English Class 9 (Beehive) Chapter 7 On Killing a Tree - FREE PDF Download
FAQs on CBSE Class 9 English (Beehive) Important Questions Chapter 7 Poem - On Killing a Tree
1. What are the most frequently asked important questions from the poem 'On Killing a Tree' for CBSE Class 9 exams (2025-26)?
The most frequently asked important questions for 'On Killing a Tree' in Class 9 English include:
- Explain why simply hacking and chopping cannot kill a tree.
- Describe the role of the roots in the life and death of a tree as highlighted in the poem.
- Discuss the deeper message about human intervention in nature as conveyed by the poet.
- Analyse the use of imagery to describe the tree's pain and resilience.
- What does the poet mean by ‘the strength of the tree exposed’ and how does it relate to its ultimate demise?
2. Why does the poet emphasize that killing a tree requires uprooting it completely?
The poet stresses this to highlight that a tree's life comes from its roots.
- Its roots are deeply embedded in the earth and absorb life-giving nutrients, water, and minerals.
- Chopping the trunk or branches merely wounds the tree; it will heal and grow again.
- Only when the roots, the true source of its strength, are pulled out will the tree wither and die.
3. What is a common misconception students have about the central theme of ‘On Killing a Tree’ and how can it be corrected?
A common misconception is that the poem is only about physically killing trees. Correction: The central theme is much deeper – it deals with the destruction of nature caused by persistent human actions and emphasizes the resilience of life. To answer such important 5-mark questions, students must connect the poem to broader issues of environmental conservation and the moral implications of harming nature, as per CBSE guidelines.
4. How does the poet use imagery to make the description of killing a tree impactful in CBSE Class 9 important questions?
The poet uses vivid imagery such as ‘bleeding bark’, ‘leprous hide’, and ‘earth-cave’ to personify the tree and evoke a sense of pain and struggle. This enhances the poem’s impact, making it emotionally engaging and visually descriptive – a key point often evaluated in important exam questions.
5. In what way does the poem ‘On Killing a Tree’ align with current CBSE Class 9 exam patterns for important questions?
The poem requires students to:
- Identify and explain poetic devices and their effects.
- Relate the poem's messages to real-world issues like environmental awareness.
- Write detailed analytical answers for 3-mark and 5-mark questions on key themes and symbolism.
6. What is the significance of ‘pain and healing’ in the process of killing a tree, as per important questions standards?
The significance lies in showing the tree’s life-like qualities. When cut, the tree ‘bleeds’ and later heals, symbolizing nature’s resilience and capacity for recovery. Important exam questions focus on this metaphor to test students' understanding of personification and the underlying environmental message.
7. Describe a 5-mark HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) question related to ‘On Killing a Tree’ for Class 9 board preparation.
Example HOTS Question: ‘Discuss how the process of killing a tree described in the poem can be seen as a reflection of the larger issue of environmental degradation in the modern world. Support your answer with references from the text.’
- This question requires analyzing the poem's message, connecting it to real-world events, and using textual evidence for full marks, as per latest CBSE marking schemes.
8. What role do the elements – sunlight, air, and water – play in the poem and why are they important for important question answers?
Sunlight, air, and water represent nature’s nurturing force.
- These elements feed the tree, making it strong and resilient.
- They symbolize the connection between the tree and the earth, which is central to its survival.
9. How can students avoid common traps when answering CBSE Class 9 important questions on ‘On Killing a Tree’?
To avoid common traps:
- Don’t only summarize the poem. Always explain the poet’s intent and link it to environmental or ethical themes.
- Use textual references and poetic devices in your answers for 3-mark or 5-mark weightage.
- Avoid generic statements; offer specific examples from the poem for higher scores.
10. What is the expected marking scheme for an important question on the theme of ‘resilience of nature’ in ‘On Killing a Tree’?
CBSE marking typically awards:
- 1 mark for a clear statement of the theme (resilience of nature).
- 2 marks for textual support and analysis (examples, quotes).
- 2 marks for connecting the theme to the poet’s intent or broader implications (environmental awareness).
11. Why does the poet refer to the tree's bark as 'leprous hide' and how should this be addressed in important questions?
The phrase 'leprous hide' characterizes the tree’s bark as rough, patchy, and diseased-looking, using a metaphor to emphasize the tree’s suffering. In important or expected questions, students should explain how such descriptions highlight the tree’s vulnerability while also showing its enduring strength.
12. How can mastery of 'On Killing a Tree' contribute to scoring higher in CBSE Class 9 English important questions?
Mastery enables students to:
- Identify key themes and poetic techniques.
- Answer value-based, HOTS, or analytical questions effectively.
- Draw connections to environmental conservation, a current trending topic in board exams.
13. What are the typical exam traps in 3-mark important questions on 'On Killing a Tree' and how can students navigate them?
Typical traps include:
- Missing poetic device identification.
- Not relating tree's death to environmental issues.
- Repeating information without analysis.

















