CBSE SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER ENGLISH CLASS-X 2024-25
CBSE SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184)
CLASS-X- (2024-25)
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR
SECTION A: Reading Skills (20 Marks)
This section includes two unseen passages, each carrying 10 marks, testing reading comprehension, analysis, vocabulary, and inference skills.
Passage 1:
- Focuses on the importance of water conservation.
- Questions test understanding of specific phrases, inferential thinking, and identification of true/false statements.
- There’s a mix of MCQs, short answer, and reasoning questions.
Passage 2:
- Discusses the cultural significance of murals in northwest Indian villages.
- Questions delve into interpretation, data-based analysis, and thematic relevance.
- Students are expected to analyze mural contributions to community awareness and education.
SECTION B: Grammar and Writing Skills (20 Marks)
Grammar (10 Marks):
- Includes error detection, correction, and reporting dialogues.
- Focuses on tenses, modals, formal letter openings, announcements, and speech reporting.
- Tasks are clear, offering diverse practice across essential grammar topics.
Writing (10 Marks):
- Choice-based tasks:
- Formal Letter Writing: One addressing e-waste pollution management and the other about overgrown trees in neighborhoods.
- Analytical Paragraph Writing: Based on an eco-friendly school bag or the features of a playground.
- These tasks encourage students to analyze, prioritize, and express effectively in about 120 words.
SECTION C: Literature (40 Marks)
Extract-Based Questions (10 Marks):
- Each extract from prose or poetry comes with interpretative and textual analysis questions.
- Students can select one of two extracts in each part.
- Extracts test understanding of tone, language, emotions, and narrative techniques.
Prose and Poetry Questions:
- Covers Class X First Flight and Footprints Without Feet texts.
- Questions assess understanding of themes, character analysis, and critical thinking.
Overall Review:
- The paper is well-balanced, challenging students at multiple levels.
- It integrates factual, inferential, and analytical components.
- The layout ensures students can showcase textual understanding alongside creative and grammatical accuracy.
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184)
CLASS-X- (2024-25)
Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question paper contains THREE sections –
Section – A: Reading Skills
Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
Section – C: Literature Textbook
3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.
SECTION A
READING SKILLS (20 marks)
1. Read the following text. 10
(1) Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is often taken for granted.
Despite its abundance, the reality is that only a small fraction of the world’s water is fresh
and available for human use. With increasing populations, climate change, and industrial
demands, the pressure on our water resources is growing. This makes water conservation
not just a collective responsibility but a crucial individual duty. Each person’s effort towards
conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource for future
generations
(2) One of the primary reasons individual water conservation efforts are so important is the
cumulative effect of small actions which may seem trivial on their own. However, when
multiplied by millions of people, these actions can lead to substantial water savings. For
example, a single dripping tap can waste over 15 litres of water a day. Imagine the water
saved if every household in a city repaired just one leaky faucet. This highlights the power
of collective individual actions in reducing water waste.
(3) Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness
and education. When individuals take steps to conserve water, they become more
conscious of their water usage and the importance of this resource. This awareness can
then spread within communities, inspiring others to adopt similar practices. For instance,
a family that installs water-saving devices in their home may encourage neighbours and
friends to do the same, creating a ripple effect. This grassroots approach to conservation
can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to
implement or lacking in support.
(4) In addition to daily habits, individuals can also make a difference through more significant
lifestyle choices. For instance, opting for drought-resistant plants in gardens and
supporting water-efficient agriculture can all contribute to water conservation. Agriculture,
especially livestock farming, is one of the largest consumers of water globally. By
supporting sustainable farming practices, individuals can indirectly reduce the water
footprint of their food.
(5) Critics might argue that individual efforts are negligible compared to the large-scale water
consumption by industries and agriculture. However, this perspective overlooks the
potential for individual actions to drive systemic change. When people collectively make
water-conscious choices, they send a powerful message to businesses and policymakers
about the importance of conservation.
(6) Each person’s commitment to saving water, no matter how small, contributes to a larger
culture of sustainability. By making conscious choices and spreading awareness,
individuals can help ensure that future generations have access to the clean, fresh water
they need to thrive. Water conservation is not just the responsibility of governments and
industries; it is a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Created for Academic Usage / 441 words
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource’ emphasise?1
I. The phrase emphasizes that every individual’s effort, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in conserving water and ensuring its availability for future generations.
II Complete the following with the correct option from the two given.
Water is often taken for granted, despite its essential nature because .
a) it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its
usage
b) its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value
(paragraph 1)1
.(a) It is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage.
III Support the writer’s idea that small individual actions towards water conservation
are not trivial.
(paragraph 2) 2
III. Individual actions like fixing a dripping tap, which may seem small, can collectively save millions of liters of water when adopted by many people.
IV Select the option that best reflects the concept of a ‘ripple effect’ in the context of
student life at school.
a) A student’s act of volunteering at a local charity leads to the school
administration organising a large-scale fundraising event.
b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to
improve their own study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence
in the class. (paragraph 3)
IV. (b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
V State whether the following statement is True or False.
(paragraph 3)1
V. True.
VI The writer mentions ‘sustainable farming practices’ in paragraph 4.
Which of the following is a sustainable farming practice?
A. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides extensively to increase crop yields.
B. Clearing large areas of natural vegetation to expand farmland for organic
farming.
C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
D. Relying solely on monoculture farming to maximise production efficiency.1
VI. (C) Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
VII List any two points that a powerful message sent to businesses and policy makers
about the importance of water conservation might include. (paragraph 5) 2
VII. A powerful message might include:
- The necessity of sustainable water usage to combat future scarcity.
- The importance of adopting eco-friendly technologies to reduce water wastage.
VIII Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given. (paragraph 6)
In the phrase ‘culture of sustainability,’ the word ‘culture’ refers to .
A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
B. The artistic and traditional practices specific to a community’s heritage.
C. The lifestyle habits and choices that are popular among the urbane
D. The techniques and methods used in development efforts 1
- VIII. (A) A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group.
2. Read the following text. 10
(1) A thorough study conducted across several villages of north-west India unveiled
fascinating insights into the mural* landscape. It revealed that a significant majority,
comprising around 80%, of these vibrant artworks are meticulously crafted by the villagers
themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem from collaborative endeavours
between villagers and local or visiting artists.
(2) Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5%, of the murals are the result of sponsored
initiatives, often commissioned by governmental or non-governmental organisations.
These murals convey social messages ranging from education and environmental
conservation to public health awareness.
(3) Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore,
celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. About 26 % of these murals showcase
daily life in the villages, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and victory. The remaining
19% feature abstract or contemporary themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in
rural settings.
(4) Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on
the walls of community centres, temples, and other public spaces. Around 27 % adorn the
exterior walls of residential houses. The remaining 10% are scattered across schools,
health centres, and other institutional buildings, serving as educational tools and sources
of inspiration for the younger generation.
(5) To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns,
subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact are crucial. Analysing
these facets not only provides a comprehensive understanding of mural creation in
northwest Indian villages but also unveils avenues for cultural preservation, community
development, and creative expression.
* a large painting or artwork that is typically created directly on a wall or ceiling
Created for academic usage/252 words
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
I What does the use of the phrase ‘fascinating insights’ by the writer, in paragraph 1,
tell us about their feelings?
A. The writer is expressing surprise.
B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.
C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
D. The writer is showing disappointment. 1
I. (C) The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
II Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion: The murals in northwest Indian villages are meticulously crafted.
Reason: The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.
A. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct
explanation of the assertion.
B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct
explanation of the assertion.
C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true.1
II. (C) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
III Identify the word that indicates that the writer anticipated a higher percentage of
sponsored initiative murals? 1
III. The word “surprisingly” indicates the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals.
IV How do the murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community
engagement and awareness?1
IV. Murals foster community engagement by showcasing cultural values and educating the public about important social issues.
V Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the
blank.
In Hari’s village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on
the Panchayat office wall.
The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is. (26% / 19% / 55%)1
V. 55%
VI What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the
artistic preferences and cultural priorities in northwest Indian villages?1
VI. The highest percentage of mythology-themed murals reflects the villagers’ priority to celebrate their cultural heritage.
VII Complete the sentence suitably.
The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses
highlight.1
VII. The significant presence of murals on residential walls highlights the integration of art into daily life and its role in enhancing personal spaces.
VIII Complete the following with a suitable reason.
The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational
tool’ is because it can .1
VIII. The writer believes murals can serve as educational tools because they visually convey important messages that are easily understood.
IX In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various
parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community
engagement, and impact in understanding the mural landscape in northwest Indian
villages. 2
IX. Comparing these parameters is significant as it provides a detailed understanding of how murals reflect the demographic, cultural, and artistic values of the community while identifying ways to preserve and promote them.
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
GRAMMAR 10
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
I Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal letter:
Dear Mr. Patel,
We are pleased to inform you that your proposal for the upcoming project by
the board of directors____I.(C) has been endorsed._________.
A. had endorsed
B. will have been endorsed
C. has been endorsed
D. have endorsed1
II Read the given sentence from a marketing report. Identify the error and supply the
correction in the given format.
The company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands.
ERROR CORRECTION1
II. ERROR: strives | CORRECTION: strive
III Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak.
Have you finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow?
Report Rhea’s question correctly1
III. Rhea asked Deepak if he had finalized the magazine content to be submitted the next day.
IV Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete an official
announcement.
Attention all prefects,
Please be informed that the deadline for submitting your registrations for
participation in the Art Exhibition has been extended; (that/ these/ this) should be
communicated to all students of classes IX-X.1
IV. (this)
V Read Sana’s reply to her team leader, regarding the preparation of an important
presentation.
I’m sorry I forgot ma’am. I’ll have the presentation ready for you very soon today.
Report Sana’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly.
Sana apologised for having forgotten and said .1
V. Sana apologized for having forgotten and said she would prepare the presentation soon.
VI Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from an online news report:
Nearly most shop was closed for the public holiday.
Option No. Error Correction
A most every
B shop shops
C was were
D the that 1
VI. OPTION B: ERROR: shop | CORRECTION: shops
VII
Complete the given school announcement by selecting the correct option to fill in
the blank.
Good news, everyone!
Our school’s robotics team has successfully______________a place in the semifinals.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secured1
VII. (B) secured
VIII Detect the error and supply the correction for the given observation by a child.
That needn’t be Dad’s jacket. It’s too small.
ERROR CORRECTION1
VIII. ERROR: needn’t | CORRECTION: can’t
IX Report the dialogue between a teacher and a student, by completing sentence.
Teacher: Did everyone understand the new assignment?
Students: Yes, we all got it, thank you!
The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which the
students , expressing their gratitude.1
IX. The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which the students responded affirmatively, expressing their gratitude.
X Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from a handbook for
managers. The manager consider the proposal before
making a decision.
A. will
B. should
C. might
D. can 1
X. (B) should
XI Complete the given sentence about the reaction of some friends, by selecting the
correct option:
The group of friends excited at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.
A. are
B. has
C. is
D. were 1
XI. (C) is
XII Read the conversation about social media, between a teacher and a student
Teacher: How do you think social media influences our perceptions of reality?
Jagrit: I believe it distorts our perception of reality by only showing the highlight
reels of people’s lives.
Report the student’s response by completing the following.
The student remarked by only showing the highlight reels of people’s
lives. 1
XII. The student remarked that social media distorts perceptions of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people’s lives.
WRITING
NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for
assessment purpose.
4A You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in
about 120 words, to the Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at
Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste*
pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community
engagement and government initiatives.
* Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions,
which are no longer in use or have reached the end of their lifecycle.
4A. Letter on e-waste:
Nirmal Pillai
Aluva, Kochi
Date: [Insert Date]
The Project Head
E-Waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika
New Delhi
Subject: Addressing E-Waste Pollution and Its Management
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to highlight the growing threat of e-waste pollution. Discarded electronic devices often contain harmful chemicals, posing severe health and environmental risks. Poor disposal practices contaminate soil and water, affecting both humans and wildlife.
To address this, community awareness campaigns should promote responsible e-waste disposal. Additionally, incentivizing recycling programs and establishing efficient collection centers would encourage participation. Collaboration between local authorities and government initiatives can further enhance this effort.
Yours sincerely,
Nirmal Pillai
OR
4B You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words
addressing the Secretary of the City Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of
overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the delegation of
personnel for regular pruning.
Chhavi Pathak
123, Green Valley Colony
Ranchi, Bihar
22nd November 2024
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi, Bihar
Subject: Request for Regular Pruning of Overgrown Trees and Shrubs
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to highlight the issue of overgrown trees and shrubs in our neighbourhood. These unkempt greens block sunlight, obstruct pathways, and create a haven for pests, posing a danger to residents, especially during storms.
I kindly request the delegation of a team to regularly prune these trees and shrubs to ensure safety, cleanliness, and better visibility in the area. Timely maintenance will greatly benefit the community and enhance the neighbourhood’s appearance.
I hope for your swift action in this matter.
Thank you.
Yours sincerely,
Chhavi Pathak
5A Read the product details on a label for a school bag:
ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
1.Made from recycled materials
2.Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back
panel
3.Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers
4.Reflective strips for visibility and safety
5.Water-resistant fabric
6.Available in various vibrant colours and patterns
Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the
analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its ecofriendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.
* Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user
The eco-friendly school bag offers several benefits. Made from recycled materials, it promotes environmental sustainability, reducing waste. Its ergonomic design ensures user comfort, with padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, making it ideal for prolonged use. The bag’s spacious compartments provide excellent functionality, while its water-resistant fabric adds durability. Moreover, the reflective strips enhance safety by ensuring visibility. Available in vibrant colors and patterns, it combines style with practicality. This bag is a perfect blend of eco-friendliness, comfort, and utility, making it an excellent choice for students.
OR
5B Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area.
A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture,
such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels and slides.
Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a
zip line.
A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional
chaupals or gazebos.
Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
Ample open space
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the
suitability of this playground.
Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age
groups, and overall experience.
The proposed playground design offers a perfect blend of cultural inspiration and functionality, making it highly suitable for the resident area. The central climbing structure, modeled after traditional Indian architecture, adds cultural value while providing multiple levels of fun for children. Swings with colorful Indian patterns, monkey bars, and a zip line cater to children of various age groups, ensuring inclusivity and diverse entertainment. The water play feature, inspired by Indian fountains, enhances the sensory experience, especially during summer. Shaded seating areas resembling traditional chaupals provide a safe and comfortable space for adults to relax while supervising children. With trees, shrubs, flower beds, and ample open space, the playground ensures safety, promotes nature connection, and offers an overall enriching experience for all.
5
SECTION D: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
6 Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions given below 5
A With a loud scream he fell outwards and given downwards into space. Then a
monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But
it only lasted a minute. The next moment he felt his wings spread outwards. The
wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and against
his wings. He could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not
falling headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards. (His
First Flight)
1
I What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the
baby seagull?
With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a
monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still.
Chose the most suitable option.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses 1
II How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative
technique in the paragraph? 2
The descriptive language immerses the reader in the seagull’s journey, evoking emotions of fear and triumph through vivid sensory details.
III Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to a sense of (speed / relief),
in the extract 1
Speed
IV How does the seagull’s feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the
initial feeling of terror? 1
Initially terrified, the seagull gains confidence as it experiences the exhilaration of flight.
B And suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling
at her. “What’s your name, little one?”
“Bh-Bho-Bho-.” She could stammer no further than that.
Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She
kept her head down as she sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls
who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the school bell rang, all the girls
scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her head
still lowered, she kept on sobbing.
“Bholi.”
The teacher’s voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been
called like that. It touched her heart. (Bholi)
I What is the tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used in the line, ‘“What’s your
name, little one?”.’
A. reassuring
B. comforting
C. settling
D. calming 1
I. The tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used is C. settling, as it does not align with the nurturing and supportive context of the teacher’s behavior.
II How does the author’s use of Bholi ‘s perspective help build the narrative in the
extract? 2
I. The author’s use of Bholi’s perspective allows readers to empathize deeply with her vulnerability and pain. By focusing on her stammering, tears, and fear, the narrative highlights her insecurity and isolation. This perspective builds a strong emotional connection and sets the stage for the teacher’s contrasting kindness, emphasizing the transformative impact of encouragement on Bholi.
III Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The word ‘flood’ in the line ‘…tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood.’
Indicates that Bholi was crying (uncontrollably / unintentionally).1
III. The word “flood” in the line “…tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood” indicates that Bholi was crying uncontrollably.
IV How does the teacher’s comforting demeanour contrast with the behaviour of
the other girls in the classroom? 1
IV. The teacher’s comforting demeanor contrasts starkly with the girls’ mocking behavior. While the teacher offers Bholi reassurance and kindness, the girls ridicule her, exacerbating her distress and isolation.
7 Read the given extracts and answer the questions for any one of the two, given. 5
A He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage. (Tiger in the Zoo)
I What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of
just stating the colours of the stripes?
A.
(I) The word “vivid” emphasizes the tiger’s striking appearance, making it stand out as a symbol of power and beauty.
II Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger’s stalking suggests a movement that is within the confines of its
cage.
(II) confinement
III How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger’s confined
environment and its internal emotions?
(III) The poet contrasts the tiger’s physical restriction with its latent rage, highlighting the tragedy of its captivity.
IV Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the
given extract.
A. This bird so small and sweet, B. Perched on a branch green,
Sings aloud in the morn, This bird so sweet and lean,
Perched on a branch green, Sings aloud in a voice sweet,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet. Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
C. This bird sings without a care, D. This bird so small and
sweet Perched on a branch green, Sings aloud in the morn
A song with the world to share, Perched on a green branch
With its feelings so keen. Singing its own melody 5
B Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
I Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines. 2
II Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda .1
III What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down
to the bottom of the household’?1
IV What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines?
Select the correct option
1. Urgency 2. Apprehension 3. Uncertainty 4. mystery 5. Aggression
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5 1
(IV) (C)
8 Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4×3=12
I How does the ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of
London reveal insights about people’s perceptions and knowledge regarding
animals? (Mijbil the Otter)3
I. In London, people’s ignorance about Mijbil, an otter, reveals their limited awareness of wildlife beyond common pets. This highlights how urban environments can disconnect people from nature and create stereotypical perceptions of animals, reflecting a lack of curiosity or knowledge about diverse species.
II How does the imagery of the trees’ movement from the house to the forest, in
‘Trees’, reflect broader themes of liberation and growth in human experiences?3
II. The imagery of trees moving from the house to the forest symbolizes freedom and personal growth. It represents breaking away from confinement or societal expectations, echoing themes of self-discovery and liberation in human experiences.
III What does the postmaster’s reaction to Lencho’s letter reveal about his
character? (A Letter to God)3
III. The postmaster’s reaction to Lencho’s letter reveals his empathetic and generous nature. His willingness to collect money for Lencho reflects kindness and a deep commitment to restoring faith in humanity despite Lencho’s accusations of dishonesty.
IV Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the tension between the
comfort of familiarity and the allure of the unfamiliar in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’.3
IV. In Madam Rides the Bus, the narrative effectively balances the comfort of Valli’s familiar surroundings with her fascination for the unknown world outside. Her bus journey symbolizes the conflict between the safety of home and the excitement of new experiences, capturing the tension vividly.
V Summarise the role of the use of parentheses in the poem ‘Amanda!’. 3
V. The parentheses in Amanda! depict her inner thoughts, contrasting with her mother’s scolding. This technique emphasizes Amanda’s longing for freedom and creativity, while showing the clash between her imaginative desires and societal expectations.
9 Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2×3=6
I How does Matilda’s desire for material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace’? 3
I. Matilda’s desire for material wealth drives the plot of The Necklace by pushing her to borrow the necklace to appear wealthy. This leads to the story’s central conflict—losing the necklace and enduring years of hardship to replace it—ultimately showcasing the consequences of vanity and materialism
II Justify the opinion that Ebright’s early successes were essential for his later
achievements in science. (The Making of a Scientist)3
II. Ebright’s early successes, such as winning science fairs and collecting butterflies, were crucial for his later achievements. These experiences nurtured his curiosity, honed his research skills, and instilled confidence, forming a strong foundation for his groundbreaking work in science.
III How does ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’ include elements of satirical science
fiction?3
III. The Book that Saved the Earth employs satire by humorously imagining a future where Earth is saved from Martian invasion due to a nursery rhyme book. It critiques human tendencies like ignorance and overconfidence through a lighthearted, imaginative science fiction narrative.
10 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words 6
I Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature
to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions but they do
it differently. Examine these differences.
I. Dust of Snow and Fire and Ice convey profound messages using contrasting elements of nature. Frost uses the light touch of snow to highlight how small, positive moments can uplift a day. In contrast, Fire and Ice explores destructive emotions like desire and hatred, warning of their catastrophic consequences. While Dust of Snow is optimistic, Fire and Ice takes a cautionary approach, reflecting different perspectives on life and emotions.
II Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ grapple with the
idea that external attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the
similarities.
For Anne Gregory and The Sermon at Benares emphasize the transient nature of external attributes. Gregory argues that love based on physical beauty is shallow, while the Buddha teaches detachment from worldly concerns to overcome suffering. Both highlight the importance of inner values over external appearances.
11 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6
I Evaluate how Griffin’s character is shaped by a combination of personal ambition,
the unintended consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the reactions of the
society he faces.
Griffin’s ambition in The Invisible Man drives his pursuit of invisibility, but his lack of ethical consideration leads to unintended consequences. His isolation and society’s fear of his powers amplify his descent into villainy. Griffin’s character illustrates how unchecked ambition and societal rejection can result in tragic outcomes.
II Evaluate how James Herriot’s characterisation contributes significantly to the
overarching theme of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
James Herriot’s compassionate and observant nature in his stories promotes responsible pet ownership. His emphasis on understanding animals’ needs and treating them with care underscores the importance of empathy. Herriot’s character helps convey the theme of animal welfare through relatable and heartfelt anecdotes.
