A poem in which a child observes and talks about his shadow.
Introduction to CBSE Solutions for Class 5 English: My Shadow
“My Shadow,” a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, captivates young minds with the adventures of a child and their elusive shadow. The poem opens with the child narrator expressing intrigue and wonder at the behavior of their shadow, which is a constant companion yet has a will of its own. The shadow is personified, depicted as a playful and sometimes contrary friend who grows and shrinks, appears and disappears with the sun’s movements.
The child ponders over the shadow’s antics, such as being very tall in the morning, very short at noon, and not present at all in the darkness of the night. There’s a sense of affectionate bewilderment towards this silent companion who is a part of the child yet seems to lead a distinct, mysterious life.
Through its simple yet profound narrative, the poem delves into themes of companionship, curiosity, and the fanciful world of a child’s imagination. It invites readers to reflect on their playful experiences and the joy of everyday wonders.
Assignments for CBSE Class 5 English: My Shadow
To enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of the poem “My Shadow,” consider these creative assignments:
- Shadow Diary: Maintain a diary for a week, noting how your shadow changes at different times of the day and what it seems to be doing.
- Shadow Art: Create art using shadows. Use objects or your body to cast shadows on paper, trace them, and then fill in with colors or patterns.
- Poem Analysis: Discuss the characteristics of the child’s shadow and how it behaves differently from the child. Write a paragraph about what you think it symbolizes.
- Write Your Poem: Write a short poem about your shadow or an imaginary friend. What adventures would you have together?
Conclusion:
“My Shadow” serves as a beautiful reflection of childhood wonder and the power of imagination. It encourages students to observe the world with curiosity and find magic in the mundane. This poem not only enhances the students’ literary appreciation but also stirs their creative thoughts, prompting them to explore and cherish their innocent musings
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Questions and Answers for CBSE Class 5 English: My Shadow
1. Who wrote the poem ‘My Shadow’?
The poem ‘My Shadow’ was written by Robert Louis Stevenson.
2. What is the child’s attitude towards their shadow in the poem?
The child is intrigued and amused by the shadow, viewing it as a playful companion.
3. How does the shadow change throughout the day?
The shadow changes in size, appearing long in the morning and evening, and short at noon.
4. Why does the shadow grow tall in the morning and evening?
The shadow grows tall when the sun is low in the sky, casting longer shadows.
5. When does the shadow disappear, according to the poem?
The shadow disappears at night when there is no light to cast it.
6. What does the child find peculiar about the shadow’s behavior?
The child finds it peculiar that the shadow keeps changing size and sometimes is not there at all.
7. Why can’t the child catch their shadow?
The shadow is intangible and always attached to the child’s feet, so it cannot be caught.
8. What might the shadow symbolize in the poem?
The shadow could symbolize many things, such as a child’s imagination, growth, or a constant yet mysterious companion.
9. How does the poem reflect a child’s perspective?
The poem reflects a child’s perspective by showing curiosity, wonder, and a playful approach to the ordinary.
10. What is the mood of the poem ‘My Shadow’?
The mood of the poem is whimsical and reflective, filled with a sense of wonder and playful contemplation.
