CBSE Class 10 English (Lang & Lit) Question Paper 2026 Solved Code 2-1-1

SECTION – A (READING SKILLS)

1. [10 marks] Read the following text and answer the following questions, based on the passage:

(1) Pancakes, a beloved breakfast dish across the world, has a surprisingly long and diverse history. Archaeological evidence shows that people were cooking pancake as food as far back as 30,000 years ago on hot stones and primitive griddles.

(2) In ancient Greece and Rome, pancakes were made from wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk. They were often served as a sweet treat during festivals or special occasions. In medieval Europe, pancakes became a popular dish during Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent began. In France, thin crepes became a national delicacy, often filled with sweet or savoury ingredients. In Russia, blinis were made using buckwheat flour and served with sour cream or caviar. In Ethiopia, the spongy injera became a staple food, made from teff flour and used as both a plate and utensil. Similarly, in China, pancakes are often savoury while in Japan, fluffy "souffle pancakes" have become a modern favourite.

(3) The American version of pancakes, thick and soft, gained popularity in the 18th century. The use of baking powder made them light and airy, and they were often served with butter and maple syrup - a symbol of hearty comfort food. Over time, pancakes became a universal dish, symbolizing community and celebration. Whether sweet or savoury, thick or thin, every culture has found a way to adapt this simple food to its own taste and traditions.

(4) India has its own rich tradition of similar dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries. Across the country, almost every region has a version of a pancake - whether sweet or savoury - made from grains, pulses, or rice. These Indian pancakes not only satisfy hunger but also reflect the diversity of India's culinary culture. In South India, dosas and adai are the most famous forms of pancakes. Made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, dosas are crisp and light, while adai is thicker and more filling. The fermentation process adds a unique sour flavor and makes them nutritious and easy to digest. In Kerala, the appam, made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk, is soft in the center and crispy at the edges. Moving north, we find the western style cheela, a simple and wholesome Indian pancake made from gram flour, spiced with onions, chillies and coriander. In Maharashtra, the thalipeeth is a multigrain pancake that uses flours like jowar, bajra and rice mixed with spices and vegetables. It is both flavorful and filling, providing a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins.

(5) In the eastern parts of India, pitha is a traditional pancake made during festivals and special occasions. Varieties like patishapta in Bengal are sweet, filled with coconut and jaggery. In Assam and Odisha, pithas can be steamed, fried, or roasted, depending on the custom and region. In the western deserts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, people prepare chilla and handvo, which are savoury western pancake-like dishes baked in traditional ovens. These pancakes are a blank canvas for toppings, waiting for a splash of fruit or a scattering of condiments.

(6) Today, pancakes continue to evolve with new recipes, from vegan and gluten-free varieties to those infused with fruits, oats, or even protein powder. Despite their many forms, they remain a timeless reminder of how food connects mankind through shared history and creativity. Each pancake tells a story of regional identity, food traditions and a deep love for food that brings people together. Pancakes are warm, edible hugs that are a perfect comfort on a bleak day.

I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase 'has a surprisingly long and diverse history' mean?

II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given:
The uniqueness of the spongy injera, is that _______.
(A) it is both a savoury and a sweet
(B) it can be used for cooking and also for eating
(Paragraph 2)

III. How are American pancakes made light and fluffy? When did the American-style pancakes gain popularity? (Paragraph 3)

IV. State whether the following statement is True or False:
Every culture has adopted the pancake and tempered it with its own ingredients, flavour and taste. (Paragraph 3)

V. The writer mentions 'fermentation process'. Based on the information given in the passage, which of the following pancakes are made from the fermentation process?
(A) Dosa and appam
(B) Chilla and thalipeeth
(C) Blinis and soufflé
(D) Pitha and patishapta

VI. Select the option that best explains the phrase about pancakes being, 'a blank canvas' (Paragraph 5):
(A) Like a painter starts with a blank canvas, a diner can get creative.
(B) Pancakes reflect the 30,000 old lineage of being the first food.

VII. List any two points from the passage that support the statement, 'pancakes are a timeless reminder of how food connects people.' (Paragraph 6)

VIII. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given:
In the line 'warm, edible hugs that are a perfect comfort on a bleak day' the phrase 'warm, edible hugs' refers to _________. (Paragraph 6)
(A) comfort food that provides a sense of emotional security
(B) the pancake that represents the history of the region
(C) the choice of eating hot steaming pancakes
(D) the food that gives you energy

Answer (I) :

It means pancakes have existed for an unexpectedly long time (about 30,000 years ago) and people in many different places and cultures have made them in many different ways.

Answer (II) :

(B) it can be used for cooking and also for eating

Answer (III) :

American pancakes are made light and fluffy by using baking powder. They became popular in the 18th century.

Answer (IV) :

True

Answer (V) :

(A) Dosa and appam

Answer (VI) :

(A) Like a painter starts with a blank canvas, a diner can get creative.

Answer (VII) :

Any two of: (1) Food connects humanity through shared history and creativity. (2) Each pancake tells a story of regional identity and food traditions that brings people together. (3) Pancakes are warm, comforting food that provides emotional security and brings people together on difficult days.

Answer (VIII) :

(A) comfort food that provides a sense of emotional security

Teacher's Note:
Read the question carefully - some ask for one point, some for two, some for "any" of the options. Watch the phrase "warm, edible hugs" - it's a metaphor for emotional comfort, not just physical warmth. When a statement is marked True or False, stick to the passage only - do not add your own opinion.

2. [10 marks] Read the following text and answer the following questions, based on the passage:

(1) Rate of Internet Reach in India: 2014-2024. The rate of internet reach in India rose over 52% in 2024 from about 14% in 2014. Although these figures seem relatively low, it meant that more than half of the population of 1.4 billion people had internet access that year. This also ranked the country second in the world in terms of active internet users.

(2) Internet availability and accessibility. By 2021 the number of internet connections across the country tripled in urban areas because of a higher density of population leading to an increase in the number of connections. However, despite incredibly low internet prices, internet usage in India has yet to reach its full potential. Lack of awareness about the internet in India persists, especially in rural areas and among women, driven by digital divide, infrastructure limitations, and a lack of perceived need for the internet. This hinders digital adoption, with many not knowing how to use the internet or even being aware of its existence. Targeted awareness campaigns and digital literacy programs are crucial to bridge this gap and ensure people understand and can benefit from the digital ecosystem.

(3) Digital living. Home to one of the largest bases of netizens in the world, India is abuzz with internet activities being carried out every moment of every day. From information and research to shopping and entertainment to living in smart homes, Indians have welcomed digital living with open arms.

I. What does the use of the term "active internet users" convey?
(A) Active people who use internet
(B) Active people who use active internet
(C) People who use active internet
(D) People who use internet actively

II. Select the option that is true for the Assertion and Reason given below:
Assertion: India is home to one of the largest bases of netizens in the world.
Reason: Lack of awareness and a tangible gender gap lie at the heart of the matter.
(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.

III. Identify the word that indicates that internet reach is 'comparatively' low. (Paragraph 1)

IV. Based on the table which of the following time period illustrates the maximum internet usage?
(A) 2017 to 2020
(B) 2023 to 2025
(C) 2020 to 2023
(D) 2019 to 2022

V. From the passage identify one reason why there are less internet users among women?

VI. Fill in the blank with a suitable word given in brackets:
Infrastructure limitations __________ (impedes/spurs) digital adoption.

VII. Complete the following with a suitable reason:
An increase in the number of connections in urban areas is because of __________.

VIII. Which are the two ways to bridge the gap of digital unawareness?

IX. In the context of the last paragraph how does the author justify the statement, 'Indians have welcomed digital living with open arms'.

Answer (I) :

(D) People who use internet actively

Answer (II) :

(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Answer (III) :

relatively

Answer (IV) :

(A) 2017 to 2020

Answer (V) :

Any one: lack of awareness, infrastructural limitations, digital divide, or a lack of perceived need for internet.

Answer (VI) :

impedes

Answer (VII) :

Higher density of population or higher population concentration.

Answer (VIII) :

Targeted awareness campaigns and digital literacy programs.

Answer (IX) :

The author justifies this by stating that India is abuzz with internet activities being carried out every moment of every day, and every aspect of daily life - research, information, shopping, entertainment, and smart homes - now needs internet.

Teacher's Note:
Question II is Assertion-Reason type - check if both are true first, then whether one explains the other. For Question IV, look at which time period shows the steepest increase on the table, not just the highest number. For Question VIII, look for solutions or methods mentioned, not problems.

SECTION – B (GRAMMAR AND CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS)

3. [10 marks] Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed:

I. Fill in the blank with correct option to complete a message from Yogita to her friend Shobit:
Dear Shobit,
Let's meet at 5 p.m. for the rehearsal but I need to go home first as I __________ anything since morning.
(A) did not eat
(B) had not eaten
(C) have not eaten
(D) am not eating

II. Read the given sentence from a self-help book. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given format:
To identifiying your goal is the biggest step in your success story.

III. Yamini asked her friend Shifa, "Would you like to come for my birthday party tomorrow?"
Report Yamini's question correctly.

IV. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete a newspaper clipping:
The verdict is yet to come since the members of the jury ________ (is/are) divided in their opinion.

V. Read Somil's request to his mother:
"Can you teach me to swim?"
Report Somil's request by completing the following sentence correctly:
Somil asked his mother __________

VI. Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from a critical review of a recently staged play:
'As an actor, Ravi Raj, is superior then any other contemporary actor.'
(A) an / the
(B) is / were
(C) then / to
(D) other / another

VII. Complete the given line from 'Rules and Regulations' section of a school diary:
Minimum 75% attendance is ______________ to appear for the final examinations.
(A) recorded
(B) mandatory
(C) secured
(D) obtained

VIII. Detect the error and supply the correction for the given newspaper report on a proposal by a Member of Advisory Board:
After the meeting it was obvious that most stakeholders would not support __________ proposals.
(A) this
(B) that
(C) the
(D) these

IX. Report the dialogue between a flight attendant and a passenger by filling in the blank:
Attendant: Did you have your dinner, sir?
Passenger: Yes, thank you!
The flight attendant asked the passenger ______________. The passenger replied in affirmation and thanked him.

X. Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from the memoir of your grandparent:
'When I was the team Captain, I __________ often organise get-togethers to develop bonding among the team mates.'
(A) could
(B) will
(C) shall
(D) would

XI. Complete the given sentence about the reaction of a tourist to another, by selecting the correct option:
Yesterday you loved the spicy Indian curry, _______ you?
(A) hasn't
(B) weren't
(C) did
(D) didn't

XII. Read the conversation between a professional writer and a school student:
Student: What prompted you to become a professional writer?
Writer: My childhood library housed books of all kinds. I was fascinated with the compelling stories and wanted to create my own.
Report the student's question.

Answer (I) : (C) have not eaten

Answer (II) : Error: "identifiying" / Correction: "identify"

Answer (III) : Yamini asked her friend Shifa if/whether she would like to come for her birthday party the next day/following day.

Answer (IV) : are

Answer (V) : if/whether she could teach him to swim OR if/whether she could teach him how to swim.

Answer (VI) : (C) then / to

Answer (VII) : (B) mandatory

Answer (VIII) : (C) the OR (D) these

Answer (IX) : whether / if he had had his dinner.

Answer (X) : (D) would

Answer (XI) : (D) didn't

Answer (XII) : The student asked the writer what had prompted him/her to become a professional writer.

Teacher's Note:
Remember: present perfect (have not eaten) for actions starting in the past and continuing to now. In reported speech, change pronouns (I becomes he/she), tenses shift back one level, and time references change (tomorrow becomes the next day). Tag questions use the opposite polarity of the statement.

4. [5 marks] Attempt ANY ONE from (A) and (B) given below:

(A) You are Divya/Divij Kumar, Director, Nurturing India, an organization providing skill education to youth. You believe that today's youth needs vocational and skill education that will encourage an independent and entrepreneurial lifestyle. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily expressing your views on the need and importance of skill education in creating employability and a self-employed independent generation.

OR

(B) You are Nirmala / Nirmal, a resident of Jhunjhunu Colony. Recently there have been a series of accidents and petty crimes in your colony. One of the reasons is poor street lighting. Write a letter to the Commissioner of the Works department, drawing attention to the urgent need to install street lights to avoid further crimes and accidents.

Answer (A) :

Divya/Divij Kumar
Nurturing India
[Address]
[Date]

Dear Editor,

I am writing to highlight the critical importance of skill education for our youth today. While degrees are important, they often leave our young people without practical knowledge needed for actual jobs. There is a wide gap between what is taught in schools and what employers are looking for in the job market.

Skill education bridges this gap. It equips youth with hands-on abilities and confidence to work independently. When young people learn vocational skills like plumbing, electrical work, digital marketing, or tailoring, they do not need to depend on others for employment. They can start their own small businesses and become entrepreneurs. This creates a generation that is self-reliant and problem-solving, not just job-seeking.

I urge all schools and educational institutions to include vocational training in their curriculum. This will transform unemployment into entrepreneurship and give our youth real hope for a better future.

Yours sincerely,
Divya/Divij Kumar
Director, Nurturing India

Answer (B) :

Nirmala/Nirmal
Jhunjhunu Colony
[Address]
[Date]

Dear Commissioner,

I am writing to draw your urgent attention to the serious safety problem in our colony caused by poor street lighting. In the past few months, we have witnessed several accidents at night and a rise in petty crimes such as theft and chain snatching. The darkness on our streets makes it easy for criminals to hide and for residents to trip and fall.

This situation especially puts women, children, and elderly people at risk. Many of us feel unsafe stepping out after sunset. The existing streetlights are either non-functional or too far apart to light up the roads properly.

I request you to immediately install new street lights throughout our colony and ensure they are regularly maintained and repaired. With proper lighting, we can prevent both accidents and crimes. Our colony deserves a safe environment for all residents.

I look forward to your prompt action on this urgent matter.

Yours sincerely,
Nirmala/Nirmal

Teacher's Note:
Both options follow the same letter format: sender details, date, recipient, salutation, body (two-three short paragraphs with clear problem and solution), and closing. Include at least two points from each aspect (issue and benefit for A; issue and solution for B). Use formal, polite language. Keep paragraphs short and ideas clear.

5. [5 marks] Attempt ANY ONE from (A) and (B) given below:

(A) Improvements in sports infrastructure with a focus on multi-purpose sustainable facilities as well as the integration of technology along with a grassroot centric approach is the key to bring Indian athletes on the world stage.
Write an analytical paragraph on the above statement in about 120 words, expressing your views on how improved infrastructure can help Indian athletes win accolades for the nation.

OR

(B) Read the following details about the characteristics of the Indian start-up ecosystem:
1. one of the most vibrant and largest in the world.
2. drives innovation across various fields.
3. brings unique solutions to major challenges both domestic and international.
4. has entered various fields - healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture.
5. supported by funding and government initiatives.
In about 120 words analyse the future of startups in India considering factors that have supported its growth in the country. Focus on aspects of the need, benefits, and support needed for these startups.

Answer (A) :

Improved sports infrastructure forms the backbone of athletic excellence. When athletes train in world-class facilities with multipurpose sustainable design, they develop skills comparable to international standards. Integration of technology such as performance analytics and biomechanical analysis helps coaches refine techniques and prevent injuries. However, infrastructure alone cannot succeed without grassroots focus. A grassroot-centric approach ensures talented children from rural areas get early exposure and training, creating a larger talent pool. Additionally, sustainable facilities reduce costs and make sports accessible to more people. When these elements combine, Indian athletes gain competitive advantage globally. Furthermore, success stories inspire younger generations, creating a culture of excellence. Therefore, comprehensive infrastructure development addressing technology, sustainability, and grassroot participation is essential to establish India as a sporting powerhouse and win international accolades.

Answer (B) :

India's startup ecosystem thrives due to several interconnected factors. The ecosystem drives innovation across healthcare, agriculture, and e-commerce, solving both domestic and international challenges. This vibrancy stems from government initiatives like startup schemes and tax benefits, coupled with substantial private and venture capital funding. The future looks promising because startups address real-world problems efficiently. India's young demographic, entrepreneurial spirit, and tech talent create ideal conditions for growth. However, startups need sustained support through regulatory frameworks and mentorship programmes. Additionally, access to global markets and international partnerships will boost their expansion. Improved infrastructure, skilling programmes, and easier access to credit remain critical. Therefore, the Indian startup ecosystem will flourish if supportive measures continue, transforming India into a global innovation hub and generating employment opportunities.

Teacher's Note:
Analytical writing requires synthesising 4+ points with clear implications, not just listing them. Use linking words like "however," "therefore," "in addition to" for coherence. Maintain formal tone and single paragraph structure throughout. Focus on cause-effect relationships rather than descriptions.

SECTION - C (LITERATURE TEXT BOOK)

6. [5 marks] Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:

(A) We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation. We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. Never, never, and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another. The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement.
(Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

I. What is the tone Nelson Mandela is UNLIKELY to have used in his speech?
(A) inspirational
(B) assertive
(C) conflicted
(D) direct

II. According to Mandela, emancipation is not merely political. Elaborate.

III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket:
Mandela's speech swings between references to the past and a __________ (bleak/promising) future.

IV. With reference to the extract explain the sentence, "The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement."

OR

(B) OOP: I haven't a clue. I've been to seven galaxies, but I've never seen anything like this. Maybe they're hats. (He opens a book and puts it on his head.) Say, maybe this is a haberdashery!
OMEGA: (bowing low) Perhaps the Great and Mighty Think-Tank will give us the benefit of his thought on the matter.
THINK-TANK: Elementary, my dear Omega. Hold one of the items up so that I may view it closely. (Omega holds a book on the palm of her hand.) Yes, yes, I understand now. Since Earth creatures are always eating, the place in which you find yourselves is undoubtedly a crude refreshment stand.
OMEGA: (to Iota and Oop) He says we're in a refreshment stand.
OOP: Well, the Earthlings certainly have a strange diet.
(The Book that Saved the Earth)

I. "Elementary, my dear Omega." What is Think-Tank's tone in the sentence?
(A) patronising
(B) admonishing
(C) ironic
(D) sarcastic

II. Why does Omega call Think-Tank great and mighty?

III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket:
After viewing the book closely, Think-Tank concludes that Earth creatures _______ (enjoy/dislike) eating food.

IV. Why does Oop open the book and put it on his head?

Answer (A)(I) :(C) conflicted - the speech focuses on unity and hope, not internal struggle.

Answer (A)(II) :

Mandela means emancipation extends beyond political freedom. He pledges to free people from poverty, deprivation, and suffering. Gender and other forms of discrimination must also end. True emancipation requires social, economic, and cultural liberation alongside political independence. Political freedom alone cannot create a just society if people remain trapped in poverty or face discrimination.

Answer (A)(III) :promising

Answer (A)(IV) :

This sentence means South Africa's democratic achievement will endure forever and never fade. The sun setting symbolises the end of an era. By saying the sun shall never set, Mandela declares that the nation's freedom and non-racial democracy will last eternally. The glorious human achievement of ending oppression will remain constant and timeless.

Answer (B)(I) :(A) patronising - Think-Tank speaks down to Omega with false politeness.

Answer (B)(II) :

Omega uses these titles to show respect and acknowledge Think-Tank's authority and knowledge. She flatters him, recognising him as their leader whose wisdom guides the mission. This addresses his ego and prepares him to speak with confidence. Her tone is flattering yet respectful towards his supposed superiority.

Answer (B)(III) :enjoy

Answer (B)(IV) :

Oop mistakes the book for a hat because he has never seen books before. Unfamiliar with Earth culture, he tries to interpret the object using his own logic. Placing it on his head seems logical to him as a possible form of headwear, showing the aliens' misunderstanding of human civilisation.

Teacher's Note:
For tone questions, identify the speaker's attitude and what clues in language reveal it. When explaining literary devices like metaphor, connect them directly to meaning. Fill-in-the-blank answers need justification from the text. Always support explanations with specific examples from the extract.

7. [5 marks] Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:

(A) Some say the world will end in fire some say in ice.
From what I've tasted of desire
I hold with those who favour fire.
(Stanza 1)

But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.
(Fire and Ice)

I. Complete the following suitably:
According to Robert Frost, fire refers to ________.

II. Why does the poet believe both fire and ice can destroy the world equally?

III. Fill the blank with one word:
In the line "But if it has to perish twice", 'it' refers to the __________.

IV. Select the option with same rhyme scheme as lines in Stanza 1:
(A) They are all gone away,
The House is shut and still,
There is nothing more to say.
(B) Tell me not, in mournful numbers,
Life is but an empty dream!
For the soul is dead that slumbers.
(C) The dog chased the ball down the lane,
He ran with such incredible speed,
His tail was a blur, a joyful glee.
(D) The Sun is high,
The clouds drift past,
In the blue sky which is so vast.

OR

(B) Though to distinguish beasts of prey
A novice might nonplus,
The crocodile you always may
Tell from the Hyena thus:
Hyenas come with merry smiles
But if they weep they're crocodiles.
(How to tell Wild Animals)

I. What is the most likely reason the poet uses the word 'nonplus' instead of confused?

II. Explain the irony in the last two lines of the stanza.

III. Fill in the blank with one word:
The word 'novice' signifies a/an ________ person.

IV. What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option:
1. humorous 2. mysterious 3. aggressive
4. confusing 5. fearful
(A) 1 and 4
(B) Only 5
(C) 1, 2 and 3
(D) 4 and 5

Answer (A)(I) :Fire refers to violent desires, passions, hatred, cruelty, greed, jealousy, or any destructive human emotion.

Answer (A)(II) :

Fire represents unchecked desire and passion that can destroy like wildfire. Ice symbolises hatred, indifference, and cold-heartedness that freezes human bonds and relationships. Both possess equal destructive power. Fire burns communities through conflict and cruelty. Ice slowly kills societies through neglect and emotional coldness. Therefore, Frost argues both are equally capable of bringing world's end.

Answer (A)(III) :world

Answer (A)(IV) :(D) The Sun is high, / The clouds drift past, / In the blue sky which is so vast.

Answer (B)(I) :

The poet chooses "nonplus" because it rhymes with "thus" and creates a perfect rhyme scheme. The word also conveys a deeper meaning of confusion and bewilderment. Frost used poetic licence to select a word that serves both structural and meaningful purposes simultaneously.

Answer (B)(II) :

The irony lies in the contrast between appearance and reality. Hyenas smile, suggesting friendliness, yet they are deadly predators. Crocodiles weep, appearing sorrowful, yet they are equally dangerous. The poem presents a clever paradox: the animals' outward expressions contradict their true dangerous nature, making distinction through emotions absurd.

Answer (B)(III) :inexperienced

Answer (B)(IV) :(A) 1 and 4 - the poem creates humour through absurd logic and confuses readers with impossible distinction methods.

Teacher's Note:
When answering about literary devices, explain both how and why the poet uses them. Rhyme scheme questions require identifying the pattern, not just naming it. Tone and atmosphere questions demand supporting with textual details. For irony, always contrast what appears to happen with what actually is.

8. [12 marks] Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words each:

I. Lencho's last letter to God depicts astute faith on one level and irony on the other. Bring about the element of faith and irony in the situation. (A Letter to God)

II. "Mijbil the Otter" sensitises human beings especially city people to wildlife. What emotions are conveyed through the association of Mijbil and Maxwell?

III. What is the contribution of the extended metaphor in the poem "Fog"?

IV. How does "Madam Rides the Bus" bring alive Valli's attributes and experiences through its narrative style?

V. Explain why time is probably one of the most valuable possessions that one intensely regrets losing. (The Ball Poem)

Answer (I) :

Lencho's faith shines when he writes to God seeking help after hail destroys his crops, trusting God will provide. He doesn't doubt God's kindness when receiving money. The irony emerges when he calls the post office workers "a bunch of crooks" for sending less money than he requested, blaming them instead of thanking those who actually helped him. His blind faith prevents him from seeing human kindness.

Answer (II) :

The association between Mijbil and Maxwell conveys warmth, companionship, and genuine friendship. Their bond evokes joy and thrill in exploring wildlife together, creating a sense of connection with nature. The narrative sensitises readers, especially city dwellers, to wildlife's beauty and the emotional bond possible between humans and animals. This touching relationship demonstrates how nature enriches our lives when appreciated.

Answer (III) :

The extended metaphor comparing fog to a cat makes the poem mysterious and alive. By humanising fog through actions like "comes and sits" and "looking over the city," the poet makes nature relatable and tangible. This metaphor symbolises nature's omnipresent, pervasive quality that surrounds and influences all life silently and gently.

Answer (IV) :

The anecdotal narrative style brings Valli's perspectives alive through her bus journey and interactions with passengers. Vivid descriptive language captures her varied emotions, from joy to awe to sadness. The irony of the dead cow incident contrasts her innocent excitement with harsh reality, showing her transition from childhood naivety to mature understanding of life's complexities.

Answer (V) :

Time is precious because it represents irretrievable moments, memories, and childhood itself, symbolised by the lost ball. Once time passes, it cannot be recovered or replaced. The poem emphasises that losing time means losing precious experiences and innocence. We intensely regret this loss because accepting responsibility for lost time teaches us the harsh reality of growing up and mortality.

Teacher's Note:
Each answer must contain at least two clear value points with textual evidence supporting them. Maintain 40-50 word limit strictly by being concise yet complete. Use smooth transitions between ideas for coherent expression. Avoid plot retelling; focus instead on literary analysis and character development.

9. [6 marks] Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words each:

I. Working through his project of collecting and tagging butterflies, Ebright developed a scientific temperament. Elaborate. (Making of a Scientist)

II. Mention how Ausable was always one step ahead of everyone. (The Midnight Visitor)

III. Mention any two reasons that substantiate that Bholi's mother was a negative presence in her life. (Bholi)

Answer (I) :

Ebright's butterfly project taught him observation, patience and systematic data recording. His curiosity grew as he collected and questioned each specimen. His hobby deepened into serious engagement when he met Dr. Urquhardt, who fuelled his scientific imagination. This shift from casual collecting to disciplined enquiry and structured thinking marks the development of true scientific temperament.

Answer (II) :

Ausable remained alert and composed in danger. He quickly invented a convincing story about the balcony intruder to confuse Max. His presence of mind shone when he used the police siren trick to trap his opponent. His quick thinking and witty responses kept him always one step ahead, showing a spy's sharp instincts.

Answer (III) :

Bholi's mother never cared for her daughter. She labelled Bholi a "dumb cow" and ignored her education. The mother saw Bholi as a burden and sent her to school only to get rid of her. Cruelly, she tried to marry off Bholi to a greedy old man, showing complete disregard for her daughter's future and happiness.

Teacher's Note:
Use textual examples to support points. At least two distinct reasons or details from the text are needed for full marks. Keep language simple and direct. Check spelling and punctuation carefully within the word limit.

10. [6 marks] Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words:

I. Examine the similarities and differences between the tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" and the dragon in "The Tale of Custard the Dragon".

OR

II. "The Sermon at Benaras" and "For Anne Gregory", deal with the themes of 'love' and 'life'. Discuss.

Answer (I) :

The tiger and Custard are both powerful creatures confined away from their true homes. Both evoke fear through their appearance and remain emotionally isolated, stirring reader sympathy. Yet they differ sharply. The tiger is trapped by force and never shows his real strength, making his fate tragic. Custard chooses his cage voluntarily and later proves his courage against the dragon-a comic twist. The tiger represents human control over wildlife, while Custard teaches that appearances deceive. The tiger's story grieves, but Custard's amuses. Both reveal vulnerability beneath their outer forms, though one ends in despair and the other in ironic triumph.

Answer (II) :

Both poems explore how love and acceptance of life's hardships lead to peace. In "The Sermon at Benaras", Kisa Gotami's selfish love for her son blinds her to truth. Buddha teaches her that clinging to people brings suffering-only spiritual acceptance brings calm. "For Anne Gregory" shows love has two faces: physical love fades with youth and beauty, but spiritual love transcends the material world. Both texts teach that accepting life's temporary nature and loss brings real peace. Youth, beauty and life itself are fleeting. True peace comes not from grasping what we love, but from spiritual understanding and letting go. Both poems warn against attachment to the physical world.

Teacher's Note:
Include at least one point from each poem or aspect for full marks. Use specific examples from the texts. Show how the two ideas connect or differ clearly. Write in smooth, flowing sentences that link ideas together.

11. [6 marks] Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words:

I. Evaluate how "A Triumph of Surgery" is a lesson in thoughtful parenting.

OR

II. Evaluate how "The Necklace" critiques the obsession with appearances and social status.

Answer (I) :

Mrs. Pumphrey's love for Tricki nearly kills him. She mistakes indulgence for care, feeding him chocolates and rich foods until he becomes bloated and sick. Even after surgery, she ignores Dr. Herriot's advice on exercise and diet, sending more treats. Tricki recovers only when Dr. Herriot forces a strict routine. The story teaches that real parenting means setting boundaries and saying no, not giving children everything they want. Love without discipline harms children. Mrs. Pumphrey learns that true care requires discipline, exercise and limiting excess. Good parenting demands firm limits and difficult choices, not endless indulgence. The lesson is clear-thoughtful parents protect children by sometimes refusing their wishes.

Answer (II) :

Matilda's obsession with social status and wealth destroys her life. She borrows a diamond necklace to appear rich at a grand party, then loses it. She spends ten years in poverty replacing it, sacrificing her youth and health for one night of pretending. The cruel irony: the necklace was fake all along. Matilda measured her worth by her appearance and social position, not inner values. The story critiques how chasing status and luxury leads only to ruin. Her pride and superficiality brought misery. She laboured for a phantom, trading her real life for false glamour. The tale teaches that contentment matters more than appearances, and that true worth lies within, not in jewels or social rank.

Teacher's Note:
Provide three clear points supported by story details. Show cause and effect-how the character's choice led to consequences. Keep your argument flowing and well-organised. Proofread for spelling and punctuation errors.

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