Class X - English - Paper 2 - 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) In this jet age, everyone is interested in making easy money. Thanks to the advancement in science and technology, these days, life has become easier and more comfortable than earlier with a lot of domestic gadgets as well as instantaneous food recipes available in the market. This has resulted in making the people develop the mindset to have anything immediately without waiting for it –even at the traffic signals.

(2) Most of us want results quickly. We want to reach the top immediately and get worked up when things go wrong. Perseverance and patience are forgotten words. We get upset, frustrated and angry when a skill or activity requires us to put in a lot of effort and time. We get dejected and want to give it up. Things should be easy.

(3) Late is too short, and there is not enough time to do all the things we want to. We tend to compare with others and get upset when they seem to be doing well and start believing God is being too kind to them and not to us. And so, we give up. But such thinking serves no purpose. It doesn’t solve the problem.

(4) Real success and happiness come to those who have a bread-making’ attitude. I am talking for those who are willing to knead the dough, wait for hours for it to rise only to punch it down and knead some more, wait for another couple of hours for it to rise again, then bake it before it is ready to be eaten. Nothing is instantaneous. For every endeavour-whether in the area of career, academics, music, sports, relationships, physical fitness or even spirituality -it is a long arduous journey.

(5) We can get results only if we are willing to spend time, put in painstaking effort and have faith. If we don’t accept this difficult but true fact of life, our lives will be far from being happy and fulfilling. For we may not make that extra effort which can change the course of life dramatically for our benefit.

(6) However, if we just pause to analyse what we are doing, we will realise how much time we are wasting searching for such magical solutions that simply do not exist. We actually save time when we stop this futile search and accept the proven methods of treading the straight and narrow path however difficult it may seem initially.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(A) Select the option that best reflects the author’s attitude towards people who give up easily:

(a) The author admires them for recognizing their limitations.

(b) The author is critical of them for not valuing perseverance

Ans. (b) The author is critical of them for not valuing perseverance

(B) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (3)? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.

Life is too short and there is not enough time to do all the things we want to.

Ans. The tone of the writer in these lines is somewhat regretful and reflective. The author acknowledges the limitations of time and expresses a sense of disappointment that there isn’t sufficient time to accomplish all desired tasks.

In the line, ‘Nothing is instantaneous.’ the word ‘instantaneous.’ refers to the_____________. (paragraph 4)

(a) results that are achieved immediately without any delay or effort

(b) process of waiting for a long time before achieving any result

(d) need for complex methods and strategies to solve problems effectively.

Ans. (a) results that are achieved immediately without any delay or effort

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

Real success and happiness come to those who have a ‘bread-making attitude because_________

(a) they are willing to put in the time and effort, understanding that results require perseverance and patience

(b) they believe that shortcuts and instant solutions are the keys to success and happiness

Ans. (a) they are willing to put in the time and effort, understanding that results require perseverance and patience

(E) The writer mentions ‘real success’ in paragraph 4. Which of the following is an example of real success?

(a) Achieving a high level of skill or accomplishment after years of dedicated practice and effort.

(b) Quickly gaining fame and recognition through shortcuts or luck

(d) Receiving immediate praise and rewards without any substantial effort or persistence.

Ans. (a) Achieving a high level of skill or accomplishment after years of dedicated practice and effort.

(F) Support the writer’s idea that determination to persist in your startup despite initial challenges analogous to the ‘bread making attitude”?

Ans. Persisting in a startup despite initial challenges mirrors the ‘bread-making’ attitude described in the passage. Like kneading dough and patiently waiting for it to rise, startup founders must endure setbacks, invest time and effort consistently, and believe in the process to eventually achieve success.

(G) In the passage, what message does the line, “However, if we just pause to analyse what we are doing, we will realise how much time we are wasting searching for such magical solutions which simply do not exist.” convey?

Ans. The author encourages readers to abandon this fruitless search and instead adopt more realistic approaches to achieving their goals.

(H) State whether the following statement is True or False.

The passage displays an example of expository text

Ans. True

2. Read the passage given below

The scores represent the current status of achievement in meeting the goals.

(1) Himachal Pradesh. Kerala and Tamil Nadu have emerged as the front runners in the race to achieve key sustainable development goals (SDG) such as the removal of poverty and inequality, while Assam, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are the laggards in ranking of states.

(2) According to the SDG India Index, the nation as a whole has a score of 57, showing the country has reached a little beyond the halfway mark in meeting the sustainable development goals adopted by India and 192 other nations in 2015. The index covers 13 of the 17 sustainable development goals, including healthcare, gender equality, clean energy, infrastructure, education, peace and building strong, accountable institutions.

(3) Goals, including climate action and sustainable use of marine resources, were left out because of a lack of data at the state level. Kerala’s overall top rank (69) is attributed to its strong performance in providing good health, reducing hunger, achieving gender equality and providing quality education. The rank shows the distance each state has to cover to reach 100 – the point at which it fully meets the sustainable development goals.

(4) Himachal Pradesh is ranked high with a similar overall score in providing clean water and sanitation, reducing inequalities and preserving the mountain ecosystem. Tamil Nadu has a score of 66. Among Union territories, Chandigarh takes the lead with a score of 68 on account of its track record in providing clean water and sanitation. Performance in providing quality education has also helped Chandigarh achieve a high score.

(5) Tamil Nadu topped the states in poverty reduction, while Kerala topped in providing quality education, closely followed by Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh.

(6) Kerala and Tamil Nadu also topped in facilitating good health and well-being. Gender equality, however, is an area all states and the nation as a whole need to improve upon. The toppers in gender equality, Sikkim and Union territories Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Chandigarh, have crossed the hallway mark in reaching their goals.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(A) In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of gender equality in all states.

Ans. Gender equality is important for all states because it ensures fair treatment and opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender. States should improve in this area to fully meet sustainable development goals and achieve fairness.

(B) Complete the following with a suitable reason.

The statement that gender equality, however, is an area all states and the nation as a whole need to improve upon is a fact because _____________

Ans. it is an, objective detail

Ans. Kerala and Tamil Nadu also topped in facilitating good health and well-being. This line is in paragraph 6.

(D) Based on the survey results presented in the passage, which state is leading in achieving key sustainable development goals?

(a) Kerala

(b) Assam

(d) Gujarat

Ans. (a) Kerala

(E) What inference that can be drawn about the importance of collaboration among states in India towards achieving sustainable development goals?

Ans. The comparison between Kerala and Tamil Nadu excelling in certain aspects while still needing improvement in gender equality highlights the need for states to work together and learn from each other’s successes and challenges.

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

Assertion: Himachal Pradesh is ranked high with a similar overall score in providing clean water and sanitation.

Reason: Tamil Nadu topped the states in poverty reduction, while Kerala topped in providing quality education.

(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

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

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

(G) Infer one benefit for a tourist from the fact that Himachal Pradesh is ranked high in providing clean water and sanitation.

Ans. Tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh can likely expect good hygiene standards, a healthy environment, and efforts towards maintaining the natural beauty of the region.

(H) Complete the sentence suitably. The main takeaway from the study mentioned in the passage is ____________

Ans. The main takeaway from the passage is that Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu are leading in achieving key sustainable development goals.

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

The score represents India’s progress towards achieving the SDGs, with the percentage of goals covered being ____________ (57%, 69%, 66%)

Ans. 57%

SECTION –B

WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR

GRAMMAR

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

(A) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.

The recent increase in wfh opportunities _____________ many employees’ commuting time.

(a) has reduced

(b) have reduced

(d) reducing

Ans. (a) has reduced

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

She had drank three cups of coffee before the meeting started.

Use the given format for your response

Ans. Error: drank, Correction: drunk

What were you reading about?

Ans. Sonia asked Abhilasha what she was reading about.

(D) Read Sara’s reply to Riya regarding her board examinations.

My preparation is going as planned.

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

When Riya asked how Sara’s studies were getting along. Sara said that ____________

Ans. her preparation was going as planned.

(E) Fill the blank by choosing the correct option

Both of the boys were quarrelling over ___________ (a/an/the) toy

Ans. the

(F) Identify the error and supply correction for the given sentence from a travel agency’s promotional material.

Experience the adventure of the lifetime with our exciting range of travel packages on your next vacation.

Use the given format for your response.

Ans. Error: the lifetime, Correction: a lifetime

(G) ldentify the error and supply correction for the given sentence from a fitness product advertisement.

Using our revolutionary new treadmill for just 10 minutes a day have shown significant results in as little as two weeks

Ans. Option (a): Error: have, Correction: has

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

His journey through the remote village made him ____________ about the simplicity of human life and the beauty of nature.

(a) realise

(b) realised

(d) to realise

Ans. (a) realise

(I) Report the dialogue between Ram and Mohak, by completing the sentence:

Ram: I have been watching the sea and there hasn’t been any trace of a ship

Mohak: I told you yesterday too that we will be rescued so have patience.

Ram said that ________________ Mohak replied that he had told him the day before too that they would be rescued and asked him to have patience.

Ans. he had been watching the sea and that there had not been any trace of a ship.

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

Fantastic Innovators!

The science fair has finished, and our robotics team ___________ the “Most Creative Design” award.

(a) had been awarded

(b) will be awarded

(d) has been awarded

Ans. (d) has been awarded

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

In the garden, flowers of different colours_____________ n the breeze, their petals dancing beautifully among the bees.

(a) sway

(b) sways

(d) swaying

Ans. (a) sway

(L) Read the conversation between Roshni and Sahil.

Roshni: Can I borrow your English book for a couple of days?

Sahil: Yes certainly, I have already studied for the test tomorrow.

Report Sahil’s response by completing the following.

Roshni asked Sahil if she could borrow his English book for a couple of days. Sahil agreed and said that ____________

Ans. he had already studied for the test the next day.

WRITING

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

As Riya Jain of 214, Lawrence Apartments, Green Street, Noida, you believe that setting up a local farmers market in your neighbourhood could greatly benefit both the community and local farmers. Write a letter to the MLA of your city area, in about 120 words, explaining the advantages of such a market, how it can support local agriculture, and the potential positive impacts on the community’s access to fresh produce. Express your willingness to volunteer for the market’s establishment.

Ans.

214, Lawrence Apartments

Green Street

Noida

17 August, 20XX

The MLA

Head office

Noida

Subject : Proposal for a local farmers market in our area

Sir

I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to share an idea that could greatly benefit our community and local farmers.

I believe that establishing a local farmers market in our neighborhood would be a wonderful initiative. Such a market could help support our local agriculture by providing farmers with a direct platform to sell their fresh produce. This would enable them to earn fair prices for their hard work and encourage sustainable farming practices. Moreover, a farmers market would also make it easy for our community to get access to fresh, nutritious produce that is farmed locally. This can positively impact our health and well-being.

I am eager to contribute and volunteer towards the setup of this market. I kindly request your support in making this idea a reality. I hope you will consider my proposal and implement changes in our area soon.

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Riya Jain

You are distressed to see the number of young children begging at traffic signals and working at construction sites. You feel that more needs to be done to help them and laws to protect their rights must be enforced strictly by the authorities. Write a letter in 100-120 words to the editor of The Tribune’, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need to create awareness on the issue. You are Astha/Ashton, 56 Malaprabha, Sector 5, Chandigarh.

Ans.

56, Malaprabha

Sector-5

Chandigarh

26 May 20XX

The Editor

The Tribune

Chandigarh

Subject: Urgent need to address child begging and child labour

Sir

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the public’s attention towards child labour. Every day, I witness children at the traffic signals and I wonder why they are not at school?

Each day, the number seems to increase with no one taking note of the crisis. These children are being forced to beg, sell, work at shops, and carry heavy weights. We all know that education is the right of every Indian. Then why is it not provided to such people? If it is illegal to employ children under 14 years of age, then why is there no check on those breaking the law?

The concerned authorities must take action against such people and ensure that these children attend school. Their parents must be made aware of the importance of education. I hope that the concerned authorities will take the necessary steps to improve the condition of these children.

Thanking you

Yours truly

Astha / Ashton

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

Read the product details on a label for a lunch box:

VERSATILE LUNCH BOX

Insulated to keep food hot or cold for up to 6 hours
Made from BPA-free, food-grade materials
Leak-proof design
Available in various fun designs and colours

Now, analyse why this lunch box would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its insulation, material safety, leak proof design, functionality, and design options.

Ans.

Product Analysis: Versatile Lunch Box

This versatile lunch box is an excellent choice due to its practical features and safety considerations. The insulation keeps food hot or cold for up to 6 hours, ensuring meals stay fresh and at the right temperature until lunchtime. Made from BPA-free, food-grade materials, it guarantees that your food is safe from harmful chemicals. The leak-proof design prevents spills and messes, making it ideal for carrying liquids and sauces without worry. Its compact size fits easily into most backpacks, adding to its convenience. Additionally, the variety of fun designs and colours allows for personal expression and makes lunchtime more enjoyable. Overall, this lunch box combines functionality, safety, and style effectively.

Rahul, a student known for his artistic talents is vying for the position of Cultural Events Coordinator at the upcoming school fest. The school administration has released a graphic depicting his character traits to help students understand his potential for the role. Write a paragraph of about 120 words analysing these traits, either in support of or opposition to his candidacy.

You may begin like this:

As a responsible student voter, I believe Rahul possesses / does not possess the necessary traits to be the Cultural Events Coordinator.

You may end like this:

For these reasons, I believe he has / does not have the potential to be a Cultural Events Coordinator, and I support / oppose his candidacy.

Ans.

Support

As a responsible student voter, I believe Rahul possesses the necessary traits to be the Cultural Events Coordinator. His exceptional ability to facilitate collaborations can promote harmony among different groups. His creative and interesting ideas, when combined with a positive outlook, should give the school festival a new, exciting atmosphere. Rahul’s strong organisational skills ensure that every detail is meticulously planned, ensuring seamless events. His unique and compelling ideas combine with his outstanding communication skills to ensure that opinions are effectively communicated. His enthusiasm for fostering cross-cultural understanding also nicely complements the objectives of the fest. Furthermore, his adeptness at navigating unexpected challenges adds a layer of reliability to his candidacy. For these reasons, I believe he has the potential to be a Cultural Events Coordinator, and I support his candidature.

Against

As a responsible student voter, I believe Rahul does not possess the necessary traits to be the Cultural Events Coordinator. His innovative ideas and positive attitude are valuable, but without a proven track record of turning these ideas into successful events, their practicality remains uncertain. Strong organisational skills are crucial, and it’s unclear whether Rahul has the experience to handle the challenges that may arise. He exhibits a love for knowing different cultures, although it’s not apparent how comprehensive that understanding is. Last but not least, he hasn’t demonstrated the ability to overcome unforeseen obstacles, which is a critical component of event coordination. Rahul has potential, but before entrusting him with such a significant duty, his qualifications need to be further examined and validated. For these reasons, I believe he does not have the potential to be a Cultural Events Coordinator, and I oppose his candidacy.

SECTION –C

LITERATURE TEXTB0OK

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

Mrs. Pumphrey hastened to explain, “He was so listless, Mr Herriot. He seemed to have no energy. I thought he must be suffering from malnutrition, so I have been giving him some little extras between meals to build him up, some malt and cod-liver oil and a bowl of Horlicks at night to make him sleep – nothing much really.” “And did you cut down on the sweet things as I told you?” “Oh, I did for a bit, but he seemed to be so weak: I had to relent. He does love cream cakes and chocolates so, I can’t bear to refuse him.” I looked down again at the little dog. That was the trouble. Tricki’s only fault was greed.

(A Triumph of Surgery)

(A) State one inference about Mrs. Pumphrey’s relationship with Tricki based on her extravagant care and attachment to him?

Ans. Based on Mrs. Pumphrey’s extravagant care and attachment to Tricki, we can infer that her relationship with Tricki is one of intense affection and overindulgence. Her actions suggest a strong emotional bond with Tricki, which she shows through excessive pampering.

(B) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. The term ‘greed’ in the line “Tricki’s only fault was greed” suggests that Tricki was excessively _________ (hungry /indulgent).

Ans. indulgent

(C) The story’s portrayal of Mrs. Pumphrey’s relationship with Tricki serves as a commentary on the idea of unconditional love and its drawbacks. Elaborate in about 40 words.

Ans. Mrs. Pumphrey’s actions demonstrate that while unconditional love is based on care, problems can arise when it lacks sound judgement and responsibility. The story’s portrayal reflects how excessive pampering can lead to unintended consequences such as Tricki’s deteriorating health.

(D) What tone of the vet is UNLIKELY to be reflected in “And did you cut down on the sweet things as I told you?”

(a) Happiness

(b) Sympathetic

(d) Serious

Ans. (a) Happiness

His mother had picked up a piece of the fish and was flying across to him with it. He leaned out eagerly, tapping the rock with his feet, trying to get nearer to her as she flew across. But when she was just opposite to him, she halted, her wings motionless, the piece of fish in her beak almost within reach of his beak. He waited a moment in surprise, wondering why she did not come nearer, and then, maddened by hunger, he dived at the fish.

(Two Stories About Flying)

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

“‘surprise, wondering why she did not come nearer”

Choose the most suitable option.

(a) exhilarates

(b) frustration

(d) lazy

Ans. (b) frustration

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

Ans. The young seagull’s actions like “leaned out eagerly” and “tapping the rock with his feet” convey his desperation and eagerness. Moreover, the description of the mother seagull flying with the piece of fish creates a vivid image of the scene.

The use of the word ‘maddened’ adds to a sense of ___________ (frustration / satisfaction) in the extract.

Ans. frustration

(D) If an actor were to enact this extract, what would he be required to focus on, while modulating his voice?

Ans. When the mother seagull abruptly stops, the actor’s voice should convey the surprise and confusion felt by the young seagull. A little higher pitch or a tone of disbelief may be used to convey this.

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

The way a crow

Shook down on me

The dust of snow

From a hemlock tree

Has given my heart

A change of mood

And saved some part

Of a day I had rued.

(Dust of Snow)

(A) Fill the blank with ONE word.

Beyond the literal meaning in the poem, the crow’s action and the falling snow symbolize __________

Ans. transformation

Explanation: Just as the crow’s action causes a significant change in the speaker’s mood, it reflects how even small events in life can result in major changes in our emotions, viewpoints, or attitudes.

(B) What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to use nature as a source to uplift his mood instead of a person?

Ans. The poet uses nature to uplift his mood because it often provides a simple, unexpected joy. Nature’s calm and beauty can quickly change how we feel. The reason can also be that people, in today’s life have forgotten the importance of nature so to make them realise the value of nature, the poet has used it as a source.

(a) abab

(b) aabb

(d) abba

Ans. (a) abab

(D) How does the poet feeling in the beginning of the poem contrast with his emotions towards the end?

Ans. At the beginning, the poet feels down and regrets his day. By the end, his mood brightens because of a small, pleasant moment with nature. This shift shows how a simple, positive experience can completely change his feelings.

The leaves strain toward the glass

small twigs stiff with exertion

long-cramped boughs shuffling under the roof

like newly discharged patients

half-dazed, moving

to the clinic doors.

(The Trees)

(A) What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines?

Select the correct option

(a) 1 and 4

(b) Only 1

(d) 4 and 5

Ans. (b) Only 1

Explanation: The description of the leaves and branches as “straining” and “stiff with exertion” suggests a sense of urgency to go to the forest.

(B) What could be the reason the poet has used the line, small twigs stiff with exertion” and how does this word choice contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem?

Ans. The poet has used the phrase “small twigs stiff with exertion” symbolizes the trees’ struggle to break free and move towards the outside world. This choice highlights the effort and determination of nature to change. It contributes to the poem’s contemplative and introspective tone and heightens its sense of resiliency and transition.

The lines from the poem tell us that the trees are _____________

Ans. eagerly seeking freedom

(D) What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, like newly discharged patients half-dazed ?

Ans. The poet paints a picture of exhaustion and disorientation. The comparison to “newly discharged patients half-dazed” suggests that the trees are struggling and disoriented, as if they are recovering from a period of constraint or difficulty.

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

(A) What is revealed about the character of Anne from the way she handled her punishment?

Ans. Anne’s wit is apparent in her response to Mr. Keesing’s assignment on “A Chatterbox.” Instead of simply writing a conventional essay, she weaves humour into her explanation. This shows her ability to think critically and present her arguments in a unique manner. Anne’s decision to write essays in a unique way shows her creative thinking and ability to approach problems from different angles.

(B) How does the use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language in “The Ball Poem” depict the emotional impact of loss, particularly through the experience of a young boy?

Ans. The ball represents not just a simple object but also symbolises innocence and control. The loss of the ball becomes a metaphor for the broader theme of losing one’s childhood innocence and accepting the transience of life. The boy’s sadness evokes a sense of empathy, contemplation, and introspection in the reader.

Refer to the given lines, from the text

Lencho showed not the slightest surprise on seeing the money; such was his confidence – but he became angry when he counted the money.

Ans. When Lencho opened the envelope, he felt confident and happy, as he had a strong belief in God and knew that God would help him. However, when he counted the money and saw that it was less, he felt disappointed. This is because he thought God would provide exactly what he asked for. Receiving only seventy pesos shattered his expectations and questioned his unwavering trust in God.

(D) How does Natalya’s regret upon learning about Lomov’s true purpose reveal insights about the reality of marriage these days?

Ans. When Natalya came to know about the proposal, she was first shocked and then started crying. She also asked her father to bring Lomov back to her and also blamed her father for quarreling with Lomov. This reflects how, nowadays, many might rush into relationships or marriages without fully understanding each other’s intentions or values.

(E) Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portray1ng the natural state of wild animals and the constraints imposed upon them by human intervention in ‘A Tiger in the Zoo?

Ans. In the poem, the tiger, which should be roaming freely in the forests, has been confined in a cage for the sake of human entertainment and control. This raises questions about the consequences of human actions on the natural world and the morality of keeping wild animals in captivity.

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

(A) The story, “Footprints Without Feet” is a powerful example of the potential consequences when scientific discoveries fall into the wrong hands. Explain.

Ans. The story revolves around Griffin’s discovery of invisibility through his scientific experimentation. However, instead of using this newfound power for a good cause, Griffin uses it to carry out criminal activities like setting the house on fire for revenge and creating chaos. This demonstrates the danger of scientific advancements being exploited by individuals with the wrong intentions.

(B) Justify the opinion that the teacher’s encouragement and support play a crucial role in helping Bholi.

Ans. Bholi’s teacher serves as a positive role model for her. When she asks for her name, Bholi stammers, but instead of ridiculing her, she praises her effort. This positive reinforcement boosts Bholi’s confidence. She also gives Bholi a book with pictures and words, telling her that she will be able to read it within a month.

Ans. The author’s use of descriptive language helps to set the tone of the story. The mention of the gloomy French hotel with its musty corridor creates a sense of confinement and secrecy. This imagery draws readers into the mysterious setting. Moreover, the knocking at the door and Ausable’s explanation of the balcony build up suspenseful moments.

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

Comment on how the poem, “For Anne Gregory’s” reflection on the superficial nature of love and the desire to be loved for oneself alone resonates with the Buddha’s teachings on detachment and the nature of human existence in “The Sermon at Benares”. Write a presentation draft, including your insights, in about 120 words.

Ans. The poem “For Anne Gregory” by William Butler Yeats and the Buddha’s teachings in “The Sermon at Benares” both explore significant facets of human existence. Yeats’ poem questions the authenticity of love based on outer appearance.

It highlights the longing for being loved for one’s essence rather than external traits. This yearning resonates with the Buddha’s teachings, where he emphasises the transitory nature of life and suffering, advocating detachment from temporary joys.

The poem’s notion of seeking genuine love aligns with the Buddha’s wisdom, emphasizing that genuine peace comes from letting go of attachments.

Both, “Amanda” and “The Trees” by Adrienne Rich explore the theme of liberation. Examine the similarities.

Ans. Both poems, “Amanda!” by Robin Klein and “The Trees” by Adrienne Rich, delve into the theme of liberation.

In “Amanda!”, Amanda is constrained by constant instructions and expectations from her mother which stifle her sense of freedom. She imagines escaping into fantasy roles like a mermaid or Rapunzel, where she experiences unburdened freedom and self-expression. Conversely, in “The Trees,” Adrienne Rich portrays trees striving to break free from their confinement within a house, yearning to return to their natural, open forest. The trees’ struggle to escape symbolises a broader desire for liberation and growth.

Both works highlight a deep yearning to break away from restrictions – Amanda’s from social and familial constraints, and the trees’ from physical confinement.

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

Matilda believes that her twist of fate after she had lost the necklace has affected her dynamic with her husband. As Matilda, write a diary entry sharing your feelings and a strong desire to make things better.

Ans.

12 May 20XX, Monday

2 pm

Dear Diary,

It’s been a long journey since that fateful night of the minister’s ball. The invitation to the ball was a chance to step into a world of elegance and luxury that seemed so distant from our reality. But I had no idea that pursuing that fantasy would cost me so much. My husband stood by my side throughout this tumultuous journey and saw through my flaws and loved me despite them. Our relationship changed too. The financial burden we carried changed our relationship, often clouding the once neverending love we shared. I need to find a way to put everything back together and rediscover the joy of life’s simple pleasures.

Matilda

Analyse how Noodle’s character is influenced by his role as an apprentice, and his desire to please the Think-Tank.

Ans. Noodle’s character is greatly influenced by his role as an apprentice and his desire to please Think-Tank. As an apprentice, Noodle is eager to prove his worth and follow orders, even if they seem strange. His main goal is to make ThinkTank happy and show that he is a loyal and capable assistant. This makes him attentive to every command and willing to overlook the oddity of the situation. Noodle’s desire to impress leads him to diligently carry out tasks, like trying to understand the “sandwiches” and taking Think-Tank’s advice seriously, even when it’s misguided.

Class X – English – Paper 2