Students must start practicing the questions from CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English with Solutions Set 1 are designed as per the revised syllabus.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Set 1 with Solutions
Time : 3 Hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
- 15 Minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper reading.
- The Question Paper contains THREE Sectians-Reading, Grammar & Writing and Literature.
- Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
Section – A
Reading Skills (20 Marks)
Question 1.
Read the passage given below. (1 x 10 = 10)
(1) Mountains have always been held in great awe by mankind. They have been a challenge to humAnswer: Those brave among us have always wanted to conquer them. You see, the more incredible the mountains, the greater the thrill – a challenge to the bravery of the human race.
Climbing mountains is an experience that is hard to put into words. You are in a beautiful environment and, when you reach the top, you feel incredible. But you also have to climb down, which is when most accidents happen – people are tired, it gets dark, it’s harder. So, mountain climbing is undoubtedly one of the most popular adventure sports along with being challenging and risky for the climber.
(2) Without any perceived risk, there can’t be a feeling that any significant challenge has been surmounted. Fair, but we have to bear in mind that mountaineering is not a sport that can be embraced without preparation. The enthusiasts must develop in themselves the spirit of adventure, willingness to undertake hardships and risks, extraordinary powers of perseverance, endurance, and keenness of purpose before climbing a mountain. They should also know how to handle the mountaineering equipment.
Then comes the penance of the rigorous training. This could very well be the lifeline up there. It helps inculcate and hone survival instincts that allow the climber to negotiate perilous situations. There are numerous institutes in India and abroad that offer such training.
(3) Mountain climbers are unanimous in agreeing that the unpredictable weather is what they fear the most. There may be sunshine one moment and a snowstorm the other. At higher altitudes, snow is a regular feature and being decisive about setting up camps or proceeding further is crucial.
The icy sheets after ice storms make walking treacherous, while the powdery snow makes a mountaineer sink deep into the snow. Up there, where the intention is to embrace Nature’s wonder, one realises that it cannot be done without facing its formidable glory. A true mountaineer may challenge the mountain, yet is always respectful to the powerful forces of nature.
(4) Summiting mountains carries its own health risks such as oxygen and altitude sickness problems, frost bites, swelling of hands and feet, fluid collection in brain or lungs and exhaustion. Yet, the gratification mountaineers feel from mastering something that is so frightening, urges them to undertake these endeavours.
We may think that the mountaineers are fearless, experts say, “Not at all. It’s fear that keeps them so intrigued with such arduous journeys.” Impulse and brazenness can be deadly foes. In the words of the Indian mountaineer, Bachendri Pal, “The biggest risk… is to not to take the risk at all. Remember that.”.. (444 words)
(Source:https://evirtualguru.com/essay-on- mountaineering https://fairgaze.com/fgnews/mountaineering- origin-and-its-benefits_71549.html https://www.aplustopper.com/essay-on- mountain-climbing/
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:
(A) Why does the writer say that mountains inspire ‘awe’ in humans? (Paragraph 1)
(a) They present us with opportunities for exciting sports.
(b) They evoke the wish in us to master them.
(c) They inspire in us deeds of valour.
(d) They represent peace and calm to us. [1]
Answer:
(b) They evoke the wish in us to master them.
Explanation: It is given in paragraph 1 that the author says that ‘mountains have been the challenge that the brave men always want to conquer’. This shows how they evoke the wish in us to master them. Hence, (b) is the right answer.
(B) Select the option that corresponds to the following relation below:
The more incredible the mountains-the greater the thrill (Paragraph 1)
(a) The higher the stamina-the lower the food intake.
(b) The more you laugh-the lesser your illness.
(c) The smaller the car-the bigger the advantage.
(d) The heavier the luggage-the higher the penalty. [1]
Answer:
(d) The heavier the luggage-the higher the penalty.
Explanation: In the given sentence, the relation between the underlined words is similar in the degree of comparison. Here, in option (a), (b) and (c) the underlined words are opposite in nature.
Hence, (d) is the right answer.
(C) Select the option that displays what the writer projects, with reference to the following:
So, mountain climbing is undoubtedly one of the most popular adventure sports (Paragraph 1)
(a) doubt
(b) caution
(c) conviction
(d) denial [1]
Answer:
(c) conviction
Explanation: The writer, in the given line, uses the word ‘undoubtedly’ which states that he is sure of what he is saying. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(D) Complete the following with a phrase from paragraph 1. [1]
| Opinion | Reason |
| …………………………… | Best experienced rather than described |
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m | Look for a similar meaning ‘phrase’ for given reason (1m) |
Answer:
Hard to put in words
(E) The writer compares training to penance in the line-Then comes the penance of the rigorous training. (Paragraph 2)
State 1 point of similarity between training and penance. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | Identify common process (traits from both words) that one goes through (1 m) |
Answer:
Very difficult / requires perseverance (Any other relevant)
Explanation: The writer calls training a penance’ as it is like a expiation which is very difficult for a person to go through.
(F) Based on your reading of the text, list 2 reasons why the writer says that “mountaineering is not a sport that can be embraced without preparation”. (Paragraph 2)
(1) …………………
(2) ………………… [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
(Any 2)
(1) Because mountaineering includes difficulties like having to walk on icy sheets that cannot be accomplished without proper preparation of equipment.
(2) Because mountaineering includes dealing with several Health hazards that cannot be managed without preparation.
(3) Because managing unpredictable weather is essential in mountaineering and cannot be accomplished without being prepared with specific training.
(4) Because mountaineering presents the risk of fatality due to faulty decision-making and cannot be addressed without being prepared by accompanying/ engaging experienced climbers. (Any other relevant/ correct from text)
Explanation:
(1) Because mountaineering includes difficulties like having to walk on icy sheets that cannot be accomplished
without proper preparation of equipment.
(2) Because managing unpredictable weather is essential in mountaineering and cannot be accomplished without being prepared with a specific training.
(G) What connect does the writer draw out between unpredictable weather and setting up of camps? (Paragraph 3)
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
If the weather is unpredictable, it makes it difficult to decide when to set up camp as mountaineers would prefer to climb when its sunny and camp when it’s snowing.
Unpredictable weather makes it difficult for the mountaineers to decide whether they want to climb further or set up a camp to rest as they always climb in sunny weather and rest or stop when it snows.
(H) The writer says, “A true mountaineer may challenge the mountain, yet is always respectful to the powerful forces of nature.” (Paragraph 3)
Select the reason the mountaineer is respectful to the forces of nature, up in the mountains.
(a) survival
(b) experience
(c) tradition
(d) directive [1]
Answer:
(a) survival
Explanation: A mountaineer is always respectful towards the natural forces for the sake of its survival as the force of nature is so glorious that it can destroy the man in seconds. Hence, (a) is the right answer.
(I) Supply 1 point to justify the following:
While mountain climbing, an impulsive mountaineer is either disaster-prone or as good as dead. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
Survival is key in mountain climbing and it can be done with meticulously planning/careful decision-making/ careful application of training (any one or more)
It has no room for rash or impulsive decisions/actions-these would lead to accidents or fatalities.
Explanation: The key to successful mountain climbing lies only in the proper and meticulous planning and training for the same. Taking rash decisions by the impulsive mountaineers always Lead to accidents and fatalities.
(J) Evaluate the INAPPROPRIATE reason for the feeling of exhilaration on reaching a summit, that the mountain- climbers experience.
(a) Achievement of a seemingly impossible feat
(b) Spectacular panoramic view
(c) Application of the inculcated survival instincts
(d) Opportunity to use sophisticated mountaineering equipment [1]
Answer:
(d) Opportunity to use sophisticated mountaineering equipment
Question 2.
Read the passage given below. (1 x 10 = 10)
(1) The North-East of India is a melting pot of variegated cultural mosaic of people and races, an ethnic tapestry of many hues and shades. Yet, these states are lesser explored as compared to the rest of the country. The new generations of travellers who are ‘money rich and time poor’ are increasingly looking for unique experiences-a phenomenon being called the emergence of the ‘experience economy’. For this new and growing breed of tourists, the North-East with its variety and uniqueness holds immense attraction.
(2) A study conducted in 2020 by Dr. Sherap Bhutia, revealed that the foreign tourist arrival in the North-East increased from 37,380 persons in 2005 to 118,552 in 2014. The overall growth rate of tourist (both domestic and foreign) in the North-East was as high as 26.44% during 2005-06.
A high and positive growth of 12.53% was registered in foreign tourist visits to North-East States of India during 2012 from 2011, which further rose to register a growth of 27.93% during 2013 from 2012. Foreign tourist arrivals in the North-East witnessed a growth of 39.77% during 2014 from 2013, according to data provided from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
(3) The study recommendations for tourism planners included the need to concentrate on some key areas like enhancement of tourist facilities, tourism financing, focus on community involvement and others for the formulation of a sustainable tourism strategy in the North-East States of India. (234 words)
(Adapted – https://socialscienceresearch. org/index.php/GJHSS/article/view/3162)
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the question given below :
(A) Infer one reason for the following, based on information in paragraph 1.
The rate of tourism in the North-East of India puzzles tourism officials. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m (VSA) | Provide one relevent opinion about the given information. (1m) |
Answer:
This is so because these states are lesser explored as compared to the rest of the country, in spite of having lots to offer.
Explanation: The reason behind it is that North-East states have a lot to offer to tourists, as compared to the other states of the nation but even then, the rate of tourism is very less.
(B) Select the appropriate option to fill in the blanks.
From paragraph 1, we can infer that the …………………. and ……………… of the North-Eastern states aid attracting the ‘money rich and time poor’ tourists.
(1) distinctiveness
(2) conventionality
(3) diversity
(4) uniformity
(5) modernity
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 2 and 5
(d) 1 and 4 [1]
Answer:
(a) 1 and 3
(C) Complete the following analogy correctly with a word/ phrase from paragraph 1:
aroma: cooking:: ………………. : painting
(Clue: Just like aroma is integral to cooking, similarly is/ are integral to painting) [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
hues and shades
(D) Select the correct option to complete the following sentence:
Travellers advocating the ‘experience economy’ seek a holiday package with (Paragraph 1)
(a) grand facilities, expensive hotels and excellent services to pamper them.
(b) a wholesome experience within the budget they have planned for
(c) places and cities to buy things from and opportunities spend money.
(d) cost-effective services, affordable accommodation and many days of touring. [1]
Answer:
(b) a wholesome experience within the budget they have planned for.
(E) Select the chart that appropriately represents the trend of foreign tourist travels in the North-East, from 2011-2014, as per paragraph 2.
(a) Option 1
(b) Option 2
(c) Option 3
(d) Option 4 [1]
Answer:
(b) Option 2
Explanation: As it is clearly given in paragraph 2 that there is a constant increment in the foreign tourist travel trend for North-East states. Hence, (b) is the right answer.
(F) Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option.
The study of tourist travel statistics in the North-East, from 2005 to 2014 ……………… showed results.
(a) expected
(b) encouraging
(c) inconsistent
(d) questionable [1]
Answer:
(b) encouraging
Explanation: As the tourism in North-East states did not use to be positive, this increasing trend from 2005-2014 seems to be (b) encouraging. Its none of (a), (c) or (d) Hence, (b) is the right answer.
(G) Substitute the word ‘witnessed’ with ONE WORD similar in meaning, in the following, sentence from paragraph 2:
Foreign tourist arrivals in the North-East witnessed a growth of. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
observed/ recorded/ showed/ displayed
(H) List any 2 examples of‘tourist facilities’ as referred to, in Paragraph 3. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | 2 Examples (0.5m+0.5m) |
Answer:
- Accommodation-hotels, hostels, camps Recreation-Parks, Gardens, Museums, Shopping areas
- Essential- eating outlets, toilets, water points, kiosks for maps / currency exchange (if needed), certified travel guide availability
- Transport-dedicated shuttle service, sight-seeing buses, cards or passes, car hiring stations
- Digital upgrades-WiFi availability, websites, ticketing, forums (Any two) (Any other relevant)
Explanation:
- easy accommodation in hotels, PGs, camps, etc.
- recreational activities like swimming, dining out, shopping, etc.
(I) List one reason why the researchers recommend that the formulation of a tourism strategy in the North-Eastern States of India be sustainable.
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | Write a reason on sustainable strategy in North-Eastern States in India (1m) |
Answer:
- To create socio-economic benefits for the local community.
- To reduce the negative impacts caused on the destination/s.
- To ensure protection of culture and heritage/ To ensure minimal intervention in the cultural aspects.
- To protect natural wildlife and resources. (Any two)
(J) Select the option that titles paragraphs 1-3 appropriately, with reference to information in the text.
(a)
- Full Speed Ahead!
- Ups and Downs
- Cause for Concern
(b)
- Winds of Change
- Numbers Don’t Lie
- Time for Action
(c)
- Inspecting Trends
- Statistically Speaking
- Let’s Investigate
(d)
- Cause and Effect
- Dynamic Data
- Dependable Facts
Answer:
(b)
- Winds of Change
- Numbers Don’t Lie
- Time for Action
Section – B
Grammar (10 Marks)
Question 3.
Answer ANY TEN of the following questions:
(A) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete an online update. The climate control comment by an activist ………………… on social media yesterday.
(a) blow up
(b) blew up
(c) is blown
(d) will be blown [1]
Answer:
(b) blew up
Explanation: The given line is about ‘yesterday’ which means that it is in the past tense, (b) is the right answer.
(B) Read the conversation between a doctor and his patient. Complete the sentence by reporting the patient’s reply correctly.
Doctor: Do you feel down from time-to- time Mr. Gopalan?
Patient: Yes, I do not stay in a good mood.
The doctor, while trying to figure out his patient’s ailment, asked about his well-being, to which, the patient affirmed ………………… [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | that he does not stay in a good mood (1m) |
Answer:
that he does not stay in a good mood. (Addition of sometimes/time to time acceptable)
(C) Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given line from a health magazine.
The advertisement read, ‘If you smoke, statistically your story …………….. end 15% before it should’.
(a) must
(b) should
(c) will
(d) ought to [1]
Answer:
(c) will
Explanation: The warning in the given advertisement, warns about the health hazard cause by smoking in the ‘future’. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(D) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line, from a news report:
Last week a child was not allowed to board the plane at Ranchi airport.
| Option no. | error | correction |
| (a) | child | children |
| (b) | last | previous |
| (c) | the | a |
| (d) | at | in |
Answer:
(c) the/a
(E) Complete the given narrative, by filling in the blank with the correct option: As I was standing on the dock, looking out at the lake ……………….. for the last time, a feeling of emptiness over me like darkness.
(a) will wash
(b) had washed
(c) will have washed
(d) washed [1]
Answer:
(d) washed
Explanation: As the given sentence is in the simple past tense, (d) is the right answer.
(F) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket, for the given portion of a letter:
Subject: Request for Approval
Dear Sir
This is to respectfully submit that I ………………. (seek) approval for organising a tree plantation drive to be undertaken by the club. [1]
Answer:
seek
Explanation: As the letter is written in the present tense, seek is the right answer.
(G) Report the dialogue between a grandson and his grandfather, by completing the sentence:
Grandson: Grandpa, who are your superheroes?
Grandpa: Anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others.
In response to the question about his superheroes, grandfather says that …………….. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | It is anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others. (1m) |
Answer:
it is anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others
(H) Identify the error in the given sentence, from a school magazine report and supply the correction.
In order to balancing the sentiments of the Eagles and the Hawks, the Student Council suggested a rematch between the teams.
Use the given format for your response.
| error | correction |
Answer:
| error | correction |
| Balancing | Balance |
(I) Sunil shared some information, with Tariq, about a holiday at sea. Report Tariq’s question.
Did you enjoy travelling by sea? [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | Tarig asked Sunil if/whether he had enjoyed travelling by sea. (1m) |
Answer:
Tariq asked Sunil if/whether he had enjoyed travelling by sea.
(J) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the slogan by the Ministry for Child Welfare.
……………………. WE AFFORD TO NEGLECT CHILDREN? THINK TWICE!!
(a) WILL
(b) MAY
(c) NEED
(d) CAN [1]
Answer:
(d) CAN
(K) Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between Latha and her father.
Father: Why ask so many questions, Latha?
Latha: I believe that if you don’t know the answer, keep asking till you do!
Father asked Latha the reason for the many questions she was asking. Latha exclaimed good-humouredly that in event of not knowing the answer one should ……………..
(a) keep asking till one does
(b) kept asking till one does
(c) keep asking till one do
(d) kept on to ask till one do [1]
Answer:
(a) keep asking tilL one does.
(L) Identify the error on a shop’s hoarding and supply the correction, for the following sales offer:
Gumnaam & Daughters Pvt. Ltd. Bindapur, Jharkhand
Massive discount for all senior citizen vaccinated with the precautionary dose.
Use the given format for your response.
| error | correction |
Answer:
| error | correction |
| all | each |
Creative Writing Skills (10 Marks)
Question 4.
Answer ANY ONE given below:
You are Sunidhi Prakash, the Vice Captain of Brilliant Vidyalaya, Barra, Kanpur. You have recently noticed several posters around your school premises conveying a hazardous message:
Lose weight in just a month!
“A WONDER DIET comes to your rescue _
A privilege available for only a few!”
Write a letter to the Editor of The DWA, in not more than 120 words, drawing attention towards harm caused by such advertising. Propose the implementation of ‘Wholesome Lunch Month’ in schools as an idea to address such practices, mention the advantages and share suggestions to foster healthy eating routines and develop positive body image among youngsters.
OR
You are Zac Skaria, a resident of # 412, Magna Greens Apartments, Gandhi Marg, Jonpara, Mumbai. Three students of grade 10 from your residential complex have rescued and rehabilitated a few old beggars from the neighbourhood. You think that their work deserves appreciation and recognition. Write a letter to the President of the RWA, seeking recommendation for these youth, to be nominated for ‘Serving Citizens’ Award’. Suggest other ways such acts of kindness could be recognised and awarded in the future. [5]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 5m | Content: (2m)
Expression: (2m)
Format: (1m) |
Answer:
Brilliant Vidyalaya,
Barra Kanpur
29 August 2022
The Editor
The DWA
K-21, Anjana Pura
Kanpur
Subject: Need for Promoting Healthy Eating Routines Dear Madam,
This is with reference to posters bearing the message of ‘crash diet’ being posted around our school premises. Such posters impact the youngsters negatively and can be hazardous for their self-esteem.
I would like to propose the idea of implementing ‘Wholesome Lunch Month’ for all school students to counter the implications of such misleading advertisements. This initiative will surely encourage all students to bring nutritious and healthy lunch daily and develop healthy eating routines. To ensure that this project gains strength, schools may organize puppet shows, street plays, Ted Talks (by Nutritionist/ Psychologist), encompassing the theme, to foster healthy eating routines and a positive body image.
I hope that the publishing of my letter in the columns of your renowned Daily, helps spread awareness and promotes a healthy lifestyle among students.
Yours truly
Sunidhi Prakash
Vice-Captain
(Content-132 words)
OR
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 5m | Content: (2m)
Expression: Organisation of Ideas + Accuracy (2m)
Format: (1m) |
421, Magna Greens Apartments
Gandhi Marg, Jonpara
Mumbai
19July 2022
The President
RWA,Magna Greens Apartments
42, Gandhi Marg, Jonpara
Mumbai
Subject: Seeking Recommendation for ‘Serving Citizens’ Award’ Nominations.
Dear Sir
This is with reference to the empathetic social service done by Miss Jiya, Mas Adwait and Master Pranit (residents of our complex), in rescuing and rehabilitating a few old beggars from our neighbourhood. These students ensured that the beggars were rehabilitated at ‘Seva Sadan’- an NGO which takes care of the needy of our city.
This selfless initiative carried out with dedication and responsibility, deserves due recognition. I, therefore, request you to issue a letter of recommendation for these students to be nominated for ‘Serving Citizens’ Award’ organised by the local Municipal Corporation.
I would also like to submit that the RWA set up a special committee that looks into such acts in the future. This would aid dedicated attention and appropriate screening of nominations. Arrangement of academic sponsorships for such children would also be an encouraging gesture.
I entreat you address this at your earliest convenience and issue the recommendation letters.
Yours sincerely
Zac Skaria
(Content-152 words)
Question 5.
Answer ANY ONE given below:
Gurmeet Kaur is an aspiring candidate for a public-funded engineering college in the suburbs.
She belongs to a nearby village, has minimal technological skills and exposure, has the required cut-off percentage and is looking for a complete or partial scholarship.
Write a paragraph in about 100-120 words, analysing her SWOT notes to support your stand on whether she should join/not join the college.
STRENGTH
Strong Curriculum
Quality faculty
Vibrant Activity Clubs
Green location
Close proximity to residential areas
WEAKNESS
Lack of diversity
Students’ behavioural problems
No hostel facility
Slow repair and maintenance work
Underutilization of IT Services
Lack of targeted advertisements to out-state students
OPPORTUNITIES
Practice based research
Partnership with professional organisations
Strong alumni
Acclaimed Student Exchange Programme with European countries
THREAT
Lack of publicity in areas of excellence
Public perception towards funded colleges
Declining students’ interest towards technical subjects
Low employee morale due to budget cuts
OR
Read the following excerpt from an online post of a website on educational practices.
Kids who appreciate how much effort, time and care goes into growing food witl understand how important farmers are, and why it’s important to take care of our Earth. In the world of today, gardening needs to be given more importance than sports, music and dance in all schools because it creates environmental stewards and outdoor learning laboratories that help the child and community for years to come.
Write a paragraph in 100-120 words to analyse the given argument.
You could think about what alternative explanations might weaken the given conclusion and include rationale / evidence that would strengthen / counter the given argument. [5]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 5m | Content (2m)
Expression: Organisation of Ideas (2m) + Accuracy (1m) (3m)
|
Answer:
In Favour
The given information illustrates the options Gurmeet would weigh in order to take the right decision about her admission in a public-funded engineering college. With availability of strong curriculum, quality faculty and vibrant Activity Clubs, she will be assured of an enriching educational journey.
Though hostel facility is unavailable, she may take up accommodation in the suburbs or choose to travel daily from her village. Good opportunities of practice-based research, partnership with professional companies and international students exchange program will enhance her professional and interpersonal skills.
Hard work, responsible behaviour and prudent decision-making could help Gurmeet thrive in the college even though it has a rigid and conventional culture. The strengths and opportunities work in favour of Gurmeet. Taking this opportunity will allow her to mend the incorrect public perception towards public- funded colleges and students’ outlook towards technical subjects. (129 words)
In Against:
The given information indicates Gurmeet’s dilemma about seeking admission in a public- funded college. Though equipped with a strong curriculum, engaging activity clubs and an able faculty, the college lacks diversity and good conduct among the students, giving rise to concerns of safe environment for a novice like Gurmeet.
Underutilization of IT services will be further detrimental to the progress of Gurmeet’s educationaljourney and add to extra costs related to research work. If she does not qualify for a complete or partial scholarship, arrangement of own accommodation and additional expense of students exchange programme will increase her expenditure, too. Such a college environment may dampen her endeavouring spirit. The weakness and threats outweigh the strengths, in case of Gurmeet So, it is recommended that Gurmeet does not apply for admission to the said college. (139 words)
OR
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 5m | Content: (2m)
Expression: Organisation of ideas (2m) + Accuracy (1m) (3m)
|
Answer:
In Favour:
In the world of today, gardening needs to be given more importance than sports, music and dance in all schools. While sports, music and dance contribute towards personal growth, the current times mandate attention towards an issue that is global-nature and natural processes.
With growing food wastage in many homes today and the urban young believing that vegetables are grown, harvested at the super markets, the efforts of the farmers are discredited. Gardening at school will open a world of first hand learning experiences of sowing, watering and harvesting processes.
Waiting for the saplings to grow will inculcate sensitivity, patience, empathy, gratitude and value for one’s hard work. They will feel accountable for their piece of Mother Earth, resulting in making them efficient and enterprising environmental stewards. UnLike sports, music or dance, gardening goes beyond just enjoyment to create aware and responsible citizens of the future. (148 words)
In against:
Gardening, certainly, should not be given precedence over sports, music and dance in all schools. Gardening at school requires good planning with hands-on guidance and continued supervision by the teachers. Students tend to lose interest due to the slow and natural growth progress of plants as well as the investment of continuous hard work. Small targets or goals would be missing whereas the danger of destruction of their work due to rains, intrusion of grazing animals or a pest attack is like to set in a feeling of defeat.
It may be noted that sports, music and dance are uplifting activities which display faster results, are enjoyable and inculcate team spirit, collaboration and confidence. Unlike gardening, setbacks in these activities can be addressed with some sense of personal control These activities help students express and de-stress successfully. So, maintaining their due importance in the school’s co¬curriculum is imperative. (148 words)
Section – C
Literature (40 Marks)
Question 6.
Read the given extract to attempt questions that follow : (5 x 1 = 5)
“Hey, a tea garden!” Rajvir cried excitedly. Pranjol, who had been born and brought up on a plantation, didn’t share Rajvir’s excitement.
“Oh, this is tea country now,” he said. “Assam has the largest concentration of plantations in the world.
You will see enough gardens to last you a lifetime!”
“I have been reading as much as I could about tea,” Rajvir said. “No one really knows who discovered tea but there are many legends.” (Glimpses of India)
(A) Why was Pranjol not as excited as Rajvir about the tea gardens?
(a) He disliked looking at tea gardens.
(b) He had worked in tea gardens himself.
(c) He had grown up in and around tea gardens.
(d) He was bored with tea gardens. [1]
Answer:
(c) He had grown up in and around tea gardens.
Explanation: Unlike Rajvir, Pranjol wasn’t excited as it wasn’t for the first time that he was witnessing tea gardens. He had been brought up in Assam as it was his home city. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(B) What does Pranjol mean by saying that Assam has the largest concentration of plantations in the world? [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
… that the cultivation/harvesting (or any similar suitable word) (of tea) is the highest at one place namely Assam.
(C) Fill in the blank with ONE WORD only.
Pranjol’s …………….. comes through clearly when he exclaims, “You will see enough gardens to last you a lifetime!” [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
frustration / irritation/ exasperation (or any suitable word) compatible with the exclamation mark in the sentence.
Explanation: Pranjol wasn’t as enticed as Rajvir as he seemed to be fed up by seeing such big tea plants all around him since growing up, so he aid it in an exasperation.
(D) How according to Rajvir does the world know about the discovery of tea?
(a) Historical places
(b) Traditional tales
(c) Authentic anecdotes
(d) Popular publications [1]
Answer:
(b) Traditional tales
(E) Select the option that correctly captures the application of the word ‘cried’ as used in line 1 of the extract.
(a) Jaspreet cried a lot in spite of winning second place in a competition.
(b) Jaspreet cried out loud when she saw a white tiger in the sanctuary.
(c) Jaspreet cried for hours when the police were unable to find her lost pet.
(d) Jaspreet has barely cried since she was three years of age. [1]
Answer:
(b) Jaspreet cried out loud when she saw a white tiger in the sanctuary.
Explanation: In line 1, it is clearly given that Rajvir cried in ‘excitement’. Here, in options (a), (c) and (d), there can be no ‘excitement’ cry that can happen while in (b) it can be. Hence, (b) is the right answer.
OR
OMEGA: It shall be done, Sir. Remove vitamins. (Crew takes vitamins from boxes on their belts.) Present vitamins.
(They hold vitamins out in front of them, stiffly.) Swallow vitamins. (They pop the vitamins into their mouths and gulp simultaneously. They open their eyes wide, their heads shake, and they put their hands to their foreheads.)
THINK-TANK: Excellent Now, decipher that code.
ALL: It shall be done, Sir. (They frown over the book, turning pages.)
OMEGA: (brightly) Aha!
IOTA: (brightly) Oho!
OOP: (bursting into laughter) Ha, ha, ha.
THINK-TANK: What does it say? Tell me this instant. Transcribe, Omega. (The Book that Saved the Earth)
(A) Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the word ‘present’ from line 1 of the extract.
(a) Oops received a nice present from Think Tank.
(b) lota needs to present his opinion firmly.
(c) Omega must focus on the present and leave the past behind.
(d) Oops didn’t know anyone even though a crowd was present. [1]
Answer:
(b) lota needs to present his opinion firmly.
Explanation: In line 1, the word ‘present’ means to give. Similarly, in option (b) it means to give an opinion. Hence, (b) is the right answer.
(B) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text
Frown : smile:: gloomily : ……………….. :: [1]
Answer:
Frown : smile :: gloomily : brightly
(C) Select the option that displays the reason why all crew members were asked to have vitamins. In order to:
(a) boost their physical energies.
(b) adapt to their circumstances.
(c) quickly turn all the pages.
(d) accomplish a specific task. [1]
Answer:
(d) accomplish a specific task.
(D) According to the extract, what did THINK-TANK most likely want OMEGA to do when he said ‘Transcribe…’?
(1) read aloud
(2) translate
(3) make notes
(4) interpret
(5) record reactions Select the correct option.
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) Only 3
(d) 1,4 and 5 1
Answer:
(b) 2 and 4
(E) The playwright places certain words and sentences in brackets in the given extract.
List any ways these benefit both the director and actors.
(1) ……………….
(2) ………………. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
- Help actors and director gain clarity about the emotions and gestures required while performing/directing
- Helps with understanding stage setting and movements (Or any other suitable explanations)
Explanation: Helps them know the actions of the scenes better.
Question 7.
Read the given extract to attempt questions that follow : (5 x 1 = 5)
The trees inside are moving out into the forest,
the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow
the forest that was empty all these
nights
will be full of trees by morning. (The Trees)
(A) Complete the sentence appropriately. It is clear that Personification is the poetic device used for ‘No sun bury its feet….’
Because …………… (Clue: explain how personification applies here) ……………….
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
…the sun, which is non-human, is attributed the human feature of having feet
(Accept any synonyms giving the similar/ correct meaning)
Explanation: The sun has been presented as a human by attributing it with ‘feet’.
(B) The poet has used a poetic device in the given lines. What effect does she wish to create by its use?
… no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun
(a) emphasis
(b) comparison
(c) rhyme
(d) humour [1]
Answer:
(a) emphasis
(C) State whether the following statement is TRUE or FALSE:
The extract uses trees as a symbol for conservative people. [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | Read the statement and choose the correct option (true/false). (1m) |
Answer:
False
(D) Select the appropriate option to complete the sentence, according to the extract.
The idea of a forest that has been ‘empty all these days’ is ……………….. .
(a) unnatural
(b) scary
(c) magical
(d) legendary [1]
Answer:
(a) unnatural
Explanation: It is surely unnatural’ for a forest to be empty of trees for days. Hence, (a) is the right answer.
(E) How does the use of enjambment impact this extract?
(a) It forces frequent pauses.
(b) It simplifies the meaning.
(c) It builds momentum.
(d) It makes the lines lyrical. [1]
Answer:
(c) It builds momentum.
OR
But I can get a hair-dye
And set such colour there,
Brown, or black, or carrot,
That young men in despair
May love me for myself alone
And not my yellow hair.
(For Anne Gregory)
(A) What is the poet’s tone in the extract?
(1) thoughtful
(2) authoritative
(3) agitated
(4) insulting
(5) argumentative
Select the appropriate option.
(a) 1, 4
(b) 3, 5
(c) 2, 4
(d) 1, 5 1
Answer:
(b) 3, 5 (agitated and argumentative)
Explanation: Clearly, the speaker here is agitated by men loving her only for her ‘hair’ and she gets argumentative by saying that she can ‘dye’ her hair if that’s the case. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(B) What causes the young men to ‘despair’, according to the extract? [1]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) | Write the cause of the word ‘despair’ w.r.t the given context (1m) |
Answer:
Being hopelessly in love/the uncertainty in love/ Unsurity of the return of their affections
(C) Identify the reason for the speaker’s need to colour her hair, as per the extract.
(a) Her control over what makes her look beautiful.
(b) Her desire to be loved for inner beauty.
(c) Her need to change people’s perception about beauty.
(d) Her conviction that she is beautiful inside. [1]
Answer:
(d) Her conviction that she is beautiful inside.
Explanation: The speaker wants to convict that even if. she changes her outer appearance, she’ll remain beautiful from, inside and her physical appearance wont change that. Hence, (d) is the right answer.
(D) Complete the analogy about the speaker’s hair.
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 1m(VSA) |
|
Answer:
yellow: blonde:: orange /red: carrot Orange
(E) Select the sentence in which the word ‘set’ is used in the similar manner as line 2 of the extract.
(a) I want to set him up and get my work done this time.
(b) Do you have another set of the books that I can read?
(c) The dessert needs to set for two hours before being served.
(d) The set for the school play looked quite grand. [1]
Answer:
(c) The dessert needs to set for two hours before being served.
Question 8.
Answer ANY FOUR of the following in about 40-50 words each. (4 x 3 = 12)
(A) Validate the given statement with reference to baby seagull’s fear.
‘Fear doesn’t exist anywhere else other than one’s mind.’
(His First Flight -Two Stories about Flying) [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Content: (2m)
Expression: (1m)
|
Answer:
- The baby seagull could not take his first flight as he was scared that his wings will not support his body weight
- Saw his family fly -Yet, the fear of falling down gripped his mind-it overpowered any sense of assurance or example
- Result-was too scared to even try
Explanation: Baby Seagull proves the given statement as he believed that his wings were too weak to carry his weight even without giving his wings a try. He saw his siblings fly but still that couldn’t take out the fear from his mind to give a try to his first flight.
(B) Explain why the poet personally holds the conviction that the world will primarily end in fire? (Fire and Ice) [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Content: (2m)
Expression: (1m)
|
He was a victim of the fiery aspect of desire.
By his own admission, (From what I’ve tasted _) he had experienced its destructive effects in his life.
Explanation: The poet comes to a conviction that ‘fire’ or the feelings like desire, jealousy and greed will end the world. He says so as he himself had ‘tasted’ it He may have personally experienced the heat of the ‘fiery’ desire and greediness in men.
(C) Valli’s unique maiden bus ride experience could be possible because she belonged to a small village. Do you agree? Why? /Why not?
(2 reasons) (Madam Rides a Bus) [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Content: (2m)
Expression:
|
Answer:
Agree:
- A bus ride seemed like a fascinating means of recreation and adventure-unlike cities and bigger towns
- She could travel alone safely unfortunately, not recommended in larger townships or cities
- There was only one bus that Valli observed several times – cities have varied means of transport that might seem more adventurous
Disagree:
- Fascination for riding a bus or an automobile can exist in children of Valli’s age even in big cities.
- Travelling unnoticed is easier in large cities than in small towns or villages due to familiarity
- Cities would offer more opportunities for a bus ride due to availability and frequency of several buses on the same route.
Explanation:
I agree that Valli’s first bus ride was possible only because she lives in the village as has she been in a city, full of multiple buses travelling at different times through different routes, she would have never been able to plan a soLo trip. It was the only bus in her village and this made it easier for her to escape alone.
(D) Give one reason why ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ is more a fable than a ballad.
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Content: (2m)
Expression: (1m)
|
Answer:
- Fable is fictitious narrative usually with animals, birds etc as charac¬ters and shares a strong message whereas a ballad is narrative verse that can be silly or heroic.
- The Tale of Custard the Dragon in¬cludes animals, is surely fictitious and shares a meaningful message. Hence, better qualifies as a fable.
Explanation: The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ is more of a fable than a ballad because a fable is one that has animals in it. giving a crucial message while a ballad is a narrative that reflects heroism or stupidity. The poem is more of a message¬giving. It promotes ‘to not to judge a book by its cover’ through Custard, the dragon.
(E) How can we say that Natalya was continuously successful in maintaining an upper hand during her arguments with Lomov? (Any one example) (The Proposal.)
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) |
|
Answer:
Upper hand: She was able to answer every query and present an argument defeating the one presented by Lomov.
Arguments:
- Argument about ownership of Oxen meadows – Natalya argued that it is a matter of principle and not greed.
- She showed conviction and belief while arguing.
OR
- Argument about dogs-Natalya argued that her dog was cheaper, was of better breed and could run faster.
- Never lost cool while presenting her arguments.
Natalya was continuously successful in defeating Lomov in the arguments as she was quite confident and sure of what she was stating. For instance, her argument for the ownership of oxen meadows was really strong and full of confidence.
Question 9.
Answer ANY TWO of the following in about 40-50 words each. (3 x 2 = 6)
(A) Dr. Herriot knew his patients as well as their owners really welL Discuss. [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Content: (2m)
Expression: (1m)
Keywords:
|
Answer:
- Patients -Dr. Herriot could under stand the problems of his patients (dogs) just be observing- saw Tricki in the market and understood that the dog requires help.
- Owners-He understood the owner (Mrs. Pumphrey) well and never spoke any harsh and advising words on the seriously obese dog- knowing fully well that she was responsible for this condition.
Explanation: It is true that Dr. Herriot knew both his patients and their owners pretty well When he saw Tricki, he knew that he had a serious problem and immediately needs to control his overweight On the other hand, he also knew that Tricki’s owner Mrs. Pumphrey would not be able to cut her pet’s diet short or make him exercise as she loved him.
(B) State one likely reason the writer of the Midnight Visitor, chose to characterise Ausable as short and fat. [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) |
|
Answer:
1. Ausable-characterised as short and fat as the writer wants to draw attention to and emphasise his wits and mental ability to handle any grave situation
[Ausable was able to successfully plant a story of a non-existent balcony and also made the agile and smart Max believe it -didn’t require an attractive physique to do this.]
2. The writer, perhaps, wanted to give a strong message that the brain is what counts more than brawn/ muscle power
OR
brain power is far more potent/ effective than any other type of power muscle/arms etc.
Explanation: The writer might have characterized Ausable as a short and fat spy because he may want to emphasize that for a spy, the quality that counts is not the physical strength or fitness but mental ability. Ausable was short and fat but was really intelligent and quick with his wits.
(C) Validate the importance of small, fun learning tasks towards successful careers, in the context of Richard Ebright in The Making of a Scientist. [3]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Think about Chapter-specific events to develop a conversation between both.
|
Answer:
- Started the collection and breeding of butterflies as a fun activity.
- Got curious about the gold spots and the secretion from them.
- Was able to develop a theory of cell structure and later DNA because of it.
- Fun learning resulted in a career as a renowned successful scientist.
Explanation:
Indeed, a small fun learning task can lead to great careers later. In the chapter ‘Making of a Scientist’, Ebright started taking curiosity in butterflies after he had a task to collect and tag them as a young student. Later, his curiosity developed into interest and led to the discovery of’importance of DNA and celt structure’ in giving the Monarch Pupa its color. This made Ebright one of the most celebrated scientist ever.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 100-120 words.
Mijbil and the Tiger, both were looked after by humAnswer: Assume they both meet each other in the zoo and have a conversation about their lifestyle and feelings.
Write this conversation as per your understanding of Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo.
You may begin like this
Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors.
Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think.
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Think about Chapter-specific events to develop a conversation between both.
Tip : Conversation should be based on their preference and likes/dislikes |
Answer:
Mijbil
- Happy about his life with his owner as a pet-perhaps would be scared to be out in the wild -wouldn’t know how to survive
- Gets to play/go for walks
- Enjoys meals and company of the owner-exists peacefully in the company of his owner
Tiger
- Unhappy in captivity- blames humans for caging him-wished they’d know the value of peaceful co-existence
- Longing to be free and in natural habitat-perhaps wouldn’t wish to be tamed as a pet
- Gets disturbed by the human activity
Explanation: Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors. Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think. Tiger: But I don’t. You see, I have always been there in the wild. Cage is not where I belong.
MijbiL Is your owner not as good as mine? Well, mine takes me out for meals, walks, etc. I really enjoy his peaceful company.
Tiger: My owners do not even feed me on time. Keep me in captivity and use me to attract visitors that disturb me all the time. I like no man.
Mijbil: I hope you find peace in your life soon my friend.
Tiger: That will only happen the day I will be free from this cage.
OR
“Not from weeping nor from grieving will anyone obtain peace of mind’.
If you had to use the message of the given quote from the Buddha’s sermon (The Sermon at Benares) to help the boy cope with the loss of his ball and what it signifies (The Ball Poem), what would you include in your advice?
Also, evaluate why it might be difficult for him to understand the notion. [6]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) |
Keywords: Young, requires time, disheartened |
Answer:
The learning from the referenced quote of Buddha –
- the loss of irreplaceable things brings grief and sorrows.
- learning to stay calm and understanding the perishable/ mortal nature of things helps in living life normally and forgetting loss
To help the boy cope with the loss-that loss is an important part of life
– important to learn from experience -adapt and move on.
Difficult for the boy to understand the notion-
The boy is too young to understand the depth of these words-is alone in his loss-has no one to explain and must learn from his experience painstakingly-requires time to cope-easy to feel disheartened at that age.
Explanation: The message from The Sermon at Benaras’ that I would include in my advice to the boy who lost his ball in The Ball Poem’ would be that whining or lamenting over the loss of an irreplaceable thing will only bring gloom and despair into the life of an already grieving person. Acceptance of the loss is the only thing that can diminish the feeling of sorrow from heart and bring contentment.
However, for the boy who lost his prized possession as a ball, it would be so difficult to understand these lessons because of his young age. The boy is quite young and immature. He can’t understand these mature meanings of life. He is a child who lost his lovely ball and no other ball can bring his memories attached to the lost ball back.
Question 11.
Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 100-120 words.
Fiction writers prefer creating grey characters rather than black and white. Analyse this in detail, with reference to both the characters of ‘The Thief’s Story’.
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Introduction (1m) Explain the reference of grey/ black/white w.r.t characters qualitiesCharacter Sketch (4m)
Focus on good and bad tarits of charaters
|
Answer:
Introductory
Both characters in the story-neither completely black (negative) or white (ideal)-have redeeming qualities as well as those that need improvement- story reveals both their personas as grey.
Hari Singh:
- Thief-artful – too smart for his age – fooled his victims and police -Wasn’t ashamed in lying and stealing -made no efforts to confess that he had given in to the temptation of stealing the notes However,
- Changed due to love, affection and Anil’s trust
- The character of Hari Singh-not a flat character who is either black or white.
Anil:
- While we can admire Anil for his qualities -helpful and simple -easily trusting -forgave the thief -never uttered a word despite knowledge of the theft However,
- Not perfect-casual about money -ignored Hari Singh’s pilfering The character of Hari Singh-not a flat character who is either black or white.
Conclusion-Grey characters present a challenge to the readers, allow a sense of unpredictability and present a moral challenge. Hari Singh and Anil are created as grey characters.
Explanation: In The Thief’s Story’ the writer created both the characters of Hari Singh and Anil as grey characters. None of them were completely black (negative) or white (positive). Hari Singh was portrayed as a grey character as he initially wanted to rob Anil, tried stealing his money but later, succumbed to Anil’s goodness and returns to him.
On the other hand, Anil was also a grey character as having a lot of great qualities in him like being helpful, trusting, kind, etc., he was a spendthrift, not serious about earning money, ignored Hari’s casual money stealing, etc. The reason for portraying grey characters is to create a sense of unpredictability of the characters and a lesson to learn for the readers.
OR
‘Honour among thieves’ is considered a popular code.
Examine-A Question of Trust, as a story woven around this code. [6]
| Total Marks | Breakdown (As per CBSE Marking Scheme) |
| 3m(SA) | Introduction (1m) Explain the statement w.r.t the chapter learningsCharacter Sketch (4m)
Concluding statement (1m) |
Answer:
Honour among thieves-It is believed that thieves never double cross each other/ commit crimes against each other-would be inclined to help rather than betray each other.
The protagonist, Horace Danby
- was careful and meticulous in his theft which he conducted once a year
- didn’t anticipate the role of the lady in red
The Lady in red
made a fool of him – in spite of being a thief herself, she did not follow the code of honour normally existing between two thieves
This resulted in Horace Danby going to prison for the first time in his life-he felt betrayed.
Explanation: Honour among thieves’ is a code popular among thieves. This code means that the thieves never betray each other and that they never may come in the way of the other thieves or commit crimes around them. However, in the story ‘A Question of Trust’. Horace Danby meticulously planned his theft for over a year at the Shotover Grange.
However, he didn’t have any idea about the presen another thief the lady in the red. She made Horace of fool by pretending to be the owner of the house and made him open the safe with his own bare hands. Horace’s imprints let him to the jail for the first time ever. This way, being herself a thief the lady broke the code of ‘honour among thieves’ by betraying Horace.