English-10th QR Code

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SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER—2025 (Solved)

(Issued by Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi)
CLASS — 10th
ENGLISH
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
Time allowed : 3 Hrs.] [Maximum Marks : 80
General Instructions :
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question-paper contains THREE sections –
Section–A : Reading Skills
Section–B : Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
Section–C : Literature Textbook
3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.
SECTION—A (Reading Skills) (20 Marks)

1. Read the following text : 10
(1) Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is often taken for granted. Despite its abundance,
the reality is that only a small fraction of the world’s water is fresh and available for human use. With
increasing populations, climate change, and industrial demands, the pressure on our water resources is
growing. This makes water conservation not just a collective responsibility but a crucial individual duty.
Each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource
for future generations.
(2) One of the primary reasons individual water conservation efforts are so important is the cumulative effect
of small actions which may seem trivial on their own. However, when multiplied by millions of people,
these actions can lead to substantial water savings. For example, a single dripping tap can waste over 15
litres of water a day. Imagine the water saved if every household in a city repaired just one leaky faucet.
This highlights the power of collective individual actions in reducing water waste.
(3) Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness and education.
When individuals take steps to conserve water, they become more conscious of their water usage and the
importance of this resource. This awareness can then spread within communities, inspiring others to adopt
similar practices. For instance, a family that installs water-saving devices in their home may encourage
neighbours and friends to do the same, creating a ripple effect. This grassroots approach to conservation
can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to implement or lacking in
support.
(4) In addition to daily habits, individuals can also make a difference through more significant lifestyle
choices. For instance, opting for drought-resistant plants in gardens and supporting water-efficient
agriculture can all contribute to water conservation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is one of the
largest consumers of water globally. By supporting sustainable farming practices, indivi-duals can
indirectly reduce the water footprint of their food.
(5) Critics might argue that individual efforts are negligible compared to the large-scale water consumption by
industries and agriculture. However, this perspective over- looks the potential for individual actions to
drive systemic change. When people collectively make water-conscious choices, they send a powerful
message to businesses and policymakers about the importance of conservation.
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(6) Each person’s commitment to saving water, no matter how small, contributes to a larger culture of
sustainability. By making conscious choices and spreading awareness, individuals can help ensure that
future generations have access to the clean, fresh water they need to thrive. Water conservation is not just
the responsibility of governments and industries; it is a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Created for Academic Usage / 441 words
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact
the preservation of this vital resource’ emphasise ? 1
II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given. 1
Water is often taken for granted, despite its essential nature because .................. .
A. it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage.
B. its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value. (paragraph 1)
III. Support the writer’s idea that small individual actions towards water conservation are not trivial.
(paragraph 2) 2
IV. Select the option that best reflects the concept of a ‘ripple effect’ in the context of student life at school.
(paragraph 3) 1
A. A student’s act of volunteering at a local charity leads to the school administration organising a large-scale
fundraising event.
B. A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study
routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
V. State whether the following statement is True or False. (paragraph 3) 1
‘Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness and education’.
VI. The writer mentions ‘sustainable farming practices’ in paragraph 4. 1
Which of the following is a sustainable farming practice ?
A. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides extensively to increase crop yields.
B. Clearing large areas of natural vegetation to expand farmland for organic farming.
C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
D. Relying solely on monoculture farming to maximise production efficiency.
VII. List any two points that a powerful message sent to businesses and policy makers about the importance of
water conservation might include. (paragraph 5) 2
VIII. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given. (paragraph 6) 1
In the phrase ‘culture of sustainability’, the word ‘culture’ refers to ................
A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
B. The artistic and traditional practices specific to a community’s heritage.
C. The lifestyle habits and choices that are popular among the urbane.
D. The techniques and methods used in development efforts.
2. Read the following text. 10
(1) A thorough study conducted across several villages of north-west India unveiled fascinating insights into
the mural* landscape. It revealed that a significant majority, comprising around 80% of these vibrant
artworks are meticulously crafted by the villagers themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem
from collaborative endeavours between villagers and local or visiting artists.
(2) Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5% of the murals are the result of sponsored initiatives, often
commissioned by governments or non-governmental organisations. These murals convey social messages
ranging from education and environmental conservation to public health awareness.
(3) Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore, celebrating the
rich cultural heritage of the region. About 26% of these murals showcase daily life in the villages,
capturing moments of joy, struggle and victory. The remaining 19% features abstract or contemporary
themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in rural settings.
(4) Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on the walls of
community centres, temples and other public spaces. Around 27% adorn the exterior walls of residential
houses. The remaining 10% are scattered across schools, health centres, and other institutional buildings,
serving as educational tools and sources of inspiration for the younger generation.
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(5) To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter,
techniques, community engagement and impact are crucial. Analysing these facets not only provides a
comprehensive understanding of mural creation in north-west Indian villages but also unveils avenues for
cultural preservation, community development and creative expression.
* a large painting or artwork that is typically created directly on a wall or ceiling.
Created for academic usage/252 words.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I. What does the use of the phrase ‘fascinating insights’ by the writer, in paragraph 1, tell us about their feelings ?
1
A. The writer is expressing surprise.
B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.
C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
D. The writer is showing disappointment.
II. Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below. 1
Assertion : The murals in north-west Indian villages are meticulously crafted.
Reason : The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.
A. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true.
III. Identify the word that indicates that the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals ?
1
IV. How do the murals in north-west Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness ? 1
V. Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank. 1
In Hari’s village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on the Panchayat office wall.
The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is. (26%/19%/55%)
VI. What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural
priorities in north-west Indian villages ? 1
VII. Complete the sentence suitably. 1
The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses
highlight ..................... 1
VIII. Complete the following with a suitable reason. 1
The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational tool’ is because it can
.............. . 1
IX. In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as
demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques community engagement, and impact in understanding the
mural landscape in north-west Indian villages. 2
SECTION—B (Writing Skills & Grammar) (20 Marks)

(Grammar)
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed. 10
I. Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal letter : 1
Dear Mr. Patel,
We are pleased to inform you that your proposal for the upcoming project by the board of directors
..................... .
A. had endorsed
B. will have been endorsed
C. has been endorsed
D. have endorsed.
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II. Read the given sentence from a marketing report. Identify the error and supply the correction in the
given format. 1
The company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands.
Error Correction
III. Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak. 1

Have you finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow ?
Report Rhea’s question correctly.
IV. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete an official announcement. 1
Attention all prefects,
Please be informed that the deadline for submitting your registrations for participation in the Art
Exhibition has been extended ...................... . (That / These / This) should be communicated to all
students of classes IX-X.
V. Read Sana’s reply to her team leader, regarding the preparation of an important presentation. 1
I’m sorry I forgot ma’am. I’ll have the presentation ready for you very soon today. Report Sana’s reply
by completing the following sentence correctly.
Sana apologised for having forgotten and said.
VI. Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from an online news report : Nearly most shop was
closed for the public holiday. 1
Option No. Error Correction
A most every
B shop shops
C was were
D the that
VII. Complete the given school announcement by selecting the correct option to fill in the blank. 1
Good News, everyone!
Our school’s rebotics team has successfully ............... a place in the semi-finals.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secured.
VIII. Detect the error and supply the correction for the given observation by a child. That needn’t be Dad’s
Jacket. It’s too small. 1
Error Correction
IX. Report the dialogue between a teacher and a student, by completing sentence.
Teacher : Did everyone understand the new assignment ?
Students : Yes, we all got it, thank you !
The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which the students .................,
expressing their gratitude. 1
X. Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from a handbook for managers. The manager
................ consider the proposal before making a decision.
A. will
B. should
C. might
D. can 1
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XI. Complete the given sentence about the reaction of some friends, by selecting the correct option : 1
The group of friends ............... excited at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.
A. are
B. has
C. is
D. were
XII. Read the conversation about social media, between a teacher and a student 1
Teacher : How do you think social media influences our perceptions of reality ?
Jagrit : I believe it distorts our perception of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people’s
lives.
Report the student’s response by completing the following.
The student remarked .............. by only showing the highlight reels of people’s lives.
WRITING
Note : All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment
purpose.
4.A. You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words, to the
Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse
effects of e-waste* pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community
engagement and government initiatives.
*Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers and televisions, which are no longer in use or
have reached the end of their lifecycle. 5
Or
4.B. You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words addressing the Secretary of the City
Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the
delegation of personnel for regular pruning. 5
5.A. Read the product details on a lable for a school bag : 5
ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
1. Made from recycled materials.
2. Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel.
3. Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers.
4. Reflective strips for visibility and safety.
5. Water-resistant fabric.
6. Available in various vibrant colours and patterns.
Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words,
considering factors such as its eco-friendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects and design
options.
* Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user.
Or
5.B. Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area. 5
• A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture, such as a miniature fort, with
multiple levels and slides.
• Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line.
• A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers.
• Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos.
• Trees, Shrubs and flower beds
• Ample open space.
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Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this
playground.
Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age groups, and overall
experience.
SECTION—C (Literature Textbook) (40 Marks)

6. Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions given below. 5
A. With a loud scream he fell outwards and given downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized
him and his heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But it only lasted a minute. The next moment he
felt his wings spread outwards. The wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and
against his wings. He could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not falling
headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards. (His First Flight).
I. What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the baby seagull ? 1
With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized
him and his heart stood still.
Choose the most suitable option.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses.
II. How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the
paragraph ? 2
III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. 1
The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to a sense of ............. (speed / relief), in the extract.
IV. How does the seagull’s feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of
terror ? 1
B. And suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling at her. “What’s your
name, little one ?”
“Bh-Bho-Bho-.” She could stammer no further than that.
Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She kept her head down as she
sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the
school bell rang, all the girls scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her
head still lowered, she kept on sobbing.
“Bholi.”
The teacher’s voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been called like that. It
touched her heart. (Bholi)
I. What is the tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used in the line, “What’s your name, little one ?”
1
A. reassuring
B. comforting
C. settling
D. calming.
II. How does the author’s use of Bholi’s perspective help build the narrative in the extract ? 2
III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. 1
The word ‘flood’ in the line ‘.......... tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood’. Indicates that
Bholi was crying ......(uncontrollably / unintentionally).
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IV. How does the teacher’s comforting demeanour contrast with the behaviour of the other girls in the
classroom ? 1
7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for any one of the two, given. 5
A. He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of vlvet quiet,
In his quiet rage. (Tiger in the Zoo)
I. What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the
colours of the stripes ? 2
II. Fill in the blank with ONE word. 1
The tiger’s stalking suggests a movement that is ..........within the confines of its cage. 1
III. How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger’s confined environment and its internal
emotions ? 1
IV. Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the given extract. 1
A. This bird so small and sweet, B. Perched on a branch.
Green, Sings aloud in the morn, This bird so sweet and lean.
Perched on a branch green, sweet, Sings aloud in a voice
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet. Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
C. This bird sings without a care, D. This bird so small and
sweet Perched on a branch green, Sings aloud in the morn
A song with the world to share, Perched on a green branch.
With its feelings so keen. Singing its own melody.
Or
B. Belinda paled, and she cried Help ! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed. (The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
I. Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines. 2
II. Complete the following suitably. 1
The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda ............
III. What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of
the household”? 1
IV. What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines ?
Select the correct option
1. Urgency 2. Apprehension 3. Uncertainty 4. Mystery 5. Aggression 1
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5.
8. Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4 × 3 = 12
I. How does the ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of London reveal insights
about people’s perceptions and knowledge regarding animals ? (Mijbil the Otter) 3
II. How does the imagery of the trees’ movement from the house to the forest, in ‘Trees’, reflect broader
themes of liberation and growth in human experiences ? 3
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III. What does the postmaster’s reaction to Lencho’s letter reveal about his character ? (A Letter to God) 3
IV. Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the
allure of the unfamiliar in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. 3
V. What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the
household’ ? 3
9. Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2×3=6
I. How does Matilda’s desire for material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace ? 3
II. Justify the opinion that Ebright’s early successes were essential for his later achievements in science.
(The Making of a Scientist) 3
III. How does ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’ include elements of satirical science fiction ? 3
10. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6
I. Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their
respective messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently. Examine these differences.
II. Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares’, grapple with the idea that external
attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the similarities.
11. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6
I. Evaluate how Griffin’s character is shaped by a combination of personal ambition, the unintended
consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the reactions of the society he faces.
II. Evaluate how James Herriot’s characterisation contributes significantly to the overarching theme of
responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
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MODAL ANSWERS
Section—A (Reading Skills)

1. I. This phrase emphasises the collective efforts of people and a crucial individual duty to conserve water that
can make a big difference.
II. B. its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value.
III. Small individual actions for water conservation lead to substantial water savings, as these actions are multi-
plied by millions of people and make a big difference. If a person saves one litre of water in a day, millions
of litres of water can be saved by small individual actions.
IV. B. A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study
routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
V. True.
VI. C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
VII. People's collective water-conscious choices and spreading awareness about water conservation.
VIII. A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group.
2. I. C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
II. C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
III. surprisingly
IV. The murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness by conveying
social messages about education, environmental conservation, and public health awareness.
V. 19%
VI. It suggests that in north-west Indian villages, there is a deep desire among people to celebrate and preserve
traditional values and narratives.
VII. mythology and folklore.
VIII. contribute to community engagement and awareness by conveying information through vivid imagery and
symbols, making it comprehensible.
IX. Comparing these parameters is significant as they provide comprehensive understanding of mural creation and
help in cultural preservation, community development and creative expressions.
Section—B (Writing Skills & Grammar)

3. I. C. has been endorsed
II. Error : strives; Correction : strive
III. Rhea asked Deepak If he had finalised the magazine content to be submitted the next day.
IV. This
V. that she would have the presentation ready for her very soon that day.
VI. Option no. A Error : most Correction : every
VII. B. secured
VIII. Error: needn’t Correction: can’t
IX. replied affirmatively
X. B. should
XI. C. is
XII. that he believed that social media distorts our perceptions of reality
4. A. About the Problem of E-waste Pollution
46 Inderpuri Aluva
Kochi
5 July 20 _ _
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The Project Head

E-waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika
New Delhi
Subject : The increasing problem of e-waste pollution
Sir
Electronic waste (e-waste) is emerging as the fastest growing pollutant. When electronic items become waste,
many toxic substances can release into the environment and pollute it, if the e-waste is not managed properly.
Mismanagement of e-waste can cause hazardous effects on the environment as well as health. Every device
ever produced has a carbon footprint and is contributing to human-made global warming. So recycling of e-
waste is very necessary. The improper handling of e-waste is also resulting in huge loss of valuable raw
material metals that can be extracted by recycling.
So proper management of e-waste is the great need of the hour for the protection of the environment as well
as life. For this the government should take earnest steps. E-waste collection drives and recycling events
should be organised. Awareness camps should be conducted in schools and colleges. Local residents should be
engaged in e-waste segregation. Other measures for proper usage of e-waste should also be adopted, such as
implementing and monitoring interventions that improve informal e-waste recycling activities, Besides all
this, funding and resources for e-waste recycling facilities should also be provided.
Yours faithfully
Nirmal Pillai
4. B. 12 PQR Colony
Ranchi
18 August 20 _ _
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi
Subject : The problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the locality
Respected sir
I want to bring to your kind notice that in our colony, the area around our houses, including the public park,
has fallen into a miserable state due to the total neglect of the concerned officials. All the park and the sides
of the streets of the colony are overgrown with prickly weeds, thorny bushes and shrubs which has made it
impossible for the children to play there. The residents also find it hard to walk there without fear. There is
a danger of the emergence of snakes also due to these shrubs. These overgrown shrubs also cause the breeding
of various insects and mosquitoes. So there is the danger of the spread of many diseases like malaria, dengue
or other skin problems. Besides all this overgrown trees and shrubs give the whole colony a very ugly look.
So it is requested to take some prompt action in this regard. Please direct the delegation of personnel for
regular pruning for the upkeep of the park as well as the whole colony, so that the residents may not only
enjoy beauty of their surroundings and the facility of the park but also remain safe from diseases.
Yours faithfully
Chhavi Pathak
5. A. I think this school bag definitely would be a beneficial purchase. The first thing that makes it a sensible
purchase is its eco-friendly nature. It is made of recycled materials. Its padded shoulder straps make it
comfortable to carry for a long time and keep one safe from injuries. Its breathable mesh back panel makes
it easy to identify things that are carried in the bag. And the most important aspect is that it has maximum
carriage capacity with many pockets to put things in an organised way. It is easily visible while we are
walking on the road due to its reflective strips. It is a good feature from the safety point of view also. These
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ENGLISH 10th 11
shining strips enhance its look also. Its water-resistant fabric will make our things safe and dry when we have
to move in rain. We have plenty of choice of colours and patterns that we like. In short the bag is perfect and
very useful in every aspect, whether we consider it from the perspective of design, practicality, or comfort.
5. B. The proposed design for the playground in the residential area is perfect. A central climbing structure such as
a miniature fort with multiple levels and slides will provide ample activity to develop the motor skills of the
children. Swings adorned with colourful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line, will prove
a paradise for the little children. It will tone their developing muscles. A water play feature inspired by Indian
fountains or rivers will enhance the beauty of the park. Then shaded seating areas with benches and swings
that would resemble traditional chaupals will make an ideal place for old people. They would enjoy watching
children play and enjoy each other’s company. Further, the trees, shrubs, and flower beds will work as a
jewellery and scent of the park, making it a place for refreshing the body and mind. Ample open space will
make the children play running games. But I would just like to add one thing: a walking track along the
boundary of the park for the old people to walk freely and safely. Rest assured, all the details are perfect for
an ideal park.
Section—C (Literature Textbook)
6. A. I. B. overwhelms.
II. The use of descriptive language enhances the narrative technique because it makes the reader feel as if he
himself is experiencing the incident instead of the seagull. The narrative technique gives the reader the exact
feeling of what the seagul was experiencing. The narrator describes the falling or first flight of seagul in a
detailed way. For example, the narrator says that the seagul feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air.
This description gives us the feeling of floating of seagul.
III. speed
IV. Initially the seagul was in great terror. But when his wings spread outwards, he flapped them and started
flying. Now he was feeling relieved.
B. I. C. settling
II. Bholi’s shy and fearful behaviour prompted teacher to talk to her and make her feel comfortable and easy.
Her kind behaviour with Bholi, later on, changes her into a confident girl. Thus the author’s use of Bholi’s
perspective help builds the narrative in the extract.
III. uncontrollably
IV. Bholi was feeling scared and uncomfortable in the class. Not understanding Bholi’s feeling, the other girls in
the class were laughing at her. But, on the other hand, the teacher’s behaviour towards Bholi was sympathetic
and comforting.
7. A. I. The poet chooses the word ‘vivid’ to give stress on the beauty of the stripes on the body of the tiger. The
strong and bright looking stripes look really amazing and make the tiger look wonderful.
II. restless
III. By using the word ‘quiet’ twice in the lines “On pads of velvet quiet, / in his quiet rage”, the poet reinforces
the contrast between the tiger’s confined environment and its internal emotions of rage and helpless silence
IV. option C.
B. I. Blink is portrayed as a coward who hides himself in his hole when Belinda calls for help.
II. was frightened realizing that she was in a great danger.
III. The picture painted here shows that like other pets and Belinda, Ink also gets frightened and hides under
household things to save himself.
IV. C. 1,2 and 3
8. I. The ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of London reveals that people do not have
much knowledge about animals and have wrong perceptions about them. When they saw Mijbil, they started
making guesses. Their guesses included such animals as a baby seal, a squirrel, a walrus, a hippo, a beaver, a
bear cub, or even a leopard.
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II. This imagery of the trees conveys the message that women have begun to move out of the four walls of their
house. They are struggling to establish their own identity in a world dominated by men so far. The poet
expresses satisfaction to see that trees (women) have started moving out into the forest (the world of men). In
other words, women have started to think about their individuality and to have equal rights with men.
III. The postmaster was impressed by Lencho’s faith in God. So he decided to answer Lencho’s letter. The
postmaster didn’t have that much money Lencho had asked for. He collected some money from the post
office employees. He himself gave a part of his salary. He could collect 70 pesos only. He put the money in
a letter and sent it for Lencho. This shows that the postmaster was a very kind-hearted person.
IV. Valli’s deep longing to ride the bus reveals her intense desire to come out of the familiar world of her
surroundings. She wants to have the experience of the unfamiliar world. This story beautifully describes how
a little girls makes a lot of sacrifices to fulfil her desire to experience the unfamiliar thing and eventually she
succeeds. This narrative has given an effective portrayal of the comfort of familiarity and the allure of the
unfamiliar.
V. The picture painted here shows the cowardice of Ink, who gets frightened when a pirate breaks into their
house. Ink hides himself under the household goods. In these lines, the poet tries to ridicule those persons
who put up faces of being very brave and courageous. But in times of crisis, they prove big cowards.
9. I. In the story, ‘The Necklace’, the writer wants to tell that some people are in the habit of showing off and
vanity. Sometimes this habit of theirs land them in untold troubles. The same happens in the case of
Matilda Loisel in the story. She borrows a beautiful necklace from one of her friends to wear at a party.
Unfortunately, at the party, her necklace is lost. To return the necklace, Matilda’s husband has to borrow
18,000 Franks at a high rate of interest. It changes their entire course of life. She has to live a hard life of
poverty. Her husband does overtime for some merchants. This continues for ten long years. At last they
clear all their debt, but at the cost of their youth. Matilda’s desire for material wealth becomes the cause
of her ruin.
II. Ebright became a great scientist. From the seventh grade, he started taking part in science fairs or
competitions. And his participations in these fairs were proved successful, which gave him great motivation
to excel in the field of science at an early age. At the age of twenty-two, he came up with a new theory on
how cells work. It was published in the form of an article in a journal titled “Proceedings of the National
Academy of Science." This article excited the whole world of science.
III. This story includes satirical science fiction elements. It highlights themes of intellect, communication and
cultural misunderstanding in a humorous manner. Space exploration and futuristic settings have been used
to give science fiction element to this story. Think-Tank was the ruler of Mars. He planned to invade the
planet earth because he thought earthlings were weak and ridiculous people. He sent three of his crew
members to do a recce of the earth. The three Martians found themselves in a public library. They had
never seen books and couldn’t tell what those things were. One of them read out some rhymes from an old
book of nursery rhymes. Think-Tank foolishly interpreted the rhymes in his own way. He concluded that
the Earthlings were far more powerful than the Martians. He feared that they would capture Mars. So he
decided to escape without delay. He ordered his invasion fleet to leave Mars and go to Alpha Centauri that
was a hundred million miles away.
10. I. The poem ‘Dust of Snow’ tells a very trivial incident. The poet is standing beneath a hemlock tree. It is
very cold, and snow is falling. A crow is sitting on a branch of the tree. Its wings are covered with fine
particles of snow. The crow shakes itself, and the snow falls on the poet. This little incident brings about
a sudden change in the poet’s state of mind. He feels that it has saved the rest of his day. Now he won’t
let his day be wasted simply because the snow is falling. Like the crow, he too will shake off his inertia
and go about his business as usual.
On the other hand, the poem ‘Fire and Ice’ is a meditation on the end of the world. In the Bible, there is
a description of the end of the world by fire. Men of religion believe that the world will end by fire. But
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ENGLISH 10th 13
modern scientists believe that the world will end in ice. If there is a nuclear war, a long winter shall set in
and it will freeze all life to death. The poet says that both of these views are equally true. Fire and Ice are
both powerful enough to destroy our planet. Thus we can say that both the poems use contrasting elements
of nature to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions.
II. In the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’, the young man tries to tell the woman that there is no one except God
who values a person for their inner beauty. On the other hand, the woman tries to impress upon the man
that she won’t accept anyone who loves her for her looks only. In this poem, the poet gives significance to
the inner beauty of a person. It is true that external looks do have some value. But ultimately, it is the
inner worth only that decides the true value of a person. So we must not give a person importance due to
their physical appearance. Rather, we should give worth to their inner beauty.
In the chapter ‘The Sermon at Benares’, Kisa Gotami goes to the Buddha and asks him to give her some
medicine that can bring her son back to life. The Buddha asks her to bring a handful of mustard seeds
from the house where there has been no death. Kisa Gotami can find no house where no death has ever
taken place. Now the woman realises the reality of death. She learns the lesson that everyone is mortal.
Thus we see that both of these texts convey the same message — external attributes are fleeting and subject
to decay.
11. I. Griffin was a brilliant and successful scientist, but his ambitious nature forced him to indulge in illegal and
antisocial activities. He had discovered a rare drug that could make the human body as transparent as glass.
He could create many miracles in the field of science. But his brilliance as a scientist faded before his darker
traits. He was an eccentric sort of person. He was very short-tempered. He was a lawless person. He committed
many illegal acts. He burnt his landlord’s house. He stole the clergyman’s money. He hit the constable. He
had to face many unintended consequences due to his scientific pursuits. People call him an eccentric scientist
due to his peculiar behaviour and dress. He had to move without clothes in cold winter. All the time he had
to cover his whole body with clothes to look normal. Griffin came to the inn in winter. Nobody visited the
inn in winter. His appearance was also uncommon. He didn’t want to talk to anyone. All this made people
think that Griffin was an eccentric scientist.
II. James Herriot was a veterinary surgeon. He was firm as a doctor. He was very caring and compassionate
also towards animals. He genuinely cared about the well being of Tricki, Mrs Pumphrey’s pet. He was
worried about his health as Mrs Pumphrey overfed Tricki out of love. One day he saw Mrs Pumphrey
walking with Tricki. He saw that Tricki had become very fat. He could hardly walk. His eyes were
bloodshot. A watery discharge flowed from them. His tongue lolled from his jaws. All this shocked
Herriort. He saw that Tricki could fall very ill. So he advised Mrs Pumphrey to cut down the dog’s food.
He also advised her to give plenty of exercise to Tricki. But he knew that Mrs Pumphrey would not stop
overfeeding Tricki. He was sure to die if he continued living with his mistress. Therefore one day when
Mrs Pumphrey gave Herriot a frantic call telling him about Tricki’s illness, Mr Herriot gave Mrs Pumphrey
the impression that her dog was seriously ill and would have to be taken to his surgery. There he gave the
dog no medicine. In fact, it was all result of Mr. Herriot’s tactfulness and his common sense that the dog
himself got well. Thus we see how Herriot’s characterisation reinforces the theme of responsible pet
ownership and animal welfare in this story.
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(Issued by CBSE on 16 September, 2022)
2022–23
2024-25
Solved
Solved ENGLISH LANGUAGE
AND LITERATURE Class-X
Sample Question Paper—1

Time allowed : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. 15-minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper reading.

2. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE.
3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
SECTION—A : READING SKILLS (20 Marks)
1. Read the passage given below. 10

1. India is the only country in the world that has all the three main species of cats — the Lion, the Tiger, and the
Leopard. It also has all other smaller species of cats, including the domestic and wild cats. Though they differ
in size and appearance, all belong to the same cat family. All members of the cat family have short, rounded
heads and long face whiskers. They have sharp teeth and powerful claws. Their long tails help them in
jumping, climbing and balancing.
2. Tigers are the biggest members of the cat family. Their average length is 9-10 feet. They have a yellowish fur
with black stripes. They hunt by night and lie still during the day. Tigers are very strong animals. One tiger
can pull a dead buffalo which even a group of people won’t be able to move.
3. The Indian tiger is also known as the Royal Bengal Tiger. There was a time when tigers were found throughout
India. Until the 1800s, we had thousands of tigers in our forests. But over the years, large numbers of tigers
have been killed. People hunted them for sport and kept their heads as trophies. There was also a myth about
tiger skins having magical powers of curing many diseases. So people killed them to have their skins. Urbanisation
and deforestation also took their toll on tigers. As a result, no tigers have been left in many parts of India.
4. Lions are large wild cats. They are tawny-coloured. An adult male weighs about 180 kg and measures about
nine feet from nose to tail. The Indian lion differs from the African lion in that it has no mane. But unlike the
African lion, it has a tuft of hair on its elbows, at the end of its tail and on its belly. Lions usually live in groups
called ‘prides’. A pride has one male, several females and all their cubs. Lions often hunt as a team. The
other species of wild cats love to hunt alone. At one time, lions were quite common throughout northern and
central India. But now we have very few lions. They are found only in the Gir forest of Gujarat.
5. Leopards are a bit smaller than lions. They can live almost anywhere. They can feed on almost anything.
They can hunt and kill any type of animal or bird. Those living in the vicinity of villages prey on dogs.
Sometimes, they turn into cattle lifters. Some leopards become maneaters also. Leopards often hunt from
trees, lying in wait on a branch. If they cannot eat all their catch at once, they haul the carcass high up into
a tree. They do this to stop other animals from stealing it.
6.Almost all species of wild cats are in danger of extinction. Large-scale poaching and deforestation are the
main causes. Our government has now banned the hunting of any bird or animal. It has created more than
400 national parks and sanctuaries to protect and preserve our flora and fauna. There are over 80 national
parks in India. The top five of these are Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, Kanha National Park in Madhya
Pradesh, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Kaziranga National Park in Assam, and Gir National Park
in Gujarat.
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Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below.
1. (i) Which species of cats are found in India ?
(a) Domestic cats (b) Wild cats (c) Lion (d) All of these three.
(ii) Lion, tiger, leopard are ................. .
2. Choose the option to complete the following :
The long tail of cats help them in ................. .
i. finding prey ii. shooing away bees
iii. growing iv. eating and cleaning their place
v. jumping and climbing vi. balancing.
(a) i and ii. (b) v and vi. (c) iii and iv. (d) ii and iv.
3. The largest member of the cat family is ................. .
4. Tigers hunt ................. .
(a) as a team (b) by night (c) in the morning (d) both (a) and (b).
5. What is the difference between an Indian and an African lion ? Where are the lions found in India ?
6. Based on your understanding of the passage, choose the option that lists the reasons due to which the
number of tigers is reduced.
(ii) Today's environment is not suitable (iii) Their species is diminishing in a

(i) People hunt them for sport.
for them. natural way.
(iv) Due to the spread fo a fatal (v) Because of deforestation (vi) The government has banned the
disease in their species. hunting.
(a) i and v. (b) ii and iv. (c) iii and vi. (d) iii and iv.
7. Which cat species is in danger of extinction in India? What has been done by the Indian government
to save these cat species ?
8. (i) Lions live in groups called ‘prides’. A pride comprises of ................. .
(ii) Leopards can ................. .
(a) live almost anywhere (b) feed on almost anything
(c) hunt any animal or bird (d) all of these three.
2. Read the passage given below. 10
Where The Cheetah’s Speed Comes From
The cheetah, back seven decades after going
extinct in India, owes its charm largely to its Flexible spine, stretched limbs
speed. What is it that enables the fastest The cheetah’s spine is so flexible that it curves far enough
land mammal to reach a top speed above
to allow it to move its hind feet in front of the forefeet
100 kilometres per hour (in short bursts),
accelerating from 0 to 70 in just 2.5 seconds STANCE PHASE
GATHERED FLIGHT
? It is a question that continues to intrigue Forelimb liftoff Limbs beneath body
scientists.
Part of the answer lies in physiology, which
is well under stood : the cheetah’s body is
structured for sprinting, with key roles played
by a flexible spine, a light skeleton, a long
tail, and large nostrils. And part lies in
EXTENDED FLIGHT STANCE PHASE
mechanics, knowledge about which is still
evolving. Limbs stretched out, Hind limb liftoff
thanks to flexible spine
Built to sprint
The cheetah’s spine is so flexible that it curves far enough to allow it to move its hind feet in front of the
forefeet. The light skeleton makes it easier to carry its weight while running, the long tail is crucial for balance,
and the large nostrils and large heart combine to enable faster breathing and faster pumping of blood, which
supplies the muscles with more oxygen while running. The cheetah’s collarbones are small and the shoulder
blades, which are vertical, are not attached to the collarbone, an adaptation that allows it to take longer
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strides. The speed, however, comes at a price. The cheetah’s sprints must necessarily be of short duration to
prevent its body from overheating. It needs to pause and catch its breath to allow the muscles recover. A
cheetah can maintain its top speed for only about 250-300 metres.
Also, because of larger nostrils, not enough space is left for large teeth. As a result of its smaller teeth, a
cheetah has limited fighting abilities against other predators.
Forces at play
Mechanics involves the forces that come into play when the cheetah is running, and these are different when
one pair of feet is touching the ground (stance phase) and when all the limbs are in the air (flight phase).
This is true of any animal that is galloping4. Why, then, can a galloping horse not reach the same speed as a
cheetah ? Dr Tomoya Kamimura, an assistant professor at Japan’s Nagoya Institute of Technology, and
colleagues examined this question in a paper in Nature Scientific Reports (2021), one among a number of
studies led by Kamimura and published in various journals over the last few years.
They found an explanation in the flight phase. The cheetah gallops in two different ways – “gathered flight”,
when all four limbs5 are beneath the body, and “extended flight”, when the limbs are stretched out. Lacking the
cheetah’s flexible spine, a horse is not capable of extended flight, suggesting that this is a key factor in giving
the cheetah its speed.
In the flight phase, fewer forces obstruct the body. In the stance phase, the body is subjected to a reaction
force through the limb in contact with the ground. “In the flight phase, the cheetah’s body receives only
gravitational force... When the force is small, deceleration6 by the forelegs is reduced, which results in higher
average speed,” Kamimura said in an email response.
Using simulations based on a computer model of a cheetah in motion, the team derived equations of motion
and solved them. They then compared the solutions to real-world data, and found that galloping cheetahs
indeed matched the findings for certain flight types, through spine bending. In a later study, published in
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology this year, Kamimura and colleagues examined the impact of
collision when the cheetah’s feet touch the ground. Once again, they found the influence of the flexible spine.
“Our research revealed the mechanism under which the flexible spine of the cheetah reduces the collision
impact while running,” Kamimura said.
More to learn
In their April study, in which Kamimura’s team focused on when the cheetah’s feet touch the ground, the
researchers acounted for the difference in ground-contact timings between the forelegs and hind legs. The
cheetah’s motion, however, also depends on the difference in timings between the left and right limbs touching
the ground. “In future research, we would like to improve our model to investigate the dynamical effects of
different foot-contact timings between four legs on quadrupedal galloping,” the authors write.
Hindustan Times
— Kabir Firaque
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below.
1. Which of the following statements is TRUE ?
(a) The cheetahs population in India is in plenty.
(b) The cheetahs had gone extinct in India in the seventies.
(c) The cheetah again shows its presence in India after seventies.
(d) 70 years back cheetahs became extinct in India.
2. Select the appropriate option to fill in the blanks.
The scientists are curious to know the secret of the cheetah’s ....................
1. cleverness to hunt its prey.
2. athletic looks.
3. top speed of above 100 kilometres per hour.
4. accelerating from 0 to 70 km ph in just 2.5 seconds.
5. teeth.
(a) 1&5 (b) 1&2 (c) 3&4 (d) 2&5.
3. Evaluate the appropriate reason that enables cheetah the fastest land mammal.
(a) Its flexible spine, a light skeleton, large nostrils.
(b) Its strong and stiff back, heavy skeleton, a long tail.
(c) Its big teeth, flexible spine, strong and heavy skeleton.
(d) Its long legs, long neck, killing instinct.
4. Match the characteristics of the cheetah’s body parts with their advantages while running at high speed.
1. flexible spine i plays crucial role for balance.

2. light skeleton ii for faster breathing.
3. long tail iii curves far enough to allow it move its hind feet in front of the forefeet.
4. large nostrils iv makes it easier to carry its weight while running.
(a) 1— iii (b) 1— ii (c) 1— iv (d) 1— i

2— iv 2— i 2— iii 2— iv
3— i 3— iv 3— ii 3— ii
4— ii 4— iii 4— i 4— iii
5. What enables cheetah to take longer strides ?
6. How can you explain galloping ?
7. How does a cheetah's body help it to sprint ?
8. (i) Replace the underlined word with the similar word from paragraph 1&2.
Supple body is desired by all sports persons because it makes them less injury prone.
(a) mammal (b) accelerating (c) intrigue (d) flexible.
(ii) The word ‘intrigue’ DOES NOT have a meaning similar to :
(a) fascinate (b) interest (c) attract (d) confuse.
SECTION—B (GRAMMAR) (10 marks)
3. Attempt ANY TEN of the following questions. 10

i. Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the brackets, for the given portion of a letter.
Thank you for exceeding company expectations and .............. (inspire) your team with your spectacular work
ethic.
ii. Read the given sentence from a movie review article.
Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence.
The movie doesn’t let you rest and is packed with engaged action sequences.
Use the given format for your response.
Error Correction
iii. Akshat and Niharika had a conversation about the felicitation of

Akshat’s achievements.
Report Niharika’s question.
What will you be wearing for tomorrow’s function ?
iv. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the disclaimer given before a documentary
film.
The film has been created by taking creative liberties and dramatizing the events ............... (about/for/on)
cinematic expressions.
v. Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option :
The domestic cat .................. related to the lion and the tiger.
(a) be (b) is (c) has been (d) is being
vi. Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the brackets :
Last week it ................ (rain) heavily and my house was flooded with water.
vii. Report the dialogue between Rashid and his father, by completing the sentence.
Father : How are you getting on with your studies ?
Rashid : Fine. I have got a certificate of improvement from the school.
Father asked Rashid how he was getting on with his studies.
Rashid replied that ................... .
viii. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction :
Playing outdoor games have benefits over being indoors.
Use the given format for your response.
Error Correction
ix. Choose the correct determiner to complete the following.

Some boys have come to college without ................. knowledge of English.
(a) any (b) a few (c) a little (d) little.
x . Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.

A servant .......... obey his master.
(a) dare (b) need (c) can (d) must
xi. Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between Neela and Suresh.
Neela : Hi, Suresh. How are you ?
Suresh : I am on the lookout for a job.
Neela : What kind of a job are you interested in ?
Suresh : I am interested in administrative accounts.
Neela on meeting Suresh asked him how he was. Suresh replied that he was on the lookout for a job. Neela
asked him .......................................... . Suresh told her that he was interested in administrative accounts.
(a) what kind of a job he was interested in.
(b) what kind of a job he is interested in.
(c) what kind of a job he interested in.
(d) what kind of a job was he interested in.
xii. Identify the error in the following sentence and supply the correction.
One day I was trying to climb a tree while my foot slipped and I fell and fainted.
SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS) (10 marks)
4. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. 5

(A) You are Sujal / Sujata of Pragya Public School, Nangal, Punjab, who had arranged a trip for
fifty students to Nanital during summer vacation for ten days with ‘Mount Travels and Tourism’.
The arrangements done by the travel agency were far below standard. The accommodation
and food facilities were inferior in quality. Write a letter of complaint to the director of the
agency to stop duping tourists with false promises as it tarnishes the image of locals.
Or
(B) India is a highly populated country. People lack in maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene.
As a result, they suffer from various diseases. India has a serious sanitation challenge; around
60 per cent of the world’s open defecation takes place in India. Poor sanitation causes health
hazards including diarrheoa, particularly in children under 5 years of age, malnutrition and
deficiencies in physical development and cognitive ability. You are Nitish / Nikita, head boy /
girl of Anand Public School, Jaipur. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, highlighting
the problem and suggesting practical ways to ensure public sanitation and the right to dignity
and privacy.
5. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. 5

(A) Given here are graphs on the effect of pollution on migratory birds in Northern India. With
reference to the unit on ‘Environment’ and the graphs, write a paragraph suggesting possible
remedies for the situation.
Or
(B) You are Pratibha / Rahul of Class X. Write an analytical paragraph on ‘Ill effects on students of
too much of television’. You can use the following clues :
— Increasing addiction — Neglect of studies
— A great variety of programmes — Drop in academic performance
— Easy availability — Result — poor physical and mental health
SECTION—C (LITERATURE) (40 Marks)
6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given. 5
(A) I checked the map and the compass, switched over to my second and last fuel tank, and turned the
Dakota twelve degrees west towards England. I’ll be in time for breakfast, I thought. A good big English
breakfast ! Everything was going well – It was an easy flight.
Paris was about 150 kilometers behind me when I saw the clouds. Storm clouds. They were huge. They
looked like black mountains standing in front of me across the sky. I knew I could not fly up and over
them, and I did not have enough fuel to fly around them to the north or south.
‘‘I ought to got back to Paris,’’ I thought, but I wanted to get home. I wanted that breakfast.
‘I’ll take the risk, I thought, and flew that old Dakota straight into the storm.
Questions
1. Where was the narrator going ?

2. Where did he turn his aeroplane ?
3. When did he see the clouds ?
(a) When he was about 150 kilometers from England.
(b) When he was about 15 kilometers from England.
(c) When he was about 15 kilometers from Paris.
(d) When he was about 150 kilometers from Paris.
4. ‘‘I’ll take the risk.’’ What is the risk ? Why does the narrator take it ?
Or
(B) The expected call came within a few days. Mrs Pumphrey was distraught. Tricki would eat nothing.
Refused even his favourite dishes; and besides he had bouts of vomiting. He spent all his time lying on a
rug, panting. Didn’t want to go for walks, didn’t want to do anything. I had made my plans in advance. The
only way was to get Tricki out of the house for a period. I suggested that he be hospitalised for about a
fortnight to be kept under observation.
Questions
1. What was the expected call that came ? When did the call come ?
2. Why was Mrs Pumphrey distraught ?
3. Why did she call Mr Herriot ?
(a) Tricki had stopped eating anything. (b) Tricki kept vomitting.
(c) Tricki kept lying on a rug. (d) All of these three.
4. What plans the writer had made in advance for Tricki ?
(a) He had planned to get Tricki out of the house for a few days.
(b) He had planned about how to stop overfeeding or overeating of Tricki.
(c) He had planned to remove some organs of Tricki related to stomach through surgery.
(d) Both (a) and (b).
7. Attempt ANY ONE of two extracts given. 5

(A) If when you’re walking round your yard
You meet a creature there,
Who hugs you very, very hard,
Be sure it is a Bear.
If you have any doubts, I guess
He’ll give you just one more caress.
Though to distinguish beasts of prey
A novice might nonplus.
Questions
1. What will happen when you meet a bear ? Why do you think the bear ‘will give you just one more
caress’ ?
2. Identify the poetic device used in the given extract. What is the tone of the poem ?
3. This extract uses the phrase ‘one more caress’. Which of the following expressions is incorrect with
respect to this phrase ?
(i) another hard hug
(iv) another handshake one more caress (ii) another loving embrace
(iii) another gentle kiss
(a) option i (b) option ii (c) option iii (d) option iv

4. Which word in the passage means ‘embrace’ ?
(a) creature (b) yard (c) guess (d) caress.
Or
(B) He senses first responsibility
In a world of possessions. People will take
Balls, balls will be lost always, little boy.
And no one buys a ball back. Money is eternal.
Questions
1. ‘He senses first responsibility.’ What responsibility is referred to here ?
2. What does the poet say about this world ?
3. (i) How is money eternal ?

(a) It is never lost. (b) It goes on multiplying.
(c) It never loses its value. (d) It is found all over the world.
(ii) The boy was learning his first lesson of ............ .
(a) how to put up with a material gain (b) how to recover the lost things
(c) how to put up with a material loss (d) how to recover from ill health.
4. Choose the option that correctly identifies the poetic devices used in the third and fourth lines of this
stanza respectively.
(a) repetition, alliteration (b) metaphor, personification
(c) assonance, metaphor (d) simile, paradox.
8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following in about 40-50 words each. 4×3=12
i. Mention any two issues over which Amanda was nagged and scolded ? (Amanda)
ii. Why is the poet writing long letters ? Why does she not mention the departure of the
trees ? (The Trees)
iii. A ballad includes the telling of a tale as well as a surprise ending. Using evidence from the poem, explain
how these features are included in ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’.
iv. Why would you not agree with Lencho calling them the post office employees 'a bunch of crooks' ?
(A Letter to God)
v. How does Mandela compare the oppressor with the oppressed ? (Long Walk to Freedom)
9. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 40-50 words each. 2×3=6
i. Why, according to Hari Singh, is it easier to rob a greedy man than robbing a careless person like Anil ?
(The Thief’s Story)
ii. Describe the curious episode which took place in a clergyman’s study. (Footprints without Feet)
iii. Why did Matilda (Mme Loisel) leave the ball in a hurry ? What does it show about her character ?
(The Necklace)
10. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 100-120 words. 1×6=6
(A) Behaviour of the conductor in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ is an example of good manners. Mentioning the
instances of good manners shown by the conductor in the story, write how you can make your life happy
by observing good manners.
Or
(B) Pranjol and Rajvir discuss their next vacation destination. They shortlist Coorg and Goa. Rajvir is keen on
Coorg and tries to convince Pranjol. Develop a conversation between the two, based on your understanding
of Glimpses of India. (Tea From Assam)
You may begin like this :
Rajvir : Hey Pranjol ! I think we should be visiting Coorg. It is a beautiful place with coffee plantations.
I can smell the aroma already !
Pranjol : We visited a tea plantation last year, in Assam; I want to...
11. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 100-120 words. 1×6=6
(A) Science is a good servant but a bad master. How is this applicable to Griffin’s scientific discovery ? Give
examples from the text. (Footprints Without Feet)
Or
(B) “You haven’t a kick in you but I think I know a cure for you.” Which type of cure was Herriot talking
about ? Did Tricki need to learn the joy of struggling for his food ? Discuss the values that Tricki needed
to imbibe. (A Triumph of Surgery)
MODEL ANSWERS
SECTION—A (READING SKILLS)
1. 1. (i) (d) All of these three. (ii) different in size and appearnce. 2. (b) v and vi. 3. tiger. 4. (b) by night 5. There
is a difference between an Indian and an African lion. The Indian lion has no mane. But it has a tuft of hair on
its elbows, at the end of its tail, and on its belly. On the other hand, the African lion has a mane and does not
have tufts of hair on its elbows, its tail, or belly. In the past, lions could be seen in northern and central India.
But now they are found only in the Gir forest of Gujarat. 6. (a) i and v. 7. All the species of wild cats are in
danger of extinction in India. The Indian government has banned the hunting of birds and animals. National
parks and sanctuaries have been created to protect these animals. Prominent among these national parks are
Corbett National Park, Kanha National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Gir
National Park. All the species of cats are safe in these parks. 8. (i) one male and several females with their
cubs. (ii) (d) all of these three.
2. 1. (d) 70 years back the cheetahs became extinct in India. 2. (c) 3&4 3. (a) Its flexible spine, a light skeleton,
large nostrils. 4.(a) 1— iii; 2— iv; 3— i; 4— ii. 5. Its shoulder blades are not attached to the collarbone.
6. Galloping is a running mechanism when one pair of feet touches the ground and then all the limbs are in the
air. It can be divided into four faces. (i) stance phase, when forelimb liftoff. (ii) gathered flight, when all the limbs
are in the air and beneath the body. (iii) stance phase, when hind limb liftoff. (iv) extended flight, when limbs are
in the air and stretched out. 7. The main part of a cheetah's body that allows it to sprint is its flexible spine. It
curves far enough to allow its rear feet to be in front of the forefeet. Its light weight also helps it to sprint. Its
long tail helps it balance while sprinting, and its large nostrils and large heart help in faster breathing and the
pumping of blood that supplies more oxygen to the muscles. Moreover, the cheetah's collarbones and shoulder
blades are compatible for sprinting. 8. (i) (d) flexible (ii) (d) confuse.
SECTION—B (GRAMMAR)
3. i. inspiring ii. error — engaged; correction — engaging iii. Niharika asked Akshat what he would be wearing
for tomorrow's function. iv. for v. (b) is. vi. rained vii. he was getting fine with his studies. He added that he had
got a certificate of improvement from the school. viii. Error — have; Correction — has. ix. (a) any x. (d) must
xi. (a) what kind of a job he was interested in. xii. error — while; correction — when.
SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

4. (A) Poor Arrangements By the Travel Agency
Pragya Public School
Nangal (Punjab)
20 June 20_ _
The Director
Mount Travels and Tourism
Nangal
Sir
We had organized a tour to Nanital for as many as fifty students during the summer vacation. It was a
ten- day tour. For this, the arrangements were made by your Agency. But I am very sorry to say that the
arrangements done by your Agency were not up to the mark. They were far below standard. The board
and lodging facilities were of a very poor quality. Why do you people put up tall claims if you are unable
to come up to customers’ expectations ? Kindly stop duping tourists, for it mars the image of locals.
Improve your services, otherwise we will not like to avail ourselves of the services of your Agency next
time.
Yours sincerely
Sujata (Head Teacher)
S-9
Or
(B) Lack of Proper sanitation and Hygiene
Anand Public School
Jaipur
20 July 20_ _
The Editor
Hindustan Times
New Delhi
Subject : Poor Maintenance of Proper Sanitation and Hygiene
Sir
India is facing a grave sanitation challenge. Millions of people go for relieving themselves in the open. India
accounts for about sixty per cent of the world’s open defecation. Here people, especially rural people,
lack the knowledge of proper sanitation and hygiene. They consequently fall a victim to a number of
diseases. This lack of knowledge of hygiene and sanitation poses several health hazards, viz diarrhoea
(especially in children below five years), malnutrition, physical development problems and cognitive ability.
The health authorities should ensure that the people should be made aware about the Swachh Bharat
Abhiyaan and should be told about the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene and the right to
dignity and privacy. For this, the services of the media can be utilised. People should be encouraged to
avail themselves of the free toilet scheme being offered by the Government of India.
Yours truly
Nikita Bhandari
(Head Girl)
5. (A) EFFECT OF POLLUTION ON MIGRATORY BIRDS
Environmental pollution affects birds and animals as much as man. Birds are the forest denizens of
nature. They leave a place at once if it poses any danger to their life. Thus how polluted or unsafe a place
or region has become, can at once be gauged from the number of migratory birds that have stopped
visiting it. The given bar graphs clearly show that Northern India has become increasingly polluted during
the last three decades. This pollution as measured during the Diwali days of 2000’s stood at 1500, which
went up to 2000 in 2010’s and again to 2500 in the 2020’s. As a result, there was a corresponding
decrease in hte number of migratory birds visiting this region. From 2500 in 2000’s, it went down to bare
1500 in the 2020’s. It is a danger signal that warns us to rise up to our duty of keeping the environment
free from pollution. We should grow more trees and keep the air free of smoke and other poisonous
fumes. Strict steps should be taken to enforce anti-pollution measures since men can’t migrate as fast
and as easily as birds can.
Or
(B) ILL EFFECTS ON STUDENTS OF TOO MUCH OF TELEVISION
Though we can’t deny the advantages of TV, it has some negative points also. It is playing havoc with the
younger generation. The problem of spending too much time before TV is increasing among the students.
There are a lot of channels easily available on the television. These channels provide a great variety of
programmes. All this has a bad impression on the students. They have become addicted to TV. They
neglect their studies and spend most of their time watching the television. As a result, they drop in
academic performance. Television watching in excess has had an adverse effect on their physical as well
as mental health. The idiot box is turning them also into idiots. It is not only dwarfing them mentally, but
impairing their eyesight also. The too much viewing of TV adversely affects our sight and nerves also.
Cable TV is another nuisance. Parents don’t know what to do with this new evil. If things continue like
this, we will have a generation of blockheads in the future. But we can’t blame the TV, just as we can’t
blame science if man uses it for destructive purposes. It is in our own hands how or how much we use a
thing. Excess of anything is bad.
Article written by —
Pratibha
SECTION—C (LITERATURE)
6. (A) 1. He was going to England. 2. He turned his aeroplane twelve degress towards England. 3. (d) 4. There
were storm clouds and it was risky to fly through them. But the narrator decided to take the risk. He was
anxious to get home and have breakfast with the family.
Or
(B) 1. It was a call from Mrs Pumphrey for the writer who was a vet. The expected call came within a few
days after Mr Herriot had met Mrs Pumphrey. 2. Mrs Pumphrey was distraught because her pet dog
Tricki had become very ill. He had stopped eating anything. He would refuse even his favourite dishes.
3. (d) 4. (d).
7. (A) 1. If we meet a bear the bear will hug us hard. The bear hugs his victim hard to kill it. And if he finds that
the victim is still struggling, he gives another hard hug. 2. The poetic device used in this extract is
alliteration for example — “your yard” / “Who hugs you very very hard” / “A novice might nonplus”. The
poem is in humorous tone. 3. (a) 4. (d).
Or
(B) 1. The responsibility referred to here is the realization of the fact that gains and losses are part and parcel
of life. We should accept them as a common matter, and not be unduly worried about them. 2. He calls
it a world of possessions. 3. (i) (c) (ii) (c) 4. (a).
8. i. Amanda was asked not to bite her nails, not to hunch her shoulders and not to eat chocolate. She was
asked to sit up straight, to finish her homework, to tidy her room and to clean her shoes.
ii. Here ‘writing long letters’ means the poet’s own contribution to the struggle for women’s liberation. She
did it through her writings. The poet doesn’t mention ‘the departure of the forest from the house’ since she
is in no mood to blame man for the sad state of women.
iii. This poem has both the features of a balland. It tells the tale of a dragon named Custard. It ends with a
surprise. All the companions of Custard at Belinda's house call him coward and claim themselves to be
brave. But when a pirate breaks into Belinda’s house only Custard fights with him and kills him, while all
others hide themselves in fear.
iv. The post office employees were not a bunch of crooks. They were rather very kind and helpful. They were
impressed by Lencho’s faith in God. They didn’t want to shake this faith. So they helped him as much as
they could.
v. Mandela says that there is not much difference between the oppressor and the oppressed. Both of them
need to be liberated; one from the chains of hatred and the other from the chains on the body.
9. i. Hari Singh says that a greedy man becomes panicky on being robbed. But a careless person like Anil
doesn’t show any emotion. This indifference takes away all the pleasure of robbing. That is why it is
easier to rob a greedy man than a careless person like Anil.
ii. The clergyman and his wife heard noises in their study. They heard the chink of money. They opened the
door. They found nobody there. But the money was missing. Thus it was a curious thing.
iii. Loisel threw around Matilda her wraps to save her from the cold. But the wraps was old and not good
looking. Matilda didn’t want other women in the ball notice her poverty, the fact of her life. This was the
reason why she left the ball in a hurry. It shows that Matilda believed in a pompous life.
10. (A) Good manners perform the same function for a society as does a good lubricant for a machine. A good
lubricant helps in the smooth running of a machine. So also, good manners make our journey through life
smooth and pleasant. The conductor in the story is a very good-mannered person. He does nothing that
can cause discomfort to any of the passengers. Seeing that little Valli is travelling alone, he offers to help
her in every way. First, he offers to help her get on the bus. Then he offers to buy her a drink at a stall.
Valli is a self-confident and self-respecting girl. She refuses any help though she is all alone. However,
each action of the conductor proves the goodness of his heart. He behaves the same way as he would
have expected a conductor to behave if he were in Valli’s place. Surely, good manners demand that we
should do unto others as we would wish others do unto us.
Or
(B) Rajvir : Hey Pranjol ! I think we should visit Coorg also. It is a beautiful place with coffee plantations.
I can smell its aroma in my imagination.
Pranjol : We visited a tea plantation in Assam last year, I now want to visit Goa. We will enjoy
beaches there.
Rajvir : It is not just coffee plantations that Coorg is famous for. It is, in fact, a piece of heaven on the
earth. It is a hilly place of brave men and women and wild creatures.
Pranjol : Oh really !
Rajvir : Yes, the area is rich in wildlife like elephants, kingfishers, langurs, parrots and squirrels and
adventure sports like — rafting, canoeing, rock climbing and mountain biking.
Pranjol : Wow ! That is great ! Adventure sport would be a great fun. So, this is final that we are going
to visit Coorg this time. We can visit Goa next time.
Rajvir : Ok, done ! Nisargadhama island, a place of Buddhist monks, is another lovely place in Coorg.
Pranjol : We will visit that place too. Our vacations would be spent in the lap of nature ! It will be a nice
tour.
11. (A) Science is both a blessing and a curse. Its discoveries can be used for welfare as well as for destruction.
It is a good servant but a bad master. This is clear from the present story. Griffin is a brilliant scientist. He
discovers a rare drug. It could make the human body invisible. His discovery could be profitably used by
police and security forces to prevent crimes and nab criminals. But Griffin himself is a lawless person. He
misuses his discovery. He sets fire to his landlord’s house. He steals money from the store and clergyman’s
house. He beats up the policeman who has come to arrest him.
Or
(B) Herriot knew what Tricki was suffering from. And when an ailment is diagnosed rightly, it
becomes quite possible to cure it. Herriot had come to know that the dog was being overfed and given no
exercise at all. So he gave the dog nothing but water for two days. On the third day, the dog began to
show sure signs of improvement. Now he was made to struggle for his food and he quite enjoyed this
struggle. The values that Tricki needed to imbibe were : (i) Eat to live, not live to eat. (ii) No meal can be
so tasty as the one earned through hard labour.
MODEL ANSWERS
(Sample Papers 2–11)

1. 1. Russel’s viper injects poison into the body of its prey. Rat snakes push their prey against the ground. Sand
Boa produces secretions, especially poisonous to birds. As an extra step, it crushes its victim and injects
poison into it. 2. Overpowering their prey is a challenge for those hunting animals which do not have limbs. For
example, rat snakes catch and push their prey against the ground. And pythons use their muscle power to
crush their prey to death. This is the reason that there is a constant tussle between the hunting animal and its
prey. 3. A mongoose is partially immune to poison. It is highly resistant to even cobra poison. With its speed
and agility, it kills snakes fearlessly. All this makes mongoose a snake predator. 4. There, the writer is offered
leather-tough meat to eat by his hosts. His jaws start aching while chewing that. If he refuses or spits it out,
his hosts get offended. He has to swallow like a python. 5. (i) (c) secretions. (ii) (b) specific. 6. (i) (c) softens.
(ii) (c) They develop immunity to the poison of rattlesnake. 7. (c) Snake injects poison into its prey to soften its
meat. 8. (c) The writer wished to have poison to soften the meat he was chewing.
2. 1. (a) Instagram. 2. Instagram has introduced its new version for the children under the age of thirteen. Children
can showcase their talent through this version of media. They can connect with kids of similar interest and
talent all over the world. Children can run their own TV shows also. 3. Refine. 4. Kids are already induldged
heavily into gadgets for studies or for gaming. And all this disconnects them from physical activities and results
in poor health and poor growth. 5. Some parents don’t want their children to learn certain things at this age.
The children might have access to such things through these apps. They don’t want to expose their children so
early when they are in the mending phase of their life. 6. (d) both (a) and (b). 7. (b) cyber bullying can come
into the picture. 8. Children can feel peer pressure and the pressure to create picture perfect moments.
3. i. (c) the little ii. had bought a heater. iii. (a) should iv. Error — can’t; Correction — can. v. (c) will encourage
vi. facing vii. she had an interview the next day. So she would not be able to go. viii. error — for; correction
— on ix. Seema asked Raman if he could solve the sum. x. (a) can xi. (a) is xii. (c) would.
4. (A) About the Issuance of Duplicate Certificates

7/9 Kunj Apartments
New Delhi
7 July 20_ _
The Chairman
CBSE
Preet Vihar
New Delhi
Subject : Issuance of Duplicate Certificates.
Sir,
I wish to state that while travelling to Chandigarh from New Delhi, fifteen days ago, I lost my original
certificates of class X and XII. In spite of best efforts on my part, nothing could be ascertained about
them. Therefore, now I am left with no other option but getting their duplicates issued. For this I need to
know the procedure to get the duplicate certificates — the fee to be deposited, mode of payment, time
S-1
taken by the Board for issuing duplicate certificates and any other formalities. Kindly provide me the
required information as soon as possible so that I can start the process to get the duplicates of my
certificates.
I shall be highly obliged to you.
Yours sincerely
Tarun
Or
(B) About the Bad Condition of Water Supply System
12 Mall Road
Agra
15 June 20_ _
The Municipal Commissioner
Agra Municipal Corporation
Agra
Respected Sir
We, the residents of Durga Colony, Mall Road wish to bring to your kind notice the deplorable condition
of the taps and other water supply system provided to our colony. There are about three hundred flats in
Durga Colony. Many of the taps in the colony are in bad condition. Water keeps on leaking from these
taps all the time. Since the pipes fitted in the water supply are of cheap quality, they are broken at many
places. Water keeps dripping from various joints of these pipes. All this is leading to huge wastage of
potable water, when there is rather great need of water conservation. Moreover due to all these problems
in the system the water supplied at homes is full of impurities and not worth drinking. It has caused
diarrhoea to some persons of the colony. Please take some earnest action to stop the wastage of water
and prevent any risks to the health of the residents of the colony.
Yours faithfully
Shammi Kapoor
5. (A) DENGUE AND ITS PREVENTION
As you know, there have been heavy rains this year and almost all open spaces have become waterlogged.
Due to the breeding of mosquitoes in these places, the risk of dengue and malaria has increased all the
more. Both dengue and malaria are spread through mosquito bites. Malaria symptoms include high fever,
shaking chill and flu-like illness. Without treatment, malaria can cause severe illness and even death.
Dengue is even more dangerous. Besides fever, it causes severe pain in the joints. The best way to
protect ourselves from these dangerous diseases is to take preventive measures. And the most important
preventive measure in these two cases is to check the breeding of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes breed in dirty
and damp places or in open places where water has collected. We have taken steps to prevent the
breeding of mosquitoes in and around the school. But you should see that there are no such places in
and around that area also where you live. Some of the other preventive measures are — 1. Cover your
exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and caps or hats. 2. Use an appropriate mosquito
repellent while you are sleeping. 3. Stay and sleep in a screened or air-conditioned room. 4. Use a bed-
net if the area where you are sleeping is outdoors. 5. And if you are bitten by a mosquito, you should
avoid scratching the skin. You can use some cream to avoid the itching. In fact, you should look upon
mosquitoes as the most dangerous enemies of man on this earth and allow them no place at all to breed.
Or
(B) USES OF INTERNET FOR A STUDENT
Today we have the Internet and the cell phones. They have become a central force that fuels the rhythm
of daily life. Today more and more people use the Internet for all sorts of information. They play games on
the Internet, get news, shop online and get health information. The Internet can help us to know and
understand the problems faced by the country. We can then communicate with others through Internet
and put in united efforts to solve those problems. Through online teaching, the Internet can help in
eradicating illiteracy. The Internet is the fastest, the easiest and the cheapest medium of instruction. The
use of internet is quite advantage for students. There are various applications and tools that help students
in studies. The Internet plays a vital role in developing the knowledge of a student. It makes him a better
informed student by supplying him the worldwide knowledge of any subject. It helps the students in
updating their information about the world. The moment anything takes place in the world, they get to
know about it. The Internet can help the students in enhancing their brainpower. It can help them in
improving their study skills and career development practices. This is the reason that the use of the
Internet for purposes of learning is becoming increasingly popular among students of almost all levels.
Often students choose to use this method because it allows them to work at their own pace. They can
take as many or as few classes as they wish. But in spite of all its advantages, e-learning is a costly
affair. Not everyone can afford the technology (computer, software and hardware) needed to make e-
learning work.
6. (A) 1. Anne Frank speaks these lines. She decides to write a diary because she doesn’t have a close friend
with whom she can share the feelings of her heart. She considers her diary her friend. She calls it Kitty.
2. She was feeling a little depressed in the days when she started writing a diary. 3. (a) 4. (c).
Or
(B) 1. (b) Iota needs to present his opinion firmly. 2. Think-Tank said that the books were sandwiches but
Noodle was an intelligent person. He said that the earthlings didn’t eat them. So they couldn’t be sandwiches.
He said that they could be some device used for communication. Then he suggested that the crew team
should eat vitamins to increase their intelligence. Now they could tell what those things really were. 3. (b)
2 & 4 4. (i) These words / sentences give clarity to the actors about face expressions required while
performing their role. (ii) These words / sentences give clarity to the help director and actors in understanding
the body movements and stage setting.
7. (A) 1. Amanda. 2. She lived in a tower all alone. 3. Rapunzel lived alone in a tower. There was no one to nag
her all the time. Amanda thinks that Rapunzel’s life must have been very peaceful and wonderful. That is
why she wants to be Rapunzel. 4. (i) (d) (ii) (d).
Or
(B) 1. The roots are trying to disengage themselves from the old domestic floors. And the leaves are trying to
stretch themselves to the window glass. 2. The poetic device used here is 'simile'. 3. (d) 4. (c).
8. i. The poet says that the world will end in fire. But he doesn’t say so because the Bible says this. By fire
he means the fire of desire. It is the lust for material things that will destroy the world as surely as fire
can.
ii. The poet uses the terms ‘noble’ and ‘wild’ to describe the Bengali tiger. He says that if a graceful looking
tiger with black stripes on its yellow body makes one its prey, it is certainly a Bengal tiger.
iii. The responsibility referred to here is the realization of the fact that gains and losses are part and parcel
of life. We should accept them as a common matter, and not be unduly worried about them.
iv. When Chubukov came to know that Lomov had come with a desire to marry his daughter, his angry tone
changed at once. He went mad with joy. He said that his daughter was already in love with him. He said
to him, “I have always loved you, my angel, as if you were my son.”
v. Mustard seeds are easily available in every house but there could be no house where there had never
been any death. In fact, Buddha had added this condition just to make the woman realize the universal
nature of death.
9. i. Here this phrase means that Bholi’s heart was overflowing with the new hope that she would become
more learned than anybody else in the village. And then she would lead a new life in which nobody would
laugh at her.
ii. Ebright’s mother got him a children’s book called ‘The Travels of Monarch X’. This book told how monarch
butterflies migrate to Central America. This helped him come into contact with Dr. Frederick of the University
of Toronto. Dr. Frederick helped him to make research on butterflies and become a successful scientist.
iii. Horace was a locksmith. He lived a happy and peaceful life. That is why he has been called good and
respectable. But he was not completely honest. He used to rob a safe every year.
10. (A) Life is not a bed of roses. It is full of trials and tribulations. And man can overcome them through his own
efforts only. Kisa Gotami’s only son dies. In deep grief, she goes from house to house and requests
people to give her some medicine to cure her son. A wise man sends her to the Buddha. The Buddha
asks the woman to bring him a handful of mustard-seed. But he says that it must be from a house where
there has been no death. In fact, he wants to make the woman herself realize that there can be no
medicine for death. When Kisa Gotami goes from house to house, she can find no house where no death
has ever taken place. She realizes the reality of death. It helps her in overcoming her grief.
Or
(B) Natalya is a young girl of twenty-five years. She lives in the neighbourhood of Lomov. She is still unmarried,
and is thirsting for love. Her father calls her a lovesick cat. Natalya is very quarrelsome and abusive by
nature. She begins a bitter quarrel with Lomov over a piece of land that has little value. But when she
learns that Lomov had come to propose to her, she forgets all about fairness and unfairness. She begins
to wail over the lost chance. She forces her father to call him back. On the other hand, Lomov is a funny
character. He seems to be an eccentric also. He is very eager to marry Natalya. But when he comes to
propose to her, he starts talking irrelevantly. He starts talking about his Meadows. It leads to a bitter
argument between the two. He leaves in a fit of anger. Lomov gets another chance to propose to Natalya.
But again he starts a quarrel with her. Lomov is not a character from real life. No man in real life behaves
the way Lomov does.
11. (A) Max was a secret agent. But he was, in fact, a foolish person. He wants to seize an important paper from
Ausable. He goes to Ausable’s room. He thinks he can have the paper by threatening Ausable. But
Ausable proves too intelligent for him. He describes the balcony in detail while, in fact, there is no
balcony at all. The foolish Max believes every word of it. A secret agent has to be very careful. He never
enters a place of which he knows little. But Max practically knows nothing about the place. It never
comes to his mind that Ausable could be fooling him. And he has to pay for this with his life.
Or
(B) Loisel was a simple fellow. He was a poor clerk. But he always tried to keep his wife happy. He brought
for her an invitation to the Minister’s ball. Matilda threw away the invitation angrily. She said she had no
suitable dress for the occasion. Loisel gave her all his savings for the new dress. He attended the ball
with her. Matilda danced with others. Poor Loisel kept sitting in a room. They came home after the ball.
Suddenly Matilda gave a cry. She had lost the borrowed necklace. Loisel had to borrow 18,000 francs to
replace the necklace. He had to suffer a lot because of his wife. But he never got angry with her. It shows
he was a loving husband. He was also very simple.

1. 1. Pasteur never forgot all his life the imagery of his boyhood days. 2. (d) none of these three. 3. During his
childhood days, Pasteur had a good interest in painting. He painted the scenes of his birthplace. He wanted to
be a great artist, and he did become a great artist. Due to some reasons, in his sixteenth year, he abandoned
painting. But the trait of an artist who put his whole soul and energy into his work never wholly left him. This
was the reason for Pasteur's motivation and energy. 4. (c) iv and vi 5. (c) He put his whole soul and energy into
his work. 6. Pasteur gave up his active work because of complete physical exhaustion. 7. (d) iii and v. 8. (i) (b)
Louis Pasteur’s greatest grief was when he abandoned the brush for ever. (ii) By voting him as the greatest
man of France.
2. 1. Festivals are the symbol of celebration, joy happiness and goodness. But our ways of celebrating them
create adverse impact on ecology. That is why the researchers call pollution the flip side of festivals. 2. The
second objective of exploring solutions to bring awareness about celebrating festivals without harming ecology
is significant as it would take care of people’s sentiments as well as ecology. 3. A total ban on something does
not serve the purpose of making people aware. People generally revolt against the bans and violate them. On
the other hand, strict rules not only impose restrictions but also give the required liberty. 4. Environmental
groups and eco-clubs are fighting a losing battle due to grave problems like traffic issues, disposal of plastics,
garbage dumping and all kinds of ecological degradation. 5. The data of questions 1, 4 and 5 from the table 1
is supporting the statement. 68% people enjoy bursting crackers and 82% feel pressurised to burst crackers
as social status. 6. Some respondants are unwilling to respond or some might lack clarity while answering the
questionnaire. The ‘Can’t Say’ column allows them not to respond or not to express their views. 7. (i) (c) To
bring awareness among people about the environment pollution during festivals. (ii) (d) Both (a) and (b). 8. (i) (b)
bring to fore. (ii) (b) Imposition of strict rules and regulations.
3. i. (c) ban ii. she had kept it on the dressing table as usual. iii. (c) must iv. (d) error — from; correction —
for. v. error — document; correction — documented vi. (d) expect vii. (b) why he had been absent the
previous day. viii. error — could; correction — should ix. Tariq asked Sunal if he had enjoyed travelling by
sea. x. D. CAN xi. A. keep asking till one does. xii. error — citizen; correction — citizens.

4. (A) Information About Housekeeping Course
12-A Fort Road
Agra
26 March 20_ _
The Director
Institute of Hospitality Management
F-5 Junk Road
New Delhi
Subject : Information about Housekeeping Course
Sir
At present, I am a student of class XII and my annual exams are going to begin in a week’s time. I have
seen your advertisement in ‘Times of India’ about your institute offering Course in Housekeeping. I am
interested in doing a Course in Housekeeping. And to that effect, I want to seek the following information
from you :
1. The duration of the course.
2. The fee structure for this course.
3. Whether to be paid in lump sum or in instalments.
4. Whether the course is recognized or not.

5. Whether a diploma or certificate is issued.
6. Timing of the classes — daytime or evening.
On receipt of this information, I shall be able to make up my mind about joining the course. A self-
addressed and duly stamped envelope is enclosed for the reply.
Thanking you
Yours faithfully
Radhika Kumari
Or
(B) Order for Books
B.S. Public School
Haus Khas
Delhi
05 March 20_ _
The Manager
Amar Publication House
Mumbai
Subject : Order for books
Sir
Kindly supply the following books published by N.C.E.R.T. at your earlist :
1. Social Studies for class VI 4 Sets
2. Social Studies for class VII 4 Sets
3. Social Studies for class VIII 4 Sets
Please provide us these books by 20 March, before the start of the new session. Payment shall be made by
cheque as soon as the books are received. The discount offered on school books by you has been 20%.
Please provide us the books on the same discount.
Yours faithfully
Vanya
School Librarian
5. (A) HEALTHY LIFESTYLE FOR CHILDREN
Children are the real wealth of a nation. It is on them that the future of the nation depends. Therefore, the
children must grow up strong and healthy. But sadly, the present-day lifestyle and eating habits do more
harm than good to our children. It is a matter of great concern that thousands of children across the country
are taking to fast foods at the expense of their health. The matter has taken a serious turn as the intake of
junk food is leading to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart problems at an early age. A large
number of schoolchildren are suffering from obesity and high blood pressure. Due to the intake of fast foods,
they are becoming more and more lazy and disease prone. Besides this, children have stopped taking part
in outdoor games. They spend too much time before the TV or on cell phones. While junk foods are making
them obese, too much viewing of TV is blocking their mental development. In order to develop a healthy
lifestyle among children, these two factors must be removed. A love of sports and useful hobbies should be
developed in children. Thus they will automatically develop a healthy lifestyle.
Or
(B) SERVICE TO THE COUNTRY — FIRST DUTY OF THE YOUTH
Most engineering students prefer to go abroad and settle there after completing their studies. I, too, was
no exception till a few days earlier. But after listening to a talk by an old student of the institution, I have
changed my mind completely. India is the country of our birth. We owe our life to its food, air and water.
We have been educated in its institutions. So we are under its debt that has to be paid back in terms of
service. India has all the potential to become a superpower by 2025. And this potential lies in our youth.
But if the youth of the country continue leaving for greener pastures, their own country will never be able
to realise its dream of becoming a superpower. It is true that the educated youth can earn much more in
some advanced western countries, but they must not think in terms of money alone. They should first
think of their duty to the country. They should feel a sense of pride in contributing to the development of
their country. And, last but not least, the government should also provide proper facilities and good
salaries for young men and women who have spent so much time and money on their education.
6. (A) 1. (c) Both (a) and (b). 2. She asks for a handful of mustard-seed which the Buddha had asked her to
bring from a house where no death had ever taken place. Kisa Gotami went from house to house. But
Kisa Gotami could not get a handful of mustard-seed from anywhere. She could find no such house where
no death had ever taken place. 3. (a) 4. (c).
Or
(B) 1. (c) 2. incessantly 3. Matilda was a pretty woman. She was born in a poor family. She had to marry a
small clerk. She had to live in a simple house. The poverty of her house and clothes troubled her. So she
always remained unhappy. She thought she was born to enjoy all luxuries of life. 4. (b).
7. (A) 1. (a) 2. (d) 3. (b) 4. The poet describes the coming and going of fog by comparing it with a cat. A cat
comes, stays a little while and then goes away without making any sound. So does the fog. It comes,
remains still for some time at a place and then moves on.
Or
(B) 1. On seeing the pirate, all other pets of Belinda ran away in fear. Only Custard the dragon had the
courage to fight the pirate. He at once sprang upon the pirate and killed him. 2. (a) 3. (b) 4. Just like the
robin catches the worm, Custard attacked the pirate without delay.
8. i. The Bible says that the world will end in fire. Scientists say that in case of a nuclear war, the world will
freeze to death. The poet says that even otherwise there is enough hate and desire (lust) in the world to
bring about its end.
ii. Amanda is not an orphan. She is nagged all the time by her parent. So she feels it better to have been
an orphan. Then she could roam about freely in the street, leaving patterns of her bare feet in the soft
dust.
iii. The poet describes the coming and going of fog by comparing it with a cat. A cat comes, stays a little
while and then goes away without making any sound. So does the fog. It comes, remains still for some
time at a place and then moves on.
iv. Mijbil went wild with joy in the bathroom. It kept playing with water for half an hour. It kept playing and
rolling in the bathtub. It kept shooting up and down the length of the bathtub underwater.
v. Anne was in the habit of talking in the class. Mr. Keesing remained annoyed with her. He gave her extra
homework as punishment. Still she did not give up her habit of talking in the class. Therefore, Mr. Keesing
called Anne ‘an incorrigible chatterbox’.
9. i. There wasn’t any balcony outside the window. We come to know of it when Max jumps out of the window.
He gives a loud scream when he finds nothing under his feet. Ausable himself says that there is no
balcony.
ii. Mrs Pumphrey loved her pet Tricki very much and she used to overfeed her dog. The dog had become
very fat due to this. And one day he fell seriously ill. Now Mrs Pumphrey would have to give Tricki less to
eat if she wanted to cure him. Thus it was important for her to be a little cruel to her dog regarding his diet
if she wanted to be truly kind to him.

iii. Bholi’s teacher was very loving and caring towards her students. When she asked Bholi her name, she
couldn’t speak out her name. She sat down and began to cry. The teacher spoke to her very lovingly. It
touched Bholi’s heart. The teacher gave Bholi a book. She asked Bholi to give up her fear. The teacher’s
kind treatment gave Bholi courage and filled her heart with new hope.
10. (A) Lencho is a poor farmer. He is a simple fellow. But he has an indomitable faith in God. When his crop is
destroyed by a hailstorm, he is sure God will help him. Therefore, he writes a letter to God, seeking His
help. When the postmaster reads this letter, he can’t help saying, ‘I wish I had the faith of the man who
wrote this letter.’ He sends him some money. Lencho is not at all surprised to receive the money. But he
becomes extremely angry when he counts the money. The money sent by the postmaster was less than
he had asked for from God. He is quite sure that God can’t make a mistake. Such is his faith. He thinks
post office people have stolen the money. He again writes to God to send him the rest of money.
Or
(B) Everyday the baker used to come in the morning. He would come with loaves for elders and bread
bangles for the children. Sometimes it was sweet bread of a special make. Children were very fond of
bread bangles and sweet bread. This was the reason that the children were fascinated by the baker.
When the baker came with the jhang—jhang sound of his bamboo staff, the children would go running to
the baker to have their delicacies. They would climb a bench or the parapet to have a peep into the
baker’s basket. They would get so eager to eat their favourite bread bangles that they didn’t care to brush
their teeth even. The baker used to be children’s friend, companion and guide also.
11. (A) Ebright’s mother was a keen observer of her son’s talent. She helped lot in the development of a scientist
in Ebright. It was Richard’s mother who recognized her son’s driving curiosity and his mental brightness.
She always encouraged him in his interest to know more and more about the things around him. She
organised for him trips so that he could have a first-hand knowledge of the things he was interested in.
She bought him a telescope, a camera, a microscope and a number of other scientific gadgets. Ebright
always got all the necessary support from his mother. The turning point in his life was the day when his
mother gave him a book called ‘The Travels of Monarch X’. This book opened the whole world of science
to this young scientist. Thus it would be perfectly true to say that without the support and motivation of
his mother, Ebright could never have become a successful scientist.
Or
(B) Vanity means too much pride in one’s appearance, abilities and achievements. There is a well-known
saying that pride hath a fall. Thus vanity (too much pride) must have too great a fall. This is what happens
with Matilda. She is vain of her beauty. She feels she is born to lead a life of luxury. And in her mad
longing for such a life, she throws herself in a trap of poverty and misery from which she can never free
herself. She loses all her beauty of which she used to be so proud. I would never commit a similar folly
if I were in Matilda’s place. I would have felt contented in whatever situation God had placed me. I would
have enjoyed my own life without comparing it with that of another.

1. 1. They are very helpful in communication as a smart phone user can contact anybody in the whole world
sitting at one place. 2. The benefits of mobile phones accruing to the young generation are that they can
communicate with anybody in the world without spending huge amounts of money. They can also improve their
skills by using the Internet. 3. (b) Because young people are pron the getting involved in undesirable activities
on the internet. 4. The biggest factor making a prepaid card useful to a mobile phone user is that it does not
bind a particular customer to a contract. 5. (d) all of these three. 6. Mobile phones can be considered ‘lifesavers’
in case of emergencies. One demerit is that the young persons can develop an addiction to it. Secondly, they
may get involved in undesirable activities on the Internet. These demerits may have an adverse effect on their
academic performance. 7. (i) (c) invention. (ii) (b) negative. 8. (i) (a) Allowing universities to conduct online
teaching. (ii) (d) both (a) and (b).
2. Regarding health-related problems, it is well known that Indians are more prone to heart-related diseases than
Causasians. But these days, the point of worry is rising deaths among people under 50. Recent celeb deaths
make heart attacks look like common events that can strike anyone at any time. 2. The first and major reason
of increase in the cases of heart attacks due to pandemic was that people were in constant fear of losing their
jobs and then facing the question of how to earn their livelihood. And the second reason was that the people
had put on much weight during lockdowns. They had least physical work out. 3. (d) regular moderate exercise.
4. (b) Due to an undetected coronary abnormality that reduces blood flow during exercise. 5. (i) blockage of
blood supply to heart. (ii) (b) chest pain 6. the time lag between the first appearance of symptoms and ECG.
7. (a) I. 91% patients had typical chest pain. II. 66% of patients had no stress. 8. (c) ECG can detect
circumflex artery heart attacks.
3. i. B. blew up ii. that he does not stay in good mood. iii. C. will iv. C. the — a v. (b) going vi. (a) will arive
vii. would go to the museum with her. viii. Error — should; Correction — can. ix. (d) he had run out of
money x. (c) is. xi. (b) stand by xii. (c) less.

4. (A) Importance of Educating Girls
73/4 Krishna Nagar
Varanasi
26 July 20_ _
The Editor
Everyday News
Lucknow
Sir
It’s a sad fact that even today, girls are deprived of edcuation in many parts of our country. They still have
to face gender discrimination. They are not sent to school. They are married off at a very young age. It’s
a sad relfection on their plight in the society. In fact, there is as much need of educating girls as of boys.
If we educate a boy, only one person is educated. But if we educate a girl, the entire family is educated.
Government can also spread awareness regarding this through newspapers, TV, and radio programmes.
Male and female are two wheels of a vehicle. If the size of both wheels is not same, the vehicle cannot
move smoothy. Females constitute half of the population of the country. India can never hope to march
ahead with other developed nations of the world if half of her population is deprived of the benefits of
education. Now the time has changed. Girls should be considered on a par with the boys and be edu-
cated likewise.
Yours truly
Ashmit
Or
(B) Request For Exemption From Compulsory Games
The Principal
Central School
Silver City
10 January 20_ _
Subject : Exemption from compulsory evening games
Sir
I have been selected as a member of the students’ troupe to give performance on the Republic Day.
And for that I have to rehearse for 4-5 hours every day. This rehearsal is compulsory if I am to be a
member of the troupe. Therefore, I would request you to exempt me from participating in compulsory
evening games. My participation with this troupe on the Republic Day will be a matter of honour for the
school.
Thanking you
Yours obediently
Nikhil
X-C
5. (A) SCHOOL-GOING CHILDREN : LAZY AND DISEASE-PRONE
It is a matter of great concern that school-going children are becoming more and more lazy and disease-
prone. Very few of the children walk to their school. And hardly any school-going child goes to play
outdoor games. Either they spend their leisure in chatting on cell phones or at video games on it watching
TV. Any physical activitiy seems to them to be a sort of trouble. Another contributory factor is related to
food. Most children run after fast and junk foods that have hardly any food value. Their next preference is
cold drinks and ice creams which again are not very good for their health. They eat too much junk food.
Fast and junk foods have hardly any food value. They are prepared in a very hasty and slipshod manner.
They are ill-cooked and prepared in very unhygienic conditions. They are very oily and spicy. Their intake
leads to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and hart problems at an early age. So children must
develop healthy habits of food so as to remain free from the risk of disease. Students must develop the
habit of getting up early in the morning. They should daily go for morning walk. Light exercise can also be
taken for fitness.
Or
(B) THE RUTHLESS PRACTICE OF CUTTING DOWN TREES
We have failed to realize that the ruthless practice of cutting down trees can cost us very dear. In fact, it
is trees that help to sustain all life on this earth. Without trees, the earth will turn into a vast desert with
no life possible on it. Trees give us all the necessities of life. They give us food and purify the air for us.
They help to bring rain and beautify the surroundings. They give shelter to countless birds and animals.
They keep the soil safe from erosion. They give us pleasant shade from the heat of the sun. But it is sad
that man, in his greed, is ruthlessly destroying this wealth of nature and also endangering his own
existence. The effects of global warming have already begun to be felt. Many species of wild animals and
birds have already become extinct. It has very adversely affected the balance of nature. So if man wants
to continue inhabiting the earth, he will have to spare the trees from his greed and take care of them.
6. (A) 1. (b) 2. It was a humiliating policy that caused a deep and lasting wound to the African people. Yes, it
had a very good result also. Some of the great South Africans who fought against the brutal policy of
apartheid developed into men of extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity. 3. The writer pays tribute
to the great men of his coutnry. He calls them gems that were ‘finer and truer than the purest diamonds’.
4. (b).
Or
(B) 1. Richard Ebright. 2. (c) 3. It was when he took part in a science fair, but could not win any prize. He
was very sad. His entry was slides of frog tissues, which he showed under a microscope. He realised that
the winners had tried to do real experiments, not simply make a neat display of something. 4. (d).
7. (A) 1. Here 'I' refers to a young man who has fallen into despair. 2. God’s love is quite different from the love
of the young lovers. God loves the person for himself or herself alone while the young lovers love someone
because of his or her external beauty only. 3. The poetic device used in this extract is Alliteration —
“And not your yellow hair”. The rhyme scheme used in this extract is abcbdb. 4. (i) (a) (ii) (a).
Or
(B) 1. According to the poet, the world can perish by fire and also by ice. Thus it can perish twice — once by
fire and then by ice. The poet feels that the ice of hatred is as powerful as the fire of desire to bring a
complete end of this world. That is why he says that ice is also great. 2. The poetic device used in this
extract is Paradox —“But if it had to perish twice”. 3. (a) 4. (a)
8. i. The poet says that in the treeless forest, there are no birds or insects. It is just a desert. There are no
soothing shadows. By treeless forest, the poet means a world where there are only men and no women.
According to the poet, in such a world there can be no charm, beauty or music.
ii. On seeing the pirate, all other pets of Belinda ran away in fear. Only Custard the dragon had the courage
to fight the pirate. He at once sprang upon the pirate. The pirate fired two bullets but they did not hit the
dragon. Custard caught hold of the pirate and ate up every bit of him.
iii. Amanda is a little school-going girl. She is constantly nagged by her parent. It is probably the mother.
She keeps asking Amanda to do this or not to do that. But poor Amanda longs to be free and live life in
her own way.
iv. We have all sympathy for the seagull. He has never flown before. He is on a high ledge. Below him is the
sea. So, his fear is but natural. He has to remain hungry for two days. And at last he takes the plunge.
We pity him when he makes his first flight.
v. The Goan people believe that any party or festival loses its charm without bread. The sweet bread bol gives
meaning to celebrations. Sandwiches are prepared on the engagement of a girl. Cakes and bolinhas are a
must for chiristmas and other festivals. This is the reason that baker is important for the Goan people.
9. i. In those days, there were books about everything. There were books on all subjects — men as well as
animals. There were books on all kinds of art. Books taught people the how, when, where and why of
things. That was why the twentieth century was called the ‘Era of the Book’.
ii. One day Ebright’s mother gave him a book titled, ‘The Travels of Monarch X’. This book was about the
migration of butterflies to central America. At the end of the book, its writer, Dr. Frederick, had appealed
to the readers to tag butterflies for the purpose of research. Ebright loved this idea. He started attaching
light adhesive tags to the wings of monarchs. Then he would let them fly away.
iii. Whenever Matilda visited her rich friend, she remained sad for many days. The contrast between her
poverty and her friend’s riches pained her much. That was why she didn’t like to visit her rich friend.
10. (A) Anne’s grandmother died in January, 1942. Remembering her, she writes in her diary : ‘No one knows
how often I think of her.’ These words of Anne show how deeply she loved her grandmother and how much
she missed her after her death. But one wonders why no one knew of her love for her grandmother. The
answer to this puzzle can be found nowhere but in the analysis of Anne’s own character. She was only
thirteen but had a very old head on her shoulders. She had loving parents, a caring elder sister, lots of
relatives and friends. Yet she could never open out her inmost feelings to anyone. She could share with
them only ordinary, funny, superficial things. The deeper things lay buried in her heart. She found none so
close who she could call a real friend. ‘That is the root of the the trouble,’ as Anne herself wrote in her
diary. ‘Perhaps I lack confidence.’ Though Anne indulges in a sort of self-disparagement, I don’t agree with
it. I can only say that the fault lay with the others who failed to fathom the depths of this.
Or
(B) Valli had a dream of riding the bus that ran between her village and the nearest town. To fulfil her dream, she
needed to have the required bus fare. For this she stifled all her desires. She stopped buying any toys,
peppermints or balloons. She didn’t even ride the merry-go-round in the village fair. She saved every coin that
came her way. At last she fulfilled her dream of riding the bus and that too all alone. For a child of her age,
it needs extraordinary courage to travel alone in a bus. To fulfil our dream, we need not only to see the
dream but also have the essential ability and courage to realize the dream. Dreams are seen by everyone
but fulfilled by a few. Until and unless our dream is translated into reality, we must know no rest. We should
keep on fulfilling all the conditions with courage to make our dream come true. “Dreams are not those that
we see while sleeping, rather real dreams are those that do not let us sleep,” said the famous scientist and
former President of India Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
11. (A) Fiction writers prefer creating grey characters rather than black and white. In ‘The Thief's Story’, the writer
picks real life characters. In real life, normally we don't find characters who are completely positive or
completely negative. The writer depicts his thought with real life characters in a natural way. The thief lives
by stealing. Anil lives by writing for magazines. Both of them have a kind heart. Anil knows the thief ’s
motive from the very beginning. Yet he keeps him in his house. He teaches him to write. He lights in him
the desire to lead a good life. The thief feels grateful. No doubt, he steals Anil’s money. But soon he
begins to repent. His conscience pricks him. He can’t rob a person who trusts him. He comes back. And
Anil forgives him. With these grey characters, the writer expresses his thought very easily in an artistic
way that love can transform even a thief.
Or
(B) Griffin had discovered a rare drug which could make him invisible. It proved a boon to Griffin in his unlawful
acts. Griffin was disliked by his landlord. His landlord tried to eject him. Griffin wanted to take revenge on
him. He set the landlord’s house on fire. Then he took the drug. He took off his clothes and became
invisible. Now it was very cold and Griffin was without clothes. To save himself from cold, he entered a
store. When the store was closed and all were gone, Griffin took some warm clothes to cover himself. He
also had meals and sweets there. Next day when the store was opened, Griffin again took off his clothes.
And thus he saved himself from being caught at the store. Similarly he saved himself from the constable
at the village, Iping. Griffin’s invisibility came to his help, whenever he found himself in trouble.

1. 1. The Earth has been called an enemy because when an earthquake comes, it shakes and causes great
destruction of life and infrastructure. It is so deadly that it is completely impartial and does not recognise any
boundaries. It comes without any warning, and its power is immense. It can turn a modern city into ruins.
2. (d) All of these three. 3. In 1968, when an earthquake struck Alaska, it displaced the whole state. It was the
most powerful earthquake ever to hit the world. Geologists estimated that during that earthquake, that whole of
the state moved 80 feet farther west into the Pacific Ocean. Being a relatively unpopulated part of the world,
only a few people were killed. 4. (c) ii and vii 5. (c) v 6. It pushed the whole state 80 feet farther west into
the Pacific. 7. (a) very hot 8. (b) Imperceptible.
2. 1. (c) A course having two or more different subjects. 2. (b) the students of arts and design field. 3. (d) greener
pastures. 4. There are many reasons for the popularity of liberal arts courses in India. It provides a variety of
career options that come with the course. The programme focuses on the development of all-around personality
and life skills in candidates, which helps them do exceptionally well in their careers. 5. (d) both (a) and (b)
6. (i) It means ‘an advantage over others’. (ii) artificial intelligence. 7. (a) to explore ideas that are creative and
unusual and that are not controlled by rules or traditions 8. AI is not a threat to designers; rather, it is helpful
for designers to develop faster and more meaningful designs and solutions. Experts believed that AI was not to
replace humans but to ensure enhanced efficiency. The combination of designers and AI can take the work of
companies to the next level.
3. i. (c) lead ii. he couldn't think of relaxing because he had lots of homework to do. iii. (b) May iv. (a) error —
leading; correction — led. v. (b) but he also vi. listed vii. (d) were viii. Error — informations; Correction —
information. ix. Gopal asked which why the metro station was. x. (a) must xi. (a) is xii. (c) The father said
that he had bought a watch.

4. (A) Placing Order for Computers and Computer Accessories
Army Public School
Kunjpura
10th April, 20_ _
Messrs Apple Inc.
Nehru Place
New Delhi
Subject : Supply of Computers and Computer Accessories.
Dear Sirs
We are in need of 20 computers (Desktop) and their accessories for our school. Please provide us the
following :
1. LED Monitor 20 Pieces
2. Keyboard 20 Pieces
3. Mouse 20 Pieces
4. CPU 20 Pieces
5. UPS 20 Pieces
All the computer items should be in perfect condition. The delivery should be made at our school premises
in not more than ten days at the latest. Payment shall be made by cheque as soon as the goods are
received.
Yours faithfully,
Nihal Singh
(Computer In-charge)
Or
(B) Complaint About Increasing Thefts
15 Nehru Park
Karnal
7 April 20_ _
The Police Commissioner
Karnal
Subject : Increasing Incidents of Thefts in Nehru Park Area
Respected Sir
Recently there has been an alarming increase in the number of thefts in Nehru Park area of the city.
Hardly a day passes when there is no theft or burglary. Cases are regularly reported to the nearest Police
Divisions but no headway has so far been made in apprehending the culprits. To be quite frank, people
have started doubting that the policemen are mixed up with these thefts and burglaries. Though it is a wild
charge, the fact remains that the culprits always go scot-free. There is a danger to the life of the residents
also since the burglars come armed with knives and pistols.
It is requested that night patrolling in this area should be intensified and all-out efforts should be made to
nab the culprits.
Yours faithfully
Tarun Jain
5. (A) HEALTH HAZARDS OF JUNK FOODS
Our physical health depends mainly on what we eat or drink. The present-day fast life has affected our
eating habits also. We have taken to foods that can be cooked fast and eaten fast. But we must
remember that anything done fast doesn’t last long. A food that is cooked with an undue haste loses
much of its value and taste. Junk foods are generally prepared at wayside eating stalls and cheap
restaurants. They are ill-cooked and prepared in unhygienic conditions. They are also very oily and spicy.
They harm our liver and digestive system. Thus too much addiction to fast foods can cause a number of
ailments in our body and problems in our digestive system. They can give us ulcers, and even cancer. We
eat so that we may live. Then why should we eat something that takes us near to disease and death ?
We can say that the habit of taking fast foods is suicidal and it is in our own interest to give it up. Fast
foods are junk foods and junk should be thrown away, rather than be eaten.
Or
(B) THE ROLE OF STUDENTS IN ERADICATING ILLITERACY
India is very close to joining the category of the developed nations of the world. A lot has been done since
independence but a lot still remains to be done. There must not be a single illiterate person in the country
before we can call ourselves a developed nation. There is still large-scale illiteracy in the country. We
can’t think of any real progress until this illiteracy is eliminated. And students can play a significant role
in achieving this goal. Those who are lucky enough to be educated in good schools and colleges, have a
duty towards our less fortunate brothers and sisters. They must volunteer themselves for this noble cause
so that they can lend a hand in finishing the bane of illiteracy from our country. It will not take much of
their time — only a couple of hours a week. Helping someone become literate is like giving him a new life.
‘Each one, Teach one’ should be the motto of every educated youth.
Appeal made by :
Karan
6. (A) 1. As the narrator flew his Dakota into the storm, it became suddenly dark inside. The narrator could
see nothing outside his plane. His aeroplane jumped and twisted in the air. His compass, radio and all
other instruments were suddenly dead. He didn’t know which way he was going. 2. (c) 3. He was
shocked when he looked at the compass. It turned round and round and round which showed that it
was dead. 4. (c).
Or
(B) 1. Ramlal stood rooted to the ground because he was in a state of shock. His daughter Bholi had refused
to get married. The bridegroom had been greedy and was disrespectful. He demanded dowry. But Ramlal
couldn’t afford the dowry that was demanded. At this the bridegroom had insulted her father which Bholi
could not tolerate and she refused to marry him. 2. (b) 3. The teacher stood in one corner watching the
drama because she had faith in Bholi. She knew that Bholi would stand up for herself. 4. (b).
7. (A) 1. The tiger would be lurking in the shadows of trees. He would be sliding slowly through the long grass.
He would be sitting by some water hole and waiting for some plump deer to pass that way. 2. (a) 3. The
tiger should be hiding himself near the water hole. 4. (b).
Or
(B) 1. We can know a leopard from its spotted body. A leopard springs upon his victim and throws him down.
If the victim cries with pain, the leopard will leap at him/her again and again. 2. (c) 3. (i) (b) (ii) (c) 4. The
poetic devices used in this extract are — (a) Poetic License — “As soon as it has lept on you” / “He’ll
only lep and lep again”. In this first example it should have been “leapt” instead of “lept”. In the second
example the term ‘lep’ should have been spelt as ‘leap’. (b) Alliteration — “lep and lep again.” The rhyme
scheme used in this extract is ababcc.
8. i. Belinda lived in a little white house. She had four pets — Ink, Blink, Mustard and Custard. Ink was a little
black kitten. Blink was a little grey mouse. Mustard was a little yellow dog. And Custard was a little pet
dragon.
ii. The young woman’s hair is of yellow colour. She says that she can change it into brown, black or carrot.
She wants someone to love her for herself alone and not for the colour of her hair. That is why she wants
to do so.
iii. The responsibility referred to here is the realization of the fact that gains and losses are part and parcel
of life. We should accept them as a common matter, and not be unduly worried about them.
iv. It had become suddenly dark. The pilot could see nothing outside his plane. All instruments in the plane
had also stopped working. Just then a black aeroplane appeared next to him. Its pilot waved to him to
follow him. Naturally, the pilot of the first plane followed him like an obedient child.
v. Rajvir got excited to see a tea garden. But Pranjol did not share his excitement because it was nothing
new for him. He had been born and brought up on a plantation.
9. i. Griffin says that he has come there to work in solitude. He does not want to be disturbed in his work.
Besides, an accident has disfigured his face. And he has to keep it covered.
ii. When Madame Forestier saw her friend Matilda, she uttered a cry of astonishment, “Oh ! my poor Matilda !
How you have changed !”
iii. Mr Herriot advised Mrs Pumphrey to give the dog less to eat. He advised her to cut down on sweet things
also. And he asked her to give the dog plenty of exercise. Mrs Pumphrey agreed to the vet’s advice, but
she couldn’t act on it.
10. (A) The Buddha’s words convey an eternal truth. Every living thing is subject to decay and death. One who is
born is sure to die one day. Therefore, it is foolish to grieve over what is inevitable. ‘Chinta ta ki keejye, jo
unhoni hoye.’ These words of Guru Nanak also convey a similar truth. They are as true today as they ever
were. Much of the pain, anxiety, misery and sorrow of the material world will disappear if we keep this
universal truth in our mind. We should remember that our sojourn on this earth is very short. We should
not trouble ourselves about things that can’t be helped. What can’t be cured must be endured patiently
and calmly. This is one of the greatest secrets of living a happy life.
Or
(B) Natalya is a young girl of twenty-five years. She lives in the neighbourhood of Lomov. She is a good
housekeeper, and is not bad-looking. She is still unmarried, and is thirsting for love. Her father calls her a
lovesick cat. Lomov says that she is well-educated, but she doesn’t seem to be so. She is very quarrelsome
and abusive by nature. She begins a bitter quarrel with Lomov over a piece of land that has little value. But
when she learns that Lomov had come to propose to her, she forgets all about fairness and unfairness.
She begins to wail over the lost chance. She forces her father to call him back. And when Lomov comes
back, she again picks a quarrel with him. This time it is over their pet dogs. Lomov becomes so excited
that he faints. Now she cries to her father to call a doctor. As soon as Lomov comes to himself, she says,
‘‘Yes, yes, I’m willing.’’ Thus she accepts the proposal even without being made. Natalya is not a character
from real life. No girl or woman in real life behaves the way Natalya does. She is very quarrelsome by
nature. This play is a farce and Natalya, too, is a farcical character.
11. (A) Bholi did not want to bring disgrace to her family. Therefore, she agreed to marry Bishamber who was of
her father’s age. But at the time of marriage, Bishamber demanded a dowry of five thousand rupees.
Bholi’s father placed his turban at Bishamber’s feet. But Bishamber was adamant. At this, Ramlal brought
a bundle of five thousand rupees and placed at his feet. But Bholi couldn’t tolerate her father’s insult. She
now knew that she, too, had the right to speak against injustice. So she refused to marry Bishamber. She
didn’t want to marry such a mean and greedy man. Now she was aware of her rights. And she was not
ready to suffer any disgrace or injustice. She decided to serve her parents and show that girls are in no
way less helpful than boys to their parents.
Or
(B) Think-Tank was the ruler of Mars. He was also the commander-in-chief of the Mars Space Control. He
planned to invade the planet earth. He sent three of his crew members to do a recce of the earth. Think-
Tank himself remained on Mars and directed the activities of his crew from there. The three Martians
found themselves in a public library. They had never seen books and couldn’t tell what those things in the
library were. Think-Tank ordered them to take some vitamins to sharpen their brains. Now one of them
read out some rhymes from an old book of nursery rhymes. Think-Tank interpreted the rhymes in his own
way. He concluded that the Earthlings were far more powerful than the Martians. He feared that they
would capture Mars and him also. So he decided to escape without delay. He ordered his invasion fleet to
leave Mars and go to Alpha Centauri that was a hundred million miles away. Thus we see how an old
book of nursery rhymes saved the world from a Martian invasion.

1. 1. Anna Eleanor was the First Lady of the United States. But in contrast to what she became, she was a
simple and quiet lady. She was also an author and a lecturer. She was brought up by her grandmother in New
York. She kept in touch with the Amrican people media. She was much admired and loved by the people
throughout the world. 2. He was Eleanor's distant cousin whom she got married to. 3. (c) She had lost her
parents and her second son and then her husband fell prey to polio, but she never allowed the situations to
weaken her. 4. (b) She, a very intelligent and strong woman, nursed her husband back to good health and
helped him to first become the Governor of New York and then the President of America. 5. (d) When her
husband was the President, she took keen interest in all affairs of the country and also visited prisons,
hospitals, mines, factories, etc. 6. (a) At that time, she travelled the whole of the country giving goodwill,
reassurance and help to people without food and unemployed. 7. World War II 8. True.
2. 1. (c) Rubbish. 2. If excess sewage is poured into seas and rivers, water can no longer dilute it. All the oxygen
in the water is used up and fish begin to die. 3. (b) F—i, ii and O—iii, iv 4. Most of the numerous organisms
in the soil are bacteria. The majority of bacteria are helpful. 5. (b) iii and iv 6. Bioremediation is a process by
which the good bacteria are used to digest toxic substances and convert them into less harmful elements.
7. (a) filters out the sunlight from the water 8. Pollutant chemical of dying units drained in the water can be
removed by putting the bacteria on plastic balls. The balls with bacteria can be stung together and kept in a
particular part of river.
3. i. (a) would ii. to give him a ticket to Bhopal. iii. (c) will iv. Error — at; Correction — on. v. D. washed vi.
seek vii. It is anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others. viii. error — balancing; correction —
balance. ix. (b) any x. (c) May xi. (c) if they couldn't give them the fruits they had bought. xii. error — better;
correction — good.
4. (A) About the Need for Zebra Crossing and Traffic Lights
New Age Public School
Ram Nagar
Agra
20 August 20_ _
The Editor
Navjiwan Times
Agra
Sir
There is a very busy road in front of New Age Public School. A large number of school students have to
cross the road before and after the school hours. Unfortunately, there are no speed breakers, zebra
crossings or traffic lights on this road. Thus the students crossing the road are put to a great risk of fatal
accidents. I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities to this grave problem. They are
requested to provide speed breakers and traffic lights outside the school. A zebra crossing should be
marked before the gate of the school, so that the students may cross the road safely. At the time of
opening and closing of the school, traffic police should be deployed. I hope the concerned authorities will
realize our problem and take the necessary action at the earliest.
Yours truly
Anita
Class X
Or
(B) Requesting to Condone the Shortage of Lectures
The Principal
B. C. M. School
New Delhi
7 April 20– –
Subject : Condoning the Shortage of Lectures
Sir
With due respect, I wish to state that I am a student of class X in your reputed school. My class teacher
has told me that I am short of lectures. I do not have the habit of bunking my classes. As a matter of fact,
my younger brother was seriously sick in the month of February. He was in hospital for two weeks. My
father is posted far away in Nagaland as a B.S.F. jawan. He couldn’t get leave to reach home. There were
only my mother and I left to look after him. Therefore, I had to miss classes for two weeks.
I have always been a bright student. I always top my class. I have participated in many cricket matches
as a team member of the school cricket eleven and brought laurels to the school. I will study day and
night to top the class again. You are very humbly requested to condone the shortage of lectures. I will be
very obliged to you.
Thanking you
Yours obediently
Rohit Pahwa
X-B
5. (A) WATER IS SCARCE, SAVE IT FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
We can live without food for a number of days. But we can’t do without water for a day even. Water is the
basis of all life. But sadly, we are wasting and polluting this source of life. With the increase of population,
the consumption of water is naturally increasing. But besides consuming, we are also wasting water. We
have disturbed the water cycle. We have cut down our forests. Water keeps evaporating into the air. But
we have no trees to bring it back as rain. That is why the water level is sinking year after year. And if this
continues, a day will come when life would become impossible on this earth. To prevent that, we shall
have to take urgent steps. We should conserve every drop of water. We should not use it for wasteful
purposes. We should collect as much rainwater as we can in our ponds and tanks. Dirty water should be
recycled to make it suitable for use once again. It is our moral duty to see that we keep this earth liveable
for our coming generations.
Written by :
Shobhita Arya
Or
(B) PROBLEMS FACED BY METROPOLITAN CITIES
A metropolitan city needs to have basic facilities which include mass housing projects, a scientific sewage
system, accessible and well-maintained roads, transportation facilities, to name only a few. Since a
metropolitan city is mostly overcrowded, there should be a well-planned system of traffic so that people
can reach their homes or places of work in the shortest possible time. An eye should also be kept on
antisocial elements because a considerable number of strangers come to the city daily for various purposes.
To keep the city free from pollution, no industrial activity should be allowed within the municipal limits of
the city, particularly in the residential areas.
If the above-mentioned aspects are taken into consideration, the problems faced by metropolitan cities
can be overcome to a great extent.
6. (A) 1. The author looked upon the baker as his friend, companion and guide. The thud and jingling of the
baker’s bamboo would tell the author that it was time for him to wake up. Thus he called the baker his
guide. 2. The writer and his friends longed for bread bangles and sweet bread of special make. 3. (i) (a)
4. (c).
Or
(B) 1. Ausable told Max that once earlier also, a man had entered his room through the balcony. He said that
the balcony belonged to the next apartment. It extended under the window of his room. In this way, he
gave a vivid description of the balcony. Hearing all this, Max was fully convinced about the story of the
balcony. 2. He waved the gun at Fowler and Ausable. 3. (c) 4. (d).
7. (A) 1. The name of the poem is ‘The Ball Poem’ and the poet name is John Berryman. 2. (a) 3. (c) 4. When
the boy looks at the ball that has gone into the harbour, all his young days come to his mind. He
remembers how he used to play with the ball. These memories bring to his mind a sense of loss. He
realizes that he will never get back his ball.
Or
(B) 1. It is Amanda who calls herself an orphan. In fact, she is not an orphan. She merely longs to be an
orphan so that there is no one to nag her constantly. The ‘orphan’ longs to roam freely in street making
patterns of her bare feet in the soft dust. 2. (c) 3. The poetic device used in this extract is metaphor —
“Orphan / Silence is golden” / “Freedom is sweet”. These metaphors convey child’s longing for freedom.
4. (d).
8. i. Some people say that the world will end in fire. They believe in what the Bible says. Others say that the
world will end in ice. They believe in what the scientists say. They say in case of a nuclear war everything
will freeze to death.
ii. The poet says that a true chameleon looks like a small lizard. It hasn’t any ears or wings. It can change
its colour. You can’t see it on the tree even though it is there.
iii. Since Amanda takes no notice of what is being said to her, her parent is perhaps very frustrated. So the
tone of the parent seems to be full of annoyance and irritation.
iv. The Buddha asked Kisa Gotami to bring a handful of mustard-seed from a house where no death had ever
taken place. Kisa Gotami failed to find any such house. Thus she came to realise that life and death is
a common process and that death is the common end of all.
v. The different varieteis of bread popular in Goa are — bol, bolinhas, sandwiches, and cakes. On occasions
of parties, feasts, marriages and engagements bols and sandwiches are in great demand. Cakes and
bolinhas are a must for christmas and other festivals.
9. i. Anil used to write for magazines. He had no regular source of income. Sometimes, he got a cheque for
his writings. Then he would go and celebrate with his friends.
ii. It was Horace who broke the safe. But it was not he who got the jewels. He gave them to the young lady.
He thought she was the lady of the house. His fingerprints were found all over the room. That was why he
was arrested.
iii. Ebright had started tagging butterflies at the call of Dr. Frederick. He did this for many years. It was a
tedious job and there was not much feedback also. Only two of his tagged butterflies had been captured
so far. And these two had been captured merely 75 miles from the place where he lived. So Ebright gave
up this job of tagging butterflies since he didn’t find it of much worth.
10. (A) The Proposal’ is a funny play. It is all fun from the beginning to the end. The characters behave in a
farcical manner. There is humour even in their weeping, wailing, crying and fainting. When Lomov comes
to propose to Natalya, Chubukov goes mad with joy. He thinks it a burden to be the father of a grown-up
girl. But very soon, he and his daughter enter into a useless argument with Lomov. Lomov leaves the
place in a huff. Natalya begins to cry when she comes to know that Lomov had come to propose to her.
She forces her father to call him back. But when Lomov comes, Natalya again starts quarrelling with him.
The quarrel becomes so bitter that Lomov can stand it no longer and faints. Natalya begins to cry
because she thinks that all her chances of marriage are now lost. Chubukov tries to revive Lomov. When
Lomov moves a little, Chubukov immediately puts Lomov’s hand into Natalya’s hand and says, ‘‘Hurry up
and get married. She is willing !’’ Nothing could be more farcical.
Or
(B) Today I went to have a ride in a bus that runs between our village and the nearest town. The conductor
tried to help me get on to the bus. But I refused to be treated like a child. The conductor referred to me
as ‘madam’ all through the journey. I stood up on my seat to have a look at the outside view. I looked at
each and every object with great interest. An elderly man called out to me saying, ‘‘Sit down, child.’’
Suddenly, a young cow came and started running fast in front of the bus. It had its tail high in the air. For
me, it was a funny sight and I clapped my hands in joy. The bus reached the town and all the passengers
got down the bus. I remained sitting inside the bus. The conductor offered to buy for me a drink but I
refused. The bus started, and again there were the same wonderful sights. I was not bored in the least.
But suddenly I saw a young cow dead by the roadside. It was the same animal I had seen on my journey
to the town. It was a horrible sight. My enthusiasm was all gone now. I no longer wanted to look out of the
window.
11. (A) Mrs Pumphrey used to overfeed her dog. The dog became very fat. He could hardly walk. He had bloodshot
eyes. Mr Herriot was a vet. He saw that the dog could become very ill. So he gave the lady very strict
advice. He asked her to give the dog less to eat. And he said that the dog should have plenty of exercise.
Mrs Pumphrey agreed to all this. But she said that the dog loved chocolates and cream cakes. She
couldn’t refuse the dog the things he loved. Then she said that her gardener had fallen ill. So there could
be no ring-throwing exercise for the dog. All these were mere excuses. And she made the dog very ill.
Or
(B) We can say that Hari Singh is a born thief. He starts stealing from a very young age. He picks his victims
very carefully. His sole aim in taking service with Anil is to rob him. And he loses no time when he finds
an opportunity to do so. But something arrests his feet when he is about to board the train. He comes
back and recalls what Anil has been doing for him. He recalls how much trust Anil had reposed in him. He
recalls how lovingly Anil had tried to teach him to read. This is an inward transformation in him which
directs his feet back to Anil’s place. He places the money from where he had stolen it. Thus we see how
love transforms a thief and makes him a good human being.

1. 1. (b) They evoke the wish in us, to master them. 2. (d) The heavier the luggage—the higher the penalty
3. (i) (c) conviction (ii) hard to put into words. 4. The point of similarty between training and penance is that
both require preseverance to go through. 5. (a) It is so because while mountaineering one has to deal with
several health hazards which cannot be managed without any preparation. (b) It is so because during
mountaineering one has to face many difficulties like on icy sheets. And this cannot be accomplished without
being prepared with proper equipment. 6. When weather is unpredictable or bad then mountaineers have to set
up camps as they cannot proceed in bad weather. 7. (i) (a) survival (ii) (d) Opportunity to use sophisticated
mountaineering equipment 8. Due to treacherous weather and snow, every step or decision during mountain
climbing is to be taken with cool mind. Any impulsive step or decision could be disastrous.
2. 1. (a) option i 2. Some people are vegetarian because of their religious beliefs. They feel it wrong to kill
animals for food. Some people believe that vegetarian diet is healthier. Some people choose to be vegetarian
for ecological reasons. They say that the growing of vegetables takes up much less land than the raising of
livestock. 3. Modern medical advice favours vegetarian food. Medical men advise people to cut down on fat, salt
and sugar. They suggest them to eat fresh vegetables which are rich in fibre and keep digestion in good order.
Moreover, vegetables are a lot cheaper than meat. Almost everyone can afford to buy them. 4. (c) iii and vi 5.
(d) both (a) and (b). 6. (i) waste (ii) Livestock waste 7. (a) meat 8. Being a vegetarian a person can obtain
protein from peas, seeds, beans, pulses, soya.
3. i. (c) would ii. respectfuly that he would report every morning at 7 a.m. sharp. iii. (b) from iv. Error — drove;
Correction — drives. v. (a) to watch vi. delivered vii. there was an exhibition of rare paintings at the Art
Gallery and he had gone viii. error — As; correction — While ix. though the tomatoes were expensive, she
liked to add tomatoes to her diet. x. (b) are xi. (b) stand xii. error — may; correction — will.
4. (A) About Attacks On Old People

Safdarjung Development Area
New Delhi
07 March 20_ _
The Editor
The New Indian News
New Delhi
Sir
I wish to bring to your kind notice the miserable condition of the old people and women folk in our locality.
Many incidents of daylight thefts and killings of old people have been reported during the recent days.
Working men and women go for their jobs during the day. The elderly ones are left alone in their homes.
Antisocial elements and criminals take advantage of it and enter the homes for the purpose of theft. If
they face any resistance from some elderly man or woman in the house, they don't hesitate even to kill
or wound the person. To avoid such incidents, the people especially old people, living alone should not
open the door for the person knocking at the door until they are sure of the authenticity of that person.
And the authorities are requested to take necessary measures to check such incidents.
Thanking you
Yours faithfully
Shirish
Or
(B) For Booking A Room In A Five Star Hotel
C/5 Nehru Nagar
Dibrugarh
Assam
09 February 20_ _
Messrs Goel Travel Agents
The Mall
Shimla
Dear Sirs
I intend to visit Shimla during the coming summer vacation. I shall be staying there for a fortnight, i.e. from
15.6.20_ _ to 28.6.20_ _. So I request you to have a room booked for me in Hotel Savoy. I shall be
reaching Shimla in the afternoon of June 15th. Please have a taxi, preferably a Maruti Zen, reserved for
me for all the days of my stay at Shimla. Also arrange for a good guide who can take me around all the
places worth seeing in and around Shimla. Please let me know when you have made all the arrangements
for me.
Yours truly
Mohan
5. (A) IMPORTANCE OF NEWSPAPERS FOR STUDENTS
Newspapers hold a very important place in the world today. They bring us news from all corners of the
world. They make us aware of various activities going on in the world. The information about various
policies of the government reach the public through newspapers. They act as a link between people and
their government. They serve as a mouthpiece of public reaction. Newspapers develop in us the reading
habit. They give us not only political news but sports news also. Some people read only sports news.
Today we have a lot of TV news channels. They give us the instant news from every nook and corner of
the world. Yet the value of newspapers has not diminished in any way. TV Channels merely give us news
while newspapers have literary value as well. They contain the writings of many contemporary writers that
enlighten us and broaden our mental horizon. While TV news channels give news at a particular time,
newspapers can be read at one’s convenience.
Contributed by —
Rashmi
Or
(B) THE NEED OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
The state of our rivers and oceans is a sad comment on our social behaviour. We are using them as
dumping grounds and dustbins. Millions of tonnes of rubbish is dumped into them every year. Absence of
an adequate sewage disposal system is a perpetual environmental hazard in cities and towns. For the
most part, sewage is dumped into the sea or rivers. Heaps of rubbish, night-soil and organic waste lying
here and there add to air pollution and also contaminate the water supply sources. It results in many
water-borne diseases and epidemics. We are polluting not only our waters, but also the land and the air.
In fact, we are digging our own graves. Everyone has to realise his or her responsibility. We should do
nothing that will pollute our environment and thus endanger our own lives.
6. (A) 1. He said that the life of mortals is troubled and brief. It is combined with pain. He said that there are no
means to avoid death. 2. (b) 3. He compared human beings with ripe fruits and earthen vessels. Ripe
fruits are always in danger of falling. Earthen vessels are always in danger of breaking. So are human
beings. 4. (i) (b) (ii) (c).
Or
(B) 1. The narrator didn't buy a ticket because he had never bought it. In fact, he was in the habit of travelling
without ticket. The narrator did not jump into the train because deep in his subconscious mind, he wanted
to live his life as a respectable person. 3. (d) 4. (c).
7. (A) 1. When the trees move forward, winds rush to meet them. The glass is breaking because the trees are
trying to make their way through it. 2. (a) 3. The poetic devices used in this extract are — Personification
— “The trees are stumbling forward”. Simile — “The moon is broken like a mirror”. Imagery — “Its
pieces flash now in the crown of the tallest oak.”. 4. (d).
Or
(B) 1. Belinda cried for help because a pirate had broken into her house. Mustard, Ink and Blink didn't help
Belinda in catching the pirate. Rather they all ran away in fear at the sight of the pirate. 2. (b) 3. (d) 4.
strategically = with a specific purpose.
8. i. A lion has a large body. It has a tawny coat. A Bengal tiger has black stripes on its yellow coat. A lion
roars when it falls upon its prey. A tiger attacks silently.
ii. Amanda didn’t like the restrictions put on her beacuse she yearned for a life of freedom. She wanted to go
out and play where she liked.
iii. No, the pilot of the Dakota was not able to meet the other pilot. The black aeroplane had suddenly
disappeared. Even the control room people knew nothing about him.
iv. Mandela says that every man has twin obligations. There are obligations to one’s family and parents.
Then there are obligations to one’s people and one’s country.
v. The post office employees were kind-hearted and helpful people. They were impressed by Lencho’s faith
in God. They decided to help him. Each of them contributed a part of their money. They sent all this
money to Lencho through a letter.
9. i. Matilda belonged to a poor family. But she always longed to have things of luxury. That was the real
cause of her ruin. She should have known that one should cut one’s coat according to one’s cloth. Thus
she could avoid her ruin.
ii. The major flaw in Tricki was his greed. He had never been known to refuse food. He would always seize
a meal at any hour of the day or night. In fact, he was overfed by his mistress.
iii. Horace Danby suffered from hay fever. As he was a thief, this problem stood in way of his act of theft. In
this story, we see that as he enters the house for robbery, the flowers kept there cause him to sneeze
and a lady appears there.
10. (A) In the story, ‘The Black Aeroplane’, a mysterious aeroplane comes to help the narrator when his aeroplane
is caught in the stormy clouds. We can’t say who the pilot on the black aeroplane was. But surely he
was no ordinary human being. There were no lights on the wings of his plane. Yet he had no difficulty in
flying through the clouds. He must have been some angel. He saw the narrator in danger, came to his
help and then disappeared. Definitely some spiritual power helped the narrator.
In ‘A Letter to God’, Lencho writes a letter to God to help him in distress and send him some money. The
postmaster is impressed by Lencho’s deep faith in God. He collects the money and mails it to Lencho.
In this story, the postmaster’s kind soul urges him to help the simple man. However in both the stories,
it seems as if God Himself comes to help both the characters in the form of a mysterious pilot or the
postmaster.
Or
(B) I would adivse the boy not to grieve over his loss. He has lost his ball in the water. There is a grief in his
eyes over the loss. It has given him a big shock. But we cannot move ahead by weeping and grieving. We
need to rise above our griefs and move on. Everyone must know that losses and gains are part and parcel
of human life. Things once lost are lost forever. Therefore, one should accept the loss as a common
matter and not be unduly worried about it. Behind this grief and shock, there is a valuable learning taking
place. The boy is learning how to put up with the loss of material things. However these things are learned
by experience and maturity whereas the boy is so small to understand the notion. Moreover the little boy
has sweet memories of the days when he used to play with the ball.
11. (A) Some people are in the habit of show off and vanity. They don’t hesitate to borrow money at high rate of
interest in order to satisfy their habit of show off and vanity. Sometimes this habit of theirs land them in
untold troubles. The same happens in the case of Matilda Loisel in the story. She borrows a beautiful
necklace from one of her friends to wear at a party. Unfortunately, in the party, her necklace is lost. To
return the necklace, Matilda’s husband has to borrow 18,000 franks at high rate of interest. It changes
their entire course of life. They change their lodgings. They send away the maid. Matilda has now to do
all the housework herself. She has to live a hard life of poverty. Her husband does overtime for some
merchants. This continues for ten long years. At last they clear all their debt, but at the cost of their
youth. Now Matilda looks an old woman of a poor family. Thus we see Matilda’s longing for things of
luxury was the cause of her ruim. She could have avoided it. One should cut one’s coat according to
cloth.
Or
(B) Think-Tank and Noodle are both Martians. Think-Tank is the ruler of Mars. He is an arrogant fool. He can’t
tolerate being contradicted. He thinks himself to be the most intelligent and powerful creature in the
universe. But he proves to be a big fool. He interprets the nursery rhymes in his own way. He begins to
feel scared of the earthlings. He decides to escape to Alpha Centauri that is a hundred million miles
away. Noodle, on the other hand, is an intelligent and sensible character. He is an apprentice in Think-
Tank’s kingdom. He knows that Think-Tank can’t stand any opposition. So he deals with him in a very
clever manner. He finds that Think-Tank is quite wrong in his views. Noodle tries to give him some of his
own suggestions. But in order not to offend his master, he calls his suggestions just ‘a cloudy piece of
information’. He belittles himself so as not to hurt Think-Tank’s ego. Thus he proves himself intellectually
far superior to Think-Tank.

1. 1. When every member of the family is allowed to be a part of decision making, a conflicting situation arises
due to different opinions and choices. On the other hand, it also encourages the unity, love and togetherness
of the family. 2. Today parents want to develop in their children the habit of making their own decisions. For this
they give importance to the children’s choice. They ask them which food they would like to have, which movie
they would want to see, where they would wish to spend their holidays and in which field they would want to
study, etc. 3. The writer advises the parents to listen patiently to their children and observe what they want. He
also advises them to give a little but quality time to their children to develop better understanding. 4. (a)
Cuisine. 5. (c) The decision was made by the head of the family and the others fell in line. 6. (d) all of these
three. 7. (d) conflicting. 8. I completely agree with the author’s views. In the modern world with advance
technology, children have more exposure and they are very much aware. It, no doubt, helps them to become
self dependent and take their own decisions. But parents’ love, guidance and life-long experience can prove a
big support for the children in life.
2. 1. Rowling had started writing when she was hardly six years old. But fate smiled on her when her creation
‘Harry Potter’ was published. Her life was turned upside down. It was like near magical rise to fame. 2. They
said that the plot of ‘Harry Potter’ was too complex. 3. (i) (d) the characters she creates. (ii) (d) Both (a) and
(b). 4. There was crowd of journalists at her door day and night. 5. The Italian dust jacket had shown ‘Harry
Potter’ without glasses. This was the reason that Rowling was outraged with the Italian dust jacket. She
said that the glasses are the clue to Harry’s vulnerability. 6. (c) They thought that she had interesting
talent but it would not be useful in livelyhood. 7. (c) When an Italian dust jacket showed Harry without glasses,
she outraged and said “Don’t they understand that the glasses show his vulnerability. 8. According to the graph
it took Rowling seven years to become very successful.
3. i. (d) may not impact. ii. that illiterates too need eyes to see. iii. (a) can’t iv. (c) error — left; correction —
leaving. v. (c) restrained vi. to draw vii. their Chief Guest was the honourable President herself. viii. error —
whereas; correction — wherein ix. (a) any x. (d) must xi. (a) what kind of a job he was interested in.
xii. error — while; correction — when.
4. (A) Query About an Advertisement

ABC Public School
Jammu
28 July 20_ _
The Managing Director
National Tourist Corporation
Jammu
Subject : Query about your advertisement in the newspaper
Sir
I read an advertisement given by you in a newspaper. In it, there was mention of reduction in fares for
group tours. Our school takes the students on historical tours as well as excursions every year. Kindly
give us the detailed information about the following :
(a) How much reduction is offered ?

(b) If there is any reduction on two-way tickets.
(c) Minimum number of passengers in one tour.
(d) Destinations offered.
Yours truly
Ram
Or
(B) Exploitation of Parents During School Admissions
62 J.P. Nagar
New Delhi
18 March 20_ _
The Deputy Director
The Department of Education
New Delhi
Subject : Exploitation of Parents during School Admissions
Sir
Parents are a harried lot at the time of school admissions every year. In their desire to have their children
educated in good schools, they get fleeced and exploited mercilessly. These so-called reputed schools
are, in fact, palatial shops that sell education to the highest bidders. First of all, they price their admission
forms at more than a hundred rupees each which costs them hardly more than a few paise. Then the
admission-seekers are taxed with capitation fees in the name of donation and building fund. They are in
thousands per head. The regular monthly fees are also unimaginably high. It is the duty of the government
to come to the rescue of these exploited people.
Yours truly
Rakhi
5. (A) REINTRODUCTION OF CHEETAH IN INDIA
Reintroduction of cheetah in India is a positive move to conserve the threatened species and restore the
ecosystem functions. The extinction of a species should be taken as a warning sign to stop the activities
that are disturbing ecosystem functions. Saving environment is saving life on the earth. Every living species
is a part of environment or ecosystem. And its extinction causes serious consequences. There are many
reasons that may cause the extinction of species. Some of them are — hunting, poaching and illegal
trade of different animals. Though all these have been controlled to a great deal, by the government
support and strict laws. But deforestation, climate changes and increase in population are interlinked
issues that are posing big challenge for humans to resolve the problem of the extinction of a species.
Innovative environment policies and enterpreneurship and strict laws implementation for protecting
environment is the need of the hour to march ahead with development along with preserving our ecosystem.
Reintroduction of cheetah in India can be considered a welcome step towards maintaining ecosytem.
Or
(B) CHOICE OF STREAMS IN RURAL AND URBAN AREAS
By analysing the bar chart, we can see that in urban areas 34 or 35 students choose science and in rural
areas 12 or 13 students choose science. Thus we can observe that students from urban area are much
interested in science whereas in rural areas, science stream is least preferred. Looking at the commerce
stream bars, 25 urban students and around 23-24 rural students choose commerce. We can say that
preference for commerce stream in urban and rural area is almost the same. Then again in Humanities
stream, the difference between rural and urban preference is big as only 10 students choose this stream
in urban area. On the other hand, around 26-27 students in rural area choose this stream. The interest in
Humanities stream in rural area is much more than in urban area. Commerce stream is equally preferred
by both urban and rural school students.
6. (A) 1. Here the tall sturdy shade-trees have been referred to as doll like figures. These trees seemed to be
moving busily. A building has been described as ugly because it was blowing smoke out of its chimneys.
2. Rajvir was excited as he had never seen tea garden before but Pranjol had been brought up on a
plantation and it was nothing new to him. So he did not share Rajvir’s excitement. 3. (b) Traditional tales
4. (b) Jaspreet cried out loud when she saw a white tiger in the sanctuary.
Or
(B) 1. Mrs Pumphrey’s pet dog, Tricki, has been referred to in the passage. Though Tricki was very ill, et he
was not given any medicinal treatment. It was so because his only ailment was overweight due to overeating.
And such a problem needs no medicinal treatment. 2. After three or four days, Tricki was back to normal.
He started running about with the other dogs. Thus he became an accepted member of the gang. 3. (d)
4. (b).
7. (A) 1. Traditionally poets use the language with rhyme schemes and metaphors in their poems. But in this
poem, the poet has used simple everyday language which is without rhymes and metaphors. 2. The word
‘little’ used in the poem describes the subtle and quiet nature of fog. It describes fog as a harmless
creature moving silently. The word ‘little’ reflects the mood and tone of the poem which is peaceful and
mysterious as well. 3. B. coastal 4. visual / animal imagery.
Or
(B) 1. The tiger has vivid stripes and velvety paws. The tiger locked in the cage is in rage but he is quiet.
2. (i) (b) (ii) (b) 3. The tiger is quiet because he knows that his rage is impotent in this situation. He
can’t escape from his cage. 4. The poetic devices used in this extract are — (a) Alliteration —“He
stalks in his vivid strips”. This poetic device like rhyme or rhythm increases the beauty of the language.
(b) Repetition —“On pads of velvet quiet” / “in his quiet rage”. This poetic device increases the intensity
of the tiger’s rage and his helpless silence. (c) Assonance —“in his vivid strips”. (d) Metaphor —“pads
of velvet”. Here tiger soles have been compared to velvet.
8. i. Custard was Belinda’s little pet dragon. He had big sharp teeth. He had spikes on his head. He had
scales on the underside of his body. His mouth looked like a fireplace and his nose looked like a
chimney. And on his toes, he had daggers.
ii. The people who believe so are men of religion. They believe in what the Bible says. The Bible says that
the world will end in a terrible fire (holocaust).
iii. Suddenly, a young cow came running on the road. It came right in front of the bus. The driver slowed the
bus. He sounded his horn again and again. The more he honked, the faster the cow ran in front of the
bus. This sight amused Valli so much that she began to laugh.
iv. She asks for a handful of mustard-seed, but doesn’t get any. The Buddha had asked her to bring the seed
from a house where no death had ever taken place. Kisa Gotami could find no such house. That is why
she couldn’t bring the seed as desired by the Buddha.
v. When Chubukov came to know that Lomov had come with a desire to marry his daughter, his angry tone
changed at once. He went mad with joy. He said that his daughter was already in love with him. He said
to him, “I have always loved you, my angel, as if you were my son.”
9. i. Griffin was a brilliant scientist. He had discovered a rare drug that could make the human body as
transparent as glass. He could create many miracles in the field of science. But his brilliance as a
scientist faded before his darker traits. He was an eccentric sort of person. He was very short-tempered.
He was a lawless person. He committed many illegal acts. He burnt his landlord’s house. He stole the
clergyman’s money. He hit the constable.
ii. The Loisels had to spend 36,000 francs to replace the lost necklace. But at the end of the story, we come
to know that the lost necklace was a false one. It was not worth more than 500 francs.
iii. Bholi was a neglected child. She stammered badly. The other children in the house made fun of her. Even
her mother thought her to be a burden. She never gave her new clothes. Bholi got only the old dresses of
her sisters.
10. (A) The Buddha wanted to make her understand that death is the common end of all. There can be no
medicine that can bring the dead back to live. The Buddha wanted Kisa Gotami to understand this very
fact of life. Kisa Gotami’s only son had died. She was in deep grief. She went from house to house. She
asked people to give her some medicine that could bring her son back to life. A man suggested to her
that she should go to the Buddha. So she went to the Buddha and asked him to give her some medicine
that could cure her son. The Buddha asked her to bring a handful of mustard-seed from the house where
there had been no death. Kisa Gotami went from house to house again. But she could find no house
where no death had ever taken place. Now the woman realised the reality of death. She realized that
death had ever taken place. Now the woman realised the reality of death and suffering. She realized that
suffering is a part of life and death is inevitable.
Or
(B) As a boy, Mandela meant by freedom the liberty to run in the fields near his mother’s hut. It was also the
freedom to swim in the clear stream that flowed through their village. As a student, it was the freedom to
read what he liked and to go where the liked. But then he realised that all these were transitory freedoms.
The basic and honourable freedoms were the freedoms that concerned everyone around him. They included
the freedom to achieve one’s potential, the freedom to earn, the freedom to marry and have a family, and
the freedom to live a lawful life without any obstruction.
11. (A) Fowler is a writer. He has read many stories about secret agents. He thinks secret agents are mysterious
people. They have pistols in their hands. But he is disappointed when he meets Ausable. He sees that
Ausable is an ordinary person. But then he finds how intelligent Ausable is. In Ausable’s room, there is a
man with a pistol in his hand. He threatens to kill Ausable. But Ausable remains calm. He at once makes
up the story of the balcony. There is a knock at the door. Ausable says it could be the police. The man
jumps on to the balcony to hide himself. But there is no balcony. How easily Ausable gets rid of a
dangerous person !
Or
(B) Parents no doubt play a crucial role in the upbringing of their children. In fact, their upbringing leaves deep
impact on their children’s lives and gives shape to their personality also. Bholi was a mentally backward
child. She stammered badly. She also had deep black pock marks on her body. Her parents neglected
her. Her mother always gave her old clothes of her sisters. She considered her a burden. And to get rid of
this burden, her parents agreed to marry her off to an old and greedy man who was a widower. They would
have ruined her life, if Bholi had not been educated and turned into a confident girl by her noble teacher.
On the other hand, Ebright's mother recogized her son's driving curiosity and his mental brightness. She
encouraged his learning. She took him on trips. She bought him telescopes, cameras and other equipment.
Ebright always got the necessary support from his mother. In fact, without her support and motivation,
Ebright would never have become a successful scientist.

1. 1. A person becomes overconfident because of his habit of overassessing his capabilities. Overconfidence
generally leads them into misadventures. However overconfidence can be managed by discussing the matter in
hand with other informed people. And if one is proved wrong, he should immediately accept it. 2. Modesty
makes us realistic and cuts us down to size. 3. (c) calculation 4. (d) fail 5. (c) The preparation of Napoleon’s
army lacked to face Russia’s harsh winter. 6. (c) They line inside their own cell, they are unaware of others.
7. (d) impartial. 8. (c) evaluate.
2. 1. Romans, Arabs and Perrians relished the earliest ice-cream made of snow mixed with honey or fruit jam.
Italians introduced ice cream to the rest of Europe. In 1533, the Italian princess, Catherine, married the French
king, Henry II. She took her cooks with her to France. These cooks showed the French ice cream for the first
time. 2. (c) refrigerator was not developed till then. 3. In the modern process of making ice cream, all the
ingredients are first collected and mixed. Then they are pasteurized to destory any bacteria or germs that
might be present in them. The milk fat is broken up into tiny particles to produce a smooth texture. The total
mixture is then cooled and put into the freezer. Inside the freezer, the ice cream mixture has to be stirred all
the time with the help of paddles. The mixture starts to freeze at about –2o C. While the ice cream is soft, it
is shaped into bars. 4. The ice cream becomes light and foamy because air is made to enter the mixture. 5.
(i) (d) ii and iv. (ii) (a) destroy the bacteria in it. 6. Homogenization is the process used for making smooth
texture. 7. (c) v and vi 8. (a) The milk fat is broken up into tiny particles.
3. i. (b) weighs ii. felt sorry saying that she could not fit him in for at least two weeks. iii. (a) May iv. (b) error
— are; v. (c) will encourage vi. facing vii. she had an interview the next day. So she would not be able to go.
viii. error — for; correction — on ix. (a) an x. (a) can xi. (a) to come along with his parents. xii. error —
print; correction — printing.
4. (A) Enquiries About an Educational Board Game competition

14 Civil Lines
Vadodara Gujarat
05 June 20_ _
The Manager
Teen-Toggle Games Pvt. Ltd.
Mumbai
Subject : Enquiries About an Educational Board Game Competition
Sir / Madam
I came to know through a notice in our local library’s notice board that your company is conducting an
educational board game creation competition by July 20_ _. I wish to participate in this competition. So
I need to have some more information about —
(i) the rules of the competition
(ii) the details of scholarship
(iii) specifications of the articles
(iv) types of entries allowed — solo or group entries
(v) last date for receiving the entries
The above mentioned information will encourage me as well as other interested candidates to participate
in this competition.
Yours sincerely
Samina Zaveri
Or
(B) About Improvement In Teaching Of English
Examination Hall
XYZ City
9 May 20_ _
The Editor
The Tribune
Chandigarh
Sir
Kindly allow me to express through your columns my views about the need for qualitative improvement in
the teaching of English.
The syllabi of most of the boards and universities do not help students to develop their skills in writing and
speaking correct English. The entire teaching is examination oriented. Most of the educational institutes
do not have well-qualified teachers for teaching English with correct pronunciation and intonation. Thus
there is a need to frame syllabi that lay stress on communicative English instead of English literature.
Now we need people who can fluently communicate and also write in grammatically correct English.
Yours truly
ABC
5. (A) MODERN GADGETS HAVE MADE US SLAVES TO MACHINES
No one can deny the fact that modern gadgets have made our lives comfortable. But at the same time,
our dependence on them has increased so much that we cannot do without them at all. We cannot come
to school if the bus operators go on strike. We cannot cook without an LPG cylinder. We can’t do our
washing without a washing machine. We can’t do without a TV, a telephone, a computer, or any other
modern gadget. And if electricity fails, life for us comes to a standstill. If our phone goes ‘dead’, we feel
ourselves cut off from the rest of the world. Truly, we have become the slaves of machines. We have
become so dependent on machines that we can’t do anything without them. We can’t even remember a
thing without the help of machines. This overdependence on machines has made us physically weak,
mentally lethargical and emotionally dead. Man will have to come out of this slavery if he is not to become
a Lilliputian.
Contributed by —
Anuj
Or
(B) MOBILE PHONE MANNERS
Mobile phones have brought about a revolution in the field of communication. If judiciously used, they are
one of the biggest blessings of modern science. However, the use of mobile phones is not good at certain
times and places. The government, on last Thursday, has prohibited the use of mobiles at petrol pumps.
They may ignite the flammable vapours present in the air. People are often seen using mobiles while
driving. It is very dangerous to do so as it can endanger the life of theirs as well as of other commuters
also. This habit should be avoided. Inside an aircraft, mobiles should not be used, as their signals may
interfere with the signals received by the crew. Inside the Intensive Care Unit in a hospital, mobiles are not
allowed. We should also take care not to use the mobile phones while being near a heart patient or
someone who has a pacemaker. Recent researches have shown that mobiles give out radiation that can
cause cancer. We must be very judicious in the use of this great invention. We must see to the time,
place and situation while using mobile phones. The mobile users ought to realize the difficulties and
dangers they pose not only to others but also to themselves. And those who break the law should be
given a deterrent punishment so that it can serve as a lesson for others.
6. (A) 1. (b) 2. South Africa had been under the white rule for more than three centuries. The blacks suffered
terribly during this period. They fought a long battle for their freedom. At last on 10 May, 1994, they
became a democratic nation. Nelson Mandela became their first black President. 3. It was going to take
place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. 4. (c).
Or
(B) 1. He tells the lady that he steals only from those who have a lot of money. He says that he never
threatens society. He steals for a very good reason. 2. (d) 3. (c) 4. Horace was very fond of reading rare
and expensive books. But he did not have the money to buy them. To fulfil this hobby of his, he used to
rob a safe every year. He secretly bought the books he loved through an agent.
7. (A) 1. If we meet a bear the bear will hug us hard. The bear hugs his victim hard to kill it. And if he finds that
the victim is still struggling, he gives another hard hug. 2. The poetic device used in this extract is
alliteration for example — “your yard” / “Who hugs you very very hard” / “A novice might nonplus”. The
poem is in humorous tone. 3. (a) 4. (d).
Or
(B) 1. The trees are inside the house. From the house, they are moving out into the forest. The forest was
empty all these nights. There are no trees in the forest where the birds can sit or insects can hide. This
is the reason that the trees are moving out into the forest. 2. (a) emphasis 3. False 4. (i) (a) unnatural
(ii) (c) It builds momentum.
8. i. Sorrow and despair had settled on the poet’s heart. A crow shook off some snow dust from a hemlock tree
on him. It gave the poet a sudden thought. He, too, could shake off his sorrow and be full of cheer once
again.
ii. This view is held by those who believe in science. Scientists say that if there is a nuclear war, all things
will freeze to death. Thus the world will end in ice.
iii. After Lomov has gone, Chubukov tells Natalya that Lomov had come to propose to her. On hearing this,
Natalya begins to cry. She says that she has lost the opportunity of getting married. She compels her
father to go and bring Lomov back.
iv. She asks for a handful of mustard-seed, but doesn’t get any. The Buddha had asked her to bring the seed
from a house where no death had ever taken place. Kisa Gotami could find no such house. That is why
she couldn’t bring the seed as desired by the Buddha.
v. Valli is an eight-year-old girl. The conductor offers to help her get on the bus. But Valli says that she
doesn’t need any help. The conductor sees that she is a very self-confident girl. He calls her ‘madam’ just
out of jest.
9. i. From the very beginning, Ebright had in him a deep scientific curiosity. He used to collect things, trying
to know more and more about them. By the time he was in his second grade at school, he had collected
all the twenty-five species of butterflies found in the area where he lived.
ii. Bholi’s teacher is the artist. And the masterpiece is Bholi. The teacher filled Bholi with great courage and
confidence. Now she was no longer a girl who lacked sense. She gave Bishamber a befitting treatment.
iii. Think-Tank is the ruler of Mars. He sends some crew members to the earth. These crew members come
to a public library. They find many books there. But they have never seen any books before. So they are
unable to tell what these things in the library are.
10. (A) Lomov and Chubukov are neighbours. Lomov comes to Chubukov’s house to propose to his daughter,
Natalya. Instead of coming to the point, he starts talking irrelevantly. For example, he says that he
inherited his land from his late aunt. Then he says that his Oxen Meadows touch Natalya’s Birchwoods.
At this Natalya at once says, ‘‘Oxen Meadows are not yours; they are ours.’’ A hot argument starts
between the two. While Lomov and Natalya are thus arguing, Chubukov comes in. He, too, joins in the
argument. Lomov threatens that he will take the matter to court. Very soon they start abusing each other.
The quarrel becomes so bitter that Lomov begins to feel very nervous. He staggers out of Chubukov’s
house.
Or
(B) Mijbil is indeed very friendly and intelligent. The only thing that he needs is love. It doesn’t take him long
to know that the author means him no harm. He at once becomes friendly with him. He shows no fear
and sleeps in the crook of the author’s knees. While on the plane, he nuzzles his face and neck in love.
He is very playful and fun-loving also. He invents several games of his own. He makes little objects his
toys and plays with them. Thus we see that Mijbil is a friendly, intelligent and fun-loving animal.
11. (A) The young lady was very clever. She was a thief like Horace. But she had a sharp mind. She saw Horace
inside the house. She acted as if she were the mistress of the house. She said she had come back for
her jewels. Horace feared she would call the police. He begged her to forgive him. The lady cleverly
hinted that she had forgotten the numbers to open the safe. Horace offered to break the safe for her. Thus
the clever lady got the jewels. She herself didn’t touch anything. But Horace’s fingerprints were all over
the place. He was arrested. And the clever lady went scot-free with the jewels.
Or
(B) Matilda had to live a very hard life to repay the debt. To save money, she had to dismiss her servant. She
and her husband changed their lodgings and rented a garret. Now Matilda knew what poverty really
meant. She had to do all the cooking, cleaning and washing herself. She used her rosy nails to wash the
greasy pots and dishes. She washed the dish-clothes. Each morning, she took down the refuse to the
street. She brought up the water stopping at each landing to breathe. She went to the market dressed
like a common woman. She haggled with the shopkeepers to save each penny. And this life lasted ten
years. Matilda now seemed an old woman of a poor household. All her delicacy and grace were gone
now.

1. 1. If children are involved in household tasks at an early age, it can have a positive impact later in their life.
When children start taking part in household chores, sense of responsibility and accountability is inculcated
in them. 2. It can be done by expecting children to take care of their self-care tasks and to help with
household chores. 3. Children can gain a sense of self-satisfaction through doing their own self-care tasks
and through helping with household chores. 4. (d) obligations. 5. (b) prepare 6. (c) appropriately 7. (a) The
house -hold chores are the basic skills that are essential for every person whether he/she is a star or an
ordinary person. 8. (c) parents doing too much for their children and not expecting enough of them.
2. 1. (d) Their body automatically decreases appetite till they recover. 2. When we fall ill, our taste of mouth
changes. Our sensitivity to smell and taste is numbed. Our appetites shut down. These are the signs that our
body’s subtle biofeedback gives us to tell us that our body needs rest. 3. (d) i. It is a way of cleaning and
healing. ii. By taking break from eating. 4. We can put our digestive system to rest by taking break from
eating. 80% energy is consumed by our body for digestion of food. 5. The benefits that we can have from dry
fasting are — (i) stem cell activation and regeneration begins. (ii) body gets rid of its own toxins. (iii) body tries
to sacrifice its sickest cells through the process of autophagy that helps prevent or manage cancer and plays
a vital role in degrading cells infected by bacteria and viruses. 6. (i) (a) immunity. (ii) (c) both (a) and (b). 7. (d)
Both (a) and (b). 8. (i) (c) sickness. (ii) (b) aesthetic.
3. i. (c) stops ii. if they thought that she had gone there to take them off their feet. iii. (c) May iv. (b) error —
among; correction — between. v. (a) terrified vi. travelled vii. she was going to school to collect her pass
certificate. viii. error — open; correction — opened ix. (b) much x. (c) could xi. (b) if he had come to that
place recently. xii. error — when; correction — during.
4. (A) Home Delivery of Books Stationery Items

123, Prakasham Nagar
Secunderabad
Andhra Pradesh
18 May 20_ _
The Sales Manager
Book Haven Store
Secunderabad
Subject : Home delivery of books and stationary items
Dear Sir
Yesterday we had ordered telephonically some books, stationery items and art materials which we were
to collect ourselves from your store. But due to some urgency we will not be able to pick up the goods in
person. Please provide us home delivery of the goods ordered. We are again sending you the list of the
books and other items ordered.
Books
1. Holy Faith English Grammar by Dharam Paul 4 copies
2. History of India by Teja Singh 3 copies
3. Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (9th Edition) 2 copies
4. ABC of Physics (X class) by Gupta 4 copies
5. ABC of Chemistry (X class) by Johar 4 copies

6. High School English Grammar by Kushagra 5 copies
Stationery and Arts Items
1. Flair Carbonix Gel Blue Pens 12
2. Flair Carbonix Gel Red Pens 12
3. Erasers 10
4. Pencil Sharpeners 10 pieces
5. DOMS XI Super Dark Pencils 3 packets
6. Stapler 2 pieces
7. Drawing Sheets (white) 10
8. Coloured Markers (twelve colours) 2 packets
All the books should be of the latest edition. The payment shall be made by D.D. as soon as the books
and other items are received. Please make the delivery on this Saturday (21 May 20_ _) after 5 p.m.
when we are available at home. The address of our house has already been mentioned in detail in this
letter.
Yours faithfully
Vijay Sharma
Or
(B) How to Improve the Lot of Slumdwellers
26 Latouche Road
Kanpur
17 January 20_ _
The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi
Sir
The slumdwellers are living in very insanitary conditions. Their bastis are in deplorable condition. They are
facing a lot of problems due to lack of drinking water and poor power supply. There are frequent power
failures. Because of the scarcity of water there are daily serious fights among the people at the public
taps. Moreover people are unable to afford even the basic needs of life. They are forced by the circumstances
and are obliged to live in unhealthy and unhygienic surroundings. So effective planning is required to
provide them clean surroundings and healthy environment. There is great need to make these people
aware of cleanliness. In every housing project, a portion of land should be alloted and developed for
slumdwellers.
The concerned authorities should make efforts to solve the problems of these slumdwellers. Until and
unless the authorities take some action earnestly in this regard, the lot of slumdwellers cannot be improved.
Yours truly
Udit
5. (A) A SURVEY ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF DIGITAL DEVICES IN RISHUNAGAR
A recent survey of the purchase of smart phones and computers during 2015-2019 in Rishunagar has
revealed that there has been great increase in the demand of these two digital devices. In 2015, the
purchase of computers was about 25000 and of smart phones was above 42000. In 2016, there was
good increase in the purchase of these two digital devices. However in 2015 and 2016 people showed
more interest in smart phones. Though in 2017 there was again increase in the purchase of computers
and smartphones. But this time smartphones were sold less as compared to computers. In 2018, there
was fall in the purchase of both of these devices. The purchase of smartphones reduced to about 70000
and the purchase of computers was left below 50000. There was drastic decrease in the purchase of
computers as compared to smartphones. In 2019, there was huge increase in the demand of smart
phones and computers once again. The purchase of computers increased to about 90000. But the sale
of smartphones was far more than computers. It crossed about one lakh. People showed more interest
in the purchase of smartphones.
Or
(B) IMPORTANCE OF GARDENING
It is a very good and practical idea to encourage children about gardening in schools. No doubt, it would
definitely develop in students the sense of environment care and its importance. But this activity or
practice should not be replaced by other activities like sports, music or dance because they are equally
important for the development of a student. Gardening keeps us close to nature and develops love and
care for our mother earth. It is a welcome and progressive idea to engage students in gardening in
schools. There are many benefits of gardening. It boosts your mood, improves quality of life as well. It is
also proved that gardening lowers stress level, enhances the immune system and strengthens your
bones. Apart from all these benefits, it is also suggested that safety precautions should also be given
priority while gardening.
6. (A) 1. It was the time for annual results. The teachers were going to hold a meeting. They were to decide the
passes and fails. The students were nervous because they were doubtful about their results. 2. (d) 3. (a)
4. In that meeting, the teachers were going to decide who would move up to the next form and who would
be kept back.
Or
(B) 1. The stranger referred to here was Griffin. He had covered his forehead with bandages. He wore dark
glasses and had false nose. He had big bushy side whiskers and a large hat. It was undoubtedly an
uncommon appearance. 2. (c) 3. (c) 4. solitude.
7. (A) 1. (c) 2. He had two pistols, one in each hand. He held a small sword between his teeth. His leg
waws made of wood. 3. (a) 4. The poetic devices used in this extract are — (a) Repetition — “Suddenly,
suddenly they heard”. (b) Alliteration — “And he held in his teeth a cutlass bright”. The rhyme scheme
used in this extract is aa bb cc dd.
Or
(B) 1. The speaker in these lines is a young girl, perhaps the young man’s beloved. Here she wants to say
that she won’t accept anyone who loves her for the colour of her hair only. She says that she can get her
hair dyed on any way she likes. She can have them brown, black or carrot. 2. She doesn’t want her
lover’s love to be limited merely to the love of her hair. She expects that the young man loves her for
herself alone and not for her yellow hair. 3 (i) (c) (ii) (d) 4. (c).
8. i. The poet was standing beneath a hemlock tree. A crow shook off some snow dust on the poet. The poet’s
sad heart at once experienced a change. The poet, too, shook off his sadness and thus saved the rest of
the day from being spoiled.
ii. The visitors keep coming and going daily. They just look at him, make faces and go away. None of them
thinks of releasing him from his prison. The tiger sees that all of them are unfeeling fellows. So he stops
taking any notice of them.
iii. The postmaster at first laughed. But then he became serious. He was deeply moved by the writer’s faith
in God. He did not want to shake this faith. So he decided to collect the money and send it to Lencho.
iv. For Mandela, courage is not the absence of fear. It is the triumph over fear. The brave man is not he who
does not feel afraid. In fact, the brave man is he who conquers fear.
v. Coorg is the smallest district of Karnataka. Madikeri is its district headquarters. It is about 250-260 kms
from Bengaluru. It is midway between Mysore and the coastal town of Mangalore.
9. i. The book that saved the earth from Martian invasion was titled ‘Mother Goose’. It was a book of nursery
rhymes. When some nursery rhymes were read out aloud to Think-Tank, he got frightened. He gave up all
his plan of invading the earth.
ii. Tricki had a whole wardrobe of coats. He had different coats for different weather. He had a day bed and
a night bed. He had a number of cushions, toys and rubber rings. He had a different bowl for each meal
of the day.
iii. Anil knew all about the theft. Yet he made no mention of it. Neither his eyes nor his lips said anything. He
gave the thief a fifty-rupee note. He also said he would teach him to write sentences. Thus, the thief knew
that Anil had forgiven him.
10. (A) Mandela says that every man has twin obligations. He has obligations to his family and his parents. Then
he has obligations to his people and his country. In a civil and humane society, one can fulfil these obligations
according to one’s abilities. But in a country like South Africa, it was not possible. The white rulers followed
the policy of apartheid. They had put many restrictions on the blacks. Anyone who tried to fulfil his obligations
to his people, was punished and put into prison. With Mandela also, the same thing happened.
Or
(B) Anne was very intelligent. She had an inventive mind. When Mr Keesing wants to punish her for talking
too much in the class, he asks her to write an essay on ‘A Chatterbox’. Anne writes her essay in an
amusing manner. She says that talking is the trait of a student. She adds that her mother was as
talkative as she is. And one can’t do much about inherited traits. Only an intelligent child could invent
such deep arguments. Her story about the mother duck and the father swan also proves this. Mr Keesing
wanted to make fun of Anne. But Anne turns her essay into a joke on Mr Keesing.
11. (A) Bholi’s real name was Sulekha. Her parents called her Bholi because she was mentally backward. She
stammered badly. And she had black pock-marks on her body. Her parents had little hope that anyone
would marry her. They neglected her completely. But Bholi’s teacher gave her all love and affection. She
filled her heart with a new hope. She said that in time, she would become the most learned person in her
village. Then nobody would laugh at her. Thus the teacher changed Bholi into a masterpiece of courage
and confidence. We see this when Bholi refuses to marry a mean and greedy person like Bishamber.
Or
(B) From his very childhood, Ebright was interested in collecting things. He used to collect butterflies, rocks,
fossils and coins. He had a bright mind, and had the curiosity of a scientist. His mother discovered these
qualities in him and gave all help to develop them. She encouraged his interest in learning. She would
take him on trips. She bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras and other equipments. When
Richard didn’t have anything to do, she would find work for him — not physical work, but that of learning
things. Thus the mother helped Richard a lot in becoming an intelligent scientist. But for her, Ebright
could never have become such a great scientist.

1. 1. The tiny ‘chital’ stamped its feet on the ground and with this noise, it was able to shoo away the huge tiger.
2. They react very differently to open spaces. Panther very carefully avoids open spaces. On the other hand,
game animals deliberately seek open spaces to assemble in such spaces in groups. 3. (c) uproar 4. (c) you
would not dream of catching an offending crow cawing. 5. Birds and animals make high-pitched shrill sounds
and create a very chaotic situation for the panther. The sounds seem to be cursing the panther in their own
peculiar way. The panther feels itself forced to go away from its preys. 6. The panther never kills its prey by
springing on it. It goes slowly and quietly towards its prey. Reaching near it, it rushes at it at a lightning speed
and kills it. 7. (a) For safety purpose. 8. (d) both (a) and (b).
2. 1. Global warming means an increase in the temperature of the earth’s atmosphere. The major cause behind
global warming is — an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. 2. Carbon dioxide is generated by
breathing of living things and burning. 3. (d) .03 per cent carbon dioxide 4. (a) It allows more heat to pass into
earth’s atmosphere than pass out. 5. (b) harmful ‘greenhouse effect’ 6. (c) disappearance of Maldivas island
into the sea 7. (i) (b) in Indian Ocean (ii) (d) Both (a) and (b). 8. We can reduce global warming by (i) recycling,
(ii) by using energy efficient appliances and (iii) by driving more fuel efficient vehicle.
3. i. (c) ban ii. she had kept it on the dressing table as usual. iii. (c) must iv. (d) error — from; correction —
for. v. (d) being liked vi. pains vii. it was after two weeks. viii. error — education; correction — educational
ix. (c) some x. (c) May xi. (b) when the result was expected to be declared. xii. error — thousand; correction
— thousands.
4. (A) About Rescuing the Road Accident Victims

24 Raj Nagar
Kanpur
30 August 20_ _
The Editor
The Pioneer
New Delhi
Subject : About People Hesitating to Rescue the Road Accident Victims
Sir
Road accidents are very common in big cities. It is unfortunate that people hesitate to come forward to
help the accident victims. They think police will harass them unnecessarily. For this fear of harassment
by the police, people do not show interest in taking the victims to a hospital and the wounded victim dies
on the road for want of timely medical help. Now even the honourable Supreme Court has issued guide-
lines that the persons taking the road accident victims to a hospital are not be questioned or detained.
After these guidelines, people should not hesitate in helping the victims by carrying them to a hospital.
By doing so, they will be proving to be responsible citizens. Through the columns of your esteemed
newspaper, I want to urge the people to help the people in distress rather than leaving them on the road
to die.
Yours truly
Shobha
Or
(B) Repair or Replacement of Defective Washing Machine
C-424, Sector 18
Green Park
New Delhi
16 March 20_ _
The Sales Manager
Balaji Electricals Private Limited
Lajpat Nagar
New Delhi
Subject : Repair or Replacement of ‘Samsung’ Washing Machine
Dear Sirs
I bought from your store an automatic ‘Samsung’ washing machine last week, against cash memo No.
11562 dated 10-03-20_ _. I regret to inform you that the machine doesn’t work satisfactorily. It doesn’t
wash the clothes properly, and makes an unbearably loud noise. I think there is something gravely wrong
with its motor or ball bearings. The first wash in the machine came as a great dismay to all in the family
who stood expectantly around it. I bought the machine on your assurances of its excellent working which
have all proved untrue. I think it is only a freak case of manufacturing defect. I request you to replace the
machine at the earliest since it is difficult for us to do without it. A written one year’s warranty on this
machine has been given by you.
Yours faithfully
Kapil
5. (A) USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION
Technology has made inroads into all walks of life, including the classroom. Projectors, computers and
online teaching have taken the place of the teacher. The teacher no longer plays the central role in the
process of teaching. His position has been relegated to the background. But such a trend is dangerous.
No doubt, technology has a very important part to play in the process of teaching, but we should not
replace it totally with the teacher. Teacher and technology should not be looked upon as each other’s
substitutes, but as each other’s supplements. Technology is not there to oust the teacher; it is there to
help the teacher and to assist him in his job of teaching. It is there to make the teacher’s job more
effective and more interesting. The teacher has still to play the central role. He has to be there to lend a
human touch to the whole process. Without the teacher, technology is just a passive and lifeless thing. It
cannot arouse the child’s active interest in the process of learning. However, the fact is that technology
has come to stay. We cannot do without it in any field. It is for us how we use it. Should we become
slaves to it ? Or should we use it as a slave to our advantage ? All depends on us. In life, we always gain
more by association than by competition. Therefore, in the classroom at least, we should have both the
teacher and technology working together for the benefit of our children.
Contributed by —
Ram
Or
(B) INCREASE IN VIOLENCE AND SOCIAL UNREST
There has been a great increase in incidents related to violence and social unrest in our area during the
period 2013-2019. The number rose from 10 in 2013 to 40 in 2019, an increase of 400% in just six
years. It is to be noted that while there was almost no increase during 2013-2014 and 2016-2017, the
increase during 2014-2016 was alarming. The increase during the period 2018-2019 was nominal. It is
the duty of authorities to go into the causes that lead to such incidents and take suitable measures to
check them. Violence and social unrest disturb the peace of people and create bad blood in the
society.
6. (A) 1. Mijbil was the author’s pet otter. The author wanted to take him to England. 2. The airline insisted that
Mijbil should be packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square. It had to be carried on the floor
at the author’s feet. 3. (b) 4. (a).
Or
(B) 1. Anil was a trusting person. He had trusted the narrator completely. But the narrator had robbed him.
The narrator thought that the discovery of theft would make Anil a little sad. It would be not for the loss of
money, but for the loss of trust. 2. (d) 3. forbearance. 4. (d).
7. (A) 1. ‘Fire’ has been used as a symbol of lust or desire. ‘Ice’ has been used as a symbol of heartless
hatred. Here ‘desire’ means wordly aspirations. 2. The poet favours this belief because it is based on
religion. The Bible says that the world will end in fire (perhaps the burning lust for material things). 3. The
poetic devices used in this extract are — (a) Alliteration—“Some say the world will end in fire” / “Some
say in ice.” / “I hold with those who favour fire”. (b) Symbolism—‘Fire’ — a symbol of lust and desire.
‘Ice’ — a symbol of heartless hatred”. (c) Imagery—“Some say the world will end in fire. Some say in
ice”. Here Fire reflects the feeling of heat and light, but also of pain and burning . And Ice reflects the
feeling of coldness, but also of intolerance and indifference. (d) Assonance—“I hold with those who favour
fire”. 4. (i) (b) (ii) (c).
Or
(B) 1. He should be snarling around houses to get at some domestic animal for his food. He shows his white
fangs and his claws as he growls and moves along the jungle’s edge. 2. (b) 3. We should protect the
tigers because they are part of our environment. 4. (i) (a) (ii) (c).
8. i. The hemlock tree is a symbol of the poet’s sad heart. The dust of snow is the sorrow that has settled on
the poet’s heart. And the crow is the shake that the poet experiences in his heart.
ii. Amanda is fed up with the constant nagging of her parents. That is why she wishes to be a mermaid and
move about freely in the green sea. Then there would be no one to nag or trouble her.
iii. Maxwell had a friend. One day, he casually mentioned it to him that he wanted to have an otter as a pet.
Some days later, the friend sent two Arabs to Maxwell. They had an otter with them. It was a rare species
from the marshes of the river Tigris. He liked the otter very much. He made for it a body-belt and also
enjoyed its pranks in the bathroom.
iv. The baker came in the morning. He came with loaves for the elders and bread-bangles for the children.
Sometimes it was sweet bread of a special make. Children were very fond of bread-bangles and sweet
bread. They would go running to the baker to have their delicacies.
v. It was the young seagull’s first flight. He was certain that when he tried to fly, his wings would not support
him. He feared that he would fall down into the sea.
9. i. Most of the secret agents are mysterious people. They have pistols in their hands. But Ausable is quite
different. He has fat body and looks quite ordinary. The writer wanted to show contrast between the looks
and the professional skills of his character, Ausable.
ii. Horace had planned his work very carefully. He knew every detail of the house he wanted to rob. He knew
that the family had gone to London. So he felt sure of his success in that year’s robbery.
iii. Mrs Pumphrey had started sending lots of things for Tricki. She would send eggs, wine and even brandy.
None of these things was given to Tricki. The writer and the others at the surgery feasted on them. Thus
everyone desired to keep Tricki on as a permanent guest.
10. (A) Rajvir told two legends about the discovery of tea. One was the Chinese legend and the other was the
Indian legend.
The Chinese Legend : There was a Chinese emperor. He always boiled water before drinking it. One
day some twigs were burning under the pot. A few leaves from the twigs fell into the pot. They gave the
water a delicious flavour. It is said that those were tea leaves.
The Indian Legend : There was a Buddhist ascetic named Bodhidharma. He often felt sleepy during his
meditations. To stop this, he cut off his eyelids. It is said that ten tea plants grew out of the eyelids. The
leaves of these plants when put in hot water and drunk banished sleep.
Or
(B) Lomov is a funny character. All his actions in the play are comic. He seems to be an eccentric also. He
is very eager to marry Natalya. But when he comes to propose to her, he starts talking irrelevantly. He
starts talking about his Meadows. It leads to a bitter argument between the two. Natalya claims the
Meadows are theirs. The argument turns very hot. Lomov becomes terribly excited. He leaves in a fit of
anger. Lomov gets another chance to propose to Natalya. But again he starts a quarrel with her. This time
it is about the breed of their dogs. The bitter argument makes Lomov so nervous that he faints. However,
his heart’s desire is fulfilled. His proposal of marriage is accepted without being made. Lomov is not a
character from real life. No man in real life behaves the way Lomov does. This play is a farce and Lomov,
too, is a farcical character.
11. (A) Really, aspirations have no limits. But in our real life, we should never forget the ground realities. If we
always try to satisfy our inordinate ambitions, it would result in nothing but misery and disaster. This is
what happens with Matilda in this story. She has to suffer for her immoderate ambitions. Her husband
also has to suffer along with her, though he has committed no mistake at all. They have to change their
lodgings and rent a garret. Now Matilda comes to know what poverty means. She has to do all the
cooking, washing and cleaning with her own hands. She has to wash the greasy pots, using her rosy
nails. Poor Mr. Loisel has to work evenings and also late into the night. All this continues for ten long
years. Matilda loses all her grace, beauty and charm.
Or
(B) Ausable is a secret agent. He looks a very ordinary person. But he proves himself perfect in his job. A
man has entered his room. He has a pistol in his hand. He wants to have an important secret paper from
Ausable. Ausable at once makes up the story of the balcony. He makes Max believe that there is a
balcony below the window. There is a knock at the door. Ausable says that it could be the police. Max
gets frightened. He jumps on to the balcony to hide himself. But there is no balcony. How easily Ausable
gets rid of a dangerous person ! It shows how intelligent he is.

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SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER—2025 (Solved)

SECTION—A (Reading Skills) (20 Marks)

2 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

SECTION—B (Writing Skills & Grammar) (20 Marks)

4 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

III. Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak. 1

6 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

SECTION—C (Literature Textbook) (40 Marks)

8 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

Section—A (Reading Skills)

Section—B (Writing Skills & Grammar)

10 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

The Project Head

Section—C (Literature Textbook)

12 HOLY FAITH ROCKET (CBSE)

(Issued by CBSE on 16 September, 2022)

Sample Question Paper—1

1. 15-minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper reading.

SECTION—A : READING SKILLS (20 Marks)

1. Read the passage given below. 10

(ii) Today's environment is not suitable (iii) Their species is diminishing in a

1. flexible spine i plays crucial role for balance.

(a) 1— iii (b) 1— ii (c) 1— iv (d) 1— i

SECTION—B (GRAMMAR) (10 marks)

3. Attempt ANY TEN of the following questions. 10

iii. Akshat and Niharika had a conversation about the felicitation of

ix. Choose the correct determiner to complete the following.

x . Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS) (10 marks)

4. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. 5

5. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. 5

SECTION—C (LITERATURE) (40 Marks)

1. Where was the narrator going ?

7. Attempt ANY ONE of two extracts given. 5

(iii) another gentle kiss

(a) option i (b) option ii (c) option iii (d) option iv

3. (i) How is money eternal ?

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

Sample Question Paper—2

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

4. (A) About the Issuance of Duplicate Certificates

Sample Question Paper—3

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

4. Whether the course is recognized or not.

if she wanted to be truly kind to him.

Sample Question Paper—4

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

Sample Question Paper—5

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

Sample Question Paper—6

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

Sample Question Paper—7

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

4. (A) About Attacks On Old People

Sample Question Paper—8

SECTION—B (CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

4. (A) Query About an Advertisement

(a) How much reduction is offered ?

Sample Question Paper—9