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Syllabus

Once Upon a Time — Syllabus

NIOS · Class 10 · English

What Once Upon a Time covers in NIOS Class 10 English: 4 topics, for the 2026-27 session. Part of the NIOS Class 10 English syllabus.

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 · 2026-27

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

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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 Chapter Overview and Central Idea, Stanza-wise Summary and Meaning, Literary Devices and Poetic Techniques, Themes and Message. Study these first, then practise questions on each for the NIOS Class 10 board exam.
How should I revise Once Upon a Time for the NIOS Class 10 board exam?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 44 practice questions on Once Upon a Time. Revise 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 NIOS Class 10 English Syllabus

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