Textbook Solutions: Picture books in winter | New English Ferry: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets - Class 5 PDF Download

A. Complete the summary of the poem by filling in the blanks. Choose the words from the box.

The poet describes winter as the time when mornings are _______ and the water turns into ice, which is as hard as _______. He doesn't mind these winter days even though his thumbs may be _______ with cold. This is because he enjoys reading his _______ in the _______. The pictures in his storybooks show the water of the brooks still _______, trees, and _______. He can also see seas and _______ near the _______. The poet is very happy and full of _______ for his picture storybooks.
Ans: The poet describes winter as the time when mornings are frosty and the water turns into ice, which is as hard as stone. He doesn't mind these winter days even though his thumbs may be tingling with cold. This is because he enjoys reading his picture storybooks in the nursery chimney corner. The pictures in his storybooks show the water of the brooks still flows, trees, and crooks. He can also see seas and cities near the sheep. The poet is very happy and full of praise for his picture storybooks.

B. Read these lines and answer the questions that follow.

1. Summer fading, winter comes—
a. Name four things that winter brings.
Ans: Frosty mornings, tingling thumbs, window robins, winter rooks.
b. What is the poet's favorite pastime when winter comes?
Ans: Reading picture storybooks.

2. All the pretty things put by,
Wait upon the children's eye,
a. Mention the pretty things that are 'put by'.
Ans: Sheep, shepherds, trees, and crooks.
b. Why are they 'put by'?
Ans: They are saved or preserved for the children to enjoy later.
c. What does the second line mean?
Ans: All the beautiful things are saved for the children's enjoyment, and they eagerly await to see them.

C. Answer these questions.

1. How does the scenery outside change with the coming of winter?
Ans: The scenery changes with frosty mornings, the water turning into ice (stone), and winter birds appearing.

2. Why does the poet call the winter days 'happy chimney-corner days'?
Ans: The poet calls winter days 'happy chimney-corner days' because he finds joy and comfort sitting by the nursery chimney corner, reading picture storybooks, even though it may be cold outside.

D. Think and answer.

It is possible to spend one's time meaningfully and fruitfully indoors even on days when one cannot go outside to play. Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?
Ans: Answers may vary, but some possible responses include:

• Yes, because indoor activities like reading, drawing, or playing games can be enjoyable and educational.
• No, because some may prefer outdoor activities and find it challenging to engage in meaningful indoor activities.
• It depends on personal interests and preferences.