not only the storyline but also the nuances that will help you answer questions effectively and internalise the moral lessons for life.
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Understanding the Narrative and Plot Progression
Before diving into character motives or literary elements, appreciating the story’s flow is crucial. “The Hundred Dresses II” branches off from Part I, where Wanda Petronski’s claim about owning a hundred dresses is ridiculed by classmates Peggy and Maddie. Part II opens with a twist that shifts the emotional gears.The girls and their classmates receive a letter from Wanda’s father, announcing the family’s decision to leave the town due to the teasing and unkindness Wanda experienced. This communication isn’t just a plot device—it’s a mirror reflecting the class’s collective behaviour and setting the stage for transformation. Maddie and Peggy, in particular, grapple with guilt for their insensitivity and start to reassess their actions. They attempt to reach out to Wanda to apologise, but their letter is sent after the Petronskis have already left.
A sample MCQ might ask: Who wrote the letter that was read by Miss Mason? A) Wanda’s mother B) Maddie and Peggy C) Wanda’s father D) The school principal _Answer: C) Wanda’s father_
Understanding plot sequences and cause-effect relationships—such as the chain of events that made Wanda’s family leave—will help students tackle such MCQs with clarity.
The story’s key lesson emerges through these turns: even small acts of unkindness can leave lasting marks, while acknowledgment and remorse can be the first steps toward positive change.
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Character Study and Emotional Responses
The story thrives through its nuanced characters, each representing a different facet of human nature—especially as seen within the Indian schooling context.Wanda Petronski
A Polish immigrant child who, despite being poor and different, possesses immense creative talent and dignity. Through her silence, endurance, and the symbolic “hundred dresses” she draws, Wanda challenges not just her classmates, but every reader, to reconsider what it means to belong.Maddie
Possibly the most relatable figure for many Indian readers, Maddie is filled with internal conflict. She realises she was complicit in Wanda’s bullying by not speaking up. This triggers feelings of guilt and eventually, the courage to seek forgiveness. Her transformation from a passive onlooker to someone willing to right a wrong is what makes the story’s resolution deeply satisfying.Peggy
As the ringleader of the teasing, Peggy initially rationalises her actions, believing she was merely having harmless fun. However, the consequences of her behaviour—especially after reading Wanda’s letter—force her to confront uncomfortable truths about herself.Miss Mason
The teacher plays a sensitive role, echoing the kind of guidance many Indian teachers strive to offer their students. Her disappointment and dignified handling of the situation invite the class to introspect rather than simply punish.An MCQ rooted in character analysis could be: How did Maddie feel after reading Wanda’s letter? A) Relieved B) Angry C) Ashamed and regretful D) Indifferent _Answer: C) Ashamed and regretful_
Connecting a character’s emotional world to their actions—as seen in Maddie’s guilt or Peggy’s self-justification—not only aids MCQ performance but also fosters emotional intelligence.
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Themes and Moral Lessons
At its core, “The Hundred Dresses II” holds up a mirror to our everyday choices. The chapter’s themes echo widely in Indian schools and society:Bullying and Kindness
Wanda’s experience as an outsider targets questions of ‘otherness’—a reality for many in our diverse country. The impact of taunts and exclusion is sharply highlighted, making the lesson about kindness relevant beyond textbooks.Courage and Confession
Maddie’s resolve to never stand by passively again underlines the importance of moral bravery. It addresses that subtle but powerful difference between regretting one’s actions and actively choosing a better path.Friendship and Forgiveness
Through Peggy and Maddie’s attempts at reconciliation, the story advocates the value of forgiveness—not just in extending it, but in earning it.Art as Expression
Wanda’s beautiful drawings symbolise her resilience and inner richness. Art often becomes a medium for self-expression in our school settings, reminding us not to dismiss anyone at face value.An example MCQ probing themes: What message does the story convey about teasing others? A) It is always harmless B) It can deeply hurt and isolate others C) Only teachers can prevent teasing D) It is a natural part of growing up _Answer: B) It can deeply hurt and isolate others_
By relating moral lessons to everyday life—like classroom cliques, language barriers, or economic differences—students can better internalise and apply the chapter’s teachings.
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Literary Devices and Language Features
The effectiveness of “The Hundred Dresses II” stems from the author’s skillful storytelling:- Narrative Techniques: The use of Wanda’s letters and vivid descriptions of her artwork opens a window into her mind. It also advances the plot with subtlety. - Characterisation: The depiction of Maddie’s internal thought process and Peggy’s defensive rhetoric is achieved through dialogue and indirect cues rather than blunt statements. - Imagery: The description of “hundred dresses” and the class bulletin board are not just visual details, but metaphors for acceptance and alienation.
Sample MCQ on language: What does the phrase ‘picking on someone’ mean as per the story’s context? A) Choosing a friend B) Helping someone C) Teasing or bullying someone repeatedly D) Selecting someone for a prize _Answer: C) Teasing or bullying someone repeatedly_
Analysing such literary features polishes students’ comprehension skills, preparing them for both literal and inferential exam questions.
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Examination Preparation Strategies Using MCQs
For Indian students, scoring well in English often depends on grasping the nuances of MCQ-based assessments.- Read carefully: Understand the question before looking at options. Highlight keywords. - Eliminate unlikely options: Often, two options can be dismissed outright. - Manage time: Allocate time per MCQ, especially in time-bound school exams. - Types of MCQs: - Factual: Direct questions about events. - Interpretative: About characters’ motives or the mood of a passage. - Vocabulary: Meanings of key terms. - Analytical: Evaluating cause and consequence.
Practising with a mix of these, using previous years’ CBSE question papers and “First Flight” guides, helps reinforce knowledge. Creating your own MCQs or exchanging questions with classmates is another great revision tool.
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Beyond MCQs — Enhancing Holistic Understanding
Literature shouldn’t be confined to exam performance alone. Encourage yourself to explore the chapter creatively:- Reflective Discussion: Have conversations in class about experiences with bullying or about moments you wished you’d acted differently. - Imaginative Writing: Try penning a diary entry as Maddie the day after reading Wanda’s letter, or illustrate your own “hundred dresses.” - Life Skills: Use the lessons learnt to foster empathy and stand up for classmates facing discrimination or isolation.
Such activities nurture empathy—a vital skill for the real world.
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Conclusion
“The Hundred Dresses II” remains a cornerstone in the Class 10 English curriculum not just for its examination value, but also for nurturing social awareness and sensitivity among students. Mastery of MCQs tied to this chapter helps in exams, but true success lies in assimilating its lessons on kindness, courage, and acceptance.Regular reading, thoughtful practice, and connecting literature to one’s daily experiences will ensure not only a strong performance in English, but a positive transformation in your approach to life and relationships.
As you prepare, remember: English literature is more than marks—it is about understanding yourself and others, one story at a time.
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Appendix
Sample MCQs for Practice
1. How many dresses did Wanda claim to own? - A) Fifty - B) One hundred - C) Twenty - D) Ten _Answer: B) One hundred_2. What made Maddie feel guilty? - A) She was late for school. - B) She enjoyed teasing Wanda. - C) She did not stop others from teasing Wanda. - D) She wrote a rude letter to Wanda. _Answer: C) She did not stop others from teasing Wanda._
3. What does Wanda’s letter reveal about her character? - A) She holds grudges - B) She is angry - C) She is forgiving and kind - D) She ignores everyone _Answer: C) She is forgiving and kind_
Glossary
- Picking on: Teasing or tormenting someone repeatedly. - Remorse: Deep regret for a wrong committed. - Reconciliation: The act of restoring friendly relations.Recommended Resources
- “First Flight” supplementary material by NCERT - Solutions and question banks by Oswaal and Arihant publishers - Discussion on “Hundred Dresses” at CBSE official forums and educational YouTube channels---
A Final Note: Exam preparation is important, but the power of a story lies in its ability to change us. Let “The Hundred Dresses II” inspire you to be kinder and braver, both in the exam hall and beyond.
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