CBSE Class 10 English Question Paper 2024 (Set 1 - 2/2/1) Available- Download Solution PDF with Answer Key

Solution: The passage clearly mentions that renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal are inexhaustible and derived from naturally replenished sources. On the other hand, alternative energy sources are exhaustible, which means they are limited and not naturally replenished in the same way.

Solution: The tone of the writer is optimistic and encouraging. The writer mentions how advancements in technology, demand, and competition have made alternative energy sources more affordable and accessible. This reflects progress and a positive outlook on future energy solutions.

Solution: In the past, alternative energy sources were not used much by the consumers because the equipment required to harness energy from these sources was too expensive. As per para (4), the cost of technology used for alternative energy was high, making it impractical for consumer use.

Solution:
- "Exhaustible” means something that can be used up, while "inexhaustible" refers to something that cannot be depleted.
- "Sustainable” means able to be maintained, while "exhaustible” means it can run out.

Solution: Wind energy is the leader of the renewable energy pack. The passage states that wind energy is the most efficient and versatile form of renewable energy, serving both individuals and entire communities. It can be produced from small residential windmills or large-scale offshore wind farms.

Solution: Geothermal electricity is generated by tapping into underground hot water and steam reservoirs. It can directly heat and cool buildings. In contrast, hydroelectricity is produced by water flowing through turbines in a dam, generating electricity via mechanical movement.

Solution: The correct answer is: (C) There are plenty of renewable energy sources that can be used to replace traditional energy sources. The passage emphasizes the importance of renewable energy sources such as wind, geothermal, and solar energy, which are capable of replacing traditional fossil fuels. The passage highlights the growing use and potential of these energy sources in the modern world.

Solution: The passage explains that hydroelectricity (or hydropower) is generated by moving water behind a dam, which powers turbines to produce electricity. This electricity is used for residential and commercial purposes, as stated in the passage.

Solution: Mango is known as the king of fruits because it is the most popular, tasty, and has many good qualities, as described in the passage. It has earned this title due to its cultural significance and nutritional benefits.

Solution: The statement expresses a perspective or belief about India's mango production, making it an opinion rather than a fact. Since the statement is based on a view or interpretation of a situation, it is considered a subjective judgment rather than an objective detail.

Solution: India's low mango export percentage despite being the largest producer is due to issues like high transportation costs, limited shelf life of mangoes, and insufficient export infrastructure. India needs to improve export strategies and logistics to bridge this gap.

Solution: The three countries that imported mangoes from India at par with each other in 2019-20 are Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, each with 2% of the total mango export.

Solution: One inference that can be drawn from this is that although the U.S.A. is the top importing country, there is still a limited export share from India due to factors such as high transportation costs and competition from other mango-producing countries. This highlights untapped potential for expanding mango exports to the U.S.A.

Solution: The correct antonym for "challenges” in this context is (B) solutions."Challenges" refers to problems or difficulties. The opposite of challenges is solutions, which represent answers or remedies.

Solution: India is described as the largest producer of mangoes because it produces 45.88% of the world's total mango supply. India also covers 46.02% of the total global mango-growing area, making it the dominant player in mango production globally.

Solution: The main takeaway is (C) India is the largest producer of mangoes and by putting in more efforts, has the potential to be the largest exporter too. The passage suggests that India is the leading producer but faces challenges in exporting, highlighting the potential to increase exports with better strategies and infrastructure.

Solution: The correct form of the verb "construct” is its noun form "construction,” which refers to the act of building or creating something.

Solution: The phrase "are not good" should be replaced with "are bad” to convey a more precise meaning in the context of health.

Solution: The direct question "How are you preparing for the interview?” is changed to reported speech. The word "how” is used to introduce the reported speech, and the question format is altered to a statement.

Solution: Meher's mother asked her (C) whether she was enjoying her dance classes. In response, Meher exclaimed and said that she was loving it. She added that it was very refreshing to attend them after a long day. The question in direct speech is about the present continuous action (enjoying), so it needs to be reported in the past continuous tense ("was enjoying").

Solution: The correct word is access. The verb "access" means to obtain or make use of something. The correct sentence would be: "In order to enable the stakeholders to access all the applicable circulars at one place."

Solution: The correct phrase is "customers experience the product” because "are” is an auxiliary verb, which is unnecessary here. The verb "experience" should stand alone in this case.

Solution: In this sentence, the correct form is "may not have" because the action "health outcomes may not have improved” is something that should have been completed in the past. Using "may not” without the auxiliary verb "have" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

Solution: The verb "turning" is used here as a present participle to indicate the ongoing action or process that happens as a result of Midas touching the items. The structure "started + verb-ing" requires the use of the present participle, making (B) turning the correct choice.

Solution:
Reported Speech:
Nidhi asked Neha if she had mastered the art of cooking Chinese food. Neha answered in the affirmative and explained that she had been cooking Chinese food for a month.

Solution: The subject "The authors” is plural, so the verb should agree with it in number. "Have taken" is the correct form of the verb to match with the plural subject "authors" in the present perfect tense.

Solution: The verb "saves” is in the present tense, which fits the structure of the sentence. The subject "planting a tree” is singular, so the verb needs to be in the third-person singular form, which is "saves."

Solution: The correct phrase is "intended use,” meaning the use for which the appliance was designed. "Intentional" refers to something done on purpose, which is not the intended meaning here.

Solution: Letter to the MLA regarding the need for footpaths:
From:
Nalini Sharda
409, Surya Apartments
Gopalpur
Date: February 13, 2025

To:
The Honourable MLA
(Name of the MLA)
(Constituency Name)
(Address)

Subject: Request for Repair and Construction of Footpaths for Pedestrian Safety

Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of serious concern regarding pedestrian safety in our city. As a resident of Gopalpur, I have observed that the footpaths on both sides of the main roads in our locality are in a deplorable condition. Many stretches have developed cracks, uneven surfaces, and potholes, posing a serious risk to pedestrians, especially during peak traffic hours and bad weather.

Moreover, there are several stretches where no footpaths exist, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roads, often in close proximity to fast-moving traffic. This not only endangers their lives but also leads to unnecessary accidents.

I request your immediate intervention to ensure the repair of existing footpaths and the construction of new ones where needed. A well-maintained and extended network of footpaths will significantly improve pedestrian safety and encourage people to walk rather than drive, reducing traffic congestion.

I sincerely hope you will take prompt action to address this issue.

Yours sincerely,
Nalini Sharda

Solution: Letter to the Editor regarding the ‘Cycle to School’ Campaign:
From:
Sohail Khan
Sports Captain
Pinnacle Public School
(City Name)
Date: February 13, 2025

To:
The Editor
(Name of National Daily)
(Address)

Subject: Suggestion for the Introduction of 'Cycle to School' Campaign

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to you as the Sports Captain of Pinnacle Public School to suggest the introduction of a 'Cycle to School' campaign for school-going students. This initiative aims to promote fitness as a lifestyle and encourage children to adopt cycling as a form of regular exercise.

In today’s sedentary lifestyle, where children are often glued to screens and lead inactive lives, it is imperative to encourage physical activity. Cycling to school not only serves as an excellent form of exercise but also contributes to reducing pollution and traffic congestion. It fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment while maintaining physical well-being.

To execute this initiative, schools could organize "Cycle to School" days, provide incentives for regular participation, and ensure the safety of students with proper cycling paths and helmets. Local authorities and school management could collaborate to raise awareness and make the initiative more accessible.

I believe this campaign will significantly contribute to the health and well-being of children across the country. I hope you will consider publishing this idea to inspire other schools and communities to adopt it.

Yours faithfully,
Sohail Khan

(A) Analytical Paragraph on Water Scarcity:
Based on the table:

The analysis of the water availability trend in India indicates a serious decline in per capita water availability. In 1951, the country had a relatively high per capita availability of 5177 cubic metres of water. However, as the population grew rapidly, this number decreased substantially over the decades. By 1991, it had dropped to 2209 cubic metres per person, and by 2001, it had further reduced to 1820 cubic metres. The most alarming projection shows that by 2050, per capita water availability will be as low as 1140 cubic metres per person. This steep decline in water availability can be attributed to various factors such as increasing population, rapid urbanization, and rising demand for water in agriculture, industries, and daily consumption. Additionally, the depletion of natural water sources, poor water management, and climate change are exacerbating the situation. If the current trends continue, the country could face severe water stress in the coming decades.

(B) Analytical Paragraph on Bottles Comparison:
Based on the chart:

The chart presents an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of various types of bottles-Glass, Silicone, Stainless Steel, and Plastic. Glass bottles are environmentally friendly, chemical-free, recyclable, and durable, but they are not lightweight and are not dishwasher-safe, making them less convenient for daily use. Silicone bottles, on the other hand, share many of the same benefits but are more lightweight and easier to clean. However, they are not as durable as glass bottles and are not dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel bottles offer durability, are lightweight, and are dishwasher-safe, but they do not have the same level of cleanliness assurance as glass or silicone bottles. Plastic bottles, while recyclable and affordable, have significant drawbacks - they are neither environmentally friendly nor chemical-free, making them the least suitable choice. Given these factors, stainless steel bottles seem to be the most balanced option for those looking for durability, cleanliness, and ease of use, while silicone bottles might be preferable for those seeking a lightweight and more eco-friendly option.

(i) Inference about Rajvir:
Rajvir, although an ardent fan of detective stories like Pranjol, is depicted as someone who appreciates nature and is curious about the world around him. His keen interest in the beautiful scenery overpowers his usual passion for reading detective stories.

Answer: False. The extract suggests that Rajvir was simply more interested in the scenery at that moment, not that the detective book was uninteresting.

People from urban areas, who are used to the hustle and bustle of cities, often find the tranquility of nature captivating. In the extract, Rajvir's fascination with the lush greenery and tea plantations reflects how people, especially city dwellers, marvel at the natural beauty that is often absent in urban environments. The expansive green fields and tea bushes provide a refreshing contrast to the concrete jungles of cities.

The phrase "doll-like figures” in the sentence can be replaced with "tiny figures” or “small people" to convey the image of people working amongst the tea bushes in a miniature, almost delicate manner.

Solution: Hari Singh is reflecting on his inability to learn whole sentences, not because of financial constraints, but due to the theft and his decision to leave Anil.

Answer: Hari Singh's tone in the statement reflects regret because he realizes that by robbing Anil and running away, he has lost the opportunity to learn important life skills. His remorse stems from the realization that Anil, who had trusted him, would no longer be there to guide him, and he would not be able to continue learning basic skills such as cooking or writing sentences, which could have helped him in life.

Answer: From the statement “Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees,” we can infer that Hari Singh is beginning to value education and learning. Despite his past actions, he recognizes that literacy and education hold the potential for a better future and more substantial rewards than petty theft.

Hari Singh feels guilty because Anil trusted him, and his actions have betrayed that trust. This guilt is a major source of his remorse.

Answer: When the speaker says “If there is nothing on the tree, ‘Tis the Chameleon you see,” he refers to camouflage as the characteristic trait of a true Chameleon.

Answer: The speaker is drawing a comparison between the Chameleon and a lizard because of their similar appearance. Both animals are small and have similar body shapes, leading the speaker to describe the Chameleon as being “like a lizard.”

The speaker is presenting the Chameleon in a lighthearted, whimsical manner. The use of simple language and playful description suggests a tone of amusement or fun, rather than indifference, dismissal, or respect.

Answer: In these lines, the poet uses simple and descriptive language to convey the Chameleon’s physical traits and its elusive nature. The phrase "nothing on the tree" highlights the animal’s ability to blend into its environment, emphasizing its camouflage. The tone is playful, adding a light-hearted element to the description.

Answer: The figure of speech used in this line is personification. The trees are described as if they are human beings stumbling forward, giving them human-like qualities.

Answer: This line uses a simile to describe the moon, comparing it to a broken mirror. The image of the moon being broken reflects a sense of fragmentation or disarray, while the “pieces” flashing in the tree crown could symbolize the beauty and brilliance of the moon, still visible despite its brokenness. This image conveys a feeling of something both beautiful and fleeting.

The word "Listen" prepares the reader for an imminent change or significant event. It calls attention to the moment and signals that something important is about to happen.

Answer: This line suggests that the poet’s mind is filled with unspoken thoughts or uncertainties. The “whispers” symbolize fleeting or quiet thoughts that will eventually fade, indicating that the poet may be experiencing confusion, anticipation, or inner turmoil. It reflects a state of mind that is restless or unsettled, but also transient.

Solution: The Postmaster realizes that Lencho, a poor farmer, is steadfast in his belief that God will help him. To fulfill his resolution, he decides to collect money from his colleagues, despite the fact that the amount is beyond his own means. He does this to support Lencho's faith and provide him with help.

Solution: The young seagull’s initial attempts to fly were marked by fear and hesitation. He feared the vastness of the sky and was too scared to leap off the ledge. However, in his first successful flight, driven by hunger and the encouragement of his family, he overcame his fear and soared into the sky, feeling the thrill of freedom and success.

Solution: Amanda yearns to be an orphan because she feels stifled by her mother’s constant instructions and scolding. She imagines that being an orphan would bring her freedom, silence, and the chance to roam freely without any constraints or responsibilities.

Solution: Mijbil, the otter, turned out to be a highly playful and affectionate pet. He would often engage in playful activities, like splashing water and rolling around, bringing joy to his owner. His mischievous nature and endearing antics made him a delightful companion.

Solution: Ogden Nash uses vivid imagery to describe the pirate as a fearsome figure, with his "beard like a tree" and "eyes like a red-hot stove.” These descriptions appeal to the senses by evoking a visual and intense feeling of terror, which contrasts with Custard’s calm and timid nature.

Solution: Mr. Herriot refers to the “happy period” as a time in their practice when they were constantly busy with a variety of cases and had a great deal of satisfaction in helping animals. It was a time when they worked hard but also experienced the joy of seeing animals recover and knowing they had made a difference.

Solution: Ebright’s mother played a crucial role in his journey to becoming a scientist by encouraging his curiosity and supporting his interests. She provided him with books and materials that sparked his interest in nature and science, helping him develop his research skills and fueling his determination to explore and learn.

Solution: In “The Book that Saved the Earth,” the nursery rhyme book plays a pivotal role in protecting Earth from Martians. The Martians, who misunderstood the rhymes as powerful and destructive, were intimidated and fled. This highlights the humor and irony of how something so innocent and harmless can have such an enormous impact when misunderstood.

Solution: One acknowledges that both, Valli and Mandela, were driven by strong aspirations, but while Valli’s desire was personal and focused on experiencing a bus ride, Mandela’s vision was broader, aimed at achieving equality and justice for his people. Valli’s journey in “Madam Rides a Bus” was driven by a simple, innocent wish to break free from the constraints of her village life, whereas Mandela’s vision, as described in “A Long Walk to Freedom,” was rooted in the collective struggle of an entire nation against apartheid. Both were fulfilled, but Valli’s desire was achieved in a moment of personal triumph, while Mandela’s vision unfolded over many years of sacrifice and struggle, impacting an entire country.

Solution: Good morning everyone. Today, I’d like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into how we can learn to deal with loss. In John Berryman’s “The Ball Poem,” the loss of a simple ball becomes a metaphor for deeper, personal loss. Berryman shows us that while material possessions can be lost, the lessons we learn from those losses stay with us. Similarly, in “A Sermon at Benaras,” the poet speaks of the impermanence of life and how accepting loss can bring inner peace. Both pieces teach us that loss, whether material or personal, can lead to growth and understanding if we accept it with grace. To conclude, I’d like to say that loss, though painful, is an inevitable part of life, and learning to cope with it is crucial for personal growth. Thank you.

Diary Entry:
Date: 12th March, 2024

Today, as I sit and reflect on my actions, my conscience pricks me. The path I have chosen, the reckless use of science, has cost society dearly. I sought to make myself invisible, to gain power over others, but in doing so, I endangered innocent lives. My scientific knowledge, once a tool for progress, has now become a weapon of destruction. I used my intellect for selfish purposes, ignoring the consequences of my actions. The invisibility I sought has left me alone and isolated. I have become a prisoner of my own creation. I must warn others—science, if misused, can destroy not only the fabric of society but also one’s own soul.

Solution: Matilda Loisel, in Guy De Maupassant’s “The Necklace,” begins as a discontented and materialistic woman, dissatisfied with her modest life and dreaming of wealth and luxury. She borrows a beautiful necklace to attend a high-society event, only to lose it. Faced with the consequences, she and her husband sacrifice everything to replace it, living in poverty for ten years. During this time, Matilda transforms. The hardship forces her to work hard and endure suffering, leading her to develop a more realistic understanding of life. When she learns that the necklace was a fake, her character arc reaches its climax—she has gone from vanity and superficiality to a deep appreciation of life’s true value.