Class 8 · English · New NCERT
Chapter 1: The Wit that Won Hearts
"The Wit that Won Hearts" opens Poorvi for Grade 8 and Unit 1, Wit and Wisdom, at about sixteen pages. According to the preface, it introduces students to the kingdom of Krishnadeva Raya and the legendary courtier Tenali Rama, who was known for his wit and problem-solving skills. Students read a story from the Indian tradition of clever courtiers, discuss how quick thinking resolves difficulties and compare Tenali Rama with other wise characters they know. Comprehension, vocabulary and a retelling task are likely, and the unit's theme of intelligence, humour and critical thinking is set from the first page.
This is chapter 1 of 15 in Poorvi, the Class 8 English textbook, in Unit 1, Wit and Wisdom, and begins on page 1 of the printed 2026-27 book. It is the opening chapter and is followed by "A Concrete Example".
The main skills practised in "The Wit that Won Hearts" are comprehension and expression. Children are encouraged to answer orally before writing, to retell or describe in their own words, and to use new words in sentences of their own. The book's sections (the Let us discuss, Let us think and reflect, Let us learn, Let us listen, Let us speak, Let us write and Let us explore activities) ask for different kinds of response, from reciting and speaking to drawing and writing, so that children with different strengths all find a way in. Phonological awareness, such as noticing rhyme and similar-sounding words, is practised along the way.
After the lesson on "The Wit that Won Hearts", children can make their own small page: a drawing, a few labelled words or a sentence of their own. Reading it aloud to a family member gives meaningful practice. Encourage questions and curiosity rather than correctness alone.
This overview is written from the 2026-27 textbook's Contents page, its preface and the chapter title, to help families and teachers prepare. Please read the chapter itself for exact content, activities and exercises.