Students must start practicing the questions from CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English with Solutions Set 3 are designed as per the revised syllabus.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Set 3 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) Nature is our mother, our first teacher. The greatest lesson that she teaches us is to maintain an equilibrium in life. We learn to maintain composure through our joys, sorrows and fears. In fact there are a thousand lessons that nature can teach us, provided we look for them.
(2) With time, a sapling grows into a full- grown tree: something so tiny and delicate develops into a strong tree capable of supporting others. No matter how tall it grows, how much it may flourish, or how many animats and birds it may support, its roots are firmly buried from where it once rose. That’s a lesson – to keep ourselves grounded, respect and embrace our roots, and give something back to those humble beginnings that nurtured us into who we are.
(3) Then there is the message of peaceful coexistence. 7 am because we are.’Nature provides every creature a chance to exist However, the existence of one creature or being depends on the existence of the other. The tiger eats the antelope; without the antelope, the tiger wouldn’t survive. Likewise, without tigers, the over-abundance of antelopes would cause them to starve to death.
(4) wonder if you have noticed that when birds or squirrels see a predator, they give out an alarm call to their fellow creatures, of the lurking danger. They put themselves in danger to save the lives of others. Many animals, like the salmon, usually die after they spawn, but this doesn’t stop them. Ore life extinguished for the betterment of others is a small price to pay.
(5) The snow melts in the warmth of spring to give birth to fresh green leaves. In autumn these leaves age into shades of gold only to be buried in the cold grave of winter. Change is inevitable: the sooner we embrace this, the better it is for us. We must also understand that even in pain there is growth. If you cut a hole in the tree, it will grow around it No matter what may come in its way, a river will continue to flow. Similarly, no matter what grief may break your heart nature teaches us that life goes on.
(6) Keep in mind life isn’t about making lists and trying to be one step ahead of others. Life is to live. Take a break-stop being a workaholic, and smell the roses, do whatever makes you feel happy and most of all spend some time with nature to pick up invaluable lessons. (419 words)
(So urce.https://mi ssionself.com/ important-lessons-we-can-learn-from- nature).
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the given questions:
(A) According to the author, what is the greatest lesson being taught by nature? [1]
Answer:
According to the author, the greatest lesson taught by nature is to maintain emotional equilibrium in our life by keeping composure through vivid emotions.
(B) What does the phrase ‘I am because we are’ conveys? [1]
Answer:
The given phrase conveys that everyone is dependent on each other.
(C) List 1 quality that the birds and squirrels display when they warn others of possible danger. [1]
Answer:
The birds and squirrels display selfless assistance to others when they warn them of possible danger.
(D) Select the option with the underlined words that can substitute the word lurking in ONE PHRASE (paragraph 4).
(a) The policeman pulled up the person who was wandering aimlessly through the city.
(b) The thief knew that remaining hidden was the best strategy to avoid being caught.
(c) The policeman was caught on camera while pouncing with force, to grab the fleeing culprit.
(d) The thief was walking boldly into the house thinking it was devoid of residents. [1]
Answer:
(b) The thief knew that remaining hidden was the best strategy to avoid being caught.
Explanation: The meaning of the term ‘Lurking’ is hidden. Hence, (b) is the right answer.
(E) A Portmanteau words like smog (smoke + fog), is a blend of words in which parts of multiple words are combined into a new word.
From the options given below, select a Portmanteau word that appears in the para 6.
(a) coexistence
(b) workaholic
(c) full-grown
(d) flourish [1]
Answer:
(b) workaholic (work + alcoholic).
(F) Select the qualities from paragraph 3, that the author wants us to imbibe.
Being:
(1) acceptive
(2) passionate
(3) emotional
(4) resilient
(5) perceptive
(a) (2), (4) and (5)
(b) (1), (3) and (4)
(c) (1), (4) and (5)
(d) (3), (4) and (5) [1]
Answer:
(c) (1), (4) and (5).
Explanation: Paragraph 3 wants us to (1) accept the coexistence of creatures for benefit to oneself. It wants us to be
(4) resilient and (5) perceptive of the fact that a creature requires to be dependent on the other creature for its survival. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(G) The ‘change of season’ in the passage is an example of the fact that nothing lasts forever. (True/false) [1]
Answer:
True
(H) What does the writer advise in the paragraph 6? [1]
Answer:
In paragraph 6, the writer advise us to take a break from our busy schedule and live it to the fullest. He also advise us to spend some time with nature.
(I) Complete the given analogy correctly with a word from the passage.
Survive : vanished :: ……………… : strong [1]
Answer:
Delicate
(J) It is good to be ……………… but never over-indulge yourself into work. [1]
Answer:
workaholic
Question 2.
Read the passage given below. (1 x 10 = 10)
(1) E-learning is the process of acquiring knowledge through electronic technologies and resources. A rise in the number of internet users has increased the market demand for sophisticated online learning courses. According to the Office for National Statistics, nearly all adults in the age group of 10 to 44 years in the UK were recent internet users (99%) in 2019. The availability of enhanced network connectivity coupled with the convenience offered by on-demand courses, will drive the market size.
(2) According to the World Economic Forum, around 1.2 billion children are out of classrooms with schools shut down globally due to COV1D-19 pandemic. Electronic Learning Management Systems such as Google Classroom is helping classes to connect distantly, communicate efficiently and stay organized. Large scale national efforts to leverage technology to the market players in support of distance education, remote, and online learning during the covid-19 pandemic are emerging and evolving rapidly.
(3) The virtual classroom technology in the e-learning market is expected to grow at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 11% during the forecast timespan. A virtual classroom is a digital environment that enables live interaction between a tutor and a learner.
Videos conferencing and online white-board for real-time collaboration are the most common tools used in a digital teaching space. Synchronous and collaborative virtual classes allows active participation of students, reacting an environment similar to a physical classroom.
(4) The technique is gaining traction with an increasing number of corporate and academic sectors deploying it for enhanced training sessions. Multilateral organizations and world bodies, such as WHO and G20, are also deploying e-learning modes to teach healthcare professionals.
(5) Content providers segment accounted for around 60% e-learning market share in 2019 E-learning providers share content on a varied range of topics by collaborating with domain experts that help them to develop the learning content They focus on offering specific and customized content as per the end-user requirements.
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the given questions:
(A) Select the option that is true for the two statements given below.
(1) According to the World Economic Forum, around 1.2 billion children are out of classrooms.
(2) Schools are shot down due to COVID-19 pandemic.
(a) (1) is the result of (2).
(b) (1) is the reason for (2).
(c) (1) is independent of (2).
(d) (1) contradicts (2). [1]
Answer:
(a) (1) is the result of (2)
Explanation: It is clearly given in paragraph 2 of the passage that according to the World Economic Forum, around 1.2 billion children are out of classroom as schools are shut down due to COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, (a) is the right answer.
(B) Multilateral organizations and world bodies are ……………….. to teach healthcare professionals. [1]
Answer:
Deploying e-learning modes
(C) Select the option that lists the INCORRECT statement from the ones given below.
(I) E-learning is the process of acquiring knowledge through electronic technologies and resources.
(II) All adults in the age group of 16 to 14 years in the UK were recent internet users (99%) in 2019.
(III) A rise in the number of internet users has increased the market share physical classroom.
(IV) Content providers segment accounted for around 60% e-learning share in in 2010.
(a) (III)
(b) (IV) and (II)
(c) (II) and (I)
(d) (I) [1]
Answer:
(a) (III)
(D) State the common tool used in digital teaching space. [1]
Answer:
Online whiteboard
(E) What is the process of acquiring knowledge, through electronic technology and resources? [1]
Answer:
E-learning
(F) Select the appropriate option to fill in the blank.
……………….. is gaining attention in the academic sectors.
(a) Paperback
(b) Virtual classrooms
(c) E-books
(d) Offline classes [1]
Answer:
(b) Virtual classrooms
(G) Pick the option that gives the correct meaning of the following statement from the options given below.
The online market of learning is supposed to be maximized by 2026.”
(I) Nearly all adults in the age group of 16 to 44 years in the LK were recent internet users (99%) in 2018.
(II) A virtualclassroom is a sophisticated environment that enables live interaction
(III) The E-Learning market size is expected to reach $357 billion by 2026.
(IV) Video conferencing and online whiteboard are the most common tools used in the World Fxonomic Forum.
(a) (I)
(b) (IV)
(c) CO
(d) (III) [1]
Answer:
(d) (III)
(H) E-commerce providers share content on a varied range of topics. (True/false). [1]
Answer:
False
Explanation: E-learners providers share content on a varied range of topics, not e-commerce.
(I) What per cent of e-learning market share was segmented by the content providers in 2019? [1]
Answer:
60%
(J) According to the World Economic Forum, how many students were out of classrooms as an effect of COVID-19? [1]
Answer:
1.2 billion
Section – B
Grammar (10 Marks)
Question 3.
Attempt ANY TEN of the given questions:
(A) Choose the correct option to fill in the blank to complete the sentence.
Benjamin was a popular barber. He ………………. and had regular customers.
(a) is skilled
(b) had skilled
(c) was skilled
(d) has skilled [1]
Answer:
(c) was skilled
(B) Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct options.
I ……………… working all afternoon and have just finished the assignment.
(a) have been
(b) had been
(c) shall be
(d) am [1]
Answer:
(a) have been
(C) Complete the given sentence with right option.
Rohan ………………… the movie before he read the review.
(a) watches
(b) have watched
(c) had watched
(d) was watching [1]
Answer:
(c) had watched
(D) Fill in the blank with the correct tense.
He …………………. in the States but he still does not have a command over the English language.
(a) have been living
(b) has been living
(c) have lived
(d) living [1]
Answer:
(b) has been living
(E) Complete the sentence with the correct form of (be).
Every boy and girl ………………… in the class today.
(a) are present
(b) is present
(c) have present
(d) had present [1]
Answer:
(a) are present
(F) Sometimes, he ………………… bring me some gifts.
(a) could
(b) would
(c) any
(d) can [1]
Paper was first make by the Egyptians
for the plant named ‘papyrus’. For
a long time, papyrus were exclusively used
as written material before the Chinese
perfect the processes.
Answer:
(b) would
(G) Anxiety, as well as tension, ………………… the cause of her jitter.
(a) are
(b) is
(c) shall
(d) were [1]
Answer:
(b) is
(H) No one, besides James, ………………… it.
(a) knowing
(b) knowed
(c) knows
(d) known [1]
Answer:
(c) knows.
Explanation: As ‘James’ is a singular noun. Hence, (c) is the right answer.
(I) The teacher said that we ………………… read this book as it is important for exams
(a) must
(b) needn’t
(c) shall
(d) were [1]
Answer:
(a) must
(J) I gave ………………… dress to Bunny.
(a) my
(b) mine
(c) their
(d) all [1]
Answer:
(a) my
Explanation: Only a singular pronoun can go with the singular noun ‘dress’. Hence, (a) is the right answer.
(K) Choose the correct options to fill in the blanks to complete the narration.
(1) You have the latest ‘Cars’
(2) Surprise, Johni
(3) I know how annoyed you were with the c-book, So I went to the store and found you a physical book!
(4) Thanks you Mom [1]
John was annoyed as he couldn’t enjoy the Cars monthly issue digitally. So, his mom surprised him with a physical book. She knew that John was (i) ………… with the digital version, so she went to the store and got it for him. John was elated.
Choose the correct option for (i)
(a) shocked
(b) elated
(c) annoyed
(d) sad [1]
Answer:
(c) annoyed
(L) The following paragraph has not been edited. There is one error in each line. Identify the error and write its correction against the correct blank number. The first one has been done for you.
| Example | Error make | Correction mode |
| (i) | ……………………. | ……………………. |
| (ii) | ……………………. | ……………………. |
| (iii) | ……………………. | ……………………. |
Answer:
| Error | Correction |
| (i) for | from |
| (ii) were | was |
| (iii) written | writing |
- Explanation: Paper was made ’from’ Papyrus and not ‘for’ Papyrus. So, ‘from’ is the right answer.
- Explanation: Papyrus is a singular noun, so ‘was’ will be used. Hence, this is the right answer.
- Explanation: ’written’ is the wrong form of the word ‘write’ here. The correct form is ‘writing’. Hence, it is the right answer.
Creative Writing Skills
Question 4.
Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.
You are Harsh/Harsha of D2, B Block, Pitampura, New Delhi. Some senior citizens living in your neighbourhood are badly neglected and humiliated by their own children. Such incidents have touched your heart. You want to share your concern through a letter to the editor of a reputed national daily of Delhi in 100-120 words.
OR
You are Manjula Raman, Principal of Gita Public School, Baradari, Jalandhar. You come across an advertisement of a landscaping firm specialising in building green houses and also developing golf courses. Write a letter in 100-120 words to the manager of Green With Us, enquiring about their services and other discounts. [5]
Answer:
D2, B Block
Pitampura
New Delhi
20th March 20XX
The Editor
The Hindustan Times
New Delhi
Subject: Elders abused, neglected and humiliated
Respected sir/madam
It is shocking to hear about the abuse of the elderly, who should be taken care of instead. Each year, thousands of senior citizens are abused, neglected or financially exploited. This is called elder abuse. Elders can be abused emotionally, physically or neglected by their care-giver. In India, stories of elders being mistreated are swept under the carpet However, many older people are ashamed to report mistreatment or fear that their abuser will make the situation worse.
If we sense that someone is being abused, we must talk to them in confidence. We can express that we are worried and offer to give help. Many local, state and national social service agencies can help with emotional, legal, and financial problems.
The administration for community living has a national center on elder abuse where you can learn about reporting abuse, getting help and laws that deal with abuse and neglect.
Yours faithfully,
Harsh / Harsha
OR
Gita Public School
Baradari
Jalandhar
1st March 20XX
The Manager
Green With Us
Chandigarh
Subject: Enquiry about landscaping services Dear sir/madam
This is with reference to your advertisement in The Tribune, dated 25th February 20XX. We are quite impressed by your services and products. We are a reputed school and are interested in employing your services.
We want to build a mini golf course and are also looking to have greenhouses to develop eco-friendly values in students. Will you be able to take on the contract and provide outstation services? Would it be possible to complete everything within three months. Do you have your own designers or should we provide the same? Kindly also let us know if you use environment-friendly material.
Do let us know your charges and other unique and student-friendly products that you may have. We would also like to know if your company gives additional discounts to educational institutions. Kindly share the details on the school’s mail at the earliest.
Yours sincerely
Manjula Raman
Principal
Question 5.
Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100¬120 words.
The callous attitude of people towards the environment has led to a global disaster. Taking help of the visual inputs, write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words on global warming and the steps that need to be taken to prevent the situation from deteriorating.
Hints: Environmental disasters – earthquakes – storms – cyclones – waiting to happen – global warming – deforestation – increasing vehicles – misuse of energy – role of human beings – save electricity, water, petrol – plant more trees.
OR
Read the following excerpt from an article that appeared in ‘The Times of India’.
“Social media can be termed as a blessing and a curse. Social media has brought the world so close that political and geographical boundaries are crumbling. Time may come when netizenship may surpass citizenship. The more people-to-people communication is, the more is the strengthening of relationships. This is the basic principle of the political concept of nation-building. In an information society, bonds grow stronger. We are now heading towards a world- order of Net-state or states. In between, an ominous development of misuse of social media has cropped up.”
The given pie chart depicts the impact of social media.
As Aditya/Aditi, write an analytical to protect the youth from its evil effects and paragraph in 100-120 words on the impact also how it can be a tool for business and of social media and what needs to be done growth. Hints: Environmental disasters – earthquakes – storms – cyclones – waiting to happen – global warming – deforestation – increasing vehicles – misuse of energy – role of human beings – save electricity, water, petrol – plant more trees.
Answer:
Impact of Global Warming
Global warming refers to an increase in the average temperature of the Earth as a result of the greenhouse effect in which, gases in the upper atmosphere trap solar radiation close to the planet’s surface instead of allowing it to dissipate into space.
The world is reeling in the after effects of global warming, with recurring environmental disasters like earthquakes,
floods and cyclones causing loss of life and property. Increasing numbers of vehicles and mass deforestation have led to a spike in greenhouse gases. Both natural and human- made conditions can be responsible, but humans can reduce it. Using less energy or alternative, non-polluting energy sources like solar and wind powers and afforestation can slow or stop global warming. Decomposing waste in landfills produces methane and other greenhouse gases. Waste also requires energy to manufacture in the first place, which can be reduced.
OR
Social Media – A Boon or a Bane
By Aditya / Aditi
More and more people are now realising that social media can be a useful tool for personal and business growth. Being on sociat media can help generate leads for those seeking jobs and also for companies looking to build an experienced workforce. People can also advertise their products on social media, which gives them the impetus to grow their business, therefore making social media an important tool for growth and increasing income.
However, like everything else, social media has a downside and the target is the adolescents. Youngsters get enticed and trapped by stalkers and predators. They become victims of cyber abuse and are likely to become depressed. The need of the hour is to create awareness that social media can be a powerful tool of information and growth if used wisely.
Section – C
Literature (40 Marks)
Question 6.
Attempt ANY ONE of the two extracts (1 x 5 = 5)
Tenth May dawned bright and clear. For the past few days, I had been pleasantly besieged by dignitaries and world leaders who were coming to pay their respects before the inauguration. The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African soil. The ceremonies would take place in the lovely sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
For decades this had been the seat of white supremacy, and now, it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different colours and nations for the installation of South Africa’s first democratic, non-racial government.
(A) Identify the emotion of the people of South Africa. [1]
Answer:
independent
Explanation: The day described in the passage is when South Africa won its freedom and first non-racial government was being sworn in. People of Africa were happy and felt confident about their bright future. But all this was because they felt independent.
(B) Choose the option that lists the set of statements that are NOT TRUE according to the given extract:
(1) The ceremony took place in grand amphitheatre.
(2) The inauguration was experienced as the largest gathering.
(3) It was the time for the formation of non-racial government
(4) The incident was noticed on Tenth June.
(5) The white men ruled Africa decades back.
(6) It was the installation ceremony.
(7) It was South Africa’s republican day.
(a) (4) and (5)
(b) (1) and (2)
(c) (5) and (6)
(d) (3) and (4) [1]
Answer:
(a) (4) and (5)
Explanation: The writer tells us that the installation ceremony of the first non- racial government of South Africa took place in a grand amphitheatre in front of a large gathering. Hence (1), (2), (3) & (6) are true. This was the day of their independence from white men. so (7) is also true. It was the day of 10th May. Hence (4) and (7) are incorrect. Thus, the correct answer is (a).
(C) Pick the option that correctly classifies fact/s (F) and opinion/s (O) of the statement below:
(1) I think it is the installation ceremony of the first non racial government of South Africa.
(2) It is a moment of pride for all the South Africans.
(3) The is moment in South Africa came after great bloodshed.
(4) South Africa would not be called as a republic and secular country.
(a) F- (2), (3), (4) and O – (1)
(b) F- (3), (2) and O – (4), (1)
(c) F- (2), (4) and O – (3), (1)
(d) F- (1), (2) and O – (3), (4) [1]
Answer:
(d) F – (1), (2) and O – (3), (4)
Explanation: The passage is about the installation ceremony of South Africa. All people felt happy and proud. The way of achieving independence and whether South Africa will be a secular state or not are not given in the passage. Hence (3), (4) are the opinions and (1), (2) are facts. Therefore, the answer is (d).
(D) Which word does ‘lovely’ NOT correspond to?
(a) happy
(b) beautiful
(c) charismatic
(d) ugly [1]
Answer:
(d) ugly
Explanation: The writer has described the morning as lovely because everyone was happy. The day had a charisma of its own as it was the day of the inauguration of the Republic of South Africa, and as it was autumn the atmosphere was beautiful. Hence (a), (b) and (c) all correspond to lovely. Option (d) is therefore, the correct answer.
(E) Which word in the extract means the same as ‘placement of a person in office with ceremony’? [1]
Answer:
inauguration
Explanation: Inauguration (a) marks the beginning of something. Besieged means to surround and international is something that is beyond a nation. Installation means to put something at a particular position. Hence (a) is the correct answer.
OR
I was really worried about Tricki this time. I had pulled up my car when I saw him in the street with his mistress and I was shocked at his appearance. He had become hugely fat, like a heated sausage with a leg at each corner. His eyes, bloodshot and rheumy, stared straight ahead and his tongue lolled from his jaws.
(A) A child should consume which of the following food item so as to be healthy:
(a) burger
(b) sandwich
(c) french fries
(d) balanced diet food [1]
Answer:
(d) balanced diet food
Explanation: The passage brings out the importance of a balanced and regular diet along with exercising. Hence the figures (1, 2 and 3) do not align with the passage. A child should therefore eat a balanced diet so (d) is the correct answer.
(B) Why was ‘he’ worried?
Because ………………….. [1]
Answer:
Tricki was obese and was in a poor physical condition.
Explanation: When the author saw Tricki he was out in the street with his mistress, his tongue lolled out of his jaws, he could barely stand. What worried the author was his poor physical condition. He had become overweight
(C) The statement that is True about the shocking attitude of author relates to:
(a) Tricki’s condition in the street.
(b) Tricki’s eating habit.
(c) Tricki’s immature behavior.
(d) Tricki’s greed. [1]
Answer:
(a) Tricki’s condition in the street
Explanation: Author was shocked to see Tricki’s condition. He could make out that his mistress had fed him a lot he was now become greedy. The answer here is (a)
(D) Tricki was obese as he:
(a) had a huge fat body.
(b) couldn’t walk properly.
(c) had poor physical condition.
(d) was studious by nature. [1]
Answer:
(a) had a huge fat body.
Explanation: Obese is a person who is overweight
(E) The extract uses the phrases “shocked at his appearance”. Which of the following expressions is incorrect with respect to the word ‘shocked’?
(a) at his looks
(b) at the market
(c) at his surprise
(d) at his behaviour [1]
Answer:
(b) at the market
Explanation: When a person is shocked, most of the time it involves an element of surprise. One can be surprised by someone’s looks or behaviour but not at a place. Hence (a),(c) and (d) cannot be the answers. The answer here is (b).
Question 7.
Attempt ANY ONE of the two extracts. (1 x 5 = 5)
Some say the world will end in fire
some say in ice.
From what I’ve tasted of desire
I hold with those who favour fire.
(A) In the given line, “I hold with those who favour fire”. The synonym for the word favour’ is:
(a) rejects
(b) service
(c) aligns
(d) end [1]
Answer:
(c) aligns
Explanation: The poet here tells us that he agrees with those people who think ice will be the reason for the world to end. Hence rejects and service are not the answers. The correct answer here is (c) aligns as it refers to being in line or agreement with something.
(B) What is the rhyme scheme for the given stanza? [1]
Answer:
a b a a
Explanation: First, third and fourth lines of the given stanza rhyme with each other.
(C) What is the similarity between fire and ice?
They both ……………….. . [1]
Answer:
cause destruction
Explanation: Fire and ice have been compared with desire and hate. The poet tells us that both these are capable of destroying the world.
(D) What does the stanza is NOT LIKELY to represent?
(a) human emotion
(b) desire
(c) jealousy
(d) happiness [1]
Answer:
(d) happiness
Explanation: The poet in this stanza talks about fire end ice. He has used them as symbols to represent human emotions of desire and hate. Therefore (a), (b) & (c) are not the answers. Both of these represent gloom. The correct answer is (d).
(E) What do fire and ice represent? [1]
Answer:
negative human emotion
Explanation: Poet has used fire and ice to represent human emotions of desire and hate. These represent gloom and destruction.
OR
What is the boy now, who has lost his ball,
What, what is he to do? I saw it go
Merrily bouncing, down the street, and then
Merrily over – there it is in the water!
No use to say ‘O there are other balls’:
An ultimate shaking grief fixes the boy
As he stands rigid, trembling, staring down
All his young days into the harbour where
His ball went. I would not intrude on him;
A dime, another ball, is worthless.
(A) Express the feeling of the boy given in the stanza:
(a) full of adventure.
(b) enjoying carefree days.
(c) having the seriousness to study more.
(d) extremely joyful. [1]
Answer:
(b) enjoying carefree days.
Explanation: Using the boy and his play ball, poet has expressed the feelings of the age when one has no responsibilities. When a boy plays with his ball, he doesn’t feel adventurous, nor he has any seriousness of his studies. He is just enjoying. The age when a boy plays with the ball is the age of being carefree. Hence the answer here is (b).
(B) The poet feels that consoling the boy is of no use because ………………….. . [1]
Answer:
his loss is irreparable.
Explanation: The poet feels that consoling the boy is of no use, not because it will arouse his fade hope but because he knows the wheel of time moves the same for everyone. The boy knows that there is no use of demanding for a new ball as the new ball will not be the same as the old one. That is the time that the future is very much different from the past The loss is irreparable as the time that has gone by cannot return.
(C) The phrase ‘ shaking grief refers to:
(a) Boy is trembling with fear.
(b) The grief of gone by time churns the boy’s emotions.
(c) Boy was in grief due to an earthquake.
(d) Someone shook the boy when he was in grief. [1]
Answer:
(b) The grief of gone by time churns the boy’s emotions.
Explanation: When the ball that represents the carefree days of a person goes into water i.e the carefree days of a person are over, he is not frightened (a). There is no earthquake neither the boy is shaken by anyone (c) & (d) Rather he is shaken by the realisation that now his playful days are over and he has to shoulder the responsibilities of life. The memories of his gone by days fill him with grief. Hence the answer here is (b).
(D) What feeling of the boy, the poet expresses in the lines?
“What is the boy now, who has lost his ball.
What, what is he to do?” [1]
Answer:
helplessness
Explanation: The boy has lost his ball, so he is not happy. He has just lost his ball so he is unable to understand the grief of the loss. The boy is unable to decide what to do. He just stands and watches his ball gone into the water helplessly. Hence the answer is (c).
(E) The word that DOES NOT indicate the true condition of the boy in the poem is:
(a) rigid
(b) trembling
(c) happy
(d) remorseful [1]
Answer:
(c) happy
Explanation: The boy stands rigid(a) i.e. he stands still as if in a shock over what has happened. He is trembling(b) to realize that now he will have no ball to play with i.e. he won’t have such merry time again. He is saddened by the loss of ball. He is in grief (remorseful) (d). So all these are not the answers. He is not at all happy (c).
Question 8.
Answer ANY FOUR questions in 40-50 words each. (4 x 3 = 12)
(A) What happened when the young seagull dived at the fish picked up by his mother? [3]
Answer:
When the young seagull dived at the fish, he fell outwards and downwards with a scream. A monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still Soon, his wings spread outwards and he could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air.
(B) Why does Amanda want to be Rapunzel? [3]
Answer:
Rapunzel lived alone in a tower, with no one to nag her all the time. Amanda thought that Rapunzel’s life must have been very peaceful and wonderful. That is why, she wants to be Rapunzel.
(C) How did the bakers dress during the narrator’s childhood days? [3]
Answer:
During the narrator’s childhood, the bakers would wear a shirt and trousers which were shorter than full-length ones and longer than half-pants. People who wear such pants even today are nicknamed “pader”.
(D) Anne’s creativity saved her from punishment. Explain [3]
Answer:
Anne was a young girl who loved to talk and this often got her into trouble with her teacher, Mr Keesing. He would always give her extra tasks as punishments but when she was asked to write an essay titled ‘Quack, Quack, Quack, Said Mistress Chatterbox’, she wrote a humorous poem which made her teacher realise the futility of the punishment. He also understood that Anne was a bright girl and he did not punish her after that.
(E) What life changing decision has the poet Walt Whitman taken? Why? [3]
Answer:
The poet has decided to leave behind the society of humans because he finds them complicated and false. He wants to live with animals because they still retain the basic aspects of their nature as a living being which humans gave up long ago.
Question 9.
Answer ANY TWO questions in 40-50 words each. (3 x 2 = 6)
(A) How can you tell that Hari was happy working for Anil? [3]
(B) How does dowry negate a girl’s dignity? Write your answer with reference to Bholi. [3]
(C) What was the impact of Ebright’s study of monarch pupas? [3]
Answer:
(A) Hari liked working for Anil and was happy to do the chores for him. He was also grateful for the education he was receiving. He used to make profit of about a rupee a day as well, which was a decent amount. He was also getting his meals regularly which was a welcome bonus.
(B) Each girl is an individual in her own right. Equal opportunities in life can help her become independent and strong. She is not a burdensome object to be given away with money as compensation. Thus dowry negates a girl’s dignity and self respect.
Bholi is thought to be ugly and dumb by her parents. Therefore, they are willing to pay dowry to an old man with a limp, so that he marries her. Bholi, on the other hand, refuses to marry him. She is educated, assertive and capable of taking care of herself. She dedicates her life to the service of her parents and teaching at school
(C) The scientific community had regarded the bright spots on a monarch pupa as purely ornamental for a very long time. But Dr. Urquhart and Richard did not believe it. Richard started his experiments on the monarch pupa which led to the discovery of a hormone necessary for the growth of the butterfly. It led to another important study. He began working on how cells read their DNA. DNA is the carrier of heredity and is called the blueprint of life. His theory could find answers to many cancers and diseases.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words:
Instead of boasting, we should do something valuable. Custard, the dragon was considered a coward. The humble dragon proved his bravery in adversity. Analyse that certain qualities like bravery and courage are situational and spontaneous. Express your views with reference to The Tale of Custard the Dragon.
OR
Read the extracts given below and comment on the similarity of tone in both the extracts. Also, analyse the situations in the context.
(A) CHUBOKOV: To court? You can take it to court, and all that! You can! I know you; you’re just on the look-out for a chance to go to court, and all that. You pettifogger! All your people were like that! All of them!
(B) “God! Of the money that I asked for, only seventy pesos reached me. Send me the rest, since I need it very much. But don’t send it to me through the mail because the post office employees are a bunch of crooks. Lencho” [6]
Answer:
People sometimes do not know their strength and underestimate themselves. They do not believe in themselves. They are not aware of their inner strength. They are meek and never confront any situation boldly. But when any kind of calamity befalls them, they are able to face it boldly. On the other hand, some people pose to be very brave but cannot face even the slightest of problems.
We find that in the poem, the dragon is a coward. He wants to live peacefully. However, when actual trouble falls on Belinda and all her associates run away, Custard, the dragon, gobbles up the pirate to save Belinda. Custard, even after saving everyone, does not boast of anything. Such is the brave but humble quality of Custard who saved all his friends. We also learn that circumstances reveal our true character.
OR
(A) The tone in both the dialogues given is accusative. Chubokov accuses Lomov’s family to have cheated them and grabbed the Oxen Meadows when it rightfully belongs to them. In the play, Oxen Meadows becomes a land of dispute because both Natalya and Lomov exercise their right over the land and end up in a heated argument Chubokov’s assertion does not improve the situation as he too resorts to name-calling and accuses Lomov of engaging in such betrayal.
(B) Similarly, Lencho also feels betrayed by the postmaster as he is surprised to find 30 pesos less. Being an ardent believer in god, he cannot expect god sending him 30 pesos less. Thus, he accuses the postmaster to have swindled away the remaining 30 pesos.
Question 11.
Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words:
“How would it have been if she had not lost the necklace? Who knows? How singular is life, and how full of changes! How small a thing will ruin or save one!”
If you were placed in a situation like that of Matilda, what would you have done? Write your views in context with the lesson, ‘The Necklace’. Would you have displayed the trait of vanity similar to hers?
OR
“The ones who create chaos in society, dismantle the notion of quietude for their own vested interest, are indeed termed as lawless.” Analyse the character of Griffin in the light of the statement given above. [6]
Answer:
It is true that ‘Necklace’ shows that vanity is an eviL Matilda was vain and always wanted to be appreciated for her beauty. She always thought that she had been meant for a higher society. However, she was married into an ordinary family. The invitation to the party was the beginning of her downfalL She borrowed the diamond necklace for it However, the party and the appreciation brought her joy only for a short period. At the party, Matilda was on cloud nine, but the loss of the counterfeit necklace brought
her ruin. Her vanity did not allow her to tell Madame Forestier of the loss. She had to pay the price of vanity through her nose.
If I were placed in such a situation, I would have told Madame Forestier of the loss. Firstly, I would have never dreamt of materialistic things like Matilda. I would have recognised the realities of life and gone ahead accordingly. Telling Madame Forestier would have brought out the real cost of the necklace, and I would have gladly paid it and saved myself from the drudgery that Matilda had to undergo.
OR
Griffin was the main character of ‘Footprints Without Feet’. He was a mysterious character. His lawlessness brings trouble to him and to those around him. He liked to keep to himself as he could never feel a sense of belonging to the larger community. During his time at the inn, he tried his best to conceal his identity. He hated audience of any kind, and abruptly cut short anyone who tried to talk to him. His strange behaviour gave way to rumours about him. When Mrs. Hall, the innkeeper, demanded an explanation from him, he finally revealed his identity and started a reign of terror.
Griffin was a brilliant scientist. He had discovered a drug, which made his body as transparent as a sheet of glass. This made him invisible. However, Griffin became a lawless person. His greed, overconfidence and inclination to commit crimes made him a homeless wanderer without clothes and money. Griffin was a man who had no conscience. He was self-centered and did not care for the troubles of other people. He seemed to be at war with the entire mankind and only wanted to save himself. He had no sympathy for others. He enjoyed being cruel and lawless.
So although Griffin was a talented scientist, his negative traits and utter disregard for law ruined him.