HIS FIRST FLIGHT - Notes

Activity - I (Read and Respond)

1. What is the theme of the story "His First Flight"?

The main theme of the story "His First Flight" is the importance of courage and self-confidence in overcoming fear. The young seagull is afraid to fly, even though he has wings like his siblings. His fear holds him back, but with a little push from his mother, he finally takes the risk. As he starts flying, he realizes his true strength. The story shows that fear is natural, but we must believe in ourselves and take the first step to grow and succeed in life. It also highlights the supportive role of family in helping us face our fears.

2. What do you think is the real crisis faced by the young bird?

The real crisis faced by the young bird is not the lack of ability, but the lack of confidence and fear of failure. He knows how to fly, but he is too scared to try. He watches his siblings fly and enjoys their freedom, but his fear stops him from taking the first step. Even hunger cannot make him overcome his fear. This shows that the true problem is in his mind. The crisis is emotional and mental, not physical. Once he gains the courage to try, he realizes that he can fly just like the others. His success proves that self-belief is the key to overcoming any challenge.

3. What is your impression of the reaction of the parents in the story?

The parents in the story show both care and wisdom. At first, they do not force the young seagull to fly but wait patiently, hoping he will gain courage on his own. When he still refuses, they cleverly use a trick to help him overcome his fear. The mother seagull pretends to offer food and makes him come close to the edge. This smart and loving action pushes him to fly. The parents understand that helping their child face fear is more important than giving comfort. Their reaction shows that real love sometimes means letting the child struggle a little so they can grow stronger and independent.

4. What is the message of the story "His First Flight"?

The story "His First Flight" gives the message that we must face our fears with courage and believe in ourselves. The young seagull is afraid to fly, even though he is capable. But once he takes the first step, he realizes his true strength and feels proud. The story teaches that fear is natural, but we should not let it stop us from trying. It also reminds us that support and encouragement from parents or elders can help us overcome difficulties. The message is clear: success and freedom come only when we dare to take the first flight in life.

5. Character Sketch of the Young Seagull

The young seagull is the main character in the story "His First Flight" by Liam O’Flaherty. In the beginning, he is shy, nervous, and full of fear. Even though his brothers and sister have already flown, he is too scared to try. He doubts his ability to fly and thinks he might fall. His fear makes him stay alone on the cliff, hungry and helpless.

However, the young seagull is not lazy or weak. He is just afraid of failure. When his mother uses a clever trick to bring him to the edge, he jumps out of hunger—and finally discovers that he can fly. This shows that he had the strength and ability all along; he just lacked confidence.

In the end, the young seagull becomes brave, free, and joyful. He feels proud of his achievement and learns a valuable lesson. His character shows how fear can stop us, but courage and self-belief can lead to success.

6. Role of Parents and Teachers in Moulding a Child

Parents and teachers play a very important role in shaping the life and character of a child. Parents are the first guides in a child’s life. They teach values like love, honesty, respect, and discipline. A caring home helps the child grow with confidence and emotional strength. Teachers, on the other hand, help children develop knowledge, skills, and good habits. They encourage students to think, ask questions, and explore new ideas. Both parents and teachers should work together to support the child in becoming a responsible, kind, and capable person. Just like in the story "His First Flight", the mother bird guides her young one to overcome fear—similarly, parents and teachers guide children to face challenges and succeed in life.

Activity - II (Review)

Prepare a review of the story "His First Flight" by Liam O Flaherty

"His First Flight" is an inspiring short story written by Liam O’Flaherty. It tells the story of a young seagull who is afraid to fly. While his brothers and sister have already learned to fly, he is too scared to try. Even though he is very hungry, his fear keeps him on the cliff.

His mother tricks him by holding a piece of fish just out of his reach. As he tries to get it, he falls from the ledge—but soon, he learns to fly and feels very happy and proud.

The story teaches us a valuable lesson: we should believe in ourselves and try new things, even if we are afraid. Only then can we succeed and grow. The writer uses simple language and clear images to make the story interesting and easy to understand.

The story also reminds us about the role of parents and elders in our life. Just like the seagull's mother, they encourage and guide us, even when we are scared. Their support helps us become confident and independent.

The title "His First Flight" is very suitable. It not only refers to the seagull's first flight, but also symbolizes the first step every person takes in life—whether it is learning something new or facing a challenge. It shows how the first step may be difficult, but it leads to freedom and success.