Class X - English - Paper 1 - Practice for Everyone

ENGLISH

(Language and Literature)

General Instructions:

Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:

(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.

(ii) The question paper contains THREE sections –

Section -A: Reading Skills

Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills

Section -C: Literature Textbook

(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.

SECTION – A

READING SKILLS

1. Read the passage given below.

(1) Listening is the ability to accurately receive and interpret the message in the communication process. One of the greatest gifts any of us can ever receive is the gift of listening. It is also one of the greatest gifts we can ever give. Unfortunately, it appears to be a lost art. We live in a world where everyone is talking but few are listening. What often passes for listening is simply one person pausing to collect their thoughts for their next soliloquy.

(2) Hearing refers to the sounds that you hear, whereas listening requires more than that; it requires focus. Listening means paying attention not only to the story, but how it is told, the use of language and voice, and how the other person uses his or her body. In other words, it means being aware of both verbal and non-verbal messages Your ability to listen effectively depends on the degree to which you perceive and understand these messages.

(3) Listening is a difficult task. Like every skill the more you do it, the better you get. Listening can be developed through practice, or lost if not used regularly. Good listeners focus on what they are hearing. They pause to think about what they’ve heard before responding. They ask questions because they want to know the answers. Not just to keep the conversation going.

(4) So often, we are distracted by other things. We try to listen while continuing to work on the computer or watch television. To be fully present means we eliminate these distractions and focus exclusively on the other person. It takes great effort to be fully in the moment, leaning forward, eyes and heart open. Words are only a part of communication. Sometimes we need to experience the other person’s feelings to really understand. We need to listen with our heart as well as our mind. We must repeat back what the other person has said. When we do this–and do it accurately—we communicate that we understand. It also gives us an opportunity to re-calibrate our understanding if we have misunderstood something. Plenty of people are good talkers; few are good listeners. If you develop the latter skill, you will find yourself invited into amazing conversations that wouldn’t otherwise happen.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(A) In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘gift of listening emphasise?

Ans. The phrase ‘gift of listening’ emphasises that listening is a valuable and meaningful skill. It suggests that both receiving and giving the gift of listening are important and cherished abilities.

(B) Complete the following with the correct option from the two given:

Listening requires more than just hearing because it ________________

(a) involves focusing on both verbal and non-verbal messages.

(b) only involves hearing the sounds without further interpretation.

Ans. (a) involves focusing on both verbal and non-verbal messages.

Ans. The writer supports this idea by stating that listening is a skill that improves with practice and can be lost if not used regularly. Good listeners are those who pay attention to what they hear, pause to reflect before responding, and ask questions to understand better.

(D) Select the option that best reflects the concept of being ‘fully present’ in a conversation. (paragraph 4)

(a) Multitasking while engaging in a conversation.

(b) Paying full attention to the speaker and eliminating distractions.

Ans. (b) Paying full attention to the speaker and eliminating distractions.

(E) State whether the following statement is True or False:

Effective listening involves only understanding the spoken words without considering the speaker’s non-verbal cues.

Ans. False

(F) The writer mentions ‘eliminating distractions’ in paragraph 4. Which of the following is an example of eliminating distractions?

(a) Listening while working on other tasks.

(b) Turning off electronic devices and focusing solely on the conversation.

(d) Watching TV while having a discussion

Ans. (b) Turning off electronic devices and focusing solely on the conversation.

(G) List any two characteristics of good listeners mentioned in the passage

Ans. 1. They focus on what they are hearing.

2. They pause to think about what they’ve heard before responding.

(H) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given

Listening with both your heart and mind means ____________

(a) focusing only on the speaker’s words

(b) ignoring non-verbal signals and emotions

(d) multitasking while listening

Ans. (c) being empathetic and fully engaged with the speaker

2. Read the passage given below.

(1) Millions of tons of small waste from plastic bags, bottles and clothes in the world’s oceans present a serious threat to human health and marine environment. This is a warning issued by the U.N. in a report on the most dangerous environmental problem facing the world today. Global plastic production has increased considerably in recent years, nearly by 38%.

(2) Poor waste management means that when we have finished with our takeaways, which contain cigarette butts and party balloons, they are worn down into trillions of even smaller particles by the waves. Therefore, there is a growing presence of these micro plastics in the world’s oceans.

(3) It was estimated in 2010 that millions of tons of plastic were washed into the sea and have since shown up in the stomachs of whales, plankton and other marine life. Richard Thompson, professor of marine biology, said that in laboratory experiments, there is proof that micro plastics can cause harm to organisms.

(4) More than a quarter of all fish now contain plastic, according to a recent study that analysed the guts of fish sold in California. Scientists fear that chemicals which attach themselves to plastic in the natural environment could cause poisoning and many disorders in marine life if consumed in huge quantities.

(5) Even humans could be adversely affected by the plastic. People could even be breathing in plastic micro-particles suspended in the air, with the risk of a harmful effect on the lungs similar to air fumes.

(6) People from all over the world volunteer to pick up trash during the Ocean Conservancy’s Annual International Coastal Cleanup. They carefully record everything they find on the shore. This information is used to create the Ocean Trash Index, which shows the different types of litter and where they are found in oceans and waterways worldwide. The Ocean Conservancy says this is the only way to get a quick and clear picture of how much trash is polluting our coasts and water bodies.

(7) Boyance Slat, a Dutch student, has developed a technology that could sift dangerous plastic particles out of the ocean and sell them for profit or recycling. Richard Thompson recommended that people should avoid using products with micro beads and make sure they dispose of all plastic products in an appropriate way, if possible.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above

(A) Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below:

Assertion: Even humans could be adversely affected by the plastic.

Reason: People could even be breathing in plastic micro-particles suspended in the air.

(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, and the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

(d) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Ans. (a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

(B) Complete the following with a suitable reason.

The most likely reason that the statement that Richard Thompson said that in laboratory experiments, there is proof that microplastics cause harm to organisms, is a fact because ____________

Ans. it is an objective detail supported by evidence and scientific experimentation.

(C) In the context of the passage, describe how plastic can impact the natural environment and humans in context of their health.

Ans. Scientists fear that chemicals which attach themselves to plastic in the natural environment could cause poisoning and many disorders in marine life if consumed in huge quantities. Even humans could be adversely affected by the plastic. People could even be breathing in plastic microparticles suspended in the air, with the risk of a harmful effect on the lungs similar to air fumes.

(D) According to the Ocean Trash Index, 2,117,931 cigarettes have been dumped into the Ocean. How can this issue be addressed?

Ans. The issue of dumping cigarettes into the ocean can be addressed by informing people that cigarette filters contain harmful chemicals that can harm marine life.

(E) Identify a line that indicates that plastic is dangerous for aquatic animals

Ans. The line that indicates that plastic is dangerous for aquatic animals is ‘It was estimated in 2010 that millions of tons of plastic were washed into the sea and have since shown up in the stomachs of whales, plankton and other marine life.

(F) What is one drawback of microbeads?

Ans. Individuals can help preserve the environment by avoiding items that contain microbeads. Aquatic life can be harmed by microbeads, which are often formed of plastic.

(G) What does the use of the phrase ‘Poor waste management’ in paragraph 2 tell us about the actions of people?

(a) It indicates that people are effectively recycling their waste and reducing plastic pollution

(b) It suggests that people are disposing of their waste properly and in an environmentally friendly manner

(d) It shows that people are carefully segregating their waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories.

Ans. (c) It implies that people are not managing their waste properly

(H) Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank

Hari Lal has a career in marine life. In the year, ______________ (2010/2011/2014), he saw plastic in the stomachs of whales, plankton and other marine life.

Ans. 2010

(I) Complete the sentence suitably

The increasing presence of microplastics in the world’s oceans highlights ____________

Ans. the urgent need for better waste management and stricter regulations to address the rising levels of plastic pollution.

SECTION – B

WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR

GRAMMAR

3. Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.

(A) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket, for the given portion of a letter:

I I am writing to you that the recent changes in the company’s policies have significantly__________ our workflow.

(a) impacts

(b) impacted

(d) will impact

Ans. (b) impacted

B) Read the given sentence, identify the error, and provide the correction in the sentence.

In this thrilling novel, the suspenseful plot will have you at the edge of your seats until the very end.

Use the given format for your response.

Ans. Error: at, Correction: on

Report Ram’s question.

“Why did you not complete your assignment?”

Ans. Ram asked Abhilasha why she had not completed her assignment.

(D) Read the reply of a customer to a customer service executive, regarding delivery of order:

That is all right. Thank you

Report the customer’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly.

When the customer service executive informed the customer that there would be a slight delay in delivering her order, the customer said ____________

Ans. that was all right and thanked him.

(E) Fill the blank by choosing the correct option.

The art class requires a sketching kit, and students can purchase _______________ (these/this/that) from the school store.

Ans. this

(F) ldentify the error and supply correction for the given sentence

Each of the students are required to submit their projects by tomorrow

Use the given format for your response

Ans. Error: are, Correction: is

(G) ldentify the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the given sentence

The team of researchers are conducting experiments to determine the effects of the new drug

Ans. Option (b) – Error: are, Correction: is

(H) Complete the given narrative, by filling the blank with the correct option.

The discovery of ancient artifacts in the archaeological site left the researchers ___________ about the history of the civilization.

(a) wondering

(b) wonder

(d) wonders

Ans. (a) wondering

I) Report the dialogue between a student and a bookseller by completing the sentence:

Bookseller: Do you want to buy anything?

Student: Yes, I would like to buy a pack of ball pens and two registers.

Bookseller: That will be a thousand rupees.

The bookseller asked if there was anything the student wanted to buy. The student replied in the affirmative and added that__________

Ans. he wanted to buy a pack of ball pens and two registers.

(J) Fill the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the live feed on a sports news channel.

After weeks of intense training, the athletes were finally ready to showcase their skills at the national championship. The audience eagerly awaited to see if their hard work ____________ off in victory.

(a) pays

(b) paid

(d) has paid

Ans. (b) paid

(K) Complete the line from a poem, by filling the blank with correct option

Whose woods these are I think I know.

His house _____________ in the village though; He will not see me stopping here.

(a) is

(b) will be

(d) had been

Ans. (a) is

(L) Read the conversation about a new toy car, between Tom and her mother.

Tom: Did you see my new toy car? Isn’t it fine?

Mom: Yes, it is! Did you buy it from the mall?

Tom asked his mother if she had seen the new toy car and he wanted to know whether it was a fine one. The mother agreed and asked him ____________

Ans. if he had bought it from the mall.

WRITING

4. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.

You are Tabassum/Tarun, a resident of 25, Satya Nagar Colony, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. You have noticed that some residents of your colony are repeatedly flouting quarantine rules laid out during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Write a letter to the SHO of the local police station, drawing attention to the same. Explain how such acts impact the health of the community and request immediate intervention and strict action.

Ans.

25, Satya Nagar Colony

Bhubaneshwar

Odisha

12 May, 20XX

The SHO

Satya Nagar

Bhubaneshwar

Odisha

Subject: Concern over flouting of quarantine rules

Sir

This is to draw your attention to the constant flouting of quarantine norms by the residents. Despite the repeated requests by the RWA and reminders, residents are showing a complete disregard for the rules.

People are moving around the complex in groups without wearing masks, showing complete disregard for the guidelines. This casual attitude is not only harmful for them but also reflects a complete disregard for the well-being of others. The RWA has also not made any efforts to check this behaviour. The elderly are stressed that this will further aggravate an already serious situation.

As a concerned resident, this is an urgent appeal that you look into the matter and take stringent action against those breaking the norms. Kindly instruct the RWA to strictly enforce the guidelines. I hope that your interference in this regard will go a long way in controlling the spread of the virus.

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Tabassum/Tarun

As Kriti Nagpal, the head of the Youth Community Outreach Club in Lawrence City, you believe in the power of inter- generational connections to bridge gaps and enhance mutual understanding. Write a letter to the editor of National Daily, in about 120 words, suggesting the implementation of a “Wisdom Exchange Programme,” where senior citizens can share their life experiences and skills with the youth. Explain the benefits of such a programme and outline how it could be organised, including potential activities and events.

Ans.

House number – 21

Lawrence City

Gurugram – 1100XX

11 May 20XX

The Editor

The Times of India

Lawrence City

Gurugram- 1100XX

Subject: Bridging generation gaps for a brighter future

Sir

I am writing to propose a wonderful initiative that could make a positive impact in our community. The plan is to start a “Wisdom Exchange programme,” where senior residents can impart knowledge and skills to younger people.

This programme brings abundant benefits. It helps youth learn valuable life lessons, empathy, and essential skills from our seniors. We could organise regular gatherings where seniors and youth engage in activities like storytelling, art, and workshops. We can also plan talent shows on a weekly basis, where young boys and girls would pair up with older people and show their skills and talents. This would bring them closer and establish a friendly connection.

The Wisdom Exchange programme has the power to genuinely change our society and create a mixture of knowledge and optimism. I hope you will take my advice into consideration and help us bridge the gap between the young and the old generation.

Thanking you

Yours truly

Kriti Nagpal

Head, Community Outreach Club

5. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.

Read the product details on a label for an iPhone:

IPHONE 15 PRO MAX

Powered by the latest A17 Bionic chip for superior performance.
Ceramic Shield front cover
Promotion display with 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals
Advanced triple-camera system.

Now, analyse why this iPhone would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its performance, durability, display features, camera capabilities, connectivity, and design options.

Ans.

iPhone 15 Pro Max

For those looking for cutting-edge technology, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is a great option. Its A17 Bionic chip offers remarkable speed and efficiency, facilitating both gaming and daily chores with ease. The front cover of the ceramic shield enhances durability and lowers the possibility of screen damage from drops. The 120Hz refresh rate of the ProMotion display guarantees incredibly smooth scrolling and vivid images, improving the viewing experience in general. In low light, the sophisticated triple-camera system produces excellent images and films. In addition to these features, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a strong build, strong performance, and exceptional photography capabilities, which make it a valuable purchase for both work and play.

Read the given details of an Airbnb property available for rent.

A modern, open-plan apartment
Two bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms and comfortable, contemporary furnishings.
A private balcony with outdoor furniture

Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this Airbnb property. Focus on factors such as convenience and comfort.

Ans.

The Airbnb Home

This Airbnb home is ideal for a convenient and comfortable stay. The apartment’s contemporary, open-plan design makes it feel roomy and light, which makes it a pleasure to live in. The two bedrooms each include an en suite bathroom, which increases privacy and facilitates getting ready for guests. Having a fully functional kitchen enhances the convenience of guests’ stay by allowing them to cook their own food rather than constantly consuming takeaway. In addition, a pleasant place to unwind and take in the fresh air in the own balcony furnished with patio chairs. All things considered, the house is a terrific choice for a comfortable stay because it blends comfort and functionality.

SECTION –C

LITERATURE TEXTBOOK

6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given.

Then the bedroom chair came alive. Springing into the air it charged straight at her, legs foremost. As she and her husband turned away in terror, the extraordinary chair pushed them both out of the room and then appeared to slam and lock the door after them. Mrs. Hall almost fell down the stairs in hysterics. She was convinced that the room was haunted by spirits and that the stranger had somehow caused them to enter into her furniture. “My poor mother used to sit in that chair,” she moaned. “To think it should rise up against me now!” The feeling among the neighbors was that the trouble was caused by witchcraft.

(Footprints Without Feet)

(A) How does Mrs. Hall’s feelings contrast with the one in the beginning?

Ans. In the beginning, Mrs. Hall was very happy with the arrival of Griffin because he had paid in advance for his room in the inn but later on, his actions like not allowing anyone in his room, and dashing the chair on her face made her fearful of Griffin

(B) Which of the following options UNLIKELY suggests Mrs. Hall’s tone in the extract?

(a) shock

(b) hysterics

(d) fear

Ans. (c) curious

Ans. The extract employs irony to create suspense and highlight the strange events unfolding in the room. Irony is shown as the chair, which held an emotional value to Mrs. Hall, started acting in a threatening manner. This irony adds to the sense of unease and surprise in the story.

(D) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.

The word ‘extraordinary’ in the line “The extraordinary chair pushed them both out of the room” indicates that the chair was reacting _______________ (unusual/common)

Ans. unusual

There was no answer. The radio was dead too. I had no radio, no compass, and I could not see where I was. I was lost in the storm. Then, in the black clouds quite near me, I saw another aeroplane. It no lights on its wings, but I could see it flying next to me through the storm. I could see the pilot’s face – turned towards me. I was very glad to see another person. He lifted one hand and waved.

“Follow me,” he was saying. “Follow me.”

‘He knows that I am lost, ‘I thought. ‘He’s trying to help me.’

He turned his aeroplane slowly to the north, in front of my Dakota, so that it would be easier for me to follow him. I was very happy to go behind the strange aeroplane like an obedient child.

(Two Stories About Flying)

A) What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the pilot in the storm?

The radio was dead too. I had no radio, no compass, and I could not see where I was

(a) calms

(b) terrifies

(d) energises

Ans. (b) terrifies

(B) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.

The use of the phrase I was very glad to see another person’ adds to a sense of___________(relief / confusion), in the extract.

Ans. relief

(C) How does the pilot’s reaction when he was stuck in the storm contrast with his feelings at the beginning of the story?

Ans. At the beginning of the story, the pilot is feeling content, dreaming about being with his family and looking forward to a good English breakfast. In contrast, when he finds himself stuck in the storm, he gets frightened due to the loss of his radio and compass and the inability to see anything outside the aircraft.

(D) How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph?

Ans. The descriptions of the radio being “dead,” the compass not working, and the pilot being “lost in the storm” clearly show how isolated and helpless the pilot feels. The language highlights his fear and confusion, helping readers understand and relate to what he’s going through.

7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given.

But he’s locked in a concrete cell,

His strength behind bars,

Stalking the length of his cage,

Ignoring visitors.

He hears the last voice at night,

The patrolling cars,

And stares with his brilliant eyes

At the brilliant stars.

(A Tiger in the Zoo)

(A) Fill in the blank with ONE word.

The mention of “the last voice at night” and “the patrolling cars” suggests a connection between the animal’s captivity and ____________ of the world outside.

Ans. awareness

(B) What is the most likely reason that the poet chooses to say “ignoring visitors”?

Ans. The poet uses the phrase to say that the tiger shows no interest or response to the presence of visitors. It suggests a lack of acknowledgement, due to its captivity and frustration.

(a) In the stillness of morning,

a whisper of light dances on the windowsill,

leaves turn gold in the autumn breath,

and time slips gently, unnoticed, through the cracks

(b) Beneath the silver moon’s soft glow,

the night unfolds in whispers slow,

stars shimmer in a silent show,

their light a fleeting, gentle woe.

a single star begins to gleam,

painting dreams with a silver seam,

where shadows softly find their place.

(d) The morning dew on petals bright,

catches the first embrace of light,

a dance of colour in the sight,

where dreams and day begin their flight.

Ans. (a) In the stillness of morning,

a whisper of light dances on the windowsill,

leaves turn gold in the autumn breath,

and time slips gently, unnoticed, through the cracks

(D) How does the poet use language in these lines?

Ans. The poet uses powerful words like “locked,” “strength behind bars,” and “stalking” to show the tiger’s captivity and struggle. The contrast between “brilliant eyes” and “brilliant stars” highlights the tiger’s yearning for freedom.

I saw it go

Merrily bouncing, down the street, and then

Merrily over- there it is in the water!

No use to say ‘O there are other balls’:

An ultimate shaking grief fixes the boy

As he stands rigid, trembling, staring down

All his young days into the harbour where

His ball went. I would not intrude on him

(The Ball)

(A) Examine the portrayal of the boy’s sadness in the given lines.

Ans. The boy’s sadness is shown through his intense reaction to losing the ball. He stands still and trembles, deeply upset. The ball’s loss represents more than just an object—it symbolises the end of his carefree childhood.

(B) What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option

(a) 1 and 4

(b) Only 2

(d) 4 and 5

Ans. (b) Only 2

The lines of the poem suggest that the boy is______________

Ans. grief – stricken

(D) What kind of picture is painted about the poet through the line, I would not intrude on him.

Ans. The line “I would not intrude on him” shows the poet’s respect for the boy’s feelings. It paints a picture of the poet being sensitive and understanding, choosing not to interrupt or disturb the boy’s personal moment of grief.

8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words,

(A) Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the achievements of the Coorg Regiment.

Ans. The Coorg Regiment is one of the most decorated in the Indian Army, and the first Chief of the Indian Army, General Cariappa, was a Coorgi. This showcases their bravery and dedication and shows that even a small place like Coorg can have a significant contribution in protecting the country. The story describes the author’s experiences and insights about Coorg, making it fit the travelogue genre.

(B) How does the use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language in the poem, “For Anne Gregory” depict the theme of love based on superficial attributes?

Ans. In the poem, the poet employs vivid imagery such as “honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear” and “yellow hair” to depict physical attractiveness. These images represent superficial aspects of a person. By illustrating these external traits, the poet expresses the idea that love centred on such attributes is fleeting and shallow.

Ans. Kisa Gotami’s intense grief and desperation in seeking a cure for her dead son demonstrate her profound attachment to him. Her refusal to accept her child’s death and her quest for mustard seed, which she believes will somehow bring him back to life, reflect her inability to come to terms with loss.

(D) How does Mandela’s reflection on the transition from apartheid to democracy highlight the impact of oppression on the formation of national values?

Ans. Mandela’s reflection shows that apartheid’s harsh oppression shaped South Africa’s values by creating strong, courageous leaders. Despite the suffering, this struggle forged a commitment to justice and equality, transforming the nation’s values from hatred and division to unity and respect for all people.

(E) How does Robin Klein’s, “Amanda challenge the notion that adherence to societal norms are the only paths to follow? How does Amanda’s imaginations influence the overall tone of the poem?

Ans. Amanda finds herself in different imaginative worlds where she can be a mermaid, an orphan, or a Rapunzel. These imaginations imply that there are alternative realities outside the bounds of conventional societal norms. Amanda’s imaginations introduce a dreamlike and escapist tone to the poem.

9. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words.

(A) How do Matilda’s actions serve as a metaphor for the illusions and false values that Matilda chases?

Ans. In the story “The Necklace,” the necklace serves as a metaphor for the illusions and false values that Matilda runs after. Matilda believes that wearing the necklace will give her recognition in society. However, the necklace is revealed to be fake, highlighting the emptiness of material possessions. This illustrates how Matilda’s quest for wealth leaves her in a miserable condition and emphasises the central idea that worldly wealth cannot provide lasting happiness.

(B) Justify the opinion that trust plays a major role in shaping relationships with reference to the story, “The Thief’s Story”.

Ans. In the story, trust plays a crucial role in shaping the relationship between Anil and Hari. Anil’s trust in Hari allows them to develop a bond, leading to positive changes in Hari’s life. This can be seen when he goes back to Anil’s house and keeps the money back. This reflects how trust is like glue that holds their relationship together, leading to transformation and growth.

Ans. “The Midnight Visitor” creates suspense through its surprising twists and clever deceptions. It leads readers to believe there’s a real threat when Max, armed with a gun, confronts Ausable. The suspense builds with Max’s actions and the unexpected arrival of a waiter, ultimately revealing that Max’s escape route was a ruse.

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

The courage showed by both Valli from Madam Rides the Bus” and Custard from “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” were quite unexpected from the perspective of the readers. Examine the similarities.

Ans. In both “Madam Rides the Bus” and “The Tale of Custard the Dragon,” courage is depicted through different contexts and characters. Valli from “Madam Rides the Bus” shows courage by overcoming her fears and venturing into the unknown world beyond her village. Despite facing moments of shyness and uncertainty, she persists in her desire to ride the bus, demonstrating determination and independence at a young age.

On the other hand, Custard from “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” initially appears cowardly but surprises everyone, including himself, when he bravely confronts a pirate threatening his household. His act of defending his friends, despite his fears, reveals a latent courage that contrasts with his timid reputation.

Both characters illustrate that courage isn’t just about facing physical danger but also about overcoming personal doubts and fears to achieve something meaningful. Their stories inspire resilience and the willingness to take risks for growth and adventure.

Both poems “Dust of Snow” and “Fire and Ice” explore the impact of natural elements on human experience and emotion, but they approach this theme in distinct ways. Examine the differences.

Ans. In “Dust of Snow,” Robert Frost uses a simple, quiet moment with nature to show how a small, unexpected event can change our mood and make a tough day better.

The poem describes how a crow shaking snow off a tree can lift someone’s spirits and save their day. In contrast, “Fire and Ice” explores big ideas about the end of the world, using fire and ice as symbols for strong human emotions like desire and hate.

Here, nature represents the extreme forces that could lead to destruction. While “Dust of Snow” focuses on a gentle, personal change, “Fire and Ice” looks at grand, universal concepts.

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

Evaluate how Think-Tank’s character is shaped by a combination of his self-perception of intellectual superiority, his misunderstandings of Earth’s culture, and the reactions of his Martian subordinates.

Ans. Think-Tank’s character is shaped by his belief in his own genius, which makes him confident and demanding. He sees himself as the smartest being in the universe and expects everyone to agree. This self-perception leads to mistakes, like thinking Earth’s books are food and communication devices. His misunderstanding of Earth’s culture shows how out of touch he is. The reactions of his Martian subordinates, who follow his orders despite their doubts, highlight his authority and their loyalty. They are too eager to please him, which leads to more errors. Overall, Think-Tank’s character is a mix of arrogance, misunderstanding, and the influence of his subordinates’ compliance.

Evaluate how the character sketch of Richard in “The Making of a Scientist” contributes significantly to the overarching theme of perseverance in the face of challenges.

Ans. Richard H. Ebright comes across as a young, inquisitive youngster who enjoys collecting things like butterflies, rocks, and fossils. His mother nurtures his early love of learning and supports his hobbies. He’s a diligent student, earning good grades while staying curious about the world around him. Over time, as his interest in butterfly study develops, he feels compelled to embark on more challenging tasks. Richard is a competitor, yet his motivation is to succeed rather than simply win. His perseverance, along with his sharp intellect and never-ending curiosity, leads him to remarkable scientific accomplishments, resulting in ground-breaking theories about cells and DNA.

Class X – English – Paper 1