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A Watering Rhyme – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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A Watering Rhyme

Study Materials

4th

4th - English (Santoor)

A Watering Rhyme

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "A Watering Rhyme" is a delightful poem included in the CBSE Grade 4 English curriculum. It emphasizes the importance of watering plants at the right time of the day and teaches children the proper way to care for plants. The poem is written in a simple, rhythmic style, making it easy for young learners to understand and enjoy.

A Watering Rhyme: A poem that highlights the best time to water plants (early morning or late evening) and the correct method to ensure their healthy growth.

Summary of the Poem

The poem begins by advising the reader to water plants either in the early morning or late evening. It explains that watering during these times helps the plants absorb water better, as the sun is not too strong. The poet also warns against watering the plants in the midday sun, as the water may evaporate quickly, leaving the plants thirsty.

The second part of the poem describes the correct way to water plants. It suggests watering the soil around the plant's roots rather than pouring water directly on the leaves or flowers. This ensures that the roots receive adequate moisture for growth.

Key Message: Proper care and timing are essential for the healthy growth of plants.

Theme and Moral

The central theme of the poem is the importance of nurturing nature with care and attention. It teaches children the value of responsibility and the basics of plant care. The moral of the poem is that small, thoughtful actions, like watering plants correctly, can lead to their flourishing.

Literary Elements

The poem uses simple rhyming words and a rhythmic structure to make it engaging for young readers. The language is straightforward, ensuring that the message is easily understood. Repetition of phrases like "Water the plants" reinforces the key idea.

Rhyme Scheme: The poem follows a consistent rhyme pattern, making it musical and enjoyable to recite.

Activities and Learning Outcomes

After reading the poem, students are encouraged to observe plant care practices at home or in school. They may also engage in activities like:

  • Reciting the poem with proper rhythm.
  • Drawing or labeling parts of a plant.
  • Practicing watering plants correctly based on the poem's advice.

The learning outcomes include developing an appreciation for nature, understanding the importance of timing in plant care, and enhancing vocabulary through rhyming words.

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:
Name one tool mentioned in the poem for watering plants.
Answer:

The poem mentions a watering can as a tool to water plants gently and evenly.

Question 2:
What does the poet mean by 'water the soil, not the leaves'?
Answer:

The poet means that we should focus on watering the base of the plant (soil) because roots absorb water better. Wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases or evaporation loss.

Question 3:
How often should small plants be watered compared to big plants?
Answer:

Small plants need frequent but light watering as their roots are shallow, while big plants need deep watering occasionally to reach their deeper roots.

Question 4:
What is the message of the poem A Watering Rhyme?
Answer:

The poem teaches us the proper way to water plants—timing, method, and quantity—to help them grow healthy and strong.

Question 5:
Why should we not use very cold water for plants?
Answer:

Very cold water can shock the plant's roots and slow down growth. Room-temperature water is best for watering plants.

Question 6:
What is the benefit of watering plants in the evening?
Answer:

Evening watering allows water to soak deep into the soil overnight without evaporation, ensuring plants stay hydrated for longer.

Question 7:
What happens if plants are watered too much?
Answer:

Overwatering can drown the roots, making it hard for the plant to breathe and causing the leaves to turn yellow or fall off.

Question 8:
Name one tool mentioned in the poem that helps in watering plants.
Answer:

The poem mentions a watering can as a tool to water plants gently and evenly.

Question 9:
How does watering plants in the morning benefit them?
Answer:

Morning watering helps plants absorb water before the sun gets too hot, keeping them fresh and healthy throughout the day.

Question 10:
What is the rhyme scheme of the poem A Watering Rhyme?
Answer:

The poem follows a simple AABB rhyme scheme, making it easy and fun to read.

Question 11:
What does the poem suggest about the amount of water plants need?
Answer:

The poem suggests giving plants just enough water—not too little or too much—to keep them thriving.

Question 12:
How does the poet describe the leaves when plants are well-watered?
Answer:

The poet describes well-watered leaves as green and shiny, showing the plant is happy and healthy.

Question 13:
Why should we water plants slowly and not pour too fast?
Answer:

Watering slowly allows the soil to absorb the water properly, while pouring too fast may wash away the soil or damage the plant.

Question 14:
What can happen if plants do not get enough water?
Answer:

Without enough water, plants may wilt, their leaves may turn brown, and they might stop growing.

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:
What is the best time to water plants according to the poem A Watering Rhyme?
Answer:

The best time to water plants is in the morning or evening when the sun is not too hot. This helps the water soak into the soil properly without evaporating quickly.

Question 2:
Why should we avoid watering plants in the afternoon?
Answer:

Watering plants in the afternoon is not good because the sun is very hot, and the water may evaporate before reaching the roots. This wastes water and does not help the plants grow.

Question 3:
Name two tools mentioned in the poem that help in watering plants.
Answer:

The two tools mentioned are:

  • Watering can
  • Hose pipe

Question 4:
What happens if we water plants too much?
Answer:

Overwatering can drown the roots, making it hard for the plant to breathe. It may also cause root rot, which can kill the plant.

Question 5:
How does watering plants help them grow?
Answer:

Watering plants provides them with nutrients from the soil and keeps them hydrated. It helps in photosynthesis, which is essential for their growth.

Question 6:
What is the rhyming word for 'day' in the poem?
Answer:

The rhyming word for 'day' in the poem is 'way'.

Question 7:
Why is it important to water plants at the roots?
Answer:

Watering at the roots ensures the water reaches where it is needed most. The roots absorb water and nutrients, helping the plant stay healthy and grow strong.

Question 8:
What message does the poem A Watering Rhyme give about caring for plants?
Answer:

The poem teaches us to water plants properly and at the right time. It reminds us that plants need care and attention to grow well, just like we do.

Question 9:
What should we check before watering plants?
Answer:

Before watering, we should check if the soil is dry by touching it. If it feels dry, the plant needs water.

Question 10:
Why is it important to water plants gently?
Answer:

Watering gently prevents:

  • Washing away the soil
  • Damaging the delicate stems and leaves

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:
What is the main message of the poem A Watering Rhyme?
Answer:

The main message of the poem A Watering Rhyme is the importance of watering plants properly for their healthy growth. The poem teaches us that plants need care and attention, just like humans. It also highlights the right time to water plants—morning or evening—to avoid wastage and ensure the water reaches the roots effectively.

Question 2:
Why is it better to water plants in the morning or evening?
Answer:

Watering plants in the morning or evening is better because:

  • The sunlight is less intense, so water does not evaporate quickly.
  • Plants get enough time to absorb water before the heat of the day.
  • It prevents water wastage and helps the roots grow stronger.

Question 3:
What happens if we water plants in the afternoon?
Answer:

If we water plants in the afternoon, the hot sun causes the water to evaporate quickly before the plants can absorb it. This wastes water and leaves the plants thirsty. It may also harm the leaves due to the heat, making them dry or burnt.

Question 4:
How does the poem describe the right way to water plants?
Answer:

The poem describes the right way to water plants by:

  • Pouring water slowly at the base of the plant.
  • Avoiding splashing water on the leaves.
  • Watering in the morning or evening for best results.

This ensures the roots get enough water without wastage.

Question 5:
What lesson do we learn from A Watering Rhyme about caring for nature?
Answer:

The poem teaches us to respect and care for nature by nurturing plants properly. It shows that small actions like watering plants correctly can make a big difference in their growth. This helps us understand our responsibility towards the environment.

Question 6:
Explain the term 'watering can' as used in the poem.
Answer:

In the poem, a watering can is a tool used to pour water gently on plants. It has a spout to control the flow of water, ensuring it reaches the roots without wasting it. Using a watering can helps in giving plants the right amount of water they need.

Question 7:
What is the central theme of the poem A Watering Rhyme?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem A Watering Rhyme is the importance of watering plants properly for their healthy growth. The poem teaches us when and how to water plants, emphasizing that early morning or late evening is the best time. It also highlights the care and love plants need to thrive.

Question 8:
Why does the poet suggest watering plants in the morning or evening?
Answer:

The poet suggests watering plants in the morning or evening because the temperature is cooler during these times.
Watering in the hot sun can cause the water to evaporate quickly, leaving plants thirsty.
Cooler times allow water to seep deep into the soil, helping roots absorb it better.

Question 9:
How does the poem A Watering Rhyme encourage responsibility in children?
Answer:

The poem encourages responsibility by teaching children the correct way to care for plants.
It shows that plants depend on us for water and care, just like pets or younger siblings.
By following the poem's advice, children learn patience and regularity in nurturing living things.

Question 10:
What happens if we water plants at the wrong time of day?
Answer:

Watering plants at the wrong time (like midday) can:

  • Make water evaporate before roots absorb it
  • Scorch leaves if water droplets act like tiny magnifying glasses in sunlight
  • Waste water without helping the plant grow
The poem warns us to avoid these mistakes.

Question 11:
Explain the line 'Water slowly, water deep' from the poem.
Answer:

This line teaches the proper technique of watering:
1. Slowly: Pour gently so water doesn't wash away soil
2. Deep: Ensure water reaches the roots where it's needed most
This helps plants grow stronger roots instead of depending on surface water.

Question 12:
How does the poem make learning about plants enjoyable?
Answer:

The poem uses rhyming words and simple language to make the lesson fun.
Instead of just giving instructions, it:

  • Creates a musical rhythm that's easy to remember
  • Uses friendly tone like talking to a friend
  • Turns plant care into a joyful daily activity rather than a chore

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:
Explain the importance of watering plants early in the morning or late in the evening as mentioned in the poem A Watering Rhyme. How does this practice benefit the plants?
Answer:

In the poem A Watering Rhyme, the poet advises watering plants early in the morning or late in the evening because these times are the coolest parts of the day. Watering during these hours helps plants absorb water more efficiently without losing it to evaporation caused by the sun's heat.

Here’s why this practice is beneficial:

  • Less evaporation: Water does not evaporate quickly in cooler temperatures, ensuring plants get enough moisture.
  • Stronger roots: Plants can absorb water slowly, helping their roots grow deeper and stronger.
  • Healthier leaves: Watering in the sun can cause droplets to act like tiny magnifying glasses, burning the leaves.

By following this simple rule, we help plants stay healthy and grow better, just as the poem suggests!

Question 2:
Describe the rhyming pattern used in the poem A Watering Rhyme. How does this pattern make the poem enjoyable to read?
Answer:

The poem A Watering Rhyme follows a simple and catchy rhyming pattern where the last words of every two lines rhyme with each other. For example, day rhymes with way, and heat rhymes with feet. This is called an AABB rhyme scheme.

Here’s why this pattern makes the poem fun:

  • Easy to remember: The repeating sounds help us recall the lines quickly.
  • Musical flow: The rhythm feels like a song, making it pleasant to recite.
  • Engaging for kids: Simple rhymes keep young readers interested in the poem’s message.

Rhymes like these make learning about plants and watering them a joyful experience!

Question 3:
Explain the importance of watering plants in the morning as mentioned in the poem A Watering Rhyme. How does it benefit the plants?
Answer:

In the poem A Watering Rhyme, the poet emphasizes watering plants in the morning because it is the best time for their growth.

Watering in the morning helps plants absorb water properly before the sun gets too hot. During this time, the soil is cool, so water does not evaporate quickly, allowing roots to soak up moisture effectively.

Additionally, morning watering prevents fungal diseases that may occur if leaves stay wet overnight. It also gives plants energy to prepare food through photosynthesis during the day.

Thus, following this routine keeps plants healthy and strong.

Question 4:
Describe the poet's advice on how to water plants correctly from the poem A Watering Rhyme. Why is this method effective?
Answer:

The poet in A Watering Rhyme advises watering plants slowly and gently at their roots rather than splashing water on leaves.

  • Watering at the base ensures roots receive enough moisture to grow deep and strong.
  • A gentle flow prevents soil erosion and damage to delicate stems.
  • Avoiding wet leaves reduces the risk of plant diseases caused by excess moisture.

This method is effective because it mimics natural rainfall, allowing plants to absorb water efficiently. Proper watering also prevents wastage and keeps plants thriving.

Question 5:
Describe the rhyming pattern used in the poem A Watering Rhyme. How does it make the poem enjoyable to read?
Answer:

The poem A Watering Rhyme follows a simple and rhythmic AABB rhyming pattern, where every two lines rhyme with each other. For example:

'Water the plants in the morning light,
They’ll grow so strong and tall and bright.'

Here, light and bright rhyme, creating a musical flow. This pattern makes the poem:

  • Easy to Remember: The repetition of sounds helps children recall the lines quickly.
  • Fun to Recite: The rhythm adds a playful tone, making it enjoyable for young readers.
  • Engaging: The predictable rhyme scheme keeps the reader interested.

Such rhyming patterns are commonly used in children’s poems to make learning fun and interactive.

Question 6:
Describe the rhyming pattern of the poem A Watering Rhyme and explain how it makes the poem enjoyable to read.
Answer:

The poem A Watering Rhyme uses a simple and consistent rhyming pattern (AABB) where every two lines rhyme. For example:

'Water the plants in the morning hours,
They’ll grow as tall as sky-high towers.'

Here, 'hours' rhymes with 'towers', creating a musical flow. This pattern makes the poem fun and easy to remember because:

  • Repetition: The predictable rhyme helps children recall the lines quickly.
  • Rhythm: The beat created by rhyming words adds a sing-song quality.
  • Engagement: Rhymes make learning about plant care enjoyable.

Such patterns are common in children’s poems to teach lessons playfully!

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 lines from A Watering Rhyme:
'Water the plants in the morning light,
They'll grow so strong and tall and bright.'

Why does the poem suggest watering plants in the morning? Give two reasons.

Answer:

The poem suggests watering plants in the morning because:

  • Morning light is gentle, and the water gets absorbed properly without evaporating quickly due to heat.
  • Plants are active in the morning, so they can use the water efficiently for growth and photosynthesis.

Watering in the morning also prevents fungal growth, which can happen if plants stay wet overnight.

Question 2:
In A Watering Rhyme, the poet says, 'A little water, just enough,
Not too little, not too much.'

Explain why giving the right amount of water is important for plants.

Answer:

Giving the right amount of water is important because:

  • Too little water can make the plant dry and weak, as it won't get enough nutrients.
  • Too much water can drown the roots, stopping them from breathing and causing rot.

Plants need a balanced amount to stay healthy, just like humans need the right amount of food.

Question 3:
The poem A Watering Rhyme mentions, 'Flowers will bloom, leaves will shine,
If you water them at the right time.'

How does proper watering help plants bloom and stay healthy? Explain with two points.

Answer:

Proper watering helps plants bloom and stay healthy because:

  • Water carries nutrients from the soil to the plant, helping it grow strong and produce bright flowers.
  • It keeps the leaves fresh and shiny by preventing them from wilting or turning yellow.

Just like we feel energetic after drinking water, plants also thrive when watered correctly!

Question 4:
Read the following lines from the poem A Watering Rhyme:
'Water the plants in the morning light,
They’ll grow so strong and tall and bright.'

Why does the poet suggest watering plants in the morning? Explain with two reasons.

Answer:

The poet suggests watering plants in the morning because:

  • Morning light is gentle, and the water gets absorbed properly without evaporating quickly like in the afternoon heat.
  • Plants use water efficiently during the day for photosynthesis, helping them grow strong and bright.

Watering in the morning also prevents fungal growth, which can happen if plants stay wet overnight.

Question 5:
In A Watering Rhyme, the poet says, 'A little water, not too much,
Or else the roots will lose their touch.'

What happens if plants are overwatered? Explain with two effects.

Answer:

Overwatering plants can cause:

  • Root rot: Excess water fills air pockets in the soil, suffocating roots and making them rot.
  • Nutrient loss: Too much water washes away essential nutrients from the soil, weakening the plant.

Plants need a balance—just enough water to stay healthy but not so much that their roots lose their touch (ability to absorb nutrients).

Question 6:
The poem A Watering Rhyme mentions, 'Flowers bloom and leaves unfold,
When they get water, fresh and cold.'

How does proper watering help plants? Describe two benefits using examples from the poem.

Answer:

Proper watering helps plants in these ways:

  • Healthy growth: As the poem says, leaves unfold and plants grow tall and bright when watered correctly.
  • Beautiful blooms: Flowers bloom because water transports nutrients, helping them thrive.

Fresh, cold water keeps plants hydrated and supports their life cycle, just like the poem describes.

Question 7:
In the poem A Watering Rhyme, the poet mentions specific times for watering plants. Based on the poem, explain why watering plants at the right time is important and how it helps them grow better.
Answer:

In the poem A Watering Rhyme, the poet emphasizes watering plants either in the morning or evening. This is because these times are cooler, and the water does not evaporate quickly, allowing plants to absorb it properly.

Watering at the right time helps plants in two ways:

  • It keeps the soil moist for longer, helping roots grow strong.
  • It prevents water wastage as less evaporates in the heat of the day.
Additionally, watering correctly ensures plants stay healthy and bloom beautifully, just like the poem suggests!
Question 8:
The poet in A Watering Rhyme gives clear instructions on how to water plants. Imagine you are explaining this to a friend who is new to gardening. Write down the steps they should follow, as per the poem, to water plants correctly.
Answer:

According to the poem A Watering Rhyme, here’s how your friend should water plants:

Step 1: Water the plants either in the early morning or late evening when the sun is not too hot.
Step 2: Pour water slowly at the base of the plant, near the roots, not on the leaves.
Step 3: Make sure the soil is evenly moist but not flooded.
Step 4: Avoid watering in the afternoon as the sun will dry it up too fast.

Following these steps will help plants grow healthy and strong, just like the poem teaches us!

Question 9:
The poem A Watering Rhyme teaches us about caring for plants. How does proper watering, as described in the poem, connect to being responsible towards nature? Explain with examples.
Answer:

The poem A Watering Rhyme shows that proper watering is a way of being responsible towards nature. When we water plants correctly, we help them thrive, which benefits the environment.

For example:

  • Healthy plants produce more oxygen, making the air cleaner for everyone.
  • They provide homes for birds and insects, supporting biodiversity.
  • By avoiding water wastage, we conserve a precious resource.
The poem reminds us that small acts of care, like watering plants properly, make a big difference in protecting nature!
Question 10:
Read the following lines from A Watering Rhyme:
'Water the plants in the morning,
Water them deep, not just a warning.'

Why does the poem suggest watering plants in the morning? Give two reasons.

Answer:

The poem suggests watering plants in the morning because:

  • Temperature: The morning is cooler, so water does not evaporate quickly, allowing plants to absorb more moisture.
  • Plant Health: Watering in the morning helps plants stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during hot weather, preventing them from drying out.

Additionally, morning watering reduces the risk of fungal growth, which can happen if plants stay wet overnight.

Question 11:
In A Watering Rhyme, the poet says, 'Not a splash, not a dash,
Water them slow, let the roots grow.'

Explain why watering plants slowly is better than splashing water quickly.

Answer:

Watering plants slowly is better because:

  • Root Absorption: Slow watering allows water to seep deep into the soil, helping roots grow stronger and deeper.
  • Prevents Waste: Quick splashing may cause water to run off the surface, wasting it instead of reaching the roots.

Moreover, gentle watering prevents soil erosion and ensures even distribution of moisture, which is essential for healthy plant growth.

Question 12:
The poem A Watering Rhyme mentions, 'Give them a drink, but not too much,
Too much will drown, too little is such.'

How can overwatering harm plants? Provide two effects.

Answer:

Overwatering harms plants in the following ways:

  • Root Rot: Excess water fills air pockets in the soil, suffocating roots and causing them to decay.
  • Nutrient Loss: Too much water washes away essential nutrients from the soil, making it harder for plants to grow.

Additionally, overwatered plants may develop yellow leaves and attract pests like fungus gnats, which thrive in damp conditions.

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