Nina and the Baby Sparrows – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Nina and the Baby Sparrows

Study Materials

3rd

3rd - English (Marigold)

Nina and the Baby Sparrows

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Overview of the Chapter

This chapter, titled "Nina and the Baby Sparrows," is part of the CBSE Grade 3 English textbook (Marigold). It tells the heartwarming story of Nina, a young girl who shows kindness and compassion towards baby sparrows. The chapter emphasizes themes of empathy, care for nature, and the joy of helping others.

Key Theme: The story highlights the importance of kindness and protecting small creatures in nature.

Summary of the Story

Nina notices a sparrow's nest near her window with baby sparrows inside. She becomes concerned when she sees that the mother sparrow is struggling to find food for her babies. Nina decides to help by leaving grains and water near the nest. Over time, the baby sparrows grow stronger, and Nina feels happy knowing she made a difference.

Characters in the Story

  • Nina - A kind-hearted girl who cares for the baby sparrows.
  • Mother Sparrow - A bird trying her best to feed her babies.
  • Baby Sparrows - The young birds that Nina helps.

Moral of the Story

The story teaches children the value of compassion and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others, including animals.

Learning Outcome: Students will understand the importance of empathy and caring for living beings.

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 did Nina’s mother suggest to help the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina’s mother suggested putting some grains and water near the nest to feed the baby sparrows.

Question 2:
What sound did the baby sparrows make?
Answer:

The baby sparrows made a loud chirping sound.

Question 3:
Where was the nest of the baby sparrows located?
Answer:

The nest was located outside Nina’s window, near the ledge.

Question 4:
Why did Nina’s mother say not to touch the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina’s mother said that if humans touch baby birds, the mother bird might abandon them.

Question 5:
What did Nina learn from this experience?
Answer:

Nina learned to care for animals and understand their needs without interfering too much.

Question 6:
What time of day did Nina first notice the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina noticed the baby sparrows in the morning when she woke up.

Question 7:
What did the mother sparrow bring for her babies?
Answer:

The mother sparrow brought worms and insects to feed her babies.

Question 8:
How did Nina know the baby sparrows were hungry?
Answer:

Nina knew they were hungry because they were chirping loudly and looking around anxiously.

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:
Describe the nest where the baby sparrows lived.
Answer:

The nest was small and cozy, made of twigs and leaves. It was carefully built by the mother sparrow to keep her babies safe.

Question 2:
Why did the baby sparrows stop chirping after Nina helped them?
Answer:

The baby sparrows stopped chirping because they were no longer hungry. Nina's kindness provided them with food and water.

Question 3:
What would have happened if Nina had not helped the baby sparrows?
Answer:

The baby sparrows might have remained hungry and weak, and their mother might have taken longer to find food for them.

Question 4:
What did Nina see outside her window one morning?
Answer:

Nina saw two baby sparrows chirping loudly outside her window. They were sitting in a nest made by their mother.

Question 5:
Why was Nina worried about the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina was worried because the baby sparrows were hungry and their mother had not returned with food for a long time.

Question 6:
What did Nina's mother suggest to help the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina's mother suggested putting some grains and water near the nest so the baby sparrows could eat.

Question 7:
How did Nina feel after helping the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina felt happy and relieved because the baby sparrows stopped chirping loudly and started eating the food she provided.

Question 8:
What lesson did Nina learn from this incident?
Answer:

Nina learned that kindness towards animals is important and that even small actions can make a big difference.

Question 9:
Why was Nina upset at the beginning of the story?
Answer:

Nina was upset because she could not attend her cousin's wedding due to her exam preparations. She felt left out and sad.

Question 10:
What did Nina notice about the baby sparrows in the nest?
Answer:

Nina noticed that the baby sparrows were hungry and their mother was not around to feed them. She felt worried for them.

Question 11:
How did Nina help the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina carefully placed some grains and water near the nest so the baby sparrows could eat. She did this quietly to avoid scaring them.

Question 12:
What lesson did Nina learn from the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina learned that small acts of kindness, like helping the sparrows, can bring happiness and make a big difference.

Question 13:
Why did Nina’s mother praise her?
Answer:

Nina’s mother praised her because she showed compassion and responsibility by taking care of the baby sparrows without being asked.

Question 14:
What sound did the baby sparrows make when they were hungry?
Answer:

The baby sparrows made a chirping sound, which was soft and high-pitched, to show they were hungry.

Question 15:
How did Nina feel after helping the sparrows?
Answer:

Nina felt happy and proud because her small act of kindness helped the baby sparrows survive.

Question 16:
What did Nina’s mother say about caring for others?
Answer:

Nina’s mother said that helping others, even small creatures like sparrows, is a noble thing to do and brings joy.

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 did Nina feel sad when she saw the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina felt sad because the baby sparrows could not fly out of their nest to find food. Their mother had not returned, and they were chirping loudly out of hunger. Nina cared about them and wanted to help.

Question 2:
How did Nina show kindness towards the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina showed kindness by listening to her mother's advice and placing food near the nest. She also watched over them to ensure they were safe, showing her caring nature.

Question 3:
What lesson does the story 'Nina and the Baby Sparrows' teach us?
Answer:

The story teaches us to be kind and helpful towards animals in need. It also shows that even small actions, like feeding hungry birds, can make a big difference.

Question 4:
Describe how Nina's actions helped the baby sparrows survive.
Answer:

Nina's actions helped the baby sparrows by providing them with food when their mother was missing. The grains and water she placed nearby kept them from starving until their mother returned.

Question 5:
Why is it important to care for birds and other animals?
Answer:

Caring for birds and animals is important because they are part of nature and help maintain balance in the environment. Showing kindness to them also makes us better and more responsible human beings.

Question 6:
Why was Nina upset when she saw the baby sparrows?
Answer:

Nina was upset because the baby sparrows were chirping loudly and seemed hungry. Their mother had not returned to the nest, which made Nina worry about their safety. She felt sad seeing the helpless baby sparrows and wanted to help them.

Question 7:
How did Nina feel after following her mother's advice?
Answer:

Nina felt relieved and happy after following her mother's advice. She saw the mother sparrow return to the nest with food for her babies. This made Nina realize that sometimes, patience is the best way to help.

Question 8:
Describe the setting where Nina saw the baby sparrows.
Answer:

Nina saw the baby sparrows in a nest near her window. The nest was small and cozy, made of twigs and leaves. The baby sparrows were chirping loudly, and the surroundings were quiet except for their sounds.

Question 9:
What lesson did Nina learn from the baby sparrows incident?
Answer:

Nina learned that nature has its own way of taking care of its creatures. She understood that sometimes, the best help is to wait and let things happen naturally. This taught her the value of patience and trust.

Question 10:
How would you describe Nina's character based on this chapter?
Answer:

Nina is a kind-hearted and caring girl who loves animals. She is sensitive to the needs of others, like the baby sparrows. However, she also learns to be patient and trust nature, showing her ability to grow and understand.

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 how Nina showed kindness towards the baby sparrows in the story Nina and the Baby Sparrows. What lesson can we learn from her actions?
Answer:

In the story Nina and the Baby Sparrows, Nina showed kindness by noticing the baby sparrows in her house and worrying about them when her family planned to clean the house. She was concerned that the noise and dust might harm the baby birds. Nina convinced her parents to postpone the cleaning until the sparrows were old enough to fly away safely. This act of kindness protected the baby sparrows and allowed them to grow.

From Nina's actions, we learn the importance of compassion and responsibility towards all living beings. Her care for the sparrows teaches us to be observant and considerate of nature. It also shows that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Question 2:
Explain why Nina's parents agreed to delay the cleaning of the house in the story Nina and the Baby Sparrows. How did this decision help the sparrows?
Answer:

Nina's parents agreed to delay the cleaning because Nina explained how the noise and dust could scare or harm the baby sparrows. They understood her concern and respected her love for nature. By postponing the cleaning, they allowed the baby sparrows to grow stronger and learn to fly without any disturbance.

This decision helped the sparrows in two ways:

  • It gave them a safe and peaceful environment to grow.
  • It ensured they could leave the nest naturally when they were ready.
This story teaches us the value of patience and respect for all creatures, no matter how small they are.

Question 3:
Explain why Nina’s decision to delay painting her room was important for the baby sparrows. How did her family react to her request?
Answer:

Nina’s decision to delay painting her room was important because it allowed the baby sparrows to grow and learn to fly without being disturbed. If the room had been painted, the nest might have been destroyed, and the baby birds could have been harmed or left without shelter.

Initially, Nina’s parents were surprised by her request, but they agreed because they saw how much she cared for the sparrows. Her family supported her kindness, showing that even adults can learn from children’s empathy and love for nature. This moment highlights how small actions can protect and nurture life.

Question 4:
Describe the emotions Nina felt when she saw the baby sparrows and how she helped them. Use examples from the story to support your answer.
Answer:

Nina felt a mix of excitement and concern when she saw the baby sparrows. At first, she was happy to see the tiny birds in the nest, but then she noticed they were hungry and helpless. Her heart filled with compassion, and she decided to help them.

Nina took small pieces of bread and gently placed them near the nest so the mother sparrow could feed the babies. She also made sure no other animals disturbed them. Her actions show her kindness and responsibility toward the baby sparrows.

This teaches us the importance of caring for living creatures and being observant of their needs.

Question 5:
Explain how Nina's actions in the story reflect the values of kindness and responsibility. Provide examples from the chapter.
Answer:

Nina's actions in the story clearly show her kindness and responsibility. When she saw the baby sparrows, she didn't ignore them; instead, she took immediate action to help.

  • She carefully observed the sparrows and realized they needed food.
  • She broke bread into small pieces and placed it near their nest so the mother bird could feed them.
  • She kept a watchful eye to ensure no harm came to the baby birds.

These actions prove Nina is thoughtful and caring. The story teaches us that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others, including animals.

Question 6:
Describe how Nina felt when she saw the baby sparrows and what she did to help them. Explain why her actions were important.
Answer:

When Nina saw the baby sparrows, she felt happy and excited because they were tiny and cute. She also felt concerned when she noticed they were alone and needed care. Nina decided to help them by giving them food and water. She also made sure they were safe from other animals.

Her actions were important because:

  • She showed kindness and compassion towards the baby birds.
  • By feeding them, she ensured they stayed healthy and strong.
  • Protecting them from danger helped the sparrows grow safely.

Nina's care teaches us to be responsible and loving towards all living beings.

Question 7:
Explain the lesson we learn from the story Nina and the Baby Sparrows and how it can help us in our daily lives.
Answer:

The story Nina and the Baby Sparrows teaches us the importance of empathy and responsibility towards animals. Nina's kindness towards the baby birds shows us that even small acts of care can make a big difference.

We can apply this lesson in our daily lives by:

  • Helping animals in need, like feeding stray dogs or birds.
  • Being gentle and respectful towards all living creatures.
  • Teaching others to care for nature and its beings.

This story reminds us that everyone, no matter how small, deserves love and protection. By following Nina's example, we can make the world a better place for all.

Question 8:
Explain the lesson we learn from the story Nina and the Baby Sparrows and how it can inspire children to help animals.
Answer:

The story Nina and the Baby Sparrows teaches us the importance of empathy and care for animals. Nina's kindness towards the baby sparrows shows that even small actions can make a big difference in their lives.

Children can be inspired to help animals by:

  • Observing and noticing when animals need help, just like Nina did.
  • Providing food, water, or shelter to birds or stray animals in need.
  • Being gentle and avoiding harm to any living creature.

The story also reminds us that animals depend on humans sometimes, and we should always be responsible and compassionate. By helping animals, children learn values like kindness and respect for nature, making the world a better place.

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:
Nina noticed the baby sparrows were afraid of her at first. What steps did she take to make them feel comfortable? How can we apply this lesson in our daily lives?
Answer:

Nina took gentle steps to make the baby sparrows feel safe.
1. She observed them from a distance without disturbing them.
2. She spoke softly to avoid scaring them.
3. She placed food and water nearby so they could eat without fear.
4. She patiently waited for them to trust her.

We can apply this lesson by being kind and patient with animals or people who are shy or new. Giving them space and time helps build trust, just like Nina did with the sparrows.

Question 2:
Why did Nina’s mother say, 'Birds are our friends'? Explain with examples from the chapter and real life.
Answer:

Nina’s mother called birds our friends because they help nature and humans in many ways.
1. In the chapter, the sparrows ate harmful insects, keeping the environment clean.
2. Birds like sparrows and pigeons spread seeds, helping plants grow.
3. In real life, birds like owls control pests, and bees (though not birds) help in pollination.

Birds also bring joy with their songs and colors, making them true friends of humans.

Question 3:
How did Nina feel when the baby sparrows finally ate from her hand? What does this teach us about caring for animals?
Answer:

Nina felt happy and proud when the sparrows ate from her hand because her patience and kindness paid off.
1. She learned that trust takes time to build.
2. Animals respond to gentle care and consistency.
3. Her joy shows how rewarding it is to help creatures in need.

This teaches us that caring for animals requires:

  • Respecting their space
  • Providing food and water safely
  • Being patient and observant
Like Nina, we should treat animals with love and responsibility.

Question 4:
Nina was worried about the baby sparrows because their mother had not returned. What would you do if you found a baby bird alone in your garden? Write a short paragraph explaining your actions.
Answer:

If I found a baby bird alone in my garden, I would first observe it from a distance to see if the mother bird is nearby. Mother birds often leave their babies for short periods to find food. If the baby bird is in danger, like near a busy road or a cat, I would gently move it to a safer spot nearby. I would not try to take it home because birds are best cared for by their parents. If the baby bird seems hurt, I would ask an adult to call a wildlife rescue center for help.

Question 5:
Nina’s mother explained that the baby sparrows needed their mother to feed them. Why do you think it is important for baby birds to be fed by their parents? Give two reasons.
Answer:

It is important for baby birds to be fed by their parents because:

  • Proper nutrition: Parent birds know exactly what food their babies need, like insects or seeds, to grow strong and healthy.
  • Learning skills: Baby birds learn how to find food and survive in the wild by watching their parents. If humans feed them, they might not learn these important survival skills.

Question 6:
Nina felt happy when the mother sparrow returned to her babies. How do you think Nina’s kindness helped the baby sparrows? Write a short answer.
Answer:

Nina’s kindness helped the baby sparrows because she did not disturb them or try to take them away. By waiting patiently and letting nature take its course, she allowed the mother sparrow to return and care for her babies. This ensured the baby sparrows got the right food and protection from their mother, which is essential for their survival.

Question 7:
Nina was worried about the baby sparrows. Why did she feel this way? How did her mother help her understand the situation better?
Answer:

Nina felt worried about the baby sparrows because she thought they would go hungry if she closed the window during her aunt's wedding. Mother explained that sparrows are smart birds and know how to find food even if the window is closed for a short time. She also told Nina that the mother sparrow would take care of her babies. This made Nina feel better because she learned that nature has its own way of handling things.

Question 8:
What lesson did Nina learn from the incident with the baby sparrows? Explain how this lesson can be applied in real life.
Answer:

Nina learned that kindness and empathy are important, but sometimes we must trust nature or others to handle situations.
In real life, this lesson teaches us:

  • To care for animals and be thoughtful about their needs.
  • To understand that not everything needs our direct help—sometimes things work out on their own.
  • To balance our concern with trust, just like Nina did after talking to her mother.

Question 9:
Describe how Nina's actions show her love for animals. Give an example from the story to support your answer.
Answer:

Nina's actions show her love for animals because she was ready to keep the window open just for the baby sparrows, even during her aunt's wedding.
For example:

  • She refused to shut the window because she didn’t want the sparrows to starve.
  • She listened carefully to her mother’s explanation about the sparrows, showing she truly cared.
This proves Nina is a compassionate and responsible person who thinks about others, even small creatures like birds.

Question 10:
Nina was worried about the baby sparrows because their mother had not returned. What would you do if you found a baby bird alone in a nest? Write your answer in 3-4 steps.
Answer:

If I found a baby bird alone in a nest, I would follow these steps:

  • Observe quietly: First, I would watch from a distance to see if the mother bird returns. Sometimes, parent birds leave to find food.
  • Do not touch: I would avoid touching the nest or the baby bird, as human scent might scare the mother away.
  • Provide safety: If the baby bird is in danger (like from cats or rain), I would gently place the nest in a safer spot nearby.
  • Ask for help: If the mother doesn’t return, I would tell an adult or call a bird rescue center for help.

Remember, baby birds need their mothers, just like Nina learned in the story!

Question 11:
Nina’s mother explained why they should not cook during the baby sparrows’ hatching time. How does being kind to animals make our world a better place? Explain with an example from the chapter.
Answer:

Being kind to animals makes our world better because all living creatures deserve care and respect. In the chapter Nina and the Baby Sparrows, Nina’s family avoided cooking to keep the baby birds safe from smoke. This small act of kindness helped the sparrows grow healthy and strong.

For example, when Nina’s mother said, "We must not disturb them," it showed how humans and animals can live together peacefully. Kindness to animals also teaches us to be gentle and responsible, just like Nina learned. A happy world is one where everyone, including animals, feels safe!

Question 12:
Nina felt happy when the baby sparrows learned to fly. Imagine you are Nina and write a short diary entry (4-5 lines) describing your feelings that day.
Answer:

Dear Diary,
Today was the happiest day! The baby sparrows finally flew out of their nest. I watched them flap their tiny wings and hop from branch to branch. Amma was right—waiting patiently was worth it. I felt proud, like a big sister! Now, our home is filled with their cheerful chirping. I hope they visit us again!

- Nina

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