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

CBSE Class 10 English: 2024 board paper, set 2/4/1

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_4_1_English L & L.pdf). Questions are transcribed from that PDF; figures are described in words, so check the official paper for them.

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

Section	Questions	What it has
A	1-2	Reading Skills, 20 marks (Q1: 10 marks, Q2: 10 marks)
B	3-5	Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks (Q3: 10 x 1 mark, any ten of twelve tasks; Q4 and Q5: 5 marks each, either/or)
C	6-11	Literature, 40 marks (Q6 and Q7: 5 marks each, either/or; Q8: 4 of 5 questions, 3 marks each; Q9: 2 of 3 questions, 3 marks each; Q10 and Q11: 6 marks each, either/or)

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

Section A

Reading Skills, 20 marks (Q1: 10 marks, Q2: 10 marks)

Q1 · 10 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedReading (unseen passages)
Read the following passage carefully:
(1) Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, as rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products overwhelms the world's ability to deal with them. Plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations, where garbage collection systems are often inefficient or nonexistent. But the developed world, especially in countries with low recycling rates, also has trouble properly collecting discarded plastics. Plastic trash has become so ubiquitous that it has prompted efforts to write a global treaty negotiated by the United Nations.
(2) Plastics made from fossil fuels are just over a century old. Production and development of thousands of new plastic products accelerated after World War II. It transformed the modern age so much that life without plastics is unrecognizable today. Plastics revolutionized medicine with life-saving devices, made space travel possible, lightened cars and jets — saving fuel and pollution — and saved lives with helmets, incubators, and equipment for clean drinking water.
(3) The conveniences plastics offer, however, led to a throw-away culture that reveals the material's dark side: today, single-use plastics account for 40 percent of the plastic produced every year. Many of these products, such as plastic bags and food wrappers, have a lifespan of mere minutes to hours, yet they may persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
(4) Most of the plastic trash in the oceans, Earth's last sink, flows from land. Trash is also carried to sea by major rivers, which act as conveyor belts, picking up more and more trash as they move downstream. Once at sea, much of the plastic trash remains in coastal waters. But once caught up in ocean currents, it can be transported around the world.
(5) Millions of animals are killed by plastics every year, from birds to fish to other marine organisms. Nearly 700 species, including endangered ones, are known to have been affected by plastics. Nearly every species of seabirds eats plastics. Most of the deaths of animals are caused by entanglement or starvation. Seals, whales, turtles, and other animals are strangled by abandoned fishing gear or discarded six-pack rings.
(6) The solution is to prevent plastic waste from entering rivers and seas in the first place, many scientists and conservationists — including the National Geographic Society — say. This could be accomplished with improved waste management systems and recycling, better product design that takes into account the short life of disposable packaging, and reduction in manufacturing of unnecessary single-use plastics.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:
1. (i)
  Which of the following statements best describes the reason why plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues?
  (A)Plastic trash collection systems have become inefficient or nonexistent.
  (B)Rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products overwhelms the world's ability to deal with them.
  (C)Some plastics have a lifespan of mere minutes to hours, yet they may persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
  (D)The developed world, especially in countries with low recycling rates, has trouble properly collecting plastics.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph 2? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.
  'It transformed the modern age so much that life without plastics is unrecognizable today.'
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (A) – (E) below, identify two sets of synonyms.
  (A) garbage and trash
  (B) starvation and strangled
  (C) disposable and reduction
  (D) persist and downstream
  (E) transformed and revolutionized
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Complete the sentence appropriately: The writer says that most of the plastic trash is found in the Earth's last sink and the reason it is transported around the world is ______________.
  1 mark
5. (v)
  Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, the downside of the convenience that plastic offers.
  2 marks
6. (vi)
  Complete the sentence appropriately: According to conservationists, the two ways in which most of the deaths of animals are caused are ____________.
  1 mark
7. (vii)
  Based on the passage, how can we contribute to the reduction of plastic waste?
  (A)by internationalising the waste management system
  (B)by minimizing the use of single-use plastics
  (C)by not abandoning fishing gear
  (D)by not using helmets made of plastic
  1 mark
8. (viii)
  State one reason why plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Para 1 states that plastic pollution is pressing because the rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products overwhelms the world's ability to deal with them. Option (B).
  1 mark
2. (ii) Tone: informative and assertive (justifying). Rationale: the writer admits plastics are harmful, yet stresses that they have changed every sphere of life, from life-saving medical devices to space travel, so that life without them is now unimaginable.
  2 marks
3. (iii) Synonyms: (A) garbage and trash; (E) transformed and revolutionized.
  1 mark
4. (iv) ...because it is caught up in ocean currents.
  1 mark
5. (v) The convenience of plastics created a throw-away culture. Single-use plastics make up 40% of yearly production and last only minutes to hours in use, but persist in the environment for hundreds of years. Millions of animals are killed by plastics every year.
  2 marks
6. (vi) ...(a) entanglement/strangulation (in abandoned fishing gear or six-pack rings) and (b) starvation.
  1 mark
7. (vii) The passage suggests reducing unnecessary single-use plastics. Option (B).
  1 mark
8. (viii) Garbage collection systems in these nations are often inefficient or non-existent.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) B; (ii) informative/assertive tone, with rationale; (iii) (A) and (E); (iv) it is caught up in ocean currents; (v) throw-away culture, single-use plastics persist for centuries, animals killed; (vi) entanglement and starvation; (vii) B; (viii) garbage collection systems are inefficient or non-existent
Where the marks are
- (i) Correct option B (1 mark)
- (ii) Tone identified (1) and rationale given (1) (2 marks)
- (iii) Both synonym sets, ½ + ½ (1 mark)
- (iv) Caught up in ocean currents (1 mark)
- (v) Any two valid downsides (2 marks)
- (vi) Entanglement and starvation, ½ + ½ (1 mark)
- (vii) Correct option B (1 mark)
- (viii) Inefficient or non-existent garbage collection (1 mark)
Open Q1 on its own page

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

Read the following passage carefully:

(1) Rotation of crops is a universal phenomenon which is practised by most of the farmers of the tropical and temperate countries. The main objective of rotation of crops is to obtain higher agricultural returns on the one hand, and to maintain the soil fertility on the other.

(2) In other words, the rotation of crops helps in making agriculture more sustainable. The importance of crop rotation is more in the areas where farmers grow two, or more than two crops in the same field in a year. Irrigation facilities have also been appreciably developed in the country during the last three decades. The availability of water to the arable land has helped in the intensification of agriculture.

(3) In the areas such as Punjab and Haryana, where the Green Revolution is a big success, one soil exhaustive crop (rice) is followed by another soil exhaustive crop (wheat). Subsequently, the field vacated by wheat is devoted to either rice or maize or cotton. Thus, in one year, the farmers are harvesting three soil exhaustive crops from the same field. Such a rotation of crops may fetch more income to the farmers, but depletes the soil fertility at a faster pace.

(4) A number of field studies were conducted to assess the traditional crop rotation pattern. One such field study about the changes in the rotation of crops was conducted in the village Banhera (Tanda), Haridwar district. The main rotation of crops of the village is shown in the table below.

Year	Kharif (mid-June to mid-October)	Rabi (mid-October to mid-April)	Zaid (April to June)	No. of days land left fallow
1960	Millet/fodder/rice	Gram	Fallow	90
1961	Fallow	Wheat	Fallow	210
1962	Millet/fodder/rice	Gram	Fallow	90
1963	Fallow	Wheat	Fallow	210
1964	Millet mixed with urad/fodder/rice	Gram	Fallow	90
1965	Fallow	Wheat	Fallow	210

Traditional Rotation of Crops (1960-65) in Banhera (Tanda)

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:

(i)
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets, based on your understanding of para 2. One of the reasons that there has been an intensification of agriculture in the country is the development of irrigation facilities is a/an ________ (fact/opinion) because it is a/an ________ (subjective judgement/objective detail).
1 mark
(ii)
Based on your understanding of paras 1 and 2, state whether the following statement is true or false. If proper irrigation facility is provided, higher agricultural returns can be obtained by making crop rotation more sustainable.
1 mark
(iii)
Justify the following in about 40 words. Crop rotation may fetch more income to the farmers, but depletes the soil fertility at a faster pace.
2 marks
(iv)
Based on the table, mention the years when the land was left fallow for maximum number of days.
1 mark
(v)
The study conducted in village Banhera (Tanda) reflects that during the years 1960 to 1965, from April to June, the land was left fallow or uncultivated throughout. State any one inference that can be drawn from this.
1 mark
(vi)
Select the option that correctly states the significance of crop rotation as given below:
(1) Crop rotation is done to obtain higher agricultural returns.
(2) Higher agricultural returns can be obtained by harvesting soil exhaustive crops.
(3) Crop rotation demands that land should be left fallow for a few months to increase the fertility of soil.
(4) Better irrigation facility to the arable land has helped in the intensification of agriculture.
(5) If crops to be harvested are chosen wisely, crop rotation can help in maintaining fertility of soil.
1. (A)(1), (2) and (4)
2. (B)(1) only
3. (C)(3) and (5)
4. (D)(1) and (5)
1 mark
(vii)
Crop rotation is helping in making agriculture more sustainable. Mention one benefit and one drawback of crop rotation. (Answer in about 40 words)
2 marks
(viii)
Which of the following is the main takeaway from the study mentioned in the passage?
1. (A)The study needs to include more valid data to support the practice of crop rotation.
2. (B)Crop rotation is a sustainable practice that can transform the agricultural sector.
3. (C)The impact of crop rotation on farmer's upliftment has been thoroughly explained.
4. (D)Crop rotation is independent of the type of crops harvested and availability of water for irrigation.
1 mark

Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

(i) The blanks are filled with: fact; objective detail. It can be verified, so it is not a personal judgement.
1 mark
(ii) True. Paras 1 and 2 say crop rotation gives higher returns and keeps soil fertile, and irrigation has helped intensify agriculture.
1 mark
(iii) Wheat and rice are soil exhaustive crops, and growing them one after the other, with a third such crop, gives three harvests a year and more income. But the soil is not given time to recover, so its fertility falls quickly and more fertilizer is needed.
2 marks
(iv) 1961, 1963 and 1965 (210 days fallow).
1 mark
(v) Any one inference: no crop was grown in Zaid, so the land may have been left to rest and regain fertility; or no irrigation was available then.
1 mark
(vi) Statements (1) and (5) are correct. Option (D).
1 mark
(vii) Benefit: it gives higher returns and keeps soil fertile, since farmers can grow two or more crops a year. Drawback: if all the crops are soil exhaustive, the soil's fertility is depleted.
2 marks
(viii) Option (B): crop rotation is a sustainable practice that can transform agriculture.
1 mark

Answer: (i) fact, objective detail; (ii) True; (iii) soil exhaustive crops give income but deplete fertility; (iv) 1961, 1963, 1965; (v) land was left fallow to regain fertility (any one inference); (vi) D; (vii) benefit and drawback as given; (viii) B

Where the marks are

(i) Both blanks correct (1 mark)
(ii) True (1 mark)
(iii) Soil exhaustive crops give more income (1) but deplete fertility (1) (2 marks)
(iv) 1961, 1963, 1965 (1 mark)
(v) Any valid inference (1 mark)
(vi) D (1 mark)
(vii) One benefit (1) and one drawback (1) (2 marks)
(viii) B (1 mark)

Open Q2 on its own page

Section B

Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks (Q3: 10 x 1 mark, any ten of twelve tasks; Q4 and Q5: 5 marks each, either/or)

Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarCompetency-basedGrammar
Complete any ten of the following twelve tasks, as directed. (10 x 1 = 10)
1. (i)
  Read the given sentence from a science journal. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence. 'When nutrition therapy is provided by a qualified professional, people could learn how to make better food choices.' Use the given format for your response.
  Error Correction
  
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the brackets, for the given portion of a letter. Please keep me ___________ (apprise) of your next step to address this matter. Thanks for your time.
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  Sunanda and Pushkar had a conversation about their travels. Report Pushkar's question. Have you ever been to Peri Bagh?
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Read the dialogue between Vilakshna and her physician, Dr. Sharnani, regarding the effectiveness of her medication.
  Dr. Sharnani: How is your acid reflux problem now?
  Vilakshna: I'd tried everything without success, but this new medicine is great.
  Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue. Dr. Sharnani asked Vilakshna about her acid reflux problem to which Vilakshna replied that she'd tried everything without success, ____________________.
  (A)but she found the new medicine to be great
  (B)but she thought that this new medicine was great
  (C)but the new medicine was great
  (D)but that new medicine was great
  1 mark
5. (v)
  Identify the error and supply the correction for the given sentence from a private coaching institute's advertisement. 'Are you living a happy life? Do you want to find your identification? Do you want to enhance your career?' Use the given format for your response.
  Error Correction
  
  1 mark
6. (vi)
  Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the line from an insurance company brochure. Suitable for someone who wishes to ____________ (insure/assure/ensure) adequate financial backup. It is available to the family in case of his/her untimely death.
  (A)insure
  (B)assure
  (C)ensure
  1 mark
7. (vii)
  Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for a pop-up that appeared on a webpage. 'These cookies are used to collect information about how you interact with our website and allows us to remember you.'
  (A)interact — interacted
  (B)with — to
  (C)about — for
  (D)allows — allow
  1 mark
8. (viii)
  Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option. I __________ watching that programme every week since it started.
  (A)has been
  (B)had
  (C)have been
  (D)was been
  1 mark
9. (ix)
  Report the following dialogue between two friends who are visiting a museum, by completing the sentence.
  Auronima: What are you staring at?
  Soumitra: I am in awe of this beautiful painting! I have not seen anything like this before.
  Auronima asked Soumitra what he was staring at. Soumitra exclaimed that he was in awe of the beautiful painting and that ______________.
  1 mark
10. (x)
  Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the weather warning given by the IMD. IMD on Sunday ___________ a 'thunderstorm' alert for some districts in coastal Maharashtra in view of the extremely severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy gushing over the Arabian Sea.
  (A)will issue
  (B)will be issuing
  (C)issued
  (D)is issuing
  1 mark
11. (xi)
  Complete the slogan, by filling in the blank with the correct option. When it gets really hot, rain __________ a blessing.
  (A)should be
  (B)will be
  (C)must be
  (D)ought to be
  1 mark
12. (xii)
  Identify the error and supply the correction for the following advertisement of an antivirus software. 'A properly installed and maintained antivirus program may wipe out any malware attack, be it a bot, a virus, a Trojan or even ransomware.' Use the given format for your response.
  Error Correction
  
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Error: could. Correction: can. The 'when' clause is a general truth in the present tense.
  1 mark
2. (ii) apprised (keep me apprised).
  1 mark
3. (iii) Pushkar asked Sunanda if/whether she had ever been to Peri Bagh.
  1 mark
4. (iv) D: but that new medicine was great.
  1 mark
5. (v) Error: identification. Correction: identity.
  1 mark
6. (vi) ensure (to make certain).
  1 mark
7. (vii) D: allows → allow, to agree with the plural 'cookies'.
  1 mark
8. (viii) C: have been, since 'since' and the present perfect continuous go together after 'I'.
  1 mark
9. (ix) he had not seen anything like that before.
  1 mark
10. (x) C: issued, because 'on Sunday' refers to a completed past action.
  1 mark
11. (xi) B: will be (is also accepted).
  1 mark
12. (xii) Error: may. Correction: should/will.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) could→can; (ii) apprised; (iii) Pushkar asked Sunanda if she had ever been to Peri Bagh; (iv) D; (v) identification→identity; (vi) ensure; (vii) D; (viii) C; (ix) he had not seen anything like that before; (x) C; (xi) B; (xii) may→should/will
Where the marks are
- Each of any ten correct answers earns 1 mark; no half marks (10 marks)
Open Q3 on its own page
Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q4(a) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills
The problem of speeding traffic on colony roads causing accidents is increasing day by day. As a young citizen, who wants to minimize the accidents caused by them, write a letter to the editor of a national daily, in about 120 words, expressing your concern at the situation and suggesting measures to resolve the problem and drawing attention of the concerned authorities.
You are Samyukta Khanna/Sanjay Khanna of 567, Madhur Apartments, Amar Vihar, Aram Nagar.
Note: All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: sender's address, date, receiver (The Editor, name of the daily, city), subject line 'Speeding vehicles on colony roads', salutation 'Sir/Madam', complimentary close 'Yours faithfully', and name.
  1 mark
2. Body, concern and consequences: Through your newspaper I wish to draw the attention of the authorities to the rising speed of vehicles on our colony roads. Reckless driving has made the roads unsafe for children, the elderly and pedestrians, and has caused several accidents and injuries.
  2 marks
3. Suggestions, with organisation: The authorities should install speed breakers and signboards, enforce speed limits strictly with fines and patrolling, and run awareness drives for drivers and residents. Ideas are in paragraphs in a formal tone.
  1 mark
4. Accuracy: correct spelling, punctuation and grammar; about 120 words. I hope prompt action will be taken. Yours faithfully, Samyukta Khanna.
  1 mark
Answer: Formal letter to the editor on speeding traffic, giving concern, consequences and measures (about 120 words)
Where the marks are
- Correct format (1 mark)
- Content: concern and consequences, drawing attention of authorities (2 marks)
- Suggestions and organisation (1 mark)
- Accuracy (1 mark)
Open Q4(a) on its own page
OR
Q4(b) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills
As Kaveri Mahajan, of 543, Narmada Apartments, Jeev Nagar, you feel that during the monsoon season all the rain water goes down the drain without being utilized. Write a letter to the RWA of your society, in about 120 words, suggesting measures to save and preserve rain water emphasizing the importance of saving every drop of water.
Note: All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: sender's address, date, receiver (The Secretary, RWA, Narmada Apartments, Jeev Nagar), subject 'Rain water harvesting', salutation 'Sir/Madam', close 'Yours sincerely', and name Kaveri Mahajan.
  1 mark
2. Body, concern and importance: During the monsoon, a great deal of rain water flows into the drains and is wasted, though our city faces water shortage. Every drop saved helps in recharging groundwater and conserving this precious resource.
  2 marks
3. Suggestions, with organisation: Install a rain water harvesting system on the roof of our society, build recharge pits, and hold awareness campaigns and workshops for residents. Ideas are in paragraphs in a formal tone.
  1 mark
4. Accuracy: correct spelling, punctuation and grammar; about 120 words. I request the RWA to take up this matter at the next meeting.
  1 mark
Answer: Formal letter to the RWA suggesting rain water harvesting and stressing the importance of saving water (about 120 words)
Where the marks are
- Correct format (1 mark)
- Content: concern about wastage and importance of saving water (2 marks)
- Suggestions and organisation (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
Co-curricular activities help to enhance holistic development and assist in inculcating critical skills and abilities to be successful and happy in the 21st century life and workplace.
Based on the table given below, write an analytical paragraph, in about 120 words, on how co-curricular activities supplement the theoretical curriculum.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND VALUES THAT CAN BE DEVELOPED THROUGH CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
- logical and analytical thinking
- creative and critical thinking
- problem-solving skills
- leadership skills
- social, emotional and communication skills
- recreational value
- enhanced technology skills
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Introduction (content): Co-curricular activities such as sports, music, debates and clubs go beyond textbooks and promote all-round development.
  1 mark
2. Skills and values: They build logical, analytical, creative and critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, and social, emotional and communication skills, and they offer recreation.
  1 mark
3. Link to theory (organisation): These skills help students understand concepts better, express ideas clearly, work in teams and stay mentally alert. Technology skills help in research and projects, and recreation reduces stress and improves concentration. A single formal paragraph.
  2 marks
4. Accuracy: correct grammar, spelling and punctuation; about 120 words; concluding line that co-curricular activities supplement and strengthen academics.
  1 mark
Answer: One analytical paragraph (about 120 words) on how co-curricular activities supplement the theoretical curriculum
Where the marks are
- Introduction (2 marks content with skills)
- Skills and values developed, with the link to academics (2 marks organisation)
- Accuracy (1 mark)
Open Q5(a) on its own page
OR
Q5(b) · 5 marks · WritingCompetency-basedWriting Skills
Tourism stands as a cornerstone of the nation's development. The following table provides an insight into the multifaceted impact and positive contributions of tourism. Write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words assessing the significance of tourism.
IMPACT OF TOURISM
- contributes to GDP and foreign exchange
- boosts local markets and businesses
- creates employment
- preserves culture
- promotes infrastructural development
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Introduction (content): Tourism is a vital part of a nation's economy and is rightly seen as a cornerstone of development.
  1 mark
2. Contributions: It adds to GDP and foreign exchange, boosts local markets and businesses, creates employment, preserves culture and promotes infrastructural development.
  1 mark
3. Significance (organisation): Employment and local business improve people's standard of living, better roads, airports and hotels benefit everyone, and the preservation of heritage improves the country's image globally. A single formal paragraph.
  2 marks
4. Accuracy: correct grammar, spelling and punctuation; about 120 words; conclusion that tourism is significant for national growth.
  1 mark
Answer: One analytical paragraph (about 120 words) assessing the significance of tourism
Where the marks are
- Introduction and contributions (2 marks content)
- Development of points on national benefit and orderly paragraph (2 marks organisation)
- Accuracy (1 mark)
Open Q5(b) on its own page

Section C

Literature, 40 marks (Q6 and Q7: 5 marks each, either/or; Q8: 4 of 5 questions, 3 marks each; Q9: 2 of 3 questions, 3 marks each; Q10 and Q11: 6 marks each, either/or)

Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q6(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedMijbil the Otter
Read the following extract and answer the questions.
For the first twenty-four hours, Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly; he was simply aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep on the floor as far from my bed as possible. The second night Mijbil came on to my bed in the small hours and remained asleep in the crook of my knees until the servant brought tea in the morning, and during the day he began to lose his apathy and take a keen, much too keen, interest in his surroundings. I made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water.
(Mijbil the Otter)
1. (i)
  Which of the following is not a reason why Mijbil came on to Maxwell's bed in the small hours?
  (A)He had started taking interest in his surroundings.
  (B)He was becoming friendly with Maxwell.
  (C)He wanted to play with Maxwell on his bed.
  (D)He wanted to feel safe and not remain indifferent.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Maxwell says that Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly, he was simply aloof and indifferent for the first twenty-four hours. Give reasons in not more than 40 words.
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  Read the following descriptions (A) – (D) and identify which one correctly corresponds to the extract.
  (A) Owning a pet is tedious and needs commitment.
  (B) A pet needs his own space and time to get adjusted to his owner's environment.
  (C) Maxwell decided to bring Mijbil because he was very sad to lose his dog.
  (D) Maxwell and Mijbil loved travelling.
  (A)Owning a pet is tedious and needs commitment.
  (B)A pet needs his own space and time to get adjusted to his owner's environment.
  (C)Maxwell decided to bring Mijbil because he was very sad to lose his dog.
  (D)Maxwell and Mijbil loved travelling.
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Which characteristic trait of otters is revealed when Mijbil is taken to the bathroom?
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The extract does not say that he came to play on the bed; it suggests friendliness, interest and a wish for security. Option (C).
  1 mark
2. (ii) Mijbil was in a new, unfamiliar place far from his natural habitat. He needed time to adjust and settle, so he stayed aloof and indifferent.
  2 marks
3. (iii) The extract shows that a pet needs its own space and time to adjust to the owner's surroundings. Option (B).
  1 mark
4. (iv) Otters are playful and love water.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) C; (ii) new surroundings, away from habitat, needed time to adjust; (iii) B; (iv) playful and fond of water
Where the marks are
- (i) Option C (1 mark)
- (ii) Any two reasons (2 marks)
- (iii) Option B (1 mark)
- (iv) Playful/love water (1 mark)
Open Q6(a) on its own page
OR
Q6(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedFootprints without Feet
Read the following extract and answer the questions.
The arrival of a stranger at an inn in winter was in any case an unusual event. A stranger of such uncommon appearance set all tongues wagging. Mrs. Hall, the landlord's wife, made every effort to be friendly. But Griffin had no desire to talk, and told her, "My reason for coming to Iping is a desire for solitude. I do not wish to be disturbed in my work. Besides, an accident has affected my face." Satisfied that her guest was an eccentric scientist, and in view of the fact that he had paid her in advance, Mrs. Hall was prepared to excuse his strange habits and irritable temper.
(Footprints Without Feet)
1. (i)
  State any one inference about Griffin from the given context: "My reason for coming to Iping is a desire for solitude. I do not wish to be disturbed in my work. Besides, an accident has affected my face."
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  State True or False: Even though Mrs. Hall was satisfied with Griffin, she was skeptical to excuse his strange habits and irritable temper.
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  It was not difficult for Griffin to convince the landlord and his wife about his strange appearance and eccentric behaviour. Elaborate in about 40 words with reference to the context.
  2 marks
4. (iv)
  Which phrase would correctly substitute 'set all tongues wagging' in the given sentence from the extract? A stranger of such uncommon appearance ____________.
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Any one inference: Griffin was secretive, unfriendly and a loner who wished to avoid people and hide his identity.
  1 mark
2. (ii) False. Mrs. Hall was ready to excuse his strange habits and temper.
  1 mark
3. (iii) Griffin said he wanted solitude for his work and that an accident had affected his face, which explained his appearance. He also paid rent in advance, so Mrs. Hall took him for an eccentric scientist and excused his behaviour.
  2 marks
4. (iv) ...became a source of gossip/rumour/idle speculation among people.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) Griffin was secretive and wanted to avoid people; (ii) False; (iii) accident story, wish for solitude and advance payment convinced them; (iv) became a source of gossip
Where the marks are
- (i) Valid inference (1 mark)
- (ii) False (1 mark)
- (iii) Any two points with reference to context (2 marks)
- (iv) Gossip/rumour phrase (1 mark)
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q7(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedA Tiger in the Zoo
Read the following extract and answer the questions.
But he's locked in a concrete cell,
His strength behind bars,
Stalking the length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.
(A Tiger in the Zoo)
1. (i)
  Why is the tiger 'stalking the length of his cage'?
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  What is the significance of the use of the word 'locked' to describe the concrete cell where the tiger is kept and how does it contrast with the tiger's presence in its natural habitat? Answer in about 40 words.
  2 marks
3. (iii)
  Complete the sentence with the appropriate option: The lines from the poem tell us that the tiger is __________.
  (A)enjoying his time in the cell
  (B)being indifferent to visitors because it is a daily routine for him
  (C)not as strong as his counterpart in the jungle
  (D)wanting to be free from the cage
  1 mark
4. (iv)
  Identify the type of literary device used in the line: 'But he's locked in a concrete cell'
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The tiger paces up and down because the cage gives him no room to run or roam. He is restless and confined to the length of the cage.
  1 mark
2. (ii) 'Locked' stresses that the tiger is imprisoned and helpless. His strength and power are taken away and he cannot escape, and his natural instinct is crushed. In the wild he moves freely and is seen as the most powerful, fearless creature of the jungle.
  2 marks
3. (iii) (B) being indifferent to visitors because it is a daily routine for him. He ignores the visitors because being watched has become part of his daily life.
  1 mark
4. (iv) Alliteration: the repeated 'c' sound in 'concrete cell'.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) restless, only the cage's length to move; (ii) captive and powerless vs free and powerful in the wild; (iii) B; (iv) alliteration
Where the marks are
- Reason for pacing: confined, no room to run (1 mark)
- Significance of 'locked': helplessness or lost freedom (1 mark)
- Contrast with natural habitat: free and powerful (1 mark)
- Correct option B (1 mark)
- Alliteration in 'concrete cell' (1 mark)
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OR
Q7(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedThe Tale of Custard the Dragon
Read the following extract and answer the questions.
Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,
Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
1. (i)
  Comment upon the contrast that is reflected in the last two lines of the extract.
  1 mark
2. (ii)
  Fill in the blank with one word. While describing Ink and Blink, the speaker says that they could chase lions down the stairs. By saying so, he is revealing the ____________ characteristic of their personality.
  1 mark
3. (iii)
  Comment on the poet's use of language in these lines in about 40 words.
  2 marks
4. (iv)
  Which of the following best describes the theme of the poem?
  (A)Bravery and heroism
  (B)Humility leads to bravery
  (C)Valour and diligence
  (D)Crisis reveals character
  1 mark
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) The contrast is between Mustard, who is as brave as a raging tiger, and Custard, the dragon, who is expected to be fierce but cries for a safe cage. The dragon is more timid than the dog and the other pets.
  1 mark
2. (ii) fearless (also acceptable: bold, daring, courageous).
  1 mark
3. (iii) The language is simple and easy to follow. Similes such as 'brave as a barrel full of bears' and 'as a tiger in a rage' create vivid images. Alliteration ('Belinda...brave...barrel...bears') and the humorous description add to the ballad's playful rhythm.
  2 marks
4. (iv) (D) Crisis reveals character. Custard, the supposed coward, proves brave when the pirate attacks.
  1 mark
Answer: (i) bold pets vs timid dragon; (ii) fearless; (iii) simple, similes, alliteration, humour; (iv) D
Where the marks are
- Contrast between brave Mustard and cowardly Custard (1 mark)
- One word: fearless (1 mark)
- Language: simple words, similes, alliteration or humour, any two points (2 marks)
- Theme: option D (1 mark)
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Q8 · 12 marks · Short answerNelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Answer any four of the following five questions in 40 – 50 words each. (4 x 3 = 12)
1. (i)
  Nelson Mandela in his inauguration speech says, "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." What is the significance of this statement with reference to the political system that prevailed before this? (Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)
  3 marks
2. (ii)
  'The Ball Poem' initially appears simple but it is actually quite impactful and intense. Comment upon the theme of 'The Ball Poem'.
  3 marks
3. (iii)
  Coorg has been defined as a 'piece of heaven' by the writer. Justify. (Glimpses of India)
  3 marks
4. (iv)
  "Oh, what a burden, Lord, to be the father of a grown-up daughter!" Explain what this line conveys about Chubukov as a father. (The Proposal)
  3 marks
5. (v)
  In every alternate stanza, Amanda drifts into fantasy and yearns for more freedom and silence. Justify and elaborate the reason. (Amanda)
  3 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Mandela's words show South Africa's change from the apartheid era, when the black majority were denied equal rights and treated as outlaws, to a free democracy. The country was once isolated internationally and is now host to world leaders. This shows the triumph of justice and human dignity over racial oppression.
  3 marks
2. (ii) The poem deals with loss and the lessons it teaches. A boy loses his ball, which stands for his possessions, and feels deep grief. The poet says he must learn to bear loss and take responsibility. This marks his growth from childhood to maturity, and money cannot replace the lost ball.
  3 marks
3. (iii) Coorg is called a piece of heaven for its natural beauty: lush green hills, mist, forests and coffee plantations with their aroma. It has rich wildlife and a proud culture, including the brave Kodavus. It also offers adventure such as trekking and river rafting, so it is truly heavenly.
  3 marks
4. (iv) Chubukov's cry shows him as a worried and anxious father who sees his grown-up daughter Natalya as a burden. He cannot accept that she is an adult and wants her married off quickly. He finds her tantrums hard to handle and thinks of her almost as a commodity.
  3 marks
5. (v) Amanda is nagged all the time by her mother, who corrects her posture, eating and behaviour. She feels stressed and suffocated. To escape she daydreams, imagining herself as a mermaid, an orphan or Rapunzel, living in silence and freedom with no one to command her.
  3 marks
Answer: Any four sub-parts answered, all four above are model answers (3 marks each).
Where the marks are
- Two relevant content points (2 marks)
- Organisation and clear expression (1 mark)
- Half mark deducted if errors exceed two
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Q9 · 6 marks · Short answerA Triumph of Surgery
Answer any two of the following three questions in 40 – 50 words each. (2 x 3 = 6)
1. (i)
  "We are often over-indulgent towards people we care about." Explain with reference to the context of the story 'A Triumph of Surgery'.
  3 marks
2. (ii)
  How did Apprentice Noodle act smartly by suggesting something about the book without offending Think-Tank? (The Book That Saved The Earth)
  3 marks
3. (iii)
  Despite his unusual appearance, Ausable's presence of mind helped him get rid of Max. Comment with reference to the story 'The Midnight Visitor'.
  3 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (i) Mrs Pumphrey adores her Pekingese, Tricki, and keeps overfeeding and pampering him with rich food. This makes him overweight and ill. Despite Dr Herriot's advice she cannot say no to him. She even takes his laziness for lack of energy and feeds him more.
  3 marks
2. (ii) Noodle approaches Think-Tank very respectfully as 'Great and Mighty Think-Tank'. He asks permission to speak and calls his idea an 'insignificant bit of data'. He presents it as a mere possibility. This flatters Think-Tank and avoids offending him.
  3 marks
3. (iii) Ausable looks fat and sloppy, not like a secret agent. Yet his quick mind invents stories, such as his fake secret-agent identity and the claim that the police are coming, which unnerve Max. He escapes by presence of mind and saves himself. Appearances can be deceptive.
  3 marks
Answer: Any two sub-parts answered, all three above are model answers (3 marks each).
Where the marks are
- Two relevant content points (2 marks)
- Organisation and expression (1 mark)
- Half mark deducted if errors exceed two
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q10(a) · 6 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedA Letter to God
Grief or sadness is an emotion natural to all types of loss or significant change. You have been asked to present an analysis of the approaches of Lencho and Kisa Gotami in dealing with their respective losses. Write this presentation draft including your insights, and comparing the approaches of both.
You may begin like this: One acknowledges that Lencho had unwavering faith in God whereas Kisa Gotami in her grief, believed that her son ...................... however ...................... .
(Reference – A Letter to God and The Sermon at Benares)
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Opening: One acknowledges that Lencho had unwavering faith in God whereas Kisa Gotami in her grief, believed that her son could be brought back to life; however, both learnt hard truths through their loss.
  1 mark
2. Lencho: When hail destroyed his crop he was sad but faced it with patience and courage. He wrote a letter to God, trusting that God would help. When the post-office staff sent money, he did not realise that humans had answered his prayer and blamed them for the missing amount.
  2 marks
3. Kisa Gotami: Desperate after her only child died, she went from house to house seeking medicine, as the Buddha had told her. She found that no house was free from death. She returned to the Buddha, accepted mortality and was spiritually awakened.
  2 marks
4. Comparison and insight: Lencho's grief is met with faith and hope, while Kisa Gotami moves from denial to acceptance and wisdom. Both show that grief can be borne through faith and understanding.
  1 mark
Answer: Presentation draft comparing Lencho's faith-based resilience with Kisa Gotami's journey from denial to acceptance.
Where the marks are
- Appropriate opening using the given beginning (1 mark)
- Lencho's approach, with detail (2 marks)
- Kisa Gotami's approach, with detail (2 marks)
- Comparison, expression and accuracy (1 mark)
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OR
Q10(b) · 6 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedMadam Rides the Bus
You have been chosen to address the school assembly on the occasion of Women's Day. You choose to speak on the resilience and indomitable spirit of the young girls: Anne Frank and Valli. Prepare the speech draft, with reference to the commonality and contrast in the situations and circumstances of both the girls.
(Madam Rides the Bus and From the Diary of Anne Frank)
You may begin like this: Good morning everyone. Today, I'd like to express my insights on the resilience of two young girls ................. .
You may end this way: To conclude I'd like to say that .................. .
Thank you.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Good morning everyone. Today, I'd like to express my insights on the resilience of two young girls, Anne Frank and Valli, who met difficult circumstances with courage.
  1 mark
2. Commonality: Both are young, sensitive girls with a strong spirit. Anne, thirteen, was forced into hiding with her family and lived in fear and isolation, yet stayed hopeful. Valli, only eight years old, was clever and practical beyond her age. Both held on to their dreams.
  2 marks
3. Contrast: Anne was confined, with no friends, so she made her diary her friend and kept her faith in people's goodness. Valli was free to act, planned her bus journey carefully and fearlessly, and achieved her wish of riding the bus. Anne's resilience was inner strength, Valli's was bold action.
  2 marks
4. To conclude I'd like to say that courage has no age, and young girls can show strength in any situation. Thank you.
  1 mark
Answer: Speech draft on Anne Frank and Valli with similarities and differences.
Where the marks are
- Speech opening and closing as given (1 mark)
- Commonality between the girls (2 marks)
- Contrast in circumstances and response (2 marks)
- Expression and accuracy (1 mark)
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q11(a) · 6 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedThe Thief's Story
Imagine that Hari Singh from 'The Thief's Story' by Ruskin Bond, writes a diary entry, exploring the theme of human values and relations that are essential in life and can transform a person in the context of his own experience. Write this diary entry as Hari Singh. (The Thief's Story)
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Format: Date and time (e.g. 12 March, 10 p.m.), then 'Dear Diary'.
  1 mark
2. Today I could not stop thinking about Anil. I met him at a wrestling match and won his trust, planning to rob him. He gave me work, taught me to cook, read and write, and trusted me with a spare key. He overlooked my faults.
  2 marks
3. When he brought home a bundle of notes, I stole them and went to the railway station, but I missed the train. I kept thinking of his kindness and trust, and I could not run away with the money.
  1 mark
4. Reflection: Trust, kindness and love changed me. I understand that human values matter more than money. I will return the money and start an honest life.
  2 marks
Answer: Diary entry by Hari Singh showing how Anil's trust and kindness transformed him.
Where the marks are
- Diary format (1 mark)
- Account of his relationship with Anil and the theft (2 marks)
- Reflection on values and transformation (2 marks)
- Expression and accuracy (1 mark)
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OR
Q11(b) · 6 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedBholi
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 his/her experiences, challenges and interactions with other characters. In the light of the above information, trace the character arc of Bholi in K.A. Abbas's 'Bholi'.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Introduction: Bholi begins as a simple, neglected and timid girl and ends as a confident, educated woman, which is a clear character arc.
  1 mark
2. Early stage: She suffered a head injury and smallpox as a child, which left pock marks on her face and made her stammer. Her parents neglected her, and she was scared of school.
  2 marks
3. Turning point: Her teacher spoke kindly to her and encouraged her. She worked hard, learnt to read and write, and slowly gained confidence.
  1 mark
4. Final stage: On her wedding day she boldly refused to marry the greedy Bishamber, who demanded dowry. She promised her parents she would take care of them by taking a job as a teacher at the school.
  2 marks
5. Conclusion: Bholi was educated in the true sense, with self-respect and courage.
Answer: Bholi grows from a timid, stammering, neglected girl into a bold, confident, self-reliant woman through education and her teacher's support.
Where the marks are
- Introduction to the arc (1 mark)
- Early timid state with details (2 marks)
- Change through the teacher's support and education (1 mark)
- Bold refusal of dowry and decision to support parents (2 marks)
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Source: official question paper, cbse.gov.in. Chapter tags and solutions are ours. Spotted a transcription error? Write tosupport@questionbuddy.in.