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CBSE Class 10 English 2023 Question Paper (2/5/1) Solved

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

CBSE Class 10 English: 2023 board paper, set 2/5/1

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.

Every question here has our step-by-step solution, split into the steps that earn marks. Each one was checked by an independent re-solve from the question paper.

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 2-5-1 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, 20 marks. Q1 and Q2 each have 10 subparts of 1 mark (10 x 1 = 10 each). All questions compulsory.
B3-5Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks. Q3: attempt any ten of twelve (1 mark each). Q4 and Q5: attempt any one of (A) or (B), 5 marks each.
C6-11Literature, 40 marks. Q6 and Q7: attempt any one of (A) or (B), 5 marks each. Q8: any four of five (3 marks each). Q9: any two of three (3 marks each). Q10 and Q11: attempt any one of (a) or (b), 6 marks each.

Instructions in brief: All questions are compulsory in principle, but Q3 requires any ten of twelve, Q4-Q7 require one of two alternatives, Q8 any four of five, Q9 any two of three, and Q10-Q11 one of two alternatives; the paper has three sections (A Reading Skills, B Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, C Literature).

Section A

Reading Skills, 20 marks. Q1 and Q2 each have 10 subparts of 1 mark (10 x 1 = 10 each). All questions compulsory.

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

    Read the following passage carefully:

    1 Floods are not new to India and this subcontinent, but in recent years the problem of flooding has received much greater attention, perhaps largely because it has led to greater damage now than it did in the past. Even though information on the impending occurrence of floods is now more accurate and certainly more timely, often there is very little time or support infrastructure in place by which damage can be minimised. This is particularly true in the case of flash floods resulting from sudden and excessive heavy rain.

    2 In the case of India, flooding is very much related to the seasonal nature of our rainfall. The monsoons are spread over a short period during the year and often bring a concentrated volume of rain, which cannot be absorbed by the earth and finds an outlet only in the form of streams that join up with our major river systems. Flooding due to heavy rain is confined not only to the main rivers of the country, but also affects smaller tributaries and streams. Once these streams spill over their banks they could cause excessive harm, mainly because those living near the banks of these streams, particularly in mountain areas, do not have easy recourse to moving away quickly.

    3 One major factor that could lead to a higher severity of flooding in the future is the danger of climate change. While the evidence of the nature of impacts, resulting from climate change on precipitation and flooding at the regional level, is not entirely clear, it could happen that the Indian subcontinent witnesses and suffers the effects of a significantly changed pattern of monsoons. One set of scientists has estimated that the monsoons could be shorter in duration but far more intensive; in other words, much greater precipitation would take place in a much shorter period of time, thereby increasing the danger of floods. Climate change is the result of human actions through the increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, of which carbon dioxide is the most prominent.

    4 At the local level also human actions have heightened the danger of floods through the cutting of trees in the mountains as well as in the plains. In case of India, the ecological damage through deforestation of the Himalayas has led to large-scale erosion of the mountain slopes and high levels of siltation. These lead to the deposition of silt on the riverbeds in the plains and hence spillover of water whenever the volume in the river reaches a certain level. With siltation on the riverbeds, flooding occurs even at very shallow water levels. The vulnerability of the population has increased substantially because of population pressures. An example is the stubborn and perhaps helpless settling of slum dwellers on the banks of the river Yamuna in Delhi, who become victims of flooding. What is a mere trickle most of the year, bursts its banks during the monsoons, as has been the case in recent years.

    5 Flood forecasting is critical to minimising the damage from floods. It is for this reason that the Central Water Commission has set up a network of forecasting stations, which cover the most important flood-prone interstate rivers in the country. These stations produce forecasts that are used to alert the public and to mobilize various official agencies so that they take both preventive as well as relief measures, whenever required. However, even in cases where forecasts have been timely and generally accurate, people have often been reluctant to move away, because in most cases they lack the means and physical options for moving away from a danger zone to one that is relatively safe. In the case of flash floods, forecasts are difficult to make, and often the time available for relief is very short.

    Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below: 10 x 1 = 10

    1. (i)

      The problem of floods has been considered more important recently because

      1. (A)floods have led to much greater damage now than in the past.
      2. (B)floods are resulting in increased relocation.
      3. (C)floods occur only during the monsoon season.
      4. (D)of problems of frequent tornadoes and cyclones in the subcontinent.
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Specify the option that displays what the writer projects with reference to the following statement. One major factor that could lead to higher severity of flooding in the future is the danger of climate change.

      1. (A)helplessness
      2. (B)speculative
      3. (C)denial
      4. (D)conviction
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Complete the following with a phrase from paragraph 3: Opinion: Some scientists estimate that shorter duration of monsoon season leads to more intensive rainfall. | Reason: ________

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      The writer claims that flood forecasting is critical to minimising the damage from floods. State one reason for the claim.

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Even when the prediction is accurate, people do not evacuate the places where the warning is given.

      1. (A)True
      2. (B)False
      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Supply one point to justify the following: The worst hit people are slum dwellers.

      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Based on your reading of the text, list two reasons why the writer says that in spite of timely forecasting people have suffered.

      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      The writer says that forecasts are difficult to make and time available is very short. Select the reason for it.

      1. (A)Flash floods
      2. (B)Cyclonic rain
      3. (C)Tornadoes
      4. (D)Landslides
      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      What connect does the writer draw between tributaries and floods? (Para 2)

      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Which of the following statements is/are false? The vulnerability of the population has increased substantially because of population pressures symbolised by: I. People are superstitious. II. Difficult to evacuate flood-affected areas. Select the correct option:

      1. (A)Only I
      2. (B)Only II
      3. (C)Both I and II
      4. (D)None of the above
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Para 1 says floods now cause much greater damage than before, so the option is (A).

      1 mark

    2. (ii) The writer says climate change 'could' lead to worse floods, and the evidence is 'not entirely clear'. This is a prediction, so it is speculative: (B).

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Reason: much greater precipitation would take place in a much shorter period of time.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Forecasts are used to alert the public and to mobilise official agencies for preventive and relief measures.

      1 mark

    5. (v) True. The passage says people are often reluctant to move away even when forecasts are timely and accurate.

      1 mark

    6. (vi) Slum dwellers settle helplessly on the banks of the river Yamuna, so they are closest to the water when it overflows.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) (1) They lack the means and physical options to move to a safer place. (2) They are reluctant to leave. (Time available is also very short in flash floods.)

      1 mark

    8. (viii) Forecasts are difficult in the case of flash floods, so (A).

      1 mark

    9. (ix) Heavy rain makes small tributaries and streams spill over their banks, causing great harm, especially in mountain areas where people cannot move away quickly.

      1 mark

    10. (x) Statement I is false because the passage never says people are superstitious. Statement II is consistent with the passage. Only I is false: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) A; (ii) B; (iii) much greater precipitation in a much shorter period (climate change); (iv) alerts the public and mobilises agencies; (v) True; (vi) they live closest to the river banks; (vii) lack of means and options to move, reluctance; (viii) A; (ix) overflowing tributaries cause floods; (x) A

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part correct (1 mark each, 10 marks)

    Open Q1 on its own page

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

    Read the following passage carefully:

    1 Unsafe water kills more people each year than do war and all other forms of violence combined. Meanwhile, our drinkable water sources are finite: less than 1 percent of the Earth's freshwater is actually accessible to us. Without action, the challenges will only increase by 2050, when global demand for freshwater is expected to be one-third greater than it is now.

    2 Water is uniquely vulnerable to pollution. Known as a "universal solvent", water is able to dissolve more substances than any other liquid on Earth. Water pollution is the release of substances into subsurface groundwater or into lakes, streams, rivers, estuaries, and oceans to the point where the substances interfere with beneficial use of the water or with the natural functioning of ecosystems. In addition to the release of substances, such as chemicals, trash, or microorganisms, water pollution may also include the release of energy, in the form of radioactivity or heat, into bodies of water. The key causatives of water pollution in India are urbanization, deforestation, industrial effluents and agricultural run-offs with the use of insecticides and pesticides. The other causes are social and religious offerings in water bodies and the use of detergents and fertilizers.

    3 Water pollution can have disastrous consequences on the ecosystem. Furthermore, toxic chemicals can travel through the food chain and get into our bodies, causing diseases and death.

    4 There is no single or simple answer to stop the water pollution crisis. However, there are many solutions to prevent water pollution, both in our daily lives and within industries. They are wastewater treatment, reducing plastic waste and water conservation. In addition to this, we must have water-efficient toilets, stormwater management and ozone wastewater treatment.

    [Figure: Major Causes of Water Pollution chart, shown below]

    Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below: 10 x 1 = 10

    1. (i)

      Infer one reason for the following, based on information in para 1. Less than 1 percent of the Earth's freshwater is actually accessible to us.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Select the appropriate option to fill in the blank: Water is uniquely vulnerable to __________.

      1. (A)season
      2. (B)pollution
      3. (C)water bodies
      4. (D)extreme weather conditions
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Complete the following analogy correctly with a word/phrase from paragraph 2: vulnerable : resilient : : artificial : __________ (Clue: just as resilient is the opposite of vulnerable, similarly the opposite of artificial is __________.)

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Select the correct option to complete the following sentence: Water pollution can have disastrous consequences on _________.

      1. (A)the ecosystem
      2. (B)weather conditions
      3. (C)unexpected rainfall
      4. (D)flash floods
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      From the chart, identify two causes of water pollution in our homes.

      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option: One of the solutions of preventing water pollution is __________.

      1. (A)building industries near water bodies
      2. (B)water conservation and reducing plastic waste
      3. (C)avoiding swimming
      4. (D)reducing farming
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Substitute the word 'causative' with one word similar in meaning in the following sentence: The key causative of water pollution in India must be addressed.

      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      According to the writer, water pollution is defined as ___________. (Para 2)

      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      List one way in which religious rituals impact water bodies.

      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Select the most suitable title for the passage from the following:

      1. (A)Water Pollution — A Concern
      2. (B)Unsafe Water — A Menace
      3. (C)Universal Solvent — Water
      4. (D)Global Concern — An Urgent Need
      1 mark

    Figure in the paper: A circular flower-like chart titled 'Major Causes of Water Pollution'. At the centre is a circle labelled 'Causes of water pollution', surrounded by ten petal-shaped circles: Oil pollution, Oil spill, Septic tank, Water parks, Intensive farming, Pesticide, Swimming, Industrial waste, Household waste, Water storage tanks, and Nuclear waste. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Inference: drinkable water sources are finite, and pollution and rising demand reduce what we can use. (The scheme accepts any relevant answer.)

      1 mark

    2. (ii) Water dissolves more substances than any other liquid, so it is vulnerable to pollution: (B).

      1 mark

    3. (iii) The opposite of 'artificial' in para 2 is 'natural'.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Para 3 says pollution can have disastrous consequences on the ecosystem: (A).

      1 mark

    5. (v) From the chart, two household causes are: septic tank and household waste. (Pesticide and water storage tanks are also accepted.)

      1 mark

    6. (vi) Para 4 lists water conservation and reducing plastic waste as solutions: (B).

      1 mark

    7. (vii) 'Causative' can be replaced by 'cause' or 'reason'.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) Water pollution is the release of substances such as chemicals, trash or microorganisms into subsurface groundwater, lakes, rivers, estuaries and oceans, so that they interfere with beneficial use or the natural functioning of ecosystems.

      1 mark

    9. (ix) Religious offerings made in water bodies pollute them.

      1 mark

    10. (x) The passage is mainly about water pollution, so the title is 'Water Pollution — A Concern': (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) any relevant reason; (ii) B; (iii) natural; (iv) A; (v) septic tank, household waste; (vi) B; (vii) cause; (viii) release of substances into water bodies that harm their use or ecosystems; (ix) religious offerings pollute water; (x) B

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part correct (1 mark each, 10 marks)

    Open Q2 on its own page

Section B

Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks. Q3: attempt any ten of twelve (1 mark each). Q4 and Q5: attempt any one of (A) or (B), 5 marks each.

  1. Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarGrammar

    Attempt any ten of the following twelve questions: 10 x 1 = 10

    1. (i)

      Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the following report: The inspector _________ the group sitting behind the shed and took them by surprise.

      1. (A)walked up
      2. (B)walked away
      3. (C)walked into
      4. (D)walked up on
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Read the conversation between a driver and his passenger. Complete the sentence by reporting the passenger's reply correctly. Driver: Do the bus timings suit you? Passenger: Yes, if I catch the 9 a.m. one, I reach office on time. The driver was trying to figure out whether the bus timings were convenient to the passenger. The passenger clarified that __________.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given line from a fashion magazine. The advertisement read, '__________ we dress your day? Make you special. Pick the perfect look.'

      1. (A)Must
      2. (B)Can
      3. (C)Will
      4. (D)Ought to
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line from a news report: Yesterday, two man were rescued from a deep sewer by a policeman.

      1. (A)Error: man; Correction: men
      2. (B)Error: rescued; Correction: rescue
      3. (C)Error: from; Correction: for
      4. (D)Error: by; Correction: in
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option: The students _________ to participate in the workshop, and submit a report at the end of the day to the English teacher.

      1. (A)were ask
      2. (B)had been asked
      3. (C)will have asked
      4. (D)were asked
      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word given in the brackets, for the given portion of a letter: Subject: Request for permission to participate in the Meet. Dear Sir, I would like to request for permission to participate in the forthcoming inter-school cultural meet. I ________ (interest) in taking part in the dance drama.

      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Report the dialogue between a grandson and his grandfather by completing the sentence. Grandson: Grandpa, can you tell me what inspired you to set up a school in the village? Grandfather: Seeing the lack of adequate facilities and the children's eagerness to learn. In response to the question about his reason for setting up of a village school, the grandfather says that __________.

      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      Identify the error in the given sentence from a school magazine report and supply the correction: When I was a child, my grandmother often repetition the story of her childhood days. Use the given format for your response. | Error | Correction |

      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      Sunil shared some information with Sunita about the story he was reading. Report Sunita's question. What was the theme of the story?

      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the slogan by the Animal Welfare Board. __________ WE CUT TREES AND DESTROY NATURAL HABITAT? STOP! BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.

      1. (A)MIGHT
      2. (B)MAY
      3. (C)MUST
      4. (D)COULD
      1 mark
    11. (xi)

      Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between Shyam and Shivam. Shyam: Have you seen this actor's latest film? Shivam: Yes, I have. The actor has done a marvellous job. Shyam met his friend Shivam and they began talking. Shyam asked Shivam whether he had seen the actor's latest film. Shivam affirmed and said

      1. (A)that the actor has done a marvellous job.
      2. (B)that the actor had done a marvellous job.
      3. (C)that the actor has been doing a marvellous job.
      4. (D)that the actor could have done a marvellous job.
      1 mark
    12. (xii)

      Fill in the blank with the correct option: There is something wonderful waiting __________ her, when she reaches home.

      1. (A)of
      2. (B)about
      3. (C)for
      4. (D)inside
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) 'Walked up on' means approached someone unexpectedly: (D).

      1 mark

    2. (ii) If he caught the 9 a.m. one, he would reach office on time.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) 'Can we dress your day?' is an offer or request: (B).

      1 mark

    4. (iv) 'Two' is plural, so 'man' must be 'men': (A).

      1 mark

    5. (v) A passive past form is needed, so 'were asked' (D). 'Had been asked' is also accepted.

      1 mark

    6. (vi) am interested

      1 mark

    7. (vii) He said that he was inspired to set up the school on seeing the lack of adequate facilities and the children's eagerness to learn.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) Error: repetition. Correction: repeated (a past-tense verb is needed after 'often').

      1 mark

    9. (ix) Sunita asked Sunil what the theme of the story was.

      1 mark

    10. (x) 'Must we cut trees...?' expresses a protest or reproach: (C).

      1 mark

    11. (xi) In reported speech, the present perfect changes to the past perfect: 'that the actor had done a marvellous job' (B).

      1 mark

    12. (xii) 'Waiting for' is the correct collocation: (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) D; (ii) he would reach office on time if he caught the 9 a.m. bus; (iii) B; (iv) A; (v) D (or B); (vi) am interested; (vii) he was inspired to set up the school on seeing the lack of facilities and the children's eagerness to learn; (viii) repetition → repeated; (ix) Sunita asked Sunil what the theme of the story was; (x) C; (xi) B; (xii) C

    Where the marks are

    • Any ten sub-parts 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

    Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below:

    (A) You are Swati/Soham living at 14, DLF, Phase III, Gurugram. Your streets and roads get waterlogged during the monsoon season every year. Cars stall, drains overflow and traffic comes to a standstill. It is difficult to lead a normal life and this adds to you woes. Write a letter in 100 – 120 words to the editor, 'The Times of India', highlighting the problems and suggesting measures to control the problem.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address (14, DLF, Phase III, Gurugram), date, receiver's address (The Editor, The Times of India), subject, salutation 'Sir/Madam', and the close 'Yours truly, Swati'.

      1 mark

    2. Content: describe the waterlogging problem and suggest measures. Model body: I write to draw attention to the severe waterlogging in our area every monsoon. Roads turn into ponds, cars stall, drains overflow and traffic stops. Children and office-goers cannot reach schools and workplaces. Stagnant water breeds mosquitoes and brings dengue and other diseases. I suggest that the authorities desilt and clean drains before the monsoon. They should build proper drainage with rainwater harvesting pits and stop garbage dumping in drains. Pumps should be kept ready and encroachments on drains removed. I hope you will publish this letter so the authorities act quickly.

      2 marks

    3. Organisation: formal tone, with short paragraphs in logical order and about 100–120 words.

      1 mark

    4. Accuracy: correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter to the Editor with a subject line, the problems of waterlogging, and suggestions such as desilting drains, better drainage and rainwater harvesting.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct format (1 mark)
    • Content: problems and measures (2 marks)
    • Organisation of ideas (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q4(a) on its own page

    OR

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

    OR

    (B) You are Rita/Rahul living at Sunder Colony, Agra. The stray dogs in your colony are regularly fed and vaccinated by the RWA of the colony. You are disturbed to see your neighbours treating these dogs badly. Write a letter in 100 – 120 words to the President of the Society complaining against the rough treatment meted to them and how it impacts the behaviour of the dogs who are otherwise very docile.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address (Sunder Colony, Agra), date, receiver (The President, RWA), subject, salutation 'Sir', and the close 'Yours sincerely, Rita'.

      1 mark

    2. Content: Model body: I am writing to complain about the rough treatment of the stray dogs in our colony. Our RWA regularly feeds and vaccinates them, and they are otherwise docile. However, some residents beat them, throw stones and chase them away. Such cruelty makes the dogs fearful and aggressive, and they may bite or bark at passers-by, which endangers children. I request you to issue a notice against ill-treatment and hold an awareness meeting. Please also appoint a volunteer group to look after the dogs. I hope you will take prompt action.

      2 marks

    3. Organisation: formal tone, logical flow and about 100–120 words.

      1 mark

    4. Accuracy: correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal complaint letter to the RWA President about cruelty to stray dogs and its effect on their behaviour, with suggested action.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct format (1 mark)
    • Content (2 marks)
    • Organisation (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

    Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below:

    (A) The following pie chart shows the major causes of air pollution in metropolitan cities in India. Study the data and write an analytical paragraph in 100 – 120 words.

    Figure in the paper: A pie chart titled 'Air Pollution in Metropolitan Cities in India'. Segments: Vehicles 50% (cross-hatched pattern, largest, occupying the right half), Industries 20% (white, bottom-left), Waste burning 20% (brick pattern, left), Construction 10% (solid black, top-left). Legend lists Vehicles, Industries, Waste burning, Construction. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: use all the data. The pie chart shows vehicles as the largest source of air pollution at 50%. Industries and waste burning contribute 20% each, and construction 10%. Vehicles alone cause as much as all the others combined.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: one paragraph with an opening that states what the chart shows, then comparison of the figures, then a conclusion. Model: The pie chart shows the major causes of air pollution in Indian metropolitan cities. Vehicles are the biggest contributor at 50%, equal to all the other sources together. Industries and waste burning each account for 20%, while construction adds 10%. Clearly, traffic emissions are the main threat. Authorities should promote public transport, enforce emission norms, regulate industrial emissions, ban open burning and control construction dust.

      2 marks

    3. Accuracy: correct spelling, grammar and punctuation, in 100–120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: An analytical paragraph noting vehicles 50%, industries 20%, waste burning 20% and construction 10%, with a conclusion and measures.

    Where the marks are

    • Content with all data points (2 marks)
    • Organisation in a single paragraph (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(a) on its own page

    OR

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

    OR

    (B) Read the following excerpt from an article that appeared in the magazine section of a local daily: The ban on single-use plastic is impractical. The purpose of articles such as bags and packing material is ultimately to make human life easier. Plastic articles make this convenient, so they should not be banned. Write an analytical paragraph in 100 – 120 words for the given argument. You could give rationale/evidence that would counter/strengthen the argument.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: take a stand and support it with evidence. Model (counter-argument): The claim that a ban on single-use plastic is impractical overlooks its long-term costs. Convenience is brief but plastic persists for centuries. It clogs drains, causes floods, chokes rivers and kills animals that swallow it. Microplastics enter the food chain and harm human health.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: one paragraph with an opening, supporting arguments and a conclusion. Model: Practical alternatives such as cloth, jute and paper bags exist, and several countries and Indian states have banned plastic successfully. A ban with a phased plan, awareness and affordable substitutes is workable. Therefore the argument fails, since protecting the environment outweighs convenience.

      2 marks

    3. Accuracy: correct spelling, grammar and punctuation, in 100–120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: An analytical paragraph countering the argument with evidence on environmental harm and the availability of alternatives.

    Where the marks are

    • Content: rationale and evidence (2 marks)
    • Organisation (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(b) on its own page

Section C

Literature, 40 marks. Q6 and Q7: attempt any one of (A) or (B), 5 marks each. Q8: any four of five (3 marks each). Q9: any two of three (3 marks each). Q10 and Q11: attempt any one of (a) or (b), 6 marks each.

  1. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q6(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedNelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

    Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below.

    (A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

    To the assembled guests and the watching world, I said: Today, all of us do, by our presence here ..... confer glory and hope to newborn liberty. Out of the experience of an extraordinary human disaster that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all humanity will be proud. We who were outlaws not so long ago, have today been given the rare privilege to be host to the nations of the world on our own soil. We thank all our distinguished international guests for having come to take possession with the people of our country of what is after all, a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity.

    1. (i)

      A society that __________ was born out of human disaster.

      1. (A)all humanity would be proud of
      2. (B)was full of extraordinary human disaster
      3. (C)was full of outlaws and fighters
      4. (D)hosts nations on their soil
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      The former outlaws were given the privilege of __________.

      1. (A)getting citizenship of their country
      2. (B)participating in a trade conclave
      3. (C)finalizing the foreign policy
      4. (D)hosting the nations of the world on their soil
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      The speaker was overwhelmed with the sense of __________.

      1. (A)gratitude
      2. (B)achievement
      3. (C)happiness
      4. (D)charity
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      State whether the following statement is True or False: The common victory was when South Africa did not become an independent nation.

      1. (A)True
      2. (B)False
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      The noun form of the word 'confer' is

      1. (A)conferring
      2. (B)confident
      3. (C)conference
      4. (D)configuring
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) 'A society of which all humanity will be proud' was born out of the human disaster: (A).

      1 mark

    2. (ii) The former outlaws were privileged to host the nations of the world on their own soil: (D).

      1 mark

    3. (iii) The speaker's feeling is of achievement, shown by pride in the glory and hope conferred on liberty: (B). The scheme also accepts (A) gratitude.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) False. The common victory was for justice, peace and human dignity, i.e. South Africa became free.

      1 mark

    5. (v) The noun form of 'confer' is 'conference': (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) A; (ii) D; (iii) B (A also accepted); (iv) False; (v) C

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part correct (1 mark each)

    Open Q6(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q6(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)

    OR

    (B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

    Think-Tank: That's better Noodle, I wish to be placed in communication with our manned space probe to that ridiculous little planet we are going to put under our generous rulership. What do they call it, again?
    Noodle: Earth, your Intelligence.
    Think-Tank: Earth — of course. You see how insignificant the place is? But first something important. My mirror. I wish to consult my mirror.

    1. (i)

      Think-Tank wants to communicate with the _______.

      1. (A)People of Earth
      2. (B)Scientists on Earth
      3. (C)Environmentalists on Earth
      4. (D)Martians on Earth
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the passage. read : learn : : explore : ________

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Your Intelligence refers to

      1. (A)Earth
      2. (B)Noodle
      3. (C)Little Planet
      4. (D)Think-Tank
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      What does Think-Tank want to do?

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Fill in the blank with one word only. Think-Tank is a __________ of the Martian team.

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) He wants to contact the manned space probe, i.e. the Martians on Earth: (D).

      1 mark

    2. (ii) 'Read' leads to 'learn', so 'explore' leads to 'probe'.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) 'Your Intelligence' is how Noodle addresses Think-Tank: (D).

      1 mark

    4. (iv) He wants to communicate with the Martians on Earth and plan to invade and rule Earth. He also wants to consult his mirror.

      1 mark

    5. (v) Think-Tank is the leader (ruler) of the Martian team.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) D; (ii) probe; (iii) D; (iv) to communicate with the Martians on Earth / invade Earth; (v) leader

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part correct (1 mark each)

    Open Q6(b) on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q7(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedThe Ball Poem

    Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below.

    (A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

    What is the boy now, who has lost his ball,
    What, what is he to do? I saw it go
    Merrily bouncing, down the street and then
    Merrily over — there it is in the water!
    No use to say 'O there are other balls':
    (The Ball Poem)

    1. (i)

      What does the expression 'what, what is he to do' denote?

      1. (A)loss of the ball
      2. (B)ask the poet for another ball
      3. (C)boy's grief over the loss of the ball
      4. (D)go down the street
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      State whether the following statement is True or False: The poet was delighted to watch the ball bouncing down the street into the water.

      1. (A)True
      2. (B)False
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      The poet repeats the word 'what' in order to __________.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      There is no use to say 'O there are other balls' indicates that the poet feels that it would be _________ to console the boy.

      1. (A)helpful
      2. (B)futile
      3. (C)easy
      4. (D)shameful
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      'What is the boy now, who has lost his ball.' Which feeling is expressed in this line?

      1. (A)regret
      2. (B)cheer
      3. (C)despair
      4. (D)thrill
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Option (C): the question shows the boy's grief and helplessness over losing his ball.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) False: the poet sympathises with the boy; he is not delighted at the loss.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) The repetition emphasises the boy's helplessness and shows what he will do / how lost he is.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Option (B) futile: consoling him with 'other balls' cannot ease his loss.

      1 mark

    5. (v) Option (C) despair: the line expresses the boy's hopelessness.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) C; (ii) False; (iii) emphasise the boy's helplessness / what he will do; (iv) B, futile; (v) C, despair

    Where the marks are

    • (i) correct option C (1 mark)
    • (ii) False (1 mark)
    • (iii) emphasis on helplessness (1 mark)
    • (iv) futile (1 mark)
    • (v) despair (1 mark)

    Open Q7(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q7(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedThe Tale of Custard the Dragon

    OR

    (B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:

    But the dragon was a coward, and she called him Custard.
    Custard the dragon had big sharp teeth,
    And spikes on top of him and scales underneath
    Mouth like a fireplace, chimney for a nose,
    And realio, trulio daggers on his toes.

    1. (i)

      Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract. sharp : blunt : : above : ________

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Which one of the following is not a feature of the Dragon?

      1. (A)big sharp teeth
      2. (B)spikes on the top
      3. (C)brave as a lion
      4. (D)could release fire from the mouth
      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      What effect does the poet want to create by the simile 'mouth like a fireplace'?

      1. (A)emphasis
      2. (B)compassion
      3. (C)rhyme
      4. (D)pathos
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Complete the sentence appropriately. It is clear that 'Metaphor' is the poetic device used for 'chimney for a nose' because __________. (Clue: explain how metaphor applies here)

      1 mark
    5. (v)

      State whether the following statement is True or False based on the given extract: Custard's formidable appearance was a true reflection of his courage.

      1. (A)True
      2. (B)False
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Sharp and blunt are opposites; the opposite of 'above' in the extract is 'underneath'.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) Option (C): the dragon was a coward, not brave as a lion.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Option (A) emphasis: the simile stresses the dragon's fierce, fire-breathing look.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) It is a metaphor because the nose is directly compared to a chimney, as it breathes out smoke like one, without using 'like' or 'as'.

      1 mark

    5. (v) False: he looked fierce but was a coward.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) underneath; (ii) C; (iii) A, emphasis; (iv) the nose is compared to a chimney as it breathes out smoke; (v) False

    Where the marks are

    • (i) underneath (1 mark)
    • (ii) C (1 mark)
    • (iii) emphasis (1 mark)
    • (iv) nose compared to chimney, breathes smoke (1 mark)
    • (v) False (1 mark)

    Open Q7(b) on its own page

  3. Q8 · 12 marks · Short answerTwo Stories about Flying

    Answer any four of the following questions in about 40 – 50 words each: 4 x 3 = 12

    1. (a)

      'Family played a vital role in the first flight of the young seagull.' Give examples to substantiate the above statement.

      3 marks
    2. (b)

      Why did Pranjol not share Rajvir's excitement at seeing the tea gardens?

      3 marks
    3. (c)

      What stopped Valli from going to the stall to have a drink? What do we learn about Valli from this?

      3 marks
    4. (d)

      State any three disadvantages that the tiger faces inside a cage.

      3 marks
    5. (e)

      The poet in the poem 'For Anne Gregory' conveys beauty as temporary. Explain with reference to the poem.

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (a) The young seagull's parents scolded him and made him jealous by praising his siblings, who had already flown. They threatened to leave him to starve on the ledge. Finally his mother planned a way: she flew up with a piece of fish, tempting him to fly to her.

      3 marks

    2. (b) Pranjol was born and brought up in Assam, so tea gardens were nothing new to him. He had seen many of them since childhood. Rajvir, from the city, had never seen one, so he was excited and Pranjol was not.

      3 marks

    3. (c) Valli had no money, and she refused the conductor's offer of a free cold drink. This shows her self-respect and pride. She was also sensible enough not to accept favours from, or go with, a stranger.

      3 marks

    4. (d) Inside a cage the tiger's movement is restricted. It cannot hunt its prey and becomes an object of display. It is deprived of its natural habitat and freedom and cannot prance in the wild.

      3 marks

    5. (e) In 'For Anne Gregory' the poet shows that physical beauty is temporary and superficial. Young men love Anne for her yellow hair, which can be dyed or can change. So external looks are unimportant; only inner worth earns true love, as God's love does.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any four of (a)-(e) answered as above (all given).

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part: two relevant points (2 marks) (any four sub-parts)
    • Clear, organised expression, few errors (1 mark each)

    Open Q8 on its own page

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

    Answer any two of the following questions in about 40 – 50 words each: 2 x 3 = 6

    1. (a)

      Describe Max as a secret agent.

      3 marks
    2. (b)

      What does the phrase 'honour among thieves' mean? Why does Horace get angry at this phrase?

      3 marks
    3. (c)

      What does the thief say about the different reactions of the people when they are robbed?

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (a) Max was a secret agent and Ausable's rival. He was slender and a little less than tall. He looked crafty, and nothing about him was menacing except his pistol.

      3 marks

    2. (b) 'Honour among thieves' means thieves do not cheat one another and stay loyal to each other. Horace was angry because the lady thief cheated him and was not honest. She outsmarted him, though he had a reputation, and stole everything.

      3 marks

    3. (c) The thief says he studied men's faces when they lost their goods. A greedy man showed fear, a rich man showed anger, and a poor man accepted the loss calmly.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any two of (a)-(c) answered as above (all given).

    Where the marks are

    • Each sub-part: relevant points (2 marks) (any two)
    • Clear expression (1 mark each)

    Open Q9 on its own page

  5. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q10(a) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Proposal

    Answer any one of the following questions in about 100 – 120 words each:

    (a) Forgiveness is the foundation of a cordial relationship. Do you agree? How is this message conveyed in the play 'The Proposal'?

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Agreement: Yes, forgiveness is the foundation of cordial relationships; without it no relationship can flourish.

      1 mark

    2. In 'The Proposal', Lomov goes to his neighbour Chubukov to propose to Natalya but quarrels with them over the Oxen Meadows, a piece of land.

      1 mark

    3. A second fight breaks out over their dogs, Squeezer and Guess, until Lomov nearly collapses and everyone fears for his life.

      1 mark

    4. At the end, out of fear and self-interest, everyone forgives and the proposal is accepted, showing that forgiveness restores relationships. (Expression 2 marks and accuracy 1 mark: organised, correct, 100-120 words.)

      3 marks

    Answer: Yes; in 'The Proposal' quarrels over land and dogs end in forgiveness and acceptance of the marriage.

    Where the marks are

    • Agrees with statement (1 mark)
    • Quarrel over land and dogs (1 mark)
    • Ending in forgiveness (1 mark)
    • Expression (2 marks) and accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10(a) on its own page

    OR

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

    OR

    (b) Why did Kisa Gotami meet the Buddha? How did Buddha change her life?

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Kisa Gotami went to the Buddha, grief-stricken at her only son's death, hoping he would find a way to bring the child back to life.

      1 mark

    2. He asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died. She went door to door but failed.

      1 mark

    3. She realised that death is inevitable and suffering is part of every life. She was freed from her obsessive grief, accepted the loss and found peace. (Expression 2 marks and accuracy 1 mark: 100-120 words.)

      4 marks

    Answer: She sought to revive her dead son; the mustard-seed task taught her that death comes to all, and she accepted suffering.

    Where the marks are

    • Reason for meeting the Buddha (1 mark)
    • Mustard seed task (1 mark)
    • Realisation that death and suffering are universal (1 mark)
    • Expression (2 marks) and 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 about 100 – 120 words each:

    (a) 'Education is considered the most important tool for empowering women in society. It plays an important role in social and cultural development.' Prove the above statements in the light of the story 'Bholi'.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Education empowers women by giving them the ability to make genuine choices and speak for themselves.

      1 mark

    2. Before schooling, Bholi, timid and unlettered, agreed to marry an old man to protect her father's honour, putting her family's interest above her own.

      1 mark

    3. After education she grew confident and could judge how greedy and mean the groom was, so she refused him at the wedding.

      1 mark

    4. She declared she would teach in the school and support her parents, proving education brings social and personal development. (Expression 2 marks and accuracy 1 mark.)

      3 marks

    Answer: Bholi's change from a timid girl who accepted marriage to a confident woman who refused it and supports her family proves it.

    Where the marks are

    • Education gives power to choose (1 mark)
    • Bholi's earlier acceptance of marriage (1 mark)
    • Her refusal and decision to support parents (1 mark)
    • Expression (2 marks) and accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q11(b) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Necklace

    OR

    (b) Matilda's over-ambitiousness was the cause of her destruction. Justify.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Matilda, from a modest family, always craved luxury and felt she deserved better, though she had a good husband who was a government clerk.

      1 mark

    2. Her ambition made her unhappy; to look rich at a ball, she borrowed a diamond necklace from Madame Forestier.

      1 mark

    3. She lost the necklace and she and her husband took heavy loans to replace it, working for ten years in poverty, which ruined her youth and beauty.

      1 mark

    4. Thus her over-ambition and vanity led to her destruction, and the borrowed necklace was only paste. (Expression 2 marks and accuracy 1 mark.)

      3 marks

    Answer: Matilda's craving for luxury led to borrowing and losing the necklace, and years of ruinous poverty.

    Where the marks are

    • Her desire for luxury and discontent (1 mark)
    • Borrowing and losing the necklace (1 mark)
    • Debt, hardship and ruin (1 mark)
    • Expression (2 marks) and 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.