Answer Key and Solutions to Class 10 CBSE Language and Literature English Board Exam 2024

Section – A

Reading Skills

Read the Passage given below and answer the questions:

1. Read the following text :

(1) Fossil fuels (oil, coal, and natural gas) are our most traditional sources for power generation. The energy that's produced from any source other than fossil fuels is termed as alternative energy. Between the two sources, using alternative energy has a lower environmental impact.

(2) We now know that alternative energy sources are the sources we use to supplement or even replace traditional energy sources used for power generation. You could almost say the same thing about renewable energy sources. But there is one subtle difference between the two. All renewable energy sources fall under the category of alternative energy sources, but it doesn't work the other way around.

(3) That's because renewable energy sources are derived from naturally replenished sources or processes of Earth, such as the sun, wind, and water. We refer to these resources as renewable or sustainable since, unlike fossil fuels, this naturally occurring continual renewal makes them inexhaustible. However, alternative energy sources are exhaustible, and therefore not renewable. That's the difference!

(4) The equipment necessary to harness energy from alternative sources used to be so expensive that it wasn't practical for consumer use. However, thanks to increased demand, more experienced energy developers, competitive supply chains, improved renewable technologies, and enhanced energy efficiency capabilities, that's no longer the case.

(5) When it comes to energy efficiency, the leader of the renewable energy pack is wind energy. Behind wind comes geothermal energy, hydropower, nuclear energy, and then solar power. Wind power serves both individuals and entire communities. It is versatile, and can be produced from small-scale windmills or wind turbines on residential properties. It can also be produced from large-scale offshore wind farms in the ocean.

(6) We generate geothermal power by tapping into underground reservoirs of hot water and steam. Geothermal electricity can directly heat and cool buildings. Generated from the energy of moving water, hydroelectricity (also known as hydropower) is produced when water behind a dam causes turbine blades to move as it flows through an intake. The turbine blades then rotate a generator to produce electricity that is sent to power homes.

(7) Nuclear energy is created in the form of heat through the fission process of atoms. The initial fission process creates energy and triggers a chain reaction that repeats the process and generates more energy. In nuclear power plants, the heat that fission produces creates steam. The steam then rotates a turbine, which leads to the production of electricity.

(8) Solar power most commonly refers to the use of solar cells to create energy. On a small scale, you may see a few solar panels on a house roof used to produce energy for just that one home. On a larger scale, you may see a solar farm used as a power plant to produce electricity for its consumers.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Which of the following statements best describes the difference between renewable energy sources and alternate energy sources?

• (A) Alternative energy sources are more expensive than renewable energy sources.

• (B) Renewable energy sources are inexhaustible whereas alternate energy sources could be exhaustible.

• (C) Alternative energy sources are as renewable as renewable energy sources.

• (D) Renewable energy sources are exhaustible but alternative energy sources are inexhaustible.

(B) Renewable energy sources are inexhaustible whereas alternate energy sources could be exhaustible.

(ii) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from para 4? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.

"However, thanks to increased demand, more experienced energy developers, competitive supply chains, improved renewable technologies and enhanced energy efficiency capabilities, that's no longer the case".

The tone of the writer seems optimistic and informative. The writer appreciates the positive changes in the field of alternative energy, indicating more efficiency, affordability and advancements that make it a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The tone suggests both hope and progress in energy alternatives.

(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately:

In the past, alternative energy resources were not used much by the consumers because the equipment necessary to harness energy from alternative sources used to be so expensive that it wasn't practical for consumer use.

(iv) The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a) to (e) below, identify two sets of antonyms:

• (a) generate and produce

• (b) exhaustible and inexhaustible

• (c) subtle and versatile

• (d) power and energy

• (e) Sustainable and exhaustible

(b) exhaustible and inexhaustible

(e) Sustainable and exhaustible

(v) Who is the leader of renewable energy pack and why?

Wind energy is the leader of the renewable energy pack due to its energy efficiency. It can serve both individuals and entire communities and can be produced using different scales of equipment, from small-scale windmills or wind turbines on residential properties to large-scale offshore wind farms in the ocean.

(vi) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, the difference between geothermal electricity and hydroelectricity.

Geothermal electricity is generated by tapping into underground reservoirs of hot water and steam, which can directly heat and cool buildings. Hydroelectricity, on the other hand, is generated using the energy of moving water, typically from a dam, to rotate a turbine and produce electricity.

(vii) What is the message conveyed by the passage?

• (A) Only those energy sources should be used which are renewable.

• (B) Wind energy is a renewable as well as inexhaustible source of energy.

• (C) There are plenty of renewable energy sources that can be used to replace traditional energy sources.

• (D) Alternative energy sources are the emerging energy trends and are still evolving.

(viii) State whether the following statement is True or False with reference to the given extract.

Hydroelectricity as a renewable energy source is used for residential as well as commercial purposes.

True

2. Read the following text, an excerpt from a case study titled "Scouts and Guides Around the World."

(1) Many young people aged between 6 and 25 belong to the Scout movement. It is a worldwide organization, which was set up to help young people achieve their full potential as they grow up.

2) The organization was established in 1907 by a British general called Robert Baden-Powell. While in the army, he wrote a publication about scouting (which means searching and keeping watch) and how to survive in the wild, called 'Aids to Scouting'. He realized how popular this was, and the result was another book, 'Scouting for Boys', which had less emphasis on the military. To test his ideas, he held a week-long camp for 21 boys from various schools in London, Poole and Bournemouth. This took place in August 1907, on Brownsea Island, in Southern England. These boys had the chance to enjoy outdoors, which became another of the movement's objectives.

(3) The Scout Movement quickly got established in Europe. It then spread throughout the world, starting in Chile in 1909. To begin with, the focus was on boys aged 11 to 18 . However, as the movement grew, it was clear that younger boys, older boys and girls all wanted to be involved too. Baden-Powell's sister set up the Girl Guides in 1910, and in 1914 she started Rosebuds, later renamed Brownies, for younger girls. The movement's intention to help young people play useful roles in society applies equally to girls and boys. By 2010 , there were 32 million scouts, and by 2006 , there were 10 million guides around the world, from a total of 216 different countries.

(4) 2007 marked 100 years of the Scout Movement, and events took place around the world to celebrate this centenary. To mark the occasion, a colourful badge was produced for scouts to sew onto their uniforms or bags. The design included the official scout emblem, as well as the phrase, 'one world one promise', and images of doves and the globe.

(5) 2007 was also the 150th anniversary of Baden-Powell's birth. To honour both occasions, a flame was lit at Baden-Powell's grave in Nyeri. This is the place in Kenya where he spent the last few years of his life. The flame was then carried through several countries until it reached the UK.

Answer the following questions based on your reading of the above passage :

(i) Infer one reason for the following, based on the information given in paragraph 4 :

'Colourful badge was sewn on to the uniform and bags of the Scouts'.

One reason for this could be to commemorate and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Scout Movement. The colourful badge was a symbolic way to mark this significant milestone.

(ii) From paragraph 1, we can infer that Scout Movement was set up to help young people aged between 6 and 25 achieve their full potential as they grow up.

(iii) Complete the following analogy correctly with a word/phrase from paragraph 4.

10 years : decade : : 100 years : century

(iv) After reading the passage, bring a contrast between the books 'Aids to Scouting' and 'Scouting for Boys'.

'Aids to Scouting', written by Robert Baden-Powell during his time in the army, focused on scouting in the context of war, specifically on searching and keeping watch, as well as survival in the wild. In contrast, 'Scouting for Boys' had less emphasis on the military aspect. Instead, it was geared more towards the broader idea of scouting, encapsulating outdoor activities, and it became the foundation for the Scout movement.

(v) What does the writer mean by the following phrase?

'One world one promise.'

The phrase 'one world one promise' signifies unity and shared commitment among the worldwide Scout community. Regardless of their different cultures, countries, or backgrounds, all Scouts share the same promise, which is to do their best, to do their duty to God and the country, help other people, and to obey the Scout Law.

(vi) According to the chart, which country took maximum time to introduce 'Guiding' after 'Scouting' ? Choose your answer from the options given below :

• (A) India

• (B) Indonesia

• (C) Thailand

• (D) Philippines

(vii) List two reasons a flame was lit at Baden-Powell's grave in 2007.

1) To honor the 100th anniversary of the Scout Movement.

2) To mark the 150th anniversary of Baden-Powell's birth.

(viii) Fill in the blank by selecting the correct option :

The establishment of Scout movement from 1907 to 2006 showed _____ results.

• (A) uniform

• (B) encouraging

• (C) inconsistent

• (D) disappointing

Section - B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills

Grammar

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

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

Sir

Attached is the invoice that details (detail) the expenses incurred during the team's business trip to Tribogh.

(ii) Read the given sentence from a recipe review article. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence.

The upma recipe was so delicious that I couldn't barely stop myself from having a second helping.

Use the given format for your response.

(iii) Mahi and Pankaj had a conversation about volunteer work. Report Mahi's question.

• Mahi: How do you balance your volunteer work with your personal life?

• Pankaj: I set a particular time for volunteering and ensure I have enough time for my personal activities.

Mahi asked Pankaj how he balanced his volunteer work with his personal life.

(iv) Read the dialogue between Rita and Jeetu about a hobby course.

• Rita: Why did you decide to take up painting?

• Jeetu : I view painting as a form of self-expression and relaxation.

Select the option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue.

Rita asked Jeetu why he had decided to take up painting. Jeetu calmly explained that ______ self-expression and relaxation.

(A) he views painting as a form of

(B) he has viewed painting as a form of

(C) he viewed painting as a form of

(D) he is viewing painting as a form of

(v) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete an issued circular by an organization, to its Managers.

Attached is the new company policy on remote work and it (it / these / them) should be distributed to all employees as soon as possible.

(vi) Identify the error and supply correction for the given sentence from a technology company's product description.

Our latest software solution is designed for help businesses streamline their operations.

(vii) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the public health campaign.

Our goal is to promoting healthier meal choices in schools and at home.

(D)

(viii) Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option.

My visit to the historical museum left me ______________ deeply appreciative of our ancestors' struggles and achievements.

(A) being

(B) was

(C) been

(D) to be

(ix) Report the dialogue between a vendor and his customer, by completing the sentence:

• Vendor: It seems like you're in a hurry today!

• Customer: Yes, I have to pick up my daughter at school soon.

The vendor noticed his customer's sense of urgency and asked about it. The customer confirmed this and explained that he had to pick up his daughter at school soon.

(x) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the sentence to share the latest update on the school art competition.

Our talented young artists have done us proud once again as our school's art team ____ the top spot in the state-level competition.

(A) won (B) win (C) is winning (D) has win

(xi) Complete the sentence from the song, by filling in the blank with the correct option :

The frosty winter mourns your absence,

The snow flakes and ice ________ your warmth.

The fireplace flickers in longing,

As the cold night awaits your returns.

(A) crave

(B) craves

(C) craved

(D) shall crave

(xii) Identify the error and supply the correction for this line from a sociological research paper.

There's a significant correlation of low income and high crime rates.

Use the given format for your response.

Creative Writing Skills

4. (a) The bursting of the sewage pipe in your colony has led to an overflow of sewage making it impossible to travel on A2 and A3 streets of your colony. The stench is unbearable and the colony gates have to be closed leading to traffic jams. In addition, the overflowing sewage water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. As secretary RWA, you have been repeatedly complaining to the civic authorities but to no avail.

You are Shanti / Shantam of Kanchan Vihar. Write a letter to your local MLA requesting immediate action.

[Your Address]
Kanchan Vihar,
City, State, Zipcode,

Date

[Recipient's Address]
Shri/Shrimati [MLA's Name]
Office address
City, State, Zipcode

Subject: Request for Immediate Attention to Overflows of Sewage

Respected sir,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. My name is [Shanti/Shantam], the secretary of the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) in Kanchan Vihar. I am writing to you on behalf of the residents concerning the serious issue of our overflowing sewage system.

The sewage pipe in our colony burst a few days ago which has led to an uncontrollable overflow of sewage in the A2 and A3 streets. The situation has worsened to such an extent that it's virtually impossible for our residents to commute through these areas owing to the unbearable stench and the unsanitary condition of the environment. Moreover, the gate of the colony had to be closed due to the mess, causing a severe traffic jam in the surrounding areas.

In addition to that, the overflowing sewage is also posing as a significant health risk to our community. The standing water is becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to concerns about the spread of serious diseases like dengue, malaria and others.

Over the past week, we have contacted the local civic authorities through multiple channels and lodged complaints about the issue but unfortunately, all our endeavors have been in vain, as no action has been taken thus far.

As our local MLA, we're hopeful that you could take this matter seriously and ensure that the civic authorities address our problem without any further delay. The health and well-being of our residents are at stake, and as such, we need immediate intervention from your end to resolve this pressing issue.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Yours Faithfully,

[Your Name]
Secretary, Resident Welfare Association
Kanchan Vihar
[Your Contact Information]

OR

(b) As President of the Mountaineering Club of your school, you wish to organize a weekend trek to Kempty Falls. You are Pratibha Prateek. Write a letter to the Director, Outdoor Adventures mentioning your proposed travel dates, number of students and teacher escorts. Find out about the mode of travel options, boarding, lodging, trekking gear, camping facilities and cost.

[Your Address]
Your School's Mountaineering Club,
City, State, Zipcode,
Date

[Recipient's Address]
Director, Outdoor Adventures,
Office Address
City, State, Zipcode

Subject: Inquiry about Weekend Trek to Kempty Falls

Dear Director,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am Pratibha Prateek, the President of the Mountaineering Club at [Your School's Name]. Our club has a long history of providing our students with enriching treks and mountain adventure trips.

We are writing to inquire about arranging a weekend trek to Kempty Falls, a popular site that our club members have selected for our next venture. The proposed travel dates are from [start date] to [end date], and we expect around [number of students] students to participate, escorted by [number of teachers] teachers.

To ensure our trip goes smoothly, we would appreciate if you could provide us with detailed information regarding your services, facilities and costs. Specifically, we would like information about the following areas:

1. Mode of Travel: What transport options are available for our group to travel from our school to Kempty Falls?

2. Boarding and Lodging: What type of accommodation options do you offer? Are meals included?

3. Trekking Gear: Is trekking gear provided by Outdoor Adventures or are participants expected to bring their own?

4. Camping Facilities: Can you provide information about the camping facilities, and whether any training or instructions will be given to our students?

5. Cost: Kindly provide a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved including any group discounts that may be applicable for a school group of our size.

We eagerly look forward to this adventure and believe that it will prove to be an enriching experience for our students. We hope to provide them not only with the thrill of the trek but also impart valuable life lessons of discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

Thank you for considering our request. We are looking forward to your prompt reply with the above mentioned information in order to plan and organise the trip in the best possible way.

Yours sincerely,

Pratibha Prateek

Enclosed: Self-addressed envelope

5. (a) The data given below represents the percentage of some of the electronic devices used in India. Summarize and analyse the data in about 120 words. Give all necessary details and compare the segments where relevant.

OR

(b) Based on the following extract, write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words :

"One of the biggest changes in our lives over the past decade is the ability to order items online and have them delivered to our doorstep. The prevalence of this raises an important question of how it affects our environment. Though buyers conserve fuel and reduce emissions from their vehicles, it is replaced by additional mileage of truck routes. Also a large amount of wastage is generated from packaging such as cardboard boxes, bubble wraps, plastic bags etc." You may begin like this :

As a responsible citizen, I believe .....

You may end like this :

For these reasons, I believe, we need to limit the wastage associated with online shopping.

Section - C: Literature

6. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any ONE of the given two.

(a) Tenth May dawned bright and clear. For the past few days, I had been pleasantly besieged by dignitaries and world leaders who were coming to pay their respects before the inauguration. The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African soil. The ceremonies took place in the lovely sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union buildings in Pretoria. For decades this had been the seat of white supremacy, and now it was the site of rainbow gathering of different colours and nations for the installation of South Africa's first democratic non racial government.                         (Nelson Mandela - Long Walk to Freedom)

(i) What do you infer from the following statement?

"The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African Soil."

From the statement "The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African Soil", it can be inferred that the inauguration ceremony is an extremely significant event, attracting the attention of world leaders, indicating it may be a turning point or important moment in the history of South Africa.

(ii) Explain in about 40 words the effective shift from white supremacy to a rainbow gathering.

The transition from white supremacy to a rainbow gathering signifies the end of racial segregation and dominance by whites in South Africa. The "rainbow gathering" signifies unity and inclusion and that all races, colors, and nations are now equal and welcome, signifying the start of democratic and non-racial government.

(iii) Which phrase would correctly substitute 'pleasantly besieged' in the given sentence from that extract

The phrase that could correctly substitute 'pleasantly besieged' in the given sentence could be 'delightfully surrounded' or 'agreeably inundated'.

(iv) State true or false with reference to the given extract.

In the past the 'amphitheatre' had been a seat for theatrical performances.

False. The 'amphitheatre' in the given extract does not refer to a place for theatrical performances in the past. Rather, it refers to the Union Buildings in Pretoria which had been the seat of white supremacy.

OR

(b) Anyone could ramble on and leave big spaces between the words, but the trick was to come up with convincing arguments to prove the necessity of talking. I thought and suddenly I had an idea. I wrote the three pages, Mr. Keesing had assigned me and was satisfied. I argued that talking is a students' trait and that I would do my best to keep it under control, but that I would never be able to cure myself of the habit since my mother talked as much as I did if not more, and that there's not much you can do about inherited traits.  (From the Diary of Annie Frank)

(i) State any one inference about Anne from the given context.

"Anyone could ramble on and leave big spaces between the Words, but the trick was to come up with convincing arguments to prove the necessity of talking."

The given context suggests that Anne was a clever and reflective individual. She understood the importance of presenting logical arguments to validate her actions rather than merely offering excuses.

(ii) In about 40 words, elaborate on the justification Anne gives for her talkative nature.

Anne justifies her talkative nature by arguing that being talkative is a trait inherent among students – it's part of their character to be lively and expressive. Furthermore, she links her talkativeness to heredity, suggesting it's an inherited trait from her mother, implying that it's a natural aspect of her personality that is difficult to change.

(iii) Which one of the following best describes the tone of the given extract?

• (A) derogatory

• (B) persuasive

• (C) nostalgic

• (D) cautionary

(iv) Which phrase would correctly substitute ‘ramble on’ in the given sentence from the extract? 

"speak at length in a confused or inconsequential way"

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

(a) He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,

In his quiet rage

(i) Explain the contrast created by the words, 'stalks' and 'few steps of his cage'. 

The word 'stalks' suggests a powerful, purposeful, and potentially threatening movement, typically associated with predators in the wild, demonstrating their freedom and dominance. However, this powerful action is confined to the "few steps of his cage," creating a stark contrast that highlights the limitations imposed on the tiger, restricting its natural behaviors and freedom.

(ii) Which of the following best describes the tiger’s feelings in the context

(a) anger              (b) conflicted      (c) pessimism     (d) apprehension

(iii) Comment in about 40 words on the poet’s use of imagery in the above extract.

The poet’s use of imagery in this extract vividly captures the tiger’s condition and emotions. Describing the tiger's movement as stalking "in vivid stripes" on "pads of velvet quiet," conjures a clear, visual image of the tiger's majestic yet restrained presence. The juxtaposition of the tiger's silent, graceful movement against the backdrop of his "quiet rage" effectively communicates the simmering anger and frustration of a magnificent creature trapped within the confines of a cage.

(iv) Which word in the stanza means the same as ‘clear and bright’?

"vivid"

OR

(b) And no one buys a ball back, Money is external
He is learning, well behind his desperate eyes
The epistemology of loss, how to standup.

(i) When the poet says that "no one buys a ball back", what does he refer to in the context of the poem?

When the poet says that "no one buys a ball back," he is referring to the irrevocable nature of loss. In the context of the poem, it symbolizes that certain things, once gone, cannot be retrieved or replaced, highlighting the permanence of some losses in life.

(ii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate option :

The lines from the poem tell us that the boy is experiencing…………………..

(A) distress                         (B) terror             (C) realisation                    (D) elation

(iii) What is the significance of the term "desperate" used to describe the boy's eyes in the poem, and how does it contribute to the overall mood and tone of the poem?     2

The term "desperate" used to describe the boy's eyes signifies a deep sense of loss and an earnest desire to reclaim what has been lost, conveying a sense of helplessness and sadness. It contributes to the overall mood and tone of the poem by evoking a feeling of empathy from the reader, as it captures the profound impact of loss and the struggle to come to terms with it, adding depth to the emotional landscape portrayed in the poem.

(iv) Identify and discuss the poet's use of metaphor in the poem "The Ball Poem".           1

The poet's use of metaphor in "The Ball Poem" is pivotal, as the lost ball represents much more than a physical object; it symbolizes the boy's first encounter with loss and grief. The ball, thus, becomes a metaphor for innocence, the carefree nature of childhood, and the things in life that are lost and cannot be replaced. This metaphor extends to teach a broader lesson about growing up and learning to handle loss, suggesting that such experiences are integral to personal development and understanding the value of what we hold dear.

8. Answer any FOUR of the following questions in 40-50 words each.

(i) Explain the irony in the chapter, "A Letter to God".

The irony in "A Letter to God" lies in the protagonist's unwavering faith in divine intervention for financial assistance, only for his prayers to be answered by human actions. His belief that God would send him money is met, not through a miraculous event, but by the post office workers who, moved by his faith, collect money to send to him. The irony intensifies when the protagonist, upon receiving less money than he asked for, blames God's intermediaries for the shortfall, never doubting divine benevolence but failing to recognize the human compassion that answered his prayers.

(ii) "During our childhood in Goa, the baker used to be our friend, companion and guide." What does this statement imply in relation to the character of the baker?               (Glimpses of India)

This statement implies that the baker played a significant role in the community, transcending his professional duties. His presence was not just about delivering bread; he was an integral part of the social fabric, forming deep connections with families, especially children. He symbolized warmth, comfort, and guidance, indicating his cherished place in people's hearts beyond merely being a provider of goods. The baker's character is depicted as nurturing and friendly, embodying a sense of nostalgia and communal spirit characteristic of Goan villages.

(iii) It is our attitude towards a situation that makes it positive or negative. Do you agree with it? Express your views with reference to the poem 'Dust of Snow'.

I agree that our attitude significantly influences our perception of situations, resonant with the message in "Dust of Snow." The poem illustrates how a simple, seemingly insignificant moment—a crow shaking snow from a hemlock tree onto the narrator—alters his mood and outlook for the day. This encounter, though minor, shifts the narrator's perspective, turning his day positive. It underscores how embracing moments, regardless of their simplicity, can change our outlook, highlighting the power of attitude in transforming our experiences from negative to positive.

(iv) Belinda and other animals have been described as brave. But on seeing the pirate they behaved in a cowardly way. How did they react? (A Tale of Custard, The Dragon)

When faced with the pirate, Belinda and the other animals, despite being described as brave, reacted cowardly. Belinda ran into the closet, the kitten Ink and the mouse Blink hid themselves away, and the dog Mustard fled under the bed. Their reactions starkly contrasted their purported bravery, highlighting Custard the dragon’s true courage as he confronted and defeated the pirate, showcasing that true bravery emerges in the face of danger.

(v) Flying is a natural act in birds. Then why was the young seagull 'exhausted by the strange exercise'? Justify the given statement with reference to baby seagull's fear. (His First Flight)

The young seagull was 'exhausted by the strange exercise' because, despite flying being natural for birds, it was his very first attempt at flying. Fueled by his fear of falling and failing, the initial exertion felt overwhelming. His exhaustion stemmed more from the mental and emotional energy spent overcoming his deep-rooted fear than from the physical act of flying itself.

9. Answer any TWO out of the three questions, in 40-50 words each :

(i) Do you think Bholi could have confidently refused to marry Bishamber if she wasn't educated ? Give reasons. (Bholi)

No, Bholi would not have had the confidence to refuse the marriage to Bishamber without her education. The story suggests that education gave her voice and courage as Bholi was previously teased and belittled for her stammer. Education empowered Bholi, enabling her to recognize her self-worth and stand against the unfair treatment of being sold off to a greedy and uncaring man. The knowledge and belief that she had a future as a schoolteacher allowed her to reject the marriage confidently.

(ii) Who was Henry? What role did he play in Ausable's plan? (The Midnight Visitor)

Henry was the waiter at the hotel where Ausable and Fowler were staying. He played a crucial role in Ausable's plan of creating an illusion that the police were at the door. His arrival startled Max, their unexpected guest, and led him to escape through the window, unaware that there was no balcony. It resulted in Max inadvertently taking care of himself.

(iii) Horace Danby was a typical thief. Describe how he planned his work. (A Question of Trust)

Horace Danby planned his work meticulously. He would study his target house carefully, noting its electric wiring, its rooms and the layout. He ensured he alone while committing the act. He wore gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints. His method included identifying the safe's location, cutting the burglar alarm's wire, and opening the safe with his lock-making skills. He also had a knack for handling pets in the houses he burgled.

10.   Answer any ONE of the following questions, in 100-120 words.                   6

(a) Valli was sensitive, but at the same time, she was fearless and quite determined. Think of another character from your text book, who displayed similar character traits.

Compare and contrast the lives of Valli and the other character, that you have chosen from the text of Two Stories about Flying.

You may begin this way.

The characters who are fearless and determined from two texts are Valli and

(Reference : Madam Rides a Bus & Two Stories about Flying)

The characters who are fearless and determined from two texts are Valli from "Madam Rides the Bus" and the young seagull from "His First Flight" in "Two Stories about Flying". Both these characters exhibit remarkable courage and determination, overcoming their fears and embarking on ventures that mark significant milestones in their lives.

Valli, a young girl, is fascinated by the idea of riding the bus and exploring the world outside her village. Despite being only eight years old and without informing any adult, she plans her journey meticulously, saves money, and takes the bus to town, all by herself. On the other hand, the young seagull in "His First Flight" is initially depicted as timid and fearful, hesitating to make his first flight off the ledge. Unlike Valli, who embarks on her journey out of a sense of adventure, the seagull is driven by a more basic instinct – the necessity to fly. Pressured by hunger and encouraged by his family, he ultimately overcomes his fear, takes the leap, and discovers the exhilaration of flying.

Comparing the two, one can see both contrasts and similarities in their experiences. Valli's journey is driven by curiosity and a desire for independence, rooted in a child-like fascination with the bus and the world beyond her village.

OR

b) Based on your understanding of the Play 'The Proposal', what do you think of relationships ? Prepare a speech draft on relationships based on Natalya's and Anne Frank's characters.

You may begin this way.

Good morning everyone.

Relationships are the bond between two people based on mutual likes, understanding, need or love. I'd like to discuss relationships as portrayed in the two texts

You may end this way

To conclude, I'd like to say that

Thank you,

(Reference: The Proposal & from the Diary of Anne Frank)

Good morning everyone.

Relationships are the bond between two people based on mutual likes, understanding, need, or love. Today, I'd like to delve into the nuances of relationships as portrayed in "The Proposal" by Anton Chekhov, featuring Natalya, and "from the Diary of Anne Frank", highlighting Anne Frank's perspective.

Natalya's relationship dynamics in "The Proposal" humorously underscore the complexities and absurdities that sometimes underpin our interactions. Her character, embroiled in arguments over land and petty disputes, reflects how pride and misunderstanding can overshadow the essence of relationships, namely love and companionship. On the flip side, Anne Frank, in her diary, offers a poignant view of relationships forged under the shadow of adversity. Her reflections showcase resilience, the capacity for love, understanding, and hope even in the bleakest times.

The stark contrast between Natalya's and Anne's circumstances and their handling of relationships illuminate a spectrum of human connections. From Chekhov's satirical portrayal to Anne's heartfelt confessions, we discern that relationships, in any form, require a foundation of understanding, patience, and sometimes, a willingness to look beyond our flaws.

To conclude, I'd like to say that whether it's in the comedic setting of a Russian estate or the concealed quarters of a wartime annex, relationships are our mirror, reflecting our best and worst, reminding us of our humanity. Thank you.

11. Answer any ONE of the following two questions in 100-120 words.

Hari Singh says -- "He knew it, but neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything." Anil successfully addressed the situation by not addressing it all. Elaborate based on your reading of 'The Thief's Story)

Anil's reaction to the theft committed by Hari Singh, truly reflects his strength of character and wisdom. Anil chooses not to confront Hari directly, assuming a confrontation would lead Hari back onto the path of thievery and deceit due to guilt and fear. Instead, Anil provides Hari with an opportunity to confess and make amends by aware of giving the same drenched note that Hari had stolen and then secretly returned.

This approach reaffirms Anil's trust in Hari, making him more remorseful of his actions. Instead of pushing him further into his life of crime, Anil provides an opportunity for repentance and reformation. Anil creates an environment of trust and teaches Hari the values of honesty, care, and responsibility, showing that they are more valuable than easy money.

OR

Griffin's Brilliance as a man of Science fades before his darker traits. Give reasons from the text to support your answers. (Footprints without feet)

Griffin, despite being a brilliant scientist who discovers the revolutionary method of attaining transparency, exhibits several ignoble traits. His lawlessness, as evident from setting fire to his landlord’s house, casts a bleak light on his character. The scene at the London store where he exploits his invisibility for personal gain, indulging in theft and unwarranted consumption, further reveals his disregard for social norms. His deceit of expecting a cheque when he was out of money and the allegations of his involvement in the burglary at the clergyman's house provide concrete evidence of his unethical behaviour. Subsequently, Griffin assaults the shopkeeper to escape unnoticed, demonstrating his violent tendencies. His impulsive and aggressive behaviour throughout shows that Griffin's scientific genius is unfortunately overshadowed by his darker traits.