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CBSE Class 10 English 2023 Question Paper (2/1/1)

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EnglishCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2023 (session 2022-23)

CBSE Class 10 English: 2023 board paper, set 2/1/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2023, as printed: 11 questions for 80 marks, in sections, with each OR choice shown as an alternative. Try each question first, then open our solution.

16 of 17 questions (counting each OR alternative) have our step-by-step solution so far. We show a solution only after an independent re-solve agrees with it; the rest say "Solution being checked".

Source: official question paper from cbse.gov.in: https://www.cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/question-paper/2023/X/English_Language_Literature.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 2-1-1 ENGLISH L_L.pdf). Questions are transcribed from that PDF; figures are described in words, so check the official paper for them. Questions printed only for visually impaired candidates are left out (1).

Practise a paper like this, timedMy board paper sets a full paper in this exact format from real board questions, with a timer.Get your written answers markedThe Answer Coach marks a photo of your handwritten answer step by step, like the examiner.

How the paper is set

SectionQuestionsWhat it has
A1-2Reading Skills (passage-based, 10 x 1 mark each passage; total 20)
B3-5Grammar and Creative Writing Skills; Q3 attempt any ten of twelve (1 mark each); Q4 and Q5 are one-of-two (5 marks)
C6-11Literature (total 40); Q6 and Q7 one-of-two extracts (5 marks); Q8 four of five (3 marks each); Q9 two of three (3 marks each); Q10 and Q11 one-of-two (6 marks each)

Instructions in brief: All questions are compulsory, but internal choice applies: Q4 (a)/(b), Q5 (a)/(b), Q6 (a)/(b), Q7 (a)/(b), Q10 (a)/(b) and Q11 (a)/(b) allow one alternative each; Q3 asks for any ten of twelve; Q8 any four of five; Q9 any two of three.

Section A

Reading Skills (passage-based, 10 x 1 mark each passage; total 20)

  1. Q1 · 10 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)

    Read the passage given below :

    (1) If you’re like most kids, you may love snow. Not only can it get you out of school, but it’s also fun to play with. Who doesn’t love to sled and build snowmen ? Snow can also be dangerous, too. You may have heard your parents talk about how difficult it can be to drive in snow. Car accidents aren’t the only dangers created by snow. If you’re ever skiing in the mountains, you’ll want to be aware of avalanches. An avalanche is a sudden flow of snow down a slope, such as a mountain. The amount of snow in an avalanche will vary based on many things, but it can be such a huge pile that it can bury the bottom of a slope in dozens of feet of snow.

    (2) Avalanches can be caused by many things. Some of them are natural. For example, new snow or rain can cause built up snow to loosen and fall down the side of a mountain. Earthquakes and the movement of animals have also been known to cause avalanches. Artificial triggers can also cause avalanches. For example, snowmobiles, skiers, gunshots and explosives have all been known to cause avalanches. Avalanches usually occur during the winter and spring, when snowfall is greatest. As they are dangerous to any living beings in their path, avalanches have destroyed forests, roads, railroads and even entire towns.

    (3) Warning signs exist that allow experts to predict – and often prevent – avalanches from occurring. When over a foot of fresh snow falls, experts know to be on the lookout for avalanches. Explosives can be used in places with massive snow build-ups to trigger smaller avalanches that don’t pose a danger to persons or property. When deadly avalanches do occur, the moving snow can quickly reach over 80 miles per hour. Skiers caught in such avalanches can be buried under dozens of feet of snow. While it’s possible to dig out of such avalanches, not all are able to escape.

    (4) If you get tossed about by an avalanche and find yourself buried under many feet of snow, you might not have a true sense of which way is up and which way is down. Some avalanche victims have tried to dig their way out, only to find that they were upside down and digging themselves farther under the snow rather than to the top ! Experts suggest that people caught in an avalanche try to “swim” to the top of the moving snow to stay close to the surface. Once the avalanche stops, do your best to dig around you to create a space for air, so you can breathe easier. Then, do your best to figure out which way is up and dig in that direction to reach the surface and signal rescuers.

    Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below :

    1. (i)

      Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option : Avalanche can be caused by

      1. (a)new snow or rain.
      2. (b)heavy winds.
      3. (c)high altitude.
      4. (d)global warming.
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Comment on warning signs exist which allow experts to predict avalanches in two sentences.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Mention two reasons which destroyed the natural scenery.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘massive’ :

      1. (a)tiny
      2. (b)lengthy
      3. (c)bulky
      4. (d)extensive
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      The writer will agree with one of the given statements (paragraph 4)

      1. (a)People caught in the Avalanche can try to swim to the top.
      2. (b)Put on an oxygen Mask.
      3. (c)Digging is not possible.
      4. (d)Should not come close to the surface.
      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Select the option that corresponds to the following relation below : You may not have an idea of which way is up and which way is down.

      1. (a)The crowd will gather at Gate No. 1 and disperse from Gate No. 2.
      2. (b)Due to the torrential rain, there was a heavy flooding.
      3. (c)The guest felt uneasy and uncomfortable watching the child’s performance.
      4. (d)The more the effort, the bigger the gain.
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      The major causes which do not trigger an avalanche :

      1. (a)Earthquakes
      2. (b)Snow fall
      3. (c)Rain
      4. (d)Plastic waste
      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      Explosives can be used in places ___________. (complete the sentence)

      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      The word ‘deadly’ in the (3) paragraph most nearly means

      1. (a)likely to cause death
      2. (b)harmful
      3. (c)very boring
      4. (d)scary
      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Select the most suitable title for the above passage :

      1. (a)Avalanches
      2. (b)Adventure with Snow
      3. (c)Ice Games
      4. (d)Calamity
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) (a) new snow or rain. Paragraph 2 says new snow or rain loosens built-up snow so that it falls.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) When more than a foot of fresh snow falls, experts know an avalanche may occur. This lets them stay alert and take preventive steps, such as triggering small avalanches with explosives.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Any two: avalanches caused by earthquakes / snowmobiles / skiers / gunshots / explosives. Avalanches destroy forests, roads, railroads and even towns.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) (a) tiny. 'Massive' means huge, so its opposite is tiny.

      1 mark

    5. (v) (a) People caught in the avalanche can try to swim to the top. Paragraph 4 gives this advice.

      1 mark

    6. (vi) (a) gather/disperse. The sentence pairs opposites (up/down), and gather/disperse is also an opposite pair.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) (d) Plastic waste. The passage never mentions it as a cause of avalanches.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) ...where massive snow builds up, to trigger smaller avalanches that pose no danger to people or property.

      1 mark

    9. (ix) (a) likely to cause death. 'Deadly avalanches' are those that can kill.

      1 mark

    10. (x) (a) Avalanches. The whole passage is about their causes, warning signs and survival.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) a; (ii) over a foot of fresh snow lets experts watch out and take preventive steps; (iii) any two of earthquakes, snowmobiles, skiers, gunshots, explosives; (iv) a; (v) a; (vi) a; (vii) d; (viii) where massive snow builds up; (ix) a; (x) a

    Where the marks are

    • (i) new snow or rain (1 mark)
    • (ii) over a foot of snow gives a warning, so preventive action is possible (1 mark)
    • (iii) any two triggers (1 mark)
    • (iv) tiny (1 mark)
    • (v) option a (1 mark)
    • (vi) gather/disperse (1 mark)
    • (vii) plastic waste (1 mark)
    • (viii) where massive snow builds up (1 mark)
    • (ix) likely to cause death (1 mark)
    • (x) Avalanches (1 mark)

    Open Q1 on its own page

  2. Q2 · 10 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)

    Read the passage given below :

    (1) Increasing traffic congestion every year is causing increasing air pollution, wasting time and productivity and diverse respiratory diseases. Moreover, the cost of solving or reducing traffic congestion is enormous. However, neglecting the traffic jam problem would increase the social problems among citizens.

    (2) The number of vehicles has increased considerably in the city in the past five years. Due to this increase, the city roads witness frequent traffic congestions, but above all, the vehicles emitting pollutants are affecting the environment adversely.

    (3) The Capital’s vehicular population saw an addition of more than five lakh vehicles last year, registering an increase of over 4%, according to the Delhi Economic Survey 2020-21.

    (4) In spite of the largest road network, through metro and bus services in major cities the transport system is not being able to keep pace with the growing demand. Consequently, more and more people use their private vehicles, leading to increased congestion on the roads. In spite of these challenges people in India prefer road travel over air and other means of travel.

    Citizens of Delhi/NCR have, time and again, pondered over the possibilities of how to reduce the traffic congestion in the city, especially during the peak hours. People should use public transport, the government must increase the facilities of public transport, people should avoid the unnecessary collection of vehicles and should use carpool and vehicle sharing.

    (5) What is required is proper implementation of corrective measures by citizens to get an organized traffic management system.

    1. (i)

      Infer one reason for the following, based on information in paragraph 1. Reducing traffic congestion is not easy.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Select the appropriate option to complete the following sentence. The reasons for increased traffic congestion are ________. 1. use of private vehicles 2. increase in demand for cars 3. inability to keep pace with population control 4. travelling by public transport 5. emission of pollutants

      1. (a)4, 5
      2. (b)1, 5
      3. (c)1, 2
      4. (d)2, 3
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Complete the following analogy correctly with a word / phrase from the paragraph 5. organized : chaotic : : lowest : _______ Clue : Just as organized is an antonym of chaotic, lowest is an antonym of _______.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      The vehicles emit pollutants which affect _______ badly.

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Complete the following sentence. Use of public transport will reduce ________.

      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Select the appropriate option which states the methods of reducing traffic congestions. 1. start car pooling 2. add electric buses 3. increase in public modes of transport 4. increase car collection points 5. increase taxation

      1. (a)1, 4, 5
      2. (b)3, 5
      3. (c)2, 3 ,4
      4. (d)1, 3
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Analyze the status of traffic between the years 2019-2022. (Refer to the chart: 2019 – 56%; 2020 – 44%; 2021 – 48%; 2022 – 51%.) For the visually challenged candidates only.

      1 mark
    8. (vii)

      What is required to get an organized traffic management system ?

      1 mark
    9. (viii)

      Give the reasons for increase in vehicular congestion.

      1 mark
    10. (ix)

      Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option. There are _______ consequences of increasing vehicular congestion.

      1. (a)beneficial
      2. (b)adverse
      3. (c)implicit
      4. (d)explicit
      1 mark
    11. (x)

      Substitute the underlined word with ONE WORD similar in meaning in the following sentence. Citizens of Delhi/NCR have time and time again pondered over the possibilities of how to reduce traffic congestion. (underlined word: pondered)

      1 mark

    Figure in the paper: Bar-style chart titled for the traffic status for the visually challenged candidates: four speech-bubble labels on a timeline with years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and percentages 56% (2019), 44% (2020), 48% (2021), 51% (2022). See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) The cost of solving or reducing congestion is enormous.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) (c) 1 and 2. More private vehicles and rising demand for vehicles raise congestion.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) peak. Lowest is the antonym of peak.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) the environment.

      1 mark

    5. (v) traffic congestion.

      1 mark

    6. (vi) (d) 1 and 3. Car pooling and more public transport reduce traffic.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) Visually challenged version: traffic was highest in 2019 (56%), fell in 2020 (44%), then rose slightly in 2021 (48%) and further in 2022 (51%). Regular version: proper implementation of corrective measures by citizens.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) The population has grown, and people find travelling in their own vehicles by road easier and more comfortable.

      1 mark

    9. (ix) (b) adverse. Congestion causes pollution, lost time and disease.

      1 mark

    10. (x) thought (or wondered).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) cost is enormous; (ii) c; (iii) peak; (iv) the environment; (v) traffic congestion; (vi) d; (vii) the 2019-22 trend / proper implementation of corrective measures by citizens; (viii) population growth and preference for private road travel; (ix) b; (x) thought

    Where the marks are

    • (i) cost enormous (1 mark)
    • (ii) option c (1 mark)
    • (iii) peak (1 mark)
    • (iv) the environment (1 mark)
    • (v) traffic congestion (1 mark)
    • (vi) option d (1 mark)
    • (vii) correct trend or required measures (1 mark)
    • (viii) valid reason for congestion (1 mark)
    • (ix) adverse (1 mark)
    • (x) synonym of pondered (1 mark)

    Open Q2 on its own page

Section B

Grammar and Creative Writing Skills; Q3 attempt any ten of twelve (1 mark each); Q4 and Q5 are one-of-two (5 marks)

  1. Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarGrammar

    Attempt any Ten of the following questions :

    1. (i)

      Reena always ______ the truth.

      1. (a)speak
      2. (b)speaks
      3. (c)will speak
      4. (d)speaking
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given line : Bread and butter ______ my favourite breakfast.

      1. (a)is
      2. (b)am
      3. (c)are
      4. (d)has been
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Read the conversation between two friends Ravi and Reena. Complete the sentence by reporting Reena’s reply correctly. Ravi : “Reena, lend me hundred rupees’. Reena : “I don’t have it right now, but I will arrange it for you”. Ravi asked Reena to lend him hundred rupees, to which Reena replied that _______.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line : I can run fast when I was young.

      1. (a)Error: was; Correction: is
      2. (b)Error: run; Correction: ran
      3. (c)Error: can; Correction: could
      4. (d)Error: when; Correction: whence
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Complete the given narrative, by filling in the blank with the correct option : Heena _______ from fever since last Sunday.

      1. (a)suffered
      2. (b)will suffer
      3. (c)suffer
      4. (d)has been suffering
      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Fill in the blank by using the correct word in the bracket. Anyas _______ (eat) all the chocolates kept in the tray.

      1. (a)ate
      2. (b)eating
      3. (c)have eaten
      4. (d)eaten
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Report the dialogue between a mother and a daughter by completing the sentence : Mother : Why are you looking so worried ? Daughter : My exams are approaching. In response to the question of the mother, the daughter replied that ________.

      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      Identify the error in the given sentence : The ship Titanic and her fate continues to fascinate the imagination of the people. Use the given format for your response :

      ErrorCorrection
        
      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      Ritu and Randeep are talking. Report Ritu’s question. Ritu – Where are you going ? Ritu asked ________.

      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the slogan : ______ smile and pass it to others.

      1. (a)Happy
      2. (b)Short
      3. (c)Always
      4. (d)Humble
      1 mark
    11. (xi)

      Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between Anil and Sanjeev : Anil : Where are you going ? Sanjeev : To the airport. Anil : May I drop you there as I’m going in that direction ? Anil asked Sanjeev where he was going and offered to drop him as _____.

      1. (a)he could be going in that direction
      2. (b)he would be going in the direction
      3. (c)he is going in the direction
      4. (d)he was going in that direction
      1 mark
    12. (xii)

      Identify the error in the newspaper headline. Attractive packages for different Tourist destination – Mizoram, Kashmir, Kerala, Goa. Use the given format for your response :

      ErrorCorrection
        
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) (b) speaks. 'Always' signals the simple present, and 'Reena' takes a singular verb.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) (a) is. 'Bread and butter' is one item, so the verb is singular.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) ...she did not have it right then but she would arrange it for him.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) (c) Error: can; Correction: could. The past time ('when I was young') needs the past form.

      1 mark

    5. (v) (d) has been suffering. 'Since last Sunday' needs the present perfect continuous.

      1 mark

    6. (vi) (a) ate. The sentence is in the simple past.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) ...her exams were approaching.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) Error: continues; Correction: continue. The subject 'ship and her fate' is plural.

      1 mark

    9. (ix) ...Randeep where he was going.

      1 mark

    10. (x) (c) Always.

      1 mark

    11. (xi) (d) he was going in that direction. Reported speech shifts the tense back.

      1 mark

    12. (xii) Error: destination; Correction: destinations. The plural is needed because four places are listed.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) b; (ii) a; (iii) she did not have it right then but she would arrange it for him; (iv) c; (v) d; (vi) a; (vii) her exams were approaching; (viii) continues → continue; (ix) Randeep where he was going; (x) c; (xi) d; (xii) destination → destinations

    Where the marks are

    • Any ten items correct, 1 mark each (10 marks)

    Open Q3 on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q4(a) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills

    You are pained to see that in your city, there is no proper arrangement for cleaning of drains. There are heaps of accumulated garbage and stagnant water. Write a letter to the Municipal Commissioner of your city complaining about the same as there is a fear of outbreak of disease. You are Alka/Ashish. (Word limit 100-120)

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address and date at the top; then the receiver's address (The Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, your city); subject line 'Subject: Complaint regarding poor cleaning of drains'; salutation 'Sir'; and ending 'Yours faithfully, Alka'.

      1 mark

    2. Body para 1: I am a resident of the locality and am writing to draw your attention to the poor upkeep of the drains in our area. They are not cleaned regularly, so garbage heaps up and blocks them.

      1 mark

    3. Body para 2: Stagnant water has collected all around and breeds mosquitoes and flies. There is a real fear of dengue, malaria and other diseases breaking out, and the stench makes it hard to walk past.

      1 mark

    4. Request: Please arrange for the drains to be cleaned at once and the garbage removed. Also set up regular cleaning schedules, spray disinfectant, and place dustbins. Prompt action will protect public health. Thank you.

      1 mark

    5. Organisation and accuracy: formal tone, logical paragraphs, correct spelling and grammar, 100-120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal complaint letter of 100-120 words to the Municipal Commissioner in correct format, describing the garbage and stagnant water, the risk of disease and requests for action.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct format: addresses, date, subject, salutation, close (1 mark)
    • Content covers garbage, stagnant water, disease fear and a request (2 marks)
    • Organisation and formal tone (1 mark)
    • Accuracy of language (1 mark)

    Open Q4(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q4(b) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills

    The authorities have been claiming that the roads in your town have been relaid and repaired. But no such work done is seen. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper expressing your concern at the present situation and giving suggestions to resolve the problem, in 100-120 words. You are Prabhu/Parvati of Vivek Vihar, Delhi.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address (Vivek Vihar, Delhi) and date; receiver (The Editor, name of newspaper, city); subject 'Poor condition of roads despite official claims'; salutation 'Sir'; ending 'Yours truly, Prabhu'.

      1 mark

    2. Body para 1: Through your newspaper I wish to bring to notice that the authorities claim the roads of our town have been relaid and repaired. In reality no such work is visible, and the roads are full of potholes and broken patches.

      1 mark

    3. Body para 2: Commuters face accidents, damaged vehicles, traffic jams and delays. Public money seems to have been spent without any result on the ground.

      1 mark

    4. Suggestions: an inquiry should be held, accountability fixed, and proper repair done with quality checks. Citizens should be involved in monitoring the work. I hope the authorities will act at the earliest.

      1 mark

    5. Organisation and accuracy: formal register, cohesive paragraphs, correct language, 100-120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter to the editor of 100-120 words in correct format, stating that repairs are claimed but not visible, the problems caused, and suggestions.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct format (1 mark)
    • Content includes the concern and suggestions (2 marks)
    • Organisation and register (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q4(b) on its own page

  3. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q5(a) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills

    The chart below displays details regarding online activity for four age groups in six categories. Write an analytical paragraph for the table provided in about 100 words.

    Activity%Age TeensAge 20sAge 30sAge 40s
    News76717278
    Downloads85553525
    Buying a product44666769
    Online games88553628
    Searching for a product0778185
    Searching for people6332221
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Introduction: the chart compares six online activities across teens and people in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

      1 mark

    2. Highest values: online games (88%) and downloads (85%) are most popular among teens. Interest in both falls steadily with age, down to 28% and 25% among those in their 40s.

      1 mark

    3. Rising trend: buying a product rises from 44% in teens to 69% in the 40s. Searching for a product is 0% in teens but 77%, 81% and 85% in the 20s, 30s and 40s.

      1 mark

    4. Other activities: news is steady at 71-78% across the age groups. Searching for people is low overall, at 6% in teens, 33% in the 20s, 22% in the 30s and 21% in the 40s.

      1 mark

    5. Conclusion: younger users prefer entertainment, while older users use the internet for practical purposes. Written in about 100 words with accurate language.

      1 mark

    Answer: A single analytical paragraph of about 100 words comparing the activities by age group, with a conclusion.

    Where the marks are

    • Content covers the main trends with data (2 marks)
    • Organisation as one cohesive paragraph (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q5(b) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills

    A survey was conducted in New Delhi in over twenty schools about the different activities that interest the children in the age group of 13 to 15 years. Write an analytical paragraph in about 100 words analyzing the following information :

    Figure in the paper: Vertical bar chart: y-axis 'Number of Children' from 0 to 60 in steps of 10; x-axis 'Activities'. Approximate bar heights: Dance about 26, Cricket about 40, Music about 60, Art about 30, Theatre about 35. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Introduction: a survey in over twenty New Delhi schools studied the interests of children aged 13-15 across five activities.

      1 mark

    2. Highest and lowest: music is the most popular, at about 60 children. Cricket follows with about 40, and theatre with about 35.

      1 mark

    3. Remaining activities: art attracts about 30 children, and dance is the least popular at about 26. Music draws more than twice as many children as dance.

      1 mark

    4. Conclusion: children favour music and sports over visual and performing arts. Schools should support these interests and also encourage the less popular ones.

      1 mark

    5. About 100 words in one paragraph, with accurate language.

      1 mark

    Answer: A single analytical paragraph of about 100 words: music is most popular (about 60), then cricket (about 40), theatre (about 35), art (about 30) and dance (about 26).

    Where the marks are

    • Content includes the data and the comparison (2 marks)
    • Organisation as a single cohesive paragraph (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(b) on its own page

Section C

Literature (total 40); Q6 and Q7 one-of-two extracts (5 marks); Q8 four of five (3 marks each); Q9 two of three (3 marks each); Q10 and Q11 one-of-two (6 marks each)

  1. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q6(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedFrom the Diary of Anne Frank

    Let me put this more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year old girl is completely alone in this world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a sixteen years old sister, and there are almost thirty people I can call friends. I have a family, loving aunts and a good house. No, on the surface I seem to have everything, except my one true friend. All I think about when I am with friends is having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything, but ordinary everyday things.

    1. (i)

      On the surface, it appears that Anne the thirteen year old girl _____.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      How can we infer that the speaker felt alone in the world ?

      1. (a)She had a family of many people.
      2. (b)She had loving parents.
      3. (c)She had thirty friends.
      4. (d)She craves for a true friend.
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Anne and her friends talked about _____.

      1. (a)their problematic parents
      2. (b)their financial problems
      3. (c)common everyday things
      4. (d)the commuting problems
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text : alone : friends : : nothing :

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the idiom ‘bring myself’ from the extract :

      1. (a)to do something willingly
      2. (b)to do something unwillingly
      3. (c)a charitable act
      4. (d)an involuntary act
      1 mark

    Solution being checked. Our step-by-step solution is written and is waiting for an independent check before we show it.

    OR

    Q6(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedFootprints without Feet

    Mrs. Hall almost fell down the stairs in hysterics. She was convinced that the room was haunted by spirits and that the stranger had somehow caused these to enter into her furniture.

    1. (i)

      Mrs. Hall tripped because ______

      1. (a)the floor was oily.
      2. (b)she was standing on a chair.
      3. (c)she was in a state of panic.
      4. (d)the door was slammed.
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Mrs. Hall suspected everything in the room was put under a spell of witchcraft by ______.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Fill in the blank with one word only : Mrs. Hall was afraid that spirits had entered _______.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      According to the extract, the feeling of Mrs. Hall can be best described as (1) stunned (2) happy (3) awestruck (4) nervous (5) outraged (6) agitated. Select the correct option :

      1. (a)(2) and (4)
      2. (b)(3) and (6)
      3. (c)(5) and (6)
      4. (d)(1) and (6)
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      ‘Spirits’ in the above lines means the same as

      1. (a)ghosts
      2. (b)conscience
      3. (c)ego
      4. (d)attitude
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) (c) she was in a state of panic. She was in hysterics.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) the stranger (the scientist, Griffin).

      1 mark

    3. (iii) furniture. The extract says the stranger caused spirits to enter her furniture.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) (d) (1) and (6): stunned and agitated.

      1 mark

    5. (v) (a) ghosts.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) c; (ii) the stranger (Griffin); (iii) furniture; (iv) d; (v) a

    Where the marks are

    • (i) c (1 mark)
    • (ii) the stranger/Griffin (1 mark)
    • (iii) furniture (1 mark)
    • (iv) d (1 mark)
    • (v) a (1 mark)

    Open Q6(b) on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q7(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedHow to Tell Wild Animals

    Though to distinguish beasts of prey
    A novice might nonplus,
    The crocodiles you always may
    Tell from the Hyena thus :
    Hyenas come with merry smiles;
    But if they weep they’re crocodiles.

    1. (i)

      Select the appropriate option to complete the sentence, according to the extract : Crocodiles can be identified by their _______.

      1. (a)tears
      2. (b)attitude
      3. (c)smiles
      4. (d)attacks
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      State whether the following statement is True or False : Hyenas are famous for weeping.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      ‘Novice’ in line 2 means the same as :

      1. (a)learner
      2. (b)beast
      3. (c)tender foot
      4. (d)beginner
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      In this extract the poet has presented two different behavioural traits of animals. They are ______.

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      The poet uses ‘A novice might nonplus’ instead of the novice might get confused. How does this usage impact the poem ?

      1. (a)adds an incorrect option.
      2. (b)it is associated with beasts.
      3. (c)it rhymes and adds humour.
      4. (d)it simplifies the meaning.
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) (a) tears. The poet says that if the creatures weep, they are crocodiles.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) False. Hyenas come with merry smiles. It is crocodiles that are known for weeping.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) (d) beginner. A novice is a person new to something.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) The smiling (laughing) of the hyena and the crying (weeping) of the crocodile.

      1 mark

    5. (v) (c) It rhymes and adds humour. 'Nonplus' rhymes with 'thus' and gives the verse a playful tone.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) tears; (ii) False; (iii) beginner; (iv) smiling of the hyena and crying of the crocodile; (v) it rhymes and adds humour

    Where the marks are

    • (i) tears (1 mark)
    • (ii) False (1 mark)
    • (iii) beginner (1 mark)
    • (iv) hyena smiles, crocodile weeps (1 mark)
    • (v) rhymes and adds humour (1 mark)

    Open Q7(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q7(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedA Tiger in the Zoo

    He stalks in his vivid stripes
    The few steps of his cage,
    On pads of velvet quiet,
    In his quiet rage
    He should be lurking in shadow
    Sliding through long grass
    Near the water hole
    Where plump deer pass.

    1. (i)

      Complete the sentence appropriately. The vivid stripes refer to the ______.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Which word from the extract is the opposite of ‘loud’ ?

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      The use of the phrase ‘pads of velvet’ means

      1. (a)neck
      2. (b)tail
      3. (c)skin
      4. (d)paws
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      State whether the following statement is True or False : The confinement of the cramped space of the cage has restricted the tiger’s steps.

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      The tiger was lurking in shadow _________.

      1. (a)to catch its prey
      2. (b)as the cage was dark
      3. (c)as the velvet was quiet
      4. (d)as he was in a rage
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) The vivid stripes refer to the stripes of the tiger.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) quiet. It is the opposite of 'loud'.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) (d) paws. The tiger's soft paws make no sound.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) True. The tiger can take only a few steps in the cramped cage.

      1 mark

    5. (v) (a) to catch its prey. In the wild the tiger would lurk near the water hole to hunt deer.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) stripes of a tiger; (ii) quiet; (iii) paws; (iv) True; (v) to catch its prey

    Where the marks are

    • (i) stripes of a tiger (1 mark)
    • (ii) quiet (1 mark)
    • (iii) paws (1 mark)
    • (iv) True (1 mark)
    • (v) to catch its prey (1 mark)

    Open Q7(b) on its own page

  3. Q8 · 12 marks · Short answerGlimpses of India

    Answer the following.

    1. (a)

      Attempt any four out of the five questions given below in 40-50 words each. What did Pranjol and Rajvir do during the journey ? Why ?

      3 marks
    2. (b)

      Attempt any four out of the five questions given below in 40-50 words each. Who read the letter sent by Lencho ? What did he do then ?

      3 marks
    3. (c)

      Attempt any four out of the five questions given below in 40-50 words each. Where is Coorg located ? Write any two characteristics of the people of Coorg ?

      3 marks
    4. (d)

      Attempt any four out of the five questions given below in 40-50 words each. How does the poem ‘The Tale of Custard The Dragon’ differ from the traditional ballad ?

      3 marks
    5. (e)

      Attempt any four out of the five questions given below in 40-50 words each. What does the Buddha say about the world ?

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (a) During the journey Pranjol either read detective stories or listened to Rajvir. Rajvir enjoyed the greenery outside and shared his knowledge of tea with Pranjol. Pranjol had lived in a tea garden since childhood, so it did not excite him. Rajvir found the experience new and thrilling.

      3 marks

    2. (b) The postmaster read Lencho's letter. He became serious and was impressed by Lencho's faith in God. He decided to help him. He collected contributions from his employees and added some money himself. He put it in an envelope with a letter signed 'God'.

      3 marks

    3. (c) Coorg lies midway between Mysore and the coastal town of Mangalore. Its people are fiercely independent and brave. They also have martial traditions and are very hospitable.

      3 marks

    4. (d) A traditional ballad tells a story of courage and heroism. 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' departs from this by using humour. The hero Custard is a cowardly dragon, while the others are brave. The poem makes fun of the ballad form.

      3 marks

    5. (e) The Buddha says that everything in the world is transitory. Peace comes only when one accepts this truth and gives up selfishness and attachment.

      3 marks

    Answer: Model answers given for (a)-(e); any four are to be attempted

    Where the marks are

    • Each answer: complete content (2 marks)
    • Each answer: organised expression (1 mark)
    • Deduct ½ mark for more than 3 language errors

    Open Q8 on its own page

  4. Q9 · 6 marks · Short answerThe Thief's Story

    Answer the following.

    1. (a)

      Attempt any two out of the three questions given below in 40-50 words each. Why does Anil not hand over Hari Singh to the police ?

      3 marks
    2. (b)

      Attempt any two out of the three questions given below in 40-50 words each. What opinion did Mr. Weiherer, Ebright’s Social Science teacher have about him ?

      3 marks
    3. (c)

      Attempt any two out of the three questions given below in 40-50 words each. What was Mr. Herriot’s strict advice ? Did Mrs. Pumphrey agree to his advice ?

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (a) Anil was a kind man. He wanted to give Hari Singh a second chance. He knew that kindness would fill Hari's heart with faith in goodness. Otherwise Hari might have become a hardened criminal.

      3 marks

    2. (b) Mr. Weiherer believed that Ebright was competitive in a good sense. He was hardworking and put extra effort into everything he did. He was not interested in prizes. He also managed his time well.

      3 marks

    3. (c) Mr. Herriot strictly advised Mrs. Pumphrey to cut down Tricki Woo's food, especially sweets, and to give him plenty of exercise. She agreed with him but did not follow the advice.

      3 marks

    Answer: Model answers given for (a)-(c); any two are to be attempted

    Where the marks are

    • Each answer: two valid points (2 marks)
    • Each answer: organised expression (1 mark)

    Open Q9 on its own page

  5. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q10(a) · 6 marks · Long answerMadam Rides the Bus

    Answer any one of the following questions in 100-120 words : Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus ?

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Valli badly wanted a bus ride but knew her mother would object. She was discreet and planned to do it without her mother's knowledge.

      1 mark

    2. She watched the bus and its schedule carefully. She listened to people talking about their journeys and learnt that the fare to the town was 60 paise.

      1 mark

    3. She saved money patiently and finally collected 60 paise. She resisted the temptation to spend it, though she was tempted.

      1 mark

    4. Her careful planning, determination and self-control show that she overcame every difficulty to get the ride.

      1 mark

    5. The answer is organised, with a beginning, middle and end and suitable vocabulary.

      1 mark

    6. The spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate.

      1 mark

    Answer: Valli planned secretly, studied the bus and fare, saved 60 paise and resisted temptation to ride the bus.

    Where the marks are

    • Content points: secrecy, observing the bus and fare, saving 60 paise, resisting temptation (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q10(b) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Sermon at Benares

    Answer any one of the following questions in 100-120 words : Through the story of Kisa Gotami, what did the Buddha try to preach to the common man ?

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Kisa Gotami's only son died. She could not accept it and went from door to door asking for medicine to revive him.

      1 mark

    2. She approached the Buddha, who asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died.

      1 mark

    3. She found no such house, as every family had lost someone. She was disappointed, and as she watched the city lights flicker she realised that death is inevitable.

      1 mark

    4. The Buddha thus taught the common man that death comes to all and must be accepted. Grief should give way to understanding.

      1 mark

    5. The answer is well structured and fluent.

      1 mark

    6. The grammar and spelling are accurate.

      1 mark

    Answer: The Buddha taught that death is universal and inevitable, and one must accept it.

    Where the marks are

    • Content: Kisa's grief, mustard seed condition, no such house, realisation of death's inevitability (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10(b) on its own page

  6. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q11(a) · 6 marks · Long answerBholi

    Answer any one of the following questions in 100-120 words : Education is always a great asset in the life of a woman. How did Bholi, an educated girl, face the challenge posed by Bishamber’s greed ?

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Education transformed Bholi from a timid, stammering girl into a confident woman. A kind teacher encouraged her at school.

      1 mark

    2. When Bishamber, the greedy bridegroom, demanded dowry, Bholi's father was ready to give in. Bholi boldly refused to marry such a greedy man.

      1 mark

    3. Her courage and self-respect show how education improves the quality of life. She decided to teach in the same school and look after her parents.

      1 mark

    4. The answer is well organised with a clear beginning, middle and end.

      1 mark

    5. The vocabulary is apt and the ideas are cohesive.

      1 mark

    6. The spelling and grammar are accurate.

      1 mark

    Answer: Educated and confident, Bholi boldly rejected Bishamber's greedy dowry demand.

    Where the marks are

    • Content: education gave confidence, rejected dowry, courage/transformation (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q11(b) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Necklace

    Answer any one of the following questions in 100-120 words : Those who are satisfied with what they have are happy in life. Those who aspire more than what they can afford ruin their life. Matilda was one such person. If she were content with her life she would have led a happy life. Elaborate on the basis of the chapter ‘The Necklace.’

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Money can bring misery as well as happiness. Greed and overambition can ruin lives. Contentment is the key to happiness.

      1 mark

    2. Mathilde Loisel was dissatisfied with her modest life and craved luxury. She borrowed a diamond necklace from Madame Forestier to attend a ball and lose herself in luxury.

      1 mark

    3. She lost the necklace. The Loisels borrowed heavily to replace it and spent ten years in hardship repaying the debt, losing their savings and her beauty.

      1 mark

    4. The necklace was only paste and worth little. Had she been content, or honest with her friend, she would have been spared this suffering.

      1 mark

    5. The answer is well structured and cohesive.

      1 mark

    6. The spelling and grammar are accurate.

      1 mark

    Answer: Mathilde's discontent and overambition led to ten years of ruin; contentment would have kept her happy.

    Where the marks are

    • Content: greed ruins, borrowed necklace, loss, ten years of repaying, contentment (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11(b) on its own page

Source: official question paper, cbse.gov.in. Chapter tags and solutions are ours. Spotted a transcription error? Write tosupport@questionbuddy.in.