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CBSE Class 10 English 2026 Question Paper (2/1/1) Solved

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EnglishCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2026 (session 2025-26)

CBSE Class 10 English: 2026 board paper, set 2/1/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2026, 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/2026/X/English_Language_Literature.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 2-1-1_English (Lang. & Lit.).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
A1-2Section A: Reading Skills (20 marks); two passages with 10 marks each
B3-5Section B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills (20 marks); Q3 grammar 10x1, Q4 and Q5 creative writing with internal choice
C6-11Section C: Literature Text Book (40 marks); internal choices in Q6-Q11

Instructions in brief: All questions are compulsory; the paper has three sections (A Reading Skills, B Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, C Literature Text Book); attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part, with OR choices in Q4, Q5, Q6, Q7 and 'any one/any four/any two' options in Q8-Q11.

Section A

Section A: Reading Skills (20 marks); two passages with 10 marks each

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

    Read the following text:

    (1) Pancakes, a beloved breakfast dish across the world, has a surprisingly long and diverse history. Archaeological evidence shows that people were cooking pancake as food as far back as 30,000 years ago on hot stones and primitive griddles.

    (2) In ancient Greece and Rome, pancakes were made from wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk. They were often served as a sweet treat during festivals or special occasions. In medieval Europe, pancakes became a popular dish during Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent began. In France, thin crepes became a national delicacy, often filled with sweet or savoury ingredients. In Russia, blinis were made using buckwheat flour and served with sour cream or caviar. In Ethiopia, the spongy injera became a staple food, made from teff flour and used as both a plate and utensil. Similarly, in China, pancakes are often savoury while in Japan, fluffy "soufflé pancakes" have become a modern favourite.

    (3) The American version of pancakes, thick and soft, gained popularity in the 18th century. The use of baking powder made them light and airy, and they were often served with butter and maple syrup – a symbol of hearty comfort food. Over time, pancakes became a universal dish, symbolizing community and celebration. Whether sweet or savoury, thick or thin, every culture has found a way to adapt this simple food to its own taste and traditions.

    (4) India has its own rich tradition of similar dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries. Across the country, almost every region has a version of a pancake – whether sweet or savoury – made from grains, pulses, or rice. These Indian pancakes not only satisfy hunger but also reflect the diversity of India's culinary culture. In South India, dosas and adai are the most famous forms of pancakes. Made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, dosas are crisp and light, while adai is thicker and more filling. The fermentation process adds a unique sour flavor and makes them nutritious and easy to digest. In Kerala, the appam, made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk, is soft in the center and crispy at the edges. Moving north, we find the western style cheela, a simple and wholesome Indian pancake made from gram flour, spiced with onions, chillies and coriander. In Maharashtra, the thalipeeth is a multigrain pancake that uses flours like jowar, bajra and rice mixed with spices and vegetables. It is both flavorful and filling, providing a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins.

    (5) In the eastern parts of India, pitha is a traditional pancake made during festivals and special occasions. Varieties like patishapta in Bengal are sweet, filled with coconut and jaggery. In Assam and Odisha, pithas can be steamed, fried, or roasted, depending on the custom and region. In the western deserts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, people prepare chilla and handvo, which are savoury western pancake-like dishes baked in traditional ovens. These pancakes are a blank canvas for toppings, waiting for a splash of fruit or a scattering of condiments.

    (6) Today, pancakes continue to evolve with new recipes, from vegan and gluten-free varieties to those infused with fruits, oats, or even protein powder. Despite their many forms, they remain a timeless reminder of how food connects mankind through shared history and creativity. Each pancake tells a story of regional identity, food traditions and a deep love for food that brings people together. Pancakes are warm, edible hugs that are a perfect comfort on a bleak day.

    Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:

    1. I.

      In paragraph 1, what does the phrase 'has a surprisingly long and diverse history' mean?

      1 mark
    2. II.

      Complete the following with the correct option from the two given:
      The uniqueness of the spongy injera, is that ________.
      (A) it is both a savoury and a sweet
      (B) it can be used for cooking and also for eating
      (Paragraph 2)

      1. (A)it is both a savoury and a sweet
      2. (B)it can be used for cooking and also for eating
      1 mark
    3. III.

      How are American pancakes made light and fluffy? When did the American-style pancakes gain popularity? (Paragraph 3)

      2 marks
    4. IV.

      State whether the following statement is True or False:
      Every culture has adopted the pancake and tempered it with its own ingredients, flavour and taste. (Paragraph 3)

      1 mark
    5. V.

      The writer mentions 'fermentation process'. Based on the information given in the passage, which of the following pancakes are made from the fermentation process?

      1. (A)Dosa and appam
      2. (B)Chilla and thalipeeth
      3. (C)Blinis and soufflé
      4. (D)Pitha and patishapta
      1 mark
    6. VII.

      List any two points from the passage that support the statement, 'pancakes are a timeless reminder of how food connects people.' (Paragraph 6)

      2 marks
    7. VIII.

      Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given:
      In the line 'warm, edible hugs that are a perfect comfort on a bleak day' the phrase 'warm, edible hugs' refers to ________. (Paragraph 6)

      1. (A)comfort food that provides a sense of emotional security
      2. (B)the pancake that represents the history of the region
      3. (C)the choice of eating hot steaming pancakes
      4. (D)the food that gives you energy
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. The phrase means that, to our surprise, pancake-like food has existed for a very long time (about 30,000 years), in many places and in many forms.

      1 mark

    2. II. (B) it can be used for cooking and also for eating. Para 2 says injera is both a plate and a utensil, so it serves as food and as the thing you eat with.

      1 mark

    3. III. Baking powder makes American pancakes light and fluffy.

      1 mark

    4. III. American-style pancakes gained popularity in the 18th century.

      1 mark

    5. IV. True. Para 3 says every culture has adapted this simple food to its own taste and traditions.

      1 mark

    6. V. (A) Dosa and appam. Para 4 says dosas are made from fermented rice-and-lentil batter and appam from fermented rice batter.

      1 mark

    7. VII. Food connects mankind through shared history and creativity.

      1 mark

    8. VII. Each pancake tells a story of regional identity and food traditions and of a deep love for food that brings people together. (Alternatively: pancakes are warm, edible hugs that comfort on a bleak day.)

      1 mark

    9. VIII. (A) comfort food that provides a sense of emotional security. The metaphor says pancakes comfort us like a hug on a gloomy day.

      1 mark

    Answer: I. Pancake-like food has existed for ages, in many places and forms; II. B; III. Baking powder; 18th century; IV. True; V. A; VII. Food connects people through shared history and creativity; each pancake tells a story of regional identity and traditions; VIII. A

    Where the marks are

    • I: meaning of the phrase, long existence in many forms (1 mark)
    • II: option B (1 mark)
    • III: baking powder (1 mark) and 18th century (1 mark)
    • IV: True (1 mark)
    • V: option A (1 mark)
    • VII: any two points from para 6 (2 marks)
    • VIII: option A (1 mark)

    Open Q1 on its own page

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

    Read the following text:

    (1) Rate of Internet Reach in India: 2014-2024
    The rate of internet reach in India rose over 52% in 2024 from about 14% in 2014. Although these figures seem relatively low, it meant that more than half of the population of 1.4 billion people had internet access that year. This also ranked the country second in the world in terms of active internet users.

    (2) Internet availability and accessibility
    By 2021 the number of internet connections across the country tripled in urban areas because of a higher density of population leading to an increase in the number of connections. However, despite of incredibly low internet prices, internet usage in India has yet to reach its full potential. Lack of awareness about the internet in India persists, especially in rural areas and among women, driven by digital divide, infrastructure limitations, and a lack of perceived need for the internet. This hinders digital adoption, with many not knowing how to use the internet or even being aware of its existence. Targeted awareness campaigns and digital literacy programs are crucial to bridge this gap and ensure people understand and can benefit from the digital ecosystem.

    (3) Digital living
    Home to one of the largest bases of netizens in the world, India is abuzz with internet activities being carried out every moment of every day. From information and research to shopping and entertainment to living in smart homes, Indians have welcomed digital living with open arms.

    S. No.YearPercentage
    1.201724.0
    2.201828.5
    3.201933.7
    4.202043.4
    5.202146.3
    6.202248.1
    7.202351.5
    8.202452.4
    9.202555.3

    Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:

    1. I.

      What does the use of the term "active internet users" convey?

      1. (A)Active people who use internet
      2. (B)Active people who use active internet
      3. (C)People who use active internet
      4. (D)People who use internet actively
      1 mark
    2. II.

      Select the option that is true for the Assertion and Reason given below:
      Assertion: India is home to one of the largest bases of netizens in the world.
      Reason: Lack of awareness and a tangible gender gap lie at the heart of the matter.

      1. (A)Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
      2. (B)Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
      3. (C)The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
      4. (D)The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
      1 mark
    3. III.

      Identify the word that indicates that internet reach is 'comparatively' low. (Paragraph 1)

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      Based on the table which of the following time period illustrates the maximum internet usage?

      1. (A)2017 to 2020
      2. (B)2023 to 2025
      3. (C)2020 to 2023
      4. (D)2019 to 2022
      1 mark
    5. V.

      From the passage identify one reason why there are less internet users among women?

      1 mark
    6. VII.

      Complete the following with a suitable reason:
      An increase in the number of connections in urban areas is because of ________.

      1 mark
    7. VIII.

      Which are the two ways to bridge the gap of digital unawareness?

      2 marks
    8. IX.

      In the context of the last paragraph how does the author justify the statement, 'Indians have welcomed digital living with open arms'.

      1 mark

    Figure in the paper: A table titled 'Rate of Internet Reach in India' with columns S. No., Year and Percentage: 2017 24.0; 2018 28.5; 2019 33.7; 2020 43.4; 2021 46.3; 2022 48.1; 2023 51.5; 2024 52.4; 2025 55.3. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. (D) People who use internet actively. The phrase means users who are active on the internet.

      1 mark

    2. II. (B). Both statements are true, but the lack of awareness and the gender gap do not explain why India has so many netizens.

      1 mark

    3. III. The word is 'relatively'.

      1 mark

    4. IV. (B) 2023 to 2025. Usage rose from 51.5 to 55.3 (pointing to the highest levels). Option C (2020 to 2023) is also accepted by the scheme.

      1 mark

    5. V. One reason is lack of awareness (also acceptable: the digital divide, infrastructure limitations, or no perceived need for the internet).

      1 mark

    6. VII. A higher density of population in urban areas.

      1 mark

    7. VIII. Targeted awareness campaigns.

      1 mark

    8. VIII. Digital literacy programs.

      1 mark

    9. IX. India is abuzz with internet activity every moment of every day: research, information, shopping, entertainment and smart homes all depend on the internet.

      1 mark

    Answer: I. D; II. B; III. relatively; IV. B; V. lack of awareness; VII. higher population density; VIII. awareness campaigns and digital literacy programs; IX. Internet is used in all aspects of daily life

    Where the marks are

    • I: D (1 mark)
    • II: B (1 mark)
    • III: relatively (1 mark)
    • IV: B or C (1 mark)
    • V: any one reason (1 mark)
    • VII: higher density of population (1 mark)
    • VIII: two ways (2 marks)
    • IX: justification from para 3 (1 mark)

    Open Q2 on its own page

Section B

Section B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills (20 marks); Q3 grammar 10x1, Q4 and Q5 creative writing with internal choice

  1. Q3 · 10 marks · GrammarGrammar

    Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed: 10×1 = 10

    1. I.

      Fill in the blank with correct option to complete a message from Yogita to her friend Shobit:
      Dear Shobit,
      Let's meet at 5 p.m. for the rehearsal but I need to go home first as I ________ anything since morning.
      (A) did not eat
      (B) had not eaten
      (C) have not eaten
      (D) am not eating

      1. (A)did not eat
      2. (B)had not eaten
      3. (C)have not eaten
      4. (D)am not eating
      1 mark
    2. II.

      Read the given sentence from a self-help book. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given format:
      To identifying your goal is the biggest step in your success story.

      ErrorCorrection
        
      1 mark
    3. III.

      Yamini asked her friend Shifa, "Would you like to come for my birthday party tomorrow?"
      Report Yamini's question correctly.

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete a newspaper clipping:
      The verdict is yet to come since the members of the jury ________ (is/are) divided in their opinion.

      1 mark
    5. V.

      Read Somil's request to his mother:
      "Can you teach me to swim?"
      Report Somil's request by completing the following sentence correctly:
      Somil asked his mother ________.

      1 mark
    6. VII.

      Complete the given line from 'Rules and Regulations' section of a school diary:
      Minimum 75% attendance is ________ to appear for the final examinations.

      1. (A)recorded
      2. (B)mandatory
      3. (C)secured
      4. (D)obtained
      1 mark
    7. VIII.

      Detect the error and supply the correction for the given newspaper report on a proposal by a Member of Advisory Board:
      After the meeting it was obvious that most stakeholders would not support ________ proposals.

      1. (A)this
      2. (B)that
      3. (C)the
      4. (D)these
      1 mark
    8. IX.

      Report the dialogue between a flight attendant and a passenger by filling in the blank:
      Attendant: Did you have your dinner, sir?
      Passenger: Yes, thank you!
      The flight attendant asked the passenger ________. The passenger replied in affirmation and thanked him.

      1 mark
    9. X.

      Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from the memoir of your grandparent:
      'When I was the team Captain, I ________ often organise get-togethers to develop bonding among the team mates.'
      (A) could
      (B) will
      (C) shall
      (D) would

      1. (A)could
      2. (B)will
      3. (C)shall
      4. (D)would
      1 mark
    10. XI.

      Complete the given sentence about the reaction of a tourist to another, by selecting the correct option:
      Yesterday you loved the spicy Indian curry, ________ you?
      (A) hasn't
      (B) weren't
      (C) did
      (D) didn't

      1. (A)hasn't
      2. (B)weren't
      3. (C)did
      4. (D)didn't
      1 mark
    11. XII.

      Read the conversation between a professional writer and a school student:
      Student: What prompted you to become a professional writer?
      Writer: My childhood library housed books of all kinds. I was fascinated with the compelling stories and wanted to create my own.
      Report the student's question.

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. (C) have not eaten. 'Since morning' with a link to the present takes the present perfect.

      1 mark

    2. II. Error: identifying. Correction: identify. 'To' is followed by the base form of the verb.

      1 mark

    3. III. Yamini asked her friend Shifa if she would like to come for her birthday party the next day.

      1 mark

    4. IV. are. 'Members' is plural.

      1 mark

    5. V. Somil asked his mother if she could teach him to swim.

      1 mark

    6. VII. (B) mandatory. It means compulsory.

      1 mark

    7. VIII. (D) these. 'Proposals' is plural, so it needs a plural determiner.

      1 mark

    8. IX. The flight attendant asked the passenger if he had had his dinner.

      1 mark

    9. X. (D) would. It expresses a past habit.

      1 mark

    10. XI. (D) didn't. The statement is positive and in the simple past, so the tag is negative.

      1 mark

    11. XII. The student asked the writer what had prompted him/her to become a professional writer.

      1 mark

    Answer: I. C; II. identifying→identify; III. if she would like to come for her birthday party the next day; IV. are; V. if she could teach him to swim; VII. B; VIII. D; IX. if he had had his dinner; X. D; XI. D; XII. what had prompted him/her to become a professional writer

    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

    You are Divya/Divij Kumar, Director, Nurturing India, an organization providing skill education to youth. You believe that today's youth needs vocational and skill education that will encourage an independent and entrepreneurial lifestyle. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily expressing your views on the need and importance of skill education in creating employability and a self-employed independent generation.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address, date, receiver (The Editor, [Name of Daily], City), subject line 'Need for skill education among youth', salutation 'Sir/Madam', and a closing of 'Yours faithfully' with the name and designation.

      1 mark

    2. Content, the issue: I am Divya Kumar, Director of Nurturing India. Many young people hold degrees but lack vocational and entrepreneurial skills. There is a wide gap between education and employment, and degrees without practical knowledge do not bring jobs.

      1 mark

    3. Content, the benefits: Skill education bridges the gap between education and employment. It builds responsibility, confidence and problem-solving ability, and promotes entrepreneurship, so youth can become job creators rather than job seekers and lead independent lives.

      1 mark

    4. Organisation: formal tone, an introduction stating the purpose, paragraphs for the problem and the benefits, and a closing appeal to schools and the government to include vocational training in the curriculum.

      1 mark

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

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter to the editor on the need for skill education, with the issue, its benefits, and an appeal

    Where the marks are

    • Format (1 mark)
    • Content: issue highlighted with two points (1 mark)
    • Content: benefits with two points (1 mark)
    • Organisation of ideas (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q4(A) on its own page

    OR

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

    You are Nirmala / Nirmal, a resident of Jhunjhunu Colony. Recently there have been a series of accidents and petty crimes in your colony. One of the reasons is poor street lighting. Write a letter to the Commissioner of the Works department, drawing attention to the urgent need to install street lights to avoid further crimes and accidents.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Format: sender's address, date, receiver (The Commissioner, Works Department, City), subject 'Urgent need for street lights in Jhunjhunu Colony', salutation 'Sir', and a closing of 'Yours faithfully' with the name.

      1 mark

    2. Content, the issue: Poor visibility at night has led to frequent accidents in our colony. Chain snatching, theft and harassment are rising in the dark streets, and women, children and the elderly feel unsafe. Many existing streetlights do not work.

      1 mark

    3. Content, the solution: Please install new street lights immediately, repair and maintain the existing ones regularly, and arrange regular patrolling by local guards.

      1 mark

    4. Organisation: formal tone, paragraphs for the introduction, the problem and the request, and a closing line asking for urgent action.

      1 mark

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

      1 mark

    Answer: A formal letter to the Commissioner, Works Department, on the urgent need for street lights, with the problems and the solutions

    Where the marks are

    • Format (1 mark)
    • Content: issue with two points (1 mark)
    • Content: solutions with two points (1 mark)
    • Organisation of ideas (1 mark)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q4(B) on its own page

  3. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q5(A) · 5 marks · WritingWriting Skills

    Improvements in sports infrastructure with a focus on multi-purpose sustainable facilities as well as the integration of technology along with a grassroot centric approach is the key to bring Indian athletes on the world stage.

    Write an analytical paragraph on the above statement in about 120 words, expressing your views on how improved infrastructure can help Indian athletes win accolades for the nation.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: Improved sports infrastructure gives athletes quality training grounds, which raises standards and the chance of winning medals. Multipurpose sustainable facilities serve many sports at a lower cost and are environmentally friendly. Technology such as performance analytics and video analysis helps in training, injury prevention and tactics. A grassroot-centric approach finds talent in villages and small towns and nurtures it early, so the talent pool widens.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: a single formal paragraph with a thesis opening, linked with words like 'moreover', 'in addition', 'however' and 'therefore', and a concluding view.

      2 marks

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

      1 mark

    Answer: A single analytical paragraph of about 120 words on how improved infrastructure, technology and grassroot focus can help Indian athletes win accolades

    Where the marks are

    • Content: at least four points analysed (2 marks)
    • Organisation: single paragraph with linkers (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(A) on its own page

    OR

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

    Read the following details about the characteristics of the Indian start-up ecosystem:
    1. one of the most vibrant and largest in the world.
    2. drives innovation across various fields.
    3. brings unique solutions to major challenges both domestic and international.
    4. has entered various fields - healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture.
    5. supported by funding and government initiatives.

    In about 120 words analyse the future of startups in India considering factors that have supported its growth in the country. Focus on aspects of the need, benefits, and support needed for these startups.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Content: India's startup ecosystem is among the most vibrant and largest in the world. Startups are needed because they drive innovation, create jobs and offer unique solutions to domestic and global challenges. They have entered healthcare, e-commerce and agriculture, and their benefits will grow as they spread to more fields. Funding and government initiatives have supported this growth, and future success will need continued capital, simpler regulation, mentoring and skill development.

      2 marks

    2. Organisation: a single formal paragraph with an opening statement on the future, linkers such as 'therefore', 'moreover' and 'however', and a forward-looking conclusion.

      2 marks

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

      1 mark

    Answer: A single analytical paragraph of about 120 words on the promising future of Indian startups, covering need, benefits and support

    Where the marks are

    • Content: at least four points analysed (2 marks)
    • Organisation: single paragraph with linkers (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(B) on its own page

Section C

Section C: Literature Text Book (40 marks); internal choices in Q6-Q11

  1. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q6(A) · 6 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedNelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

    (A) We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation. We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. Never, never, and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another. The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement.
    (Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

    1. I.

      What is the tone Nelson Mandela is UNLIKELY to have used in his speech?

      1. (A)inspirational
      2. (B)assertive
      3. (C)conflicted
      4. (D)direct
      1 mark
    2. II.

      According to Mandela, emancipation is not merely political. Elaborate.

      2 marks
    3. III.

      Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket:
      Mandela's speech swings between references to the past and a ________ (bleak/promising) future.

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      With reference to the extract explain the sentence, "The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement."

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (I) (C) conflicted. Mandela's speech is inspirational, assertive and direct. It is firm and hopeful, with no inner conflict or doubt.

      1 mark

    2. (II) Emancipation is not only political freedom. It also means freeing all people from poverty and deprivation.

      1 mark

    3. It also means freeing them from suffering and from discrimination based on gender and other grounds.

      1 mark

    4. (III) promising

      1 mark

    5. (IV) It means that South Africa's hard-won freedom and democracy will last forever. The country will never again suffer oppression of one group by another.

      1 mark

    Answer: (I) C; (II) freedom from poverty, deprivation, suffering and discrimination; (III) promising; (IV) democracy and freedom will endure for ever.

    Where the marks are

    • Option C (1 mark)
    • Two aspects of non-political emancipation (2 marks)
    • promising (1 mark)
    • Explains the sentence (1 mark)

    Open Q6(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q6(B) · 6 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedThe Book that Saved the Earth

    (B) OOP: I haven't a clue. I've been to seven galaxies, but I've never seen anything like this. Maybe they're hats. (He opens a book and puts it on his head.) Say, maybe this is a haberdashery!
    OMEGA: (bowing low) Perhaps the Great and Mighty Think-Tank will give us the benefit of his thought on the matter.
    THINK-TANK: Elementary, my dear Omega. Hold one of the items up so that I may view it closely. (Omega holds a book on the palm of her hand.) Yes, yes, I understand now. Since Earth creatures are always eating, the place in which you find yourselves is undoubtedly a crude refreshment stand.
    OMEGA: (to Iota and Oop) He says we're in a refreshment stand.
    OOP: Well, the Earthlings certainly have a strange diet.
    (The Book that Saved the Earth)

    1. I.

      "Elementary, my dear Omega." What is Think-Tank's tone in the sentence?

      1. (A)patronising
      2. (B)admonishing
      3. (C)ironic
      4. (D)sarcastic
      1 mark
    2. II.

      Why does Omega call Think-Tank great and mighty?

      2 marks
    3. III.

      Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket:
      After viewing the book closely, Think-Tank concludes that Earth creatures ________ (enjoy/dislike) eating food.

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      Why does Oop open the book and put it on his head?

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (I) (A) patronising. Think-Tank speaks in a condescending, superior way to Omega.

      1 mark

    2. (II) Omega addresses him so as a mark of respect, and to flatter him.

      1 mark

    3. She also acknowledges his supposed superior wisdom and knowledge, which are his strength.

      1 mark

    4. (III) enjoy

      1 mark

    5. (IV) Oop cannot identify the object and guesses that books are hats, so he wears one on his head to test this.

      1 mark

    Answer: (I) A; (II) respect, flattery and recognition of his supposed wisdom; (III) enjoy; (IV) he mistakes a book for a hat.

    Where the marks are

    • Option A (1 mark)
    • Two reasons for 'great and mighty' (2 marks)
    • enjoy (1 mark)
    • Oop mistakes the book for a hat (1 mark)

    Open Q6(B) on its own page

  2. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q7(A) · 6 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedFire and Ice

    (A) Some say the world will end in fire some say in ice.
    From what I've tasted of desire
    I hold with those who favour fire.
    (Stanza 1)

    But if it had to perish twice,
    I think I know enough of hate
    To say that for destruction ice
    Is also great
    And would suffice.
    (Fire and Ice)

    1. I.

      Complete the following suitably:
      According to Robert Frost, fire refers to ________.

      1 mark
    2. II.

      Why does the poet believe both fire and ice can destroy the world equally?

      2 marks
    3. III.

      Fill the blank with one word:
      In the line "But if it has to perish twice", 'it' refers to the ________.

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      Select the option with same rhyme scheme as lines in Stanza 1:
      (A) They are all gone away,
      The House is shut and still,
      There is nothing more to say.
      (B) Tell me not, in mournful numbers,
      Life is but an empty dream!
      For the soul is dead that slumbers.
      (C) The dog chased the ball down the lane,
      He ran with such incredible speed,
      His tail was a blur, a joyful glee.
      (D) The Sun is high,
      The clouds drift past,
      In the blue sky which is so vast.

      1. (A)They are all gone away, / The House is shut and still, / There is nothing more to say.
      2. (B)Tell me not, in mournful numbers, / Life is but an empty dream! / For the soul is dead that slumbers.
      3. (C)The dog chased the ball down the lane, / He ran with such incredible speed, / His tail was a blur, a joyful glee.
      4. (D)The Sun is high, / The clouds drift past, / In the blue sky which is so vast.
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (I) According to Robert Frost, fire refers to violent desire, passion, greed or lust.

      1 mark

    2. (II) Fire stands for desire, avarice and passion. From his own experience the poet knows that these burn quickly and can turn destructive if left unchecked.

      1 mark

    3. Ice stands for hatred, coldness and indifference. These slowly damage personal bonds, families, friendships and societies, so ice too is great enough for destruction and 'would suffice'.

      1 mark

    4. (III) world

      1 mark

    5. (IV) (D). As printed, Stanza 1 ends in 'ice / desire / fire', a rhyme scheme of a-b-b. Option D ends in 'high / past / vast': line 1 stands alone, and lines 2 and 3 rhyme, giving the same a-b-b pattern.

      1 mark

    Answer: (I) desire/passion/greed; (II) fire (desire, passion) and ice (hatred, indifference) are both powerful destructive forces; (III) world; (IV) D

    Where the marks are

    • Fire = violent desire/passion/greed (1 mark)
    • Fire as desire/passion explained as destructive (1 mark)
    • Ice as hatred/indifference explained as destructive (1 mark)
    • 'it' = world (1 mark)
    • Option (D), rhyme scheme a-b-b like ice/desire/fire (1 mark)

    Open Q7(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q7(B) · 6 marks · Reading comprehensionCompetency-basedHow to Tell Wild Animals

    (B) Though to distinguish beasts of prey
    A novice might nonplus,
    The crocodile you always may
    Tell from the Hyena thus:
    Hyenas come with merry smiles
    But if they weep they're crocodiles.
    (How to tell Wild Animals)

    1. I.

      What is the most likely reason the poet uses the word 'nonplus' instead of confused?

      1 mark
    2. II.

      Explain the irony in the last two lines of the stanza.

      2 marks
    3. III.

      Fill in the blank with one word:
      The word 'novice' signifies a/an ________ person.

      1 mark
    4. IV.

      What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines?
      Select the correct option:
      1. humorous 2. mysterious 3. aggressive 4. confusing 5. fearful
      (A) 1 and 4
      (B) Only 5
      (C) 1, 2 and 3
      (D) 4 and 5

      1. (A)1 and 4
      2. (B)Only 5
      3. (C)1, 2 and 3
      4. (D)4 and 5
      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (I) 'Nonplus' rhymes with 'thus' and also conveys a deeper sense of bewilderment. The poet uses poetic licence for rhyme and effect.

      1 mark

    2. (II) The animals' outward features do not match their nature, so the attributes do not reveal their personalities.

      1 mark

    3. The hyena seems to smile and the crocodile seems to weep, yet both are deadly. The 'tell-tale sign' is useless.

      1 mark

    4. (III) inexperienced

      1 mark

    5. (IV) (A) 1 and 4: humorous and confusing.

      1 mark

    Answer: (I) for rhyme and deeper sense of confusion; (II) smiling hyena and weeping crocodile are both dangerous; (III) inexperienced; (IV) A

    Where the marks are

    • Reason for nonplus (1 mark)
    • Irony explained (2 marks)
    • inexperienced (1 mark)
    • Option A (1 mark)

    Open Q7(B) on its own page

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

    Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words each: 4×3 = 12

    1. I.

      Lencho's last letter to God depicts astute faith on one level and irony on the other. Bring about the element of faith and irony in the situation. (A Letter to God)

      3 marks
    2. II.

      "Mijbil the Otter" sensitises human beings especially city people to wildlife. What emotions are conveyed through the association of Mijbil and Maxwell?

      3 marks
    3. III.

      What is the contribution of the extended metaphor in the poem "Fog"?

      3 marks
    4. IV.

      How does "Madam Rides the Bus" bring alive Valli's attributes and experiences through its narrative style?

      3 marks
    5. V.

      Explain why time is probably one of the most valuable possessions that one intensely regrets losing. (The Ball Poem)

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. Lencho's faith is astute, as he trusts God to help after the hailstorm and writes asking for 100 pesos. He never doubts the money will come. The irony is that he calls the post office employees, who helped him, 'a bunch of crooks'.

      3 marks

    2. II. Mijbil and Maxwell's bond conveys the warmth of friendship and the thrill of exploring wildlife. It evokes joy and a close connection with nature.

      3 marks

    3. III. The poet compares fog to a cat, making it mysterious and alive. 'Comes on little cat feet... sits looking over the city' humanises it. It also suggests nature's quiet, pervasive presence.

      3 marks

    4. IV. The anecdotal narrative follows Valli's bus journey and her talks with passengers. Vivid description shows her joy and awe. The irony and contrast of the dead cow incident show her growth from an innocent girl to a mature person.

      3 marks

    5. V. Time stands for childhood and memories, symbolised by the ball. Lost time cannot be recovered. The boy must take responsibility and accept loss as part of growing up.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any four of the five answers above (each 3 marks).

    Where the marks are

    • Two relevant points with textual evidence (2 marks each answer)
    • Clear expression (1 mark each answer)

    Open Q8 on its own page

  4. Q9 · 6 marks · Long answerThe Making of a Scientist

    Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words each: 2×3 = 6

    1. I.

      Working through his project of collecting and tagging butterflies, Ebright developed a scientific temperament. Elaborate. (Making of a Scientist)

      3 marks
    2. II.

      Mention how Ausable was always one step ahead of everyone. (The Midnight Visitor)

      3 marks
    3. III.

      Mention any two reasons that substantiate that Bholi's mother was a negative presence in her life. (Bholi)

      3 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. Tagging butterflies taught Ebright patience, observation and systematic record-keeping. His curiosity grew from collecting to questioning. Meeting Dr Urquhart fuelled his imagination, and his shift from hobby to deep engagement shows scientific temperament.

      3 marks

    2. II. Ausable was spontaneous and witty, inventing a convincing balcony story. As a spy he stayed alert. He handled Max calmly and used the police trick to trap him, showing presence of mind.

      3 marks

    3. III. Bholi's mother neglected her and ignored her education. She called her a 'dumb cow' and saw her as a burden. She sent her to school only to be rid of her and tried to marry her to a greedy old man.

      3 marks

    Answer: Any two of the three answers above (each 3 marks).

    Where the marks are

    • Two relevant points with textual evidence (2 marks each answer)
    • Clear expression (1 mark each answer)

    Open Q9 on its own page

  5. Q10 · 6 marks · Long answerA Tiger in the Zoo

    Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words:

    1. I.

      Examine the similarities and differences between the tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" and the dragon in "The Tale of Custard the Dragon".

      0 marks
    2. II.

      "The Sermon at Benaras" and "For Anne Gregory", deal with the themes of 'love' and 'life'. Discuss.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. Similarities: both the tiger and Custard are powerful, fearsome creatures. Both are confined to places that are not their habitat and are emotionally isolated, which evokes sympathy. Differences: the tiger is forcibly caged, while Custard chooses a safe cage for himself. The tiger never gets to prove his strength, while Custard shows his bravery against the pirate. The tiger's plight is tragic (human control over wildlife), while Custard's is comic (appearances are deceptive).

      6 marks

    2. II. In 'The Sermon at Benaras', Kisa Gotami's love for her son is selfish. Buddha shows that excessive attachment brings suffering, and that accepting life and death gives peace. 'For Anne Gregory' shows that physical love is short-lived, while spiritual love transcends the material. Both texts show that clinging to beauty, youth or life causes suffering, and that acceptance and spiritual realisation bring true peace.

      6 marks

    Answer: Attempt either I or II (6 marks).

    Where the marks are

    • Three points, with at least one from each aspect (3 marks)
    • Balanced comparison and synthesis (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q10 on its own page

  6. Q11 · 6 marks · Long answerA Triumph of Surgery

    Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words:

    1. I.

      Evaluate how "A Triumph of Surgery" is a lesson in thoughtful parenting.

      0 marks
    2. II.

      Evaluate how "The Necklace" critiques the obsession with appearances and social status.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. I. Mrs Pumphrey's excessive love nearly kills Tricki. She mistakes indulgence for care, so he becomes a bloated sausage with rheumy eyes. Even at the surgery she sends eggs, brandy and treats. She ignores Herriot's advice on exercise and fewer chocolates. The lesson is that love without discipline harms, and real care means setting boundaries and saying no.

      6 marks

    2. II. Matilda borrows a diamond necklace to look rich and loses it. She spends ten years in poverty repaying the debt, sacrificing her youth and health for one night. The twist is that the necklace was fake, which is ironic. She equates worth with wealth and status. The story critiques pride and superficiality, and shows that true worth lies in contentment.

      6 marks

    Answer: Attempt either I or II (6 marks).

    Where the marks are

    • Three points with textual evidence (3 marks)
    • Expression (2 marks)
    • Accuracy (1 mark)

    Open Q11 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.