Class 12th on the face of it assignment

1. Introduction
“On theFace of It” is a short story by Susan Hill. It’s about a boy named Derry
who has a disfigured face and Mr. Lamb, an old man who is blind. They form an
unlikely friendship and find solace in each other’s company. The story explores
themes of appearance, perception, and the power of human connection. It’s a
touching and thought-provoking read.

2. The manner in which people with disabilities
are treated in society
• It’s unfortunate that people with disabilities are often treated unfairly
in society. They may face discrimination, prejudice, and barriers that
limit their opportunities and inclusion. It’s important for society to
promote equality and create an inclusive environment where
everyone, regardless of their abilities, is treated with respect and
given equal opportunities. Education and awareness play a crucial
role in challenging stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive
society. We should strive to celebrate diversity and embrace the
unique contributions that individuals with disabilities can bring to our
communities.

3. Derry’s reasons for being unhappy and frustrated.
Quote instances from the story which indicates his
negative self-esteem and low confidence
• Derry, the main character in “On the Face of It,” has several reasons
for being unhappy and frustrated. Throughout the story, we can see
instances that indicate his negative self-esteem and low confidence.
One example is when Derry describes how he feels about his face,
saying, “It’s not a face, it’s a mess.” This shows that he has a negative
perception of himself and feels insecure about his appearance.
Additionally, when Mr. Lamb suggests that Derry should go out and
play with other kids, Derry replies, “They don’t want me. Nobody
wants me.” This statement reveals his belief that he is unwanted and
isolated. These instances highlight Derry’s struggles with self-esteem
and confidence, which contribute to his unhappiness and frustration.

4. Efforts made by Mr. Lamb to change Derry’s
perspectives about life.
• Mr. Lamb, the kind old man in the story, makes several efforts to change Derry’s perspectives
about life and help him overcome his unhappiness. One of the first things Mr. Lamb does is
engage Derry in conversation and show genuine interest in getting to know him. This helps Derry
feel valued and heard, slowly building his trust. Mr. Lamb also shares stories about his own
experiences and challenges, emphasizing that everyone faces difficulties in life. By doing this, he
tries to show Derry that he is not alone in his struggles.
• Furthermore, Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to look beyond his own circumstances and appreciate
the beauty in the world. He points out the wonders of nature, like the flowers and the birds, and
encourages Derry to take notice of them. This helps Derry shift his focus from his own negative
thoughts to the positive aspects of life.
• Moreover, Mr. Lamb challenges Derry’s negative beliefs about himself. He tells Derry that his face
is unique and interesting, not a mess as Derry believes. By offering a different perspective, Mr.
Lamb tries to boost Derry’s self-esteem and help him see himself in a more positive light.
• Overall, Mr. Lamb’s efforts are aimed at showing Derry that life can still be meaningful and
enjoyable, despite the challenges he faces. He encourages Derry to embrace the beauty around
him, connect with others, and develop a more positive outlook on life.

5. The need to show our compassion to people
with disabilities.
• Showing compassion to people with disabilities is all about understanding, empathy, and
kindness. It’s about recognizing that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity,
regardless of their abilities.
• One way we can show compassion is by being inclusive and accommodating. This means creating
an environment where people with disabilities can fully participate and feel comfortable. It could
be as simple as making sure there are accessible entrances and facilities, or providing assistive
technologies or accommodations to help individuals with specific needs.
• Another important aspect of compassion is listening and understanding. By taking the time to
listen to people with disabilities and their experiences, we can gain a better understanding of
their unique challenges and perspectives. This helps us to be more empathetic and supportive in
our interactions.
• It’s also crucial to avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about people with disabilities. Each
person is an individual with their own strengths, talents, and dreams. By recognizing and
celebrating their abilities, we can help break down barriers and promote inclusivity.
• Ultimately, showing compassion to people with disabilities is about fostering a society that values
diversity and embraces the uniqueness of every individual. It’s about creating a world where
everyone feels accepted, respected, and supported.