CBSE Class 10 English (Lang & Lit) Question Paper 2025 Solved Code 2-1-2

SECTION A - Reading Skills

1(i). [1 mark] What is the tone of the writer in the given lines ? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.
"Saffron is being used since ages in various foods made for the royals and the elite as it contains medicinal properties."
Paragraph (1)

Answer :

The tone is informative and objective. The writer presents facts about saffron's historical use among royals and its medicinal properties without showing personal emotion or bias. The language is straightforward and factual.

Teacher's Note:
Tone must be named correctly - informative/objective/formal are all acceptable.
Rationalization must show how the writer avoids emotional language and sticks to facts.
Avoid saying the tone is "positive" or "negative" - the writer remains neutral.
Use the phrase "without bias" or "factual presentation" to score full marks.

1(ii). [1 mark] Which of the following statements best describes the comparison made in the sentence ?
"Just like gold is among the most valuable metals in the world, saffron means the same in the world of spices."
(A) Gold and saffron have similar physical properties.
(B) Gold and saffron have equal monetary value.
(C) Saffron is considered the most valuable spice, similar to how gold is valued among metals.
(D) Gold and saffron are both rare commodities in the global market.

Answer : (C) Saffron is considered the most valuable spice, like gold among metals.

Teacher's Note:
The comparison is about value and prestige, not physical properties or market scarcity.
Option (B) is a trap - monetary value may differ; the comparison is about relative worth within each category.
Focus on the parallel structure: "gold in metals = saffron in spices".

1(iii). [2 marks] List any two points why saffron is revered across the globe.
Paragraphs (2) and (3)

Answer :

Point 1: Saffron has been used since ancient times in foods prepared for royals and the elite, giving it historical prestige and cultural significance.

Point 2: Saffron has strong aroma, unique flavour, and medicinal properties that make it highly valued in cooking and wellness.

Teacher's Note:
Any two valid points from the marking scheme earn full marks.
Include either historical use, medicinal properties, aroma/flavour, or labour-intensive harvesting.
Keep each point to one clear sentence.
Do not mix multiple points into a single sentence.

1(iv). [1 mark] Fill in the blank from the given options :
In the phrase 'backbone of several iconic dishes', the word 'iconic' refers to __________.
(A) delicately cooked
(B) widely recognized
(C) peculiar and rare
(D) strange and infamous

Answer : (B) widely recognized.

Teacher's Note:
"Iconic" means famous and widely known, not rare or strange.
In "backbone of iconic dishes", it refers to well-known, celebrated dishes.
Option (C) is a common trap - iconic is not about being rare or exclusive.

1(v). [2 marks] Complete the sentence appropriately :
Saffron has a labour-intensive cultivation process which involves __________.
Paragraph (4)

Answer :

Saffron has a labour-intensive cultivation process which involves hand-picking of the delicate red stigmas and drying them over charcoal fires. Alternatively, the stigmas are spread on trays to dry, requiring about forty hours of labour per kilogram.

Teacher's Note:
Any two methods from the marking scheme count as full marks / Hand-picking and drying are the most commonly mentioned labour steps / The "forty hours" detail shows why it is labour-intensive / Accept variations like "spread on trays" or "charcoal fire drying"

1(vi). [1 mark] State whether the following statement is True or False :
According to historians, saffron was first used in the kitchens in Iran.
Paragraph (5)

Answer :

True. According to historians mentioned in the passage, saffron was first used in the kitchens in Iran.

Teacher's Note:
Direct fact from Paragraph 5 / Do not say "False" - the text clearly states historians confirm Iran as the first kitchen use / No explanation needed beyond stating True

1(vii). [1 mark] Which of the following statements best describes the reason for saffron's high retail value ?
(A) Due to its magical or mystical properties.
(B) Because it can only be grown in specific regions.
(C) Due to its labour-intensive cultivation process and its relatively low yield per plant.
(D) Because traders, conquerors, and world explorers hoard it.

Answer : (C) The high cost comes from labour-intensive growing and low yield per plant.

Teacher's Note:
Key phrase: labour-intensive AND low yield working together / Options A and D are incorrect - magical properties and hoarding are not the main reason / Option B alone (specific regions) is incomplete without mentioning labour and yield

1(viii). [1 mark] Support the writer's view with evidence from the text that saffron is often adulterated.
Paragraph (7)

Answer :

The writer shows saffron is often adulterated by explaining that beetroot and pomegranate are used to enhance its red colour. Additionally, because of its high price, adulteration is quite common. Silk fibres, oil, and wax are also added to increase bulk, and powdered saffron can be mixed with turmeric and paprika.

Teacher's Note:
Any two specific adulterants from the passage earn full marks / The connection between high price and adulteration motive must be clear / Use exact examples from Paragraph 7 - beetroot, pomegranate, silk fibres, turmeric, paprika / Do not generalise - stick to the evidence given

2(i). [2 marks] What does the phrase 'luxurious qualities' in paragraph (2) tell you about the silk fabric ? Write in 40 words with evidence from the text.

Answer :

The phrase 'luxurious qualities' tells us that silk has a soft and smooth texture. It feels comfortable on the skin and absorbs or releases moisture easily. These properties make silk a premium fabric that feels pleasant to wear.

Teacher's Note:
Name at least two qualities (soft texture, comfort, moisture absorption) with evidence from text / State what makes it feel luxurious on skin / Avoid simply restating the phrase without explaining what it means / Keep to around 40 words.

2(ii). [1 mark] Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion : Silk production requires careful selection.
Reason : Long and uniform silk fibres give silk a glossy appearance.

(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(B) Both the assertion and the 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.

Answer : (A) Both assertion and reason are true, and reason correctly explains the assertion.

Teacher's Note:
Both statements are correct / Careful selection of fibres is needed to get long uniform fibres / Uniform fibres give the glossy look / This is a direct cause-and-effect link.

2(iii). [1 mark] Justify the following statement :
Silk whispers luxury! Its price reflects not just its rarity but the value of the meticulous process behind its creation.

Answer :

Silk's high price is justified because producing it is labour-intensive and requires specialized knowledge and skill. The process involves careful selection at every step, and only limited quantities can be produced due to natural factors. These meticulous efforts add real value to the final product.

Teacher's Note:
Pick one strong reason (labour-intensive OR limited production OR specialized skill OR careful selection) / Explain how it raises the price / Link the hard work or scarcity to the luxury price tag / One clear point is enough for 1 mark.

2(iv). [1 mark] According to the passage, mention the top two countries that produce silk.

Answer :

China and India are the top two countries that produce silk.

Teacher's Note:
Both countries must be named / Order does not matter / This is a straightforward factual recall from the passage / No explanation needed.

2(v). [1 mark] "Factors like climate, availability of quality mulberry leaves and time required by silkworms to complete their lifecycle are important factors for the production of silk."

State any one inference that can be drawn from this.

Answer :

Silk production is limited or expensive because these factors are hard to control or not always available.

Teacher's Note:
Any valid inference about production constraints counts. Link the factors to a real outcome (limited supply, high cost, difficulty). Do not just repeat the question.

2(vi). [1 mark] Complete the following with a suitable reason from the text :
Though silk is considered one of the strongest fibres, it is __________.

Answer :

Though silk is considered one of the strongest fibres, it is easily damaged when wet (it loses 20% strength when wet).

Teacher's Note:
Accept any one weakness from the text: weak when wet, poor elasticity, damaged by sunlight, or attacked by insects if dirty. Pick one and state it clearly with the reason if space allows.

2(vii). [1 mark] Based on the given text, mention the states which produced the most and the least amount of raw silk in India in the year 2021.

Answer :

Karnataka produced the most raw silk in India in 2021. Uttar Pradesh produced the least amount.

Teacher's Note:
Name both states clearly - most and least. These must match the text data. Do not add extra details about production quantities unless asked.

2(viii). [1 mark] Complete the sentence suitably.
104 kgs of mulberry leaves eaten by 3000 silkworms results in __________.

Answer :

104 kgs of mulberry leaves eaten by 3000 silkworms results in production of 1 kg of silk.

Teacher's Note:
Fill in the blank with the exact outcome from the text. The ratio shows how much raw material is needed for one unit of finished silk.

2(ix). [1 mark] With reference to the given passage, give one reason why silk production is considered labour-intensive.

Answer :

Silk production is labour-intensive because it requires specialised knowledge and skilled craftsmanship by trained artisans.

Teacher's Note:
The answer must mention either "specialised knowledge" or "skilled artisans" or "craftsmanship" - any one of these points is sufficient for full marks. Do not confuse labour-intensive (many workers needed) with the skill factor - both are true but the scheme accepts the skill reason.

SECTION B - Grammar and Creative Writing Skills

3(i). [1 mark] 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 ________ (consider) my application. I look forward to working in your organization.

Answer :

Considering

Teacher's Note:
After "for" use the gerund form (verb + -ing), not the base form or past tense. "Thank you for considering" is the correct structure.

3(ii). [1 mark] Read the given sentence. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence.
Ninety-seven percent of the Earth's water is salty ocean water and another two percent is trapping in the Earth's ice caps and glaciers.

Error | Correction

Answer :

Error: trapping
Correction: trapped

Teacher's Note:
The subject "two percent" is passive - water cannot trap itself, so use the past participle "trapped" not the present participle "trapping". This is a passive voice error.

3(iii). [1 mark] Yukti and Sanjay had a conversation about going to a restaurant. Report Yukti's question.
"Does this restaurant serve good South Indian food ?"

Answer :

Yukti asked Sanjay if/whether that restaurant served good South Indian food.

Teacher's Note:
Use "if" or "whether" to report a yes-no question. Change "Does" to "served" (shift tense to past). Change "this" to "that" (shift in perspective from direct to reported speech).

3(iv). [1 mark] Read the dialogue between Amit and his sister Ananya, regarding her travel to the railway station.

Amit : Are you sure you can manage to go to the railway station on your own ?

Ananya : Oh yes! I have already booked a cab.

Select the correct option to report the above dialogue.

Amit asked Ananya ________ to go to the railway station on her own. Ananya replied in the affirmative and said that she had already booked a cab.

(A) if she is sure she can manage
(B) if she was sure she could manage
(C) if she surely can manage
(D) if she was sure to managing

Answer : (B) if she was sure she could manage - correct reported speech form.

Teacher's Note:
When reporting a question in past tense, change "can" to "could" and "are" to "was".
Watch out for tense consistency in reported speech - the reporting verb is in past (asked), so the reported clause must shift back too.
Option (A) keeps present tense (wrong), (C) and (D) have unnatural phrasing.

3(v). [1 mark] Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the sentence taken from a book about 'Birds'.
Each year, thousands of birds __________
(migrate/immigrate/emigrate) southwards to avoid the harsh winter, embarking on an incredible journey that spans thousands of miles.

Answer : (A) migrate - means to move to another place seasonally.

Teacher's Note:
Migrate = to move from one place to another (birds moving away from cold).
Emigrate = to leave your own country. Immigrate = to enter another country to settle.
The sentence talks about birds moving location yearly, so migrate is the only fit.

3(vi). [1 mark] Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from an agency's advertisement.
Tell us much about your project and we'll select suitable candidates for you to hire.
Use the given format for your response.

Error | Correction

Answer :

Error | Correction
Much | More

Teacher's Note:
"Tell us much" is wrong - we say "tell us more" when asking someone to share additional information.
The phrase means "share more details" not "share a large amount".
Both "More" and "Something" are acceptable corrections per the marking scheme.

3(vii). [1 mark] Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line taken from an article about growing obesity.
Obesity in teenage children is a major concern between parents today.

Option No. | Error | Correction
(A) | teenage | teenagers
(B) | concern | concerns
(C) | between | among
(D) | today | now

Answer : (C) between should be among - use among for more than two people.

Teacher's Note:
Between is for two people or things only. Among is for three or more - parents as a group here.
The other options are grammatically correct: "teenage children" and "today" are standard usage.
Recognise the preposition rule: between two, among many.

3(viii). [1 mark] Complete the given narrative with the correct option to fill in the blank.
Yesterday, Tanu walked to the park and ________ a breezy evening.
(A) to enjoying
(B) will enjoy
(C) enjoyed
(D) did enjoyed

Answer : (C) enjoyed - matches the past tense "walked".

Teacher's Note:
When the main clause uses simple past tense ("walked"), the second verb in the same sentence must also be simple past ("enjoyed"), not infinitive or future form.
Watch for parallel structure: both actions happened at the same time in the past.

3(ix). [1 mark] Report the dialogue between two friends by completing the sentence.
Bhawna : I finished the project yesterday.
Sohail : That's great ! Are you going to present it tomorrow ?
Bhawna told Sohail that __________. Sohail responded that it was great and asked if she were going to present it the next day.

Answer :

She had finished the project the day before.

Teacher's Note:
In reported speech, "yesterday" becomes "the day before" or "the previous day" when you shift perspective from direct to indirect.
The verb tense changes from simple past ("finished") to past perfect ("had finished") because it describes something that happened before the moment of reporting.
Do not include Sohail's response - only complete Bhawna's part of the sentence.

3(x). [1 mark] Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the notice on a school notice board.
We are pleased to announce that our Annual Sports Day ________ on 30th April, 2025 at the school playground from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(A) is held
(B) will be held
(C) had been held
(D) to be held

Answer : (B) will be held - future event in passive voice.

Teacher's Note:
Notices announce future plans, so use future tense ("will be held"), not present or past.
The event is passive (being held by others), so use passive voice, not active ("is held" is present).
Avoid infinitive forms like "to be held" in formal announcements.

3(xi). [1 mark] Complete the slogan on "Save Earth", by filling in the blank with the correct option.
Lets join hands, cultivate conservation, and ________ a greener tomorrow for generations to come.
(A) ensuring
(B) ensure
(C) ensures
(D) ensured

Answer : (B) ensure - base form to match imperative mood.

Teacher's Note:
Slogans use imperative mood (commands), which needs the base form of the verb, not -ing, -s, or past forms.
"Lets join hands... and ensure" uses two verbs joined by "and" - both must be base form to parallel the structure.

3(xii). [1 mark] Identify the error and supply the correction for the following note in an air purifier's instruction manual.
The plug should fit upto the outlet. If it doesn't fit, do not force it in.
Use the given format for your response.

Error | Correction

Answer :

Error | Correction
upto | into

Teacher's Note:
"Upto" is not a word; use "up to" (two words) or "into" depending on meaning. Here "into" is correct because the plug goes inside the outlet. Common mistake: confusing prepositions that look similar.

4. [5 marks] Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below :

(a) You are Rashmi / Roshan, a concerned citizen, residing at G-16, Himmat Path, Nayanagar. Compose a letter in about 120 words to the Director, Municipal Corporation, drawing his attention to the open drains in your colony. The drains are not only the breeding ground for disease-causing organisms but are also polluting the surrounding areas, especially the water bodies which could lead to water-borne diseases. Suggest measures for addressing this issue.

OR

(b) You are Mamta / Manish, a student of Grade 11 of Hitech Public School Roopbagh. You have recently volunteered as a student-teacher in a three-week literacy camp held for the children of construction site workers in your neighbourhood. It was a fulfilling and a meaningful experience for you. It sensitized you to the needs of the community, boosted your confidence, and improved your social skills. Write a letter in about 120 words to the editor of a national daily expressing your views on the benefits of volunteering and how students can contribute to the betterment of society.

Answer (a) :

G-16, Himmat Path
Nayanagar
Date

The Director
Municipal Corporation
City

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to bring to your notice the serious problem of open drains in our colony. These drains have become breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms and are polluting our surroundings, especially the water bodies. This poses a risk of water-borne diseases to the residents.

I urge you to take immediate action. The drains should be covered and insecticides should be sprinkled regularly. Proper maintenance and cleaning schedules must be implemented. These measures will protect public health and improve our living conditions.

I request your immediate intervention in this matter.

Yours sincerely,
Rashmi/Roshan

Answer (b) :

Hitech Public School
Roopbagh
Date

The Editor
National Daily
City

Dear Sir/Madam,

I recently volunteered as a student-teacher in a three-week literacy camp for children of construction workers in my neighbourhood. This experience was truly fulfilling and meaningful. It opened my eyes to the needs of our community and showed me how education can change lives.

Volunteering boosted my confidence and improved my social skills significantly. I believe students should actively participate in such initiatives. More camps should be organized, and incentives given to encourage youth participation. When young people contribute to society, they become better citizens and create a positive impact.

I hope this inspires other students to volunteer and serve their communities.

Yours sincerely,
Mamta/Manish

Teacher's Note:
Use proper formal letter format with all parts: sender's address, date, recipient's address, salutation, body, closing. Divide the body into 2-3 clear paragraphs. Stay within 120 words and use formal vocabulary. Include the specific problem/topic and at least two value points (suggestions or benefits). Check spelling, punctuation and grammar carefully.

5. [5 marks] Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below :

(a) In the past few years, the teaching-learning process has taken a leap and gone beyond the four walls of the classroom. Today, it has become possible to learn not just by sitting in a physical classroom, but from anywhere. Given below is a chart depicting the differences between E-learning and Classroom learning. Write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words, assessing the benefits and drawbacks of both, by selecting features that support your analysis.

E-learning vs. Classroom learning

• accessible anytime anywhere • same place, same time
• at your own pace • caters to the needs of the class
• no travel costs, saves time • transportation cost and time consuming

OR

(b) Read the given details of a computer.

* electronic device that can store and process information
* makes life easy and simple
* physical description — monitor, keyboard, CPU and mouse
* computer technology used in all fields — education, medicine, commerce, entertainment

Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the description and role of computers in today's world.

Answer (a) :

The shift from traditional classroom learning to e-learning has transformed education significantly. Both modes have distinct advantages and disadvantages. E-learning offers flexibility - students can access materials anytime and anywhere at their own pace, which saves travel costs and time. However, classroom learning provides structured learning in a single place and time, catering to the collective needs of all students. While e-learning reduces expenses and suits independent learners, it may lack personal interaction. In contrast, classroom learning builds interpersonal skills and provides immediate feedback, but involves transportation costs and time consumption. Therefore, the ideal approach combines both methods. E-learning suits self-motivated students seeking flexibility, whereas classroom learning benefits those needing guidance and direct engagement. Ultimately, each mode serves different learner needs and circumstances effectively.

Answer (b) :

A computer is an electronic device that stores and processes information rapidly and accurately. It has become indispensable in today's world, making life simpler and easier for millions. Physically, a computer consists of a monitor, keyboard, CPU, and mouse, which work together to perform various tasks. Computer technology has revolutionized nearly every field - from education, where it enables online learning, to medicine, where it assists in diagnosis and research. In commerce, computers handle transactions and data management, while in entertainment, they create immersive experiences. The versatility of computers has transformed how we work, learn, and communicate. They have become essential tools that improve efficiency and productivity across all sectors. Consequently, computer literacy is now a crucial skill for students and professionals alike in our digital age.

Teacher's Note:
Write as a single paragraph only. Use linking words like "however," "in contrast," "therefore," "consequently" to show connections. Include at least 2-3 value points from the given chart/details. Maintain formal tone and stay within 120 words. Focus on analysis, not just description - explain how or why the features matter.

SECTION C - Literature

6(a). [5 marks] Not a leaf remained on the trees. The corn was totally destroyed. The flowers were gone from the plants. Lencho's soul was filled with sadness. When the storm had passed, he stood in the middle of the field and said to his sons, "A plague of locusts would have left more than this. The hail has left nothing. This year we will have no corn."

That night was a sorrowful one.

"All our work, for nothing."
"There's no one who can help us."
"We'll all go hungry this year."
(A Letter to God)

Answer :

The passage shows Lencho's complete devastation after a hailstorm destroys his crops. Not a single leaf, corn plant, or flower remains on the field. His soul fills with deep sadness as he realizes the magnitude of the loss. He tells his sons that even a plague of locusts would have caused less damage. His statement "This year we will have no corn" shows his helplessness and fear about survival. The night becomes sorrowful as the family confronts their grim future. The repeated statements - "All our work, for nothing," "There's no one who can help us," and "We'll all go hungry this year" - reveal their despair, hopelessness, and anxiety about starvation. This moment marks the turning point where Lencho's faith in God becomes crucial to his survival.

Teacher's Note:
Explain the emotional impact and consequences of the disaster on Lencho's family. Quote key lines to support your answer. Show how this moment sets up Lencho's later decision to write to God. Focus on the family's despair and loss rather than just listing what was destroyed.

6(a)(i). [1 mark] Why were there no leaves left on the trees ?
(A) The locusts ate them up.
(B) An earthquake had occurred.
(C) There was a hailstorm.
(D) The animals grazed on them.

Answer : (C) There was a hailstorm.

Teacher's Note:
The hailstorm destroyed all vegetation including leaves on trees. Locusts and earthquakes are mentioned in the story but did not cause the damage. Look for the word "hail" in the passage to confirm.

6(a)(ii). [1 mark] Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets.

Lencho felt __________ (jubilant/devastated) when he saw his destroyed corn fields.

Answer :

Devastated

Teacher's Note:
Devastated means deeply shocked and upset. It fits the context of complete crop loss. Jubilant means happy and would be wrong here. The emotional tone of the passage makes devastated the only correct choice.

6(a)(iii). [2 marks] When Lencho says, "All our work, for nothing," what does he refer to ? Explain in about 40 words.

Answer :

Lencho refers to all his hard work and effort spent on growing the corn. The hailstorm destroyed his entire cornfield, so all his labour and investment went in vain. He would have no crop to harvest and earn money from.

Teacher's Note:
Mention both the effort invested and the loss caused by the storm. Focus on how the destruction makes all previous work pointless. Avoid simply restating what happened - explain the meaning behind his words.

6(a)(iv). [1 mark] Why would Lencho have preferred a plague of locusts to a hailstorm ?

Answer :

Lencho would have preferred locusts because they eat only leaves and some parts of the plant. A hailstorm completely destroys everything, leaving nothing at all. With locusts, at least some portions of the crop could have been saved.

Teacher's Note:
Locusts cause partial damage while hail causes total destruction. The key is understanding degrees of loss - some damage is better than complete loss. Compare the impact of both disasters directly.

6(b). [5 marks] Later, he patted me on the head and said never mind, he'd teach me to cook. He also taught me to write my name and said he would soon teach me to write whole sentences and to add numbers. I was grateful. I knew that once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve.

It was quite pleasant working for Anil. I made the tea in the morning and then would take my time buying the day's supplies, usually making a profit of about a rupee a day. I think he knew I made a little money this way but he did not seem to mind.
(The Thief's Story)

[[GENERATION FAILED — Q6(b) needs to be re-run]]

6(b)(i). [1 mark] What does the following line tell us about the character of Anil ?
"I think he knew I made a little money this way but he did not seem to mind."

Answer :

Anil was generous and careless about money. He knew Hari Singh was making a small profit from buying supplies, but he did not mind or complain about it. This shows he was kind and did not worry about losing a little money.

Teacher's Note:
Any one value point is enough for full marks. Look for words showing Anil's attitude - generous, casual, careless, helpful, or not bothered. Do not give multiple reasons unless asked.

6(b)(ii). [1 mark] Which of the following best describes the realization Hari Singh had while working for Anil ?
(A) that he would become a rich person one day
(B) that Anil was a very intelligent master but a miser
(C) that he would be able to accomplish a lot if he gets educated
(D) that Anil made a lot of money from his job

Answer : (C) - education would open doors to greater achievements for him.

Teacher's Note:
The key phrase is "once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve". Options A and D are too vague or unsupported. Option B contradicts the passage (Anil is not shown as a miser).

6(b)(iii). [2 marks] What did Anil promise to teach Hari Singh, and how did Hari Singh feel about the opportunity to learn ? Answer in about 40 words.

Answer :

Anil promised to teach Hari Singh how to cook, write his name, write sentences, and add numbers. Hari Singh felt grateful and hopeful. He believed that once he could write like an educated man, there would be no limit to what he could achieve.

Teacher's Note:
Word count must be around 40 words - count your answer carefully. Include what Anil promised and how Hari Singh felt (grateful/hopeful). The phrase "educated man" is key to his feelings about learning.

6(b)(iv). [1 mark] Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets.

The narrator earned extra money by making a/an __________ (profit/investment) of about a rupee a day.

Answer : profit

Teacher's Note:
The narrator made a small daily profit from his work, not an investment. Look for context clues about money earned vs. money spent.

7(a). [5 marks] "I heard an old religious man
But yesternight declare
That he had found a text to prove
That only God, my dear,
Could love you for yourself alone
And not your yellow hair."
(For Anne Gregory)

[[GENERATION FAILED — Q7(a) needs to be re-run]]

7(a)(i). [1 mark] Complete the sentence appropriately :
The speaker addresses the person he is speaking to as "my dear" because __________.

Answer : it is a term of endearment showing affection and closeness between them.

Teacher's Note:
The phrase "my dear" signals an intimate or loving tone. Any answer mentioning affection, tenderness, or a close relationship gets full marks.

7(a)(ii). [2 marks] The poet mentions "yellow hair". What is its significance in the context of the statement ? Answer in about 40 words.

Answer : The yellow hair represents physical beauty or outward attractiveness. The religious man argues that God's love should not be based on such physical features, but the young person values beauty as a reason to be loved. This shows the conflict between spiritual and worldly values.

Teacher's Note:
Yellow hair is symbolic, not literal - it stands for physical beauty. The key contrast is between the religious man's view (God loves beyond appearance) and youth's perspective (physical beauty matters). Stay within 40 words as stated.

7(a)(iii). [1 mark] Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets.
The poet suggests that God's love in comparison to that of a human being is __________ (selfish/selfless).

Answer :

Selfless

Teacher's Note:
God's love is unconditional and free from personal gain or self-interest.
Compare this with human love, which often has conditions or expectations attached.

7(a)(iv). [1 mark] As per the above extract, what attributes does God not love a person for ? Select the correct option.
1. Wealth 2. Physical appearance
3. Intelligence 4. Inner qualities
5. Youth

(A) 1 and 4
(B) 3, 4, and 5
(C) 2 and 4
(D) Only 4

Answer : All options receive full marks - the question has no single correct answer as written.

Teacher's Note:
The marking scheme awards 1 mark to every student for this question due to an error in the options provided.
God's love is shown to be unconditional - not based on any external or internal qualities.

7(b). [5 marks] He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.
He should be lurking in shadow,
Sliding through long grass
(A Tiger in the Zoo)

[[GENERATION FAILED — Q7(b) needs to be re-run]]

7(b)(i). [2 marks] Identify and name any one figure of speech in the above extract.

Answer :

Figure of speech: Oxymoron
Example: "In his quiet rage" - combines opposite words (quiet and rage) to create a powerful image of controlled anger.

Teacher's Note:
The phrase "quiet rage" is the best example of oxymoron in this extract.
Other acceptable figures: Metaphor ("pads of velvet quiet"), Alliteration ("stalks... stripes... shadow, sliding"), or Repetition ("quiet").
1 mark for naming the figure correctly, 1 mark for identifying it from the text with example.

7(b)(ii). [1 mark] Fill in the blank with one word.
The tiger's stalking on 'pads of velvet' suggests a movement that is __________.

Answer :

Soft (or restless, restrained, smooth, stealthily)

Teacher's Note:
The phrase 'pads of velvet' is a metaphor for quiet movement.
Look for adjectives that describe how silently or carefully the tiger moves.
Any of the five words in the marking scheme earns full marks.

7(b)(iii). [1 mark] Based on the given lines from the poem, which words would best describe the feelings of the tiger ?
(A) Calm and content
(B) Both subdued and angry
(C) Both frustrated and happy
(D) Both angry and famished

Answer : (B) Both subdued and angry.

Teacher's Note:
The tiger is restrained (subdued) by captivity but shows rage beneath.
Look for contrasting emotions - quietness mixed with inner fury.
Avoid options that suggest contentment or happiness.

7(b)(iv). [1 mark] Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the first four lines of the given extract.
(A) The people along the sand
All turn and look one way
They turn their back on the land
They look at the sea all day

(B) Along the sand, the people
All turn and look one way
They turn back on the sand
They look at the sea all day

(C) The people along the sand
Look one way and all turn
Their backs on the land
They look at the sea all day

(D) The people along the sand
They turn their back on the land
They look one way
At the sea all day.

Answer : (B) It follows the same AABB rhyme scheme.

Teacher's Note:
The first four lines of the extract should have rhyme scheme AABB (sand-land, way-day or similar).
Check which option has two consecutive pairs of rhyming lines.
Option B: sand/sand, way/day matches this pattern clearly.

8(i). [3 marks] Why does the author use the phrase "that drove a law-abiding citizen to become a criminal" to describe Mandela ?

(Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

Answer :

The author uses this phrase because Mandela was a law-abiding person who was driven to break laws for a noble cause - to free his people from discrimination and oppression. He fought to gain freedom and dignity for his own people, not for personal gain. Despite breaking laws, his actions were motivated by justice, not crime, which is why the author calls him a "law-abiding citizen" turned "criminal" - to show the unjust system forced an honest man to become an outlaw.

Teacher's Note:
Emphasise the contrast between his nature (law-abiding) and his actions (breaking laws) - this shows the system's injustice forced him.
State his goal clearly: freedom and dignity for his people, not selfish reasons.
The phrase highlights how an unjust law can make a good person break rules.
Mention he faced imprisonment and brutality from authorities.

8(ii). [3 marks] What happened to the poet when a dust of snow fell on him ?

(Dust of Snow)

Answer :

When dust of snow fell on the poet, it changed his mood completely. The snow shook off his sadness and depression. He went from feeling sad to feeling happy for the rest of the day. This small moment of nature saved his day.

Teacher's Note:
The question asks about the change in the poet's emotional state, not just what happened physically. Must mention both sadness leaving and happiness arriving. The snow itself is what triggers this change - it is nature's gentle touch that transforms him.

8(iii). [3 marks] How does the author support the view that the people of Coorg are possibly of Arabic descent ?

(Glimpses of India – Coorg)

Answer :

The author suggests Arabic descent through the traditional clothing of the Kodavas. They wear a long brown coat with an embroidered waistbelt called the Kuppia. This garment closely resembles the Kuffia worn by Arabs and Kurds, suggesting a historical connection between these peoples.

Teacher's Note:
Focus on the specific Kodava garment - Kuppia - and name what it resembles. Spelling variations of "Kuffia" are acceptable. The resemblance of clothing is the direct evidence the author uses to support the theory.

8(iv). [3 marks] Mention two points of difference between a Bengal tiger and an Asiatic lion.

(How to Tell Wild Animals)

Answer :

The Asiatic lion has a huge body with dull brown or tawny coloured skin, and it roars ferociously while killing its prey. The Bengal tiger, on the other hand, has a yellow body with black stripes and kills its prey silently without making noise.

Teacher's Note:
Must provide at least one difference from each animal. Physical appearance (colour and stripes) and hunting behaviour (roaring versus silent) are both valid points. Clear comparison makes the answer stronger than listing facts separately.

8(v). [3 marks] What efforts did the narrator make to get his mail from Europe ?

(Mijbil the Otter)

Answer :

The narrator cabled England to get his mail, but nothing happened for three days. He then booked a telephone call 24 hours in advance. However, on the first day the line was out of order, on the second day the exchange was closed for a religious holiday, and on the third day there was another breakdown. After these repeated setbacks, the mail finally arrived five days later.

Teacher's Note:
The question asks for efforts made, so include both the cable and the phone call attempt. Include at least two reasons why communication failed - line issues and exchange closure are the main ones. The five-day wait is the final outcome of these failed efforts.

9(i). [3 marks] Analyze how Herriot uses Tricki and Mrs. Pumphrey's relationship to comment on societal attitudes towards pets and the responsibilities associated with their care.

(A Triumph of Surgery)

Answer :

Mrs. Pumphrey overindulges and overfeds Tricki without setting any limits, showing how pet owners often spoil their animals without thinking about the consequences. She does not make Tricki exercise, which is essential for his health and well-being. Through this, Herriot comments that responsible pet ownership requires discipline, exercise, and care - not just affection and treats. The story criticises the common human tendency to harm pets through careless love, and shows that true care means making hard decisions for the animal's benefit.

Teacher's Note:
Focus on overindulgence vs. responsibility in pet care.
Mention both what Mrs. Pumphrey does wrong and why it matters.
Show how Herriot uses this to criticise pet owners, not just Mrs. Pumphrey alone.
Connect it to the larger message about human behaviour towards animals.

9(ii). [3 marks] Today reading books is on the decline because of the prevalence of electronic media. Contrarily, earth is saved by a 'Book' in the chapter "The Book That Saved the Earth". Elaborate.

Answer :

Although books seem less popular today because of electronic media, in "The Book That Saved the Earth," a simple book of nursery rhymes becomes Earth's saviour from Martian invasion. When the aliens discover this book, they misinterpret the nursery rhymes as factual accounts of Earth's history. They lack knowledge of Earth's culture and language, so they read tales like "Jack and Jill" or similar rhymes as true events. Thinking humans are so advanced and dangerous, the Martians flee in fear. The irony is powerful: what we consider old, outdated literature actually protects our planet. This shows books hold real value and power that digital media cannot replace.

Teacher's Note:
Highlight the irony: a simple nursery rhyme book saves Earth.
Explain the aliens' misinterpretation due to cultural ignorance.
Show the contrast between modern decline of reading and the book's crucial role.
Emphasise the unique power of literature.

9(iii). [3 marks] Discuss the character development of Griffin, as he grapples with the repercussions of his actions and attempts to navigate a world, where his once extraordinary abilities have become a burden.

(Footprints without Feet)

Answer :

Griffin begins as a scientist driven by the desire for power and control through his invisibility discovery. However, his character changes as he faces the harsh consequences of his own actions. His invisibility, once a source of pride, becomes a terrible burden - he cannot eat or sleep normally, he is hunted, and he has nowhere to hide from society. He commits harmful acts like breaking into houses and terrorising people, but these actions only isolate him further. By the end, Griffin realises that his extraordinary ability has trapped him, not freed him. He learns that misusing science for selfish power leads to suffering, showing his moral awakening about the responsibility that comes with such dangerous knowledge.

Teacher's Note:
Show Griffin's journey from ambition to regret and isolation.
Explain how invisibility shifts from advantage to burden for him.
Mention his harmful actions and their consequences on his character.
Connect his development to the moral lesson about scientific responsibility.

10(a). [6 marks] Amanda and Valli both represent a longing for freedom. Examine the above observation with reference to the two texts.

(Amanda and Madam Rides the Bus)

OR

(b) In 'The Ball Poem', Berryman explores the themes of loss, growing up, and transformation. Mandela also experienced loss of freedom and suffering along with his countrymen during his growing years on the basis of his race and colour.

Compare and contrast the commonality of themes in both the texts.

(The Ball Poem and Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

Answer :

Both Amanda and Valli long for freedom, but in different ways. Amanda feels trapped by her mother's constant instructions and nagging - "Don't curl your hair, Don't slouch." Her mother's control makes her feel restricted and unheard. Amanda's freedom is emotional and psychological; she wants to be herself without criticism. The poem shows that excessive control breeds resentment and disobedience in children. They need space to grow and choose.

Valli, at eight years old, dreams of exploring the world beyond her village. She has no friends and feels confined by her small surroundings. She saves money secretly for a bus ride to the city, planning meticulously to achieve her independence. Unlike Amanda, Valli actively works to gain her freedom through her own effort and courage. She takes a solo bus journey, which represents her breaking free from the limitations of her life. Both girls long to escape control - Amanda from parental restriction and Valli from isolation and smallness - yet each pursues freedom in her own way.

Teacher's Note:
Compare the nature of freedom each girl seeks - one emotional, one physical and exploratory.
Show how each girl responds differently: Amanda resents control, Valli acts independently.
Use specific examples from both texts (nagging vs. bus journey).
Link to the larger theme of growing up and self-discovery.

11(a). [6 marks] How did the lady in red manage to outsmart and outmaneuver the other thief, Horace Danby, by robbing the safe without leaving a single fingerprint ?

(A Question of Trust)

OR

(b) How did Mr. & Mrs. Loisel replace the lost necklace ? What kind of life did the Loisels lead thereafter ?

(The Necklace)

Answer (a) :

The lady in red was herself a thief. She acted with complete confidence and convinced Horace that she was the lady of the house. When Horace got caught and panicked at the thought of going to prison, she exploited his fear and confusion. She made him open the safe while she was there, then took the jewels from him. Horace's fingerprints were found at the scene, so he was arrested instead of her. She managed to steal the jewels and escape without leaving any fingerprints because she never touched anything herself - she made Horace do all the work.

Answer (b) :

The Loisels replaced the lost necklace by buying an identical one for 36,000 francs. Monsieur Loisel paid 18,000 francs from his savings, and they borrowed the remaining 18,000 francs. After that, they lived a hard life for ten years. Madame Loisel took on all the household work herself to save money. She aged quickly from the hard work and struggle. Monsieur Loisel worked extra hours at night to earn more money. They lived poorly and simply, paying back every franc of their debt. Only after ten years did they finally finish paying for the necklace.

Teacher's Note:
The lady in red's advantage was not picking the lock herself but making Horace open the safe under psychological pressure - this is key to leaving no fingerprints.
For part (b), mention the exact amount they paid and borrowed, and describe the ten years of hardship they endured.
Part (a) tests understanding of how manipulation and fear are used as theft tools; part (b) tests how greed and carelessness lead to years of suffering.

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