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Poem: The Ant and the Cricket – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Poem: The Ant and the Cricket

Study Materials

8th

8th - English

Poem: The Ant and the Cricket

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Overview of the Chapter

The poem The Ant and the Cricket is a fable that teaches a moral lesson about the importance of hard work and planning for the future. It contrasts the behavior of a lazy cricket, who spends his time singing during the summer, with that of a diligent ant, who works hard to store food for the winter. The poem highlights the consequences of laziness and the value of responsibility.

Fable: A short story, typically with animals as characters, conveying a moral lesson.

Summary of the Poem

The poem begins with a cricket who enjoys singing all through the warm summer months, without worrying about the future. When winter arrives, the cricket finds himself starving and without shelter. He approaches an ant, begging for food and shelter. The ant, who had worked hard during the summer to gather food, questions the cricket's laziness and refuses to help him. The poem ends with the cricket realizing his mistake but facing the harsh consequences of his carefree attitude.

Key Themes

  • Hard Work vs. Laziness: The ant represents diligence and foresight, while the cricket symbolizes procrastination and irresponsibility.
  • Consequences of Actions: The cricket suffers due to his lack of preparation, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.
  • Moral Lesson: The poem teaches that one must work hard and be responsible to avoid hardships in the future.

Literary Devices Used

  • Personification: The ant and the cricket are given human-like qualities, such as speaking and reasoning.
  • Imagery: The poem vividly describes the changing seasons and the cricket's plight in winter.
  • Contrast: The behaviors of the ant and the cricket are contrasted to highlight the moral lesson.

Important Questions

  1. What is the central message of the poem The Ant and the Cricket?
  2. How does the poet use the characters of the ant and the cricket to convey the moral lesson?
  3. What literary devices are employed in the poem, and how do they enhance its meaning?

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:
Who is the author of the poem The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:
Adapted from Aesop's fables
Question 2:
What did the cricket do all summer?
Answer:
Sang and enjoyed
Question 3:
Why did the cricket approach the ant in winter?
Answer:
For food and shelter
Question 4:
What was the ant's response to the cricket's request?
Answer:
Refused to help
Question 5:
What lesson does the poem The Ant and the Cricket teach?
Answer:
Plan for the future
Question 6:
How does the cricket describe its situation in winter?
Answer:
Starving and helpless
Question 7:
What did the ant do during summer?
Answer:
Worked and stored food
Question 8:
What is the moral of the poem?
Answer:
Hard work pays off
Question 9:
What season is mentioned in the poem?
Answer:
Summer and winter
Question 10:
How does the cricket try to justify its laziness?
Answer:
Claims it was singing
Question 11:
What does the ant symbolize in the poem?
Answer:
Hard work and planning
Question 12:
What does the cricket symbolize in the poem?
Answer:
Laziness and carelessness
Question 13:
What literary device is used in The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:
Personification
Question 14:
Why couldn't the cricket find food in winter?
Answer:
Did not store any
Question 15:
What is the central theme of the poem The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem is the importance of hard work and planning for the future. It contrasts the carefree attitude of the cricket with the diligence of the ant, teaching a moral lesson about responsibility.

Question 16:
Why did the cricket approach the ant in the poem?
Answer:

The cricket approached the ant because it had no food or shelter for winter, having spent the summer singing instead of preparing. It sought help from the hardworking ant.

Question 17:
What lesson does the ant teach the cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The ant teaches the cricket that one must work hard and save for the future instead of being lazy. It emphasizes the value of responsibility and self-reliance.

Question 18:
How does the poet describe the cricket's summer in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes the cricket's summer as carefree and full of singing. The cricket enjoyed the warm weather without worrying about storing food for winter.

Question 19:
What was the ant doing when the cricket approached it?
Answer:

The ant was storing food for winter, demonstrating hard work and preparation. It was busy gathering grains while the cricket had been idle.

Question 20:
What is the moral of the poem The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:

The moral is that hard work and planning ahead are essential for survival. Those who are lazy or irresponsible, like the cricket, may suffer consequences later.

Question 21:
How does the poet contrast the ant and the cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The poet contrasts the diligent ant, which works hard and prepares for winter, with the carefree cricket, which sings all summer and faces hardship later. This highlights the difference between responsibility and laziness.

Question 22:
What season is mentioned in the poem when the cricket faces trouble?
Answer:

The cricket faces trouble in winter, when it has no food or shelter due to its lack of preparation during summer.

Question 23:
Why does the ant refuse to help the cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The ant refuses to help because the cricket was irresponsible and did not work when it had the chance. The ant believes in earning through effort rather than relying on others.

Question 24:
What literary device is used in the poem to convey its message?
Answer:

The poem uses personification, giving human traits to the ant and cricket, to teach a moral lesson about hard work and foresight.

Question 25:
How does the cricket's attitude change by the end of the poem?
Answer:

By the end, the cricket realizes its mistake of being lazy and understands the importance of planning and hard work, though it is too late.

Question 26:
What does the ant symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

The ant symbolizes discipline, hard work, and wisdom. It represents those who prepare for challenges and take responsibility for their future.

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:
How does the cricket justify his behavior to the ant?
Answer:

The cricket justifies his behavior by saying he was too busy singing and enjoying the pleasant weather, neglecting to store food for winter.

Question 2:
Why does the ant refuse to help the cricket?
Answer:

The ant refuses because the cricket did not work when he had the chance. The ant believes in earning through effort and does not support laziness.

Question 3:
What season is mentioned in the poem, and how does it affect the cricket?
Answer:

Winter is mentioned, and it leaves the cricket starving because he failed to store food during warmer months.

Question 4:
How does the poet describe the cricket’s condition in winter?
Answer:

The poet describes the cricket as starving and desperate, with no food or shelter, highlighting the consequences of his carefree attitude.

Question 5:
How does the ant respond when the cricket asks for help?
Answer:

The ant firmly refuses, stating that since the cricket sang all summer, he should dance (face consequences) in winter.

Question 6:
What literary device is used in the line 'He saw the ants, marching along'?
Answer:

The line uses personification, giving human-like qualities (marching) to the ants.

Question 7:
Why is the cricket called 'silly' in the poem?
Answer:

The cricket is called silly because he wasted time singing instead of preparing for winter, showing a lack of wisdom.

Question 8:
What contrast is shown between the ant and the cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The ant is hardworking and prepared, while the cricket is lazy and careless, creating a contrast between responsibility and negligence.

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:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, why does the cricket approach the ant for help?
Answer:

The cricket approaches the ant for help because it had spent the entire summer singing and enjoying itself instead of storing food for winter. When winter arrives, the cricket finds itself starving and with no shelter. It realizes its mistake and seeks the ant's assistance to survive the harsh season.

Question 2:
What lesson does the poem The Ant and the Cricket teach about responsibility?
Answer:

The poem teaches the importance of responsibility and planning ahead. The ant symbolizes hard work and foresight, as it stores food during summer. The cricket, however, represents carelessness and suffers due to its laziness. The moral is that one must work diligently and prepare for the future to avoid hardships.

Question 3:
How does the poet describe the cricket's condition in winter in The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:

The poet describes the cricket's condition in winter as miserable and helpless. The cricket is starving, shivering from the cold, and has no shelter or food. The lines 'Not a crumb to be found' and 'the snow covered the ground' highlight its desperate situation due to its lack of preparation.

Question 4:
Contrast the attitudes of the ant and the cricket in The Ant and the Cricket.
Answer:
  • The ant is hardworking, disciplined, and plans for the future by storing food in summer.
  • The cricket is carefree, lazy, and spends its time singing instead of preparing for winter.
  • The ant's foresight ensures its survival, while the cricket's irresponsibility leads to suffering.
Question 5:
Explain the significance of the line 'We ants never borrow, we ants never lend' in the poem.
Answer:

This line highlights the ant's principles of self-reliance and discipline. The ant refuses to help the cricket because it believes in earning through hard work rather than depending on others. It subtly criticizes the cricket's irresponsible behavior and emphasizes the value of personal accountability.

Question 6:
How does the poet describe the cricket's behavior in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes the cricket as carefree and irresponsible. During summer, the cricket spends its time singing and enjoying life instead of gathering food. When winter arrives, it finds itself hungry and helpless, highlighting its lack of foresight and poor planning.

Question 7:
Why does the cricket approach the ant for help in winter?
Answer:

The cricket approaches the ant for help in winter because it has no food stored and is starving. Having spent summer singing instead of working, it realizes its mistake too late and seeks assistance from the ant, who had been diligent.

Question 8:
How does the poem use the characters of the ant and the cricket to convey its message?
Answer:

The poem uses the ant and the cricket as symbols to contrast hard work and laziness. The ant represents discipline and foresight, while the cricket symbolizes carefree behavior. Their interactions highlight the consequences of not preparing for the future, making the message clear and relatable.

Question 9:
What is the significance of the seasons (summer and winter) in the poem?
Answer:

The seasons of summer and winter symbolize opportunity and consequence. Summer represents a time of abundance when one should work hard, while winter signifies hardship for those who did not prepare. The contrast emphasizes the poem's moral about planning and responsibility.

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:
How does the poem The Ant and the Cricket teach the importance of hard work and planning?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts the lazy cricket and the hardworking ant to highlight the value of preparation.


Argument 1
  • The cricket sings all summer while the ant gathers food.
  • Our textbook shows the ant's foresight as it stores grains.

Argument 2
  • Winter arrives, and the starving cricket begs the ant for help.
  • The ant refuses, teaching us that laziness has consequences.

Conclusion

The poem warns us to work hard like the ant to avoid future struggles.

Question 2:
Explain how the personification of animals in The Ant and the Cricket makes the poem more engaging.
Answer:
Introduction

Personification gives human traits to animals, making the poem relatable.


Argument 1
  • The cricket is shown singing and begging, like a carefree human.
  • Our textbook describes the ant as disciplined, mirroring responsible people.

Argument 2
  • Their dialogue ('Oh! What will become...') adds drama.
  • This technique helps us connect with the moral lesson.

Conclusion

Personification makes the story vivid and memorable for readers.

Question 3:
Compare the attitudes of the ant and the cricket in The Ant and the Cricket. How do they reflect real-life behaviors?
Answer:
Introduction

The ant and cricket symbolize contrasting approaches to life.


Argument 1
  • The ant is diligent, storing food for winter like responsible people.
  • Our textbook shows the cricket as impulsive, enjoying the present.

Argument 2
  • In real life, students who study regularly (like ants) succeed.
  • Those who procrastinate (like crickets) face last-minute stress.

Conclusion

The poem mirrors how planning leads to stability while laziness brings trouble.

Question 4:
What is the central moral lesson of The Ant and the Cricket? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem teaches the importance of responsibility through a fable.


Argument 1
  • The ant’s hard work ensures its survival in winter.
  • Our textbook highlights the cricket’s regret for not preparing.

Argument 2
  • The ant’s reply ('We ants never borrow...') emphasizes self-reliance.
  • The starving cricket’s fate warns against laziness.

Conclusion

The moral is clear: diligence today prevents suffering tomorrow.

Question 5:
How does the seasonal setting (summer vs. winter) in The Ant and the Cricket enhance the poem’s message?
Answer:
Introduction

Seasons symbolize times of plenty and scarcity in the poem.


Argument 1
  • Summer represents opportunity; the ant works while the cricket plays.
  • Our textbook describes winter as hardship, exposing the cricket’s folly.

Argument 2
  • The contrast shows consequences of wasting resources.
  • Just like farmers store crops, planning is vital.

Conclusion

The seasonal shift powerfully reinforces the need for preparation.

Question 6:
How does the poem The Ant and the Cricket teach the value of hard work and planning?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts the hardworking ant and the carefree cricket to highlight the importance of responsibility.


Argument 1
  • The ant stores food for winter, showing foresight.
  • Our textbook shows the cricket suffers due to laziness.

Argument 2

The ant refuses to help the cricket, emphasizing self-reliance. This mirrors real-life situations where planning avoids crises.


Conclusion

The poem teaches that hard work and planning lead to security, while negligence brings hardship.

Question 7:
Explain how the personification of animals in the poem The Ant and the Cricket makes the moral clearer.
Answer:
Introduction

Personification helps us relate to the characters and their choices.


Argument 1
  • The ant is portrayed as disciplined, like a responsible human.
  • Our textbook shows the cricket as carefree, making its folly obvious.

Argument 2

Their dialogue feels human, like when the ant scolds the cricket. This strengthens the moral lesson.


Conclusion

Personification makes the poem’s message about hard work more relatable and memorable.

Question 8:
Why does the poet use seasons (summer and winter) to convey the poem’s message in The Ant and the Cricket?
Answer:
Introduction

Seasons symbolize opportunity and consequences in the poem.


Argument 1
  • Summer represents time for work, like the ant’s gathering.
  • Winter shows hardship, exposing the cricket’s laziness.

Argument 2

Our textbook highlights how nature’s cycles teach planning. The cricket’s suffering in winter warns against wasting time.


Conclusion

The seasons make the moral timeless: prepare today to survive tomorrow.

Question 9:
How does the dialogue between the ant and the cricket strengthen the poem’s central idea?
Answer:
Introduction

The dialogue reveals their contrasting mindsets clearly.


Argument 1
  • The cricket’s pleading shows desperation due to poor choices.
  • The ant’s firm reply reflects principles of hard work.

Argument 2

Our textbook uses their exchange to emphasize accountability. For example, the ant says, "We ants never borrow."


Conclusion

The dialogue makes the moral lesson vivid and impactful for readers.

Question 10:
How does the poem The Ant and the Cricket teach the importance of hard work?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts the lazy cricket and the hardworking ant, showing the consequences of their choices.


Argument 1
  • The cricket sings all summer while the ant gathers food, highlighting responsibility.

Argument 2
  • In winter, the starving cricket begs the ant, proving that hard work ensures survival.

Conclusion

Our textbook shows that planning and effort, like the ant’s, lead to success, while laziness brings suffering.

Question 11:
Explain the moral lesson of The Ant and the Cricket with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem teaches a lesson about preparation and consequences through two contrasting characters.


Argument 1
  • The ant’s hard work in summer ensures its winter survival, showing foresight.

Argument 2
  • The cricket’s laziness leaves it hungry, proving actions have consequences.

Conclusion

We studied how the ant’s discipline and the cricket’s carelessness deliver a clear moral about responsibility.

Question 12:
Compare the attitudes of the ant and the cricket in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The ant and cricket represent opposite approaches to life—one diligent, the other careless.


Argument 1
  • The ant is disciplined, storing food for winter, while the cricket sings and wastes time.

Argument 2
  • The cricket’s carefree attitude leads to suffering, unlike the ant’s security.

Conclusion

Our textbook shows how their choices reflect the outcomes of hard work vs. laziness.

Question 13:
How does the poet use personification in The Ant and the Cricket to convey its message?
Answer:
Introduction

The poet gives human traits to the ant and cricket to teach a life lesson.


Argument 1
  • The cricket sings and dances, acting like a carefree human.

Argument 2
  • The ant plans and labors, resembling a responsible person.

Conclusion

We studied how personification makes the poem relatable and emphasizes its moral.

Question 14:
Why does the ant refuse to help the cricket in the poem? Justify its decision.
Answer:
Introduction

The ant refuses because the cricket’s irresponsibility caused its own suffering.


Argument 1
  • The ant worked hard while the cricket was idle, showing fairness.

Argument 2
  • Helping the cricket would reward laziness, undermining the poem’s lesson.

Conclusion

Our textbook shows the ant’s refusal teaches the importance of earning rewards through effort.

Question 15:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket is portrayed as careless while the ant is hardworking. Explain how this contrast teaches us an important life lesson. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem The Ant and the Cricket by Aesop highlights the stark contrast between the carefree attitude of the cricket and the diligent nature of the ant. This contrast serves as a moral lesson about the importance of hard work and planning for the future.

In the poem, the cricket spends the warm summer months singing and enjoying life, while the ant works tirelessly to store food for the winter. When winter arrives, the cricket finds itself starving and begs the ant for help. The ant, however, refuses, pointing out that the cricket should have worked when it had the chance.

This teaches us that:

  • Procrastination leads to hardship, as seen in the cricket's plight.
  • Responsibility and foresight are essential for survival, as demonstrated by the ant.
For example, students who prepare for exams in advance (like the ant) perform better than those who leave everything for the last minute (like the cricket). Thus, the poem emphasizes the value of discipline and preparation in life.

Question 16:
The poem The Ant and the Cricket uses personification to convey its message. Analyze how this literary device enhances the poem's moral and makes it relatable to readers.
Answer:

Personification is a key literary device used in The Ant and the Cricket, where animals are given human traits to convey a deeper moral lesson. This technique makes the poem more engaging and relatable, especially for young readers.

For instance:

  • The cricket is portrayed as a lazy, carefree individual who prioritizes enjoyment over work, much like some people.
  • The ant embodies discipline and responsibility, traits admired in hardworking individuals.
By giving these insects human characteristics, the poet simplifies complex life lessons. Readers can easily connect the cricket's foolishness and the ant's wisdom to real-life situations, such as saving money for emergencies or studying regularly to avoid last-minute stress.

Moreover, personification adds a storytelling charm to the poem, making the moral more memorable. For example, the cricket's plea for help and the ant's stern refusal create a vivid scenario that sticks in the reader's mind. This technique effectively reinforces the message that hard work and planning are crucial for success.

Question 17:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket is portrayed as careless while the ant is hardworking. Explain how the poet uses contrast between these two characters to convey the moral of the poem. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The poet uses contrast between the cricket and the ant to highlight the importance of hard work and planning for the future. The cricket is shown as carefree and lazy, spending his time singing and enjoying the summer without preparing for winter. On the other hand, the ant is diligent and foresighted, working hard during summer to store food for the harsh winter.


For example, the cricket says, 'Oh! What will become of me?' when winter arrives, showing his regret for not planning ahead. Meanwhile, the ant replies, 'We ants never borrow, we ants never lend.', emphasizing the value of self-reliance and responsibility. This stark contrast teaches the moral that one must work hard and prepare for difficult times instead of being lazy and regretful later.

Question 18:
The poem The Ant and the Cricket ends with a moral lesson. Describe how the poet uses personification to make this lesson more impactful. Provide examples from the poem to justify your answer.
Answer:

The poet uses personification by giving human-like qualities to the ant and the cricket, making the moral lesson more relatable and memorable. The cricket is portrayed as a carefree artist who sings all summer, while the ant is depicted as a wise worker who plans ahead.


For instance, the cricket says, "My heart was so light that I sang day and night", which reflects human emotions of joy and negligence. The ant, however, acts like a strict but practical person, saying, "Since you could sing all summer, you may dance all winter". This use of personification helps readers connect with the characters and understand the consequences of laziness versus hard work.

Question 19:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket faces hardship due to his careless attitude. Explain how the poem teaches the importance of hard work and planning for the future. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem The Ant and the Cricket by Aesop highlights the consequences of laziness and the value of hard work and planning. The cricket spends his summer singing and enjoying life without preparing for the winter, while the ant works diligently to store food. When winter arrives, the cricket suffers hunger and begs the ant for help, but the ant refuses, teaching a lesson about responsibility.


Hard work is shown through the ant's consistent efforts during summer. Unlike the cricket, the ant understands that survival requires preparation. The ant's disciplined approach ensures it has enough food for winter, while the cricket's carelessness leaves him starving.


Planning is another key lesson. The ant's foresight contrasts with the cricket's short-term thinking. The poem warns that those who do not plan ahead will face difficulties. For example, the cricket admits, 'I was so busy singing that I forgot to store food.' This shows how lack of planning leads to regret.


In real life, this message applies to students who must balance studies and leisure. Just like the ant, those who work hard and plan their time wisely succeed, while those who procrastinate struggle later.

Question 20:
The poem The Ant and the Cricket uses contrasting characters to convey a moral lesson. Compare and contrast the attitudes of the ant and the cricket, and explain how their choices determine their fate.
Answer:

The poem The Ant and the Cricket presents two contrasting characters—the hardworking ant and the carefree cricket—to teach a moral lesson about responsibility and consequences.


Attitude of the Cricket: The cricket is lazy and irresponsible. He spends his summer singing and ignores the need to prepare for winter. His carefree nature reflects a lack of foresight. When winter comes, he realizes his mistake and begs the ant for food, showing his helplessness.


Attitude of the Ant: The ant is disciplined and hardworking. She spends summer gathering food and planning for the future. Her practical approach ensures her survival during harsh times. When the cricket asks for help, she refuses, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance.


Comparison:

  • The cricket represents laziness and short-term pleasure, while the ant symbolizes diligence and long-term planning.
  • The cricket suffers due to his choices, whereas the ant thrives because of her efforts.


The poem teaches that our actions determine our future. Those who work hard, like the ant, succeed, while those who waste time, like the cricket, face hardships. This lesson applies to students who must balance fun and studies to achieve success.

Question 21:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket is portrayed as careless while the ant is hardworking. Explain how the poet uses contrast between the two characters to convey the moral of the poem. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The poet uses contrast effectively to highlight the differences between the carefree cricket and the diligent ant, reinforcing the moral of the poem—hard work and planning are essential for survival.

In the poem, the cricket spends the warm months singing and enjoying life, neglecting to store food for winter. The poet describes the cricket's attitude with lines like 'The silly young cricket, accustomed to sing', emphasizing his lack of foresight. On the other hand, the ant is portrayed as responsible and hardworking, gathering food during summer. The ant's reply, 'We ants never borrow, we ants never lend', showcases her disciplined nature.

The stark contrast between the cricket's laziness and the ant's preparedness teaches readers the importance of responsibility and planning for the future. The cricket's suffering in winter due to his carelessness serves as a warning, while the ant's comfort highlights the rewards of hard work.

Question 22:
The poem The Ant and the Cricket teaches a valuable lesson through a simple story. Discuss how the poet uses personification to make the characters relatable and the lesson memorable. Provide examples from the poem to support your answer.
Answer:

The poet employs personification to give human-like qualities to the ant and the cricket, making their behaviors and the poem's moral more relatable and impactful.

For instance, the cricket is shown singing and dancing during summer, much like a carefree human who avoids responsibilities. The line 'Oh! What will become,' says the cricket, 'of me?' reflects human-like worry and regret, making his plight emotionally engaging. Similarly, the ant is given human traits such as discipline and practicality. Her response, 'We ants never borrow, we ants never lend', mimics human principles of self-reliance.

By using personification, the poet transforms a simple fable into a memorable lesson about the consequences of laziness and the benefits of hard work. Readers connect with the characters' emotions, making the moral—preparation and diligence are key to survival—more effective and lasting.

Question 23:
The poem The Ant and the Cricket teaches an important life lesson through a simple story. Describe how the poet uses personification to make the characters relatable and effectively deliver the moral message.
Answer:

The poet uses personification by giving human-like qualities to the ant and the cricket, making them relatable and the moral lesson more impactful. The cricket is portrayed as a carefree and irresponsible person who enjoys life without thinking about the future, while the ant represents a disciplined and hardworking individual.


For instance, the cricket sings, 'Oh! What a blessed time!' during summer, reflecting human laziness. The ant, however, is shown collecting grains and saying, 'I am your servant and friend, but we ants never borrow, we ants never lend.', symbolizing human virtues like responsibility and foresight. Through this personification, the poet makes the characters' actions and consequences clear, teaching readers the importance of hard work and planning.

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 Ant and the Cricket, the cricket sings all summer while the ant works. Contrast their attitudes and explain the moral lesson.
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied how the cricket enjoyed singing, ignoring future needs, while the ant stored food diligently.

Analysis
  • The cricket represents carefree behavior.
  • The ant symbolizes responsibility.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows this teaches us to plan ahead, like saving money for emergencies, similar to a student preparing for exams early.

Question 2:
How does the poet use personification in the poem to highlight the cricket's regret? Provide two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The cricket is given human traits, like singing and complaining, to show its foolishness.

Analysis
  • Example 1: 'He sang the summer long'—human action.
  • Example 2: 'My heart was so light'—human emotion.
Conclusion

This helps us understand regret, like forgetting homework or wasting time playing games instead of studying.

Question 3:
The ant refuses to help the cricket. Justify its action with a real-life example.
Answer:
Case Summary

The ant denies help as the cricket didn’t work, teaching consequences of laziness.

Analysis
  • The ant’s refusal is fair—reward follows effort.
Conclusion

In real life, if we don’t study, we fail exams, just like the cricket suffered hunger. Our textbook compares this to saving pocket money for needs.

Question 4:
Identify one poetic device used in 'The Ant and the Cricket' and explain its effect with an example.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem uses fable—animals teach human lessons.

Analysis
  • Effect: Simplifies moral for clarity.
Conclusion

Example: The cricket’s struggle warns us, like stories where lazy characters face problems, such as not completing class projects on time.

Question 5:
In The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket is described as 'silly' and 'thoughtless'. Case Summary: The cricket sang all summer but didn’t store food.
Analysis: Why does the poet call the cricket 'thoughtless'?
Conclusion: What lesson does this teach us?
Answer:
Case Summary: The cricket enjoyed summer but didn’t prepare for winter.
Analysis: The poet calls the cricket thoughtless because it wasted time singing instead of saving food. Our textbook shows how ants worked hard while the cricket was careless.
Conclusion: This teaches us to plan ahead like the ants. For example, students should study regularly, not just before exams.
Question 6:
Case Summary: The ant refuses to help the hungry cricket in winter.
Analysis: Why does the ant say, 'We ants never borrow, we ants never lend'?
Conclusion: Is the ant’s behavior justified? Give a reason.
Answer:
Case Summary: The ant follows strict rules and denies help.
Analysis: The ant says this because it believes in self-reliance. Our textbook mentions how ants store food in summer, unlike the cricket.
Conclusion: Yes, the ant is justified because the cricket had chances to prepare. For example, if we waste time playing, we can’t expect last-minute help in studies.
Question 7:
Case Summary: The cricket begs the ant for food in winter.
Analysis: What two mistakes did the cricket make?
Conclusion: How can we avoid such mistakes in life?
Answer:
Case Summary: The cricket faces hunger due to poor planning.
Analysis: The cricket’s mistakes were:
  • Not storing food in summer
  • Assuming others would help
Our textbook compares this to lazy students.
Conclusion: We must work hard on time. For example, saving money early avoids future problems.
Question 8:
Case Summary: The poem contrasts the ant and cricket’s habits.
Analysis: How does the poet describe the ant’s character?
Conclusion: Why is the ant a better role model?
Answer:
Case Summary: The ant is hardworking and disciplined.
Analysis: The poet calls the ant wise and diligent. Our textbook shows it collected food daily.
Conclusion: The ant is a better role model because it plans for the future. For example, topping students revise regularly instead of cramming.
Question 9:
In The Ant and the Cricket, the cricket is described as 'silly'. Case Summary: The cricket sang all summer but had no food for winter.
Analysis: Why does the poet call the cricket 'silly'? How does this contrast with the ant's behavior?
Answer:
Case Summary: The cricket wasted summer singing while the ant worked hard.
Analysis: The cricket is called 'silly' because it didn’t plan for winter. Our textbook shows the ant stored food, proving it was wise.
Conclusion: The poem teaches us to be responsible like the ant, not careless like the cricket.
Question 10:
Case Summary: The ant refuses to help the cricket in winter.
Analysis: Was the ant’s refusal justified? Give two reasons from the poem to support your answer.
Answer:
Case Summary: The ant denies food to the cricket.
Analysis:
  • The ant worked hard while the cricket was lazy.
  • The cricket had all summer to prepare but didn’t.

Conclusion: The ant’s refusal was fair because the cricket didn’t deserve help after being irresponsible.
Question 11:
Case Summary: The cricket begs the ant for shelter and food.
Analysis: What moral lesson does this situation teach? Compare it to a real-life example.
Answer:
Case Summary: The cricket suffers due to its laziness.
Analysis: The lesson is to plan ahead. For example, students who study daily score better than those who cram.
Conclusion: Like the ant, we should work timely to avoid problems later.
Question 12:
Case Summary: The poem ends with the cricket starving.
Analysis: How does the poet use personification to make the story relatable? Give one example from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary: Animals act like humans in the poem.
Analysis: The cricket sings and talks, just like people. Our textbook shows it says, 'Oh! What will become of me?'
Conclusion: Personification helps us understand the message clearly.
Question 13:

Read the following lines from the poem The Ant and the Cricket:

'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground;
Not a flower could he see,
Not a leaf on a tree.'

Based on these lines, describe the setting of the poem and explain how it contributes to the cricket's dilemma.

Answer:

The setting described in these lines is a harsh winter landscape, where everything is covered in snow. The poet uses imagery to show that there is 'not a crumb' or 'not a leaf' available, emphasizing the scarcity of food and resources.

This setting contributes to the cricket's dilemma because:

  • He had spent the summer singing and did not store any food.
  • Now, in winter, he faces starvation as the environment offers no sustenance.

The contrast between the cricket's carefree summer and the barren winter highlights the consequences of his lack of foresight.

Question 14:

In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the ant refuses to help the cricket, saying, 'We ants never borrow; we ants never lend.' Do you think the ant's behavior is justified? Give reasons to support your answer by referring to the poem.

Answer:

The ant's behavior can be seen as justified based on the following reasons from the poem:

  • The cricket had the entire summer to gather food but chose to sing instead, showing irresponsibility.
  • The ant, on the other hand, worked hard during summer, demonstrating diligence and planning.
  • The ant's principle of 'never borrow; never lend' reflects her belief in self-reliance and the importance of preparing for the future.

However, one could argue that the ant lacks compassion, as she does not offer even a small amount of help. The poem serves as a lesson on balancing hard work with kindness.

Question 15:
Read the following lines from the poem The Ant and the Cricket:
'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground.'
Explain the significance of these lines in the context of the poem. How do they reflect the cricket's situation?
Answer:

The lines 'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground' highlight the harsh reality faced by the cricket during winter. These lines signify the scarcity of food and the cricket's desperate situation due to his lack of preparation.

In the poem, the cricket represents those who live in the moment without planning for the future. The snow-covered ground symbolizes the challenges of winter, a time when resources are scarce. The cricket's inability to find even a crumb emphasizes his helplessness and serves as a lesson on the importance of hard work and foresight, as demonstrated by the ant.

Question 16:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the ant refuses to help the cricket. Do you think the ant's decision was justified? Give reasons to support your answer by referring to the poem.
Answer:

The ant's decision to refuse help to the cricket was justified because the cricket had wasted his time singing and enjoying during summer instead of gathering food for winter. The poem clearly shows the ant's disciplined and hardworking nature, as it says, 'We ants never borrow; we ants never lend.'

The ant's refusal teaches an important lesson about responsibility and consequences. The cricket's carefree attitude led to his suffering, while the ant's prudence ensured its survival. The ant's stance is a reminder that actions have consequences, and one must face them rather than depend on others for rescue.

Question 17:
Read the following lines from the poem The Ant and the Cricket:
'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground;
Not a flower could he see,
Not a leaf on a tree.'

Based on these lines, describe the situation the cricket finds himself in and explain how it reflects his attitude towards life.

Answer:

The cricket is in a dire situation where he cannot find any food or shelter during winter. The lines describe a harsh, snow-covered landscape with no crumbs, flowers, or leaves, symbolizing scarcity and hardship. This reflects the cricket's carefree and irresponsible attitude towards life, as he spent the summer singing instead of preparing for the winter. His lack of foresight and planning left him vulnerable when resources became scarce.

Additionally, the imagery of the snow-covered ground and barren trees emphasizes the consequences of his actions. The cricket's plight serves as a lesson on the importance of hard work and preparation, contrasting with the ant's diligent nature in the poem.

Question 18:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the ant refuses to help the cricket by saying, 'We ants never borrow; we ants never lend.' Analyze the ant's response and discuss whether it was justified or harsh. Provide reasons for your answer.
Answer:

The ant's response highlights its principled and disciplined nature. The line 'We ants never borrow; we ants never lend' reflects the ant's belief in self-reliance and hard work. While it may seem harsh, the ant's refusal is justified because:

  • The cricket had ample time during summer to gather food but chose to sing instead, showing irresponsibility.
  • The ant's strict policy ensures fairness and discourages laziness, as helping the cricket might enable his careless behavior.

However, one could argue that the ant could have shown a bit of compassion, as the cricket was genuinely in need. Yet, the poem emphasizes the moral that preparation and diligence are essential for survival, making the ant's stance a valuable lesson.

Question 19:
Read the following lines from the poem The Ant and the Cricket:
'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground.'
How does the poet use imagery to convey the cricket's situation? Explain with reference to the poem.
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to highlight the cricket's helplessness during winter. The phrase 'snow-covered ground' creates a visual of a harsh, barren landscape where no food ('Not a crumb') is available. This imagery emphasizes the cricket's struggle due to his lack of preparation, contrasting with the ant's foresight.

Additionally, the snow symbolizes difficulty and scarcity, reinforcing the theme of responsibility. The cricket's careless attitude in summer leads to suffering in winter, teaching the moral of hard work and planning.

Question 20:
In The Ant and the Cricket, the ant refuses to help the cricket. Do you think the ant was justified in its response? Analyze the ant's behavior with reasons from the poem.
Answer:

The ant's refusal to help the cricket is justified because it reflects the poem's moral of responsibility and consequences. The ant worked hard during summer ('We ants never borrow; we ants never lend'), while the cricket wasted time singing. The ant's response, 'Since you sang all summer, you can dance all winter,' highlights the importance of preparation.

  • The cricket's laziness led to his plight, making the ant's stance fair.
  • The ant teaches a lesson about accountability without being cruel, as it simply follows nature's rule: those who don’t work, don’t eat.
Question 21:
Read the following lines from the poem The Ant and the Cricket:
'Not a crumb to be found
On the snow-covered ground;
Not a flower could he see,
Not a leaf on a tree.'

How does the poet use imagery to describe the cricket's situation? What lesson can we learn from this?

Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to describe the cricket's helplessness during winter. The phrases 'snow-covered ground', 'not a flower', and 'not a leaf on a tree' paint a picture of scarcity and hardship. This imagery emphasizes the cricket's lack of preparation, as he had spent his summer singing instead of gathering food.

The lesson we learn is the importance of hard work and planning for the future. The cricket's carefree attitude leads to suffering, while the ant's diligence ensures survival. This teaches us to balance enjoyment with responsibility.

Question 22:
In the poem The Ant and the Cricket, the ant refuses to help the cricket.

Do you think the ant's behavior was justified? Give reasons to support your answer by referring to the poem.

Answer:

The ant's behavior was justified because the cricket had wasted his time during summer instead of preparing for winter. The ant says, 'We ants never borrow; we ants never lend.', highlighting their disciplined nature.

  • The cricket had the same opportunities as the ant but chose to sing and dance.
  • The ant's refusal teaches the cricket a valuable lesson about self-reliance and consequences of laziness.

However, one could argue that the ant could have shown a little kindness, as helping others in need is also important. But the poem emphasizes practical wisdom over momentary sympathy.

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