Page 129 - Real English 2024 Book 8

FALLING LEAVES

A Reflect

A1 Based on your reading of the poem, think carefully about the points given below and form your
own views.
1. You must have heard the saying: ‘Change is the only constant’. This means everything
in the world goes through change – nothing remains the same. The leaves whisper their
goodbyes to the branches, but the branches will slowly receive fresh leaves once again
after the winter.
 What do you think is the use of such changes in our lives?
 What are some major changes you have faced in the last two years? How have they
affected you?
2. The dry leaves that fall from the branches are of several different colours.

 Find out why leaves that are green when they are fresh and healthy turn yellow, brown
or red as they dry.

B Understand

B1 Complete the following sentences.
1. The leaves are falling because . . .
2. By the phrase, ‘the leaves that ne’er will be green again’ the poet suggests that . . .

3. Five trees that shed their leaves in autumn are . . .
4. ‘A carpet bright’ refers to . . .

5. The words ‘cower, and shelter, and cling, trembling and frightened’ give the impression
that . . .

6. The wind is called ‘cruel’ because . . .
7. The wind drives the leaves with . . .
8. The line ‘Ships that hasten to harbour and sigh’ suggests that . . .

B2 Read the extract and answer the questions.
‘All down the stream, on its swollen tide,
Float the leaves, like ships in which fairies ride,’

1. Where do the leaves fall?
2. Why is it described as ‘swollen tide’?

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