1. Why does the poem describe the old woman as “ragged and grey”? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: The words show her old age, worn appearance and poverty. They immediately make her seem physically weak and vulnerable.

2. How does the recent snow affect the old woman? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It makes the street wet and slippery. Because her feet are aged and slow, crossing becomes dangerous.

3. Why is “alone, uncared for, amid the throng” a striking description? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: She is surrounded by many people but receives no attention or help. The line contrasts a physical crowd with emotional loneliness.

4. What do the woman’s anxious eyes communicate? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: They silently show fear and a need for help. The fact that people ignore them makes the neglect more painful.

5. What do the boys’ “laughter and shout” tell us about them? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: They are energetic, carefree and excited after school. Their mood contrasts with the old woman’s anxiety.

6. Why does the poet compare the boys to a flock of sheep? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: The simile shows them moving together as one lively group and creates a clear, playful picture.

7. What is the importance of the word “hastened”? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It shows how quickly and easily the children move. This contrasts with the old woman’s slow, aged feet.

8. What does the phrase “helping hand” suggest? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It suggests simple practical support. The woman does not need a large favour—only someone willing to help her cross safely.

9. Why is “At last” an important turning-point phrase? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It marks the moment when the long period of neglect ends and one boy finally notices the woman.

10. What does “whispered low” reveal about the boy? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It shows that he approaches the woman gently and respectfully rather than startling or commanding her.

11. Why does the boy say “if you wish”? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: He offers help without forcing it. The words respect the woman’s choice and dignity.

12. What is shown by the contrast between the woman’s aged hand and the boy’s strong arm? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It shows the woman’s weakness beside the boy’s youthful strength and how strength can be used to support someone else.

13. Why is the boy “well content” after helping? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: He gains inner satisfaction from doing something kind. He does not need money or praise as a reward.

14. What does the phrase “somebody’s mother” achieve? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: It makes the old woman personal rather than anonymous. It reminds the reader that she is loved and important to someone.

15. Why does the old woman pray for the boy? 2 Marks
How to answer: Give the main point, then support it with the relevant word or action from the poem.
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Answer: She is deeply grateful for his kindness and wants that kindness to return to him as a blessing.

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CA Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant with 16+ years of practical experience and 20+ years of teaching experience. At Teachoo, he simplifies Accounts, Tax and GST with step-by-step examples so students can apply concepts confidently in exams and real life.

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