NCERT Class 5 English Marigold: Chapter 9 — Sing a Song of People
This chapter, 'Sing a Song of People' from the NCERT Class 5 English Marigold textbook, explores the diverse and constant movement of people in a city. The poem describes people walking, riding buses, taxis, and subways, highlighting their varied activities and appearances. It touches upon people rushing, talking, laughing, and even those who seem unapproachable. The poem emphasizes the anonymity of city dwellers, who are seen but often not known. It encourages young learners to observe and reflect on the bustling urban environment and the lives of the people within it, fostering an understanding of community and individual experiences in a shared space. This chapter helps students develop observational skills and appreciate the dynamics of city life.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Marigold |
| Chapter | Chapter 9 — Sing a Song of People |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 75 |
Learning outcomes
- Identify and describe different types of people and their activities in a city.
- Understand the concept of anonymity in urban environments.
- Appreciate the diversity of human behavior and movement.
- Develop observational skills related to daily life.
- Engage with poetry to understand social themes.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sidewalk | A paved path for pedestrians along the side of a road. |
| Subway | An underground electric railway. |
| Taxis | Cars for hire, driven by a chauffeur. |
| Umbrellas | A device for protection from rain or sun. |
| Elevators | A platform or compartment housed in a shaft for raising and lowering people or things to different levels. |
| Singly | One at a time; alone. |
| Crowd | A large number of people gathered together. |
| Grumpy | Bad-tempered and irritable. |
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Practice questions
- Where do people walk in the city according to the poem? Answer: People walk on the sidewalk, in tall buildings, and in stores.
- What are some ways people travel in the city? Answer: People travel by bus, taxi, and subway.
- What do people use when it rains and pours? Answer: People use umbrellas when it rains and pours.
- Describe two types of people mentioned in the poem. Answer: The poem mentions grumpy people and people who just hurry and never look at you.
- What does the poem say about city people you see but never know? Answer: It suggests that although we see them, we don't know them personally.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of the poem 'Sing a Song of People'?
The main theme is the constant movement and diverse activities of people in a city.
Which modes of transport are mentioned in the poem?
The poem mentions buses, taxis, subways, and elevators.
What does the poem say about people's interactions?
It notes that some people talk loud, some say nothing, some laugh, some smile, and some are grumpy.
Who is the author of the poem 'Sing a Song of People'?
The author is Lois Lenski.
What is the contrast presented about city people?
The poem highlights that we see many city people but often never truly know them.
What kind of weather is mentioned in the poem?
The poem mentions rain and pours.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 5 English — Marigold — Chapter 9 — Sing a Song of People. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.