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The Balloon Man – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Balloon Man

Study Materials

3rd

3rd - English (Marigold)

The Balloon Man

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter: The Balloon Man

The chapter "The Balloon Man" from the CBSE Grade 3 English textbook (Marigold) is a delightful poem that captures the imagination of children. It describes a balloon man who sells colorful balloons in the market, bringing joy to kids. The poem uses simple language and vivid imagery to engage young readers while teaching them about everyday experiences and emotions.

Key Theme: The poem highlights the happiness and excitement that small things, like balloons, can bring to children.

Summary of the Poem

The poem begins by introducing the balloon man who carries balloons of different colors and shapes. Children are fascinated by his presence and eagerly gather around him. The poet describes how the balloons float in the air, tied to the balloon man's stick, creating a beautiful sight. The poem ends with a sense of wonder as the children watch the balloons sway with the wind.

Characters in the Poem

  • The Balloon Man: A cheerful vendor who sells colorful balloons.
  • The Children: Kids who are excited to see the balloons and enjoy their beauty.

Vocabulary and Meanings

  • Balloon: A flexible bag filled with air or gas, often used as a toy.
  • Vendor: A person who sells goods, usually in a market.
  • Sway: To move slowly from side to side.

Moral of the Poem

The poem teaches children to appreciate small joys in life and find happiness in simple things, like the sight of colorful balloons.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What do children do when they see the balloon man?
Answer:
Children run towards him with excitement, eager to buy or admire his balloons.
Question 2:
Why are balloons special to children?
Answer:
Balloons are special because they are colorful, fun to play with, and can fly, bringing happiness.
Question 3:
What would happen if the balloon man let go of the balloons?
Answer:
If the balloon man let go, the balloons would fly away into the sky because they are filled with light gas.
Question 4:
How does the balloon man make a living?
Answer:
The balloon man makes a living by selling balloons to children and people who enjoy them.
Question 5:
What lesson can we learn from the balloon man?
Answer:
We learn that simple things like balloons can bring happiness and that hard work, like the balloon man’s, is important.
Question 6:
Where does the balloon man usually stand?
Answer:
The balloon man usually stands near a park or a busy street where children can see him.
Question 7:
What happens when the wind blows?
Answer:
When the wind blows, the balloons dance and flutter in the air, making them look even more attractive.
Question 8:
Name one color of the balloons mentioned in the chapter.
Answer:
One color mentioned is red, but the balloons come in many bright colors.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Who is the main character in the chapter The Balloon Man?
Answer:

The main character is the balloon man, who sells colorful balloons at the fair.

Question 2:
Where does the balloon man usually sell his balloons?
Answer:

The balloon man sells his balloons at the fair or in crowded places where children gather.

Question 3:
What do the balloons in the story symbolize?
Answer:

The balloons symbolize joy and happiness, as they bring excitement to children.

Question 4:
Name two colors of balloons mentioned in the chapter.
Answer:

The chapter mentions red and blue balloons, among others.

Question 5:
Why do children love the balloon man?
Answer:

Children love the balloon man because he brings colorful and fun balloons that make them happy.

Question 6:
What happens if a balloon slips from a child's hand?
Answer:

If a balloon slips, it flies away into the sky, which makes the child sad.

Question 7:
How does the balloon man carry all his balloons?
Answer:

The balloon man carries his balloons tied to a long stick or a bunch held together.

Question 8:
What lesson does the chapter The Balloon Man teach us?
Answer:

The chapter teaches us to appreciate small joys and the happiness found in simple things like balloons.

Question 9:
What does the balloon man carry with him?
Answer:

The balloon man carries a bunch of colorful balloons tied to a string. The balloons float in the air, making them look very attractive.

Question 10:
Where does the balloon man usually stand to sell his balloons?
Answer:

The balloon man usually stands near a park or a busy street where many children gather. This helps him sell more balloons easily.

Question 11:
How does the balloon man attract children?
Answer:

The balloon man attracts children by holding colorful and floating balloons high in the air. The bright colors and fun shapes catch their attention.

Question 12:
What happens when the balloon man lets go of a balloon?
Answer:

When the balloon man lets go of a balloon, it flies up into the sky because it is filled with light gas. Children love watching it float away.

Question 13:
Why do balloons float in the air?
Answer:

Balloons float because they are filled with helium gas, which is lighter than air. This makes them rise and stay up in the sky.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Why does the balloon man in the poem The Balloon Man carry balloons of different colors?
Answer:

The balloon man carries balloons of different colors to make them look attractive and joyful for children. Bright colors like red, blue, and yellow catch attention easily and bring happiness. Variety in colors also allows children to choose their favorite, making the balloons more special.

Question 2:
What happens when the balloon man lets go of the balloons in the poem?
Answer:

When the balloon man lets go of the balloons, they fly high into the sky.
The balloons float freely because they are filled with helium, a gas lighter than air.
This creates a beautiful sight, as the colorful balloons rise and scatter in different directions.

Question 3:
How does the poet describe the balloon man in the poem The Balloon Man?
Answer:

The poet describes the balloon man as a cheerful and kind person who brings joy to children.
He carries a bunch of balloons that are bright and colorful.
The balloon man is often seen in places where children gather, like parks or fairs.

Question 4:
Why do children love the balloon man in the poem?
Answer:

Children love the balloon man because he brings them happiness and excitement.
His colorful balloons make them feel delighted, and they enjoy watching them float in the air.
The balloon man also represents fun and playfulness, which children naturally adore.

Question 5:
What lesson can we learn from the poem The Balloon Man?
Answer:

The poem teaches us to find joy in simple things, like colorful balloons.
It also shows how small acts, like the balloon man sharing balloons, can spread happiness.
Additionally, it reminds us to appreciate the beauty of nature when the balloons fly freely in the sky.

Question 6:
Describe the scene when the balloons fly away in the poem.
Answer:

When the balloons fly away, the sky becomes filled with bright, floating colors.
Children watch in amazement as the balloons soar higher and higher.
The scene is magical, as the balloons dance in the wind and disappear into the clouds.

Question 7:
Who is the Balloon Man in the story, and what does he do?
Answer:

The Balloon Man is a cheerful street vendor who sells colorful balloons to children.
He carries a bunch of balloons tied to a stick, and they float above him like a rainbow.
Children love to see him because he brings joy with his bright balloons.

Question 8:
Why do you think the balloons in the story are described as a rainbow?
Answer:

The balloons are called a rainbow because they come in many bright colors, just like a real rainbow.
This comparison makes the scene more lively and happy, just like how a rainbow brings smiles to people.

Question 9:
What happens when the Balloon Man lets go of the balloons?
Answer:

When the Balloon Man lets go of the balloons, they fly high into the sky.
The balloons float freely, and the children watch them with excitement as they disappear into the clouds.

Question 10:
How do the children feel when they see the Balloon Man?
Answer:

The children feel very happy and excited when they see the Balloon Man.
They admire the colorful balloons and dream of holding them.
His presence brings fun and wonder to their day.

Question 11:
Describe the setting where the Balloon Man is usually seen.
Answer:

The Balloon Man is usually seen in a busy marketplace or a park where children play.
The place is lively, with people chatting and children laughing.
The bright balloons make the setting even more cheerful.

Question 12:
What lesson can we learn from the story of the Balloon Man?
Answer:

The story teaches us that small things, like colorful balloons, can bring great joy.
It also shows how simple, kind people like the Balloon Man can make the world happier.
We should appreciate such little moments of happiness.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Describe the character of the Balloon Man from the chapter The Balloon Man. How does his presence bring joy to children?
Answer:

The Balloon Man is a cheerful and kind-hearted character who sells colorful balloons in the market. He wears a bright dress and carries a bunch of balloons in different shapes and sizes, like animals, flowers, and stars. His presence brings joy to children because:

  • He makes them happy with his smiling face and playful nature.
  • Children love the vibrant colors and fun shapes of his balloons.
  • He often lets them touch or hold the balloons, creating a sense of wonder.

The Balloon Man represents happiness and simplicity, reminding us that small things can bring great joy.

Question 2:
Explain how the author describes the balloons in the chapter The Balloon Man. What do these balloons symbolize?
Answer:

In the chapter, the author describes the balloons as bright, colorful, and floating like dreams. They come in various shapes, such as animals, birds, and stars, making them visually appealing. The balloons symbolize:

  • Happiness: Their vibrant colors and lightness bring joy to children.
  • Freedom: The way they float in the air represents a carefree and joyful spirit.
  • Imagination: The different shapes encourage children to dream and explore.

The balloons are not just toys but also a source of wonder and creativity for the children in the story.

Question 3:
Describe the character of the Balloon Man from the chapter The Balloon Man. How does he bring joy to children?
Answer:

The Balloon Man is a cheerful and kind-hearted person who sells colorful balloons to children. He carries a bunch of balloons in different shapes and sizes, which makes him very popular among kids. His presence brings excitement and happiness wherever he goes.

He brings joy to children by:

  • Offering them bright and bouncy balloons that float in the air.
  • Creating fun shapes like animals or flowers, which fascinate the kids.
  • Smiling and interacting with them in a friendly way, making them feel special.

The Balloon Man represents happiness and simplicity, reminding us that small things can bring great joy.

Question 4:
Explain how the poet describes the balloons in the chapter The Balloon Man. What do the balloons symbolize?
Answer:

In the chapter The Balloon Man, the poet describes the balloons as colorful, light, and floating in the air. They come in different shapes, like animals or toys, which makes them very attractive to children.

The balloons symbolize:

  • Happiness – Their bright colors and playful nature bring smiles to children’s faces.
  • Freedom – The way they float freely in the sky represents a carefree and joyful spirit.
  • Imagination – The different shapes encourage children to dream and explore their creativity.

The poet uses simple yet vivid descriptions to make the balloons seem magical and full of life.

Question 5:
Imagine you meet the Balloon Man from the story. Write a short conversation between you and him, highlighting his friendly nature and love for children.
Answer:

Me: "Hello, Uncle! Your balloons are so beautiful. How do you make them in so many shapes?"

Balloon Man: "Thank you, my dear! I twist and tie them carefully to create different shapes. Do you have a favorite?"

Me: "I love the pink butterfly balloon! It looks so real."

Balloon Man: "Ah, that’s a popular one! Here, take it as a gift. Seeing children smile is my greatest joy."

Me: "Thank you, Uncle! You are the kindest person I’ve met."

This conversation shows the Balloon Man’s friendly and generous nature. He loves making children happy and takes pride in his work. His kindness and warmth make him a beloved character in the story.

Question 6:
Describe the character of the Balloon Man from the chapter The Balloon Man. What qualities make him special?
Answer:

The Balloon Man is a cheerful and kind-hearted person who brings joy to children with his colorful balloons. He is described as someone who carries a bunch of balloons in different shapes and sizes, making him very popular among kids.

His special qualities include:

  • Friendliness: He smiles and interacts warmly with children, making them happy.
  • Creativity: He has balloons in various shapes like animals, flowers, and more, showing his imaginative skills.
  • Patience: He never gets upset even when children take time to choose their favorite balloon.

The Balloon Man teaches us the value of spreading happiness through small acts of kindness.

Question 7:
Explain how the Balloon Man brings happiness to children in the story. Give examples from the chapter.
Answer:

The Balloon Man brings happiness to children by selling colorful and fun-shaped balloons that capture their imagination. Here’s how he does it:

  • Variety of Balloons: He carries balloons in different colors and shapes, such as animals, stars, and hearts, which excite the children.
  • Playful Interaction: He talks to the children in a friendly way, asking them about their favorite balloon, making them feel special.
  • Affordable Joy: He sells the balloons at a low price so every child can afford one, spreading happiness to all.

For example, in the story, a little girl is delighted when she gets a pink balloon shaped like a flower. This small gesture fills her with joy, showing how the Balloon Man brightens their day.

Question 8:
Explain how the Balloon Man brings happiness to children in the story. Provide examples from the chapter.
Answer:

The Balloon Man brings happiness to children by selling colorful and fun-shaped balloons that capture their imagination. Here’s how he does it:

  • Variety of Balloons: He carries balloons in all colors and shapes, like animals or toys, which excite the children.
  • Friendly Interaction: He talks to the children warmly and lets them choose their favorite balloon without hurry.
  • Creating Memories: The balloons become a source of joy and play, making the children’s day brighter.

For example, in the story, children gather around him with excitement, and their faces light up when they see the balloons. The Balloon Man’s presence turns an ordinary day into a special one for them.

Question 9:
Explain how the Balloon Man creates happiness in the chapter The Balloon Man. Provide examples from the story.
Answer:

The Balloon Man spreads happiness by sharing his colorful balloons and playful spirit. Here’s how he does it:

  • Colorful Balloons: He carries balloons of all colors, which attract children and make them excited.
  • Fun Shapes: He twists balloons into shapes like dogs, flowers, and hats, making children laugh and wonder.
  • Kindness: He never scolds children, even when they tug at his balloons or ask for more.

For example, in the story, a little girl gets a balloon shaped like a butterfly, and her joy shows how the Balloon Man turns ordinary moments into magical ones.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
Read the following passage from The Balloon Man:
'The balloon man carries balloons of all colors. Children love to see them floating in the sky.'
Why do you think children are fascinated by the balloon man's balloons? Write two reasons.
Answer:

Children are fascinated by the balloon man's balloons because:

  • Bright colors: The balloons come in all colors, which attract children's attention and make them happy.
  • Floating in the sky: The way balloons float high up in the air excites children, as it seems magical and fun.

Balloons represent joy and playfulness, which is why children love them so much.

Question 2:
In The Balloon Man, the poet describes the balloons as 'like a bunch of flowers'. How does this comparison help you imagine the scene? Explain in your own words.
Answer:

The comparison of balloons to 'a bunch of flowers' helps us imagine the scene beautifully because:

  • Colorful and attractive: Just like flowers, balloons are bright and eye-catching, making the scene lively.
  • Grouped together: A bunch of flowers is held in a cluster, just like the balloons tied together by the balloon man.

This comparison makes the image of the balloons more vivid and pleasant in our minds.

Question 3:
If you were to meet the balloon man from the poem The Balloon Man, what question would you ask him about his balloons? Write your question and explain why you would ask it.
Answer:

If I met the balloon man, I would ask: 'How do you make the balloons stay up in the air without flying away?'

I would ask this because:

  • Curiosity: I want to understand how the balloons are controlled so they don't float off.
  • Science connection: It relates to how helium or air keeps balloons afloat, which is interesting to learn.

This question helps me learn more about how balloons work while enjoying the poem's theme.

Question 4:
Read the following passage from The Balloon Man:
'The balloon man carries balloons of all colors. Children gather around him, excited to pick their favorite.'
Why do you think children get excited when they see the balloon man?
Answer:

Children get excited when they see the balloon man because balloons are colorful, fun, and bring joy. Bright colors like red, blue, and yellow attract their attention. Balloons also symbolize happiness and celebrations, making children eager to pick their favorite one. The balloon man creates a playful atmosphere, which makes the experience special for them.

Question 5:
In The Balloon Man, the balloon man lets a balloon fly away.
What lesson do you think the story teaches us when the balloon flies into the sky?
Answer:

The story teaches us that sometimes, we have to let go of things we love, just like the balloon man lets the balloon fly away. Letting go can be hard, but it is a part of life. The balloon flying high in the sky also shows freedom and beauty, reminding us to appreciate moments rather than holding onto everything tightly.

Question 6:
Imagine you are the balloon man from the story The Balloon Man.
Describe how you would make children happy with your balloons.
Answer:

If I were the balloon man, I would make children happy by:

  • Carrying balloons in all colors like rainbow shades.
  • Twisting balloons into fun shapes like animals or flowers.
  • Smiling and talking to children to make them feel special.
  • Letting them choose their favorite balloon so they feel excited.

By doing this, I would spread joy and create wonderful memories for them.

Question 7:
In the chapter The Balloon Man, the balloon man carries balloons of different colors. Why do you think the author mentions the colors of the balloons? How does this make the story more interesting for children?
Answer:

The author mentions the colors of the balloons to create a visual appeal and make the scene lively for young readers. Bright colors like red, blue, and yellow attract children's attention and make the story more engaging.


Additionally, colors help children imagine the scene better, making the balloon man and his balloons seem real and exciting. This adds fun and joy to the story, which is important for young learners.

Question 8:
The balloon man in the story does not speak much. How does the author still make him an interesting character? Explain with examples from the chapter.
Answer:

The author makes the balloon man interesting by describing his actions and appearance. For example:

  • He carries colorful balloons that float in the air.
  • He moves slowly, letting the balloons dance in the wind.
  • Children are drawn to him because of his playful balloons.

Even without speaking, the balloon man's presence is magical and exciting for the children in the story, showing that actions can sometimes tell more than words.

Question 9:
In The Balloon Man, the children are fascinated by the balloons. If you were one of the children, which balloon would you choose and why? Give two reasons to support your answer.
Answer:

If I were one of the children, I would choose a blue balloon because:

  • Blue is a calming and happy color, just like the sky.
  • It would remind me of flying high, just like a bird or a kite.

Another reason could be that blue balloons stand out against the bright sky, making them look even more special and fun to play with.

Question 10:
Read the following passage from The Balloon Man:

The balloon man carries balloons of all colors. Children love to see them floating in the sky.

Why do you think children are fascinated by the balloon man's balloons?
Answer:

Children are fascinated by the balloon man's balloons because they are brightly colored and float in the sky, which looks magical to them. The balloons come in different shapes and sizes, making them fun to watch. The Balloon Man also brings joy and excitement, as children imagine the balloons flying high like birds.

Question 11:
In The Balloon Man, the balloons are described as 'floating in the sky.' How do you think the balloon man keeps the balloons from flying away?
Answer:

The balloon man keeps the balloons from flying away by tying them to a string or a stick. The string holds the balloons tightly so they don't escape.
Sometimes, he may also use a small weight to keep them grounded. This way, children can enjoy the balloons without losing them.

Question 12:
Imagine you meet the balloon man from the story. What would you ask him about his balloons, and why?
Answer:

If I met the balloon man, I would ask him:

  • How do you make the balloons float?
  • What is your favorite balloon color?
I would ask these questions because I want to learn how balloons work and which color he likes the most. It would help me understand his job better and make the story more interesting.

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