Class 9 English - CBSE
Poetry: The Duck and the Kangaroo
The chapter 'The Duck and the Kangaroo' is a delightful nonsense verse written by Edward Lear, included in the CBSE Class 9 English Beehive textbook. The poem narrates a charming conversation between a dissatisfied Duck who is bored of her life in a pond and a courteous Kangaroo who is willing to take her on a trip around the world. It matters for board exams because it tests students' comprehension of poetic devices, rhyme schemes, and the underlying themes of friendship, adventure, and mutual helpfulness. Examiners frequently use this poem to frame reference-to-context questions and short answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Nonsense Verse
A humorous genre of poetry that uses whimsical characters, impossible situations, and playful language to entertain readers without strict adherence to realism.
Rhyme Scheme
The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line in a poem, which in this poem generally follows an engaging AABB or ABCB pattern that gives it a song-like rhythm.
Alliteration
A literary device where consecutive words begin with the same consonant sound, such as 'duck and the kangaroo' or 'steady and slow' to enhance the musical quality.
Anthropomorphism
A poetic device where animals are given human qualities, such as the Duck and Kangaroo talking, reasoning, and planning a vacation together.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In CBSE Class 9 English exams, poetry comprehension carries around 4 to 6 marks. Questions typically include Reference to Context (RTC) extracts, short answer questions testing the theme of friendship, and value-based questions on helping others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 'The Duck and the Kangaroo'?
The main theme is friendship, adventure, and the idea of mutual cooperation, showing how two completely different animals help each other fulfill their desires.
Why did the Duck want to leave the pond?
The Duck was bored of living in a small, confined pond and wanted to see the wider world beyond it.
How did the Kangaroo protect the Duck during their journey?
The Kangaroo asked the Duck to sit quietly at the end of his tail and wear a cloak and web-feet to stay warm and secure against the cold wind.
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