EnglishCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2024 (session 2023-24)

CBSE Class 10 English: 2024 board paper, set 2/2/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2024, 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/2024/X/ENGLISH_L&L.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 2_2_1_English L & L.pdf). Questions are transcribed from that PDF; figures are described in words, so check the official paper for them.

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How the paper is set

Section	Questions	What it has
A	1-2	Section A: Reading Skills, 20 marks. Q1 (10 M) and Q2 (10 M) are passage-based with subparts of 1 to 3 marks each.
B	3-5	Section B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks. Q3 is 10 x 1 (any ten of twelve). Q4 and Q5 are 5-mark writing tasks with an OR choice.
C	6-11	Section C: Literature, 40 marks. Q6 and Q7 are extract-based (any one of two, 5 marks each). Q8 (any four of five, 3 marks each), Q9 (any two of three, 3 marks each), Q10 and Q11 (any one of two, 6 marks each).

Instructions in brief: All 11 questions are compulsory; internal choice is given in Q4, Q5, Q6, Q7, Q10 and Q11 (OR), while Q3 requires any ten of twelve tasks, Q8 any four of five, and Q9 any two of three.

Section A

Section A: Reading Skills, 20 marks. Q1 (10 M) and Q2 (10 M) are passage-based with subparts of 1 to 3 marks each.

Q1 · 10 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)
Read the following text:
(1) Fossil fuels (oil, coal, and natural gas) are our most traditional sources for power generation. The energy that's produced from any source other than fossil fuels is termed as alternative energy. Between the two sources, using alternative energy has a lower environmental impact.
(2) We now know that alternative energy sources are the sources we use to supplement or even replace traditional energy sources used for power generation. You could almost say the same thing about renewable energy sources. But there is one subtle difference between the two. All renewable energy sources fall under the category of alternative energy sources, but it doesn't work the other way around.
(3) That's because renewable energy sources are derived from naturally replenished sources or processes of Earth, such as the sun, wind, and water. We refer to these resources as renewable or sustainable since, unlike fossil fuels, this naturally occurring continual renewal makes them inexhaustible. However, alternative energy sources are exhaustible, and therefore not renewable. That's the difference !
(4) The equipment necessary to harness energy from alternative sources used to be so expensive that it wasn't practical for consumer use. However, thanks to increased demand, more experienced energy developers, competitive supply chains, improved renewable technologies, and enhanced energy efficiency capabilities, that's no longer the case.
(5) When it comes to energy efficiency, the leader of the renewable energy pack is wind energy. Behind wind comes geothermal energy, hydropower, nuclear energy, and then solar power. Wind power serves both individuals and entire communities. It is versatile, and can be produced from small-scale windmills or wind turbines on residential properties. It can also be produced from large-scale offshore wind farms in the ocean.
(6) We generate geothermal power by tapping into underground reservoirs of hot water and steam. Geothermal electricity can directly heat and cool buildings. Generated from the energy of moving water, hydroelectricity (also known as hydropower) is produced when water behind a dam causes turbine blades to move as it flows through an intake. The turbine blades then rotate a generator to produce electricity that is sent to power homes.
(7) Nuclear energy is created in the form of heat through the fission process of atoms. The initial fission process creates energy and triggers a chain reaction that repeats the process and generates more energy. In nuclear power plants, the heat that fission produces creates steam. The steam then rotates a turbine, which leads to the production of electricity.
(8) Solar power most commonly refers to the use of solar cells to create energy. On a small scale, you may see a few solar panels on a house roof used to produce energy for just that one home. On a larger scale, you may see a solar farm used as a power plant to produce electricity for its consumers.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
1. (i)
  Which of the following statements best describes the difference between renewable energy sources and alternate energy sources ?
  (A)Alternative energy sources are more expensive than renewable energy sources.
  (B)Renewable energy sources are inexhaustible whereas alternate energy sources could be exhaustible.
  (C)Alternative energy sources are as renewable as renewable energy sources.
  (D)Renewable energy sources are exhaustible but alternative energy sources are inexhaustible.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from para (4) ? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.
  "However, thanks to increased demand, more experienced energy developers, competitive supply chains, improved renewable technologies, and enhanced energy efficiency capabilities, that's no longer the case".
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  Complete the sentence appropriately :
  In the past, alternative energy sources were not used much by the consumers because ______.
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a) to (e) below, identify two sets of antonyms :
  (a)generate and produce
  (b)exhaustible and inexhaustible
  (c)subtle and versatile
  (d)power and energy
  (e)sustainable and exhaustible
  1 mark
5. (v)
  Who is the leader of renewable energy pack and why ?
  1 mark
6. (vi)
  Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, the difference between geothermal electricity and hydroelectricity.
  2 marks
7. (vii)
  What is the message conveyed by the passage ?
  (A)Only those energy sources should be used which are renewable.
  (B)Wind energy is a renewable as well as inexhaustible source of energy.
  (C)There are plenty of renewable energy sources that can be used to replace traditional energy sources.
  (D)Alternative energy sources are the emerging energy trends and are still evolving.
  1 mark
8. (viii)
  State whether the following statement is True or False with reference to the given extract.
  Hydroelectricity as a renewable energy source is used for residential as well as commercial purposes.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Option (B). Renewable sources are naturally replenished and so inexhaustible, while alternative sources can be exhaustible (para 3).
  1 mark
2. (ii) The tone is optimistic and assertive. The writer is hopeful because rising demand, better technology and efficiency have made alternative energy affordable, so it can now be used widely with low environmental impact.
  2 marks
3. (iii) ...the equipment needed to harness energy from them was so expensive that it was not practical for consumer use.
  1 mark
4. (iv) The antonym sets are (b) exhaustible and inexhaustible, and (e) sustainable and exhaustible.
  1 mark
5. (v) Wind energy leads the renewable pack in energy efficiency. It is versatile and can be produced from small windmills on homes to large offshore wind farms.
  1 mark
6. (vi) Geothermal electricity is generated by tapping underground reservoirs of hot water and steam, and it can also directly heat and cool buildings. Hydroelectricity is generated from moving water behind a dam, which turns turbine blades and a generator.
  2 marks
7. (vii) Option (C).
  1 mark
8. (viii) True.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) B; (ii) optimistic/assertive tone; (iii) the equipment was too expensive and impractical for consumers; (iv) b and e; (v) wind energy, as it is versatile; (vi) geothermal uses underground hot water and steam, hydro uses dammed moving water; (vii) C; (viii) True
Where the marks are
- (i) Correct option B (1 mark)
- (ii) Tone identified and justified (2 marks)
- (iii) Equipment expensive/impractical (1 mark)
- (iv) Both antonym sets, b and e (1 mark)
- (v) Wind energy with reason (1 mark)
- (vi) Both sources of power contrasted (2 marks)
- (vii) Option C (1 mark)
- (viii) True (1 mark)
Open Q1 on its own page
Q2 · 10 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)
Read the passage given below :
(1) Mango (Mangifera indica) is Asia's most popular fruit, and it has gained popularity around the world. It has long been a component of culture and religion as a useful and tasty fruit. In addition to taste, it has many good qualities thus making it to be called as "King of Fruits". Major mango-growing states in India include Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are the leading states in mango production.
(2) Mango is grown in an area of 5.58 million hectares of area in the world. India is the largest producer of mangoes with 46.02 and 45.88 percent of the total world area and production, respectively. However, India being the major shareholder in terms of mango production, exports only 0.52% of its total production indicating the huge gap in exporting of mangoes. Peru exports about 46%, Thailand 24%, Mexico 18% and Brazil 11% of their total mango production. These countries are the bigger challenges for Indian mango exports. Hence, efforts are needed to evolve cheap transportation mechanism, increase the trade agreements with major importing countries and enhance the productivity.
(3) The top importing country is United States of America, however, India exports only two percent of its total exports to the USA. The USA, European countries, the UK, Malaysia and Russia can be the other hotspots where India can target to export the mangoes. The critical issue for exporting to the USA is transportation cost (due to sea route distance) and limited shelf life of mango, while for Europe transportation costs as well as competition by African countries are the major hurdles.
The following chart shows the major export destinations of Indian mangoes in 2019-20 :
Table :
Major Export Destination of Indian Mangoes in 2019-20 :
S. No. Country Percentage
1. U.S.A. 2
2. Kuwait 2
3. Saudi Arabia 3
4. Qatar 6
5. Bangladesh 6
6. Oman 7
7. U.K. 9
8. Nepal 24
9. United Arab Emirates 33
10. Bahrain 2
11. Others 6
(Adapted for academic usage.)
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :
1. (i)
  Complete the following analogy appropriately, based on your understanding of Para (1) :
  We can say that for becoming the king of jungle, Lion has to be the strongest, bravest and the fiercest. Similarly, Mango is known as the king of fruits because ______.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Fill in the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets, based on your understanding of Para (2) :
  The statement that, India is the largest producer of Mangoes with 45.88 percent of the total world production can be attributed to Indian orchardists, is a/an ______ (fact/opinion) because it is a/an ______ (subjective judgement/objective detail)
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  Justify the following in about 40 words :
  India being the major shareholder in terms of mango production, exports only 0.52% of its total production.
  2 marks
4. (iv)
  Based on the table, which three countries were at par with each other in terms of mango import from India in 2019-20 ?
  1 mark
5. (v)
  The top mango importing country is the U.S.A., however, India exports only two percent of its total exports to the U.S.A. State any one inference that can be drawn from this.
  1 mark
6. (vi)
  In the given sentence taken from para-2, select the option that correctly replaces the underlined word, with its most likely antonym.
  These countries are the bigger challenges for Indian mango exports.
  (A)enigmas
  (B)solutions
  (C)provocations
  (D)disputes
  1 mark
7. (vii)
  Why is India described as the largest producer of mangoes in the world ? (Answer in about 40 words.)
  2 marks
8. (viii)
  Which of the following is the main takeaway from the study mentioned in the passage ?
  (A)India needs to produce more mangoes so that more can be exported.
  (B)The UAE imported most mangoes from India in 2019-20.
  (C)India is the largest producer of mangoes and by putting in more efforts, has the potential to be the largest exporter too.
  (D)More study is needed to find ways to increase the export of mangoes from India.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) ...of its great taste and many good qualities.
  1 mark
2. (ii) opinion; subjective judgement.
  1 mark
3. (iii) Exports are low because of costly transportation, too few trade agreements with major importing countries and low productivity. Rivals such as Peru and Thailand export a far larger share of their production.
  2 marks
4. (iv) Kuwait, the U.S.A. and Bahrain (2% each).
  1 mark
5. (v) India's exports to the USA are low because of high transport cost over the sea route and the short shelf life of mangoes.
  1 mark
6. (vi) Option (B) solutions.
  1 mark
7. (vii) India has about 46% of the world's mango area and about 45.88% of world production. Its climate and large land under mango cultivation suit the crop, which makes it the largest producer.
  2 marks
8. (viii) Option (C).
  1 mark
Answer: (i) of its great taste and good qualities; (ii) opinion, subjective judgement; (iii) high transport cost, few trade agreements, low productivity; (iv) Kuwait, USA, Bahrain; (v) high transport cost and short shelf life limit exports to USA; (vi) B; (vii) large area and suitable conditions give 45.88% of world production; (viii) C
Where the marks are
- (i) Taste and good qualities (1 mark)
- (ii) Both blanks correct (1 mark)
- (iii) Any two reasons with justification (2 marks)
- (iv) Three countries (1 mark)
- (v) Valid inference (1 mark)
- (vi) B (1 mark)
- (vii) Area/production share and suitable conditions (2 marks)
- (viii) C (1 mark)
Open Q2 on its own page

S. No.	Country	Percentage
1.	U.S.A.	2
2.	Kuwait	2
3.	Saudi Arabia	3
4.	Qatar	6
5.	Bangladesh	6
6.	Oman	7
7.	U.K.	9
8.	Nepal	24
9.	United Arab Emirates	33
10.	Bahrain	2
11.	Others	6

Section B

Section B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks. Q3 is 10 x 1 (any ten of twelve). Q4 and Q5 are 5-mark writing tasks with an OR choice.

Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarGrammar
Complete any ten of the following twelve tasks, as directed : 10 x 1 = 10
1. (i)
  Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket, for the given portion of a letter :
  Therefore, I request you to please consider this request of ______ (construct) a park in our society so that each and every person can benefit and we can enjoy a healthy environment amidst the concrete jungle.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Read the given sentence from an article on Yoga. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence :
  Yoga should help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, all of which are not good for your heart and blood vessels.
  Use the given format for your response.
  | Error | Correction |
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  Manthan and Sonalika had a conversation about Sonalika's job interview.
  Report Manthan's question.
  How are you preparing for the interview ?
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Read the dialogue between Meher and her mother, regarding Meher's dance classes.
  Mother : Are you enjoying your dance classes ?
  Meher : Oh Yes ! I am loving it. It is so refreshing to attend them after a long day.
  Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue.
  Meher's mother asked her ______. In response, Meher exclaimed and said that she was loving it. She added that it was very refreshing to attend them after a long day.
  (A)whether the dance classes were being enjoyed by her
  (B)whether she is enjoying her dance classes
  (C)whether she was enjoying her dance classes
  (D)whether the dance classes are being enjoyed by her
  1 mark
5. (v)
  Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the line of a circular issued by an organization, to its stakeholders.
  In order to enable the stakeholders to ______ (access/assess/accent) all the applicable circulars at one place, the provisions of the circulars issued till January 6, 2024, are incorporated in this master circular.
  1 mark
6. (vi)
  Identify the error and supply correction for the given sentence from a company's orientation programme :
  A founder's goal, during the first phase, is to learn how to obtain feedback on low prospective and real customers are experience the product.
  Use the given format for your response.
  | Error | Correction |
  1 mark
7. (vii)
  Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for a line from a Research Report :
  In many low and middle income countries, health coverage has improved dramatically in the last two decades, but health outcomes may not.
  (A)Error: has; Correction: have
  (B)Error: improved; Correction: improve
  (C)Error: may; Correction: have
  (D)Error: but; Correction: thus
  1 mark
8. (viii)
  Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option :
  Excited about his newly earned powers, Midas started touching all kinds of things, ______ each item into pure gold.
  (A)to turning
  (B)turning
  (C)turned
  (D)turns
  1 mark
9. (ix)
  Report the dialogue between two friends, Nidhi and Neha, by completing the sentence :
  Nidhi - Have you mastered the art of cooking Chinese food ?
  Neha - Yes, indeed ! I have been cooking Chinese food for a month.
  Nidhi asked Neha if she had mastered the art of cooking Chinese food. Neha answered in the affirmative and explained that ______.
  1 mark
10. (x)
  Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the part of the disclaimer given in a textbook :
  The authors of the book ______ all reasonable care to ensure that the contents of the book do not violate any copyright or other intellectual property rights of any person in any manner.
  (A)has been taking
  (B)have taken
  (C)has taken
  (D)have been took
  1 mark
11. (xi)
  Complete the slogan, by filling in the blank with the correct option :
  Planting a tree is a very noble deed and ______ the earth from global warming !
  (A)saves
  (B)saving
  (C)had saved
  (D)should save
  1 mark
12. (xii)
  Identify the error and supply correction for the following note in a toaster's instruction manual :
  Use this appliance only for its intentional use as described in this manual. Do not use attachments that are not recommended by the manufacturer.
  Use the given format for your response.
  | Error | Correction |
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) constructing (a gerund after 'of').
  1 mark
2. (ii) Error: should; Correction: can/may/might.
  1 mark
3. (iii) Manthan asked Sonalika how she was preparing for the interview.
  1 mark
4. (iv) Option (C) whether she was enjoying her dance classes.
  1 mark
5. (v) access.
  1 mark
6. (vi) Error: experience; Correction: experiencing.
  1 mark
7. (vii) Option (C): may should be have (the sentence needs 'have' to match 'health outcomes').
  1 mark
8. (viii) Option (B) turning.
  1 mark
9. (ix) ...she had been cooking Chinese food for a month.
  1 mark
10. (x) Option (B) have taken ('authors' is plural).
  1 mark
11. (xi) Option (A) saves (it parallels 'is').
  1 mark
12. (xii) Error: intentional; Correction: intended.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) constructing; (ii) should→can/may; (iii) Manthan asked Sonalika how she was preparing for the interview; (iv) C; (v) access; (vi) experience→experiencing; (vii) C; (viii) B; (ix) she had been cooking Chinese food for a month; (x) B; (xi) A; (xii) intentional→intended
Where the marks are
- Each of any ten correct answers earns 1 mark (10 marks)
Open Q3 on its own page
Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q4(a) · 5 marks · WritingWriting Skills
As Nalini Sharda of 409, Surya Apartments, Gopalpur, you believe that pedestrian safety is very important. Footpaths on both sides of the main roads of your city need major repairs and on some stretches they need to be constructed.
Write a letter to the MLA of your city area, in about 120 words, stressing the need for footpaths for pedestrian safety. Share your concern for maintenance of existing footpaths and the need to construct new ones where they are required. 1 x 5 = 5
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: sender's address 409, Surya Apartments, Gopalpur; date; receiver: The MLA, Gopalpur; salutation 'Respected Sir/Madam'; subject: Need for repair and construction of footpaths.
  1 mark
2. Body para 1: I am a concerned resident. Safe footpaths are essential for pedestrian safety, yet the footpaths on the main roads are damaged in many places. They are also encroached upon by vendors and parked vehicles, forcing people to walk on the road, which risks accidents.
  1 mark
3. Body para 2: I request you to get the existing footpaths repaired and regularly maintained, to clear encroachments and to construct new footpaths on stretches where none exist.
  1 mark
4. Close: I hope for your prompt action. Thanking you. Yours sincerely, Nalini Sharda. The language is formal, paragraphed and accurate (about 120 words).
  2 marks
Answer: Formal letter to the MLA on footpath repair and construction for pedestrian safety
Where the marks are
- Format (1 mark)
- Content: need, concern about maintenance and new construction (2 marks)
- Organisation and formal tone (1 mark)
- Accuracy (1 mark)
Open Q4(a) on its own page
OR
Q4(b) · 5 marks · WritingWriting Skills
As Sohail Khan, the sports captain of Pinnacle Public School, you believe that fitness as a lifestyle should be promoted. Write a letter to the Editor of a national daily, in about 120 words, suggesting the introduction of "Cycle to School" campaign for school going students. The programme aims to develop the habit of exercising through cycling to maintain fitness and keeping children active. Share the importance and credibility of such a programme and suggest a feasible way to execute it along with possible activities.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: sender's address (Pinnacle Public School), date, The Editor, name of daily, salutation 'Sir', subject: Introducing a 'Cycle to School' campaign.
  1 mark
2. Body para 1: As sports captain I believe fitness should be a way of life. Cycling to school builds the habit of exercise, keeps children active and fit, and is eco-friendly because it cuts pollution and traffic. Such campaigns have worked in many cities.
  1 mark
3. Body para 2: To execute it, schools can hold awareness drives through posters and social media, and set up safe cycle parking. The city can create cycle tracks, and activities can include cycling rallies, weekly 'cycle days' and rewards for regular cyclists.
  1 mark
4. Close: I request you to publish this letter. Yours faithfully, Sohail Khan. The language is formal and accurate (about 120 words).
  2 marks
Answer: Formal letter to the Editor proposing a 'Cycle to School' campaign
Where the marks are
- Format (1 mark)
- Content: importance, credibility and way to execute (2 marks)
- Organisation and formal tone (1 mark)
- Accuracy (1 mark)
Open Q4(b) on its own page

Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

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

An area is believed to be water stressed when annual water supplies drop below 1700 cubic metres per person per year. As per an analysis, we are already surviving with around 1700-1800 cubic metres per year. As our demand for water has increased drastically over the years, per capita water availability has taken a beating.
Based on the given table, write an analytical paragraph, in about 120 words, analyzing the possible causes of water scarcity in the future.

Table on water availability

Year	Population (Million)	Per capita water availability (m $^{3}$ /year)
1951	361	5177
1955	395	4732
1991	846	2209
2001	1027	1820
2025	1394	1341
2050	1640	1140

1 x 5 = 5

Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

Opening: The table shows a steady decline in per capita water availability as population grows, which points towards future water scarcity.
1 mark
Data: From 1951 to 2050, population rises from 361 million to 1640 million, while per capita availability falls from 5177 to 1140 m³/year. It was 1820 in 2001 and drops to 1341 by 2025, both near or below the 1700 stress line.
2 marks
Causes: The rapid population growth increases demand for domestic use, farming and industry, while the total supply stays fixed. Wasteful use and poor management worsen the situation.
1 mark
Conclusion: Unless water is conserved and use is controlled, the country will face acute scarcity. The paragraph is a single, well-organised paragraph of about 120 words.
1 mark

Answer: Analytical paragraph: population growth and rising demand cause per capita water to fall from 5177 to 1140 m³ by 2050

Where the marks are

Introduction/trend (1 mark)
Use of data, 1951 vs 2050 (2 marks)
Causes: population growth and misuse (1 mark)
Conclusion, organisation and accuracy (1 mark)

Open Q5(a) on its own page

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

There are many types of bottles available in the market. This chart compares the disadvantages and advantages of various types of bottles. Based on the chart, write an analytical paragraph, in about 120 words, analyzing the pros and cons of each and selecting a suitable one.

	Chemical Free?	Environmentally Friendly?	Recyclable?	Durable?	Lightweight?	Easy to clean?	Dishwasher safe?	Affordable?
Glass Bottles	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Silicone Bottles	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	-	Yes	Yes	No
Stainless Steel Bottles	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Plastic Bottles	No	No	Yes	-	Yes	-	-	Yes

(Adapted for academic purpose.)

Figure in the paper: A comparison chart with columns headed Chemical Free?, Environmentally Friendly?, Recyclable?, Durable?, Lightweight?, Easy to clean?, Dishwasher safe?, Affordable?, and rows for Glass Bottles, Silicone Bottles, Stainless Steel Bottles and Plastic Bottles, with Yes/No/- entries as transcribed in the stem. See it in the official paper.

Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

Opening: The chart compares glass, silicone, stainless steel and plastic bottles on eight features.
1 mark
Pros and cons: Glass, silicone and steel bottles are chemical free, eco-friendly, recyclable, durable, easy to clean and dishwasher safe, but they are costly. Glass and steel are also heavy. Plastic is lightweight, recyclable and affordable, but it is not chemical free or environmentally friendly.
2 marks
Selection: Silicone is the best choice, as it has all the advantages of the safe bottles and is not marked as heavy, though it is expensive.
1 mark
Conclusion: Its health and environmental benefits outweigh the higher cost. The answer is one well-organised paragraph of about 120 words.
1 mark

Answer: Analytical paragraph weighing pros and cons and choosing silicone bottles

Where the marks are

Introduction (1 mark)
Pros and cons of each type from the data (2 marks)
Reasoned selection (1 mark)
Organisation and accuracy (1 mark)

Open Q5(b) on its own page

Section C

Section C: Literature, 40 marks. Q6 and Q7 are extract-based (any one of two, 5 marks each). Q8 (any four of five, 3 marks each), Q9 (any two of three, 3 marks each), Q10 and Q11 (any one of two, 6 marks each).

Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q6(a) · 5 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedGlimpses of India
Read the given extract and answer the questions :
The train pulled out of the station - Pranjol buried his nose in his detective book again. Rajvir too was an ardent fan of detective stories but, at the moment he was keener on looking at the beautiful scenery. It was green, green everywhere. Rajvir had never seen so much greenery before. Then the soft green paddy fields gave way to tea bushes. It was a magnificent view. Against the backdrop of densely wooded hills a sea of tea bushes stretched as far as the eye could see. Dwarfing the tiny tea plants were tall, sturdy, shade-trees and amidst the orderly rows of bushes busily moved doll-like figures.
(Glimpses of India - Tea from Assam)
1. (i)
  State any one inference about Rajvir from the given context :
  "Rajvir too was an ardent fan of detective stories, but at the moment he was keen on looking at the beautiful scenery."
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  State True or False :
  The reason Rajvir was interested in looking at the beautiful scenery was that the detective book he was reading, was not interesting.
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  People who live in big cities are always fascinated by the natural beauty and abundant greenery. Elaborate in about 40 words, with reference to the extract.
  2 marks
4. (iv)
  Which phrase would correctly substitute 'doll-like figures', in the given sentence from the extract ?
  Dwarfing the tiny tea plants were tall sturdy shade-trees and amidst the orderly rows of bushes busily moved doll-like figures.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Rajvir loved nature and appreciated greenery, or he was curious and observant about his surroundings.
  1 mark
2. (ii) False.
  1 mark
3. (iii) Rajvir lived in Delhi and had never seen so much greenery. He found the tea gardens against wooded hills magnificent after concrete city life.
  2 marks
4. (iv) tea pluckers / tiny people.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) Rajvir loved nature; (ii) False; (iii) he was a city boy awed by greenery; (iv) tea pluckers / tiny people
Where the marks are
- (i) Valid inference (1 mark)
- (ii) False (1 mark)
- (iii) Any two points from the extract (2 marks)
- (iv) Tea pluckers (1 mark)
Open Q6(a) on its own page
OR
Q6(b) · 5 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedThe Thief's Story
Read the given extract and answer the questions :
I went back to the bazaar and sat down in the shelter of the clock tower. The clock showed midnight. I felt for the notes. They were damp from the rain.
Anil's Money. In the morning he would probably have given me two or three rupees to go to the cinema, but now I had it all.
I couldn't cook his meals, run to the bazaar, or learn to write whole sentences any more.
I had forgotten about them in the excitement of the theft. Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees. It was a simple matter to steal - and sometimes just as simple to be caught.
(The Thief's Story)
1. (i)
  Which of the following is NOT a reason why Hari Singh thinks he would not be able to write whole sentences ?
  (A)Anil would not be there to teach him.
  (B)He had robbed Anil and left.
  (C)He would not go back to Anil to learn.
  (D)He had no money to take admission in school.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Why is it fair to say that Hari Singh's tone, when he says "I couldn't cook his meals, run to the bazaar or learn to write whole sentences any more," is filled with remorse and regret ? Answer in about 40 words.
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  What do you infer about Hari Singh from this statement ?
  "Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees."
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  State True or False with reference to the given extract.
  The reason Hari Singh was filled with a feeling of guilt was because Anil trusted him.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Option (D), because the extract gives no reason about admission money.
  1 mark
2. (ii) Hari lists everything he will lose: cooking Anil's meals, running errands and learning to write. He feels lonely and sad about betraying Anil, showing remorse and regret.
  2 marks
3. (iii) Hari Singh understands the value of education and believes that being able to write could help him earn a good living.
  1 mark
4. (iv) True.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) D; (ii) he regrets losing Anil's company and the chance to learn, and feels guilt; (iii) he values education; (iv) True
Where the marks are
- (i) D (1 mark)
- (ii) Tone justified with reference to the text (2 marks)
- (iii) Inference on education (1 mark)
- (iv) True (1 mark)
Open Q6(b) on its own page
Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q7(a) · 5 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedHow to Tell Wild Animals
Read the given extract and answer the questions :
The true Chameleon is small
A lizard sort of thing;
He hasn't any ears at all,
And not a single wing,
If there is nothing on the tree,
'Tis the Chameleon you see.
(How To Tell Wild Animals)
1. (i)
  Fill in the blank with one word :
  When the speaker says "If there is nothing on the tree, 'Tis the Chameleon you see", he refers to ______ as characteristic trait of a true Chameleon.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  What does the speaker mean when he says, "A lizard sort of thing" ?
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  Which of the following best describes the speaker's disposition while describing the Chameleon ?
  (A)indifferent
  (B)playful
  (C)dismissive
  (D)respectful
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Comment on the poet's use of language in these lines. Answer in about 40 words.
  2 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The blank is filled with camouflage (changeability / blending in). The chameleon takes on the colour of the tree, so it seems that nothing is there.
  1 mark
2. (ii) "A lizard sort of thing" means the chameleon looks very much like a lizard and is close to one, but the speaker casually says it is only 'sort of' a lizard. It is not an ordinary lizard.
  1 mark
3. (iii) (B) playful. The speaker teases the animal in a light, joking tone with a rhyming, casual description. He is neither indifferent, dismissive nor respectful.
  1 mark
4. (iv) The language is simple, conversational and humorous. The informal phrase 'lizard sort of thing' and the comic list of what the creature lacks ('no ears at all, not a single wing') amuse the reader. The regular rhyme (thing/wing, tree/see) and rhythm add a sing-song quality. The lines are informative yet light-hearted.
  2 marks
Answer: (i) camouflage; (ii) it resembles a lizard but is not quite one; (iii) B, playful; (iv) simple, humorous, informative language with rhyme and rhythm
Where the marks are
- Fills the blank with camouflage/changeability (1 mark)
- Explains that the chameleon is like a lizard but not exactly one (1 mark)
- Chooses option B, playful (1 mark)
- Comments on the humorous/simple/informative language (1 mark)
- Refers to rhyme, rhythm or the casual phrase (1 mark)
Open Q7(a) on its own page
OR
Q7(b) · 5 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedThe Trees
Read the given extract and answer the questions :
My head is full of whispers
Which tomorrow will be silent.
Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown
of the tallest Oak.
(The Trees)
1. (i)
  Identify the figure of speech used in the line : "The Trees are stumbling forward into the night".
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Explain the significance of the line : "The moon is broken like a mirror, its pieces flash now in the crown of the tallest Oak." Answer in about 40 words.
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  Complete the sentence with the appropriate option. In the third line, the word 'Listen' is used to ______.
  (A)serve no purpose but to complete the sentence.
  (B)emphasize listening carefully to the sound of glass breaking.
  (C)emphasize listening carefully as a change is about to take place.
  (D)make the reader more attentive.
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  What does the line : "My head is full of whispers which tomorrow will be silent" tell us about the poet's state of mind ?
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Personification. The trees are given the human action of stumbling.
  1 mark
2. (ii) The image shows the turmoil of a great change. The moon seems shattered like a mirror, and its fragments gleam in the tallest oak. The old order is breaking and the trees (women) are moving forward. The tall oak signals that the movement is succeeding in the end.
  2 marks
3. (iii) (C) emphasize listening carefully as a change is about to take place.
  1 mark
4. (iv) It shows the poet is restless, anxious and uncertain. Her mind is full of confused doubts now, and she expects them to go silent tomorrow, once the change has come.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) Personification; (ii) the breaking moon and the oak crown show upheaval and the success of the change; (iii) C; (iv) restless, apprehensive
Where the marks are
- Identifies personification (1 mark)
- Explains the significance of the broken moon and the oak as upheaval and victory (2 marks)
- Chooses option C (1 mark)
- States a restless/apprehensive state of mind (1 mark)
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Q8 · 12 marks · Short answerA Letter to God
Answer any four of the following five questions, in 40-50 words each : 4 x 3 = 12
1. (i)
  What idea does the Postmaster come up with ? What did he do to stick to his resolution ? (A Letter to God)
  3 marks
2. (ii)
  Briefly bring out the contrast between the young seagull's initial attempts to fly and his first successful flight. (His First Flight)
  3 marks
3. (iii)
  Explain why Amanda wants to be an orphan. Refer to the given lines, from the text - I am an orphan, roaming the street. I pattern soft dust with my hushed, bare feet. The silence is golden, the freedom is sweet. (Amanda)
  3 marks
4. (iv)
  Mijbil turned out to be a playful pet. Elaborate. (Mijbil the Otter)
  3 marks
5. (v)
  Ogden Nash uses vivid imagery in 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' to appeal to the senses. Elaborate the imagery used for the Pirate.
  3 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The Postmaster was moved by Lencho's faith and decided to answer his letter so that the farmer's belief in God would not be shaken. He asked his employees and friends for money and gave part of his own salary. He collected only seventy pesos, which he sent to Lencho in an envelope signed 'God'.
  3 marks
2. (ii) At first the young seagull was afraid to fly. His legs would not move, he refused to leave the ledge and he shrieked with fear when pushed. In his first flight, he forgot his fears completely, as he spread his wings and soared. The flight ended with him floating on the sea, delighted and confident.
  3 marks
3. (iii) Amanda is tired of being constantly watched, corrected and nagged by her mother. She imagines herself an orphan with nobody to give orders. She would roam the streets with bare feet, in golden silence and sweet freedom. This shows her longing for freedom, peace and space.
  3 marks
4. (iv) Mijbil was full of play. He went wild with joy in the bathroom, splashing in the water. He played with a rubber ball and invented his own games, such as rolling it around and jumping over the fence. He treated everything as a toy and was very energetic.
  3 marks
5. (v) The Pirate is shown in vivid images. He had a pistol in each hand and fired bullets, with a cutlass clenched in his teeth. He had a black beard and a wooden leg. He drank wine and looked up to no good. These visual and sound images make him fierce and frightening.
  3 marks
Answer: Model answers for (i) to (v) are given; any four are to be attempted.
Where the marks are
- Content: any two relevant points per answer (2 marks each)
- Organisation and accuracy of expression (1 mark each)
- Answers kept within 40-50 words
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Q9 · 6 marks · Short answerA Triumph of Surgery
Answer any two out of the following three questions, in 40-50 words each : 2 x 3 = 6
1. (i)
  What does Mr. Herriot mean by "happy period" for himself and his partners ? Explain. (A Triumph of Surgery)
  3 marks
2. (ii)
  Justify how Ebright's mother played an important part in his becoming a scientist. (The Making of a Scientist)
  3 marks
3. (iii)
  A well known book of nursery rhymes saved the world from a Martian invasion. Comment with reference to 'The Book that Saved the Earth'.
  3 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The 'happy period' was the time when Tricki was ill and living in Mr. Herriot's clinic. Mrs. Pumphrey sent Tricki's rich food there, and Mr. Herriot and his partners enjoyed the eggs, wine and other delicacies. They had no worry about him, as he was recovering from overfeeding.
  3 marks
2. (ii) Ebright's mother was his only companion. She took him on trips, bought him a microscope and other equipment, and gave him problems to solve. She gave him the book 'The Travels of Monarch X' and wrote to Dr. Urquhart, who guided him. Her encouragement made him a scientist.
  3 marks
3. (iii) The Martian leader Tiglath Pileser found the old book 'Mother Goose' and misread its rhymes. He thought earthlings were more advanced, with sharper ears, and could grow silver and explosives. Scared, he called his crew back, so Earth was saved by a nursery-rhyme book.
  3 marks
Answer: Model answers for (i), (ii) and (iii) are given; any two are to be attempted.
Where the marks are
- Two relevant content points per answer (2 marks)
- Organisation and accuracy (1 mark)
- Answer within 40-50 words
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q10(a) · 6 marks · Long answerNelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
A desire is more personal whereas a vision has broader connotations. You have been asked to present an analysis of Valli's desire and Mandela's vision and how they are respectively fulfilled. Write this presentation draft including your insights, in about 120 words, comparing the approaches of both Valli and Mandela.
You may begin like this :
One acknowledges that both, Valli and Mandela ______ however,
(Reference - Nelson Mandela - A Long Walk to Freedom & Madam Rides a Bus)
1 x 6 = 6
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Opening: One acknowledges that both, Valli and Mandela had a deep longing, however, Valli's wish was personal while Mandela's dream was for a whole nation.
  1 mark
2. Valli's desire: she longed to travel by bus. Her pastime was watching buses arrive and leave. She planned her trip meticulously.
  1 mark
3. Valli's fulfilment: she showed courage in travelling alone and enjoyed the ride, a personal triumph.
  1 mark
4. Mandela's vision: he dreamt of a society free from apartheid, racism and segregation, where all would live equally.
  1 mark
5. Mandela's fulfilment: after years of struggle he took the oath as South Africa's first black President, and his vision became reality for millions.
  1 mark
6. Insight: whether a desire or a vision, courage, planning, passion and determination help one to achieve it. Expression and accuracy are also credited.
  1 mark
Answer: A presentation of about 120 words comparing Valli's personal desire and Mandela's national vision, ending with an insight on determination.
Where the marks are
- Uses the given opening correctly (1 mark)
- Valli's desire and its fulfilment (2 marks)
- Mandela's vision and its fulfilment (2 marks)
- Insight or conclusion, with expression and accuracy (1 mark)
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OR
Q10(b) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Ball Poem
You have been chosen to address the student gathering from the nearby schools, to speak on "How to Deal with Loss - Personal or Material". Prepare the speech draft in not more than 120 words, with reference to the commonality of themes in John Benyman's 'The Ball Poem' and 'A Sermon at Benaras'.
You may begin this way.
Good Morning everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into how we can learn to deal with loss.
You may end in this way -
To conclude, I'd like to say that -
Thank you.
1 x 6 = 6
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Opening: use the given line to begin: Good Morning everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into how we can learn to deal with loss.
  1 mark
2. In 'The Ball Poem', a boy loses his ball and is lost in sorrow. The poet says he must feel the grief, because money cannot replace it. In this way he grows up and learns responsibility.
  1 mark
3. In 'A Sermon at Benaras', Kisa Gotami loses her son and begs the Buddha for medicine. He asks for a mustard seed from a house where no one has died.
  1 mark
4. Common theme: loss is a natural part of life, and death is inevitable. Both teach acceptance, not denial.
  1 mark
5. Message: grief must be faced, we should grow through it and move on, and we should consider the suffering of others.
  1 mark
6. End with: To conclude, I'd like to say that loss makes us stronger and wiser. Thank you.
  1 mark
Answer: A speech of up to 120 words with the given opening and closing, linking the ball poem and the Buddha's sermon on accepting loss.
Where the marks are
- Opening as given (1 mark)
- The boy's loss and growth in The Ball Poem (1 mark)
- Kisa Gotami and the Buddha's lesson (1 mark)
- Common theme of acceptance of loss and death (1 mark)
- Message on coping, with expression (1 mark)
- Closing as given and accuracy (1 mark)
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q11(a) · 6 marks · Long answerFootprints without Feet
Imagine that Griffin's conscience pricks him and he decides to write a diary entry, about misusing science and endangering society, in the context of his own experience.
Write this diary entry, as Griffin, in about 120 words.
(Reference - Footprints without Feet by H.G. Wells)
1 x 6 = 6
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: date and time at the top, e.g. 14 July, 11 p.m. Address the diary directly: Dear Diary,
  1 mark
2. I have misused my knowledge of science. I made myself invisible, but I did not use this power for good.
  1 mark
3. I committed illegal acts, stealing, burning down a house and threatening people. I endangered other people's lives.
  1 mark
4. I now feel deep guilt and remorse. I became a lonely, hunted man because of my greed and anger.
  1 mark
5. I realise my responsibility and must take it. Science should serve mankind.
  1 mark
6. Resolution: I will use my knowledge for the good of society. Good expression and accuracy.
  1 mark
Answer: A diary entry of about 120 words in Griffin's voice showing remorse for misusing science and a resolve to use it for mankind.
Where the marks are
- Diary format (1 mark)
- Misuse of invisibility (1 mark)
- Examples of wrongdoing and the danger to others (1 mark)
- Guilt and remorse (1 mark)
- Resolve to use science for good (1 mark)
- Expression and accuracy (1 mark)
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OR
Q11(b) · 6 marks · Long answerThe Necklace
A character arc is the transformation or development of a character throughout a story and refers to the changes a character undergoes as a result of their experiences, challenges, and interactions with other characters.
In the light of the above information, trace the character arc of Matilda in Guy De Maupassants' 'The Necklace', in about 120 words.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Beginning: Matilda is a vain, discontented woman, married to a petty clerk. She is unhappy with her modest life and dreams of wealth.
  1 mark
2. Desire for luxury: she longs for fine clothes, jewels and a rich lifestyle, and she is dissatisfied with her home.
  1 mark
3. Turning point: she borrows a diamond necklace from Madame Forestier for the ministry ball. She shines there but loses the necklace.
  1 mark
4. Consequence: she and her husband replace it with a costly one by borrowing heavily. They suffer great losses.
  1 mark
5. Change: for ten years she works hard, doing housework and living in poverty. She becomes strong, rough-handed and humbled.
  1 mark
6. End: her pride has gone and she accepts the truth bravely, though she learns the necklace was false. Expression and accuracy.
  1 mark
Answer: Matilda moves from vanity and dissatisfaction, through loss of the necklace and ten years of hardship, to humility and maturity.
Where the marks are
- Her vain and dissatisfied nature (1 mark)
- Her longing for luxury (1 mark)
- Borrowing and losing the necklace (1 mark)
- Debt and suffering (1 mark)
- Her humbled, matured state (1 mark)
- Expression 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.