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Poetry: Chivvy – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Poetry: Chivvy

Study Materials

7th

7th - English

Poetry: Chivvy

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "Poetry: Chivvy" is part of the CBSE English curriculum for Grade 7. It is a poem that explores the theme of how adults often instruct children on how to behave, sometimes excessively. The poem highlights the frustration children feel when constantly being told what to do.

Chivvy: To repeatedly tell someone to do something in an annoying way.

Summary of the Poem

The poem "Chivvy" is written by Michael Rosen. It captures the common experiences of children who are frequently nagged by adults about their behavior. The poet lists various instructions that adults often give to children, such as "Stand up straight," "Say thank you," and "Don't interrupt." The tone of the poem is light-hearted yet critical, as it reflects the poet's perspective on how excessive nagging can be counterproductive.

Key Themes

  • Adult-Child Relationships
  • Frustration Due to Excessive Instructions
  • Critique of Overbearing Behavior

Literary Devices Used

  • Repetition: The poet repeats phrases like "Don't" to emphasize the constant nagging.
  • Tone: The tone is both humorous and critical, highlighting the poet's message.
  • Imagery: The poem creates vivid images of common situations where children are instructed.

Important Questions

  1. What is the central idea of the poem "Chivvy"?
  2. How does the poet convey the frustration of children in the poem?
  3. Discuss the tone of the poem and its effectiveness.

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 does the poem Chivvy highlight about adults?
Answer:

Adults constantly instruct children.

Question 2:
Name two instructions given to children in the poem.
Answer:
  • Don’t talk with mouth full.
  • Sit up straight.
Question 3:
Who is the poet of Chivvy?
Answer:

Michael Rosen.

Question 4:
What is the tone of the poem Chivvy?
Answer:

Irritated or frustrated.

Question 5:
Why do children feel annoyed in Chivvy?
Answer:

Due to constant nagging by adults.

Question 6:
What does ‘Chivvy’ mean?
Answer:

To nag or pester someone.

Question 7:
Give an example of irony in the poem.
Answer:

Adults scold but do the same.

Question 8:
What is the central theme of Chivvy?
Answer:

Adults’ excessive instructions to children.

Question 9:
How does the poem Chivvy end?
Answer:

With a rhetorical question.

Question 10:
What literary device is used in ‘Pull your socks up’?
Answer:

Idiom.

Question 11:
What do adults want children to do in Chivvy?
Answer:

Follow their orders strictly.

Question 12:
How does the poet describe adults’ behavior?
Answer:

Controlling and repetitive.

Question 13:
What is the mood of the poem?
Answer:

Frustrated and rebellious.

Question 14:
Why is the poem relatable to children?
Answer:

They face similar nagging daily.

Question 15:
What is the central theme of the poem Chivvy?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Chivvy is the frustration children feel when adults constantly nag or instruct them about how to behave. It highlights the lack of freedom and independence children experience due to excessive adult interference.

Question 16:
What does the word Chivvy mean?
Answer:

The word Chivvy means to repeatedly urge or nag someone to do something, often in an annoying or persistent way.

Question 17:
List two instructions given by adults in the poem Chivvy.
Answer:
  • Don’t talk with your mouth full.
  • Don’t stare.
Question 18:
Why do you think the poet uses short, direct sentences in Chivvy?
Answer:

The poet uses short, direct sentences to mimic the way adults often give quick, abrupt instructions to children, emphasizing the constant nagging and lack of patience.

Question 19:
How does the poem Chivvy reflect a child's perspective?
Answer:

The poem reflects a child's perspective by showing how overwhelmed and frustrated they feel when adults keep giving them orders without allowing them to think or act independently.

Question 20:
What is the tone of the poem Chivvy?
Answer:

The tone of the poem Chivvy is irritated and complaining, as it expresses the speaker's annoyance at being constantly told what to do.

Question 21:
How does the poem Chivvy relate to real-life situations?
Answer:

The poem relates to real-life situations because many children experience constant instructions from adults, whether at home or school, which can make them feel controlled or frustrated.

Question 22:
What literary device is used in the line 'Don’t drag your feet' from the poem Chivvy?
Answer:

The literary device used here is imperative mood, as the line is a direct command given by an adult to a child.

Question 23:
Why is the poem Chivvy considered humorous?
Answer:

The poem is considered humorous because it exaggerates the common experience of children being nagged, making it relatable and funny to readers who have faced similar situations.

Question 24:
What message does the poet convey through Chivvy?
Answer:

The poet conveys the message that adults should trust children more and avoid over-controlling them, as constant nagging can be frustrating and counterproductive.

Question 25:
How does the structure of the poem Chivvy contribute to its meaning?
Answer:

The structure, with its short, repetitive lines, reinforces the idea of constant nagging, making the reader feel the relentless nature of adult instructions.

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:
Why does the poet use short sentences in Chivvy?
Answer:

The poet uses short sentences to mimic the abrupt and repetitive nature of adult instructions, emphasizing the annoyance children experience.

Question 2:
What does the line 'Don't drag your feet' signify in the poem?
Answer:

The line signifies how adults often micromanage children's actions, even in trivial matters like walking, reflecting a lack of freedom.

Question 3:
What literary device is predominantly used in Chivvy?
Answer:

The poem predominantly uses repetition as a literary device to emphasize the persistent and nagging tone of adult instructions.

Question 4:
Why is the title Chivvy appropriate for the poem?
Answer:

The title Chivvy means to nag or pester, which perfectly captures the poem's theme of adults constantly directing children.

Question 5:
How does the poem end, and what does it suggest?
Answer:

The poem ends with the line 'Say thank you', suggesting that adults never stop instructing, leaving no room for a child's autonomy.

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:
How does the poet use repetition in Chivvy to emphasize the message?
Answer:

The poet uses repetition of phrases like 'Don’t' and 'Can’t you' to stress the overbearing nature of adult instructions. This technique creates a rhythmic effect, making the nagging tone more noticeable. Repetition also reinforces the idea of constant interference in a child's life.

Question 2:
Explain the significance of the line 'Sit up straight' in the poem Chivvy.
Answer:

The line 'Sit up straight' signifies how adults focus on minor details of a child's behavior, often ignoring their comfort. It reflects the unnecessary strictness and lack of freedom given to children. This line, like others in the poem, shows the excessive control adults exert.

Question 3:
How does the poem Chivvy portray the relationship between adults and children?
Answer:

The poem portrays the relationship as one-sided and authoritative, where adults constantly correct and command children. There is little warmth or understanding shown, highlighting a lack of communication. This dynamic creates frustration and a sense of helplessness in children.

Question 4:
What literary device is predominantly used in Chivvy and why?
Answer:

The poem predominantly uses imperative sentences as a literary device. These commands ('Don’t talk with your mouth full') mimic the bossy tone of adults. This device effectively conveys the constant nagging and makes the poem more impactful for readers.

Question 5:
How does the poem Chivvy relate to real-life experiences of children?
Answer:

The poem relates to real-life experiences as many children face excessive instructions from parents or teachers. The frustration of being told what to do repeatedly is a common emotion. The poem thus serves as a mirror to childhood struggles with authority figures.

Question 6:
How does the poet use repetition in the poem Chivvy to emphasize the message?
Answer:

The poet uses repetition of phrases like 'Don’t' and 'Can’t you' to emphasize the relentless nature of adult instructions. This technique creates a rhythmic effect, making the nagging tone more noticeable. It also reinforces the child's feeling of being overpowered by constant demands.

Question 7:
How does the poem Chivvy reflect the perspective of a child?
Answer:

The poem Chivvy reflects a child's perspective by portraying their helplessness and annoyance at being constantly corrected. The repetitive commands show how children feel micromanaged without understanding the reason behind the rules. The tone captures their inner rebellion against such behavior.

Question 8:
What literary device is used in the line 'Don’t drag your feet' from the poem Chivvy? Explain its effect.
Answer:

The line 'Don’t drag your feet' uses the literary device of imperative mood, where commands are given directly. This device creates a stern tone, emphasizing the authoritative nature of adult instructions. It makes the reader feel the pressure a child experiences.

Question 9:
How does the poem Chivvy connect to real-life experiences of children?
Answer:

The poem Chivvy connects to real-life experiences by depicting the common scenario where children are told how to behave every moment. Many kids relate to the frustration of being overcorrected for small actions like eating, speaking, or walking. The poem serves as a mirror to such everyday interactions.

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 how the poem Chivvy highlights the conflict between adults and children. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Chivvy by Michael Rosen shows how adults often nag children with constant instructions, creating frustration.


Argument 1
  • Adults repeatedly tell children what to do, like "Sit up straight" or "Don’t talk with your mouth full".

Argument 2
  • Children feel annoyed as they are not allowed to think independently, as seen in "Don’t interrupt" and "Take your elbows off the table".

Conclusion

The poem reflects how excessive control can strain relationships, making children feel suffocated.

Question 2:
Describe the tone of the poem Chivvy and how it affects the reader’s understanding of the theme.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Chivvy has a frustrated and sarcastic tone, showing the poet’s irritation towards adult behavior.


Argument 1
  • The repetitive commands like "Don’t drag your feet" create a nagging effect, making the tone sound impatient.

Argument 2
  • The poet uses short, abrupt lines to emphasize how children feel controlled, as in "Say thank you".

Conclusion

The tone helps readers relate to the child’s frustration, reinforcing the theme of unnecessary adult interference.

Question 3:
How does the poet use repetition in Chivvy to emphasize the central idea? Provide examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Repetition in Chivvy stresses how adults constantly correct children, making them feel controlled.


Argument 1
  • Phrases like "Don’t" and "Say" are repeated, showing endless instructions, such as "Don’t stare".

Argument 2
  • The poet repeats similar commands like "Don’t talk" and "Don’t interrupt" to highlight monotony.

Conclusion

Repetition makes the poem’s message stronger, showing how excessive nagging affects children.

Question 4:
Discuss the perspective of the child in the poem Chivvy. How does it shape the poem’s meaning?
Answer:
Introduction

The child’s perspective in Chivvy reveals feelings of irritation and helplessness due to constant adult interference.


Argument 1
  • The child feels micromanaged, as seen in lines like "Don’t pick your nose", showing lack of freedom.

Argument 2
  • Commands like "Say please" make the child feel their actions are never good enough.

Conclusion

The child’s viewpoint helps readers understand the negative impact of excessive control on young minds.

Question 5:
Compare the adult’s expectations and the child’s desires as portrayed in Chivvy.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Chivvy contrasts adult expectations of perfection with a child’s need for freedom.


Argument 1
  • Adults expect manners like "Don’t chatter", while children want to express themselves freely.

Argument 2
  • Rules such as "Keep your hands out of your pockets" show adults focus on discipline, ignoring a child’s comfort.

Conclusion

The poem highlights the gap between adult demands and a child’s natural behavior.

Question 6:
How does the poet use repetition in Chivvy to emphasize the theme of nagging? Provide two examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Repetition in Chivvy stresses how adults repeatedly correct children. Our textbook shows this technique makes the poem relatable.


Argument 1
  • The phrase "Don’t" is repeated, like "Don’t pick your nose" and "Don’t stare."
  • This shows constant scolding, making children feel annoyed.

Argument 2
  • Commands like "Stand up straight" and "Say thank you" are repeated.
  • This highlights how adults focus on manners over a child’s feelings.

Conclusion

Repetition effectively shows the exhausting nature of adult instructions.

Question 7:
Describe the tone of the poem Chivvy and how it reflects a child’s perspective. Give examples.
Answer:
Introduction

The tone of Chivvy is frustrated and humorous, mirroring a child’s view of adult nagging. Our textbook calls this a "child’s rebellion."


Argument 1
  • Lines like "Don’t interrupt" sound strict, showing adult authority.
  • Children find this unfair, as they’re always being corrected.

Argument 2
  • The ending "Make up your mind" adds humor, mocking adult contradictions.
  • This tone makes the poem funny yet relatable to kids.

Conclusion

The tone captures both irritation and laughter, just like a child’s mixed feelings.

Question 8:
How does the poem Chivvy relate to the everyday experiences of children? Support with two examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Chivvy reflects common childhood moments where adults give endless orders. Our textbook links this to real-life situations.


Argument 1
  • Lines like "Don’t talk with your mouth full" mimic mealtime scolding.
  • Most children hear this daily, making the poem relatable.

Argument 2
  • "Say please" and "Say thank you" show how manners are forced.
  • Kids often feel these reminders are unnecessary.

Conclusion

The poem perfectly mirrors the little frustrations children face every day.

Question 9:
Analyze the structure of Chivvy and explain how it supports the poem’s message.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem’s short, direct lines mimic quick adult commands. Our textbook notes this structure adds to the nagging effect.


Argument 1
  • Each line is a new order, like "Don’t stare" or "Don’t point."
  • This feels overwhelming, just like real-life scolding.

Argument 2
  • No stanzas break the flow, showing non-stop instructions.
  • The abrupt ending "Make up your mind" leaves readers thinking.

Conclusion

The structure makes the poem feel rushed and bossy, just like a child’s experience.

Question 10:
How does the poet use repetition in Chivvy to emphasize the theme of irritation?
Answer:
Introduction

In Chivvy, repetition is used to show how adults constantly correct children, causing frustration.


Argument 1
  • Phrases like "Don’t" and "Why" are repeated, stressing endless nagging.
  • This makes the child feel controlled.

Argument 2
  • The line "Say thank you" appears twice, showing forced manners.
  • Our textbook notes this repetition highlights annoyance.

Conclusion

The poet effectively uses repetition to mirror a child’s irritation with adult interference.

Question 11:
Describe the tone of the poem Chivvy and how it reflects the speaker’s feelings.
Answer:
Introduction

The tone of Chivvy is frustrated and sarcastic, reflecting a child’s irritation with adult instructions.


Argument 1
  • Lines like "Don’t talk with your mouth full" sound strict and impatient.
  • The child feels micromanaged.

Argument 2
  • The sarcastic tone in "No one thinks you’re funny" shows resentment.
  • Our textbook shows this tone highlights the child’s helplessness.

Conclusion

The frustrated tone helps us understand the child’s perspective on adult nagging.

Question 12:
How does the poem Chivvy relate to the experiences of a 7th grader? Provide examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Chivvy relates to 7th graders as they often face similar nagging from adults.


Argument 1
  • Commands like "Do this" or "Don’t do that" are common in school and home.
  • Students feel restricted, just like in the poem.

Argument 2
  • The line "Take your elbows off the table" mirrors school rules.
  • Our textbook shows how such instructions can feel unnecessary.

Conclusion

The poem connects to students’ daily struggles with adult expectations.

Question 13:
Discuss the message of the poem Chivvy and how it applies to real life.
Answer:
Introduction

Chivvy delivers a message about how excessive control can frustrate children.


Argument 1
  • Adults should trust children more, as constant orders harm confidence.
  • For example, "Stand up straight" could be said kindly.

Argument 2
  • The poem warns against suppressing a child’s voice, like in "Don’t interrupt."
  • Our textbook shows this can lead to resentment.

Conclusion

The poem teaches adults to balance guidance with freedom for healthy growth.

Question 14:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet highlights how adults often instruct children. Explain how the poet uses tone and repetition to convey the message effectively. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem Chivvy by Michael Rosen uses a frustrated and ironic tone to show how adults constantly nag children with instructions. The poet repeats phrases like 'Don’t talk with your mouth full' and 'Sit up straight' to emphasize how excessive these commands can be. This repetition makes the reader feel the annoyance children experience.


For example, the line 'Don’t drag your feet' is a common instruction that feels unnecessary, showing how adults micromanage children. The tone is not angry but rather exasperated, making the reader sympathize with the child. The poet’s clever use of repetition helps us understand how these constant reminders can feel overwhelming.

Question 15:
The poem Chivvy reflects the conflict between children’s freedom and adult control. Discuss how the poet presents this idea through imagery and structure. Provide examples from the poem to justify your answer.
Answer:

In Chivvy, the poet uses simple yet powerful imagery to show how adults restrict children’s natural behavior. Phrases like 'Don’t pick your nose' and 'Don’t stare' create vivid pictures of small actions that adults try to control. The structure of the poem—short, abrupt lines—mirrors the way children receive these commands frequently.


For instance, the line 'Take your hands out of your pockets' feels like a sudden order, reinforcing the idea of constant interference. The lack of stanza breaks also suggests that these instructions never end, making the poem feel like one long scolding. Through this structure and imagery, the poet effectively conveys how adult control limits a child’s sense of freedom.

Question 16:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet highlights how adults often instruct children. Explain how these instructions can affect a child's growth and personality, with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem Chivvy by Michael Rosen portrays how adults constantly dictate children's actions, which can have both positive and negative effects on their growth.

On one hand, instructions like "Don’t talk with your mouth full" teach basic manners, helping children develop social etiquette. However, excessive nagging ("Stand up straight", "Take your hands out of your pockets") can make children feel suppressed or insecure, as they lose the freedom to express themselves naturally.

Over time, this may lead to low self-esteem or rebellion, as children might either blindly follow orders or resist them altogether. The poet subtly criticizes this behavior, suggesting that adults should balance guidance with allowing children to learn through experience.

Question 17:
The poem Chivvy uses simple language but conveys a deep message. Discuss how the poet's choice of words and tone helps in delivering the theme effectively.
Answer:

The poem Chivvy uses simple, everyday language and a conversational tone to make its message relatable and impactful. The poet, Michael Rosen, employs short, direct phrases like 'Don't drag your feet' or 'No one thinks you're funny', which mimic the way adults often speak to children.


Effectiveness of Word Choice: The use of imperative sentences (commands) highlights the constant instructions children receive. Words like 'don't' and 'can't' emphasize the restrictive nature of these orders.


Tone: The tone is light-hearted yet critical, making the poem humorous while subtly criticizing excessive adult interference. This duality helps readers reflect on the deeper issue of overbearing parenting.


By using familiar language and a playful tone, the poet ensures the theme is easily understood and leaves a lasting impression.

Question 18:
The poem Chivvy uses a conversational tone to convey its message. How does this style make the poem relatable to young readers? Support your answer with references from the text.
Answer:

The poem Chivvy employs a conversational and repetitive style, making it highly relatable to young readers. The lines are short and direct, mimicking how adults often speak to children, such as 'Sit up straight' or 'Say please'.

This style creates a familiar atmosphere, as children easily recognize these phrases from their daily lives. The lack of complex metaphors or heavy imagery keeps the poem accessible and engaging for a 7th-grade audience.

Additionally, the poet uses imperative sentences (commands) to reflect the one-sided nature of adult instructions. For instance, 'Don’t drag your feet' sounds like a typical parental reminder, making the poem feel like a real-life conversation. This approach helps young readers connect emotionally with the message about freedom and self-identity.

Question 19:
The poem Chivvy uses simple language but conveys a deep message about adult-child relationships. Analyze how the poet's choice of words and tone helps in delivering this message effectively.
Answer:

The poem Chivvy uses straightforward language and a relatable tone to highlight the dynamics between adults and children. The poet's techniques make the message impactful.

1. Simple Language:
The phrases like 'Don’t drag your feet' and 'No one thinks you’re funny' are easy to understand, making the poem accessible to young readers while emphasizing common adult remarks.

2. Repetitive Tone:
The repeated use of commands ('Don’t') creates a nagging effect, mirroring how children perceive constant instructions. This tone helps readers feel the child's frustration.

3. Irony:
Lines like 'Can’t you make your own mind up about anything?' are ironic because adults often discourage independence while expecting decision-making skills.

Through these techniques, the poet successfully conveys how excessive control can strain relationships and stifle a child's growth.

Question 20:
The poem Chivvy uses simple language but conveys a deep message. Analyze how the poet’s choice of words and tone helps in delivering the theme effectively.
Answer:

The poet, Michael Rosen, uses simple yet impactful language in Chivvy to make the poem relatable to children while emphasizing its serious theme.

The repetitive instructions like "Don’t drag your feet" and "No one thinks you’re funny" mimic the constant nagging children face, creating a monotonous tone that reflects their frustration.

The direct speech ("Say thank you") makes the poem sound like real-life scolding, helping readers connect emotionally. By avoiding complex words, the poet ensures the message is clear: adults should trust children more instead of over-controlling them. This simplicity makes the poem universally understandable while highlighting a deeper issue of parental dominance.

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:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet highlights how adults often instruct children. List two examples from the poem where adults tell children what to do. How does this make the children feel?
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied how adults constantly guide children in Chivvy.

Analysis
  • Adults say, "Don’t drag your feet" and "Speak up."
  • Children feel annoyed as they lose their freedom.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows that too many instructions can frustrate children.

Question 2:
The poet uses repetition in Chivvy to emphasize a point. Identify one repeated phrase and explain its effect.
Answer:
Case Summary

Repetition in Chivvy stresses adult behavior.

Analysis
  • The phrase "Don’t" is repeated, like "Don’t stare" and "Don’t point."
  • It shows how adults keep correcting children.
Conclusion

Our textbook explains repetition makes the poem more impactful.

Question 3:
In Chivvy, the poet describes a one-sided conversation. How does this reflect the relationship between adults and children?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem shows adults talking without listening.

Analysis
  • Children hear commands like "Stand straight" but can’t respond.
  • This creates an unequal relationship.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows that children feel unheard in such situations.

Question 4:
The title Chivvy means to nag someone. How does the poet justify this title through the poem’s content?
Answer:
Case Summary

The title matches the poem’s theme of constant instructions.

Analysis
  • Lines like "Don’t interrupt" and "Sit up" show nagging.
  • Children feel pressured by endless reminders.
Conclusion

Our textbook confirms the title reflects adult behavior perfectly.

Question 5:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet describes how adults constantly instruct children. Identify two examples from the poem where adults tell children what to do. How does this make the children feel?
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied how adults repeatedly command children in Chivvy. Our textbook shows examples like 'Don’t drag your feet' and 'Stand up straight'.

Analysis
  • Children feel annoyed as they are always being corrected.
  • They lose confidence when constantly told what to do.
Conclusion

The poem highlights how excessive instructions can frustrate children.

Question 6:
The poet uses a repetitive tone in Chivvy. Explain how this tone helps convey the message of the poem. Support your answer with one example.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem repeats phrases like 'Don’t' and 'Can’t you' to show how adults nag children.

Analysis
  • Repetition emphasizes how often children hear these commands.
  • Example: 'Don’t talk with your mouth full' shows constant reminders.
Conclusion

The repetitive tone makes the poem relatable to kids who face similar situations.

Question 7:
In Chivvy, the poet describes adult behavior. Compare how adults treat children in the poem with how you think they should treat them.
Answer:
Case Summary

Adults in the poem keep correcting kids, like saying 'Don’t stare' or 'Don’t point'.

Analysis
  • Instead of scolding, adults should guide patiently.
  • Example: They could say 'Please sit properly' instead of ordering.
Conclusion

Children respond better to polite instructions rather than strict commands.

Question 8:
The title Chivvy means to nag someone constantly. Explain why this title is suitable for the poem. Give one example from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem is about adults nagging kids, as seen in lines like 'Don’t interrupt'.

Analysis
  • The title fits because the whole poem is about repeated instructions.
  • Example: 'Can’t you make your mind up?' shows irritation.
Conclusion

Chivvy perfectly captures the poem’s theme of unnecessary nagging.

Question 9:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet highlights how adults often instruct children.

Q1. Why do you think adults constantly give instructions to children? Provide two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

Adults give instructions to children to teach them manners and discipline.


Analysis
  • Example 1: "Don’t drag your feet" teaches proper walking.
  • Example 2: "Say thank you" instills gratitude.

Conclusion

Our textbook shows adults want children to behave well, but excessive instructions can feel overwhelming.

Question 10:
The poem Chivvy shows a child’s frustration with adult instructions.

Q2. How does the poet convey this frustration? Support your answer with two lines from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet uses simple language to show the child’s irritation.


Analysis
  • Line 1: "Sit up straight" shows constant correction.
  • Line 2: "Don’t interrupt" reflects strict rules.

Conclusion

We studied how repeated commands make the child feel controlled, as seen in NCERT examples.

Question 11:
In Chivvy, adults focus on manners and behavior.

Q3. Do you think these instructions are helpful or unnecessary? Justify with two reasons.
Answer:
Case Summary

Instructions can be both helpful and excessive.


Analysis
  • Helpful: Teaches respect, like "Say please."
  • Unnecessary: Too many rules, like "Don’t talk with your mouth full."

Conclusion

Our textbook shows balance is key, as constant nagging may annoy children.

Question 12:
The title Chivvy means to nag or pester.

Q4. How does the poem justify this title? Explain with two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem justifies the title through repeated instructions.


Analysis
  • Example 1: "Stand up straight" is a nagging command.
  • Example 2: "Take your hands out of your pockets" shows pestering.

Conclusion

We studied how the title matches the poem’s theme of adults constantly correcting children.

Question 13:

Read the following lines from the poem Chivvy:

'Don't drag your feet,
Haven't you got a hankie?'

Based on these lines, answer the following:

1. What is the tone of the speaker in these lines?
2. How does the poet use everyday instructions to highlight the theme of the poem?

Answer:

1. The tone of the speaker in these lines is authoritative and nagging. The use of commands like 'Don't drag your feet' and questions like 'Haven't you got a hankie?' shows that the speaker is trying to control the child's behavior, reflecting a strict or impatient attitude.

2. The poet uses everyday instructions to highlight the theme of adults constantly directing children. These instructions, though small, show how adults often micromanage children, leaving them with little freedom. The poem critiques this behavior by listing such common remarks, making the theme relatable and clear.

Question 14:

In the poem Chivvy, the poet writes:

'Sit up straight,
Say thank you,
Don't interrupt.'

1. What emotion do these lines evoke in the reader?
2. How does the poet use repetition to emphasize the central idea of the poem?

Answer:

1. These lines evoke a sense of frustration or annoyance in the reader. The constant orders make the reader sympathize with the child, who is being told what to do repeatedly, leaving no room for independence.

2. The poet uses repetition of commands like 'Sit up straight', 'Say thank you', and 'Don't interrupt' to emphasize how adults never stop instructing children. This repetition creates a rhythmic effect, reinforcing the idea that such nagging is endless and overwhelming for the child.

Question 15:

Read the following lines from the poem Chivvy:

'Don't drag your feet,
Haven't you got a hankie?'

Question: How does the poet use these lines to highlight the theme of adult interference in a child's life? Explain with reference to the poem.

Answer:

The poet, Michael Rosen, uses these lines to emphasize how adults constantly nag or chivvy children over small things.

The phrase 'Don't drag your feet' shows how adults correct a child's natural way of walking, while 'Haven't you got a hankie?' reflects their obsession with cleanliness and manners.

These lines highlight the theme of unnecessary interference, where adults fail to let children be themselves. The poem as a whole criticizes this behavior, suggesting that excessive control can stifle a child's independence.

Question 16:

In the poem Chivvy, the poet lists several instructions given by adults to children, such as 'Sit up straight' and 'Say thank you.'

Question: How do these instructions reflect the poet's message about the relationship between adults and children? Support your answer with examples from the poem.

Answer:

The poet, Michael Rosen, uses these instructions to show how adults often dominate children with endless rules, leaving no room for freedom.

For example, 'Sit up straight' reflects strict discipline, while 'Say thank you' forces politeness instead of letting it come naturally.

The poet's message is that adults overcontrol children, making them feel restricted and annoyed. The repetitive nature of these commands in the poem highlights how such behavior can be exhausting for children, damaging their confidence and spontaneity.

Question 17:
Read the following lines from the poem Chivvy:
'Don’t drag your feet,
Haven’t you got a hankie?'

Why do you think the poet uses these instructions in the poem? How does it reflect the theme of the poem?

Answer:

The poet uses these instructions to highlight how adults often nag or chivvy children with constant reminders about small things.

These lines reflect the theme of the poem by showing how children are frequently told what to do, even for trivial matters, which can make them feel irritated or controlled.

The poet wants to convey that excessive interference can take away a child's sense of independence and confidence.

Question 18:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet mentions:
'Don’t interrupt,
Don’t pick your nose.'

How do these lines create a humorous effect while also conveying a deeper message about adult behavior?

Answer:

The lines create humor by listing silly or obvious instructions that adults often give children, making them sound unnecessary.

At the same time, they convey a deeper message about how adults sometimes focus too much on minor issues instead of letting children learn naturally.

The poet suggests that such constant nagging can be annoying and may prevent children from developing their own judgment.

Question 19:
Read the following lines from the poem Chivvy:

'Don’t drag your feet,
Haven’t you got a hankie?'

(a) Why do adults often give such instructions to children?
(b) How might the child feel when constantly told what to do?
Answer:

(a) Adults often give such instructions to children to teach them manners, hygiene, and social etiquette. They want children to grow up disciplined and well-behaved, following societal norms. For example, dragging feet may seem lazy, and carrying a hankie is basic hygiene.

(b) The child might feel annoyed, frustrated, or even restricted when constantly told what to do. While adults mean well, excessive instructions can make children feel like they have no freedom or independence. The poem Chivvy highlights how too much nagging can be overwhelming.

Question 20:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet mentions, 'Don’t interrupt' and 'Don’t stare'.

(a) What do these phrases reveal about adult expectations?
(b) Do you think such instructions help children in the long run? Justify your answer.
Answer:

(a) These phrases reveal that adults expect children to follow polite behavior and respectful communication. Interrupting is seen as rude, and staring may make others uncomfortable. Adults want children to learn social norms early.

(b) Yes, such instructions help in the long run because they teach children self-discipline and emotional intelligence. However, if given harshly or too often, they may make children feel suppressed. A balanced approach—explaining why certain behaviors are important—works best.

Question 21:
In the poem Chivvy, the poet mentions:

'Take your hands out of your pockets,
Pull your socks up.'

(a) What do these lines reveal about adult behavior?
(b) How does the poet use humor to convey the child's perspective?
Answer:

(a) These lines reveal that adults often focus on small details of a child's behavior, believing it reflects discipline. They want children to appear neat and well-mannered, even if the instructions seem unnecessary or repetitive.

(b) The poet uses humor by listing trivial commands that adults give, making the reader smile at how minor these corrections are. The child's perspective is shown through the exaggeration of constant nagging, making it relatable and funny for young readers who experience similar situations.

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