CBSE Class 9 English Literature Reader (Communicative) Chapter 10 Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Important Question Answers
Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Question Answers – Looking for Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth question answers for Class 9 English Literature Reader (Communicative) book Chapter 10? Look no further! Our comprehensive compilation of important questions will help you brush up on your subject knowledge. Practising Class 9 English Communicative question answers can significantly improve your performance in the exam. Our solutions provide a clear idea of how to write the answers effectively. Improve your chances of scoring high marks by exploring Chapter 10: Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth now. The questions listed below are based on the latest CBSE exam pattern, wherein we have given solutions to the chapter’s extract based questions, short answer questions, and long answer questions.
Also, practising with different kinds of questions can help students learn new ways to solve problems that they may not have seen before. This can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and better performance on exams.
- Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Textbook Questions
- Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Extract Based Question
- Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Short Question Answers
- Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Long Question Answers
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Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth Textbook Questions
Exercises
Q1. On the basis of your reading of the poem, complete the following table.
Ans.
Stages in the life of the poet | Indulgence | Consequences |
(a) Youth | eating toffees eating liquorice chewing sweet sticky food eating sherbet dabs | cavities caps fillings injections drillings |
(b) Adulthood | Not taking care of teeth Eating sweet sticky food Ignoring mother’s advice | gazing at the dentist in despair. |
Q2. On the basis of your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions by ticking the correct choice.
(a) The title ‘Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth’ expresses __________.
(i) regret
(ii) humour
(iii) longing
(iv) pleasure
Ans. (i) regret
(b) The conscience of the speaker pricks her as she has __________.
(i) been careless
(ii) been ignorant
(iii) been fun loving
(iv) been rude
Ans. (i) been careless
(c) The speaker says that she has paved the way for cavities and decay by __________.
(i) eating the wrong food and not brushing.
(ii) not listening to her mother
(iii) laughing at her mother’s false teeth
(iv) not listening to the dentist
Ans. (i) eating the wrong food and not brushing.
(d) The tone of the narrator is one of __________.
(i) joy
(ii) nostalgia
(iii) regret
(iv) sorrow
Ans. (iii) regret
Q3. Answer the following questions.
1. “…But up-and-down brushin’
And pokin’ and fussin’
Didn’t seem worth the time-I could bite!”
What do these lines convey?
Ans. As a child she didn’t take care of her teeth. She thought that brushing the teeth, poking toothpicks to remove food particles and spending time in caring for the teeth was a waste of time. She could bite and chew well and so thought that her teeth were fine and that there was no need of wasting time in caring for them.
2. Why did the poet go to the dentist? How could she have avoided it?
Ans. The poet went to the dentist due to tooth decay-cavities for filling and drilling. She could avoid it by avoiding eating the wrong food and brushing properly.
3. “If you got a tooth, you got a friend”, what do you understand from the line?
Ans. The line means that teeth are like friends-they look after our good health. They are one of the precious gifts given to us by God.
4. With reference to the poem, how can you look after your teeth?
Ans. According to the poem, we can look after our teeth by avoiding wrong food, brushing properly and visiting the dentist regularly.
5. Give an appropriate proverb that conveys the message that this poem carries.
Ans. A good proverb for the poem is- “a stitch in time saves nine”. It is better to be careful than sorry; an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
Q4. In line 35, the poet has misspelt the word ‘amalgum’. Why do you think she has done that? Discuss.
Ans. The poetess has misspelt the word ‘amalgam’ to ‘amalgum’. She has done this to imply that she was attracted to another type of candy called gum or chewing which is extremely chewy and sticky. Therefore, it is a kind of a pun.
Class 9 Communicative English Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Question Answers Chapter 10 – Extract Based Question
A. “Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth,
And spotted the perils beneath.”
1. What is the speaker expressing regret about in these lines?
Ans. The speaker is expressing regret about not taking proper care of their teeth.
2. How does the poet use rhyme and rhythm in this extract to convey the speaker’s remorse?
Ans. The poet uses rhyme and rhythm to create a lighthearted yet reflective tone, enhancing the speaker’s remorse.
3.In the phrase “perils beneath,” what does “beneath” likely refer to?
a) Hidden dangers
b) Surface issues
c) Routine care
d) Dentist’s chair
Ans. a) Hidden dangers
4. What do you think the poet is trying to convey about the importance of these lines?
Ans. The poet is emphasizing the importance of dental care and the consequences of neglect.
5. How does the repetition of the line “Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth” contribute to the overall tone of the poem?
Ans. The repetition of the line reinforces the speaker’s regret and creates a memorable, impactful refrain.
B. “I wish I’d been that much more willin’
When I had more tooth there than fillin’”
1. What does the speaker regret not doing when they had more tooth than filling?
Ans. The speaker regrets not being more willing to take care of their teeth when they had more natural teeth than dental fillings.
2. How does the poet play with language in the use of “willin'” and “fillin'” to convey a sense of regret?
Ans. The poet uses wordplay with “willin'” and “fillin'” to add a colloquial and reflective tone to convey the speaker’s sense of regret.
3. Why might the speaker consider being more “willin'” important in the context of dental care?
Ans. Being more “willin'” is important in the context of dental care because it implies a proactive and willing attitude towards oral hygiene.
4. What does the speaker’s attitude toward their past choices reveal?
a) Confidence in their decisions
b) Remorseful feelings
c) Indifference to dental health
d) Pride in natural teeth
Ans. b) Remorseful feelings
5. How does this regretful sentiment contribute to the thematic elements of the poem?
Ans. The regretful sentiment contributes to the theme of personal responsibility and the long-term consequences of neglect.
C. “My mother, she told me no end.
‘If you got a tooth, you got a friend.’”
1.What is the mother’s advice regarding teeth in these lines?
a) Teeth are replaceable
b) Having a tooth means having a friend
c) Teeth are unnecessary
d) Ignore dental care
Ans. b) Having a tooth means having a friend
2. How does the poet use humor in portraying the mother’s advice about teeth?
Ans. The poet uses humor in portraying the mother’s advice by presenting a simplistic yet memorable perspective on dental care.
3. What role does the mother play in the speaker’s awareness of dental care?
Ans. The mother plays a significant role in shaping the speaker’s awareness and understanding of the importance of teeth.
4. How does the advice given by the mother reflect common wisdom about dental health?
Ans. The advice reflects the common wisdom that taking care of one’s teeth is crucial for maintaining oral health.
5. In what ways do these lines contribute to the overall tone of the poem?
Ans. These lines contribute to the overall tone by introducing a touch of humor and emphasizing the influence of the speaker’s mother on their attitude towards dental care.
D. “So I lay in the old dentist’s chair,
And I gaze up his nose in despair.”
1. Describe the speaker’s emotions as they lay in the dentist’s chair based on these lines.
Ans. The speaker is feeling a sense of despair as they lay in the dentist’s chair.
2. What is the significance of the speaker gazing up the dentist’s nose “in despair”?
Ans. Gazing up the dentist’s nose “in despair” suggests the speaker’s discomfort or anxiety during the dental visit.
3. How does the poet use humor to depict the speaker’s feelings during the dental visit?
Ans. The poet uses humor to depict the speaker’s feelings by emphasizing the unusual perspective of looking up the dentist’s nose.
4. What might the dentist’s nose symbolize in this context?
Ans. The dentist’s nose might symbolize the challenges or discomfort associated with dental visits.
5. How does the imagery in these lines contribute to the overall theme of the poem?
a) By emphasizing the ease of dental visits
b) By highlighting the routine nature of dental examinations
c) By depicting the emotional and experiential aspects of a dental examination
d) By suggesting the speaker’s indifference to dental care
Ans. c) By depicting the emotional and experiential aspects of a dental examination
Class 9 Communicative English Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Short Question Answers
Q1. What are the different kinds of sweets that the poet ate which led to the cavities ?
Ans. The poet mentions various sweets in the poem that contributed to the cavities, including toffees, sweet sticky food, gobstoppers (large, hard sweets), lollies, liquorice all sorts (candy made with liquorice root), sherbet dabs (tiny sweets), and hard peanut brittle.
Q2. Why has the line, “Oh ! I wish I’d looked after me teeth’ been repeated in the poem by Pam?
Ans. The repetition of the line “Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth” in the poem by Pam Ayres serves as a refrain, emphasizing the central theme and regret of the speaker. The repetition creates a rhythmic pattern and reinforces the poet’s remorse for not taking better care of her teeth.
Q3. What should the poet have known?
Ans. The poet expresses regret for not taking better care of her teeth and reflects on what she should have known. In the poem, the poet suggests that she should have known the consequences of her actions, such as consuming sweets, not brushing her teeth properly, and not paying attention to dental care.
Q4. What were the consequences of the poet’s actions in her childhood according to the poem ‘Oh!I wish I’d looked After Me Teeth’ ?
Ans. According to the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres, the consequences of the poet’s actions in her childhood include dental problems and the need for dental treatment. The poet reflects on the various sweets and candies she consumed, her lack of proper tooth care, and the subsequent impact on her dental health.
Q5. Why has the word ‘amalgam’ been misspelled in the poem ‘Oh ! I wish I’d looked After Me Teeth’?
Ans. The misspelling of the word “amalgam” as “amalgam” in the poem appears to be intentional and serves a dual purpose. It creates a playful and colloquial tone, fitting with the overall informal and humorous style of the poem, while also contributing to the rhyme and rhythm of the lines.
Q6. Why does the child find brushing a useless activity?
Ans. In the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres, the speaker, who represents a child in their earlier years, expresses a dismissive attitude towards brushing teeth. The child finds brushing to be a “useless activity” because, in their youthful and carefree mindset, they believe that the quick and seemingly insignificant act of brushing teeth is not worth the time.
Q7. What perils did the poet spot?
Ans. The poet in “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres reflects on the perils beneath the surface of neglecting dental care. These perils include cavities, decay, the need for fillings, injections, and dental drillings, all of which contribute to the regret expressed in the poem.
Q8. How does the poem successfully ‘awaken the reader to his dental hygiene and care’?
Ans. The poem by Pam Ayres successfully raises awareness about dental hygiene by humorously portraying the consequences of neglect. Through vivid descriptions of sweets, regrets, and dental procedures, it engages the reader, prompting reflection on the importance of proper dental care.
Q9. Who is whining about a ‘drill’ in the poem, ‘Oh, I wished ’, and why ?
Ans. In the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres, the speaker mentions a dental drill whining. The drill is used by the dentist during dental procedures, such as filling cavities. The sound of the drill is associated with the dental work the poet undergoes as a consequence of neglecting her teeth in the past.
Q10. “But up-and-down brushing and pokin’ and fussin”. What do you understand by the line?
Ans. The line “But up-and-down brushing and pokin’ and fussin’” from the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres refers to the poet’s casual and careless approach to dental care in her youth. The repetition of “up-and-down brushing” suggests a simplistic and hasty technique, and “pokin’ and fussin’” conveys a lack of thoroughness and commitment to proper oral hygiene.
Q11. What signal did her mother’s false teeth give to the poet ?
Ans. The mention of the poet’s mother’s false teeth foaming in the waters beneath serves as a symbolic signal. It suggests that the poet’s mother, who likely took better care of her oral health, now enjoys the consequence-free pleasure of soaking her false teeth, contrasting with the poet’s regrets and dental issues.
Q12. What did the poet do with her cavities in her teeth ?
Ans. In the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres, the poet humorously expresses regret for not taking better care of her teeth. She mentions that she lies in the dentist’s chair, and the dentist tells her she needs “Two amalgam” (fillings). The poet, in a humorous tone, reflects on the consequences of her neglect and the dental work required to address cavities in her teeth.
Q13. Why does the conscience of the poet prick her?
Ans. The conscience of the poet pricks her because she reflects on the consequences of her neglect of dental care in her youth. The mention of various sweets, candies, and lack of proper tooth care brings forth a realization of the damage done to her teeth.
Q14. On what should the poet have spent her money?
Ans. The poet expresses regret about not taking care of her teeth and wishes she had spent her money on dental care instead of indulging in sweets and neglecting proper oral hygiene. The specific line in the poem is, “To pass up gobstoppers. From respect to me choppers, And to buy something else with me shillin’.”
Q15. What type of sweets does the poet mention as contributing to her dental issues?
Ans. The poet mentions various sweets such as toffees, gobstoppers, lollies, liquorice all sorts, sherbet dabs, and hard peanut brittle among other things as contributing to her dental issues.
Q16. How does the poet describe her toothbrush in the poem?
Ans. The poet describes her toothbrush as “hairless,” revealing its worn-out state. This suggests neglect or lack of proper maintenance, reflecting the poet’s careless attitude toward dental care in her youth.
Q17. What does the dentist recommend when the poet lies in the dentist’s chair?
Ans. When the poet lies in the dentist’s chair, the dentist recommends “Two amalgam,” indicating that the poet needs two dental fillings (amalgam) to address her cavities or dental issues.
Q18. What is the symbolic significance of the mention of the poet’s mother’s false teeth in the poem?
Ans. The mention of the poet’s mother’s false teeth foaming in the waters beneath symbolizes the contrast between the consequences of neglect (the poet’s dental issues) and the care taken by the mother, whose false teeth can be easily maintained without such complications. It highlights the regretful contrast between the consequences of neglect and proper dental care.
Q19. What did the poet interpret her mother’s false teeth to signify in the context of her own dental care?
Ans. The poet interpreted her mother’s false teeth as a warning that neglecting dental care could lead to the need for false teeth in the future, similar to her mother’s situation.
Q20. How does the poet connect the condition of her mother’s false teeth with the consequences she faced due to neglecting her own dental health?
Ans. The poet connects the condition of her mother’s false teeth to the consequences of neglect in her own dental health, seeing them as a symbol and a warning of potential issues she might face if she didn’t take proper care of her teeth.
Class 9 Communicative English Oh! I Wish I’d looked after me Teeth Long Answer Questions Chapter 10
Q1. How does the poet’s regretful tone in “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” contribute to the overall theme of the poem?
Ans. The regretful tone in “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres enhances the poem’s theme of neglect and the consequences of not taking proper care of oneself. The poet’s lamentation about neglecting her teeth reflects a broader societal tendency to overlook the importance of health maintenance. Through humor and regret, Ayres highlights the repercussions of neglecting seemingly mundane aspects of self-care. The tone serves as a cautionary note, urging readers to consider the long-term impact of neglecting their well-being. Overall, the regretful tone reinforces the poem’s central message about the importance of proactive self-care and the potential regrets that may accompany neglect.
Q2. Explore the significance of the various sweets mentioned in the poem and their role in the poet’s dental regrets.
Ans. In “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” Pam Ayres employs a vivid array of sweets to underscore the poet’s dental regrets. The mention of sugary treats like toffees, fudge, and liquorice serves as tangible reminders of indulgences that contributed to dental deterioration. These confections symbolize the allure of instant gratification and the short-sighted neglect of long-term consequences. The poet’s regretful tone is amplified as each sweet becomes a metaphor for the choices that led to dental decay. Through this confectionery imagery, Ayres emphasizes the role of personal choices in oral health, creating a relatable narrative that resonates with readers and underscores the importance of dental care.
Q3. How does the poet use humor to convey a serious message about dental care in the poem?
Ans. Pam Ayres employs humor as a powerful tool to convey a serious message about dental care in “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth.” By infusing the poem with wit and comedic elements, Ayres engages the reader’s attention while addressing the grave consequences of neglecting dental health. The humorous tone helps to make the serious message more accessible and relatable, allowing the poet to communicate the importance of dental care without sounding preachy. Ayres’ clever use of language and comic situations, such as the vivid imagery of “pockets full of toffees,” allows the poet to deliver a cautionary tale in an entertaining manner. This balance of humor and seriousness makes the message memorable and encourages readers to reflect on their own habits and prioritize dental care.
Q4 Discuss the role of the mother’s false teeth in the poem and its impact on the poet’s realization about dental care.
Ans. In “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres, the mother’s false teeth play a significant role in shaping the poet’s realization about dental care. The poet describes her mother’s dentures as being “stuck in a jug in the bedroom.” This vivid image serves as a tangible representation of the consequences of neglecting dental health, as the mother has reached a point where she has lost her natural teeth and relies on dentures.
The presence of the false teeth becomes a poignant and somewhat humorous reminder of the impact of poor dental care over time. It serves as a visual cue for the poet to reflect on her own neglect and the potential future consequences if she doesn’t take better care of her teeth. The mother’s dentures act as a symbol of the irreversible damage that can occur and emphasize the importance of proactive dental maintenance. This realization contributes to the poem’s overall message about the long-term effects of neglecting one’s oral health.
Q5 How does the poem address the universal theme of regret and the passage of time in the context of oral hygiene?
Ans. “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” addresses the universal theme of regret and the passage of time within the context of oral hygiene. The poem reflects on the poet’s regretful realization regarding her neglect of dental care over the years. The mention of sweets, lack of proper care, and the consequences of these choices becomes a metaphor for life’s fleeting moments and the irreversible effects of neglect.
The universal theme of regret is woven into the narrative, as the poet humorously laments missed opportunities to preserve her oral health. The passage of time is evident in the progression from indulging in sweets to facing the repercussions, highlighting the inevitability of consequences over the years. This universal narrative resonates with readers, prompting reflection on their own lives and choices. In connecting the theme of regret with oral hygiene, the poem offers a relatable perspective on the broader human experience of time’s passage and the consequences of neglect.
Q6 Explore the poet’s use of imagery and sensory details to convey the regretful consequences of neglecting dental care.
Ans. Pam Ayres skillfully employs vivid imagery and sensory details in “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” to convey the regretful consequences of neglecting dental care. The poet paints a tangible picture of the outcomes through descriptive language. For instance, Ayres describes “pockets full of toffees” and “penny dainties,” creating a sensory experience that allows readers to almost taste the sweetness and visualize the indulgence. As the poem progresses, Ayres introduces more concrete images, such as the “blackened stump” and “fangless grin,” vividly illustrating the physical deterioration of neglected teeth. The use of color and texture in these descriptions enhances the reader’s connection to the consequences. The mention of the mother’s false teeth “stuck in a jug in the bedroom” adds a touch of reality to the poem, making the consequences palpable and relatable. By incorporating rich sensory details and poignant imagery, Ayres effectively communicates the regretful aftermath of neglecting dental care, making the poem more engaging and impactful for readers. The vivid descriptions contribute to the emotional resonance of the poem, allowing the audience to empathize with the speaker’s regrets and, in turn, consider their own habits and choices in oral hygiene.
Q7 How does the poet use the repetition of the line “Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth” to reinforce the theme of regret?
Ans. The repetition of the line “Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth” in Pam Ayres’ poem serves as a powerful refrain that reinforces the theme of regret. Through this repetition, Ayres emphasizes the speaker’s lamentation and the persistent nature of her remorse. The recurrence of the line creates a rhythmic structure that underscores the ongoing consequences of neglect.The repetition also functions as a rhetorical device, driving home the central message of the poem. It acts like a refrain in a song, making the regretful plea a focal point for the reader. The consistency of the line echoes the enduring nature of regret and serves as a reminder throughout the poem, intensifying the emotional impact. Overall, the repetition of this regretful line not only emphasizes the theme but also amplifies the poem’s tone, making the consequences of neglect in oral care a poignant and memorable focal point for the reader.
Q8 How does the poet’s attitude towards sweets change over the course of the poem, and what role does it play in conveying the message about dental care?
Ans. In “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” the poet Pam Ayres undergoes a shift in attitude towards sweets over the course of the poem. Initially, there’s a nostalgic and almost celebratory tone as she recalls the enjoyment of indulging in treats like “penny dainties” and having “pockets full of toffees.” The language used to describe these sweets is infused with a sense of delight and fondness.However, as the poem progresses, there is a noticeable transformation in the poet’s attitude. The consequences of consuming these sweets become more apparent, and the tone evolves into one of regret. The sweets that were once a source of pleasure are now associated with the decay and deterioration of the speaker’s teeth. The change in attitude underscores the central message about the importance of dental care and the potential regrets that may arise from neglect.The role of this shift in attitude is crucial in conveying the message about dental care. It highlights the long-term impact of seemingly innocuous habits and choices, urging readers to consider the consequences of neglecting their oral health. The evolution in the poet’s perspective on sweets serves as a cautionary tale, encouraging the audience to be mindful of their own habits and to prioritize proactive dental care to avoid future regrets.
Q9 “The body is a temple”. It is believed that the body given by God should be treated with care, as it is one’s temple. Comment on this thought with reference to the poem ‘Oh I wish I’d looked After Me Teeth’.
Ans. The idea that “the body is a temple,” often associated with a sense of reverence and responsibility for one’s physical well-being, resonates with the theme of the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres. In the poem, Ayres reflects on the neglect of her dental care and the regretful consequences that follow. The body, symbolized here by the teeth, is portrayed as something to be cared for and respected. The neglect of oral health in the poem can be seen as a departure from the notion that the body is a sacred temple. The deterioration of the teeth serves as a reminder that taking care of one’s physical well-being is a responsibility, almost like tending to a sacred space. The humorous yet poignant narrative underscores the importance of valuing and preserving the body, aligning with the idea that it is a divine gift deserving of care and attention.In the context of this poem, the thought that “the body is a temple” serves as an implicit commentary on the consequences of neglecting this sacred space, offering a moral lesson about the importance of maintaining and cherishing one’s physical health.
Q10 What message does the poet want to convey to children in his poem ‘Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth’ ? Support your answer with reference to the following lines :
How I laughed at my mother’s false teeth,
As they foamed in the waters beneath.
But now comes the reckonin’
It’s me they are beckonin’
Oh, I wish I’d looked after me teeth.
Ans. In “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” Pam Ayres conveys a cautionary message to children about the importance of dental care. The poet reflects on her own neglect of oral hygiene and the regret that follows, using humor to impart a serious lesson. The lines, “How I laughed at my mother’s false teeth, / As they foamed in the waters beneath,” suggest a dismissive attitude towards dental health, echoing a sentiment that children might share. The shift in tone with the lines, “But now comes the reckonin’ / It’s me they are beckonin’,” indicates a realization and a sense of accountability. Ayres wishes she had taken better care of her teeth, emphasizing the consequences of neglect. The message for children is clear: do not underestimate the importance of oral hygiene, as neglecting it can lead to regrettable consequences in the future. Through the poet’s own humorous yet remorseful experience, the poem encourages children to value and maintain their dental health for the long term.
Q11 What is the role of parents and teachers in teaching dental care to children ? Discuss it with reference to the poet’s experience in the poem ‘Oh ! I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth’.
Ans. In “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” the poet Pam Ayres indirectly highlights the role of parents and teachers in teaching dental care to children. The poem reflects on Ayres’ own neglect of oral hygiene and the subsequent regret she experiences. The lines “How I laughed at my mother’s false teeth” suggest a dismissive attitude, perhaps echoing a lack of awareness or guidance in her upbringing regarding the importance of dental care. The regret expressed in the poem serves as a cautionary tale for parents and teachers. It underscores the responsibility of adults to impart crucial lessons about maintaining good oral hygiene to children. Parents, as primary caregivers, and teachers, as influential figures in a child’s life, play a vital role in instilling habits that contribute to lifelong health. By sharing her own experience, Ayres indirectly emphasizes the importance of education and guidance from parents and teachers in fostering an understanding of the consequences of neglecting dental care. The poem suggests that through proper instruction and awareness, children can be equipped with the knowledge and habits necessary to take care of their teeth, potentially avoiding the regrets expressed in the poet’s humorous reflection.
Q12 Read the following statement where ‘I’ refers to ‘you’.
“I can’t afford to after what Jack’s done to his teeth”. What is it, you think you can’t afford and why? Write a diary entry of not less than 125 words.
Ans. Dear Diary,
Today, I overheard a conversation that left me feeling a bit uneasy. Someone said, “I can’t afford to after what Jack’s done to his teeth.” It got me thinking – what is it that they can’t afford, and why? It appears to be connected to Jack’s dental situation, suggesting that taking care of one’s teeth might be costly.I pondered on this throughout the day, realizing that dental care is not just about money; it’s an investment in one’s health and well-being. Perhaps, the speaker was expressing a concern about the potential expenses related to dental treatments and procedures, especially if someone neglects their oral health, like Jack seems to have done.
This made me reflect on my own dental habits. Am I doing enough to take care of my teeth? Could neglecting oral hygiene end up being a costly affair, not just in terms of money but also in terms of health?
I’ve decided to be more mindful of my dental care routine, understanding that the cost of neglect might be more than just financial.
Until tomorrow,
[Your Name]
Q13 On the basis of your reading of the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth”, draft a speech to be delivered in the morning assembly of your school on the “Importance of Proper Dental Care and Oral Hygiene”.
Ans. Good morning, everyone!
Today, I want to talk to you about something we all use every day but might not give enough attention – our teeth. Have you ever thought about how essential they are? Well, the poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth” by Pam Ayres gives us a humorous but thought-provoking glimpse into the consequences of neglecting dental care. Just like any other part of our body, our teeth need proper care. It’s not just about having a bright smile; it’s about ensuring our overall health. So, why is proper dental care and oral hygiene important?
Firstly, brushing your teeth is like giving them a little spa treatment. It helps remove plaque, prevent cavities, and keep our breath fresh. And trust me, nobody wants to be known as the person with dragon breath!Secondly, be mindful of what you eat. Sweets and sugary snacks might taste great, but they can be real troublemakers for our teeth. They team up with bacteria to form cavities, and we definitely don’t want those. So, enjoy those treats but in moderation.
Thirdly, don’t forget the importance of flossing. It’s like a superhero swooping in to save the day, reaching the places your toothbrush might miss. A tiny piece of dental floss can make a big difference.Lastly, make friends with your dentist. Regular check-ups are like health check-ups for your teeth. The dentist can catch potential issues early and help keep your teeth healthy and strong.Remember, taking care of your teeth is not just about appearance; it’s about investing in your long-term health. Let’s all commit to making our daily dental routine a superhero mission, ensuring our teeth stay healthy and bright.
So, here’s to healthy smiles and bright futures! Thank you.
Q14 How did the poet spend her pocket money? How should she have spent it?
Ans. In Pam Ayres’ poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” the poet humorously reflects on her past habits, including how she spent her pocket money. She mentions having “pockets full of toffees” and enjoying “penny dainties,” suggesting that she used her pocket money to indulge in sugary treats.The regret expressed in the poem stems from the realization that these sweet indulgences had a negative impact on her dental health over time. In hindsight, she recognizes that a wiser use of her pocket money would have been to invest it in proper dental care—perhaps buying toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss.The poet’s reflection serves as a cautionary tale, suggesting that individuals, especially children, should be mindful of their spending habits and prioritize health-conscious choices. In essence, Ayres implies that a more prudent use of her pocket money could have involved taking proactive steps to care for her teeth, ultimately avoiding the regrets she now faces.
Q15 Why does the narrator look at the dentist’s nose in despair?
Ans. In Pam Ayres’ poem “Oh, I Wish I’d Looked After Me Teeth,” the narrator looks at the dentist’s nose in despair during a dental examination. The specific line in the poem is:
“And I think of the lads and the lasses,
And I wish that I’d looked after me teeth.”
The despair in looking at the dentist’s nose likely symbolizes the narrator’s realization of the consequences of neglecting dental care. The dentist, in this context, becomes a figure of authority who represents both the source of potential help and a reminder of the narrator’s own neglect. The act of looking at the dentist’s nose can be a gesture of self-reflection and regret, as the narrator contemplates the impact of not taking proper care of their teeth and the necessity of seeking professional help.This moment captures the emotional weight of the poem, emphasizing the narrator’s rueful acknowledgment of the state of their dental health and the potential difficulties they may now face in addressing the consequences of neglect.
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