QUESTIONS

My head is full of whispers which

tomorrow will be silent.
Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown
of the tallest oak.

Q1(i) Why would the whispers be silent tomorrow? (1)

 My head is full of whispers which
tomorrow will be silent.
Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown
of the tallest oak.

Why would the whispers be silent tomorrow? (1)

 My head is full of whispers which
tomorrow will be silent.
QUESTIONS Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown
of the tallest oak.

The forest undergoes tremendous transformation overnight. Discuss with reference to

the poem “The Trees”. (2)
Ans- In the poem, the trees which were kept inside a house, break free and move back
to the forest. This transformation shows the power of change and the need for freedom.
As the trees return, the forest becomes full of life again.
Additional points- The poem teaches us that change is always possible, no matter how
difficult it seems, and that freedom is important for growth and happiness.
 My head is full of whispers which
QUESTIONS tomorrow will be silent.
Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown
of the tallest oak.

Which word in the stanza means the same as ‘quiet’? (1)

Which poetic device has been used in the last line 'its pieces flash now in the crown of
the tallest oak.' (1)
a) Simile
b) Alliteration
c) Imagery
d) Personification
QUESTIONS The trees are moving out into the forest,
the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow.

What does the phrase "moving out into the forest" symbolize in the poem?
Ans- The phrase symbolizes freedom and growth. It represents the trees breaking free from
human confinement and reclaiming their natural space. It can also symbolize women or
oppressed individuals striving for independence and self-expression.
QUESTIONS The trees are moving out into the forest,
the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow.

Fill in the blank with ONE word.

The poet describes the forest as___________ before the trees started moving out.
Ans- empty
QUESTIONS The trees are moving out into the forest,
the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow.

How does the poet contrast the past and present states of the forest to emphasize the theme
of freedom?
The poet describes the forest as lifeless and abandoned before the trees move back. It was a
place where no birds sat, no insects hid, and no sunlight filtered through. The present state,
with the trees returning, suggests renewal, vibrancy, and freedom, reinforcing the theme of
nature reclaiming its space.
 The trees are moving out into the forest,
QUESTIONS the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow.

Select the option that follows the same rhyme scheme as the given extract.

A. The flowers bloom and shine, C. The wind blows through the trees,
Their petals soft and bright, Rustling leaves in delight,
They sway in the breeze so fine, It sings a song with ease,
A truly joyful sight. In the silence of the night.

B. The branches stretch toward the sky, D. The stars twinkle above,
Leaves whisper among themselves, In the sky so vast and wide,
The moon watches in silence, Shining with warmth and love,
As the night deepens around them. With the moon as their guide.
QUESTIONS But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

The poem is a _________, put across by the poet. (1)

a) powerful warning
b) heart-felt apology
c) earnest appeal
d) vengeful threat
QUESTIONS
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

The statement/ phrase which is self-contradictory in the above lines is ____________. (1)
 But if it had to perish twice,
QUESTIONS I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

Pick the option that is NOT TRUE about the poet according to the extract. (1)

The poet ___________________

a) Is inclined to believe that the world would most likely end with fire.
b) Has heard divided opinions about the way the world would end in all likelihood.
c) Preaches love and kindness to combat the spread of hate among all.
d) Declares the power of ice to be as destructive as that of fire.

*The poet does not provide a solution to these destructive forces but rather contemplates the
possible ways the world could end.
 QUESTIONS But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

Figure out two potential reasons for the destruction of the world stated in the poem “fire and
ice” and their implied meaning or vices discussed in the poem. (2)
Ans- The poem "Fire and Ice" talks about two ways the world could end. Fire represents
strong desires like greed and ambition, which can destroy everything. Ice symbolizes hatred,
cruelty and difference, which can slowly break relationships and cause destruction over time.
 QUESTIONS
“There is a great difference between divine love and human love.” Justify the
statement with reference to the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’.
Ans- In the poem "For Anne Gregory," the poet shows the difference between
divine love and human love.
Human love is often based on physical beauty, as most people admire Anne for
her yellow hair rather than her inner qualities.
However, divine love is pure and unconditional. It values a person’s character
and soul rather than appearance.
The old man in the poem says that only God can love someone truly for who
they are, without being influenced by looks.
Human love is shallow, while divine love is deep and selfless.
 QUESTIONS
“There is a great difference between divine love and human love.” Justify the
statement with reference to the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’.
Ans- In the poem "For Anne Gregory," the poet shows the difference between
divine love and human love. Human love is often based on physical beauty, as
most people admire Anne for her yellow hair rather than her inner qualities.
However, divine love is pure and unconditional. It values a person’s character
and soul rather than appearance. The old man in the poem says that only God
can love someone truly for who they are, without being influenced by looks.
Human love is shallow, while divine love is deep and selfless.
 QUESTIONS
How does the boy sense his first loss and first responsibility?
Ans- In "The Ball Poem," the boy experiences his first loss when his ball
bounces away into the water. He watches it disappear and feels a deep sense
of grief and realization. This loss is not just about the ball but symbolizes the
loss of innocence and childhood joys. Instead of getting a new ball, he
understands that he must accept loss as a part of life. This is his first
responsibility—to learn to move on despite losses. The poet suggests that such
experiences teach self-reliance and maturity, preparing him for bigger
challenges in life.
How QUESTIONS
does Amanda tackle the nagging nature of her parents? Explain with
examples from the poem. What values does it portray about Amanda?
(100-120 Words)
Ans- In the poem "Amanda!" by Robin Klein, Amanda tackles the constant
nagging of her parents by escaping into her imagination. Whenever her parents
scold her about posture, cleanliness, or behaviour, she moves into a fantasy
world where she feels free and independent.
When her parents ask her to sit straight, she imagines herself as a mermaid,
floating freely in the sea. When they scold her for biting her nails, she dreams of
being an orphan, free from rules.
This shows that Amanda values freedom, creativity, and independence.
However, it also highlights her loneliness and desire to be heard and understood,
which many children can relate to.
 Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
QUESTIONS With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.
The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

What literary device is used in the line "snorting like an engine"? (1)
A. Metaphor
B. Simile
C. Personification
D. Hyperbole
 Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
QUESTIONS He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.
The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

Fill in the blank:

The phrase "clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon" creates an image of
Custard’s movement as _________. (1)

A. slow and gentle

B. sudden and violent
C. stealthy and silent
D. awkward and clumsy
 Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
QUESTIONS With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.
The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

What does the comparison of Custard to "a robin at a worm" suggest about his
attitude towards the pirate? (1)
A. Fear and hesitation
B. Indifference and boredom
C. Hunger and aggression
D. Friendship and loyalty
 Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
QUESTIONS With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.
The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

What tone does the poet convey through the pirate's actions, such as gulping
grog and firing bullets? (1)
A. Confidence and bravery
B. Fear and desperation
C. Amusement and playfulness
D. Boredom and indifference
 Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
QUESTIONS With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.
The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

What message does the poem convey through Custard's victory over the pirate?
A. Bravery comes in unexpected forms
B. Pirates are always victorious
C. Dragons are harmless creatures
D. Children should fear dragons
 QUESTIONS
Being impressed by Custard’s feat, the young seagull’s sister wrote a letter to
Custard seeking advice on addressing the situation with her young brother.
Write Custard’s response to this letter. Base the advice from his experiences.
You may begin like this:

Dear Ms. Seagull,

Thank you for seeking me out. I am humbled. Based on my limited experiences
I feel………… (The tale of Custard the dragon)
 QUESTIONS
Dear Ms. Seagull

Thank you for seeking me out. I am humbled. Based on my limited experiences,

I feel that fear is natural, but true bravery comes when we face challenges.
Everyone laughed at me for being scared, but when danger arrived, I fought the
pirate and saved my friends. Your brother might be afraid now, but with
encouragement and patience, he will find his courage. Support him, let him
grow at his own pace, and one day, he will surprise everyone—just like I did.
Believe in him, and he will believe in himself.

Yours sincerely
Custard the dragon
 “The way a crow
QUESTIONS Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued

The phrase "Has given my heart A change of mood" suggests that the speaker
experienced. (1)
A. Emotional numbness
B. Spiritual awakening
C. Sudden joy
D. Temporary relief
 “The way a crow
QUESTIONS Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued

What does the image of the hemlock tree convey in the poem? (1)
A. Danger and toxicity
B. Peace and serenity
C. Life and vitality
D. Decay and rot
 “The way a crow
Shook down on me
QUESTIONS The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued
The poem's tone can be described as. (1)
A. Melancholic and introspective
B. Joyful and celebratory
C. Calm and contemplative
D. Angry and turbulent
*Introspective – Thinking about oneself, analyzing personal thoughts, feelings, and
emotions.
*Contemplative- Thinking deeply about something in general, often in a calm and
thoughtful way.
 “The way a crow
Shook down on me
QUESTIONS The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued

What message does the poem convey through the speaker's encounter with
nature? (1)
A. Nature's beauty can transform our mood
B. Human connection is more important than nature
C. Life is fleeting, and unpredictable
D. Solitude is essential for happiness
 QUESTIONS
If the trees are moving out of the house and into the forest, what can be
inferred about the speaker's emotional state and their relationship with the
natural world? (3)
Ans- In the poem The Trees, the trees moving out of the house into the forest
symbolize freedom and growth. This suggests that the speaker feels trapped or
disconnected from nature. The speaker may desire for freedom, just like the
trees breaking free. Her relationship with nature seems distant, as she
observes the trees moving but does not take part in their journey. The poem
highlights the idea that nature belongs in its natural habitat, not confined
indoors.
 QUESTIONS
What is the significance of the argument, “ All his young days into the harbour”
to describe the loss of the ball in the poem and how does this word choice
contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem? Answer in about 40
words.
Ans- In The Ball Poem, "All his young days into the harbour" shows that the
boy’s lost ball represents his childhood memories and innocence. The words
create a sad and serious mood, making readers feel the deep loss and the
reality of growing up.
QUESTIONS
How does the speaker's use of ironic instructions contribute to the poem's
overall effect? (How to Tell Wild Animals) (3)
Ans- In How to Tell Wild Animals, the speaker gives ironic and humorous
instructions, like identifying a tiger when it eats you. This playful exaggeration
makes the poem entertaining and light-hearted. The irony creates a fun
contrast between the danger of wild animals and the speaker’s casual tone,
making the poem amusing while subtly warning about the risks of
encountering them.
 QUESTIONS He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage
On pads of velvet quiet
In his quiet rage
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole where plump deer pass

Fill the blank with one word. (1)

The poetic device used in the first line of the given extract is _____ because the
poet has used ‘He’ for the tiger.
 QUESTIONS He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage
On pads of velvet quiet
In his quiet rage
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole where plump deer pass

What is the significance of the use of the phrase “quiet rage” to describe the
mood of the tiger in the poem and how does this word choice contribute to the
overall mood and tone of the poem? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans- The phrase "quiet rage" highlights the tiger’s suppressed anger and
frustration. It shows his helplessness in captivity. This word choice creates a
mood of sadness and injustice, reinforcing the poem’s serious and sympathetic
tone towards the tiger’s suffering.
 He stalks in his vivid stripes
QUESTIONS The few steps of his cage
On pads of velvet quiet
In his quiet rage
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole where plump deer pass

According to the extract, the poet wishes for the tiger to be ‘sliding’ through the foliage as
this would _____. 1
(a) keep the prey unsuspecting of the predator’s footsteps
(b) aid in camouflaging the presence of the predator before it rushes in
(c) help the predator pounce on the prey comfortably without getting tired
(d) support the predator’s vision as it eyes its prey
 He stalks in his vivid stripes
QUESTIONS The few steps of his cage
On pads of velvet quiet
In his quiet rage
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole where plump deer pass

Identify the type of imagery used in the lines of the poem.

 QUESTIONSBelinda giggled till she shook the house,
And Blink said Weeck! which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around

In what way does the dragon’s desperate wish to remain in a cage challenge
the traditional behaviour of dragons?
Ans- Dragons are usually shown as brave and fierce, but Custard is different. He
wants to stay in a safe cage instead of fighting. This challenges the usual image
of dragons as powerful creatures, making Custard seem timid and scared
instead.
 Belinda giggled till she shook the house,
QUESTIONS
And Blink said Weeck! which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around

What is the significance of the use of the words ‘giggled’ and ‘weeck’ to
describe laughter in the poem and to what effect is this word choice used by
the poet? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans- The words ‘giggled’ and ‘weeck’ show how the characters laugh in their
own unique ways. ‘Weeck’ makes the mouse’s laughter sound funny and small.
The poet uses this playful language to create a lighthearted and humorous
tone, making the poem more entertaining.
 Belinda giggled till she shook the house,
QUESTIONS And Blink said Weeck! which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around

What can you infer from the repetition ‘suddenly, suddenly’ in the above
extract? 1
(a) There was an immediate change in the scene.
(b) It focuses on the hasty attack and the loud noise.
(c) It emphasises that an unexpected noise was heard.
(d) It draws our attention to the loud cry that occurred
 But he's locked in a concrete cell, His
QUESTIONS strength behind bars, Stalking the
length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.

Why is the tiger 'stalking the length of his cage’?

Ans-
 QUESTIONS But he's locked in a concrete cell, His
strength behind bars, Stalking the
length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.

What is the significance of the use of the word ‘locked' to describe the concrete
cell where the tiger is kept and how does it contrast with the tiger's presence in
its natural habitat ? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans- The word ‘locked’ highlights the tiger’s captivity, emphasizing its
helplessness and lack of freedom. In contrast, in its natural habitat, the tiger
roams freely, stalking prey and ruling its territory. The word choice reinforces
the theme of confinement versus wild, untamed existence.
 But he's locked in a concrete cell, His
QUESTIONS strength behind bars, Stalking the
length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.

Complete the sentence with the appropriate option :

The lines from the poem tell us that the tiger is :
(A) enjoying his time in the cell
(B) being indifferent to visitors because it is a daily routine for him
(C) not as strong as his counterpart in the jungle
(D) wanting to be free from the cage
 QUESTIONS
In every alternate stanza, Amanda drifts into fantasy and years for more
freedom and silence.Justify and elaborate the reason.
Ans- In every alternate stanza, Amanda escapes into her imagination because
she feels restricted by constant scolding. She dreams of being a mermaid in the
sea, an orphan wandering freely, and Rapunzel in a quiet tower. This shows her
desire for freedom and peace, as she feels trapped by rules and expectations in
her real life.
 QUESTIONS
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm. Why has this comparison been
used here? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans- This comparison shows how quickly and fiercely he attacked the pirate.
Just like a robin swiftly catches a worm without hesitation, he charged at the
pirate with full energy and determination. It highlights his bravery and
aggressive action in the fight.
 QUESTIONS
What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines?
Select the correct option:

1) Ominous
2) Detached
3) Passionate
4) Philosophical
5) Hopeful

A) 1 and 4
B) 2 and 5
C) 3 and 5
D) 1 and 3
 QUESTIONS
What is the tone of the poet in the lines- “To say that for destruction ice is also
great and would suffice.”
Ans- Ominous and reflective

Comment on the imagery that the poet creates in these linesin about 40 words.
“There is a languid emerald sea,
Where the sole inhabitant is me”
Ans- The poet creates a vivid and peaceful image of a calm, green sea with no
one else but the speaker. The words "languid emerald sea" suggest a slow,
dreamy, and relaxed setting, evoking a sense of solitude and tranquility.
 QUESTIONS
What is the significance of the argument, “ But, I can get a hair dye/ And set
such colour there, Brown, or black, or carrot”? What effect will it have on the
young men? Answer in 40 words.
Ans- In For Anne Gregory, these lines show that external beauty can be
changed easily with hair dye, but true love should be based on inner qualities.
The young men, however, only admire physical beauty, proving that their love
is not truly deep or sincere.
 QUESTIONS
What is the significance of the word “silent” in the poem “Fog”? How does this
word choice contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem?
Ans- In Fog, the word "silent" highlights the fog’s quiet and mysterious nature.
It moves in softly, like a cat, without making any noise. This word choice
creates a calm and contemplative mood, making the tone gentle yet
mysterious, emphasizing the fog’s quiet and unnoticed arrival and departure.
TheQUESTIONS
poet’s views about beauty are not justified. Anne’s arguments are correct.
Express your views in support of Anne. (100-120 words)
Ans- Anne’s argument in the poem is correct because true love should be based
on a person’s character, not just physical beauty. She believes that if men love
her only for her yellow hair, she can change its colour so they love her for who
she truly is. This shows her optimism and belief in true love. However, the poet
presents a more realistic and slightly pessimistic view, suggesting that most
young men love outer beauty, and only God can truly love a person for
themselves alone. While both agree that inner beauty is important, Anne
believes people can look beyond appearance, while the poet doubts if humans
are truly capable of such deep love.
 QUESTIONS

"A Tiger in the Zoo" vs. "How to Tell Wild Animals" – Both poems describe
animals but in different ways. Compare how each poem presents the
behaviour and characteristics of wild animals. How do the tones of the poems
differ?
Ans- Both poems describe animals but in different ways. "A Tiger in the Zoo"
QUESTIONS
presents a serious tone, highlighting the suffering of a caged tiger that longs for
freedom. The poem creates sympathy for the tiger, showing how captivity
takes away its natural strength.
In contrast, "How to Tell Wild Animals" is humorous and playful, describing
different animals in a fun way. The poet uses exaggeration and rhyme to make
the descriptions entertaining.
While the first poem criticizes human interference in nature, the second poem
aims to amuse readers with its witty descriptions.
The key difference is the tone and purpose—"A Tiger in the Zoo" is sad and
reflective, while "How to Tell Wild Animals" is light hearted and fun. Both
poems show how animals are powerful, but one focuses on their freedom, and
the other makes them part of an entertaining lesson.
Homework
QUESTIONS

"The Ball Poem" vs. "Amanda!" – Both poems discuss childhood but from
different perspectives. How does each poem reflect a child’s emotions,
struggles, and lessons about life?
Ans-QUESTIONS
Both poems explore childhood emotions in different ways. "The Ball Poem"
describes a child losing his ball, symbolizing the loss of innocence and growing
up. The poet shows how children must learn to accept losses and move on. The
tone is sad but realistic, teaching that life is about moving forward.
On the other hand, "Amanda!" focuses on a girl who feels restricted by constant
instructions from adults. She dreams of freedom, peace, and imagination. The
poem contrasts Amanda’s fantasies with her mother’s commands, showing the
difference between a child’s wishes and parental expectations.
While "The Ball Poem" deals with the pain of losing something, "Amanda!"
highlights the frustration of being controlled.
Both poems capture important childhood emotions, but one teaches acceptance,
and the other emphasizes the need for freedom and self-expression.
QUESTIONS

"The Trees" vs. "Dust of Snow" – Both poems show a strong connection
between humans and nature. How does each poem use nature to symbolize
freedom, change, or positivity?
 QUESTIONS
Ans- Both poems highlight the connection between nature and human life but in
different ways. "The Trees" presents nature as struggling to break free from
human restrictions, symbolizing growth, change, and independence. The poem
reflects the desire for freedom, both in nature and in human life. In contrast,
"Dust of Snow" focuses on a small but meaningful moment in nature—snow
falling from a crow’s wings—that instantly changes the poet’s mood from sadness
to happiness. The tone of "The Trees" is serious and determined, while "Dust of
Snow" is light and hopeful. While "The Trees" emphasizes nature’s fight for
freedom, "Dust of Snow" highlights nature’s ability to bring unexpected joy. Both
poems show nature’s impact, but one talks about breaking free, while the other
focuses on finding happiness in small moments.
Thank You!