NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English Chapter 2 Poem - A Tiger in the Zoo

1. Read the poem again, and work in pairs or groups to do the following tasks. 

(i) Find the words that describe the movements and actions of the tiger in the cage and in the wild. Arrange them in two columns.

Ans:

• Stalks, A few paces within his cage, silent fury Ensconced in a concrete cell, his cage extended all the way around, ignoring guests. The final voice reaches him. Looks up at the bright stars.

• Snarling about homes, slipping through dense grass, and lurking in shadows exposing his white canines and intimidating the community.

(ii) Find the words that describe the two places, and arrange them in two columns. Now try to share ideas about how the poet uses words and images to contrast the two situations.

Ans: 

2. Notice the use of a word repeated in lines such as these: 

(i) On pads of velvet quiet, In his quiet rage. 

(ii) And stares with his brilliant eyes At the brilliant stars. What do you think is the effect of this repetition?

Ans:

The poet employs this lyrical trick of repetition to heighten the tiger's fury and his defenceless stillness. The term "velvet quiet" describes the tiger's silent velvet pads, which prevent it from running or leaping. They are restricted to walking around the cage's small area. The phrase "quiet rage" refers to the tiger's growing rage and ferocity as it prepares to charge a deer in the forest, yet it is quiet since it is trapped in a cage and has no way of escaping. The poem is much more beautiful as a result of the word "quiet" being used often. The adjective "brilliant" is also used to highlight the brilliance of these lines, as it does with the tiger's eyes and the stars. With dazzling eyes, the tiger gazes at the stars, daydreaming of a life full of beauty in the wild. Thus, the poem has a tremendous effect due to the recurrence.

3. Read the following two poems — one about a tiger and the other about a panther. Then discuss: 

Are zoos necessary for the protection or conservation of some species of animals? Are they useful for educating the public? Are there alternatives to zoos?

Ans: 

Are zoos necessary for the protection or conservation of some species of animals?

Zoos can play a crucial role in the protection and conservation of endangered species. They provide a controlled environment where animals can be protected from poachers, habitat destruction, and other threats that they might face in the wild. Zoos also participate in breeding programs that help increase the population of endangered species and can eventually lead to reintroducing these animals back into their natural habitats.

However, the poem "The Tiger" illustrates the limitations and ethical concerns of keeping animals in captivity. While zoos offer safety, they can also deprive animals of their natural behaviours, leading to physical and psychological stress. The tiger's thoughts in the poem reflect a desire for freedom and the natural risks associated with being wild, suggesting a conflict between the benefits of protection and the loss of natural living conditions.

Are they useful for educating the public?

Zoos serve as important educational resources, offering the public opportunities to learn about wildlife and conservation efforts. They help raise awareness about the challenges faced by endangered species and the importance of preserving biodiversity. Educational programs and exhibits can inspire visitors, especially children, to become involved in conservation efforts.

The presence of live animals in zoos allows people to observe and appreciate wildlife up close, which can foster a connection and empathy for animals that might not be possible through books or documentaries alone. This connection can lead to greater support for conservation initiatives.

Are there alternatives to zoos?

1. Wildlife Sanctuaries and Reserves: These protected areas allow animals to live in their natural habitats while protecting them from poaching and habitat destruction. Sanctuaries often offer more space and freedom for animals compared to zoos.

2. Rehabilitation Centres: These facilities focus on rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned animals to release them back into the wild.

3. Virtual Zoos and Wildlife Documentaries: Advances in technology have made it possible to create virtual experiences that allow people to learn about and observe animals in their natural habitats without the need for captivity.

4. Ecotourism: This approach encourages people to visit natural habitats and observe wildlife responsibly, supporting local economies and conservation efforts without confining animals to enclosures.

4. Take a point of view for or against zoos, or even consider both points of view and write a couple of paragraphs or speak about this topic for a couple of minutes in class.

Ans:

Point of View: Against Zoos

While zoos aim to protect animals, keeping them in captivity can cause stress and prevent natural behaviours. Animals in zoos often live in unnatural conditions, which can harm their physical and mental health. Instead of zoos, efforts should focus on protecting natural habitats and supporting wildlife sanctuaries where animals can live freely. Modern technology also allows people to learn about wildlife through virtual experiences and documentaries without confining animals.

Balanced View

Zoos have both benefits and drawbacks. They protect endangered species and educate the public, but captivity can harm animals. A balanced approach would improve zoo conditions, focus on genuine conservation efforts, and support alternatives like wildlife sanctuaries and virtual learning. This way, we can protect animals and educate people while ensuring animal welfare.

Students can also check and refer to Class 10 A Tiger in the Zoo Summary available on the official website, to practise and learn effectively.

Conclusion

Class 10 English Chapter 2 question answers effectively brings attention to the stark contrast between the life of a tiger in its natural habitat and captivity. Through the use of powerful imagery and emotive language, the poem evokes a sense of empathy for the tiger, highlighting the loss of freedom and instincts experienced by animals kept in zoos. NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 2 encourages readers to reflect on the ethical implications of animal captivity and underscores the importance of preserving wildlife in their natural environments. The poem leaves a lasting impression, urging us to consider the impact of our actions on the lives of wild animals.

Links To NCERT Class 10 English Solutions - First Flight (FREE PDF Download)

Chapter-Specific NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English

Below are the chapter-wise NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English Book First Flight. Go through these chapter-wise solutions to be thoroughly familiar with the concepts.

CBSE Class 10 English Other Study Materials