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CBSE Class 10 English 2025 Question Paper (2/5/1) Solved

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EnglishCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2025 (session 2024-25)

CBSE Class 10 English: 2025 board paper, set 2/5/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2025, 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/2025/X/184_English_Language_and_Literature.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 2-5-1_English Language and Literature.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

SectionQuestionsWhat it has
A1-2Reading Skills, 20 marks; Q1 and Q2 are passage-based with subparts
B3-5Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks; Q3 Grammar 10 marks (ten of twelve tasks, 1 mark each); Q4 and Q5 Creative Writing 10 marks, internal choice
C6-11Literature Textbook, 40 marks; Q6 and Q7 extracts with internal choice; Q8 four of five; Q9 two of three; Q10 and Q11 internal choice

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

Section A

Reading Skills, 20 marks; Q1 and Q2 are passage-based with subparts

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

    Read the following text:

    (1) ChatGPT can search. It cannot research. The platform has attracted the world's attention because of the speed with which it assembles and produces information in a logical sequence, powered by artificial intelligence, as if a human being were prompting it to write.

    (2) Curious about understanding what ChatGPT can do, I opened an account and asked if it would replace research in the future. Promptly, it replied: "As an AI language model, I don't hold personal beliefs, but I can present arguments on both sides of the topic."

    (3) The answer amused me. The speed with which it typed the information across the screen was mind-boggling. I could not read the answer as fast as it typed out the sentence. But, when it had finished, I read through the document. It was impressive. It was truly informative.

    (4) Five different points had been explained briefly in seconds. I would have thought of those five points in an hour or more, depending on the complexity of the topic. "AI : Catalyst, not Conqueror : ChatGPT and the future of research" was the title that it threw up to my question. It matched my opinion about the future of research after ChatGPT. The write-up had an introduction and a conclusion, just as our English teachers have taught us.

    (5) The document came from countless databases, as that is what it's designed to do. By contrast, when I research a subject for an 800-word article, I visit five or six authoritative sources; I don't go to a million as most are copies.

    (6) The difference between the write-up of ChatGPT and my research article is the former is a mere summary. When I write, I search new ideas and knit them in a way that reflect my thoughts and perspective. I choose only what is original, unique and fresh and process them in my mind to create a fresh angle.

    (7) Research has no value if it only summarises known information. Even a literature survey in your subject requires you to say what you will do with it further, and how.

    (8) Research is not a joke. Years ago, I had asked my professor, later on my supervisor, "How can I publish an article in research journals ?"

    (9) He answered, "When you have read everything on the subject, and have something original to add to the existing body of research." My head swam.

    (10) Excellent research is a daunting task and calls for hard intellectual work. When you research, you don't go wide; you go deep. You thoroughly investigate a minor concept, researching it extensively, substantiating each claim with reliable sources, experiments, models and beyond. It took years to discover the atom and the theory of gravitation. ChatGPT can summarise these discoveries, but it cannot add to them. It does not have the mental wherewithal for that.

    (openpage@thehindu.co.in/461words)

    Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :

    1. (i)

      Which of the following statements best summarises the author's views about ChatGPT ?

      1. (A)It can summarise discoveries.
      2. (B)It assembles and produces information.
      3. (C)Its information is based on numerous databases.
      4. (D)It can only search but not research.
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      What did the professor suggest to the author's question of how he could publish his research journal ? (Answer in 40 words only.)

      2 marks
    3. (iii)

      Complete the given analogy :
      Dependable : reliable : rational : ________.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Mention one basic difference between the write-up of ChatGPT and author's research article.

      2 marks
    5. (v)

      Complete the sentence appropriately.
      The author noticed that the write-up produced by ChatGPT had an introduction and a conclusion, just as he learnt in his English class but it still lacked ________.

      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      The author was moved by the ________ with which the ChatGPT was producing the article.

      1. (A)originality
      2. (B)information
      3. (C)rationality
      4. (D)speed
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      State whether the given statement is True/False :
      Research is not beneficial if it only summarises the known information.

      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      Quote the answer of ChatGPT, from the above given passage, when it was asked whether it would replace research in the future ?

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Option (D). The author's central claim is that ChatGPT can search but cannot research, since it only summarises existing information.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) The professor said the author should first read everything on the subject. Only then, with something original to add to the existing body of research, could he publish.

      2 marks

    3. (iii) Logical (analytical/objective also acceptable). 'Rational' means based on reason, as 'reliable' means dependable.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) ChatGPT's write-up is only a summary of information gathered from many databases, whereas the author's article presents original, fresh ideas shaped by his own perspective.

      2 marks

    5. (v) originality (a fresh angle/new perspective).

      1 mark

    6. (vi) Option (D) speed. The author was amazed at how fast it typed the answer.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) True. Paragraph 7 says research has no value if it only summarises known information.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) "As an AI language model, I don't hold personal beliefs, but I can present arguments on both sides of the topic."

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) D; (ii) read everything on the subject and add something original; (iii) logical; (iv) ChatGPT only summarises, the author's work is original; (v) originality; (vi) D; (vii) True; (viii) "As an AI language model, I don't hold personal beliefs, but I can present arguments on both sides of the topic."

    Where the marks are

    • (i) Option D (1 mark)
    • (ii) Read everything on the subject (1 mark) and add something original (1 mark)
    • (iii) Logical (1 mark)
    • (iv) ChatGPT gives a summary (1 mark); the author's work is original (1 mark)
    • (v) Originality (1 mark)
    • (vi) Speed (1 mark)
    • (vii) True (1 mark)
    • (viii) Correct quotation (1 mark)

    Open Q1 on its own page

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

    Read the following text:

    (1) The climate and landscape in Uttarakhand vary greatly with altitude (186 – 7619 m), from the largest glaciers in the higher elevation to the subtropical forests in the lowest elevation.

    (2) The lowlands along the border of U.P. are covered by the drier Terai-Savanna grasslands, the moist deciduous forest of the Upper Gangetic Plains form the Bhabhar belt. Due to the extensive agricultural practices, most of these lowland forests have been cleared. Snow and bare ice occupy the highest altitudes.

    (3) This state occupies 53,483 sq.km., (1.63% of India's total land area). Out of 13 districts, Uttarkashi occupies the maximum area of 8039 sq. km., while Champawat covers the minimum area of 1634 sq. km. Uttarakhand experiences four types of seasons, namely, Monsoon (June to September), Post-monsoon (October to November), Cold weather (December to February) and Pre-monsoon (March to May). The normal annual precipitation in the state is 1446 mm. Rain usually starts at the end of April and lasts until September. The monsoon rainfall is 78% of the annual rainfall. This makes the state prone to flood during monsoon. Bageshwar receives the maximum normal annual rainfall (1872 mm). 81% falls of this rainfall occurs in the monsoon season. Haridwar receives the minimum normal annual rainfall (1107 mm).

    (4) Due to the differences in topographical features, temperatures vary widely. During March and April, temperatures rise until they peak in May and June, when the mean maximum temperature in the southern and valley regions is between 34° and 38 °C, and the mean minimum temperature is between 20° and 24 °C. Temperatures can reach 42 °C in the valleys and southern half of the state and 30 °C in two-kilometre-high elevations on some days. Day and night temperatures begin to dip around the end of September and reach the lowest in January and early February. January is the coldest month, with an average maximum temperature of 20 °C and an average lowest temperature of 6 °C. The mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures range from 10° to 12 °C at altitudes of 2 km.

    (https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/14/12/1879/) (338 words)

    Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :

    1. (i)

      Fill in the blank suitably :
      The variance in climate and landscape of Uttarakhand as per paragraph 1 is marked by ________.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Based on your understanding of the paragraph 2, fill in the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets.
      Most of the lowland forests are ________ (maintained/cleared) due to the ________ (large-scale/small-scale) agricultural practices.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Based on the passage, which of the districts has the lowest rainfall in Uttarakhand ?

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      In the given sentence taken from paragraph 3, select the option that correctly replaces the underlined word, with its most likely Antonym.
      Rain usually starts at the end of April and lasts until September.

      1. (A)begins
      2. (B)arrives
      3. (C)ends
      4. (D)commences
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      'This makes the state of Uttarakhand prone to flood during monsoon.' Justify the statement with reference to the passage given above in 30-40 words.

      2 marks
    6. (vi)

      Which two districts have maximum and minimum rainfall in the state ?

      1. (A)Bageshwar and Chamoli
      2. (B)Nainital and Rudraprayag
      3. (C)Haridwar and Garhwal
      4. (D)Bageshwar and Haridwar
      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Complete the given table :

      AssertionReasoning
      The temperatures vary widely in the state of Uttarakhand.________
      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      How is Bhabhar belt formed ?

      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      State which of the given statements is not true :

      1. (A)January is the coldest month, with an average maximum temperature of 20 °C and an average lowest temperature of 6 °C.
      2. (B)The mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures range from 15 to 20 °C at altitudes of 2 km.
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) The variance runs from the largest glaciers at the highest elevation to the subtropical forests at the lowest elevation.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) cleared; large-scale

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Haridwar, which gets the minimum rainfall of 1107 mm.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Option (C) ends. It is the opposite of 'starts'.

      1 mark

    5. (v) Rain begins at the end of April and lasts until September. Monsoon rainfall is 78% of the annual total, so heavy rain is concentrated in a few months and makes the state flood-prone.

      2 marks

    6. (vi) Option (D) Bageshwar and Haridwar.

      1 mark

    7. (vii) Reasoning: temperatures vary widely because of differences in topographical features.

      1 mark

    8. (viii) The moist deciduous forest of the Upper Gangetic Plains forms the Bhabhar belt.

      1 mark

    9. (ix) Option (B) is not true. The passage gives 10° to 12 °C at 2 km altitude, not 15 to 20 °C.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) glaciers to subtropical forests; (ii) cleared, large-scale; (iii) Haridwar; (iv) C; (v) rain lasts from April-end to September, and 78% of annual rain falls in the monsoon; (vi) D; (vii) differences in topographical features; (viii) the moist deciduous forest of the Upper Gangetic Plains forms it; (ix) B

    Where the marks are

    • (i) Glaciers to subtropical forests (1 mark)
    • (ii) Cleared, large-scale (1 mark)
    • (iii) Haridwar (1 mark)
    • (iv) C (1 mark)
    • (v) Rain from April-end to September (1 mark) and 78% monsoon rainfall (1 mark)
    • (vi) D (1 mark)
    • (vii) Topographical differences (1 mark)
    • (viii) Moist deciduous forest of Upper Gangetic Plains (1 mark)
    • (ix) B (1 mark)

    Open Q2 on its own page

Section B

Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, 20 marks; Q3 Grammar 10 marks (ten of twelve tasks, 1 mark each); Q4 and Q5 Creative Writing 10 marks, internal choice

  1. Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarGrammar

    Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed : 10 × 1 = 10

    1. (i)

      Replace the underlined word used in the sentence with the best option given below :
      Born in 1872, Richard Willstatter was a chemist who invents the process of paper chromatography.

      1. (A)invent
      2. (B)has invented
      3. (C)will invent
      4. (D)invented
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Rahil and Somil decided to reach the theatre at 5 pm. Report the question asked by Rahil to Somil.
      Which movie are we going to watch ?
      Rahil asked Somil ________.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Read the given line and identify the error.
      When the rounds were completed, the hurdle and mazes appeared on the appropriate places.

      errorcorrection
        
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Fill in the blank to complete this message in a poster for safety.
      Our planet is precious and only we ________ save it.

      1. (A)may
      2. (B)shall
      3. (C)will
      4. (D)can
      1 mark
    5. (v)

      Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the line given below :
      In earlier times, public libraries plays an important role in the lives of the people.

      Option No.errorcorrection
      (A)roleroles
      (B)ofin
      (C)inof
      (D)playsplayed
      1. (A)role / roles
      2. (B)of / in
      3. (C)in / of
      4. (D)plays / played
      1 mark
    6. (vi)

      Report the dialogue between a guard and a visitor by completing the sentence :
      Guard : Good morning Sir ! Park your car in the Visitor's Parking Area.
      Visitor : OK. Please help me park my car in the Visitor's Parking Area.
      The guard greeted the visitor and told him to park his car at the Visitor's Parking Area. At this, the visitor requested him ________.

      1 mark
    7. (vii)

      Identify the error and supply correction for the following pre-flight announcement before take-off.
      Ladies and gentlemen, welcome onboard flight 487 flying from Hong Kong to San Francisco. We are currently third in line for take-off and were expected to be in the air in approximately seven minutes time.
      Use the given format for your response.

      errorcorrection
      ________________
      1 mark
    8. (viii)

      Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the dialogues given below :
      Mother : Why aren't you playing with your friends ?
      Rayan : I am not feeling well today.
      Mother asked Rayan ________. Rayan replied that he was not feeling well that day.

      1. (A)whether he was not playing with his friends.
      2. (B)that he was not playing with his friends.
      3. (C)why wasn't he playing with his friends.
      4. (D)why he wasn't playing with his friends.
      1 mark
    9. (ix)

      Fill in the blank choosing the most appropriate option :
      The news about the retirement of my favourite character gave me ________ disappointment.

      1. (A)many
      2. (B)few
      3. (C)little
      4. (D)much
      1 mark
    10. (x)

      Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the line given below :
      The roads have been widened so much that six lanes of vehicles ________ (will/may/could) be accommodated.

      1 mark
    11. (xi)

      Complete the given sentence with the correct form of verb.
      It is important to ________ a healthy atmosphere.

      1. (A)creates
      2. (B)creating
      3. (C)create
      4. (D)created
      1 mark
    12. (xii)

      Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket :
      Mahi ________ (shirk) the task given to her and went out to play.

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) D: invented (simple past, as the sentence is about a past event).

      1 mark

    2. (ii) which movie they were going to watch

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Error: on; Correction: at ('at the appropriate places').

      1 mark

    4. (iv) D: can (expresses ability).

      1 mark

    5. (v) D: plays / played ('In earlier times' needs past tense).

      1 mark

    6. (vi) to help him park his car in the visitor's parking area

      1 mark

    7. (vii) Error: were; Correction: are ('We are currently...' needs present tense).

      1 mark

    8. (viii) D: why he wasn't playing with his friends (a wh-question is reported in statement order, without 'that' or 'whether').

      1 mark

    9. (ix) D: much ('disappointment' is uncountable).

      1 mark

    10. (x) may/could (possibility).

      1 mark

    11. (xi) C: create (infinitive after 'to').

      1 mark

    12. (xii) shirked (past tense, as 'went' follows).

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) D; (ii) which movie they were going to watch; (iii) on-at; (iv) D; (v) D; (vi) to help him park his car in the visitor's parking area; (vii) were-are; (viii) D; (ix) D; (x) may/could; (xi) C; (xii) shirked

    Where the marks are

    • Each correct answer earns 1 mark; any ten are counted (10 marks)

    Open Q3 on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

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

    Convenience, variety, discounts and laziness are some of the reasons for the growing popularity of ordering food online. You are Santa / Suhail student editor for the National Times. Compose a letter in about 120 words to the Editor of the newspaper highlighting the adverse effects of take-out food ordered online. Emphasize on the overall well-being of eating home-cooked meals.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address, date, receiver's designation and address, subject line, salutation 'Sir/Madam', complimentary close and signature.

      Subject: Adverse effects of online take-out food

      Sir,
      Through your esteemed newspaper I wish to draw attention to the growing habit of ordering take-out food online.

      1 mark

    2. Content: Convenience and discounts have made people, especially the young, dependent on junk food. Such food is oily, spicy, stale and full of preservatives but poor in nutrients, so it leads to obesity, heart problems and digestive troubles. In contrast, home-cooked meals are fresh, hygienic and nutritious, and they keep the family healthy. Eating together also strengthens emotional bonds.

      2 marks

    3. Organisation: an opening that states the purpose, a body of the effects followed by the benefits of home food, and a closing appeal, with linking words.

      I urge readers to cook and eat at home more often and to treat take-out as an occasional treat.
      Yours faithfully,
      Santa/Suhail
      Student Editor

      1 mark

    4. Accuracy: correct spelling, punctuation and grammar, in about 120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter to the Editor of about 120 words on the harm of online take-out food and the benefits of home-cooked meals.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct format of a formal letter (1 mark)
    • Adverse effects of take-out food (1 mark)
    • Overall well-being from home-cooked meals (1 mark)
    • Coherent organisation and style (1 mark)
    • Accurate language (1 mark)

    Open Q4(a) on its own page

    OR

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

    You visited your hometown after a period of four years and were disappointed at the condition of the roads. They were in a state of disrepair. The uneven surfaces, cracks and pot-holes were affecting daily commute and causing safety issues for the people. You are Sulekha/Salim. Write a letter to the Director of the Municipal Corporation in about 100-120 words drawing attention to the poor condition of roads and the inconvenience caused. Request him to look into the matter and take early action.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address, date, the Director, Municipal Corporation, with address, subject line, salutation 'Sir', closing and signature.

      Subject: Poor condition of roads in [hometown]

      Sir,
      I recently visited my hometown after four years and was dismayed at the state of its roads.

      1 mark

    2. Content: The roads are uneven, with deep cracks and potholes. These slow the daily commute, cause traffic jams and lead to accidents, endangering pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, especially after rain. I request immediate repair, regular maintenance and use of modern road-building technology.

      2 marks

    3. Organisation: a clear opening, a body on the problem and its effects, then the request, with linking words.

      I hope you will look into the matter and take early action.
      Yours faithfully,
      Sulekha/Salim

      1 mark

    4. Accuracy: correct spelling, grammar and punctuation, in 100-120 words.

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter of 100-120 words to the Director of the Municipal Corporation about the damaged roads, requesting early action.

    Where the marks are

    • Format (1 mark)
    • Any two content points on road condition and the request (2 marks)
    • Coherent organisation (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q4(b) on its own page

  3. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

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

    Read the following details of a children's park in your colony :

    • covered on all four sides with 2 gates
    • skating rink and basketball court in the park
    • swings in one corner for younger children
    • open ground for colony functions
    • specific timings

    Analyse the details of the park and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about its suitability as a children's park.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: The park is well suited for children. Being enclosed on all four sides with two gates, it is safe and traffic cannot enter. The skating rink and basketball court encourage sport and fitness, while swings in one corner cater to younger children. The open ground can host colony functions, and fixed timings ensure supervised use.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: an introductory sentence, a logical flow from safety to facilities to usage, and linking words such as 'moreover' and 'therefore', with a concluding line that it is an ideal children's park.

      2 marks

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

      1 mark

    Answer: An analytical paragraph of about 120 words concluding that the park is highly suitable for children.

    Where the marks are

    • All five details analysed (2 marks)
    • Coherent organisation with linkers (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(a) on its own page

    OR

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

    There is an alarming increase in the percentage of students suffering from obesity. Given below are some of the findings of a survey conducted to identify causes :

    • unhealthy diet – 40%
    • lack of exercise – 30%
    • stress and anxiety – 25%
    • genetic factors – 5%

    Analyse the causes for obesity.

    Age group affected

    AgePercentage
    0 – 5 years13%
    5 – 8 years20%
    8 – 12 years28%
    13 – 15 years25%
    16 – 18 years14%
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: Unhealthy diet is the biggest cause at 40%, followed by lack of exercise at 30% and stress and anxiety at 25%. Genetic factors account for only 5%, so most causes are lifestyle-related and preventable. By age, the 8-12 group is worst affected at 28%, then 13-15 at 25% and 5-8 at 20%. The 16-18 group (14%) and 0-5 group (13%) are least affected.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: an introduction on the rising problem, then causes, then age groups, and a conclusion that healthy eating and exercise can prevent obesity, with linking words.

      2 marks

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

      1 mark

    Answer: An analytical paragraph covering all four causes with their percentages and the age-group trend, concluding that obesity is mostly preventable.

    Where the marks are

    • Causes with percentages (1 mark) and age-group data (1 mark)
    • Coherent organisation (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(b) on its own page

Section C

Literature Textbook, 40 marks; Q6 and Q7 extracts with internal choice; Q8 four of five; Q9 two of three; Q10 and Q11 internal choice

  1. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q6(a) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedTwo Stories about Flying

    Read the given extract and answer the questions.

    That was twenty-four hours ago. Since then nobody had come near him. The day before, all day long, he had watched his parents flying about with his brothers and sister, perfecting them in the art of flight, teaching them how to skim the waves and how to dive for fish. He had, in fact, seen his elder brother catch his first herring and devour it, standing on a rock, while his parents circled around raising a proud cackle and all the morning the whole family had walked about on the big plateau midway down the opposite cliff taunting him for his cowardice.

    1. (i)

      Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket :
      The use of the phrase 'proud cackle' adds to a sense of ________ (noise/pride) in the extract.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      How do the parents teach their young to be independent ?

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Describe the contrasting reactions of the parents to their children giving reasons.

      2 marks
    4. (iv)

      The word 'devour' in the above extract most nearly means

      1. (A)scared
      2. (B)gobbled
      3. (C)preserved
      4. (D)cooled
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) pride

      1 mark

    2. (ii) They teach them to skim the waves and dive for fish, perfecting them in the art of flight.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Towards the elder brother the parents were proud: they circled around him with a proud cackle when he caught his first herring. Towards the young seagull they were harsh: he was afraid to fly, so they taunted him for his cowardice and left him to starve.

      2 marks

    4. (iv) Option (B) gobbled.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) pride; (ii) teaching them to skim the waves and dive for fish; (iii) proud of the brother, taunted the fearful young gull; (iv) B

    Where the marks are

    • (i) Pride (1 mark)
    • (ii) Teaching flying, skimming or diving (1 mark)
    • (iii) Reaction to the brother (1 mark) and to the young seagull (1 mark)
    • (iv) B (1 mark)

    Open Q6(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q6(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedThe Proposal

    Read the given extract and answer the questions.

    Lomov : Hear me out, I implore you ! The peasants of your father's grandfather, as I have already had the honour of explaining to you, used to bake bricks for my aunt's grandmother. Now my aunt's grandmother, wishing to make them a present.
    Natalya : I can't make head or tail of all this about aunts and grandfathers and grandmothers. The Meadows are ours, that's all.
    Lomov : Mine
    Natalya : Ours ! You can go proving it for two days on end.

    1. (i)

      What is Lomov pleading for ?

      1. (A)to be heard
      2. (B)bricks for his aunt's grandmother
      3. (C)documents of the Meadows
      4. (D)for two days time to prove himself
      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      What effect does the following sentence have on Natalya ? Why ?
      'The peasants of your father's grandfather ……… used to bake bricks for my aunt's grandmother.'

      2 marks
    3. (iii)

      Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket :
      The use of the phrase 'can't make head or tail' adds to a sense of ________ (confusion/realization) to the extract.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      What is Lomov trying to prove ?

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Option (A): Lomov is pleading to be heard.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) The sentence makes Natalya angry and she loses her temper, because she believes the Oxen Meadows belong to her family and thinks Lomov is wrongly claiming them.

      2 marks

    3. (iii) confusion

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Lomov is trying to prove that the Oxen Meadows are his and that Natalya is wrongly claiming them.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) A; (ii) she becomes angry because she believes the Meadows are hers; (iii) confusion; (iv) that the Meadows belong to him

    Where the marks are

    • (i) A (1 mark)
    • (ii) Effect: anger (1 mark); reason: she believes the Meadows are hers (1 mark)
    • (iii) Confusion (1 mark)
    • (iv) The Meadows are his (1 mark)

    Open Q6(b) on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

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

    Read the given 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.
    Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful,
    Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival

    (Tale of Custard the Dragon)

    1. (i)

      What poetic device is used in the first sentence ?

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      What was ironical about Custard being referred to as Percival ?

      2 marks
    3. (iii)

      Complete the following suitably :
      The word 'unmerciful' in the given context implies that Belinda is ________.

      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      What image of Custard is created in the above lines ?

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) The device is simile (also alliteration): 'as brave as a barrel full of bears'.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) Percival sounds like the name of a brave knight, so it suits a brave person. Custard was a coward, so the name is ironical.

      2 marks

    3. (iii) cruel / heartless (insensitive).

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Custard is shown as a coward, afraid of everything and wanting only a safe cage.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Simile/alliteration; (ii) Percival means a brave knight but Custard was a coward; (iii) cruel; (iv) a coward

    Where the marks are

    • Simile or alliteration (1 mark)
    • Percival was brave, Custard a coward (1+1 marks)
    • cruel/heartless (1 mark)
    • Image of a coward (1 mark)

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    OR

    Q7(b) · 5 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedAmanda!

    Read the given extract and answer the questions.

    Don't bite your nails, Amanda !
    Don't hunch your shoulders, Amanda !
    Stop that slouching and sit up straight, Amanda !
    ("There is a languid, emerald sea,
    where the sole inhabitant is me
    a mermaid, drifting blissfully.") (Amanda)

    1. (i)

      What image does the above extract create about Amanda's mother ?

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Why is the second verse written in brackets ?

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      Amanda calls herself a mermaid because ________.

      1. (A)Mermaid is Amanda's favourite fantasy character.
      2. (B)Amanda loves watching a mermaid drifting in water.
      3. (C)Amanda longs to be free like a mermaid which sails effortlessly in the sea.
      4. (D)Amanda wants to sail with a mermaid in the deep-sea water.
      1 mark
    4. (iv)

      Amanda wants to be the sole inhabitant in the sea. Elucidate.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Her mother is nagging, overbearing and dominating, always giving orders.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) The brackets show Amanda's private, inner thoughts, which she does not speak aloud.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Option (C): Amanda longs to be free like a mermaid which sails effortlessly in the sea.

      1 mark

    4. (iv) Amanda is fed up with constant nagging and instructions. She wants peace and solitude, and wants to live independently on her own terms.

      2 marks

    Answer: (i) nagging, domineering; (ii) inner thoughts; (iii) C; (iv) she wants peace and freedom from constant instruction

    Where the marks are

    • Nagging/overbearing mother (1 mark)
    • Inner thoughts shown in brackets (1 mark)
    • Option C (1 mark)
    • Any two: tired of nagging, wants peace, independence (1+1 marks)

    Open Q7(b) on its own page

  3. Q8 · 12 marks · Short answerA Letter to God

    Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 30-40 words : 4 × 3 = 12

    1. (i)

      Illustrate Lencho's unwavering faith in the Divine. (A Letter to God)

      3 marks
    2. (ii)

      In what way did Nelson Mandela's yearning for freedom alter the course of his life ? (Nelson Mandela : Long Walk to Freedom)

      3 marks
    3. (iii)

      Is it ethical to enclose wild animals within cages ? Discuss with reference to the poem, 'A Tiger in the Zoo'.

      3 marks
    4. (iv)

      Upon encountering the deceased cow on the road, Valli was emotional. Comment with reference to 'Madam Rides the Bus'.

      3 marks
    5. (v)

      How does modern India recognize the tradition of courage and bravery in Coorgi culture ? (Glimpses of India)

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Lencho's crops were ruined by hail, yet he did not lose hope. He wrote to God asking for 100 pesos. When he got only 70, he believed God could not have erred and wrote again asking for the remaining 30.

      3 marks

    2. (ii) Mandela saw his people suffer under apartheid and could not enjoy his own freedom. His longing for freedom for all turned a law-abiding man into a revolutionary. He joined the African National Congress and fought discrimination.

      3 marks

    3. (iii) It is not ethical to cage wild animals. They should roam, hunt and live freely like other species. Confinement brings frustration and misery, and makes the tiger a mere object of gaze in the zoo.

      3 marks

    4. (iv) Valli was happy to see the cow running in front of the bus. On the return she saw the same cow dead in a pool of blood. It dampened her joy, as she witnessed death for the first time and understood life's impermanence.

      3 marks

    5. (v) Coorg's regiment is among India's most decorated. General Cariappa, the first Chief of the Indian Army, was a Coorgi. Coorgis may keep guns without a licence, which honours their martial tradition.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any four of (i)-(v) answered as above

    Where the marks are

    • Any two relevant value points (2 marks) plus expression (1 mark) for each of four answers

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  4. Q9 · 6 marks · Short answerBholi

    Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words : 2 × 3 = 6

    1. (i)

      Education acts as a catalyst for a significant transformation in Bholi. Comment. (Bholi)

      3 marks
    2. (ii)

      Refusing to accept our circumstances can result in an unhappy life. Discuss in brief with reference to the story 'The Necklace'.

      3 marks
    3. (iii)

      How was the Hari Singh's 'appealing smile' at the end different from similar smiles of his on earlier occasions ? (The Thief's Story)

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Education made Bholi confident and ended her stammering. She overcame her fear and took a stand for herself by refusing to marry the greedy Bishamber Nath. She decided to teach and serve her parents.

      3 marks

    2. (ii) Mathilde was never happy with what she had and wanted to look rich. She borrowed a necklace and lost it. She then spent ten years in debt and hard poverty. Had she accepted her circumstances, she would have lived peacefully.

      3 marks

    3. (iii) Earlier his smile was false, meant to deceive Anil. The final smile was genuine. It showed relief and gratitude for Anil's kindness in not handing him to the police, and happiness at beginning a new life.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any two of (i)-(iii) answered as above

    Where the marks are

    • Any two relevant points (2 marks) plus expression (1 mark) for each of two answers

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  5. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q10(a) · 6 marks · Long answerTwo Stories about Flying

    Self-doubt and fear often act as barriers to success. On the other hand, curiosity leads to learning new things. Justify the statement citing instances from 'His First Flight' and 'Madam Rides the Bus'.

    Answer in about 100-120 words.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. In 'His First Flight', the young seagull's fear of falling and doubt that his wings would support him kept him on the ledge while his family flew. When he was forced off, he fell, but he found he could fly, and he enjoyed flying with his family. Self-doubt had been the only barrier.

      2 marks

    2. In 'Madam Rides the Bus', Valli's curiosity about the world beyond her village drove her to save money and plan a bus journey. She saw lovely scenery and a busy bazaar, though she also witnessed death for the first time. Curiosity taught her new things.

      1 mark

    3. Expression: coherent, linked paragraph of about 100-120 words with a conclusion that fear limits and curiosity opens up learning.

      2 marks

    4. Accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar.

      1 mark

    Answer: Fear held the seagull back until he flew; curiosity led Valli to learn new things.

    Where the marks are

    • Any three value points, with at least one from each chapter (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q10(b) · 6 marks · Long answerA Tiger in the Zoo

    What distinguishes the portrayal of the tiger in the poem 'A Tiger in the Zoo' from the depiction of the tiger in the poem 'How to tell Wild Animals' ?

    Answer in about 100-120 words.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. In 'A Tiger in the Zoo', the tiger is caged and has only a few steps to pace. His strength is behind the bars, he is an object of gaze, and he cannot roam or hunt. He is indifferent to visitors and longs for freedom.

      2 marks

    2. In 'How to Tell Wild Animals', the tiger is free in the jungle. He hunts freely and terrorises villagers, and he is seen as a large tawny beast.

      1 mark

    3. Expression: a clear contrast between captivity and freedom, with linking words, in about 100-120 words.

      2 marks

    4. Accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar.

      1 mark

    Answer: The zoo tiger is a caged, frustrated, powerless creature; the tiger in the jungle is free, fierce and feared.

    Where the marks are

    • Any three value points covering both poems (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10(b) on its own page

  6. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q11(a) · 6 marks · Long answerBholi

    Imagine you are Bholi and write a diary entry, explaining how you dare to take such a bold step of refusing to marry Bishamber. (Bholi)

    Answer in about 100-120 words.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: date, time and 'Dear Diary' (heading), with a signature at the end.

      1 mark

    2. Body: I agreed to marry an old man for my parents' sake. But Bishamber Nath was greedy and demanded dowry. He insulted my father, who had to place the bundle of money at his feet. I could not tolerate this and refused to marry him. Education had given me courage. I will become a teacher, serve my parents as an independent woman and make my teacher proud.

      3 marks

    3. Expression: coherent first-person account of about 100-120 words in a reflective tone.

      1 mark

    4. Accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar.

      1 mark

    Answer: Diary entry explaining Bholi's refusal of Bishamber Nath and her decision to teach and serve her parents.

    Where the marks are

    • Diary format (1 mark)
    • Three value points (3 marks)
    • Organisation and style (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11(a) on its own page

    OR

    Q11(b) · 6 marks · Long answerA Triumph of Surgery

    In the story, 'A Triumph of Surgery', a wealthy woman's nonsensical behaviour, is depicted. Do you think such individuals are merely displaying foolishness or could their actions potentially, inflict harm upon others ? Support your answer from the text.

    Answer in about 100-120 words.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Stance: Such individuals' foolishness can seriously harm others. Mrs Pumphrey's over-pampering made Tricki ill.

      1 mark

    2. She ignored the doctor's advice and overfed him. Tricki became fat like a bloated sausage, with bloodshot, rheumy eyes and a lolling tongue, and he could not walk properly. He vomited and lay on the rug. He might have died had Dr Herriot not taken him away.

      2 marks

    3. Conclusion and expression: her love was blind, and thoughtless behaviour harms those depending on us; well organised in about 100-120 words.

      2 marks

    4. Accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar.

      1 mark

    Answer: Such foolishness can be harmful, as Mrs Pumphrey's over-pampering nearly killed Tricki.

    Where the marks are

    • Any three value points from the text (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11(b) on its own page

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