The sixth chapter in 'Footprints without Feet' textbook is 'The Making of a Scientist' written by Robert W. Peterson. This prose is about a renowned scientist, Richard Ebright who was a bright yet curious child from the early years of his life. He was very fond of collecting butterflies and when he was in second grade, he had already collected 25 species of butterflies in his home town. His mother always encouraged him in his efforts and gifted him a book named ‘The Travels of Monarch X’. The book was a turning point in his life as it opened the world of science to him. It explained how monarch butterflies would migrate to Central America and made him more eager to explore about the species. This story explains that we should be perseverant and dedicated towards our work. This will help us achieve our dreams and would bear the fruits of our labour some day, sooner or later.
Students can view and download the chapter from the link given below.
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NCERT Solutions for Chapter 6: The Making of a Scientist
Also Check
Chapter 1: A Triumph of Surgery
Chapter 2: The Thief's Story
Chapter 3: The Midnight Visitor
Chapter 4: A Question of Trust
Chapter 5: Footprints without Feet
Chapter 7: The Necklace
Chapter 8: The Hack Driver
Chapter 9: Bholi
Chapter 10: The Book that saved the Earth
Check out Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chapter 6: The Making of a Scientist
Why did viceroy butterflies copy monarchs?
Viceroy butterflies copied monarchs because monarchs do not taste good to birds. Viceroy butterflies on the other hand taste good to birds. So, the more they look similar to monarchs, the less likely they are to become a bird’s prey. Thus they protect themselves.
What was the common belief about the twelve tiny gold spots on a monarch pupa? What is the actual purpose of these tiny gold spots?
These twelve tiny gold spots were believed to be ornamental only. The actual purpose of these tiny gold spots is to produce a hormone necessary for the butterfly’s full development.
What other interests besides science did Richard Ebright pursue?
Richard Ebright was a champion debater and public speaker. He was a good canoeist and all-around outdoor person. He was also an expert photographer, particularly of natural and scientific exhibits.
How did Richard Ebright’s mother help him to become a scientist?
Ebright’s mother was his only companion. She used to encourage the child to learn whatever he wanted to learn. She took him on trips, brought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting materials and other such equipments.
Why did Richard Ebright give up tagging butterflies?
Richard Ebright lost interest in tagging butterflies as it was tedious and there was not much feedback. He could recapture only two butterflies in all the time he did it and they were not more than seventy five miles away from where he lived.