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

Answer:
(a) To highlight the richness of the world's cultures and promote intercultural dialogue.
(b) To emphasize the role of cultural diversity in achieving peace and sustainable development.

Solution: The sentence explains that during the international emergency, the cultural and creative sectors demonstrated their ability to bring people together (social cohesion) and provide resources for education and well-being. Option (D) matches this meaning perfectly.

Answer: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved by promoting cultural diversity, encouraging creative sectors, and engaging in continuous intercultural dialogue. Recognizing the economic, intellectual, and social potential of cultures is key to achieving peace and sustainability.

Answer: The writer's tone is positive and appreciative. By calling cultural diversity an "asset," the writer emphasizes its importance in driving peace, stability, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. It reflects the writer's recognition of culture's crucial role.

Solution: The phrase "bridging the gap” refers to establishing connections or unity between two different ideas or cultures to bring peace and development.

Solution: The words essential and intrinsic (d) are synonyms, as both refer to something fundamental or necessary. Similarly, urgent and crucial (e) are synonymous, meaning something extremely important or time-sensitive.

Solution: In 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted the resolution on Culture and Sustainable Development, affirming culture's contribution to peace, diversity, and sustainable development.

Solution: The phrase "Bridging the gap” refers to creating unity between cultures or ideas, which is essential for achieving peace, stability, and development in a diverse world.

Answer: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to reform the education system by integrating skill education into the mainstream learning process. The two key objectives are:

1. Skill Exposure by 2025: By 2025, at least 50% of learners through schools and higher education systems will have exposure to skill education. This objective focuses on equipping students with practical knowledge to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

2. Integration of Skill Education: NEP 2020 aims to remove the hierarchy associated with skill education and mainstream it across all educational institutions. Skill education will start early in middle and secondary schools and continue smoothly through higher education. The NEP emphasizes holistic learning by combining academic and skill-based knowledge to produce a competent and skilled workforce, thus contributing to national development.

Answer: "The development of skill capacities will go hand-in-hand with the development of academic or other capacities” is an opinion because it is a subjective judgment.

Explanation:
• The statement expresses a belief or perspective rather than a verifiable fact, making it an opinion.
• A subjective judgment is specific and neutral. The policy explains the importance of balancing skill development with academic achievements to meet the aspirations of 21st-century learners.

Answer: The statement clearly indicates that at least 50% of learners will gain exposure to skill education, which means it sets a minimum threshold. This implies that the target is a floor value, and more learners can be included in the future.

Explanation:
• The word "at least” suggests a minimum value.
• Skill education aims to equip students with essential competencies to ensure employability and productivity in the modern economy.

Thus, option (C) is the correct answer as it aligns with the stated objective of NEP 2020.

Answer: The benefit of the hub and spoke model will be:

1. Allowing schools to share resources such as skill labs to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

2. Facilitating collaboration between schools and local industries, providing students access to practical, hands-on learning experiences.

The hub acts as a central facility for skill labs, while the spokes represent schools that utilize the hub's resources. This model enhances access to quality skill education for all learners.

Solution: The analogy compares two relationships:

• Racism is condemned because it reflects a negative societal issue that must be opposed.

• In paragraph (3), the writer emphasizes the importance of “dignity of labour” and its value, stating that labour and skills deserve respect.

The analogy reflects that just as racism is condemned, dignity of labour is respected because it highlights the importance of valuing skills, hard work, and vocations.

Answer: South Korea has the maximum percentage of students in Skill Education, with 96%.

Solution: South Korea's success in skill education can be attributed to the following reasons:

1. Strong Vocational Training System: South Korea has developed a robust vocational education framework aligned with industry demands. Students are equipped with practical skills that prepare them for employment.

2. Technological Advancements: Being a leader in technology and innovation, South Korea integrates skill training with technological learning.

3. Industry Collaboration: Educational institutions actively collaborate with industries to provide hands-on training and skill development opportunities.

4. Government Policies: Supportive policies promote skill education as a pathway to career success, reducing the stigma associated with vocational training.

This focus on skill-based education ensures high employability rates, addressing labor market demands efficiently.

Answer: According to NEP 2020, skill exposure will begin at the middle and secondary school levels. This stage is crucial because:

• It helps students develop practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

• Early exposure encourages exploration of various vocations, preparing students for future career paths.

• It reduces the social stigma associated with vocational education by integrating it into mainstream schooling.

This approach creates a balanced education system where students develop both academic and practical competencies.

Answer: The National Education Policy (NEP) emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural and traditional values into education. It creates awareness and appreciation of Indian arts and artisanship through the following initiatives:

1. Inclusion in Curriculum: NEP 2020 promotes the integration of local art forms, crafts, and traditional knowledge into school and higher education curriculums. This ensures students understand and appreciate India's rich heritage.

2. Vocational Training: The NEP encourages skill-based education, including traditional arts and crafts. By learning artisanal skills, students can contribute to preserving Indian artisanship.

3. Promoting Dignity of Labour: NEP highlights the dignity of labour, encouraging students to value the contributions of artisans and workers.

4. Encouraging Local Talent: By collaborating with local artists and craftsmen, schools will act as a platform to promote regional art and create a sense of pride among learners.

5. Emphasis on Indian Culture: NEP encourages schools to organize workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events that focus on Indian arts, ensuring greater exposure and appreciation.

These measures aim to revive interest in India's cultural heritage and create a generation that values and respects its diverse arts and artisanship.

Solution: The word organise should remain in its base form because the modal verb “would” is followed by the base form of the verb.

Solution:

Solution: The guest's reply is in reported speech. The present tense in the original sentence (“it's always nice”) changes to past tense (“it was always nice”), and the adverb “here” changes to "there".

Solution: When converting direct speech to reported speech:

1. The reporting verb “expressed” is in the past tense, so the verb “can” changes to "could".

2. The pronoun “we” changes to “they” because the speaker (Ratul) is being referred to in the third person.

3. The rest of the sentence remains unchanged as it aligns with the original meaning.

Thus, the correct form is: “positive impact they could make in people's lives.”

Solution: The subject of the sentence refers to the “quarterly performance report,” which is singular. Therefore, the correct pronoun is “it”.

Solution:

Solution: The verb "learns” is incorrect because it follows the infinitive “to.” Verbs following “to” must always be in the base form. The corrected sentence is: “She wants to learn how to play the piano."

Solution: The word “must” indicates a sense of obligation, which aligns with the company's responsibility toward corporate social responsibility. Other options, such as "might” or “need,” do not convey the same level of certainty or necessity.

Solution: When converting direct speech into reported speech:

1. The pronoun “I” changes to “he” (referring to the customer).

2. The present perfect tense “have been” changes to the past perfect tense “had been.”

3. The time expression “this week” changes to “that week.”

The reported sentence becomes: “he had been very occupied with work that week.”

Solution: The correct verb is “waited”, which is in the simple past tense. The sentence describes a habitual action in the past where the residents eagerly anticipated visits every Sunday.

Solution: The correct verb is “share”, which is in the base form. The poetic nature of the sentence uses parallel structure where all verbs remain in the present tense: “cradles,” “paints,” and “share.” This creates a rhythmic and balanced flow.

Solution:

Answer:
43-B, Blue Apartments,
Prashant Lok,
New Delhi – 110019
May 25, 2024

The Principal,
Excellent Cooking,
Block-D, Mahesh Enclave,
New Delhi – 110010

Subject: Request for Information Regarding Summer Baking Course

Respected Sir/Madam,

I am Soumya, a student who has recently completed Class X. I came across your advertisement for a three-week summer course in baking, and I am keen to enroll. I would like to request more information about the course. Specifically, I wish to know the following details:

• Course structure and key topics covered
• Duration and daily class schedule
• Course fees and mode of payment
• Availability of job training or internships after completion

Please let me know if there are any additional requirements for enrollment. I would also appreciate it if you could provide a brochure or any reference materials related to the course.

Looking forward to your kind response at the earliest so that I can confirm my participation.
Thank you for your assistance.

Yours sincerely,
Soumya
(Contact Number: 9876543210)
(Email: soumya@example.com)

Answer:
Eric India Pvt. Ltd.
Saman Chowk,
New Delhi – 110020
May 25, 2024

The Sales Manager,
Lifeway India Company,
Block-3, Industrial Area,
New Delhi – 110011

Subject: Placement of Order for Office Furniture

Respected Sir/Madam,

With reference to your reply dated May 20, 2024, regarding our inquiry about office furniture, we are pleased to place an order for the following items as per the agreed terms and conditions:

Order Details:

Answer: The chart provides insights into the trends regarding the number of gyms and gym memberships in the city from 2010 to 2022. The data is represented in thousands and shows both the opening of gyms and membership patterns over the decade. In 2010, the number of gyms started at approximately 2,000, while the number of members was slightly lower. This indicates a modest interest in fitness facilities at the beginning of the decade. By 2012, both gyms and memberships experienced slight growth, with gyms increasing to around 2.7 (in 1000s) and membership numbers showing a similar trend. This period marked the initial rise in the city's fitness culture. The year 2014 witnessed a further increase as the number of gyms reached approximately 3 (in 1000s), while memberships closely followed, indicating that new gyms were attracting members effectively. A sharp rise occurred in 2016, where the number of gyms peaked at 4.2 (in 1000s). Interestingly, the membership count grew but did not match the rise in gyms, which could suggest market saturation or a lag in membership uptake. The trend reached its highest point in 2018, where both the number of gyms and memberships saw significant peaks. The number of gyms grew to 4.5 (in 1000s), while membership levels almost paralleled this figure. This year likely represented the height of fitness popularity in the city, driven by increased health awareness, lifestyle changes, and growing accessibility of gyms. In the subsequent years, from 2020 to 2022, there was a noticeable decline in both gyms and memberships. Gyms stabilized at around 3 (in 1000s), and memberships showed a slight dip. The possible reasons for this decline could include global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, financial challenges, or a shift towards home-based fitness solutions. Overall, the chart highlights a clear growth in the fitness sector over the decade, with significant peaks in 2016 and 2018. Although a decline occurred in the later years, the consistent presence of gyms and memberships indicates the growing importance of fitness among the city's residents.

Solution: The given bar graph provides a comparative analysis of students' average performance (in percentage) during the 1st and 2nd terminal exams across five subjects: English, Hindi, Maths, Science, and Social Studies (S.St.). In English, there is a minor improvement from around 70% in the 1st term to 75% in the 2nd term. A similar trend is observed in Hindi, where performance increased slightly, moving from about 65% to 70%. In Mathematics, students performed exceptionally well in the 2nd term, with scores rising from 85% to almost 95%, reflecting significant improvement. Science also witnessed progress, where scores increased from approximately 75% to 80%. However, in Social Studies (S.St.), there is a slight decline in performance, with scores dropping from about 70% in the 1st term to 65% in the 2nd term. Overall Analysis: The graph clearly shows an upward trend in four subjects, with Maths showing the most remarkable improvement. The slight decline in Social Studies highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve student performance.

Solution: The narrator felt an intense emotional connection to the historical event he was witnessing. Being a part of a significant moment that symbolized the end of years of racial discrimination and apartheid in South Africa filled him with pride and humility. It was a culmination of years of struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance by millions of oppressed people. The narrator realized that this event marked not only political freedom but also the restoration of dignity, equality, and justice for people of all races. It was a celebration of victory against a system that had once divided the society so deeply. The moment represented a turning point in history, and the narrator felt honored to be alive to experience it.

Solution: The system that replaced racial domination is one based on justice, equality, and freedom. It recognizes the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their race or color. Unlike the oppressive apartheid regime, which denied basic human rights to the Black population, the new system aims to ensure equal opportunities for everyone. It promotes harmony among diverse communities and strives to remove social, economic, and political inequalities that existed under apartheid. By acknowledging the rights of all people, this system lays the foundation for a more inclusive and progressive society where individuals can thrive based on merit and hard work rather than racial identity.

Solution: The apartheid system in South Africa created an unjust, cruel, and inhumane society. It was built on the principle of racial segregation, where the white population enjoyed privilege, while the Black population faced oppression and humiliation. Black South Africans were denied basic rights such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. They were forced to live in separate areas, attend separate schools, and work in degrading conditions with minimal wages. Apartheid fueled social and economic inequalities, leading to resentment and bitterness among the oppressed people. The system institutionalized racism, breaking families apart and shattering dreams for generations. It created a divided nation, where humanity and dignity were disregarded in favor of racial superiority.

Solution: The phrase 'patched up' refers to temporarily resolving conflicts or disagreements. In this context, it means that the white-skinned people of South Africa managed to settle their internal issues or disputes for a short-term goal. However, this resolution was not permanent and was more of a compromise to serve their immediate interests. The phrase reflects that the unity among them was fragile and not built on genuine understanding or harmony. It highlights how historical conflicts and differences were set aside to create a dominant system of control over the dark-skinned population.

Solution: The given context highlights Anne's deep emotional connection with her family. Despite being a child, she understands the gravity of her grandmother's illness, which overshadows her birthday celebration. This shows Anne's maturity, empathy, and understanding nature. Her disappointment over her birthday not being celebrated also reveals her sensitivity and longing for family attention during significant moments.

Solution: Anne's education began at the Montessori Nursery School. This is explicitly mentioned in the passage where she talks about starting her education at the Montessori Nursery School and staying there until she was six. This institution was instrumental in shaping her early learning years.

Solution: Mrs. Kuperus was Anne's teacher and the headmistress at the Montessori Nursery School. Anne shared a close and affectionate relationship with Mrs. Kuperus. Their bond was evident when they both cried at the end of the year during their farewell. This emotional farewell shows that Mrs. Kuperus was not just a teacher but also a significant figure in Anne's early life who deeply cared for her growth and development. The tears symbolized the warmth and emotional connection between a student and a mentor, making the farewell truly heartbreaking for Anne.

Solution: The word 'heartbreaking' can be substituted with the word “sorrowful” or “emotional”.

Rewritten Sentence:
“At the end of the year we were both in tears as we said a sorrowful farewell.”
“At the end of the year we were both in tears as we said an emotional farewell.”

These words convey the same idea of intense sadness and emotional pain caused by the farewell.

Solution: The tiger in the zoo is confined to a cage and paces in frustration, unable to move freely or exhibit its natural instincts. In contrast, in its natural habitat, the tiger lurks in the shadows, slides through long grass, and hunts near waterholes, reflecting its freedom and power.

Solution: The speaker insinuates that in its natural habitat, the tiger is a fierce and dominant predator. It roams freely, displaying its power and authority. By “snarling around houses," the tiger symbolizes its wild, untamed nature, and its instinct to hunt and protect its territory.

Solution: The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the tiger's frustration in captivity. Phrases like “few steps of his cage,” “pads of velvet quiet,” and “quiet rage” highlight its suppressed instincts, anger, and helplessness in the confined space of a zoo.

Solution: The phrase “silent anger” or “muted fury” can correctly substitute ‘quiet rage.’ Both phrases express the tiger’s suppressed anger and frustration while being unable to act due to its confinement.

Solution: The speaker's attitude is sympathetic and understanding. He does not dismiss the boy's grief, realizing that the loss of the ball teaches the boy a deeper life lesson about responsibility, loss, and the external nature of material possessions. The speaker respects the boy's emotional journey without interfering.

Solution: The ball in the extract serves as a metaphor for the valuable things in life that may be lost forever, such as innocence or childhood. Losing the ball symbolizes a deeper understanding of responsibility and the inevitability of loss in life. The phrase "money is external” further reinforces the metaphor by emphasizing that material possessions cannot replace emotional experiences.

Solution: The phrase "all his young days into the harbour” signifies the boy's realization of loss and growing up. Watching the ball float away represents his lost innocence and childhood days, which can never be retrieved. The harbour symbolizes a vast, uncontrollable force of life, where precious moments are lost, teaching the boy about grief, responsibility, and the transience of life.

Solution: The boy begins with overwhelming grief, trembling and staring at the lost ball. As he processes his loss, he learns a valuable lesson about responsibility and the nature of possessions. This emotional journey marks his growth and acceptance of life's inevitable losses.

Solution: The initial mood of the poet in the poem ‘Dust of Snow’ is gloomy and sorrowful. The poet uses simple yet effective imagery, such as the 'dust of snow' falling from a hemlock tree and the crow, to create a contrast. The imagery symbolizes the poet's transformation, where the snow's touch refreshes his mind and lifts his spirits. The small incident brings a sudden positive change to the poet's mood.

Solution: Positivity has the power to transform even the most difficult situations into opportunities for growth and hope. A small moment of joy or optimism can act as a spark that changes one's outlook. For instance, the poem ‘Dust of Snow’ reflects how a seemingly trivial event brightened the poet's dark mood. Even in adversity, focusing on positive aspects can uplift one's spirit and inspire resilience.

Solution: Custard, the dragon from 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon', appears fearsome because of his sharp physical attributes and demeanor. He is described as having big sharp teeth, spikes on his back, and the ability to roar like a train. His overall appearance intimidates others, and when faced with a real threat, Custard demonstrates his courage by fearlessly fighting and defeating the pirate. Despite being ridiculed earlier, his brave actions make him a hero.

Solution: In the poem 'For Anne Gregory', the speaker mentions God to emphasize the contrast between physical beauty and inner qualities. The speaker asserts that while humans are often attracted to appearances, only God can see beyond external beauty and appreciate a person's true character. The mention of God highlights the deeper moral lesson that inner goodness is eternal, whereas physical beauty is superficial and temporary.

Solution: The Buddha's story conveys a powerful message for those in positions of power and privilege. It teaches the value of compassion, humility, and the impermanence of life. The privileged must realize that power and wealth are temporary and that true happiness lies in selflessness and kindness toward others. By being mindful of their responsibilities, they can use their position to uplift the less fortunate and bring balance to society. The story serves as a reminder that attachment to material possessions and pride can lead to suffering, and only through understanding and wisdom can one attain inner peace and fulfillment.

Solution: Griffin, though a brilliant scientist, misuses his knowledge for evil purposes. Instead of using his discovery of invisibility for the betterment of humanity, he indulges in theft, violence, and destruction. His actions show how scientific brilliance without moral values can become a curse for society. Griffin's choices make him an antithesis to the idea that science benefits the world.

Solution: Bholi's teacher felt like an artist admiring her masterpiece because she transformed Bholi from a shy, neglected girl into a confident and courageous individual. Through constant encouragement, support, and education, the teacher shaped Bholi's personality, enabling her to stand up for herself and reject injustice, which made the teacher proud of her creation.

Solution: Madam Loisel was shocked to discover that the necklace she borrowed and replaced after years of hard work and suffering was a fake. The necklace, which appeared to be made of diamonds, turned out to be imitation jewelry. This revelation highlights the irony of her struggles and her mistaken belief in material wealth.

Solution: Childhood memories remind us of the days gone by. In the chapter ‘A Baker from Goa', the narrator reminisces about the simple joys of his childhood in Goa. He fondly remembers the baker's visits, the delicious bread, and the joy it brought to families. The baker symbolized community bonding and a cherished part of his growing years.

In contrast, Nelson Mandela's childhood, as mentioned in ‘Long Walk to Freedom', was spent in the rural countryside. Mandela had a carefree childhood playing in open fields, but his perspective changed when he realized the hardships of racial discrimination. Unlike the narrator's light-hearted memories, Mandela's childhood laid the foundation for his struggle against apartheid.

Both childhoods reflect contrasting realities—one of carefree joy and the other a preparation for a larger purpose in life.

Solution: If Anne Frank met Amanda, their conversation would reflect their contrasting outlooks on life. Amanda would describe her fantasy world as a refuge from constant nagging and societal expectations. She longs to be a mermaid, orphan, or princess, enjoying peace and freedom in her imagination.

Anne Frank, on the other hand, would gently share her perspective. Despite living in hiding during World War II, Anne remained optimistic and found joy in the little things. She valued human connection and appreciated life even during hardships. Anne would advise Amanda to embrace her real life, face challenges courageously, and seek happiness in her relationships and surroundings.

Their conversation would highlight Amanda's escapism and Anne's resilience in finding hope amidst adversity.

Solution: The lady in red used her intelligence and clever manipulation to outsmart Horace Danby. Horace, a professional thief, was caught red-handed by the lady while he was breaking into a safe. Instead of panicking, the lady quickly assumed the role of the house owner. She confidently confronted Horace, making him believe she was a wealthy woman embarrassed to have forgotten her keys. The lady's calm demeanor and fabricated story about needing the jewels for a party convinced Horace to trust her. She avoided touching anything and made Horace open the safe, ensuring that only his fingerprints were left behind. This tactical move saved her from suspicion and successfully framed Horace for the crime. The lady's quick thinking and manipulation highlight her resourcefulness and ability to stay composed under pressure. Horace, blinded by trust and guilt, failed to see through her trickery. In the end, the lady in red proved herself to be the superior thief, escaping with the jewels and leaving Horace to take the blame. This incident reflects how wit and presence of mind can overpower even experienced individuals.

Solution: In The Thief's Story, Anil's reaction to Hari Singh's theft reveals his wisdom and understanding. Hari Singh, a young thief, stole money from Anil while he was asleep. However, he later felt guilty and returned the money. The next morning, Anil's behavior remained unchanged—he neither confronted Hari nor showed any signs of anger or disappointment. Anil's decision to remain silent reflects his belief in forgiveness and second chances. Instead of rebuking Hari for his actions, he chose to trust him again, subtly encouraging him to reform. Anil's calm and mature handling of the situation made a profound impact on Hari. By not addressing the theft, Anil acknowledged Hari's internal struggle and gave him an opportunity to change for the better. This incident highlights the power of trust and kindness in bringing out the best in others. Anil's actions helped Hari realize the value of honesty and led him toward a more honest life. Anil's approach demonstrates that sometimes, silence and trust can teach stronger lessons than anger or punishment. Through this, the story conveys the message that empathy, understanding, and belief in someone's potential can transform even the most dishonest individuals. Anil's quiet response turned Hari's life around, showing that true strength lies in patience and forgiveness.