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The poem "Don't Tell" is an intriguing part of the Class 3 English syllabus under the CBSE board, exploring the imaginative world of a young boy. It delves into the themes of secrecy, imagination, and the desire to be understood and heard.

Introduction to CBSE Class 3 English Chapter 'Don't Tell'

In “Don’t Tell,” the readers are drawn into the perspective of a young boy who harbors a whimsical secret—he believes he is a giant. Amidst his day-to-day interactions, where adults around him dictate what he should do, believe, or even dream, the boy’s vibrant imagination stands as a stark contrast to the mundane expectations placed upon him. This poem beautifully captures the essence of childhood—a time filled with boundless imagination, secrets kept from adults, and the simple yet profound desire to grow up and do all the things that grown-ups do. Through its verses, “Don’t Tell” encourages readers to cherish and nurture their imagination, reminding us of the power and freedom found within our minds. The poem also subtly critiques the way adults often overlook the depth of children’s thoughts and feelings, underestimating their capacity to understand and dream.

Assignments for ‘Don’t Tell’: CBSE Class 3 English Chapter

  1. Imaginary Secret: Write a short paragraph about an imaginary secret you would like to keep just like the boy in the poem. Explain why this secret is special to you.
  2. Dream Big: Draw and describe what you dream of becoming or doing when you grow up. Reflect on how these dreams are similar or different from the boy’s secret in the poem.
  3. Role Play: Act out the poem with a group of classmates, each taking turns to be the boy, the parents, and other grown-ups. Discuss how each character might feel.
  4. Poetry Writing: Try writing your own four-line poem about a secret world or dream you think about. Use rhyming words to give your poem a musical quality.
  5. Discussion Circle: Have a class discussion on why it’s important to listen and respect everyone’s thoughts and dreams, no matter how big or small.

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Question and answers for CBSE Class 3 English Chapter : Don't Tell

  1. Q: How old is the speaker in the poem “Don’t Tell”?
    A: The speaker is a young boy.
  2. Q: Who are ‘they’ and ‘them’ referred to in the poem?
    A: ‘They’ and ‘them’ refer to the child’s parents and other adults.
  3. Q: What secret is the speaker hiding?
    A: The speaker hides the fact that he imagines himself as a giant.
  4. Q: Name three things ‘they’ won’t let the speaker do.
    A: Use electrical appliances, go shopping alone, and drive a car or ride a scooter.
  5. Q: What would the speaker like to do when grown up?
    A: Drive a car, handle electronic devices, and go on solo trips.
  6. Q: What is the full form of “Don’t”?
    A: Do not.
  7. Q: Convert “Can’t” to its full form.
    A: Cannot.
  8. Q: Make a sentence using “He’s.”
    A: He’s my class teacher.
  9. Q: What are two things the speaker plans to do when grown up?
    A: Travel and explore beautiful places alone, and drive a car.
  10. Q: What new word did the speaker learn from the poem, and what does it mean?
    A: Giant, meaning a huge person.

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