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CBSE Class 10 English Question Paper 2023 (Series: WYXZ1/6) with Solutions
Time allowed: 3 hours
Maximum marks: 80
General Instructions:
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
- This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
-
The question paper contains THREE sections –
Section A – Reading Skills.
Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills.
Section C – Literature. - Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
SET I: Code No. 2/4/1)
Section A – Reading Skills 20 Marks
Question 1.
Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow:
1. Mankind’s fascination with gold is as old as civilization itself. The ancient Egyptians held gold in high esteem. Gold had religious significance for them and King Tutankhamen was buried in a solid gold coffin 3300 years ago. The wandering Israelites worshipped a golden calf and the legendary King Midas asked that whatever he touched be turned into gold.
2. Not only is gold beautiful, but it is virtually indestructible. It will not rust or corrode. Gold coins and products fabricated from the metal have survived undamaged for centuries. Gold is extremely easy to work with. One ounce, which is about the size of a cube of sugar, can be beaten into a sheet nearly 100 square feet in size, and becomes so thin that light can pass through it. An ounce of gold can also be stretched into a wire 50 miles long. Gold conducts electricity better than any other substance except copper and silver, and it is particularly important in modern electronic industry.
3. People have always longed to possess gold. Unfortunately, this longing has also brought out the worst in human character. The Spanish conquerors robbed palaces, temples and graves and killed thousands of people in their ruthless search for gold. Even today, the economy of South Africa’s gold mines depend largely on the employment of black labourers who are paid about 40 pounds a month, plus boarding and lodging. They work in conditions that can only be described as cruel. About 400 miners die in South Africa each year.
4. Much of the gold’s value lies in its scarcity. Only about 80,000 tons have been mined in the history of the world. All of it can be stored in a vault 60 feet square, or a super tanker. Great Britain was the first country to adopt the gold standard, when the Master of the Mint, Sir Issac Newton, established a fixed price for gold in 1717. The discovery of gold in the last half of the nineteenth century in California, (1848) and later in Australia and South Africa changed everything. Before the discovery, there wasn’t enough gold around for all the trading nations to link their currencies to the precious metal.
5. An out-of-work prospector named George Harrison launched South Africa into the gold age in 1886 when he discovered the metal in a farm near what is now Johannesburg. Harrison was given a 12 pounds reward by the farmer. He then disappeared and was eaten by a lion.
6. One of the biggest gold mining areas in the Soviet Union is the Kolyma River region, once infamous for its prison camp. The camp has gone, but in a way nothing has changed. Many ex-prisoners have stayed on to work in the mines and are supervised by ex-guards.
7. Despite the current rush to buy gold, 75 percent of the metal goes into making jewellery. Italy is the biggest consumer of gold for this purpose, and many Italian jewellers even tear up their wooden floors and burn them to recover the tiny flecks of gold. Historically, the desire to hoard gold at home has been primarily an occupation of the working and peasant classes, who have had no faith in paper money. George Bernard Shaw defended their instincts eloquently, “You have to choose between trusting the natural stability of the honesty and intelligence of the members of the government,” he said “and with due respect to these gentlemen, I advise to vote for gold.”
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions below: 10 × 1 = 10
(i) When was King Tutankhamen buried?
(a) 1717
(b) 1886
(c) 3300 years ago
(d) 1848
Answer:
(c) 3300 years ago
(ii) Why did Egyptians hold gold in great esteem?
(a) because it is a good conductor of electricity.
(b) because of its religious significance.
(c) for lovely gold ornaments.
(d) because it is indestructible.
Answer:
(b) because of its religious significance.
(iii) According to the passage, which of the following statements is NOT true?
(a) Gold is the best conductor of electricity.
(b) Apart from gold, copper and silver are good conductors of electricity.
(c) Gold can be easily beaten, hence it is easy to work with.
(d) Gold plays an important role in the modern electronics industry.
Answer:
(a) Gold is the best conductor of electricity.
(iv) Select the option that displays what the writer projects, with reference to the following:
The wandering Israelites worshipped a golden calf _________ .
(a) importance of religion
(b) importance of the metal
(c) good conductor
(d) can replace money
Answer:
(b) importance of the metal
(v) How were the black labourers exploited?
Answer:
The black labourers were not paid well and their working conditions were cruel. Moreover, about 400 miners die in South Africa each year.
(vi) Complete the following with the phrase from paragraph 1:
| Opinion | Reason |
| ________ | King Tutankhamen was buried in a solid gold coffin 3300 years ago. |
Answer:
Religious significance of gold
(vii) Based on your reading of the text, list 2 reasons why the writer says that,
Not only is gold beautiful but it is virtually indestructible.
__________ .
__________ .
Answer:
Gold does not rust or corrode. Gold coins and products made of gold have survived undamaged for centuries.
(viii) Who launched South Africa into the gold age?
(a) Issac Newton
(b) George Harrison
(c) George Bernard Shaw
(d) A farmer
Answer:
(b) George Harrison
(ix) Select the option that corresponds to the following:
The
ancient
Egyptians and the
modern
electronic industry both hold gold in high esteem.
(a) The
hardworking
student came first because of his
diligent
practice.
(b) Honesty is
underrated
whereas strategy is
appreciated
.
(c) The
vibrant
colours made the interiors look
luminous
.
(d) The steaming food was both
appetizing
and
tasty
.
Answer:
(d) The steaming food was both
appetizing
and
tasty
.
(x) Supply one point to justify the following:
The desire to hoard gold at home has been primarily an occupation of the working and peasant classes.
Answer:
This is because they have had no faith in paper money.
Question 2.
Read the passage given below: 10 × 1 = 10
1. Starting Monday, the country’s low-cost Mars mission with the red planet for an extended period will enter the “blackout” phase snapping communication with the satellite. From June 8 to 22 the Sun will block Mars from the Earth snapping communication with the satellite.
2. A senior Indian Space Research Organisation official said. “This will be for the first time that there will be a communication break for such a long period of about 15 days. During this period, there will be no communication with the satellite”, he added.
3. Expressing confidence about regaining control over the satellite once the blackout phase is over, he said, “the scenario has been tested and the line of communication will be established.” The spacecraft’s life has been extended for another six months in March due to surplus fuel.
4. Stating that the spacecraft has been “configured” for the blackout, the ISRO official said, “we are not sending any commands to the spacecraft now, till 8th June few hours of signals will be sent by the spacecraft that will be for about two to three hours per day”. In May next year, the mission will have to go through a similar phase once again, if there is another extension of mission life when the Earth will come between the Sun and Mars.
5. Scripting space history, India on September 24 last successfully placed its low-cost Mars spacecraft in orbit around the red planet in its very first attempt, breaking into an elite club of three countries.
Based on your understanding of the extract, answer the questions below: 10 × 1 = 10
(i) Infer one reason for the following based on information in paragraph 1.
The ‘blackout’ phase is significant __________ .
Answer:
because the sun will block Mars from Earth snapping communication with the satellite.
(ii) Choose the appropriate option to fill in the blank.
From paragraph 1 & 2, we can infer that there will be ___________ .
1. no communication with the people.
2. blackout phase.
3. satellite will get no communication.
4. moon will block the earth.
5. the communication break will be for 15 days.
(a) 1, 2 & 3
(b) 1, 3 & 4
(c) 2, 3 & 5
(d) 3, 4 & 5
Answer:
(c) 2, 3 & 5
(ii) The communication with the satellite will break for approximately ________ days.
(a) 10
(b) 15
(c) 20
(d) 25
Answer:
(b) 15
(iv) Complete the following analogy correctly with a word/phrase from paragraph 2:
aroma : cooking :: __________ : space research
(Clue – just like aroma is integral to cooking, similarly ________ is/are integral to Space Research.)
Answer:
communication
(v) According to ISRO official till 8th July, when Sun will block Mars, _________ signal/signals per day will be sent to the spacecraft.
(a) no
(b) considerable
(c) indefinite
(d) only for few
Answer:
(a) no
(vi) elect the correct option to complete the following sentence:
The ISRO officials are ___________ about their control over the spacecraft after the blackout
phase.
(a) doubtful
(b) apprehensive
(c) confident
(d) jittery
Answer:
(c) confident
(vii) The spacecraft’s life was extended by six months because of
(a) extra fuel
(b) incomplete work
(c) lack of communication amongst ISRO officials
(d) technical problems in its landing
Answer:
(a) extra fuel
(viii) Read the following sentences:
(A) The blackout was a sudden development.
(B) Because of this, the officials are very nervous about the success of the spacecraft.
(a) Both (A) & (B) are true.
(b) Both (A) & (B) are false.
(c) (A) is true and (B) is false.
(d) (A) is false and (B) is true.
Answer:
(b) Both (A) & (B) are false.
(ix) Substitute the word ‘nonpareil’ with one word similar in meaning in the following sentence from paragraph 5.
India managed to get into the nonpareil club of Mars spacecraft in orbit.
Answer:
elite
(x) The word ‘fascination’ in the opening sentence means the same as
(a) enchantment
(b) boredom
(c) disinterest
(d) ugliness
Answer:
(a) enchantment
Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills 20 Marks
Question 3.
Attempt any TEN of the following questions:
(i) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option:
You should ___________ your mother for your rude behaviour.
(a) apologise for
(b) apologise at
(c) apologise with
(d) apologise to
Answer:
(d) apologise to
(ii) Read the conversations between a customer and a waiter. Complete the sentence by reporting the waiter’s reply correctly:
Customer: Waiter, come here. The plate is dirty.
Waiter: I’ll change it sir.
The customer asked the waiter to come there. He pointed out that the plate was dirty. The waiter politely offered __________ .
Answer:
to change it
(iii) Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given sentence:
_________ you help me cross the road, young man?
(a) Will
(b) May
(c) Shall
(d) Might
Answer:
(a) Will
(iv) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following sentence:
Twenty years ago, kids at school had never even heard of the internet.
| Option | Error | Correction |
| A | years | year |
| B | at | in |
| C | had | have |
| D | the | an |
Answer:
| (B) | at | in |
Twenty years age kids in school had never even heard of the internet.
(v) Complete the given narrative, by filling in the blanks with the correct option:
NO NEWS __________ GOOD NEWS.
(a) HAS
(b) HAD
(c) IS
(d) ARE
Answer:
(c) IS
(vi) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket:
When a satellite __________ (launch), the rocket begins by going slowly upwards.
(a) is launched
(b) are launched
(c) have been launched
(d) were launched
Answer:
(a) is launched
(vii) Report the dialogue between two friends Seema and Anu, by completing the sentence:
Seema: What brings you here?
Anu: I am going to Dr. Sen’s house.
In response to the question about what brought Anu there, Anu says _________ .
Answer:
that she is going to Dr. Sen’s house
(viii) Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction:
Behind every success film there is a lengthy creative process.
Use the given format for your response.
| Error | Correction |
Answer:
| Error | Correction |
| Success | Successfull |
Behind every successful film there is a lengthy creative process.
(ix) Ritu met Anita and saw her crying.
Report Ritu’s question.
Ritu: “Anita, what is the matter?”
Answer:
On seeing Anita crying Ritu asked her what the matter was.
(x) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the slogan:
_________ EDUCATED MIND CAN TEACH MANY.
(a) THE
(b) A
(c) AN
(d) THIS
Answer:
(c) AN
(xi) Select the correct option to complete the narration of a dialogue between Raj and his wife:
Raj: I have invited my friends for dinner.
Wife: I’ll invite my friends too.
Raj told his wife that he had invited his friends for dinner. The wife added that __________ .
(a) she will invite her friends too
(b) she would invite her friends too
(c) she can invite her friends too
(d) she could invite her friends too
Answer:
(b) she would invite her friends too
(xii) Identify the error in the statement given below and supply the correction:
Use the given format for your response.
| Error | Correction |
| __________ | _________ |
The evil of begging is very common into our country.
Answer:
| Error | Correction |
| into | in |
Question 4.
(a) You are Rohit/Rohini of A – 45, Pitampura, Delhi. You observed that the subways in Delhi are
seldom used by pedestrians who are always trying to cut across traffic. You have decided to write a letter to the editor of ‘Hindustan Times’ highlighting the dire need of creating awareness about it. Based on the points given along with your own ideas write a letter in 100 – 120 words. 5
• infrastructure unutilized
• pedestrians prone to accidents
• accumulation of stagnant water/garbage in subways
• need for improvement and regular cleanliness under proper supervision.
Or
(b) You are Shivam / Shivani of C – 12, Janakpuri, Indore. You wish to make a pilgrimage to
Badrinath, Kedamath and Haridwar with your family of six. Write a letter to R.K. Travels, enquiring about the schedule of their conducted tour by Deluxe buses to these places. Ask about the charges, boarding and lodging arrangements and the total time needed for the tour. (Word limit 100 – 120 words). 5
Answer:
(a) A – 45, Pitampura
Delhi
17 th March, 20××
The Editor
Hindustan Times
Delhi
Subject: Scarce use of Delhi subways by pedestrians
Sir,
Through the medium of the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to express my concern over the scarce use of subways in Delhi by the pedestrians.
It is indeed unfortunate that this infrastructural development remains quite unutilized and the very purpose of having these subways is defeated. Pedestrians continue to be prone to accidents on the busy city roads as they try to cut across the traffic.
I wish to highlight the dire need of creating awareness about using the subways. Many people avoid using them because they are rather filthy due to accumulation of stagnant water and garbage. The authorities need to take up immediate steps for improvement and regular cleanliness of the subways under proper supervision.
I hope you will publish my letter in your newspaper to create awareness among the pedestrians to use the subways.
Your Sincerely Rohini
Or
C – 12,
Janakpuri
Indore
2 nd June, 20××
The Director
R.K. Travels
Subject: Enquiry regarding conducted tour to Badrinath.
Sir
I would like to make a pilgrimage to Badrinath, Kedamath and Haridwar with six members of my family between 15th June to 25th June, 20××.
Please share with me the schedule of your conducted tours by Deluxe buses to these places. Also let me know about the total charges, boarding and lodging arrangements and the number of days that will be needed for the tour. I would appreciate if you could send me these details at the earliest so as to enable me to plan and book this pilgrimage.
Looking forward to a prompt response from your end.
Yours sincerely
Shivam
Question 5.
(a) The given bar graph shows the increasing use of skin care products by men and women over the period of three months. Write an analytical paragraph elaborating the given information in about 100 words: 5
(a) For Visually Challenged candidates.
Junk food can harm our bodies in different ways. Write an analytical paragraph in about 100 – 120 words on “Junk Food and its impact on the Body”. You may use the following cues: 5
→ They have high level of cholesterol, sugar/salt, calories and more.
→ Rising popularity of junk food due to taste, low prices, convenience.
→ Spikes energy levels and then leads to drop in concentration.
→ Consumption leads to obesity and adverse impact on liver.
→ Impairs cognitive functions.
→ Role of media in creating awareness.
Or
(b) The given bar graph shows the preferences of children in a school in playing different games over the span of six years. Write an analytical paragraph about the given information in about 100 words: 5
(b) For Visually Challenged candidates.
Excessive usage of screen time can cause damage to a growing child. Moreover, it cannot be denied that the child of the digital era cannot be separated from the use of technology. Write an analytical paragraph in about 100 – 120 words on ‘Screen Time and the Digital Generation’. You can use the following cues: 5
→ Technology has changed our lifestyle.
→ Screens refer to mobiles, televisions, laptops, Ipads etc.
→ Have become a part of our lives.
→ Many progressive schools encourage the use of laptops.
→ During lockdown – screens came to the rescue of uninterrupted education.
→ Cannot replace face to face. Physical interaction between teacher and taught.
Answer:
(a) The given Bar graph depicts the increasing use of skin care products by men and women both over a period of three months. These products include facewash, toner and sunscreen. The use of facewash has been rather high in men as compared to women. Toner has been used quite equally by both the genders, though its use by men declined in the month of July. Sunscreen was used more by women as compared to men in June and July but in August both genders used sunscreen almost the same number of times.
Skin care products were predominantly used by women but now even men have realised the importance of skin care.
[For The Visually Challenged Candidates]
Junk Food and its impact on the Body
Junk food can indeed harm our bodies in different ways. It is not surprising that such foods are called ‘Junk’ food as they have no nutritional value. They have a high level of cholesterol, sugar and salt content and calories. Their consumption leads to obesity, causes diabetes and has an adverse impact on the liver. Some of the junk foods spike energy levels. Even though they cause drop in our concentration, they are still popular. Their rising popularity is due to their taste, low price and convenience. Media can play an important role in creating awareness of the harmful impacts of junk food on the body.
Or
(b) The given Bar graph depicts the preferences of children in a school in playing different games over the span of six years, from 2014 to 2019. In 2014, Around 350 children played basketball as compared to 200 children who played volleyball. In 2015, the number of students playing basketball dropped to 250 and those playing volleyball rose to 300. The year 2016 saw a sharp rise in the number of students playing both the games. Thereafter, in the year 2017 and 2018 the students playing both games were ranging from 250 – 400. But in the year 2019 this number dropped and only 150 children were playing volleyball and there were 250 children who were playing basketball.
[For The Visually Challenged Candidates]
Screen Time and the Digital Generation
There is no doubt that technology has changed our lives. It cannot also be denied that the child of the digital era cannot be separated from the use of technology. The use of computers and mobile phones is so common that every student now-a-days owns a mobile phone. Screens refer to the screens of mobiles, televisions, laptops, Ipads etc. and excessive usage of screen-time can cause damage to a growing child. During Lockdown, screens came to the rescue of uninterrupted education and thus became a more integral part of a child’s life. Though it could not replace face to face teaching and physical interactive between the teacher and the taught, screen-time for progressive schools encourage the use of laptops.
Section C – Literature 40 Marks
Question 6.
Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow: 5 × 1 = 5
I started right away at the Montessori Nursery School. I stayed there until I was six, at which time I started in the first form. In the sixth form my teacher was Mrs. Kuperus, the headmistress. At the end of the year we were both in tears as we said a heartbreaking farewell. In the summer of 1941 Grandma fell ill and had to have an operation, so my birthday passed with little celebration.
(i) The narrator T refers to
(a) Mr. Keesing
(b) Mrs. Kuperus
(c) Anne Frank
(d) Miss Margot
Answer:
(c) Anne Frank
(ii) The phrase ‘right away’ in this extract most nearly means
(a) with delay
(b) the correct way
(c) immediately
(d) overtaking from right
Answer:
(c) immediately
(iii) What does the narrator mean by saying ‘we were both in tears’?
Answer:
The narrator means that they were both sad because she and Mrs. Kuperus had to part from each other.
(iv) Complete the analogy by selecting a word from the text:
dawn: dusk :: mourning: _________ .
Answer:
dawn : dusk :: mourning : celebration.
(v) Select the option that correctly captures the application of the word ‘form’ as used in the extract.
(a) Raghav was in good form while playing the match.
(b) Saheb was promoted to the next form after the annual exam.
(c) My brother did not know how to form a circle.
(d) Anne saw the form on the headmaster’s desk.
Answer:
(b) Saheb was promoted to the next form after the annual exam.
Or
Question 6.
(b) The two boys started in surprise at the fresh muddy imprints of a pair of bare feet. What was a barefooted man doing on the steps of a house in the middle of London? And where was the man?
As they gazed, a remarkable sight met their eyes. A fresh footmark appeared from nowhere! Further footprints followed, one after another, descending the steps and progressing down the street. The boys followed, fascinated, until the muddy impressions became fainter and fainter and at last disappeared altogether. 5 × 1 = 5
(i) The boys were surprised to see a barefooted man in London because _________ .
(a) everybody in London moved around in shoes.
(b) it was very cold in London to move around barefoot.
(c) the muddy footprints were fresh.
(d) only a homeless person would walk barefoot.
Answer:
(b) it was very cold in London to move around barefoot.
(ii) Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the word ‘started’ in the above extract.
(a) When I reached the theatre the movie had already started.
(b) The fire started from the kitchen.
(c) On hearing the bell ring, the sleeping Raman started and jumped out of bed.
(d) Taking a deep breath, Ravi started down the stairs.
Answer:
(c) On hearing the bell ring, the sleeping Raman started and jumped out of bed.
(iii) The boys’ reaction can best be described as
(a) captivated, bored
(b) repulsed, absorbed
(c) curious, unhappy
(d) captivated, interested
Answer:
(d) captivated, interested
(iv) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text:
Disappeared : Vanished :: Extraordinary :
Answer:
Disappeared : Vanished :: Extraordinary : remarkable
According to the extract, the boys were _________ when they saw the footmarks.
1. terrified
2. nervous
3. delighted
4. curious
5. puzzled
Select the correct option:
(a) 1, 2, 4
(b) Only 1
(c) 4 and 5
(d) 2 and 3
Answer:
(c) 4 and 5
Question 7.
(a) Read the following extracts and answer the questions that follow by choosing the most appropriate option: 5 x 1 = 5
If strolling forth, a beast you view,
Whose hide with spots is peppered,
As soon as he has leapt on you.
You’ll know it’s the leopard.
Twill do no good to roar with pain.
He’ll only lep and lep again.
(i) One can find out that it is a leopard by the way it ___________ .
(a) leaps
(b) eats
(c) looks
(d) roars
Answer:
(c) looks
(ii) State whether the following statement is true or false:
When an animal repeatedly leaps at a person, it is a leopard.
Answer:
True
(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately:
It is clear that repetition is a poetic device used for ‘lep and lep again’ because ___________ .
(Clue: explain how repetition is applied here.)
Answer:
it reiterates the typical trait of the leopard. It will jump on its prey again and again (repeatedly).
(iv) The Royal Bengal Tiger has black stripes on yellow skin whereas a leopard has ___________ .
Answer:
black spots on its skin.
(v) Complete the analogy with a word from the extract:
claws : nails :: ? : skin
Answer:
Claws : nails : : skin : hide
Or
Question 7.
(b) He stalks in his vivid stripes.
The few steps of his cage
On pads of velvet quiet
In his quiet rage.
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole
Where plump deer pass.
(i) ‘He’ is in a rage because he is
(a) hungry
(b) tied
(c) thirsty
(d) in a cage
Answer:
(d) in a cage
(ii) He is lurking in the shadow because __________ .
Answer:
he is waiting to catch his prey without being seen
(iii) The above lines express the tiger’s _________ .
(a) resignation
(b) fear
(c) anger
(d) acceptance
Answer:
(c) anger
(i) ‘He’ is in a rage because he is
Answer:
He is in a rage because he is hungry or in a cage.
(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately:
It is clear that metaphor is the poetic device used for ‘pads of velvet’ – because __________ .
(Clue : explain how metaphor is applied here.)
Answer:
the thick and soft paws of the tiger allow him to move without any sound.
(v) The contrast in the above extract is between life in the forest and life in the
(a) leaps
(b) eats
(c) looks
(d) roars
(a) circus
(b) national park
(c) cave
(d) zoo
Answer:
(d) zoo
Question 8.
Read the following questions and answer any four of the five questions given below: 4 × 3 = 12
(a) What did Kisa Gotami do after the death of her only son?
(b) What are the raindrops compared to and why?
(c) How is the Goan baker still an important part of the life of a Goan village?
(d) How did Chubukov react when Lomov asked for the hand of his daughter in marriage?
(e) Why does Amanda wish to be a mermaid?
Answer:
(a) Kisa Gotami was sad after the death of her only son. In her grief she carried the dead child to all her neighbours, asking them for medicine. The people said that she had lost her senses as the boy was dead.
(b) The field of ripe com with its flowers that promised a good harvest needed only a downpour. So, when Lencho saw the raindrops falling from the sky, he compared them to coins that he would get on selling the crop. The big drops were ten cent pieces and the little ones were fives.
(c) Bread, sandwiches and cakes are an integral part of the everyday life in Goa. Bread making is still popular in Goa. The mixers, the moulders and those who bake the loves are still there. The age old, time tested finances still exist. The thud and the jingle of the traditional baker’s bamboo, amounting his arrival can still be heard in some places.
(d) Chubukov is very happy to know that Lomov has come to ask for the hand of his daughter in marriage. He embraces and kisses Lomov and says he had been hoping for this for a long time. He even sheds a tear and tells Lomov he had always loved him as if he were his own son.
(e) Amanda wishes to be a mermaid so that she can drift blissfully on a languid emerald sea. Amanda, who is constantly nagged by her parents for being careless and lazy imagines herself as a mermaid who leads a carefree and unrestricted life on the gentle waves of the sea.
Question 9.
Read the following questions and answer any two of the three questions that follow: 2 × 3 = 6
(a) Why did Hari Singh smile in his most appealing way towards the end of the story?
(b) What excuses did Mrs. Pumphrey make about Mr. Herriot’s advice?
(c) What lesson did Ebright learn when he did not win anything at a science fair?
Answer:
(a) Towards the end of the story, Hari Singh’s appealing smile was unique in contrast to his earli¬er smiles wherein he always made an effort to smile. In the end, Hari Singh was overwhelmed by Anil’s generosity and his smile was effortless and genuine.
(b) When Dr. Herriot asked Mrs. Pumphrey if she had been following his advice regarding Tricki, she explained that Tricki was so listless and seemed to have no energy that she had been giving him little extras between meals for his nutrition. Also, Tricki had seemed rather weak so she had relented and given him cream cakes and chocolates.
(c) It was only after losing at the Science Fair that Ebright did realise what real science was all about. It was really a sad feeling for him as he sat at the fair and did not get anything while everybody else had won something. Ebright’s entry was a slide of frog tissues which he showed under a microscope. He realised the winners had tried to do real experiments not just make a neat display. It was then that the competitive spirit that drives a man appeared in Ebright and this motivated him further to become a bright scientist.
Question 10.
Answer any one of the following questions in 100 – 120 words: 6
(a) Motivation plays an important role in taking risks in life and in succeeding. Do you agree?
Discuss with reference to the pilot of the old Dakota and the young seagull.
(b) Valli was an extra-ordinary girl who had self-confidence and courage to realise her ambition by planning and drawing on her spirit of adventure. Discuss in reference to the chapter ‘Madam Rides the Bus’.
Answer:
(a) Motivation enables one not only to take risks in life but also to succeed. The pilot of the old Dakota plane was eager to get home to England and was looking forward to be with his family. So despite seeing the storm clouds across the sky, he took the risk and did not fly back to Paris. Similarly, the young Seagull was able to make his first flight only because of his family’s constant encouragement and motivation. The seagull’s family continued to beckon him, leaving with no choice except to dive in the air and soar. The pilot and the young Seagull were motivated to take risks and eventually succeeded.
(b) Valli’s self-confidence and courage enabled her to realise her ambition of riding on the bus that travelled between her village and the nearest town. Drawing on her spirit of adventure she meticulously planned her trip. Though she was travelling alone in the bus for the first time, she pretended to be confident when the conductor offered to help her board the bus. When an elderly man called her a child and told her to sit down, she haughtily hold him that she was not a child. The bus journey taught Valli to be independent and gave her the confidence to deal with different kinds of people. Valli is an extraordinary girl who does not hesitate to take risks to realise her dream.
Question 11.
Answer any one of the following questions in 100 – 120 words: 6
(a) Destiny had been cruel to Bholi yet she made a place for herself in a conservative society. Discuss.
(b) Matilda was very proud of her beauty and charm and this led to her downfall. Elaborate.
Answer:
(a) Bholi was a neglected child as her parents felt she had neither the looks nor the intelligence to keep pace with her sisters. Her mother agreed to send her to school as there was little chance of her getting married, so she let the teachers at school worry about her. It was because of her teacher’s affection and encouragement that Bholi gradually transformed into a confident girl. Her teacher gave a new hope that changed the course of Bholi’s life. She became a sharp, intelligent and fearless girl who knew her mind her advantage could not be taken of. A change of social mindset and encouragement helped Bholi to face the world boldly and make a place for herself in a conservative society.
(b) Matilda was very proud of her beauty and charm. She suffered incessantly as she felt she was born for all the luxuries. She always had a grudge that she was born into a family of clerks through an error of destiny. Because of her humble background she had to marry a petty clerk. Her aspirations were the cause of her ruin. Her inability to accept her circumstances led to her downfall. Matilda could have easily avoided the misfortune that befell on her and her husband. The cause of Matilda’s ruin was her vanity, which brings short-lived joy but ultimately leads to one’s downfall.
SET II: Code No. 2/6/2
Except for the following questions, all the remaining questions have been asked in Set I.
Question 2.
(x) The word scarcity in the passage means the opposite of
(a) excess
(b) plenty
(c) inadequacy
(d) surplus
Answer:
(d) surplus
Question 3.
Attempt any TEN of the following questions: 10 × 1 = 10
(i) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option:
After many months of research, the scientists ________ the invisible barrier.
(a) break down
(b) broke out
(c) broke in
(d) broke through
Answer:
(d) broke through
(ii) Read the conversation between a teacher and a student.
Complete the sentence by reporting the reply correctly:
Teacher: Would you like to take part in a debate competition?
Student: Yes, When is the competition?
The teacher asked whether the student would like to participate in a debate competition to which the student affirmed __________ .
Answer:
and enquired when the competition was.
(iii) Select the correct option to fill in the blanks for the given line:
Don’t you have __________ friends in the school?
(a) much
(b) few
(c) little
(d) any
Answer:
(d) any
(iv) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line from a sports journal:
The captain of the team was accused with not encouraging the team members.
| Option No. | Error | Correction |
| (a) | the | a |
| (b) | with | of |
| (c) | encouraging | encouragement |
| (d) | members | member |
Answer:
| (b) | with | of |
The captain of the team was accused with not encouraging the team members.
(v) Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option:
The children ___________ better safety procedures after the unexpected fire in the school.
(a) called for
(b) called in
(c) called by
(d) called out
Answer:
(a) called for
(vi) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket:
The teacher ________ (complete) the preparations for the function before the term ended.
Answer:
had completed
(vii) Report the dialogue between the shopkeeper and customer, by completing the sentence:
Customer: Do you sell battery operated toys for children?
Shop keeper: Yes, we have a wide range of toys.
The customer asked the shopkeeper if he sold battery operated toys for children. In response, the shopkeeper replied _________ .
Answer:
in affirmative that they had a wide range of toys.
(viii) Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction:
The stage performance put up by the students were spectacular.
Use the given format for your responce:
| Error | Correction |
| _________ | _________ |
Answer:
| Error | Correction |
| were | was |
The stage performance put up by the students were spectacular.
(ix) Rohina shared some information with Ruchi regarding her summer internship at the bank. Report Ruchi’s question.
What was the duration of your internship?
Answer:
Ruchi asked Rohina what the duration of her internship was.
(x) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option:
You _________ keep your promise.
(a) may
(b) can
(c) shall
(d) must
Answer:
(d) must
Question 4.
(a) When you think about your city, you feel proud of its historical monuments, places of cultural interest, shopping centres and beautiful parks. Write a letter in 100 – 120 words to the editor of a national daily expressing your views on ‘Your City’. Also suggest ways to increase footfall to these places like the government’s recent initiative of free entry to all historical monuments on the occasion of 75
th
Independence Day.
You are Sangeeta/Sanjay, 45 Vijay Nagar, Delhi. (Word limit 100 – 125 words). 5
Or
Question 4.
(b) You are Ankit/Ankita of Mahavir Public School, Delhi. You have seen an advertisement in “The Times of India” regarding the starting of new batches of ‘Astronomy Club’ by the National Science Centre. You wish to join the club. Write a letter to the Director, enquiring about the venue, duration, fee-structure, activities, etc. (Word limit 100 – 125 words). 5
Answer:
(a) 45, Vijay Nagar
Delhi
22 nd December, 20××
The Editor
The Times of India
Delhi
Subject: My City, My Pride
Sir
Through the medium of the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to express my views on my city, which I have always been very proud of.
I feel very fortunate to be the resident of Delhi. I am proud of its historical monuments, places of cultural interest, shopping centres and beautiful parks. Despite the infrastructural development that has been an integral part of our city’s modernisation, we have managed to retain its historical and cultural heritage. The Government’s recent initiative of free entry to historical monuments and places of cultural interest on the occasion of our country’s 75th Independence Day was a great way to increase footfall to these places. The government should consider taking up other initiatives like updating websites and improving transportation so that footfall to these places is further increased.
I hope you will publish my letter in your newspaper so that more people would have the experience of these wonderful sites and feel proud of our beautiful city.
Yours sincerely
Sangeeta
Or
(b) Mahavir Public School
Delhi
24 nd April, 20××
The Director
National Science Centre
Subject: Enquiry for new batches of ‘Astronomy Club’
Sir
I am a student of Class X of Mahavir Public School, Delhi. I recently saw your advertisement in ‘The Times of India’ regarding the starting of new batches of ‘Astronomy Club’.
I wish to join the club and would be grateful if you could send me the following details regarding the starting of new batches:
(i) Venue of the Course
(ii) Duration of the Course
(iii) Fee Structure
(iv) Activities
(v) Any other relevant information
I look forward to an early response from your end. Please share the above details with me via email ( [email protected] )
Thanking You
Yours sincerely
Ankit
Question 5.
(a) In an exclusive survey conducted by a leading daily, students of class X expressed their job preferences. On the basis of the information given in the pie chart, write a paragraph analysing the careers they want to pursue after school, (word limit 100 – 120 words). 5
Or
Question 5.
(b) Given below is a graph comparing the consumption of health care supplements amongst men and women between the age of 25 – 35 from the year 2018 – 2022 in terms of their sales. Write an analytical paragraph in about 100 – 120 words using the details given: 5
Answer:
(a) The given pie-chart depicts a survey conducted by a leading daily wherein students of Class X expressed their job preferences. Students who wanted to pursue the Teaching profession were 20% and an equal percentage of students wanted to be IT professionals. 15% of the students wanted to be Fashion Designers and another 15% chose to be Scientists. Pursuing a career of doctors, engineers and photographers was a choice of 10% students respectively. It was heartening to note that all the students were quite sure about the career they wanted to opt for after school.
Or
(b) The given graph compares the consumption of health care supplements amongst men and women between the age-group of 25 – 35 from the year 2018 – 2022 in terms of their sales. The annual sales consumption of health care supplements was rather low in 2018. In the year 2019, their sale rose up by about 10 lakhs units each amongst men and women. In 2020 their sale hiked up by another 10 lakhs units each and peaked in the year 2021. This rise in sale could be attributed to the COVID pandemic wherein the value of consuming health care supplements greatly increased. But surprisingly, the sales amongst men dropped to 2020 level whereas in women’s category the sales dropped by 5 lakh units.
Question 8.
(d) The quarrel over Green Meadows is finally resolved. Explain.
(e) Amanda gets a list of instructions from her mother of do’s and don’ts. What do these tell you about the relationship between Amanda and her mother?
Answer:
(d) Both Lomov and Natalya claim ownership over Green Meadows. Chubukov and Nata’va insult Lomov and the latter stomps out of their house. However, when Natalya gets to know that Lomov had come to propose to her, she relents and sends her father to bring Lomov back, thus resolving their quarrel.
(e) Amanda was fed up of her mother’s constant nagging and her list of instructions of do’s and don’ts. Amanda was rather frustrated and unhappy by her mother’s continuous blabbering. Her mother has high expectations from her, which Amanda is unable to live upto. So t; eir relationship is strained and disagreeable.
SET III: Code No. 2/6/3
Except for the following questions, all the remaining questions have been asked in Set I & II.
Question 2.
(x) The word ‘instinct’ in the passage means the same as
(a) lack
(b) impulse
(c) inability
(d) incapacity
Answer:
(b) impulse
Question 3.
Attempt any TEN of the following questions: 10 × 1 = 10
(i) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option:
The coach hoped that in his absence the team would _________ with the practice.
(a) carried by
(b) carry into
(c) carry on
(d) carry in
Answer:
(c) carry on
(ii) Read the conversation between a tourist and a guide. Complete the sentence by reporting the reply correctly:
Tourist: Where is the exhibit section of the fort?
Guide: In the far corner, on the second floor.
The tourist asked the guide where the exhibit section of the fort was to which the guide replied _______ .
Answer:
that it was in the far corner on the second floor.
(iii) Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given sentence:
The treasurer and secretary _________ left from the bank.
(a) have
(b) has
(c) are
(d) is
Answer:
(a) have
(iv) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line:
The children cheers loudly when their captain scored the winning goal.
| Option No. | Error | Correction |
| (a) | cheers | cheered |
| (b) | when | by |
| (c) | scored | scoring |
| (d) | wining | winner |
Answer:
| (a) | cheers | cheered |
The children cheered loudly when their captain scored the winning goal.
(v) Complete the given narrative, by filling in the blanks with the correct option:
The teacher is hoping to ________ an art exhibition before the end of the year.
(a) put off
(b) put up
(c) put down
(d) put on
Answer:
(b) put up
(vi) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket:
The school ___________ (is) organize an educational tour to Kashmir in the summer break.
Answer:
is organising
(vii) Report the dialogue between Lata and Usha, by completing the sentence:
Lata: What activity did you enjoy the most in the summer camp?
Usha: I enjoyed the art and craft class.
Lata asked Usha what activity did she enjoy the most in the summer camp.
Usha replied that she _________ .
Answer:
enjoyed the art and craft class
(viii) Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction:
The orchestra performed on the central theatre in front of a huge audience.
Use the given format for your response:
| Error | Correction |
| __________ | _________ |
Answer:
| Error | Correction |
| on | at |
The orchestra performed at the central theatre in front of a huge audience.*
(ix) Bela shared some information about her visit to her grandmother with Malini. Report Malini’s question.
Is your grandmother feeling better now?
Answer:
Malini asked Bela if her mother was feeling better then
(x) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the advisory by the Health Department.
Schools _________ instruct students to wear full sleeved shirts during monsoon time.
(a) ought
(b) would
(c) might
(d) ought to
Answer:
(d) ought to
Question 4.
(a) You are Anita/ Anil of Pandav Park. You recently worked on a school project on the powerful impact of media in promoting national integration. Write a letter to the editor of The Hindu, sharing your views on the role of media, (word limit 100-120 words). 5
Or
Question 4.
(b) You are Kamal/Kanishka living at G – 59, Kirti Nagar. Write a letter to the Principal I.T.I. Pusa in about 100 – 120 words, enquiring about the diploma course available in the institution, the duration of the course, the fee structure, placement services and the admission process. 5
Answer:
Panday Park
XYZ City
1
st
October, 20××
The Editor
The Hindu
Subject: Role of media in promoting national integration
Sir
Through the medium of the columns of your esteemed newspaper I wish to share my views on the role of media in promoting national integration.
Recently I worked on a school project on the powerful impact of media in promoting national integration. It is quite evident that media has played a pivotal role in bringing about soli¬darity and national cohesion in the country. It keeps people informed about national issues. Media acts as a guard when forces work against the integrity and solidarity of our nation. During a national crisis media plays a vital role as a tool for crisis management.
Thus, we cannot deny the important role of media in nurturing national integration.
I hope you will publish my letter in your newspaper so that the role of media in promoting national integration is reiterated in the readers.
Yours sincerely
Anita
Or
(b) G-59, Kirti Nagar
Delhi
21 st April, 20××
The Principal
I.T.I. Pusa
Subject: Enquiry regarding Diploma course.
Sir
I am a student of Class X studying in ABC School, Delhi. I am keen to pursue the diploma course from your esteemed institute.
I would be grateful if you could send me the following details regarding the diploma course available in your institute.
(i) Duration of the Course
(ii) Admission Process
(iii) Fee Structure
(iv) Placement Opportunities
(v) Any other relevant information regarding the course
I look forward to an early response from your end via email ( [email protected] )
Thanking You
Yours sincerely
Kanishka
Question 5.
(a) Global weather has been undergoing a drastic change and global warming is responsible for creating arctic melt downs. Use the given pie-chart to write n paragraph analysing the reasons for climate change in about 100 – 120 words. 5
Or
Question 5.
(b) Write an analytical paragraph based on the double bar graph showing the percentage growth in different sectors in a developing country from the year 2012 to 2022. 5
Answer:
(a) Global weather has been undergoing a drastic change and global warming is responsible for creating arctic meltdowns. The given pie-chart analyses the reasons for climatic change. The two major factors that are mainly responsible for this climatic change are energy/electricity generation (33%) and fumes generates by various means of transport (27%). Together these two factors take precedence over other reasons (60%) for climatic change. Industry and agriculture contribute about 26% toward global warming and then there are residential, commercial and other factors totaling 14% that also bring about climatic change.
Or
(b) The given bar chart depicts the percentage growth in different sectors in a developing country from the year 2012 to 2022. Education saw the sharpest hike of 25% in 2012 as compared to 12% in 2022. The growth of the private sector has remained quite steady in ten years. The Govt sector is stagnant and has not registered any growth at all. Medical sector has risen by about 5% in ten years and transport sector too has gone up by about 5% whereas agriculture has seen a decline of 5% in ten years.
Question 8.
(d) Chubokov the suspicious one accused Lomov when he comes to his house. Explain.
(e) Amanda’s mother gives her a list of do’s and don’ts. What impact does this have on Amanda?
Answer:
(d) Chubukov is surprised at Lomov’s sudden and unexpected visit. He wonders why Lomov is dressed so formally. Chubukov pretends to be polite to him and he thinks Lomov must have come to borrow some money from him.
(e) Amanda is fed up of her mother’s constant nagging. Her mother keeps telling her what to do and what not to do. Amanda is so frustrated by her mother’s continuous blabbering that she imagines herself as an orphan with no parents to restrict her.