Class 9 English - ODISHA
Poetry: The Duck and the Kangaroo
The Duck and the Kangaroo is a delightful nonsense poem by Edward Lear prescribed for Class 9 students under the Board of Secondary Education (BSE), Odisha. The poem tells a charming tale of an adventurous Duck who is bored of her life in a small pond and wishes to travel the world. She persuades a Kangaroo to give her a ride on his back, addressing his cold feet with woolen socks and a cloak. This chapter matters greatly for board exams as it tests students' comprehension of poetic devices, rhyming schemes, and the ability to interpret moral lessons about friendship and mutual help.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Nonsense Verse
A humorous and whimsical style of poetry created by Edward Lear that features silly situations, imaginary creatures, and playful language.
Rhyme Scheme
The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line in a poem, which in this chapter generally follows a structured AABB or ABCB lyrical flow.
Alliteration
A literary device used in the poem where consecutive words begin with the same consonant sound to create a musical effect, such as 'ditch and the duck'.
Persona and Dialogue
The poem is presented as a conversation between two animal characters, highlighting their negotiation and cooperation to achieve a common goal.
Theme of Friendship and Help
The narrative emphasizes how two completely different animals can help each other overcome their respective limitations through cooperation.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
Under the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Odisha, this chapter typically carries 4 to 6 marks in the English board examination. Questions commonly include multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on the author and plot, short answer questions about why the Duck wanted a ride, and reference-to-context questions based on specific stanzas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote 'The Duck and the Kangaroo'?
The poem was written by Edward Lear, a famous English author and poet known for his literary nonsense.
Why did the Duck want a ride on the Kangaroo's back?
The Duck was tired of living in a small pond and wanted to see the world beyond it, but she could not hop like the Kangaroo.
How did the Duck plan to keep the Kangaroo warm during the journey?
The Duck promised to wear four pairs of worsted (woolen) socks and a cloak to protect herself from the cold and keep the Kangaroo comfortable.
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