NCERT Class 4 English Textbook “Santoor”: A Complete Overview

English language learning at the primary level plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s communication skills, imagination, and confidence. At this stage, children begin to move beyond basic word recognition and start understanding stories, expressing ideas, and connecting language with real-life experiences. Keeping these developmental needs in mind, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has designed the Class 4 English textbook titled “Santoor.”

“Santoor” is not just a textbook; it is a thoughtfully crafted learning companion that makes English enjoyable, meaningful, and accessible for young learners. Through stories, poems, conversations, illustrations, and activities, the book aims to develop language skills while nurturing creativity, moral values, and curiosity about the world.

About the NCERT Class 4 English Book “Santoor

The NCERT Class 4 English textbook “Santoor” is prescribed in many schools following the NCERT curriculum, including CBSE and several state boards. The book is written in simple, child-friendly language and is designed to suit the cognitive and emotional level of Class 4 students.

The name “Santoor”, inspired by a melodious Indian musical instrument, reflects the book’s purpose—to create a joyful rhythm in learning English. Just like music touches emotions, the lessons in “Santoor” connect with children’s everyday lives, feelings, and experiences.

Objectives of the Santoor Textbook

The primary objectives of the NCERT Class 4 English Santoor textbook include:

• Developing basic reading and comprehension skills

• Improving listening and speaking abilities

• Encouraging simple writing and self-expression

• Building vocabulary in a natural and contextual way

• Instilling moral values and social awareness

• Making learning joyful rather than mechanical

The book focuses on learning through understanding, not rote memorization. Children are encouraged to think, speak, observe, and imagine.

Structure and Content of the Book

“Santoor” is divided into well-planned units that include prose lessons, poems, and language activities. Each lesson is supported by colorful illustrations that help children understand the context and enjoy reading.

Prose Lessons

The prose sections usually consist of short stories or descriptive texts based on:

• Family life

• Friendship

• Nature and animals

• School experiences

• Honesty, kindness, and responsibility

These stories are written in a narrative style that captures children’s attention and encourages them to read independently.

Poems

Poems in “Santoor” are rhythmic, imaginative, and easy to remember. They introduce children to:

• Rhyme and rhythm

• New words and expressions

• Emotions like happiness, curiosity, and wonder

Poetry helps improve pronunciation, listening skills, and confidence in recitation.

Exercises and Activities

After each lesson, the book provides:

• Comprehension questions

• Word meaning exercises

• Fill-in-the-blanks

• Match the following

• Short answer and oral questions

These activities reinforce learning and help teachers assess students’ understanding.

Language Skills Developed Through Santoor

The NCERT Class 4 English Santoor textbook focuses on all four basic language skills:

1. Reading Skills

Children are encouraged to read stories and poems aloud and silently. This helps improve:

• Fluency

• Pronunciation

• Understanding of sentence structure

The gradual increase in text length ensures smooth progression from Class 3 to higher classes.

2. Writing Skills

Simple writing tasks such as:

• Writing short sentences

• Completing dialogues

• Describing pictures

• Writing a few lines on a topic

help students express their thoughts clearly and confidently.

3. Listening Skills

Teachers often read stories aloud or conduct reading sessions, helping students:

• Listen carefully

• Understand spoken English

• Respond appropriately

4. Speaking Skills

Through oral questions, group discussions, and classroom interactions, students gain confidence in:

• Speaking simple English

• Sharing ideas

• Asking and answering questions

Use of Illustrations and Visual Learning

One of the strongest features of the Santoor textbook is its attractive and meaningful illustrations. These pictures:

• Support text comprehension

• Help visual learners understand stories easily

• Make lessons lively and engaging

Children often relate illustrations to their own lives, which enhances learning and retention.

Moral and Value-Based Learning

“Santoor” does not teach language in isolation. Many lessons carry moral messages and life values, such as:

• Honesty

• Kindness

• Respect for elders

• Love for nature

• Cooperation and sharing

These values help in the overall personality development of children and encourage them to become responsible individuals.

Child-Centric and Activity-Based Approach

The NCERT Class 4 English Santoor textbook follows a child-centric approach, where the learner is at the center of the teaching-learning process. Activities are designed to:

• Encourage participation

• Promote curiosity

• Reduce fear of learning English

Teachers are guided to use role-play, reading aloud, group work, and storytelling methods to make classes interactive.

Alignment with National Curriculum Framework (NCF)

“Santoor” is developed in accordance with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) guidelines. It emphasizes:

• Conceptual clarity

• Language learning through context

• Integration of knowledge with life experiences

The book avoids unnecessary complexity and ensures age-appropriate content.

Benefits of NCERT Class 4 English Santoor Textbook

Some major benefits of the Santoor textbook include:

• Simple and clear language suitable for young learners

• Balanced focus on reading, writing, listening, and speaking

• Attractive illustrations that support learning

• Moral and value-based lessons

• Activity-oriented exercises

• Suitable for diverse learners across India

Because of these features, the book is widely trusted by teachers, parents, and educators.

Availability of Santoor Textbook in PDF Format

NCERT provides free access to its textbooks in PDF format through official platforms such as:

• NCERT website

• ePathshala portal

The PDF version allows students to:

• Study anytime, anywhere

• Revise lessons easily

• Access the book on mobile, tablet, or computer

It is especially helpful for teachers preparing lesson plans and parents supporting home learning.

Role of Teachers and Parents

While the Santoor textbook is well-designed, the role of teachers and parents is equally important. They can:

• Encourage daily reading

• Discuss stories and poems with children

• Ask simple questions to improve thinking skills

• Motivate children to speak English without fear

A supportive environment helps children enjoy learning and build confidence.

Conclusion

The NCERT Class 4 English textbook “Santoor” is a beautifully designed and educationally sound book that supports holistic language development in young learners. With its engaging stories, rhythmic poems, meaningful activities, and value-based lessons, the book makes learning English a joyful experience rather than a burden.

“Santoor” successfully bridges the gap between learning English as a subject and using English as a tool for communication. It lays a strong foundation for higher classes while nurturing creativity, curiosity, and confidence in children. For students, teachers, and parents alike, the Santoor textbook stands as an excellent example of quality primary education.