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Describe the children’s mood at the end of the school day - Junior Cycle English - Question A - 2012

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Describe the children’s mood at the end of the school day. (10) It is the end of a school day and down the long drive come bag-swinging, shouting children. Deafened... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe the children’s mood at the end of the school day - Junior Cycle English - Question A - 2012

Step 1

Describe the children’s mood at the end of the school day.

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Answer

At the end of the school day, the children exhibit a mood that transitions from exuberance to stillness. Initially, they come down the long driveway 'bag-swinging' and 'shouting', indicating their excitement and energy. However, this lively atmosphere shifts dramatically when they stop to observe a small hedgehog. This moment of curiosity leads them to a reflective state, showcasing their awe and compassion towards the creature. The mood becomes quieter and more contemplative, as indicated by the description of everyone, including the 'sky' and 'sun', holding their breath in silence. This contrast illustrates the richness of children's emotions as they balance joy with a sense of responsibility and a moment of remembrance.

Step 2

Why did the children stop running?

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Answer

The children stopped running because they noticed a small hedgehog curled up on the tarmac. This unexpected sight captured their attention, prompting them to pause and observe.

Step 3

What did the girl do?

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Answer

The girl gently dumped her bag, tiptoed forward, and carefully carried the hedgehog to a shady hedge, ensuring its safety. After that, she stepped back and watched.

Step 4

Why did everyone and sky and sun ‘hold their breath’?

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Answer

Everyone, along with the sky and sun, held their breath as they were captivated by this delicate moment. They were pausing to remember the importance of life and nature, appreciating the fragility of the hedgehog and the beauty of the scene unfolding.

Step 5

Compare the first stanza to the last stanza. What has changed?

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Answer

In the first stanza, the atmosphere is filled with noise and energy, with children coming down the drive 'bag-swinging' and 'shouting'. In contrast, the final stanza describes a serene and quiet moment, as the children, sky, and sun hold their breath, signifying a shift from excitement to contemplation.

Step 6

Do you think this is a good ending? Give reasons for your answer.

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Answer

Yes, this is a good ending because it highlights the children's newfound appreciation for nature. The transformation from a noisy afternoon to a moment of quiet reflection enriches the poem's emotional depth. It showcases the beauty of stillness and the importance of observing the world around us, bringing closure to the day.

Step 7

Choose another poem you have studied which describes an animal or an event. Name the poem and the poet.

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Answer

One poem I have studied that describes an animal is 'The Tyger' by William Blake.

Step 8

Describe the animal or event.

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Answer

In 'The Tyger', the poem explores the magnificent and fearsome qualities of the tiger. Blake examines the creature's power, beauty, and the awe it inspires. The tiger symbolizes both creation and destruction, raising existential questions about the nature of the creator.

Step 9

Did you like the poem? Give reasons for your answer.

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Answer

Yes, I enjoyed 'The Tyger' because of its vivid imagery and rhythmic structure. Blake's use of repetition and rhetorical questions creates a haunting atmosphere that captivates the reader. The poem challenges us to ponder deeper themes of creation and the duality of existence, which I find profoundly thought-provoking.

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