Explore the depth of “One Centimetre” by Bi Shu-Min with our ultimate guide. This post delves into key themes, critical analyses, and character sketches essential for Class 12 students. Uncover moral questions and societal reflections within the story, and prepare effectively for exams with our curated questions and tips. Whether you’re aiming for academic success or a deeper appreciation of literature, this guide offers valuable insights and practical advice. Master “One Centimetre” and unlock its timeless message.
- Summary of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Themes of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Central Idea of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Character Sketches of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Plot of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Questions and Answers of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Extra Questions and Answers on One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- One Centimetre कहानी का सारांश
- One Centimetre کہانی کا خلاصہ
- Extract-Based MCQs from One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
- Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
Summary of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min explores themes of motherhood, dignity, and societal norms. Tao Ying is a mother and cook. She balances her modest life while striving to raise her son, Xiao Ye, with values. The story unfolds in ordinary moments that reveal deeper struggles.
Small Defiances and Lessons
Tao Ying often skips paying bus fares when alone, feeling it causes no harm. Nevertheless, when Xiao Ye joins her, he insists they buy tickets. She agrees to uphold his sense of fairness. This small act shows her effort to set a good example, even when money is tight.
The Temple Visit
Tao Ying decides to take Xiao Ye to a temple using a gifted ticket. The temple’s rule exempts children under 1.10 metres from paying. At the gate, a guard claims Xiao Ye is too tall. Tao Ying, sure of her son’s height, argues but feels helpless when the crowd sides with the guard. Frustrated, she unintentionally hits Xiao Ye while trying to fix his hair. This hurts their bond. Xiao Ye feels betrayed, and Tao Ying is heartbroken.
Seeking Redemption
Back home, Tao Ying measures Xiao Ye and confirms he’s under the height limit. Determined to prove her innocence, she writes to the temple. After weeks, officials visit her. They measure Xiao Ye and find she was right. They offer compensation, but Tao Ying refuses money or tickets. Instead, she asks the officials to explain to Xiao Ye that she wasn’t wrong. For her, restoring trust matters most.
Key Themes
The story highlights the struggles of parenting. Tao Ying’s actions reflect her love, pride, and sacrifices. It shows how societal rules can clash with personal dignity. In the end, Tao Ying’s dedication strengthens her bond with her son, teaching him honesty and perseverance.
Themes of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
Motherhood and Sacrifice
Tao Ying loves her son deeply. She works hard every day. She tries to give him the best life. She would do anything for him. Even if it means giving up her own pride. She wants him to be happy and successful. Her sacrifices show the strength of a mother’s love.
Pride and Dignity
Tao Ying cares about her dignity. She wants to be seen as a good person. But sometimes, this pride gets in the way. She faces situations where she must choose between being right and keeping her pride. In the end, she learns that sometimes, pride doesn’t matter as much as love.
Social Rules and Injustice
The story shows how rules can feel unfair. Tao Ying follows the rules, even when they don’t seem right. The height requirement for a ticket is one example. The rule doesn’t take into account Tao Ying’s circumstances. This theme questions how much society’s rules really matter. Sometimes, they feel more like a punishment than a fair system.
Growth and Maturation
Xiao Ye starts as a child who doesn’t fully understand the world. But he begins to grow. As the story moves on, he learns about rules, pride, and family. He matures emotionally. He starts to understand his mother’s struggles. This growth reflects the journey from childhood to a deeper understanding of life.
Central Idea of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
The story One Centimetre explores the struggles of a mother, Tao Ying. She navigates motherhood, societal expectations, and personal dignity. It focuses on her efforts to teach her son, Xiao Ye, important values while balancing her modest life.
Teaching by Example
Tao Ying wants to set a good example for Xiao Ye. She usually skips paying bus fares when alone but buys tickets when he is with her. She wants to show him honesty and fairness. This shows how much she values being a role model.
A Dispute at the Temple
The conflict starts when Tao Ying takes Xiao Ye to a temple. A rule says children under 1.10 metres do not need tickets. A guard claims Xiao Ye is taller. Tao Ying knows her son is shorter but cannot convince the guard. The argument embarrasses her. Frustrated, she accidentally hits Xiao Ye on the head while fixing his hair. This damages their bond. Xiao Ye feels betrayed, and Tao Ying is heartbroken.
Seeking Justice
Tao Ying measures Xiao Ye at home and confirms she was right. She writes to the temple, determined to clear her name. Weeks later, temple officials visit her. They measure Xiao Ye and agree he was under the limit. Tao Ying refuses compensation but asks the officials to explain to her son that she was not wrong.
Conclusion
One Centimetre is about the challenges of parenting. Tao Ying’s love for her son drives her actions. She sacrifices pride and comfort to teach him values. The story shows how small events can deeply impact trust and relationships.
Character Sketches of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
The characters in One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min are intricately crafted. They highlight the story’s themes of love, integrity, and societal pressures. Each character contributes to the narrative’s depth and emotional resonance.
Character Sketch of Tao Ying
Tao Ying is a devoted mother and a hardworking cook in a factory canteen. Her life revolves around her son, Xiao Ye. She is practical, resourceful, and mindful of her limited means, but she never compromises on her son’s well-being. Tao Ying’s strong sense of responsibility defines her character. She strives to be a role model for Xiao Ye, even when it requires sacrifice.
Her actions, for example buying tickets to uphold her son’s sense of fairness, show her desire to teach values. However, she is not without flaws. Tao Ying sometimes struggles with societal judgment. Her frustration leads to unintended actions. For example, she accidentally hits Xiao Ye. This complexity makes her a realistic and relatable character.
Character Sketch of Xiao Ye
Xiao Ye is Tao Ying’s young son and the centre of her world. He is curious, observant, and has a strong sense of fairness. His insistence on following rituals, such as buying tickets, shows his innocence and belief in doing what is right.
However, Xiao Ye is also sensitive. The temple incident shakes his trust in his mother. His disappointment and reaction highlight his vulnerability. Despite this, his love for Tao Ying remains evident, making him a poignant representation of childhood innocence.
Character Sketch of The Temple Guard
The temple guard is an antagonist of sorts. He is rigid, enforcing rules without compassion or understanding. His confrontation with Tao Ying over Xiao Ye’s height showcases his inflexible nature. However, he is not villainous—he is simply doing his job. His lack of empathy adds tension and reflects societal flaws.
Plot of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
The plot of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min unfolds through everyday events. These events highlight themes of love, integrity, and societal pressures.The story is centred on the relationship between Tao Ying, a mother, and her young son, Xiao Ye.
Exposition
The story begins by introducing Tao Ying, a hardworking factory cook, and her son, Xiao Ye. Tao Ying often skips minor societal obligations, like buying bus tickets, when alone. Yet she changes her behavior when Xiao Ye is with her. She wants to instill values of fairness and honesty in him.
Rising Action
The conflict arises when Tao Ying takes Xiao Ye to visit a temple using a ticket gifted by a friend. The temple has a rule exempting children under 1.10 metres from paying. At the gate, a young guard claims Xiao Ye is taller than the limit and demands another ticket. Tao Ying, confident her son is within the limit, disputes this.
The situation escalates as a crowd gathers, siding with the guard. Frustrated, Tao Ying unintentionally slaps Xiao Ye on the head while trying to smooth his hair. This moment strains their relationship, leaving Xiao Ye hurt and Tao Ying guilt-ridden.
Climax
Determined to prove her honesty, Tao Ying measures Xiao Ye at home and confirms he is shorter than 1.10 metres. She writes a letter to the temple authorities, seeking justice. Weeks later, temple officials visit her house, measure Xiao Ye, and acknowledge she was right.
Falling Action
Although the officials offer compensation and new tickets, Tao Ying declines both. Instead, she requests that they explain to Xiao Ye that she was not wrong. Her focus remains on restoring her son’s trust rather than seeking material gains.
Resolution
The story ends with Tao Ying’s vindication, but the happiness of the original outing cannot be regained. Her relationship with Xiao Ye grows stronger. Her actions show the sacrifices she makes as a mother. She works to keep their bond safe and uphold values.
Questions and Answers of One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
Stop and Think – I
1. What made Tao Ying decide whether to buy a ticket or not when she rode a bus alone?
Very Short Answer Type
Tao Ying decided based on the bus conductor’s behaviour. If they seemed responsible, she bought a ticket. If they appeared careless, she avoided paying, justifying it as insignificant and harmless.
2. Why did she insist on buying tickets both for herself and her son that day?
Very Short Answer Type
Xiao Ye’s insistence on having a ticket influenced her decision. He valued rituals and fairness. This pushed Tao Ying to buy tickets. She prioritized his happiness and trust over saving twenty cents.
Stop and Think – II
1. Did Tao Ying really intend to cheat at the temple?
Short Answer Type
No, Tao Ying didn’t intend to cheat. She genuinely believed that Xiao Ye was under the height limit for a free entry. Her actions were based on her understanding of the rules and her confidence in their fairness.
2. Why did Tao Ying change her intention to buy another ticket?
Short Answer Type
Tao Ying changed her decision after facing the guard’s rigid enforcement and the crowd’s judgment. Her pride, combined with her frustration over the misunderstanding, led her to walk away instead of buying another ticket.
Stop and Think – III
1. Were the old lady’s scales a reliable measure of height and weight? What convoluted logic were her measurements based on?
Short Answer Type
The old lady’s scales were unreliable. She adjusted them to make people appear taller and lighter. Her logic catered to people’s desire for a flattering appearance, emphasising social trends over accuracy.
2. What was the conflict between the mother and son?
Short Answer Type
The conflict arose when Xiao Ye believed Tao Ying lied to avoid buying his ticket. This misunderstanding hurt his trust in her, creating tension in their relationship. Xiao Ye’s disappointment reflected his sense of fairness.
Understanding the Text
1. How did Tao Ying’s son influence the way she led her life?
Short Answer Type
Xiao Ye’s presence made Tao Ying more conscious of her actions. She sought to set a positive example by being honest and fair. His innocence and expectations drove her to prioritise integrity and fulfil her promises.
2. Pick out instances from the story to show that official rules are often arbitrary.
Short Answer Type
The temple’s rule exempting children under 1.10 metres was enforced rigidly without context. The guard misjudged Xiao Ye’s height and refused to reconsider, highlighting how arbitrary enforcement can lead to conflict.
3. Tao Ying was very careful about spending money. What were her reasons for refusing the compensation offered by the temple officials?
Short Answer Type
Tao Ying valued dignity over money. She believed no compensation could restore the happiness of that day or undo the misunderstanding with her son. Her focus was on proving her honesty, not material gains.
4. Why was her final vindication important to Tao Ying?
Short Answer Type
Vindication mattered because it restored Tao Ying’s sense of integrity and cleared her name. More importantly, it reassured Xiao Ye that she hadn’t lied, repairing the trust between them and preserving her role as his role model.
Talking about the Text
1. The way a child looks at the world is very different from that of an adult.
Short Answer Type
Children like Xiao Ye view the world with simplicity and fairness. For him, having a ticket meant honouring a ritual. Adults, like Tao Ying, weigh practicality and societal judgment, often complicating decisions.
2. There is always a gap between what we really are and what we wish to appear to be to others.
Short Answer Type
Tao Ying’s behaviour reflects this gap. She skips bus fares alone but strives to appear ideal in front of Xiao Ye. This duality shows how people adapt their actions to meet societal or personal expectations.
Appreciation
1. Comment on the significance of the first sentence of the story to its theme.
Long Answer Type
The opening sentence shows Tao Ying’s habit of skipping bus fares occasionally. This reveals her practical nature and introduces the story’s focus on ethics and societal norms.
This first sentence reflects the central theme. It suggests that small, seemingly harmless actions can raise deeper moral questions. It also hints at Tao Ying’s struggle between practicality and values, a conflict explored in the story.
The theme develops from this simple beginning. It shows how minor decisions can affect relationships and personal integrity. Tao Ying’s journey highlights the importance of ethical choices. As a parent, every action she takes influences a child’s trust and perspective.
2. Would you describe the author’s portrayal of Tao Ying’s character in the story as sympathetic, critical or realistic?
Long Answer Type
Bi Shu-min’s portrayal of Tao Ying is realistic and sympathetic. Tao Ying is depicted as a loving mother who makes mistakes but learns from them. Her struggles are relatable, reflecting the challenges of parenting.
The narrative does not idealise her. For instance, her moment of frustration at the temple reveals her flaws. Yet, her persistent effort to restore trust with Xiao Ye showcases her love and resilience.
Through Tao Ying, the author illustrates how people navigate societal norms and personal values. The balance of her strengths and weaknesses makes her a deeply human and sympathetic character.
3. Identify the episodes that bring out the ambivalent attitude to ethics commonly seen in human life.
Long Answer Type
The story features several episodes highlighting ethical ambivalence. Tao Ying’s decision to skip bus fares when alone but buy tickets with Xiao Ye reflects how circumstances influence morality.
The temple incident highlights this ambivalence. Tao Ying thinks she is honest about Xiao Ye’s height, but her frustration causes her to hit him. Similarly, the guard strictly enforces rules without considering context. He lacks empathy, despite being ethical by duty.
These episodes reveal the complexity of ethical behaviour, where choices are shaped by emotions, societal pressures, and personal values.
4. How effectively does the narrative technique adopted in this story illustrate ‘unity of thought’?
Long Answer Type
The narrative technique maintains unity of thought. It focuses on Tao Ying’s relationship with Xiao Ye. The themes of integrity and societal judgment are also central. Each event ties back to these central ideas.
Bi Shu-min’s use of detailed, linear storytelling ensures a seamless flow. The transitions move from minor moments, like buying bus tickets. They then shift to major conflicts, for example the temple incident. These changes show a consistent exploration of the themes.
The supporting characters, for example the guard and the crowd, add to the narrative’s focus by challenging Tao Ying’s values. This cohesive structure effectively highlights the central conflicts and resolutions, creating a unified and impactful story.
Extra Questions and Answers on One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
1. What does Tao Ying’s behaviour on the bus reveal about her personality?
Very Short Answer Type
Tao Ying is pragmatic and resourceful.Her decision to skip fares when unnoticed shows practicality. Buying tickets for Xiao Ye reveals her desire to set a good example for her son.
2. How did Xiao Ye react when Tao Ying told him he was one centimetre short of needing a ticket?
Very Short Answer Type
Xiao Ye protested loudly, insisting that he was tall enough.His reaction revealed his strong sense of fairness. It also showed his eagerness to fulfill the promise made during their previous bus ride.
3. What role does the temple guard play in the story’s conflict?
Short Answer Type
The guard acts as an enforcer of rules but also triggers the central conflict. His rigid adherence to the height rule escalates the misunderstanding. His dismissive attitude adds to the tension between Tao Ying and Xiao Ye.
4. Why does Tao Ying write to the temple authorities instead of moving on?
Short Answer Type
Tao Ying writes to the temple because she values her integrity and wants to clear her name. More importantly, she seeks to restore trust with Xiao Ye, who felt hurt by the incident.
5. How does Xiao Ye’s reaction to the old lady’s scales highlight his character?
Short Answer Type
Xiao Ye’s insistence on being measured reflects his innocence and trust in others. His disappointment upon learning the truth shows his vulnerability and how deeply he values fairness and honesty.
6. Why does Tao Ying refuse the compensation offered by the temple officials?
Short Answer Type
Tao Ying refuses the compensation because it cannot undo the emotional damage or restore the day’s happiness. She prioritises clearing her name and regaining Xiao Ye’s trust over material benefits.
7. What does the crowd’s reaction during the temple incident reveal about societal behaviour?
Short Answer Type
The crowd’s quick judgment of Tao Ying highlights how society often favours rules over empathy. Their reactions reflect a tendency to criticise without understanding the full context, adding pressure to Tao Ying’s dilemma.
8. How does Tao Ying’s love for Xiao Ye shape her decisions throughout the story?
Long Answer Type
Tao Ying’s love for Xiao Ye influences every decision she makes. She buys bus tickets when with him to set a good example, even though she avoids it when alone.
At the temple, she stands firm against the guard. She is motivated not by personal pride but by her wish to protect Xiao Ye’s sense of fairness. Later, she writes to the temple authorities to clear her name, motivated by her wish to regain Xiao Ye’s trust.
Her refusal to accept compensation also stems from this love. Tao Ying knows that no material reward can replace the emotional damage caused by the incident. Her actions show the sacrifices and challenges of parenting. Love often requires setting aside one’s comfort to guarantee a child’s growth and happiness.
9. What does Tao Ying learn about herself by the end of the story?
Long Answer Type
By the end of the story, Tao Ying realises the extent of her resilience. She also understands her love for Xiao Ye. The incident at the temple forces her to confront her own values and the challenges of parenting.
Her decision to write to the temple shows her determination to protect her integrity. When the officials visit, she refuses compensation, understanding that restoring trust with Xiao Ye is more important than material gains.
Tao Ying also learns the importance of patience and empathy. Despite her frustration, she chooses not to punish the guard or hold onto resentment. Her actions show growth. She now understands her role as a mother more deeply. Every action she takes shapes her child’s perception of the world.
10. How does the title One Centimetre connect to the story’s themes?
Long Answer Type
The title One Centimetre symbolises the fine line between trust and misunderstanding. It also signifies fairness and judgment, as well as truth and perception. It refers to Xiao Ye being just one centimetre short of the height limit. This limitation becomes the focal point of the conflict.
This small measurement grows into a larger issue, affecting Tao Ying’s dignity and her relationship with Xiao Ye. The title also highlights how seemingly minor details, like a centimetre, can create significant emotional and moral challenges.
By focusing on such a trivial difference, the story emphasises the complexities of ethics, societal norms, and parenting. The title encapsulates how small moments and decisions carry profound consequences in shaping relationships and personal values.
One Centimetre कहानी का सारांश
लेखक: बाई शुमिन
One Centimetre कहानी में एक मां और बेटे के संबंधों को गहराई से दिखाया गया है। यह कहानी नैतिकता, समाज के नियमों और एक मां की अपने बच्चे के प्रति जिम्मेदारी के इर्द-गिर्द घूमती है।
प्रारंभ
कहानी की शुरुआत ताओ यिंग नाम की महिला से होती है, जो एक फैक्ट्री में रसोइया है। वह व्यावहारिक है और कभी-कभी छोटी-छोटी बातों को अनदेखा कर देती है, जैसे अकेले यात्रा के दौरान बस का टिकट न खरीदना। हालांकि, अपने बेटे जियाओ ये के साथ रहते हुए, वह अपनी आदतों को बदलने की कोशिश करती है, क्योंकि वह उसे ईमानदारी और न्याय सिखाना चाहती है।
मुख्य घटना
एक दिन ताओ यिंग जियाओ ये को मंदिर ले जाती है। मंदिर के नियमों के अनुसार, 1.10 मीटर से छोटे बच्चों को टिकट नहीं चाहिए। जब गेट पर गार्ड जियाओ ये को ऊंचाई सीमा से बड़ा बताता है, तो ताओ यिंग इसका विरोध करती है। गार्ड और भीड़ के साथ बहस के दौरान, ताओ यिंग गलती से अपने बेटे के सिर पर हाथ मार देती है, जिससे जियाओ ये को गहरा आघात पहुंचता है। यह घटना उनकी मां-बेटे की बॉन्डिंग को हिला देती है।
समाधान
घर आकर ताओ यिंग अपने बेटे की ऊंचाई मापती है और पुष्टि करती है कि वह 1.10 मीटर से छोटा है। अपनी ईमानदारी साबित करने के लिए, वह मंदिर प्रशासन को एक पत्र लिखती है। कुछ हफ्तों बाद, मंदिर के अधिकारी उसके घर आते हैं और ताओ यिंग की बात को सही मानते हैं। हालांकि, जब अधिकारी मुआवजा और टिकट की पेशकश करते हैं, तो वह इसे अस्वीकार कर देती है। उसके लिए, अपने बेटे का विश्वास वापस पाना और अपनी गरिमा बनाए रखना अधिक महत्वपूर्ण था।
निष्कर्ष
यह कहानी एक मां के संघर्ष और उसके प्यार को दर्शाती है। ताओ यिंग की हर छोटी-बड़ी कोशिश यह दिखाती है कि वह अपने बेटे को नैतिकता सिखाने और एक आदर्श मां बनने के लिए कितनी प्रतिबद्ध है। One Centimetre यह सिखाती है कि रिश्तों और विश्वास को बनाए रखना हर सामाजिक नियम से अधिक महत्वपूर्ण है।
One Centimetre کہانی کا خلاصہ
مصنف: بائی شو من
One Centimetre کہانی ایک ماں اور بیٹے کے تعلقات کی گہرائیوں کو بیان کرتی ہے۔ یہ کہانی اخلاقیات، سماجی اصولوں، اور ماں کی اپنے بچے کے لیے ذمہ داری کے ارد گرد گھومتی ہے۔
آغاز
کہانی تاؤ ینگ سے شروع ہوتی ہے، جو ایک فیکٹری میں باورچی کے طور پر کام کرتی ہے۔ وہ حقیقت پسند ہے اور کبھی کبھار چھوٹی باتوں کو نظر انداز کر دیتی ہے، جیسے اکیلے سفر کرتے ہوئے بس کا ٹکٹ نہ لینا۔ لیکن جب اس کا بیٹا شیاو یے ساتھ ہوتا ہے تو وہ اپنی عادتیں بدلنے کی کوشش کرتی ہے، کیونکہ وہ اپنے بیٹے کو ایمانداری اور انصاف کا سبق دینا چاہتی ہے۔
مرکزی واقعہ
ایک دن تاؤ ینگ شیاو یے کو مندر لے جاتی ہے۔ مندر کے قوانین کے مطابق 1.10 میٹر سے چھوٹے بچوں کے لیے ٹکٹ کی ضرورت نہیں ہوتی۔ گیٹ پر گارڈ شیاو یے کو مقررہ حد سے لمبا بتاتا ہے، جس پر تاؤ ینگ اعتراض کرتی ہے۔ بحث کے دوران، تاؤ ینگ غصے میں اپنے بیٹے کے سر پر ہاتھ مار دیتی ہے، جس سے شیاو یے کا دل دکھتا ہے اور ان کے تعلقات میں دراڑ پڑ جاتی ہے۔
حل
گھر پہنچ کر تاؤ ینگ شیاو یے کی لمبائی ناپتی ہے اور یہ ثابت کرتی ہے کہ وہ 1.10 میٹر سے چھوٹا ہے۔ وہ اپنی سچائی ثابت کرنے کے لیے مندر کے حکام کو خط لکھتی ہے۔ چند ہفتوں بعد، مندر کے افسران اس کے گھر آتے ہیں اور اس کی بات کو درست تسلیم کرتے ہیں۔ جب افسران اس کو معاوضہ اور نئے ٹکٹ کی پیشکش کرتے ہیں تو وہ انکار کر دیتی ہے۔ اس کے لیے اپنے بیٹے کا اعتماد بحال کرنا اور اپنی عزت قائم رکھنا زیادہ اہم تھا۔
اختتام
یہ کہانی ایک ماں کی قربانیوں اور محبت کو اجاگر کرتی ہے۔ تاؤ ینگ کی کوششیں یہ ظاہر کرتی ہیں کہ وہ اپنے بیٹے کے لیے ایک مثالی ماں بننے کے لیے کتنی پرعزم ہے۔ One Centimetre یہ سکھاتی ہے کہ رشتوں اور اعتماد کی حفاظت سماجی اصولوں سے زیادہ اہم ہے۔
Extract-Based MCQs from One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
Extract 1
“When Tao Ying rides on the bus alone, quite often she does not bother to buy a ticket. Why should she? Without her, the bus would still be stopping at every stop, a driver and a conductor would still have to be employed, and the same amount of petrol used.”
Questions:
1. What does this extract suggest about Tao Ying’s thought process?
a) She believes in following all rules strictly.
b) She prioritises practicality over strict adherence to rules.
c) She feels guilty about not buying tickets.
d) She is indifferent to societal norms.
2. What does the phrase “the same amount of petrol used” imply about her justification?
a) She feels her actions have no significant impact.
b) She believes the bus should be free for everyone.
c) She does not care about environmental issues.
d) She feels responsible for saving resources.
3. What aspect of Tao Ying’s character is highlighted in this extract?
a) Her sense of entitlement.
b) Her inner conflict between rules and practicality.
c) Her defiance against authority.
d) Her guilt over breaking rules.
Extract 2
“‘Mama, tickets!’ Xiao Ye says. Children are often more conscious of rituals than adults. Without a ticket in his hand, the ride doesn’t count as a proper ride.”
Questions:
1. What does Xiao Ye’s insistence on tickets reveal about him?
a) He enjoys collecting tickets as a hobby.
b) He values rituals and fairness.
c) He dislikes breaking rules to avoid trouble.
d) He is overly cautious about money.
2. How does Xiao Ye’s perspective differ from Tao Ying’s?
a) He focuses on rituals, while she focuses on practicality.
b) He is more carefree, while she is stricter.
c) He believes rules are unnecessary, while she values them.
d) He is indifferent, while she is cautious about money.
3. What can we infer about the bond between Tao Ying and Xiao Ye from this interaction?
a) Xiao Ye does not trust his mother.
b) Tao Ying dismisses her son’s concerns.
c) Xiao Ye’s sense of fairness influences Tao Ying’s actions.
d) Tao Ying resents Xiao Ye’s insistence on rules.
Extract 3
“Tao Ying remains calm. In fact, she feels a little smug. Her son loves excitement. This is turning into something of an event, so it is bound to delight him.”
Questions:
1. What does the phrase “feels a little smug” suggest about Tao Ying’s emotions?
a) She enjoys the conflict and its impact on the crowd.
b) She believes she is handling the situation well.
c) She feels superior to the guard enforcing the rules.
d) She is unaffected by her son’s reaction to the incident.
2. What does Tao Ying’s observation about Xiao Ye indicate?
a) She underestimates how the incident affects him.
b) She believes her son enjoys challenges.
c) She thinks her son is indifferent to societal norms.
d) She feels her actions will not impact her son.
3. How does this scene highlight the difference in perception between a child and an adult?
a) Adults overestimate the seriousness of situations, unlike children.
b) Children view conflicts as fun, while adults see them as stressful.
c) Adults ignore rules, while children strictly follow them.
d) Adults feel embarrassment, while children do not understand its concept.
Extract 4
“‘Mama, why are you taking so long? I thought I had lost you!’ Xiao Ye shouts to her affectionately. He runs towards his mother, as if she was one of his favourite toys.”
Questions:
1. What does Xiao Ye’s reaction indicate about his emotions?
a) He feels anger at his mother’s delay.
b) He fears being abandoned by his mother.
c) He is indifferent to the ongoing situation.
d) He is focused on finding his mother for a ticket.
2. What does the simile “as if she was one of his favourite toys” suggest?
a) Xiao Ye values his mother deeply and seeks comfort in her.
b) He views his mother as a source of entertainment.
c) He feels disconnected from his mother’s decisions.
d) He thinks his mother is responsible for his problems.
3. How does this moment reflect Xiao Ye’s innocence?
a) He fails to see the seriousness of the argument.
b) He understands the rules but chooses to ignore them.
c) He sees his mother as a protector, regardless of the situation.
d) He realises his mother is at fault but forgives her.
Extract 5
“Tao Ying’s hands are trembling like the strings on a pei-pa. What should she do? Should she argue with him? She is not afraid of a good fight but doesn’t want her child to be witness to such a scene.”
Questions:
1. What does the metaphor “trembling like the strings on a pei-pa” imply about Tao Ying’s state?
a) She is angry and ready to confront the guard.
b) She is anxious and uncertain about her next move.
c) She is calm and composed in the face of conflict.
d) She is determined to win the argument at any cost.
2. Why does Tao Ying hesitate to argue with the guard?
a) She fears losing the argument in front of the crowd.
b) She does not want to embarrass Xiao Ye.
c) She worries about being misunderstood by her son.
d) She is unsure of the rules and her own stance.
3. What does this moment reveal about Tao Ying’s priorities?
a) She values her son’s perception of her over winning the argument.
b) She wants to teach her son how to fight for justice.
c) She prioritises societal approval over her son’s trust.
d) She focuses on avoiding conflict for her own peace of mind.
Answer Key
Extract 1
- b) She prioritises practicality over strict adherence to rules.
- a) She feels her actions have no significant impact.
- b) Her inner conflict between rules and practicality.
Extract 2
- b) He values rituals and fairness.
- a) He focuses on rituals, while she focuses on practicality.
- c) Xiao Ye’s sense of fairness influences Tao Ying’s actions.
Extract 3
- b) She believes she is handling the situation well.
- a) She underestimates how the incident affects him.
- b) Children view conflicts as fun, while adults see them as stressful.
Extract 4
- b) He fears being abandoned by his mother.
- a) Xiao Ye values his mother deeply and seeks comfort in her.
- c) He sees his mother as a protector, regardless of the situation.
Extract 5
- b) She is anxious and uncertain about her next move.
- c) She worries about being misunderstood by her son.
- a) She values her son’s perception of her over winning the argument.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for One Centimetre by Bi Shu-min
Detail-Based Questions
1. According to the story, why does Tao Ying sometimes avoid buying a bus ticket?
a) She doesn’t have enough money.
b) She believes it doesn’t harm anyone.
c) She dislikes the bus conductors.
d) She prefers walking.
2. What is Xiao Ye’s reaction when Tao Ying tells him he is one centimetre short of needing a ticket?
a) He becomes upset and demands fairness.
b) He agrees with his mother’s explanation.
c) He ignores her and walks away.
d) He refuses to get on the bus.
3. What does the temple guard claim about Xiao Ye?
a) He is too tall to enter without a ticket.
b) He is not following the temple’s rules.
c) He has already been measured earlier.
d) He is disturbing other visitors.
Inference Questions
4. It can be inferred that Tao Ying buys tickets when Xiao Ye is with her because…
a) She is afraid of being caught.
b) She wants to set a good example for him.
c) Xiao Ye forces her to buy them.
d) The bus conductors recognise her.
5. What is implied by Xiao Ye’s insistence on being measured at the old lady’s stall?
a) He doubts his mother’s judgement.
b) He is curious about his exact height.
c) He wants to prove he is tall enough for a ticket.
d) He enjoys interacting with strangers.
6. What does Tao Ying’s refusal to accept compensation from the temple authorities suggest about her character?
a) She values dignity over material gain.
b) She distrusts the temple officials.
c) She believes in strict adherence to rules.
d) She has no interest in visiting the temple again.
Main Idea or Purpose Questions
7. What is the main theme of One Centimetre?
a) The struggles of motherhood.
b) The importance of societal rules.
c) The challenges of being a child.
d) The role of religion in daily life.
8. What is the author’s purpose in highlighting Tao Ying’s internal conflict?
a) To show her resilience in facing challenges.
b) To criticise societal norms and expectations.
c) To depict the complexities of parenting.
d) To argue for more lenient rules for children.
9. What does the story convey about trust between parents and children?
a) It is fragile and requires constant effort to maintain.
b) It is easily restored after minor conflicts.
c) It depends solely on societal values.
d) It is unimportant in the larger scheme of life.
Vocabulary in Context Questions
10. What does the phrase “her hands trembled like the strings on a pei-pa” mean?
a) Tao Ying was excited.
b) Tao Ying was anxious and nervous.
c) Tao Ying was trying to play an instrument.
d) Tao Ying was ready to argue.
11. What is meant by the term “vindication” in the context of the story?
a) Revenge against the temple officials.
b) Proof of Tao Ying’s honesty and integrity.
c) An apology from the bus conductor.
d) Recognition of Xiao Ye’s height.
12. What does the word “smug” imply when describing Tao Ying’s emotions during the temple incident?
a) She felt satisfied and slightly superior.
b) She felt embarrassed in front of others.
c) She felt calm and composed.
d) She felt confused about the situation.
Author’s Tone or Attitude Questions
13. How does the author portray Tao Ying in the story?
a) As a flawed but loving mother.
b) As a careless and irresponsible parent.
c) As a strict and unyielding woman.
d) As a self-centred individual.
14. What is the author’s attitude towards societal rules as depicted in the story?
a) Critical of their rigidity.
b) Supportive of strict enforcement.
c) Indifferent to their consequences.
d) Enthusiastic about their benefits.
15. How does the author’s tone shift during the temple incident?
a) From sympathetic to judgemental.
b) From neutral to tense and emotional.
c) From humorous to critical.
d) From indifferent to supportive.
Sequence of Events Questions
16. What is the first significant event in the story?
a) Tao Ying decides to write to the temple.
b) Tao Ying and Xiao Ye board the bus.
c) The temple guard measures Xiao Ye.
d) Tao Ying refuses compensation from the officials.
17. What happens after Tao Ying hits Xiao Ye on the head?
a) The crowd begins to criticise her.
b) She measures Xiao Ye’s height at home.
c) She immediately apologises to Xiao Ye.
d) The temple officials arrive to investigate.
18. What is the final resolution in the story?
a) Tao Ying accepts compensation.
b) Tao Ying’s integrity is proven, and she asks officials to explain the truth to Xiao Ye.
c) Tao Ying visits the temple with Xiao Ye again.
d) Tao Ying decides to avoid temples in the future.
Cause and Effect Questions
19. What caused the conflict between Tao Ying and the temple guard?
a) The height rule for free entry.
b) Tao Ying’s refusal to buy a ticket.
c) Xiao Ye’s loud protests.
d) The guard’s personal grudge against Tao Ying.
20. What effect did the old lady’s faulty scales have on Xiao Ye?
a) He questioned his mother’s intentions.
b) He became confident about his height.
c) He felt indifferent to the temple rules.
d) He decided to never visit the temple again.
21. Why did Tao Ying write to the temple authorities?
a) To demand financial compensation.
b) To clear her name and restore trust with her son.
c) To request changes to the height rules.
d) To ensure better training for temple staff.
Comparison Questions
22. How does Tao Ying’s behaviour differ when she is alone versus when she is with Xiao Ye?
a) She is more honest alone and practical with Xiao Ye.
b) She follows rules more strictly when Xiao Ye is with her.
c) She becomes careless when Xiao Ye is around.
d) Her actions remain consistent in both situations.
23. How is the temple guard’s attitude different from the temple officials?
a) The guard is empathetic, while the officials are dismissive.
b) The guard is rigid, while the officials are apologetic.
c) The guard is kind, while the officials are strict.
d) The guard is indifferent, while the officials are harsh.
24. How does Xiao Ye’s sense of fairness compare to Tao Ying’s practicality?
a) Xiao Ye is more focused on values, while Tao Ying prioritises circumstances.
b) Xiao Ye values rules less, while Tao Ying is stricter.
c) Both share a similar sense of fairness.
d) Xiao Ye is indifferent, while Tao Ying is emotionally involved.
Answer Key
1. b
2. a
3. a
4. b
5. c
6. a
7. a
8. c
9. a
10. b
11. b
12. a
13. a
14. a
15. b
16. b
17. a
18. b
19. a
20. a
21. b
22. b
23. b
24. a
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