English Literature and Grammar

ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE – Code No. 184

SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER

CLASS-X- (2025-26)

Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:

Read the instructions carefully and follow them:

SECTION A

READING SKILLS (20 marks)

1.Read the following passage.                                                                                                             10

1 The growing preference for indigenous craft items is a welcome trend in today’s globalised world, where mass-produced goods often dominate markets. These handcrafted products, rooted in the cultural and artistic traditions of their regions, offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They symbolise sustainability, support local economies, and preserve the heritage of diverse communities.

2 One of the primary reasons for choosing indigenous crafts is their eco-friendliness. Unlike factory-made products, most traditional crafts are created using natural, locally sourced materials. Artisans often employ time-tested methods that minimise waste and avoid harmful industrial processes. For example, pottery made from local clay, handwoven textiles using organic dyes, and bamboo-based crafts all have a much lower environmental footprint compared to their machine-made counterparts. By opting for these items, consumers indirectly contribute to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices.

3 Supporting indigenous crafts also strengthens local economies. Many artisans depend solely on their craft for livelihood, often working in small communities where opportunities for other forms of employment are limited. When people purchase their products, it provides a direct income to these artisans, empowering them and encouraging their craftsmanship. Initiatives like fair trade further ensure that artisans receive fair wages, fostering economic stability within their communities.

4 Moreover, indigenous craft items help preserve cultural heritage. Every handcrafted product carries a story—a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and skills passed down through generations. In India, whether it’s paintings, terracotta jewellery, sculptures, athangudi tiles, mud work frames or many others, each item reflects the unique identity of

its region. By choosing these crafts, people not only appreciate the artistry but also help keep these traditions alive in an era where cultural homogenisation threatens diversity.

5 In addition to their economic and cultural value, indigenous crafts add a personal touch to homes and wardrobes. Unlike mass-produced items, which often lack individuality, handcrafted products are unique. Each piece bears the imprint of the artisan’s effort, creativity, and dedication, making it special for the buyer.

6 However, the preference for indigenous crafts requires sustained efforts to thrive. Governments, organisations, and consumers all have roles to play. Policies that promote local craftsmanship, provide training to artisans, and create global platforms for showcasing their work can boost the visibility and demand for these products. Consumers, too, must actively seek out and invest in handmade crafts rather than opting for cheaper, factory-made alternatives. Choosing indigenous craft items is a meaningful step toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched world.

Created for academic usage / 403 words

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

I Why is the growing preference for indigenous craft items described as a ‘welcome trend’ in paragraph 1?                                                                                                                                          1

Ans. It is a welcome trend as it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.

II According to paragraph 1, the indigenous craft items have all of the following qualities EXCEPT being:                                                                                                                                                           1

A. handcrafted products

B. rooted in artistic traditions

 C. aesthetic in appeal

 D. easily accessible

Ans. D. easily accessible

III Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. The usage of locally sourced materials makes the indigenous crafts ________ (traditional / eco-friendly).   (Paragraph 2)                                                                                                                    1    

Ans. eco-friendly                                                                                                               

IV Select the option that is True from (a)-(c) given for what the phrase, ‘time-tested methods’ suggests in paragraph 2.

A. Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations

B. Artisans use outdated practices that are no longer relevant in today’s commercial markets.

C. Artisans follow techniques that prioritise speed and mass production over craftsmanship.  1

Ans. A. Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations

V Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a), (b)                           1

fair trade: fair wages:: _______ : _______                                                                 (Paragraph 3)

(a) employment: job security                                             (b) mass production : reduced prices  

Ans.    (a) employment: job security                                            

VI Why is supporting indigenous crafts considered an effective way to improve the economic conditions of small communities? (Paragraph 3)                                                                                2

Ans. As many artisans depend solely on their craft for livelihood since other forms of employment are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within these communities.  Further, when people purchase their products, it provides a direct income to these artisans.

VII What are the main ideas of paragraph 4 and paragraph 5?

i) Choosing indigenous crafts helps preserve cultural heritage

ii) Handcrafted products lack individuality.

iii) Indigenous crafts reflect the artisan’s creativity.

iv) Indigenous crafts promote uniformity by erasing regional differences in artistic traditions.

v) Cultural homogenisation encourages people to choose indigenous crafts over mass-produced goods.

Select the correct option.

Ans. C

VIII Why is it important for consumers to take an active role alongside government and organisations in sustaining indigenous crafts? (Paragraph 6)                                              2

Ans. It is important for consumers to take an active role as choosing indigenous craft items is a meaningful step toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched world. The efforts of the government and organisations may fail to translate into tangible benefits for artisans without the consumer’s active role.

2. Read the following passage.                                                                                                  10

1 A recent study conducted across two age groups—students aged 10–12 and 13–16—explored their preferences for ballpoint and micro-tip pens for various writing activities such as note-taking, examinations, and personal writing. The study aimed to understand trends in writing habits and the factors influencing pen selection among students.

2 The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes. Among students aged 10–12, 65% preferred ballpoint pens for note-taking, citing ease of use and affordability as key factors. However, 35% opted for micro-tip pens, valuing their precision and smooth writing. For examinations, ballpoint pens were the overwhelming choice, with 78% favouring them for their speed and reliability, while 22% stuck with micro-tip pens, appreciating their fine control.

3  In the 13–16 age group, preferences shifted slightly. For note-taking, 60% favoured micro-tip pens, highlighting their ability to produce neat, legible notes, while 40% continued to use ballpoint pens. During examinations, however, 70% still relied on ballpoint pens, indicating their consistency under time constraints. When it came to personal writing, such as journalling or creative tasks, 58% in this group chose micro-tip pens, appreciating the aesthetic appeal of finer lines, while 42% stuck with ballpoint pens for their convenience.

4  These findings point to the importance of understanding age-specific preferences and task requirements, enabling manufacturers to innovate products. Manufacturers could further explore incorporating hybrid features, such as pens offering the speed of ballpoint pens with the precision of micro-tip pens, to cater to a wider range of student preferences.

Created for academic usage / 250 words

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above

I Why did the study most likely focus on the two specific age groups of 10–12 and 13–16? (Paragraph 1)

This is so because these age groups ____.

A. represent the largest population of growing students.

B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.

C. were the easiest to survey across various schools.

D. have a natural preference for ballpoint pens.

Ans. B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.

II Identify the phrase in paragraph 1 that conveys the writer’s reference to the patterns or preferences observed in how students use pens for various writing tasks.                    1

Ans.  trends in writing habits

III Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. (Paragraph 2)

Geetha, aged 11, wishes to complete her practical file neatly, ensuring her work is legible and appealing. She is most likely to choose a micro-tip pen for this task because the ________ (speed / precision) offered by this type of pen helps produce tidy work.                                   1

Ans. Precision

IV What does the writer mean by ‘affordability’ while citing the high percentage of ball point pen usage? (Paragraph 2)                                                                                                                     1

Ans. The writer means to say that students can easily buy ball point pens as they are cost-effective and budget friendly.

V  Complete the following with the correct option.

When the writer says ‘distinct patterns’ in the line ‘The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes,’ of paragraph 3, s/he means that _______.

A. students in both age groups use pens in the same way for all the listed purposes.

B. the preferences for pens varied according to the students’ age and the type of writing task.

C. only micro-tip pens were popular across all writing tasks in the 13-16 age group.

D. students of all age groups preferred ballpoint pens for completing creative writing tasks.

Ans. B. the preferences for pens varied according to the students’ age and the type of writing task.

VI  Complete the following appropriately.

The one likely reason why more than 40% of students still chose ballpoint pens for creative tasks, even though micro-tip pens are better suited for such activities is __________________. (Paragraph 3)                                                                                                                                               1

Ans. They are cost effective, budget friendly and reliable.

VII How are ‘aesthetic appeal’ and ‘finer lines’ connected? (Paragraph 3)                                      1

Ans. Aesthetic appeal and finer lines are connected as fine lines create beautiful writings and diagrams which are pleasing to the eye.

VIII Elaborate how hybrid features in pens would lead to a commercially viable product.

(Paragraph 4)                                                                                                                                               2

Ans. When reliability and affordability of ball point pen is combined with the precision of micro-tip pens it would create a commercially viable product. As such a pen would meet the needs of  students for a vast number of tasks across different age groups it would be beneficial for the students and be commercially profitable for manufacturers due to a huge demand for such pens.

IX Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. (Paragraph 4)

Understanding age-specific preferences helps manufacturers design products that cater to the unique needs of different age groups, ensuring their products are both ________ as well as appealing.

Ans. useful

SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR  (20 marks)

GRAMMAR      

                                                                                                                                                                   10

3.Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.

I Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket for the given portion of a market research:

The special subscriptions of newspapers are well _____(illustrate), to make reading interesting for school students.                                                                                                       1

Ans. illustrated

II Identify the error and write the correction in the given sentence from a life skills’ book.

The road to success is not the bed of roses.

Use the given format.

Error	Correction

Ans.

Error	Correction
the	a

III Fill in the blank with the correct form of verb given in the brackets.

I’m so happy to see my plants again! They _____ (grow) so much since I last saw them.             1

Ans. have grown

IV Read the given statement.

They said to the guide, “We’d love to come here again next year.”

Report it correctly by completing the following.

They told the guide that _____.                                                                                                              1

Ans. …they would love to go there again the following year.

V Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the conclusion of a letter of placing order.

There would be no compromise _________the quality of items supplied.                                1

A. regards

B. regard

C. regardless

D. regarding

Ans. D. regarding

VI Report the following by completing the sentence correctly.

“Don’t try mending the trousers yourself,” she warned him.

She warned him _____.

Ans. not to try mending the trousers by himself

VII Complete the given opinion by filling the blank with correct option.

The experience of watching the movie left me _____ grateful for knowing the importance of being empathetic to others.                                                                                                               1

A. having felt

B. feeling

C. felt

D. feels

Ans. feeling

VIII The given question has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error and the correction.

Which kind of person does something like that?

Ans. A. Error- Which, Correction – what

IX Report the following question.

She said to her sister, “Are you joining us for lunch today?”                                                      1

Ans. She asked her sister whether she was joining them for lunch that day.

X Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in the brackets.

Everyone is saying that Farhana’s chances are bright in the upcoming tournament and she ______ (must / may) become the youngest football player ever.                                              1

Ans. may

XI Fill in the blank to complete the sentence in a teacher’s diary by choosing the correct option.

_____ student in the class submitted their assignment on time.                                               1

A. All

B. One

C. Every

D. A

Ans . C. Every

XII Choose the correct option to fill the blank.

I looked inside the bucket and saw there was ______water in it, so they had to add more to use. A. little

B. any

C. few

D. least

Ans. A. little

WRITING

NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.

4A

As Vaibhav, the Club in-charge of your school’s Ecology Club, you strongly believe in the importance of starting Eco-Clubs in schools in the rural areas surrounding your city to promote the preservation and conservation of nature. Write a letter to the Education Secretary of your city, in about 120 words, highlighting the significance of ecological awareness and suggesting the need to establish Eco-Clubs in these schools.                   5

Ans.

To

The Education Secretary

New Delhi

Sub: Proposal to Start Eco-Clubs in Rural Schools

Sir/Madam

As you are aware, there has been an alarming rise in pollution in our city in the last few years. I, firmly believe that starting Eco Club’s in the rural schools of surrounding areas will greatly benefit in conservation of nature, and help in curbing urban pollution to some extent.

It is of vital importance to foster ecological awareness among students from an early age. Eco clubs in rural areas would help in addressing the pressing environmental issues like pollution, deforestation and loss of bio-diversity. With support from the Education Department and through collaboration with NGO’s the rural Eco Clubs will contribute substantially in creating future environmentally conscious citizens.

Students in rural schools can easily engage in practical environmental activities like tree plantation and protection of flora and fauna. I therefore request you to take the necessary initiative and help in building a clean and green future.

Yours sincerely

Vaibhav

Club in-charge, Ecology Club

ABC Public School

OR

4B As Amitha, the Vice Head Girl of Vidya Mandir, you are aware of the increasing prevalence of cyber-attacks and unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies affecting individuals across all demographics. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily in about 120 words, stressing the urgent need to promote digital security among all age groups. Highlight the challenges posed by cyber threats and propose practical solutions to address this growing issue.                                                                                                                                 5

February 22, 20XX

Sub: Importance of Promoting digital security

Sir/ Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of the concerned authorities towards the urgent need to promote digital security among all age groups.

There has been an alarming rise in identity thefts, financial frauds and data breaches. Most of the victims of such cyber-crimes are vulnerable children, elderly, and untrained individuals. The ignorance about digital security makes them easy prey to phishing scams, malware and online predators.

Therefore, there is an urgent need for creating Digital Security Awareness across all age groups.  Schools, workplaces, and community organisations can help in spreading awareness by educating people about safe online practices and digital hygiene through digital literacy programmes for all age groups. This can be done by organising workshops, webinars, and public awareness campaigns on topics like strong password creation, recognising scams, and safe browsing habits. The Government must also implement of stricter cybersecurity laws.

The prevention of cyber-crime is only possible through collaborative efforts between individuals, organisations and the government. I request you to use the platform of the national daily to raise awareness about digital security and thereby contribute towards creating a safe and secure society.     

Yours sincerely

5A You are the President of the Debate Society in your school. Two guest speakers

–Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, have written to express their interest in participating in your upcoming debate competition. Below are excerpts from their letters.

Excerpt 1 …I am thrilled to express my interest in participating as a guest speaker at your school’s debate competition. With over 10 years of experience as a public speaker and debate coach, I have guided numerous students to success in national-level competitions. My approach focuses on encouraging critical thinking and fostering a passion for debating. I have previously spoken at various schools and universities, often receiving positive feedback for my engaging sessions and practical insights. I believe my experience and knowledge can inspire and empower your students to excel in debating. Best regards Mr. Rajan Sharma

Excerpt 2: …It would be a privilege to participate as a guest speaker at your school’s upcoming debate competition. I have participated in international debate forums and have won accolades for my arguments on global and social issues. My strength lies in connecting with young audiences and making debates relevant to real-world scenarios. I also emphasise how debating can improve public speaking, confidence, and interpersonal skills. I look forward to sharing my journey and experiences with your students to inspire them to use debating as a tool for personal growth. Yours sincerely Ms. Meera Kapoor

Analyse the information in a paragraph, justifying which guest speaker would be a better choice. Consider factors such as experience, relevance to the topic, and audience engagement.

Ans.

Option 1

Based on the letters from Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, Ms. Kapoor emerges as the better choice for the guest speaker at the school’s debate competition. While both candidates are experienced and skilled, Ms. Kapoor’s international accolades and ability to connect debating with real-world scenarios give her a distinct edge. Her focus on making debates relevant to global and social issues aligns well with the interests of high school students, offering them a broader perspective. Although Mr. Sharma has significant experience as a coach and speaker, his approach appears more focused on techniques rather than engaging students with relevant and inspiring real-world examples. Moreover, Ms. Kapoor’s emphasis on personal growth through debating resonates with the developmental needs of students. Her global exposure and relatability make her the ideal speaker to inspire and connect with the audience effectively.

Option 2:

Based on the letters from Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, Mr. Rajan emerges as the better choice for the guest speaker at the school’s debate competition. With over 10 years of experience as a debate coach and public speaker, Mr. Sharma brings unmatched expertise in nurturing critical thinking and fostering a passion for debating among students. His track record of guiding students to success in national-level competitions demonstrates his ability to deliver practical insights and techniques that directly contribute to debate performance. While Ms. Kapoor’s global exposure and focus on real-world relevance are commendable, Mr. Sharma’s hands-on experience in coaching students and making them competition-ready seems more aligned with the goals of the Debate Society. Additionally, his experience with school and university-level events ensures that he understands the aspects of connecting with high school audiences.

OR

5B  Jaspreet, class X, is known for her creativity, excellent communication skills, and ability to think outside the box. However, she sometimes struggles with time management and prefers collaborative efforts over working solo. She has been assigned an art-integrated project presentation and must choose a partner from Sunaina, Tabassum, and Alice. Below are the profiles of the three candidates.

Sunaina: Sunaina is highly disciplined and excels in meeting deadlines. She is known for her strong organisational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently. However, she is slightly reserved and prefers working in structured, predictable environments.

Tabassum: Tabassum is enthusiastic and spontaneous, with a talent for generating unique ideas. She is an excellent artist and thrives in creative settings. However, she occasionally struggles to stay focused on tasks and complete them on time.

Alice: Alice is confident and articulate, with a flair for delivering polished presentations. She is detail-oriented and ensures that the final product is of high quality. However, she sometimes prefers to take control and may overlook collaborative efforts.

Based on the features of each candidate, analyse and decide who would be the best partner for Jaspreet. Consider aspects such as complementary strengths, teamwork, and the project’s requirements.                                                                                                                                      5

Ans.

Option 1:

Sunaina emerges as the most appropriate partner for Jaspreet in the art-integrated project presentation as her qualities balance those of Jaspreet’s. Jaspreet’s creativity and communication skills make her an excellent presenter and idea generator, but her struggles with time management require a partner who can complement her weaknesses. Sunaina’s strong organisational skills and discipline ensure that tasks are completed on time and deadlines are met, which is crucial for the success of the project. Although Sunaina is slightly reserved, her preference for structure and predictability aligns well with Jaspreet’s collaborative working style, as Jaspreet can take the lead in brainstorming and presenting ideas while Sunaina ensures everything stays on track. While Tabassum is highly creative and spontaneous, her difficulty in staying focused may amplify Jaspreet’s challenges with time management, making her less suitable. Alice, on the other hand, excels in polished presentations, but her tendency to dominate and prioritise control may conflict with Jaspreet’s collaborative preferences.

Option 2:

Tabassum would be the best partner for Jaspreet in the art-integrated project presentation as her qualities balance those of Jaspreet’s. Jaspreet thrives on creativity and collaboration, and Tabassum’s enthusiastic and spontaneous personality would complement Jaspreet’s innovative thinking. As an excellent artist, Tabassum brings a unique skill set to the project, particularly in the visual and design aspects, which are crucial for an art-integrated presentation. Together, their combined creativity would result in an engaging and visually appealing final product. Although Tabassum occasionally struggles with focus and timely completion of tasks, this can be mitigated by Jaspreet’s strong communication skills and preference for teamwork, allowing them to motivate and support each other effectively. In contrast, Sunaina’s overly structured and predictable working style may stifle Jaspreet’s free-flowing creativity. Similarly, Alice’s tendency to take control might conflict with Jaspreet’s collaborative approach.

Option 3:

Alice would be the most suitable partner for Jaspreet in the art-integrated project presentation as her qualities balance those of Jaspreet’s. While Jaspreet excels in creativity and collaboration, her struggles with time management can be addressed by Alice’s confidence, detail-oriented approach, and ability to deliver polished presentations. Alice’s strength in ensuring a high-quality final product complements Jaspreet’s talent for generating unique ideas, creating a balance between creative input and execution. Her confidence in public speaking would enhance the presentation aspect of the project, allowing Jaspreet to focus on her creative contributions. Although Sunaina is highly disciplined, her reserved nature may limit the dynamic engagement needed for such a collaborative and artistic endeavour. Tabassum, while creative and spontaneous, might worsen Jaspreet’s challenges with time management.

SECTION C

LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)

6 Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two.                                           5

A. He just felt a bit dizzy Then he flapped his wings once and he soared upwards. “Ga, ga, ga, Ga, ga, ga, Gaw-col-ah,” his mother swooped past him, her wings making a loud noise. He answered her with another scream. Then his father flew over him screaming. He saw his two brothers and his sister flying around him curvetting and banking and soaring and diving. Then he completely forgot that he had not always been able to fly, and commended himself to dive and soar and curve, shrieking shrilly.

(Two Stories About Flying – First Flight)

I Contradict the view that the young seagull celebrated his maiden flight alone.                          2

Ans. The young seagull did not celebrate his first flight alone as he was surrounded by his family. His parents guided him by flying past him and prompting when necessary, while his siblings encouraged him by flying around him. This made his first flight a shared experience.

II Which of the following statements best explains the young seagull’s experience as he starts flying?                                                                                                                                                           1

a) The young seagull immediately mastered flying and was no longer afraid.

b) The young seagull gradually gained confidence and joined his family in the air.

Ans. b) The young seagull gradually gained confidence and joined his family in the air.

III What can be inferred about the young seagull’s emotional state after flying with his family? 1

Ans. Once he gained confidence, the young sea-gull forgot his fears and began to enjoy his accomplishment as he flew around with his family.

IV Read the following sound and movement words.

i) flapped

ii) shrieking

iii) swooped

iv) soared

v) screaming

Select the option that correctly categorises (i) –(v) into sound and movement words.

Ans. C . Sound ii, v : Movement I, iii, iv

OR

B. Historian: …You haven’t heard about the Martian invasion of 2040? Tsk, tsk. What do they teach children nowadays? Well, you know, the invasion never really happened, because a single book stopped it. What was the book, you ask? A noble encyclopaedia? A tome about rockets and missiles? A secret file from outer space? No, it was none of those. It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you what happened many centuries ago, in 2040. (She turns on projector, and points it left. Spotlight on Historian goes out…)

(The Book That saved the Earth)

I What does the pause indicated by the dash in the line ‘It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you’ convey?

1. a sense of impatience and frustration
2. a point of suspense and anticipation
3. a moment of confusion and hesitation
4. a sudden shift to lightheartedness
5. a reflective moment of deep thought

 A. i, ii, v

 B. Only ii

 C. iii and iv

 D. Only v

Ans. B. Only ii

II How do the stage directions, such as ‘Historian turns on projector’ and ‘Spotlight on Historian goes out,’ contribute to the atmosphere and understanding of the scene in this part of the play? 2

Ans. The stage directions like ‘Historian turns on the projector’ and ‘Spot on Historian goes out’ helps in shifting the focus of the audience. When the projector is turned on and the spotlight moves away from the audience, the attention of the audience shifts from the narration to visual storytelling. It helps in developing pace and adds dramatic elements to the play.

III Select the option that correctly completes the following.

The Historian dismisses the noble encyclopaedia and rockets because she wants to _____

a) convey the importance of scientific knowledge and military power in stopping the invasion.

b) stress the surprising and unexpected nature of the book that stopped the invasion.                1

Ans. b) stress the surprising and unexpected nature of the book that stopped the invasion.               

IV What emotion is the Historian most likely conveying with the phrase ‘Tsk, tsk’?                       1

Ans. Through ‘Tsk, tsk’ the speaker wants to convey that there is a surprise element attached to the book that saved the earth.

7 Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two.                                                5

A. He is learning, well behind his desperate eyes,

The epistemology of loss, how to stand up

Knowing what every man must one day know

And most know many days, how to stand up.

(The Ball Poem)

I What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the phrase ‘desperate eyes’ and ‘epistemology of loss’?                                                                                                                                 1     

i) despair

ii) anger

iii) frustration

iv) confusion

v) helplessness

Select the correct option.

A. i, iii

B. i, iv, v

C. ii, iii, iv

D. iv, v

Ans. B. i, iv, v

II What does the phrase ‘how to stand up’ suggest about the boy’s emotional growth?      2

Ans. The phrase signifies the boy’s emotional growth. With the loss of the ball, he realizes that loss and grief are a part of life and he must learn to cope with the loss. He learns to accept the inevitability of loss.

III Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that loss is universal?              1

Ans. The phrase ‘most know’ tell us that loss is universal.

IV Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.

The loss of his ball symbolises _______ in life.

Ans. the transient nature of material possessions

OR

B.

Or if some time when roaming round,

A noble wild beast greets you,

With black stripes on a yellow ground,

Just notice if he eats you.

This simple rule may help you learn

The Bengal Tiger to discern.                                                                  (How to tell Wild Animals)

I What does the poet imply by referring to the Bengal Tiger as a ‘noble wild beast’?

A. The tiger is majestic and dignified despite its ferocity.

B. The tiger is kind and considerate toward humans.

C. The tiger has a royal lineage and should be revered.

D. The tiger is a symbol of fear and destruction.

Ans. A. The tiger is majestic and dignified despite its ferocity.

II Complete the following suitably.

The word ‘ground’ in the line ‘With black stripes on a yellow ground’ refers to_____.                1

Ans. The yellow fur coat of the tiger with black stripes on it.

III How does the poet use humour in the description of the Bengal Tiger?                                    2

Ans. The poet uses humour to introduce the fierce tiger in a funny manner. He exchanges the word royal with noble which makes the reader feel that the beast is a benign one. Then he subtly hints the ferocity of the tiger when he tells the reader to notice whether the reader is eaten by the noble beast. Thus, the playful tone and irony makes the wild beast seem to be an amusing one instead of being dangerous.

IV Identify the phrase in the poem that is advisory in nature.                                                           1

Ans. This simple rule may help you learn

8 Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 50 words each.                   4×3=12

I Otters are known for their peculiar behavioural traits. Support this statement with reference to any two traits mentioned in ‘Mijbil the Otter.’                                                                               3

Ans. Mijbil loved water and liked to investigate his surroundings. He found out the method to turn on the tap so that he can splash in the tub. He also displayed his amazing skill of juggling marbles while lying on his back which requires a lot of dexterity and co-ordination.

II How does the use of repetition in the poem ‘Amanda!’ highlight the speaker’s expectations and Amanda’s responses?                                                                                                                          3

Ans. The repletion of ‘don’t…Amanda’ in the poem shows the pressure that the speaker constantly puts on Amanda and her lack of freedom and autonomy. The speaker constantly expects Amanda to live up to her expectations, overriding Amanda’s own decisions, likes and dislikes. The absence of repetition in Amanda’s imaginative escapes, highlight the fact that she wants to escape from the external control and longs for self-expression.

III How can Nelson Mandela’s vision of ‘liberating both the oppressed and the oppressor’ be applied in modern-day societies to address issues of inequality and discrimination? (Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)                                                                                                           3

Ans. Mandela’s vision can be applied in today’s society to remove oppression, through dialogue and change of mindsets of both the oppressor and the oppressed. The oppressed must be taught to acquire their rights through peaceful dialogues, and the oppressor must be made to be aware that hatred and prejudice robs them of their peace and happiness just like the ones whom they exploit.

IV How does the line ‘and then moves on’ reflect the transient nature of the fog thereby contributing to the poem’s deeper message about life’s impermanence? (Fog)                        3

Ans. The line symbolizes the transient nature of fog and moments in life. Just as the fog suddenly appears and then vanishes without any warning, similarly many experiences in life also arrive and leave suddenly leaving a lasting impression in mind. Such moments leave behind a sense of mystery and reflection.

V How does Chubukov’s reaction to Lomov’s marriage proposal reflect his priorities and values? (The Proposal)                                                                                                                             3

Ans. Chubukov’s reaction to the proposal is that of joy and relief. His initial suspicion is instantly changed to that of exaggerated affection as he endearingly call Lomov ‘my dear fellow’. His joy is due to his love for social status and materialistic gain. He is happy because his daughter would be marrying a neighbouring landowner and not because of Lomov’s love for Natalya. This shows that he gives more value to economic security than genuine emotional connections.

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

I How does ‘The Necklace’ illustrate the significance of honesty as the key element for leading a happy and stress-free life?                                                                                                                   3

Ans. The story reflects the idiom ‘honesty is the best policy’. Instead of disclosing the truth about the lost necklace, Matilda chose to secretly replace it with another. This single act of dishonesty led her to a decade long suffering, affecting the couple’s mental, physical and financial health. The golden years of Matilda’s life was spent in unnecessary hardship and poverty which could have been avoided if she had confessed about losing the necklace to her friend Madam Forestier. Thus, it is seen that while dishonesty can lead to unforeseen consequences , honesty enables a person to lead a stress-free life.

II Briefly evaluate the validity of the adage ‘Values are caught, not taught’, in the context of the relationship between Anil and Hari Singh in ‘The Thief’s Story’.                                          3

Ans. People learn from what a person practices not preaches. Anil’s forgiving nature, kindness and concern created a bond in the mind of the thief which he could not break. Anil forgave him for lying, cooking badly, for keeping some money when he bought the supplies. Instead of rebuking him, Anil started to teach him how to read and write to improve his future prospects. All these taught the thief about integrity, trust and honesty and forced him to abandon a life of deception and theft.

III Griffin’s experiences moments of comfort and normalcy while being invisible. How do these fleeting moments impact his sense of identity and his actions throughout ‘Footprints Without Feet’?                                                                                                                                        3

Ans. Griffin finds solace in being invisible. He  is able to find food and warmth, but they are short lived. He remains stressed and acts violently as he feels disconnected from the rest of the society. He steals for survival, disguises himself and isolates himself from the society. The sense of detachment takes a toll on his emotional health and as he loses his sense of identity, he becomes increasingly violent.

10 Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words                      1 x 6

A. How does literature like ‘The Baker from Goa,’ ‘Coorg,’ and ‘Tea from Assam’ contribute to promoting tourism and raising awareness about regional cultures and traditions?                   6

Ans.The three stories in ’Glimpses of India’ portray  the historical, cultural, and natural attractions of these regions.

 ‘The Baker from Goa’ informs readers about the Goan tradition of baking and its part in social culture. By showcasing the local customs through childhood memories, the story invites visitors to experience Goa’s rich heritage, culinary delights and idyllic charm.

‘Coorg’ informs readers about the beautiful landscape and distinct cultural history. Learning about Coorgi people’s martial traditions, hospitality and connection to nature makes readers want to visit the place.

 ‘Tea from Assam’ is about the picturesque landscapes and unique culture of Assam. It highlights the importance of tea in Assam’s history, enticing readers to explore the serene tea estates.

The amazing descriptions of these regions, encourage the readers to explore the places which make the stories an effective tool for promoting tourism.

OR

B. The poems, ‘The Trees’ and ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ resonate the theme of importance of freedom and the desire to break free from any kind of dominance. Examine.                    6

Ans. The desire for freedom is not restricted to humans. The abovementioned poems resonate the desire of the trees and the tiger to break free from their confinement. While the trees break free from the interiors by disengaging their roots from the cracks in the veranda, the tiger paces restlessly in his cell yearning to go back to the forest.

The trees symbolize growth and freedom, while the tiger symbolizes the raw power of nature and wilderness which is put under restriction by humans. The movement of the trees towards the forest represent the need for freedom for natural growth and renewal. Whereas, the confinement of the tiger is a symbol of human oppression of nature. Nature in the hands of humans feels stifled, and its desires to return to its natural state remains unfulfilled.

11 Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words.               1 x 6

A. How does the author use the narrative technique of misdirection in ‘The Midnight Visitor’, to enhance the suspense and the story’s unexpected ending?                                                   6

Ans. The author misdirects both the reader about the existence of a balcony through the fabricated story created by Ausable. Ausable is presented as a clumsy, shy spy who appears to be unsuitable for his profession. However, Ausable confidently tells a story about previous intrusions through the balcony. The believable scenario deceives not only Max but the readers too, who like Max believes in the elaborate explanation about how the balcony is connected with another part of the building.

Ausable builds up the tension with the tale about the police which leads Max to step into the non-existent balcony in a desperate attempt to escape. His surprising fall to death brings about an unexpected twist to the story’s conclusion. Thus, through the brilliant story telling capabilities, and cool presence of Ausable, the author misleads the readers to give the story a memorable ending.

OR

B. Comment critically on the role of the Surgery in the ‘The Triumph of Surgery’.                      6

Ans. The surgery plays a vital role in Tricky’s recovery. When Dr James Herriot realises that Mrs. Pumphrey’s overindulgence was causing critical health issues for Tricky, he decides to take him to the surgery for recovery. Trick’s recovery does not take much care, except allowing him to lead a normal life. When Tricky recovers from his bout of over-eating he goes out to play with the other dogs and receives the required exercise. He also gets the required amount of healthy food along with the other dogs which helps him to recover fast.

The surgery represents responsible pet care which includes moderation, discipline and balanced diet. Through the example of Tricky’s recovery at the surgery, the writer points out the importance of discipline and proper care for the healthy life of loved ones instead of overindulgence and excessive pampering which nearly cost Tricky’s life.

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