CBSE Class 10 English Question Paper 2024 PDF (Set 1 - 2/4/1) is available for download here. CBSE conducted the English exam on February 26, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The total marks for the theory paper are 80. The question paper contains 20% MCQ-based questions, 40% competency-based questions, and 40% short and long answer type questions.
Candidates can use the link below to download the CBSE Class 10 English Set 1 Question Paper with detailed solutions.
CBSE Class 10 English Question Paper 2024 (Set 1 - 2/4/1) with Answer Key
| CBSE Class 10 English Question Paper 2024 (Set 1 - 2/4/1) with Answer Key | Check Solutions |
CBSE Class 10 English Questions with Solutions
Section A
Reading Skills
Question 1:
Read the following passage carefully :
(1) Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, as rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products most visible in developing Asian and African nations, where garbage collection systems are often inefficient or nonexistent. But the developed world, especially in countries with low recycling rates, also has trouble properly collecting discarded plastics. Plastic trash has become so ubiquitous that it has prompted efforts to write a global treaty negotiated by the United Nations.
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(2) Plastics made from fossil fuels are just over a century old. Production and development of thousands of new plastic products accelerated after World War II. It transformed the modern age so much that life without plastics is unrecognizable today. Plastics revolutionized medicine with life-saving devices, made space travel possible, lightened cars and jets saving fuel and pollution and saved lives with helmets, incubators, and equipment for clean drinking water.
(3) The conveniences plastics offer, however, led to a throw-away culture : today, single-use plastics account for 40 percent of the plastic produced every year. Many of these products, such as plastic bags and food wrappers, have a lifespan of mere minutes to hours, yet they may persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
(4) land. Trash is also carried to sea by major rivers, which act as conveyor belts, picking up more and more trash as they move downstream. Once at sea, much of the plastic trash remains in coastal waters. But once caught up in ocean currents, it can be transported around the world. (
(5) Millions of animals are killed by plastics every year, from birds to fish to other marine organisms. Nearly 700 species, including endangered ones, are known to have been affected by plastics. Nearly every species of seabirds eats plastics. Most of the deaths of animals are caused by entanglement or starvation. Seals, whales, turtles, and other animals are strangled by abandoned fishing gear or discarded six-pack rings.
(6) The solution is to prevent plastic waste from entering rivers and seas in the first place, many scientists and conservationists including the National Geographic Society say. This could be accomplished with improved waste management systems and recycling, better product design that takes into account the short life of disposable packaging, and reduction in manufacturing of unnecessary single-use plastics.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
(i) Which of the following statements best describes the reason why plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues?
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Explanation: The main issue contributing to plastic pollution is the overwhelming rate at which disposable plastic products are produced, which exceeds the world’s capacity to manage waste effectively.
(ii) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph 2? Rationalize your response in about 40 words.
‘It transformed the modern age so much that life without plastics is unrecognizable today.’
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Explanation: The tone of the writer is reflective and somewhat critical. The phrase “life without plastics is unrecognizable” emphasizes how deeply plastics have infiltrated modern life, implying that this transformation has both positive and negative consequences.
(iii) The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (A) - (E) below, identify two sets of synonyms.
(A) garbage and trash
(B) starvation and strangled
(C) disposable and reduction
(D) persist and downstream
(E) transformed and revolutionized
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Explanation: Both “garbage” and “trash” are synonyms for waste materials, while “transformed” and “revolutionized” both refer to a significant change or alteration.
(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately:
The writer says that most of the plastic trash is found in the Earth’s last sink, and the reason it is transported around the world is __________.
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Explanation: Plastic waste is transported around the world due to inadequate systems for managing waste and the international movement of waste materials.
(v) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, the downside of the convenience that plastic offers.
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Explanation: While plastic offers convenience, its long-lasting environmental impact is a major downside. The convenience of disposable plastics leads to widespread pollution and ecological damage, as plastic waste can persist for hundreds of years, harming wildlife and ecosystems.
(vi) Complete the sentence appropriately: According to conservationists, the two ways in which most of the deaths of animals are caused are __________.
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Explanation: Conservationists point out that plastic pollution causes harm to wildlife primarily by ingestion and entanglement, leading to death and ecological imbalance.
(vii) Based on the passage, how can we contribute to the reduction of plastic waste?
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Explanation: Reducing the use of single-use plastics is one of the most effective ways individuals can help decrease plastic waste and its environmental impact.
(viii) State one reason why plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations.
View Solution
Explanation: In many developing nations, inadequate waste management and a lack of recycling facilities contribute to the high visibility of plastic pollution.
Question 2:
Read the following passage carefully:
(1) Rotation of crops is a universal phenomenon which is practised by most of the farmers of the tropical and temperate countries. The main objective of rotation of crops is to obtain higher agricultural returns on the one hand, and to maintain the soil fertility on the other.
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(2) In other words, the rotation of crops helps in making agriculture more sustainable. The importance of crop rotation is more in the areas where farmers grow two, or more than two crops in the same field in a year. Irrigation facilities have also been appreciably developed in the country during the last three decades. The availability of water to the arable land has helped in the intensification of agriculture.
(3) In the areas such as Punjab and Haryana, where the Green Revolution is a big success, one soil exhaustive crop (rice) is followed by another soil exhaustive crop (wheat). Subsequently, the field vacated by wheat is devoted to either rice or maize or cotton. Thus, in one year, the farmers are harvesting three soil exhaustive crops from the same field. Such a rotation of crops may fetch more income to the farmers, but depletes the soil fertility at a faster pace.
(4) A number of field studies were conducted to assess the traditional crop rotation pattern. One such field study about the changes in the rotation of crops was conducted in the village Banhera (Tanda), Haridwar district. The main rotation of crops of the village is shown in the table below.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
(i) Fill in the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets, based on your understanding of para 2.
One of the reasons that there has been an intensification of agriculture in the country is the development of irrigation facilities a/an (fact/opinion) ______ because it is a/an ____(subjective judgement/objective detail).
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Explanation: The development of irrigation facilities is an objective, measurable event, and not a matter of personal opinion or subjective judgment.
(ii) Based on your understanding of paras 1 and 2, state whether the following statement is true or false.
If proper irrigation facility is provided, higher agricultural returns can be obtained by making crop rotation more sustainable.
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Explanation: The provision of proper irrigation facilities ensures better yields, which can be supported by sustainable crop rotation practices, thereby enhancing agricultural returns.
(iii) Justify the following in about 40 words.
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Answer: Crop rotation can increase income in the short term by diversifying production, but it can deplete soil fertility quickly if the same crops are rotated. Without sufficient time for the soil to regenerate, the fertility declines, leading to reduced long-term yields.
(iv) Based on the table, mention the years when the land was left fallow for the maximum number of days.
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Explanation: The years with maximum fallow days would be clearly indicated by the data presented in the passage or table, which shows the land's uncultivated periods.
(v) The study conducted in village Banhera (Tanda) reflects that during the years 1960 to 1965, from April to June, the land was left fallow or uncultivated throughout. State any one inference that can be drawn from this.
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Explanation: Leaving the land fallow provides the soil with time to restore its nutrients and maintain its fertility, which is vital for sustainable agriculture.
(vi) Select the option that correctly states the significance of crop rotation as given below:
Options:
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Explanation: Crop rotation benefits soil fertility by leaving the land fallow and ensuring proper crop selection to maintain soil nutrients.
(vii) Crop rotation is helping in making agriculture more sustainable. Mention one benefit and one drawback of crop rotation.
- Benefit: Crop rotation helps in maintaining soil fertility by preventing depletion of essential nutrients.
- Drawback: It may lead to faster soil depletion if crops that exhaust soil nutrients are frequently rotated without adequate soil management.
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Explanation: Crop rotation prevents the buildup of pests and improves soil health but may accelerate soil depletion if not managed properly.
(viii) Which of the following is the main takeaway from the study mentioned in the passage?
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Explanation: The study shows that crop rotation, when practiced effectively, can significantly enhance sustainability in agriculture, benefiting both soil health and yields.
Section B
Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
GRAMMAR
Question 3:
Complete any TEN out of the following twelve tasks, as directed
Complete any ten of the following twelve tasks, as directed
(i) Read the given sentence from a science journal. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence.
‘When nutrition therapy is provided by a qualified professional, people could learn how to make better food choices.’
Error: "apy"
Correction: "If therapy"
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Explanation: The sentence is missing the word "If" to make it grammatically correct. It should begin with a conditional clause "If therapy..."
(ii) Fill in the blank with the correct form of the word in brackets:
Please keep me ______ (apprise) of your next step to address this matter. Thanks for your time.
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Explanation: The word “apprised” is the correct past participle form, which fits the sentence structure.
(iii) Sunanda and Pushkar had a conversation about their travels. Report Pushkar’s question. ‘Have you ever been to Peri Bagh?’
Reported Speech: Pushkar asked Sunanda if she had ever been to Peri Bagh.
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Explanation: When reporting a question, we use an indirect speech structure. “Have you ever” changes to “had ever.”
(iv) Read the dialogue between Vilakshna and her physician, Dr. Sharnani, regarding the effectiveness of her medication.
Dr. Sharnani: How is your acid reflux problem now?
Vilakshna: I’d tried everything without success, but this new medicine is great.
Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue.
Dr. Sharnani: How is your acid reflux problem now?
Vilakshna: The new medicine is great.
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Explanation: Dr. Sharnani asked Vilakshna about her acid reflux problem, to which Vilakshna replied that she tried everything without success, but she found the new medicine to be great.
(v) Identify the error and supply the correction for the given sentence from a private coaching advertisement.
Are you living a happy life? Do you want to find your identification? Do you want to enhance your career?
Error: "find your identification"
Correction: "find your identity"
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Explanation: The term “identification” refers to official documents used for identification purposes, while “identity” refers to the individual’s sense of self, which fits the context better.
(vi) Fill in the blank with the correct option:
Suitable for someone who wishes to —(insure/assure/ensure) adequate financial backup. It is available to the family in case of his/her untimely death.
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Explanation: The correct word is "ensure," which means to make certain or guarantee. "Insure" refers to providing insurance, and “assure” means to give confidence.
(vii) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for a pop-up that appeared on a webpage.
These cookies are used to collect information about how you interact with our website and allows us to remember you.
| Option No. | Error | Correction |
|---|---|---|
| (A) | interact | interacted |
| (B) | with | to |
| (C) | about | for |
| (D) | allows | allow |
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Explanation: The subject "cookies" is plural, so the verb should be in its base form "allow" to agree with the plural subject. The error is in the verb form "allows,” which should be corrected to "allow” for subject-verb agreement.
(viii) Fill in the blank with the correct option:
Sentence: I ____ watching that programme every week since it started.
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Explanation: The sentence refers to an action that started in the past and continues in the present. This is a perfect continuous tense, which uses “have been” with the present participle (“watching”).
(ix) Report the following dialogue between two friends who are visiting a museum, by completing the sentence
Auronima: What are you staring at?
Soumitra: I am in awe of this beautiful painting! I have not seen anything like this before.
Auronima asked Soumitra what he was staring at. Soumitra exclaimed that he was in awe of the beautiful painting and that __________.
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Explanation: The reporting uses the past perfect tense (“had never seen”) to indicate an action completed before the moment of speaking.
(x) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the weather warning given by the IMD.
IMD on S ____ districts in coastal Maharashtra in view of the extremely severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy gushing over the Arabian Sea.
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Explanation: The sentence refers to an ongoing action in the present, hence the present continuous tense (“is issuing”) is used.
(xi) Complete the slogan, by filling in the blank with the correct option.
When it gets really hot, rain ____ a blessing.
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Explanation: “Will be” indicates a strong likelihood or necessity in this context. The sentence implies that when it gets hot, rain is undoubtedly a blessing, making “must be” the most appropriate choice.
(xii) Identify the error and supply the correction for the following advertisement of an antivirus software.
A properly installed and maintained antivirus program may wipe out any malware attack, be it a bot, a virus, a Trojan or even ransomware.
Error: "may wipe out"
Correction: "can wipe out"
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Explanation: The correct verb to use in this context is “can” because it refers to the ability of the antivirus program to remove malware. “May” implies uncertainty, while “can” indicates the antivirus program’s capability.
Question 4:
Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below:
(a) The problem of speeding traffic on colony roads causing accidents is increasing day by day. As a young citizen, who wants to minimize the accidents caused by them, write a letter to the editor of a national daily, in about 120 words, expressing your concern at the situation and suggesting measures to resolve the problem and drawing attention of the concerned authorities.
You are Samyukta Khanna/Sanjay Khanna of 567, Madhur Apartments, Amar Vihar, Aram Nagar.
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Answer:
Letter to the Editor
From: Samyukta Khanna
567, Madhur Apartments, Amar Vihar, Aram Nagar.
Date: February 15, 2025
To: The Editor, National Daily, New Delhi.
Subject: Concern Regarding Speeding Traffic on Colony Roads
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the rising incidents of speeding traffic on the roads of our residential colony, which have resulted in frequent accidents and endanger the safety of the residents, particularly pedestrians and children.
Despite the presence of speed limits, many drivers violate them, resulting in life-threatening situations. The lack of proper traffic control measures, especially in residential areas, further exacerbates the problem. I believe that it is crucial to address this issue before it results in more serious consequences.
I suggest the following measures to resolve the issue:
- Installation of speed breakers at crucial intersections and near schools.
- Increased police patrolling during peak hours to deter speeding.
- Public awareness campaigns about the dangers of speeding and its consequences.
- Regular monitoring of the traffic flow with the help of CCTV cameras.
I hope the concerned authorities will take immediate action to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further accidents.
Yours sincerely,
Samyukta Khanna
OR
(b) As Kaveri Mahajan, of 543, Narmada Apartments, Jeev Nagar, you feel that during the monsoon season all the rain water goes down the drain without being utilized. Write a letter to the RWA of your society, in about 120 words, suggesting measures to save and preserve rain water emphasizing the importance of saving every drop of water.
View Solution
Answer:
Letter to the RWA
From: Kaveri Mahajan
543, Narmada Apartments, Jeev Nagar.
Date: February 15, 2025
To: The President, Resident Welfare Association (RWA), Narmada Apartments, Jeev Nagar.
Subject: Suggestion to Save and Preserve Rainwater
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the issue of rainwater wastage during the monsoon season in our society. Every year, during the rainy months, large amounts of rainwater go down the drains without being put to any productive use. This is a valuable resource that could be used to meet our water requirements.
I would like to suggest the following measures to save and preserve rainwater:
- Installation of rainwater harvesting systems in each building to collect and store rainwater for later use.
- Ensuring proper filtration and storage systems to make the collected water suitable for non-potable purposes like gardening and cleaning.
- Conducting awareness campaigns to educate residents about the importance of saving water.
- Creating awareness about the installation of water storage tanks on rooftops.
I believe that by implementing these measures, we can significantly reduce our dependency on municipal water supply and contribute to water conservation efforts.
Yours sincerely,
Kaveri Mahajan
Question 5:
Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below:
(a) Co-curricular activities help to enhance holistic development and assist in inculcating critical skills and abilities to be successful and happy in the 21st century life and workplace. Based on the table given below, write an analytical paragraph, in about 120 words, on how co-curricular activities supplement the theoretical curriculum.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND VALUES THAT CAN BE DEVELOPED THROUGH CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
- logical and analytical thinking
- creative and critical thinking
- problem-solving skills
- leadership skills
- social, emotional and communication skills
- recreational value
- enhanced technology skills
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Solution: Analytical Paragraph:
Co-curricular activities play a significant role in supplementing the theoretical curriculum by fostering the development of essential skills and values. These activities provide a platform for students to enhance their logical and analytical thinking, which is often not fully addressed in traditional classroom settings. For instance, participating in debates or quizzes sharpens creative and critical thinking. Co-curricular activities like group discussions or project work nurture problem-solving skills, teaching students to analyze situations and find solutions efficiently. Additionally, these activities help develop leadership skills by offering students the opportunity to take charge of events or teams. Social, emotional, and communication skills are also honed, as students interact with their peers and work collaboratively in diverse environments. Moreover, recreational activities provide mental relaxation, and engagement with technology during workshops or competitions increases students’ technological proficiency. Thus, co-curricular activities are crucial for a well-rounded education, preparing students for success in the 21st-century workplace and life.
OR
(b) The following table provides an insight into the multifaceted impact and positive contributions of tourism. Write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words assessing the significance of tourism.
IMPACT OF TOURISM
- contributes to GDP and foreign exchange
- boosts local markets and businesses
- creates employment
- preserves culture
- promotes infrastructural development
View Solution
Solution: Analytical Paragraph:
Tourism plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of a country, contributing significantly to its GDP and foreign exchange reserves. The influx of international and domestic tourists helps boost local markets and businesses by generating demand for goods and services. Small and medium enterprises, particularly in the hospitality and transportation sectors, thrive as a result of the tourism industry. Additionally, tourism creates employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, for local communities, thus contributing to poverty alleviation. Beyond economic benefits, tourism also plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of a region. By attracting visitors to historical sites, traditional festivals, and cultural practices, tourism promotes the conservation of cultural assets. Furthermore, tourism fosters infrastructural development by necessitating the improvement of transport, healthcare, and communication systems, benefiting both residents and visitors. Overall, tourism’s multifaceted impact supports the sustainable growth of economies and societies.
Question 6:
Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b) :
(a) For the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible. The second night Mijbil came on to my bed in the small hours and remained asleep in the crook of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning, and during the day he began to lose his apathy and take a keen, much too keen, interest in his surroundings. I made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water. (Mijbil the Otter)
(i) Which of the following is *not* a reason why Mijbil came on to Maxwell’s bed in the small hours?
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Explanation: In the story, Mijbil had not yet become playful with Maxwell. Instead, his action of coming to Maxwell’s bed was because he sought comfort, safety, and gradually started becoming more familiar with his surroundings. Therefore, option (C) does not align with Mijbil’s behavior at that point.
(ii) Maxwell says that Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly, he was simply aloof and indifferent for the first twenty-four hours. Give reasons in not more than 40 words.
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Explanation: During the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was not overtly hostile or friendly towards Maxwell because he was unfamiliar with his new surroundings. He was in a state of detachment, neither engaging with Maxwell nor showing any signs of aggression, simply observing his environment without much interaction.
(iii) Read the following descriptions (A)-(D) and identify which one correctly corresponds to the extract.
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Explanation: In the passage, Maxwell describes Mijbil’s early behavior as aloof and indifferent, indicating that Mijbil needed time and space to adjust to his new environment. This is consistent with option (B), which describes the necessary adjustment period for a pet when in a new environment.
(iv) Which characteristic trait of otters is revealed when Mijbil is taken to the bathroom?
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Answer: When Mijbil is taken to the bathroom, it is revealed that otters have a strong affinity for water. Mijbil immediately started playing and splashing in the water, which reflects the playful and water-loving nature of otters.
Question 6(b):
The arrival of a stranger at an inn in winter was in any case an unusual event. A stranger of such uncommon appearance set all tongues wagging. Mrs. Hall, the landlord’s wife, made every effort to be friendly. But Griffin had no desire to talk, and told her, “My reason for coming to Iping is a desire for solitude. I do not wish to be disturbed in my work. Besides, an accident has affected my face.” Satisfied that her guest was an eccentric scientist, and in view of the fact that he had paid her in advance, Mrs. Hall was prepared to excuse his strange habits and irritable temper. (Footprints Without Feet)
(i) State any one inference about Griffin from the given context:
“My reason for coming to Iping is a desire for solitude. I do not wish to be disturbed in my work. Besides, an accident has affected my face.”
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Answer: One inference about Griffin from the given context is that he is reclusive and prefers isolation, likely due to his appearance after the accident. He does not want to interact with others and wishes to remain undisturbed in his work.
(ii) State True or False: Even though Mrs. Hall was satisfied with Griffin, she was skeptical to excuse his strange habits and irritable temper.
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Explanation: Mrs. Hall was initially impressed by Griffin’s knowledge and abilities, but she could not fully overlook his strange habits and temper, which made her feel uneasy.
(iii) It was not difficult for Griffin to convince the landlord and his wife about his strange appearance and eccentric behavior. Elaborate in about 40 words with reference to the context.
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Answer: Griffin managed to convince the landlord and his wife about his strange appearance by providing a plausible excuse – he had suffered an accident that affected his face. His eccentric behavior, though odd, was somewhat tolerated, as they were intrigued by his mysteriousness.
(iv) Which phrase would correctly substitute “a stranger of such uncommon appearance” in the given sentence from the extract?
View Solution
Answer: The phrase that would correctly substitute “a stranger of such uncommon appearance” is “a person with such a peculiar look.”
Question 7:
Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b) :
(a) But he’s locked in a concrete cell,
His strength behind bars,
Stalking the length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.
(A Tiger in the Zoo)
(i) Why is the tiger stalking the length of his cage?
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Answer: The tiger is stalking the length of his cage because he is frustrated by the confinement and the lack of space to roam freely. His movements indicate anxiety and restlessness, as he is unable to exhibit his natural behavior in a small enclosure.
(ii) Describe the concrete cell where the tiger is kept and how does it contrast with the tiger’s presence in its natural habitat? (Answer in about 40 words.)
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Answer: The concrete cell is small and barren, offering no room for the tiger to roam or hunt. In contrast, the tiger’s natural habitat is vast and filled with forests, rivers, and prey, providing freedom and the opportunity to express its instincts.
(iii) Complete the sentence with the appropriate option: The lines from the poem tell us that the tiger is ——
View Solution
Solution: The lines from the poem tell us that the tiger is being indifferent to visitors because it is a daily routine for him.
(iv) Identify the type of literary device used in the line: ‘But he’s locked in a concrete cell.’
View Solution
Answer: The literary device used is Alliteration. The repetition of the ‘c’ sound in “concrete cell” creates a rhythmic quality, emphasizing the harshness of the tiger’s confinement.
Question 7(b):
Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,
Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
(i) Comment upon the contrast that is reflected in the last two lines of the extract.
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Answer: The contrast in the last two lines of the extract highlights the difference between the brave, bold actions of Ink and Blink and the more subdued, cautious behavior expected in their real world. The contrast emphasizes their larger-than-life courage, suggesting that bravery isn’t always bound by logic or reason.
(ii) Fill in the blank with one word. While describing Ink and Blink, the speaker says that they could chase lions down the stairs. By saying so, he is revealing the _______ characteristic of their personality.
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Answer: By saying so, the speaker is revealing the fearless characteristic of their personality.
(iii) Comment on the poet’s use of language in these lines in about 40 words.
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Answer: The poet uses vivid, energetic language to describe the audacious and heroic qualities of Ink and Blink. Phrases like “chase lions down the stairs” amplify their boldness and exaggerate their strength, creating an image of unstoppable courage and fearlessness.
(iv) Which of the following best describes the theme of the poem?
View Solution
Solution: The correct answer is (D) Crisis reveals character because it reflects the common theme in literature that a person’s true nature is often revealed during challenging or crisis situations. This theme best describes the essence of the poem.
Question 8:
Answer any four of the following five questions in 40-50 words each:
(i) Nelson Mandela in his inauguration speech says, “Those who were outlaws not so long ago, have today been given the rare privilege to be host to the nations of the world on our own soil.” What is the significance of this statement with reference to the political system that prevailed before this?
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Answer: This statement highlights the profound shift from the oppressive apartheid system to a democratic South Africa. Before the end of apartheid, black South Africans were marginalized and excluded from power. Mandela’s words reflect the victory of the oppressed, who were once outlaws, now playing a pivotal role in welcoming global nations.
(ii) The Ball Poem initially appears simple but is actually quite impactful and intense. Comment upon the theme of “The Ball Poem.”
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Answer: The theme of “The Ball Poem” revolves around loss and the emotional maturity that comes with it. The poem reflects the boy’s realization that material possessions, like the ball, are transient. This loss teaches him the deeper truth about life: the inevitability of loss and the need to let go.
(iii) Coorg has been defined as a piece of heaven by the writer. Justify.
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Answer: Coorg is described as a “piece of heaven” due to its natural beauty. The lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and scenic landscapes create an idyllic and serene environment. The unique culture and coffee plantations add to its charm, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
(iv) “What a burden, Lord, to be the father of a grown-up daughter!” Explain what this line conveys about Chubukov as a father.
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Answer: This line reveals Chubukov’s frustration and anxiety about his daughter Natalya’s behavior. He feels burdened by her demanding nature and the responsibilities of finding her a suitable match. It reflects his view of fatherhood as an overwhelming and challenging task.
(v) In every alternate stanza, Amanda drifts into fantasy and yearns for more freedom and silence. Justify and elaborate the reason.
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Answer: Amanda’s fantasies reflect her desire to escape the constraints of her strict, controlling environment. She yearns for freedom and tranquility, away from the constant expectations placed on her. Her daydreams allow her to experience peace, where she is free from the pressures of her real life.
Question 9:
Answer any two of the following three questions in 40-50 words each:
(i) We are often over-indulgent towards people we care about. Explain with reference to the context of the story “A Triumph of Surgery.”
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Answer: In “A Triumph of Surgery,” Mrs. Pumphrey’s over-indulgence towards her dog, Tricki, is evident as she pampered him with excessive food, treats, and comfort. Her over-care led to Tricki’s illness, showcasing how being too indulgent can harm those we care about, even if unintentionally.
(ii) How did Apprentice Noodle act smartly by suggesting something about the book without offending Think-Tank?
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Answer: In “The Book That Saved The Earth,” Noodle cleverly complimented the book’s “in-depth analysis,” which flattered Think-Tank’s ego without directly criticizing the book’s absurd content. This allowed Noodle to subtly suggest the book’s value without offending Think-Tank, who was proud of it.
(iii) Despite his unusual appearance, Ausable’s presence of mind helped him get rid of Max. Comment with reference to the story “The Midnight Visitor.”
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Answer: In “The Midnight Visitor,” Ausable, despite his unassuming appearance, uses his wit and presence of mind to outsmart the intruder, Max. By tricking Max into thinking that there was a police officer outside, Ausable defuses the situation and manages to save himself, demonstrating the power of intelligence over brute force.
Question 10:
Answer any one of the following two questions in 100-120 words.
(a) Grief or sadness is an emotion natural to all types of loss or significant change. You have been asked to present an analysis of the approaches of Lencho and Kisa Gotami in dealing with their respective losses. Write this presentation draft including your insights, and comparing the approaches of both.
You may begin like this: One acknowledges that Lencho had unwavering faith in God whereas Kisa Gotami in her grief, believed that her son ________ however _______. (Reference: A Letter to God and The Sermon at Benares)
View Solution
Answer: Presentation Draft on Lencho and Kisa Gotami
One acknowledges that Lencho had unwavering faith in God, whereas Kisa Gotami, in her grief, believed that her son would return to life however Lencho’s unshakeable belief led him to expect divine intervention when he faced hardships, while Kisa Gotami, after a similar tragedy, sought solace in the search for medicine, only to realize that death is inevitable and must be accepted.
Both characters are united by a deep emotional attachment to their loved ones, but their responses differ drastically. Lencho holds onto the hope that his faith will solve his problems, while Kisa Gotami’s journey involves a realization of life’s harsh realities and acceptance. The contrast in their emotional coping mechanisms highlights the diversity in human responses to loss.
(b) You have been chosen to address the school assembly on the occasion of Women’s Day. You choose to speak on the resilience and indomitable spirit of the young girls: Anne Frank and Valli. Prepare the speech draft, with reference to the commonality and contrast in the situations and circumstances of both the girls. (Madam Rides the Bus and From the Diary of Anne Frank)
You may begin like this: Good morning everyone. Today, I’d like to express my insights on the resilience of two young girls — You may end this way: To conclude I’d like to say that _____. Thank you.
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Answer: Speech Draft on Resilience of Anne Frank and Valli
Good morning everyone. Today, I’d like to express my insights on the resilience of two young girls, Anne Frank and Valli. Both faced extraordinarily difficult situations at a young age, yet they exhibited remarkable courage. Anne, living in hiding during the Holocaust, demonstrated immense mental strength and maturity beyond her years. Valli, a little girl from a rural village, displayed independence and courage when she decided to travel alone on a bus, defying societal norms.
Despite their vastly different circumstances, both girls exhibited an indomitable spirit. Anne’s resilience in the face of danger and Valli’s determination to explore the world reflect their common desire for freedom and independence. However, their challenges were shaped by different societal pressures, making their courage unique in its context.
To conclude I’d like to say that the stories of Anne Frank and Valli remind us of the strength within us all, regardless of age or circumstances. Thank you.
Question 11:
Answer any one of the following two questions in 100-120 words.
(a) Imagine that Hari Singh from The Thief’s Story by Ruskin Bond, writes a diary entry, exploring the theme of human values and relations that are essential in life and can transform a person in the context of his own experience. Write this diary entry as Hari Singh. (The Thief’s Story)
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Answer: Diary Entry by Hari Singh from "The Thief's Story"
Date: [Insert Date]
Today, as I reflect on my life and the transformation that has occurred within me, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. I once lived a life driven by selfishness, theft, and deceit. My only concern was for my own survival. However, when I met the man I tried to rob, I never expected the kindness and understanding he showed me.
This unexpected generosity of a stranger has opened my eyes to the importance of human values - honesty, trust, and compassion. He didn’t treat me as a mere thief, but as a human being with the potential for change. His actions have made me realize that one can transform, not through fear or force, but through kindness and respect.
I have learned a valuable lesson today: true transformation happens not through selfishness, but through understanding and empathy. I feel a new sense of hope in my heart.
(b) A character arc is the transformation or development of a character throughout a story and refers to the changes a character undergoes as a result of his/her experiences, challenges and interactions with other characters.
In the light of the above information, trace the character arc of Bholi in K.A. Abbas’ Bholi.
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Answer: Character Arc of Bholi in "Bholi"
Bholi’s character arc is one of gradual transformation. Initially, she is an insecure, frightened girl, marked by her physical appearance and stammer. Her life is full of neglect and ridicule, and she struggles with low self-esteem. However, as the story progresses, Bholi’s internal strength begins to emerge, especially after her teacher’s encouragement.
The turning point in Bholi’s character arc comes when she refuses to marry the man her parents chose for her, despite the pressure from her family. She finds her voice and asserts her right to make decisions for her own future. This courageous act signifies Bholi’s empowerment and the growth of her self-worth.
By the end of the story, Bholi is no longer the timid, stammering girl she once was. She has blossomed into a confident young woman, ready to stand up for herself and her dignity.








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