CBSE Class 10 English Language and Literature (184) Sample Question Paper 2024-25 with Marking Scheme / Solution - PDF Download
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code 184) - SQP and Marking Scheme
(Session 2024-25)
Time allowed : 3 hours
Maximum Marks : 80
General Instructions : Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follw them:
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question paper contains THREE sections-
Section - A : Reading Skills
Section - B : Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
Section - C : Literature Text Book
3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
SECTION - A
READING SKILLS (20 Marks)
1. Read the following passage carefully :
(1) Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is often taken for granted. Despite its abundance, the reality is that only a small fraction of the world’s water is fresh and available for human use. With increasing populations, climate change, and industrial demands, the pressure on our water resources is growing. This makes water conservation not just a collective responsibility but a crucial individual duty. Each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource for future generations
(2) One of the primary reasons individual water conservation efforts are so important is the cumulative effect of small actions which may seem trivial on their own. However, when multiplied by millions of people, these actions can lead to substantial water savings. For example, a single dripping tap can waste over 15 litres of water a day. Imagine the water saved if every household in a city repaired just one leaky faucet. This highlights the power of collective individual actions in reducing water waste.
(3) Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness and education. When individuals take steps to conserve water, they become more conscious of their water usage and the importance of this resource. This awareness can then spread within communities, inspiring others to adopt similar practices. For instance, a family that installs water-saving devices in their home may encourage neighbours and friends to do the same, creating a ripple effect. This grassroots approach to conservation can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to implement or lacking in support.
(4) In addition to daily habits, individuals can also make a difference through more significant lifestyle choices. For instance, opting for drought-resistant plants in gardens and supporting water-efficient agriculture can all contribute to water conservation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is one of the largest consumers of water globally. By supporting sustainable farming practices, individuals can indirectly reduce the water footprint of their food.
(5) Critics might argue that individual efforts are negligible compared to the large-scale water consumption by industries and agriculture. However, this perspective overlooks the potential for individual actions to drive systemic change. When people collectively make water-conscious choices, they send a powerful message to businesses and policymakers about the importance of conservation.
(6) Each person’s commitment to saving water, no matter how small, contributes to a larger culture of sustainability. By making conscious choices and spreading awareness, individuals can help ensure that future generations have access to the clean, fresh water they need to thrive. Water conservation is not just the responsibility of governments and industries; it is a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Created for Academic Usage / 441 words
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource’ emphasise?
Ans: It emphasises that personal responsibility is crucial in preserving water resources for future generations / that individual actions, though small, collectively contribute to a substantial impact on water conservation.
II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given.
Water is often taken for granted, despite its essential nature because _____.
a) it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage
b) its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value (paragraph 1)
III. Support the writer's idea that small individual actions towards water conservation are not trivial. (paragraph 2)
Ans: The writer's idea is supported by the fact that small actions, while minor on their own, can accumulate into substantial water savings when adopted by many people. This collective impact illustrates how individual efforts, though seemingly insignificant, are essential for achieving broader conservation goals and highlights the importance of widespread participation in water-saving practices. [The response requires evaluation/ justification rather than summarization/ explanation]
IV. Select the option that best reflects the concept of a ‘ripple effect’ in the context of student life at school.
a) A student’s act of volunteering at a local charity leads to the school administration organising a large-scale fundraising event.
b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class. (paragraph 3)
V. State whether the following statement is True or False. (paragraph 3)
Ans: True [large-scale initiatives take longer time to implement , so the writer recommends grassroot efforts]
VI. The writer mentions ‘sustainable farming practices’ in paragraph 4. Which of the following is a sustainable farming practice?
A. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides extensively to increase crop yields.
B. Clearing large areas of natural vegetation to expand farmland for organic farming.
C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
D. Relying solely on monoculture farming to maximise production efficiency.
VII. List any two points that a powerful message sent to businesses and policy makers about the importance of water conservation might include. (paragraph 5)
Ans: 1. Stress the need for businesses to implement water-efficient technologies and methods to reduce their overall water consumption.
2. Highlight the necessity for policymakers to create and enforce regulations that promote water conservation and address water management issues more effectively.
VIII. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given. (paragraph 6) In the phrase ‘culture of sustainability,’ the word ‘culture’ refers to .
A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
B. The artistic and traditional practices specific to a community's heritage.
C. The lifestyle habits and choices that are popular among the urbane
D. The techniques and methods used in development efforts
2. Read the following passage carefully :
(1) A thorough study conducted across several villages of north-west India unveiled fascinating insights into the mural* landscape. It revealed that a significant majority, comprising around 80%, of these vibrant artworks are meticulously crafted by the villagers themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem from collaborative endeavours between villagers and local or visiting artists.
(2) Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5%, of the murals are the result of sponsored initiatives, often commissioned by governmental or non-governmental organisations. These murals convey social messages ranging from education and environmental conservation to public health awareness.
(3) Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. About 26 % of these murals showcase daily life in the villages, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and victory. The remaining 19% feature abstract or contemporary themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in rural settings.
(4) Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on the walls of community centres, temples, and other public spaces. Around 27 % adorn the exterior walls of residential houses. The remaining 10% are scattered across schools, health centres, and other institutional buildings, serving as educational tools and sources of inspiration for the younger generation.
(5) To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact are crucial. Analysing these facets not only provides a comprehensive understanding of mural creation in northwest Indian villages but also unveils avenues for cultural preservation, community development, and creative expression.
* a large painting or artwork that is typically created directly on a wall or ceiling
Created for academic usage/252 words
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
I. What does the use of the phrase 'fascinating insights' by the writer, in paragraph 1, tell us about their feelings?
A. The writer is expressing surprise.
B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.
C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
D. The writer is showing disappointment.
II. Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion: The murals in northwest Indian villages are meticulously crafted.
Reason: The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.
A. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
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 the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals?
Ans: Surprisingly
IV. How do the murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness?
Ans: The murals serve as visual platforms for conveying important social messages, such as education, environmental conservation, and public health awareness / The murals not only beautify the village but also serve as educational tools and sources of inspiration, nurturing community engagement and promoting awareness of pressing issues
V. Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank.
In Hari's village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on the Panchayat office wall.
The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is. (26% / 19% / 55%)
Ans: 19% (category that features abstract or contemporary themes)
VI. What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural priorities in northwest Indian villages?
Ans: Indicates - A deep-rooted connection to cultural heritage, as a significant portion (55%) of murals depict scenes from mythology and folklore / a desire to celebrate and preserve traditional narratives and values
VII. Complete the sentence suitably.
The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses highlight.
Ans: ...the integration of art into everyday life / artistic skills of village folk / inclination to decorate exterior walls with local art/ pursue a form of artistic expression (accept any other logically relevant)
VIII. Complete the following with a suitable reason.
The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational tool’ is because it can ______.
Ans: ...convey information through vivid imagery and symbols, making complex topics easier to understand and remember
IX. In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact in understanding the mural landscape in northwest Indian villages.
Ans: *A holistic understanding of mural creation
*Researchers can -
> identify trends
> assess the significance of different themes
> understand the involvement of the community in mural projects
> evaluate the overall impact of murals on cultural preservation and community development
SECTION - B
GRAMMAR AND CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (20 Marks)
GRAMMAR
3. Complete any ten of the following twelve tasks, as directed.
I. Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal letter: Dear Mr. Patel,
We are pleased to inform you that your proposal for the upcoming project by the board of directors _______.
A. had endorsed
B. will have been endorsed
C. has been endorsed
D. have endorsed
II. Read the given sentence from a marketing report. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given format.
The company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands.
-image-
Ans: strives - strive
III. Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak.
Have you finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow? Report Rhea’s question correctly
Ans: Rhea asked her colleague if he had finalised the magazine content to be submitted the following / next day.
IV. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete an official announcement.
Attention all prefects,
Please be informed that the deadline for submitting your registrations for participation in the Art Exhibition has been extended; (that/ these/ this) should be communicated to all students of classes IX-X.
Ans: this
V. Read Sana’s reply to her team leader, regarding the preparation of an important presentation.
I’m sorry I forgot ma’am. I’ll have the presentation ready for you very soon today. Report Sana’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly.
Sana apologised for having forgotten and said.
Ans: ...that she would have the presentation ready for her very soon that day
VI. Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from an online news report: Nearly most shop was closed for the public holiday.
Option No. Error Correction
A most every
B shop shops
C was were
D the that
VII. Complete the given school announcement by selecting the correct option to fill in the blank.
Good news, everyone!
Our school's robotics team has successfully ______ a place in the semi-finals.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secured
VIII. Detect the error and supply the correction for the given observation by a child. That needn’t be Dad’s jacket. It’s too small. (Error- Correction)
Ans: needn’t - can’t
IX. Report the dialogue between a teacher and a student, by completing sentence. Teacher: Did everyone understand the new assignment?
Students: Yes, we all got it, thank you!
The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which the students _____ , expressing their gratitude.
Ans: responded/ replied affirmatively
X. Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from a handbook for managers. The manager _____ consider the proposal before making a decision.
A. will
B. should
C. might
D. can
XI. Complete the given sentence about the reaction of some friends, by selecting the correct option:
The group of friends ____ excited at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.
A. are
B. has
C. is
D. were
XII. Read the conversation about social media, between a teacher and a student Teacher: How do you think social media influences our perceptions of reality?
Jagrit: I believe it distorts our perception of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people's lives.
Report the student's response by completing the following.
The student remarked _____ by only showing the highlight reels of people's lives.
Ans: that he believed social media distorts their perception of reality
CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (10 Marks)
Note : All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.
[Content, in suggested responses, may be above the recommended word limit, as it aims to share content points that can be of use.]
4. Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below :
4 A) You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words, to the Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste* pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community engagement and government initiatives.
* Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, which are no longer in use or have reached the end of their lifecycle.
Ans:
34, Gems Homes
Aluva, Kochi
15 May 2024
The Project Head
E-Waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika, New Delhi
Subject: Urgent Action Needed to Address E-Waste Pollution and Management
Madam
Introductory paragraph: This is to draw your attention...
Adverse Effects of E-Waste Pollution
> Leaching of hazardous materials into soil and water
> Contamination of ecosystems
Community Engagement Ideas and Impact:
> Organising e-waste collection drives and recycling events
> Conducting awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and community centres
Government Endeavours and Impact:
> Implementing e-waste management policies and regulations
> Providing funding and resources for e-waste recycling facilities
Concluding sentence
Yours sincerely
sign
(NIRMAL PILLAI)
A concerned resident
OR
4 B) You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words addressing the Secretary of the City Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the delegation of personnel for regular pruning.
Ans:
471, Vinayakpur
Ranchi
27 April 2024
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi
Subject: Request for Pruning Overgrown Trees and Shrubs in the Neighbourhood
Dear Sir
Introductory paragraph: This is to draw your attention...
Problems due to unchecked growth:
obstructed pathways, reduced visibility on roads, potential safety hazards due to falling branches, blocks sunlight in homes, branches grow into homes inviting insects, created an unsightly environment that diminishes the aesthetic appeal of the locality
Request
Kindly request - allocate personnel for regular pruning of these trees and shrubs - proactive measure will not only enhance the aesthetics of our neighbourhood but also ensure the safety and convenience of residents and pedestrians
Concluding sentence
Yours sincerely
sign
(CHHAVI PATHAK)
A concerned citizen
5 A) Read the product details on a label for a school bag:
ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
1. Made from recycled materials
2. Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
3. Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers 4.Reflective strips for visibility and safety
5. Water-resistant fabric
6. Available in various vibrant colours and patterns
Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its eco- friendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.
* Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user
Ans: The Eco-Friendly School Bag stands out as an excellent purchase choice for several reasons. Firstly, its use of recycled materials demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability, making it an eco-conscious option. Additionally, the ergonomic design, featuring padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel, ensures maximum comfort during long school days. The spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers offers ample storage space for textbooks, notebooks, and other essentials, promoting organisation and efficiency. Moreover, the inclusion of reflective strips enhances visibility and safety, especially during low light conditions. The water-resistant fabric further protects belongings from unexpected rain showers, adding durability and reliability to the bag. With its availability in various vibrant colours and patterns, this school bag not only meets functional needs but also allows for personal style expression, making it a versatile and appealing choice for students.
OR
5 B) Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area.
> A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture, such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels and slides.
> Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line.
> A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
> Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos.
> Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
> Ample open space
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this playground.
Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age
groups, and overall experience.
Ans: The proposed playground design for the resident area embodies a thoughtful fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics and modern play elements. The central climbing structure, like a miniature fort, offers multifaceted play experiences, encouraging physical activity and imaginative exploration. The swings, decorated with vibrant Indian patterns, coupled with monkey bars and a zip line, add cultural flair as well as excitement to the playground. Additionally, the incorporation of a water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers not only provides sensory stimulation but also offers a refreshing respite from the heat. Shaded seating areas, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos, provide comfortable spaces for parents and caregivers to supervise and socialise. Furthermore, the presence of trees, shrubs, and flower beds, along with ample open space, enhances the overall aesthetic appeal and promotes environmental sustainability. This playground prioritises safety, inclusivity, cultural enrichment, and environmental consciousness, ensuring an engaging and enriching experience for residents of all ages.
SECTION - C (40 Marks)
LITERATURE
6. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b) :
A. With a loud scream he fell outwards and given downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But it only lasted a minute. The next moment he felt his wings spread outwards. The wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and against his wings. He could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not falling headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards. (His
First Flight)
I. What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the baby seagull?
With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still.
Chose the most suitable option.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses
II. How does the author's use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph?
Ans: The author's descriptive language - clearly portrays the baby seagull's intense emotional journey and physical sensations during its first flight - ‘monstrous terror’ and ‘wind rushed against his breast feathers’- help the reader sense the seagull's experience - enhances the narrative's emotional impact - makes it real.
III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to a sense of _____ (speed / relief), in the extract
IV. How does the seagull's feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of terror?
B. And suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling at her. “What’s your name, little one?”
“Bh-Bho-Bho-.” She could stammer no further than that.
Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She kept her head down as she sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the school bell rang, all the girls scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her head still lowered, she kept on sobbing.
“Bholi.”
The teacher’s voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been called like that. It touched her heart. (Bholi)
I. What is the tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used in the line, ‘“What’s your name, little one?”.'
A. reassuring
B. comforting
C. settling
D. calming
II. How does the author's use of Bholi 's perspective help build the narrative in the extract?
Ans: > provides readers with direct insight into her thoughts, emotions, and experiences by experiencing the events through Bholi's eyes, , easy to understand the depth of Bholi’s vulnerability and distress
> allows the author to convey the impact of the teacher's kindness and the cruelty of her classmates' laughter more effectively
> draws readers into Bholi's world and enhancing their engagement with the narrative
III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The word ‘flood’ in the line ‘...tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood.’ Indicates that Bholi was crying ______ (uncontrollably / unintentionally).
IV. How does the teacher's comforting demeanour contrast with the behaviour of the other girls in the classroom?
Ans: The teacher approaches Bholi with kindness and understanding, offering a supportive presence and gentle encouragement
7. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b) :
A. He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage. (Tiger in the Zoo)
I. What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the colours of the stripes?
Ans: To evoke a sense of intensity and liveliness in the tiger's appearance - the word ‘vivid’ suggests that the stripes are not only distinct in colour but also vibrant and full of life - conveys the idea that the tiger's markings are not dull or subdued but rather vividly striking and attention-grabbing, pointing to the magnificence of the animal.
II. Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger's stalking suggests a movement that is _____ within the confines of its cage.
Ans: restless
III. How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger's confined environment and its internal emotions?
Ans: By using of the word ‘quiet’ twice in the given lines.
IV. Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the given extract.
A. This bird so small and sweet,
Sings aloud in the morn,
Perched on a branch green,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
B. Perched on a branch green,
This bird so sweet and lean,
Sings aloud in a voice sweet,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
C. This bird sings without a care,
sweet Perched on a branch green,
A song with the world to share,
With its feelings so keen.
D. This bird so small and
Sings aloud in the morn
Perched on a green branch
Singing its own melody
B. Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
I. Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines.
Ans: Blink's retreat is portrayed as a calculated and swift movement to safety - the imagery of Blink ‘strategically’ mouse holing suggests a quick and calculated response to the perceived danger - highlighting Blink's instinctual survival skills in the face of adversity.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda ____.
Ans: ...recognised that she was in a threatening situation/ danger
III. What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household’?
Ans: In this context, the picture painted is that of a slow and silent descent / a descent with Ink trying to avoid drawing attention to itself / Ink seeking safety in a cautious and inconspicuous manner
IV. What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option
1. Urgency 2. Apprehension 3. Uncertainty 4. mystery 5. Aggression
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5
8. Answer any four of the following five questions in 40-50 words each :
I. How does the ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of London reveal insights about people's perceptions and knowledge regarding animals? (Mijbil the Otter)
Ans: 1. Highlights a general lack of knowledge about exotic animals / demonstrates a limited understanding of diverse animal species - people may be unfamiliar with otters as pets / may not recognise them outside of their natural habitat
2. reflects a sort of disconnect from nature in urban environments - people may be accustomed to urban wildlife, such as pigeons or squirrels, but less familiar with species like otters - hence contribute to misconceptions about Mijbil
II. How does the imagery of the trees' movement from the house to the forest, in ‘Trees’, reflect broader themes of liberation and growth in human experiences?
Ans: The trees breaking free from the constraints of the house - represent desire for freedom and autonomy
As they move towards the forest (a symbol of untamed nature) - embody the journey towards self-discovery and expansion of possibilities
This movement reflects -
> human quest for liberation from norms and personal limitations,
> inherent growth that comes with embracing change and venturing into new territories
III. What does the postmaster's reaction to Lencho's letter reveal about his character? (A Letter to God)
Ans: Character Traits of the Postmaster:
1. The postmaster is deeply moved by Lencho's faith, which prompts a compassionate response rather than dismissal or mockery.
2. He creatively devises a plan to maintain Lencho's faith, showing his ability to think outside conventional administrative duties.
IV. Assess the narrative's effectiveness in portraying the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of the unfamiliar in 'Madam Rides the Bus'.
Ans: Valli's longing to ride the bus - showcases her yearning to break free from the confines of her everyday life and explore the unknown
The familiar surroundings of her street represent safety and predictability, while the bus symbolises adventure and opportunity.
This contrast creates a sense of tension as Valli grapples with her desire to step into the unfamiliar world - the narrative effectively conveys the conflicting emotions associated with leaving behind the known for the excitement of the unknown
V. Summarise the role of the use of parentheses in the poem ‘Amanda!’.
Ans: 1. Serves to establish the difference between the external commands directed at Amanda and her internal imaginative escapes.
2. Highlights the contrast between Amanda's reality and her desires, aiding in the reader's understanding of her struggle between conforming to expectations and seeking freedom through imagination.
9. Answer any two of the following three questions in 40-50 words each.
I. How does Matilda's desire for material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace’?
Ans: 1. Matilda's desire leads her to borrow a necklace from her friend Forestier to appear wealthy at a party.
2. She loses the necklace - she and her husband embark on a desperate journey to replace it - ultimately leads to their financial ruin.
3. Her desire for material wealth sets off a chain of events that shape the plot.
II. Justify the opinion that Ebright's early successes were essential for his later achievements in science. (The Making of a Scientist)
Ans: 1. Early success - pivotal for his later achievements in science
2. These wins - motivation, validation of talent, and opportunities for growth
3. These wins - instilled confidence in his abilities, affirmed his passion for science, and cultivated a competitive spirit that drove him to excel further in his scientific pursuits
4. These wins - shape his trajectory as a successful scientist
III. How does 'The Book that Saved the Earth' include elements of satirical science fiction?
Ans: 1. Through its exaggerated portrayal of Martian characters and their interactions with Earth culture
2. The play humorously critiques human behaviour and social standards by presenting Martians as arrogant and intellectually superior beings who misunderstand basic Earth concepts
3. The satirical approach highlights themes of intelligence, communication, and cultural misunderstanding in a humorous manner, commenting through exaggerated scenarios and absurd situations
4. The use of futuristic settings and space exploration adds a science fiction element to the satire
10. Answer any one of the following two questions in 100-120 words :
I. Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently. Examine these differences.
Ans: 1. Dust of Snow employs imagery of lightness, purity, and serenity through the snowfall and the hemlock tree. The imagery suggests that even small moments of beauty in nature can uplift the human spirit.
2. In contrast, Fire and Ice utilises imagery of destruction and intensity through fire and ice - conveys the destructive potential of desire and hatred, highlighting the darker aspects of human emotions and relationships.
3. In Dust of Snow, the speaker's emotional response to nature is one of gratitude and appreciation. Conversely, Fire and Ice evokes a sense of fear and contemplation about the destructive forces inherent in human nature.
4. Dust of Snow focuses on the idea of small, unexpected moments in nature leading to positive change and renewal in the individual.
Fire and Ice suggests that these internal forces have the potential to shape not only individual lives but also the fate of humanity as a whole.
While Dust of Snow emphasises the potential for beauty and renewal in even the smallest aspects of nature, Fire and Ice explores the darker aspects of human desire and hatred, highlighting the destructive forces that can shape human existence.
II. Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory' and ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ grapple with the idea that external attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the similarities.
Ans: Both for Anne Gregory and The Sermon at Benares confront the short-lived nature of external attributes.
1. In the poem, the speaker's shifting perception of Anne's beauty, from cherishing her hair and face to valuing her inner qualities, highlights the transient nature of physical appearance.
2. Similarly, in The Sermon at Benares, the Buddha's teachings emphasise the inevitability of death and the impermanence of life, urging listeners to recognise the fleeting nature of existence.
3. Both texts suggest that external attributes, whether beauty or life itself, are fleeting and subject to decay, prompting contemplation of deeper truths beyond the surface.
11. Answer any one of the following two questions in 100-120 words :
I. Evaluate how Griffin's character is shaped by a combination of personal ambition, the unintended consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the reactions of the society he faces.
Ans: 1. Personal Ambition
Griffin is deeply motivated by his desire to achieve scientific breakthroughs, showcasing his high intellectual ambition and dedication.
2. Unintended Consequences of Scientific Pursuits
Becoming invisible renders, him physically vulnerable, necessitating theft and deception for basic survival like warmth and food.
3. Reactions of the Society He Faces
Society's initial reaction is a mix of curiosity and fear, which quickly shifts to hostility as Griffin's actions become more desperate and harmful.
II. Evaluate how James Herriot’s characterisation contributes significantly to the overarching theme of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Ans: James Herriot's characterisation as a compassionate yet firm veterinary surgeon:
1. Herriot's compassion towards animals
> Evident throughout the narrative - genuinely cares about Tricki's well-being and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure the dog receives the care and attention it needs.
> This compassion - reflected in his interactions with Mrs. Pumphrey, where he patiently educates her about proper pet care and advocates for Tricki's health.
> Herriot's empathetic approach stresses the importance of treating animals with kindness and consideration, which aligns with the theme of responsible pet ownership.
2. Herriot's firmness highlights his commitment to advocating for the best interests of the animals under his care.
> Despite Mrs. Pumphrey's initial reluctance to acknowledge Tricki's health issues, Herriot remains steadfast in his recommendations for dietary and lifestyle changes.
> His firm yet compassionate demeanour shows the importance of setting boundaries and making tough decisions for the well-being of pets.
> This aspect of Herriot's characterisation reinforces the theme of responsible pet ownership by emphasising the need for owners to prioritise their pets' health and welfare above personal indulgence.