CBSE Class 10 English Language and Literature Sample Paper 2026 27 with Solutions PDF Download

SECTION A

READING SKILLS (20 marks)

1. Read the following passage. [10 Marks]

(1) Have you ever really looked at a toy store shelf and wondered what you're actually looking at? Rows upon rows of plastic products - bright, shiny, and visually appealing. We barely question them anymore. But here's a question worth asking: does the type of toy we choose really matter? The answer might surprise you. It turns out that choosing between a conventional plastic toy and an eco-friendly alternative is about far more than just grabbing something off the shelf.
(2) Let's be honest - plastic toys are everywhere. They've been the default choice for generations, and there's a reason: they're affordable, they're designed to grab attention, and they work. However, what exactly are we getting when we buy a mass-produced plastic toy? Often, we're getting something made with chemicals like BPA* and lead, substances that make manufacturing cheaper. These aren't just abstract risks floating in the background. They're real concerns that affect real people, especially children who interact with these toys daily.
(3) This is precisely why eco-friendly toys matter so much. Crafted from organic cotton, sustainable wood, and recycled materials, they ask a fundamental question: what if toys could be safe, engaging, and environmentally responsible all at once? When we choose these alternatives, we're not just buying a toy - we're making a statement about what we value.
(4) Ever noticed how a wooden block can keep a child entertained for hours, while some plastic gadget loses its appeal in minutes? There's a reason for that. Eco-friendly toys often engage children's minds differently. Natural materials offer something special - rich textures, varied tactile experiences, and a kind of sensory richness that engages the brain in deeper ways. A wooden building set doesn't just entertain; it challenges children to think, problem-solve, and create. It demands imagination in a way that pre-programmed, plastic alternatives never can.
(5) Think about the typical lifespan of a plastic toy. It breaks, it ends up in landfills, and it's replaced. Eco-friendly toys, however, are designed to survive. They're built to last years, to be passed along, to become keepsakes rather than waste. This durability speaks volumes about the difference between toys made purely for profit and toys made with purpose.
(6) Ultimately, the choice between conventional and eco-friendly toys reflects something deeper: how we think about consumption itself. Do we want a world where toys are disposable trinkets, or do we want objects that matter - that are safe, engaging, and kind to the planet? It's not just about toys. It's about the choices we make every single day and what those choices say about who we are and what kind of future we're building.
*BPA: Bisphenol A, a chemical used primarily in the production of plastic items

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

I. In Paragraph 1, what does the phrase 'rows upon rows of plastic products' emphasise? [1 Mark]

Answer: It emphasises the overwhelming abundance and endless rows of plastic toys in stores, highlighting how pervasive plastic products have become in consumer culture.

Teacher's Note:
a) Look for words showing repetition and quantity like "rows upon rows".
b) Link the answer to the idea of consumer culture mentioned in the passage.

II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given.
When the writer says, 'These aren't just abstract risks floating in the background', he refers to _________. (paragraph 2) [1 Mark]
(a) the potential health hazards present in mass-produced plastic toys that consumers often ignore or are unaware of.
(b) the general concerns about toy safety that exist in society but don't directly affect individual purchasing decisions.

Answer: (a) the potential health hazards present in mass-produced plastic toys that consumers often ignore or are unaware of.

Teacher's Note:
a) The phrase "real concerns that affect real people" in the passage supports option (a).
b) Avoid option (b) as it wrongly suggests these risks do not affect individual decisions.

III. The writer mentions, 'organic cotton, sustainable wood, and recycled materials' in paragraph 3.
Which of the following is an example of 'recycled material'? [1 Mark]
A. Hand spun clothes certified by environmental organisations
B. Cotton grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers
C. Plastic bottles processed and converted into shoes
D. Wood treated with chemical preservatives to extend lifespan

Answer: C. Plastic bottles processed and converted into shoes

Teacher's Note:
a) Recycled material means an existing product is reprocessed into something new.
b) Options A, B and D describe organic or treated materials, not recycled ones.

IV. In paragraphs 2 and 3, the writer contrasts the characteristics of plastic toys with eco-friendly toys.
What does this comparison reveal about the writer's perspective on consumer responsibility? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The comparison shows that consumer responsibility goes beyond convenience and low cost, since plastic toys contain harmful chemicals like BPA and lead while eco-friendly toys use safer materials.
2. The writer suggests that consumers should prioritise children's health and the environment, making informed choices a personal as well as collective responsibility.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention both toy types and the values they represent for full marks.
b) Use the keyword "responsibility" to directly answer the question asked.

V. Identify whether the following statement is True or False. (Paragraph 4)
The sensory richness of eco-friendly toys primarily enhances children's entertainment value rather than their cognitive development. [1 Mark]

Answer: False

Teacher's Note:
a) Paragraph 4 says natural materials "engage the brain in deeper ways", which is cognitive, not just entertainment.
b) Always re-read the exact paragraph mentioned before marking True/False.

VI. Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a) or (b).
disposable trinkets: landfills:: ___________ :_________ [1 Mark]
(a) eco-friendly toys: environmental responsibility
(b) meaningful keepsakes: future generations

Answer: (b) meaningful keepsakes: future generations

Teacher's Note:
a) Match the logical relationship: disposable trinkets end up in landfills as waste, so meaningful keepsakes end up with future generations as a legacy.
b) Check that both halves of the analogy follow the same cause-effect pattern.

VII. Read the statements (i-v) given below and select the option that correctly classifies them as Facts (F) or Opinions (O). [1 Mark]
(i) BPA and lead are used in the production of mass-produced plastic toys.
(ii) Plastic toys are affordable and attractive, which makes them popular.
(iii) Eco-friendly toys are designed to survive longer and are not discarded as waste.
(iv) Wooden toys engage children's minds in deeper and more meaningful ways than plastic toys.
(v) The choice between plastic and eco-friendly toys is about mindful consumption.
A. (i) O (ii) O (iii) F (iv) F (v) O
B. (i) F (ii) F (iii) O (iv) O (v) F
C. (i) O (ii) F (iii) F (iv) O (v) O
D. (i) F (ii) O (iii) F (iv) O (v) O

Answer: D. (i) F (ii) O (iii) F (iv) O (v) O

Teacher's Note:
a) Facts can be verified from the passage directly; opinions are the writer's judgements.
b) Statements (i) and (iii) state verifiable details, so they are facts.

VIII. What might be the author's purpose of asking rhetorical questions** throughout the passage? [2 Marks]
** a figure of speech in which questions are asked for a reason other than to get an answer

Answer:
1. The author uses rhetorical questions to engage readers directly and provoke thought about their own choices.
2. These questions encourage critical thinking and build a persuasive argument that guides readers toward accepting eco-friendly alternatives.

Teacher's Note:
a) Connect rhetorical questions with the idea of persuasion, not just curiosity.
b) Give both the immediate effect (engagement) and the larger purpose (persuasion) for full marks.

2. Read the following passage. [10 Marks]

(1) A 2023 report found that 'audio routines' have become a mainstay in people's daily lives. Unlike traditional content, audio-based experiences offer a hands-free and eyes-free experience, allowing individuals to stay entertained or absorb information outside the confines of a screen or paper book. The audiobooks market in India is also witnessing intense growth, fuelled by the rapid adoption of smartphones and a rising preference for convenient, on-the-go content consumption.
(2) A survey found that half of audiobook listeners spend between 1-4 hours per week listening to audiobooks and 33% spend 5-10 hours a week. When asked in which scenarios they're most likely to hit play on an audiobook, commute was the most popular choice. 63% said they listen to audiobooks while on the go, 54% while completing household chores and 44% while relaxing or falling asleep. 56% of the listeners generally prefer to listen to fiction over non-fiction books.
(3) 67% of audiobook listeners say they read more with audiobooks compared to books in traditional text format. When integrated into daily routines, audiobooks serve as a channel for more people to enjoy literature, accommodating those with the busiest of schedules.
(4) The audiobook format also offers a user-friendly format that enables a diverse population, including individuals with physical or neurological limitations to have access to literature. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for individuals with attention span difficulties, allowing them to engage with books despite the challenges of sitting down and maintaining a focus on reading.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

I. Complete the sentence by selecting the correct option from those given in the bracket.
The word 'mainstay' as used in Paragraph 1 suggests that audiobooks have ______.
(overpowered people's lives/ become a support in people's lives) [1 Mark]

Answer: become a support in people's lives

Teacher's Note:
a) "Mainstay" means a chief support, not something overpowering.
b) Avoid negative words when the passage tone is positive about audiobooks.

II. What does relationship between smartphone adoption and audiobook suggest about consumer preferences? (Paragraph 1) [1 Mark]

Answer: It suggests that consumers increasingly prefer digital, on-the-go content that fits mobile lifestyles, rather than physical books or stationary screen-based media.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link smartphone growth directly with convenience and mobility.
b) Mention "on-the-go consumption" as it is a key phrase from the paragraph.

III. Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion: The most preferred scenario for listening to audiobooks is when travelling.
Reason: During travel, listeners struggle with short attention span problems. [1 Mark]
A. Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation.
B. Both are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation.
C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.

Teacher's Note:
a) Commute being the most popular scenario (63%) makes the assertion true.
b) The reason talks about attention span, which is not linked to travel in the passage, so it is false.

IV. Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
All of the following are mentioned in paragraph 2 EXCEPT - [1 Mark]
A. 50% of audiobook listeners spend between one and four hours weekly listening to audiobooks.
B. A little more than half of the audiobook listeners prefer fiction over non-fiction content.
C. Approximately 30% percent of listeners spend less than one hour weekly listening to audiobooks.
D. Audiobooks have made it possible for people to appreciate literature.

Answer: C. Approximately 30% of listeners spend less than one hour weekly listening to audiobooks.

Teacher's Note:
a) This percentage is not stated anywhere in paragraph 2.
b) Cross-check each option against the exact figures given in the passage.

V. Compare the preference for fiction (56%) versus non-fiction in audiobooks. What might this suggest about listener expectations? (Paragraph 2) [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The strong fiction preference (56%) indicates that audiobooks are mainly used for narrative-driven content.
2. Storytelling formats work better in audio because the narrator's voice and the intricacies of the plot enhance listener engagement more than factual, non-fiction content.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the exact figure 56% to support the comparison.
b) Link the preference to the listening experience, not just personal taste.

VI. Complete the sentence suitably. (Paragraph 3)
Audiobook adoption has worked well for people with busy lifestyles because ______________. [1 Mark]

Answer: audiobooks allow individuals to consume literature while engaging in other activities, eliminating the need to carve out dedicated time for conventional reading practices.

Teacher's Note:
a) Emphasise the idea of multitasking while listening.
b) Refer to the specific line about "busiest of schedules" in paragraph 3.

VII. Identify the phrase from paragraph 4 that indicates that everyone would find audiobooks easy and comfortable. [1 Mark]

Answer: user-friendly format

Teacher's Note:
a) The phrase should be lifted exactly from the paragraph.
b) "User-friendly" directly conveys ease and comfort for all users.

VIII. A student with reading difficulties wants to complete his reading assignments in school. Why would an audio book option be an advantage? (Paragraph 4) [1 Mark]

Answer: The audio format removes text-processing barriers such as decoding words and reading sentences, so the student can engage with the book despite his reading challenges.

Teacher's Note:
a) Focus on removal of the reading/decoding barrier, not just entertainment.
b) Link the answer to "attention span difficulties" mentioned in the paragraph.

IX. Suggest one reason why the title, 'Rise of Audiobooks: Transforming Reading' is a suitable title for the passage. [1 Mark]

Answer: The title is suitable because it captures the growing popularity of audiobooks shown throughout the passage, along with the way they are changing and expanding how people read and access literature.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link "Rise" to the growth statistics and "Transforming Reading" to the changed reading habits.
b) Give one clear, complete reason rather than restating the title.

SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR

3. Complete any ten of the twelve following tasks, as directed. [10 Marks]

I. Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal email:
Dear Ms. Sharma,
We are writing to confirm that your application for the scholarship programme ____________________ by our selection committee last week. [1 Mark]
A. has been reviewed
B. was reviewed
C. has been reviewing
D. will be reviewed

Answer: B. was reviewed

Teacher's Note:
a) "Last week" is a definite past time marker, so simple past tense is used.
b) Avoid the present perfect (A) since it does not go with a specific past time expression.

II. Report the doctor's statement.
Doctor: "You should reduce your sugar intake and exercise regularly." [1 Mark]

Answer: The doctor advised the patient to reduce his/her sugar intake and exercise regularly.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Should" for advice is reported using "advised to" in indirect speech.
b) Change the pronoun "your" to match the person being reported.

III. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the official notice:
Notification to All Students,
Please note that _________________ applicants who have submitted incomplete forms are required to resubmit their documents by Friday. [1 Mark]
A. these
B. those
C. this
D. that

Answer: B. those

Teacher's Note:
a) "Those" is used before a plural noun followed by a defining clause ("who have submitted...").
b) "These" refers to nearby items, not to a general category described by a clause.

IV. Read Isha's statement to her class teacher about missing school:
"I was absent yesterday because I had to visit the dentist for my regular check-up."
Report Isha's statement by completing the following sentence:
Isha explained that _________________. [1 Mark]

Answer: Isha explained that she had been absent the previous day because she had had to visit the dentist for her regular check-up.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Yesterday" changes to "the previous day" in reported speech.
b) Past simple ("was", "had to") changes to past perfect ("had been", "had had to").

V. Identify and correct the error in the given line from a technical report:
Neither the software developers nor the project manager were aware of the compatibility issues.
Error | Correction [1 Mark]

Answer: Error: were; Correction: was.

Teacher's Note:
a) With "neither...nor", the verb agrees with the subject nearer to it, here "the project manager" (singular).
b) This rule is a common source of subject-verb agreement errors in exams.

VI. Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from the school's safety policy:
All students _________________ wear their identification badges at all times while on campus premises. [1 Mark]
A. might
B. could
C. must
D. may

Answer: C. must

Teacher's Note:
a) "Must" expresses a strong obligation, suitable for a safety policy rule.
b) "Might", "could" and "may" only show possibility, not obligation.

VII. The given question has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error and the correction.
What among these books have you read before? [1 Mark]
A. What - Which
B. among - between
C. these - this
D. have - has

Answer: A. What - Which

Teacher's Note:
a) "Which" is used when choosing from a limited, known set (these books), not "what".
b) Remember: "what" is for open/general choices, "which" is for selection from specific options.

VIII. Juhi asked her friend the following question:
"Are you prepared for the mathematics test next week?"
Report it correctly to complete the following sentence.
Juhi asked her friend _________________. [1 Mark]

Answer: Juhi asked her friend if she was prepared for the mathematics test the following week.

Teacher's Note:
a) Yes/No questions are reported using "if" or "whether".
b) "Next week" changes to "the following week" in reported speech.

IX. Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.
Saira was disappointed when she saw there was _______ food left to serve the guests. [1 Mark]
A. few
B. least
C. any
D. little

Answer: D. little

Teacher's Note:
a) "Little" is used with uncountable nouns like "food" to show a small, insufficient quantity.
b) "Few" is used with countable nouns, so it cannot be used with "food".

X. Identify the error and suggest the correction.
Each of the participants in the Science Fair have been given a set of guidelines to follow during the competition.
Error | Correction [1 Mark]

Answer: Error: have; Correction: has.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Each" is always followed by a singular verb, even when followed by a plural phrase.
b) Ignore the plural noun "participants" that comes between the subject and the verb.

XI. Fill in the blank to complete the teacher's advice by choosing the correct options from those given in brackets.
If you practice regularly, you ____________ win the quiz competition next month.
(might / must) [1 Mark]

Answer: might

Teacher's Note:
a) "Might" expresses a possible future result, suitable after a conditional clause.
b) "Must" would wrongly express certainty or obligation instead of possibility.

XII. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb given in the brackets from a travel blog.
This hill station ____________ (lose) its natural beauty since the last time I saw it. [1 Mark]

Answer: has lost

Teacher's Note:
a) "Since" with a past time reference calls for the present perfect tense.
b) Remember the structure "has/have + past participle" for present perfect.

WRITING

NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.

4 A. You are Maya Nair, a concerned resident of Green View Colony, Guwahati. You feel that your colony lacks adequate recreational and community spaces for residents of all age groups. The existing facilities are insufficient. Write a letter to the Secretary of your Resident Welfare Association (RWA) in 120 words, highlighting the need for establishing a community centre in the colony explaining how it will benefit the residents. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Green View Colony,
Guwahati.
15 February 2027.

The Secretary,
Resident Welfare Association,
Green View Colony,
Guwahati.

Subject: Need for a Community Centre in the Colony

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to draw your attention to the lack of adequate recreational and community spaces in our colony. At present, there is no dedicated venue for social gatherings, cultural programmes or indoor activities, and both children and senior citizens have no safe space to spend their leisure time.

I request the RWA to consider establishing a community centre here. It would give children and youth a safe environment for games, workshops and educational activities away from traffic, and provide adults and the elderly a venue for meetings, fitness classes and cultural celebrations, reducing isolation among senior citizens. Above all, it would strengthen social bonding among residents of all age groups.

I hope the Association will consider this proposal at the earliest.

Yours sincerely,
Maya Nair

Teacher's Note:
a) Keep the format complete: sender's address, date, receiver's address, subject and salutation.
b) Cover both the problem (lack of facilities) and the benefits to different age groups within the word limit.

OR

4 B. You are Nandan Banerjee, a concerned citizen. Write a letter to the Editor of a local daily raising concern over the open burning of hospital and domestic waste in your city. Draw attention to its serious health implications, the need for scientific waste disposal practices and public awareness. [5 Marks]

Answer:
45, Lake View Apartments,
Kolkata.
15 February 2027.

The Editor,
The Daily Herald,
Kolkata.

Subject: Concern Over Open Burning of Hospital and Domestic Waste

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the attention of the civic authorities and citizens to the widespread and unchecked practice of open burning of hospital and domestic waste in our city.

Used syringes, bandages and other biomedical waste, along with household garbage, are often burnt in open plots and roadsides. This releases toxic gases into the air and contaminates soil and groundwater with ash and chemical residue, causing respiratory diseases and spreading infections, particularly harmful to children, the elderly and pregnant women.

I urge the Municipal Corporation and the Pollution Control Board to enforce scientific waste disposal protocols, introduce colour-coded bins and ensure regular garbage collection. Awareness campaigns involving RWAs and schools are also needed to educate citizens on responsible disposal.

I hope this letter draws urgent attention to the issue.

Yours truly,
Nandan Banerjee

Teacher's Note:
a) Clearly state the problem, its health impact and the solution in separate paragraphs.
b) Use a formal, persuasive tone suitable for a letter to the editor.

5 A. Read the product details mentioned on an e-commerce website for a student study desk organiser.
Multi-compartment storage with dedicated slots for books, stationery, and digital devices
Eco-friendly bamboo wood construction with non-toxic finish
Adjustable shelves to accommodate different item sizes
Compact yet spacious design suitable for a small room space
Anti-slip base prevents sliding on smooth surfaces
Available in natural wood and light oak finishes
Backed by a 5-year durability guarantee
Now, analyse why this desk organiser would be a good purchase for students.
Write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words, considering factors such as its sustainability, organisational efficiency, optimal use of space, functionality, and student appeal. [5 Marks]

Answer: This study desk organiser is a sound purchase for students who value organisation and sustainability. Its multi-compartment storage keeps books, stationery and devices separated, reducing clutter and helping students focus better. The eco-friendly bamboo construction with a non-toxic finish reflects environmental responsibility and safety, an important consideration for a sustainable lifestyle. Adjustable shelves allow customisation for items of different sizes, while the compact yet spacious design makes it ideal for small rooms without wasting space. The anti-slip base adds functional safety by preventing sliding on smooth desks. Available in attractive natural wood and light oak finishes, it also appeals visually to students. Finally, the five-year durability guarantee assures long-term value, making this organiser a practical, sustainable and student-friendly investment.

Teacher's Note:
a) An analytical paragraph examines given details and draws conclusions; it should not simply list or describe the features.
b) Cover every factor mentioned in the question (sustainability, efficiency, space, functionality, appeal) for full marks.

OR

5 B. Vikram, a student of Grade X, has been offered the position of President of his school's Debate Club, which requires 5-7 hours weekly commitment. Study the SWOT notes and write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 to evaluate whether accepting this responsibility is advisable.
Strengths: Develops public speaking and leadership skills | Creates strong network of like-minded peers | Access to debate mentors and senior members who can provide guidance and support
Weaknesses: Significant time commitment away from studies | Managing team conflicts and disagreements | Limited time available for other activities
Opportunities: Recognition and awards when representing school in state or national level competitions | Opportunity to collaborate with other school clubs for joint events | Useful for university admissions in future due to leadership experience
Threats: Risk of burnout balancing multiple responsibilities | Conflicts with board examination preparation schedule and potential decline in academic performance | Criticism or negative feedback from members [5 Marks]

Answer: Accepting the Debate Club presidency offers Vikram valuable opportunities to build leadership and public speaking skills while forming a strong network of peers, with mentorship and competition recognition strengthening future university applications. However, these benefits come with real challenges. The 5-7 hour weekly commitment directly conflicts with board examination preparation, risking academic decline and burnout, while managing team conflicts and criticism demands emotional effort. Collaborating with other clubs offers growth but further reduces time for personal interests. On balance, Vikram should accept the position only if he can manage his time carefully and keep academics as his priority; with proper planning, the leadership and networking benefits are likely to outweigh the risks involved.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use all four SWOT categories briefly instead of copying every point listed.
b) End with a clear, reasoned recommendation, since the question asks to "evaluate".

SECTION C: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)

6. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. [5 Marks]

A.

Natalya: But what's this? Why, you're in evening dress! Well, I never! Are you going to a ball or what? Though I must say you look better…Tell me, why are you got up like that?
Lomov: [excited] You see, honoured Natalya Stepanova…the fact is, I've made up my mind to ask you to hear me out…Of course you'll be surprised and perhaps even angry, but a…[aside] It's awfully cold!
Natalya: What's the matter? [pause] Well?
Lomov: I shall try to be brief: You must know, honoured Natalya Stepanova, that I have long, since my childhood, in fact, had the privilege of knowing your family. My late aunt and her husband, from whom, as you know, I inherited my land, always had the greatest respect for your father and your late mother. (The Proposal)

I. Which of the following statements best explains Natalya's attitude in the opening lines of the extract? [1 Mark]
(a) She is genuinely surprised by his formal attire and expresses sincere admiration while seeking an explanation.
(b) She mocks his formal dress with sarcasm to conceal her anxiety about his unexpected and unusual appearance.

Answer: (a) She is genuinely surprised by his formal attire and expresses sincere admiration while seeking an explanation.

Teacher's Note:
a) Her compliment "you look better" is sincere, not sarcastic.
b) Do not read hidden anxiety into her words; her curiosity is straightforward.

II. What do the ellipses (…) in Lomov's speech highlight? [1 Mark]
A. reveals his struggle to articulate his prepared thoughts
B. shows his overconfidence and casual attitude
C. demonstrates his anxiety and emotional turmoil
D. indicates a lack of intelligence and education

Answer: C. demonstrates his anxiety and emotional turmoil

Teacher's Note:
a) Ellipses show broken, hesitant speech, a sign of nervousness, not lack of intelligence.
b) Link this to his overall anxious behaviour throughout the scene.

III. Complete the following suitably.
Lomov is quite formal in his conversation with Natalya and prepares lengthy justifications because he ____________. [1 Mark]

Answer: is nervous and anxious about proposing to her, and wants to establish his worthiness and family credentials to gain her approval.

Teacher's Note:
a) Connect his formality to his nervousness about proposing marriage.
b) Mention the family background he uses to impress her.

IV. How does the author's use of stage directions such as [excited] and [aside] enhance the dramatic tension in this extract? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. [excited] reveals Lomov's true emotional state despite his formal speech, showing the gap between his outward composure and inner agitation, creating dramatic irony.
2. [aside] lets the audience see his private thoughts, making his nervousness visible and relatable while adding humour through his odd remark about the cold.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain each stage direction separately for full marks.
b) Note how stage directions create comic contrast in this farce.

OR

B.

Sweat broke out over her whole body. Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her? For the sake of this kind woman, however she decided to make an effort. She had such a soothing voice; she would not laugh at her.
"Bh-Bh-Bho-Bho," she began to stammer.
"Well done, well done," the teacher encouraged her. "Come on, now - the full name?
"Bh-Bh-Bho-Bholi." At last she was able to see it and felt relieved as if it was a great achievement.
"Well done." The teacher patted her affectionately and said, "Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else."
Bholi looked up as if to ask, "Really?" (Bholi)

I. Complete the sentence suitably.
Bholi shows some physical symptoms like sweat breaking out over her body and stammering. This shows she is ______________. [1 Mark]

Answer: extremely scared and anxious.

Teacher's Note:
a) Physical symptoms like sweating link directly to fear and nervousness.
b) Connect this to Bholi's lifelong lack of confidence caused by her stammer.

II. Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
"Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her?" The author has used this question as a narrative technique, with the aim of _________. [1 Mark]
A. convincing readers to judge Bholi
B. showcasing Bholi's inabilities
C. giving readers a peek into Bholi's thoughts
D. showing sympathy for Bholi

Answer: C. giving readers a peek into Bholi's thoughts

Teacher's Note:
a) This is an example of internal monologue technique.
b) It builds empathy by showing her inner fear directly, not by judging her.

III. The teacher's statement, "Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else." suggests that Bholi's primary obstacle is psychological rather than physical. Elaborate. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Despite her stammer, Bholi manages to say her full name once the teacher encourages her, showing that fear and anxiety, not a physical defect, are her real obstacles.
2. By addressing her emotional state with compassion and reassurance, the teacher helps Bholi overcome her stammering, proving the problem was mainly psychological.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the word "psychological" explicitly since the question demands it.
b) Support the answer with the detail that encouragement, not medical treatment, helped her speak.

IV. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
Bholi's gesture of looking up 'as if to ask, Really?' reveals a mix of _________.
(hope and hesitation/ disobedience and doubt) [1 Mark]

Answer: hope and hesitation

Teacher's Note:
a) Bholi is not being disobedient; she is unsure but hopeful about the teacher's words.
b) The word "hesitation" reflects her lifetime of low confidence.

7. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. [5 Marks]

A.

Don't eat that chocolate, Amanda!
Remember your acne, Amanda!
Will you please look at me when I'm speaking to you,
Amanda! (Amanda)

I. Complete the sentence suitably.
The speaker connects chocolate consumption to acne, which reveals her concerns regarding _______________. [1 Mark]

Answer: Amanda's physical appearance and health.

Teacher's Note:
a) The speaker links food choices to appearance, showing constant control over small details.
b) This reflects the mother's controlling, nagging nature.

II. How does the speaker's demand 'look at me when I'm speaking to you' suggest the dynamic between them? [1 Mark]
A. The speaker asserts authority which has a great influence on Amanda.
B. Amanda is defiant and the speaker feels disrespected and ignored.
C. Amanda is interested in listening to the speaker but is distracted.
D. The speaker feels insecure and anxious about losing Amanda.

Answer: B. Amanda is defiant and the speaker feels disrespected and ignored.

Teacher's Note:
a) Amanda's silence and inattention show quiet resistance to nagging.
b) The speaker's frustration comes from being ignored repeatedly.

III. Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word.
The speaker's use of 'Will you please' in the beginning of the third line suggests a _______________ rather than a demand. [1 Mark]

Answer: request

Teacher's Note:
a) "Will you please" is a polite form, though the underlying tone is still nagging.
b) Note the contrast between polite phrasing and constant instructions.

IV. Analyse how the repetition of Amanda's name and the use of exclamation marks contribute to the tone and mood of the extract. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The repetition of "Amanda" emphasises the speaker's frustration and creates an insistent, nagging quality throughout the extract.
2. The exclamation marks convey urgency and exasperation, together establishing a tone of frustrated concern and a mood of tension between the speaker and Amanda.

Teacher's Note:
a) Discuss repetition and punctuation as two separate devices.
b) Use words like "nagging", "tension" and "frustration" as they are key terms in the scheme.

OR

B.

Listen. The glass is breaking.
The trees are stumbling forward
into the night. Winds rush to meet them.
The moon is broken like a mirror,
its pieces flash now in the crown of the tallest oak. (The Trees)

I. Complete the sentence suitably.
The word 'listen' at the opening of the extract creates a sense of __________, pulling the reader directly into the dramatic manner of nature's revolt. [1 Mark]

Answer: immediacy/urgency.

Teacher's Note:
a) A single command word at the start draws the reader straight into the action.
b) Note how this sets an urgent, dramatic tone for the whole extract.

II. Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
The phrase 'stumbling forward' suggests that the trees' movement is ________. [1 Mark]
A. graceful and purposeful
B. deliberate and controlled
C. unsteady and uncertain
D. rapid and aggressive

Answer: C. unsteady and uncertain

Teacher's Note:
a) "Stumbling" suggests loss of balance, not grace or control.
b) This word choice personifies trees as struggling, awkward figures.

III. Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word.
The repeated imagery of 'breaking' in the extract suggests that it is not destruction but a/an _____________________part of any meaningful change or liberation. [1 Mark]

Answer: fundamental/inevitable

Teacher's Note:
a) "Breaking" here symbolises necessary transformation, not harm.
b) Connect this to the poem's overall theme of trees breaking free.

IV. How does the sequence of sensory experiences in the extract enhance meaning and impact readers? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The sensory progression reflects a transformation: chaos begins with the sound of glass breaking, intensifies through the visual struggle of trees stumbling forward.
2. It concludes in the visual beauty of flashing moonlight, engaging multiple senses so readers experience the moment emotionally rather than merely being informed of it.

Teacher's Note:
a) Trace the sequence from sound to movement to sight in order.
b) Emphasise "emotional immersion" as the key effect of sensory imagery.

8. Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. [12 Marks]

I. How does the poem use the 'cat metaphor' to characterise the fog's nature? (Fog) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. The fog arrives silently, like a cat's quiet footfall, settles, observes and then departs without disruption.
2. This comparison gives the fog feline qualities of mystery, aloofness and quiet observation.
3. It transforms an ordinary natural phenomenon into something unknowable, connecting living and non-living elements of nature.

Teacher's Note:
a) Focus on the silent, sudden coming and going of both cat and fog.
b) Mention that the metaphor makes the fog seem alive and mysterious.

II. The writer uses humour to simultaneously entertain readers and critique societal attitudes toward animals. Elaborate. (Mijbil the Otter) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Mijbil's tap-screwing frustration and playful mischief are comic and entertaining for readers.
2. The absurd guesses of Londoners about Mijbil's identity, and the labourer's indignant reaction, gently mock human ignorance and arrogance.
3. People's insistence on fitting Mijbil into a familiar category like "rat" critiques human disconnection from the natural world.

Teacher's Note:
a) Give one example of comic incident and one example of social critique.
b) Note that the humour works on two levels: entertainment and gentle satire.

III. How does the hailstorm function as more than just a weather event in the story? (A Letter to God) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. The hailstorm destroys Lencho's crops, creating the crisis that drives the whole story forward.
2. It becomes a test of Lencho's unwavering faith in God's help despite his loss.
3. It also becomes the catalyst for revealing the postmaster's compassion, showing that natural disaster can bring out human kindness and connection.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link the hailstorm to both faith and human kindness, the story's two main themes.
b) Avoid describing the storm only physically; focus on its narrative role.

IV. Assess how the poem's message about not judging by appearances still relevant today. (The Tale of Custard the Dragon) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Today's culture often judges people by superficial traits like appearance or first impressions, just as Custard was mocked for being a coward.
2. Custard's courage under pressure shows that true character emerges through actions, not outward appearance.
3. The poem challenges modern tendencies to form instant judgments about people's worth based on limited information.

Teacher's Note:
a) Bring in a present-day example like social media judgments for relevance.
b) End by linking Custard's bravery to the poem's timeless message.

V. Why has the writer included the legends about tea's origin-the Chinese emperor's story and Bodhidharma's tale in the narrative? (Glimpses of India- Tea from Assam) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. These legends humanise tea's history beyond mere facts and dates, adding cultural richness.
2. They show how different civilisations, Chinese and Indian, valued tea both spiritually and medicinally.
3. Including legends demonstrates that tea's significance is not purely commercial, and makes the narrative more engaging and memorable.

Teacher's Note:
a) Name both legends briefly to show familiarity with the text.
b) Emphasise "cultural meaning" as opposed to mere commercial value.

9. Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. [6 Marks]

I. Compare Hari's initial approach to Anil with his honest smile at the story's end. What does this change reveal? (The Thief's Story) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Initially, Hari manipulates Anil through calculated charm and deception to gain his trust.
2. His final smile is genuine and spontaneous, requiring no effort or pretence.
3. This contrast shows authentic change: Hari moves from viewing relationships as opportunities for exploitation to valuing genuine human connection.

Teacher's Note:
a) Contrast "calculated" versus "genuine" smiles clearly.
b) Conclude that the change is internal, not just behavioural.

II. Analyse how the writer uses irony throughout the story to convey the message that vanity and materialism lead to one's downfall. (The Necklace) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Matilda sacrifices everything to replace what she believes is a valuable necklace, which is actually worthless.
2. Ten years of poverty transform her into the very "common woman" she once despised, which is deeply ironic.
3. The final revelation that her suffering was entirely needless critiques materialism and shows how vanity leads to self-inflicted tragedy.

Teacher's Note:
a) Identify at least two separate instances of irony for full marks.
b) End with the central message about vanity and downfall as asked.

III. Why does Horace take off his gloves to give the young lady his lighter? What does this action tell us about his state of mind at that crucial moment? (A Question of Trust) [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Removing his gloves shows Horace abandoning his careful criminal protocol due to emotional manipulation by the young lady.
2. He is so eager to please her and be released that he forgets basic safety procedures like avoiding fingerprints.
3. This reveals his desperation and vulnerability; he is no longer thinking like a calculating criminal but like a desperate man seeking escape.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link the gloves directly to fingerprints and criminal caution.
b) Emphasise that this lapse shows his mind was compromised by fear of prison.

10. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. [6 Marks]

A. Valli in 'Madam Rides the Bus' and the young seagull in 'His First Flight' are protagonists of the story who undergo personal transformation. Compare and contrast how the catalysts in these stories drive the change.

Answer:
1. Both Valli and the young seagull are protagonists who undergo significant personal transformation, but through contrasting catalysts.
2. The seagull's change is driven by acute biological necessity: prolonged hunger and family isolation force instinctive action, overriding fear. His catalyst is external and involuntary, as starvation compels the desperate dive that reveals his dormant flying ability.
3. Valli's motivation, unlike the seagull's straightforward hunger, includes curiosity and a yearning for experience. Her fascination with the bus reflects a longing for independence.
4. This internal yearning for dignity and experience beyond her prescribed domestic limits acts as the catalyst for her transformation.
5. Ultimately, both catalysts function similarly: they force the protagonists to liberate suppressed potential, showing that transformation needs a force strong enough to overcome fear, whether biological desperation or the desire for independence.

Teacher's Note:
a) Discuss the catalysts separately before comparing them, as the question demands "compare and contrast".
b) End with a common conclusion linking both stories' themes of transformation.

OR

B. The poems, 'The Ball Poem' and 'Dust of Snow' capture brief moments that teach lasting lessons. How do these poems propose that momentary events generate a lasting impact?

Answer:
1. Both poems show that important learning can happen instantly rather than slowly over time.
2. When the ball falls into the water, the boy understands the permanence of loss almost immediately; when snow falls on the speaker in "Dust of Snow", the mood shift happens at once.
3. In both poems, one powerful moment seems to teach everything all at once.
4. Berryman suggests the boy will remember this moment's lesson about loss and responsibility for the rest of his life, while Frost's speaker shows that the dust of snow transforms how they see their entire day, not just a passing few minutes.
5. Neither protagonist reasons step-by-step; the boy feels loss deeply in one moment, and the speaker experiences beauty directly, showing how a single instant can generate a lasting impact.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use both poems equally and give one specific example from each.
b) Emphasise the keyword "instant/momentary yet lasting" impact throughout.

11. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. [6 Marks]

A. In the story, 'The Midnight Visitor' the 'balcony' functions as the story's central plot device, yet it never physically exists. Discuss what the balcony symbolises in the story.

Answer:
1. The balcony symbolises the power of narrative to create reality; it exists only in language, in Ausable's detailed description and Max's belief, yet it becomes more "real" than the room itself because characters act upon it.
2. Ausable constructs the balcony's existence through plausible details: explaining the building's history, describing access routes and mentioning previous intrusions.
3. The non-existent balcony reveals the story's focus on truth versus perception, since Max accepts the balcony's existence because Ausable's account matches what Max expects to find in a Parisian hotel.
4. Ultimately, the balcony represents the triumph of storytelling over material facts.
5. Ausable understands that controlling the narrative gives him absolute power over Max, so the fictional balcony becomes more consequential than any physical barrier.

Teacher's Note:
a) Focus the answer on "belief created by narrative" rather than the physical setting.
b) Explain how Ausable's calm, detailed storytelling makes the lie convincing.

OR

B. In 'The Book that Saved the Earth', Think-Tank rules Mars with absolute authority and arrogance, yet he makes ridiculous mistakes throughout the play. Evaluate how this impacts his leadership.

Answer:
1. Think-Tank represents the danger of absolute power combined with absolute ignorance; his refusal to admit errors transforms his foolishness into catastrophe.
2. Throughout the play, he mistakes books for sandwiches, then hats, then weapons, yet insists each misinterpretation proves his genius, claiming he is never wrong when corrected.
3. This pattern reveals that his intelligence becomes useless without humility.
4. His absolute authority amplifies this flaw dangerously, since no one challenges him and his crew's fearful obedience prevents any reality-check, so his errors escalate until nursery rhymes become imagined military threats.
5. By the climax, his arrogance and refusal to acknowledge mistakes drive him to panic and order Mars's evacuation, showing that unchecked power combined with foolishness creates destructive leadership, turning his massive brain into a liability rather than an asset.

Teacher's Note:
a) Give specific examples of his mistakes (sandwiches, hats, weapons) to support the evaluation.
b) Conclude with the central irony: great intelligence but poor leadership due to arrogance.