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Syllabus

Once Upon a Time

NIOS · Class 10 · English

Complete topic list for Once Upon a Time in NIOS Class 10 English. Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.

44 questions29 flashcards5 concepts

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A comparison chart illustrating the contrast between genuine, heartfelt interactions of the past and the superficial, insincere interactions of modern times, as described in the poem.
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4 Topics · NIOS Class 10 English

Topics in Once Upon a Time

1

1. Chapter Overview and Central Idea

  • The poem is written by Gabriel Okara.
  • It is a satirical poem on modern society.
  • The poem contrasts two periods: the innocent past and the artificial present.
2

2. Stanza-wise Summary and Meaning

  • Stanzas 1, 2, and 3 form Part 1 of the poem.
  • In Stanza 1, people used to laugh with their hearts and eyes, but now they laugh only with their teeth.
  • The phrase 'ice-block-cold eyes' shows emotionless and unfriendly behaviour.
3

3. Literary Devices and Poetic Techniques

  • The poem uses irony through the phrase 'Once upon a time'.
  • It uses metaphor in phrases like 'wear many faces like dresses'.
  • It uses simile in 'like a fixed portrait smile' and 'like a snake's bare fangs'.
4

4. Themes and Message

  • The main theme is loss of innocence in adult life.
  • Another theme is the difference between genuine and false relationships.
  • The poem shows how people become formal, polite, and emotionally distant.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Satirical poem on modern society and lost innocence

Speaker and addressModern societyPast innocenceSocial masksContrast between intention and actionSatireHospitalityNatural laughter

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Once Upon a Time for NIOS Class 10 English?
Key topics in Once Upon a Time include Key Themes and Concepts in Once Upon a Time, Once Upon a Time - Central Themes and Elements, Once Upon a Time - Core Themes and Concepts. These are the concepts NIOS Class 10 examiners draw on most — study them first, then practise related questions.
How to score full marks in Once Upon a Time — NIOS Class 10 English?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 44 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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All 27 chapters — NIOS Class 10 English Syllabus

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